Dog Haul Platform Project

[Brucifer]

Have 4 dogs ranging from a 40lb Lab mix to a 14yo Min-Pin. Since there is a sizable gap between the front seats and the rear folded ones, I needed something to keep them from ending up on the floorboard. There is also a decent gap between the seats and the doors, that had to be covered, too, since looking out the window is a major activity. I also needed to be able to move it in and out of the rear, so it would have to collapse somehow.

 

I started with a sheet of 19/32 plywood. I had used it for another project, so it was cut down some. I ended up buying another sheet because 19/32 doesn't come in 2'x4' pieces. If I hadn't cut it the first time, I might of been able to just use one sheet.

 

It's a work in progress as you can see. The plan is to cover the plywood with vinyl to protect against spills, then cover the entire area with carpet remnant. The only thing I wish I could fold the whole thing to fit into the rear cargo area, but I don't want to have too many seams in the main platform.

 

 

[WWWPerfA_ZN0W]

Very interesting! Maybe Jared (thirdgenlxi) will chime in with some tips on this

[Chipster]

I can't tell from your pictures, how flat is the deck?

[Brucifer]

I can't tell from your pictures, how flat is the deck?

The deck itself is flat being it's all one board. It does rise up at a bit of angle since the rear seats do not fold completely flat. Just imagine the slope from the top of the folded seat to the rear of your cargo bay.

 

I have to figure out the best way to attach the vinyl to the board. I was thinking something like Liquid Nails with a good bead around the edge and a couple of squiggles down the middle. Do the bottom first, then when I place the top, that's where the overlay will be. It does has to be too pretty since it's going to get covered as it is.

Edited February 28, 2016 by Brucifer

[enigma-2]

Assume you be using a dog guard between the front seats and 2nd row; such as this

http://www.walmart.com/ip/21889853?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222228016814844&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=40839862232&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=78653160272&veh=sem

[Brucifer]

Actually, a fabric barrier that connects to the headrests. Just to keep that stinky breath out of my ear.

 

It's not a full time dog taxi. Just something that I can throw in there for vet/groomer/beach runs.

[Brucifer]

Used Liquid Nails to secure the vinyl to the plywood. Found a thicker-than-needed piece for the main board. Washed it several times with alcohol and vinegar to try and cut some of the chemical smell, but some of it may be the Liquid Nails curing. Found a new carpet remnant for $10, so that is adding a little bit to the stink.

Once the rain threat moves off, I might do the maiden voyage with all of them to a park.

 

 

As an added bonus, here is a pic of a sod run. Platform was in place, but was covered with an old shower curtain. I ended up getting 50 pieces that day. (Dog was added after I got home.)

 

[WWWPerfA_ZN0W]

I hope your dog don't expect the sod every time! Way too comfy.