What's new at Coyote RV/Phoenix Pop up?

[offroadcamperguy]

Just a newbee here. Rob from Coyote RV, where we build the Phoenix Custom hand made campers. We fit pretty much any SUV or Pick up with camping units. It's just my family, a couple of friends, and I who make these units, therefore depending on the design complexity, we only build about 20 or 30 little gems each year. We are not trying to get any bigger or faster, only better. And, doing only custom work, we aren't looking to challenge anyone's big business or sales numbers. I believe there is plenty of room for all of us to do what we do for the market, without stepping on any toes. So, since each and every one of our units is completely unique, I thought it might make a sort of interesting thread on this forum. So, if you all don't mind too much, I would like to keep this thread running and post an update now and then (whenever I get a few "extra" minutes) about whatever current project we are working on. Because a picture is worth a thousand words, here are a couple of pictures showing some of our previous projects.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/CustomTacoma.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Alaska090.jpg

Tomorrow morning we are setting up a nice Frontier Crew Cab long bed with a nicely equipped unit, fit to the tail lights. Most folks ask for the refrigerator, furnace, stove, sink, jacks, beds, etc... then we get into the custom stuff. These folks named their camper "Li'l One" so we had their name plates made up, plus they requested a very nice custom upholstery material, and city water hook up. I will post photos of the finished installed product, and any comments about the installation day. Thank you for reading, talk soon, Rob

[18seeds]

More pics of the tundra please. I have the same truck

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob, it's good to see this. I've seen some of your product on the web.

Looking forward to more :ylsmoke:

Do you need to be a sponsor to have a thread like this?



Hi David,

Thank you for the interest, and for the question. Yes, you do need to be a sponsor to post these kind of threads. We bacame a very proud sponsor about 6 weeks ago, roughly. I thought it would be best to talk about what I do know, instead of scabbing in on other people's REAL overland stories. Truthfully, I am an "Overlander Wannabe." Spend all my free time designing and building the products that allow real adventurers to do what they are made to do. I guess somebody's got to do it, and I think it is my calling.... love to browse the site and see what all of you are accomplishing out there!! Everybody, keep up the posts, and I will do the same, so you all know what we are up to!

[locrwln]

Will be keeping an eye on this. Looking at popups for the future rig.

Jack

[Northern Explorer]

Can you tell us more about the Phoenix you made for the 2010 Wrangler Ultd?

[Brian McVickers]

Great to see you posting up Rob & Cari!
Thanks for supporting ExPo, I think we're all very excited to follow along with your custom creations and to hear more about those that are out exploring the world with them!

Regards,
Brian

[offroadcamperguy]

More pics of the tundra please. I have the same truck


Hi, thanks for the interest. We have had a real run of Tundra campers this past couple of years here at Coyote RV. People LOvE these trucks... and they tell me that they LOVE the units we've built for them too!!

The white Tundra in the first picture is a CrewMax, and the gentleman who ordered this one wase moving from the mid-west on up to Alaska, picking up his camper here in Denver on the way. He knew that he would be spending a lot of time in the camper, and had some little children coming along. So, he ordered the full 8.5' length with tail light skirts, restroom, hot water, shower, extended cab over, and even the drop screen DVD player (I think). This is about the biggest and fanciest one would probably get for this size truck, and it is very comfortable to kick back in. Many people want to go a little tighter fitting, lighte weight, and simpler. I have posted photos of some of these ones too. Hope this helps you decide what will work best for you!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/crewmaxtundrawith85small.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/IMAG0008.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/09Tudra003.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Ok, today the great new unit called "Li'l One" was successfully loaded onto it's new mate, a beautiful white Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed. Everything went fantastic and smooth. The only thing is, some nice folks dropped in right after the installation, and we designed their new Phoenix pop up the rest of the afternoon. So, we had to run off late to high school hockey, and I forgot the camera connection cord at work.

We will post pictures and notes about the Frontier installation tomorrow for sure!

[Gunnslinger]

Excellent thread; can we see some interior layouts?

[offroadcamperguy]

Can you tell us more about the Phoenix you made for the 2010 Wrangler Ultd?

Hi Northern Explorer,

We have built a number of these Wrangler Unlimited size campers, and they are really cool. Since these jeeps have built in roll cages, and folks want a nice tight fit, it's a little trickier to keep all of the amenaties. As alway, you can get yours with a nice food refrigeration unit, heater, stove, gear storage, queen bed, and some other goodies.... or you can go a little more "roughing it." Haven't captured a lot of photos as of yet. Would love to have our customers send more pics of them covered in MUD and Muck, like they're supposed to be. I am confident that one of these days they will remember to pack a camera! A couple of parking lot photos we did capture during a pre-installation fitting, below.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/PB270007.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/PB270005.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/PB270001.jpg

[NM-Frontier]

I cant wait to the those Frontier pics..

[The Swiss]

Hi Northern Explorer,

We have built a number of these Wrangler Unlimited size campers, and they are really cool. Since these jeeps have built in roll cages, and folks want a nice tight fit, it's a little trickier to keep all of the amenaties. As alway, you can get yours with a nice food refrigeration unit, heater, stove, gear storage, queen bed, and some other goodies.... or you can go a little more "roughing it." Haven't captured a lot of photos as of yet. Would love to have our customers send more pics of them covered in MUD and Muck, like they're supposed to be. I am confident that one of these days they will remember to pack a camera! A couple of parking lot photos we did capture during a pre-installation fitting, below.
Do you cut the hard top? Any interior pics of a JK?

[offroadcamperguy]

Do you cut the hard top? Any interior pics of a JK?


These jeeps are reletively easy for us to fit, compared to the Land Rover Discovery, new 4 Runner, XJ, or Land Cruiser FJ62.

No cutting needed on the JK! The pictures shown are of a pre-fitting, before we carefully remove the hard or soft top. The camper bolts on using the original jeep nut plates and roof clamps. We are building one right now, that will be installed in January. I will sure catch more pix of that one, and post them.

Thanks for the questions and interest.

[jrueppel]

Thanks for putting those photos of the Jeep up. And +2 on more interior photos. I'd be really interested to see how the camper shell came together with the JK and to get a feel for how the inside works out.

[HMR]

These jeeps are reletively easy for us to fit, compared to the Land Rover Discovery, new 4 Runner, XJ, or Land Cruiser FJ62.

Do you have any pics of the Discovery?

[Scott Brady]

That JK top is quite interesting. Would love to see some finished pictures of that one!

[TACODOC]

:lurk:

[offroadcamperguy]

Ok, today the great new unit called "Li'l One" was successfully loaded onto it's new mate, a beautiful white Nissan Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed. Everything went fantastic and smooth. The only thing is, some nice folks dropped in right after the installation, and we designed their new Phoenix pop up the rest of the afternoon. So, we had to run off late to high school hockey, and I forgot the camera connection cord at work.

We will post pictures and notes about the Frontier installation tomorrow for sure!


Ok, finally I ended up at the computer, WITH the camera, AND the cord... so here's the story of "Li'l One" installation:

Oh, and first an appology.... I mentioned earlier that this unit was going to be carried by a Frontier "Crew Cab" and I miss-spoke, it is actually going on a "King Cab." So, just in case anyone was looking forward to pics of one of our units on a Frontier king cab, I have posted a photo of an old school Phoenix on a short bed Frontier King Cab.

It all starts early in the morning Wednesday, it's about 20 crisp degrees here in Denver, and the Sun isn't quite up yet, but some light is starting to glow. I use the cordless drill and raise "Li'l One" up high on the jacks so the Frontier can slip undernieth, when the time comes. The unit has been in testing/camping mode for about a week, so the water and L.P. tanks are full, the furnace is hot, and the refrigerator is cold. The roof has been raised and lowered 100+ times, and everything is clean and tidy. But, I look it over just one more time (once the sun shines on the lot, that is). I've done this thousands of times, but it's still a great feeling to see all the hard work materialize and stand proud in the morning Sunlight... We're ready.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/008.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/007.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/006-1.jpg


The excited customers show up late morning, after a comfortable night's rest in a near by hotel, and they are beaming! I load the camper and secure it on their truck in record time while they watch and talk, then we do the standard instructional walk through. They are heading for the hills, the highway, or the beach before noon!!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010.jpg


The Crew Cab custom short bed model.... old school phoenix

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/nissancrew17.jpg

We (my wife and I) have implemented some really exciting Phoenix exclusive innovations lately (kind of secret) but they will all be part of 2011 units. In other words all new orders from here on out!

12/11 modified per customer' schedule changes:
Next custom unit designed for full size short bed Silverado Extended Cab, with nice equipment package.... due to be complete built Friday December 10th, installed THIS monday. Will keep updating! Thanks, Rob

[Gunnslinger]

"Next custom unit designed for full size short bed Ram, but WITH a very nice equipment package.... due to be built by the end of next week, installed the following monday. Will keep updating!"

OK you have my undivided attention. Can't wait to see it....

[DurangoSteve]

I'm the proud (third) owner of a 1999 Phoenix camper. Y'all do nice work!

[ersatzknarf]

Please...


Do you have any pics of the Discovery?

[offroadcamperguy]

I'm the proud (third) owner of a 1999 Phoenix camper. Y'all do nice work!

Thank you so much for the compliment! You do nice work as well!

I notice your camper started out as Tacoma/Ranger/Frontier size, then was fit to your Tundra... That looks very nice how you elevated the unit with a nice sturdy frame, then extended the jacks to reach around the truck body... perfect! I bet your tundra handles it well.

Good to see you out enjoying those great outdoors... keep it up!

Rob

[DurangoSteve]

Thank you so much for the compliment! You do nice work as well!

I notice your camper started out as Tacoma/Ranger/Frontier size, then was fit to your Tundra... That looks very nice how you elevated the unit with a nice sturdy frame, then extended the jacks to reach around the truck body... perfect! I bet your tundra handles it well.

Good to see you out enjoying those great outdoors... keep it up!

Rob

Good eye! It was indeed built for a smaller truck, so some mods were necessary to fit our Tundra. I built a pressure-treated 2x4 frame to give it the addl height needed to clear the Tundra cab, and had 1/4" aluminum plates fabricated to extend the jacks to clear the wheel flares. I have since backed them with 1/8" steel plates to eliminate flex when loading/unloading. Works like a charm! Someday we'll be contacting you to build us a new custom camper... but it will probably be awhile since your campers are built to last!

Yeah, our Tundra handles the camper with ease. With a dry weight of 700 lbs, all I had to do was add some airbags.

[offroadcamperguy]

Do you have any pics of the Discovery?

To give you a very complicated answer to a simple question:

We have not captured any pictures of the discovery-backpacker conversion, or very many of our countless custom projects, unfortunately. Up until about 5 years ago, I used to take a little "parking lot picture" of every camper that we finished (if it got installed in the daylight that is).Then, we decided that parking lot pictures are cheeeezzzy, and stopped taking them, and instead asked our customers to please send us some REAL photos from their trips and adventures. Well, that never worked out very well, as people naturally tend to take pictures of their loved ones, mountains, bears and stuff, pretty much forgetting about us once they head for the highways. This is the time period that we did a lot of really cool custom work, and missed catching pics of most of it!!! I Never knew how many people out there might be interested in seeing what posibilities are out there. I really got drawn into the traditional way of RV Manufacturer thinking, like "bigger is better, more whistles and bells, build faster and cheaper." For this, I am sorry for the waisted time an effort. Looking forward, my thought is "better is better, unique is good, special is value."

So, I emplore everyone who had our custom special projects built, to send in photos, post them on The Expedition Portal....

From now on, I am taking more pictures, especially when building custom projects. we ALL love to see these unique machines!!

[offroadcamperguy]

The nice folks who ordered this custom unit are coming out here this morning from Vernal Utah. Well, his wife is out of country on a family emergency, so he's here with a friend to get the new unit.

7 am... inspection looking good, full caming mode, and everything's a-go! Photo of their beautiful interior with the "Awakening Artic" upholstery color choice.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015.jpg



This one seams pretty basic, but even 'basic" around here is still totally custom. For the sake of protecting our customer's identity, we will call him Mr H. Mr H asked for no jacks and an old school bolt down installation because he's never taking it off. He is a great artist, and will be using his camper to haul his paintings to shows all around, so we built him a very special Under bed storage that is deeper for more stacks of art, and wider spaces between the struts.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-2.jpg

Plus, keeping in mind Mr H is over 80 years young, and he still wanted to be able to store long items like his hockey sticks, canoe paddle, or fishing poles, so we added some special padded knotches.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/014.jpg

No jacks wanted, so we will be using the old balancing act shop jacks to lift and load today, but first we have to remove an old trade in unit (we DON'T TAKE TRADE INS but these folks had no other way to even un-load their existing camper). So here we are 9 am, literally CUTTING the trade in off of their truck because there is sealant tape and glue all aroung the connection to the truck bed sides, as this is a floorless light weight style custom camper. So, if anyone needs a nice little used camper to fit short bed GM, here it is!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/used%20units/007-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/used%20units/009.jpg



Next, we finally get to set the nice new camper on the truck, yeah! The new camper, with all of the great features the old one never had, like automatic funace, stove, double sinks, water tank, power converter, auxiliary battery, queen size bed, kitchen table, propane tank, screen door, fantastic vent only drops the height of the truck 1/2" more than the little old camper! I hear it's cold over in Vernal.... Don't forget to winterize your water system Mr H, happy camper!!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/019.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/020.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Next unit is heading for Georgia:

Finishes this Friday, installs on Monday... A great little unit that leaves the truck bumper exposed and has the full shower, toilet, restroom, and many other great features, all on a Short Bed Crew Cab F250!!

[ersatzknarf]

Great stuff !
Very enjoyable and informative.
Thank you for posting.

Looking forward to the next installation. That is a lot in a little space - very interested. Please may we have some interior photos, too ?

(PS - any chance of the Discovery owner being contacted by email to send a photo, perhaps ?)


Next unit is heading for Georgia:

Finishes this Friday, installs on Monday... A great little unit that leaves the truck bumper exposed and has the full shower, toilet, restroom, and many other great features, all on a Short Bed Crew Cab F250!!

[offroadcamperguy]

Great stuff !
Very enjoyable and informative.
Thank you for posting.

Looking forward to the next installation. That is a lot in a little space - very interested. Please may we have some interior photos, too ?

(PS - any chance of the Discovery owner being contacted by email to send a photo, perhaps ?)




Hi ersatzknarf,

I have gone ahead and contacted all the folks with our Discovery/Phoenix conversions. I hope that they do get back to me with some stories and photos. Also, if I have one come in to see me for supplies or parts, I will catch some photos of them at that time. Otherwise, we will of course take pics of all the Disco conversions we do in the future!!!

Thank You for the interest,

Rob

[adventureduo]

Rob, Great work! Have you done many 80 series Toyotas? If so, do you have any photos?

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob, Great work! Have you done many 80 series Toyotas? If so, do you have any photos?

We have done some of the 80 series, and did happen to get a few pictures during the preliminary fit and cut phase of the build.

These vehicles really handle the backpacker great, hardly even tell it's there!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/017-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/002.jpg

Thanks for the interest!

[adventureduo]

Intersesting Rob, any shots of it open? interior? or rear shots of the hatch/door area? What does it weigh in at?

