Project idea small camper

[grc]

I like to share this project idea, as an alternative to the westfalia/vanagon or other small van based motor homes.
I want to take a Ford Ranger remove the truck bed and build a solid wall pop top camper as shown in the Google sketchup pictures below.
The Idea is to have the water tanks and battery below the floor for a low centre of gravity, resulting in better handling.
The interior picture has the top walls removed for better viewing.
Has anyone done something like this?
Some Features and specifications:

• Queen size bed
• 6’ 5” Extended Ceiling height
• Sleeps 2
• Air-conditioning
• 1.7cu/ft 12vdc/120vac Refrigerator
• 2 burner Propane Stove
• Stainless Steel Sink
• 2x Large Roof Vents
• 12v interior lighting
• Hardwood Interior
• Foamed in-place Insulation
• Deep Cycle Battery
• Closet with drawers
• Mini Blinds
• Portable Toilet
• 12 Gallon Water Tank
• 6 Gallon Black water Tank
• SHURFLO Electric Water Pump
• 2x 120V outlets
• 12v/120v Power Converter/Battery Charger
• Fire extinguisher

 

[18seeds]

www.xpcamper.com

 

[sarconcepts]

are those drink holders in the bed area!
man, you thought of everything!

 

[southpier]

not sure when you say "... has anyone done something like this..." exactly how similar you are asking, but this is a decent build blog which may be of interest to you: http://thesupercamper.blogspot.com/2006/09/super-camper-inspiration-concept-and.html

 

[Quill]

Try to save room to install a 23 gal Bronco II gas tank. Even the rangers with dual tanks only hold 28. You will also need to beef up the rear suspension. Others may have done similar but you make this your own so it is an original.

 

[grc]

www.xpcamper.com

I have seen xpcamper and it looks and is probably great, but it is based on a heavy duty 2500,3500 pickup truck.
I was more thinking of a small compact vehicle for better fuel economy, I realise it does put some limits on the concept e.a weight.
thanks for the reply!

 

[thebrassnuckles]

looks pretty slick.. I'd adjust the departure angle so it doesnt get hung up on... everything..:coffeedrink:

 

[grc]

looks pretty slick.. I'd adjust the departure angle so it doesnt get hung up on... everything..:coffeedrink:

You are right!
This is just a first concept drawing, and will probably go thru a few more revisions.
Thanks for the reply!

 

[toyfunraider]

Someone with a shop could save a ton of work starting with my 1984 Roll A Long Ford Ranger. 1984 long bed.

 

[RoosterBooster]

i like your idea of a smaller, lighter XP style pup
suggestion; could you may reverse the window layout (window in the fixed part) so that the pup part covers/protects them for travel ?!?
... however , maybe it will be too difficult to fit the interior around the somewhat lower windows