Four Wheel Camper Hawk Shell - One Year Review
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- Опубліковано 2 лип 2024
- One year after owning my Four Wheel Camper Hawk Shell I go over my impressions, good and bad. These truck campers are great for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for the uncompromising capability and comforts that these aluminum campers afford. My popup truck camper's low weight and height make it the ultimate companion for my truck on remote trips. When I'm not using it, I can slide my whole set up on and off easily.
Mattress upgrade (EXPED MEGAMAT 10 DUO): amzn.to/441GNSE
My Instagram: @seanmleonard
I used Artlist for my music: artlist.io/Sean-1625339
If there are other specific videos you'd like to see about this camper, let me know! Thank you everyone for watching!
How is the truck wired to the camper?
@@hunterark2000 As part of the purchase from factory, the 4WC dealer installed a kit that runs a wire from the alternator to a trolling motor plug in the truck bed. You plug in the camper from there when you are putting the camper on.
My question is how to remove the camper? Are there removable lifts for each corner? (just like a truck camper?)
@@IowaKim Yes, there are removable jacks for each corner.
The Russo’s use the Airmaaxx fan to help close the soft shell. They set the fan to blow air out causing suction to help fold down.
Sean, thank you SO much for doing this
Thank you for the kind words.
Thanks for the informative video, I was curious about a few things and you answered them in your video.. nice to see perspective from someone who is actually using it..
Thank you!
Hey thanks man! Very much appreciate your real-world review.
Thank you!
Thank you , well done. Sean . Making that venture soon .
Thank you!
SO amazinfg seeing it parked in all of those beautiful settings!
Comprehensive, inclusive, well presented review. Thanks.👍
Thank you for the nice words!
Definitely some "Insider" info. Been wrestling with the larger flatbed model vs the slide in version. But, you cleared up alot of my Qs. Thanx 4 sharing, Ciao:)!
Thank you!
Thank you so much for your review fantastic ,great job and articulate covered everything I know what too look for great camper in my look for big foot.
Thank you!
Great review of the shell model. You make really good points for the benefits of this model. Stay warm! : )
Thank you!
You'll have some great memories with all those spectacular photos.
Thank you!
Nice review. I'm an older woman, and my friends tend to have big campers. I have a little retro, but want to go way simpler. I find I don't use the amenities that much and hate winterizing and fuss factor. These Four Wheel campers look great. My style is long distance travel, and anything light, nimble and streamlined is a big plus.
Thank you, these are a great option!
Break out your wallet.
Great review, nice setup! Looking into one for myself, long wait but I think it will be worth it.
Thanks! I think it was worth waiting for mine.
Great Review! Love your Tremor.
Thank you!!
Great, straight forward review! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you!
Looks like the way to go. great video.
Thank you!
I liked your review. Been thinking about maybe going this route so your thoughts are much appreciated.
Thank you!
Wow... great review... loved every minute of it. I have spent quite a bit of time in Vermont (my favorite state and favorite Americans... I even subscribe to VPR) being from Canada your winter experience with the camper is what I wanted to hear.
Thank you!
Excellent review. Good job with pros and cons.
Thank you
Appreciate all the info 👍🏼 I'm on the fence between different brands/styles and this really helped!
Thanks!
Great video. I have a 2017 F-150 crew cab with the 5.5 foot bed and now after your video I want to go with the Hawk rather than the Raven just leaving the tailgate down. I expect to get an F-250 in a couple of years and want the longer camper for that. Prior to your video I never considered the shell but now as far as I am concerned it is the only way to go. I noticed your NJ plates, I am also from NJ and glad to see that you get around to some very cool places. Being from NJ where is the dealer that you outfitted your rig. From the FWC website it seems that Pennsylvania is the nearest. Thank you for a very clear informative video. Looking forward to more of your actual adventures.
Thank you for the kind words! I used mainline overland in PA, I highly recommend them.
Great job Sean.
Thank you!
Thats an honest review thanks. Interesting to know about the water issues re door. As well the bed mattress. I'm just in the deciding phase for this brand ie creature comforts. I'm now think of the shell version. 🤙
Thanks!
A long time ago, late 90's, I had one and it was awesome. It was on a long bed F150 and I added air bags in the rear to level it out. It did push the CCC of the truck. It'll make you cry to say I got it used for $1500 and used it for two years and sold it for $2K; now it blows my mind how much they are. We're way past that type of camping in our lives and have a class A. But that camper started it all. They hold up great.
