Camper Tops For Dually Trucks: The Ultimate Adventure Upgrade

Camper tops are a great way to upgrade your truck, especially if you're an off-road enthusiast, a camping aficionado, or simply need extra space for your daily activities. When it comes to choosing the right truck for a camper top, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's crucial to determine the payload capacity of your truck, as this will impact the type of camper you can accommodate. For those seeking a long bed camper, a dually truck is often the best option, offering increased payload capacity, driving stability, and control. While some may be hesitant due to the wider build, dually trucks provide a safer and more stable option, especially when fully loaded. Additionally, the choice between a gas or diesel engine is an important consideration, with diesel engines offering better power, torque, and fuel economy, while gas engines are more cost-effective and lighter. Ultimately, the right truck for a camper top depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Camper shells for a dually

Camper shells, also known as truck caps, are a great way to transform your truck bed into a secure storage utility area, protecting your items from the elements. They can be used for off-road adventures, camping, or simply to gain extra space for your daily activities.

When choosing a camper shell, it is important to consider the weight capabilities and stability of your truck, especially if you plan to use it for camping gear, off-roading, or snow travel. A dually truck, for example, typically has a higher gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) than a single rear wheel truck, providing a larger payload capacity. This is an important factor to keep in mind when deciding on the size and weight of your camper shell and any additional equipment you plan to carry.

There are various options available for camper shells, each offering unique features to cater to your specific needs. For instance, the RSI SmartCap EVO-a Adventure, RSI SmartCap EVO-s Sport, and RSI SmartCap EVO-c Commercial are all variants of the RSI SmartCap EVO series, providing different features for diverse applications.

Additionally, the ARE Z2 Series Truck Cap, Diamond Edition DCU Series, and ARE Classic Aluminum Series by A.R.E. are other popular choices for camper shells, known for their durability and custom fit. The SnugTop Sport Hi-Liner is another option, offering a sleek and functional design.

When purchasing a camper shell, it is essential to ensure it is properly secured to your truck bed. Moveland offers heavy-duty truck topper clamps that are compatible with various truck models, including the Chevy Silverado, Sierra, Dodge Dakota Ram, F150, and Titan. These clamps require no drilling, making installation quick and easy.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just need the extra space, a camper shell is a great way to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your truck.

Camper weight and truck payload

When it comes to buying a truck to safely haul a truck camper, nothing is more important than the payload rating of a truck. The payload rating is the maximum amount of weight a truck can safely carry in terms of cargo and passengers. Manufacturers use a simple formula to determine the payload rating of a truck by subtracting the truck's curb weight from the truck's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The curb weight is the weight of the truck on its own without any cargo or passengers, including fuel, oil, and other fluids related to the operation of the truck. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of a pickup truck when it is fully loaded with all its cargo, fluids, and passengers.

To determine the payload capacity, subtract the curb weight from the GVWR. For example, a Ford F-350 with a GVWR of 10,800 lbs and a curb weight of 6,588 lbs has a payload capacity of 4,212 lbs. This means the truck can haul a maximum weight of 4,212 lbs, including the camper, passengers, and cargo.

It is important to stay below the truck's payload rating to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent damage to the truck. Exceeding the payload rating can lead to frame damage on the truck and increase the risk of accidents. Additionally, staying below the payload rating is important from a legal standpoint, as some states are cracking down on overloaded trucks.

When considering a truck camper, it is crucial to properly match the truck and camper combination. This involves ensuring that the camper's weight, truck payload, center of gravity, and overall fit compatibility are all within the appropriate limits. The camper's weight should include the wet weight, option weight, cargo weight, and occupant weight. The truck's payload capacity can be calculated by weighing the truck at a certified weight scale and subtracting the resulting scale weight from the GVWR posted on the truck.

The center of gravity should also be considered, as it affects the driving dynamics and performance of the truck-camper combination. The camper's center of gravity should be forward of the truck's furthest center of gravity point, which can be calculated by measuring the distance from the front wall of the truck bed to the center of the rear axle.

Overall, when selecting a truck camper, it is vital to consider the payload rating of the truck and ensure that the camper's weight does not exceed the truck's payload capacity. This will help maintain safety, prevent damage, and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Camper jacks for dually fenders

Camper jacks are an essential component of any truck camper setup, and when it comes to dually fenders, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, it's important to ensure adequate clearance between the dually fenders and the camper jacks. The width of the dually fenders can vary depending on the make and model of the truck, and in some cases, aftermarket modifications such as oversized wheels or bushwhacker fender flares may further increase the width. Insufficient clearance can lead to scraping and damage during loading and unloading, so it's crucial to measure carefully and consider the use of jack bracket extensions if necessary.

One option to increase clearance is to utilise jack bracket dually extensions. These extensions are installed between the jack and the camper, providing additional space between the jack and the dually fender. This modification can be done by removing the bolts from the forward jack brackets, relocating the jacks, and attaching the extensions using bolts. It's important to ensure that the extensions are securely fastened and that the wiring and plug have sufficient length to accommodate the new configuration.

Another consideration when using camper jacks with dually fenders is the stability of the setup. Moving the jacks further out from the camper places additional strain on the jack mounting plates. To address this, some manufacturers offer swing-out jack brackets, which allow the jacks to pivot away from the camper during loading and unloading, providing the necessary clearance while minimising the leverage on the mounting plates. However, it's crucial to ensure that these swing-out brackets are properly extended and locked into place before use, as forgetting to do so can lead to bending or damage.

Additionally, it's important to establish a thorough checklist and routine when loading and unloading your camper. Distractions and oversight can lead to costly mistakes, such as forgetting to extend the swing-out brackets or raise the jacks before driving off. Taking the time to walk around your rig and confirm that all components are properly positioned can help prevent avoidable damage and repairs.

