Fortuner Drawer system and other advice required.

[AnywhereAfrica]

Hi.

I am planning a trip to Northern Namibia in April, will leave the trailer at home, but need to install some sort of drawer system that is easy and practical to use.
My requirements:

60L fridge/Freezer - existing one I have. Still pondering on drop or straight slide, this will have an impact on the rest of the layout. would be great to have the weigh low, but then waste space for a possible working surface or drawers.
Quick stop and go, so a system with small kitchen that has quick access to gas stove and maybe small surface/work area should do the trick.

I am planning to get a footwell 40L frontrunner tank for water, and also install a existing 40L water tank I have where the rear seats are located, still working on a plan there. Not 100% how much water I need to take with me, will depend if we stay over where there is ablution facilities or not.
The rest is clothes and 2x Chairs with some recovery gear.
Anyone that has done something before is welcome to share pictures and ideas.

Currently there is limited items to buy of the shelf. I can get someone like Bushwakka to build something, I am based in Worcester.

I will be removing the jump seats, and will have to install a false floor to mount on, that also makes it possible to remove the drawer system.

I am planning a gobi X rear Bumper for Spare wheel and 1x Jerry can for Fuel. The current spare weal is a bit low under the 2nd fuel tank. Still doing research if i have to take 1 or 2 spare tyres.

I have an existing frontrunner roof rack and Bushwakka 360 Nest RTT, it is a bit heavy, I guess close to 100kg, but dont want to sell it and buy something else, my bedding fits into it when closed.
I also have an existing Alu-cab Awning and shower that is easy to install and remove.

I do have Tough dog suspension installed for the past 12 months, planning on upgrading the Upper control arms also, just doing some research still if it is really needed.

I would like to keep it simple but practical and also keep the weigh down as far as possible. According to our planning we might do Van Zyl's pass also.

Any tips, tricks or advice is welcome !

Thank you

[wessa1999]

Hi.

I am planning a trip to Northern Namibia in April, will leave the trailer at home, but need to install some sort of drawer system that is easy and practical to use.
My requirements:

60L fridge/Freezer - existing one I have. Still pondering on drop or straight slide, this will have an impact on the rest of the layout. would be great to have the weigh low, but then waste space for a possible working surface or drawers.
Quick stop and go, so a system with small kitchen that has quick access to gas stove and maybe small surface/work area should do the trick.

I am planning to get a footwell 40L frontrunner tank for water, and also install a existing 40L water tank I have where the rear seats are located, still working on a plan there. Not 100% how much water I need to take with me, will depend if we stay over where there is ablution facilities or not.
The rest is clothes and 2x Chairs with some recovery gear.
Anyone that has done something before is welcome to share pictures and ideas.

Currently there is limited items to buy of the shelf. I can get someone like Bushwakka to build something, I am based in Worcester.

I will be removing the jump seats, and will have to install a false floor to mount on, that also makes it possible to remove the drawer system.

I am planning a gobi X rear Bumper for Spare wheel and 1x Jerry can for Fuel. The current spare weal is a bit low under the 2nd fuel tank. Still doing research if i have to take 1 or 2 spare tyres.

I have an existing frontrunner roof rack and Bushwakka 360 Nest RTT, it is a bit heavy, I guess close to 100kg, but dont want to sell it and buy something else, my bedding fits into it when closed.
I also have an existing Alu-cab Awning and shower that is easy to install and remove.

I do have Tough dog suspension installed for the past 12 months, planning on upgrading the Upper control arms also, just doing some research still if it is really needed.

I would like to keep it simple but practical and also keep the weigh down as far as possible. According to our planning we might do Van Zyl's pass also.

Any tips, tricks or advice is welcome !

Thank you

I have a good set-up idea for a SUV. Go and have a look at Paul Marsh 105 series build on youtube.

Packing system:
They basically put the NL fridge on the rear seat. Kept the one seat for another passenger. You can put a NL battery box for example also next to the fridge.

At the rear they had a drawer system and two 40l water tanks on top. With space to fit 4 ammo boxes between them. Enough space for chairs at front. A divider was also put in place to seperate your storage areas.

