Another variation of my solution:. They make a brass 90 degree hose fitting. Screw it into your outlet and leave a short piece of hose running down the side of the camper. This could be secured with clamps and high bond tape from 3M
You know if you had a pull-out hose that screwed into the side of the camper, you wouldn't need the extra piece. Just unlatch / unscrew it and hang it down or put into the grey water tank. Shove it back in and relatch / screw in when done.
At 9000lbs, you’re not only 2k over your gross weight rating, you’re also well over your axle ratings. Front axle is rated for 4K lbs; rear is rated for 4150. Seems lots of people overload their Tundras without issue, but being over GAWR full time would lead me to suspect bearing failures at some point in the future. Toyota seems to rate these very conservatively, but you still have a semi-floating (read: not heavy duty) rear axle with waaay more weight than it’s rated for. Curious how this works out over time. Beautiful rig regardless.
Wow. You guys are total professional reviewers. Well composed, well lighted, quality vid, in focus, well spoken. Perfect. As a professional photographer myself, and contemplating a pop-up set up similar for my wife and I, I really appreciate your efforts here. Good beta and perfectly filmed.
Awesome!! 4WC is building my Flatbed Camper up now and is installing their very first Redarc Manager 30 system for power management!! I asked them and they said yes!! Cant wait to get it on the road! Hope to see you out there!
This is a dream for so many people. But yet, on a few have the balls to take action in this direction. Most of us are trapped in the Hamster wheel of the concrete jungles and screens.
@videobenji I would be really interested in hearing more about this side of the story. I've always suspected a lot of people who choose this alternate lifestyle with a plan to do it long term, indefinitely or even for 5 years end up changing their mind on how fun or fulfilling or interesting or economical it really is after a year or two. Although I too am seduced by channels like this one (and I think these guys are 100% authentic about their preference to be doing exactly what they are doing now) I wonder if the formula for the majority drawn to these vids is something closer to a 1 or 2 year adventure and then sell the expensive full timing rig, go back to a home/apt. base and simultaneously build out an old used mini-van for shorter road/camping trips with the economy of a used purchase price, good mpg and simplified rig build out. Do you have any more in-depth thoughts or a blog about your comment above?..same question to BoundForNoWhere if you are reading this or anyone else? I think I would like to do this and I will do this in some form be it a Van or 4x4Camper. I'd probably do a year of travel in North America to get experience and the rig dialed in and confidence built in both my abilities and the rig's, and then a year traveling through Central and South America. I could not afford the platform these guys are using so I appreciated their comments on maybe doing this on a 1st Gen Tundra to save costs. I'd also want to buy the camper and fitting out with the strategy of least depreciation so after a two year adventure, I would minimize the difference between what I spent to acquire everything and what I was able to sell it all for 2 years later. With good planning, some of the expensive stuff (equipment) bought for the rig could be re-used in the mini-van build later. Any comments or strategies or blogs/vids that relate to this idea would also be appreciated. Thanks to "Bound For NoWhere" for continuing to inspire us who are in the dreaming and planning stages.
You defiantly went in the right direction buying the Tundra. I have a 2017 Tacoma , it is so underpowered and the fuel economy with a camper on the back would be much worse than your Tundra .
Just have a plumber braze a nice brass or copper line on the outside with a few clamps and you will have a permanent drain. You can clamp and unscrew it if you decide to change it when removing the camper from tray.
Hi Mak just a idea for your sink drain. Use a 90° hose fitting, and run it down the side of the camper. To Secure it to the camper use a double sided tape fastener to the side of the camper it would not hurt to finish and easy to remove if you had to. .
Late to the party but wanted to comment on your choice of rig. I don't think there is a more reliable truck out there than the Tundra. You will only have to spend money on oil changes and brake jobs and those might be covered under your warranty. My husband just sold his 2012 which he drove on construction sites every day. Everyone else at work had Fords and Chevys and were constantly having issues with this and that, mostly little stupid things that you wouldn't expect to have troubles with on a brand new truck. While it might not have the best fuel efficiency it is the most reliable and comfortable ride out there and I think you will be very happy together on the road!
Thank you for the great review! Now that it’s been a couple of years, could you do a specific review of the indoor shower (Pro & cons and any modifications you’ve made to it)? Has it caused any moisture damage to your finishes? I’m considering a FWC Fleet slide-in with the the expensive indoor shower option and want to make sure it’s right for us. Love your high quality videos!
Very nice rig! I'm looking at the Woolrich Hawk version! Everyone should know that as soon as you modify any vehicle you will potentially loose warranty options and your insurance will not insure certain upgrades/changes or charge radical upcharges to your policy.
Just got done watching your review! Sounds like things are going well overall. Suggestion on the gray water that may make your lives a little easier. Stop by a local hardware store, Lowe’s or Home Depot, pick up two 90 degree hose fittings with barbed ends, one garden hose style and the other pipe thread (I assume that’s what they use for the gray tank on the tray), a length of hose and a few hose clamps. Add a mounting clamp in the middle to help it keep close to the camper (you could use a screw from the back side of the furnace, away from the exhaust, so you don’t have to drill any holes) You can have a semi permanent fix that will hug close to the body of the camper yet allow you to not have to go through that step every single time. 😊
The payload for those trucks is about 2k max. Which is probably what that camper is with all gear and fluids. Anytime the truck is pulling a load or has a payload it’s recommended from Toyota to increase engine response, maintain lower gears longer down and up step grades and slight engine breaking when available.
Appreciate the insight. Am on our 2nd build. First one is one 2000 taco xtracab 4 cylinder and second one is 2003 taco doublecab.v6. Only real negatives are less space and payload capacity which mention. The smaller footprint won out. Maybe a fullsize truck in the future... ot maybe not. Time will tell
I also like the small footprint of my 06 Tacoma and our home made sit down only truck camper. Payload at 1200 lbs is enough but found out that the 4 cyl. model 2017 has a payload of 1500 # in 2 wheel version. So toying with the idea of going rear wheel drive with a rear diff lock to save on gas when not carrying the camper. Or maybe not as we use it to camp in the winter on remote snowy roads. 4wheel on your truck?
@@marcpikas2859 - both are 4x2. The 2003 taco v6 has electronic rear locker. I am considering a limit slip diff to replace the oem open diff on the 2000 taco 4 cylinder. That being said. We dont rock climb etc. Also, with winch and other self-recover equip are pretty comfortable off pavement
One day you should set up a separate gray water system for the shower with a ultraviolet and filter system because you can have almost unlimited time in the shower off of 3 gallons of water. You can get the filter and ultraviolet stuff on amazon for under $200 and you can just use your existing gray water tank because it’ll filter and sanitize everything in it for shower water etc.
You are actually doing very well on gas millage all things considered. The Tundra is really only out performed by certain Special edition trucks built with the express purpose of Off-roading. Given your set up, I would not doubt that trucks ability to pull another 8k LBS more on a trailer, that is me assuming the camper is about 2k. The newer Tundras also corrected issues that the old tundras had, such as the Drive train being able pull a LOT more than the frame was capable of pulling. There stands a decent possibility a first gen Tundra would have had worse mileage with a smaller camper than your current gen. Good job!.
