No-Weld/No-Sew DIY POP-UP Camper Walkthrough | KIT Campers V2
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 มิ.ย. 2024
- Here it is! KIT Campers V2!
Enjoy a walkthrough of the no-weld no-sew DIY POP-UP KIT Camper that I created for $4000, in less than 12 weeks, weighing about 400lbs.
Interested in building your own? Check out the V2 BOM and the Kit Camper Classroom, a living build guide, which provides you with everything you need to customize, order, and build your very own camper!
Find out more at the KIT Campers Website: www.KitCampers.co/theclassroom
This build is the culmination of everything I learned while creating the KIT Campers Prototype. This camper features a full-length tent, all aluminum composite material, and as much integrated 8020 aluminum support structure as possible.
KIT Campers aims to make DIY camper building more accessible than EVER. Not only do I plan to offer full build support (through how-to-guides, videos, and a forum); and all the parts you need, delivered directly to your door, but I want to build a community of DIY adventurers dedicated to getting out there!
Leave me a comment! What do you think of the camper and the KIT camper concept?
Share this with someone who you think is interested in building their own camper!
My Instagram: / kit.campers
Chapters
00:00 INTRO
01:28 COST
02:35 WEIGHT
03:14 ASSEMBLY
03:59 PANELS
05:08 GAS STRUT MOUNTING
05:41 GAS STURT SPECS
06:04 SLAM LATCH MOUNTS
06:31 WEDGE OR POP-UP?!
07:36 CANVAS DETAILS
08:41 MOUNTING THE CAMPER TO THE TRUCK
09:16 INTERIOR
10:16 SLEEPING PLATFORM
10:53 BED SET UP
11:23 POP-UP MECHANISMS
12:10 WOOD VINYL FINISH
13:00 FUTURE PLANS
13:21 OUTRO
Previous Builds
Prototype Camper • No Weld DIY POP-UP Cam...
Inspiration
@Ripcordhq DIY Wedge Camper - • DIY Wedge Camper | Wal...
@TimMorrissey Pop-Up Mechanism - • DIY Four Wheel Camper ... - แนวปฏิบัติและการใช้ชีวิต
Much better than those super expensive Roof top tents.
Thanks I appreciate it!
Just props, I’m simply amazed! Simple, rugged, repairable, it ticks all the boxes. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the kind words, I really appreciate it!
I love it… off center pop up mechanism and all! You are inspiring and your enthusiasm is palpable! Peace and peaceful travels
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Aluminum t-slot frame railing and fasteners are by no means inexpensive, but they are a a delight to work with. Assembly will be quicker and the end result will be as strong as a bridge.
Great camper. Well done! ✔✔
Thanks! Yes I agree, the pieces are SO strong, and with the correct fasteners they are super sturyd and vibration resistant!
This is super cool and exactly what I'm looking to do. I built a roof tent rack using 2040 extruded aluminum and it's held up pretty well except for one of the aluminum beams broke as a result of being twisted from spreading out under load. Without having some kind of "lip" to press against the interior of the top of the truck bed, weight pushing down can cause the structural supports to push outwards. Looking at your video, I'd recommend adding a strip of aluminum along the entire bed length to prevent your frame from getting pushed outwards.
Thanks for the heads up! I added some angle aluminum to the bottom of the rails and then some bed rail stiffeners to the truck bed so I haven't had any issues
I've been looking at a similar idea. But instead f canvas, I'll make fold up hardsides for the insulation value. I'm going old school with 4 each, 12v marine batteries, plus isolated truck battery, with a cutoff switch. Naturally, I'll install solar panels where I can, hopefully enough to keep the camper supplied.
I have my eye on a wrecked pop up camper that I can get cheaply, to use the appliances from. Then convert that trailer frame into an enclosed utility unit to carry my home built EV 4X4. As a metal detectorist, this will allow me to camp, and have trail mobility. (The reason I want a little electric buggy is the noise value. It's a lot easier to see wildlife without a lot of motor noise.)