Front Runner is good, but very heavy. I suggest you look at an aluminium option e.g. Eastrand 4x4 (but may be quite far).

Second spare will give you peace of mind. Not fun to go and search for another spare after you got a flat one.

Consider Quick-Pitch Aero / Custom Leisure Tech LYTE / Eezi Awn Blade if weight is an issue. You can also use a RTT that uses less space e.g. Compact Custom Leisure Tech RTT. IKamper just way too expensive in my opinion (so many trips you can do with that money).

I hope this helps.

[River Rat]

This is the configuration of the drawer system we made for the Fortuner and Bakkie load bin. Specifically to accommodate a large fridge and two drawers on top of each other. The slides are made of aluminum rectangular tubing resting UHDPE plastic runners.

[pjf110]

This the configuration of the drawer system we made for the Fortuner and Bakkie load bin. Specifically to accommodate a large fridge and two drawers on top of each other. The slides are made of aluminum rectangular tubing resting UHDPE plastic runners.

I have removed 2/3 seats for my set up to place the fridge in second row. Accessible while driving and no need for slides etc. This also leaves more space in the rear for packing.

[mudgrubber]

This the configuration of the drawer system we made for the Fortuner and Bakkie load bin. Specifically to accommodate a large fridge and two drawers on top of each other. The slides are made of aluminum rectangular tubing resting UHDPE plastic runners.

I have a very similar system custom made but with a 40litre Engel on the left and two drawers on the right, the lower one with a slide out table; seats 2 and 3 removed. There is a small space under the drawer system base where zip ties etc can be stored. In front of the Engel there is space for a 20 litre water container with hose and tap as well as the National Luna green box. Whole system held in by 2 turnbuckles onto the rear safety belt mountings. Works well; don't stint on spending for the drawer slides. All removed and installed for each trip in maybe 15 minutes.

Now I need a rack system to go in where the two rear seats fit.

[Boslover]

I have a good set-up idea for a SUV. Go and have a look at Paul Marsh 105 series build on youtube.

Packing system:
They basically put the NL fridge on the rear seat. Kept the one seat for another passenger. You can put a NL battery box for example also next to the fridge.

At the rear they had a drawer system and two 40l water tanks on top. With space to fit 4 ammo boxes between them. Enough space for chairs at front. A divider was also put in place to seperate your storage areas.

Front Runner is good, but very heavy. I suggest you look at an aluminium option e.g. Eastrand 4x4 (but may be quite far).

Second spare will give you peace of mind. Not fun to go and search for another spare after you got a flat one.

Consider Quick-Pitch Aero / Custom Leisure Tech LYTE / Eezi Awn Blade if weight is an issue. You can also use a RTT that uses less space e.g. Compact Custom Leisure Tech RTT. IKamper just way too expensive in my opinion (so many trips you can do with that money).

I hope this helps.

Paul at Custom Leisure Tech will build a drawer as you want it he and his team go out of their way top quality

[AnywhereAfrica]

I have a good set-up idea for a SUV. Go and have a look at Paul Marsh 105 series build on youtube.

Packing system:
They basically put the NL fridge on the rear seat. Kept the one seat for another passenger. You can put a NL battery box for example also next to the fridge.

At the rear they had a drawer system and two 40l water tanks on top. With space to fit 4 ammo boxes between them. Enough space for chairs at front. A divider was also put in place to seperate your storage areas.

Front Runner is good, but very heavy. I suggest you look at an aluminium option e.g. Eastrand 4x4 (but may be quite far).

Second spare will give you peace of mind. Not fun to go and search for another spare after you got a flat one.

Consider Quick-Pitch Aero / Custom Leisure Tech LYTE / Eezi Awn Blade if weight is an issue. You can also use a RTT that uses less space e.g. Compact Custom Leisure Tech RTT. IKamper just way too expensive in my opinion (so many trips you can do with that money).

I hope this helps.

Watched the video. This is a really good idea. Moving the fridge away from the traditional slide free up allot of good space !

