Forum Discussion

jimbow2's avatar
jimbow2
Explorer
May 27, 2017

truck camper crossroad

45 plus years enjoying truck campers of varying sizes we (wife and I) are at a crossroad now as what to do. Our present unit '99 ford super duty and a K-99 Kodiak camper we have enjoyed last 12 years. Our truck with 252K miles on it needs a new transmission. This is the 4th time now that it needs rebuilding. So that is bringing up a question as we feel we do not want to keep this truck. options 1) different truck (35 to 52K dollars). 2) small motor home (nice chairs but not as nice of bed) 3) small trailer (not fond of towing but would have vehicle for touring, have a 1/2 ton p/u also).
We are now at the crossroad to decide something... We are boondockers, small campgrounds, birders, photography, and active and age in 70's..... Thoughts as to leaving the TC route; I know if we have something different I would always notice a TC coming in..... Please help as I'm overthinking this....Happy Memorial Day....
Truck Campers
  • kerrlakeRoo's avatar
    kerrlakeRoo
    Explorer
    May 27, 2017
    I can understand your reticence, But I will ask if climbing into a cab over bunk is getting old? I loved the Class C I had years ago, but it just seems to make more sense to me at 60 to get the TT now for easing the stress on my knees. A lifetime on boats has done mine in.
  • covered_wagon's avatar
    covered_wagon
    Explorer
    May 27, 2017
    I'm going 5th wheel next as the towing more mid ship of the truck makes it much better, not so much of a tail wag. Master suite has more private quarters and no more camper body sending cold into the mattress anymore.
  • TxGearhead's avatar
    TxGearhead
    Explorer II
    May 27, 2017
    I'm thinking I would do a travel trailer less than 26 ft. if your half ton is in good shape.
    Second choice would be a class c but I would want to tow a small car or Jeep behind it for day trips.
  • cewillis's avatar
    cewillis
    Explorer
    May 27, 2017
    How does the cost of a new transmission, engine, anything else mechanical needed, plus interior upgrades if needed compare to $35-52K?
    Sounds like I'm somewhat similar to you in age and interests, and I'm definitely not going to anything other than a TC. (but I don't need to make a decision now)
    You know, of course, that there's only one (or two) person that can decide what's best for you ---
  • burningman's avatar
    burningman
    Explorer II
    May 27, 2017
    When you've had your transmission rebuilt, was it just a standard, all stock rebuild?
    If so, THAT'S your problem, you don't need a whole new truck.
    Never put a completely stock, soft-shifting weak trans into a diesel pickup.
    You need to talk to a competent performance transmission builder about upgrading all the junk stock parts in yours so it stops burning up.
    That auto in your Ford can be built so much better than the way it originally comes.
    Don't go to the dealer or AAMCO or some other place that just rebuilds it as crummy as it was.
  • dave17352's avatar
    dave17352
    Explorer
    May 27, 2017
    Well what the heck is with that transmission! Looks like it alone has soured you on your TCer:( Is that a common problem with your year of truck. I have a 5th wheel and TC. I am 60 wife 65 and we prefer the TC big time for any kind traveling. If I was going to go park somewhere then a trailer or 5th wheel is the way to go. So I say if you are planning to go park for a week or two here or there then a trailer. If still road tripping Class C or B or stick with what you have.
  • woodhog's avatar
    woodhog
    Explorer
    May 28, 2017
    When looking at the Class B's, pay great attention underneath and
    see if you can still go where you want to go....
  • jimbow2's avatar
    jimbow2
    Explorer
    May 28, 2017
    good comments... yes it was rebuilt at AAMCO 3 times; last time 700 miles from home. This time we did get back home with it and have a independent guy I'm working with....have given thought to those bulletproof ???? ones. Sure is going to be hard to leave the TC style if we decide too. Camper in good shape as is the rest of truck...
  • SidecarFlip's avatar
    SidecarFlip
    Explorer III
    May 28, 2017
    No choice for me as most of my camping is off road. No motorhome can tread there. My only other choice would be an Earth Roamer and thats not in the cards..or wallet.

    My wife and I are up there (over 65) and we can still get in the cab over bed no issue. Bought myself a nifty ladder so I can get in and out without busting my melon...Wife too, almost forgot her.....

    TC's appeal to us for their utility.

About Travel Trailer Group

44,029 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 13, 2025