I’ve Got Wood

Birch, that is.

I finally got started on the rear storage/sleeping platform this afternoon, and have the most difficult panel – the bottom – about 90% finished.

I’ve tinkered with building my own furniture a little, but I’ve never done anything quite so complicated before so I’m forcing myself to go slow and follow the rules: measure thrice, cut once. Thus far, it’s working out well and I think the RotoZip and I finally have an understanding.

I’ve decided to go with 3/4-inch birch ply for the main structure, and will probably do the same for the base of the drawers. In the interests of maximizing space:strength I’m going with aluminum for the drawer walls, and may yet do the same with the drawer bases. The access hatches will be aluminum – one covering the big square (fuel pump/filter access) and one up top on either side to access the on-board air and second battery for maintenance (2nd battery goes opposite the OBA).

I have not decided what to use for the foldable or removable forward portion of the sleeping platform yet. I am back and forth between the idea of a removable birch panel that can also serve as a camp table, or a fold-and-flip metal mesh that can be locked up to serve as a cargo barrier. Either way, it will have to move out of the way when driving as space is limited when the seats are all the way back. I had planned to coat the entire thing in black bed liner, but the beauty of the birch has me pondering doing an aluminum trim and finished wood treatment to the back face (drawers).

The RotoZip and I may have made peace, but the Discovery still bites me every chance she gets… :lmao: