camper springs/ opinion

[dewdo]

Crazy Horse:

Sounds like you have a hybrid type of mount. Rear attached to the frame via the hitch and front to the bed. I still think with they way your setup is balanced you could have gotten by using the pocket mounts in the bed of the truck. That is what I had on my last rig. Worked fine and never had a problem. On that setup the camper had only 1/2 " on either side to clear the bed. It was a bear to get on and off so I took it off twice in the 13 years I had it. Replaced the springs a couple times.



With the "Happi-jac tie downs they are spring loaded and have some give to them which is neccessary for compensating for movement in the bed. These are attached to the frame mounts.



The rubber mat I got from the feed store was 1/2" thick and they had it up to 3/4" thick. I bought two 1/2 " 4X6 sheets and cut one of them to make up the other two feet. I will use the remainder of the mat for the outside entry. They cost $32. 00 each. That's a lot cheaper than you will find in an auto parts store.



I just bought a back up warning system from J. C. Whitney to put on the camper. It will detect objects in the rear that you might not be able to see. Range is up to 75' and has a beam area of about 85 degrees. It is adjustable for distance. After I get that installed I plan on installing a 2" receiver hitch on the front of the truck to make it easier to launch and retrieve the boat.



Tomorrow morning I will be heading up to Bill Kondolay's place in Abbottsford, BC to get a torque converter and Valve body installed. Boy do these toy's get expensive!



Dewdo in the other Washington

 

[Crazy Horse]

dewdo, I think you'll do well with Bill's trans setup let me know how it works out.

 

[JAnderson]

I am getting ready to buy (2) 3/4" inch stall mats from the local farm supply at $34 each. This is much cheaper than a bed mat and I will cut them to fit the bed. Around here it cost about $100 for a bed mat 1/2 inch or thinner and it offers more clearance for those campers.

 

[drives mopars]

93 1 ton w/ 1030 lance 11'

my stock 93 dually 4x4 handles my lance

1030 very well , i do plan to add the frame mounts later



has factory overload springs,

if u have a rear blowout in a turn with a big camper



with a single rear tire truck , you will have a big problem



also 3/4 ton legally will be overloaded w/ a 9' camper on it



i like the extra rear tires , bill

 

[dewdo]

Got back from Abbotsford late yesterday afternoon. Bill and his crew installed his Torque converter and valve body and I had them install the upgrade kit as well since it was apart. Also had them install the Mag Hytec deep pan.



When I test drove it I was amazed at how quick it was on take off. It almost breaks the tires loose on pavement and it is a dually. I had been thinking of upgrading the injectors, but It might be too scary for my wife to drive. (Maybe that would be a good thing)



It's nice of Bill and his crew to allow the customers in the shop so you can see what's going on. My torque converter was nearly toasted and Bill said it probably wouldn't of held up for my next trip. Probably would have given up the ghost on the first hill I came to with the camper and boat. Should be just about bullet proof now.



Dewdo in the other Washington

 

[JohnMcIntyre]

Bombs away

Originally posted by dewdo Tomorrow morning I will be heading up to Bill Kondolay's place in Abbottsford, BC to get a torque converter and Valve body installed.

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The 91% VB & TC combo with a good 4" exhaust and some DD2 injectors and you'll be all set. When you go out for the first test ride, post installation, get Vinny to take you to the nearby gradient for the "acid test" You'll be amazed that your truck and camper will hold still on the hill in Drive, without holding the brake, then feed in the power gently and it'll roll forward effortlessly..... Welcome to the dark side!

 

[dewdo]

John:

I think you will be happy dealing with Bill and his crew. Nice family operation with real friendly people. They will even let you look over their shoulders while they are working and answer all your questions. They do stay busy though. If you wait at the shop for the work to be done, be sure to bring a lunch. There isn't any nearby places to eat within walking distance. You might want to have the upgrade kit installed as well.



Dewdo in the other Washington