Aluminum framing and aluminum composite panels for this very light slide-in camper.
I want it to be as versatile as possible.
Wide hatch opening for easy access to bigger stuff and small door for the camper version.
First build the lower box only, same height as the truck cab.
The second build will get the pop-up roof addition.
I don't need it bigger than that as we already have our house on wheels behind the truck.
I'm very happy with this aluminum assembly process.
The frame is coming out as designed into Google SketchUp.
I'm working on the design of the pop-up roof and it's almost ready to be built. Short video added in the next post.
I need a more spacious truck bed storage, while my quad-fold tonneau cover was certainly convenient, it was quite heavy and lacked sufficient capacity.
​
Since I tow a 24-foot, 5,000-pound travel trailer, I need a lightweight, removable slide-in unit to store gear and bicycles during transit, while also having the option to add modular components for off-grid camping without the trailer.
​
That rules out a wooden structure, which would be too heavy and less resistant to water and mold. (Don't get me wrong I have already built a full truck camper with wood framing, exterior composite panels, and it never got any leaks)
​
The only remaining option is an all-aluminum build, for both the framework and the exterior paneling.
My Tundra has a limited payload (1320lbs) so composite aluminum and XPS insulation are so far the best options.
​
Here is the SketchUp design and a photo of the assembly in its early stages; I will certainly document every step of the build, either here or on YouTube.
​
Cheers.
​
As the title suggests, a travel trailer is currently occupying my storage spot; I was away traveling for two months and got quite a surprise when I went to check on things upon my return. I pay for this space, which is located in an outdoor parking area that is fenced and secured by a coded gate. I’ve mentioned it to the staff, but I haven't heard back yet.
Is it possible they sublet the spot? I doubt it, since the site is only 25% occupied. Perhaps a stranger got through the gate and spotted a space that was paid for but sitting empty for three months?
I don't mind moving to a different spot, but what would you advise me to do in a situation like this?
Today, after a wonderful 5,800-mile loop that began on April 7, we are unhitching our home on wheels. It is time for maintenance and upgrades.
Our schedule is changing completely in the coming months: shifting from full-time to part-time—or even becoming fully sedentary—thanks to our grandparenting duties!
We'll do like other weekenders 😉
That's what happens when you have too much gear into the truck bed and a pretty heavy battery (135lbs) on the trailer tongue.
- 7300lb on the truck (GVWR 7100lb).
The WDH helps a little bit , still not enough weight on the front axle, 400 miles to go before unloading all the bed crap.
Meanwhile, no issue with either the truck suspension or the brakes, 10 to 11mpg at 60mph, I have tremendous confidence in this truck.
PS: soon scrapping the AGM battery for a lithium one
All different but I loved them all !
Has anyone installed and tested this RAS product for towing with your Tundra?
40 days ago this was our rough road trip plan,
Today after towing 5000 miles, we're making a family stop in Illinois before completing the loop. Such an incredible journey full of memories. This time of the year we were able do it without any planning, making reservations just 2 or 3 days ahead. Here are all the places where we have camped.
Hello fellow campers
We're fulltimers in a travel trailer currently powered with a 200AH AGM battery from Renogy.
We have the trailer OEM WFCO charger (standard, no lithium setting), 400w of solar with a 30A charger, and a 20A DC to DC charger.
I'd like to replace the AGM battery with a 200Ah Plus LiFePO4 Battery, doubling usage capacity, and using our current setup.
Will the solar and/or the DC to DC chargers will suffice to top off the lithium battery or should I change the trailer charger or just add let's say an individual charger like the IP22?
My 2018 stock battery has died (SR5 flex fuel), is the Interstate from Costco a good candidate or should I stick to the Toyota one?
A quick Google search tells me the following:
//
- Opt for the Bilstein 4600s if: your truck is at stock height, you drive mainly on the highway, you do towing, or you prioritize ride comfort.
- Opt for the Bilstein 5100s if: you have installed (or plan to install) a lift or leveling kit, you use larger tires, you regularly go off-road, or you are looking for maximum durability.
//
I am currently running the stock 4600 models; with 143,000 miles on the odometer, I am considering replacing them.
For those of you who do towing: which shocks do you use? Feel free to mention other brands.
We made it, we are settled at Mammoth Campground, we'll try the Lamar valley tomorrow morning .