Styleside tray and custom canopy for the Dodge

[bugman]

Hello gents,
The Dodge Ram is getting a makeover for next years Kimberley NW WA adventure.
I'm interested in opinions or recommendations of tray builders and canopy creators in Brissy or Gold Coast.
I currently have a styleside. I'd like a flat tray with a custom canopy with legs in order drive away. We plan to run a roof mount tent system and awning with extra room. I don't want to pack it up every time I want to go somewhere.
I'll need all the goodies in the canopy which will need to be 100% lockable and secure.
Brett

[bugman]

I'd like to lean towards an alloy tray as well just because of the weight factor. Not sure if the big dodge will have much traction with just the alloy tray on the back and no canopy.
It seems the alloy / steel tray debate is as bad a ford/holden or fourstroke/etec.
Brett

[Chimo]

Hi Brett

Consider upgrading your shocks before you go.

Mate of mine took a new 2014 15 RAM on a similar trip and his shocks failed big time.

On the other hand B in Laws 2009 RAM that lives on blacktop is still fine

Cheers
Chimo

[bugman]

Thanks Chimo,
Am looking for a full suspension upgrade in the process as well.
Brett

[Chimo]

2016 Canada Trip 14 July to 19 Aug 093.jpg2016 Canada Trip 14 July to 19 Aug 094.jpg

Found a few pics for you Brett.

[bugman]

Ouch. Not good in the middle of nowhere

[Chimo]

Which is where it happened. Had to get decent shocks shipped to him, $1500 for the new ones I believe.

There are some good welders on the west coast (mining) so thats a good thing when it hits the fan.

[Spaniard_King]

Call Craig, he is into all the ram stuff trays etc

[AndrewB]

Metalink at Palmwoods on Sunny coast. Lockable, dust proof which is essential in the Kimberley.
They do such a good job without adverting they have min 6 month wait list.

[Corry]

Dynamic Campers, here, http://slideoncampers.com.au/slide-on-campers/

They fabricated ours for us, they were great to deal with, and as we sleep in ours, could do air con for our Territory trips.

Sent from my SM-T810 using Ausfish mobile app

[bugman]

Just a quick follow up on this one.
Tray has been ordered from Duratray at Capalaba. Heavy duty steal with oversize bars to match the Dodge. I have a 1800 underfloor draw ordered so I can fit the lift off jacks for the canopy, 2 x 30l water tanks at the back and one toolbox front right. The fuel filler prevent another tool box on the left. I wanted the plumbed 80l water tank up under the front but can't fit it with the draw... and I need the draw to fit the jacks ... bugger.
http://duratray.net.au/
The canopy is being built but Concept Canopies at Joyner. Barry seems really willing to help and make all the custom stuff I want. Extras are fridge compartment with drop down slides, Dual spare wheel mounts, internal draws, battery boxes, internal mesh walls and roof shelving, vents, over hanging roofrack and jerry can holders. All carpetted internally and double sealed to keep out the dust. Plus the jack off legs.
http://conceptcanopies.com.au/index.htm
Now I just need to wait a few months before it's my turn in the production line.
Brett