I am Jeff, Melinda's husband. She brought my attention to this video. I own a 2016 Tundra SR5 4 door, same configuration as yours. We chose this over the TACOMA because of headroom, side to side room, and drivability (sp). I gave the final word to my wife who drove both and said TUNDRA ( she has a 2018 Highlander) . I look for three things in a truck: 1. Utility 2. Durability 3. Reliability The TUNDRA paint is very thin ( by actual electronic measurement) and very brittle The seats stain with pure water The plastic interior bits are "delicate" The rear bumper is extremely fragile, 2 mile per hour collision.. $3800. Hit and run driver in a parking lot. Serious violent shuddering throughout the vehicle immediately following a 30K mile service. resolved only by my insistence of intervention by Toyota USA. Useless heater. Cannot shut off heat to the dash and the upper cabin will burn you out before the floor heat warms you up which is anemic at best. Contacted the factory about this, met with a field rep (useless parrot) "they all do that",.Correct and it is a design flaw, that is my point. The vehicle is unnecessarily large, but the TACOMA is way too small and no headroom . After 40K miles I have averaged 17.1 miles per gallon with minimal off-road. Would I buy one again.? Maybe, but, it would be a solid, non metallic, color as the paint is 40% thicker by actual measurement. It would be a LIMITED where the heater functions correctly and has dual controls, and the interior has better quality materials. This vehicle is typical of American auto construction. Substandard when compared with EURO or Japanese construction. I might opt for another 4 RUNNER as they are made in JAPAN. We have owned 12 Toyotas since the 70s, the Tundra is our least favorite. My favorite was my 1982 long bed, base, 5 speed, 4X4 truck and currently it is my 2000 Gen 3 ( the best of the bunch) 4 Runner SR5 5 Speed which I still own. It has 225K miles and looks and drives like new. I "like" the TUNDRA, I "love" the 4 Runner as does my wife. She was the original owner, I bought it from her when she bought the HIGHLANDER. High Blue Book no less ! I have hesitated modding or putting any money into the TUNDRA in hopes that Toyota would wake up and make a truck the size of the GEN 1 Tundra with the newer engine and real, genuine bumpers and real paint and stout interiors and fabrics. Are they serious a 5 lug hub, 5 lugs? That is a passenger car. I did not notice this until abut 10K miles and that alone would have been a deal breaker. The 4 Runner is a 6 lug as is the TACOMA. Just a small indicator. If I do not buy a new 4Runner I may treat the TUNDRA to a proper set of bumpers, winch, seat covers, and possibly a camper... we'll see... but I doubt it.. just don't see throwing money at this rig. Best of luck, enjoyable videos. Get a hose quick disconnect coupler, makes life easy. Full disclosure, Over 25 years in the auto biz. 11 years retail: 4 Years with a Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Jaguar dealership. 4 years a s service manager of a Mazda/Honda dealership. 1 year SAAB/VOLVO dealership and 2 years independent British auto service shop. . 1 year as parts and service director for a 7 dealership conglomerate to include a TOYOTA dealership. (not in that order) 14 years manufacturers: 7 years working for Euro high line makers ( M-B, Volvo, BMW) as a District Manager ( field rep and also national training manager) 7 years with Mazda Motors of America as District Manager, Nor Cal, Nevada, Utah. (not in that order) Edit: Did I mention I have owned 129 cars and trucks? Not to include dealer and factory demos totaling another 60 units ?
@@w0nt0nj0n I have heard great things about them. Before I do that, I am going to spend some time and money on my 2000 4 Runner. I really want to like the TUNDRA..but to date it is disappointing. Others find them acceptable. I'm just not there. For a full time overlander/car camper/truck camper. Could be the right unit. But I am not a full timer and I go to some tight places with my 4 Runner where the TUNDRA would get bush pin striped if not simply too tight for anything else larger than the 4Rnnr . The Tundra can carry the weight.. which is perfect for "Bound For Nowhere's" usage. Seems Ideal. My background is Land Rovers, real ones, not the yuppie crowd Range Rovers etc.. rolling cupholders. 58, 61, 64, 67, 109 NADA (very rare 6 cyl), and a 74. There is nothing better than a genuine pre 75 Land Rover;pPossibly excepting the Land Rovers that don't come to the US. If I offed my POS 96 Dodge and my 4Rnnr, and my Tundra I could easily import and outfit an HDJ81.
@@ChilaquilesDF The Powerwagon is a 3/4 ton pickup with a reduced payload capacity of about 1800 lbs, like a 1/2 ton would have. A Hemi Ram Crewcab 4wd 2500 4wd has about a 3300 lb payload capacity. A diesel Ram 2500 Tradesman Crewcab 4wd can have a 2500 lb payload. Which is what my wife has, with her beast of a Cummins powered truck. An F350, Ram 3500, or a GM 3500 has even greater payload capacity. Typically 4300 lbs or more. So is your comment based on the extra weight capacity or extra stability of the stiffer suspension?
lol it's a 5.7 V8 that was released in 2007 and the front of the truck is a brick wall, what do you expect? I have a 2020 and that disadvantage is so worth it. Love these trucks
Absolutely killer! As someone who is about embark on a similar vanlife journey who also specializes in freelance.. It seems you all enjoy having the Tundra for it's 4x4 off road capabilities to get you to some remote places. I want to be able edit comfortably on the road and off the grid. 2 questions: how do you manage power supply (in this video you mentioned the fridge taking most of the power) and do you have a comfortable work station or do you just design/work in coffee shops? Thanks so much and keep adventuring, cheers!
We nearly work from the rig 100% of the time. It is amazing comfortable for that. We use those 2 100ah lithium batteries as well as our 3 solar panels (2 on the roof, 1 that is portable) to power them. We went with this rig because it's comfortable for our work life
Great video as usual. There are trade offs to every adventure vehicle, not the least of which is price. While your current setup is near the top, #1 in my opinion is a 170 4x4 Sprinter from Sportsmobile or Outside Van or a 144 from Storyteller Overland. Having said that, for the money I think a full size 4x4 truck with a Lance 650 truck camper is the best compromise (price, capability, amenities, etc). Also, Owen hit the lotto with you...
I completely agree with you, however my only concern with the Lance and other hard sided truck campers is that they can make your vehicle really top heavy. But that's just our opinion. And thank you, that is very generous of you to say!
About inclimate weather... how much snow have you had overnight before cleaning the top of the pop-up? Seems like Alaskan might be better for snow campers... any thoughts?
Have you considered a semi-permanent gray water line on the outside of the camper using pvc? Seems like it would be pretty easy, but you might want to take it off for right off road trails...still might be kinda nice to just always be able to use the sink without hooking up the hose.
That's an awesome rig! Pro: Your new Tundra has warranty has many more off road upgrades available than the first gen. I thought about getting a new truck, then reconsidered when I checked the GVWR. I'd be swapping a lighter truck for a heavier truck with no added net carrying capacity. My '06 Tundra DC 4x4 gets 14-15mpg with the 4.7L but she's maxed with a FWC Hawk slide in. For now I'm happy with no truck payment.