[TACODOC]

:lurk:

[offroadcamperguy]

Okay, here's what the backpacker looks like inside, with the top up. This one is shown with the features 3 burner stove, sink with tank and electric water pump, automatic 20,000 btu automatic furnace, 3 way refrigerator, and queen width bed with under bed storage... Pretty nice little set up. After subtracting the steel tailgate and portion of the jeep top that is removed, this unit adds only about 200 pounds to the vehicle!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/thumb_coyoterv-zebraint-5.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/thumb_coyoterv-zebraint-4.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/thumb_coyoterv-zebraint-2.jpg

[adventureduo]

Rob, once you cut away the body how is it sealed for weather? Any interior shots of where the second row seats are in the 80 series? It appears the 3rd row window is still in place? Im confused by this.

Sorry for all the questions. If you'd like to email me back channel that would work too. dave and yosh at adventureduo dot com

[ETAV8R]

These look great.
Just a suggestion, certainly do the parking lot photos as well as solicit pics from those who ordered the units and have used them. A website would be nice to be able to see pics and specs.

edit:
Found your website-
coyote rv (http://www.coyoterv.biz/default.html)

[offroadcamperguy]

Yesterday morning we installed a beautiful new custom unit on a short bed F250 Crew Cab from way out in Georgia. This one didn't want a name plate, but did want just about everything else under the sun. All the usual stuff like refrigerator, stove, sinks, water, queen bed, jacks, screen door, etc... Then the requests get a little more fun: Without letting the camper go beyond the bumper, we have hot water interior shower, cassette toilet, air conditioner, 10' crank out awning, piggy back 7 way plug installation, full lower dinette bed, and extra storage. Here's how all this great stuff fits in one nice little package.

Cleaned, detailed, tested, and ready for installation!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/005-1.jpg

Main cabinet refrig, furnace, stove, double sinks, hot water, etc...
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/006.jpg

Restroom with curtain drawn
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/007.jpg

Open the restroom door and curtain to see the Thetford cassette toilet and hot water flexible hand held shower head
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-3.jpg

Dinette seating and table area makes full length adult size bed, plus requested extra storage cabinet with A/C above.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015.jpg

Close up of 5,000 btu air conditioner
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/016-1.jpg

Now we install with the Phoenix Exclusive ratchet strap tie downs
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/027.jpg

Nice fit on F250 Short Bed Crew Cab, also showing the 10'Carefree Freedom III crank out awning
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/033.jpg

Only 11 am, and the happy camping friends are back on the road in their new Phoenix fully custom unit!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/034.jpg

[Terrainist]

Nice work. And thank you for posting photo's of your campers. If you can do a cab to cabin pass thru on such vehicles as Broncos, Jeeps, Land Cruisers, etc with the camper in a permanent type mount.. yikes, that is a super nice way to go for a lot of people.

I don't think I've ever seen the sink formed into the counter top like that in one of your above photo's, interesting.

[offroadcamperguy]

Hey Rob (and Cari !)

Good thread so far :) ...

That's a long overcab, are they ever made to sleep North - South?
What are the inside dimensions of that wet bath? and would that the "standard" size?

Thanks


Hi Klahanie,

Thanks for noticing the thread, and the compliment.

YES! We do the North to South sleeper option very often lately. The cab over for that option is longer than the one on this unit, by about 14"

The footprint on this particular wet bath with cassette toilet is 28" x 28". There is no "standard" size, as we build everything custom, to fit your needs. I can tell you that I am almost 6' tall and my knees just touch when sitting down in this size restroom.

So when we design your new Phoenix, if you want to reduce the size of the cabinets or floorspace and then increase the size of the restroom, that would be fine, it's up to you.

Hope that is helpful... talk soon!

[wannaby]

Are you really cutting into the roof with that sawsall or is that a joke looks like a 20,000.00 od toyota and ya chop the roof I too would like to see what the cut looks like, how the camper is mounted is it permanent,sealed for leakage and how.need more close up picks I have a ford escape would it be possible to mount one on that...Den

[rotti]

CamperGuy:
Any chance you'll be at the Sportsman Show in Jan here in Denver?
Would like to get a closer look.

[offroadcamperguy]

CamperGuy:
Any chance you'll be at the Sportsman Show in Jan here in Denver?
Would like to get a closer look.

YES, we are going to have a space at the Denver International Sportsman's Expo, at the Colorado Convention Center, Jan 6 Through the 9th (I think, not sure of the date exactly).

First show we have done in many many years. Hope to see lots of Expedition Portal peeps there!!

[offroadcamperguy]

Are you really cutting into the roof with that sawsall or is that a joke looks like a 20,000.00 od toyota and ya chop the roof I too would like to see what the cut looks like, how the camper is mounted is it permanent,sealed for leakage and how.need more close up picks I have a ford escape would it be possible to mount one on that...Den

Hi Wannaby,

Yes, I was really cutting that vehicle.

I think we could fit your Ford Escape with a nice little unit as well. Just call us up, make an appointment for your design session, and we'll get your order under way!

I don't have too many during build photos because I didn't used to thing that anyone would be all that interested. I did catch some shots of one of our Cherokee builds, and that is a pretty similar fit to your Escape. Here are those pics:

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/backpacker001.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/backpacker004.jpg

[AmericaOverland]

Uhh, HS!

Is there anything like this being done in Texas?! Now, I wonder what you can do for me for my Honda CR-V or my '77 Scout II. Awesome work! My problem is logistics - I live in Houston, and I don't want to have to fly back (I could rent a vehicle to drive back and forth once). Whether I have it done in Texas or Colorado depends on how the markets play out in 2011.

Stephanie

[goin camping]

Hi Rob,

I want to thank you for posting the pictures of the F250 camper. Since I have that model truck in a slightly raised 4X4 I was very curious what you could do with that small truck bed. You did well. You fit a lot of stuff into a small area.

Please post more interior pictures. I really enjoy seeing your work.

[offroadcamperguy]

Uhh, HS!

Is there anything like this being done in Texas?! Now, I wonder what you can do for me for my Honda CR-V or my '77 Scout II. Awesome work! My problem is logistics - I live in Houston, and I don't want to have to fly back (I could rent a vehicle to drive back and forth once). Whether I have it done in Texas or Colorado depends on how the markets play out in 2011.

Stephanie

Hi America Overland,

The Honda CR-V would probably do better with a roof top tent, but the Scout II is the perfect vahicle for a conversion. In fact our (my family's) first camper was built for our own Scout II! Unfortunately, I do not have any photos of that old beast, but I do have a photo of one of our more recent Scout IIs, below. We have just one location, here in Denver. You won't have to fly back and forth though, we have the Scout fit design already set up, so all we need to know is what kind of equipment you want in yours, then we will work up your complete custom desgn quote for your review and approval. Once we get your order under way, we will build the unit, ready for install, then we make an installation appointment. When you arrive, we will set up a hotel room for the night before installation, and a rental car for the day of. You can run around Denver, see the sights, and at the end of the day your new Scout II conversion will be ready for the road!

Interior Scout II
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015-1.jpg

Scout II Phoenix Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/IHScout.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Next project: It's been a very long time in the making. Tighter fit, more style, one of a kind features. The Pulse is coming! Will be complete this Thursday, and showing at the International Sportsman's Expo Denver Thursday Thru Sunday. You guys and girls are going to LOVE this one!!

I've got work to do!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/pulse1.jpg

[AmericaOverland]

Hi America Overland,

In fact our (my family's) first camper was built for our own Scout II! Unfortunately, I do not have any photos of that old beast, but I do have a photo of one of our more recent Scout IIs, below.

The question I have is, how much are we talking? What is the advantage of going with this rather than a FWC costing about a third? Walk-through? The only way I could justify this is by seeing JP Morgan and HSBC going bankrupt and certain markets melting up in a supernova that will never be witnessed again by any human, past, present, or future.

[offroadcamperguy]

You definitely have a point there. The GOOD QUALITY fully equipped Phoenix Custom Unit for your Scout II, including our exclusive Phoenix Easy Lift, the 20,000 btu automatic furnace, molded double sinks and electric water pump, couch that makes second bed, power converter, battery system, 3 way refrigerator, under bed storage, adjustable electric push button air mattress, fantastic vent, triple layer insulated side liner, aluminum welded cage framed sheet fiberglass covered Pro-Flex construction, and full installation conversion..... $18,495

When we sold the 4 Wheel Camper name, back in about 1988, in order to streamline, speed up, and maximize production efficiancy, they decided to quit building the Blazer, Bronco, Scout, 4 Runner, Ramcharger, Trailduster, all other walk through models, Fleet II, Fleet S, Keystone, and all custom work. This might have changed in recent times because I don't really have extra time to keep an eye on other manufacturers, but what I have heard is that they are busy as can be building and selling their standard models, and that is great. I with them the best of luck. I don't ever bad mouth or put down competition. I just try to build my niche by providing products and services that are more personalized and custom fit.

So, whenever someone is wrestling with "justifying the cost" of a unit on their vehicle. The answer is that folks come to us when they want to fit a vehicle that they just really LOVE. It's why you sometimes spend $500 on a nice dress that your wife might only wear one time. There might be 1000 logical reasons not to spend that money, but You Love here and she's so worth it.

[wannaby]

The price is within the balpark considering something like this http://www.xpcamper.com/price-specs.html starts at 23000.00 and yours is a custom fit for most suv type vehicles .....Myself I would have to win the lottery to buy anyone of these thing is i still couldnt see cuttung up my perfectly good ford escape to have a non removable camper unit ...its like ya say ya gotta really love your vehicle to do that to it...me ill take my old chevy truck and throgh an old pop up on it... thats more my style ....you have a good nich and a good product and good luck with it ...and keep us updated with picks and info....Den

[jorgy]

I think that is a decent explanation on costs. Mayny things aren't "worth" it. Ever owned a boat? Boats are awesome, and they can be very affordable, particularly if you buy a used 16-18 foot aluminum boat with a tiller outboard. However, you can also get something much more expensive. Options add up. Start looking at custom sailboats--weekender style. The option prices alone will be shocking.

The XP camper is pretty awesome, but the $23,000 starting price is a shell with no installation. You need a flat-bed too...

The good value is a FWC or ATC used @5-12 years. Not beat, fits most modern trucks, etc. If you want something with a bit more headroom, or a different bed/couch/fridge/whatever, these are pretty nice. BTW, once you add all the options to a new ATC, you wont be far off...

[offroadcamperguy]

Ok, almost there now... It's been the craziest few months around here. We have been building our first 2011 all new unit called the PULSE (personal ultra-lite living and sleep extension) with all the new exclusive performance oriented Phoenix features for this year. I've posted a few build pix, but we're so close now and there are lots of folks paying for tickets to the show, I will now wait to post more pictures and information, until we have the official release. We will build about 29 more this year, and 3 are already sold!

We will unveil the new P.U.L.S.E. Thursday afternoon at the Denver I.S.E. Show! If you live far away, or just can't make the show, pictures and build information to come!! :drool:

Everyone come and down and say hi, at the Colorado Convention Center. I hear that Hallmark, Outfitter, 4Wheel, and more will be there!

[offroadcamperguy]

I think that is a decent explanation on costs. Mayny things aren't "worth" it. Ever owned a boat? Boats are awesome, and they can be very affordable, particularly if you buy a used 16-18 foot aluminum boat with a tiller outboard. However, you can also get something much more expensive. Options add up. Start looking at custom sailboats--weekender style. The option prices alone will be shocking.

The XP camper is pretty awesome, but the $23,000 starting price is a shell with no installation. You need a flat-bed too...

The good value is a FWC or ATC used @5-12 years. Not beat, fits most modern trucks, etc. If you want something with a bit more headroom, or a different bed/couch/fridge/whatever, these are pretty nice. BTW, once you add all the options to a new ATC, you wont be far off...

Jorgy,

Thank you for your analogy. Being in this business for so long, sometimes it's hard to see things from the customer's perspective. In the last year, more than ever, I have been taught that "you get what you pay for." And my father will be very mad at me when he reads this, because he tried to teach me this lesson ALL MY LIFE, and I just tried to prove him wrong. We were delivering a camper out to Main, around Christmas time last year when our old truck's transmission took a digger. We found an Aamco who offered to install a rebuilt outomatic trans in our 97 Chevy for $1600, with an Aamco 1 year warranty. Long story short, the trans lasted one year and 5 days before it exploded. The shop that installed the trans is out of business, and the corporate office said "tough luck, should have called us last week." Then, we found out that the first shop should have charged us twice as much, and it turns out that they actually gave us a USED TRANSMISSION, not a rebuilt.

So, that was the straw that broke this camel's back.... you get what you pay for.

Oh, and by the way, there are just a few great used PHOENIX POP UP campers out there too (not many though, since we only build about 25 new ones each year, and we hope that folks love them and hold on to them). We also carry most parts, accessories, and repair pieces for our old Four Wheel Campers, and Phoenix's. So, watch your craigslist!

[HMR]

We will unveil the new P.U.L.S.E. Thursday afternoon at the Denver I.S.E. Show!:lurk:

PS- Thanks for starting this thread. You guys have some great looking campers.

[Larry]

Regarding the cost……The reality is this is an expensive hobby, addiction or whatever you want to call it. I have a million dollars (or at least that is what the wife says) tied up into a 33 year old GM truck that has been an never-ending purpose built project vehicle for the past 16 years. I will never get my money out of this truck if I ever sell it but that is okay, because I am committed to this truck and never plan to sell it anyway. In the end, it is now built better than any new truck you could by new from any manufacturer. I built it to satisfy my wants and needs and that is all that matters. For that reason, I chose to take the plunge to have a Phoenix camper custom built for it further suit my wants and needs. Some would say I am crazy for spending this kind of money on a new camper for a 33 year old truck. Well, I guess I am crazy then! :sombrero:

I have studied Rob and Cari’s operation for over a year and have met with them in person. They are great people with a clean operation and what I have seen….outstanding products. I chose a Phoenix Camper over FWC based on several different reasons. 1) Coyote RV is a local Colorado company 2) Coyote RV is a small family owned business with a great history behind them. By visiting with them, it is obvious they genuinely care about their customers and show passion for their products. 3) Phoenix campers look well built. Perhaps, over built but yet still light weight and their customization flexibly is practically endless. 4) FWC simply look and feel out of date and I am not going to spend thousands of dollars on a 1970’s looking corrugated aluminum sided camper with seams on every corner. 5) FWC showed very little interest in speaking with me at the 2010 Denver Expo. In fact, the owner of FWC wondered off while we were talking. I wish I could say the booth was crawling with other people but it wasn’t. It was just me, the FWC Ambassador and Ted?

By April this truck will be sporting a new Phoenix on the back!
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2803/4224473486_bb97fddc71_b.jpg

By the way, I have a really nice SnugTop topper for sale! It needs to find a new home so I can make room for the Phoenix Camper that is in the hopper. Linky> http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=54270

[Runt]

That is a very nice truck! Look forward to seeing it with the new camper. Please post lots of pictures.

[18seeds]

Went to the Sportsmans Expo today and stopped by the Phoenix booth. The Pulse is a pop up camper attached to a Jeep Unlimited 4door with Hemi. It didn't look 100% finished but it was def pretty cool. Painted green to match the Jeep. I'm curious on how well the jeep handles with the camper on it. They also had the Zebra Cherokee there. It's nice to see something other than short bed and long bed campers

Sorry no pics

Hallmark and FWC with their usual campers. I am always amazed on the fit and finish of a Hallmark.

[offroadcamperguy]

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much for all of you who came down, spent the money to get in, and took the time to make the International Sportsman's Expo such a HUGE success this year. It was really fun to take the time to talk with so many of our loyal customers from years gone by, and all of the future Phoenix Pop up owners too!

The first PULSE has now been displayed, and it seamed to be a real big hit!

