Pickups and Truck Campers?

[Steve Paskey]

Spent a weekend camping at the Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival, and very much envied the folks with some sort of camper vehicle.

I'm now thinking about trading the Subaru outback for a used pickup and a camper top, and would greatly appreciate advice.

PICKUP: Lots of choices, but full-size or compact? This would be my only vehicle. The compact would be easier for everday driving (and easier on the gas), the full-size roomier for camping. Any thoughts re : Ford F-150 or Ranger; Toyota Tundra, T100, or Tacoma; Dodge Dakota; Others? (Consumer Reports gives Chevy and GMC low marks on reliability.)

CAMPER: I want more of a shell, without everything built in. The Four Wheel pop-up campers ( www.fourwheelcampers.com (http://www.fourwheelcampers.com) ) look great:

http://www.fourwheelcampers.com/images/ranger_elipse.jpg

They sell a shell model with only a bed built in, but by the time you add a few options (screen door, roof vent with fan, etc. etc.) you're looking at $6,000 to $7,000.

Maybe a home-built unit like this?

Butler Projects Truck Camper (http://butlerprojects.com/truckcamper.html)

http://www.butlerprojects.com/images/truckcamper2.jpeg

Anyone know of a good shell with sitting headroom that's well-made and reasonably priced? Anyone want to lobby for converting a cargo van instead?

Suggestions, advice, constructive brickbats, or whatever would be welcome. Thanks!

[ 10-17-2004, 12:08 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

Spent a weekend camping at the Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival, and very much envied the folks with some sort of camper vehicle.

I'm now thinking about trading the Subaru outback for a used pickup and a camper top, and would greatly appreciate advice.

PICKUP: Lots of choices, but full-size or compact? This would be my only vehicle. The compact would be easier for everday driving (and easier on the gas), the full-size roomier for camping. Any thoughts re : Ford F-150 or Ranger; Toyota Tundra, T100, or Tacoma; Dodge Dakota; Others? (Consumer Reports gives Chevy and GMC low marks on reliability.)

CAMPER: I want more of a shell, without everything built in. The Four Wheel pop-up campers ( www.fourwheelcampers.com (http://www.fourwheelcampers.com) ) look great:

http://www.fourwheelcampers.com/images/ranger_elipse.jpg

They sell a shell model with only a bed built in, but by the time you add a few options (screen door, roof vent with fan, etc. etc.) you're looking at $6,000 to $7,000.

Maybe a home-built unit like this?

Butler Projects Truck Camper (http://butlerprojects.com/truckcamper.html)

http://www.butlerprojects.com/images/truckcamper2.jpeg

Anyone know of a good shell with sitting headroom that's well-made and reasonably priced? Anyone want to lobby for converting a cargo van instead?

Suggestions, advice, constructive brickbats, or whatever would be welcome. Thanks!

[ 10-17-2004, 12:08 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

Spent a weekend camping at the Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival, and very much envied the folks with some sort of camper vehicle.

I'm now thinking about trading the Subaru outback for a used pickup and a camper top, and would greatly appreciate advice.

PICKUP: Lots of choices, but full-size or compact? This would be my only vehicle. The compact would be easier for everday driving (and easier on the gas), the full-size roomier for camping. Any thoughts re : Ford F-150 or Ranger; Toyota Tundra, T100, or Tacoma; Dodge Dakota; Others? (Consumer Reports gives Chevy and GMC low marks on reliability.)

CAMPER: I want more of a shell, without everything built in. The Four Wheel pop-up campers ( www.fourwheelcampers.com (http://www.fourwheelcampers.com) ) look great:

http://www.fourwheelcampers.com/images/ranger_elipse.jpg

They sell a shell model with only a bed built in, but by the time you add a few options (screen door, roof vent with fan, etc. etc.) you're looking at $6,000 to $7,000.

Maybe a home-built unit like this?

Butler Projects Truck Camper (http://butlerprojects.com/truckcamper.html)

http://www.butlerprojects.com/images/truckcamper2.jpeg

Anyone know of a good shell with sitting headroom that's well-made and reasonably priced? Anyone want to lobby for converting a cargo van instead?

Suggestions, advice, constructive brickbats, or whatever would be welcome. Thanks!

[ 10-17-2004, 12:08 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Leon Steyns]

Stictly biassed European opinion: VW T3 Vanagon or T4 Eurovan with lifting roof!
Standing headroom when needed only, lots of towing capacity and safety. Also available in 4x4 if needed.

http://users.rcn.com/derekdrew/syncromadnessimages/drew-2.jpg

http://i5.ebayimg.com/02/a/02/07/91/7a_1.JPG

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Leon Steyns]

Stictly biassed European opinion: VW T3 Vanagon or T4 Eurovan with lifting roof!
Standing headroom when needed only, lots of towing capacity and safety. Also available in 4x4 if needed.

http://users.rcn.com/derekdrew/syncromadnessimages/drew-2.jpg

http://i5.ebayimg.com/02/a/02/07/91/7a_1.JPG

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Leon Steyns]

Stictly biassed European opinion: VW T3 Vanagon or T4 Eurovan with lifting roof!
Standing headroom when needed only, lots of towing capacity and safety. Also available in 4x4 if needed.

http://users.rcn.com/derekdrew/syncromadnessimages/drew-2.jpg

http://i5.ebayimg.com/02/a/02/07/91/7a_1.JPG

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Steve Paskey]

I thought of that, Leon. In the U.S., used Eurovan campers seem to be in short supply and rather expensive. From what I've seen, a used "pop-up" camper Eurovan in good shape could easily run $6 to $8 more than a used pickup in comparable condition with a NEW Four Wheel popup camper.

Plus, the truck camper is "modular:" I'd expect the camper to last longer than the truck's major mechanical systems, and the investment in the camper can be moved to a new truck if the first truck falls apart. The Eurovan's all or nothing, and I'm not sure it makes sense financially unless I'm willing to drive it for the next 150,000 miles and fix anything that goes wrong along the way.

[ 10-18-2004, 12:17 AM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

I thought of that, Leon. In the U.S., used Eurovan campers seem to be in short supply and rather expensive. From what I've seen, a used "pop-up" camper Eurovan in good shape could easily run $6 to $8 more than a used pickup in comparable condition with a NEW Four Wheel popup camper.