Wow, crying just a little! That's awesome, the Class A must be comfortable!
@@OnDirt yes, it’s nicer than the house!
Long time ago ,1990s lol, way things are going it does suddenly seem very long
You should add a disconnect switch for your camper batteries when you're camping and when you're traveling flip the switch so that your alternator will charge them up. Also you might look at an olympian heater that doesn't use up your batteries and doesn't need a blower motor.
Props to the ppl who can afford these. Damnnn expensive
Nice truck! Looks like a great combo!
Thank you!
We have the same rig for the same reasons. Here is one downside we never saw coming--and I'll never forget when it happened. We headed out, you know, "don't worry about it" re. where to stay. It was NOT prime time, but in the fall, when the kids are back in school--or at least, supposed to be. "We can pull over anywhere"---NOT. EVERY campground booked solid--OK, go to a Wallmart, right? Wrong, notices at the Walmart "WE WILL TOW YOU AWAY". Looked and called--and looked and called--then drove home ALL NIGHT. Don't go without reservations unless you know for a fact you can "stop anywhere". Last, we put in airbags--and that helped a lot, easy to do yourself and it leveled and kept level the load, even towing our small boat. Thanks for the great review--and ask that nice girl to marry you, if she is good enough to sleep with, she is good enough to make a commitment to. Trust "an old guy"
Yeah, we spend a lot of time in government lands with if necessary you can pull off anywhere. However, the northeast where we live has very few places like that so we follow your advice and get reservations.
Nice video and thanks for sharing. I really liked seeing how you use your shell model. Most people show their tricked out double the price model - which are nice but now everyone can spend that kind of money.
Thank you! I agree, they can certainly get up their in price when fully optioned.
There are some pluses to owning a FWC, I had one for two years, but it became a HASSLE to load and unload my kayaks everytime I raised the camper.... I went back to a Tent Trailer with off-road capabilities and I love that I have twice the room inside, can leave it in camp and still be able to use my truck...
I could see that being a pain, what tent trailer did you go with if you don’t mind me asking?
@@OnDirt Rockwood ESP 1640... It's the smallest tent trailer you can get that has huge clearance. I have taken all over Baja and Death Valley, even Titus Canyon. I've had it four years and probably 9k miles, I would guess at least 600 off road.
Excellent review.
thank you!
EPIC!
Great video. Thanks!
Thank you!
Great, informative video! Almost at 1k on the subs. We are working our way to that also. Keep up the content!
Thank you! Best of luck!
Really like this pop up camper
Thank you, it’s great!
So,you had leaks too ! I think your the 4th video I found, talking about leaks- sad…I wanted one !
just in the door though, it was a simple fix. I just think it should've been fixed when they made it.
VERY HELPFUL !
Thank you!
Good overview! THX
Thank you!
Picking mine up in April. Shell model, flat aluminum in khaki color with the dinette. 🤙🏼
Congrats! That khaki will look really sharp.
Well presented. 👍
Thank you for the kind words!
Nicely done
Thank you!
Nice job with the video!
Thank you!
Great video
Thank you!
I’m a long time motorcycle Adventure Rider. I’m 72 and have been camping off the bike all my adult life. I can’t see myself camping in a National park or KOA, I like to get into faraway places away from others. I have traveled to the Arctic Ocean 3 times and I’d like to do it in comfort next time. These pop up campers really appeal to me and I already have an F150. So, I’m on the hunt for a fair deal. Good video BTW.
Thank you. best of luck on your search!
Go get man !!! This life ain't no dress rehearsal !
Great video man. What you do for summer. Lets say you hoing somewhere hot and humid , dies jt have AC? Winter is ok because youncan dress up or put more blankets. My thing is I'm looking for something for work travel and inwould be popping it up and down daily because i would need to move from one job site to another daily. Does that pop up hold up or it start sagging ? How are thise hydrologics or whatever is holding it popped up?
I have a winnebago revel and still want one of these! Lol
Funny, because I'd add a winnebago to my driveway if I could too!
I like the 4WC, great design and I thought your review was fair and balanced. The one weakness of the soft top pop top is condensation. Every owner who travels full time or for extended periods all seem to complain about this issue. Depending on the severity of the weather it can almost be a liability. Another con is that you can't re-enter the cab without exiting the camper first. Overall a nice camper, sad to hear about how flimsy the door is. 4WC biggest pro is that its removable and that your truck will likely be factory 4x4.
