Rear windshield protection

I built a sleeping platform that I can adjust the height on--so I can store taller stuff under it, then bring it down to sleep on.

My question: When I am driving with the platform at the same height as the rear window, heavier objects can slide into the rear windshield and scratch the tint or even break it. I have seen metal plates with holes that you can hang tools etc on for the side windows in the back, but nothing for the rear windshield.

Any suggestions for something that can protect that rear windshield? Ideally, it would be removable or on a hinge, so I could swing it (either up to the roof or down to the liftgate...I suppose suction cups holding it onto the windshield would work well, too).

Thanks, y'all,
Jon

 

If you’re gonna build anything I would suggest a foldable tailgate type arrangement on the platform so things dont slide back into the window. Basically, you need to make a cargo area for your cargo area, because you are deciding to not use the structural back side of your actual OEM cargo area.


Honestly, I tend to overthink things, maybe because Im just looking for things to build. If I had your situation, I can imagine spending hours thinking of what I could do to solve that problem.

Then…after all that thinking, drawing sketches, staring into space (yes, I do these things… I would just decide it makes more sense to keep the platform below glass level if I have to carry heavy objects that could impact windows. But I would probably buy a cool label-maker so I can put “maximum height” stickers in appropriate areas on the platform.

Im not making fun…I guess Im saying I feel your pain lol.

Edit: Dont attach anything to the glass. The weight will either wreck the window mechanism, or you’ll forget it’s there, roll down the window,and blow the whole thing out.

 

Install some cargo tie-down D-rings on your platform. Then strap the loose stuff securely with them so things don’t go flying around while driving or in an accident.

 

Edit: Dont attach anything to the glass. The weight will either wreck the window mechanism, or you’ll forget it’s there, roll down the window,and blow the whole thing out.[/QUOTE]
Oh man. . . I'm glad you edited to add this!!! You are absolutely correct about both screwing up the mechanism AND rolling it down with the cage on it!

 

Yeah, I'm looking at a cargo net to put over stuff sitting on top of the platform (I will have stuff underneath as well) . . . question is if it will be strong enough to not stretch out over time (I wouldn't do a bungee type cargo net). Using regular ribbon tie downs would work, but rather tedious to go all the way around, but certainly worth it to avoid breakage of anything.

 

I installed a rear hatch grate to protect the glass and gear. I can leave it open for my dog to get air. The middle section can be removed if I need to carry long items (most of the time I get items to fit in the 4Runner).

 

I like that. How is it attached to the window frame? The only one I've seen uses sheet metal screws. I believe it was by orangeboxx (or something like that). What kind of fasteners are used for the center section? Easy to remove?

 

It is from orangeboxx fabrication. It is mounted to the frame using self tapping screws. I added gasket tape to cover the screws. The middle section is mounted with 1/4-20 screws, it is easy to remove. The kit comes with all the screws. I ordered the gasket tape from Amazon.

 

Well, that's about exactly what I'm looking for . . . now to prepare myself to see the price!
Thx!
Jon

 

Go to their website for pricing. www.orangeboxxfabrication.com

 

Thanks! Just found it!
Jon

 

To bad you don't live close by. I still have the modified one before I replaced it with the current panel. I bought the first panel before the 5th gen panel was available. Wanted one that the middle can be removed. Waited 2 years for it.

 

Where are you? I'll be driving from Central Texas to Western NC in early October.

 

PA,

 

HA! A little out of the way, but I'd be tempted to drive up there with TX temps at 105 daily!

I'm going try and figure out direct messages on this forum. I still may be interested.

 

It's about 95 here, feels like 107.

 

Oof. Not much better than here! And y'all had the wildfire smoke not too long ago. People think Austin is a dry heat . . . but it's definitely not. I saw a meme recently that said, "It feels like a wet fart outside. . . all the time!" Sadly accurate. That rear grate will be great for dropping that window without fear of stuff falling out . .. little cross-flow is nice.

 

My dog loves it.

 

I think mine would, too. He's 15, but I swear he'd jump out just to go play. He still acts like he's 2. He likes to sit on the platform I built back there and look out the rear window.

 

Mine is 5 years old and acts like a 18 year old. He is lazy and no spunk.