Plus, the truck camper is "modular:" I'd expect the camper to last longer than the truck's major mechanical systems, and the investment in the camper can be moved to a new truck if the first truck falls apart. The Eurovan's all or nothing, and I'm not sure it makes sense financially unless I'm willing to drive it for the next 150,000 miles and fix anything that goes wrong along the way.

[ 10-18-2004, 12:17 AM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

I thought of that, Leon. In the U.S., used Eurovan campers seem to be in short supply and rather expensive. From what I've seen, a used "pop-up" camper Eurovan in good shape could easily run $6 to $8 more than a used pickup in comparable condition with a NEW Four Wheel popup camper.

Plus, the truck camper is "modular:" I'd expect the camper to last longer than the truck's major mechanical systems, and the investment in the camper can be moved to a new truck if the first truck falls apart. The Eurovan's all or nothing, and I'm not sure it makes sense financially unless I'm willing to drive it for the next 150,000 miles and fix anything that goes wrong along the way.

[ 10-18-2004, 12:17 AM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[whb]

Check out the GlenL site. They have camper plans under the title recreational vehicles or something like that.

The plans are a little dated but I probably will end up buying a set as a starting place.

I envision combining the regular construction with the mono-structure approach of stitch and glue to get a light and custom camper.

When the shed is built the bathroom finished, the front porch done, various baseboards on etc.

Howard

[whb]

Check out the GlenL site. They have camper plans under the title recreational vehicles or something like that.

The plans are a little dated but I probably will end up buying a set as a starting place.

I envision combining the regular construction with the mono-structure approach of stitch and glue to get a light and custom camper.

When the shed is built the bathroom finished, the front porch done, various baseboards on etc.

Howard

[whb]

Check out the GlenL site. They have camper plans under the title recreational vehicles or something like that.

The plans are a little dated but I probably will end up buying a set as a starting place.

I envision combining the regular construction with the mono-structure approach of stitch and glue to get a light and custom camper.

When the shed is built the bathroom finished, the front porch done, various baseboards on etc.

Howard

[Jack Heinlen]

Pluses and minuses, but a van has the advantage of having a place for the co-pilot to sleep on a long drive.

The Mazda MPV is a small van, can be had in 4wd, can be had relatively cheaply used(mid 90s) and with a couple cots, a couple folding chairs and a folding table, and a little ingenuity would make a fine traveling vehicle for two. Not the Ritz, but quite doable. Keeping the furniture folding allows the vehicle to be easily used for hauling. I've thought a lot about this question and something like that, perhaps a Toyota, is what I came up with. A full sized American van would be roomier, but with gas prices...

Be careful what motor you buy in the Mazda. I can't remember the details, but it seems to me one of their early nineties sixes was a Mitsubishi that was a real headache.

[Jack Heinlen]

Pluses and minuses, but a van has the advantage of having a place for the co-pilot to sleep on a long drive.

The Mazda MPV is a small van, can be had in 4wd, can be had relatively cheaply used(mid 90s) and with a couple cots, a couple folding chairs and a folding table, and a little ingenuity would make a fine traveling vehicle for two. Not the Ritz, but quite doable. Keeping the furniture folding allows the vehicle to be easily used for hauling. I've thought a lot about this question and something like that, perhaps a Toyota, is what I came up with. A full sized American van would be roomier, but with gas prices...

Be careful what motor you buy in the Mazda. I can't remember the details, but it seems to me one of their early nineties sixes was a Mitsubishi that was a real headache.

[Jack Heinlen]

Pluses and minuses, but a van has the advantage of having a place for the co-pilot to sleep on a long drive.

The Mazda MPV is a small van, can be had in 4wd, can be had relatively cheaply used(mid 90s) and with a couple cots, a couple folding chairs and a folding table, and a little ingenuity would make a fine traveling vehicle for two. Not the Ritz, but quite doable. Keeping the furniture folding allows the vehicle to be easily used for hauling. I've thought a lot about this question and something like that, perhaps a Toyota, is what I came up with. A full sized American van would be roomier, but with gas prices...

Be careful what motor you buy in the Mazda. I can't remember the details, but it seems to me one of their early nineties sixes was a Mitsubishi that was a real headache.

[N. Scheuer]

It seems to me that a camper in a pickup box only makes sense it you can park the camper body somewhere when you don't need it, like most of the time. That way you have the pickup avbailable to haul all sorts of other things. Also, your average fuel economy will be better.

Back in the 1970's I worked with a guy who left his suspended from the rafters in his barn between family camping weekends.

Moby Nick

[N. Scheuer]

It seems to me that a camper in a pickup box only makes sense it you can park the camper body somewhere when you don't need it, like most of the time. That way you have the pickup avbailable to haul all sorts of other things. Also, your average fuel economy will be better.

Back in the 1970's I worked with a guy who left his suspended from the rafters in his barn between family camping weekends.

Moby Nick

[N. Scheuer]

It seems to me that a camper in a pickup box only makes sense it you can park the camper body somewhere when you don't need it, like most of the time. That way you have the pickup avbailable to haul all sorts of other things. Also, your average fuel economy will be better.

Back in the 1970's I worked with a guy who left his suspended from the rafters in his barn between family camping weekends.

Moby Nick

[Mrleft8]

Another vote for the VW. Back in the early '80's I had a VW bus with the camper bed in back. I used it for a crash pad about a kazillion times. With the seat folded up, it was a great "haul the guys to a job (or party)" vehicle. With the seat folded down it was at least as able to haul lumber etc. as my C-10 chevy. If I was in the market for a camper type deal, I'd go VW again in a heartbeat.

[Mrleft8]

Another vote for the VW. Back in the early '80's I had a VW bus with the camper bed in back. I used it for a crash pad about a kazillion times. With the seat folded up, it was a great "haul the guys to a job (or party)" vehicle. With the seat folded down it was at least as able to haul lumber etc. as my C-10 chevy. If I was in the market for a camper type deal, I'd go VW again in a heartbeat.

[Mrleft8]

Another vote for the VW. Back in the early '80's I had a VW bus with the camper bed in back. I used it for a crash pad about a kazillion times. With the seat folded up, it was a great "haul the guys to a job (or party)" vehicle. With the seat folded down it was at least as able to haul lumber etc. as my C-10 chevy. If I was in the market for a camper type deal, I'd go VW again in a heartbeat.