Thank you, well said.
It’s amazing that in 2021 a high end camper has condensation issues. I camp in all four seasons and find this utterly unacceptable. $30-40k and no better than an inexpensive tent!
@Kelly Clyde If you use the fans, vents, or open the windows then I don't have any issues. If I close everything up and run the heat when its cold I will get some condensation, but I just wipe it down with a microfiber towel in the morning. I have never had an issue with mold or anything.
I use a synthetic chamois to wipe down the sides. Stores in it's tube and you wring it out in the sink. Opening an overhead vent helps too.
I noticed that FWC recently started offering a heavier thermal package for better insulation. If thicker interior insulation keeps the interior heat and exterior cold from meeting in that air gap between the inside and outside layers, this should stop or greatly reduce condensation.
Nice camper add on to the back of a pickup truck this is awesome what is the capacity of the wait for the Bed above you. And how many things can you plug into it and how does that work do you got to run the engine to make that work sometimes and things like that thank you so much.
Thanks, having been a cabinetmaker I realize built out cabinets with doors, drawers, and shelves loose a lot of useable space just in the structure. I look at a camper as a permanent “tent”. If I’m out camping I don’t expect all the comfort compared to being home. Shelves with plastic totes full of food, clothes, cooking stuff, are easy to store, change out, and clean. Maybe a tiny sink with a drain into a container, no pressurized water needed, Coleman stove works inside of out.
I’m out camping and plan on being outdoors, just need a safe, dry, warm place to sleep, get out of the elements, and lock my gear while out photographing.
Sounds like we had similar use cases! I’m thinking of getting a Dometic go water jug and facet to have a small and easy sink set up inside myself.
@@OnDirt sounds good, I could also get by with a plastic tub, a 5 gallon waste container, and a funnel.
Great, informative video! Is it difficult to climb up onto the bed? Haven't seen this addressed anywhere in text or video. Thanks
Thank you! I find it pretty easy myself when using something as a step, usually one of the sides. Sometimes I’ll put my yeti cooler on the floor and use that.
Sean.. great video and very helpful. Considering exactly the same setup (F250 7.3L) but need additional info. Need to store the truck and camper in garage given all the rain we get. Would it be possible to find out what the measurement is from the top of the camper (when collapsed) to the ground (hard surface) while on the truck? Also, what is the your payload capacity noted on the sticker in the driver’s door frame?
2949lbs payload, just shy of 96in tall with the camper on.
Would be cool if it could go in with the tailgate still on, but then the half door wouldn't work well
Froli plastic bed springs - light, comfy, air circulation
Might check that out to use later!
Hi Sean - great video - very informative. Did you consider a Tacoma with the Fleet Shell- a little more maneuverable and probably better mileage - also what are your thoughts about the Project M -compared to a shell model ? looks like you get more flexibility
Thank you! I didn’t really consider a mid size truck due to the towing requirements I have outside of camping. The project M looks awesome! I like having the weather sealing, insulation, and finish on mine as well as the ability to keep all of my camping gear contained in it when off the truck. If I planned on keeping something on the truck all of the time the project M would be nice.
good buy....all you really need is a bed to sleep in when camping.....and then like you said the rest can be used for hauling things around like a pickup
Thank you!
New orleans here!
Welcome
Nice!
Sounds great. I have an old pop-up TC mounted an 2000 F-250 ford diesel. Question? What heater are you referring to and what batt. will run it 8 hours?
My TC comes with a propane furnace built in and two 12v AGM batteries. I run the heat over night all the time in the winter, easily for 12 hours.
I am considering a Hawk shell for a custom build out and condensation is my #1 concern with soft-side popup campers. I was even considering an Alaskan camper just for their hard-side popup feature, but they don't offer a shell model and I don't particularly like their outdated styling and tech.
I’ve done a fair bit of winter camping, running the heater, and that’s the only time I get condensation. I just wipe it down with a microfiber cloth and I’ve never had mold issues.
Thanks for your video... great job & very helpful! Considering the same Hawk shell. Eventually, will upgrade to 3/4 ton truck, but for now want to get by with my Tundra. I'm a little considered about maxing out the weight, but it sounds like I can get by with maybe suspension improvement in back. Do you have to remove the extra foam on bed to close it up snug? Thanks!
