Need Advise On Slide-in Campers

[Doc Tinker]

I'm thinking about getting a slide-in camper and I'd like your input.



I see most of the manufacturers make campers that will fit my short bed truck, but they all appear to have a rear overhang (8'2" for a 6'6" box). I'd like to tow my 25' TT while using the camper and I'm concerned about clearance in tight turns, etc.



Is it legal for passengers to ride in the camper? Mrs Doc has a 'condition' and would be more comfortable if she could move around and lay down while traveling. If I can make her comfortable, our range of travel would be greatly increased.



You guys talk alot about Bigfoot and Lance campers, but you've all got heavy-weight campers and I need a light-weight. Are there other manufacturers that build light-weights that are equal to the quality of the Bigfoot and Lance?



Do you think it's a good idea to keep the camper on the truck permanently?



I'm not interested in getting a pop-up style camper because I intend to use this unit for some winter camping.



Thanks for your input.



Doc

 

[dresslered]

Hi Doc-



I am no expert but I can supply you with a couple of my gut feelings.





1. All the major camper manufacturer's like Lance, Bigfoot, etc. make "lite" versions. The difference will be noticed in insulation, size, and "comfort" items. There is also some campers like "fourwheel" that offer light weight retractable versions. These are so designed for off-road adventure (maintaining clearance and not overloading the truck). Granted, I can go places that a trailer can't go, but I could never cover some serious off-roading with my 4000-lb beast!



2. I have heard of many people allowing passengers in their slide-in while traveling. This is illegal in many states. I personally would not allow anyone back there where it is not actually part of the vehicle. Just my opinion and I know that my wife would love to lay down on the queen sized bed at times.



3. I think that you will find that the truck doesn't drive as well with the camper installed nor do you have the visibility, thus I wouldn't think that you would want to permanently install it. However, if it were light enough, and you don't have the wild traffic as we do in the Silicon Valley, hey, it would be VERY convenient.



The best thing to do is to install some camper mounts. I would only recommend the frame-mounted versions, but that's another story. Then, take the camper for a long test drive before you ever decide on which is best for you. Good luck,



David

 

[MUDDY]

Originally posted by Doc Tinker





I see most of the manufacturers make campers that will fit my short bed truck, but they all appear to have a rear overhang (8'2" for a 6'6" box). I'd like to tow my 25' TT while using the camper and I'm concerned about clearance in tight turns, etc.



Is it legal for passengers to ride in the camper?







Do you think it's a good idea to keep the camper on the truck permanently?





Doc

as far as the camper sticking out the back, do what i did. extend the hitch on the trailer 28 inches for more distance between the units so they dont make contact while making a corner. even a camper that doesnt stick out has very little room between it and the trailer in a sharp corner. it is inexpensive to lengthen the trailers hitch. dont lengthen the stinger as there is too much leverage and it weakens the receiver and the stinger bends over a period of time.



as far as legality for passengers in campers, it is legal in most states, although not the safest place to be in a collision. there is a website which lists the laws state by state concerning passengers in campers and trailers. i will look for and post if i find it.



wont hurt to leave it on all the time. lots of folks do it. mines on most of the year. no problems. youll get used to driving with it on and wont be bothered by it. you sure aint gonna tire that cummins out by haulin it all the time.



mm

 

[roadranger]

Mr. Doc,



Even the lightweight versions of the namebrand campers will be pushing the 2500's GVW to (and past) the limit.



With a shortbed truck, you're gonna have overhang no matter WHICH camper you pick. That means you have to run an extended hitch- which WILL gain you more clearance for turning, BUT will cut hitch weight capacity considerably. Your 22' TT will be like the tail wagging the dog, hanging on way back there. I'd shop carefully for a good hitch.



My 8 1/2' Lance on a longbed weighs out loaded and ready to go at 3100 lbs. You do the math... .

I get that thing off the back of my truck the NIGHT we get home, and don't mount it up until the night before departure.



If I had the short bed, I'd consider trading in my TT for a 5er. I believe the Mrs. can ride in a 5er in any state that allows riding in a slide in.



Just my $. 01/2

 

[MUDDY]

the website for laws regarding passengers in campers.



http://www.rvsafety.com/Passenger Laws.htm



mm

 

[Deezul1]

Riding in a slide in is not as comfortable as in the cab. Especially trying to sleep in the cabover part as all road motion is magnified by the height. A friend and I took a 1200 mile nonstop trip trading driving and trying to sleep in the camper and the only place that I could get comfortable from the movement was putting cushions on the floor and sleeping there. Try to get a ride in one before slapping your wallet.

Good Luck

 

[MUDDY]

Originally posted by Deezul 1

Riding in a slide in is not as comfortable as in the cab.

EXCEPT YOU ARE LOCKED IN THERE WITH THE ICE COLD BEVERAGES.







Especially trying to sleep in the cabover part as all road motion is magnified by the height

:

also the cabover part is unsafe in a rollover. also in case of collision, you could go right through the front window over the hood and onto the road.



if i was to ride in a camper, i would lie on the dinette. a little bit safer.



mm

 

[Doc Tinker]

Thanks for the responses, guys - I'll consider your advice when I get serious about buying a slide-in.



Doc