P.U.L.S.E. is really just a new name for all of our new custom units. PULSE stands for Personal Ultra-light Living Sleeping Extension. We are trying to break the old "camper" mold. The new units are exciting and new, so they needed a new name that is a little more exciting and fresh. Every new unit we make (sold after Jan 1, 2011) is a P.U.L.S.E. Slogan to go along with it.... "Give your vehicle a P.U.L.S.E."

Since we are now embracing our custom offerings, we decided to push hard and complete one of our more exciting innovations, which we've built a number of, but never actually "displayed." As a fellow reader writer mentioned above, we started on this unit over 3 months ago, but came up just a few hours short on completion. The rear door jam sections were not installed yet. I do appologize for this.

So, this our very first 2011 P.U.L.S.E. was built on a 2008 Wrangler 4 door Unlimited, which is owned by "Nemesis Industries." Nemesis makes some of the very best body armor for jeeps, and a number of additional jeep accessories and upgrades. We were honored to show their jeep and quality products along with our new P.U.L.S.E. I think it made a very attractive combination! Plus, we displayed a nice Toyota Tacoma, and Li'l Z.

I am posting a couple of pictures here!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/030.png

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/029.jpg

[BPage]

Any photos of the interior of the JK PULSE???

[offroadcamperguy]

Any photos of the interior of the JK PULSE???

Those photos are coming!...

Sorry, they are stored in the camera I had at the show, which is in a box of show stuff, that is still in Lil Z, which is down at the shop.

I will not be able to clean all of that up until Thursday, as I have to catch up on last week's work this first three days of this week.

In the mean time, I must have seen at least a hundred people take pix of the unit inside and out, at the show.

Anyone out there who did take pix, will you please shoot some over to me? My e-mail is coyoterv4u@yahoo.com Then I will post them up here. Or, if you are a member, just throw them on here!!

Thank You so much!!

[kjp1969]

Rob,
Got any pics of full size Bronco campers to make me drool? I'd love one that has a sink and portapotty in the back, bed on the top, but retains the factory rear seat!

[18seeds]

Sorry i didn't take any pics but i'll explain the best i can.

Entrance is through the rear
All the "standing area" is behind the rear roll bar. The passenger sides houses a combination sink stove. I believe it was a little higher than counter height. Propane is stored just to the left of the rear door on the driver side. I can't remember what was on the driver side. Sleeping area was from the rear roll bar forward.

offroadguy, what kind of suspension upgrade would be needed for this application?

[jrueppel]

Nice looking work in the JK top. Definitely would be interested in seeing photos of how how the interior feels and fits together.

[Terrainist]

You really have something going on with those little campers for jeeps, etc... if you have any photos of your campers/extensions bolted down to fullsize rigs like the Ford Bronco, Dodge Ramcharger, or similar GMC/Chevy (fullsize Blazer), would be great to see (any year). Similar to the Scout II photo you posted. Having a legitimate cab to cabin pass thru is a huge plus, but on a fullsize platform. The Jeeps and Landcruisers are just too small to do anything with.

Thanks, and cudo's for taking on something no one else want to do.

[Stan@FourWheel]

We got a chance to finally meet Rob & Cari in person at the Denver Show.

(it was great to put a name to a face)


They seem like a really nice couple.

And they are putting together some pretty cool campers !


Keep up the good work.

:)



.


.

[offroadcamperguy]

Thank You Stan!

We were very pleased to meet Stan and the 4 Wheel guys as well!! Stan, thank you very much for the compliment, and thank you for keeping our family's legacy going. Folks just go on and on about how they love their 4 wheel campers on this forum, and many others.


We entend to support the pop up camper industry, help all the original companies (Alaskan, 4 Wheel, Hallmark, Outfitter, and so on) continue to survive and thrive! There's so much excitment and interest out there for this kind of product, I believe there is room for all of us to keep on truckin'!

You guys all keep up the good work as well!!

[wannaby]

Sorry for butting in here but I think you are missing a big opportunity here by not posting a whole bunch of picks on your site and here ...I mean gee whiz how hard is it to take photos these days you have just about everybody here chomping at the bit for photos yet you have a feeble exuse like sorry its stuck in the memory card ....come on......you guys have a nice product and do exellent work and you might not even need the extra advertizing....but heck we want picks and tons of them. Granted a lot of people might be like me and just looky looz but Ya might just get a few extra sales out of it ......sorry for the rant and dont take it personal just thought ya needed a kick in the butt to get some picks out here.Den

[offroadcamperguy]

You're right! I owe some pictures of the JK PULSE top. I am so sorry for being so slow. The morning after the ISE show (where we took all of the interior pictures) I had to take off of town on some personal business. Since the plane took off at 6:55 am, we had to get out of the house at about 4 am, I remembered the lap top, and I simply forgot the camera. We will return tomorrow morning, and pictures will be posted for sure, first thing! For those who are interested, I will go ahead and put up the step by step "build process" picture set later on.

Here are a couple of exteriors that I downloaded before the show.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/145.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/148.jpg




Thank you all for the compliments, the interest, and the encouragement!:wings:

[Printer]

That is sweet!

Do you have any interior photos?

[Bob599]

That is Freekin Awsome! Yeah I want to see interior shots and re-thinking my F150 project. Can the Pulse be removed after installation and at what degree of difficulty?

Thanks,

[offroadcamperguy]

That is Freekin Awsome! Yeah I want to see interior shots and re-thinking my F150 project. Can the Pulse be removed after installation and at what degree of difficulty?

Thanks,

The PULSE is designed to be as "non-invasive" as possible to your vehicle. Therefore, as long as your installation does not require cutting the top (like on a disco, cherokee, or suburban) then the unit is designed to quickly bolt on and bolt off, just like your original top!

[wannaby]

Thats better... I realize you may be pretty busy with such an awsom product....mayby you need to hire your kid or something to take picks and post em up here.That thing is missing the front fender flares right.:elkgrin:

[The Swiss]

The PULSE is designed to be as "non-invasive" as possible to your vehicle. Therefore, as long as your installation does not require cutting the top (like on a disco, cherokee, or suburban) then the unit is designed to quickly bolt on and bolt off, just like your original top!Does this mean that the original roll bar remains untouched?

As many mentioned before, really looking forward to some interior pics :drool:, even if they are of an un-finished or preliminary design.

[kjp1969]

The PULSE is designed to be as "non-invasive" as possible to your vehicle. Therefore, as long as your installation does not require cutting the top (like on a disco, cherokee, or suburban) then the unit is designed to quickly bolt on and bolt off, just like your original top!

Okay, several questions:

Like a '95 Bronco?
Retaining its rear set?
With a bed above?

And. . . . pricing?

[offroadcamperguy]

Okay, several questions:

Like a '95 Bronco?
Retaining its rear set?
With a bed above?

And. . . . pricing?



Hi kjp,

'95 Bronco takes a great PULSE top! Such a nice sized vehicle, and no cutting required!! Nice.

Most folks want to remove their back seat and then have a long couch that folds into a lower bed. but, if you would rather have your stock seat... no problem, that's why we do custom.

Queen size bed in the "loft" is what you get. Then it also comes standard with all of the great Phoenix pop up PULSE features, like the 3 way refrigerator, 3 burner stove, sink with water system, stove, screen door, triple layer insulated pop up liner, and much more.... price $18,495

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Broncoandpop-up001.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Finally have a few free minutes to show the Wrangler Unlimited Build. We have done a good number of these before, starting with the "idea" of the nice sleep unit on an SUV, even before they were called SUVs. 1973 my Dad built the one onto our Scout II. Not even a pop up, just a BOX with a bed and heater bolted onto our Scout II. So, then came the advent of the pop up top, the ultra light flexible off road structure, and then the adaption to other vehicles like Blazer, Bronco, Trailduster, and later 4Runner, Suburban, Range Rover, Land Rover, Jeepster, and CJ5.

So, an adaption of the family's original off road 4x4 sleeper cabin that is as complimentary to your beloved off roader as possible, while being comfortable to live in too.

Here's how we did it here in 2011

1. Find out what the customer wants inside and out on their custom PULSE. Get the vehicle in the shop, and measure measure measure, and make lots of patterns. Build a nice light weight and strong Welded aluminum cage frame construction, fiberglass sheeted, body shell.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/025s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/029s.jpg

2. Now that the concept is refigned to be as low profile and light weight as possible, while keeping just enough interior comfort, the new PULSE needs a better face. So, here we are creating a brand new aerodynamic "Nemesis Inspired" cab over shape, complete with built in molded name plate, heart waves, and accent lighting.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015-2.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/031s.jpg

3. Once the cab over has been shaped, fiberglass molded, and installed over the finished welded aluminum framed laminated composite roof, and triple layer insulated flexible liner, the unit is seam sealed and ready for the color match paint. This is provided by "Pappy's Auto" an excellent custom car painter here in the Denver Metro area.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/007s.jpg

4. Now we load the unit onto the delivery truck and CAREFULLY drive it out to the farmhouse in Earie, where "Pappy's" does their magic.
This PULSE looks pretty tiny on this Chevy full size truck.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010s.jpg

5. While Pappy's does his work, we design and build the interior cabinets and housings for the equipment and features. Here we are fitting a sliver of countertop around the Dometic/Cramer stainless steel sink/3 burner range with glass built in covers. So that this feature does not cut into our entranceway, we have to make this countertop hug the edges of the fixture, then blend into the slanted thin panel face... nothing square about this work, it's almost like art.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/003s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/001s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/005s-1.jpg

6. When the PULSE XJ returns, we are almost too excited to focus on the tons of work that we have left, the green is a little overwhelming. But, like good little soldiers, we push on. With the unit suspended over the Jeep, with customized cable jacks,http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/027s.jpg
here we trace and trim, sand and carve out the trimming pieces that connect the PULSE to the Jeep. We use good strong and straight Poplar lumber, cut trimmed, sanded, and then painted with so many careful coats, you would swear these body pieces are made of molded plastic.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/018s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/019s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/035s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/038s.jpg

7. On final approach, we find that our measurements turned out pretty good, since the insides of our re-inforcement walls actually brush along the roll cage padding of the XJ. Happy, because I really didn't want to break out the sawzawl again, once the paint was almost dry!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/025.jpg

8. Once we set the unit down, we find that the windshield and door pieces are a good fit.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/046s.jpg

9. Now, we bring out the bolt hole pattern map that we remembered to draw up at the beginning of this whole process? By using this map, we can carefully drill from the top down and drop right through the built in slotted bolt holes provided by the Jeep factory. Then we add the heavy duty bolt/nut/washer sets and tighten them down.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/049s.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/050s.jpg

10. Now we design, fabricate, and install the custom heavy duty windshield frame clamps.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/057s.jpg

11. Finally, we get to install all of the goodies that transform this neat little top into a truly comfortable living space. Photos of the interior coming soon!
Here is the exterior.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/030-1.png

[The Swiss]

Thanks so much for the write-up; EXTREMELY interesting!

[pods8]

1. Find out what the customer wants inside and out on their custom PULSE. Get the vehicle in the shop, and measure measure measure, and make lots of patterns. Build a nice light weight and strong Welded aluminum cage frame construction, fiberglass sheeted, body shell.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/029s.jpg


Question, is the wood panel built structure just a mold for the above mentioned fiberglass or is it left in place such that the camper is actually welded aluminum frame, wood sheeted, and then covered in fiberglass?

[Terrainist]

And more pics of the Bronco when you get time. Or similar platform. Interior/exterior. Please, thank you.

[offroadcamperguy]

Question, is the wood panel built structure just a mold for the above mentioned fiberglass or is it left in place such that the camper is actually welded aluminum frame, wood sheeted, and then covered in fiberglass?

Hi pods8,

What you are seeing is the completed Pro-Flex structure.
Once we are this far along in the build process, it is impossible to see exactly what it is made of, too many layers are fully covered up. But, I will be happy to describe how we achieve the strength and weight savings that are the benefits of our exclusive Pro-Flex construction.

1. The outside surface is the best sheet fiberglass available in the industry.
2. Next layer in is a thin 1/8" plywood with nylon strands woven between the layers for extra strength.
3. Then, you come to the center core which is the double welded aluminum tube cage frame, by double welding each structure joint we are transfering the flexation away from the joints and into the tube lengths instead. Extruded DOW polystyrene foam board is then tightly fit into the spaces between the frame studs. Around the perimeter of the frame is a thin pine strip, designed to give a place to receive staples and other fasteners for trimming purposes.
4. The final layer, the surface that covers the entire interior of the camper living space is a 1/8" real plywood layer with a vinyl washable face.
5. All of the layers are bonded with a specially formulated ruberized contact cement. This creates a true composite structure that is still fully flexible for off road use.

Our Pro-Flex construction is exclusive to and included on every Phoenix PULSE unit. It takes many times as much work and base material cost as other build methods, but we feel it is all worth it for the end result!

[offroadcamperguy]

Does this mean that the original roll bar remains untouched?

As many mentioned before, really looking forward to some interior pics :drool:, even if they are of an un-finished or preliminary design.


Hi The Swiss,

You are correct, the PULSE unit is designed to closely wrap itself around the Jeep's stock roll cage. The whole idea is to have a nice, comfortable sleeping/living unit that you can easily add to your vehicle, without losing the things you LOVE about your vehicle.

I have discovered that the interior photos I took are NOT on my camera's memory card. And now that Green PULSE JK unit has riden of into the sunset. Two of my friends took interior pics, and they are going to send them to me very soon, I hope!!

[offroadcamperguy]

And more pics of the Bronco when you get time. Or similar platform. Interior/exterior. Please, thank you.



Bronco Phoenix Pop Up

Interior
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/071.jpg

Exterior
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Broncoandpop-up004.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Broncoandpop-up002.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Funny you should post that last pic...

I was going to ask about the suitability of the roof and lift with a small boat loaded (on a fullsize longbox pu). What can you say to a guy who often feels as old as the gentleman in the photo?

Do you insulate the floor and under bed? Ever add "extra" insulation?

I'm trying to compare the thermal insulation and draft sealing of a standard unit to an older FWC. Any comment? (you can PM me)

Thanks,


Hi klahanie,

The roofs will support 2,000 lbs of snow, so they are very strong. Holding the conoes or kayaks is no problem at all, and we have a nice simple rack bar system available that receives Yakama or Thule toy attachments.

Typically you would just take your toys off of the roof when you arrive, then lift the roof for camping.
There is a nice device and technique that we use to more easily lift small weights on the roof. But, if you want to have a nice big aluminum fishing boat on the roof, and be able to raise and lower it with it up there, then you will want to order your Phoenix with the optional push button remote control automatic lift.

We do insulate the floors and under bed storages. Since we are truly custom built, there is also extra insulation available for every part of the unit. In fact, on Tuesday we are installing a nice custom unit on a truck from Canada. He ordered his with double insulated walls and liner, extra insulated floor, underbed storage and roof. I will post pictures of this unit and some custom specs, once we get it in the road!

Thank you for the interest and good questions!

[offroadcamperguy]

A message from Coyote RV, we are the makers of the Phoenix Custom PULSE camper units.

I have been confronted at least 10,000 times with the following:

How much will the camper weigh for my truck?

How does your camper's weight compare with ________?

I have a really light duty truck and I am affraid that my truck won't be able to handle one of these campers.


Please don't get me wrong, I totally understand why so many people ask these questions and make these comments. These campers do look heavier than they are, and when you sit or stand in your truck or SUV, it is so hard to imagine an entire living cabin fitting into your little vehicle, and then having it still be DRIVABLE!!

Also, there are A LOT of truck camper builders who live by the "bigger is better" belief. I mean a camper that is 8' wide, 8' tall, 11' long, and weighs 5,000 lbs is NOT okay to set on top of ANY truck you can buy off of a car dealer's lot, no matter what that RV salesman tries to tell you! And there a few pop up truck camper makers that are just about to this same point.