[AnywhereAfrica]

I have a very similar system custom made but with a 40litre Engel on the left and two drawers on the right, the lower one with a slide out table; seats 2 and 3 removed. There is a small space under the drawer system base where zip ties etc can be stored. In front of the Engel there is space for a 20 litre water container with hose and tap as well as the National Luna green box. Whole system held in by 2 turnbuckles onto the rear safety belt mountings. Works well; don't stint on spending for the drawer slides. All removed and installed for each trip in maybe 15 minutes.

Now I need a rack system to go in where the two rear seats fit.

you dont have a photo ? Would like to see how it is held down. Thanks !

[AnywhereAfrica]

I have removed 2/3 seats for my set up to place the fridge in second row. Accessible while driving and no need for slides etc. This also leaves more space in the rear for packing.

Very good idea. I like the idea of the fridge.

[wessa1999]

From the legendary Paul Marsh:
https://youtu.be/VJNRDf-n5U0?si=zA1F0lqn2rZAGDT4

[AnywhereAfrica]

Got a few good Ideas now, thanks @everyone. will see if I can come up with a basic drawing and figuring out how to mount and unmount the system quickly and safely.
Will have to remove the jump seats and the 1x double seat, should not be to difficult.

Based on the feedback i will stick with 2 spares, losing a bit of ground clearance with the one underneath with the 2nd tank fitted, but should be fine.

I already have a 42L frontrunner tank, based on this design i can just add 2 2nd one, 80L should be enough, sure we will be able to refill between stops. Still pondering if I want to take the Alfa Portable gas geyser or just use a hand-held spray pump.

Next steps is to fit the rear bumper with spare and 1x Jerry

Keeping it simple is the trick !

[AnywhereAfrica]

UPDATE:

Bigcountry Drawer system, single drawer with Gobi-X Fridge slide next to the drawer:

https://www.bigcountry.co.za/shop/dr...awer-fortuner/

Gobi-X rear bumper with 2x Arms.

1x for 2nd spare wheel
1x for 2x Jerry cans, I want to take1 for weigh reasons, I have 80L Tank size + 50L Gerber tank (existing) might not make it for 800km

My existing roof top tent (100kg) + existing alucab awning + Bedding inside, Not a big fan of the weight on the roof for van Zyls pass. (stressing a bit)


I belief we should have ample space, still thinking how to organise, maybe adding 2x Ammo boxes, but i dont like removing and repacking ammo boxes.

Another option is to add a dual drawer, but then I need a drop slide.

The kit is expensive !

[AnywhereAfrica]

Forgot to mention: a 18”mag new from toyota is R3900 !!!
Any other options ?

[niclemaitre]

Buy a steel rim in the right size? You'll also need the appropriate wheel nuts

[janvg]

Forgot to mention: a 18”mag new from toyota is R3900 !!!
Any other options ?

https://www.4x4community.co.za/class...b-tires/cat/25
maybe this is still available

[Jonatan]

Hi.

I am planning a trip to Northern Namibia in April, will leave the trailer at home, but need to install some sort of drawer system that is easy and practical to use.
My requirements:

60L fridge/Freezer - existing one I have. Still pondering on drop or straight slide, this will have an impact on the rest of the layout. would be great to have the weigh low, but then waste space for a possible working surface or drawers.
Quick stop and go, so a system with small kitchen that has quick access to gas stove and maybe small surface/work area should do the trick.

I am planning to get a footwell 40L frontrunner tank for water, and also install a existing 40L water tank I have where the rear seats are located, still working on a plan there. Not 100% how much water I need to take with me, will depend if we stay over where there is ablution facilities or not.
The rest is clothes and 2x Chairs with some recovery gear.
Anyone that has done something before is welcome to share pictures and ideas.

Currently there is limited items to buy of the shelf. I can get someone like Bushwakka to build something, I am based in Worcester.

I will be removing the jump seats, and will have to install a false floor to mount on, that also makes it possible to remove the drawer system.

