Little hurdles occur as build progresses. The four struts attach to the RTT frame/attachment points. As seen here at top of picture,
View attachment 152775
This connection needs to pivot, and needs as little slop as possible. Because the fasteners are 5/16" dia bolts (grade 8) and the inner dia of the 1" tube is approx 3/4", I had to come up with a solution to keep the bolts centered within the tube.
My solution
View attachment 152776
Some 3/4" OD tubing and 1/4" flat washers whose combined length is fractionally greater than the 1-1/2" length of the 1" tube. Resulting in secure connection that allows the strut to pivot freely around the mounting tabs.
View attachment 152777
These tabs are to be welded to two lengths of 1-1/2" x 1/8" steel angle, 4 tabs, 2 struts per length. Each length of steel angle is then bolted to the fixed base of the RTT. I finish doing away of the 'factory' aluminum RTT mounting channels and reinforce the RTT base using a 1" x .095 square tube. As shown in the first picture - specific locations TBD.
If I'm understanding this correctly, you have a Grade 8 bolt that will be supporting the weight of the tent on each of these pivots, correct?
In the pictures, it looks like the narrow washers will be transferring the weight from the pivot tube to the bolt, correct?
If this is how it is planned, I am concerned that with normal road/trail vibration and occupant weight in the tent shifting around you may find the washers will be your weak link in keeping those pivots from becoming sloppy.
I can see them wallowing out or possibly even wear grooves in the bolt itself.
If this does occur, I would recommend you get a sleeve turned out of UHMW plastic that fits the Grade 8 bolt snug inside the pivot tube.
The UHMW plastic is long wearing and self lubricating and will support the entire bolt length that is inside the pivot, so it will last as long as your rack assembly and keep everything from getting sloppy on you.
Just something to think about down the road.
Oh, and BTW... Great design and problem solved for how to mount your tent.
You may also be able to fins a way to use a worm drive out of a factory car scissor jack to get your tent from the lower to upper position.
There are many sizes and shapes to choose from, just visit your local Pick A Part, they tend to have a bin of them in the lobby.
