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You can try going over the seems with this if its starting to go. I've noticed some of mine in my Tepui are lifting at the seams a tiny bit, but it almost looks like a tape of some sort.
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https://www.amazon.com/Gear-Aid-Waterproof-Sealant-Adhesive/dp/B07LGP43DY
Stainless steel on an swivel base, bearings, and can hold 800 lbs. BNYZWOT V Type Swivel Pulleys 304 Stainless Steel Duplex Bearing Super-Silent Detachable 360 Degree Rotation Heavy Duty Traction Wheel 1-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z288ZBH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZYV5FPHECC6GNBMXG0RX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Not sure you’ll be able to find something that fits perfectly but you could always get something a bit bigger and use some Bed sheet clips to keep it in place.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JKT7L9S/ref=cm_sw_r_oth_api_glt_fabc_5K1JFZ6S1ZNYP9RMBG9T
This is the one we used. It closes with it in there but it's tight.
One of the kids ended up throwing up in the tent so we tossed it and are looking for a new one ourselves.
We have yet to use this, but I was recommended a Mr. Heater little buddy for our RTT annex room. It’s recommended to turn the heater on about 30-45 mins before bed, and the heat will rise up into the tent.
Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy 3800-BTU Indoor Safe Propane Heater, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CFRF7I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_hCp8FbV2M5N5Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Staked out my spiffy electronic tiki torches. Bought them as a bit of a laugh but they've turned out to be quite useful. Nice for marking a path you might find yourself venturing down in the middle of the night to take care of business.
There are a million different models on Amazon. I suspect all from the same factory. Hanging ones seem a bit sturdier. The posts on the ground ones are probably going to break at some point although the flame is a bit more flame-like.
I’m using square tapered security nuts like these. They’re pretty ingenious and work great. Unless a thief has an extra one of these exact nuts with them, they’d have a terrible time getting your tent off.
https://www.signbracketstore.com/sign-security-hardware1.html
SmartSign - K-KIT-BG BoltGuard Anti-Theft Post Attachment Kit – 2 Bolts, 3 Tamperproof Nuts | 2.5" x 0.3125" Bolt https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GFQJDJT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_EApHFb3QYCPKQ
I just use this on top of the regular mattress and it's amazingly comfy, and just crazy stupid warm.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RY47PFS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Here it is.
Tepui Insulator for Rooftop Tents https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QP1C711/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_oSZtFbMAKQGJA
I was going to get one but you don't really need it. I've camped at a ski resort twice in high winds with the yakima skyrise (ended up moving to the car because the 40mph winds could've damaged it.) And a sleeping bag is all you really need. With two people if it gets cold enough to need a thermal, the ice on the outside seals it like an igloo and the body heat keeps it warm on the inside.
I would say unless you are going to zero degrees you will be fine with blankets and a rain fly.
I have the small in red, and I don't know the changes for later models, but:
- My experience is that you shouldn't get too worried about parking exactly level. I've been more tolerant of a fair amount of out-of-level than I expected. That said, I always try to check it in with a cheap torpedo level just set on top of the tent as I park.
- I've never actually slept with the rain fly on it. The body is coated and it's proved remarkably rain-proof without the fly even - amazingly - the zippers.
- I don't velcro the ladder. It's a pain in the ass and it doesn't seem to go anywhere.
- I loop the tails of all the fastex cover buckles back through themselves to keep them flapping. Let me know if that doesn't make any sense and I'll send you a photo.
- I'd recommend taking shoes off before climbing the ladder. I have a fear of getting junk in the sliders for the ladder. That said, the ladder edges are pretty hard on bare feet. Others have added edge cushion. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08T951WXC.
- The cover needs a pretty tight roll to make it into the loops. On one especially cold and windy night I really didn't want to push it that hard and I found that the cover cinch buckles would reach out and attach to the fly attachment loops next to the door thus keeping the unrolled cover from wacking/brushing against the car all night.
DeeZee makes a gutter mount that's rated for a 300lbs static, 600lbs dynamic and it's around 600 bucks. deezee
I went with the Garvin adventure rack. It was over 1k, it rattles a little, but I have full confidence in it. Garvin
The gutter mounts always made me scared that something would go wrong and the fiberglass would break under the pressure.
