
How to Make a Pipe Camper for a Pickup Truck
Building a pipe camper for a pickup truck is a great DIY project for those who want to explore the outdoors without compromising on comfort. While it may seem like a daunting task, it is definitely achievable with some time, patience, and the right tools. This guide will cover the essential steps, from designing the camper to adding finishing touches, to help you create a functional and comfortable space for your outdoor adventures.
Step 1: Planning and Designing
Before starting the build, it is crucial to plan and design the camper to ensure it meets your specific needs and fits your pickup truck. Consider factors such as sleeping space, storage, and accessibility. Measure the truck bed to create a blueprint for the camper's layout, keeping in mind the available space and your desired features.
Step 2: Gathering Materials and Tools
The materials and tools required for the build will depend on your design. Essential items include plywood, lumber, screws, adhesives, and fabric for covering the camper. Specialized tools like a Kreg Jig Kit, circular saw, and variable speed drill will also be needed for cutting, joining, and assembling the structure.
Step 3: Building the Frame and Sleeping Platform
The frame forms the foundation of the camper and should be sturdy and well-built. Use the measurements from Step 1 to cut and assemble the frame, ensuring square cuts and secure joints. The sleeping platform can be built on top of the frame, with supports to maximize headroom and provide a level base.
Step 4: Adding Features and Amenities
This is where you can customize your camper to suit your needs. Consider adding storage drawers, cabinets, electrical systems, lighting, and a door for easy access. Plan for any plumbing or cooking facilities you want to include, such as a sink or stove. Don't forget to insulate the camper to regulate temperature and reduce condensation.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the structure is complete, it's time for the finishing touches. Apply a durable coating or paint to protect the surface and enhance its appearance. Install any final fixtures, such as curtains, a mattress, or additional storage containers. Test all systems, such as lighting and plumbing, to ensure they are functioning properly.
Building a pipe camper for a pickup truck is a rewarding project that will provide a unique and personalized space for your outdoor adventures. With careful planning, attention to detail, and some creativity, you can create a comfortable and functional camper that suits your needs and enhances your exploration of the great outdoors.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Materials | Lumber, screws, mattresses, curtains, glue, plywood, metal sheets, solar panels, power stations, batteries, chargers, etc. |
Tools | Hammer drill, wrench, Dremel tool, jigsaw, cutting scissors, fabric scissors, etc. |
Features | Sleeping space, off-grid electricity, curtains, storage, water system, etc. |
What You'll Learn
Choosing a truck bed sleeping platform
When it comes to choosing a truck bed sleeping platform, there are a few options to consider. Here are the key methods and their pros and cons:
Method 1: Truck Bed Mattress and Storage Bins
This is the simplest and cheapest option. All you need is an air mattress, a sleeping bag, and some plastic storage containers for your gear. This setup is ideal for short-term travel and weekend camping trips as it can be easily packed up and doesn't require any modifications to your truck. However, it may not be suitable for long-term travel or extended trips as it requires more setup time and can be disorganized.
Method 2: PVC Truck Bed Sleeping Platform
This option involves building a platform using PVC pipes and fittings from your local hardware store. It is relatively inexpensive and lightweight. The platform can be topped with plywood to provide a sleeping area, and storage bins can be placed underneath for gear organization. This option is easy to deconstruct and remove when not needed.
Method 3: Wood Platform with Storage Bins
This is a common option that provides a mix of sleeping and storage solutions. You can build a basic frame using wood and top it with plywood to create a sleeping platform. Built-in storage bins can be added along the bed rails, and the platform can be made removable for increased headroom. The cost of this option can vary depending on the materials used, and it may be more challenging to remove compared to the PVC platform.
Method 4: Plywood Truck Topper Camping Platform with Drawers
This method utilizes cabinet-grade plywood to create a fully customized sleeping platform with built-in storage drawers. It allows for maximum customization and efficient use of space but may sacrifice some headroom. This option is more permanent and challenging to remove, and the use of plywood adds extra weight to the truck.
When choosing a truck bed sleeping platform, consider your budget, the level of customization desired, weight considerations, and the ease of removal. Each method has its pros and cons, so select the one that best fits your specific needs and preferences for your pipe camper.
