Hey, so for years I've noticed an incredible amount of empty space under my bed (1999 F250 SD 5.4 8' bed). It's on both sides, pretty much from the front of the truck to the rear wheels. Huge amount of space, with the lower bed wall on one side and the frame rails on the other.

I've thought I could hoist a generator under there, or a propane tank (I have a farrier forge in the truck), or store supplies. It would need some kind of rack. Has someone already worked this out? I hope so!

Thanks,
- Joe



that could either swing out or go up to stow and lower down to access.

 

Remember those 70's ford rangers, the ones with the storage bins and doors built into the bedside?

 

For a 1999 I don't see any rust. I'm jealous you lucky *******! Where the running boards mount, I've got rust and some holes. (((((

 

On the excursion side guys are using the battery box for vans to add an extra battery, may be some other lightweight abs style boxes that mount up to the rail decently

 

Along one side I have Viair compressor, regulator, and air tank. On the opposite side I have a good size shovel secured with quick fist rubber clamps.

 

I'd be careful of what is stored in there. Stay away from flammable stuff on the outside of the frame. GM ran into problems w/ that if I remember correct sidesaddle tanks.

 

The gm saddle tank issue was put to rest decades ago when the Estes model rocket engine was seen smoking a few frames before the impact. And it still didn't go up in flames. One sided media is nothing new.

 

How about hanging a few ammo boxes on the frame and putting quiet stuff like straps and rubber chalk blocks in them. Tools and parts would make too much noise.

 

I thought about building a tool box, similar to what was in the 70’s on my OBS. By the the time you’re done, theres not that much space. Enough for a small tackle box, spare boots and gloves. Not quite the same dimensions and space to work with under there as they were back then. It’s not much different for space on the SD either, iirc, it’s a little less actually.

If you’re hoisting ‘cargo’ up somehow, I’d be concerned about how to secure it, or dropping out on the road.. you could secure it, but it would be a pita imho. Especially a propane bottle. Little different to permanently secure / build something in, vs storage spot to easily access or temporarily hood something imo.

a few pics from when I looked into it, OBS, but you get the idea. I haven’t done it, ‘yet’.. and I doubt I will. I’m not sure it’s worth it, and trying to get it to seal properly, small space, etc etc. Not much room before you’re into the frame. There’s was thread about this a few yrs back when I looking at it down in the OBS forum.

Pics from a few yrs ago..





I’d use two latches if doing it..






If you come up with something, post it up.

 

Hey gang, thank you for the ideas, and especially for warning me off from doing something stupid
I'll let you know if I do something smart!
- Joe

 

Over the years and various trucks, I have stored fuel cans, wheel chocks, tire chains, and ball mounts for towing under the bed, held and secured by improvised means.

 

Depending how your fab skills are the episode these guys built the flip up sides was a really cool idea i would like to attempt on my 84 since it needs bed sides anyway

https://www.motortrend.com/features/...meets-the-eye/