[Steve Lansdowne]

I had the same thought and already have a pickup, but a small one. I'm toying with the idea of building a Teardrop trailer and leaving my canoe on the wooden rack of the pickup, which I built for hauling lumber and small boats. Ranger/Mazda small pickups have stake holes you can use to mount a wooden truck rack in the sides, while few, if any, other small pickups have these. You can put a 4 x 8 foot Teardrop trailer together for about $3000, which is much cheaper than a good camper, or build a larger one on a welded frame for more. Do a Google search and check out the various plans available. I like the plans at Kufflecreek.com

[Steve Lansdowne]

I had the same thought and already have a pickup, but a small one. I'm toying with the idea of building a Teardrop trailer and leaving my canoe on the wooden rack of the pickup, which I built for hauling lumber and small boats. Ranger/Mazda small pickups have stake holes you can use to mount a wooden truck rack in the sides, while few, if any, other small pickups have these. You can put a 4 x 8 foot Teardrop trailer together for about $3000, which is much cheaper than a good camper, or build a larger one on a welded frame for more. Do a Google search and check out the various plans available. I like the plans at Kufflecreek.com

[Steve Lansdowne]

I had the same thought and already have a pickup, but a small one. I'm toying with the idea of building a Teardrop trailer and leaving my canoe on the wooden rack of the pickup, which I built for hauling lumber and small boats. Ranger/Mazda small pickups have stake holes you can use to mount a wooden truck rack in the sides, while few, if any, other small pickups have these. You can put a 4 x 8 foot Teardrop trailer together for about $3000, which is much cheaper than a good camper, or build a larger one on a welded frame for more. Do a Google search and check out the various plans available. I like the plans at Kufflecreek.com

[imported_Steven Bauer]

How about a Cozy Cruiser?

www.cozycruiser.com (http://www.cozycruiser.com)

http://www.cozycruiser.com/images/cozy_classic.gif

Here's the kuffelcreek:

http://www.kuffelcreek.com/Teardrop_Main_GraphicDownload.jpg

Steven

[imported_Steven Bauer]

How about a Cozy Cruiser?

www.cozycruiser.com (http://www.cozycruiser.com)

http://www.cozycruiser.com/images/cozy_classic.gif

Here's the kuffelcreek:

http://www.kuffelcreek.com/Teardrop_Main_GraphicDownload.jpg

Steven

[imported_Steven Bauer]

How about a Cozy Cruiser?

www.cozycruiser.com (http://www.cozycruiser.com)

http://www.cozycruiser.com/images/cozy_classic.gif

Here's the kuffelcreek:

http://www.kuffelcreek.com/Teardrop_Main_GraphicDownload.jpg

Steven

[hikingchrs]

I have a '71 bus love to camp in it easy to back up great gas milage lots of cargo. get a bus cheap
cheap smile.gif
Chris

[hikingchrs]

I have a '71 bus love to camp in it easy to back up great gas milage lots of cargo. get a bus cheap
cheap smile.gif
Chris

[hikingchrs]

I have a '71 bus love to camp in it easy to back up great gas milage lots of cargo. get a bus cheap
cheap smile.gif
Chris

[imported_Steven Bauer]

Wait a second... You have a '71 VW camper and a 1950 CJ3a? What other vehicles have you got in your driveway?

Steven

[imported_Steven Bauer]

Wait a second... You have a '71 VW camper and a 1950 CJ3a? What other vehicles have you got in your driveway?

Steven

[imported_Steven Bauer]

Wait a second... You have a '71 VW camper and a 1950 CJ3a? What other vehicles have you got in your driveway?

Steven

[Leon Steyns]

Originally posted by Steve Paskey:
I thought of that, Leon. In the U.S., used Eurovan campers seem to be in short supply and rather expensive. From what I've seen, a used "pop-up" camper Eurovan in good shape could easily run $6 to $8 more than a used pickup in comparable condition with a NEW Four Wheel popup camper.
Quality never comes cheap... :D :D
If properly maintained, a Vanagon or Eurovan will most definitely outlive it's owner. And thus worth the investment, imho.
The people that run a business specifically for these vehicles don't "just do a job" like your average dealer, they're nuts... :eek: :eek: Like me, I'm saving for a Syncro camper... :rolleyes: tongue.gif

http://www.fastforward.ca/gallery/sm1003SyncroWestfalia.jpg :cool:

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[ 10-18-2004, 08:14 AM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

Originally posted by Steve Paskey:
I thought of that, Leon. In the U.S., used Eurovan campers seem to be in short supply and rather expensive. From what I've seen, a used "pop-up" camper Eurovan in good shape could easily run $6 to $8 more than a used pickup in comparable condition with a NEW Four Wheel popup camper.
Quality never comes cheap... :D :D
If properly maintained, a Vanagon or Eurovan will most definitely outlive it's owner. And thus worth the investment, imho.
The people that run a business specifically for these vehicles don't "just do a job" like your average dealer, they're nuts... :eek: :eek: Like me, I'm saving for a Syncro camper... :rolleyes: tongue.gif

http://www.fastforward.ca/gallery/sm1003SyncroWestfalia.jpg :cool:

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[ 10-18-2004, 08:14 AM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

Originally posted by Steve Paskey:
I thought of that, Leon. In the U.S., used Eurovan campers seem to be in short supply and rather expensive. From what I've seen, a used "pop-up" camper Eurovan in good shape could easily run $6 to $8 more than a used pickup in comparable condition with a NEW Four Wheel popup camper.
Quality never comes cheap... :D :D
If properly maintained, a Vanagon or Eurovan will most definitely outlive it's owner. And thus worth the investment, imho.
The people that run a business specifically for these vehicles don't "just do a job" like your average dealer, they're nuts... :eek: :eek: Like me, I'm saving for a Syncro camper... :rolleyes: tongue.gif

http://www.fastforward.ca/gallery/sm1003SyncroWestfalia.jpg :cool:

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[ 10-18-2004, 08:14 AM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Popeye]

A syncro camper ... sweet ... does it come with a TDI that runs on biodiesel smile.gif

[Popeye]

A syncro camper ... sweet ... does it come with a TDI that runs on biodiesel smile.gif

[Popeye]

A syncro camper ... sweet ... does it come with a TDI that runs on biodiesel smile.gif

[Leon Steyns]

Not originally, I'm afraid: most have a 2,1 litre WBX (petrol) engine. But a 1,6 TD version also became available (1985) and many have been 'upgraded' with a 1,9 TDi Audi or Passat engine. They can run Pure Vegetable Oil (PVO) if fitted with a conversion kit (see: www.elsbett.com (http://www.elsbett.com)), otherwise you need a mixture of PVO with diesel.

