jus passin thru
Adventurer
Im thinking about buying a Jeep brand popup trailer built by Living Light trailers. Any thoughts or experiences with these. I did a search,can't beleive this hasn't been covered ,I just didn't find it. Mike
Jeep brand popup
- Thread starter jus passin thru
- Start date
grogie
Like to Camp
More then a year ago I had been looking at buying the 6.0 off-road version. At least at the time, the off-road version cost less due to not having the Jeep name so you might check that out. They also sold a black out version that looked pretty cool. I talked to a guy that had the Jeep version and he loved it for camping. I think they're really cool and perfect for a couple that camp a lot. Although not large inside, I also liked about it that it actually has a couch inside to hang out in when it rains. The only negative I heard about it was that the lift was done by a block on the axle I believe, and it bounced a lot on dirt roads. I have no confirmation about that, but just depends I guess on where you tow it?
There is also a Livin Lite group on Yahoo you might check out: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/livinlite/info
I'll last say that personally I had an off-road box trailer built that I'm mounting an RTT on the top of. It's suspension is a lot more stout then the Livin Lite (my trailer has leaf springs and shocks), but I think I would have been just as happy with it.
There is also a Livin Lite group on Yahoo you might check out: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/livinlite/info
I'll last say that personally I had an off-road box trailer built that I'm mounting an RTT on the top of. It's suspension is a lot more stout then the Livin Lite (my trailer has leaf springs and shocks), but I think I would have been just as happy with it.
I own a Livin Lite Quicksilver 10.0 and have also seen the Jeep branded 6.0 in person (briefly). I know information and actual experience is a bit hard to come by, so I will try to share my experiences after a year of ownership.
Thoughts on the Livin Lite Quicksilver series in general:
- I am thoroughly impressed with the construction of the "box" and frame. I don't mean to sound like a sales brochure, but it's ALL welded aluminum - even the cabinetry. The cabinets are VERY high quality down to the latches. The floor is made of interlocking aluminum planks that make it rock solid. When comparing these to a traditional popup, it's almost a joke... Short story: The box and frame on this thing will outlast the vehicle that's towing it.
- It's freakishly lightweight. The whole unit is less than 700lbs (for the 6.0). Compare that to an EMPTY and UNMODIFIED m101 trailer which is nearly double that. If covering rough ground, it's no mistake that the substantially lighter unit will be noticeably better in all instances. Not to mention, if you are towing with a Wrangler or similarly sized vehicle, 1000 lbs weight difference is BIG.
- It's stupid simple and gadget free. Unlike a traditional pop-up, there is no cranking mechanism to get sticky or to break. There is no furnace, fridge, or water tanks to deal with. It's a stripped down tent on a nearly indestructible box. This was really the selling point for me.
- I'm not loving the Canvas portion of my unit - though I don't hate it either. I've had to deal with broken zippers, frayed seams, and wear hole due to the previous owners lack of attention to detail when closing. Although these are potential issues with any canvas or tent, these are a common trend among Quicksilver owners. With that said, my canvas is completely watertight and the material seems to be high quality. Just be careful on how you close it, be easy on the zippers, and treat it with a Vinyl treatment every now and again and it should last a LONG time.
- The "tonneau" cover is something I do dislike. The buttons / snaps that are used to secure it are very prone to failure and can be difficult. The cover itself is prone to wear around the corners and around the strut supports on the bunk ends. This wear comes from nothing other than driving where the tonneau will flap around in the wind slightly. The tonneau will absolutely require regular maintenance (e.g. vinyl treatment) if not stored in a garage. My unit is 3 years old and my tonneau needs to be replaced (cost ~$200 for the 10.0). To be fair, the first few years it did live completely open to the elements and without ANY source of maintenance (previous owner). Although it still lives outside since I purchased, it's now covered under a typical RV cover to keep the sun from attacking it. When I replace my tonneau this spring, I expect it to last 10 years with proper maintenance. I will also be cutting up my old tonneau and using an adhesive to glue "wear pads" in the suspect areas. This should substantially increase the lifespan.
