Winter Camping With Eagle Cap Truck Camper

how is eagle cap truck camper in winter

The Eagle Cap truck camper is a highly sought-after product, leading the way in the high-end camper market. Its winter performance is a common topic of discussion among camper enthusiasts. While some users have reported issues with the camper's performance in freezing temperatures, others have successfully used it for winter camping trips. The key to camping in an Eagle Cap during winter is to ensure proper winterization, which includes using RV antifreeze in the plumbing system and carrying extra water in jugs for cooking, drinking, and grooming. Additionally, some campers choose to forgo using the camper's plumbing altogether and rely on campground bathrooms or portable toilets. Overall, the Eagle Cap truck camper can be a viable option for winter camping if the necessary precautions are taken.

Characteristics Values
Slide-outs 1, 2, or 3
Dry bath Yes
Holding tanks Gargantuan
Sofa Yes
Wall and flooring 2-inch thick, laminated aluminium-framed
Insulation R13
Storage bay Heated and massive
Dry weight 4,870-4,917 lbs
MSRP $37,345-$53,060

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Heating and insulation

The Eagle Cap truck camper is a four-season camper with heating and insulation features that make it suitable for winter use. It has a furnace, heated basement, and insulation to keep the interior warm. The furnace is efficient and can keep the camper comfortable even in cold temperatures. Additionally, the camper has R13 insulation, which helps retain heat.

To further enhance heating and insulation, some Eagle Cap owners have added extra features. For example, one owner installed a small fan in the truck's rear window to blow warm air from the cab into the camper, helping to warm it up while driving. Another owner mentioned using foil-covered bubble insulation to retain heat overnight.

The Eagle Cap's heating and insulation capabilities have been praised by users who have taken it on winter camping trips. One owner mentioned camping in temperatures as low as \-27 degrees Fahrenheit, and the camper stayed warm with the furnace running intermittently. Another owner reported using the camper in temperatures as low as \-10 degrees Fahrenheit, and it was "cozy warm" with the heat set at 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, it's important to note that in extremely cold temperatures, propane heating systems may struggle to keep up, and you may end up burning a lot of propane and battery power to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is where winterizing your camper can be beneficial, as it eliminates the risk of plumbing freezing and allows you to camp in colder temperatures. Winterizing typically involves draining the water lines and adding RV antifreeze to the system.

Overall, the Eagle Cap truck camper's heating and insulation features make it a suitable choice for winter camping, but in extremely cold conditions, additional measures such as winterizing may be necessary to ensure a comfortable experience.

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Propane and battery power

Propane

Propane is crucial for heating your camper and powering certain appliances. Here are some ways to ensure you have enough propane:

  • Carry extra propane tanks: Eagle Cap campers typically use two propane tanks, but bringing additional full propane tanks can provide peace of mind and extend your trip.
  • Prioritise heating: In cold temperatures, your propane heating system may struggle to keep up, so consider focusing your heating efforts on specific areas. For example, you might heat the basement or only certain rooms, and use extra blankets or warm clothing to stay comfortable.
  • Winterise your camper: If you're camping in extremely cold temperatures, consider winterising your camper by turning off the plumbing and relying on alternative water sources. This will reduce your propane usage as you won't need to run the furnace fan continuously.
  • Insulate your camper: Proper insulation will help retain heat, reducing the demand on your propane heating system. Consider adding extra insulation to windows and vents to prevent heat loss.

Battery Power

Battery power is necessary for running appliances and electronics in your Eagle Cap camper. Here's how you can manage your battery power:

  • Solar power: Invest in solar panels to keep your batteries charged, especially if you're camping off-grid. Solar power can extend your battery life and reduce the need for a generator.
  • Conserve electricity: Be mindful of your electricity usage. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and consider using LED lights, which consume less power.
  • Generator: If you plan to use high-power appliances like an air conditioner, consider bringing a generator. A generator can take the strain off your batteries, allowing you to conserve power for essential functions.
  • Lithium batteries: Upgrading to lithium batteries can provide more power and longer-lasting performance, which is ideal for off-grid camping.
  • Battery weight: Don't forget to account for the weight of your batteries when planning your trip. Eagle Cap campers typically use two batteries, each weighing around 130 pounds.
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Winterizing the camper

Winterizing your Eagle Cap truck camper is a great way to continue camping in colder temperatures without the risk of your plumbing freezing. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you prepare your camper for winter:

  • Install shut-off valves: Consider installing SharkBite shut-off valves to separate the water lines for the rear toilet and outside shower. This allows you to fill those lines with antifreeze while keeping the kitchen sink and water heater functional.
  • Use RV antifreeze: Fill your black and grey water tanks with RV antifreeze to prevent freezing. For the black tank, use a gallon of antifreeze, and for the grey tank, use a half-gallon.
  • Carry fresh water: Bring bottles or jugs of fresh water for cooking, drinking, and flushing toilets. You can also use RV antifreeze in the cassette toilet flush tank.
  • Insulate windows: Add insulation over the windows to help retain heat. This can include foil-covered bubble insulation or heavy-duty lined curtains.
  • Use alternative heat sources: In addition to your furnace, consider using a radiant heater or a small electric heater to keep the camper warm. A catalytic heater is also an option that doesn't require power.
  • Prepare for snow: If you expect heavy snowfall, bring a shovel to clear snow from the camper entrance and ensure the tailgate of your truck is left open to create a porch area.
  • Choose appropriate clothing: Select appropriate clothing for cold weather camping, including warm boots, pants, and a jacket.
  • Plan meals accordingly: Pre-made or easily reheated meals are ideal for winter camping. Use paper plates and plastic utensils to minimize dishwashing.
  • Monitor refrigerator temperature: If using shore power or a generator, the refrigerator may not need to run frequently in cold temperatures. Monitor the temperature to ensure food stays properly cooled.
  • Keep the camper warm during travel: Install a small fan in the truck's rear window to blow warm air from the cab into the camper while driving.
  • Consider a cassette toilet: A cassette toilet has its own fresh tank and doesn't feed from the camper's water tank, making it easier to manage in winter.
  • Use campground facilities: Take advantage of campground bathrooms, showers, and other facilities when available.

