Truck Box Camping

[Flyin6]

You may or may not have seen the threads I am posting on where I have purchased a Jeep Gladiator and am beginning to explore around the Daniel Boone National Forest. Although I am currently doing day-out/night return trips, I want to be able to extend to multi-night outings. There is a nice loop that requires at least two days, but better three that starts in Jellico Tennessee, and ends way up in central Kentucky. It actually ends not too terribly far from my farm. It's around 250 miles, all off-road from what I can see which would require three days and two nights on the trail. Some camp the additional night at the trailhead, either end to get an early start or after a long day at the end instead of having to air back up, clean up and hit the road for the drive to civilization.

I am currently investigating just how to do that, whether it be clamping on a bed-mounted canopy with a rooftop tent or buying an overland Adventure Camper, I've yet to decide.

On the big end and coming in around $34,500, here's my current top pick:


https://ok4wd.com/camping-overland/campers-canopys-and-tents/alu-cab-2-sleeper-khaya-camper

[Bigdave_185]

Didn’t you build a very capable tow behind for this purpose?


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[wyorunner]

Didn’t you build a very capable tow behind for this purpose?


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He did, yes. But for a vehicle with more whomp than the jeepiator!

On that, four wheel campers make a phenomenal product, albeit pricey. Also, eezi-awn make great roof top tents. Have owned some version of both brands, and would do so again in a heart beat. Not sure if FWC makes anything for the fladioart bed but probably so, as it’s close to a tacoMa bed.

[Bigdave_185]

Didn’t you build a very capable tow behind for this purpose?


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He did, yes. But for a vehicle with more whomp than the jeepiator!

On that, four wheel campers make a phenomenal product, albeit pricey. Also, eezi-awn make great roof top tents. Have owned some version of both brands, and would do so again in a heart beat. Not sure if FWC makes anything for the fladioart bed but probably so, as it’s close to a tacoMa bed.

I’ll bet that little trailer is under 3k


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[TexasRedNeck]

880 pounds plus gear ? Edmunds says capacity is 892. That’s not much gear and extra fuel.


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[JR]

34K, is it gold plated or with a chase crew?

[Flyin6]

Didn’t you build a very capable tow behind for this purpose?


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He did, yes. But for a vehicle with more whomp than the jeepiator!

On that, four wheel campers make a phenomenal product, albeit pricey. Also, eezi-awn make great roof top tents. Have owned some version of both brands, and would do so again in a heart beat. Not sure if FWC makes anything for the fladioart bed but probably so, as it’s close to a tacoMa bed.

I’ll bet that little trailer is under 3k


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I think I had it close to 4K loaded, according to the inventory I came up with...But I never weighed it.
T is correct, I don't want to pull that thing behind the JT. The Jeep is a skinny half ton, think: Tacoma. It probably could but I'd get stuck right away on the first trail I ever went on in that JT.
The Burb can tow it, but 1. @6MPG
and
2. I planned to sell it.
All things being equal, the Burb has not garnered any interest at the $25K asking price so it looks like by default, I might be keeping it. Should that happen, who knows, I might fire it up in the spring and tow the pop-up down into the Daniel Boone filled up with Grandkids alongside a stream somewhere...That's TBD
Thanks, T for the assist, but this is just Dave's way of being friendly.
Yea, I built the camper, and I paid a lot of money and spent a lot of time building it. But Covid killed the very trip I built it for, then again, the next year. That and problems sorting out the Burb. It's ironic, I suppose that now, the burb is sorted, for the most part, just a big ole gas hog, but capable.
I like the "go light-Go far" theme this JT and a rooftop gives me.
I have looked at that four-wheel camper's product. Little Don owned one. Very nice, but it has that CA high-cost additional tax thing going on. If that thing was built in Arkansas, it might be affordable. Not that the Alu-Cab is all that inexpensive.

[Flyin6]

880 pounds plus gear ? Edmunds says capacity is 892. That’s not much gear and extra fuel.


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880 the weight of the Alu-Cab camper?? I hadn't checked...

