Overland Water Storage

[extremehabit]

In preparation for an extended trip out to the Colorado area (and would be MOAB, except for that dogs aren't allowed, but I digress...), I've been in the process of planning and assembling an overland build.

With overland features in mind, an essential feature was to have more water carrying capacity, minimally altering GVWR and also making a more functional storage space. In the end, I also wanted the option to sleep in the jeep, for two plus dog, if need be. Not likely to be the primary sleeping arrangement, but it could be convenient and easy enough to do.

Attached are some photos of my build:

rear seat removed, brackets for FrontRunner 10 gallon footwell tank

brackets now w/ extensions to back for platform

platform in place, with optional to extend to rear seats for more headroom if sleeping

platform demonstrated near flush with back cargo area

option to flip up to access 10 gallon footwell tank in event it needs to be removed, drained, or tilted


For purpose of sleeping quarters, under carpet I placed a layer of thin insulation with has an aluminum feature to help reflect heat since the floor of the jeep could get awfully cold in cold weather and/or wind.

By removing the rear seat I estimate I easily removed ~50 lbs. Using a bathroom scale the seats weighed 80 lbs, but that seems a bit high. The platform I built weighs about ~30 lbs, water storage unit is about ~8 lbs and then 10 gallons of water is roughly ~80 lbs, so not a bad option for gaining 10 gallons of water capacity.

Much more to be done...

 

[brianjwilson]

Would that front running tank fit under the rear seats (obviously in the up position)?
You'd probably have to remove the brackets to put it in, and lose the ability to lower the seats, but I'm curious if you think it would fit there anyway.
I'm still trying to figure out how I want to outfit my jeep for camping but keep it as flexible and usable as possible. I've always carried portable water containers in the past but finding a convenient spot for them can be difficult.

 

[TreeTopFlyer]

You can get the 13 gallon tank that goes behind the rear seats and not have to lose them. It's what I will be using. A water pump is underneath going to a water heater up front.

You lose about 3" of depth with the tank

 

[brianjwilson]

Without measuring (still away from the jeep for two weeks) I would assume that a 50qt fridge, tailgate table and behind the seat tank wouldn't all fit, no?

 

[Matthanna]

No, it will not be fit in such a small space but this is a nice idea of building the water storage facility in the tank. Other than water storage, some of the few other facilities are also provided there.
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http://www.lacoteimmo.com/

 

[TreeTopFlyer]

Yah. Mine is a smaller Norcold which will fit. Under seat it is.

 

[extremehabit]

Would that front running tank fit under the rear seats (obviously in the up position)?
You'd probably have to remove the brackets to put it in, and lose the ability to lower the seats, but I'm curious if you think it would fit there anyway.
I'm still trying to figure out how I want to outfit my jeep for camping but keep it as flexible and usable as possible. I've always carried portable water containers in the past but finding a convenient spot for them can be difficult.

You'd have to remove the metal feet to the rear seat by unbolting them and folding them back, but then the seat would not support any weight. I do not see this as a good option. A more viable option though would be to remove the cup holder portion of the center console. I think it would fit then and would be easier to secure the tank in place by strapping it to the seats legs. Wouldn't leave any leg room for an adult though.

If the rear seat is a must, I think an upright option in the back is best. I'd consider a rack that goes above a fridge on a slider for example. That might be where I go down the road, but for now this will work well.

 

[Coachgeo]

also plan on how you deal with black and gray waste (pee and poop). Just stared a thread on that in General Forum. (Search "Pee and Poop")

Also modify bathing washing rituals and save more water for hydration. A thread on that also in General forum. (search "no rince" bathing, bath, washing)


PS use "" marks as applied above in your search