GX470 Storage & Sleep Platform - Test Run | [A GX470 Story]

In this video I'll walk you through the first test run, impression and overview build of my custom DIY storage & sleep system plus fold down side gate table for the back of my SUV. Mine is designed specifically for a Lexus GX470, but the concept could be easily adapted to fit just about any SUV, van, or hatchback. If you don't need the sleep system, you can just eliminate a step and build the cargo shelf.

The entire build came from supplies found around my house and Home Depot and requires minimal handyman skills to complete. The platform itself is composed of 1/2” plywood cut to size (38” deep by 40 3/4” wide) with foldable side-wings attached by piano hinges. In total, cost of materials was $125 for me, since I had all the 2x4s already on hand. If you were to buy everything, I still think it would come in at under a couple hundred bucks.

This Storage & Sleep platform is light and super easy to install by just one person. And since it consists of 2 pieces, you can use just the rear section of the platform as a cargo shelf.

The mattress I used was 3” memory foam with 1” regular foam underneath. I laid my sleeping bag on top and then rolled up it all up and secured it to the bag of my passenger seat for travel and to keep it out of the way when cooking in the back.

The table was cut from the same piece of plywood as the storage and sleep platform. Measured for just under the width of my back side gate door and attached using a piano hinge secured to the door by machine screws with lock washers and nuts, the table is supported by 1/16” wire cable and secured in the “up” position by cupboard magnets.

This storage & sleep system plus table is a game changer for me. If I can help you build your own, don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your questions below!

Thanks for watching!