Tie downs

epcolumbus wrote:
I am new to truck campers. Looking at used ones. Can I safely mount a 1000 lb camper on my Ram 1500 short bed using heavy duty ratchet straps and the factory tie downs in the bed. Looking for opinions.

First, welcome aboard epcolumbus. For the record, you DID NOT do or say anything wrong. Some people just jump to conclusions but you positioned your experience, your situation and your question appropriately. At least some of us got it ... you don't know what the right thing to do is and were just asking. I can assure you the ones that jumped on you are not representative of the majority in this TC (truck camper) forum or RV'ers as a usually friendly and helpful community.

Generally, ratchet straps ARE NOT recommended for regular use with TC's. Perhaps in a very rare pinch but nowadays, TC's are big and heavy and need to be well secured. As JaycoCreek said, there are straps that are very, very strong but I believe he is right in that no one has come out with one that is specifically geared and approved for TC tie down use.

Personally, I use TorkLift Fast Guns ... one of the most effective, simplest and expensive systems out there. They would likely be overkill for your needs ... especially since you're just starting out.

Torklift FastGuns

There are lots of good, safe ways to fasten your unit securely without spending a fortune. Simply google "truck camper tie downs", go to the images section and you'll see lots of examples. Most systems involve some kind of threaded rod, hooks and a turnbuckle as you need them to get the right tension on your lines securing the unit. You can buy them pre-made or if you're handy, you can assemble a set (of 4) yourself. Let us know how you make out.