Ladder and basket/safari racks, tell me your thoughts

[EnviroImports.com]

I have a couple questions for you guys, Im working on a jig for making ladders, but not sure if people are seriously interested, im not going to make them from Stainless or have anything cromed, but I am thinking 6061/6063 aircraft grade aluminium as they are stupid strong and light at the same time.
so befor I start welding a few up , I'm looking for some feedback about what you/we as delica owners would like to see in a rack,/ladders, straight ladders, following the line of the window, Atachable bike rack?, polished finish, satin finish? bike fork attachments (for the front forks to lock into place, Kayak beds/sling to bolt on or welded in place...
Think of this as being part of the design team for Delica specific products that are made locally and can be personalised.
So dont be shy, tell me what you think.
Noel

[InTheForest]

Westcoast, I have been thinking ever since getting my Delica that its missing a roof rack. I would love a ladder as well. I personally am not concerned with looks so much but strength is key as I work in carpentry and need to carry materials periodicaly.

I like the idea of a basket. The other thing i was thinking about is that it would be nice if i could take it off and put it inside the vehicle while taking the ferry as i barely make it on as is. But it may be worth the over size fee. Bottem line is if it works and its made well, I'm interested. What is it looking like its going to cost you?

Good luck with the project.
Charles

[EnviroImports.com]

Hi, strength is key for me also, I just picked up 40ft of 1 1/4 0.095 wall square tubing 6063-T5 aircraft grade aluminium , if you do any research you will find that its Very overkill for making a ladder that is only 5ft. But I want it to be overstong rather than some of the crap I have seen on alot of motor homes and holliday vans. even a couple delicas with "lightweight" materials. Its very easy to weld them up, (as Ive hired a welder) I'm thinking the price would be in the $250 range as the cost of this grade of aluminium is not the cheapest and that will allow me to make them, pay my welder, and have a top quality product.
I am making up a canopy for my boat this sunday and will be making up a template for ladders, Im actually looking for a wrecked Delica to mount the rear tail gate on the wall to use for test fitting , The really sweet one is gong to have a bike mount built in to the ladder. but thats not going to happen tomorrow. I will be posting them on my site. ttyl
Noel

[Erebus]

I really like the looks of a ladder that follows the form of the tailgate. Brisbaddude posted a photo of his viewtopic.php?f=10&t=1023&hilit=ladder which I really like. Notice that the rungs also follow the lines of the windows and body.

My preference would also be for black, not chrome or "natural", since my Delica is dark coloured.

But since I'm in Calgary, I'll probably get someone local to make one.

Other than that, great idea.