Truck inside camper shell rod carrier

[IN2DEEP]

I had the same dilemma when trying to come up with a rod rack for my camper shell.
I didn't want to drill any holes to mount an overhead rack and also didn't want to lose any head room in the shell since I sometimes sleep back there when camping.
I was planning on using the existing screws on the side window frames to mount some "gun rack" type holders to hold the rods.

In the end, I utilized the shell ledge and existing hold down bolts to store 3 rods on each side.
The hooks are bent aluminum.
The lower hook is a separate piece from the upper section. They are sandwiched together with the hold down bolt.
The rods are separated from rubbing each other and I used peel and stick felt on any surface that they might rub against.

I have a long bed(8') so this design works out. I can fit rods up to 8'
If you have a short bed, it might not work out too well
As previously mentioned, with a short bed truck, you will need a system to be able to pass the rods through a window.

[Harbisgirl]

IN2DEEP - I love this, its exactly what I was looking for. I want to mount our poles (2 on each side) along the rail because I need clearance along the roof.

You say that the hooks are bent aluminum - did you make these yourself? I'm hoping to purchase something somewhat ready-made since we just moved and all our tools are in storage so we can't fabricate anything right now.

[Harbisgirl]

And I just realized this thread is from 2014 so IN2DEEP probably won't see this. Oh well, maybe someone else will chime in LOL

[Salty]

Originally Posted by Harbisgirl

And I just realized this thread is from 2014 so IN2DEEP probably won't see this. Oh well, maybe someone else will chime in LOL

I've looked in to a couple different options for my truck. I have a short bed
2016 Colorado. I don't have a camper shell, but I do have the large Yakima HD Overhaul Racks and I've though of different ways to utilize the T-rail system on the BOTTOM of the crossbars to mount something, just haven't had much time to actually do anything. But for you purposes, if you aren't able to fabricate something, these holders above reminded me of the holders used for pool-cleaning nets/poles. Maybe something like this would work for you? Might even be able to heat them up a little and bend them to shape to your truck better. Just a thought!

https://www.amazon.com/Aluminium-Swi...585364045&th=1

[Harbisgirl]

Originally Posted by Salty

I've looked in to a couple different options for my truck. I have a short bed
2016 Colorado. I don't have a camper shell, but I do have the large Yakima HD Overhaul Racks and I've though of different ways to utilize the T-rail system on the BOTTOM of the crossbars to mount something, just haven't had much time to actually do anything. But for you purposes, if you aren't able to fabricate something, these holders above reminded me of the holders used for pool-cleaning nets/poles. Maybe something like this would work for you? Might even be able to heat them up a little and bend them to shape to your truck better. Just a thought!

https://www.amazon.com/Aluminium-Swi...585364045&th=1

That's a great idea, Salty. I think I'm going to give that a try. Plus it's an excuse to play with a blowtorch LOL

[Salty]

Originally Posted by Harbisgirl

That's a great idea, Salty. I think I'm going to give that a try. Plus it's an excuse to play with a blowtorch LOL

Share pics if it works out! I'll take any excuse to play with a blowtorch... lol