This looks great!
I’m pretty sure you mentioned it, but I wanted to ask: Did you think about using the retractable cargo cover that fits into those grooves the aluminum rods are in? Or were you more interested in having a sturdy shelf and a cover at the same time?
@Asher
Yeah, I wanted something I could actually put stuff on. I play a lot of airsoft, so I often have gear bags in the back. Plus, having the extra space when I take friends around is a lifesaver. I saw the cover, but I work in a dangerous area, so I think the cover could be easily ripped off or removed. This setup can’t be taken off without tools, and the rods are 3/8 stainless steel. Aluminum would bend too easily.
@Rin
Love it!
Looks good, mate. I’m thinking about doing something similar with my 2016 Escape. I wanted to remove the spare tire to free up space, but attaching it to the rear door like the old CRVs would take too much work.
One thing though, the retractable cargo cover can’t hold things on top of it, but your shelf can support tools and more.
@Paxton
Just remember, if you stop suddenly or get into an accident, those tools could fly around. Just a heads up.
Amari said:
@Paxton
Just remember, if you stop suddenly or get into an accident, those tools could fly around. Just a heads up.
This!
Amari said:
@Paxton
Just remember, if you stop suddenly or get into an accident, those tools could fly around. Just a heads up.
I’m guessing the tools will hit the ceiling and the 3 headrests first.
Also, could you post more pics of the underside of your platform? I’d love to know the steps and process you used to make it.
Asher said:
Also, could you post more pics of the underside of your platform? I’d love to know the steps and process you used to make it.
I don’t know why, but it won’t let me upload any more pics here. I also can’t find where to edit my post, but basically, I took some 3/8 inner tubing, welded it to the underside, and drilled and tapped holes for set screws. Then I put the rods in the slots. I also welded two ribs (you can see them in the pics) to keep it from flexing.
@Rin
:nice: I need to learn how to weld.
Asher said:
@Rin
:nice: I need to learn how to weld.
Welding is a super fun hobby. The best part is making what you imagine come to life, and you can make good money from it too.
Asher said:
@Rin
:nice: I need to learn how to weld.
Welding is a super fun hobby. The best part is making what you imagine come to life, and you can make good money from it too.
Yeah, that’s why I want to get into it: to bring my ideas to life.
I actually bought a retractable and removable one from Ford when I got my Escape new in 2011. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work with my 2020 Escape Titanium Hybrid, so now it just sits in my garage.
Good idea, but if you get rear-ended, someone’s head might be in serious danger. Could even hurt your rear passengers.
Luca said:
Good idea, but if you get rear-ended, someone’s head might be in serious danger. Could even hurt your rear passengers.
If I get rear-ended that badly, I feel like the rear passengers would already be in trouble. Also, I’m usually by myself. In the last 3 months, I’ve had 3 other people in my car, and it was only one person at a time, so the chances of having 4 people in the car at once are almost none.
Luca said:
Good idea, but if you get rear-ended, someone’s head might be in serious danger. Could even hurt your rear passengers.
That’s unlikely. Unless he also removes the headrests, then it might be a problem.
Looks amazing. I’ve thought about doing something similar but never followed through. A half-height shelf would be great too.
Double decker 
Out of sight, out of mind. 