The TRUTH about DRAWER SYSTEMS - No Matter What You Drive!

[@wesleymcgonagle3394]

Gidday Mate... I'm an Aussie and I've lived here in the Great Plains of the USA for 20 years. I have always been a fella with Not a lot of money and Not a lot of time, I was fortunate enough to have a dad that taught me and my two younger brothers how to work on vehicles, we've always built our own 4WD's for fun. I like the personal satisfaction it brings me when I design, measure twice, cut once and assemble. I have a jk rubicon unlimited 4 door and I ripped out the back seats, used the existing seat and other mounting points to install 2x4's and 3/4" ply for the platform. didn't bother with fancy expensive draw slides, just found good materials from big box stores, used plywood and plastic parts to slide on, cheap marine carpet, etc. etc. under $200 and works for all the trips I do. Bonus is it weighs the same as the seats removed... As we say in OZ... "Different Folks, Different Strokes" whatever your happy with doing to get you out on the trails and exploring. 40 States & 2 territories down. Love this Country. Cheers, Aussie Traveller.

[@ArtofHunter]

I made a simple platform using 1 sheet of 3/4 plywood and 2x4s after taking out the back seats in my FZJ80. Cost around $60 and under it I put cheap 8$ yellow/black totes under it. Simple and works great for a large sleeping area and weighs less than the seats I took out.

[@countrymagic61]

Awesome. However, have you seen the cost of a simple, twisted, warped, cupped, and bowed 2 x 4 from the big box stores now days?

[@bannablitz247]

Heres another consideration, you DONT need slides. A well fitted drawer can work amazing with some UHMW plastic strips on the bottom.

[@MrMrsregor]

You are correct, that works well. But there is an advantage to draw slides, you can pull the draw ALL the way out and, also pull another drawer or countertop out of that

[@ronachadwick7908]

I repurposed futon slats to make slides wked well. Cost of bolts.

[@erikhefflefinger9460]

The other benefit to slides is that you can get locking ones, so if you're making a kitchen, you don't have to worry about accidentally bumping it back in.

[@derekhenderson9344]

As far as where to start with the build, you nailed it at 6:06. Start with the size of your fridge. Or in my case cooler. That was the first step in my build.

[@OverlandBound]

Nice. It’s funny how much of the planning revolves around food. 😂

[@solosaga5091]

I really appreciate the weight topic being addressed straight off. This was a great overall summation. Thanks!

[@MaxC925]

i have a samurai i dont have room for a drawer let alone a system. a plastic tote and a milk crate under a home made fiber-glassed plywood tonneau cover that i strap the cooler down to

[@OverlandBound]

Sounds like a great system!

[@michaeltrue]

Great overview, I learned more than I knew 15 minutes ago and now have a better appreciation for the Decked system.

[@LostSasquatch]

Hey All! love geeking out on storage. Ive built one, then i had a long brute tool box one. My lessons were to not overpack... and even though things are in drawers, still remember things can rattle and break. Next one i build i think im going with foam inserts that will only hold my essentials. (no need to have a set of 8 cups, mugs, plates and bowls haha)

[@OverlandBound]

Miss you Jordan!

[@BRRRT241]

Did mine for about 100$ not necessarily a drawer system, more of a sleeping platform. Got tons of room below for shoving bags , chairs etc. on top kitchen ( trail kitchen) and Front Runner boxes. Works very well.

[@OverlandBound]

Great job!

[@solosaga5091]

I'm with you Brother. Simple is not only cost effective, it eaves A LOT of room for flexibility.

[@admantiom1848]

After looking into drawers and the crazy prizes they change; I have built my own drawers and cost me only $250 and extremely happy with the out come. Also one thing to consider, I have built it around my requirements. Most systems are generic, which is not going to work for the majority.

[@Kylejeepadventures]

Finally. Building a drawer system in the cj5 willys is simple yet trying to kept it a 60s style design. Hold tools, recovery gear, spare parts, extra oil, & air up system.

[@OverlandBound]

That sounds like a great project!

[@MarkWucher]

I built a drawer system out of 1”x.063” aluminum tube, .050 aluminum sheet and rivets. No welds. It had one 6 foot long plywood drawer and bins on the other side. It was $400 and weighed 75 pounds and took an absolute beating.

[@OverlandBound]

Great job!

[@WT6X]

Really informative, great starting spot for me and my new 4runner.

