Absolutely love the new rig... The wife an I have been talking about going this direction for a year or so now, so we're excited to see more of the truck & camper.
Just ordered a one ton dually for my new Northern Lite 10.2 . Never even thought about the flat bed idea but sure seems smart for all of the extra storage for full time living! Great episode!
Is Dodge affected by the chip shortage?Wife and I are looking into the exact setup as you. When considering the flatbed, it might put you over GVW which is exactly why Morton decided to upgrade to this Dodge 5500. With so much economic uncertainty taking place, we’re thinking waiting it out for awhile to see if Americans are done maxing out they’er credit before we make a big purchase. If its fun, or housing related, its way over valued.
@@garbinator09 all new vehicles, cell phones, TV, basically everything new takes those chips so yes. Sure you could find one if you travel. That's why used vechles market is crazy right now. With the current administration it will not get better only worse.
Just debadge the truck. It looks great and you don’t have to worry about them looking at it as a 5500. I noticed that when I debadged I got a little less hassle with my srw
And put one of those "hybrid synergy drive" emblems on the side like the priuses have so you can virtue signal about it being a "hybrid" just like all the other hybrids rolling down the road hahahaha
This looks like a more "off the shelf" version of the Everlanders rig. I will be interested to watch you both for similarities and differences. Cheers from Canada!
I have a RAM 5500 CA84 with a Knapheide flatbed and a Eagle Cap 1165 camper. The problem with flatbeds is they are designed for downward pressure and not upward. I talked with Knapheide and several other flatbed manufactures about the best way to tie down a 6000 pound camper and they all said that they don't recommend tying the camper to the flatbed because in rare conditions you can have a large upward force on the flatbed. My solution was to used an 8ft H-Beam and two 24 inch u-bolts that go around the frame and tie to the H-Beam which is on the top of the flatbed. I then put very large D-Rings on the H-Beam to tie down the front of the camper. For the rear I used a square steel tube the same size as a TorkLift tiedown and tied that into the rear hitch setup. That way I can use my TorkLift tiedown inserts for the rear of the camper. In the future I plan to weld together a setup I can bolt to the frame that will sit under the flatbed. Since I have an 11ft bed you still need something on the bed to keep the camper from sliding forward in a sudden stop. The H-Beam is currently doing that and I figure something out when I modify the setup in the future. With an 11ft bed I have room in the front for a Honda 3000i generator and another fuel tank.
Pete, I found your post above informative. Could you advise how wide your flatbed is? I have an 11' flatbed as well mounted on a F350 dually and want to put a truck camper on, but its 8 wide' (i.e., 96") and I'm curious what others are running. Thanks.
I saw this truck for sale months ago on expediton portal. If I could have imported it to Canada I would have bought it instantly. You got a hell of a deal.
Want to learn more? Check out our 5500 blog posts on our site and subscribe for daily content about RV's and Trucks! One Ton Truck article: mortonsonthemove.com/one-ton-truck/ Ram 5500 Towing Capacity: mortonsonthemove.com/ram-5500-towing-capacity/ Can You Put A Truck Camper On A Flat Bed Truck?: mortonsonthemove.com/flatbed-truck-camper/ What Happened to Mortons on the Move? July 2021 Update: mortonsonthemove.com/morton-update-july-2021/
I currently have an F550 I purchased new in 17. I have been pulling a 43’ toy hauler. I now want to down size to a truck camper. I have spent tons of time thinking about the super singles. I for sure want to go that way. I am in search of the right camper. Yes. My toy hauler will be for sale soon. Along with the 16 CVO Street Glide.
I’ve done a whole lot of research on medium duty trucks lately, and here’s what GM says about their 4500-6500 series chassis cab trucks. The major difference is in the suspension systems, which are progressively beefier as the trucks get larger. Engines, transmissions, frames, etc. are all basically the same, but the heavier suspension systems allow for greater payload weights.
Adding to the comments about the commercial aspect of the truck, check jurisdictions before you enter, as they may require a commercial driver’s licence, or CDL, and you might also be required to run a log book as well. This could prove to be a very expensive lesson roadside (as in stopped by the local law enforcement types).
Tom, I noticed you are running synthetic winch line with a cable fairlead. As an off-road guy with plenty of winch pulls, I would strongly recommend either switching to wire rope (cable) or switching your fairlead from a roller model (designed for wire rope) to a hawse type fairlead. I won't get into the endless debate over synthetic versus wire rope :) but I will say you run the risk of your current fairlead shredding your synthetic line, which could then fail under load. Overall, an awesome rig, and I totally understand why you elected to go with a heavier-duty platform for this particular application. Happy travels!
Great video! Awesome rig! Well explained and easy to follow. I followed your other series travelling North, and can’t wait to see where you get to in this rig, and the modifications you make to it. It wouldn’t work for me, with two small kids, but I can always live vicariously through you.
The 2021 Ram 5500 cab and chassis has a recall for a rod going through the block problem. It’s a software issue, the engine runs a lower oil pressure at startup to speed up warm up. This resulted in burning up the rod bearings. Yes crazy but true. The good news is they can just reflash the truck, bad news is you don’t know what damage has already been done.
