Hey everyone! I'm looking for some advice on building a truck bed cap for my 1990 Chevy K2500. I have some woodworking experience (made a book press and a few small items back in high school) and can handle basic metalwork too. I'm planning to use it for camping and road trips, but since the truck is also my workhorse, I need a cap that can be removed easily. I thought about constructing it out of wood to save some cash.
I'd love to hear any recommendations for the type of wood and fasteners I should use. I want the frame to be solid since the clamps will attach here, and I'm considering plywood for the walls to keep things as lightweight as possible. Do you think that will hold up? Also, I could use some tips on making plans—I've tried CAD before, but it was a nightmare for me! Thanks!
2 Answers
One of my buddies made a wooden cap and then fiberglassed it. Sadly, it didn’t last long because the weather and UV rays were brutal on it after about a year. If you go the wood route, definitely use a marine varnish with UV protection to help it endure the elements!
Honestly, I’m not sure wood is the best choice for a bed cap. You might want to consider using aluminum or a steel frame with composite panels instead. They’ll be more durable than wood.
I hear you! But I’m trying to stick to a budget and usually drive my truck under 45 mph, so I think I can make it work.