After dreaming and planning for literally years, I have started the build on my Africa Jeep 2007 JK Unlimited Rubicon to travel around Africa for two years, focusing on the interior “camper.” I removed the back seat and all rear carpet and trim, then installed sound and heat insulation on the entire tub. To finish the floor I glued in a sheet of linoleum which will be durable and easy to clean. Friends and I have cut and moved the rear roll bar so it’s pushed right into the corners, which opens up a lot of interior space for sitting and standing in the back when the Ursa Minor J30 pop-up roof is open.
To keep my paperwork and gear safe, I’ve installed a Tuffy center console and under-seat drawers, which are extremely solid. I especially like the addition of a power outlet inside the console, so I can charge my electronics while they are safely locked in the console.
The rear of the JK stripped – a blank slate
My friend Reg cutting the roll bar
I’m adding electrical circuits for the fridge, a water pump, lights, power outlets and ARB air compressor, all of which must be on individual fused circuits. Adding a 7 circuit fuse block from Painless Performance made this very easy, and I found a great mounting location under the glovebox, behind a panel which is easily removed should fuses need to be replaced.
Painless Wiring 7 circuit fuse block mounted under the glovebox
I have mounted a Dometic 35L fridge behind the front passenger seat – in this location I can reach inside from the drivers seat, easily access it from the rear passenger door and rear cargo area, and it will fit perfectly with the cabinets I have built.
I wanted storage cabinets to be light and strong, so I used one inch aluminum square tubing with right angle connectors. I covered each cabinet with plywood, and made doors with piano hinges where appropriate.
Dometic 35L fridge mounted permanently in the Jeep
The design for the cabinets in the rear of my JK created by my Dad and I
Building lightweight cabinets with square aluminum tubing and corner connectors
The two cabinets that are high up on the drivers side can be un-clipped and moved into the walking aisle to provide an additional sleeping area down low in the Jeep. I will use this when popping open the Ursa Minor top does not feel safe, or the weather is horrid.
For additional lockable storage I welded a hinged lid onto the rear storage cubby, the perfect location for seldom used recovery gear.
Cabinets complete, Dometic fridge mounted
Rear cabinets converted to a sleeping platform
After I complete the interior build, I’ll move on to the engine transplant, bumpers, lift and winch.