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Installing a ceiling cover and curtains
To install a ceiling cover and curtains in a pipe camper, you will need:
- Two Mexican serape blankets (blanket actual sizing: 56” x 78”)
- Four bottles of Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive (you’ll have some left over which will come in handy for other projects)
- Four boxes–or 60 feet–of black industrial-strength VELCRO (you’ll have some left over which will come in handy for other projects)
- Fabric-cutting shears; used to cut blankets
- Non-fabric-cutting shears; used to cut VELCRO strips
- Disposable gloves; used to protect hands from Fabric-Tac
- Flexible measuring tape; used to make measurements
First, measure the interior of the truck bed before purchasing any materials. Measure the length, width, and height (truck bed rails to the floor).
Next, make a simple measurement pattern of your design with a pen and paper. Measure everything again to make sure the pattern dimensions are correct.
Clean the interior of the truck cap where you will be applying the VELCRO strips. This is an important step as a dirty truck cap can impact the bond of the VELCRO.
Use the measurements from your pattern to cut precise VELCRO strips. Try to be as exact as you can, as the longer the strip, the stronger it’ll be. Remember, the VELCRO strips are 2” wide, but the aluminium framing sizing varies, so you’ll need to cut the strips according to each area it will be applied.
Once all the aluminium rails are dry, outline each railing with the cut-to-size VELCRO strips.
Mark up the blankets with a Sharpie based on the pattern measurements. Make sure the side you mark up is the side that will be facing the ceiling.
Cut the VELCRO into strips and apply them to the blankets. Before placing the VELCRO on the blankets, spread out the Fabri-Tac glue on the adhesive side of the VELCRO and then spread it around the sides of the VELCRO. This will strengthen the bond between the blanket and VELCRO.
DO NOT skimp on the above step when applying the VELCRO to the blankets. Remember, practice patience and make sure your VELCRO is good and bonded to your blankets. Once all the glue is applied, let it sit for up to 48 hours. Once dried, tug on all the areas of the VELCRO and make sure it's on there to stay. If you find an area that needs an extra caring touch, then help it out with some Fabri-Tac.
Once you feel good about the VELCRO-to-blanket bond, you're ready to install.
Start by installing your bulkhead blanket. Attach the blanket's VELCRO to its counterpart at the top of the bulkhead. Next, install the ceiling cover. Start by attaching the VELCRO to its counterpart on the toolbox-side strip that extends from the bulkhead to the tailgate. Attach the middle intersecting VELCRO strip to its counterpart. Then attach the remaining VELCRO strips to their counterparts. Installing the blanket roof in this way will help reduce excess sag, keeping the blanket taught and in place. Lastly, install the tailgate curtain. Start by connecting the blanket ends where the VELCRO hook and loop meet to complete the ceiling cover. Connect the blanket to the aluminium framing above the tailgate. Make sure the blanket is nice and tight from the adjoining ceiling-to-tailgate connection. Next, connect the VELCRO adjoining strips to their counterparts above the tailgate and let the blanket hang down to the floor.
And there you have it. Making use of a blanket as curtains and a ceiling cover in your truck camper project.
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Building a DIY truck camper sleeping platform
Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools
You'll need some essential items for this project. These include:
- Lumber (e.g. plywood, two-by-fours)
- Screws
- Drill and impact driver
- Circular saw or table saw
- Measuring tape and speed square
- Kreg Jig Kit (optional but recommended)
- Bedliner or varnish for waterproofing
Step 2: Measure Your Truck Bed
Measure the dimensions of your truck bed—length, width, and height. This will be crucial for designing and cutting your platform to fit snugly. Don't forget to account for the wheel wells and any slanted corners.
Step 3: Design Your Platform
Decide on the features you want in your platform, such as built-in storage drawers or a sliding design. Sketch out your design on paper, including measurements. This will be your guide during the building process.
Step 4: Cut and Assemble the Frame
Using your measurements, cut the lumber to size for the frame. You can use PVC or wood for the frame, depending on your preference and budget. Join the frame pieces together securely, using techniques like Kreg Jig joints or gluing for PVC pipes.