If you want even cleaner and more fuel efficient, you need a LPG fumigation kit: less carbon residue and 10% more power! Oh, and don't forget to cover the lifting roof with solar cells and fit a compass on the dashboard... :D :D

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[ 10-18-2004, 08:45 AM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

Not originally, I'm afraid: most have a 2,1 litre WBX (petrol) engine. But a 1,6 TD version also became available (1985) and many have been 'upgraded' with a 1,9 TDi Audi or Passat engine. They can run Pure Vegetable Oil (PVO) if fitted with a conversion kit (see: www.elsbett.com (http://www.elsbett.com)), otherwise you need a mixture of PVO with diesel.

If you want even cleaner and more fuel efficient, you need a LPG fumigation kit: less carbon residue and 10% more power! Oh, and don't forget to cover the lifting roof with solar cells and fit a compass on the dashboard... :D :D

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[ 10-18-2004, 08:45 AM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

Not originally, I'm afraid: most have a 2,1 litre WBX (petrol) engine. But a 1,6 TD version also became available (1985) and many have been 'upgraded' with a 1,9 TDi Audi or Passat engine. They can run Pure Vegetable Oil (PVO) if fitted with a conversion kit (see: www.elsbett.com (http://www.elsbett.com)), otherwise you need a mixture of PVO with diesel.

If you want even cleaner and more fuel efficient, you need a LPG fumigation kit: less carbon residue and 10% more power! Oh, and don't forget to cover the lifting roof with solar cells and fit a compass on the dashboard... :D :D

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[ 10-18-2004, 08:45 AM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Popeye]

DIESEL ENGINE - Mercedes-Benz CDI (Common-Rail Direct Injection) MBE 600 2.7L Turbocharged, 5 Cylinder. Quiet running.

HORSEPOWER - 154 @ 3,800 rpm

TRANSMISSION -Mercedes-Benz 5-speed automatic w/overdrive, can also be operated like a manual by simply tipping the gearshift left or right.

MILEAGE - 22 MPG

MAXIMUM SPEED - 85 MPH

FUEL TANK - 26.5 G, diesel including reserve

RANGE - Around 550 miles http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/2500van/images_sr/sprinter1_special.jpg http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/examples/images_ex/05_snyder.jpg

http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/examples/images_ex/sprinter_ebexam_01.jpg

[ 10-18-2004, 08:50 AM: Message edited by: popeye ]

[Popeye]

DIESEL ENGINE - Mercedes-Benz CDI (Common-Rail Direct Injection) MBE 600 2.7L Turbocharged, 5 Cylinder. Quiet running.

HORSEPOWER - 154 @ 3,800 rpm

TRANSMISSION -Mercedes-Benz 5-speed automatic w/overdrive, can also be operated like a manual by simply tipping the gearshift left or right.

MILEAGE - 22 MPG

MAXIMUM SPEED - 85 MPH

FUEL TANK - 26.5 G, diesel including reserve

RANGE - Around 550 miles http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/2500van/images_sr/sprinter1_special.jpg http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/examples/images_ex/05_snyder.jpg

http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/examples/images_ex/sprinter_ebexam_01.jpg

[ 10-18-2004, 08:50 AM: Message edited by: popeye ]

[Popeye]

DIESEL ENGINE - Mercedes-Benz CDI (Common-Rail Direct Injection) MBE 600 2.7L Turbocharged, 5 Cylinder. Quiet running.

HORSEPOWER - 154 @ 3,800 rpm

TRANSMISSION -Mercedes-Benz 5-speed automatic w/overdrive, can also be operated like a manual by simply tipping the gearshift left or right.

MILEAGE - 22 MPG

MAXIMUM SPEED - 85 MPH

FUEL TANK - 26.5 G, diesel including reserve

RANGE - Around 550 miles http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/2500van/images_sr/sprinter1_special.jpg http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/examples/images_ex/05_snyder.jpg

http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/dodge-starrunner/examples/images_ex/sprinter_ebexam_01.jpg

[ 10-18-2004, 08:50 AM: Message edited by: popeye ]

[Leon Steyns]

Dang... where's that lottery ticket? :confused: :D

For me, I don't want to be seen in a Merc: No character... :rolleyes: But then again, I'm nuts! :eek: :D

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Edited to add: Note that I have no intention to state that a Mercedes would be a bad vehicle: I just don't like them.
With a heavy vehicle, torque is much more important than BHPs!
And as for the Common Rail (Turbo) Diesel, that's the same marketing blah-blah as the infamous DOHC was in the Eighties!!! All it means is that there's a single feed line (thus commonly shared by all fuel injectors) for the fuel... :rolleyes: Yes, it makes a more efficient engine, but it was an obvious development.]

[ 10-18-2004, 05:07 PM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

Dang... where's that lottery ticket? :confused: :D

For me, I don't want to be seen in a Merc: No character... :rolleyes: But then again, I'm nuts! :eek: :D

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Edited to add: Note that I have no intention to state that a Mercedes would be a bad vehicle: I just don't like them.
With a heavy vehicle, torque is much more important than BHPs!
And as for the Common Rail (Turbo) Diesel, that's the same marketing blah-blah as the infamous DOHC was in the Eighties!!! All it means is that there's a single feed line (thus commonly shared by all fuel injectors) for the fuel... :rolleyes: Yes, it makes a more efficient engine, but it was an obvious development.]

[ 10-18-2004, 05:07 PM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

Dang... where's that lottery ticket? :confused: :D

For me, I don't want to be seen in a Merc: No character... :rolleyes: But then again, I'm nuts! :eek: :D

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Edited to add: Note that I have no intention to state that a Mercedes would be a bad vehicle: I just don't like them.
With a heavy vehicle, torque is much more important than BHPs!
And as for the Common Rail (Turbo) Diesel, that's the same marketing blah-blah as the infamous DOHC was in the Eighties!!! All it means is that there's a single feed line (thus commonly shared by all fuel injectors) for the fuel... :rolleyes: Yes, it makes a more efficient engine, but it was an obvious development.]