I'm able to leave the foam with sheets and a comforter up their without issue. Theres probably about 4 inches of space for things above the stock FWC mattress. There are many people who use Tundra's with these no problem, just need to keep a close eye on how much you weigh it down with your stuff. Thank you for the kind words!
Save your money for a full size 3/4 ton truck. Your Tundra will bring a good price. Domestic trucks aren't moving that fast. They'll deal.
Very helpful. In Wisconsin, so similar climate. Question, would the top support a 40 lb kevlar canoe? Thx in advance.
Yes, it could support that canoe.
New sub here. Love the Tremor. Can you stealth camp in it. Basically sleep without popping the top
Welcome! Yes, it’s definitely doable. In my shell I would set up a cot or just put a pad right on the floor. In the built out versions you can convert the dinette to a bed.
期待有新的视频 加油❤❤
I was sure I was going to get this model, but then after finding out it takes a year or more to get this basic unit and that I believe they are not allowed in campgrounds in National Parks that have bears. I am now looking at a AWD Ford Transit if they ever start kicking those out. Thx
I definitely understand not wanting to wait that long. It was a 4-month wait for this camper when I bought mine It worked out for me that I ordered it while overseas as well, I felt like I was in less of a rush to get it. I could see if you frequent certain campgrounds with those restrictions how a hard-sided rig would be beneficial. Luckily I don't find myself want to visit those too much, I mainly stick to National Forest/BLM/State Parks. Good luck on the van! They look really sweet.
@@OnDirt I am not sure how it would work, but say you wanted to visit Yellowstone short term, I was thinking if you did not pop it up and make a temp bed below, maybe they will allow you into the campground? The bears tearing into the camper through the soft side is the dilemma. Keeping it down would be similar to having a shell, but you can't stand up while there. I thought about all of this and yes decided to trade in or sell my 4X4 for the awd van. Be safe
Really great setup man. Wouldn’t mind seeing a vid about the tremor and why you made the transition from a 1/2 ton. Looking forward to seeing more vids on your set up and adventures.
Thanks! I’ll get around to doing a video on the truck soon. I’ve really been enjoying the upgrade.
@@OnDirt I would love to see that video too!
Thanks for the video! This was really helpful. I am thinking of doing something similar with an F-150 and I was surprised to hear you felt you were out of payload with that. What engine did you have in the F-150? And if you don't mind, what kind of MPG were you getting with the FWC on it? and has that changed with the F-250?
Thanks!
Thank you! My particular F150 only had a 1430 lb payload, so when you started adding people and gear it was close to max. It was a 5.0 f150. I got about 10/11 in the f150 with camper on, about 12 on my new f250.
@@OnDirt Thanks for the info! I am looking at a 2,290lb payload F-150 so at least that will be better. I will have to think about that 11mpg. Cheers!!
@@d37tae nice! The newer f150s will probably do better than my 2011 did on fuel mileage.
Where do you put the kayak when hauling ??
Do you have the thermal pack and Fan-Tastic Fan installed? Any other factor options you wish you had installed? Nice review.
I don't have the thermal pack installed but I. do have a fantastic fan. Love having the fan. I'm considering a DIY thermal pack in the future, but so far I haven't had an issue staying warm or cool without it. The only option I wish I had was the king size bed.
Nice looking set up! I have a Tremor on order and a new Hawk sitting in the garage waiting for the Tremor to arrive. Did you need to add plywood or a thick mat on the floor of the truck bed to get the Hawk to clear the top of the bed rails and cab roof? Thanks!
Thank you! Congrats on the new truck. No, I did not need to do anything to get it to fit.
@@OnDirt Thanks good news, thank you.
Would agree with your conclusion this is perfect for dispersed camping and hardshell campers for campground. CGs are crowded and noisier now. I'd be real stressed hearing all the noise and music thru the vinyl popup when sleep.
I guess it depends on your personal tolerance. I’ve done a few campgrounds with the pop-up and only had a noise issue once. Of course, hard shell is way better for noise, probably especially so for someone more sensitive to noise. Overall I agree with your assessment.
It seems the body of the shell would outlast the fabric pop up many times over. Other than storing it clean and dry is there anything that could be done to increase it's longevity? Is replacing the fabric a DIY project?
Good video. Thanks.
Thank you! The vinyl fabric used is very durable when cleaned and treated with a vinyl cleaner. You can bring it in to the FWC to get it replaced, I'm sure you could DIY if your hand as well.
