pop up camper advise pls

[deminimis]

pop up camper. Advise pls

Trying to research on a phone is a pain, so thought I'd ask you folks your thoughts. We're thinking of downsizing. If we do, we'll be using a full size one ton 4x4, crew cab, long wheel base rig. What do you guys think is the best darn pop up camper out there? Has to be bomb proof (if such a thing exists) and able to sleep four. A head would be nice, but not required (outside shower would be a plus), Range, fridge, etc. Need a camper that will best hold up to the rigors of Baja (boondocking for a couple weeks at a pop) . Hallmark looks promising, but again, I'm using a phone and its hard to tell. Thanks.

 

[kcowyo]

In no particular order:

Alaskan
Four Wheel Campers
Outfitter
Hallmark
Oregon Camper
Northstar Camper


I only have experience with, and am extremely partial to, Four Wheel Campers. Alaskans have a legendary reputation for being incredibly durable and reliable. The Outfitter has a great reputation too.

The other options listed have models available for the size you are looking for.
.

 

[deminimis]

Dang, links and everything. Thank you very much. I'll check them out on a real computer.

 

[brianjwilson]

I'm not sure where in Oregon you are, but normally a couple pop-up mfgs show up at Portland RV shows and Sportsman/outdoor shows.
Most of the four wheel campers do not have much in the way of storage tanks. They are lighter and more compact. I would probably look more at hallmark since you are already looking at a full size 1 ton. They are bigger and heavier but more roomy. Bigger beds, bigger storage tanks, some have inside showers, etc.
There is really no subsitute for seeing a few different brands in person. I haven't seen many hallmark owners here though, so it may be worth looking for other forums, perhaps rv.net is it?

 

[rynosurf]

These are just like Four Wheel Campers.
https://www.allterraincampers.com/

 

[David_in_TX]

Sleeping 4 is the limiting factor, IMHO. That requirement narrows it down to 2 campers.

The Northstar 850SC, with their extra bed:
http://www.northstarcampers.com/XB%20Option.asp

And the newly introduced Outfiter Juno:
http://outfittermfg.com/Campers/Juno/JunoMain.htm

 

[18seeds]

Some of the pop up manufactures can build a slide out bed that lies above the dinette. I know outfitter and LiteCraft will do it.

 

[deminimis]

Thanks guys. I got out my pencil and started crunching numbers. Looks like a pop top doesn't make a whole lot of sense for us, size-wise and money-wise. By the time I outfit it with some of the things we've grown accustomed to, like solar, inverter, and substantial room, we'd be in the hole. Think we'll likely just stick with our Sporty as I have it just about how I want it. Thanks again folks.


Damn nice pop ups though. Those Alaskan ones are damn tempting.

 

[deminimis]

Well, its been nearly 9 months since I first started thinking about going down this road. I'm not neurotic, really. We're starting to look at pop ups again for a 1-ton Chev (wife said no way to a Chev/GMC Kodiak 4x4 idea). Anyone have any complaints about the Northstar TS1000?? Any opins at all about the Northstar? The Hallmark Cuchara XL is on the short list as is the FWC Keystone, but I'm really leaning towards the Northstar. Baja-worthy is my main concern, followed by indoor shower for the wife (I'm more than happy to use an outdoor shower). Thanks.

 

[David_in_TX]

Awhile back I researched RVs of all types. I read everything I could get my hands on. By far, Northstar rose above all others with their reputation for quality, and customer service. You literally can't find anything bad said about Northstar Truck campers anywhere.

Well, its been nearly 9 months since I first started thinking about going down this road. I'm not neurotic, really. We're starting to look at pop ups again for a 1-ton Chev (wife said no way to a Chev/GMC Kodiak 4x4 idea). Anyone have any complaints about the Northstar TS1000?? Any opins at all about the Northstar? The Hallmark Cuchara XL is on the short list as is the FWC Keystone, but I'm really leaning towards the Northstar. Baja-worthy is my main concern, followed by indoor shower for the wife (I'm more than happy to use an outdoor shower). Thanks.

 

[deminimis]

Thanks David. I emailed Northstar with a question and they responded twice. Now that's customer service! It is really starting to look like my Sportsmobile is heading down the road, so I need to get serious about a pickup and camper. Our next Baja trip is not all that far away.

 

[ntsqd]

Camper toter source?
http://www.mayerequipment.com/category.cfm?catnum=2594&category=4X4
Just saw this link in another thread. Has my wheels turning, again.

 

[deminimis]

Man oh man, this is harder than planned. I can't make a decision. I really like the Hallmark Chuchara XL, but the lack of an alumn frame worries me. Hate to make a $26k mistake. I really like the Northstar TS1000, but pine framing doesn't seem to jive with our Baja needs. Not sure what my feelings are towards Outfitter, but they might be a contender. FWC is close to the top, but I'd rather have composite exterior walls as opposed to alumn siding, plus some more modern features like solid surface counter top, electric pop up, etc. XP isn't an option as we need to use our pickup as a pickup 90% of the time. Not near any of the builders, so can't go and check them out (well, Alaskan is close, but not interested in an Alaskan). The search continues.

 

[chris_the_wrench]

As a side note to the question of wood framing. Lance, I assume to be the largest truck camper manufacturer, is making the switch to aluminum frames for their 2010 models. They were long supporters of wood frames, but not anymore. I know my 2000 Lance has some (soaked/rotted) wood issues. I don't think the issues stems from the strength or durability of wood in a perfect environment, but more from how the wood is protected in the camper. If the previous owners kept up on maintenance and checked the various sealant locations the problem probably would not exist or at-least to the level it does, but when there is as many holes in the exterior for screws, fittings, and vents there are a lot of opportunities for leaks. If I was to buy a new truck camper, I'm actually planning on building one, I would go with aluminum frame.

I agree with your comments about the fwc. They are stout little campers, but I would also like some more modern features. Maybe fiberglass sides?? If they sold a shell model for a fullsize truck with fiberglass sides and a bed that went length wise over the cab that's what I would get.

Good luck with your search.
-Chris

Man oh man, this is harder than planned. I can't make a decision. I really like the Hallmark Chuchara XL, but the lack of an alumn frame worries me. Hate to make a $26k mistake. I really like the Northstar TS1000, but pine framing doesn't seem to jive with our Baja needs. Not sure what my feelings are towards Outfitter, but they might be a contender. FWC is close to the top, but I'd rather have composite exterior walls as opposed to alumn siding, plus some more modern features like solid surface counter top, electric pop up, etc. XP isn't an option as we need to use our pickup as a pickup 90% of the time. Not near any of the builders, so can't go and check them out (well, Alaskan is close, but not interested in an Alaskan). The search continues.

 

[kerry]

I really like the Northstar TS1000, but pine framing doesn't seem to jive with our Baja needs.

I've got a 95 Texson TS 1000 which is the same as the Northstar TS 1000. I had the same thoughts about wood vs aluminum but my mistake would just be a $3k mistake. One advantage of wood over metal is that wood is more easily repairable as you can see from the rebuild threads here. I also think that wood has advantages in that there is more flex in the frame than in a welded metal frame. In a wet climate where there is constant threat of leakage, like in the NW, I think metal has a substantial advantage. Not so much in the SW.