So, today I am adding to our website an extra page that I hope will outline my phylosophy about the "issue" of camper weight. Please let me know what you think. Here it is below:



POP-UP CAMPER WEIGHTS

Our intension is to build your camper to be as non-invasive to your vehicle as practically possible WHILE MAINTAINING the highest possible level of STRENGTH AND DURABILITY. Our frame structure is made of an all aluminum welded tubular cage frame. The exact same light weight framing materials as the industries VERY LIGHTEST WEIGHT campers made. If the particular custom Phoenix that you design for your vehicle ends up weighing more than another manufacturer’s published weight, then YOU ARE GETTING A UNIT WITH MORE IN IT. We suggest that one does not obsess about the weight of the camper too much. A general rule of thumb is that if you design your unit standard Pheonix profile or low profile, and to fit it pretty tight to the overall length of your vehicle, and get your basic living needs inside, then your truck should handle the unit well, without suspension modifications. If you want a longer than the bed unit, A NON POP UP, or add extra big refrigerator, or restroom, shower, television, air conditioner, etc… then you will want to add “air bags” to your vehicle in order to optimize performance. You can get air bags installed at most reputable 4x4 accessory stores.

[Terrainist]

Thanks for posting the Bronco photos. I am going to have to get one set up like that one day.

If you have any photos of the access from front seats (cab) to the camper, that pass thru cut out is crucial, it would be greatly appreciated. Otherwise, I'll quit pestering you. You have campers to build.

Your addendum to your website regarding camper weight looks fine to me. For buyers that don't live in a dream world, the weight of the camper is very important. Many a rig/traveling/camper setup has been made far less capable because they were too heavy. Even made useless because they were too heavy.

[offroadcamperguy]

Thanks for posting the Bronco photos. I am going to have to get one set up like that one day.

If you have any photos of the access from front seats (cab) to the camper, that pass thru cut out is crucial, it would be greatly appreciated. Otherwise, I'll quit pestering you. You have campers to build.

Your addendum to your website regarding camper weight looks fine to me. For buyers that don't live in a dream world, the weight of the camper is very important. Many a rig/traveling/camper setup has been made far less capable because they were too heavy. Even made useless because they were too heavy.



Well, unfortunately I don't have any photos of that pass through connection. I will briefly describe it for you though.

The connection is exactly the same as the original top. The camper is actually sculpted to emulate the shape of the Bronco's original top, curved at the front lower wall and all around the "tunnel" as well. It makes contact and seals to the built in rubber seals in all the same places as the factory top.

So, when you look into the camper from the bronco, there is no FRONT WALL visible from the front seats at all. The opening from the Bronco into the camper's living quarters is wide open, except for the front edge of the refrigerator cabinet on the driver's wall. Since you would not try and look over your left shoulder for changing lanes etc... you really don't even notice this. You can look over your right shoulder, out the big window on the passenger wall of the camper or the back door window for driving visibility.

This is the same for vertually all of our S.U.V. sleep unit conversions.

I hope this is helpfull.

[Terrainist]

Very helpful!! Thank you.

[offroadcamperguy]

Great.



Looking forward to seeing that, in particular how the plastic windows were treated.


News to me; interesting.

Regarding the Camper Weight post. Probably not what you meant but...I read that whole post thinking about liability to the company rather than a potential customer's concern over reduced vehicle performance. Leading me to suggest that if you bring up the subject of weight you might also consider including something about safe loading ultimately being the vehicle owner's responsibility.

Perhaps in future you could add the final weight of each new camper to your "database" of past builds. That would give new customers an idea of size and features vs weight.

Also, it wouldn't hurt to add a link to your website in your signature.:)

Thanks.
Cheers,


Thank you very much for the great ideas and suggestions... I will try to use them wisely.

[fullpoints]

check this link!
http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/2011-coyote-rv-nemesis-jeep-jk-p.u.l.s.e./

really cool setup - If I had a jeep this would be no brainer!

[Hawkz]

Good write up, and good pictures.

[Northern Explorer]

check this link!
http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/2011-coyote-rv-nemesis-jeep-jk-p.u.l.s.e./

really cool setup - If I had a jeep this would be no brainer!

I think that's going to be a good seller for you. Using the Jeep floor as the camper floor must really keep the weight down.

[offroadcamperguy]

check this link!
http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/2011-coyote-rv-nemesis-jeep-jk-p.u.l.s.e./

really cool setup - If I had a jeep this would be no brainer!


Hi,

Thank you very much for the compliment, and for posting this article!! I've been asking my friends who took interior pictures to send me some of them, ever since the ISE Show. But never got them delivered, so I am so glad that this article was published, and that you put it out there.

For anyone who lost track of it, here is the link to the article again:

http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/2011-coyote-rv-nemesis-jeep-jk-p.u.l.s.e./

Thank You Again!

Robby

[wannaby]

mmmm...very cool I guess a little tight for me how do you get into the bed when the one peice is flipped down ....with my mattress and sleep pad all pushed up.... think it would be easyer to throw a tarp up and cook outside for me and the price if it is 18g,s seems a little steep if you ask me.....but thats just my opinion.I think this guy came up with something just as functional and alot cheaper

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=53577

but I suppose ther are people out there with way more money than me willing to pay for something like that and you have found a good nich market good for you.....Den

[offroadcamperguy]

mmmm...very cool I guess a little tight for me how do you get into the bed when the one peice is flipped down ....with my mattress and sleep pad all pushed up.... think it would be easyer to throw a tarp up and cook outside for me and the price if it is 18g,s seems a little steep if you ask me.....but thats just my opinion.I think this guy came up with something just as functional and alot cheaper

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=53577

but I suppose ther are people out there with way more money than me willing to pay for something like that and you have found a good nich market good for you.....Den

Hi Den,

You're right, where there's a will, there's a way. You can always save a lot of money, if you are willing to put the time, effort, and thought into your projects. I have seen some truly amazing self made camp units.

This Suzuki camper is really neat looking, I think he should be proud of this creation... it's really the exact same basic idea as the jeep PULSE. You can see that he kept his roll bar in there, the main bed is over the cab, the raised roof gives a full height standing area for changing close and stretching out, very nice.

Thanks for sending that link!

[suntinez]

For those who don't know the history (http://www.coyoterv.biz/ABOUT-US.html) of Coyote, Dave Rowe - creator of FWC and Tiger Motorhomes, and one helluva nice guy - is Rob's father. I see a lot of those influences here, updated for the current market.

Good luck Robby/Cari, looks like growing pains are over and you have your finger right on the pulse.

[wannaby]

I must say you guys have been ahead of the competition all along I love the tiger/provan,the 4WC. and all this new stuff you guys are coming up with.....I just wish I had the dough ... but even if I did I wouldnt be able to make up my mind...keep up the good work.Den

[Joshleachman]

Great design...have you built these on a tacoma or tundra?

[wannaby]

Something on an old chevy blazer would be cool too really like the chevy chalet...

[offroadcamperguy]

Great design...have you built these on a tacoma or tundra?

Thank You for asking.... YES! We sure offer our custom units for the Tundra and Tacoma. You can set yours up with the standard list of great PULSE features and customize it with some extra goodies, or go more basic. Your choice.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/CustomTacoma.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/IMAG0008.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Something on an old chevy blazer would be cool too really like the chevy chalet...

Yes! I LOVE the Blazer units. The Chalet had that cool molded fiberglass body, the tail light skirt wrap, and the matching paint to make it look more like "part of" the Blazer. I like mine to come out a little tighter fitting at the rear, so it handles better on and off road. Some folks still ask us to build them longer, like a Chalet. We do it any way you want!

Anyway, you're right on with that one.... Really cool little HD off roading mini motorhomes!

I think that if a guy (or girl) ordered their new Phoenix Custom Blazer unit with the new aerodynamic molded fiberglass cab over, and paint match option, then they'd have themeselves a pretty neat little rig!


Something like THIS BLAZER PHOENIX POP UP
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/blazer.jpg


ordered with THIS AERODYNAMIC CAB OVER
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/009.jpg

[pods8]

Yes! I LOVE the Blazer units. The
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-1-1.jpg

What have you been seeing performance wise on the installations that have the cab over over hanging the plane of the windshield like that verse being farther back? Obviously there is going to be some aerodynamic losses there I was curious if you had any appreciation for what that might be in reality?

[offroadcamperguy]

What have you been seeing performance wise on the installations that have the cab over over hanging the plane of the windshield like that verse being farther back? Obviously there is going to be some aerodynamic losses there I was curious if you had any appreciation for what that might be in reality?

Hi pods8,

Great question! I am sure a lot of people wonder about this, so since I have driven all different combinations of trucks, campers, and cab over lengths, I hope I can help clear up some of the questions.

1. After building campers for 20+ years, and seeing how much the cab over on a camper does effect the performance of a vehicle (especially on the highway and in heavy wind) I became obsessed with developing a truly aerodynamic cab over shape for our campers. So I spent about 2 years working on the shape and production of our new aerodynamic cab over. I am not trying to advertise here, I just wanted everyone to know how much importance I place on this issue.

2. So, if at all possible get yourself a camper that is shaped so that it slices through the wind as smoothly and as effortlessly as possible.

3. In my opinion, the very best aerodynamic truck mounted camper would have the following features, in order of importance:

a. Aerodyanamic shape to the cab over cap, so that whether it was
mounted to a truck or not it would slice through the wind.

b. Tightness of clearance between the top of the vehicle's roof, and
the bottom of the camper's cab over. No matter how LONG
the cab over is or how well designed the aerodynamic shape
is on the tip, wind will sneak into the space above the cab
and creat an air dam that slows the vehicle down. The bigger
the gap you have here, the worse the air dam will be. The
very best thing you can do to improve the aerodynamics of any
existing truck/camper combo is to add a CAB-TO-CAMPER PAD. This is an inflatable pad that fills this gap between the cab and cab over. Closing this gap make the wind divert to either side
of the camper instead of getting trapped and causing the dam.
The cab to camper pad can sometimes help other things like
"bed bounce." I very much recommend getting the 3M clear bra
added to your vehicle's roof before adding the pad, in order to
protect the paint.

c. Length designed to fit the vehicle cab such that the wind from the
highway travels up the windshield and continues to flow across
the aerodynamic cab over tip WITHOUT hitting a "shelf" from
an overhanging extra long cab over. For the sake of improved
overall camper center of gravity, and sometimes comfort inside
of the campeer's living quarters it is sometimes worth giving up
this particular aerodynamic feature. It's a matter of opinion.
In the above quote's pictures, the yellow vehicle shows the
perfect aerodynamic fit, and the white one shows the
less than perfect aerodynamic fit. If you have a camper with
the fit like the white truck DON'T FREAK OUT AND SELL IT, just
get yourself the CAB-TO-CAMPER PAD mentioned on feature b
if you feel the need to improve your aerodynamics.

d. If you want to really go crazy with your aerodynamic obsession,
you can do a couple of other things. Make your camper as
absolutely LOW profile as possible. Add air diflectors to the
front wall of the camper, angling forward to the truck's cab,
reduce the air damming a the front wall, on either side of the
cab. Cut the cab over off of your camper completely. Round
off the upper rear end of your camper, since it has been
proven that most of your aerodynamic drag actually occures
at the rear of a vehicle as the wind swirls behind it.

You add any camper on top of your truck and it is a reletively square box, with room enough for some beds and storage, and you're going to lose some performance and fuel mileage. Once you accept this fact, you just have to decide of the comfort and freedom that you gain from adding the camper is worth trading for this.

I have received feedback from hundreds of my customers over the years and here's the facts that I have concluded.... They are finding that on average pop up campers will reduce your fuel mileage about 2 - 4 MPG. It seams to depend more on the amount of extra power your particular truck model has before adding the camper, than exactly how you shape and size your camper.

Okay, as usual, long answer to a simple question, sorry. Hope someone out there finds it interesting.

[86cj]

Hi pods8,


Okay, as usual, long answer to a simple question, sorry. Hope someone out there finds it interesting.



I found it interesting, especially since I have a Jeep LJ and would need a cabover design for decent room. I also prefer a standard pop up with a hard roof rather than a Flippac tent type camper, rain is almost always part of our camping and a wet tent is what is pushing us to get off the ground when we use the Jeep.

I would prefer access to the bunk from the outside also, have you ever built a door into the popup fabric?


I have owned a 12' cabover camper for 20 years, it is a standard bunk not extended. I have hauled it with both standard cab (big overhang) and extended cab pickup (no overhang), the air it catches is a big deal and the cushion helps. I tried the cushion on my extended cab truck and it helped a little, but the sheetmetal made noise flexing so I took it out. I never saw a MPG improvement but it helped with buffeting. I have to say I miss the cooling benefits the overhang had on cab comfort when on the std cab truck, combined with the less glare it just made a day in the cab much more enjoyable...

[offroadcamperguy]

since I have a Jeep LJ and would need a cabover design for decent room. I also prefer a standard pop up with a hard roof rather than a Flippac tent type camper, rain is almost always part of our camping and a wet tent is what is pushing us to get off the ground when we use the Jeep.

I would prefer access to the bunk from the outside also, have you ever built a door into the popup fabric?

Yes, we do offer the side intrance zip "door" into the soft upper portion of the liner, with a ladder to get up.

Also, so that the folded out queen size sleeper is a full 6' on our LJ PULSE model, the cab over section does extend over the windshield. But it is fully sealed to the windshield with NO AIR DAM GAP.

I forgot to mention those benefits of the longer cabover. The shading the windshield, and the fact that frost pretty much never covers your windshield in the mornings!

Thanks again for the great comments, Rob

[offroadcamperguy]

I posted an article about the Jeep Camper, JK PULSE, which did have some photos in it. But, for those who just wanted to see more photos, and not read like a whole article about it....

Jeep Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/SportsmansExpo2011-9.jpg

Wrangler Unlimited Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/SportsmansExpo2011-12.jpg

Jeep JK PULSE Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/SportsmansExpo2011-14.jpg

Jeep Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/SportsmansExpo2011-11.jpg

Jeep Wrangler Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/SportsmansExpo2011-19.jpg

Phoenix Pop Up on Jeep
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/SportsmansExpo2011-16.jpg

[Terrainist]

I see you have an Olympian Wave 6 in the Jeep. They make a smaller heater. Is it your experience that the Wave 6 is needed in there vs. the Wave 3?

Post Script: thanks for the Jeep interior pics.

[pods8]

Okay, as usual, long answer to a simple question, sorry. Hope someone out there finds it interesting.

It was all interesting stuff. I was just trying to get a feel for the overhang trade off as I'm sketching a design right now and pondering the aerodynamic trade off verse bed width. My ideal goal was for a queen width at 60" but to avoid crossing the continued plane of the windshield something ~54" is probably all that will fit. That's still a decent width bed for comfort, just not extra roomy, and thus the debate rages on in my head. :coffeedrink:

[Jim K in PA]

Yes, we do offer the side intrance zip "door" into the soft upper portion of the liner, with a ladder to get up.

Also, so that the folded out queen size sleeper is a full 6' on our LJ PULSE model, the cab over section does extend over the windshield. But it is fully sealed to the windshield with NO AIR DAM GAP.


Rob - do you have any pictures of your LJ Pulse model? I perused the website but did not find any. I have an '05 LJ Rubicon. These are beyond our budget right now, but I am curious as to how one would look on the LJ.

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob - do you have any pictures of your LJ Pulse model? I perused the website but did not find any. I have an '05 LJ Rubicon. These are beyond our budget right now, but I am curious as to how one would look on the LJ.