Nice video Sean. I have a 2020 Hawk on a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 with 6.5 ft bed, 5.3 engine, Firestone air bags in the rear. My Hawk is not the shell model, so when I’m fully loaded its pretty much at the truck’s limits. It does pretty well, I have to say, and I put it through it’s paces in Colorado and Utah. I didn’t want a HD pickup when I was doing all my camper research, but now I’m rethinking that. Ford offers a HD suspension for the F150, but I think it would still need tweaking. I love the way my truck drives, not so ‘truck-like’ most of the time. How does your F250 drive and handle compared to the F150? Fuel tank size? And have you done any mods to the truck? Thanks! See you out there.
Thanks! If you’re set ups working for you as is it is probably already good to go. I can empathize with your ride quality concerns. My f150 was a little more plush when traveling down the road. However, my f250 brake and handles far better with more power. I was mainly pushed to upgrade trucks when my older and high mileage f150 started giving me problems. Both my trucks had 32 gallon fuel tanks. So far, no mods to the f250. The tremor package gives me almost everything I could want. I may add a winch later but we’ll see. The new GMCs are really nice looking, happy camping!
@@OnDirt What engine did you F-150 have. Mine is V-8 4.6L .. I'm doubting mine could handle this.
@@jabberwocky1969 It was the 5.0 V8, it actually handled it very well power wise.
Better to get too much truck.
0:55 were these designed around the ford super duty? when i see these on other trucks it looks like there is a foot gap between the cab and the camper and quite a bit of space between the cabover portion. wondering if that creates any substantial drag from wind on the interstate?
I think the super duty has just grown that much over the years. When this camper was on my f150 there was definitely more gap and more drag. It was nothing I felt or heard while driving the f150, but it may have affected mileage.
For others in the comments asking if the tailgate needs to be removed, wouldn't it be possible to get a shell model that's a little bit shorter then the bed of your truck so you can still keep the tailgate on or do you think that would cause some issues if you were to relate it to your experience so far? The only one I can foresee as of right now would be that you're practically crawling into the shell vs stepping up into it with a little crouch duck as well as possibly rain puddling/snow piling up right outside the door.
Other folks have gotten slightly shorter models that allow you to close your tailgate, but they reduce the interior space by a lot and require a custom pad underneath to mount them in a full size truck. FWC designs these in a way to not use the tailgate. I find getting in and out with the small door to not be an issue because you’re going up and down on an angle, and using a step into the dirt is really no different with out without a tailgate.
@@OnDirt If you were in the camper with a tailgate and someone on the outside slammed your tailgate, how would you get out?
@@nathanpeacock9978 window
Aluminum ladder steps work well. I don't understand the logic of closed tailgates.
Hey Sean, just wondering if you are able to keep your sleeping stuff (pillows, blankets and sleeping bags) on the bed when you collapse the roof down? Or is there not enough space and you have to pack that stuff away?
I keep everything up there but the pillows.
Question: what is your mpg in the 250 and how did it compare with the 150 with your truck camper? Thank you, M
Im seeing about 11-12mpg in the F250 with the camper. The F150 got 10MPG with the camper on. Unloaded, my F250 gets about 13mpg while my F150 got about 18mpg. My F150 was a 2011, the newer models get considerably better mileage. At the end of the day, the F250 performs better under weight, it just matters how much or often you plan on doing that.
Honest Review! What about 'Wind 'buffeting' on the soft shell?..'Weight' of Empty Hawk shell (approx. cost with Heater)?..are you 'worried' about Mold/Mildew issue's?...worried about Propane Heater 'ON' while sleeping?...So you would Recommend at least a Ford 250 Truck?....Cheers And Safe Travels!
Thank you! I’ve camped in some very windy conditions and I have had zero issues with buffering. My shell weights about 1100 lbs (I’ll go check the paperwork when I get the chance). I wipe down dampness with a microfiber cloth and air it out whenever possible, I haven’t run into any mildew or mold issues doing that. I regularly run the heat all night, the camper has CO2 and smoke detectors. I think any truck with enough payload for your needs is ok. A lot of newer f150s have 2000lb or more payloads and would probably work for most people. For me, having the flexibility to weigh the camper down and still have payload for tongue weight of a trailer pushed me towards an f250.
for rooftop solar glue down extra flexible panels - no frames, super light, take no space other than the panel connector
I'll check it out
They don't last check out Will Prowe utube.
cool video! So whats the buildout you want to do thats at the top of the list?
