QUOTE(Put Down That Axe Eugene @ Sep 5 2008, 11:47 PM)
Ok, I'm doing my basic research. I've decided a truck camper will meet my needs better than anything else out there but I need some information. I've pretty much decided on the Lance 1181 and the Dodge 2500 4x4 (not firm on the either of these yet, but that's my starting point). Basic Question #1: what is the difference between a wet bath and a dry bath? What is the advantage or disadvantage of either one? Basic Question #2: Can a stock pick up, such as the 2500, carry a 3600 pound camper or is there a need for a lot of special support? Basic Question #3: I know this is a pretty open question depending on a lot of variables, but how much can I reasonably expect the addtional weight to cut down on gas mileage? Are we going from miles per gallon to gallons per mile here?
I will probably have a lot more to ask as I get down to the wire but I would appreciate your help on these issues. Thanks.
Well, I hope this is the right place to anser your post. I know more about campers than computers (and that's not saying much!)
I used to own a truck sales company (used) and I don't think there is a better camper truck around than a Dodge Diesel. I like a 4X4, for obvious reasons. You'll want to really watch your camper weight, too heavy is just Painful! I've had an 86 9 1/2' Okanagan on my 96 Dodge for 10 years, and the combo is great. My fuel mileage is about 20 miles to the gallon, with or without the camper, but goes down a bit with the horse trailer loaded with a ton of horses!
Good luck, check under the bed, and table cushions for leaks, and try to buy one that has been sitting out in the rain for the last 48 hrs. Seriously. The other make I like is Vanguard. TravelAire are complete junk.
PS: Do NOT trust anybody telling you an older camper will fit on a newer truck. SOME of them do, but et out your measuring tape, and measure between the wheel wells AND between the tail lites, where the tailgate would close.
Take booster cables everywhere, and start out camping in your yard, so you don't get any unwelcome surprises in the bush!