Camper shell mod? (OT)

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Bad Climber

climber

Topic Author's Original Post - Jul 2, 2015 - 04:11pm PT

Hey, Taco People:

We've got a Toyota Tundra 8 ft. bed with a Leer shell that we'd like to add an awning to for sheltered hangout/living space. I rather like this awning--nice price, too:

http://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/products/shade/awnings/sunseeker-8ft-awning_32105

The deal is, we don't want/need the roof rack, but looking at the mounting system, I don't see why we can't drill through the shell and bolt the mounts directly:

The company doesn't sell a mount for this purpose, but it sure looks like it would work. Maybe get a third mount for extra support? The bag would just hang on the side of the shell. I'll use a gob of sealant to keep the leaks out.

So, am I crazy? What say you.

(Jeff: I know...I know...)

BAd

Roots

Mountain climber

Tustin, CA

Jul 2, 2015 - 04:36pm PT

I'd suggest at least use large fender washers on the inside. Seems to me you'd want to spread out the stress...slight movements over time might cause fractures in the glass.

MisterE

Gym climber

Being In Sierra Happy Of Place

Jul 2, 2015 - 05:07pm PT

I'd suggest at least use large fender washers on the inside. Seems to me you'd want to spread out the stress...slight movements over time might cause fractures in the glass.

I would go further than that and add some good-sized plywood reinforcement tabs on the inside, additionally - wind factors can add quite a load to the attachment points, especially with fiberglass, which is quite friable in "smaller" areas of stress.

Fender washers on the outside, as well.

My $0.02