Home-made JK Unlimited Camper

[The Swiss]

Found this over at the JK Forum. This guy, Matt, is in the process of building a pop-up for his JK Unlimited.

This is actually Matt's second attempt; the first one was a full size camper, which turned out too big and heavy to be practical. Matt e-mailed me some more pictures I will post here a little later.

 

[The Swiss]

Here some pics of his first attempt, building a full size camper. He abandonded due to the size and effect on drivability of the JK. This guy has some serious skills :Wow1:

 

[getlost4x4]

that looks really heavy and top heavy.

i don't see where they are going to sleep there really isn't any room in there.

he should build a trailer. that way he can unhook it and still go wheeling.

 

[Maximus Ram]

Hmmm, it looks like in the last 2 pics, its going to be a pop-up style camper. I see a pop-up camper latch there....interesting idea.

 

[The Swiss]

Hmmm, it looks like in the last 2 pics, its going to be a pop-up style camper. I see a pop-up camper latch there....interesting idea.

I just re-arranged the pics so they make more sense. Sorry about the confusion.

 

[getlost4x4]

i think its a cool idea. i just don't think that minivan motor is going to like it in anyway. he needs a diesel swap or a Hemi.

remember these. totally gutless.

 

[Root Moose]

JK-Forum pics don't load unless you are a member.

 

[The Swiss]

JK-Forum pics don't load unless you are a member.

:smilies27 I'll fix that too then.

 

[Desert Dan]

Great protoype!

Keep it as a pop top and shorten the rear overhang.

I don't think that that type of construction would hold up well for long term off road use.

 

[eugene]

Something I've learned from rebuilding mine is screws pull out of plywood really easy, even dirt roads, not even going off road. The ones around the outside for the trim are fine but the structural ones won't hold. Like the small metal brackets inside, I'd replace the screws with bolts, I've switched all mine to 1/4" bolts and T nuts on the other side.

 

[mhiscox]

i think its a cool idea. i just don't think that minivan motor is going to like it in anyway. He needs a diesel swap or a Hemi.

Or different gears. The stock JK motor can do well enough with a heavy load if you regear it. Not saying that it turns into a rocketship, but 5.13s make the 7K pound Earthroamer Jeep perfectly functional. (Ignoring some fuel economy issues. )

 

[ex m38a1er]

Or different gears. The stock JK motor can do well enough with a heavy load if you regear it. Not saying that it turns into a rocketship, but 5.13s make the 7K pound Earthroamer Jeep perfectly functional. (Ignoring some fuel economy issues. )

Which(fuel economy issues)can be cut in half by using LPG:victory:

 

[Ford Prefect]

Ok, I AM ANNOYED! Where is the ruddy link! I can not find it on there, and I want to read all about it, and see more photos!!! :victory:

 

[UK4X4]

Glued screwed and fiberglass the joins , on the critical ones webed re-inforcement fiberglassed in.

Lighter skin, more webs makes a lighter stronger construction like the plywood speed and jet boats, 1/8" ply light and ridgid due to the design and construction method

The big one looked like it was made of cardboard !

The later design looks like a bigger improvement

 

[rhinorigs]

Builders Response

Hi it's Matt,
My experience with rv building is limited to these two attempts. As I have been a woodworker for 24 yrs,I build with wood, but I want to learn aluminum weilding to make it better. The sugestions are all welcome, as I will learn more and am already planning a third prototype.
Update on this one is: I have installed lift pistons for the rear door and top lid.
Now I'm working on the fabric and screen surround.I have removed it from my Jeep for now(good weather riding).
Thanks to Michael for posting it.
Matt