[Flyin6]

4-Wheel Campers, Swift model.
Base price starts off a lot lower, but gets stupid real quick.
Check out the additional for a 270-degree awning...$2,600!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thinking gold thread, and the finest Indian silk...

https://fourwheelcampers.com/model/swift-model-pop-up-truck-camper-leader-mid-size-trucks/swift-model-base-model/build/

I'll configure one to see how it would compare

[Flyin6]

4-Wheel Campers, Swift model.
Base price starts off a lot lower, but gets stupid real quick.
Check out the additional for a 270-degree awning...$2,600!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thinking gold thread, and the finest Indian silk...

https://fourwheelcampers.com/model/swift-model-pop-up-truck-camper-leader-mid-size-trucks/swift-model-base-model/build/

I'll configure one to see how it would compare

OK, forget it...There's not enough information on their site to make good choices from. I sent them an inquiry.

[wyorunner]

4-Wheel Campers, Swift model.
Base price starts off a lot lower, but gets stupid real quick.
Check out the additional for a 270-degree awning...$2,600!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thinking gold thread, and the finest Indian silk...

https://fourwheelcampers.com/model/swift-model-pop-up-truck-camper-leader-mid-size-trucks/swift-model-base-model/build/

I'll configure one to see how it would compare

OK, forget it...There's not enough information on their site to make good choices from. I sent them an inquiry.

Yea they definitely have the CA added costs. You could probably source a used one near you though. They have a pretty large dedicated following.

Did you rule out roof top tents for the jeepiator?

[Flyin6]

I already received a response back from Dan Welty @ 4Wheel Campers.

He is pointing me to their "Project M."

https://fourwheelcampers.com/model/project-m/build/

[Flyin6]

Ye-OUCH!
T, you were correct, it's one expensive unit, but it is American made, and they informed me it could be installed in North Carolina.
It must be bolted to my truck bed...Not digging that too much.

More research/conversation to come...

Copied from my build page:


Accessories
Camper Size Based On Truck Bed LengthEdit »
Project M: Mid-Sized Truck, Short 5.0′ Bed Model ($10,995)   $0.00
Camper Installation
Camper Installation & WiringEdit »
Installation w/ Truck Recharging (Optional)   $995.00
Exterior Options
Exterior SidingEdit »
Black Diamond Plate Siding — Project M   $0.00
Camper JacksEdit »
Mechanical Camper Jacks w/ 2 Extension Plates   $1,025.00
Exterior Add-OnsEdit »
Rear Flood Lights   $350.00
Large Access Door on Passenger Side (19″ x 56″)   $550.00
Exterior Gear Track on Driver’s Side (short bed models)   $375.00
Roof RacksEdit »
Roof Rack “Tracks Only” Installed on Roof   $525.00
Roof VentsEdit »
Powered Roof Vent Fan, Middle of Roof (over the truck bed area)   $395.00
Interior Options
BatteriesEdit »
AGM Power Solution w/ 160 Watt Solar   $2,895.00
Other
PackagesEdit »
Cabover Bed Mattress (Soft Fabric Cover)   $1,150.00
Subtotal   $19,255.00
Weight   +638lbs
Note: Actual camper weights may vary due to changes in materials & accessories.
This weight is only an estimate of what this camper build would weigh.

Total Price   $19,255.00
Note: The actual camper total may vary depending on state sales tax, delivery costs, or documentation fees. This total price is only an estimate of what this camper build would cost. Your dealer or sales representative will be able to give you an accurate "out the door" cost when you are ready.

[TexasRedNeck]

880 pounds plus gear ? Edmunds says capacity is 892. That’s not much gear and extra fuel.


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880 the weight of the Alu-Cab camper?? I hadn't checked...

Yes according to their web site. You’ll want to do some ciphering on whatever it is you choose. Might be better off just getting a nice ground tent and a Honda generator.


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[wyorunner]

Ye-OUCH!
T, you were correct, it's one expensive unit, but it is American made, and they informed me it could be installed in North Carolina.
It must be bolted to my truck bed...Not digging that too much.

More research/conversation to come...

