I recently purchased a 1996 Ford Ranger with a 2.3 Liter engine. I've worked out the bugs (for now). I still want to put on new shocks and struts. The truck came with a diamond plate toolbox on it. I am wanting to fabricate a lid using angle iron, small pistons, piano hinge, and diamond plate. I know that diamond plate can be pricey. I've found a sheet for $92. The angle iron at 2.11/ft. I can get the locking handles on Ebay for $30. The pistons are cheap find at the local salvage yard. I was wanting to see if anyone else might have done this. I know lids can be rather pricey. My project would be roughly $210 or so. Has anyone done a custom bed lid?

 

Interesting idea....I look forward to seeing it come together.

One suggestion though...crossmembers between the angle iron on the bed rails. That little price for a sheet of diamond plate alum leads me to believe it's some pretty thin stuff. Securing it to crossmembers will help with the alum sheet from bouncing.

I'd take a good look on how different kind of tonneau covers are set up and put together. I've seen plenty and I'm imagining it to be a pretty neat little project. Good luck!

 

should look good but as FX4wannabe01 stated what how thick the metal is.

Too thick and the weight will be hard to handle, thin and it will bent when you put a heavy object on it or maybe just pick it up.

It will be different.

 

dont forget to put a rubber seal on in side of lid.... to help seal and stop scratches


good luck sounds really cool