I really enjoyed the video. Using extruded aluminum hadn't occurred to me, as I was intending to use angle iron. Since the build will be on a vintage Ford Ranger, weight is important. (Though I intend to put hub motors on the trailer to give just a wee bit of assistance. All in all, I'm shooting for a $2.5K cost, including the pop up.
I'm subbing, to steal your ideas. 🤣
That sounds like an awesome idea! I will say, I hope you can get all your parts for your given budget, with the way this build is buying everything new it was around $4k. But I think if you are savvy about getting used or material that isn't really challenging to get like VHB and ACM then I think you should be able to do it.
Great Build with a balance of cost, TIME involved, and important practical features
Thanks I really appreciate it!
My favorite part??? Lol when your fiancé is trying to hide in front of your truck and then on the side of it as you're coming around!! Priceless!!😂😂😂 But the build is the best I've seen!! Great job brother!
Hahahaha yes, she wasn't too subtle, and the truck being recently cleaned didn't help with the stealth. LOL. Thanks for the kind words I really appreciate it!
Love the simplicity of your design, thanks for sharing
Thanks I appreciate it!!
Bro, I couldn’t agree more;
Aluminum extrusions are legit! Keep that brain working, mechanical design of this. Is real nice, nice work👌🏼
Thanks I really appreciate it! And yes the aluminum extrusions are amazing, I have some many ideas!
Looking really good, I've been nibbling away at the idea of building something along these lines for a while, but the lack of sewing skill and equipment has been a major roadblock and contracting out, just too costly. Your vinyl welding idea has got me thinking all over again. Thanks!
No problem! Glad to see that the gears are turning, if you have any questions about the canvas or other parts of the camper let me know!
If you had a instruction and materials list would be amazing
@@michaelarthur2362 I do, it's all in The Diy Build Classroom at kitcampers.co/theclassroom
Really nice set up! How about bolts rattling loose? I am interested but my concern is run roads and wear
A very inspirational build, a no nonsense, cut to the chase approach to creating a high quality, lightweight pop top camper kit that addresses the issues for most buyers!
And those issues are no welding and no sewing, as these are the two main specialist skills that most people simply do not have, and which cost a huge amount to contract out.
You've created a very high quality, very highly desirable camper, which just keeps on getting better the more one sees of it.
Thanks for the kind words! That was the goal of creating the camper.
Don't weld, but DO sew.
@@Tsiri09 the non-sew seems have been holding up VERY nicely, I definitely think adding sewn seems would make it even more sturdy though
amazing!!! thanks so much for making this video!! My favorite part is how simply it is build with the 8020 material.
Thanks I really appreciate it!
I just might diy my pop up when I’m ready for it!! Thanks for this explanation & demonstration!!!
Of course! Glad you enjoyed it!
Incredible. Beautiful job.
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Congratulations man! I can really see your improvements and hard work! These looks legit! Keep on! Good job!
Thanks I really appreciate it! I am super excited about all the improvements that I made to this one, and definitely learned a lot from this build too
Great light weight build. Clamping it to the truck is something new. Very nice. 👍
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Thank you for sharing this. This is sick! One of the best DIY in TH-cam! Wow.
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Love it, great design and it looks very well engineered 👌🏻👍🏻
Thanks I really appreciate it!!
Great job. I love the craftsmanship
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Awesome build! Stoked to follow along and see where you go with these designs
Thanks, I appreciate it! I definitely have some big plans in the works!
Nice job! I love using the 80/20.
Thanks! Its great stuff!
Great job on this build. Looks solid.
Thanks I really appreciate it!!
You have provided such valuable info! Love that you intend to publish plans to save folks money. Thank you! This is really awesome!
Thanks I really appreciate it! Plans are published online here - www.kitcampers.co/theclassroom
Helped a buddy build something similar to your build. Made some screen inserts that had magnetic strips in them when he opened up the sides like yours. Kept the skeeters out on some campouts. Great build buddy ! 😎👍👍
Yeah, that's exactly what we do to block the windows when camping. Thanks, I really appreciate it!
