Teardrop Camper

[dually]

I cannot take credit for the vast majority of this undertaking, as my father is the genius wood-worker; I am just the financial backing and electrician. I will just post the pictures of progress now and then create a summary of the construction process.

The basis of the project was to build a fairly self sufficient camper that is light enough to be pulled behind my 2.5L Outback and doesn't cost in the realm of $8k+ like a LittleGuy Camper. After much deliberation between Dad and I, we decided on building a design atop a Harbor Freight trailer. The camper is a modular design that has the ability to be removed and placed on another trailer. I wanted a fairly extensive electrical system to run 12vdc outlets, car stereo, led lights and a roof vent fan. Along with those requirements, I felt the addition of an air conditioner would entice the better half to join me on more bike trips. So, needing an AC system, I settled on a Progressive Dynamics PD4560 panel that will fit both needs AND charger the 12V battery.

Quick Specs
Built on a Harbor Freight 4x8 Trailer w/updated hub bearings/seals
Progressive Dynamics PD4560 panel
Fridgidair AC
Pioneer sound system
LED lights throughout
2-GFCI outlets
2-USB charging ports

Here is the construction so far; as stated before, this is the work of my extremely talented father!

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[Matthew Strongin]

That is so cool.

[Jeffrey Borisch]

That is so inspiring.

What is this gadget called?

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Not totally sure what it does but pretty sure I need one.

[Too Tall]

Genius. You are fortunate.

FWIIW I've been searching for two years to find something similar lightly used.

[guido]

Nice! That looks like it is going to be great!

I have my eye on these things: Build-your-own Teardrop Camper Kit and Plans

Great getaway planning starts in 3,2,1...

[cp43]

That is so inspiring.

What is this gadget called?



Not totally sure what it does but pretty sure I need one.

Pocket hole jig.

It allows one to quickly and easily join two pieces of wood at a right angle.

Looks like it's being used here to attach the wall to the floor.

Kreg Jigs(R) - Pocket-Hole Joinery - Kreg Tool Company

Chris

[dually]

Pocket hole jig.

It allows one to quickly and easily join two pieces of wood at a right angle.

Looks like it's being used here to attach the wall to the floor.

Kreg Jigs(R) - Pocket-Hole Joinery - Kreg Tool Company

Chris

Exactly it! My dad, Bob, designed the wall to floor interface as a tongue and groove. It was great forward thinking, but nearly came to bite us in the ass when we went to place the wall/bulkhead assembly. We had the glue spread on the tongue so time was ticking (about 10min before the glue set up). With some rubber mallets and redneck engineering comalong system, we got it placed perfectly!

Chris is exactly right; we (Bob) used the pocket hole jig to inset the screws to make a seamless surface.

[dually]

Nice! That looks like it is going to be great!

I have my eye on these things: Build-your-own Teardrop Camper Kit and Plans

Great getaway planning starts in 3,2,1...

Do it and don't look back!

[AngryScientist]

Very cool!

Yours is sleeker than mine for sure. I built a "micro camper" off the same platform and a weekend of work in my driveway a few years ago. i chose a much simpler design that i threw together myself to simplify things greatly. It turned out to be a great, fun project that i've used a lot. very fun!


the start:



finished:



hiding among bigger cousins at D2R2:

[AngryScientist]

i should also note that mine is still a work in progress. the initial paint was applied as a weather resistant coat. it is actually boat hull paint. eventually i will "spruce up" both the interior and exterior, but for now, it is 100% functional and gets a lot of parking lot questions.

i learned a lot building it, and i've already got a distant plan in my head to build another, more aero towable. building these is fun and addictive!

[Shoogs]

Dually that's awesome!

[dually]

Time for an update.

Hatch has been fabricated and wiring is 90% complete (the pics are from the last wiring session, knocked out a good chunk last night)

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In order to finish the wiring, I am in need of locating (4) 4x10 .040 aluminum sheets, painted preferably. I'm prepared to pay freight, but it seems as though for 4 sheets, the cost is upwards of $250! That's more than the cost of the aluminum... I'll keep searching.

[SlowPokePete]

This is 2 cool.

SPP

[dually]

Wiring is complete! Checked out my DC side of the panel and everything functions as it should. I forgot my 30A adapter at home, so I was unable to check the AC function. Aluminum skin has been ordered, and should arrive next week; the end is near.

The wheels went on last night as well. I cannot believe how light this thing is! The tongue had maybe 30lbs of weight, so the axle may have to be moved rearward, which I wouldn't mind because it would be reminiscent of the old school teardrops. Pics soon.

[dually]

Found some wheels that should fit. Envision a brushed aluminum exterior, black door and these wheels: Cragar 69551222 | Buy Cragar Delux Wheels at JEGS

[dually]

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[Jonathan]

This is the best V thread in several years. Thanks for documenting.

[dually]

Before the doors and hatch can be permanently affixed, we are waiting for the .040 aluminium paneling. Hopefully it should arrive today.

Galley
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The large space in the center will be for this versatile unit. Amazon.com: Nostalgia BSET3RETRORED Retro Series 3-in-1 Family Size Breakfast Station: Kitchen & Dining

The lauan broke when trying to round the radius. It ended up being a huge PITA to fill in that little space.
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Excellent fit!
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I have the total tallied up thus far; we are sitting at $4921 with only minimal purchases left. Still cheaper than a base model T@G!

[roseyscot]

I saw a lot of tear drop campers while in Montana. There was a sales display at a street fair/food truck night in Missoula. Starting at $16k! Holy cow. I imagine Angry's was considerably less even than the $5k you're in for. I could see this being a great investment at $3-4k with fewer frills.

[dually]

Absolutely do-able at $3-4k. Ditch the complex AC/DC electrical system and splurging on non-necessary items and you could hit that mark.

This is how I get the girlfriend to come 'camping' with me.