Looking forward to seeing your future modifications! With a flatbed, be careful and check with states you will be traveling in you may have to stop at all truck weigh stations. CA is one of those states, that requires any truck with any thing other than a regular truck bed to stop at weigh stations.
Very thorough video, thank you for all the info. You really thought this whole thing out in advance and picked the perfect rig for this type of setup. I did feel like the 1172 was a bit too big on that Ford you guys had before. Smart moves for sure!
Love the truck, what was the reason someone on Kodiak Island sold with ALL those beautiful upgrades..? Just picked up our 22 5500 4x4 Congratulations, hope you are having a wonderful time!
now youve gone and ruined my plans for buying a 5500 manual to do this kind of setup for it. I fear after this video and the ones to follow they will be even harder to find now. lol
Really enjoyed the video as well as very informational , When you are ready we would like to purchase it from you Lol , it shows it’s been about a year I hope your travels have been safe and exciting and good luck to you!,Thanks again great video!.
This has got to be your BEST video... I've been trying to figure out what to do in my situation; I have a 5th wheel but want to go the TC route. Now I know what to do, never even thought about a 4500 flatbed. I just have to figure out a good tie down system and getting the correct electric jacks as I'm full-time and need to offload truck camper... Awesome video can't wait for more... Al ✌️
Thank you! You may want to check out the articles we wrote about these topics, too. :) mortonsonthemove.com/best-truck-camper-jacks/ mortonsonthemove.com/flatbed-truck-camper/
On an F-350 you can swap axles from a 450 or 550 Pickup (Not cab/chassis - but models that came with a regular dually bed). Solid axle swaps are all bolt on, no welding or cutting required. Dunno about the dodge or chevy stuff. One of the reasons I love the ford, they kept the trucks very similar between truck series. Kinda of the best of both worlds. Power rating of the Light duty, axles from an MDT.
Sweet ride! If you have synthetic cable on the winch... don’t do what I did. If you use it under a load you can “melt” and “squish” it together. You need to unspool the cable and pull your truck under load. This stretches the cable and will wrap on the drum tight. Hope that makes sense...
nice setup. Have been planning a RAM 5500 design with an Overland Explorer truck camper using their tray but realized the truck modifications would be better for me to have done by an Overland Explorer dealer in Colorado whom also has an off road truck modification business.
@@thomasbarlow4223 careful. Talk like this on youtube will have the EPA trying to figure how to send you a six figure dollar emissions violation pentalty fine. haha
@@lrobie123 Yes except for you have to remember a 2001 7.3 comes factory with no emissions control systems it doesn't even have a catalytic converter. Fuck the EPA
Great video and awesome platform. Can't wait to see the rest of the videos on the build-out and trips. This is basically the same thing I've been looking to build (but Ford and NorthernLite) in a few years.
Great Vid Content , I can completely identify because i have one = 2018 Ram 5500 6 sp man 4.88 stock gears & motor , duel 220 amp alternator . Super single Hutchison bead lock wheels . "I extended my front AEV flares another 4" , easy to do , i think i have a vid ( they are very rookie vids ) Your Mod's are whats providing you with the great miles per gal. You have a beast of a truck and very lucky to have gotten it with a 6sp. , they are extinct . In 4 low 1st gear , it becomes a tractor ! " Alpha Truck House / Wild & Free ... ~peace~
I am in love with your truck!!! I love everything about it. It’s exactly what I would want for myself in a heavier duty truck. I’m just not convinced I need one bad enough to justify the expense over my 2005 single tire Ram 3500 with a manual transmission.
Love my 2001 e450 shuttle bus 7.3 powerstroke baby. Best $3000 I've ever spent. Gonna make it 4x4 and I'm going to 12 valve Cummins swap it so I have a completely mechanical diesel that won't leave you stuck in the middle of the desert because it crank sensor went bad.
Glad to see the build. I almost went this route but instead decided to 4x4 a 1993 e250 class b Eldorado as a relatively inexpensive adventure vehicle. It's just me so small room doesn't matter.
I tend to go smaller and lighter, easier to get in and out of hard to reach places. More stuff, more weight, more complexity, more problems. But I guess it really depends on your life style.
My Dad had a really old Dump Truck - it was a 6500 and stick. You could probably skip 1st gear and start in 2nd gear until you add more steel plated storage boxes to it.
Looked into doing this with a Kodiak. Dealer said, Parts are more expensive and they are only really better if you're using them commercially. Otherwise, it doesn't work out. A 1 ton is better and easier to get parts for.
I've been following your post now for about2 month's now and your presentations are very excellent. I'm leaving for Alaska from Palm Coast Florida in my F350 Platinum and it's a 2014 an old couple had it with only 180,000 miles on it. It's never been on a dirt road it's in brand new condition. I have a Newcamp Cirrus 820 on it. It weighs 2900 empty. I took it on a short 2500 mile trip and it handled incredibly well. It's not a dually. It's funny that you bought yours in Alaska I told my wife that if someone offered me over$100,000 for it in Alaska I would sell it. That remains to be seen because I love it. I'm a retired Navy Photographer so I will be photographing the trip stay tuned..