Copied from my build page:


Accessories
Camper Size Based On Truck Bed LengthEdit »
Project M: Mid-Sized Truck, Short 5.0′ Bed Model ($10,995)   $0.00
Camper Installation
Camper Installation & WiringEdit »
Installation w/ Truck Recharging (Optional)   $995.00
Exterior Options
Exterior SidingEdit »
Black Diamond Plate Siding — Project M   $0.00
Camper JacksEdit »
Mechanical Camper Jacks w/ 2 Extension Plates   $1,025.00
Exterior Add-OnsEdit »
Rear Flood Lights   $350.00
Large Access Door on Passenger Side (19″ x 56″)   $550.00
Exterior Gear Track on Driver’s Side (short bed models)   $375.00
Roof RacksEdit »
Roof Rack “Tracks Only” Installed on Roof   $525.00
Roof VentsEdit »
Powered Roof Vent Fan, Middle of Roof (over the truck bed area)   $395.00
Interior Options
BatteriesEdit »
AGM Power Solution w/ 160 Watt Solar   $2,895.00
Other
PackagesEdit »
Cabover Bed Mattress (Soft Fabric Cover)   $1,150.00
Subtotal   $19,255.00
Weight   +638lbs
Note: Actual camper weights may vary due to changes in materials & accessories.
This weight is only an estimate of what this camper build would weigh.

Total Price   $19,255.00
Note: The actual camper total may vary depending on state sales tax, delivery costs, or documentation fees. This total price is only an estimate of what this camper build would cost. Your dealer or sales representative will be able to give you an accurate "out the door" cost when you are ready.

Surprised it came in under 20k to be honest. But maybe it’s because it’s one of their smaller ones.

So what’s the deal with RTT? No go or consideration? That eezi awn we had on our trailer a decade ago mine you, was top notch! Spent a couple months in it. Keeps your weight down too, but of course does not have the luxuries of a slide in/bolt in camper.

[wyorunner]

880 pounds plus gear ? Edmunds says capacity is 892. That’s not much gear and extra fuel.


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880 the weight of the Alu-Cab camper?? I hadn't checked...

Yes according to their web site. You’ll want to do some ciphering on whatever it is you choose. Might be better off just getting a nice ground tent and a Honda generator.


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Hard to beat over night method right here! We’re still young enough we can get by with just the tent and what the truck has built in or is carryable. Of course my truck is much larger than the jeepiator, so It wouldn’t be going very many places of similar difficulty and hardness.

[JR]

Heck a tent, cot and power station would be enough. Porta potty is about all you need to address then. Sure would cost less.

[Flyin6]

The other day when i was wheeling, it was raining. Rain, snow, thunderstorms and the like are often written in the trip's daily run of events. I think I have probably "Camped" more than anyone else on this site. Likely I have 10-100 times the experience. Not boasting, I rather wish I could have stayed in a hotel, but the Army doesn't see it that way.

When the day is done, and its a nasty day, all I want to have to do is to open and close a door and find a nice bed. The newer bed caps with the integrated RTT would allow me to do exactly that. I don't have to go out and figure out a ground tent won't work; I already know I don't like that.

I can't pull a camper, not have a large heavy one tipping over my truck on these narrow off-camber trails. But something like the Go-Fast camper or the Alu-Cap would be perfect. If I go down that rabbit hole, I think I am going to be landing exactly there...but I have made no decisions just yet.

This is my current number one choice. It has no floor and is therefore very light. It starts at the top of the bed rails. These can be built out in very interesting ways. Some people are now full timing in these!

[JR]

I can't argue with just stopping and sleeping. So that as it sits is around 20k?

[Flyin6]

I can't argue with just stopping and sleeping. So that as it sits is around 20k?

This one is not the 4-Wheel Camper.

This one is the Alu-Cab from Capetown, South Africa. That as it is pictured would be somewhere between $15k-$20K. All aluminum, all super strong. They sell thousands annually all over the world. Just this evening I was viewing a crazy Norwegian who spends the winter in one in the arctic circle!

That one in the pics is around #350, so plenty light for an underpowered jeep.

[Bob Smith]

So are you planning on taking your lovely wife along on these trips. Me thinks driving to local area motel would be in order. Just saying.

[Bigdave_185]

I’d say hook that trailer you built up and give it a honest try. You have a big winch comin for that jeep, lots of torque, plenty of travel and if need be maybe ya put the trailer on a diet if need be.   

20k is almost 1/3 of the cost of the vehicle!

I can’t remember the gents name and he doesn’t pop in much. Mike is what comes to mind. But he built an aluminum frame, pop up topper for the C swapped 80’s blazer and it looks slicker then snot. Maybe you could retro parts off the trailer into what ya need to build your own for the jeep.


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[Flyin6]

So are you planning on taking your lovely wife along on these trips. Me thinks driving to local area motel would be in order. Just saying.