[@shadow.overland]

OB Member 22627 here. Time stamp 13:30 "Goose Gear is a good option if you have a custom build...." I would completely disagree with this statement. I have a 2018 F150 SuperCrew and called Goose Gear because I wanted a rear seat delete for my single rear seat. Spoke with them directly and not only do they not have a rear seat delete for an F150, they would NOT even consider making one for me even though GG has rear seat deletes or second row seat deletes for Jeeps and several other trucks and SUV's. I'm having a local fab shop make me one out of aluminum.

[@OverlandBound]

I do know it takes a certain size of job to engage them, which is why I included them in the expensive category. I can also understand this from a business perspective. It is really hard to make money on a lot of small jobs as apposed to larger jobs that take more time. I believe that is why many shops similar to GG offer "pre-fab" gear for popular smaller applications. Similar to metal fab shops.

[@j.salazar4676]

Currently build a sleeping platform in my humble 1st gen CR-V. Can’t wait to see how your system turns out!

[@AdventureWithDanan]

I like the OB#0000 on the lights!

[@jhbryaniv]

@10:23 anyone else catch the star wars model and b-52 on the shelf?

[@adammurguia8929]

Oh I definitely did.

[@utahjohnnymontana3373]

Gundam and B-25 Mitchell...I may have seen them :)

[@MrBertiebprfc]

Millennium falcon 😂😂

[@shootinbruin3614]

Custom systems are of course nice to have, but 5:06 proves that you don't need to spend a ton of money to get what you need! That's a great picture

[@alexcruz6737]

Really looking forward to seeing your video next week!

[@OverlandBound]

Finally done!

[@gregmach8230]

You do such a good job at this. Love to watch and get inspired.

[@nicks1134]

Wanderlost Overland has a great DIY instructional video for making drawers from plywood. They include measurements for the 5th gen 4runner & FJ cruiser.

[@stugryffin3619]

Me at the beginning of the video: "Ergh... I have a feeling this guy is going to be annoying..." Me by the end of the video: "This guy is fking awesome I'm gonna sub"

[@RingDragon3]

Have my system in the Jeep which was taken out of the Frontera. Now, this year it is time to build a new one. And it will be, at least that is what I think, completely different of everything you have seen. And the best part will be that I can reproduce this for other vehicles and other purposes. So, I hope I can help OB members out with gearing up.

[@iamoutofideas13]

I believe sketchup is still a free software option for designing things in 3D. That's the one I use.

[@stevet47]

I believe only the web-based system is free. Google sold SketchUp a few years ago and I think you have to buy the downloadable software now. I have an old version so I’m not 100% sure.

[@chazlyle41]

Compared to wood I felt like extruded aluminum was so expensive. I guess I’ve never spent $5,000 on a few drawers with it. The amount people will finance to go camping is astounding!

[@OverlandBound]

I tend to mind my own wallet, not others, but you don’t have to spend a lot to have a darned good drawer system. Agree extruded aluminum gets costly, and wood works GREAT!

[@user-hd8ej8yx9p]

@@OverlandBound If you don't mind others' wallets, you'll never learn from others' mistakes, which is the best way to learn. I'm sure these people are ballin to be able to afford it, but my accountant brain can't justify a $5,000 set of drawers, my whole kitchen was just a little more. And all to drive in the boonies? More power to you!

[@Niko_410]

@@user-hd8ej8yx9p I can only imagine what a ~$5,000 kitchen looks like 🤔🤔 lol

[@slik560]

Great presentation. Facts. Experienced opinion. Concise description. A LOT of valuable info. BUT: 10 points deducted for not having the Mrs. in the video. She's lovely. :)

[@rasmusblom8539]

I work with building custom drawer systems and custom interiors made in aluminium 😊👌

[@IBagusJagraWibawaSH]

Love it, i need this information. Thankyou Bro

[@OverlandBound]

You bet! It's my pleasure!

[@paladin11C40]

I just emailed Decked to see if they have plans to build their drawer system for SUVs.

[@matejhosner1980]

GREAT STUFF, MAN! Thanks.

[@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures]

Michael great video and as you said most of the time spent on a drawer system is the planning for sure. I built my system for my 87 4runner from siding I had removed from my house only about 6" of it was bad so it was free at the time. I did buy some 1x6 or 8 for the drawers to make it fast and easy, then glue and nails I didn't bother with drawer slides just used 1/4" plywood on the bottom for that. Some carpet on top and it looks pretty good. I then filled the front in so I had more storage and long enough to sleep on! I'm just north of you near Hercules.