Thank you so much for this rig review, Ive been contemplating switching from my self build 4x4 sprinter. You've given me heaps of ideas... couple questions, Are you able to set up and sleep in dinette with top down on those occasions your not wanting or able to set up? Also instead of a ladder to get boards down would the steps on side that four wheeler offer be adequate? This isn't the only video you have inspired us with, your vid on storage using cubes has been a life changer, keep em coming.. Cheers
Thank you for this review. I'm considering the Four Wheel Camper after my retirement. One of the major considerations is the truck. Your review of the Tundra was very illuminating. Again Thank you, I've 'Liked' and "subscribed" and I look forward your future posts.
Toothpaste does not damage an auto finish directly. However, toothpaste (not the gel type) is a very mild abrasive, so I guess it could scratch the paint IF you rub it. But it’s not going to damage your paint, because if it were that harsh, the FDA wouldn’t approve it for human use.
You mentioned at the beginning of the video that there was a link that gave the modifications you had to do to the Tundra to be able to carry the FWC. I would be interested to learn what suspension/tire mods you had to do in order to carry the weight of the camper. The link you gave was to a Day in the Life of the camper, but no mods info (although that was an awesome camping location). Could you point me to the suspension mods video, if you have one? Thanks!
This may be already suggested for your sink drain issue. But if you were to get clear 3M protective film (same stuff they put on the front of new cars to protect against rock chips and salt) on the area that gets wet with the sink it would protect the finish. It's a cheap alternative and won't effect the look of your rig. Hope it helps!
I’ve never been a fan of buying somebody’s cast off vehicles and I usually keep mine until they really start costing me $$$. Now that you’ve bitten the bullet and bought your new truck, hang onto it. You shouldn’t ever regret it. After a couple of years it will feel like an old friend
I recommend a back seat delete. Its just 2 of you and a cat. Do not need those seats back there and you can organize a lot more things back there than what you current have. Just a thought.
First off, got my patch I ordered so THANKS!! Next, I have a Tacoma and the descion to go with the Tundra is/was a good one. With all the additions you did the Taco would be in the 12-14MPG range if you are lucky and you would have sacrificed A LOT of storage and room. I am looking to jump to an SR5 Tundra soon. Love the Taco but want more room and power with a full size bed....oh and my kids are 6ft tall! Be safe!
Naw, they would be in the 5-8mpg range. With skidplates, 33" tires, and a roof top tent, I'm at 16mpg freeway if I stay under 65MPH, 13MPG at 70-75MPH; and 11MPG city. Part of this might be winter blend gas, so maybe 1-2MPG better in the summer. Tacomas are not gas efficient at all, especially considering how weak the engine is. That said, when everything was stock and less than 300lbs of gear+me, I did get 24MPG while doing 60MPH for a 40 mile stretch.
Hi, thanks for your fantastic videos. I have a naive question. I live in Switzerland and thinking about shipping my 4x4 camper over to the US. I would like to do off-road tours like you do. One thing I was curious when researching a bit more is dumping grey water. I am autonomous for about a week except that I don't have a large grey water capacity. It seems not so easy to dump grey water I the US - usually in RV parks and this seems expensive. In Europe you have a lot of free dump stations everywhere. Any recommendation how you deal with that? Your get water tank looks pretty small as well. Thanks for your help.
Love your rig and videos ... I have to ask though, you kind have had me confused at the whole piece around "warranty" on your Tundra. I can't imagine Toyota will warranty anything on your Tundra after you ripped it apart and made significant modifications. Have they confirmed otherwise?
No motor vehicle manufacturer can void your warranty across the board for upgrades done. They can only void warranty coverage on specific items that fail where they can show the modification (the new part or the installation of that part) played a direct role in the failure of the effected part or system. If you put on after market suspension but make a warranty claim on peeling paint on your hood, those two things are unrelated and Toyota cannot deny the claim assuming the peeling paint is a manufacturer defect. Of course it gets trickier when comparing two mechanical items with close proximity or when part of a system so having some expertise to defend your warranty claim is essential.
Tim Hardman yes I know that .. however, they pretty left the hood of this Tundra untouched lol.. pretty easy if you ask me for Toyota to take the easy way out and deny a warranty claim on this rig since some of the most vital components were modified, not to mention the entire ride physics and weight.
@@mikec3454 Mike, I have some direct experience in this "warranty game" with OEM's (Original Equipment Manufacturer). I'm just writing to help educate others who may believe your original comment verbatim that uses the word "anything" when you wrote - "I can't imagine Toyota will warranty anything"...after the mods. It all depends upon the relationship between the mod and the failed OEM part. If there is a real, causal relationship between the mod and the failed OEM part, the warranty responsibilities of the OEM are not enforceable and the OEM will defend it. If they don't defend it, it could set precedence for additional liability in the future when others make claims for similar failures of parts in similar circumstances. Unfortunately, the consumer often has the burden of proof which means they might have to spend a lot of TIME and MONEY in the form of a lawyer, plus expert witness to get the claim paid. The dollar amount of the claim may end up being small compared to the cost of winning a court battle. The lawyers that a major corporation retains for liability litigation as well as the competency of their expert witnesses in both knowledge and experience in presenting facts in a manner favorable to their client is tough to win against. It is bad publicity however which has a real and negative monetary impact for an OEM to fight in court with it's customers for legitimate claims. The OEM is not looking for ways to screw the customer but it will not tolerate taking financial responsibility for a problem that a customer caused.
@@timhardman4764 Not really... I had a bumper to bumper unlimited mileage warranty($6000) on my Duramax and when my water pump(297,000 miles) needed replacement they declined the warranty due to the fact that I had added Cold Air Intake. It was their way of getting out of doing any more repairs to my vehicle. Extended warranty companies are major ripoffs. Better to just put money away for repairs that need to take place after the factory warranty is up.
@@toddhoffmaster6057 My comments and experience relate only to OEM warranties. After market warranties are typically full of loop holes and profits and not much coverage, I'd never buy one.
I was really hoping to see in the "Changes", the elimination of the roof rack over the solar panels. The shadows from the rack are going to be a constant hit on the amount of solar you can harvest. Just a small amount of shadow can affect the entire panel.
A one-way Diode attached to the positive wire in the Junction Box on the Solar Panel itself will eliminate the decrease in power produced by the Solar Panels in the shade.
James Lamb, Shade on any cell in a panel will greatly diminish the entire panel. The only way a diode in the junction box helps, is If you have two panels wired in parallel. It will keep a single shaded panel from bringing down its neighbor panel. If the two panels are in series, it wont help at all. If two panels in parallel both have shaded cells, it wont help at all.
Love Tundras but boy do they drink the gas. Their frame strength and 12" ring gear are no joke. Just a rotor is massive. They are truly built to be used and abused.
haha you got that right! Recently Owen and I did some super spicy off-roading in the camper and it was so amazing what that thing could do in those conditions even with our camper on! Gosh I love it so much!
I have a cheap solution for your grey water plumbing issue. Leave your house attached and cut it 2 inches long or so. Go Tina hardware store and get brass male and female hose ends OR you can get brass quick connects. When you are not using the tank it will act like a gutter and direct the falling water away from the camper side. When you use your tank. Screw the rest of the house on or quick connect down to your tank. The only issue would be if the wind is blowing it may blow It on your camper. What do you think???
I'll look forward to a video update. Any other problems for.me to solve? I love this stuff. BTW I have a 1 ton GMC with a large Northstar igloo camper and I was shocked to see that I get 1-2 mpg less than you do. Now I don't feel so bad about my mileage.
Last winter in Mexico I ran into a woman in her 80's who was living in a very similar setup, the same poptop camper unit, and I was really impressed with how easily she was able to get it up and down and how nice it was inside. Been traveling in my 82 Westy but planning my long term next rig, and headed towards the same solution. Thanks for the info.
Great video and very good overview at the end especially the negatives. As for the electrical setup and FWC reaching out to you after you had to do all the mods to get 110V off shore power ... You seem to think that was generous of them... on the contrary...that information saves them engineering costs... I hope they paid for the information you provided. Great video...
Tundra’s are great trucks but the MPG is awful. I get 10 towing, about 14.5 just the truck. You’ll be glad you got the extended warranty, if it is through Toyota they will stand by it. I got the 6 year 100,000 mile warranty. I would like to see a video on what the truck, the mods and the camper cost if your willing.
Hey there! Yes we're thinking that we will do a video like that in the new year covering all the edits to the truck as well as all the edits that we've done to it since being on the road with it!
Got so pumped when you mentioned first gen tundras!!!! Yas!!! That’s what I went with. Definitely not the same caliper build as this but has been such a fun project. See ya on the ol dusty trail!
Great Video as usual. Is there any reliable data out there on how much the "pop top" feature saves in MPG ? I'm wondering how many miles one would have to drive to break even with the dollars saved due to the better mileage.
That is a great question that I honestly don't know the answer to. I will say in the end it was more important for us to not be tall in tight areas where tree coverage can be a little limiting!
I don't think that you would want to take a full size camper on the trails vs. the pop top style. It is much nicer to not have to worry about height limits on the road and off the road.
I'm thinking on a similar set up on a Tundra and am concerned on how packing the weight may cause steering and suspension components to wear prematurely, what's the current mileage on your Tundra and have you had to do any chassis or suspension work regardless of warranty or have you had any repairs at all, again regardless of warranty. Thanks in advance.
Interesting. I pull a Scamp 16 footer and every so often think about going to a popup. I like the concept. But every time I hear someone talk about their popup I take the prospect of buying one less seriously. Because, the primary reason for my going to a popup would be fuel mileage. And popups always disappoint me. Pulling my Scamp with my 4 cylinder 97 Taco I got in the high teens/low 20's and went almost anywhere. With my 2010 Taco I get 13 - 15 mpg. So probably no savings by going to a popup there - in this case that Tundra is getting only 11 - 12. Pulling a trailer limits the types of roads I can travel but for years I've been wall tent camping or small tent camping so I'm used to and enjoy setting up a camp and working out from there in my 4 x 4. So no beneficial difference there. Looks like again I'll be pulling my Scamp. See you in Wyoming, Montana, or BC folks. I'll be the guy pulling the Scamp on the highway or the guy driving the 2010 Taco getting 15-20 mpg on dirt or gravel back roads.
Are you happy with the fit, finish, and durability of the 4 Wheel camper? As far as drawers, counter tops , movable parts etc? Is it what you expected?
OK, 2007 Tundra owner here (crew cab, a pickup bed, and the big engine) is this what you are calling a 1st gen Tundra? And, do you mean the pickup chassis can be retrofitted with one of the available flatbed decks for camper installation?
A company as old as Four Wheel that sets up their camper for glampimg only, on shore power, explains why they charge so much. That's their customer base.
Another variation of my solution:. They make a brass 90 degree hose fitting. Screw it into your outlet and leave a short piece of hose running down the side of the camper. This could be secured with clamps and high bond tape from 3M
You know if you had a pull-out hose that screwed into the side of the camper, you wouldn't need the extra piece. Just unlatch / unscrew it and hang it down or put into the grey water tank. Shove it back in and relatch / screw in when done.
One of the most reliable vehicles on the planet, great choice!
At 9000lbs, you’re not only 2k over your gross weight rating, you’re also well over your axle ratings. Front axle is rated for 4K lbs; rear is rated for 4150. Seems lots of people overload their Tundras without issue, but being over GAWR full time would lead me to suspect bearing failures at some point in the future. Toyota seems to rate these very conservatively, but you still have a semi-floating (read: not heavy duty) rear axle with waaay more weight than it’s rated for. Curious how this works out over time. Beautiful rig regardless.
Wow. You guys are total professional reviewers. Well composed, well lighted, quality vid, in focus, well spoken. Perfect. As a professional photographer myself, and contemplating a pop-up set up similar for my wife and I, I really appreciate your efforts here. Good beta and perfectly filmed.
Awesome!! 4WC is building my Flatbed Camper up now and is installing their very first Redarc Manager 30 system for power management!! I asked them and they said yes!! Cant wait to get it on the road! Hope to see you out there!
Thats amazing! You're going to love it so much!
If your looking for more space remove the seat in the crew cab. It's a simple project to build a cabinet with slide out drawers.
Thats where we store some things and our cat while we're driving
This is a dream for so many people. But yet, on a few have the balls to take action in this direction. Most of us are trapped in the Hamster wheel of the concrete jungles and screens.
If I could give the gift of anything, it would be the bravery to chase a life that makes you happy! The world would be a better place because of it!
The balls to spend $100k
thats because 90% of the world will never be able to afford to do this kinda thing
all hail VEGETA- the Super Saiyan GOD YUP.........
@videobenji I would be really interested in hearing more about this side of the story. I've always suspected a lot of people who choose this alternate lifestyle with a plan to do it long term, indefinitely or even for 5 years end up changing their mind on how fun or fulfilling or interesting or economical it really is after a year or two. Although I too am seduced by channels like this one (and I think these guys are 100% authentic about their preference to be doing exactly what they are doing now) I wonder if the formula for the majority drawn to these vids is something closer to a 1 or 2 year adventure and then sell the expensive full timing rig, go back to a home/apt. base and simultaneously build out an old used mini-van for shorter road/camping trips with the economy of a used purchase price, good mpg and simplified rig build out. Do you have any more in-depth thoughts or a blog about your comment above?..same question to BoundForNoWhere if you are reading this or anyone else? I think I would like to do this and I will do this in some form be it a Van or 4x4Camper. I'd probably do a year of travel in North America to get experience and the rig dialed in and confidence built in both my abilities and the rig's, and then a year traveling through Central and South America. I could not afford the platform these guys are using so I appreciated their comments on maybe doing this on a 1st Gen Tundra to save costs. I'd also want to buy the camper and fitting out with the strategy of least depreciation so after a two year adventure, I would minimize the difference between what I spent to acquire everything and what I was able to sell it all for 2 years later. With good planning, some of the expensive stuff (equipment) bought for the rig could be re-used in the mini-van build later. Any comments or strategies or blogs/vids that relate to this idea would also be appreciated. Thanks to "Bound For NoWhere" for continuing to inspire us who are in the dreaming and planning stages.
Great information w/a nice personal touch. You folks have good insight on how roll efficiently and still have fun.
hahaha thank you! That is a really nice compliment in our books!
You defiantly went in the right direction buying the Tundra. I have a 2017 Tacoma , it is so underpowered and the fuel economy with a camper on the back would be much worse than your Tundra .
The power and fuel economy was 100% why we didn't go that route unfortunately!
It is so cool that you mentioned using a first gen Tundra because that's what I have and I've been thinking about using it as a rig!
Just have a plumber braze a nice brass or copper line on the outside with a few clamps and you will have a permanent drain. You can clamp and unscrew it if you decide to change it when removing the camper from tray.
We added that recently and it's a total game changer!
Hi Mak just a idea for your sink drain. Use a 90° hose fitting, and run it down the side of the camper. To Secure it to the camper use a double sided tape fastener to the side of the camper it would not hurt to finish and easy to remove if you had to. .
Awesome build for sure. Thanks for noting the pros and cons. Makes sense.
Our pleasure!
Late to the party but wanted to comment on your choice of rig. I don't think there is a more reliable truck out there than the Tundra. You will only have to spend money on oil changes and brake jobs and those might be covered under your warranty. My husband just sold his 2012 which he drove on construction sites every day. Everyone else at work had Fords and Chevys and were constantly having issues with this and that, mostly little stupid things that you wouldn't expect to have troubles with on a brand new truck. While it might not have the best fuel efficiency it is the most reliable and comfortable ride out there and I think you will be very happy together on the road!
Thank you for the great review! Now that it’s been a couple of years, could you do a specific review of the indoor shower (Pro & cons and any modifications you’ve made to it)? Has it caused any moisture damage to your finishes? I’m considering a FWC Fleet slide-in with the the expensive indoor shower option and want to make sure it’s right for us. Love your high quality videos!
Very nice rig! I'm looking at the Woolrich Hawk version!
Everyone should know that as soon as you modify any vehicle you will potentially loose warranty options and your insurance will not insure certain upgrades/changes or charge radical upcharges to your policy.
We checked with Toyota before all of our modifications and all are approved under our warrenty!
Awesome walk-through and video Mak! I've been drooling over your setup for quite some time! This video was timely!
Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it!
Just got done watching your review! Sounds like things are going well overall. Suggestion on the gray water that may make your lives a little easier.
Stop by a local hardware store, Lowe’s or Home Depot, pick up two 90 degree hose fittings with barbed ends, one garden hose style and the other pipe thread (I assume that’s what they use for the gray tank on the tray), a length of hose and a few hose clamps. Add a mounting clamp in the middle to help it keep close to the camper (you could use a screw from the back side of the furnace, away from the exhaust, so you don’t have to drill any holes) You can have a semi permanent fix that will hug close to the body of the camper yet allow you to not have to go through that step every single time. 😊
This rig is amazing!! I love it soo much!!!! ❤️🧡💙🥰
We do too!
Word on the web is that there's gonna be a Hybrid Tundra coming out in 2021.
Goose Gear has a 60/40 rear seat delete system you can put in the Tundra. Would give you more storage options.
Wow! I don't know why I didn't know that! I feel like we might need that!
So much fun. Thanks.
Thank you so much
Why do you leave the transmission in tow/haul mode? I don’t think this setup requires this.
The payload for those trucks is about 2k max. Which is probably what that camper is with all gear and fluids. Anytime the truck is pulling a load or has a payload it’s recommended from Toyota to increase engine response, maintain lower gears longer down and up step grades and slight engine breaking when available.
Have you ever used tow/haul mode in a Tundra? We call it the fun button for a reason. The truck is basically neutered if you don't have that mode on.
Appreciate the insight. Am on our 2nd build. First one is one 2000 taco xtracab 4 cylinder and second one is 2003 taco doublecab.v6. Only real negatives are less space and payload capacity which mention. The smaller footprint won out. Maybe a fullsize truck in the future... ot maybe not. Time will tell
I also like the small footprint of my 06 Tacoma and our home made sit down only truck camper. Payload at 1200 lbs is enough but found out that the 4 cyl. model 2017 has a payload of 1500 # in 2 wheel version. So toying with the idea of going rear wheel drive with a rear diff lock to save on gas when not carrying the camper. Or maybe not as we use it to camp in the winter on remote snowy roads. 4wheel on your truck?
@@marcpikas2859 - both are 4x2. The 2003 taco v6 has electronic rear locker. I am considering a limit slip diff to replace the oem open diff on the 2000 taco 4 cylinder. That being said. We dont rock climb etc. Also, with winch and other self-recover equip are pretty comfortable off pavement
One day you should set up a separate gray water system for the shower with a ultraviolet and filter system because you can have almost unlimited time in the shower off of 3 gallons of water. You can get the filter and ultraviolet stuff on amazon for under $200 and you can just use your existing gray water tank because it’ll filter and sanitize everything in it for shower water etc.
Thats a really cool idea!
You are actually doing very well on gas millage all things considered. The Tundra is really only out performed by certain Special edition trucks built with the express purpose of Off-roading. Given your set up, I would not doubt that trucks ability to pull another 8k LBS more on a trailer, that is me assuming the camper is about 2k. The newer Tundras also corrected issues that the old tundras had, such as the Drive train being able pull a LOT more than the frame was capable of pulling. There stands a decent possibility a first gen Tundra would have had worse mileage with a smaller camper than your current gen. Good job!.
I am Jeff, Melinda's husband. She brought my attention to this video.
I own a 2016 Tundra SR5 4 door, same configuration as yours.
We chose this over the TACOMA because of headroom, side to side room, and drivability (sp). I gave the final word to my wife who drove both and said TUNDRA ( she has a 2018 Highlander) .
I look for three things in a truck:
1. Utility
2. Durability
3. Reliability
The TUNDRA paint is very thin ( by actual electronic measurement) and very brittle
The seats stain with pure water
The plastic interior bits are "delicate"
The rear bumper is extremely fragile, 2 mile per hour collision.. $3800. Hit and run driver in a parking lot.
Serious violent shuddering throughout the vehicle immediately following a 30K mile service. resolved only by my insistence of intervention by Toyota USA.
Useless heater. Cannot shut off heat to the dash and the upper cabin will burn you out before the floor heat warms you up which is anemic at best. Contacted the factory about this, met with a field rep (useless parrot) "they all do that",.Correct and it is a design flaw, that is my point.
The vehicle is unnecessarily large, but the TACOMA is way too small and no headroom .
After 40K miles I have averaged 17.1 miles per gallon with minimal off-road.
Would I buy one again.? Maybe, but, it would be a solid, non metallic, color as the paint is 40% thicker by actual measurement.
It would be a LIMITED where the heater functions correctly and has dual controls, and the interior has better quality materials.
This vehicle is typical of American auto construction. Substandard when compared with EURO or Japanese construction.
I might opt for another 4 RUNNER as they are made in JAPAN.
We have owned 12 Toyotas since the 70s, the Tundra is our least favorite.
My favorite was my 1982 long bed, base, 5 speed, 4X4 truck and currently it is my 2000 Gen 3 ( the best of the bunch) 4 Runner SR5 5 Speed which I still own. It has 225K miles and looks and drives like new. I "like" the TUNDRA, I "love" the 4 Runner as does my wife. She was the original owner, I bought it from her when she bought the HIGHLANDER. High Blue Book no less !
