I'm lurking around and feel inclined to post.
I was at the Overland Expo last weekend in Flagstaff. This is the second year in a row my wife and I have attended and we are getting VERY close to kissing our corporate jobs good bye and living in a FWC full time (with 2 cats).
The vehicle conversation seems to be endless. We have looked at the Hawk as being what we are looking for in a camper. That being said, understanding the right tray and truck can be a little difficult. General consensus seems to be Norweld for the tray?
As for the truck - it sure sounds like the lines have blurred between gas and diesel along with payload capacity. I am looking at a full ton truck. Ram 3500 Diesel or a Ford F-350 Gasser. I am trying to weigh out the pros and cons, but I keep leaning towards the Ford. I don't plan on doing any crazy offroad stuff but we want to get away from it all and have the capability to do so.
One last question - in general there seems to be avoidance to a longbed and a camper. What am I missing here? General maneuverability?
Appreciate all input. This site is excellent!
CD
Congratulations on your decision to get out of the corporate rat race!
I am officially retiring today!!!
As far as the discussion of short bed vs. long bed is concerned I think it boils down to a couple of points:
1. The length of your camper- I personally believe that the floor of the camper should be fully supported although some people don’t share this concern, so a Hawk should be on a short bed and a Grandby on a long bed... I have a Hallmark Everest (8.5’) and it’s on a long bed.
2. Maneuverability. The longer the wheel base the more difficulty you’ll potential have on tight turns off-road.
3. Everyday driving. Once again a short bed truck will be easier to get around town, everything else being equal. For me it’s not a big deal as I don’t ever intend to drive into downtown LA or NYC with it.
Good luck in your research!