@@bob_frazier if your referring to Alaska Canada would not allow me to enter. I was there on August 11th the day it was supposed to open and at the last moment they changed the date. So any pointers I guess none. I have sold my truck and camper and that's a good thing with fuel prices through the roof.
@@terrylarkin690 Oh, what a sad outcome! Sorry to hear that Terry. Yeah, fuel is up, thinking this may bring truck and camper prices down though. (Hopefully!)
Bob I'm curious whe did you 1st ask this question because of the time difference. I left on my trip back in July. The reason I wanted to drive the Alaska Hwy was my dad was a engineer and surveyor for the Alaska HWY during WW2 in 1942 they built that HWY in 1 year because it was feared the Japanese would attempt to invade us from the North and they did invade the Aleutian Islands in June 1942. My dad had flat feet so he was ineligible to go into the Army then so for his part he served as an engineer for his part during the war. His brother Art served in the Army in the Pacific so there was a few jokes about it as I was growing up. I'm a Vietnam Veteran and served in the Navy as Photographers Mate PH2 E5. I had planned on photographing my entire trip so I'm thoroughly upset that I was not able to do this. I'm 71 and I don't think I will get this chance again. Just maybe if fuel prices go so high people start selling there Class C campers cheaper I might be able to pull it off. I had a Cirrus Camper and loved it but my wife couldn't go with me because of the bed situation. I have very nice Sony A7riv and I just ordered a A7iv so along with my lenses I have the equipment I just need a Camper that won't break the bank. I actually made money on the sale of my F350 and the Cirrus. I thoroughly enjoy your posting and adventures. Maybe someday we will cross paths. Oh and between what you have posted on what you have doe with your rig along with Soneyboot I was able to make it work much better. OK I'm to long winded I know.
Can’t wait for this series to get going! I was looking at Stable Camper myself. They convert the truck bed to a flatbed and let you customize the boxes/storage you want
We are shifting the camper forward and moving the spare. The bed is 11-6 feet long so it will be mostly supported on it. Even as is in this vid however we can and have towed our boat behind it without a stinger. Love that functionality of truck campers!
Big rigs you can shift many gears without using the clutch, but I don't know about the 5500. It would be good if you can. Edit: Not recommended to shift without the clutch on these transmissions, as it will destroy the synchros.
My ram has the same transmission as this truck, a G56. It shifts smoothly without the clutch in 1st-4th, but oftentimes going into 5th it will grind the synchros a bit so I dont do clutch less shifting in that gear.
Excellent in detail video! Great truck! Been doing lots of research exactly for this type of truck over 350 and 450. You guys enjoy your travels and keep posting!
Being a poor 26yo at the time, I went with a 2001 e450 7.3 shuttle bus off Craigslist for $3k about 3 years ago. I put 12k into engine/bumper/skidplates/tires/lithium/solar/hot shower... all the essentials. Best $15k I've ever spent.supposed to take off next week with dog.
Great for out of town driving. The thing is a tank and so enormous that any city driving that is done will be difficult. I don't know how much Dodge paid for this video, but I'm not even close to being convinced this beast is necessary.
Then you've obviously never owned a truck camper, let alone offroaded one and realized a 3500 SRW or even a DRW is uncomfortably pushing limitations of these trucks. But hey, haters gonna hate.
Nice rig.! I have a winch but I have never used it to get myself unstuck. I used it several times off road to get trees off the forest road that have fallen. I have used it once to get someone else unstuck though. Comes in handy when you need it. I would get an air compressor mounted in a combination toolbox and external fuel tank by Transfer Flow Inc. with a quick connect fir the hose. There are other nice brands though too. You can then air up easier coming back onto pavement.
I've been wanting to do the same build you have bought. I'm still looking for a Ram 5500 with a manual transmission though. Your setup will last you for many years too come. Safe travels
I wish people would please STOP confusing medium duty trucks and Commercial vehicles. 'Medium Duty' is just a weight class. 'Commercial' means you use it to generate taxable revenue. Very small cars are often used as 'Commercial' vehicles by Taxi services, and 1/2 ton pickups can be 'military' vehicles. Full sized buses and Heavy duty Semi trucks are used as 'Recitational Vehicles'. Please stop confusing 'Weight Class' and 'Commercial' use. They are totally separate classifications. I have a 5500, and it is registered and insured as a Private vehicle, as I use it to tow my RV.
You do have a good point, but I could not find private insurance that would cover the truck... I get what you are saying but in the many states eyes this is a "commercial" vehicle. Yes we could get it registered as an RV but it would have been messy.... This according to Florida and my insurance it's still a commercial truck. Twice we had to pay high tolls because it was a "commercial vehicle"...even tho we told them it was private. Seems pretty stupid because there are 50k lbs RVs running around that don't have to do that BS.
@@cacatr4495 LOL. I suppose some drivers may recite aloud entire plays as they I drive. I imagine its mostly Shakespeare and modern Broadway productions. But indeed, "Recreational" is what I intended.
