Aftermarket Seats
Has anyone upgraded their truck seats? I'm thinking about taking the standard seats out of a F350 Crew Cab and replacing with 4 bucket seats. What make/model would work? Are air suspension seats an option for a F350? Any help would be great.
RE: My visit to Outfitter and Hallmark and now Lite-Craft
Hi there,
I've been following this forum's topic closely ...
What factors should I look for when considering dealerships ...
Thx in advance...
North Star I think they already have dealers in Alstraila or New Zeland or some place like that.
Thx for pointing that out and also to your reply trails2004. Yes, I was aware outfitter does factory direct, and now I know Hallmark do too. And it seems fourwheelcamper and northstar have dealerships abroad. I am particularly attracted to northstar as they have cool designs and great prices. Something more affordable for entry level RV users here. However, it seems that for northstar smaller camper models, they don't have roof mounted AC, but instead you have to put a AC through the side wall and I think that's a bit unsightly. The reason roof ACs being too heavy for cranking. However, Outfitter's smaller models have no problems with roof ACs. Wonder why that is. Now I'm trying to hunt for smaller pop up camper models with roof ACs. I'm trying to contact fourwheel about this, and yet to receive any info yet. But choosing between fourwheel or northstar, it will have to be northstar, as you get better interiors for only slightly higher price. I just wish it had roof AC for the MC600 and TC700. Does anyone know of anyone other brands and models which can have what I need?
I appreciate the help. Thx.
Northstar may be able to add another torsion bar and move the AC to the roof. Give them a call. They are usually quick to reply to phone and email messages.
RE: Interesting web site: Freedom Off Road
David, Northstar will build any of their US models (popup and hardsided) as a flatbed. The floorplans stay the same, but you get added storage boxes below. I am considering this as an option now. They have been very willing to consider various modifications.
Diesel vs. Propane and other upgrade ideas
Has anyone converted the propane systems supplied with their TC to diesel? I've been debating the merits of using an Espar hydronic heater to preheat the truck engine, heat the hot water, and heat the camper. If I went with the Espar, the only propane left would be for the cooktop. The Wallas ceramic diesel cooktop may be an option.
I’m also trying to decide on ventilation equipment. My goal is to reduce the number of camper penetrations and improve the general efficiency of the unit.
The camper’s standard equipment includes a Fantastic Fan (with thermostat), insulated bathroom skylight, and Polar Cub 9200BTU AC. It also includes a standard cooktop vent that vents on the driver side. I’ve decided on the 12v Tundra fridge (so no refer vent on the roof will be needed).
Should I keep the Fantastic Fan? Should I upgrade to the Max Vent?
Should I keep the insulated bathroom skylight?
Should I keep the cooktop fan?
What about replacing all three with a couple solar vents (e.g.,Sunsei Solar Vent)?
Should I use the optional Polar Cub? Any other smaller AC units to consider? Any of them not roof mounted?
I’d love to hear first hand experiences with any and all equipment (good and bad). Thanks. Bob
Ventilation Options
I’m trying to decide on ventilation equipment for a new hard-sided truck camper. My goal is to reduce the number of camper penetrations and improve the general efficiency of the unit. The unit I’m focusing on is a Northstar Arrow 8.5.
The camper’s standard equipment includes a Fantastic Fan (with thermostat), insulated bathroom skylight, and optional Mach Polar Cub 9200BTU AC with 5600BTU heat strip. It also includes a standard cooktop vent that vents on the driver side. I’ve decided on the 12v Tundra fridge (so no refer vent on the roof will be needed). I’ve also selected the Heki insulated exit vent in the cabover.
Should I keep the Fantastic Fan? Should I upgrade to the Max Vent?
Should I keep the insulated bathroom skylight?
Should I keep the cooktop fan?
What about replacing the fans with a couple solar vents (e.g.,Sunsei Solar Vent)?
Should I use the optional Polar Cub? Any other smaller AC units to consider? Any of them not roof mounted?
I’d love to hear first hand experiences with any and all equipment (good and bad). Thanks. Bob
RE: Highest Payload Wheel/Tire Combo for SRW
I've received a bunch of good feedback on tires. Now the question is wheels...
Most aftermarket wheel suppliers don't list the load specs. Also, the truck companies offer a number of different OEM wheel types and sizes, but don't detail the payload differences. For example, the 2008 F350 SRW may be ordered with 17s, 18s, or 20s. How do you determine the actual load specs for each?
If I decide to go with an aftermarket wheel, what brands and models should I be considering? My preference is for maximum payload (would prefer black to chrome).
Bob
RE: Highest Payload Wheel/Tire Combo for SRW
Thanks everyone. So far my best bet seems to be the Toyo 285/75R18MT (rated at 4080# at 80psi). This will give me a tall tire with good payload. It should fit on the Ford 18 wheels fine. Anyone have experience airing these down? Anyone else running a comparable tire with beach experience? Finally, anybody have a preferred online dealer that you'd recommend?
Highest Payload Wheel/Tire Combo for SRW
What is the highest payload wheel/tire combo for a SRW, excluding the commercial tires 19.5, 22.5, etc.?
Looking for SRW wheel/tire combos for extended backcountry trips and weekend beach runs to the Outer Banks.
Would like to hear first hand experiences with various combos. Thanks.
RE: Ford F550 or Dodge 5500
Thanks for the input. I'm looking at buying a conventional TC now, but plan to extensively modify or build a long term expedition camper at some point. I don't need a standard truck bed so I thought I'd go 550 or 5500 with a flatbed with storage boxes.
I've read the long and useful flatbed threads on this forum. Thought about posting there, but wanted to get truck feedback.
I'm working on ways to locate as much as possible below the frame rails. Heavy stuff like compressor, larger water tanks, water purification system, generator, batteries, recovery gear, tools, etc.