Hi Jim,

I have not kept any photos of the LJ PULSE units. Other than being a little shorter, it looks and works just about exactly the same as the JK size though, the walk through is the same, the shape is the same, the equipment is even the same. I did not used to be very good at snapping shots of every custom project. I can tell you that the first one we built this size was made for a CJ5, then we moved on to the rest of the jeep models. I did find a photo of this little guy though....

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/rig6-3.jpg

[Jim K in PA]

Neat shot of the Jeepster. Thanks Rob. I get the concept, just was looking to find a direct match to my LJ.

[Stinger202]

I've really enjoyed this thread and all the discussion about the smaller 4x4s and Rob"s great PULSE idea. For those of you with larger 4x4s I've attached some pics of my Ford Raptor with one of the Phoenix Coyote campers on it. Custom designed and custom built it satifies my need for the light off roading that I do and weighs only 1120 pounds. Stinger 202

[offroadcamperguy]

Thank you for posting these great photos Stinger....

I've been looking forward to seeing some ACTION shots of our campers!

Last year we had a calendar photo contest, and it was wonderful to see all of you out there having fun with your custom Phoenix's. Here are the winners that landed in the 2011 Phoenix Pop Up Calendar...

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/oldstyletundralongbed.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/snowmobiling.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Volgel1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptoratrockymountainpark.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Robinson1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/redwoodforest.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Picture026.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Montericco_003.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/oldphoenix.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Huffman2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/ferryride.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Dembecki.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/DanielsHouse.jpg

The Calendar turned out beautiful, thanks to all of these GREAT photos, supplied by our awesome camper owners.... Everyone, be sending in your best ACTION shots, so you can be featured in the 2012 calendar!!

[offroadcamperguy]

February is REALLY shaping up!

First, a week from Monday we'll install a nice simple, light weight shell model on a Tacoma (Dinette, bed, and countertop only). Should come out about 500 lbs or so..

Next, a ten foot unit for an F350 long bed crew cab. Hot water, shower, cassette toilet, drop screen DVD player, extra low profile PULSE.

Then, some time this month we should be installing a unit we finished a while back and are storing for an Arizina customer (he's waiting for the snow to stop falling, we'll see about that). This unit is custom made for his Chevy 2500 long bed UTILITY BODY. It's going to be really cool.

Also, we are designing a very specail unit for a gentleman's Ford SprotTrac. he's making a final decission for whether he wants to keep a cab over, or go with our ultra ultra light and no wind resistance non-cab over design. There's benefits to both, so we'll see what he comes up with.

Finally, by the end of the month we will install a custom painted extra low profile PULSE on a brand new SVT Raptor Crew Cab. The customer ordered his truck and camper together, through his Ford Dealership, so it will be installed by us, then delivered to the customer as a complete package!

Our drop screen DVD player: http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/40235_399417832536_587862536_3797922_275141_n.jpg

Can you guess the movie?


Watch for more photos, they're comming!

[murryconst]

Have you built a non cab over
Pop-up if so any photo's

[offroadcamperguy]

Have you built a non cab over
Pop-up if so any photo's

Yes! We can build it just flush to the top of the cab, or get a little more "creative."


Here you go:

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/smallturtles10-1.jpg

[bme]

Is this fixed roof or with hinge at front?

[offroadcamperguy]

Is this fixed roof or with hinge at front?

It actually pops straight up, nice and simple. 6' headroom so you can stand in front of the stove, sink and countertop.

[offroadcamperguy]

This morning we installed a nice little custom Tacoma Shell Model.

This gentleman from Montana needed some special features

1. To be able to fit his camper in his low garage

2. Keep his tailgate back up camera

3. No frig furnace stove etc..

4. Plus he wanted to keep as much upen space, counterspace, and storage as possible.

I was just so glad to see that his Tacoma was not another silver colored one! We have done so many silvers in a row.... Oh, if you have a silver Tacoma, no problem, happy to fit a nice camper for you!


Here's the special fold down shelf up:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/hart002.jpg

Down:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/hart001.jpg

View fromt the back with tailgate closed:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/hart003.jpg

Side view, heading for the highway!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/hart004.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

hey, does anyone out there have some good pictures of phoenix pop ups in "action?" Like skiing or muddin', or rock climbing, boating, fishing... anything??? Post em' up people!!

[whybother]

Rob & Cari-
Coincidentally I was thinking about calling you guys to inquire about a "shell" model phoenix camper. What would something like this weigh, and what is the cost breakdown. I have 2004 Tacoma (not silver!).

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob & Cari-
Coincidentally I was thinking about calling you guys to inquire about a "shell" model phoenix camper. What would something like this weigh, and what is the cost breakdown. I have 2004 Tacoma (not silver!).

Hi whybother,

We build a LOT of shells (for every size and brand truck). They start at about 500 lbs and a really really basic shell can cost as little as $6990. Personally, I would go for the upgraded PHOENIX shell, with a number of improvements, but it's all up to you! I would be happy to e-mail you a nice set of shell breakdown sheets, they show the basic basic, all the way up to our fully equipped P.U.L.S.E. units, and everything in-between. Just give me a call or e-mail, so I can get your contact info, without throwing it out there to everyone here on the site and beyond.

My contact info is cari@coyoterv.biz or (303) 286-3921

[whybother]

Thanks for the response...I sent you a separate email with specific questions. Does anybody have any advice on shell models vs fully equipted campers? Thanks!

[offroadcamperguy]

Thanks for the response...I sent you a separate email with specific questions. Does anybody have any advice on shell models vs fully equipted campers? Thanks!

Ok, here's my opinion about the shell vs fully equipped.

Vehicle performance: The trucks usually drive better with a FULLY EQUIPPED camper. That is as long as we are talking about a fully equipped that as about the length of the truck bed, not much longer, and the camper has a basic furnace, stove, sink, water tank, jacks, etc.... When you start hanging the camper a couple of feel out the back of the bed and making them a lot taller than the truck, or adding way huge refrigerators or 50 gallons of water, etc... then you're starting to get just too big.

On the other hand, we are finding that cab over pop ups with nothing in them, for some reason, do not highway very well. They tend to buck or porpoise in wind MORE THAN THE FULLY EQUIPPED UNITS!

Camper performance: Of course, we all think to ourselves "wouldn't it be great to have all the comforts of home when I get to my destination." The truth is though, what your camper gives you mostly is a nice dry space, out of the weather to store your gear, change your clothes, sleep, and eat. If you are staying for a longer period of time then a way to clean up (shower) would be nice. It doesn't take too much built in equipment to take care of these basic needs, and a shell unit, plus some portable hiking/backpacking camping gear (which most outdoors people already have) can do a good job of keeping us comfortable.

After building campers for over 25 years, I have found that people do tend to over build their rigs. But, then again, it does kinda stink when you get to your camp site and think to youself "gee, I wish I woulda brought....."

This is exactly why we build custom. I am not here to try and SELL you my idea of what I THINK you need.

You know what YOU need to be comfortable and happy.

[NothingClever]

After building campers for over 25 years, I have found that people do tend to over build their rigs. But, then again, it does kinda stink when you get to your camp site and think to youself "gee, I wish I woulda brought....."

This is exactly why we build custom. I am not here to try and SELL you my idea of what I THINK you need.

You know what YOU need to be comfortable and happy.

Well done. I congratulate you on a winning strategy!

[Stinger202]

Here's my 2 cents on this subject:
- I choose to get a camper that is what I call a "Shell Plus". This is my 4th truck camper and is based on experience with the previous 3 campers.
- The more you include the heavier the camper is which tends to require a 3/4 ton and the extra costs associated therein.
- Phoenix built me a custom 8 foot camper that has only a few items; reefer, dinette, cassette toilet, fore to aft bed over the cab. I purposely do not have any water in the camper based on leaks with the previoius 3. Remaining space in camper is used for storage of cloths and personal items.
- I also did not have any cooking capability inside because we have found that we do all of this activity outside. I pull a small trailer behind our rig and on that I have storage capability for portable kitchen, cooking stove, propane, hot water shower, water jugs, Gheenoe, bikes, Kayaks.
- We use portable heater to warm the camper.
Hope that this info gives you an idea of what you can do with a "Shell Plus" type of camper.
:)
Stinger202

[whybother]

That's very interesting about the highway performance deteriorating with an empty shell model. Any ideas out there why this is so?
What difference have you seen in gas mileage between the shell model & a fully loaded one? I would guess you'd save ~400lbs or so.

[offroadcamperguy]

That's very interesting about the highway performance deteriorating with an empty shell model. Any ideas out there why this is so?
What difference have you seen in gas mileage between the shell model & a fully loaded one? I would guess you'd save ~400lbs or so.



Hi whybother,

It's still a little bit of a mystery why the empty units tend to buck in heavy wind, more than fully equipped ones, but I suspect that the sheer size of the newly increased face of the rig does not "match" the mass of the overall rig, and therefore is more easily tossed around by the currents. Analogy: Try to skip a big fat rock accross the top of water and it easily dives in instead. I think this is how a heavier truck/camper rig bashes through wind without "feeling" like it is hitting the resistance of the gusts. The resistance is sure there, but is disguesed by the sheer force of the heavy object more easily breaking through it. Just a guess.

My customers report an average of 2 - 4 mpg decrease when adding their pop up campers. It doesn't seam to make much difference at all whether the unit weighs 500lbs or 1000lbs really. Where the real difference comes in is what the truck performed like, BEFORE adding the camper. Big deisel truck with tons of extra power, hardly any change vs 4 banger gas carberator truck, sometimes up to 5 miles per gallon change. Once you add the cab over, NO MATTER HOW LONG OR TALL, you have a wind dam, and on the highway you will lose some mileage. In fact, I had a customer who had a toyota Yaris as their "little car" and it normally got like 30 mpg, but when they carried their 20 lb bicycles on the roof rack, the mileage dropped to UNDER 20 MPG!!!

This is why we now try to build the majority of our campers with the sculpted fiberglass aerodynamic cab overs. It will still catch some wind, but not nearly as much, plus it sends most of that wind over and around the cab over and camper.

[offroadcamperguy]

Next Raptor custom P.U.L.S.E. goes over to the paint shop tomorrow for a full paint job... can't wait to see it done!

[DanoT]

Some pics of my new Phoenix Camper built by Robby at Coyote RV and made for the Canadian winter. I don't know of any other manufactureer that will build a camper with 2" of insulation, 4 layer soft wall pop up, 20k btu furnace with a heat duct to the shower stall for very warm showers and the stall also doubles as a dry room for wet ski gear.

[MNJim]

Some pics of my new Phoenix Camper built by Robby at Coyote RV and made for the Canadian winter. I don't know of any other manufactureer that will build a camper with 2" of insulation, 4 layer soft wall pop up, 20k btu furnace with a heat duct to the shower stall for very warm showers and the stall also doubles as a dry room for wet ski gear.

Nice rig. How cold has it been inside and outside overnight? What's your interior layout like? How big is your shower stall?

[DanoT]

The shower stall is 32"x30" and with the grey water tank under the stall floor it is designed as a sit down shower, however at 5'8" I can stand up if I bend my knees slightly. I have been camping in -18C (0F) and have been comfortable inside.

[offroadcamperguy]

What an ending to a CRAZY month... We've been pushing hard to meet our customer's requested finish/install dates. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED... Today we installed two great campers!

10' F350 Long Bed King Cab custom PULSE. This beauty is low profile enough to fit in the customer's garage, plus it has so many great requested extras, like:

*20"x20" escape hatch out the roof, so he can climb up on top and take photos of off-road racing.
*Ladder to the roof.
*Extra low profile, to fit in his garage, with under bed auto lift storage and automatic push button adjustable queen size air mattress.
*Hot water, shower, and cassette toilet.
*Tail light skirts with exterior sotrage.
*Truckin' Awn... rear door cover awning.
*20" high-def drop screen DVD/TV.
*AM/FM stereo with CD and MP3.
*Custom upholstery.
*Extreme extended cab over with front to back sleeper.
*City water hook up.
*Extra windows in the insulated pop up liner (total 7 windows).
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10001.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10004.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10006.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10013.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10011.jpg






--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2011 F150 Raptor Crew Cab, with some great selections:

*Custom molten orange tri-stage paint job.
*Raptor Ford Graphics
*Extra low profile, with under bed storage, and push button air mattress.
*Special length, so tail gate will shut.
*Full set of PULSE features, like refrigerator, double sinks, stove, jacks, etc..

Phoenix Pop up Raptor interior:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10027.jpg

Phoenix Pop up Quality Interior:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10029.jpg

Raptor Pop up:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10019.jpg

Off Road Pop up Camper:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10018.jpg

Phoenix Pop Up F150 Raptor
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10037.jpg

SVT Raptor Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10036.jpg

F150 Raptor off road Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10030.jpg

Off Road Camper by Pheonix Pop Up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10031.jpg

Pop up camper Raptor
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10032.jpg

Best Raptor fit Pop up Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10034.jpg

Pop up Camper Phoenix pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10033.jpg

[shellb]

THAT Raptor...:drool:

Fantastic work by you and your team!

[Northern Explorer]

I like the color match.

[Larry]

The Raptor turned out great! :victory:

[locrwln]

Raptor= :victory::wings:

Jack

[Photog]

Both of those look really great. The Raptor project looks like a factory job for a car show.

The tube under the table looks like it would rake your legs, when sliding in to eat dinner.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10006.jpg


*20"x20" escape hatch out the roof, so he can climb up on top and take photos of off-road racing.

Will the roof hold his weight, when it is extended (the only way to get to the hatch above the bed)?

[offroadcamperguy]

First off, thank you everyone for the nice compliments on these PULSE units! We did work hard on these units, and were excited to present them to the happy customers. I know they will have great adventures in them!


Brian,

We did design this 10' PULSE roof with some extra support, so that it can be walked around on, while in the up position. Although, our most standard design will hold a very heavy snow load.

Funny you should ask about the table post. This unit has such a long table that there is plenty of room on each end of the table for tall people's knees. BUT, on units where the table area is more comprimised, we have a great new angled side mount table support available.

[offroadcamperguy]

What an ending to a CRAZY month... We've been pushing hard to meet our customer's requested finish/install dates. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED... Today we installed two great campers!

10' F350 Long Bed King Cab custom PULSE. This beauty is low profile enough to fit in the customer's garage, plus it has so many great requested extras, like:

*20"x20" escape hatch out the roof, so he can climb up on top and take photos of off-road racing.
*Ladder to the roof.
*Extra low profile, to fit in his garage, with under bed auto lift storage and automatic push button adjustable queen size air mattress.
*Hot water, shower, and cassette toilet.
*Tail light skirts with exterior sotrage.
*Truckin' Awn... rear door cover awning.
*20" high-def drop screen DVD/TV.
*AM/FM stereo with CD and MP3.
*Custom upholstery.
*Extreme extended cab over with front to back sleeper.
*City water hook up.
*Extra windows in the insulated pop up liner (total 7 windows).
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10001.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10004.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10006.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10013.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10011.jpg






--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2011 F150 Raptor Crew Cab, with some great selections:

*Custom molten orange tri-stage paint job.
*Raptor Ford Graphics
*Extra low profile, with under bed storage, and push button air mattress.
*Special length, so tail gate will shut.
*Full set of PULSE features, like refrigerator, double sinks, stove, jacks, etc..

