Zig-Zag Pickup Camper
Posted: Fri Apr 01, 2022 10:21 pm
Here is a well done Zig-Zag (my nomenclature, he calls it a "double pop top"). I always liked the Zig-Zag for it's rock-stable open/close transitions with minimal effort (you only lift half the top weight at a time with no loose ends to connect), zero exposure to rain during erection, and the ability to leave it half opened in extreme wind. However, building one with rigid walls is a challenge, especially if you want the door head room to increase with opening.
If you don't need to walk on the top, it could be made a lot lighter and probably not need the gas struts. But, I see it a better match to a trailer because the pickup cab restricts access to the front end (how does he raise & lower the front, from the inside?). A disadvantage is the diagonal member restricts window placement. And things get a bit more complex if you need a vertical back (to accommodate a tall door).
If you don't need to walk on the top, it could be made a lot lighter and probably not need the gas struts. But, I see it a better match to a trailer because the pickup cab restricts access to the front end (how does he raise & lower the front, from the inside?). A disadvantage is the diagonal member restricts window placement. And things get a bit more complex if you need a vertical back (to accommodate a tall door).