I bought this one used off amazon. Works great but it smokes like a chimney when the glow plug is heating up.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08RHSJ9P1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Depends on useage but an easy go-to is a ladder rack like a trac-rac. I use it on my 150 with the 5.5 bed. It will put the tent above the roof line. I’m ok with that since my tent is big and I need access to the zipper. Word of warning, without diagonal bracing I’d recommend staying on smooth trails. The southern access road into San Bernardino is so ROUGH and bouncy that I had to stop and diagonally strap everything so it didn’t snap the rack.
Just browse Amazon for ideas and find what you like. Then check outside Amazon for pricing. I saved 75 buying it from my local truck accessories shop.
Yeah, you’ll be fine. The height off the ground didn’t really make a difference to me. Biggest thing is to level the truck as much as you can. We’ve found having the head side slightly elevated isn’t a problem, but having your feet elevated sucks. Same with being unlevel side-to-side. I got these leveling blocks off Amazon and they’ve worked great so far.
I installed the Harken hoist in my garage. It works awesomely. I back my truck up, connect it and lift it up manually. It takes maybe 5 minutes from start to finish. Installing the hoist on the garage ceiling took about 4 hrs. Hope this helps.
Harken Truck Hardtop Garage... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005AUH8OG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Nice! Oh weird. Honestly it haven’t even used the light bar yet. I love my red camping light, it’s much easier on the eyes at night and it’s collapsing so I just keep it up there: https://www.amazon.com/NEBO-Collapsible-Lantern-Powerful-Rechargeable/dp/B09JCSTGC7?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
I've been figuring out the same recently. I'm basically just going to mount two of these parallel with each other in the garage and mount two dock cleats to the wall to tie the rope up with while it's hanging.
Yup, we have two goldens. We crack a window and throw in a couple portable dog beds https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00027466A?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
and they're good to go. I can definitely see there being issues if your pup has separation anxiety though.
This one has been a total game changer. It’s collapsible, takes up less space than a bucket, and it’s very sturdy.
BLIKA 16.5" High Stainless Steel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085ZVTG2L?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have two, which i bring depends on whether or not the wife comes with.
Wife coming with - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XGN67XS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It's a bit larger, and cleaning it isn't the most pleasant, although it's certainly now bad if you can fill the catch tank with water to sort of make it all come out easier.
If I'm by myself i use this-
It's light and compact, its really just a step above digging a hole and squatting over it, obviously a little cleaner and comfortable.
Take a shit in it and when you are not using it use it for storage or a place to put your fish catch of the day!
(the photos explaining what to do with it on the amazon site)
It was all done with trailer wiring. I’ll be cleaning that look up some more this weekend. But the main component is the brake light. The light has the wire coming out the back so I used two 1.5 inch “z” brackets for spacers. I bought some thin stainless steel ones and stainless steel bolts. Tent already has tracks so that really simplified the install of the light.
We use a flannel electric blanket underneath us https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09835Q43Z/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_836YGTSB2X1FDG50CSQA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 and a down blanket on top. I slept in just an underwear when it went down to freezing temps outside. It was very comfortable inside. Make sure the blanket doesn't have a 2-3 hour timer. Most of them do.
Ah yes ok I have a similar concern with UV exposure in Colorado. Wasn’t sure if this was a concern about materials melting or something at first lol
I leave my Roofnest Condor on year round and have been keeping an eye on how it’s holding up. Almost a year on and it’s perfect, but at the first sign of weirdness, I plan on spraying it down with a protectant like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0185PU38A/
I been looking at these bags on Amazon. I been using a canvas bag for now.
YAKIMA - Sidekick Shoe Bag and Organizer for Tents https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D57NCM9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_V79JT39DTF7H8PZWGPV0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Try something like this that can work with a standard truck bed or one with a c-channel like the Tacos and Tundras.
I have something like this that I use for camping with the RTT. Not for the shoes, but for organizing the other stuff. Folds flat when you are not using it.:
I sprayed down everything with this. Prevents mold. I also let it air out. Also have large Silica canisters in the tent to absorb moisture.
https://www.miraclemistcleaner.com/product/miraclemist-long-term-protectant/
I use this. You would probably have to reapply a few times a year though.
I purchased some of these on top of have a condensation mat. 4 Packs 40Gram Indicating Silica Gel Desiccant Canister (Orange to Dark Green), Reusable Dehumidifier Desiccant, Moisture Absorbing, No Cobalt II Chloride https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z8ZYJ75/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TNN2GZHPSV2VKP7PRE2N?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I took this truck mounted crane and added a square tube 6’ extension to it to lift onto my pickup. Still takes two people to position it but it worked great for me since I have a bad back. When not in use it comes apart and is stored in the garage.