I am planning a gobi X rear Bumper for Spare wheel and 1x Jerry can for Fuel. The current spare weal is a bit low under the 2nd fuel tank. Still doing research if i have to take 1 or 2 spare tyres.

I have an existing frontrunner roof rack and Bushwakka 360 Nest RTT, it is a bit heavy, I guess close to 100kg, but dont want to sell it and buy something else, my bedding fits into it when closed.
I also have an existing Alu-cab Awning and shower that is easy to install and remove.

I do have Tough dog suspension installed for the past 12 months, planning on upgrading the Upper control arms also, just doing some research still if it is really needed.

I would like to keep it simple but practical and also keep the weigh down as far as possible. According to our planning we might do Van Zyl's pass also.

Any tips, tricks or advice is welcome !

Thank you

I am very late to this thread. We travel with a 2016 Fortuner with fridge and second spare wheel. Some things we learnt;

- sliders are not required for a hatchback - you don't have to lean over a tailgate to reach the load.

- sliders and fridges need very careful power cable management/control to prevent them getting caught and damaged. A dedicated 10 Amp (or 15, or 20) is essential on that cable and carry insulation tape.

- we carry the second spare wheel vertically in the back - has a bracket bolting it to the body points of the removed jump seats. We are only 2 people, still enough space in the car. When we had a spare wheel on a swing out carrier behind the hatch, it was a pain opening the wheel every time before opening the hatch, and the reverse camera was obstructed.


You want to be fully kitted by April? That is quick. Keep it simple and do a shake down test to Tankwa or something before you take the long road.

[AnywhereAfrica]

UPDATE:

Getting there slowly:

Will show packing system, busy with design.

The only problem I cant get my head around, and there is no clear answer is the roof weight.

I did the calk:

RTT (Bushwakka 360 Nest) - 100kg
Alucab shadow Awn: 24kg
Alucab Shower 9kg
Bedding - 5kg ?
Frontrunner table 11.8kg
Actual roof rack Frontrunner 33kg

Total Roof weight is 171KG !
Without the roof rack - 138KG

I dont like it, my options is to either drop the awning for this trip, drop the table and add another one in the back rather or get another RTT.
Or leave as is and just trust all will be well.

Nothing will cost me anything exempt if I sell the RTT and by a IKamper.


Any other options ?

[AfricainHD]

UPDATE:

Getting there slowly:

Will show packing system, busy with design.

The only problem I cant get my head around, and there is no clear answer is the roof weight.

I did the calk:

RTT (Bushwakka 360 Nest) - 100kg
Alucab shadow Awn: 24kg
Alucab Shower 9kg
Bedding - 5kg ?
Frontrunner table 11.8kg
Actual roof rack Frontrunner 33kg

Total Roof weight is 171KG !
Without the roof rack - 138KG

I dont like it, my options is to either drop the awning for this trip, drop the table and add another one in the back rather or get another RTT.
Or leave as is and just trust all will be well.

Nothing will cost me anything exempt if I sell the RTT and by a IKamper.


Any other options ?

I didn't realize that tent was so heavy and the shadow awn

Goodling says it is 90kg.

Don't get the full roof rack, get rails mounted to your vehicle, attach table to bottom of tent and mount tent directly to the rails without a roof rack...

However, after some more googly stuff, that bushwakka has limited mounting points for your extras and I am guessing you will mount your awning and shower cube to the roof rack? This is one of the issues with different branded stuff.

I have the same extras permanently attached to my roof and I am at 105kg.

[AnywhereAfrica]

I had it all on the fortuner about 12 months go, but the trip was 90% tar with some light gravel driving.
I had no issues.

With this trip it will be 2500km Gravel + Van zyls pass.

Some pics of when I had it on.

[AnywhereAfrica]

RTT:

Buskwakka 360 nest: amazing tent ! To heavy and going to sell.

Options.

Ikamper 3 mini. Weight is 50kg. Price is hectic !!
Alucab LT50 50kg. Half the price. But tight in size.
Buskwakka is bringing in some australian options next month. Looks like roughly 70kg.


Would really like something around 50kg to be safe on roof weight.


Still doing research for hardshells.