IntrepidXJ's Adventure Blog

This article isn’t really going to be a normal “how to” but more of a step by step process on how I built the storage box for my XJ. It’s mainly to help give you ideas on building your own storage box.

After removing my rear seat a few months ago, I thought it would make a good place for a storage box. I plan on moving my rear tire from the back bumper to the cargo area, so I decided that I didn’t want to build the box back there.

First I started out with a 2×4 and cut it to the proper width.

The rest of the box will be made from 3/4″ Birch Plywood.

Then I cut the front of the box. This is where it will latch shut. I will be bolting this piece through the metal seat support that is behind it.

Now I cut the two tops of the box. Each of these covers will be hinged from the 2×4 and lift up from the front.

Next I cut two small pieces to fill the open section on each side (they are just setting there for now).

After a trip to the hardware store, I came home with plenty of hinges, handles and other misc. supplies that I would need.

Then I glued on the side peices of the box to the front.

Next I painted the pieces and started to assemble everything.

Installed the hinges on the back of the lids

I decided to help keep the noise down from things bouncing around, and to help insolate the items from the exhaust below the box, that I would add carpet to the bottom of the box. I started out with the origina carpet that I had ripped out of my XJ a few months back.

Then cut it to size

…and installed it.

Then I finished installing the hinges.

Now I was almost done.

Next I bolted the front of the box through the rear seat support, and installed the latches on the front.

I also bolted the rear of the box through the floor.

Lastly, I found a small flaw in my design. I was unable to open the box while I was sitting inside the Jeep, because the handles on the rear doors got in the way. Luckily, since no one would be sitting in the back anymore, it was an easy fix. All I did was remove the handles on the rear doors.

Now it was time to fill it!