[@OverlandBound]

That sounds like a very good system!

[@woolydrake]

10:26 you build gunpla? awesome!

[@TrailRunn4r]

I would add another component to the equation... fun while building one!

[@solosaga5091]

Yep. Plus, if it doesn't shake out, it's far easier to adjust, or start over.

[@alankita1059]

For anyone looking for the high end drawer system shown it's TrekboxX.

[@swagging_sisters]

Ours are marine ply with Teflon slides (maximises the actual space in your drawer), easy lift in/out, from @drifta4wd, not as pricey as some of those ARB etc others (and can be customised).

[@spearfish]

I have a Trekboxx. It is worth every penny.

[@bajar.m.6953]

Drawers system are not necessary for the adventure, couple plastic boxes from Home Depot will be more than enough $21. We have to enjoy the outside and not the inside of our overland rig.

[@OverlandBound]

Couldn't agree more. It would be silly to say "you cant go on an adventure without a drawer system". Hell, that would eliminate backpacking. For myself, I'm a gearhead and love vehicles in addition to adventure, so I so enjoy the process of improving an optimizing my rig as well.

[@vlcekrudolf3819]

Exactly, got a couple of plastic boxes for a few dollars, fridge, battery, solar and I’m done, when I come back home everything is thrown back to my garage and my daily is not heavy as a monster truck.

[@madrx2]

Check Out Tanami, Best drawers in the world! Bar none. You'll have to import them to the USA though.

[@rodrigosouza-hh1hq]

Man, drawer system it is a life changer. I used the free website for drawer system design and it worked out great. It also gave me all the measurements that I needed so I knew how much to cut. It couldn’t have fit in the back of the Jeep any better. No more boxes and digging for that thing you are looking for that for some reason it always manage to get to the bottom of everything. Hehehe. My triangle started with time then quality, hehe. I had nothing but time back then when I got laid off due to Covid. Took me a day and half from going to buy the wood to finish the build. And of course that me being a perfectionist, the quality turned out amazing 🧐🤪😂 Ps: you are right! The most expensive part of the project was the drawer sliders.

[@259Den3]

What is the "free website for drawer system design"?

[@countrymagic61]

@@259Den3 Ditto. I use Sketchup Make17. I make a basic design based on rude measurements to get a visual representation of my idea. I am currently making different extruded aluminum profiles. Then I use the profiles to start designing from my basic designs. I have created a camp box for an FJ Cruiser, and a large box for a overland trailer. Both out of wood. The FJ camp box is being redesigned using extruded aluminum and may be built some time in the summer of '22 (my brother wants to get full use out of the current box and take notes of any design changes).

[@rodrigosouza-hh1hq]

Sketchup is the one I used also

[@jmyers2868]

Building your own system is the least expensive route but time is also money. I have a Decked system in my Tundra and honestly am not a fan. It wastes a lot of space that can’t be used for anything. The back of the drawers are also hard to get to since they don’t pull out very far. I loved the Trekboxx and Goose systems but they are very, very expensive. For my LX450 I bought the Dobinson’s drawer system with a 20% off Black Friday deal. Less than $1000. Solid construction and it does what I need it to do. It comes standard with a fridge slide out although getting in the fridge isn’t very easy because it sits high. I bought two Frontrunner wolf packs but I find the Plano boxes are sturdier, work even better and cost half as much. They have secure lids and can be strapped down.

[@phatkatmeowmeow]

What about Toyota Highlander

[@privateprivate8366]

For city dwellers, driving on flat pavement, I’m thinking Closetmaid.😊

[@ecrissman]

This is super helpful info! Looking for options for my truck. Can’t wait to see your new setup.

