That is correct, the bumpers are fusion bumpers and I built the tire carrier and added it to the bumper. As far as the optima's, I really wanted to go with Northstar batteries but I got an amazing deal on the Optimas. I am adding two additional batteries because I am adding a power inverter, have a ton of lights, and other electronic equipment. I wanted the battery system done before I added my winch also.

 

Tell us more about the rear storage box. Did you weld it to the seat mounting bracket? How do you lock it up.

Been thinking about doing something like that myself for lockable storage.

Thanks!

 

The seat unbolts from the bracket with 4 bolts. I used two of the bolt locations and drilled two more bolt holes in the bracket. I then used grade 8 bolts and large washers to bolt it to the frame. The box is very sturdy and does not move at all. This is also a steel box not an aluminum. I would advise against an aluminum box just incase you were involved in a crash. I will try to get some pics of the lock that I built to keep someone from removing the whole box. I think that if it can hold people securely in the seat during a crash it can hold my box just fine. I am working to add a couple lift struts to the box so the lid stays up when you are trying to dig around in it. The box is 48 inches wide and perfect height for the second row seats.

 

Great, did not want to weld onto the seat brackets and lose the seat nor did I want to source another.

Going to TS today to get that box.

 

Where are you thinking of putting the other batteries? I have been tossing the idea around about adding some extra but not sure where I want to put them.

 

I'm looking at hanging a pair of Group 31s underneath, just outside the frame rails... Either driver's or passenger's side.

 

WatsonR in the 6.0 side just made a thread on how to frame mount a E-series battery box on his CCLB and run the wiring. If I were to run another battery it would likely be like he did.

 

Finally got around to working on the Ex again. After much consideration I mounted my batteries in the truck box inside my vehicle. There were a couple factors to this. 1. I wanted them close as possible to my power inverter. 2. I didn't want them exposed to the elements. 3. Hung down too low when considering mounting them to the truck frame. Here are some pics for you guys!



Left some room to route wires along the left side



these are the biggest batteries that Optima made. I got a killer deal on them is why I didnt go with a different brand.



Looking clean and protected.



This middle area will house my power inverter and my shore power battery charger. I am going to then cover the batteries and converter with a sheet of aluminum to protect them. Thermal controlled fans will keep the box cool.

 

Upgraded the primary alternator to a 220 Amp unit. Secondary alternator is the factory 110 amp. I'm going to upgrade the secondary to a 220 amp unit as soon as I can get some cash for it. Went ahead and upgraded the battery cables and cables to the alternators.

 

Looked into the L/N 230 amp alternator? I believe they come in black too.

Leece Neville 230 amp alternator

Cable upgrade is looking good.

 

I got some more work done today. Mounted my box and my tools. Also ran a new cable from the battery to the starter. What do you guys think about an ARB fridge on the left?

 

Left side would work, I say replace the center console so you can put six packs of soda in it.

 

awesome stuff, 2 questions:

1. Do you have a parts list for any(all?) of your build?

2. Where did you get the drawer in the back?

thanks

Mike

 

What part list are you looking for? I would be there all day typing up stuff. The drawer is a smittybilt.

 

A couple more pics for you!
Relay bank for lights
Before
After. Built a metal tray to hold some electrical gear.
Should have added this a long time ago.
Some light switches