Phoenix Pop up Raptor interior:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10027.jpg

Phoenix Pop up Quality Interior:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10029.jpg

Raptor Pop up:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10019.jpg

Off Road Pop up Camper:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10018.jpg

Phoenix Pop Up F150 Raptor
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10037.jpg

SVT Raptor Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10036.jpg

F150 Raptor off road Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10030.jpg

Off Road Camper by Pheonix Pop Up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10031.jpg

Pop up camper Raptor
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10032.jpg

Best Raptor fit Pop up Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10034.jpg

Pop up Camper Phoenix pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/raptorand10033.jpg

Just wanted to re-post this, so it would be last thing on the last page.

[DanoT]

Rob,
I sent you a PM a few days ago. It's about the vented Cat heater so I hope you got it.

[pods8]

Rob,

If you don't mind me inquiring, what manufacturer makes the radius corner split center opening cab through window?

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob,

If you don't mind me inquiring, what manufacturer makes the radius corner split center opening cab through window?



No problem: We get our windows from either Kinro Windows, or Hehr Intl, whichever can fill the order at the time. Both are quality. If you need one, please let me know what size hole you're filling, and the style you need. I will see what we can do. The only real catch is that these window manufacturers usually want us to tie ourselves to a few specific size/canfigurations, and to order like $2,000 worth of windows at one time. But, like I said, let me know what you need, and I'll see how I can help you.

Rob

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob,
I sent you a PM a few days ago. It's about the vented Cat heater so I hope you got it.

Hi DanoT,

Yes! I got that information about the vented Cat. Heaters. Thank You very very much. I think we will be ordering some in, and seeing how to work them into the custom production eventually.

Did you get your insulated vent covers?

[pods8]

No problem: We get our windows from either Kinro Windows, or Hehr Intl, whichever can fill the order at the time. Both are quality. If you need one, please let me know what size hole you're filling, and the style you need. I will see what we can do. The only real catch is that these window manufacturers usually want us to tie ourselves to a few specific size/canfigurations, and to order like $2,000 worth of windows at one time. But, like I said, let me know what you need, and I'll see how I can help you.

Rob

Thanks for filling me in, I've looked at the Kinro page a bit but they don't list a lot of detailed info. I'll inquire a bit further.

I appreciate the offer if I run into issues, I'll see what I can do on my end first though since I know you're not in the parts business. :) (My sizing is open minded since its still on paper, but I was thinking a cab through window in the ~14" high range and whatever width required to accommodate the sliding sections, which I assume would be in the 36" range.)

[offroadcamperguy]

Tacoma sized Shell, Phoenix Pop up FOR SALE!!

http://bozeman.craigslist.org/rvs/2247828050.html

[pods8]

Tacoma sized Shell, Phoenix Pop up FOR SALE!!

http://bozeman.craigslist.org/rvs/2247828050.html

You sold that less than a month ago, buyer totally shift focus or did something unfortunate happen to the buyer (hopefully not)?

[offroadcamperguy]

You sold that less than a month ago, buyer totally shift focus or did something unfortunate happen to the buyer (hopefully not)?

The gentleman just found out that he wasn't going to be able to use the unit like he thought he could, so he asked us to help direct potential buyers his way. I think it's a great little camper.... simple, light weight, roomy, and less expensive!

[Northern Explorer]

Nice to see another Colorado with a truck camper. Truck Camper Magazine (http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/ken-rogman:-top-spots-in-colorado/)

[offroadcamperguy]

Nice to see another Colorado with a truck camper. Truck Camper Magazine (http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/ken-rogman:-top-spots-in-colorado/)


Hi Northern Explorer,

I Love that truck! Here's one we drove and delivered down to Georgia a couple of years ago. Wonderful ride!

Chevy Colorado Camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/smcolorado.jpg

Chevy Colorado Pop up Phoenix
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/smcolorado1.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Here's a story about a custom Phoenix pop up we are building for a beautiful '78 Chevy Short Bed. It will be installed this Thursday, then I will post a project complete piece on it!

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/showthread.php?p=4544482

Hope you all enjoy this link.

[Shruk]

The RV rentals industry comes to face with a completely different environment than what it had to face five years ago. According to the Business Travel News, the vehicles are rented by people for accumulating from 20,000 to 40,000 miles with a turn-around mileage of about 12,000 to 15,000 miles. This was the case five years ago. Because of slow growth in the RV rentals industry and due to the narrow profit margin, there has been no immediate threat to the backward integration that has occurred within the industry. In reality, among the RV rentals industry players only Hertz is vertically manipulated through Ford.


------------------------------
rv rental tucson (http://www.rvrentaloutlet.com/)

YouTube - Monty Python - Spam

[nemoaz]

The PULSE is designed to be as "non-invasive" as possible to your vehicle. Therefore, as long as your installation does not require cutting the top (like on a disco, cherokee, or suburban)

Have you done a Suburban (any gen)? Have any pics?

[offroadcamperguy]

Thank you for asking about a Suburban Pop up camper.

No, believe it or not, we have not had the pleasure of cusomizing a Suburban yet! I think it would be the perfect thing, with those comfortable seats for four in the front, then sleeping for four in the back. Great ride, and a very roomy camper as well.

I think it will look just about like this when we do make one though:

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/005-2.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Such a beautiful truck, got a new custom Phoenix today! We love to see trucks that people put that TLC into. This one is truly special.

The new low profile Fantastic Vent. This is standard equipment on 2011 PULSE Pop ups.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy001.jpg

Custom stowage tie down rings in all four corners of the main floor.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy009.jpg

Built into the composite molded one piece countertop we have a three burner range, double sinks, hot water, automatic forced air furnace, 110v to 12v power converter, and some great cabinet storage.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy013.jpg

A nice sized dinette that makes into a second bed. Notice the special angled cushoin at the back to allow for comfortable entry through the rear door.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy014.jpg

We located the rear door in just the right place to make the rear wall fully cover the custom 12v/110v portable refrigerator (Luna Weekender, from South Africa). Also, we built an extra pantry type closet next to the refrigerator.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy010.jpg

Slide out bed extension in the daytime position. 4" mattress.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy015.jpg

Ready for bed on the queen size bed.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy016.jpg

Rear wall spot lights, an extra window left rear, satin black powder coated racks and ladder.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy002.jpg

Built a special size so that the tailgate closes behind, and the camper barely overhangs the top edges of the bed on the sides too. This shot shows the Chevy's hidden winch built into the custom one of a kind, hand made bumper.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy021.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy028.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy021.jpg

This shows the heavy dome shape to the roof
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy022.jpg

Even the logo on the cab over is custom
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy030.jpg

I only hope we did a good enough job on the camper to be worthy of riding on this beauty!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy024.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy025.jpg

[Larry]

Thanks Cari and Rob! The camper turned out great! Your team did an outstanding job with everything down to the last detail like the cool little Phoenix decal above the cab (that is cool!). I really appreciate everything. I am very happy with the end product. It is almost like the camper was custom made for this truck….oh, wait…it was! :sombrero:

Here are a few shots after I got home and pulled the jacks off. The tires hadn’t even cooled off from the drive from Denver by the time I yanked them off. Looks even better without the jacks.

Mods coming within the next few weeks: Desert themed decals, air compressor and reworked rear bumper to accommodate exterior mounted spare tire and fuel cans and much more.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5535989025_9b81c82e69_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5177/5536567712_06313b22bc_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5053/5536568236_c83b3527b2_b.jpg

I sure won’t miss camping in a bed tent or topper anymore!

Grizzly Lake: Chaffee County, CO
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1231/1188984468_5412ad774e_z.jpg

Taylor Lake: Chaffee County, CO
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1011/1188088739_38dbf2f5aa_z.jpg

[locrwln]

Beeaaautiful. If only my rich uncle could get out of the poor house, I would be all over a phoenix/coyote camper for my truck.

Can't wait to see some pictures of it in use.


Jack

[KaiserM715]

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5535989025_9b81c82e69_b.jpg
That is an awesome setup!!

[greg mgm]

:drool::drool::drool::drool::drool::drool::drool:: drool:

That is soooo nice!

[Maximus Ram]

Now that is one beautiful cab-over.....one like that would look perfect on my Dodge x-cab....now if i could just hit the big $$ with the lottery.
Nice work Phoenix..:victory:

[Oni]

Great looking setup!!! :wings:

[offroadcamperguy]

For everyone who lives in the south, west, or southwest corner of the country, who has been wanting to see a new Phoenix Pop up in person, this is your chance!!

Overland Expo April 1, 2, and 3 2011, in Amado AZ, close to Tucson: We are excited to be showing there for the very first time this year, and I would love to hear from you, and see you there!

We will have a fully equipped, illusive Jeep JK PULSE down there.

We are also building another show unit. This is a short bed, full size custom PULSE, with all standard features, ( see standard features at http://www.phoenixcampers.com/BASE-FEATURES--PRICE.html )

Plus some great options, like:

1. Hot water system at kitchen and bath
2. Interior hot shower and restroom
3. Thetford cassette toilet
4. Custom cab over length for optimum aerodynamics
5. Cab-to-camper pad also for improved aerodynamics
6. Extra low profile new style PULSE cab over
7. 12v outlet
8. 12v to 110v power inverter
9. Dinette seating and table area that makes out into a 6' 6" auxiliary bed
10. 10' Carefree Freedom III crank out awning
11. By the time you receive this, after the expo, it will have about 800 miles, and 4 days of camping on it. It will include the Full Phoenix Pop up new unit warranty.

* All of this custom made to fit well on a short bed 1997 chevy extended cab 4x4, or similar truck.

This SHORT BED FULL SIZE custom unit is available for immediate sale!
This unit, with its options prices out for over $20,800, plus shipping charges $1.65 per mile. We are hoping to give someone a special deal on this one, plus save you the drive up to Denver or delivery cost, by loading it onto your truck after the Expo!

Whoever is interested, please let me know. www.cari@coyoterv.biz or call at (720) 233-1408

The unit mentioned is still being built, but here are some photos of how the features will look:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/006.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/005-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/027.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/cropped.jpg

[weezerbot]

I look forward to talking to you guys at the event, I wish we had a truck right now to take delivery of that sucker...timing is everything! :Wow1:

[Overdrive]

Glad you'll be at the Overland Expo--I'm looking forward to seeing the JK Pulse!

[offroadcamperguy]

Ok everybody.... I hope everyone who reads and writes on this forum will either show up down at the Overland Exp, or send some friends. It's going to be AWESOME!! I'm pretty sure that everyone knows that it is coming up this next weekend. But, just in case....

Here's a link for anyone who needs more details:

http://www.overlandexpo.com/


Hope to see you all there!

[Christian P.]

We will stop by for sure (Persephone and Christian)

can't wait to meet up.

[haven]

Truck Camper Magazine has a spread on the Raptor with Phoenix pop-up.

[offroadcamperguy]

Truck Camper Magazine has a spread on the Raptor with Phoenix pop-up.

Thank you for telling about that. We are really excited about the great feedback we have seen about our Raptor Pop ups! Looking forward to building lots more in the near future too!

[offroadcamperguy]

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow033.jpg

We are back now from Overland Expo, and it was a big hit all around.

I have never seen so many Overland ready rigs in one place in my whole life!!

It was so fun to get out and talk with all of you great folks who live for adventure, and still find the time to teach and tell about what it takes to do it.

All the hard working and dedicated people who organize, build, and run this event are amazing. Here is the kick off meeting the first morning of the show.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow005.jpg

Some of the most eye catching displays that we could see as we walked around.

Sportsmobile's nice display, very impressive
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow006.jpg

A really cool production turn-key off-road racing car
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow008.jpg

Our neighbors, cooking great smelling food all day, with great little kids, and super friendly!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow007.jpg

A playmate for Lil' Z perhaps?
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow015.jpg

Very early pop top concept, I think it's called "durno" or something? Very good idea and workmanship.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow020.jpg

The ever-popular JK PULSE, people taking turns climbing up and down into this one all day long!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/smallexpo1.jpg

Our little "home away from home" for the last week or so. Loved living in one of our Phoenix pop ups for a while, finally! We chose for our 1997 Chevy 1500, a short bed model with custom extra low profile, custom cab over length, full size bed with under bed storage and push button inflatable air bed, hot water, shower, cassette toilet, carefree awning, stereo, and dvd player. It was very fun to live in... cozy!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow003.jpg

One of the Turtle Expedition versions, one just like my Dad built them in the eighties.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow021.jpg

And some nice Australian folks who travel extensively in their Provan Tiger, also built by my Dad, so that makes examples of three or our Family endevours showing together in one place... Good job Dad!!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow022.jpg


And my very favorite display of the Expo.... This wonderful couple from Spain has been travelling the entire world for like 11 years so far, and luckily for us, decided to stop and share their story with us at the Expo. We shared Mermosas with them on the last morning and talked for a long time about the similarity between a long trip, and one's life. Painted on their van window... "Keep it simple, you'll go a lot farther that way"
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/exposhow037.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/smallspain.jpg

[herm]

we saw the people from spain in Zion a couple weeks ago. very neat truck, we did not get to meet them as we were just driving through and they must have been hiking the trail head they were parked at.

[tanglefoot]

Wow--great shots!

I believe the 'Rover conversion is a Dormobile. http://www.dormobile.co.uk/

It's great to see the Turtle IV. I have a poster of the turtle III in the garage. I think they both used the same camper--just different trucks.

Wow--your family is mighty instrumental in the camper world!

Eric

[offroadcamperguy]

Wow--great shots!

I believe the 'Rover conversion is a Dormobile. http://www.dormobile.co.uk/

It's great to see the Turtle IV. I have a poster of the turtle III in the garage. I think they both used the same camper--just different trucks.

Wow--your family is mighty instrumental in the camper world!

Eric


That is so cool! The Turtle III was built by my Dad's crew right when I first started working with him at his 4 Wheel Camper factory in Lakewood Co!

[tanglefoot]

Wow--mighty impressive.

I remember the Provan showroom off highway 36. I didn't realize your Dad built those as well.

Whoa--I guess that IS the Turtle III. Those aluminum wheels threw me off. I thought the Wescotts only had one 4-wheel camper (before the Dakota weekender) that was tranferred from the III to the IV. Did it end up back on the III? Maybe they did go through two of them. Maybe it's a secret reproduction. Hmmmm...

(Way too much free time here)

[offroadcamperguy]

Wow--mighty impressive.

I remember the Provan showroom off highway 36. I didn't realize your Dad built those as well.

Whoa--I guess that IS the Turtle III. Those aluminum wheels threw me off. I thought the Wescotts only had one 4-wheel camper (before the Dakota weekender) that was tranferred from the III to the IV. Did it end up back on the III? Maybe they did go through two of them. Maybe it's a secret reproduction. Hmmmm...

(Way too much free time here)


Tanglefoot,

Thanks for the compliments. Very appreciated.

I like your truck/camper combo. Is that a "four seasons" "lite craft" or "mile hi" brand? Or am I way off?

[greg mgm]

Off road camperguy- Awesome pics! Sure wish I could have been there!
Your temp home looks super awesome. Very classy with the fiberglass siding.

What is the car (4th pic I think) that is the turn key production car you mentioned? Never seen anything like that. Also, is that Turtle Expedition vehicle owned by the Wescotts or was it sold? I'd think if it was the Wescotts they'd be in the Turtle V.

[offroadcamperguy]

Tanglefoot,

Thanks for the compliments. Very appreciated.

I like your truck/camper combo. Is that a "four seasons" "lite craft" or "mile hi" brand? Or am I way off?

Ooops, my bad. I'm a ding dong. I forgot to look at your profile equipment list that says that you have a 4 seasons on a 4 runner, so scratch that question. But, did you really fit a 4 seasons slide in onto your Runner? I'm sure you've already answered this for many other people probably. If so, could you direct me to the thread so you won't have to repeat yourself. I am curious because I have custom fit a number of those first gen Runners with walk through conversions.