I think that depends on the state. California is very aggressive about… well… everything, especially where they can get extra revenue. You might be able to register it as personal, but if you have so much as a chunk of 2x4 in the back you’ll find yourself in trouble for illegal commercial activity.
The 5500 has the turning radius of the USS Missouri. I am interested in this series. It reminds me of an Earthroamer. This rig is going to be a beast. I am interested in how "Off-road" worthy it really will be. In the off-road world weight, width, break-over angle, and center of gravity are very important. I look forward to seeing how this works out.
Yea we will see how my shuttle bus handles the trails. Just made a super skidplate to cover the Telma driveshaft brake. Long wheelbase had me real worried.
I think I would extend the bed to the end of camper and that way the weight of all the camper would be supported by bed and it looks king of funny with it just hanging off the back and that’s just me .
Looks like you all figured some things out and won't be uncontrollably (and dangerously) bouncing down the road like you all were with your last slide in camper set up.
Good to see you back. I enjoyed your Alaska trip. Looking forward to this build. Have you seem the StabeCamper flat bed boxes? Might work for you. Have you considered a drop down cooking center. ( like Australians use) I always preferred cooking outside.
Spare Tires. Any Room? Any thoughts on Liquid Spring Suspension on this kind of build? Camper able to handle off road flex? Awesome Video. Thanks for the ideas.
Nice video. Payload is very important. Maximum payload rating RAM5500 is 11,140 pounds and Ford F-550 is 12,750 pounds. Why you preferred the RAM 5500?
![💰$250k Overlanding Beast // THIS is AMAZING // Full Rig Tour [ RAM 5500 / Flatbed / Cirrus 920 ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JOtjvE5OS4U/mqdefault.jpg)
![💰$250k Overlanding Beast // THIS is AMAZING // Full Rig Tour [ RAM 5500 / Flatbed / Cirrus 920 ]](/img/tr.png)
This is a fine example of what a very good commentator acts and sounds like likes.
You guys really landed into a find with this truck. Hoping to see more vids soon
Absolutely love the new rig... The wife an I have been talking about going this direction for a year or so now, so we're excited to see more of the truck & camper.
Just ordered a one ton dually for my new Northern Lite 10.2 . Never even thought about the flat bed idea but sure seems smart for all of the extra storage for full time living! Great episode!
Is Dodge affected by the chip shortage?Wife and I are looking into the exact setup as you. When considering the flatbed, it might put you over GVW which is exactly why Morton decided to upgrade to this Dodge 5500. With so much economic uncertainty taking place, we’re thinking waiting it out for awhile to see if Americans are done maxing out they’er credit before we make a big purchase. If its fun, or housing related, its way over valued.
@@garbinator09 all new vehicles, cell phones, TV, basically everything new takes those chips so yes. Sure you could find one if you travel. That's why used vechles market is crazy right now. With the current administration it will not get better only worse.
@@mrrod3004 - Just spent an hour on Carvauna searching for GMC used 2500’s even 3500’s. All a No-Go or sale pending. “The buying Pandemic”
Just debadge the truck. It looks great and you don’t have to worry about them looking at it as a 5500. I noticed that when I debadged I got a little less hassle with my srw
And put one of those "hybrid synergy drive" emblems on the side like the priuses have so you can virtue signal about it being a "hybrid" just like all the other hybrids rolling down the road hahahaha
This looks like a more "off the shelf" version of the Everlanders rig. I will be interested to watch you both for similarities and differences. Cheers from Canada!
Alaska! Here we come again!? With this rig, you would probably get see more of the great outdoors.....can hardly wait for your upcoming adventures.
I have been looking forward to this new series since I saw you promoting it!
Thanks for all the information. Makes total sense why you went with this truck. I’m looking forward to seeing the inside of the camper.
Yah for a truck camper, can't wait to see your travels in the lower 48.
Just found this channel, looks like the TH-cam algorithm is working. Love the video quality and enjoy the content.
What a story 😂 you flew across the country, bought a truck and trusted it worked well, and picked up a trailer along the way, crazy!
I have a RAM 5500 CA84 with a Knapheide flatbed and a Eagle Cap 1165 camper. The problem with flatbeds is they are designed for downward pressure and not upward. I talked with Knapheide and several other flatbed manufactures about the best way to tie down a 6000 pound camper and they all said that they don't recommend tying the camper to the flatbed because in rare conditions you can have a large upward force on the flatbed. My solution was to used an 8ft H-Beam and two 24 inch u-bolts that go around the frame and tie to the H-Beam which is on the top of the flatbed. I then put very large D-Rings on the H-Beam to tie down the front of the camper. For the rear I used a square steel tube the same size as a TorkLift tiedown and tied that into the rear hitch setup. That way I can use my TorkLift tiedown inserts for the rear of the camper. In the future I plan to weld together a setup I can bolt to the frame that will sit under the flatbed. Since I have an 11ft bed you still need something on the bed to keep the camper from sliding forward in a sudden stop. The H-Beam is currently doing that and I figure something out when I modify the setup in the future. With an 11ft bed I have room in the front for a Honda 3000i generator and another fuel tank.
