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n0m4d's avatar
n0m4d
Explorer
Jun 27, 2017

Shopping for a 3/4 ton, What fit issues should I expect?

Over the winter I picked up a 2008 Lance 805, mostly to use as a sleeping spot for racing events I participate in. Since then, my family has been bit by the TC bug and I'm starting to look for a newer truck so we can take longer trips.

I have been looking mostly at 2015+ GM 3/4 tons but I don't have any objections to a F250. I found a 2016 F-250 that I like but I feel like somewhere I have read about fit issues with the Superduty's? Maybe hitting the cab? I can't seem to locate what I had read so I am wondering if anyone has had issues with a Lance/Superduty combo? What measurements should I be taking, is it bed floor to cab rooftop that is the issue or the bed wall heights?

Here are some pics of my current configuration:


  • Usually you want 2-3" clearance above the cab.

    Make sure you check out Texas. Have heard lots of stories where one saved money by flying to Texas to pick up their truck. Lots of big dealers down there do a fantastic job properly documenting the truck so you get what you are expecting when you arrive in town.
  • .....jack extension bolt-ons are available for some jacks; I can't tell from the photos if your jacks are round or square leg?

    Really REALLY pay attention to the rear truck bed opening width vis a vis your existing (or contemplated) truck camper rear tub width (as Kohldad writes, above). You can get the truck bed widths from truck manufacturer's up-fitter web databases (like GM body builder up-fitter drawings for all years light-duty truck models, here--> )
  • Thanks for the input, I have read many threads here from those who are trying to get a TC on a 3/4 ton truck that is better off on a 1 ton so I appreciate the perspective.

    I'm looking for a truck with some factory warranty remaining for under $30,000 so even 3/4 tons are few and far between. A DRW truck is out of the question for several reasons not related to the camper.

    Maybe I should clarify a bit, my family has been bit by the camper bug (not exclusively the TC bug). If we upgrade, it would be the smallest bumper tow toy hauler I can find with enough room for an UTV. The TC I have now was intended for half ton trucks (listed at 1535lbs FWTW) so weight and handling hasn't been an issue. I don't expect to grow into a larger TC.

    If I was looking at a SRW F-250 or F-350, is there a guaranteed fit issue or is it on some campers and not others? If I took measurements at the dealer, how much room would be recommended between the top and cab and bottom of sleeper?

    Even if it did fit, I'm not even sure if my jacks even be able to get the camper on/off the truck.
  • Ditto on Kolhdad's recommendation of going right up to a 350/3500 series truck.
  • Yes, Ford has issues with cab clearance which can easily be resolved by building a short platform. Same with bed rail height.

    The other and more critical area is the width at the tailgate. Some campers have problems, some don't.

    If your family has been bit by the bug, I would suggest going 1-ton to get more capacity allowing for a bit of upgrade in the future or handle the weight of the family. 1-tons are often same price and sometimes cheaper used than a 3/4 ton. Ride won't be much difference and operating cost will be the same.