A new twist on bed mounted RTT's

[3d fj]

Like everyone else has said... Awesome. Simply awesome.

I was wondering... In the absence of the rear bar (last bow by the tailgate), would the rack rotate even more rearward? Also, where did you source the parts for the rotating mechanism that is attached to the base of the rack?

 

[pray4surf]

Actually it wouldn't rotate further back - the 1-1/2" angle iron where the 'legs' pivot at the undercarriage stops the further rotation. The idea was to go just beyond TDC so that the RTT wasn't 'teetering' at the apogee. If memory serves, the rotation continues <5* beyond TDC before it the legs contact the angle iron - at which time the undercarriage settles onto the rear hoop. Also two small stops mounted to the undercarriage prevent any further rearward movement. When deployed, two nylon straps (red in picture below) secure the RTT to the rearward hoop, preventing any movement towards the cab of the truck. When deployed and secured, there is ~zero movement of the RTT on the rack. But in the absence of the rear hoop/bar, I wouldn't count on the edge of the angle iron to prevent any further rotation...

The football bearings were sourced from an online garage door parts supplier. The rest was hand crafted in my backyard...

Thank you for the questions :ylsmoke:

 

[3d fj]

This image makes me think of a spin on your design. I have to take measurements of my tent and my trailer to see if i can accomplish a similar result as you've created. hmmm.... Time to put the thinking cap on.

 

[Tracer-X]

Why is this part in 2 pieces rather than 1 solid tube?

 

[pray4surf]

Because I didn't have the finished length until it was built. . The narrower tube continues 4" or so into the larger.

Additionally, to remove the RTT from the rack I need to unbolt the inner/outer tubes to remove the gas struts. Gas strut has another half inch of stroke.

 

[pray4surf]

When I'm not rolling with the RTT mounted, I've rigged up a 'safari top' that stretches across the rack and bed.

Primarily, 14oz treated canvas tarp (from Amazon), some 1/2" EMT conduit, and my wife's amazing sewing skills...

The EMT hoops are held (wouldn't say secured) in place with rubber leg tips/covers, which bolt through existing holes from the RTT mount. Though, with the tension from the tiedown straps holding the tarp, I'm confident it'll stay in place. I don't know why/how the image got flipped upside down?

Just need to replace the safety orange nylon straps

 

[Borrego60]

Cool little cover I like it.

 

[PNW/TRD Steve]

And just when I think I have my raising rrt rack design finalized, I see your completed Bimini!! Great work! I might have to make some tweaks to incorporate one.
Thank you for you detailed write up.
Steve

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[pray4surf]

And just when I think I have my raising rrt rack design finalized, I see your complete Bimini!! Great work! I might have to make some tweaks to incorporate one.
Thank you for you detailed write up.
Steve

Sent from my QMV7A using Tapatalk

Wasn't sure if you were being facetious or not . But of you have any questions, I'll answer them...

I'm also interested in what you are coming up with for your rack...

Rick

 

[PNW/TRD Steve]

Wasn't sure if you were being facetious or not . But of you have any questions, I'll answer them...

I'm also interested in what you are coming up with for your rack...

Rick

Not at all. I've been stalking your thread for a bit and like your innovative design.
I want to get my tent to vestibule height or about 73" but need to have it fit under roof mounted kayaks during transport.
No fab skills here, and fabricators have a long lead time, so it might be a while.
I do plan on sharing what we come up with when all is said and done.
As far as the Bimini, I think it will be a great finishing trim for when the tent is off the rack.
Steve

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