2020 Ram 5500 DIY Composite Panel Camper Build Thread

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

Did some frame flex testing yesterday to get started on the subframe design.

It was VERY surprising to see such a giant beefy frame flex so much. I know C channel cab and chassis had more flex that boxed frames, but i didnt expect THIS much.

Note: The springs barely moved at all here, this is ALL frame:

 

[Mobryan71]

Definitely a candidate for a 3 point mount, that's a lot of twist...


Matt

 

[HAF]

Its going to change when there is weight on the frame and suspension.

 

[GoinBoardin]

After having a three point mount on my flatbed camper setup for a few years, I'd consider a four point (diamond shape) mount setup on a bigger rig. The three point I have sways even with shocks on it. Four point would be more stable, without shocks, and simplify load distribution a bit over a three point.

 

[Wilbah]

Its going to change when there is weight on the frame and suspension.

I was just going to ask this question. I know nothing about how these campers get mounted from a design perspective so am always curious about why certain designs get chosen.. Enjoying the build so far! Thank you.

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

Its going to change when there is weight on the frame and suspension.

Yes, of course, This is just a baseline to get started.

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

After having a three point mount on my flatbed camper setup for a few years, I'd consider a four point (diamond shape) mount setup on a bigger rig. The three point I have sways even with shocks on it. Four point would be more stable, without shocks, and simplify load distribution a bit over a three point.

Correct on all accounts sir. Will be doing a four point for sure.

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

I was just going to ask this question. I know nothing about how these campers get mounted from a design perspective so am always curious about why certain designs get chosen.. Enjoying the build so far! Thank you.

Thank you!

 

[tmacc]

Correct on all accounts sir. Will be doing a four point for sure.

I'll be interested to see what the 4-point attachment looks like. After full-timing in a slide-in TC, this type of build is of great interest to us.

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

I'll be interested to see what the 4-point attachment looks like. After full-timing in a slide-in TC, this type of build is of great interest to us.

Still in the design/testing phase! It might even be a 6 point, because it will be spending A LOT of time offroad!

 

[Christian P.]

Very interesting indeed.

 

[ajalger]

Any chance you could measure or do you know of any source that shows the turning radius of a 5500? Considering a similar project but no dealer has one in stock near us.

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

Very interesting indeed.

One trial and error project after another with this one! hahaha

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

Episode 3 is up:

 

[RAM5500 CAMPERTHING]

Any chance you could measure or do you know of any source that shows the turning radius of a 5500? Considering a similar project but no dealer has one in stock near us.

I give a visual turning radius test drive if you check out episiode 2 on the YouTube.

I can try to measure it at some point. But ill say i was MOST impressed and it turns much tighter than my Tundra did.

Unsure if there is a source online. It would vary depending on wheelbase and such