Awesome! I'm in the design phase of some very similar. I'm looking at using a cold mold fiberglass process. I like your set up. U r on to something good that doesn't cost a fortune.
Thanks I really appreciate it! I have looked into fiberglass, but without a nice clean garage/workshop, I think it would be VERY tough to manage.
Great build. So wonderful that your so happy to help an share. That's the kind of stuff we love to see and watch on TH-cam.
We also love finding the little channels.
Mark (& Teresa)
Thanks for the kind words! I really appreciate it.
@@KitCampers 🙂
I’m definitely saving this video!!!
Heck yeah! Thanks for the support.
So easy and simple, great setup.
Thanks! I really appreciate it!
Love the concept. Thanks for building some of ideas I have had.
Thanks, I appreciate it! I have some even better ideas to come!
love the way it opens up,.....sure beats the others that start at $10,000,.......great job!!
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Nice clear presentation. Thanks,
Of course, glad you like it! Let me know if you have any questions.
Nice build, I appreciate your drive to make building it easy without specialized skills
Thanks I really appreciate it!
No doubt, great job. I have a 68 bronco looking to do something like this, thanks for the ideas!
Something like this would look awesome on a bronco! Best of luck and let me know how I can help!
Very impressive. Ill probably be looking up aluminum stuff all night
Thanks! If you have any questions let me know, I am happy to help where I can.
This camper is brilliant and simple. Congratulations! Also a special thankyou for specifying the weight. Most TH-camrs don't do that. Would be interesting to replace the panels with pink foam wrapped with carbon fiber. That would be even lighter. Would also be good to see someone deal with the aerodynamic problem created by the portion over the cab. Great work though!
Thanks I appreciate it! I try to be as open about the design as possible to give people the most realistic expectations! You could try carbon fiber or fiberglass (but you may need special epoxy to make sure you don't eat away the pink foam). No way around it, all cab overs result in some level aerodynamic issues but I am working on a semi solution for the cab over right now! Will definitely be testing the differences in gas milege before and afterwards.
Looking fir your DIY build kit. Thank you. Amazing job!
That's awesome the build guide is available at www.kitcampers.co/theclassroom just a heads up I only sell the build guide and not the parts. But the guide has a list of all the materials you will need to build a camper.
Amazing job. Thanks for sharing this
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Very cool and nicely done. I've been thinking about making a camper for a while and this looks doable.
Thanks I appreciate it! The goal was to make camper building accessible to people so I am happy to hear that!
amazing. I like the elastic rope to pull the canvas in.
this is such a great build
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Yewww!! Great to see another accessible camper build out there 👀
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Man….people are Amazing. Great job
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Very cool. Thanks for sharing.
No problem! If you have any questions about the build let me know!
Marvelous, quite inspirational…
Thanks I really appreciate it.
I love this! Thank you for sharing. I'm on a limited income and will join the class as soon as I can. I have ideas to add to this.
That's awesome and thanks for the kind words I greatly appreciate it. I look forward to seeing you int he classroom!
Very practical approach! I subscribed!
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awsome design, thanks for nice video
Thanks I really appreciate it!
good stuff, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Great design
Thanks I appreciate it!
Very nice looking unit! Would love to see a video of how the process of popping it up and down works.
Yeah, I think I will make a short video detailing that, i have some videos on my instagram that show it but not in super great detail.
Very impressive topper. Although there are a few tweeks to make it perfect, your design is excellent.
I do lots of diy projects myself and this is something i would consider.
Next maybe fab and bolt up a 270° shade.
Thanks I appreciate it! I completely agree that there are a few tweaks that should be made in order to make things even better. What are your suggestions for tweaking the design? I mounted a prebuilt 270 awning directly to the rails of the camper, I don't have welding skills but it's something I want to learn so I can eventually build one!.
Wonderful video, thanks for the tour, great JOB. I've been working with 80/20 for 30 years and love it. However, I pass it by for my build due to the cost but mostly 80/20 is so HEAVY!. I wish they would make a lighter grade. Carbon fiber T-slot stock would be a dream, but man would that be pricey!