Pete, I found your post above informative. Could you advise how wide your flatbed is? I have an 11' flatbed as well mounted on a F350 dually and want to put a truck camper on, but its 8 wide' (i.e., 96") and I'm curious what others are running. Thanks.
@@ShawnHedges I believe it's 8ft wide. I have my camper on the bed plus two 6 foot boxes under the wings. My camper is 102 inches wide.
@@petehaidinyak9084 - Thank you.
I saw this truck for sale months ago on expediton portal. If I could have imported it to Canada I would have bought it instantly. You got a hell of a deal.
There is a reason we use the word "payload," and not "weight carrying capacity."
Lord I felt like I was being taught by a third grade teacher
Talking more about the drivetrain modifications and numbers seems to scare away some of the dumber audience, so I guess he opted against that.
@@jamesellsworth240 What a stupid comment.
Thank you, this has changed the direction of our expedition vehicle choices.
Want to learn more? Check out our 5500 blog posts on our site and subscribe for daily content about RV's and Trucks!
One Ton Truck article: mortonsonthemove.com/one-ton-truck/
Ram 5500 Towing Capacity: mortonsonthemove.com/ram-5500-towing-capacity/
Can You Put A Truck Camper On A Flat Bed Truck?: mortonsonthemove.com/flatbed-truck-camper/
What Happened to Mortons on the Move? July 2021 Update: mortonsonthemove.com/morton-update-july-2021/
Truck is a Beast like a T-Rex Brother 💪
Very thorough information comparing the two trucks! Thank you!
So sick you got a manual! Nobody ever goes that route. Also really awesome that the truck is already deleted, tuned, and upgraded.
Awesome rig, jealous! Thanks for the info! 👍
Bad ass!!!! I'm feeling so inferior in my tinewennie Ram 3500!
Yep when MPT81 tires get old and the lugs start cracking they wear fast. Only thing is we pay $420 For Mpt tires and $800 for G275 tires.
We're all ready for the new adventures!!! 👍
I currently have an F550 I purchased new in 17. I have been pulling a 43’ toy hauler. I now want to down size to a truck camper.
I have spent tons of time thinking about the super singles. I for sure want to go that way. I am in search of the right camper.
Yes. My toy hauler will be for sale soon. Along with the 16 CVO Street Glide.
4x4 diesel manual is the unicorns of trucks now nice find
Love the new truck. Hope to see you both on the road.
Thanks Curtis! Same here :)
Now that you're talking truck camper you got my attention.
Kicking around ram5500 with buckstop and liquid spring buildout for overland rig. Super cool setup u found
I’ve done a whole lot of research on medium duty trucks lately, and here’s what GM says about their 4500-6500 series chassis cab trucks. The major difference is in the suspension systems, which are progressively beefier as the trucks get larger. Engines, transmissions, frames, etc. are all basically the same, but the heavier suspension systems allow for greater payload weights.
Adding to the comments about the commercial aspect of the truck, check jurisdictions before you enter, as they may require a commercial driver’s licence, or CDL, and you might also be required to run a log book as well. This could prove to be a very expensive lesson roadside (as in stopped by the local law enforcement types).
Tom, I noticed you are running synthetic winch line with a cable fairlead. As an off-road guy with plenty of winch pulls, I would strongly recommend either switching to wire rope (cable) or switching your fairlead from a roller model (designed for wire rope) to a hawse type fairlead.
I won't get into the endless debate over synthetic versus wire rope :) but I will say you run the risk of your current fairlead shredding your synthetic line, which could then fail under load.
Overall, an awesome rig, and I totally understand why you elected to go with a heavier-duty platform for this particular application. Happy travels!
Thank you for the tip!
Great video! Awesome rig! Well explained and easy to follow. I followed your other series travelling North, and can’t wait to see where you get to in this rig, and the modifications you make to it. It wouldn’t work for me, with two small kids, but I can always live vicariously through you.
Thank you!
The 2021 Ram 5500 cab and chassis has a recall for a rod going through the block problem. It’s a software issue, the engine runs a lower oil pressure at startup to speed up warm up. This resulted in burning up the rod bearings. Yes crazy but true. The good news is they can just reflash the truck, bad news is you don’t know what damage has already been done.
Looking forward to seeing your future modifications!
With a flatbed, be careful and check with states you will be traveling in you may have to stop at all truck weigh stations. CA is one of those states, that requires any truck with any thing other than a regular truck bed to stop at weigh stations.
Thanks for the tip!
Great looking ride, safe travels
Your videos are all so professional and very informative.
Thank so much. The best presentation I have ever seen here. Kind regards from Fance. Patrick
Ok so I am officially jealous, and fyi I dig this kind of content big time.
You got my dream truck there!!
Very thorough video, thank you for all the info. You really thought this whole thing out in advance and picked the perfect rig for this type of setup. I did feel like the 1172 was a bit too big on that Ford you guys had before. Smart moves for sure!
Thanks! We were maxing out the Ford, but with this RAM 5500, we have a lot more wiggle room with payload.
Love the truck, what was the reason someone on Kodiak Island sold with ALL those beautiful upgrades..?
