Going from pop-up to hard side, big mistake?
I've got a Palomino Bronco pop-up TC on a 3500 SRW Dodge Diesel short box. It's only about 1200lbs empty and the truck pulls as if it's not even there. I've got stock suspension and air bags. I'm g...
Forum Discussion
I have had several hard sides and my last 2 have been pop ups.
I like the pop up as it gives me more needed clearance in the timber but most of all is the huge screened windows for ventilation.
I doubt your mpg's will change much but you will notice a difference in handling. I only say this because the new TC is 600 lbs heavier and will hold more stuff!!! That 3500 may even handle better with a little more weight!!!
A hard side W/O basement is a good choice if you want to go off pavement. Lower overall height and COG. And if you think they are not capable off road check out El Jefe and CTraveler's Trip Reports!!!
Pros and cons IMHO:
Pop up pros: Lower clearance and COG plus great ventilation. Oftentimes more head room especially in the overhead bunk.
Cons: Outside noise, less storage and setting up for lunch, breaks, etc. Colder? I went camping/snowmobiling for 3 days at 25 below 0. I stayed warm enough but the condensation coming off the inside of the canvas was like Niagra Falls!!! Worst part was it soaked down my bedding. Would definitely need an Arctic Kit to do that again!!!
As far as weight and mpg's go I feel that is a toss up depending on your combo.
I like the pop up as it gives me more needed clearance in the timber but most of all is the huge screened windows for ventilation.
I doubt your mpg's will change much but you will notice a difference in handling. I only say this because the new TC is 600 lbs heavier and will hold more stuff!!! That 3500 may even handle better with a little more weight!!!
A hard side W/O basement is a good choice if you want to go off pavement. Lower overall height and COG. And if you think they are not capable off road check out El Jefe and CTraveler's Trip Reports!!!
Pros and cons IMHO:
Pop up pros: Lower clearance and COG plus great ventilation. Oftentimes more head room especially in the overhead bunk.
Cons: Outside noise, less storage and setting up for lunch, breaks, etc. Colder? I went camping/snowmobiling for 3 days at 25 below 0. I stayed warm enough but the condensation coming off the inside of the canvas was like Niagra Falls!!! Worst part was it soaked down my bedding. Would definitely need an Arctic Kit to do that again!!!
As far as weight and mpg's go I feel that is a toss up depending on your combo.