I have hesitated modding or putting any money into the TUNDRA in hopes that Toyota would wake up and make a truck the size of the GEN 1 Tundra with the newer engine and real, genuine bumpers and real paint and stout interiors and fabrics.
Are they serious a 5 lug hub, 5 lugs? That is a passenger car. I did not notice this until abut 10K miles and that alone would have been a deal breaker. The 4 Runner is a 6 lug as is the TACOMA. Just a small indicator.
If I do not buy a new 4Runner I may treat the TUNDRA to a proper set of bumpers, winch, seat covers, and possibly a camper... we'll see... but I doubt it.. just don't see throwing money at this rig.
Best of luck, enjoyable videos. Get a hose quick disconnect coupler, makes life easy.
Full disclosure, Over 25 years in the auto biz.
11 years retail:
4 Years with a Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Jaguar dealership. 4 years a s service manager of a Mazda/Honda dealership. 1 year SAAB/VOLVO dealership and 2 years independent British auto service shop. . 1 year as parts and service director for a 7 dealership conglomerate to include a TOYOTA dealership. (not in that order)
14 years manufacturers:
7 years working for Euro high line makers ( M-B, Volvo, BMW) as a District Manager ( field rep and also national training manager) 7 years with Mazda Motors of America as District Manager, Nor Cal, Nevada, Utah. (not in that order)
Edit:
Did I mention I have owned 129 cars and trucks? Not to include dealer and factory demos totaling another 60 units ?
Melinda Manthey - no if YOTA would make a badass turbo diesel for them.
Hey Jeff, I'd highly recommend importing an hdj81 Land Cruiser if you live in the states. Seems like a good fit for you.
@@kamikazekunze Agreed.
@@w0nt0nj0n I have heard great things about them. Before I do that, I am going to spend some time and money on my 2000 4 Runner.
I really want to like the TUNDRA..but to date it is disappointing. Others find them acceptable. I'm just not there. For a full time overlander/car camper/truck camper. Could be the right unit. But I am not a full timer and I go to some tight places with my 4 Runner where the TUNDRA would get bush pin striped if not simply too tight for anything else larger than the 4Rnnr .
The Tundra can carry the weight.. which is perfect for "Bound For Nowhere's" usage. Seems Ideal.
My background is Land Rovers, real ones, not the yuppie crowd Range Rovers etc.. rolling cupholders.
58, 61, 64, 67, 109 NADA (very rare 6 cyl), and a 74. There is nothing better than a genuine pre 75 Land Rover;pPossibly excepting the Land Rovers that don't come to the US.
If I offed my POS 96 Dodge and my 4Rnnr, and my Tundra I could easily import and outfit an HDJ81.
thank you for this video. this was very helpful for me. :) I'm hoping to get a similar setup with Powerwagon someday.
Awesome! You will love it!
@@ChilaquilesDF The Powerwagon is a 3/4 ton pickup with a reduced payload capacity of about 1800 lbs, like a 1/2 ton would have. A Hemi Ram Crewcab 4wd 2500 4wd has about a 3300 lb payload capacity. A diesel Ram 2500 Tradesman Crewcab 4wd can have a 2500 lb payload. Which is what my wife has, with her beast of a Cummins powered truck.
An F350, Ram 3500, or a GM 3500 has even greater payload capacity. Typically 4300 lbs or more. So is your comment based on the extra weight capacity or extra stability of the stiffer suspension?
I’m willing to bet there a quick detach hose that you can get so you don’t have to keep twisting on and off your hose.
Very nice build fun times thanks for sharing ATB
It's our pleasure, and thanks for watching!
Awesome, we don't really have trucks like that on Australia... That fuel economy is ridiculous tho haha
lol it's a 5.7 V8 that was released in 2007 and the front of the truck is a brick wall, what do you expect? I have a 2020 and that disadvantage is so worth it. Love these trucks
Good stuff guys. Definitely one of the coolest builds out there!
You are too kind!
Absolutely killer! As someone who is about embark on a similar vanlife journey who also specializes in freelance.. It seems you all enjoy having the Tundra for it's 4x4 off road capabilities to get you to some remote places. I want to be able edit comfortably on the road and off the grid. 2 questions: how do you manage power supply (in this video you mentioned the fridge taking most of the power) and do you have a comfortable work station or do you just design/work in coffee shops? Thanks so much and keep adventuring, cheers!
We nearly work from the rig 100% of the time. It is amazing comfortable for that. We use those 2 100ah lithium batteries as well as our 3 solar panels (2 on the roof, 1 that is portable) to power them. We went with this rig because it's comfortable for our work life
Great video as usual. There are trade offs to every adventure vehicle, not the least of which is price. While your current setup is near the top, #1 in my opinion is a 170 4x4 Sprinter from Sportsmobile or Outside Van or a 144 from Storyteller Overland. Having said that, for the money I think a full size 4x4 truck with a Lance 650 truck camper is the best compromise (price, capability, amenities, etc). Also, Owen hit the lotto with you...
I completely agree with you, however my only concern with the Lance and other hard sided truck campers is that they can make your vehicle really top heavy. But that's just our opinion. And thank you, that is very generous of you to say!
"You should liiiike it." 😂😂😂
So, is it Roxanne? Or, Rocks-Anne? You know, because of the whole overlanding aspect. Lol
Haha Roxanne as in the Police song
@@BoundForNowhere I figured as much, but couldn't help making a bad pun. Haha
Nice set up you two
Thank you so much! We really love it!
Awesome video!! I have a million questions which I will save for Overland Expo (Flagstaff). I hope you guys attend again next year. Thanks!
About inclimate weather... how much snow have you had overnight before cleaning the top of the pop-up? Seems like Alaskan might be better for snow campers... any thoughts?
Have you considered a semi-permanent gray water line on the outside of the camper using pvc? Seems like it would be pretty easy, but you might want to take it off for right off road trails...still might be kinda nice to just always be able to use the sink without hooking up the hose.
Great video!
Thank you so so much!
That's an awesome rig! Pro: Your new Tundra has warranty has many more off road upgrades available than the first gen. I thought about getting a new truck, then reconsidered when I checked the GVWR. I'd be swapping a lighter truck for a heavier truck with no added net carrying capacity. My '06 Tundra DC 4x4 gets 14-15mpg with the 4.7L but she's maxed with a FWC Hawk slide in. For now I'm happy with no truck payment.
I like the no truck payment thing!
I think ran into you guys at Maita Toyota in Sacramento!!
Awesome channel!!
You sure did! Thank you so much for digitally stopping by our channel!
Great video. Nice set up.
Thanks so much!
Those wheels do look good
Thank you so much for this rig review, Ive been contemplating switching from my self build 4x4 sprinter. You've given me heaps of ideas... couple questions, Are you able to set up and sleep in dinette with top down on those occasions your not wanting or able to set up? Also instead of a ladder to get boards down would the steps on side that four wheeler offer be adequate? This isn't the only video you have inspired us with, your vid on storage using cubes has been a life changer, keep em coming.. Cheers
Amazon gorilla easy connect. This might help with the hose not being such a pain. Great truck.
What is the brand of that solar panel on your windshield?
On their Insta, they tagged Overland Solar.