Just picked up our 22 5500 4x4
Congratulations, hope you are having a wonderful time!
now youve gone and ruined my plans for buying a 5500 manual to do this kind of setup for it. I fear after this video and the ones to follow they will be even harder to find now. lol
Really enjoyed the video as well as very informational , When you are ready we would like to purchase it from you Lol , it shows it’s been about a year I hope your travels have been safe and exciting and good luck to you!,Thanks again great video!.
Wow lots a mods looking forward to your adventures the trip to ak was dope Morton's on big move
This has got to be your BEST video... I've been trying to figure out what to do in my situation; I have a 5th wheel but want to go the TC route. Now I know what to do, never even thought about a 4500 flatbed. I just have to figure out a good tie down system and getting the correct electric jacks as I'm full-time and need to offload truck camper... Awesome video can't wait for more...
Al ✌️
Thank you! You may want to check out the articles we wrote about these topics, too. :)
mortonsonthemove.com/best-truck-camper-jacks/
mortonsonthemove.com/flatbed-truck-camper/
Cool rig. Thanks for detailed description
Great job explaining how, what and why you built this!
On an F-350 you can swap axles from a 450 or 550 Pickup (Not cab/chassis - but models that came with a regular dually bed). Solid axle swaps are all bolt on, no welding or cutting required. Dunno about the dodge or chevy stuff. One of the reasons I love the ford, they kept the trucks very similar between truck series. Kinda of the best of both worlds. Power rating of the Light duty, axles from an MDT.
Or just get the F450 pickup version off the bat.
Now that’s a TRUCK! I will be following along.
Sweet ride! If you have synthetic cable on the winch... don’t do what I did. If you use it under a load you can “melt” and “squish” it together. You need to unspool the cable and pull your truck under load. This stretches the cable and will wrap on the drum tight. Hope that makes sense...
Good tip! I will be sure to do that.
Amazing truck. You give awesome information, had so many questions before I watched your video, you answered them all, thank you.
nice setup. Have been planning a RAM 5500 design with an Overland Explorer truck camper using their tray but realized the truck modifications would be better for me to have done by an Overland Explorer dealer in Colorado whom also has an off road truck modification business.
Shuttle bus is the way to go my guy. $100000 for a setup like this is just crazy talk for an emissions controlled nonsense piece of junk.
@@thomasbarlow4223 careful. Talk like this on youtube will have the EPA trying to figure how to send you a six figure dollar emissions violation pentalty fine. haha
@@lrobie123 Yes except for you have to remember a 2001 7.3 comes factory with no emissions control systems it doesn't even have a catalytic converter. Fuck the EPA
If your going off-roading with that camper shell? You better bring a pole saw. I barely clear with a FWC camper often.
Awesome build guys and congratulations! Happy trails and safe travels ahead!
Great video and awesome platform. Can't wait to see the rest of the videos on the build-out and trips. This is basically the same thing I've been looking to build (but Ford and NorthernLite) in a few years.
Thanks!
Great Vid Content , I can completely identify because i have one = 2018 Ram 5500 6 sp man 4.88 stock gears & motor , duel 220 amp alternator . Super single Hutchison bead lock wheels . "I extended my front AEV flares another 4" , easy to do , i think i have a vid ( they are very rookie vids ) Your Mod's are whats providing you with the great miles per gal. You have a beast of a truck and very lucky to have gotten it with a 6sp. , they are extinct . In 4 low 1st gear , it becomes a tractor ! " Alpha Truck House / Wild & Free ... ~peace~
Very good video, great truck. Didn't feel talked down to. Can't wait for the next video. Thanks! Love my ram and Cummins.
Dude I’m in Alaska and almost bought and really wanted to buy that truck off marketplace glad to see it went to a good home though.
I am in love with your truck!!! I love everything about it. It’s exactly what I would want for myself in a heavier duty truck. I’m just not convinced I need one bad enough to justify the expense over my 2005 single tire Ram 3500 with a manual transmission.
Thank you!
I tried to buy this truck. sooooo this is where it went... now im on the truck hunt again....
Love my 2001 e450 shuttle bus 7.3 powerstroke baby. Best $3000 I've ever spent. Gonna make it 4x4 and I'm going to 12 valve Cummins swap it so I have a completely mechanical diesel that won't leave you stuck in the middle of the desert because it crank sensor went bad.
Tom, you are just awesome. Where did you learn all that "stuff". Wish you the best on your new travels.
What a beast! Nice modifications. All very interesting.
Thank you!
Glad to see the build. I almost went this route but instead decided to 4x4 a 1993 e250 class b Eldorado as a relatively inexpensive adventure vehicle. It's just me so small room doesn't matter.
Man you got lucky on that one.. Manual.. you got the best of it all there.. Cared for this monster will out last you both...
I tend to go smaller and lighter, easier to get in and out of hard to reach places.
More stuff, more weight, more complexity, more problems.
But I guess it really depends on your life style.
My Dad had a really old Dump Truck - it was a 6500 and stick. You could probably skip 1st gear and start in 2nd gear until you add more steel plated storage boxes to it.
Yea on the flat we start in 2nd. Gets going slot faster.