- The axle: I was very concerned about this "lightweight" torsion axle as well. My initial plans were going to be to swap it out for a real man's axle with leaf springs while also doing a ~4" lift. Part of my concern was simply based on the fact that I was unfamiliar with torsion axles. Previous poster commented about concerns with a "block" being used as the lift in the Jeep edition. In the end, that's EXACTLY what I did as well. At the risk of oversimplifying, a block is really the only way for me to obtain a lift with this type axle (barring buying a new axle). And the term "block" should be clarified since it's nothing like a lift block for a truck. In my case it's a piece of 2x4 steal with holes and welded tabs that attaches the axle to the frame (basically THIS). It's not cheap looking, it's not ghetto, and it's probably exactly how they do it in the factory for these "off-road" versions. As for the ride? Well, unless were talking "fancy" off-road trailers, or custom modded trailers, just about any typical trailer is going to ride like a unloaded dump truck when taken down a washboard road. With that said, I am actually really impressed how well this torsion axle soaks up the bumps. So much in fact that I would choose it in this particular application, over standard trailer leaf springs, if I had the option.
- It's not watertight (on the bottom) to the point where I wouldn't want to do too many deep water crossings. Although if water does get in, it really can't hurt anything... just aluminum and plastic. This hasn't been an issue yet... but this is where a purpose build "AT" trailer would have the benefit.
Specifics on the QuickSilver 6.0 "Jeep" version:
- You won't get any cool point's around here since it hasn't crossed the sahara and since you don't have to climb up a ladder to your bed. And since you can't put a roof rack on it, of course.
- They look to be just about perfect for 2 people.
- I'm sure you pay a premium for the Jeep branding... If I wanted one of these, I would save some bucks by purchasing the "standard" 6.0 and doing a 2"-4" lift and throwing on some 32" tires. Since the tires are outside the box, it doesn't get any easier. That will give you the same basic package but without the fancy jeep stuff.
- I honestly think you could take one of these lifted / big tired 6.0's on the Rubicon without much trouble... It would hold together just fine (Yes, i've been on the Rubicon). That's not to say that you would want to - but that's how capable and sturdy I think one of these little things are.
- All Livin Lite's are expensive... no way to get around that. However, they look a WHOLE lot cheaper when you compare it to a fancy AT style trailer with an RTT. For my money, these are nearly as capable and significantly more comfortable.
At the risk of making a ridiculously long winded post longer, I'll also mention a few things I have done to mine in the event anyone else is interested:
- I've mounted a 20lb propane tank and a battery on the tongue (it's a tight fit).
- I've plumbed a propane hard line to the interior for a Camco Wave heater. The heater isn't permanently mounted, so I have a shutoff and quick-connect LP fittings inside the trailer. The only purpose of big 20lb propane tank is for the heater... Hey, anything i can do to make the wife happy.
- I've added an auxiliary 12v plug for my Indel B fridge
- I built a folding / portable 70 watt solar array to keep my battery and fridge running. Battery only powers the fridge and 2 small lights.
- The hand pump sink is useless and never worked on mine. I've been using a BaseCamp AquaCube as a faucet and hot water heater.
- Projects for this spring are to: lay down the rubberized "gym" flooring to cover the chilly aluminum floor and to replace the sink (it's pointlessly small).
The Fridge, Solar, and AquaCube were all purchased to be dual purpose. They work in the trailer, but they also work for Rubicon trips when we're tent camping.
Summary:
I don't know where you expect to take this type of trailer or what other types of trailers you consider that fit your needs, so it's difficult to say how it would perform for you. However, I would buy another Quicksilver trailer in a heart beat. You simply can't beat how well put together they are in such a lightweight package. The Canvas and Tonneau will require some occasional maintenance and care when using. I consider these trailers (especially the 6.0) to be substantially underrated among this group here at Expo. As previously mentioned, I was leery of the axle issue initially as well... but unless we're talking high-end trailers, it's really the right axle for the job in this price range.
-JM
Thoughts on the Livin Lite Quicksilver series in general:
- I am thoroughly impressed with the construction of the "box" and frame. I don't mean to sound like a sales brochure, but it's ALL welded aluminum - even the cabinetry. The cabinets are VERY high quality down to the latches. The floor is made of interlocking aluminum planks that make it rock solid. When comparing these to a traditional popup, it's almost a joke... Short story: The box and frame on this thing will outlast the vehicle that's towing it.