Ive been running a few different prototypes of a couch/bench, also looking to add a solar system!
Thanks for the video. Do you know how much weight it is when it’s fully loaded? I’m still not sure if even a shell model would be light enough for our Tacoma when loaded, just trying to figure out if we need to go with the project M. Thanks
My Hawk shell is about 1100 lbs, that number varies based on model size (one for a tacoma would be a little smaller) and what options you put in your shell. If you reached out to 4WC directly, they would be able to compare camper weights based on what options that you wanted for you.
I went on their website last night and was able to build one by adding options and the site added up the total cost and weight each time I added something. That helped me get an idea, so perhaps it'll help you as well.
Question: will there be any mold issues on the vinyl pop up siding due to rain or moisture?
Fortunately I have yet to have any mold issues. I try to make sure to wipe things down and store it dry.
I really like your jacket.
Mind posting a link?
Thank you! Unfortunately, I don't believe it is sold anymore. I purchased the jacket from LL Bean about 10 years ago. I couldn't find anything close to it on their website currently. Sorry!
Do you have a problem taking it off the Tremor? Do the bolt on legs reach the ground, in order to drive out from under it? I have that same truck, and am interested in getting that camper, but I would need to take it off from time to time.
I have the bolt on legs for raising it on and off the truck. The truck just fits under it when raised all the way up and just in between the legs, without modification. If you wanted a little more wiggle room, they make extension plates to widen the space between the legs and you can add blocks to the bottom of the feet. Myself, I just use it as it comes from FWC because if it fits then you know you are already lined up perfectly for the camper.
Thanks for posting.
At the price, I think a little more attention to that door issue is in order.
It's only kinda/sorta 150/1500 series compatible. My Ram 1500 ecodiesel has a 1,270lb payload, and these things start at 1100 lbs dry, so there's not much payload left to outfit within the manufacturer's stated max payload. And yes, I realize most people largely ignore those ratings.
Thank you! You're right about keeping an eye on the half-ton payloads. My f150's was 1460lb, but there are a lot of new ones that have payloads over 2000lbs that would be much better.
Sadly, the only half ton we’ve been able to find with decent payload is certain F150 builds at 2000+ lbs. Was super disappointed to learn how low the payload is on the RAM ecodiesel.
@@travis5481 I agree, some of these half tons actually don't have that much payload at all. The diesel chevy 1500 originally looked awesome to me, except for the mid-size truck payload it comes with.
NIce to see the base model. I spec'd one out and it went above $50K which is insane. Now I am thinking of the base shell, rip out the interior and completely build it out myself - including solar. What is the length between the door and the wall below the bed at all?
The shell definitely leaves some room for creativity. I’ll measure mine the next time I’m in it.
Check out project M
The floor of my camper measured 76 inches long on the inside.
Was it necessary to remove the tailgate on the 250, or was it because you like the setup without it?
Four Wheel Camper recommends removing the tailgate, so I did. I don't think it would fit shut with the camper in, which would mean it could swing into the camper and maybe damage it.
We want to see how you store it and all that in a video
I'll put something together soon. I store mine in a storage unit when it is not on the truck.
@@OnDirt yes but what do you put it on top of or do you just sit it on the bare ground . And where did u get that item or how did u make it ? No videos on UA-cam show that info
@@jonny_mazerati9410 I store it on the jack stands it comes with, top popped up. I don't put it on anything when stored, the stands seem good enough. I just don't walk inside the camper when it is on jack stands. I made a wooden dolly with wheels to move it around on.
@@OnDirt yeah so u made a dolly that’s what I meant
Sean, can you tell me a bit more about the difference between carrying the hawk shell on an f150 vs f250? This is critical info, as this year i'll replace my old f150, and i'm trying to decide if i should buy another f150 or go to an f250, given that i'm buying a hawk shell. Any insight is appreciate, thx.
For me, the F250 handled the weight much better than my old F150. However, the newer f150s that are optioned to come in around 2000lbs of payload would carry a hawk shell well. My f250 rides very rough without the camper in and gets worse gas mileage than a newer f150. I went with the f250 so I could tow a trailer and have a camper in at the same time with ease, I own horses. Hope that helps!
