Hey everyone, I’m working on designing and building a welded steel flatbed for my Gen 2 dual cab Tacoma. I’d love to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions on how to improve it.
These pictures show my rough draft. The wheel position and chassis connection points were estimated, so those will be adjusted in later drafts and when I actually start building. The bumper will be lowered so the hitch sits at the right height (around 16-17 inches from the ground). I also plan to add sheet metal on top of the flatbed.
The bed is extended by about a foot, making it 85.5 inches long, and it’s raised about 10 inches from the chassis. One of my main concerns is whether the structure, especially the bumper, will be strong and safe. If you have experience with similar builds or any advice, let me know. I’d love to hear what you would do differently!
bottom view, the small vertical 3x3’s connect to the chassis
top ‘full view’
bumper closeup. I plan on lowering it more so that the hitch is about 16-17inches above the ground.