Anyway, thanks for the great conversation.

Robby

[offroadcamperguy]

Off road camperguy- Awesome pics! Sure wish I could have been there!
Your temp home looks super awesome. Very classy with the fiberglass siding.

What is the car (4th pic I think) that is the turn key production car you mentioned? Never seen anything like that. Also, is that Turtle Expedition vehicle owned by the Wescotts or was it sold? I'd think if it was the Wescotts they'd be in the Turtle V.



Thanks for the compliments on our home away from home Overland Expo Camper!

The turn key off-roading car I think is called the "rally fighter" by Local Motors... It is described here in this article link:

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2010/05/local-motors-rally-fighter-off-the-beaten-path/

[nemoaz]

Wow--great shots!

I believe the 'Rover conversion is a Dormobile. http://www.dormobile.co.uk/


It is a Dormobile. They used to convert VW vans at the Dormobile plant also. That side opening poptop is the giveaway that it's a Dormobile.

[SLO_F-250]

Great Shots! :sombrero: Looks like a good time! Ill have to make it one year. Thanks for posting.

[tanglefoot]

Hi Robby,

Good eye on the camper ID. I picked it up from a guy near I-70 and Pena two years ago--he was clearing out for a divorce and he said he was going to dump it if he couldn't sell it. It was pretty dirty but solid. I just put a new, little water pump in yesterday with a pressure sensor--that's sure going to spoil me! Here's a sort of build thread:

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36492&highlight=surf+roamer

Do you have pics of the 4runner pass-through campers? I originally had a pass-through in mind but now I'm glad it has a front wall. One of our dogs has terrible car manners (barks at cars, walks all over the driver, paws on the dash...) so it's nice to close the front camper window and have the cab to ourselves. The pups just lie on the couch and look out the side window or heckle the people behind us through the back door window.

Eric

[Funrover]

Great campers, I would love to make my Rover custom one day.

[offroadcamperguy]

Great campers, I would love to make my Rover custom one day.

Ok, I've got my sawzawl ready!!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/P9230001.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Tundra Phoenix Pop up!

There are three new units, we installed in the last week. I will post pix and info on those in a few days. My camera is with the delivery driver, on his way back from Northern Montana.

In the mean time, I don't recall posting much info on one of our favorites... the Tundra Pop up. So, here's one of our most popular units.

These are available custom made your way, for ANY YEAR/MODEL TUNDRA OR T100, from 5' to 10' floor length, any cab over length, and regular or low profile.

2006 Tundra Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/06tundrablue2.jpg

2010 Tundra Phoenix Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/110.jpg

Phoenix Low profile Pop up Tundra
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/P1020048.jpg

8' Tundra Phoeneix Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/campersanddaniels019.jpg

Tundra Crewmax with Phoenix Deluxe Self Contained Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/crewmaxwith8sm.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Okay, it's been a little while since I posted new unit installations. Sorry about that, it's been a crazy few months around here. Now, three in one week hit the road. As you all know, no two Phoenix Pop ups are exactly alike, and that's what makes it fun. So I will post a little explaination of some ot the unique features in the pictures, and maybe why the customer asked for them.

The first one out is a nice simple basic shell, for first gen Tacoma. I think we'll sell lots more of these when we abreviate the name to "Taco Shell."

Interior before the top goes on, shows big access lids to all four corners of the truck bed for outside storage. Also, this unit has the full under bed storage, extra driver's side window, and auxiliary battery options.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/003-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/002-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/003.jpg





The next day, our nice customer from Bullhead Arizona showed up, after waiting 3 months for the snow to stop falling in our mountains. Finally, his custom 97" utility bed Chevy camper gets to hit the road, but not without a few monor tweeks to make sure it fits just right, and the tailgate can close (as custom requested)
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/007-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/008.jpg


With an extra wide body to clear the big utility boxes, we had to actually wrap the cab over inward 6" in order to keep the tip sized right for looks with the normal Chevy cab, and to fit our exclusive molded Aerodynamic cab over cap.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010-3.jpg

The jacks clear the utility boxes by just enough...
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/009-1.jpg




Finally, on the third day, our driver/friend Ryan took off to the north with a beautiful 10' custom Phoenix, loaded with goodies and custom made to fit a rare 8' Toyota Tundra. The customer ordered from his home in BC Canada, and arranged to have us deliver the camper to Kalispell Montana.

Here they are loading the camper in the parking lot of a "Western Sizzler" in Kalispell, Northern Montana. First time we've had these series photos of driving under the camper.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/018.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/019-1.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/021.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/025-1.jpg
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/028.jpg

Tundra Long Bed Pop up!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/029-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/035.jpg

[locrwln]

Very cool, thanks for the updates/pics.

I just hope I can send some business your way in the next year or so.

Jack

[Herbie]

I really like the extra-wide camper on top of the utility bed! Fantastic!

[DKB2GO]

I really like the extra-wide camper on top of the utility bed! Fantastic!

+1 That's such a smart way to utilize what is wasted space.

If I ever opt to go the truck camper route, this is the setup type I'd use. :coffeedrink:

[offroadcamperguy]

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/029-1.jpg

One of our really great customers (owner of "The Elvis Wong Special Edition" 10' custom Phoenix Pop up on a long bed Tundra) has made a killer music album. You WILL be hearing a LOT of this young man as he rises to fame. Alex was so kind as to mention us in his web site. This guy makes his home in beautiful British Columbia CANADA, and is a true lover of the great outdoors!!



Please click her to visit his web site and listen to his music. Don't forget to run through the Photo Slide Show.... Awesome!!

http://www.alexlive2play.com/



Oh, and please do send your comments. Alex will appreciate it very much.


Enjoy!

[herm]

would you consider building a custom hard side camper? i have the preliminary design elements sketched in sketch-up it is not a full height cab over and would probably be a simple build for your team. I would love to visit your facility at some point also.

[offroadcamperguy]

would you consider building a custom hard side camper? i have the preliminary design elements sketched in sketch-up it is not a full height cab over and would probably be a simple build for your team. I would love to visit your facility at some point also.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Here is mine. I love it. It has been to Bryce, Zion, Yellowstone, Kanab UT, a few highway trips to Michigan. and all over the place around here. We esp. like looking for the ghost towns of the coal mines. We have also run across vents for the underground coal fires. Going to upgrade the stock tires when these are wore out. This will increase my capability quite a bit, but we have only ever gotten stuck once, in about 2 feet of wet snow. nearly 19000 miles in a year and 3 months, and i drive my work truck quite a bit of the time at home.



Hi Herm,

We sure can build you a custom hard side! They used to build your Mitchell Fishing Hut right here in our town, just a few blocks away from us here in Commerce City Co.... Great little camper! There's more to this design than meets the eye though. Upon a close look, you can see how the side walls angle in toward the top then radius at the roof line, then there is the angled and elevated center roof section to give you pretty good headroom in the isle between the side beds. That being said, we would be happy to build you a new one!

Before I can work up an exact price and time quote, I will need to know answers to the following:

1. Do you want the body style like the Michell, or are you looking for
something just basically square, simple, and less expensive?

2. Are we mounting it on the same Chevy truck shown in your picture?

3. What floor length do you want in inches?

4. Other than beds down both sides, are there any other features or
equipment you would like us to put into your camper... furnace,
stove, sink, power converter, battery system, roof vent, power
vent, loading jacks, etc... ??

5. Our earliest finish slot available for a new order today would be mid
August, and some folks have put in their orders for later in the
year. The earlier you get us started, the better we can accomodate
your requested finish date. Not a question, just some useful info.


I look forward to your answers to these questions, so we can get to work for you!


Thanks, Talk soon,

Rob

[herm]

1. Do you want the body style like the Michell, or are you looking for
something just basically square, simple, and less expensive?

I am looking for something like the Mitchell, it gives great headroom and keeps the cross section area down, We are looking to improve on its design and modernize a bit. there is barely enough storage for 2 peoples things, and we bring a cat too.

2. Are we mounting it on the same Chevy truck shown in your picture?

yes, I am working on a dimensionally correct model

3. What floor length do you want in inches?

the sleeping benches on each side need to be about 80 inches, plus storage and wall thickness. I figure about 96 inches will do it.

4. Other than beds down both sides, are there any other features or
equipment you would like us to put into your camper?

fantastic fan, propane stove, very small sink w/ hand pump faucet and 5 to 10 gallon tank.
7 pin rv plug, an led light above the "kitchen" and one on each side for the beds. 2 12V outlets near counter top

panels that hinge on the long side of the bed and meet in the middle to make nearly the entire inside a flat surface.

storage areas on sides with doors. cab over, under kitchen area and under bed extensions will be bungee cord or similar, like the nets you get in the back of a new SUV in place of doors. Open storage is great and much more accessible and versatile in a small space, also much lighter than wood or other material doors on everything. :)

I have a second battery going in the truck to run the camper, this will be powering the +12 pin on the trailer plug.

my barely to scale model, scale and more detailed model is in the works.

this is always a design in progress, I look forward to hearing yours and others comments and suggestions.

heh... after all of that maybe i should just start my own thread, instead of overtaking yours!

[offroadcamperguy]

1. Do you want the body style like the Michell, or are you looking for
something just basically square, simple, and less expensive?

I am looking for something like the Mitchell, it gives great headroom and keeps the cross section area down, We are looking to improve on its design and modernize a bit. there is barely enough storage for 2 peoples things, and we bring a cat too.

2. Are we mounting it on the same Chevy truck shown in your picture?

yes, I am working on a dimensionally correct model

3. What floor length do you want in inches?

the sleeping benches on each side need to be about 80 inches, plus storage and wall thickness. I figure about 96 inches will do it.

4. Other than beds down both sides, are there any other features or
equipment you would like us to put into your camper?

fantastic fan, propane stove, very small sink w/ hand pump faucet and 5 to 10 gallon tank.
7 pin rv plug, an led light above the "kitchen" and one on each side for the beds. 2 12V outlets near counter top

panels that hinge on the long side of the bed and meet in the middle to make nearly the entire inside a flat surface.

storage areas on sides with doors. cab over, under kitchen area and under bed extensions will be bungee cord or similar, like the nets you get in the back of a new SUV in place of doors. Open storage is great and much more accessible and versatile in a small space, also much lighter than wood or other material doors on everything. :)

I have a second battery going in the truck to run the camper, this will be powering the +12 pin on the trailer plug.

my barely to scale model, scale and more detailed model is in the works.

this is always a design in progress, I look forward to hearing yours and others comments and suggestions.

heh... after all of that maybe i should just start my own thread, instead of overtaking yours!




Ok Herm, thanks for posting your design idea on the "what's new" thread. Always love to hear what you guys are looking for, and your train of thought to get there. The funny thing is, we are building (right NOW, in our shop, about 80 percent done) a "new" unit that is very similar to your drawing! Ours is set up for a toyota classic or tacoma sized truck and it pops up, but otherwise..... you are going to FLIP when you see the pictures of it. I should have those posted in a few days.

All that being said, your design, considering the angled and shaped stylish roof line, and full hard sides and roof, is going to take about the same amount of materials and labor as our standard (pop up style) shell campers. Then we add in the stove, water system, sink, bed arrangement, and fantastic vent options. We could get you an the build schedule right away, and that would allow us to complete it as early as mid August. The price quote for this complete project is $13,685. 1/2 down to start, and the balance due 7 days prior to completion.

Let me know, and watch for the pix of our current project!!

Thanks,

Robby

[offroadcamperguy]

Today, a great gentleman from Idaho came in and picked up his new Tundra Custom Phoenix Pop up.... Many geat options and accessories. I think he did a great job of designing this baby!

basic rack bars, but powder coated matt black
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/033-1.jpg

ladder to roof, powder coated matt black
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/025-2.jpg

Extra large solar panel battery charger 120 watt
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/032.jpg

AM/FM stereo with CD and MP3
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/026.jpg

Drop down flat screen DVD player
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/028-1.jpg

Flood lights
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/023.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/0222.jpg

Nice Tundra Pop up, extra low profile and earodynamic P.U.L.S.E. cab over!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tundrapopup001.jpg

Phoenix Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tundrapopup002-1.jpg

Tundra camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tundrapopup003-1.jpg

Pop up camper
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tundrapopup004-1.jpg

Phoenix pop up, happy customers!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tundrapopup005-1.jpg

[greg mgm]

You guys make some GOOD LOOKIN CAMPERS!!!! :victory:

[ExpoMike]

Nice build on that Tundra.

[locrwln]

Awesome job on the Tundra. Could we see some better pictures of the interior? Specifically how the bed is oriented and how it stores?

Thank you,

Jack

[offroadcamperguy]

Awesome job on the Tundra. Could we see some better pictures of the interior? Specifically how the bed is oriented and how it stores?

Thank you,

Jack




Hi Jack,

Thanks for the compliments!


I think that the pictures above are all of the shots I took of that new one. But here are some photos of some previously built units, and they are layed out exactly the same way.

Here's a look at the queen size "loft" bed
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Std%20interior/015.jpg

One angle of the dinette that makes the second bed
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Std%20interior/raptorand10026-1.jpg

Another angle of the dinette, just drop the table and it becomes the bed support, and the seat backs fill in the mattress.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Std%20interior/007.jpg

[locrwln]

Awesome.

Thanks for the pics. Really, really like your work.

Have you built the same camper on a flatbed? That would be the ulitmate set up for me.

Jack

[offroadcamperguy]

Awesome.

Thanks for the pics. Really, really like your work.

Have you built the same camper on a flatbed? That would be the ulitmate set up for me.

Jack



Flat Bed Pop ups! Phoenix
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/CAMPER-BED-JULY-2007-002.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/CAMPER-BED-JULY-2007-005.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-4-1.jpg

[washington taco]

Those flat beds are my dream set up!!!
:smileeek:

[offroadcamperguy]

The GEO-DEN is now in production!

We have given the scoop on this product release to TRUCK CAMPER MAGAZINE so I really can't post pictures or tell too much about it yet, but here are some over-simplafied stats on it....


A unique camp unit that has:

No cab over

Lighter weight

Lower profile

Energy/resource efficiant

Less wind resistance

Tighter fit, custom made to fit any truck make model or year!


Order yours today, and pick it up in late August. Each new order received pushes the dates back another 2 weeks.

[Pest]

The GEO-DEN is now in production!

We have given the scoop on this product release to TRUCK CAMPER MAGAZINE so I really can't post pictures or tell too much about it yet, but here are some over-simplafied stats on it....


A unique camp unit that has:

No cab over

Lighter weight

Lower profile

Energy/resource efficiant

Less wind resistance

Tighter fit, custom made to fit any truck make model or year!


Order yours today, and pick it up in late August. Each new order received pushes the dates back another 2 weeks.

So THAT's what I was peeking at the other day when I stopped by your shop, looks good!

[offroadcamperguy]

Ok, the official release with article should be out in about a week. So, here's just a little Geo-Den tease.

They say one picture's worth a thousand words, right?

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/geodentacoma060.jpg

[Jim Rogers]

Ok, the official release with article should be out in about a week. So, here's just a little Geo-Den tease.

They say one picture's worth a thousand words, right?

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/geodentacoma060.jpg

I can't believe my eyes! Flush with the top AND tapered sides!?

This appears to be what I have been searching for for YEARS! I was seriously considering building something like this myself this summer, since no one seemed to make anything like it.

Cannot wait to see it/read about it!

--Jim

[Guambomb]

:lurk:

[Printer]

Can you comment on pricing?

[offroadcamperguy]

Our article should be out this coming week, so I will post it as soon as it does publish.




In the mean time, I would be happy to comment on the Geo-Den Price.

