New guy from Kentucky.

[jhouk2000]

Hi all. I have lurked around the forum for a while looking for ideas. Much like many other members I saw the Travel Channel special and it peaked my interest.

I am not new to camping, as I have camped with my parents for as long as I can remember in various horse trailer/camper configurations. More recently I have started to like to camp when traveling to and from truck shows. The most memorable trip was camping in a tent at Sadlers Creek in South Carolina, absolutely beautiful campground with a lot of lake frontage.


So this is were I was posed with a challenge, to build a camper that would be small enough to be towed with my '93 Toyota pickup and for it be "cool" enough to be presentable at a truck show. I have included some "first draft" drawings showing my ideas.

I decided on a 5x10 Simple, rear entry, no galley, foot well/dinette, sandwich construction, all 12V, air bag suspension, CPES and black automotive paint. I would like to make this a winter/spring project but some financial issues have kept me from starting but the frame should be finished by the end of December. Wish me luck!

Be gentle these are just simple drawings to get my ideas on paper. Any input would be greatly appreciated.


Overview:


Section:


Frame:


Truck:

[Mike C.]

Welcome jhouk2000,

Glad you found the forum. Nothing wrong with the drawings, I think they look really good. Since you've got an idea of what you want to do, then jump on in and get started. Ask lots of questions, we like questions. And when you start your construction, be sure and post lots of pictures to keep us updated on your progress.

See you around.

[Miriam C.]

To the playground. Truck is great and will look fantastic with a tear behind it. Sounds like you have a good start on it. I wonder if you are going to get it as low as the truck and how tall it will get. 5x10 is a good size. You might also take a look at the escape hatch if you want height without being too high for the truck.

Enjoy and Keep the bubble oil level.

[mikeschn]

Hey JH,

Welcome to the forum... Low rider eh? I remember seeing a really nice one years ago...

Ah yes here it is... thanks to Mike B for saving that moment... Here is his page btw...
http://teardrop.blogicalthoughts.com/td ... _2005.html



Mike...

[jhouk2000]

Thanks every one for the warm welcome.


I have just started looking for the basic parts to build the frame. I have a 1 7/8 coupler, 2000lb axle/hubs, a wiring harness and 2 1500lb air bags on order.

Total so far: 278.84
axle- 49.65
hubs- 52.90 (5 on 4.5 so I can use the same wheels)
coupler- 13.94
harness- 12.35
air bags- 150.00


Should be able to buy the steel and begin welding by the middle of the month.


One question I do have is about the tounge size. Will a 2x2x1/8 tounge be stong enough for a 5x10?

[Bill Fernandez]

Welcome to the group

[mikeschn]

I would use 3/16" wall tube for the tongue member. Everything else can be 1/8".

Mike..

One question I do have is about the tounge size. Will a 2x2x1/8 tounge be stong enough for a 5x10?

[jhouk2000]

Thanks Mike I'll be sure to use that.


I just notice your signiture and it reminded me of another quote I saw.

"The pain of poor quality is remembered long after the pleasure of low price is forgotten."