[@lachlanrobinson2533]

If you're not Jim Carey's brother then I don't know who is

[@WBDSNR]

What kind of top rack holding up his Roofnest does your buddy have on his Raptor? I like the idea of not drilling into my truck bed, hence why we are looking at the Decked system vs something like ARB where it has to be drilled into the bed (or at least they recommend it and most of the mounting hardware is drilled into the bed.). But most of the top rack systems, they do drill into the top of the bed sidewalls. Is that what he had done? Thanks

[@LuanNguyen-rj1bt]

I just installed a drawer system and made a sleeping platform out of birch. The rear is super heavy and I feel like the lx470 is lifting the front up, crazy thing is that the drawers are empty too. I have ironman suspension that just got installed. Is there anything I should do after installing a drawer system to help with the sag in the rear

[@BlitzAlaska]

I think the more important aspect that you're missing here is how much space and flexibility you lose to a drawer system. They're beautiful no doubt. I have a basic sleeping platform with storage crates of gear underneath. True it's not super convenient to get to the back crates in a 6.5 bed. All of the space under that platform is useful and not sub divided up. If I want to fit 5 gallon gas cans, I can fit 5 cans in a row, then all of my gear in crates. It's not as convenient, but when I get to camp I have more of what I want and need. Show me a drawer system that lets you fit 5x5 gallons of gas and all your gear, with a full size foam mattress for two, with a overall weight of about 60lb. IMHO there is too much emphasis placed here on convenience instead of capability.

[@soulsurfer8797]

Exceptional content as always. Looking forward to seeing your drawer system.

[@Jack_Lange]

I love how having a fridge is an option in America... In Australia its basically law

[@OverlandBound]

Hahaha! Agreed! I’ve travelled in Australia a few times and that’s been eye-opening.

[@flyinggeometry]

Wow Gudnam!!!!

[@susans7091]

What is the 3D software that is easy to learn? I am 74 and not computer techy.

[@jhbryaniv]

Step 1:convince the gf we need a fridge. Step 2: buy a fridge Step 3: over build our drawer system so we can tap dance on it while it's out... Step 4: find a new gf.

[@OverlandBound]

Hahahaha

[@countrymagic61]

Sorry to say...Step #1: Buy fridge. Step #2: Ask for forgiveness. Step #3: Find new GF if necessary. Step #4: Enjoy life with new fridge and new GF!

[@solosaga5091]

@@countrymagic61 That's Gold right there, lol. "Beg Forgiveness" is almost always the best option.

[@countrymagic61]

@@solosaga5091 If I have a hobby (which I do) and it is something I enjoy, within reason...I am not going to allow a girl friend or spouse dictate to me what I can and can not do when I am engaged with my hobby. They can offer up an opinion or a concern, and I will take note. But, can not dictate. I will offer an opportunity for input, to join me in my hobby, or a collaboration on a project or activity. But still, not allowed to dictate. I use my main hobby/activity as therapy. It is important to me. I will not allow anyone, and I don't care who they are. They will not be allowed to disengage me from my hobby/activity or they need to leave. My main hobby is not the reason why I am single. When I was involved with someone, my hobby/activity lapsed, put on hold, because they were the most important to me. Sorry for the rant. It just don't see and understand why people allow their partner to belittle them by trying to be the "Boss" or the "Alpha", and have to ask permission from your "Partner". That is so sad.

[@solosaga5091]

@@countrymagic61 It's a joke.

[@SterlingWheel]

I think looking carefully at the design on tradesman vehicles like contractors use is a good resource. A mobile mechanics truck is probably the best to look at. little fluff and all useability.

[@JimYeats]

I have always thought an older tradesman truck bought off the used market would make a great camping/overland vehicle. Simple 4x4 truck with a bed, side access cabinets, and a ladder rack. Could do so much with it.

[@SterlingWheel]

@@JimYeats I like the old phone service trucks with a small workshop inside. Usually 4X4 and have winches and stuff.

[@countrymagic61]

Many years ago, my brother made a trailer out of one. Built in some nice options, It became his "Chuck Wagon" when he went out camping/fishing. However, the chuck wagon became obsolete to him because his needs/wants have changed. The way he goes camping has changed. He is more in to overlanding now and can pack everything in his 2012 FJ. Pulling his chuck wagon is not feasible anymore and may decide to sell it.

[@codyjepsen2031]

Just built an extruded aluminum drawer system for $200... aluminum is cheaper than plywood at this point.

[@ThePyleDriver]

My home made drawer system is under 40 lbs and rock solid... 😜

[@OverlandBound]

Awesome! Great work!

[@igorBC]

Do I need to have a plate systeem before installing a drawer system (eg goose gear)? Thanks you’re providing soo much relevant information in your video’s 👊

[@OverlandBound]

Awesome! That’s why we do it! No you don’t need a deck system. Those are nice, but not necessary. In the 80 series, there are available threaded holes in the floor that provide a great anchor for a system.