The unit is available in three sizes, Small, Medium, or Large. The three sizes are set up only so that there will be a Geo-Den that will fit onto your truck model well.

They include just about all of the same equipment as our full cab over PULSE units, but are much more difficult to build, because of their special shape and unique design.

So, the fully equipped Geo-Den is priced at $15,995.

We want to get many of these little guys out on the road for promotion though, so we are offering them at a special introductory price of $13,995


Sold out through early August at this point, so a new order placed right now would be ready for pick up in mid August, so get yours started today!

[offroadcamperguy]

Here's some of the units we've sent down the road in the last few weeks.

First off, there was a nice Tacoma, Shell Model. Still think we will sell lots of these, just because the abreviated name is so cool... "Taco Shell"

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/084.jpg

Some nice options like dinette/second bed and double 12v outlets
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-4.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/014-2.jpg

Roof Rack bars, ready for your Yakama or Thule attachments, and flat top Fantastic Vent
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/008-2.jpg

Ladder to the roof to load those racks
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010-4.jpg

Great simple camper. Light weight, less expensive, beds, roof, storage, simple!
Tacoma Phoenix Pop up Shell Model
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/085.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/087.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/086.jpg





Today, we installed this nice F150 Supercrew unit
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010-5.jpg

Some nice options... Extended Cab Over with front to back sleeper bed, Yakama bike fork racks, custom upholstery, double fantastic vents, and so on...
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/005-3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/002-2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/003-2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/001.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/004-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/006-3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/009-2.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Although, we've built a number of these already, here is the official release of THE GEO-DEN!!!

Below this photograph is the link to the Truck Camper Magazine article that officially announces the Geo-Den. It is fully available for order now!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/geologo3.jpg



Enjoy!

http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/tcm-exclusive:-2012-phoenix-geo%11den/

[offroadcamperguy]

Coming up tomorrow!

OH, and another Geo-Den too!

[offroadcamperguy]

Super Crew F150 Pop up... just right!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo004.jpg

Extra low profile to fit in garage
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo003.jpg

Custom Named
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo005.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo001-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/003-3.jpg

[coastal]

Beautiful Truck and Camper combo Robbie, keep them coming.

[TACODOC]

Very nice. I dont see an option for a short bed 4 door new gen Tacoma, is there one?

[offroadcamperguy]

Very nice. I dont see an option for a short bed 4 door new gen Tacoma, is there one?



Hi TACODOC,

Thanks for the question. As you might have heard, we build custom, just about anything! So no problem making the Geo Den custom fit to Your 4 door short bed Tacoma!

Honestly havent built one yet, but plans are in line, and we are ready to roll!!

Great truck.... Can't wait.

[offroadcamperguy]

A Geo Den Sold through our local Toyota Dealer.

Tacoma Geo Den
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/023-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/022.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/021-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/020-1.jpg






Here's the last camper we mounted on an F150 Raptor!

Raptor Goe Den
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010-6.jpg

Raptor Non Cabover
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/009-4.jpg

Pop up Raptor
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/geo-denpopup.jpg

Raptor
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/OffRoadPopup-1.jpg

[StaceyE]

When we saw your popups at the Overland Expo, I told my wife it would be way cool to have one fit to a Jeepster. Just read thru this thread and saw the Jeepster on page 12. I'm assuming the hardtop is removed and the popup bolts in it's place. How did the windows match up to the new top? We have 3 Jeepsters, this would be one of the best mods ever made to any of them.

[offroadcamperguy]

When we saw your popups at the Overland Expo, I told my wife it would be way cool to have one fit to a Jeepster. Just read thru this thread and saw the Jeepster on page 12. I'm assuming the hardtop is removed and the popup bolts in it's place. How did the windows match up to the new top? We have 3 Jeepsters, this would be one of the best mods ever made to any of them.

Hi StaceyE,

I really like the Jeepster Pop ups! Fun projects, and they work great!

About the window connection: So that we won't have to use and abuse the original Jeepster roof, We design and build a custom "body fit kit" between the Pop up body to the windshield frame and door/window frames of the Jeepster, just like the JK PULSE. This is hand cut, sculpted, and weatherproof finished, out of high quality poplar, and has to be hand fit between the Jeepster and camper units. So we have to have them both together for this final fitting, but it's always worth it!

Can't wait to make one with a custom paint match, and the aerodynamic cab over!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/aerodynamicpopup.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Well, we wrapped up the latest creation the other day (literally) and put it on a big truck, bound for ALASKA!

This one's having an adventure, before it's adventures!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/alaska2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/alaska3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/alaska4.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/alaska5.jpg

With our quick and easy installation kit, Mr Alaska should have this beauty mounted to his Dodge Ram with about 20 minutes of easy work, once it arrives up there.

Can't wait to see the beautiful Alaska Scenery when she arrives!!

[ExpoMike]

Very nice. I dont see an option for a short bed 4 door new gen Tacoma, is there one?

Uh Oh! Do I hear a change a comin'? :Wow1: :ylsmoke:

[offroadcamperguy]

For the Toyota Tacoma 4 door, extra short bed, there are a few ways we can set up your custom camper



Tacoma 4 door with the super deluxe Phoenix Pop up. This size can squeeze in a small restroom with hot water shower, and just about all the rest of the goodies. You need air bags to carry this size nicely.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Tacomacrew09skirts.jpg

Tacoma 4 door short bed with good sized Phoenix.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tacoma09crew2.jpg

Tacoma 4 Door. Phoenix pop up. Flush look fit.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/cordsmountain.jpg

[Frosty_1]

Rob,

Would love to see more photos of the inside of your campers!

F.

[TACODOC]

I'd like to see interior shots of those Tacoma sized campers... especially appliances etc :coffee:

My biggest gripe with the North American RV industry as a whole are the clunky 1970's era RV appliances (stoves, hot water heaters, fridges) that are a PITA to operate and maintain. Compared to what's available in Europe or Australia they're archaic.

[Pest]

I'd like to see interior shots of those Tacoma sized campers... especially appliances etc :coffee:

My biggest gripe with the North American RV industry as a whole are the clunky 1970's era RV appliances (stoves, hot water heaters, fridges) that are a PITA to operate and maintain. Compared to what's available in Europe or Australia they're archaic.

The hot water heater (suburban), fridge (dometic) and furnace (suburban) that originally came in my Phoenix camper are practically zero maintenance and easy to operate. The water heater is simply an on/off switch inside, has an electric ignition. The fridge has an on/off button with automatic or manual operation selection (dc, ac, gas) inside, also has an electric ignition. The furnace turns on from the thermostat, also has an electric ignition.

The only maintenance of the three appliances thus far is an anode rod.

What are you referring to?


Sure, Europe has some nice stuff, but it's not all available here, so we have to work with what we can get!

[Overland Hadley]

My biggest gripe with the North American RV industry as a whole are the clunky 1970's era RV appliances (stoves, hot water heaters, fridges) that are a PITA to operate and maintain. Compared to what's available in Europe or Australia they're archaic.

Buy a shell and source the cool stuff yourself. That is what I am doing. :ylsmoke:

[liftedlimo]

After another trip in my old, tall, leaky, heavy slide in I am doing research on buying a pop up to replace it. Can you build a cabover shell model, 8-10 feet long with double rear doors to load atvs or motorcycles up to 48" wide? I would possibly have you add options based on what works with the ATV space requirement. Vehicle is a 1993 Dodge Ram 4x4 long bed, soon to be a flatbed.

Your products look great compared to what I see at the RV centers!

[mike r]

Would these also fit the frontier?


For the Toyota Tacoma 4 door, extra short bed, there are a few ways we can set up your custom camper



Tacoma 4 door with the super deluxe Phoenix Pop up. This size can squeeze in a small restroom with hot water shower, and just about all the rest of the goodies. You need air bags to carry this size nicely.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Tacomacrew09skirts.jpg

Tacoma 4 door short bed with good sized Phoenix.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/tacoma09crew2.jpg

Tacoma 4 Door. Phoenix pop up. Flush look fit.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/cordsmountain.jpg

[Runt]

I would love to see some more interior pics of the gen 1 tacoma 4 door flush mount campers like the one above.

[Abqlloyd]

Super Crew F150 Pop up... just right!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo004.jpg

Extra low profile to fit in garage
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo003.jpg

Custom Named
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo005.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/supercrewandraptorgeo001-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/003-3.jpg

Is this the short bed or the long bed Supercrew? I have the short bed F150 SC 4x4 and would love something like this. I'd pretty much written off the idea until I found your site.

The most important thing for us is a dry bed and a small heater. Don't need cooking, water, and all the other stuff.

[Captain K-man]

I would love to see some more interior pics of the gen 1 tacoma 4 door flush mount campers like the one above.

Ditto

[offroadcamperguy]

Ditto

Here's some more pix of the 1st Generation Tacoma 4 Door!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/cordscampgroundfrontsm.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/cordscampside.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/cordsmountaintwo.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Rob,

Would love to see more photos of the inside of your campers!

F.

Thank you for the request... Feel free to click around, here is a link to my photobucket http://s1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/#!cpZZ10QQtppZZ24

Also, here are a couple more interior photos of some of our custom projects:

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy016.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/006.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

After another trip in my old, tall, leaky, heavy slide in I am doing research on buying a pop up to replace it. Can you build a cabover shell model, 8-10 feet long with double rear doors to load atvs or motorcycles up to 48" wide? I would possibly have you add options based on what works with the ATV space requirement. Vehicle is a 1993 Dodge Ram 4x4 long bed, soon to be a flatbed.

Your products look great compared to what I see at the RV centers!





We would be happy to build you a double door shell for your ATVs to fit. We do this all the time! Here's one I caught on film.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-4.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Mike R. asked if these would fit on Nissan Frontier....... YES!

Frontier Pop ups:
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/nissancrew17.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/nissancrew3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/compressed.jpg

[cwsqbm]

JKU Pulse for sale? - see other thread...http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/64087-PULSE-for-JKU?p=918720#post918720

[RHINO]

the problem with most of these type campers for me is the width,,, i want as small a footprint as possible on my tacoma dblcab. i really like the size of the one for the jeep, a skinny truck version might be cool.
because of the short 5" bed i think a way around the cabover height could be a bump out foot box at the end of the camper over the tailgate,,, pop the top and slide out a foot box?

[offroadcamperguy]

the problem with most of these type campers for me is the width,,, i want as small a footprint as possible on my tacoma dblcab. i really like the size of the one for the jeep, a skinny truck version might be cool.
because of the short 5" bed i think a way around the cabover height could be a bump out foot box at the end of the camper over the tailgate,,, pop the top and slide out a foot box?




Hi Rhino,

We build custom only, so the footprint you end up with is whatever you ask for. Here is another example of one that was built as a tighter fit.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/78chevy021.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

A LOT has been going on here at Phoenix Pop up this summer. Sorry I have not kept up on my posts. Going in at 4 am and staying till the job's done, every day.... crazy!

Anyway, here's one of our latest projects.....


In this first picture, it looks EXACTLY LIKE our famous "Coyote Raptor" from a couple of years ago. But, look closer in the pictures below that.

F150 SVT Raptor Custom Pop up! By Phoenix Pop up. Tuxedo Black full paint.

Nice custom length keeps the center of gravity front of the rear axel where it belongs, but creates enough space inside for a nice restroom and shower! The tail light skirts offer some extra exterior access storage too.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/012-1.jpg

The interior has all the goodies, restroom, shower, DVD player, refrigerator, stereo, etc...
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/006.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015.jpg



The cab over length transfers some of the weight forward, plus allows for a longer crank out awning.

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/013.jpg

Raptor Pop up
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/015-3.jpg

Heading off into the wild in the Raptor Camper by Phoenix Pop up!
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-6.jpg

[Stinger202]

Looks great! Stinger 202

[GREY.HOUND]

Incredible campers, great worksmanship. How about a bunk bed option? How can you accomodate for that?
GH

[Pest]

Incredible campers, great worksmanship. How about a bunk bed option? How can you accomodate for that?
GH

My unit has a bunk that deploys above the fold out couch, check my build thread.

[offroadcamperguy]

Incredible campers, great worksmanship. How about a bunk bed option? How can you accomodate for that?
GH

Thank you very much for the compliments!

This gentleman came to us with the need to sleep him and his boys comfortably. Queen over the cab, fold out couch bed, then two bunk beds on the other side.... lots of beds!!!


http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/032-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/031-1.jpg

We can also do a removable bunk bed up over the standard couch or dinette. We make them extra light weight, with a composite core for the support platform, so that you can easily take it and put it up on the cab over while hanging out in the camper during the day.


Here's how this camper "Zero G" looks on the outside. Tight fit to F150 Super Crew.
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/011-7.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/014-4.jpg

[docdave]

I'd be interested in seeing overhead cabinets examples

[DrAwender]

Ditto on the overhead cabinets. Also interested in any pictures you have of any flat bed campers that you have made, especially the interior layout. I am thinking about have you guys make an 8 foot wide by 9 foot long camper. Can you also do a queen bed that goes deep with side cabinets similar to the northstar design? also what about a pop out or a slide out/ pop out? Finally I remember you saying something that you don't recommend overhead AC units... Why is that?
Thanks

[offroadcamperguy]

I think the flatbed campers are great, lots of extra room, espicially under the seats and from the outside storage.

Overhead storage and roof mount A/C.... Bad idea on ANY pop up camper, because no matter how strong you think your roof structure and lift mechanism are, they are not supported by side walls, connected to corner cabinets, connected to the roof, like a motorhome or hard side RV.

Front to back sleeper, with storage down both sides. Yes, we started offering this option in the 1980's. $499 on any size camper

Here are some of our flatbed, utility bed, and chassis mount campers. You get to set up your floorplan however you like... custom!

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/010-3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/flatbeddodge.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-4-1.jpg

[docdave]

Overhead cabinets? Above kitchen and dinette?

[Larry]

Neat feature on my 2011 Phoenix in Truck Camper Magazine :)

Phoenix Rising On the Jeep Trails (http://www.truckcampermagazine.com/larry-wittman:-phoenix-rising-on-the-jeep-trails/)

[Jnich77]

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-3.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-1.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-2.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/callen-4-1.jpg



OMG I'm in love!!!!!!!

[Taco Gunner]

Just an observation about your method of securing your camper to the bed.

In this pic, there is some ratchet spool showing. After having spent thousands of hours in the back of the mighty C-130 Hercules tying things down, this would be considered unacceptable. We never had less than 1.5 wraps on the spool. I have seen things come loose with less. Just throwing it out there....

Nice set up...got me thinking!


http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/027.jpg

[offroadcamperguy]

Friday Morning's work... Here it goes, off into the sunset!!

Geo-Den on first gen Tacoma...


http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Geo-Den/061.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Geo-Den/060.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Geo-Den/059.jpg

http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k636/coyoterv4u/Geo-Den/058.jpg

[xtremexj]

Just wondering if anyone has video or pics showing how the roof raising mechanism works. I'm seriously thinking about having a customer camper built by these folks and am curious to see how it works. Any new owners on here willing to share feedback? I am truly amazed at their willingness to cater to the customers needs and wants.:ylsmoke:

[DanoT]

I don't have any interior pics that i can find on my computer and I am not near the camper at this time so I can't take any pics. (I'm in Victoria B.C. and the camper is in Sun Peaks B.C.) However I can assure you that it is a very strong metal tube frame lifting mechanism.

I had Coyote RV build me a custom camper designed for winter use in ski area parking lots. PM me if you want the details.

[rgrimal12]

Coyote RV has a video of how the mechanism works on web site. So does You tube. The Geo Den has gas assist just like most toppers.