[ 10-18-2004, 05:07 PM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Paul H]

I think the trailer is the best route! My daily driver is a Toyota 4X4 extra cab, that we've had about 10 years with a bit over 100k miles. It has been rock steady, and I know lots of Toyota truck owners that put 200-300k on their trucks. If you're looking for a compact truck, I'd go witht the Toyota. For full size, the Dodge with the cummins turbo diesel is a nice rig, but dang they're spendy! Don't know why Toyota doesn't offer their 4.3l turbo diesel in the states.

I really wouldn't want to drive a full size truck with a camper on it as a daily driver. It sucks way too much gas, and they are tippy to drive. My toyota 3liter is bad enough getting 17-18 mpg, full size trucks will be closer to a dozen mpg.

Seems silly to have something that is a poor choice for 95% of your use. With a trailer you can take it with you when you need it, and leave it at home for most use. It'll also be adaptable to other vehicles as well. The downside is you can't tow a boat, and a trailer.

[Paul H]

I think the trailer is the best route! My daily driver is a Toyota 4X4 extra cab, that we've had about 10 years with a bit over 100k miles. It has been rock steady, and I know lots of Toyota truck owners that put 200-300k on their trucks. If you're looking for a compact truck, I'd go witht the Toyota. For full size, the Dodge with the cummins turbo diesel is a nice rig, but dang they're spendy! Don't know why Toyota doesn't offer their 4.3l turbo diesel in the states.

I really wouldn't want to drive a full size truck with a camper on it as a daily driver. It sucks way too much gas, and they are tippy to drive. My toyota 3liter is bad enough getting 17-18 mpg, full size trucks will be closer to a dozen mpg.

Seems silly to have something that is a poor choice for 95% of your use. With a trailer you can take it with you when you need it, and leave it at home for most use. It'll also be adaptable to other vehicles as well. The downside is you can't tow a boat, and a trailer.

[Paul H]

I think the trailer is the best route! My daily driver is a Toyota 4X4 extra cab, that we've had about 10 years with a bit over 100k miles. It has been rock steady, and I know lots of Toyota truck owners that put 200-300k on their trucks. If you're looking for a compact truck, I'd go witht the Toyota. For full size, the Dodge with the cummins turbo diesel is a nice rig, but dang they're spendy! Don't know why Toyota doesn't offer their 4.3l turbo diesel in the states.

I really wouldn't want to drive a full size truck with a camper on it as a daily driver. It sucks way too much gas, and they are tippy to drive. My toyota 3liter is bad enough getting 17-18 mpg, full size trucks will be closer to a dozen mpg.

Seems silly to have something that is a poor choice for 95% of your use. With a trailer you can take it with you when you need it, and leave it at home for most use. It'll also be adaptable to other vehicles as well. The downside is you can't tow a boat, and a trailer.

[Steve Lansdowne]

Another idea that has crossed my mind is to build a boat that sits on a trailer and can be slept in, cooked in, etc. while on the trailer or in the water. You could take it "camping" even if you're not going to any water.

[Steve Lansdowne]

Another idea that has crossed my mind is to build a boat that sits on a trailer and can be slept in, cooked in, etc. while on the trailer or in the water. You could take it "camping" even if you're not going to any water.

[Steve Lansdowne]

Another idea that has crossed my mind is to build a boat that sits on a trailer and can be slept in, cooked in, etc. while on the trailer or in the water. You could take it "camping" even if you're not going to any water.

[Hughman]

It's time now for Norm to post a photo of his travelling circus! :D

[Hughman]

It's time now for Norm to post a photo of his travelling circus! :D

[Hughman]

It's time now for Norm to post a photo of his travelling circus! :D

[Steve Paskey]

Great discussion -- thanks for all the comments and suggestions.

Love the teardrop trailers, but towing a small boat on a trailer is part of the plan. Camping in the boat is an interesting idea, but I'd want to work out the details before committing to it. Plus, I wouldn't want to tow a boat with a cabin, and part of the idea is to avoid setting up a tent.

If I went with a pickup, I think I'd go with a cap or "topper," rather than a full camper. That should not be too unwieldy, and would allow using the bed for hauling stuff without removing the topper. Gas mileage aside, it doesn't seem a bad choice for my only vehicle. (I don't drive to work, and the car often sits for days at a time during the workweek.)

A used van as a SECOND vehicle might be the best plan, either a VW or Mazda MPV. For example, there's an 89 VW vanagon popup camper for sale not too far from here, 120K miles for $4500. Downside is finding parking for two vehicles. (I'm living in an apartment at the moment, but that will change.)

[ 10-18-2004, 11:05 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

Great discussion -- thanks for all the comments and suggestions.

Love the teardrop trailers, but towing a small boat on a trailer is part of the plan. Camping in the boat is an interesting idea, but I'd want to work out the details before committing to it. Plus, I wouldn't want to tow a boat with a cabin, and part of the idea is to avoid setting up a tent.

If I went with a pickup, I think I'd go with a cap or "topper," rather than a full camper. That should not be too unwieldy, and would allow using the bed for hauling stuff without removing the topper. Gas mileage aside, it doesn't seem a bad choice for my only vehicle. (I don't drive to work, and the car often sits for days at a time during the workweek.)

A used van as a SECOND vehicle might be the best plan, either a VW or Mazda MPV. For example, there's an 89 VW vanagon popup camper for sale not too far from here, 120K miles for $4500. Downside is finding parking for two vehicles. (I'm living in an apartment at the moment, but that will change.)

[ 10-18-2004, 11:05 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

Great discussion -- thanks for all the comments and suggestions.

Love the teardrop trailers, but towing a small boat on a trailer is part of the plan. Camping in the boat is an interesting idea, but I'd want to work out the details before committing to it. Plus, I wouldn't want to tow a boat with a cabin, and part of the idea is to avoid setting up a tent.

If I went with a pickup, I think I'd go with a cap or "topper," rather than a full camper. That should not be too unwieldy, and would allow using the bed for hauling stuff without removing the topper. Gas mileage aside, it doesn't seem a bad choice for my only vehicle. (I don't drive to work, and the car often sits for days at a time during the workweek.)