I remember seeing this truck on Expedition Portal. Excited to see what’s happening to it.
Lol, yup that's where we found it!
Great job with the video itself and very clear explanation and great microphone, editing, etc!
Thanks!
Looked into doing this with a Kodiak. Dealer said, Parts are more expensive and they are only really better if you're using them commercially. Otherwise, it doesn't work out. A 1 ton is better and easier to get parts for.
For sure they are easier to get parts for, this truck has been expensive all around. I still cant get the weights I want with a one ton tho.
Very informative vid of a dream overlanding setup. Good stuff!
I've been following your post now for about2 month's now and your presentations are very excellent. I'm leaving for Alaska from Palm Coast Florida in my F350 Platinum and it's a 2014 an old couple had it with only 180,000 miles on it. It's never been on a dirt road it's in brand new condition. I have a Newcamp Cirrus 820 on it. It weighs 2900 empty. I took it on a short 2500 mile trip and it handled incredibly well. It's not a dually. It's funny that you bought yours in Alaska I told my wife that if someone offered me over$100,000 for it in Alaska I would sell it. That remains to be seen because I love it. I'm a retired Navy Photographer so I will be photographing the trip stay tuned..
Wow that sounds like a great setup! You will absolutely love that trip :) Be safe.
Terry, How did your AK trip go? Any pointers?
@@bob_frazier if your referring to Alaska Canada would not allow me to enter. I was there on August 11th the day it was supposed to open and at the last moment they changed the date. So any pointers I guess none. I have sold my truck and camper and that's a good thing with fuel prices through the roof.
@@terrylarkin690 Oh, what a sad outcome! Sorry to hear that Terry. Yeah, fuel is up, thinking this may bring truck and camper prices down though. (Hopefully!)
Bob I'm curious whe did you 1st ask this question because of the time difference. I left on my trip back in July. The reason I wanted to drive the Alaska Hwy was my dad was a engineer and surveyor for the Alaska HWY during WW2 in 1942 they built that HWY in 1 year because it was feared the Japanese would attempt to invade us from the North and they did invade the Aleutian Islands in June 1942. My dad had flat feet so he was ineligible to go into the Army then so for his part he served as an engineer for his part during the war. His brother Art served in the Army in the Pacific so there was a few jokes about it as I was growing up. I'm a Vietnam Veteran and served in the Navy as Photographers Mate PH2 E5. I had planned on photographing my entire trip so I'm thoroughly upset that I was not able to do this. I'm 71 and I don't think I will get this chance again. Just maybe if fuel prices go so high people start selling there Class C campers cheaper I might be able to pull it off. I had a Cirrus Camper and loved it but my wife couldn't go with me because of the bed situation. I have very nice Sony A7riv and I just ordered a A7iv so along with my lenses I have the equipment I just need a Camper that won't break the bank. I actually made money on the sale of my F350 and the Cirrus. I thoroughly enjoy your posting and adventures. Maybe someday we will cross paths. Oh and between what you have posted on what you have doe with your rig along with Soneyboot I was able to make it work much better. OK I'm to long winded I know.
I'm really glad I watched this video, I learned something new today.
Thank you 😌
Glad to hear you enjoyed it! :)
Can’t wait for this series to get going! I was looking at Stable Camper myself. They convert the truck bed to a flatbed and let you customize the boxes/storage you want
Yea! They do a great job.
The only change I would have made is a longer bed for added support of the camper and the ability to tow a boat with it. Beautiful truck!
We are shifting the camper forward and moving the spare. The bed is 11-6 feet long so it will be mostly supported on it. Even as is in this vid however we can and have towed our boat behind it without a stinger. Love that functionality of truck campers!
Thank God I own a 2019 3500 Ram High output dually..
Afraid to ponder the cost of all that . Very awesome overlander for sure , thanks for the very informative video .
Big rigs you can shift many gears without using the clutch, but I don't know about the 5500. It would be good if you can.
Edit: Not recommended to shift without the clutch on these transmissions, as it will destroy the synchros.
Most synchronized can be shifted without the clutch,at the right rpm.
My ram has the same transmission as this truck, a G56. It shifts smoothly without the clutch in 1st-4th, but oftentimes going into 5th it will grind the synchros a bit so I dont do clutch less shifting in that gear.
What year is this truck Mr. Morton? I think you've just shifted my interest as far as building platform for a full time RV. Love the channel!
It is a 2011. Info was on their website in one of their posts about where they have been.
Yes, the truck is a 2011. mortonsonthemove.com/morton-update-july-2021/
The truck should be able to handle the off-road, but can the slid-in camper handle it?
Excellent in detail video! Great truck! Been doing lots of research exactly for this type of truck over 350 and 450. You guys enjoy your travels and keep posting!
Being a poor 26yo at the time, I went with a 2001 e450 7.3 shuttle bus off Craigslist for $3k about 3 years ago. I put 12k into engine/bumper/skidplates/tires/lithium/solar/hot shower... all the essentials. Best $15k I've ever spent.supposed to take off next week with dog.
Thank you!