[@nicks1134]

I used turnbuckles to anchor my drawer system to my factory tiedown points in my 5th gen 4runner. Works perfectly.

[@bwildjournals]

Great topic thanks for sharing!

[@OverlandBound]

You bet Neil!

[@AkubraHatman]

ALU MIN IUM. The entire world except USA knows it as Aluminium, not aluminum. 😁 Great video though mate. 👍

[@black_widow_overland]

I built a nice drawer system for my Jeep Gladiator. Turned out pretty good.. in my opinion.

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

They look nice but I'm not a fan of drawers

[@wb2194]

Dang things cost way way too much. $4300!?!?

[@Skeeter2021]

#8547 here watchn

[@cschueren]

Good stuff

[@confuzsays7196]

Just copy what ever australia or south africa does. No problem.

[@countrymagic61]

When you are comparing extruded aluminum vs steel box tubing....you are not doing a fair comparison. Put apples to apples. Take steel box tubing and compare to aluminum box tubing of the same size and gauge....which one will weigh more? As far as extruded aluminum vs steel box tubing of the same dimensions, yes the extruded aluminum is going to weight more. It has more internal mass. There are also fittings you can use with aluminum box tubing for a no weld project. Which will weigh less than the steel box tubing. Yes I know about weight deflection and blah blah blah. It all goes back to your triangle with time, cost and quality. What is someone willing to on or for their project. Only they can decide. You are blessed you had assistance that not everyone will have as a resource. Please don't take this as a negative. Please accept as stating in a humble respectful tone. I'm just offering an opinion. No more, no less. I did enjoy your video, and I went to your channel and watched a few others. Awesome vid's and keep them coming.

[@OverlandBound]

But you would never use steel tubing of the same dimension. I’ve seen folks make that mistake. A 1” (and I’ve even seen 1.5”) thick wall steel square tube would weigh a ton! Our frame all in was 25lbs. We did the weight comparison calcs in software for the same strength in extruded aluminum. And the weight savings was 3 - 5 lbs. All I’m saying is, don’t choose extruded aluminum for weight reasons. The differences are too profound. There are other reasons to consider.

[@cyclemoto8744]

Just at the start of this video but i need to say. WTF! @2min30 you state the weight of drawers (i assume you're talking about 2 drawers) is 200 pounds. What the @#$@ are your drawers made of? In Australia, 180 pound drawers are generally the cheapest, most budget friendly drawers. Good quality, reasonably light drawers should weigh 65 to 75 pounds for a set of 2 (add a fridge slide and include 33 more pounds). Seriously, where are you buying drawers that weigh that much?

[@stevenm6301]

99.9% of people are not breaking axles or transmissions.

[@reconmotorsports]

this fella forgot you can weld aluminum too lol

[@timothytisor3006]

It takes more skill to weld aluminum whether its by spool gun or tig.

[@OverlandBound]

Not at all! I’m saying, don’t go extruded aluminum for weight. Do it because you don’t have a welder!

[@egilbe2003]

@@OverlandBound Exactly, I have allen wrenches, I don't have a welder and you are correct about the fasterners being expensive. Is humbldt county the only place that pronounces it May-zure? Most places its meh-zure.

[@countrymagic61]

@@OverlandBound True. And most people do not own a welder, know how to weld, or know anybody that welds. They can pay extra money to have someone weld for them. However, now you are taking away the DIY aspect and will have to pay for their expertise. Extruded aluminum is the adult version of the old kids toy the "Erector" set. So, if you do not have the means to weld, and you have to pay someone to weld, might as well pay for the extra in hardware and fasteners for extruded aluminum. and have fun building your DIY project. I know the cost of the fasteners and hardware. I have both the digital and hard copy of 8020's catalog. I also use Sketchup Make17 to layout my designs, make the profiles of the extruded aluminum. I also, have a local metal supply company, and I use their profile information for steel in Sketchup. I have Fusion360, but having issues with learning how to use it. The free version/license has many limitations compared to the paid version/license, and I can not justify the subscription price. I can afford free. Also, no big deal. However, FIY "8020" is not the material. It is a brand name of extruded aluminum. Like Vaseline is a brand name for petroleum jelly, and Velcro is the brand name for hook and loop. 😂👍

[@stavrock4995]

Best Drawer System Video on KZbin - Confirmed ✅ Aussie Morons that have made a 4x4 drawer system video on KZbin need to watch & learn from this.