- It's freakishly lightweight. The whole unit is less than 700lbs (for the 6.0). Compare that to an EMPTY and UNMODIFIED m101 trailer which is nearly double that. If covering rough ground, it's no mistake that the substantially lighter unit will be noticeably better in all instances. Not to mention, if you are towing with a Wrangler or similarly sized vehicle, 1000 lbs weight difference is BIG.
- It's stupid simple and gadget free. Unlike a traditional pop-up, there is no cranking mechanism to get sticky or to break. There is no furnace, fridge, or water tanks to deal with. It's a stripped down tent on a nearly indestructible box. This was really the selling point for me.
- I'm not loving the Canvas portion of my unit - though I don't hate it either. I've had to deal with broken zippers, frayed seams, and wear hole due to the previous owners lack of attention to detail when closing. Although these are potential issues with any canvas or tent, these are a common trend among Quicksilver owners. With that said, my canvas is completely watertight and the material seems to be high quality. Just be careful on how you close it, be easy on the zippers, and treat it with a Vinyl treatment every now and again and it should last a LONG time.
- The "tonneau" cover is something I do dislike. The buttons / snaps that are used to secure it are very prone to failure and can be difficult. The cover itself is prone to wear around the corners and around the strut supports on the bunk ends. This wear comes from nothing other than driving where the tonneau will flap around in the wind slightly. The tonneau will absolutely require regular maintenance (e.g. vinyl treatment) if not stored in a garage. My unit is 3 years old and my tonneau needs to be replaced (cost ~$200 for the 10.0). To be fair, the first few years it did live completely open to the elements and without ANY source of maintenance (previous owner). Although it still lives outside since I purchased, it's now covered under a typical RV cover to keep the sun from attacking it. When I replace my tonneau this spring, I expect it to last 10 years with proper maintenance. I will also be cutting up my old tonneau and using an adhesive to glue "wear pads" in the suspect areas. This should substantially increase the lifespan.
- The axle: I was very concerned about this "lightweight" torsion axle as well. My initial plans were going to be to swap it out for a real man's axle with leaf springs while also doing a ~4" lift. Part of my concern was simply based on the fact that I was unfamiliar with torsion axles. Previous poster commented about concerns with a "block" being used as the lift in the Jeep edition. In the end, that's EXACTLY what I did as well. At the risk of oversimplifying, a block is really the only way for me to obtain a lift with this type axle (barring buying a new axle). And the term "block" should be clarified since it's nothing like a lift block for a truck. In my case it's a piece of 2x4 steal with holes and welded tabs that attaches the axle to the frame (basically THIS). It's not cheap looking, it's not ghetto, and it's probably exactly how they do it in the factory for these "off-road" versions. As for the ride? Well, unless were talking "fancy" off-road trailers, or custom modded trailers, just about any typical trailer is going to ride like a unloaded dump truck when taken down a washboard road. With that said, I am actually really impressed how well this torsion axle soaks up the bumps. So much in fact that I would choose it in this particular application, over standard trailer leaf springs, if I had the option.
- It's not watertight (on the bottom) to the point where I wouldn't want to do too many deep water crossings. Although if water does get in, it really can't hurt anything... just aluminum and plastic. This hasn't been an issue yet... but this is where a purpose build "AT" trailer would have the benefit.
Specifics on the QuickSilver 6.0 "Jeep" version:
- You won't get any cool point's around here since it hasn't crossed the sahara and since you don't have to climb up a ladder to your bed. And since you can't put a roof rack on it, of course.
- They look to be just about perfect for 2 people.
- I'm sure you pay a premium for the Jeep branding... If I wanted one of these, I would save some bucks by purchasing the "standard" 6.0 and doing a 2"-4" lift and throwing on some 32" tires. Since the tires are outside the box, it doesn't get any easier. That will give you the same basic package but without the fancy jeep stuff.
- I honestly think you could take one of these lifted / big tired 6.0's on the Rubicon without much trouble... It would hold together just fine (Yes, i've been on the Rubicon). That's not to say that you would want to - but that's how capable and sturdy I think one of these little things are.
- All Livin Lite's are expensive... no way to get around that. However, they look a WHOLE lot cheaper when you compare it to a fancy AT style trailer with an RTT. For my money, these are nearly as capable and significantly more comfortable.
