Safari Door configurations...let's see um!

[Overlander]

Now that I have my rear door full chequer, I'm looking to add a fold down shelf to use as a field desk/stove counter, like many expedition equipped vehicles. Currently looking at how to make it, and deciding on materials.

I've seen here and there a few examples of other great uses of that space, and was hoping that all of you, with the many Rover links out there, can show me other configurations from which I can draw great ideas. Don't hold back. I have a rivnut tool and not afraid to use it!

[130Tdi]

Mark,

I would suggest a pvc board material. There are a couple on the market- boat places carry Starboard. A similar product is available @ lumber places like 84 called Azek.
PVC is Uv stable, doesn't take stains like blood, etc, isn't prone to warping,impervious to moisture and is very easy to work with. The starboard product comes in multiple colors if you don't like white.
In short its very similar to the material used in the white cutting boards sold for kitchen use.

[LenB]

I would suggest a nice plank or platform of teak wood. Installation and fabrication would be easy and simple. Particularly if you intend to use it as a field desk. Wood is warmer to the touch - easy to work with and a simple rubbing oil will keep it looking good as it ages with character. (I use Watco Danish rubbing oil on my wood tables and used it on the teak on my sail boat). (You would likely want a piano hinge and some light gage plastic covered cable to provide the support). You can easily swedge eyes at the end of the cable with hand tools. Hummm you got me interested in doing something like that for my truck.... we regularly use the load space in the back of the truck as a place to sit and eat lunch while out 4wheeling. It would make a great place to put our food and drinks on and would take up practically no space when not in use. Plus there are a gazillian bolts on my tailgate to mount the table system to... so I wouldn't have to drill any new holes in the truck. Thanks for the idea.

[pendy]

Len you should build these for some of these guys. It would be right up your alley.

[LenB]

Len you should build these for some of these guys. It would be right up your alley.I was thinking the same thing, I was doing some rough drawings at my desk after I made the suggestion.... it could look quite classic with bull nose edges, made in various dimensions and be quite functional (optional round holes for cup holders etc). I will also do a brief product survey for vintage drop leaf tables to see if someone in colonial America came up with a clever idea I can adapt to the rover. Nothing over the top - just durable and functional.