McBride
Adventurer
Roof mount spares quandry!!!
Okay Gentlemen, now I am in a quandary!
I weighed my spare tires and they are 75lbs each. From the pics many of you have commented that it might be a good idea to relocate them.
Additionally, the roof edge rub rails weigh about 35 lbs combined.
Furthermore, I'd like to add a lightweight awning.
My dilemma is that they are pretty convenient where they are. Easy for me to access and out of the way (big importance in day to day use). In contrast I do understand the importance of keeping the weight low.
I've looked at the space at the rear of the camper where a few of you suggested mounting them and there is a problem; in order to have them clear the tail lights (they won't fit between), with both tires touching each other, the center of the rims are well into the rear window. As such, using a hub type mount wouldn't be an option. I suppose I could do a cradle type mount. Another problem I have with this location is that it would block my rear view, which is quite good and I use frequently while driving. I suppose I could mount a rear view camera but that is more electrical add-ons which I would like to keep to a minimum. In this location they are still pretty high up and so would the small gain of lower CG be worth it.
I'm not sure what to do.
Capo had the very creative suggestion of making covers and keeping them inside the truck, but I hate the idea of climbing over them every time I access back while on the road.
To rationalize, a great effort was made by the builders (and myself) to keep weight very low. No upper cabinets, aluminum skin, spare fuel is at or below the frame, water is very low, all tools, propane and spare batteries are just at or just above the top plane of the frame, I pack very minimalist, light and low and I don't carry any frivolous gear... okay, maybe the 36" crowbar but it is packed very low (I travel by myself and in some instances extra leverage could be critical - that is what I told myself when I loaded it). Additionally, the suspension of the vehicle has been adapted to handle additional weight and measures have been taken to control side to side motion (using heavy duty parts designed exclusively for G Wagens). While driving, it doesn't feel top heavy at all. I know because I've traveled top heavy and know what it is like. This camper almost feels like a normal car.
Perhaps I just keep in mind that I am driving a heavier than stock expedition vehicle that might be easier to roll.
If I need to cross a steep side slope that makes me nervous I can always pull the tires, put them inside, pass it and then put them back up when I get to camp.
I just read Scott Brady's article on the top 10 not to do things and I'm in violation!
Any further insights?
I think I need to test how far this thing can actually go over before it rolls; with good data I can determine if this is a real issue for me.
How does one get a vehicle to its tipping point and back down safely?
Thanks.
William
Okay Gentlemen, now I am in a quandary!
I weighed my spare tires and they are 75lbs each. From the pics many of you have commented that it might be a good idea to relocate them.
Additionally, the roof edge rub rails weigh about 35 lbs combined.
Furthermore, I'd like to add a lightweight awning.
My dilemma is that they are pretty convenient where they are. Easy for me to access and out of the way (big importance in day to day use). In contrast I do understand the importance of keeping the weight low.
I've looked at the space at the rear of the camper where a few of you suggested mounting them and there is a problem; in order to have them clear the tail lights (they won't fit between), with both tires touching each other, the center of the rims are well into the rear window. As such, using a hub type mount wouldn't be an option. I suppose I could do a cradle type mount. Another problem I have with this location is that it would block my rear view, which is quite good and I use frequently while driving. I suppose I could mount a rear view camera but that is more electrical add-ons which I would like to keep to a minimum. In this location they are still pretty high up and so would the small gain of lower CG be worth it.
I'm not sure what to do.
Capo had the very creative suggestion of making covers and keeping them inside the truck, but I hate the idea of climbing over them every time I access back while on the road.
To rationalize, a great effort was made by the builders (and myself) to keep weight very low. No upper cabinets, aluminum skin, spare fuel is at or below the frame, water is very low, all tools, propane and spare batteries are just at or just above the top plane of the frame, I pack very minimalist, light and low and I don't carry any frivolous gear... okay, maybe the 36" crowbar but it is packed very low (I travel by myself and in some instances extra leverage could be critical - that is what I told myself when I loaded it). Additionally, the suspension of the vehicle has been adapted to handle additional weight and measures have been taken to control side to side motion (using heavy duty parts designed exclusively for G Wagens). While driving, it doesn't feel top heavy at all. I know because I've traveled top heavy and know what it is like. This camper almost feels like a normal car.
Perhaps I just keep in mind that I am driving a heavier than stock expedition vehicle that might be easier to roll.
If I need to cross a steep side slope that makes me nervous I can always pull the tires, put them inside, pass it and then put them back up when I get to camp.
I just read Scott Brady's article on the top 10 not to do things and I'm in violation!
Any further insights?
I think I need to test how far this thing can actually go over before it rolls; with good data I can determine if this is a real issue for me.
How does one get a vehicle to its tipping point and back down safely?
Thanks.
William
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