RTT concerns

[CoastalDefender]

So, I've been looking at a few different RTT's for my trailer build. I need it to fit into the 4'x6' top of my M101.

I have a family of 3.5, so I want to purchase the largest possible. Seriously weighing between the Eezi-Awn 1800 and the Eezi-Awn Series 3 Family. Realizing the S3F will overhang the trailer, it appears to be best for only a few $$$ more.






Hold on a minute, I"m hijacking my own thread before I even get started. I shall blame the RedHook IPA next to me.



Here's the most important piece of the thread-

RTTs look extraordinarily unstable. The "overhang" part that folds out seems unbelievably un-supportive of decent weight using only the ladder(s).

Bear in mind I have never seen an RTT in "the flesh", and I am deferring to the fact that I hear very little regarding the structural integrity of the style being less than reliable among owners/users.

With that said, my family not overweight as average, but rather my concern stems from the fact that my dearest people on earth will be supported by a couple of aluminum ladders and plywood over unknown ground.


I'm certain this has come to the attention of others here prior to harboring families and loved ones in RTTs on adventures. My assumption was their worries were stayed by the superior engineering and design of the various RTTs.

Please please, input is appreciated, solicited, and sponged. Qualm my fears of spending $2k+ on a unit that will support the most precious things in my life.

 

[kellymoe]

I had a RTT for a time and the ladder is very supportive. I have never heard of a RTT collapsing. I would not be concerned at all about failure.

My biggest concern with the RTT was weight on top of my truck. This raises the CG significantly and on tougher trails and evasive freeway maneuvers it made the truck very tippy. This was the reason I ended up selling my tent. I dont put anything on my rack unless it is absolutely needed, this includes fuel cans which add loads of weight.

 

[articulate]

If you're only looking at the Eezi-Awn, you could certainly add more supports that flip down and extend just like the ladder. The mammoth 2200 has two ladders, though.

Look at the Technitop tents, too. The base isn't plywood. If you didn't have 3.5, a hardshell tent like the Maggiolina would solve your apprehensions.

I've never read on the internet (oh the blessings!) about an Eezi-Awn failing. And we all know the internet is the first place something like this would appear, with a youtube video, cross posts, double posts, prefaced with several of these !!!!!, and perhaps run a stint on the homepage at Yahoo. It'd give your best snorkel discussion a run for its money.

You and all 3.5 will be fine.
:beer:

 

[Dave Bennett]

x2

I've had mine a while, and it is mounted way up high... never had a problem, very strong IMO even with 3 of us up there.

.02

 

[Martyn]

The extended portion of the RTT is well supported by the ladder and hinges, so that is not a worry. If you are unable to secure the ladder with the spike provided a ratchet strap from the ladder to tire works well to hold it in place.

For the 1800 you will need a minimum of 3 evenly spaced cross bars and for the 2200 Family tent you will need 4 evenly spaced cross bars.