Bob, you're the ever-smart one, indeed

However

My trips that she would attend would have to fit within a narrow set of circumstances...

She has limitations;
1. No where cold
2. No where rainy
3. No where particularily muddy
4. No where out of cell phone reception
5. Somewhere near nice hotels
6. Places near nice restaurants
7. Trails near warm places, with beachs, with tons of tourists
8. Trails where high-heels can still be worn.

So, nah, I'll probably be doing this alone...

Notice in the pic of a fishing day from years ago...She is wearing (muddy) high heels!!!!!! And a jacket....

[Flyin6]

I’d say hook that trailer you built up and give it a honest try. You have a big winch comin for that jeep, lots of torque, plenty of travel and if need be maybe ya put the trailer on a diet if need be.   

20k is almost 1/3 of the cost of the vehicle!

I can’t remember the gents name and he doesn’t pop in much. Mike is what comes to mind. But he built an aluminum frame, pop up topper for the C swapped 80’s blazer and it looks slicker then snot. Maybe you could retro parts off the trailer into what ya need to build your own for the jeep.


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Love your persistience, Dave
And in a way, you're correct to push it
That is one pretty capable camper just sitting there
But
Did I mention
It was destroyed?
Yes, sadly
It has accumulated a pretty heavy layer of dust
I fear it may be beyond saving
;-)

I was also never able to finish it out where Kat would get in there.

I could not get the 4-post Cinderella bed through the door!

[Bigdave_185]

 


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[kampfitt]

Just leaving this here for you!

https://expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/gladiator-pop-up-pass-through-camper-build.227973/

[Flyin6]

Just leaving this here for you!

https://expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/gladiator-pop-up-pass-through-camper-build.227973/

That is so excellent

Beyond Excellent!

His build techniques are so good!

[Nate]

OH MY..... here come tac topper 2.0

[Bigdave_185]

OH MY..... here come tac topper 2.0

3.0.  Truck topper 2.0 had its own wheels.  Can’t loose the count


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[JR]

Just need the boys around with a sawzall!

[Flyin6]

I know what Kamfitt is doing here.

Curse the man!

Had me out in the garage measuring the box of the gladiator and looking for a bowl to cast up those cool rounded top corners.

That man building that topper thing has mad skills. I was getting schooled for sure

But, ya know what, after building the first one that turned into firewood, then building an entire camper, I have learned a thing or two. I could tackle something like this, and as all of you know or suspect, seeing this has me thinking.

On the flip side, I could throw down between 10-15K and have the shell and bed and all that already on the Jeep. Then I'd spend my time kitting out the interior.

But I'd extend the bedsides 6" outboard and push the nose forward, and...

[JR]

And,,,,,,,,

[Flyin6]

And,,,,,,,,

Now you're egging me on too!

[KensAuto]

Probably be best to just sell it. Quickly.



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[Nate]

Probably be best to just sell it. Quickly.

[wyorunner]

Probably be best to just sell it. Quickly.



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No no, he still has to figure out the major flaws first. Hasn’t really hit a limitation yet.

Tesla shows you the limitations (annoyances really) very quickly.

Let the man find the joy in his jeepiator! At which point all the flaws will be known, and either fixed or replaced entirely.

[Bigdave_185]

Isn’t it being a fiat the largest flaw?   Seen a video of a guy with a pressure washer cleaning out the dash with water lol!! It’s a jeep he said


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[Flyin6]

You people discouraged me...I sold it!

[Bigdave_185]

You people discouraged me...I sold it!

Not buying that for a second


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[Bigdave_185]

What we doing for exhaust mods? Headers? What about a some electric cut outs for when that extra special Prius pulls up next to ya at the light?

I got my banks intake in the driveway today


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[JR]

Just get a nice tig or multi machine and have at it, good grief!!!

[Flyin6]

Just get a nice tig or multi machine and have at it, good grief!!!

You're the second person today who told me to get a TIG and build my own OUT OF ALUMINUM.

I guess Dave wasn't buying any of that...

[JR]

Name brands are pricey and getting worse. I got a Omni Pro 220 for under $800, now they are 1K.

Plenty of off brands out there, youtube is a good resource. I want a Multi machine here so watching them some. Same way I got my plasma for the new table, about 1/3 of brand names and good reviews. Got a couple tanks off FB too.

And lets face it, to tig seems cool!