Crown Project - Back Deck That Turns Into Rooftop Deck

[Rberriz]

So this is one of the ideas I had for my crown (name unknown)

The Plan

I want to build a back deck at bumper height.
About 5’ deep and several inches in from the edge.
I plan on having two tracks custom machined, to the exact curve of the back of the bus.
In these tracks will run two wheels per side.
These will be attached to the frame on the deck which will cantilever from the wheels in the track.
This would leave the deck “loose” or free to move in the track.
On top of top of the bus I would mount two truck bed cranes. Here is the type I’m thinking of https://www.walmart.com/ip/Hiltex-...with-Winch-Crane-Hoist-1000-lb-Lift/110593551

These would be welded to new support in the frame, which would transfer the load down to the support beam of the bus. (Engineer will run Calculations for me)
These cranes would pull the deck on the tracks from the bumper position to the rooftop position.

Other Thoughts/Details

Saving money is not the driving force behind the bus build. I say that because making this look elegant will not come cheap, but I am prepared to do what it takes to make it look amazing.

The edge of the deck touching the bus will mimic the beautiful curves she already has.
The corners on the front would mimic the corners on the back of the bus near the window.

There will be some sort of railing installed on it. But the long panel will be remove-able.

I know a great plating shop that will brass plate the tracks. All visible metal on the outside will be brass plated. Logo, headlight rings, everything.

When the bus is lowered the trunk won’t be accessible but when it’s raised, it will be.

The cranes will be motorized. Also might need stronger cranes. The link is just an example.

There would be multiple “stops” on the track holding the deck in order to take the weight off the crane.



What do you guys think?
Any changes, suggestions, thoughts, comments, criticisms, and 2-cents appreciated!

 

[Rberriz]

Decided I’m going to replace the truck bed cranes with dual winches.
The cable will be routed through a series of wheels welded to the frame to guide the deck upwards.

 

[Thomas1985]

Sounds wild. Can't wait to see it

 

[Jolly Roger bus 223]

What about something like a truck lift gate setup?
It's self contained in the part of the platform that would attach to the bus body and all you would have to do is get longer cables and extend the rails to the roof line.
The capability is already there so just expand on the invented idea?
Just a thought?

 

[Rberriz]

What about something like a truck lift gate setup?

It's self contained in the part of the platform that would attach to the bus body and all you would have to do is get longer cables and extend the rails to the roof line.

The capability is already there so just expand on the invented idea?

Just a thought?

Not a bad idea
I hadn’t thought about this
The only thing I worry about is
The durability- it’s not really meant to be left down and bounced going down the road

 

[ennonne]

Like a car transporter?

 

[Rberriz]

Oooooooo
I need a watch videos on that!!

 

[Robin97396]

Are you thinking king size bunk beds too?

 

[Rberriz]

Are you thinking king size bunk beds too?

Alaskan King Bunk Beds
Thank you very much

 

[jdawgsworld]

Are you thinking king size bunk beds too?

And ivy on the sides?...actually the more of the lifting mechanism you hide the cooler it'll look

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[Rberriz]

And ivy on the sides?...actually the more of the lifting mechanism you hide the cooler it'll look

Sent from my VS500PP using Tapatalk

I agree
Since the track will end up being ~2” wide and 2.5” tall, I’m going to have it brass plated so it looks decorative.
It’ll match the cream and navy blue exterior.
If the ivy would work I would. But wind will destroy it