Arctic Fox 2006 860 Silver slid out: I pick next week, What do I need to know?

[mikemcgl]

I drive a Ford F350 desiel srw 2012 short bed and will be driving 400 miles next week to pick up my used camper. I've never owned a camper and am interested in opinions and ideas on what I need to do to the truck and what to look for while inspecting he camper. Do I need to take it to a dealer to have it inspected or can I do it myself?
I'm getting airbags and a camper tie down kit installed befor I go.
Do I need a leveling kit or something to keep the camper centered in the bed or protection bumpers for the cab?
Ideas and suggestions appreciated.
Thanks in advance for the help. Michael

[RedRocker]

I used a thick rubber mat in the bed of my truck to cushion the camper and keep it
from sliding around. You'll also need a 7 prong plug in the bed to power everything.

[Stumper92]

I would suggest upgrading at least your rear shocks. It will improve the overall handling on the road.

[akblack10]

You may want to look at TorkLift Stable-Loads instead of Airbags. I did with my F350 (yes is is a Dually) and have no problems. My Camper is a bigfoot, 3000 lbs approx. Airbags are one more mechanical piece of equipment to maintain.
-AK

[nosnerd]

TIMBREN yes on the rear shocks...

[TCcruzn]

Start with Ranco 9000 all the way around. If you have overload springs add Stableloads because they are cheap and easy to install. Then decide after a few trips if you need airbags, since they cost more and are more of a PIA to install.

[BCHauler]

Use Timbrens and never have to think about it again. They are engaged when you are loaded and disengaged when you don't.

[cnynrat]

What type of tie down kit are you planning on?

We really like our TorkLift frame mounted tie downs. They are vastly superior to the original Happijac bed/bumper mounted tie downs.

[wannaby]

Are you shure the older camper will fit on the newer box .