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Planning on building a box for the front of a flatbed using 1x1 square tube and flat expanded steel of some kind. Will have 2 spare tires on top of the box. Any advice on wall thickness for the 1x1 square tube? The local yard had 1/16 and 1/8 - seems as though I need something in between but I am new to metalwork. Thanks

I'm building mine with 1/8" wall tubing. Mainly because it's what I have. It will be heavy, but I am incorporating anchor points into the build so I can tie it down good.


Tex

Either will do. However 1/8 is easier to work and more forgiving . less stress fractures and the design can be basic.

Thanks fellas. I'll just use the 1/8 .

Thin wall square tube is stronger then you think. Over the years I've built a lot of dog boxes for friends and different trucks and quads I've owned , using 1/16 3/4 square tube and all have out lasted a truck or two . Matter of fact I've got a slide in I built about 10 yrs ago that I'm restoring right now ( new plywood carpet paint insulation and latch ) That is a 1/16 x 3/4 square tube frame wrapped in sheet metal. So if weigh is a factor ang your welding skills are up to par you can get away with a lot less

Have built several with 1/16 x 3/4. The bottom piece rusts out after about 10-15 years. If that is a concern you could use the 1/4" just on the bottom.
I don't like expanded metal for the sides or front though, I like to be able to stick my hand in there to scratch a ear, pat a head, pull a tick off or get on to a dog when needed.