DIY 16' Camper box for an M1078

[ximo]

I've been thinking a while on constructing my own camper box for an M1078 or similar truck.

My main challenges is how to design a Steel frame that would be strong enough for this purpose and still be as lightweight as a steel frame can be..
This also includes how I would have to build the Sub-frame for make it torsion free.

I'm not the best welder but I want to think it will suffice, but I'm a very bad structural architect. I've been trying to find drawings/design plans for 16' boxes around that I could reuse, but haven't had much success on that front. Further what suggestions on external siding material and which also the right sizing of material for the frame etc.

I'm hoping to see what advice and help that the community have for someone just starting out and if there's any resources you could point me to.

 

[Jmanscotch]

Way out of my league but a couple thoughts. First, are you wanting the camper to be a removable piece or can it be permanent? Removable seems like it's going to be a lot of extra design/work where as going with a more permanent camper will open up some options.

My first thought went to buying another matching bed for such a truck, turn it upside down and mount it on top of the existing bed. After googling the M1078, I realize that's not going to be much height for a camper though.

Second thought was, why not look at wrecked delivery trucks with a rear box that's a similar sized footprint and adapt it into a camper. They are build for heavy use, though I'm sure there would be some reinforcements in order to make it torsion free.

If you're less worried about ease of retrofit and want full blown custom, the unimog crowd seems to be into it plenty and probably a good group to grab knowledge from. Examples: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/289356344787189522

 

[The Artisan]

Look at my sig for ideas. You can also do a panel kit from Victorian.
Kevin

 

[Rebuilder]

I've been thinking a while on constructing my own camper box for an M1078 or similar truck.

My main challenges is how to design a Steel frame that would be strong enough for this purpose and still be as lightweight as a steel frame can be..
This also includes how I would have to build the Sub-frame for make it torsion free.

I'm not the best welder but I want to think it will suffice, but I'm a very bad structural architect. I've been trying to find drawings/design plans for 16' boxes around that I could reuse, but haven't had much success on that front. Further what suggestions on external siding material and which also the right sizing of material for the frame etc.

I'm hoping to see what advice and help that the community have for someone just starting out and if there's any resources you could point me to.

I would suggest reading through these threads. Lots of good info and ideas.

This one is mine. http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/175747-Another-LMTV-Build

http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/169722-Trucky-McTruckface-Overland-Adventure-Truck

http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/163129-LMTV-1078-Camper-build-concept

http://forum.expeditionportal.com/threads/175378-LMTV-camper-build-Camper-truck-frame-connection