Thanks for the kind comments. Yes it would be awesome if they incorporated some carbon fiber, but it would be SO expensive.
Oh yea, you have come a long way. Glad you upgraded the audio :) I think you have an amazing product on your hands.
Thanks man I really appreciate it! Yeah the lav mics are definitely a game changer!
Love this idea. Seems like the back would really benefit from some triangle gussets in the corner of the frame.
Yeah you could very easily add some bracing to those corners. I have been considering it just for the added peace of mind, but so far I haven't had any issues at all.
Nice work!! Looks great 😎, love the final wrap.
Thanks I appreciate it!
Black 09 DCLB sport here too. Same wheels. Best one!
Heck yes! The wheels I bought off of someone who had them on a forerunner previously, but I absolutely love the entire truck!
Well done
Thanks, I really appreciate it!
This is great.
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Nice. I was gonna get a aluminum lumber rack and do the same. Awesome build!!!!
Thanks! And yeah I thought about that too, unfortunately, I wasn't able to find an aluminum lumber rack that fit my specs exactly. Let me know which one you end up going with!
I wish I could do something that nice. You are very talented
Thanks I appreciate it!
So cool
Thanks!
This really seems like a game changer. Seemed like for years campers kept getting more and more complicated and pricey. Only serving the very wealthy. This seems like an option that a lot of us who have just been making it work for the love of it an option to live more comfortably :)
Thanks that’s the idea! I appreciate the kind words!
Great idea. Join with neighbors to multiple builds! 2:40 I kept being happily distracted by reflections!
Thanks! Hahaha I totally didn't see the reflections until you pointed them out 🤣 pretty funny though, we were trying to keep the dogs on a stay command!
Awesome work on the lift mechanism 👍
Thanks! I think that was the single most challenging thing about the entire build!
@@KitCampers Found it to be the same for my one haha so stoked when it worked
@@dansbuilds Yeah same! The wedge seems so much easier but leaves so much to be desired.
I just need to build the top portion, the Pop up part. I want to build it on top of the existing fiberglass top, on my '93 Ford Bronco. From the windshield to the back is 8',but I might extend it to 10', towards the back, which is about the distance with the tailgate down. So if I don't have enough room in the 5' bed of the Bronco, I might make a temporary/removable shower/toilet on the tailgate.
Nice! Sounds like a pretty slick idea!
Nice and simple idea...
Thanks I appreciate it!
Nice work👍
Thanks I really appreciate it!
Dude. Way to go man. That is so awesome. Sub'd.
Heck yeah! Thanks for the support.
Great job! I have the same truck & may be someday will engage in a similar project . Thanks for sharing 😊
That's awesome! If you have any questions let me know!
great! thank you for sharing and greeting from Indonesia
No problem! Thanks for the kind comments!
Wow!!! That looks great. I wish you would have showed the setup/teardown of it though.
Thanks I appreciate it! I have another video of the set up - th-cam.com/video/ICYHd6zIDN4/w-d-xo.html check it out and let me know i fyou have any questions!
love the layout…. great video
Thanks I really appreciate it!
@@KitCampers the reinforcement pieces for structural integrity really play a huge role for functionality during windy conditions, i like your incorporation of those pieces even though there a strange shape… id be interested to create one of these for a mini truck, like a kei or suzuki ; i found your channel because ive been looking at diy mini truck campers; and i think your design increases the functionality of a normal box camper… really well done! definitely will reference your video when approaching my own build..
I like it, the more simple things are to do the better is what I say. That would be cool if you could somehow use the same type of pop up mechanisms for the sides as well. That way you could have extra storage/counter space.
That's a good idea, maybe I can think of way to make that work for version 3!
What?
very good your videos. I'm building a camper and the information is very important.
Thats great to hear! Let me know if you have any questions!
this could really be quite revolutionary for those who are diy interested. you should make some good money off your plans as the idea and timing should be pretty nice. i wish you the best of luck!
Thanks! I really appreciate the kind words. That's the hope, but I really want to focus on helping making DIY camper building as accessible to people as possible.
