Hey group!
I recently purchased and wired up a ARE camper shell. I'm looking for those that have done some innovative stuff with racks, storage, etc. I am a boy scout leader and use my truck for home depot runs and camping. I'm looking for photos that others have set up some storage, racks, hooks, etc. inside their shells for maybe some similar uses. I'm also thinking about installing a rack on the top of the shell, but funds are limited so I've even tossed around the idea of getting a couple long handicap rails that you would normally see in a bathroom and put on the top. I would obviously powder coat them black or something like that. Thanks in advance.

 

I've done two things that really help camping. First was to put a plywood shelf up next to the cab. It is about 20" deep measured to fit the plastic tubs I have. With a lip added to the front and some drawer liner the containers don't budge. This lets you keep a lot of your gear up above to make room for your feet when you sleep.

The other thing that really helps out, especially if you have a 5.5' bed, is a cap tent. Search "DAC full size truck tent" to see the one I have. It lets you leave the tailgate down and not have to sleep diagonal across the bed. Plus you get regular tent flaps and mosquito netting. Goes on very quick, much faster than most tents. The only thing I don't like about it is that it is hard to get airflow through the bed, so I don't like using it unless it gets below 70 at night.

I will try and remember to take some pictures and post them!

 

Here's a couple of quick shots I took at lunch showing my shelf. The clamp that holds the cap on had a bolt head sticking up and I drilled a hole on each side to match. This along with some velcro keeps the shelf very firmly in place. I thought I might have to tie it down somehow, but it is solid as a rock as is.

 

Have not done anything storage wise, but if youre interested in installing or upgrading existing lighting I did this:

https://www.f150forum.com/f38/z-seri...11-fx4-114215/

 

I've seen your awesome work on another post. Great job!

 

If you have seen the ladder racks for over a bed this is similar. Make a smaller version that clamps to your bed sides inside the cap. you can hang clothes on the cross piece and it would be more sturdy than one that would hang from the cap roof.

The shelf idea is excellent as is the cap tent.

How did the wiring go?

 

Wiring done, for now, thanks for asking! Still have to wire some additional lights but overall very happy. Used 10 gauge wire with a 30 amp fuse from the engine fuse block by the radiator and ran to two 12V plugs in the cap. Ran the second 16 gauge wire from the wire by the master brake cylinder for the third brake light.

Any photos of your suggestion for the rack?