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Towing and payload

The Eagle Cap truck camper comes in four models: the 811, 1160, 1200, and 1165. The dry weight of these campers ranges from 3,380 pounds to 4,917 pounds. However, the wet weight, which includes the weight of the camper with additional options, can increase the total weight significantly. For example, the Eagle Cap 1165, which has a dry weight of 4,917 pounds, can have a wet weight of 5,400 pounds or more depending on the options chosen.

When considering towing and payload, it is important to take into account the weight of the camper, as well as any additional gear, passengers, and modifications. The weight of an Eagle Cap truck camper can vary depending on the model and options chosen, so it is crucial to accurately calculate the total weight before towing.

To ensure safety and avoid overloading, it is essential to stay within the payload rating of your truck. The payload rating of a truck refers to the maximum weight that can be carried in addition to the weight of the truck itself. This includes the weight of the camper, gear, passengers, and any other added weight.

For example, the Ford F350 dually offers a maximum payload of 8,000 pounds, but this may vary depending on the configuration chosen. It is important to note that adding options such as a 4WD, a crew cab, or a diesel engine can reduce the payload capacity. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully consider your specific needs and choose a truck with a payload rating that can accommodate the weight of your Eagle Cap camper and any additional weight.

Additionally, it is important to consider the center of gravity (COG) of the camper in relation to the cab-to-axle (CA) distance of the truck. The COG of the Eagle Cap 1165 is 61.5 inches, which is behind the rear axle for most super-duty trucks with a 60-inch CA distance. This can place undue stress on the truck's frame and potentially lead to catastrophic failure. To address this issue, it is recommended to choose a truck with a longer CA distance, such as an 84-inch CA.

Furthermore, the placement of weight within the camper can impact the COG. The Eagle Cap 1165 has a large rear storage bay that can be loaded with gear. However, care must be taken to ensure that heavier items are not stored in the rear, as this can further shift the COG towards the rear of the camper. One solution is to push the storage bulkhead forward, allowing for better weight distribution and moving the weight forward.

In conclusion, when considering towing and payload for an Eagle Cap truck camper, it is essential to accurately calculate the total weight of the camper, gear, passengers, and any modifications. Staying within the payload rating of your truck is crucial for safety and preventing overloading. Additionally, choosing a truck with an appropriate CA distance and considering the COG of the camper can help ensure a stable and safe setup.

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Camping locations

The Eagle Cap camper is ideal for camping in winterized mode. Its high-quality insulation and heating systems make it a perfect choice for cold-weather camping. Here are some recommended camping locations to consider:

  • Stanley, Idaho: Known as one of the coldest spots in the Lower 48, Stanley offers a unique winter camping experience. Local camper Gary Gadwa recommends preparing for the cold by putting a radiant heater in the camper a day before packing and adding antifreeze to the grey and black tanks.
  • Northern Michigan: For those seeking snowy adventures, Northern Michigan is a great choice. Roger Woods, a camper in the region, suggests camping at state parks like Mitchell State Park, which offer plowed sites and heated bathroom facilities even during winter.
  • Abraham Lake, Alberta: For those seeking a freezing winter camping experience, Abraham Lake in Alberta, Canada, fits the bill. With temperatures reaching as low as 30 degrees Celsius, it's a great place to test your winter camping gear.
  • Durango, Colorado: If you're looking for a winter camping trip with a mix of skiing and snowmobiling, Durango, Colorado, is the place to go. Camper Jerry Harms recommends using a cassette toilet and filling it with 35-below windshield washer fluid to avoid any freezing issues.
  • Seward, Alaska: For a winter camping trip with a stunning backdrop, head to Seward, Alaska. Larry Newell, a camper in the region, shares his experience of camping in October when temperatures can dip to freezing. The public campground in town offers warm bathrooms and showers, making it a comfortable choice.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, the Eagle Cap Camper is suitable for winter camping. It has a heated basement, R13 insulation, and laminated aluminium-framed walls and flooring. It is a four-season camper.

It is important to consider the weight of the camper and ensure your truck has the appropriate payload rating. Some campers recommend adding extra insulation over the windows to retain heat. Using RV antifreeze in the pipes can also prevent them from freezing.

Winter camping means fewer crowds and no campground reservations.

Propane heating systems may struggle in extremely cold temperatures, and you will burn through a lot of propane and battery power.

One review states: We camp in cold weather while winterized on a regular basis... Our Laredo has a cassette toilet, which we absolutely love. During those colder 6-months, we fill it with 35-below windshield washer fluid and it works perfectly." Another states: We camp winterized all the time... We carry bottles of water to use for cooking, drinking, and flushing. We do use the holding tanks for black water because our Lance heats the tanks."

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