A used van as a SECOND vehicle might be the best plan, either a VW or Mazda MPV. For example, there's an 89 VW vanagon popup camper for sale not too far from here, 120K miles for $4500. Downside is finding parking for two vehicles. (I'm living in an apartment at the moment, but that will change.)

[ 10-18-2004, 11:05 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Phil Young]

I have 4 kids, a a VW T4 twin cab tray top. Fantastic unit. Seats 6 (or 7 at a squeeze, we put an extra seatbelt in the back) Masses of space on the back for trips to the beach, bike park, rubish tip, park, whatever. Motor is a 2.5 litre, 5 clylinder petrol, does about 14litres per 100km, whatever that translates to, probably 25-30 mpg I guess. You can get a turbo diesel, be better fuel econoy, but there's less of them around, so 2nd hand availablity not much good. They also come in a 4wd "synchro" version. They are actually about the same length as a standard full size aussie car, nice to drive, no drama to use as a daily commuter vehicle. Mine has a full length rack over the tray and cab, and my plan is to get one of those fold out tents that can sit on top of a 4wd. Takes about 5 mins to set up, nice comfy bed up on top. Only problem with that, and with campervans and truck campers in general, is that if you want to drive anywhere away from the campsite, you have a problem.

[Phil Young]

I have 4 kids, a a VW T4 twin cab tray top. Fantastic unit. Seats 6 (or 7 at a squeeze, we put an extra seatbelt in the back) Masses of space on the back for trips to the beach, bike park, rubish tip, park, whatever. Motor is a 2.5 litre, 5 clylinder petrol, does about 14litres per 100km, whatever that translates to, probably 25-30 mpg I guess. You can get a turbo diesel, be better fuel econoy, but there's less of them around, so 2nd hand availablity not much good. They also come in a 4wd "synchro" version. They are actually about the same length as a standard full size aussie car, nice to drive, no drama to use as a daily commuter vehicle. Mine has a full length rack over the tray and cab, and my plan is to get one of those fold out tents that can sit on top of a 4wd. Takes about 5 mins to set up, nice comfy bed up on top. Only problem with that, and with campervans and truck campers in general, is that if you want to drive anywhere away from the campsite, you have a problem.

[Phil Young]

I have 4 kids, a a VW T4 twin cab tray top. Fantastic unit. Seats 6 (or 7 at a squeeze, we put an extra seatbelt in the back) Masses of space on the back for trips to the beach, bike park, rubish tip, park, whatever. Motor is a 2.5 litre, 5 clylinder petrol, does about 14litres per 100km, whatever that translates to, probably 25-30 mpg I guess. You can get a turbo diesel, be better fuel econoy, but there's less of them around, so 2nd hand availablity not much good. They also come in a 4wd "synchro" version. They are actually about the same length as a standard full size aussie car, nice to drive, no drama to use as a daily commuter vehicle. Mine has a full length rack over the tray and cab, and my plan is to get one of those fold out tents that can sit on top of a 4wd. Takes about 5 mins to set up, nice comfy bed up on top. Only problem with that, and with campervans and truck campers in general, is that if you want to drive anywhere away from the campsite, you have a problem.

[Ken Hutchins]

My wife goes to doggie events with an A-frame pop up thing she pulls it with a Wrangler, I've seen others pulling them with Subarus.
Aliner (http://www.aliner.com/index.html)
A trailer can be left at the camp site. We've gone to the wooden boat festival in Rockport, left the camper at the campsite and went to the show with the Jeep, anything bigger than a Jeep in some small towns is not fun. Take note that only a hard side camper should be used when camping in bear country, something to think about.

[Ken Hutchins]

My wife goes to doggie events with an A-frame pop up thing she pulls it with a Wrangler, I've seen others pulling them with Subarus.
Aliner (http://www.aliner.com/index.html)
A trailer can be left at the camp site. We've gone to the wooden boat festival in Rockport, left the camper at the campsite and went to the show with the Jeep, anything bigger than a Jeep in some small towns is not fun. Take note that only a hard side camper should be used when camping in bear country, something to think about.

[Ken Hutchins]

My wife goes to doggie events with an A-frame pop up thing she pulls it with a Wrangler, I've seen others pulling them with Subarus.
Aliner (http://www.aliner.com/index.html)
A trailer can be left at the camp site. We've gone to the wooden boat festival in Rockport, left the camper at the campsite and went to the show with the Jeep, anything bigger than a Jeep in some small towns is not fun. Take note that only a hard side camper should be used when camping in bear country, something to think about.

[Steve Paskey]

PHIL: A VW T4 twin cab tray top? What's that? Sounds great, but I don't think it's available here.

I spent a couple of weeks in Latvia and Lithuania a few years ago, and was struck by the number of interesting vehicles from major automakers that were available there but not in the U.S.

KEN: I saw the web site for the a-liner when I was poking around last week. Did you know they have a version that fits in the back of a pickup?

http://www.aliner.com/page35.html

Looks interesting, but you can't carry anything on top, and can't haul stuff like ply or lumber without removing it.

[ 10-19-2004, 12:30 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

PHIL: A VW T4 twin cab tray top? What's that? Sounds great, but I don't think it's available here.

I spent a couple of weeks in Latvia and Lithuania a few years ago, and was struck by the number of interesting vehicles from major automakers that were available there but not in the U.S.

KEN: I saw the web site for the a-liner when I was poking around last week. Did you know they have a version that fits in the back of a pickup?

http://www.aliner.com/page35.html

Looks interesting, but you can't carry anything on top, and can't haul stuff like ply or lumber without removing it.

[ 10-19-2004, 12:30 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

PHIL: A VW T4 twin cab tray top? What's that? Sounds great, but I don't think it's available here.

I spent a couple of weeks in Latvia and Lithuania a few years ago, and was struck by the number of interesting vehicles from major automakers that were available there but not in the U.S.

KEN: I saw the web site for the a-liner when I was poking around last week. Did you know they have a version that fits in the back of a pickup?

http://www.aliner.com/page35.html

Looks interesting, but you can't carry anything on top, and can't haul stuff like ply or lumber without removing it.

[ 10-19-2004, 12:30 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Greg Stoll]

Here's my two cents:

If you want two vehicles, you can easily buy an older fullsize Ford/Chevy/Dodge and put a canopy on it for less than $5000, and only use it when you go camping.