Thank you for this review. I'm considering the Four Wheel Camper after my retirement. One of the major considerations is the truck. Your review of the Tundra was very illuminating. Again Thank you, I've 'Liked' and "subscribed" and I look forward your future posts.
Ha, my 2016 JK also has the same name... Different spelling...Rocks Anne !!
Project ElectricEye well said
Toothpaste does not damage an auto finish directly. However, toothpaste (not the gel type) is a very mild abrasive, so I guess it could scratch the paint IF you rub it. But it’s not going to damage your paint, because if it were that harsh, the FDA wouldn’t approve it for human use.
You mentioned at the beginning of the video that there was a link that gave the modifications you had to do to the Tundra to be able to carry the FWC. I would be interested to learn what suspension/tire mods you had to do in order to carry the weight of the camper. The link you gave was to a Day in the Life of the camper, but no mods info (although that was an awesome camping location). Could you point me to the suspension mods video, if you have one? Thanks!
This may be already suggested for your sink drain issue. But if you were to get clear 3M protective film (same stuff they put on the front of new cars to protect against rock chips and salt) on the area that gets wet with the sink it would protect the finish. It's a cheap alternative and won't effect the look of your rig. Hope it helps!
Is that a norweld tray? The Australian brand
I hope you see the this question.
Never mind I watched on.
@6:26 She says it is.
Great rig! I wonder if you have max out the payload of the Tundra, and if you did any mod to actually bump it up?
are you over payload capacity in the tundra? I want to go this route but am worried about the tundras payload at only around 1500lbs.
Why an AC inverter and not DC-DC conversion to multiple USB-A and USB-C Power Delivery sockets?
You are looking really fit girl. 💥💥👊🏻
You speak so well.
I’ve never been a fan of buying somebody’s cast off vehicles and I usually keep mine until they really start costing me $$$. Now that you’ve bitten the bullet and bought your new truck, hang onto it. You shouldn’t ever regret it. After a couple of years it will feel like an old friend
You are absolutely right. This truck is so good to us every single day, it's just scary to take on debt when none of our others required that.
thanks as I am looking to do something similar have fun be safe
Excellent! Enjoy!
I recommend a back seat delete. Its just 2 of you and a cat. Do not need those seats back there and you can organize a lot more things back there than what you current have. Just a thought.
We have considered it, but love being able to have other people along for the ride every once in a while so we sadly can't part with the seats.
First off, got my patch I ordered so THANKS!! Next, I have a Tacoma and the descion to go with the Tundra is/was a good one. With all the additions you did the Taco would be in the 12-14MPG range if you are lucky and you would have sacrificed A LOT of storage and room. I am looking to jump to an SR5 Tundra soon. Love the Taco but want more room and power with a full size bed....oh and my kids are 6ft tall! Be safe!
Naw, they would be in the 5-8mpg range. With skidplates, 33" tires, and a roof top tent, I'm at 16mpg freeway if I stay under 65MPH, 13MPG at 70-75MPH; and 11MPG city. Part of this might be winter blend gas, so maybe 1-2MPG better in the summer. Tacomas are not gas efficient at all, especially considering how weak the engine is. That said, when everything was stock and less than 300lbs of gear+me, I did get 24MPG while doing 60MPH for a 40 mile stretch.
@@mattburkett9419 Just curious if these are hand calculations or the dash computer?
@@ryansaba6807 Dash, adjusted by hand for tire diameter
I love the your rig! I would change one thing, interior color for temperature. I swore I’d never have a black interior again after my gti.
Hi, thanks for your fantastic videos. I have a naive question. I live in Switzerland and thinking about shipping my 4x4 camper over to the US. I would like to do off-road tours like you do. One thing I was curious when researching a bit more is dumping grey water. I am autonomous for about a week except that I don't have a large grey water capacity. It seems not so easy to dump grey water I the US - usually in RV parks and this seems expensive. In Europe you have a lot of free dump stations everywhere. Any recommendation how you deal with that? Your get water tank looks pretty small as well. Thanks for your help.
Love your rig and videos ... I have to ask though, you kind have had me confused at the whole piece around "warranty" on your Tundra. I can't imagine Toyota will warranty anything on your Tundra after you ripped it apart and made significant modifications. Have they confirmed otherwise?
No motor vehicle manufacturer can void your warranty across the board for upgrades done. They can only void warranty coverage on specific items that fail where they can show the modification (the new part or the installation of that part) played a direct role in the failure of the effected part or system. If you put on after market suspension but make a warranty claim on peeling paint on your hood, those two things are unrelated and Toyota cannot deny the claim assuming the peeling paint is a manufacturer defect. Of course it gets trickier when comparing two mechanical items with close proximity or when part of a system so having some expertise to defend your warranty claim is essential.
Tim Hardman yes I know that .. however, they pretty left the hood of this Tundra untouched lol.. pretty easy if you ask me for Toyota to take the easy way out and deny a warranty claim on this rig since some of the most vital components were modified, not to mention the entire ride physics and weight.
@@mikec3454 Mike, I have some direct experience in this "warranty game" with OEM's (Original Equipment Manufacturer). I'm just writing to help educate others who may believe your original comment verbatim that uses the word "anything" when you wrote - "I can't imagine Toyota will warranty anything"...after the mods. It all depends upon the relationship between the mod and the failed OEM part. If there is a real, causal relationship between the mod and the failed OEM part, the warranty responsibilities of the OEM are not enforceable and the OEM will defend it. If they don't defend it, it could set precedence for additional liability in the future when others make claims for similar failures of parts in similar circumstances. Unfortunately, the consumer often has the burden of proof which means they might have to spend a lot of TIME and MONEY in the form of a lawyer, plus expert witness to get the claim paid. The dollar amount of the claim may end up being small compared to the cost of winning a court battle. The lawyers that a major corporation retains for liability litigation as well as the competency of their expert witnesses in both knowledge and experience in presenting facts in a manner favorable to their client is tough to win against. It is bad publicity however which has a real and negative monetary impact for an OEM to fight in court with it's customers for legitimate claims. The OEM is not looking for ways to screw the customer but it will not tolerate taking financial responsibility for a problem that a customer caused.
@@timhardman4764 Not really... I had a bumper to bumper unlimited mileage warranty($6000) on my Duramax and when my water pump(297,000 miles) needed replacement they declined the warranty due to the fact that I had added Cold Air Intake. It was their way of getting out of doing any more repairs to my vehicle. Extended warranty companies are major ripoffs. Better to just put money away for repairs that need to take place after the factory warranty is up.
@@toddhoffmaster6057 My comments and experience relate only to OEM warranties. After market warranties are typically full of loop holes and profits and not much coverage, I'd never buy one.
Most realiable truck out there, if you would have gotten a GM or ford it would have already left you out there stranded!
hahah we are a bit biased but we do agree ;)
I was really hoping to see in the "Changes", the elimination of the roof rack over the solar panels. The shadows from the rack are going to be a constant hit on the amount of solar you can harvest. Just a small amount of shadow can affect the entire panel.
A one-way Diode attached to the positive wire in the Junction Box on the Solar Panel itself will eliminate the decrease in power produced by the Solar Panels in the shade.