I use some tire steps. They just slide over the tire. Powerbuilt 647596 Folding Heavy Duty Tire Steps for Truck SUV RV, Red, Large https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002Q8TWI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_3SYQM91Y3EWE7V937V5C
I use a 4" memory foam mattress topper in a futon cover as a replacement to the Tepui shitty foam mattress. ( i have the Tepui Kukenam ) i have either a fabric summer bag or a winter mummy style bag and a full size regular bed pillow that stays in there and it compresses down just fine. It's a bit spendy, but well worth it.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GIBRSAK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ASATJQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have two of the Get Out Gear Down Camping Blankets. They can snap together to make one big one as well, and they compress to about the size of a football in their bag. I got them on sale, otherwise full price is something like $60/blanket.
Foam floor pad from harbor freight. 8mm stainless eye nuts from Amazon. 8mm stainless bolts from Ace hardware (I forgot the length). 1/8”x3”x4’ aluminum from Ace Hardware (I would go with 1/4” the 1/8” is bit flimsy but works fine with the bolts between the skis).
https://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-anti-fatigue-foam-mat-set-94635.html
Hulless 5/16" Lifting Eye Threaded Nut Fastener 304 Stainless Steel Ring Shape Lifting Eye Nut for Lifting Equipment Rope Fitting, 6 Pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZSM661H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XWNZNFKW8EYP9KKSX9XJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Hulless 5/16" Lifting Eye Threaded Nut Fastener 304 Stainless Steel Ring Shape Lifting Eye Nut for Lifting Equipment Rope Fitting, 6 Pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZSM661H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_3REFNHKJZNAJ9T8A557G?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Eowpower 5Pcs Stainless Steel M8 x 32mm Ring Eye Bolt https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074K53HRB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TZCG7JEJHXXN7Y3Q81PV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yeah, that will be my plan. Do you mean this model? https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-MH4B-Massachusetts-Canada-Portable/dp/B005EEZDW2/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2EMCPR21AV2Z9&dchild=1&keywords=mr+buddy+heater&qid=1631890105&sr=8-4
I have seen some people mound the base to a small piece of plywood to make it more stable for use in tents.
Lightronic M10 Premium 316 Stainless Steel Anti-Theft Locking Nuts Security Hardware Kit For LED Light Bar Work Lights (4 lock+ 1 key) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7FH5SF/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_SEK96X0EHQBK01TGZAC5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Possibly. You would have to check the thread pitch. I can't remember off the top of my head right now. Now that you mentioned something like this it has me thinking of ordering some.
Get some kind of folding step stool. My wife got me this: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07W81J9WQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_P5ED82GWF37BWMHCJAFR which I use for a lot of things. But it is great when I need to access stuff on the top of a vehicle.
I have the tepui explorer 3. I purchase this topper in 1.5 inch king size. The price fluctuates (like most stuff on Amazon). I was able to get it for under $50. I’m a side sleeper and it worked great. Be mindful that this foam does get harder in the cold so may not be the most ideal in winter camping
ZINUS 1.5 Inch Swirl Gel Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper / Cooling, Airflow Design / CertiPUR-US Certified, King https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073JW73JW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_H6EHFCY7XJ3Z13TXZ586?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Did a bunch of research to find a legitamate brand, but kept striking out with size and functionality (I wanted a fan to clip onto the lightbar in my RTT). I ended up withthis one on Amazon and haven't been disappointed (yet). I was just using the larger Coleman one before and it wasn't practical (weight, D batteries, didn't hang well).
3 Inch 16.5 Feet Dryer Vent Hose, Non-Insulated Flexible PVC Air Duct Aluminum Ducting, Heavy Duty 4 Layer HVAC Ventilation Air Hose with 2 Clamps for Grow Tents, Dryer Rooms,Kitchen, Fan Filter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FMMF5RQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4DW8EFKJEWZXXQXNRHQK?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Found it!
I’m also considering making a sock to insulate it further.
Drying it out is tough for sure...