If you only want one vehicle (which sounds the best based on your lack of commuting and one parking space), then I would go for one of the newer compacts. They will work for your purposes, they are lighter on the gas, and they are easier to maneuver.

I have an old 81 Toyota 4x4 Shortbed, and I've spent many a night in the back while traveling for job interviews. Honestly, the only thing a long pickup bed will get you is more room to put stuff. I'm just under 6' tall, so I fit on the bed ok. I slept on an air mattress and was super comfortable, you could even build some storage boxes/nightstands to go in front of the wheelwells.

I'd say that overall your idea is a great one, it will get you out on the water more often and for less money. Maybe you'll even learn the fun of shaving and brushing your teeth in the gas station bathroom (make sure it's a single occupancy bathroom).

Greg

[Greg Stoll]

Here's my two cents:

If you want two vehicles, you can easily buy an older fullsize Ford/Chevy/Dodge and put a canopy on it for less than $5000, and only use it when you go camping.

If you only want one vehicle (which sounds the best based on your lack of commuting and one parking space), then I would go for one of the newer compacts. They will work for your purposes, they are lighter on the gas, and they are easier to maneuver.

I have an old 81 Toyota 4x4 Shortbed, and I've spent many a night in the back while traveling for job interviews. Honestly, the only thing a long pickup bed will get you is more room to put stuff. I'm just under 6' tall, so I fit on the bed ok. I slept on an air mattress and was super comfortable, you could even build some storage boxes/nightstands to go in front of the wheelwells.

I'd say that overall your idea is a great one, it will get you out on the water more often and for less money. Maybe you'll even learn the fun of shaving and brushing your teeth in the gas station bathroom (make sure it's a single occupancy bathroom).

Greg

[Greg Stoll]

Here's my two cents:

If you want two vehicles, you can easily buy an older fullsize Ford/Chevy/Dodge and put a canopy on it for less than $5000, and only use it when you go camping.

If you only want one vehicle (which sounds the best based on your lack of commuting and one parking space), then I would go for one of the newer compacts. They will work for your purposes, they are lighter on the gas, and they are easier to maneuver.

I have an old 81 Toyota 4x4 Shortbed, and I've spent many a night in the back while traveling for job interviews. Honestly, the only thing a long pickup bed will get you is more room to put stuff. I'm just under 6' tall, so I fit on the bed ok. I slept on an air mattress and was super comfortable, you could even build some storage boxes/nightstands to go in front of the wheelwells.

I'd say that overall your idea is a great one, it will get you out on the water more often and for less money. Maybe you'll even learn the fun of shaving and brushing your teeth in the gas station bathroom (make sure it's a single occupancy bathroom).

Greg

[Paul H]

How many people do you need to sleep in it? If one or two, I think a p/u with a regular shell is the most versatile. Put a sheet of ply over the wheelwells with some bracing underneat, and you have a private storage area at the bottom of the bed. Put a Thule or Yakima rack on the top of the shell, and you can carry sheets of ply or dimensional lumber on top. You'll have enough power to pull a boat on a trailer as well.

I don't have the sleeping quarters in my Toyota truck (family of 5), but do have the shell for a dry storage area, and have used the Thule cross bars for halling building materials for the Tolman Skiff I'm building. Ok, I did use a small 4'X8' flat trailer to bring home the 20 sheets of marine ply that weighed 800#'s, but the odds and ends fit nicely on the roof rack, which has varied from 2X4's to 2X12X16's and a 2X12X20 versa lam beam. I use racheting tie downs to keep everything tight.

Sounds like you won't be driving that much, so I'd consider a full size truck with a V8. You'll be able to pull a bigger boat then the compact trucks. You also might want to consider a 3/4 or 1 ton, as the suspension, brakes, chassis et al are much beafier then the 1/2 tons, and hence better for a tow vehicle.

[Paul H]

How many people do you need to sleep in it? If one or two, I think a p/u with a regular shell is the most versatile. Put a sheet of ply over the wheelwells with some bracing underneat, and you have a private storage area at the bottom of the bed. Put a Thule or Yakima rack on the top of the shell, and you can carry sheets of ply or dimensional lumber on top. You'll have enough power to pull a boat on a trailer as well.

I don't have the sleeping quarters in my Toyota truck (family of 5), but do have the shell for a dry storage area, and have used the Thule cross bars for halling building materials for the Tolman Skiff I'm building. Ok, I did use a small 4'X8' flat trailer to bring home the 20 sheets of marine ply that weighed 800#'s, but the odds and ends fit nicely on the roof rack, which has varied from 2X4's to 2X12X16's and a 2X12X20 versa lam beam. I use racheting tie downs to keep everything tight.

Sounds like you won't be driving that much, so I'd consider a full size truck with a V8. You'll be able to pull a bigger boat then the compact trucks. You also might want to consider a 3/4 or 1 ton, as the suspension, brakes, chassis et al are much beafier then the 1/2 tons, and hence better for a tow vehicle.

[Paul H]

How many people do you need to sleep in it? If one or two, I think a p/u with a regular shell is the most versatile. Put a sheet of ply over the wheelwells with some bracing underneat, and you have a private storage area at the bottom of the bed. Put a Thule or Yakima rack on the top of the shell, and you can carry sheets of ply or dimensional lumber on top. You'll have enough power to pull a boat on a trailer as well.

I don't have the sleeping quarters in my Toyota truck (family of 5), but do have the shell for a dry storage area, and have used the Thule cross bars for halling building materials for the Tolman Skiff I'm building. Ok, I did use a small 4'X8' flat trailer to bring home the 20 sheets of marine ply that weighed 800#'s, but the odds and ends fit nicely on the roof rack, which has varied from 2X4's to 2X12X16's and a 2X12X20 versa lam beam. I use racheting tie downs to keep everything tight.

Sounds like you won't be driving that much, so I'd consider a full size truck with a V8. You'll be able to pull a bigger boat then the compact trucks. You also might want to consider a 3/4 or 1 ton, as the suspension, brakes, chassis et al are much beafier then the 1/2 tons, and hence better for a tow vehicle.

[Steve Paskey]

Sleeping room for one tall person is required. Towing capacity is not an issue. Biggest boat I've ever towed was a Dovekie, and that's bigger than anything I'd want to tow more than twice a season. I envision towing something smaller, no more than about 18 feet and 500 lbs.

