I'm working on a cruise ship at sea, and soon plan to buy a late model big bronco. I want to build up a truck that is just bulletproof. 300cid, manual trans & t-case (such as Atlas), big bumpers, etc. I'm going to be loading my music equipment frequently, and for years, have noticed the problems with the sliding rear windows. So i just had an idea and wondered if anyone has already done it.
I want to swap the entire tailgate with one from an F-series truck, and use an aftermarket locking tailgate handle...thus on the outside. Then, I want to find or fabricate a super-sturdy truck topper-style rear window. One that will bolt up to the topper with sturdy hinges, and latch like a canopy door would, adding huge rubber seals to keep out weather and noise. If I have to get this thing fabricated, I might even use tinted Lexan (bulletproof) for the rear window!
Doing this will allow me to abuse the cargo area (which I usually wreck quite quickly in suv's with my gear), and not have to worry about repeatedly failing tailgate glass. Also, what a breeze loading would be with an exterior tailgate handle, especially when my lift kit is done.
Any insight?
I want to swap the entire tailgate with one from an F-series truck, and use an aftermarket locking tailgate handle...thus on the outside. Then, I want to find or fabricate a super-sturdy truck topper-style rear window. One that will bolt up to the topper with sturdy hinges, and latch like a canopy door would, adding huge rubber seals to keep out weather and noise. If I have to get this thing fabricated, I might even use tinted Lexan (bulletproof) for the rear window!
Doing this will allow me to abuse the cargo area (which I usually wreck quite quickly in suv's with my gear), and not have to worry about repeatedly failing tailgate glass. Also, what a breeze loading would be with an exterior tailgate handle, especially when my lift kit is done.
Any insight?
