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> Purchasing new truck and a used Northstar, Am I doing this right?

pilotamis
post Oct 31 2014, 02:56 PM
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Group: Members
Posts: 1
Joined: 31-October 14
Member No.: 7,839
Favorite Truck Camper(s): Northstar
Type and Brand of Truck(s) Owned: Chevy 2500HD
Type of Tiedowns used: Happijac
Truck and Camper Setup: still looking



My wife and I are planning an extended trip with out 2 kids, 2.5 and 3.5 y/o. We're in the process of researching a truck and TC to purchase. We really like the Northstar 650 (1610lb) and the 850 (1735) and the Livinlite 10.0 (2290) and the 8.6 (2095). I've been researching payload capacities for trucks and the smallest truck to carry them legally. From what I've seen on various forums is to add a 1000lb to the dry weight and go from there. That means after options we're looking at a 3000lb minimum payload. From what I can tell that leaves me a F-250 or 2500HD or larger. We need a Max Crew Cab to fit the carseats and are looking at the 8' beds. We'd also like 4x4. Does this all sound right? We're planning on traveling for at least a year and seeing as much of the USA and CA as we can till our funds run out. We're planning on Boondocking almost every night if we can. I don't want to purchase a truck now and find out its not going to make the trip. Also thinking a 3500HD or F-350. Is it something worth looking into or will I be fine with the 3/4 ton. Their website list them as usable with a F-150. That doesn't seem possible with the options we'd need with the truck. What kind of MPG's can we expect while carrying the TC? My best guess is 12-14MPG on the flats and sub 10's in the mountains and headwinds.

When purchasing a used camper what are the important things to look at? Smell seems to be the first. Wet, mildew or rotten and run. Are the floors solid? Everything sturdy, nothing loose. Have them tie into shore power and test everything in the camper. Stove, AC, lights, etc. Is there anything else I should be looking at? Does it matter if the TC has wintered over outside? I found one 4 hrs away and they seem desperate to sell but the pictures are from last winter. What do you think about it?

http://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2010-North...TC800-111643953

Thanks for all the help! If you can think of anything I'm forgetting please let me know!!
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aqualung
post Nov 3 2014, 08:55 AM
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Group: Members
Posts: 165
Joined: 3-February 10
Member No.: 3,725
Favorite Truck Camper(s): Adventurer 90FWS
Type and Brand of Truck(s) Owned: Dodge 3500 Dually Quadcab 4x4 6.7L Cummins
Type of Tiedowns used: Torklift
Truck and Camper Setup: 2008 Adventurer 90FWS Torklift Tiedowns with SuperHitch and SuperTruss Firestone Air Bags Torklift Load Stabilizers Fastgun Turnbuckles



You're thinking right about the payload numbers, its always important to stay within the truck's capabilities. Don't forget that you and your family will also add into the payload numbers as will fuel and any cargo you may be carrying in addition to your TC and its contents. If you can do it, go big... get a truck with the largest payload you can. Get a dually if you can, the extra width of the rear wheels and the increased capacity helps with camper sway. Also, a gas truck will give you more payload than a diesel will because the diesel engine weighs so much more. But, for long hauls and travelling in the mountains a diesel is a better choice provided you can meet your payload numbers.

Depending on where you plan on staying, in some areas they do not allow soft sided campers due to bears. One place in particular that I know of is Lake Louise in Alberta, I was there this past summer. Lake Louise has high bear traffic so they don't allow soft sided campers unless if you stay in the secure compound they've built - its a camping area surrounded by an electric fence with special gates to allow vehicle traffic through but to keep the bears out. Since you plan on boondocking, I would be even more careful about the areas you stay in if you have a soft sided camper.

When looking at used, look for water damage. Yes the musty smell is a dead give away of a water problem. Whether a camper has been stored inside or outside is less of a concern provided you ensure all seals are in good shape and the roof is in good shape. Also look inside cabinets, under the seats and anywhere else you can get to to look for water staining or damage which may show leaking plumbing. Yes test all appliances and check for propane leaks.

Another thing to consider is whether or not the model of TC you pick can be used when its off the truck. Some are designed for it some aren't. It is nice to be able to use your truck after you set up camp. Its best to check with the manufacturer on this one. I had to add extra support to my camper to be able to do this. I also added Torklift's WobbleStopprs which make a big difference to camper movement when its off the truck.
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