I need some help designing a multi use rack for my silverado

[iamdanwoody]

I am working with a local welding shop that does all the truck fab for my family. I want a low profile contractor rack due to my work needs but i don't like the cheap bolt up ones. My intentions are to make it strong enough to hold lumber but also fit a roof top tent and have a basket over the crew cab. Are there any suggestions to things that you believe im missing or overlooking? Im having extra D rings put on and a few spots for a side awning and a hi lift. Here is the main idea/bones of the project. Let me know what you think.

 

[Jr_Explorer]

I think that is AWESOME! Looks sharp. Anodize the whole thing black (assuming that is aluminum and not SS) and it will match the truck.

 

[iamdanwoody]

Correct, Aluminum square stock. im not sure if im going to anodize because my Silverado is a graphite grey anyway, but my brother in law likes "plastidip" I figure I could try that on the sections that don't get a lot of abuse. Id also like to undermount a full length LED under the front crossmember of the rack. I think that would be great, low profile lighting that does not hinder the crap I haul on top.

 

[AA1PR]

My only thought right now with the limited , but nice photos you gave us is a ladder of sorts that can be moved around the 2 sides, since you dont know where the tent entrance might be

 

[iamdanwoody]

My only thought right now with the limited , but nice photos you gave us is a ladder of sorts that can be moved around the 2 sides, since you dont know where the tent entrance might be

I had imagined a library ladder of sorts. It would have hooks on the ends like a firefighting roof ladder so it can be moved to ANY side and still be secure.