First time watcher and awesome video and even better truck
Nice rig guys. It's nice to see you making videos again. Keep 'em coming.
Thank you!
Yep new adventures in this monster
Great for out of town driving. The thing is a tank and so enormous that any city driving that is done will be difficult. I don't know how much Dodge paid for this video, but I'm not even close to being convinced this beast is necessary.
Lol, I wish they paid for it. Yea it's a beast, but no worse around town than our dually.
Then you've obviously never owned a truck camper, let alone offroaded one and realized a 3500 SRW or even a DRW is uncomfortably pushing limitations of these trucks. But hey, haters gonna hate.
Can't wait to see the adventures. Nice walk-thru video here.
Thank you!
Nice rig.! I have a winch but I have never used it to get myself unstuck. I used it several times off road to get trees off the forest road that have fallen. I have used it once to get someone else unstuck though. Comes in handy when you need it. I would get an air compressor mounted in a combination toolbox and external fuel tank by Transfer Flow Inc. with a quick connect fir the hose. There are other nice brands though too. You can then air up easier coming back onto pavement.
That truck is badass
I've been wanting to do the same build you have bought. I'm still looking for a Ram 5500 with a manual transmission though. Your setup will last you for many years too come. Safe travels
Hope you find one! We've been loving this truck. :)
I wish people would please STOP confusing medium duty trucks and Commercial vehicles. 'Medium Duty' is just a weight class. 'Commercial' means you use it to generate taxable revenue. Very small cars are often used as 'Commercial' vehicles by Taxi services, and 1/2 ton pickups can be 'military' vehicles. Full sized buses and Heavy duty Semi trucks are used as 'Recitational Vehicles'. Please stop confusing 'Weight Class' and 'Commercial' use. They are totally separate classifications. I have a 5500, and it is registered and insured as a Private vehicle, as I use it to tow my RV.
You do have a good point, but I could not find private insurance that would cover the truck... I get what you are saying but in the many states eyes this is a "commercial" vehicle. Yes we could get it registered as an RV but it would have been messy.... This according to Florida and my insurance it's still a commercial truck. Twice we had to pay high tolls because it was a "commercial vehicle"...even tho we told them it was private. Seems pretty stupid because there are 50k lbs RVs running around that don't have to do that BS.
@Peter Straub
Was 'Recitational Vehicles' a typo/misspelling? Did you mean "Recreational Vehicles"?
@@cacatr4495 LOL. I suppose some drivers may recite aloud entire plays as they I drive. I imagine its mostly Shakespeare and modern Broadway productions. But indeed, "Recreational" is what I intended.
I think that depends on the state. California is very aggressive about… well… everything, especially where they can get extra revenue.
You might be able to register it as personal, but if you have so much as a chunk of 2x4 in the back you’ll find yourself in trouble for illegal commercial activity.
Great video, I learned a bunch. Thanks!
You're welcome! Glad it was helpful. :)
nice rig, id feel like the king of the hill in a truck like that lol
The 5500 has the turning radius of the USS Missouri.
I am interested in this series. It reminds me of an Earthroamer. This rig is going to be a beast.
I am interested in how "Off-road" worthy it really will be. In the off-road world weight, width, break-over angle, and center of gravity are very important.
I look forward to seeing how this works out.
Actually, my 2018 5500 has a tighter radius than my 2018 2500, this is because of the wide axle on the 5500 allowing for a tighter steering angle.
@@j.79 That is crazy. I used to drive a 5500 and an f550 service trucks, I felt like I was back in the Semis. Lol
Yea we will see how my shuttle bus handles the trails. Just made a super skidplate to cover the Telma driveshaft brake. Long wheelbase had me real worried.
Me too! Going to be interesting…
You'd think so, but it turns tighter than a one ton bay at least half a lane. 70 degree steering is very nice thanks to the wider axle
I think I would extend the bed to the end of camper and that way the weight of all the camper would be supported by bed and it looks king of funny with it just hanging off the back and that’s just me .
So you build a “somewhat” less expensive Dodge version of an “Earthroamer” ? Cool!
Lol a budgetroamer!
:)
Somewhat??! When an ER goes for over half a mil, I’d say they did for way less than half! Great build!
This is a BAD ASS TRUCK!!!!!
“Where we’re going, there are no roads”. 🤣🤣
Best line from a movie that a President ever quoted!
Looks like you all figured some things out and won't be uncontrollably (and dangerously) bouncing down the road like you all were with your last slide in camper set up.
Good to see you back. I enjoyed your Alaska trip. Looking forward to this build. Have you seem the StabeCamper flat bed boxes? Might work for you. Have you considered a drop down cooking center. ( like Australians use) I always preferred cooking outside.
Spare Tires. Any Room? Any thoughts on Liquid Spring Suspension on this kind of build? Camper able to handle off road flex? Awesome Video. Thanks for the ideas.
get a heavy duty snatchblock kit for that winch. if you ever have to use it, you don't want to be without it.
Nice video. Payload is very important. Maximum payload rating RAM5500 is 11,140 pounds and Ford F-550 is 12,750 pounds. Why you preferred the RAM 5500?
He said he likes the Cummins engine. 🙂