Step 5: Add the Platform Surface
Cut a sheet of plywood to fit on top of your frame. You may need to cut multiple pieces to fit around the wheel wells. Place the plywood on top of the frame, creating a sturdy surface for sleeping.
Step 6: Customize and Finish
Now you can customize your platform with features like built-in drawers, hinged access doors, or circular openings for storage. Finish the platform with a coat of bedliner or varnish for protection and waterproofing.
Step 7: Test and Enjoy
Place your sleeping gear on the platform and test it out! Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Now you're ready to hit the road and enjoy your DIY truck camper sleeping platform.
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Adding a truck bed storage container
- Measure your truck bed to ensure your storage container fits. Truck beds can vary in size, so it's important to measure before purchasing a storage container.
- Consider the type of storage container you need. There are various options available, such as slide-out storage boxes, waterproof bed covers, and smaller boxes within a slide. Choose the option that best suits your needs and the items you want to store.
- Install a truck bed organiser box if you want to keep smaller accessories from shifting during the drive.
- Use ratchet straps to secure bulky equipment, such as ATVs, motorcycles, watercraft, and cargo.
- Install tie-down tracks in your truck bed to provide a place to secure your ratchet straps quickly.
- Opt for a waterproof truck bed cover to keep smaller items secure and prevent onlookers from seeing your belongings.
- If you're loading large items like ATVs or motorcycles, use ramps to make the process easier.
- Utilise a utility winch loading system, which gets installed behind the cab of your truck, to help tow gear up the ramps.
- Mesh cargo nets are a cheap and lightweight option to secure your gear during the drive.
- For hauling a few items, cargo bars can be a convenient and adjustable way to keep equipment secure.
- A truck bed ladder rack can elevate your equipment and maximise storage capacity above and below the rack.
- A tailgate pad can protect your truck from scratches or damage when transporting large equipment like mountain bikes, lumber, or ladders.
- Bike racks are designed to secure your bike upright in the truck bed and protect both the bike and truck from scratches.
- Truck bed kayak carriers are ideal if you want to transport a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. They install on the receiver hitch of your vehicle and provide a solid surface for the watercraft.
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Installing a truck bed liner
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials and Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the required materials and tools for the installation process. This includes a truck bed liner that fits your specific truck model, as well as tools such as a hammer drill, wrenches, and heavy-duty fabric scissors.
Step 2: Remove Existing Bed Liner (if applicable)
If your truck bed already has a bed liner, you'll need to remove it. Carefully pry it out without causing any damage to the bed rails. You may be able to sell or recycle the old bed liner afterward.
Step 3: Clean the Truck Bed
It is important to ensure that your truck bed is clean and free of any debris or dust. Use a broom or brush to sweep out any loose dirt, and then rinse the bed with water to remove any remaining residue. A clean surface will help the new bed liner adhere properly.
Step 4: Prepare the Bed Liner
Take the new bed liner out of its packaging and carefully lay it out. Read the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer, as different bed liners may have specific guidelines. Zip the bed liner together, taking your time to ensure the zipper follows its track correctly.
Step 5: Place the Bed Liner in the Truck Bed
Position the bed liner into the truck bed, ensuring it sits evenly on both sides. You may need to adjust and manoeuvre it to find the perfect fit. Ask for assistance if needed, as the bed liner can be awkward to handle alone.
Step 6: Secure the Bed Liner with Velcro
Start applying the Velcro strips to the truck bed and the bed liner according to the specified areas in the instructions. Work in small sections, removing the adhesive protective film and carefully placing the bed liner into its secured position. Wash, rinse, and repeat this process until all areas are completed.
Step 7: Reinstall Tie-Down Hooks
Cut small holes in the bed liner for the tie-down hooks to fit through. Reinstall the hooks, ensuring they are securely fastened. This step is important for functionality and safety.
Step 8: Final Inspection
Once all the components are in place, perform a thorough inspection. Check that all adhesive areas have been applied correctly and that everything is securely attached. Look for any loose ends or potential issues.
By following these steps, you will have successfully installed a truck bed liner in your pickup truck. This will help protect your truck bed from scratches, dents, and corrosion, ensuring its longevity and maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
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