Given that, a compact pickup would make more sense than a full size, unless I just can't get comfortable lying down in the short bed. (I'm 6-4.) Maybe I should go to a dealership and lie down in the bed of a clean Takoma?

[ 10-19-2004, 01:28 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

Sleeping room for one tall person is required. Towing capacity is not an issue. Biggest boat I've ever towed was a Dovekie, and that's bigger than anything I'd want to tow more than twice a season. I envision towing something smaller, no more than about 18 feet and 500 lbs.

Given that, a compact pickup would make more sense than a full size, unless I just can't get comfortable lying down in the short bed. (I'm 6-4.) Maybe I should go to a dealership and lie down in the bed of a clean Takoma?

[ 10-19-2004, 01:28 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Steve Paskey]

Sleeping room for one tall person is required. Towing capacity is not an issue. Biggest boat I've ever towed was a Dovekie, and that's bigger than anything I'd want to tow more than twice a season. I envision towing something smaller, no more than about 18 feet and 500 lbs.

Given that, a compact pickup would make more sense than a full size, unless I just can't get comfortable lying down in the short bed. (I'm 6-4.) Maybe I should go to a dealership and lie down in the bed of a clean Takoma?

[ 10-19-2004, 01:28 PM: Message edited by: Steve Paskey ]

[Phil Young]

Steve, see the silver one that leon posted a photo of above? Like that, but instead of being a van, its a cab/chassis arrangement, the cab is like apickup truck, except its a twin cab insted of single, ie it has front seats and back seats, then behind that a flat tray. You get the iinterior room of Ford F250 twin cab or crew cab or whatever you cal them, but its not a mile long because the engine is transverse, and tucked in pretty tight at the front. Its alo front wheel drive, which is great when you have no load, and therefore no traction at the back wheels.

[Phil Young]

Steve, see the silver one that leon posted a photo of above? Like that, but instead of being a van, its a cab/chassis arrangement, the cab is like apickup truck, except its a twin cab insted of single, ie it has front seats and back seats, then behind that a flat tray. You get the iinterior room of Ford F250 twin cab or crew cab or whatever you cal them, but its not a mile long because the engine is transverse, and tucked in pretty tight at the front. Its alo front wheel drive, which is great when you have no load, and therefore no traction at the back wheels.

[Phil Young]

Steve, see the silver one that leon posted a photo of above? Like that, but instead of being a van, its a cab/chassis arrangement, the cab is like apickup truck, except its a twin cab insted of single, ie it has front seats and back seats, then behind that a flat tray. You get the iinterior room of Ford F250 twin cab or crew cab or whatever you cal them, but its not a mile long because the engine is transverse, and tucked in pretty tight at the front. Its alo front wheel drive, which is great when you have no load, and therefore no traction at the back wheels.

[Leon Steyns]

In good German Fashion that type of setup is called "DoKa" (Doppel Kabine aka Double Cabin) and since it is combined with a pick up, it's a Doka pickup... smile.gif
Also available in 4x4 as TriStar (magnifying glass and some more cash recommended!):
http://www.fastforward.ca/Gallery/sm0804TriStar.jpg

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Edited: Note that the beauty of the Viscous Coupling (Visco) is that you only get 4 wheel drive when needed! If you never get your car "dirty" however, you don't need a 4x4... :D :rolleyes: ]

[ 10-25-2004, 06:19 PM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

In good German Fashion that type of setup is called "DoKa" (Doppel Kabine aka Double Cabin) and since it is combined with a pick up, it's a Doka pickup... smile.gif
Also available in 4x4 as TriStar (magnifying glass and some more cash recommended!):
http://www.fastforward.ca/Gallery/sm0804TriStar.jpg

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Edited: Note that the beauty of the Viscous Coupling (Visco) is that you only get 4 wheel drive when needed! If you never get your car "dirty" however, you don't need a 4x4... :D :rolleyes: ]

[ 10-25-2004, 06:19 PM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Leon Steyns]

In good German Fashion that type of setup is called "DoKa" (Doppel Kabine aka Double Cabin) and since it is combined with a pick up, it's a Doka pickup... smile.gif
Also available in 4x4 as TriStar (magnifying glass and some more cash recommended!):
http://www.fastforward.ca/Gallery/sm0804TriStar.jpg

Greets, Leon Steyns.

[Edited: Note that the beauty of the Viscous Coupling (Visco) is that you only get 4 wheel drive when needed! If you never get your car "dirty" however, you don't need a 4x4... :D :rolleyes: ]

[ 10-25-2004, 06:19 PM: Message edited by: Leon Steyns ]

[Paul H]

For your use, a 4 cylinder 2 liter 2wd truck will work just fine, and be fairly fuel economic. I'm 6' even, and fit with room to spare when layed out diagonally. You don't need much power to pull a 500# load.

[Paul H]

For your use, a 4 cylinder 2 liter 2wd truck will work just fine, and be fairly fuel economic. I'm 6' even, and fit with room to spare when layed out diagonally. You don't need much power to pull a 500# load.

[Paul H]

For your use, a 4 cylinder 2 liter 2wd truck will work just fine, and be fairly fuel economic. I'm 6' even, and fit with room to spare when layed out diagonally. You don't need much power to pull a 500# load.

[Steve Lansdowne]

My Mazda B2500 cost me under $10K 5 years ago and gets 30 MPG on the highway (5 speed) with a canoe atop. Right now a local dealer is selling the B2300 for the same price. Mine will pull something like 1200 lbs. If you want an extended cab you've gotta go for a V6 B3000 for several thousand more. Plenty affordable. In this area there are a lot of 'em.

[Steve Lansdowne]

My Mazda B2500 cost me under $10K 5 years ago and gets 30 MPG on the highway (5 speed) with a canoe atop. Right now a local dealer is selling the B2300 for the same price. Mine will pull something like 1200 lbs. If you want an extended cab you've gotta go for a V6 B3000 for several thousand more. Plenty affordable. In this area there are a lot of 'em.

[Steve Lansdowne]

My Mazda B2500 cost me under $10K 5 years ago and gets 30 MPG on the highway (5 speed) with a canoe atop. Right now a local dealer is selling the B2300 for the same price. Mine will pull something like 1200 lbs. If you want an extended cab you've gotta go for a V6 B3000 for several thousand more. Plenty affordable. In this area there are a lot of 'em.