Anyone with feedback please chime in...
Ford F550 or Dodge 5500
I'm considering the merits of a 550 or 5500 with flatbed and storage boxes. Looking for first hand info from any TCers.
Anyone purchase an 08 F550 or Dodge5500 to haul a TC? If so, what are your initial impressions? What options did you select? Anyone know if air lockers are available for the 550 or 5500?
Bob
RE: Question for Northstar Hardsided TC Owners
The wife wants to be able to see the dog, and I want the camper and truck (rather than a Class A or C).
Just need to know if the windows match...
Question for Northstar Hardsided TC Owners
Looking to buy a Northstar Arrow or Igloo camper. A few questions for owners:
1. How closely does your camper pass thru window match up with the truck's sliding window?
2. Do you use the optional insulated boot (or homemade connector) to help pre-heat/cool the camper while driving?
I'm looking at traveling with wife, kids, and a large dog and won't have room in the truck for the dog. Want to make sure he has heat/AC when rolling down the road.
Anyone with info and pics please respond.
Thanks,
Bob
RE: F 650, F 750 or Similar?
Here is a chassis you could use as a starting point. Bolt a used Airstream travel trailer with a 3-point mounting subframe to allow for frame flex. Add some storage boxes underneath for the heavy stuff. Truck $70K, trailer $20K, subframe and storage boxes $5K.
http://www.truckpaper.com/listings/detail.aspx?OHID=1663699&guid=6F499175507948C0AC3AD65E78BEAEC0
Northstar and GVWR help
Okay guys, in earlier threads I've debated and researched the Northstar hardsided units, and others. We're most likely going Northstar (Arrow or Igloo) for the following reasons:
First, dealer support - The wife hates when I become obsessed with doing everything myself. I’ve been so frustrated during the RV research, that I considered building my own TC. We've got a very nice local dealer that sells Northstar and Arctic Fox.
Second, interior temp - We went to the dealer to window shop at high noon when it was 90+degrees out. The Arctic Fox and Northstar units had both been closed and sitting in the sun all morning. The interior of the Northstar (with the acrylic windows) was much cooler inside (probably a good 10-15 degrees). We’re sold on the acrylic windows that fully open and include built in screens and shades.
Third, 12v fridge - Northstar is willing to modify the Arrow 8.5 (shortbox) to accommodate the 8ft Tundra. The Igloo 9.5 (longbox) can be ordered with this fridge also.
Optioned the way we like the Northstar has a dry weight of 2800-3000lb. With passengers, food, gear, fuel, fresh water, propane, and recovery stuff we will be roughly 800lbs over the GVWR of the F350 SRW CC 4WD.
What options would you consider MUST HAVES on the camper? What could you live without? What upgrades would you do to the truck to help with the load?
RE: Newbie TC questions for SRW
Okay guys, as much as I like the Outfitter, the wife has rejected the idea for three practical reasons. If she's being practical I'm toast.
First, dealer support - She hates when I become obsessed with doing everything myself. I’ve been so frustrated during the RV research, that I started to look into building my own TC. We've got a very nice dealer about an hour from the house that sells Northstar and Arctic Fox. The notion of buying from a CO mfg with no local NC dealer is a factor.
Second, interior temp - We went to look the dealer to window shop at high noon when it was 90+degrees out. The Arctic Fox and Northstar units had both been closed and sitting in the sun. The interior of the Northstar (with the acrylic windows) was much cooler inside (probably a good 10-15 degrees). We’re sold on the windows with built in screens and shades.
Third, bigger fridge - Northstar is willing to modify the Arrow 8.5 (shortbox) to accommodate the 8ft Tundra. The Igloo 9.5 (longbox) can be ordered with this fridge also.
Optioned the way we like the Northstar has a dry weight of 2800-3000lb. With passengers, food, gear, fuel, fresh water, propane, and recovery stuff we will be roughly 800lbs over the GVWR of the F350 SRW CC 4WD.
What options would you consider MUST HAVES on the camper? What could you live without? What upgrades would you do to the truck to help with the load?
RE: Defending my honor
Steve, I sent you a PM for some of your "patsy" advice. Pop a cold one and let this other stuff rest. Don't keep provoking them with common sense, it will only drive you nuts. Bob
F350 SRW Curb Weight Question
Does anyone have actual GVWR and curb weight for the following truck:
2008 F350 CC SRW 4WD LongBox Diesel Auto FXR trim 3.73LS
I'm trying to spec out a few TCs and want to be as accurate on payload as possible.
Thanks...Bob
RE: Newbie TC questions for SRW
Thanks for the info regarding Outfitter (Apex 8 or 9.5) vs. Northstar (Arrow 8.5 or Igloo 9.5). Optioned the way I would order them, they are similar weights, length, and width. Northstar is taller.
What are the pros and cons of the Northstar vs. Outfitter in actual backcountry situations? Where would you feel comfortable taking one vs. the other (pics would be great)? Please don't recycle the "scary bear" or "my rig is better" threads. I'm looking for real world experiences (vibration, dust, overhangs, balance, etc). What works for you guys and why?
RE: Newbie TC questions for SRW
Steve_in_29 thanks for the fridge info. The Apex 8 or 9.5 might be a good choice for us. Do you know the dimensions of the dinette bed and pull out bunk bed? Also, are they offered with cassette toilets and/or acrylic window options? I seem to remember other posts talking about these options, but can't locate them on the Outfitter website.
RE: Newbie TC questions for SRW
Thanks for the input so far. If I go with a stock TC the Northstar Arrow (SB or LB) or Igloo (LB only) seem to fit my needs. However, I'm very interested in the sofa and/or overhead bunk conversions you guys may have performed. Please send links to any and all. Thanks...Bob