For mildew control, I put 2-3x of these in it and recharge them monthly:
Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier, White (E-333) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000H0XFCS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_407TRH2MS4Z8YMJV8MVT
A low profile rail seems to be what you're looking for to get better MPG. I can't blame you either, I have a yakima rail system which sits my RTT above my cabin and it sucks the MPG away quick. I'm getting a bed cap which will only continue the suck, but I'm wanting my cargo to stay dry in my bed also.
Big thing here is your dynamic weight being more than that of your RTT. Static weight is rarely an issue after dynamic. The link below is an example of a dynamic weight of 300lbs, which should be overkill for a RTT.
I use this one in my offroad trailer RTT, and it's worked great.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081X13YTQ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_1np8FbBEFBY7G?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have a 100AH deep cycle battery - the blanket above draws 2.1 Amps on low and 3.2A medium/ 4.3A on high.
It can be set to shut off after 30/45/60 minutes. We'll generally put it on for 30 minutes then a few more times during the night.
The one I have seems to be the most portable and least likely to harm your mattress.
I too ran into this issue and found this to be the best solution to my girlfriend and I. I’m 6’4” and this supports my back very well. Has a lot of positions to click into. Have used it now to study or play cards with great ample support.
Sportneer Stadium Seats for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z8NY137?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
My first thought is storage. If it folded down, might be better. Like a stadium seat. We have these for sitting in the bleachers at our daughter's sporting events. Similar to what you have shown, but foldable. Here's one example. But I do like your idea. I might have to try this with out stadium seats. :)
I bought a microphone stand table thing a few weeks ago and have yet to get out and try it. it's smaller than yours, but in some ways that might be good (getting up to pee in the wee hours).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RCO415C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Thanks!! They worked perfectly! They also charge via solar and comes with two little panels.
Outdoor Solar String Lights, 2 Pack 33FT 100 LED Solar Powered Fairy Lights with 8 Lighting Modes Waterproof Decoration Copper Wire Lights for Patio Yard Trees Christmas Wedding Party (Warm White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HGYX8Y6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_ccDFFbXEMJ4S7
Check out the Uniden Bearcat BC125AT. Great little handheld scanner. In addition to being able to program it for areas you often frequent, it has a really cool feature that detects nearby frequencies in use... incredibly valuable if you're camping in areas your radio isn't programmed for.
Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Link: https://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BC125AT-Alpha-Tagged-channels-Lightweight/dp/B00772MR0K
Also, get your ham license and put a mobile ham radio in your vehicle. They have more power than a handheld, and as long as your vehicle battery is charged, it is always ready to go.
The solar shower is mounted with 4 inch pipe mounting brackets from plumbing supply. I just drilled holes through the rack crossbars and mounted the brackets with bolts. Similar brackets to the following:
We bought a 1.5 inch memory foam topper from Amazon. The mattress is overall still firm but I could sleep on it every night at this point. The topper was only about 30 bucks, get the full bed size if your tent is around 54” wide or so. It folds right up in the tent with no issues.
Here is the link: Zinus 1.5 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress Topper / Green Tea & Charcoal Infused for Freshness / CertiPUR-US Certified, Full https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071ZTK6PX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0kWwFb63SBG3F
Thanks! I got the box and charger socket panel from Amazon. I just removed the parts from the panel and installed them in the box. I also put an inline fuse at the battery.
Project Box
Switch kit
Just look for stroller fan on Amazon. We picked a model that has a nice clamp design that can sit flat on a table or clamp to the internal poles. First 2 we bought were meh, and had a button on the back to turn on and select fan speed. This is the one we got and it will run all night at 1/3 speed.
https://www.amazon.com/Clip-Double-Battery-Desk-Black/dp/B07BNMTVH9
Yeah man def in the same boat ...
I took the cheap route in easing this setup which I highly recommend!!
I got wing nuts that I could hand tighten instead of using that p.o.s. wrench they supplied. Was only $5 for 10 wing nuts at Home Depot.
Also just bought star knob nuts from amazon for $16 that will arrive Friday so will see what option is easier. https://www.amazon.com/Innovative-Components-AN5C-5S3A-21-Knob-insert/dp/B00GORYMKC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1533111987&sr=8-3&keywords=star+knob+5%2F16
I thought about flat racks like your rhino rack, or arb makes a nice one, or my favorite frontrunner but these are a bit outta the price range right now...even secondary Thule/Yakima crossbars are a bit steep cost-wise.
PS- sweet setup!!