I'll be in Denver shortly to check out several new pop-up TC's. Being a complete novice at pop-ups, I'm as nervous as a cat in a rocking chair factory. I'm sure I'll miss some points I should have considered.Is there anything I should especially watch for when inspecting these units (good or bad)?I know to pay attention to GVWR with options, CG, living space, size of tanks, etc. But is there something that really affects daily life in a TC that most neophytes like me seem to miss? Apparently the RV business is booming right now. So, I'm curious as to how long a wait is reasonable. Also, I'd be interested if anyone has a feel for how firm the dealers are with their pricing in these boom times.I've learned a lot reading this forum, so I hope you folks can help me out.Thanks for any info.

If you're looking at something with a bathroom...make sure you can sit down and "use" it.Also, think carefuly about storage inside and out. Will it fit your pots/pans, your lantern, camp chair, clothes, toys (kayaks/bikes)?Have fun,Bill

Make sure it is what you want, don't settle for its ok it will work. Never pay MSRP, seems like the norm is between 20 - 30 percent off of that.

Yes Be dam sure you go over it COMPLETEY before you leave the dealer. Check every thing I mean every thing

1. Check out the truck camper website for weights,pretty accurate.2. Same camper in Denver $2000 more than in Phoenix.3 If you have 1/2 ton,check weights,pop ups can be heavy4.get LT tires and tembrens or work rights

Don't know if this will apply to a pop-up camper, but we watched a couple putting up one of those pop-up trailers (not a tent trailer)......I talked with them later and they said had they known how hard it was to make it "pop up" they would never have bought it. So, I suggest you don't just watch the salesman do the popping, but you yourself do it.......we all have different strengths.

Anyone recently purchase a new unit? | Good Sam Community

dadwolf2
Explorer
Nov 10, 2013
Another vote for going straight to a 1 ton. I know several pop-up owners plus myself who have 3/4 ton trucks with pop-ups and then added suspension aids after going from a trailer to truck camper.
GeoBoy
Explorer
Nov 09, 2013
Go with a 1 ton and do stop and see Rex Willet at Northstar he builds a GREAT truck camper.
Good luck.
pxlgrfx48
Explorer
Nov 09, 2013
GeoBoy wrote:
pxlgrfx48 wrote:
I'll be in Denver shortly to check out several new pop-up TC's. Being a complete novice at pop-ups, I'm as nervous as a cat in a rocking chair factory. I'm sure I'll miss some points I should have considered.

Is there anything I should especially watch for when inspecting these units (good or bad)?
I know to pay attention to GVWR with options, CG, living space, size of tanks, etc. But is there something that really affects daily life in a TC that most neophytes like me seem to miss?
Apparently the RV business is booming right now. So, I'm curious as to how long a wait is reasonable. Also, I'd be interested if anyone has a feel for how firm the dealers are with their pricing in these boom times.

I've learned a lot reading this forum, so I hope you folks can help me out.
Thanks for any info.

What size truck do you have?

None yet. I'll wait till I choose a TC then either an F250 or 350 (probably the latter)
pxlgrfx48
Explorer
Nov 09, 2013
mgann wrote:
From Ohio, make a slight detour on your way to Denver through Iowa and visit Northstar factory. They are hard to beat in every aspect. Just my 2 cents.

Thanks already on my itinerary.
dadwolf2
Explorer
Nov 09, 2013
mkirsch wrote:
I don't know how anyone can use the john in a popup TC with the roof down! You would have to be a contortionist midget with a flip-top head.

Frankly, I wouldn't even put that in the list of considerations.

My wife and I have used ours with the top down many times so it would be on my list of considerations! No, we aren't vertically challenged or circus performers.
n7bsn
Explorer
Nov 09, 2013
kerry4951 wrote:

The numbers that some claim to have paid for brand new units are way under what I had to pay, but than I purchased from an eastern dealer. I couldnt get close to those high discount percentages. I am amazed at what some have claimed to have paid.

Claims can be, ah exaggerated. I have seen people claim discounts that are actually below the cost to build.
Of course some dealers also pad the price, allowing for large "apparent" discounts
GeoBoy
Explorer
Nov 08, 2013
pxlgrfx48 wrote:
I'll be in Denver shortly to check out several new pop-up TC's. Being a complete novice at pop-ups, I'm as nervous as a cat in a rocking chair factory. I'm sure I'll miss some points I should have considered.

Is there anything I should especially watch for when inspecting these units (good or bad)?
I know to pay attention to GVWR with options, CG, living space, size of tanks, etc. But is there something that really affects daily life in a TC that most neophytes like me seem to miss?
Apparently the RV business is booming right now. So, I'm curious as to how long a wait is reasonable. Also, I'd be interested if anyone has a feel for how firm the dealers are with their pricing in these boom times.

I've learned a lot reading this forum, so I hope you folks can help me out.
Thanks for any info.

What size truck do you have?
rottidawg
Explorer
Nov 08, 2013
Sheriffdoug wrote:
Check out Four Wheel Campers, call manufacturer direct, mainly popup models, some hardsides. Built in California, Excellent well built camper.

X2
Love mine.
And there is an excellent dealer in Denver: http://rockymountainfourwheelcampers.com
http://www.fourwheelcampers.com
mgann
Explorer
Nov 08, 2013
From Ohio, make a slight detour on your way to Denver through Iowa and visit Northstar factory. They are hard to beat in every aspect. Just my 2 cents.
pxlgrfx48
Explorer
Nov 08, 2013
Lots of good info! You have given me a lot to think about. Great forum!
Thanks everybody!