Excellent 👍
Thanks I really appreciate it!
I would love to see a video of you putting the top up and down !
I actually am uploading one as I type this message, so it's coming soon!
Cool ideas
Thanks I appreciate it!
Awesome video man! I’m considering something similar for my next build on the channel so it’s nice to get some ideas from your build! Subscribed👌🏼
Heck yeah! Glad I could provide some inspiration! Let me know if you have any questions!
Nice!
Thanks I appreciate it!
This video has my mind racing. Am contemplating the purchase of the new AWD Ford Maverick, and a small fiberglass camper. Would be using the camper as a “home base” for exploring the country. If I got caught out too far from returning, a small topper like this to spend the night in a remote location would be ideal. Currently there are none being manufactured for the 4-1/2 foot Maverick bed. Making my own with 2 to 2-1/2 feet over the cab would be enough to sleep comfortably up top. Hmmmmmmm……..
Yeah I definitely think it's doable but there might be a few complications. I think currently most manufacturers don't build for the maverick for a few reasons, 1) it's pretty small and new, and 2) the geometry isn't very nice, in terms of trying to get everything to fit. I am sure you could get it to work if you put some thoughtful design into it though! Let me know if I can help!
awesome shit!!
Thanks! I really appreciate it!
do you have ideas on ways to cover the screens in inclimate weather or a way to winterize (Thermal Liner) the upper canvas part for winter? I love the big screen windows for ventilation and for a more open feel. Just wondering what you do if it rains or snows?
Yeah, I am currently working through some solutions for that but think I have a decent idea actually. I will definitely update the build guide and instagram once its figured out. I am think about putting some retractable vinyl windows on the outside.
Love it! Some clever ideas! Got a couple of questions? What do you do in the sleeping area when it rains? Are there covers for the windows? Also, I would have loved to have seen it fold down. Nice build!
Hi Marsha, thanks for the kind words! We have been fortunate enough not to have any crazy rain so far, but I have made some updates to the canvas in terms of adding window covers and some see through windows as well., I am still working on a solution for velcroing the windows up but for the most part it works really nicely. I have a video of opening and closing the roof here - th-cam.com/video/ICYHd6zIDN4/w-d-xo.html
great build, well done! I was thinking of using 8020 for the my flat bed popup build. Is there much, if any, flex when there are 2 people in the bed? Also do you use any Loctite for the fasteners ie. to prevent loosening during those offroad trips? Offroad corrugations here in Australia are hell on anything and everything.
Thanks I appreciate it! There is a little bit of flex in the pull out portion, but no flex in the overhang at all. I reinforced it quite a bit with 1 inch aluminum so its sturdy. I would recommend using loctite where ever you can but for me I generally use double anchor joins (which are VERY vibration resistant) I just drove 750 miles of back forest roads with no loosening. For non-anchor joins I would recommend using loctite and lock washers, once those are tightened down they seem to stay in place very nicely.
This is exactly what I've been looking for. I don't want to remove my tailgate or drill holes to bolt the camper on. I would like to add about 6" - 8" to the cab over to allow for 6' - 9' one piece fishing rods. Do you have a basic set of plans and links to where you purchased the materials? Fantastic build!!
Hi Jimbo! You dont need to remove the tailgate or drill any holes to bolt the camper on. The enter roof is already 10' on a long bed so you would be able to already store some fishing rods if you wanted. I sell the build guide on - kitcampers.co/theclassroom
Very interesting approach to monetizing this. I've had an idea for a universal kit for something since Overland Expo, but now I wonder if your model is a better way to start.
I wish I was familiar with extrusion a decade ago. Seeing all the roof racks now that are little more than some 1/4" plates and some extrusions kills me in that I didn't think of it. Same can be said for these tents/campers.
Looks good though. I like the no sew aspect since that's a large barrier with diy tents.
Thanks I appreciate it! Yeah, I don't have the money to get everything together to actually sell people kits currently so creating the Classroom was, IMO the next best option.
