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Rear Security Cover for Rodeo Sport/Amigo

Date: 2005, Aug 11
Author: Johann Schuster

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I have a 2002 Rodeo Sport softop. Security is a concern to my wife & I. However, she was *absolutely not* going to let me pay $250 USD for an Official Isuzu Accessory chunk o' plastic security cover. Rightfully So! I searched around on the internet and finally found a webpage that described HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN SECURITY COVER for about $25 bucks! Using his design as a starting point I set out to build my own security cover. The whole project took about 4 hours (I’m a nurse, not a carpenter). So here’s the info:

The Rear Security Cover

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A ¾ view. (Windows removed) Basically, I tried to make the cover look simple so a potential thief might not think there is anything fancy inside. Additionally, I think the clean style adds to the overall practical nature of this really great little truck. And it makes for a handy shelf too.


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How the cover looks from the inside. It tucks under the top when folded down. At first I was afraid the wind would take it out, but I tested it out by driving 90 m.p.h. on Interstate 5 going from San Francisco to Disneyland in LA. The carpet might flap though, which means you need to apply more glue.

Materials & Construction
I modified the design a little to make what I think is a great security cover. First, I used some cardboard for a prototype/ template. Once I figured out the best dimensions, I went shopping for materials. Here’s what I used:

  • 2' x 4' x ¾” plywood (Hardware store)
  • Roll of gray auto upholstery carpet (Wal-Mart).
  • Upholstery glue spray (Wal-Mart).
  • Tape measure.
  • Jigsaw (Or whatever you can cut ¾” plywood with).
  • Carpet shears, utility scissors or utility knife for cutting carpet.
  • Heavy duty staple gun (Office staplers, it turns out, aren't nearly up to going through carpet!), also found at the Hardware store.

    The drawback to this design is that the little cargo boxes built into the rear sides aren't readily accessed. However, if you are planning to install electronics in those boxes any way...Extra security!

    Here is a cheesy electra - sketch of the design. I’ve included the dimensions, but it wouldn’t hurt to still make a cardboard template/ prototype to make sure of a proper fit.

    The 8” x 2” notch on the sides are to allow the shelf to slide back and up against the roll cage. It is prevented from sliding forward by putting the back seat in the upright position. In this photo you can see how I applied the carpet loosely to the inside corner in order to make the appearance more flush. Easy huh?


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