At the risk of making a ridiculously long winded post longer, I'll also mention a few things I have done to mine in the event anyone else is interested:
- I've mounted a 20lb propane tank and a battery on the tongue (it's a tight fit).
- I've plumbed a propane hard line to the interior for a Camco Wave heater. The heater isn't permanently mounted, so I have a shutoff and quick-connect LP fittings inside the trailer. The only purpose of big 20lb propane tank is for the heater... Hey, anything i can do to make the wife happy.
- I've added an auxiliary 12v plug for my Indel B fridge
- I built a folding / portable 70 watt solar array to keep my battery and fridge running. Battery only powers the fridge and 2 small lights.
- The hand pump sink is useless and never worked on mine. I've been using a BaseCamp AquaCube as a faucet and hot water heater.
- Projects for this spring are to: lay down the rubberized "gym" flooring to cover the chilly aluminum floor and to replace the sink (it's pointlessly small).
The Fridge, Solar, and AquaCube were all purchased to be dual purpose. They work in the trailer, but they also work for Rubicon trips when we're tent camping.
Summary:
I don't know where you expect to take this type of trailer or what other types of trailers you consider that fit your needs, so it's difficult to say how it would perform for you. However, I would buy another Quicksilver trailer in a heart beat. You simply can't beat how well put together they are in such a lightweight package. The Canvas and Tonneau will require some occasional maintenance and care when using. I consider these trailers (especially the 6.0) to be substantially underrated among this group here at Expo. As previously mentioned, I was leery of the axle issue initially as well... but unless we're talking high-end trailers, it's really the right axle for the job in this price range.
-JM
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daveh
Adventurer
We bought our jeep popup with the idea that it's basically a tent but you're off of the ground so you stay dry, can stand up inside, can sleep on a nice comfy queen size mattress and heat it with the shore power connection and an electric space heater. We've camped in it all over the east coast and towed from Philly all through Nova Scotia. I got a fantastic deal but would have never paid the retail price. I can set it up and take it down by myself in minutes even with the formed aluminum top which is much nicer than the standard livin light cover. I tow it with a 2012 jk and I can't even tell it's behind me.
jus passin thru
Adventurer
W
Thanks for the info. Today in the mail I received a less than informative factor brochure. What I now know is they make to models he Jeep trail and the Jeep Extreme trail they weigh 950 and1200 lbs ground clearance 12 and 15'' ps 88'' wide and 52'' height plus a few picture. What a waste of time their web site is worse you think they would like to sell these trailers. I talked to the sales manager at he factory 7 days ago to try to locate one closer than the n the rV trader in Denver ,820 miles away, he said west coast rep would call, no call.
The pictures show a hard lid that flips over to make the bed bottom. This looks like something I would like to own but not much chance I'll drive to Denver to see one.
Thanks for the info. Today in the mail I received a less than informative factor brochure. What I now know is they make to models he Jeep trail and the Jeep Extreme trail they weigh 950 and1200 lbs ground clearance 12 and 15'' ps 88'' wide and 52'' height plus a few picture. What a waste of time their web site is worse you think they would like to sell these trailers. I talked to the sales manager at he factory 7 days ago to try to locate one closer than the n the rV trader in Denver ,820 miles away, he said west coast rep would call, no call.
The pictures show a hard lid that flips over to make the bed bottom. This looks like something I would like to own but not much chance I'll drive to Denver to see one.
jus passin thru
Adventurer
I thnk I spent more time complainng and not enough tine being thankful to those that wrote informative posts. Thank you for your posts
TomP
Observer
Hello All,
I know that this conversation has come to an end but I will add a short note on the Jeep Livin Lite trailers. The pictured below is my trailer and Jeep on the road leading into and camping at Delamar, NV last February, 2014. I purchased it in October 2013. I had been planning to build an off-road trailer using a Cushman trailer box for a base, but when I saw this one for sale I jumped on it so that I could spent some time camping not welding.
