Planning a dry camp oriented DIY TC build.
Hello, I have been browsing the web the last few weeks looking at various resources about manufactured truck campers, as well as DIY versions of campers, trailers, tear drops etc. About us: we ...
Forum Discussion
Things to think about.
Corner, especially between the roof and the side walls, are high stress points. They should be re-enforced, some how, to provide maximum rigidity.
The roof needs to have some pitch to encourage drainage.
Instead of caulking window and vents, use butyl tape and install them in a way that they can be removed and re-bedded. Roof protrusions should be on a built up "curb" that is fiberglassed to the rest of the roof.
Non-venting propane heaters (Mr. Heater Buddy Heater) give off large amount of moisture. If possible, you are better off with a vented heater. Seriously consider 12VDC mattress heaters. Warmth from underneath is much nicer than warmth from above and easier to trap.
Two 6VDC golf cart batteries should get you through the night. If you are going to watch a lot of video or be online for a few hours, consider four batteries. 12VDC is the way to go for lighting and appliances.
At my age, a "pitstop" is a nightly occurrence, sometimes even twice ! I would not want to put my boots on and walks 100 yds, in well below freezing temps to "do my thing". Consider a "cassette" camp toilet.
Also, after a full day of skiing, a hot shower sure sounds nice, but that adds a lot of complexity and is the reason I would never consider a TC.
Corner, especially between the roof and the side walls, are high stress points. They should be re-enforced, some how, to provide maximum rigidity.
The roof needs to have some pitch to encourage drainage.
Instead of caulking window and vents, use butyl tape and install them in a way that they can be removed and re-bedded. Roof protrusions should be on a built up "curb" that is fiberglassed to the rest of the roof.
Non-venting propane heaters (Mr. Heater Buddy Heater) give off large amount of moisture. If possible, you are better off with a vented heater. Seriously consider 12VDC mattress heaters. Warmth from underneath is much nicer than warmth from above and easier to trap.
Two 6VDC golf cart batteries should get you through the night. If you are going to watch a lot of video or be online for a few hours, consider four batteries. 12VDC is the way to go for lighting and appliances.
At my age, a "pitstop" is a nightly occurrence, sometimes even twice ! I would not want to put my boots on and walks 100 yds, in well below freezing temps to "do my thing". Consider a "cassette" camp toilet.
Also, after a full day of skiing, a hot shower sure sounds nice, but that adds a lot of complexity and is the reason I would never consider a TC.
