Got my new (2001) 3/4 ton Dodge diesel and am going through the process of installing my 8' NCO. My old 1/2 ton Dodge only had a 6.5' bed which meant that I had to leave the tail gate on to support the aft end of the camper. However, with the tailgate on and in the down position, I couldn't lower the spare tire.
Here is what I have done so far:
1. Because the truck bed is 39" off the ground, the plastic stool we had been using with our 1/2 ton would be way too short, I bought a Brophy 4 step scissor folding stair from JC Whitney (http://www.jcwhitney...6&filterid=u0j8) for $153.99 plus a $3.99 heavy item surcharge but they paid the base shipping charges! I removed the tailgate. I then drilled holes into the bulkhead beneath the tailgate. Note: Be sure to allow for enough space for the tailgate to clear the mounting bracket below. The stair has a latch to lock it in place when folded and it rides in the back of the camper when we travel. (The bumper gets re-painted on Monday).
2. I installed tie-down chains and turnbuckles instead of bolting the camper to the side rails. However, since the corners are kind of soft, I decided to drill holes through the steel corner braces for the eye bolts. Should be plenty strong.
3. I had to re-route the sink drain as I couldn't reach it to attach the drain hose.
4. Tomorrow I will figure out the wiring as there is a camper wiring plug in the bed.
5. I need to figure out how much air to add to the airbags. Any suggestions?
Mike