Mike,
I think if you can find one of these trailers you will be very happy with it! It is like most things you will have to do some work on it to fit it to your use. I was lucky that this trailer belonged to the owner of an off-road manufacturer and had several up-grades. As you can see from the picture it is an Extreme model. This model is equiped with the heavy duty frame and full steel skid plate. It also has 17" Rubicon wheels and 35" tires. The other owner also added rock rails and steps ahead of the fenders. The step under the door on the other side makes a nice place to stand entering or exiting the tent.
htek
You are right in all your statements in my opinion! I'm working on a heater as we speak. On the subject of the suspension I must admit I was worried. It was misplaced however. My first trip out I include several extra mantles for my Coleman lantern because I was sure that I would need a new one after each move of the trailer. I still have them all as I have never needed to change a broken one. Actually after watching the trailer following the Jeep, there have been many times that I wished I was ridding in the trailer and not the Jeep!
"- You won't get any cool point's around here since it hasn't crossed the sahara and since you don't have to climb up a ladder to your bed. And since you can't put a roof rack on it, of course."
True, true! However, I'm 63 years old and don't want to climb a ladder to a RTT! I am, however, putting a roof rack on it! It is great to be able to get in out of the weather and have a place to sit. My dog loves it too! All in all I'm very happy with this trailer and have some ideas to make it better.
daveh,
Hope you are doing well and we can share ideas!
Tom
I know that this conversation has come to an end but I will add a short note on the Jeep Livin Lite trailers. The pictured below is my trailer and Jeep on the road leading into and camping at Delamar, NV last February, 2014. I purchased it in October 2013. I had been planning to build an off-road trailer using a Cushman trailer box for a base, but when I saw this one for sale I jumped on it so that I could spent some time camping not welding.
Mike,
I think if you can find one of these trailers you will be very happy with it! It is like most things you will have to do some work on it to fit it to your use. I was lucky that this trailer belonged to the owner of an off-road manufacturer and had several up-grades. As you can see from the picture it is an Extreme model. This model is equiped with the heavy duty frame and full steel skid plate. It also has 17" Rubicon wheels and 35" tires. The other owner also added rock rails and steps ahead of the fenders. The step under the door on the other side makes a nice place to stand entering or exiting the tent.
htek
You are right in all your statements in my opinion! I'm working on a heater as we speak. On the subject of the suspension I must admit I was worried. It was misplaced however. My first trip out I include several extra mantles for my Coleman lantern because I was sure that I would need a new one after each move of the trailer. I still have them all as I have never needed to change a broken one. Actually after watching the trailer following the Jeep, there have been many times that I wished I was ridding in the trailer and not the Jeep!
"- You won't get any cool point's around here since it hasn't crossed the sahara and since you don't have to climb up a ladder to your bed. And since you can't put a roof rack on it, of course."
True, true! However, I'm 63 years old and don't want to climb a ladder to a RTT! I am, however, putting a roof rack on it! It is great to be able to get in out of the weather and have a place to sit. My dog loves it too! All in all I'm very happy with this trailer and have some ideas to make it better.
daveh,
Hope you are doing well and we can share ideas!
Tom
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Jeep Extreme Trail or Trail model for overland, not 4X4 adventures
Can anyone provide the pro's and con's on purchase of the Jeep Extreme Trail vs the Jeep Trail edition, I'm more of an overland Jeep user than a off road 4x4, take your camper where no one has gone before. I certainly like the simplicity of the Jeep campers, moving down from a land yacht to a trailer behind my JKU.
Will a Jeep Trail Edition suit me for Overland adventures, or should I be looking at the HD Extreme Trail edition?
Thanks, Mark
Can anyone provide the pro's and con's on purchase of the Jeep Extreme Trail vs the Jeep Trail edition, I'm more of an overland Jeep user than a off road 4x4, take your camper where no one has gone before. I certainly like the simplicity of the Jeep campers, moving down from a land yacht to a trailer behind my JKU.
Will a Jeep Trail Edition suit me for Overland adventures, or should I be looking at the HD Extreme Trail edition?
Thanks, Mark
daveh
Adventurer
It's hard to justify the extreme unless you plan to run the Rubicon or similar although both can be found for well below list. We've dragged our trail edition through miles of forest roads and posted 4wd roads without an issue. The frame is pretty stout even without the added skids. I added a 2.5 inch lift that can be purchased from Dexter Axle which will get you even more clearance than the Extreme for under $100. 
Thank you for this info! Please know it’s been super useful!!
