Wanted Odd one: custom fabricated hitch step

Among the threads I've seen, there is some astounding fabricating skill among the mud members and I'm wondering if someone wants a fairly basic project to earn some beer/date/movie cash. Here's what I'm looking for:

I've got a lifted FJ45 Troopy that I love dearly. But getting in and out of the back for anyone other than a small child (who have the approximate agility of a spider monkey) is tricky. I would like to get a hitch step fabricated that would allow everyone else to easily and gracefully enter/exit the back of the troopy.

It seems to make sense to me to start with a standard hitch step (or at least the dimensions and go from there). I've attached pictures of a standard 2" hitch and then a PDF with some thoughts on the fabrication. Ultimately I'm happy to send the 2' hitch to whoever takes the project.

If you're interested and have some metal fabrication skills, please take a look and PM me with what you think a fair price would be. I think that start to finish for someone who knows what they're doing would be...2-3 hours and materials cost would be minimal. But that's up for discussion.

Thanks for looking - please PM me with any questions.

Best,
Evan

 

[Bear]

FYI,

Troopies did have an optional bolt-on chrome very large rear step available--probably could source one from Australia. HTH

 

[KY Longhunter]

You could check this out from Bestop Trekstep

http://www.bestop.com/truck-steps/trekstep

 

[woytovich]

I'm on Long Island... I'd be happy to give this a shot once the snow clears up some. I'd suggest starting with a 6" drop hitch and then we build a bolt-on or weld-on step.
Drop me an email and we can talk about it.
mark

 

[Fast Eddy]

I made one out of a piece of 3/4" plywood and a stout nut and bolt. It was ok. I ended up leaving the pin out once and it disappeared.

The 2nd one I had was one of these. I paid even less than this $18-shipped one.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-TAILGATE-...n-Solid-ALUMINUM-Smittybilt-NEW-/251392776587

Take it out before rock crawling though. The base plate is pot metal; strong enough to jump on, but not strong enough to bang on rocks with a truck.