James Lamb, Shade on any cell in a panel will greatly diminish the entire panel. The only way a diode in the junction box helps, is If you have two panels wired in parallel. It will keep a single shaded panel from bringing down its neighbor panel. If the two panels are in series, it wont help at all. If two panels in parallel both have shaded cells, it wont help at all.
@@libertyauto Yes, I was refferring to multiple panels and eliminating the negative draw on the entire grid, instead of one panel.
There is nothing dangerous with grey water, you can use it to water your garden, if you have separate system in your house.
We also ensure that everything in our grey water is biodegradable including soaps and such!
What is the flexible solar panel in the dash of your truck?
The work horse of our solar set up! This guy: bit.ly/2uZCUTO
Love Tundras but boy do they drink the gas. Their frame strength and 12" ring gear are no joke. Just a rotor is massive. They are truly built to be used and abused.
haha you got that right! Recently Owen and I did some super spicy off-roading in the camper and it was so amazing what that thing could do in those conditions even with our camper on! Gosh I love it so much!
I have a cheap solution for your grey water plumbing issue. Leave your house attached and cut it 2 inches long or so. Go Tina hardware store and get brass male and female hose ends OR you can get brass quick connects. When you are not using the tank it will act like a gutter and direct the falling water away from the camper side. When you use your tank. Screw the rest of the house on or quick connect down to your tank. The only issue would be if the wind is blowing it may blow It on your camper. What do you think???
You guys have the greatest ideas! I love this solution we're going to have to give this a try!
I'll look forward to a video update. Any other problems for.me to solve? I love this stuff. BTW I have a 1 ton GMC with a large Northstar igloo camper and I was shocked to see that I get 1-2 mpg less than you do. Now I don't feel so bad about my mileage.
Thank you. Very concise and clear review.
Our pleasure!
That is such an awesome rig. By any chance were you in Zion on 8/30/19? I saw a truck that looked just like this, had me daydreaming for hours.
We were not, we came through that area at the end of October!
Thanks for your videos, guys! Out of curiosity, how long did you guys live in Lando? Thanks again!
Just over 9 months we were in Lando!
It's obvious you two put a lot of research, thought & planning into this build. Good to know it works out so well using it in real life.
Thank you so much! haha yeah we are also chronic over thinkers, but hey why not when it's your house!
Last winter in Mexico I ran into a woman in her 80's who was living in a very similar setup, the same poptop camper unit, and I was really impressed with how easily she was able to get it up and down and how nice it was inside. Been traveling in my 82 Westy but planning my long term next rig, and headed towards the same solution. Thanks for the info.
That's awesome, well we too are coming from an 85 Westy and can't speak more highly about something along these lines!
Apologies if asked before. Why not those 4x4 Mercedes Sprinters or Dodge 3500? Thanks and Happy Adventures
Great video and very good overview at the end especially the negatives. As for the electrical setup and FWC reaching out to you after you had to do all the mods to get 110V off shore power ... You seem to think that was generous of them... on the contrary...that information saves them engineering costs... I hope they paid for the information you provided. Great video...
Tundra’s are great trucks but the MPG is awful. I get 10 towing, about 14.5 just the truck. You’ll be glad you got the extended warranty, if it is through Toyota they will stand by it. I got the 6 year 100,000 mile warranty. I would like to see a video on what the truck, the mods and the camper cost if your willing.
Hey there! Yes we're thinking that we will do a video like that in the new year covering all the edits to the truck as well as all the edits that we've done to it since being on the road with it!
Sweet RV!
Got so pumped when you mentioned first gen tundras!!!! Yas!!! That’s what I went with. Definitely not the same caliper build as this but has been such a fun project. See ya on the ol dusty trail!
I think it's such a solid option!
I like that you obviously thought about your presentation. Succinct, focused, quality information.
First Gen Tundras are, like you said a great platform, mine has over 300,000 miles and I still drive across the country with it
I know an owner of a Tundra who got 1 million miles. Toyota took the truck for R'nD. They also gave the owner a new Tundra.
Great Video as usual. Is there any reliable data out there on how much the "pop top" feature saves in MPG ? I'm wondering how many miles one would have to drive to break even with the dollars saved due to the better mileage.
That is a great question that I honestly don't know the answer to. I will say in the end it was more important for us to not be tall in tight areas where tree coverage can be a little limiting!
I don't think that you would want to take a full size camper on the trails vs. the pop top style. It is much nicer to not have to worry about height limits on the road and off the road.
I think you will be better if your partner another one.....
Sheesh! I hope Four Wheel Campers re-designed their electrical and battery system, and that grey water annoying feature.
I'm thinking on a similar set up on a Tundra and am concerned on how packing the weight may cause steering and suspension components to wear prematurely, what's the current mileage on your Tundra and have you had to do any chassis or suspension work regardless of warranty or have you had any repairs at all, again regardless of warranty. Thanks in advance.
Yes, good question. Have you found anything out?
Where do you store your spare tires?
We are able to keep a full spare under the truck in its OEM location!
Interesting. I pull a Scamp 16 footer and every so often think about going to a popup. I like the concept. But every time I hear someone talk about their popup I take the prospect of buying one less seriously. Because, the primary reason for my going to a popup would be fuel mileage. And popups always disappoint me. Pulling my Scamp with my 4 cylinder 97 Taco I got in the high teens/low 20's and went almost anywhere. With my 2010 Taco I get 13 - 15 mpg. So probably no savings by going to a popup there - in this case that Tundra is getting only 11 - 12. Pulling a trailer limits the types of roads I can travel but for years I've been wall tent camping or small tent camping so I'm used to and enjoy setting up a camp and working out from there in my 4 x 4. So no beneficial difference there. Looks like again I'll be pulling my Scamp. See you in Wyoming, Montana, or BC folks. I'll be the guy pulling the Scamp on the highway or the guy driving the 2010 Taco getting 15-20 mpg on dirt or gravel back roads.
Just started looking at these campers. Great video thanks so much!!!
Are you happy with the fit, finish, and durability of the 4 Wheel camper? As far as drawers, counter tops , movable parts etc? Is it what you expected?
Very high quality. I'm happy.
Have you looked into doing an air dam? You might recover a couple mpgs. I did when I had a Finch on my Tacoma.
No we haven't, but that's an interesting idea!
What's an air dam?
This is awesome! I hope you guys make it to Alaska sometime. What do you guys do for work?!
Us too! We are freelance designers. We have our own business!
You just need a tiny box cargo trailer to pull behind you and keep all your garage items.
We go pretty well with the flatbed storage boxes!
We go pretty well with the flatbed storage boxes!
Can you give the exact model tundra and camper you bought? As well as which model camper you would have got with the 1st gen tundra
What did the build cost?
OK, 2007 Tundra owner here (crew cab, a pickup bed, and the big engine) is this what you are calling a 1st gen Tundra? And, do you mean the pickup chassis can be retrofitted with one of the available flatbed decks for camper installation?
Nice rig!! What solar panel do you use?
We have two Overland solar panels on the roof and a Overland Solar Bugout Panel! bit.ly/34et2l3
A company as old as Four Wheel that sets up their camper for glampimg only, on shore power, explains why they charge so much. That's their customer base.
I don't get it. Who would dislike this video???
I did dussy!....she needs to show them heaters! Less talk