I have thought the same thing though about the 8020 extrusions and all of the bolt together roof racks and what not, those companies are really making a killing on them.
thats cool
Thanks I appreciate it!
Sweet build! Just a question for you. How do the lifter panels on the end keep the roof in line and support it from swaying forward and back? I see how they work to prevent the roof from moving side to side, but I can't quite make out how they stop it from moving front and rear. Am I missing something? Or maybe I just don't understand. Thanks in advance!
Thanks! What keeps the roof from swaying back and forth is the canvas! I missed this before I completed my first build but essentially the lifter panels help to contrain the roof from side to side movement like you pointed out but until the canvas is installed the roof can still move forward and back.
Great idea. Wish you would have filmed when you popped up the camler to see how that is done.
I filmed a walkthrough of the roof in another video - th-cam.com/video/ICYHd6zIDN4/w-d-xo.html check it out and let me know if you have any questions.
Excellent basic platform. Work in progress, like to see in a couple of years after..."gee, we can do this and add that and...." great for modifying as you go forward. Just one question about keeping the rain out on the pop top? Thanks for sharing your effort.
Great question and thank you for the kind words! Right now the massive windows are not conducive for keeping the rain out I am currently working on making some window covers out of tinted clear vinyl. I just haven’t had a chance to finish them yet
What hinges did you use for the cabana doors?
I just used the hinges that are for sale on the tnutz website. But I would recommend using hurricane hinges if you want something more waterproof!
I would love to build this!
You definitely should give it a shot! I do have build plans available at kitcampers.co/theclassroom if you are interested in more info
Well done... I too like the idea of being able to sit up in bed, I am curious as to how it is sealed up for water intrusion while traveling... especially the front where the top meets the middle section of 8020... Are there seals for the 8020 ?
Yeah sitting up was super important for me in the build. But I lined the enter top extrusion with extra long truck cap seal. We drove in some rain along the coast and the inside was bone dry! Unfortunately I haven't found a manufacturer that makes specific seal for the 10 series 8020 itself/ isn't ridiculously expensive but there is slide in seal for the 15 series that you can buy from mcmaster carr.
A very well thought out and presented build. I most appreciate you being a resource !
The modular and easily replicated design is for sure my favorite part.
many blessings and thanks!
Thanks I really appreciate that!
@@KitCampers i believe you mentioned a maker's forum for sharing additional build ons and improvements, progress of their own build, etc.
sounds like an awesome resource to normalize nomadic living and make it accessible.
As a California resident i see a lot of really run down ragged pieced together campers as a result of the 3rd world [or worse] housing situation.
this kind of diy design network is invaluable. much love and thanks brother
@@Highlander.7 Thanks I appreciate that, now even a truck cap, sold new is $4000 so it's crazy that even that is becoming almost unaffordable to people now.
Modular?
@@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeathI would say so, yes. This design is easily adaptable to suit one's needs.
Love your build. I am redoing an older slide in pop up and want to make a roof like yours using gas struts. What type of sheet material did you use and was it easy to connect to the 80/20? Im looking into composite honeycomb panels.
2:07
Thanks I appreciate it! I used aluminum composite material. I didn't get too far looking into honeycomb panel as I think it was way more expensive. ACM is ~$70 for a 4x8 through the right supplier. It was easy to affix the the 8020, I just used VHB Tape from 3M and then self tapping screws if necessary.
Very cool, now do this in a Cybertruck!
The geometry of the cybertruck would make it VERY challenging to get a solid frame. Plus I don't have one. But if someone wants to give me a cybertruck and the ability to machine all the custom parts I would be happy to do it.
Awsome camper .... I was just wondering if the 1x3 8020 was strong enough over the cab. Or would 1.5 x3 be better ?
Thanks! For the lower overhang portion I used 2x4 inch 10 series which is definitely strong enough. 1.3x3 would also be strong enough I imagine.
I found this super useful! Thank you so much! I absolutely LOVE the massive windows! Are you using 1" or 1.5" 8020?
Thanks I am glad it was helpful. I used 1" series this time around, it's A LOT more affordable than the 1.5" series.