I ultimately decided to go with a camper of my own design, versus buying plans off the internet, for one reason: I did not want to deal with aluminum siding. It’s mildly expensive, and I’m much less comfortable working with metal than with wood. Back in 2004 I built a frame cabin in Fairbanks, Alaska out of 2x6s and plywood, so I decided to stick with what I know.
I used the 100% free Google Sketchup to draw out a basic 3D design on my iMac.
At this point I still had the old camper sitting in the driveway, so I used that to get the dimensions. I changed a couple things: I designed the cab-over section to be about 10 inches longer than it was on the Shadow Cruiser, since my truck is a quad cab and the space is there. I also added about 3 inches in total height, since I won’t have a roof A/C unit sticking out the top, and to allow headroom under the 2×4 studs in the ceiling. Also, I shortened the bed length from 8’6″ to exactly 8′. My goal was to be able to shut the tailgate with the camper inside. Unfortunately I forgot to allow for the 1/2″ siding on front and back, and failed to meet that goal.
My design overview was as follows:
- 4′x8′ base to fit snugly in the pickup bed
- 23″ ‘wings’ extending over the sides but not blocking the mirrors
- 2×4 frame, screwed together to avoid loosening during travel
- 1/2″ plywood siding screwed onto the frame
- Waterproofing with epoxy resin
- 4 windows (later reduced to 3)
- Cab-over area big enough for queen-size bed + storage space
- in-camper access to areas in front of wheel wells on both sides
- in-camper access to roof
- in-camper access to truck cab
It was time to start.
I am thinking about building a cabover camper for my 1968 three quarter ton truck. I am going to use 3/8 inch 2 inch square tub for framing. I am going to remove the pick up bed completely and weld cabover structure to frame of truck. For filler area’s and less structure spots I will use smaller and thinner metals. Any idea’s area’s to read up on idea’s or you hands on information you learned when doing yours would be about the best. Wiring, plumbing, window, anything you could share would be GREATLY helpful. Thanks Ken in Vacaville, California.
hey could i get the CAD drawling file for the one above? i would love to replocate it at home.