6 replies to this topic

[David_h]

I've seen a lot of good discussion recently about utilizing flatbeds and utility beds to enhance space utilization in the truck type camper. If a customer did not need to routinely remove the camper, are there even more opportunities for space utilization and weight savings? Perhaps building the camper directly onto the truck frame? And, does this type of unit require some certification from the Dept of Transportation, or others? Seems like these options are being utilized in Australia. I personally never need a truck, and only have one to haul around the camper. Seems like lots of wasted space and extra weight (truck bed) to carry around. I've found that if I need a truck/utility vehicle, I can rent a truck or nice trailer for $25/day. Any ideas?
Dave H
Mill Valley, Ca
06 Hawk on 05 F150 4x4

[pods8]

Not to take away from this site but I'd probably do some reading on expo, you get a lot more folks trying to build directly on the frame there. Biggest issue is dealing with frame flex.

That said if I knew I'd never be using the truck as a truck you bet I'd use space better, there is space between and on the sides of the frame rails, etc. that can all be tied into the main camper or serve as the places for tanks, etc.

[BSS]

If I were to lose the entire point of having a truck, I'd just buy a sportsmobile.

[brianjwilson]

I thought about it before, quite a bit actually. Frame flex depends on the truck, the 04+ f150 has very little frame flex. I can lift a tire off road and see almost no deflection in the frame with my 06. Still a 3 point mounting system would be most ideal (two solid mounts up front with a pivoting mount in back).

If I had the time and space to actually build my own camper, I would strongly consider building something to replace the bed. You could take advantage of a lot more space, ditch the weight of the bed, build a pass through to the truck, etc.

I thought about picking up a van and customizing it too, but 4x4 vans are expensive when you've already got a capable 4x4 truck with lots of aftermarket support.

Of course it doesn't make a lot of sense unless you have another vehicle as a daily driver. I don't right now. I wouldn't want to pile on a lot of miles onto a truck with a camper permanently attached.

[ersatzknarf]

Tiger campers are built right onto the pick-up frame . . .

[dbolton]

I agree with BSS. While I love my setup, if I was starting from scratch, and I had no need for a truck except to pull an occasional utility trailer, Sportsmobile (or similar) would be VERY tough to beat. The idea of having the trucks cab space, utilities, and seats available in the camper is pretty compelling, along with the ease of getting going in the morning. 2WD vans come cheaper than 4WD trucks, all else being equal. So, you pay for the conversion, but still...

[ntsqd]

We considered a Sportsmobile for a while. Came down to a ride quality decision. In any cab forward seating situation there won't be room for decent wheel travel to soak up the bumps. To save your back an air ride seat should be considered mandatory.