Bigfoot (old vs new)
Does anyone know how the construction of Bigfoot TC’s has evolved over the years? Used BFs (pre 2009) are substantially lighter than the new models of the same dimensions. Based on the literature on 2...
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This is excellent information. Thank you so much for your reply and the detailed information on “known offenders”. The way I see it, the benefit of fiberglass is no corner seems. As you point out though, every shell perforation is a potential ingress point for water. That is certainly disappointing that there is not reinforcement at screw mounting locations (on the older models. That is asking for the threads in the shell to get stripped. Need to be very careful not to over torque the screws. It is good to know what I am getting into and what to look for when inspecting used campers. I am in AK and plan to store the camper outside. I am used to clearing snow off vehicles so I am not worried about snow load, but I had planned to make a custom cover to deal with water and UV exposure during storage. Will probably look into building a carport at some point.
My big issue right now is the Canadian border closing. There are some descent deals in BC, but I can’t go get them. Maybe I can convince someone in BC to drive the camper to the border, but I doubt it. Seems like TCs and RVs in general have gotten very popular during the pandemic. Couple this with reduced production and it is a seller’s market. The factory Bigfoot outlet in Anchorage is 12 months out on new builds. I am trying to educate myself as much as possible so that I can recognize a fair deal quickly and move to secure it.
I digress. The wood cabinetry may be the culprit (or one of the culprits) for the weight gain. Bigfoot is known for its superior fit and finish. Personally, I am more worried about the structural integrity / leaking / rot. I am new to the TC world though and I am gathering that leaks and resealing are just part of the ballgame. I am surprised that they don’t glass the cross sections at the perforations an use sealed inserts for the fasteners. I’m sure it comes down to cost. Could they make a lighter camper that leaked less? Sure, but no one would be able to afford it. I hope that Bigfoot engineers are getting feedback from savvy owners like you and addressing the design related leaking issues.
My big issue right now is the Canadian border closing. There are some descent deals in BC, but I can’t go get them. Maybe I can convince someone in BC to drive the camper to the border, but I doubt it. Seems like TCs and RVs in general have gotten very popular during the pandemic. Couple this with reduced production and it is a seller’s market. The factory Bigfoot outlet in Anchorage is 12 months out on new builds. I am trying to educate myself as much as possible so that I can recognize a fair deal quickly and move to secure it.
I digress. The wood cabinetry may be the culprit (or one of the culprits) for the weight gain. Bigfoot is known for its superior fit and finish. Personally, I am more worried about the structural integrity / leaking / rot. I am new to the TC world though and I am gathering that leaks and resealing are just part of the ballgame. I am surprised that they don’t glass the cross sections at the perforations an use sealed inserts for the fasteners. I’m sure it comes down to cost. Could they make a lighter camper that leaked less? Sure, but no one would be able to afford it. I hope that Bigfoot engineers are getting feedback from savvy owners like you and addressing the design related leaking issues.
