Allriverssouth
Member
I posted some photos to the Full Size Dodge Thread, but given I had a few questions for the forum I thought it might be better to create a new thread.
After retiring from law enforcement I decided to purchase a new 2017 Ram 2500 and begin the process of building it for an Overland project that was mission specific to my needs. To be more specific, I wanted a daily driver that I could use as a truck, but also something I could travel across country in and could access remote places, to live out a few more adventures while I could still enjoy it. The truck is the bare bones Tradesman but it it did come equip with a 4x4 off road package. The only real change to the truck was the addition of35" (EDIT: 34" 305/65/R18) BFGoodrich All Terrain Ko2 tires.
So far here is a list of add-ons that seemed to have worked out pretty well:
ARE truck cap.
I special ordered this cap to ensure I got carpeted interior, lights, window access with vents, and a tool box (with fold down shelf) on one side. I use the enclosed space for sleeping. The thing that has worked out the best is the tool box I converted to a pantry. For those who are considering ordering a truck cap, I highly recommend it.
Bedslide
Given I can't crawl that well in an enclosed truck cap, I opted for the bedside rather than full length storage drawers. For my preference, I feel like this was another good choice. Outside the advantage of sliding out the entire contents of my truck, I can use the extended slide as a platform to stand and more easily access the roof rack. This has been a big advantage when loading and unloading a 85'lb fishing kayak.
Cap-Pack (Overhead lockable storage)
Since I opted for a bedside rather than storage drawers, I needed some kind of storage for all my various gear. The answer was the Cap-Pack and I have been pleasantly surprised with this addition. The load rating is 100 lbs of evenly distributed weight and I have probably met or exceeded this rating. Since I've used this product, I have had no issues damage to the roof. In fact, I have taken it down some very rough terrain and washboard gravel roads and I've been impressed so far. With this lockable storage, I can store an incredible amount of gear that stays on my truck. This includes rifles during the hunting season. As far as I'm concerned, its been torture tested and held up great. I would highly recommend it.
Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform and Rhino-Rack Awning
The Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform has been a useful addition to the truck. I really like the flat platform to haul various pieces of equipment and its held up well. There may be some better platforms on the market, but at the price point, fit and function, I'm happy with the purchase. The Rhino Rack Awning was an easy install and works well when its fully deployed. However, I will say that the awning is something I rarely deploy in the long distance traveling I've done so far. In most situations, the overnight camp is put up and taken down pretty quick. Unless the conditions are rainy, or sunny and in need of shade, its rarely used. This has been especially true in Montana where the winds tend to be rather high. That being said, I'm very happy with the purchase and it seems to be holding up well after two seasons and 30'000 miles of travel.
Oztent RV3 (The guest house)
When I have someone tagging along for the trip, I have been very impressed with the Oztent. Being a fan of classical camping, the tent reminds me of the old Baker tent. It performs as advertised and makes quick work of setting up. The only negative about this tent is when in Grizz country as it makes for a nervous nights camping. For this reason I'll be considering a roof top tent (see my questions below). However, I happy with the purchase and highly recommend this tent. When winter camping, this tent works out nicely.
Now for the suggestions and the reason for making a new thread.
1. After two trips to Montana, my thirst for a road less traveled has me making plans for Alaska. One of the serious risk I've found in this truck build is with a large animal strike. As we speak I'm in the process of purchasing a winch bumper. Originally, I was looking at the AEV but it was primarily for looks. I'm now leaning more on full grill protection. Road Armor has a 3/16 in steel bumper that fits this criteria but I seldom see anyone here talk about this manufacturer. What are your thoughts? Is there a reason its not mentioned or is it merely preference?
2. There are a ton of roof tents on the market. Two have caught my eye because they have a hard top, Ikamper skycamp and the Free-spirit adventure series automatic hard top. Your thoughts?
3. What kind of remote radio communication would you recommend? Do you think I might need it for a trip to Alaska?
Thanks in advance for your suggestions
After retiring from law enforcement I decided to purchase a new 2017 Ram 2500 and begin the process of building it for an Overland project that was mission specific to my needs. To be more specific, I wanted a daily driver that I could use as a truck, but also something I could travel across country in and could access remote places, to live out a few more adventures while I could still enjoy it. The truck is the bare bones Tradesman but it it did come equip with a 4x4 off road package. The only real change to the truck was the addition of
So far here is a list of add-ons that seemed to have worked out pretty well:
ARE truck cap.
I special ordered this cap to ensure I got carpeted interior, lights, window access with vents, and a tool box (with fold down shelf) on one side. I use the enclosed space for sleeping. The thing that has worked out the best is the tool box I converted to a pantry. For those who are considering ordering a truck cap, I highly recommend it.
Bedslide
Given I can't crawl that well in an enclosed truck cap, I opted for the bedside rather than full length storage drawers. For my preference, I feel like this was another good choice. Outside the advantage of sliding out the entire contents of my truck, I can use the extended slide as a platform to stand and more easily access the roof rack. This has been a big advantage when loading and unloading a 85'lb fishing kayak.
Cap-Pack (Overhead lockable storage)
Since I opted for a bedside rather than storage drawers, I needed some kind of storage for all my various gear. The answer was the Cap-Pack and I have been pleasantly surprised with this addition. The load rating is 100 lbs of evenly distributed weight and I have probably met or exceeded this rating. Since I've used this product, I have had no issues damage to the roof. In fact, I have taken it down some very rough terrain and washboard gravel roads and I've been impressed so far. With this lockable storage, I can store an incredible amount of gear that stays on my truck. This includes rifles during the hunting season. As far as I'm concerned, its been torture tested and held up great. I would highly recommend it.
Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform and Rhino-Rack Awning
The Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform has been a useful addition to the truck. I really like the flat platform to haul various pieces of equipment and its held up well. There may be some better platforms on the market, but at the price point, fit and function, I'm happy with the purchase. The Rhino Rack Awning was an easy install and works well when its fully deployed. However, I will say that the awning is something I rarely deploy in the long distance traveling I've done so far. In most situations, the overnight camp is put up and taken down pretty quick. Unless the conditions are rainy, or sunny and in need of shade, its rarely used. This has been especially true in Montana where the winds tend to be rather high. That being said, I'm very happy with the purchase and it seems to be holding up well after two seasons and 30'000 miles of travel.
Oztent RV3 (The guest house)
When I have someone tagging along for the trip, I have been very impressed with the Oztent. Being a fan of classical camping, the tent reminds me of the old Baker tent. It performs as advertised and makes quick work of setting up. The only negative about this tent is when in Grizz country as it makes for a nervous nights camping. For this reason I'll be considering a roof top tent (see my questions below). However, I happy with the purchase and highly recommend this tent. When winter camping, this tent works out nicely.
Now for the suggestions and the reason for making a new thread.
1. After two trips to Montana, my thirst for a road less traveled has me making plans for Alaska. One of the serious risk I've found in this truck build is with a large animal strike. As we speak I'm in the process of purchasing a winch bumper. Originally, I was looking at the AEV but it was primarily for looks. I'm now leaning more on full grill protection. Road Armor has a 3/16 in steel bumper that fits this criteria but I seldom see anyone here talk about this manufacturer. What are your thoughts? Is there a reason its not mentioned or is it merely preference?
2. There are a ton of roof tents on the market. Two have caught my eye because they have a hard top, Ikamper skycamp and the Free-spirit adventure series automatic hard top. Your thoughts?
3. What kind of remote radio communication would you recommend? Do you think I might need it for a trip to Alaska?
Thanks in advance for your suggestions
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