In conclusion, when using camper jacks with dually fenders, it's crucial to ensure adequate clearance, maintain stability, and establish a diligent routine for loading and unloading. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can confidently enjoy your truck camping adventures without worrying about scrapes, dents, or other mishaps.

Camper and truck compatibility

Compatibility between a camper and a truck is crucial for safety, performance, and avoiding unnecessary maintenance costs. There are several factors to consider when matching a truck and a camper, and it can be done in three ways: the Truck First path, the Camper First path, and the Fast Match path.

Truck First Path:

This path is suitable if you already own a truck and want to match it with a camper. Here are the steps to follow:

• Weigh your truck: Take your truck to a certified weight scale, such as a CAT Scale, and fill the fuel tank before entering the scale. Remove the tailgate if you plan to do so when loading the camper, and note any other items being weighed with the truck.
• Calculate your truck's payload capacity: Subtract the certified scale weight from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) posted on your truck, usually found on the driver's side door. Add back the weight of the tailgate and other items weighed with the truck.
• Measure your truck's centre of gravity: Measure the distance from the front wall of the truck bed to the centre of the rear axle. The camper's centre of gravity should be forward of this point.
• Measure your truck's exterior dimensions: Not all campers will fit all trucks, so it's important to measure the bed length, bed width, rail height, cab height, and tailgate opening. Also, consider the truck bumpers, which can cause compatibility issues.
• Select a compatible camper: Choose a camper that matches your truck's payload capacity, centre of gravity, and exterior dimensions. Include the camper's wet weight (weight with full tanks and options), option weight, cargo weight, and occupant weight in your calculations.

Camper First Path:

If you already own a camper and are looking for a compatible truck, follow these steps:

• Calculate the dry-with-options weight of your camper: You can weigh the camper, find a sticker inside an interior cabinet door or in the manufacturer's paperwork, ask the manufacturer, or hand-calculate it by adding the weight of all installed options to the manufacturer's provided dry weight.
• Calculate the wet-with-options weight: Add the weight of full fresh water, full water heater, full propane tanks, and installed batteries to the dry-with-options weight.
• Calculate the wet-with-options weight with all cargo and occupants: Include the weight of food, water, kitchen supplies, bedding, clothing, toiletries, cameras, computers, truck camping essentials, and any other items you bring. Also, add the weight of occupants and pets.
• Locate your camper's centre of gravity: This information is usually provided by the camper manufacturer and is measured from the front wall of the camper back.
• Measure your camper's exterior dimensions: Ensure that your camper will fit the truck's bed length, width, and height.
• Select a compatible truck: Choose a truck that can accommodate the camper's weight, centre of gravity, and exterior dimensions. Make sure the truck has sufficient payload capacity to safely carry your camper.

Fast Match Path:

The Fast Match path is recommended if you don't have either a truck or a camper yet but want to ensure compatibility. Here's how it works:

• Find your desired camper in a buyer's guide or calculate its wet weight.
• Add 500 pounds for pop-up campers or 1,000 pounds for hard-side campers to the wet weight.
• Contact the camper manufacturer or dealer to verify that the camper will fit your preferred truck make and model and that its centre of gravity will be forward of the truck's rear axle.
• Custom order a truck with a payload capacity that meets or exceeds the camper's weight result from step 2.
• Verify that the delivered truck's payload capacity meets or exceeds the specified number before accepting it.

Additional Considerations:

• Weight capacities: Consider the weight of passengers, gear, water, propane, and other items in your truck and camper when calculating weight capacities.
• Truck configuration: Factors such as 2WD vs. 4WD and standard cab vs. extended cab will impact compatibility.
• Support equipment: Adding air springs, special shock absorbers, and cabover shocks can improve handling and stability.
• Centre of gravity: Ensure the camper's centre of gravity is forward of the truck's rear axle to maintain stability.

Camper and truck stability

Ensuring that your camper is stable and secure is essential for safety, comfort, and maintaining your vehicle. When your truck camper is loaded into your truck, the suspension provides stability. However, when unloaded, the jacks must support the weight, and they don't always offer much stability. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your camper stable and safe:

Lower the Camper

When your camper is not loaded into your truck, lower it as close to the ground as possible. This will help increase stability and reduce sway caused by wind and weather.

Support the Camper Jacks

Use a product like the FastGun Wobble Stopper to stabilize your camper and prevent it from tipping over. This product creates a supportive connection between the front camper jack legs and the camper body, reducing camper jack and frame stress.

Level Ground

Always store your camper on level ground. Truck campers are designed to be mounted into the bed of a truck, so they are top-heavy. Storing your camper on uneven ground can lead to tipping, falling, or added stress on the jacks.

Use Storage Stands

Camper stands or sawhorses can provide additional support and stability when your camper is off the truck. They provide a solid foundation and help avoid stressing the frame of your camper. Look for stands that are rated to withstand the weight of your camper.

Upgrade Truck Camper Jacks

Consider upgrading your truck camper jacks to beefier models, such as those offered by Rieco-Titan and Happijacs. This will increase stability, and you may also want to consider electric jacks, which are more convenient and easier on your arms.

Use a Dolly

If you want to move your camper without using your truck, a camper dolly is a great option. These wheeled platforms can hold the weight of a truck camper, and one person can easily move them.

Weight Distribution

When loading your camper onto your truck, pay attention to weight distribution. The weight of your camper, water, propane, passengers, and gear should not exceed the payload capacity of your truck. A dually truck will typically have a higher payload capacity than a single rear-wheel truck.

Frequently asked questions