How do you like your Costway cooler? How many quarts is it? Just took delivery of my Four Wheel Camper shell and working on getting it kitted out
It’s ok, definitely does the job. It’s 55 quarts and doesn’t use much power, hasn’t failed yet. Only thing I noticed is there is a pretty good temp swing in the cooler. I have to set it for about 36 degrees and it’ll end up chilling down to about 32 and up to 40 before it kicks on again. If I had the money for a Dometic, ARB, etc. I probably would have went with one of those. Congrats on the new camper!
Do you regret not getting a loaded four wheel camper hawk now that you have more payload? Features such as a dinette or hot water?
I don't regret it myself, I like having the room to load it out how I want to. I plan on building out the interior a little to my own custom layout, but overall I appreciate the extra space. That's not to say the loaded ones are super nice!
Thanks for sharing.
At 13k those are too expensive.
Did you consider installing a diesel heater yourself instead of choosing the propane heater option from four wheel campers? I am planning to travel abroad and the fittings we use in the USA may not be the same, and recharging may be a problem.
I didn't at the time because I wasn't really aware it was an option. Now, I would probably have gone diesel heater from the start.
@@OnDirtWhy would you make the switch to diesel?
Do users of this type camper ever modify side window to temp install a window type AC unit? Or, what do folks do for cooling if they need this kind of unit?
From factory you can get an AC for the small window in the rear next to the door. Some folks have put a AC in the side window. Both need shore power to run.
@@OnDirt Your info is much appreciated.
do you have and issues with the soft sides on the pop up. I.e. noise, wind, ect. i really like the idea of the camper but its a lot of money for a camper with soft sides
I personally haven’t an issue with noise. I don’t look at as how much you get for your money, more if you prefer a quieter/better insulated hard side vs a lighter and far smaller foot print popup. Mine has been quiet and warm enough for me so far!
Nice camper. I like the truck too.
Thank you!
How about the rain outside during the night? Did you hear the sound? Another question,is the heating system and cooling system,how it works?
You will hear when it rains on the metal roof, fortunately we like the sound. This camper has a propane furnace for heat, no air conditioning. However, you may add an air conditioner when purchasing if you wish.
@@OnDirt thanks for your reply. Another question,you choose F 250 from prior F150,but someone else use Toyota Tacoma, which is pretty lighter compared with yours. What's the point in your choice?
@@jamesyu8183 I wanted the extra payload capacity the F250 has compared to a tacoma, or even an f150 for that matter. If I did not need the payload because of my caper, I might have considered a lighter truck like a tacoma or ranger.
I have an 2021 F250 Tremor. Does the tail gate has to be removed? I like to keep the rear view camera and the ability to use the steps.
FWC recommends you remove the tailgate. It would certainly need to be in the down position to fit the camper, so you would not be able to use the camera anyways. I've purchased a replacement camera to solve this.
@@OnDirtWith the replacement camera, can you see it on the stock tremor radio/screen, or do you need a separate screen to view it?
how do you charge cell phone and ipad?,,just with your 2 batteries and usb ports,,or do you charge whilst driving from your truck cab ports??
I will charge electronics in the truck if I’m driving. If not I’ll use the USB in the camper and sometimes plug in a 12v inverter to the cigarette lighter in the camper if I need to charge my lap top. The two batteries have been sufficient for my needs.
@@OnDirt copy thx,,
Thanks for the review. What did this 'bare-bones'...I'll call it...cost?
You can build yours out on the FWC website to see the exact cost for your build (and they increase in price every year). This one was about 13k
Do you find that the F-250 SuperDuty restricts your movement, maneuverability, etc. over the F150? Was the extra length, payload, etc worth the trade-off for you? Any regrets?
It is definitely a little harder to fit places than my Supercab f150. That being said, I’m happy with the additional cab space and don’t mine the sacrifice. If I knew I was doing a lot of tight trails, I would probably opt for a medium size truck all together.
@@OnDirt Thanks for the reply. I was thinking more around urban areas, driving, parking, etc, particularly in the northeastern part of the U.S. I agree, if, for trails, a Tacoma is much preferred.
@@PS987654321PS I live in NJ and I don't find it to be overly restrictive in town or the city. I can't fit into a lot of garages but I fit in most spaces. Luckily, its no wider or longer than most of the maintenance or work trucks you'll see in the city.
Where did you purchase the Hawk. Is there a dealer in New Hampshire?
I got mine at mainline overland in Pa, but they also have a dealer in NH