Light-weight towable RVs

[paddlenbike]

Let me preface this thread by saying I am not ready to own an RV just yet, but I have been around them a lot lately and it has made me think about what I might want someday. I won't be buying any more gas guzzlers and I will always have the 4Runner as my adventure/travel vehicle (plus, I love the thing), so it must be towable behind the 4Runner. Right there I am limited to a bumper-pull trailer with a dry weight of less than 3,000 pounds, to keep towing a safe and pleasurable experience. I've owned campers before and have no desire for another one, fifth wheels tow great but I don't need anything that big and motorhomes are too expensive, too big and I don't want another motorized vehicle to insure and maintain so I am quite happy with being "limited" to a trailer.

So what do I 'need?' I am quite happy tent camping for now, but I do often miss having an enclosed retreat for bad weather with enough room to sleep, stand and cook. Pretty much any towable will give me that, but it does rule-out the cute tear drop trailers. Having a sink with hot water for doing dishes, a bathroom and a hot shower are mandatory, I might as well stick with a tent without these features.

Then I happened upon these:
http://home.off-road.com/~kemanuel/4Runner/temp/r-pod1.jpg

http://home.off-road.com/~kemanuel/4Runner/temp/r-pod_inside.jpg

http://home.off-road.com/~kemanuel/4Runner/temp/r-pod_popout.jpg

Granted, they look funny but they seem to have all the right things. They have an aluminum frame and weigh between 1,937 lbs dry to 2,336 lbs for the heaviest one with a pop-out. I’m not sure if I even have 700 pounds of gear, but figure 3,000 pounds loaded max and the 4Runner should have no problem muscling that around. If it does I’ll buy a supercharger. :D They are reasonably aerodynamic, have nice interior layouts, are reasonably priced (if there is such a thing) and of course have a fridge, microwave, A/C, combined head/shower, hot water, etc. Here are the layouts and specs. (http://home.off-road.com/~kemanuel/4Runner/temp/r-pod_specs.jpg)

Has anyone else here seen any interesting fully-equipped (read: refrigerator, hot water shower, etc.) RVs that would tow nicely behind a 4Runner? I would not rule-out a tent trailer, but the outside shower does miss the mark a little. I don’t really need an adventure trailer either as I don’t want to be towing offroad. I do a lot of pavement roadtrips and even my offroad-oriented trips seem conducive to setting up an RV as a base camp and spending a couple of nights out on the trail then returning back to the base camp for a few nights before taking off again.

[Robinhood4x4]

The thought of getting some kind of trailer to two has crossed our minds but we're not at the stage of looking seriously. One thing that would have to be mandatory is an air conditioner. Something to be aware of is to run those big electrical appliances you need to run a generator or be hooked up to a camp ground electrical outlet. This includes the A/C, microwave, TV, etc. The refrigerator can run on electricity or gas so that's not a problem.

What advantage does an Rpod have over a popup trailers? Pop up trailers have the things you listed even interior showers.

[paddlenbike]

I don't think it has any advantages other than having hard sides that won't degrade. I know that a well cared-for tent trailer will last for years though and has the advantage of a lower profile form for towing. I was not aware that they were making pop-ups with inside showers. Are you eyeing a tent trailer as a possible future purchase?

[Robinhood4x4]

Eying from a very far distance. No funds for it now but maybe someday. We took a look at them at the last sportsman's expo and that planted the seed. The wife would sure like to have a shower and a bathroom.

I think one advantage of the hard side one is less to setup once you get to camp. The sales guy said it would take about an hour to setup camp with the tent trailers.

[slosurfer]

Not all these are quite to your criteria, but are unique options:

SylvanSport GO (http://www.sylvansport.com/it.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e113/slosurfer27/Trailer/Ideas%20unique%20trailers/full_497_5.jpg

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e113/slosurfer27/Trailer/Ideas%20unique%20trailers/full_497_3.jpg

The Scamp Trailers (http://www.scamptrailers.com/) are really light and the 16 ft. comes with a bathroom option and weighs in at 1750 lbs.
There was a guy on pirate who normally sells military surplus and he was selling some older scamps that would have been cool to build how you want.

SafariCondo Alto 1723 (http://www.safaricondo.com/alto/1723/indexeng.php)
I'm really digging this one!
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e113/slosurfer27/Trailer/Ideas%20unique%20trailers/7270.jpg

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e113/slosurfer27/Trailer/Ideas%20unique%20trailers/alto2_thumb2.jpg

Some of the Evolution Tent trailers (http://www.colemantrailers.com/theevolutionseries) have bathrooms/showers.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e113/slosurfer27/Trailer/Ideas%20unique%20trailers/2006_evolution_exterior.jpg

I believe JayCo (http://www.jayco.com) sells a couple models similar to the Evolution as well.

Not sure how old this link is, but it has a pretty good rundown of the lightweight trailers.
http://www.johnweeks.com/random/campers/

[4x4mike]

The Scamp Trailers are really light and the 16 ft. comes with a bathroom option and weighs in at 1750 lbs.
There was a guy on pirate who normally sells military surplus and he was selling some older scamps that would have been cool to build how you want.

I was looking at the ones that 100dollar man or whatever his name is, was selling. I like the little scamp trailers. The fact that they are older makes them cheap. If the floor plan doesn't work, rip it out and build anew.

[CJM]

I like that very much, perfect for two although a bit comfy.

And yea you need a genny if your gonna run a ton of stuff. I would say to keep it within the towing comfort zone (as in weight wise) no more than 4000lbs max.

[4x4mike]

I wouldn't tow more than 3000 pounds. 2000 is a chore in itself. I think for the most part I could get away with not having a generator. I'd stick some solar on it and call it good. I can stand warm and I usually camp near some kind of water or at elevation so there is always somewhere to cool off.

[4x4mike]

I saw this the other day but haven't been able to look into it. It just looks a little different than your run of the mill pop ups.

[slosurfer]

Mike, I think that one is just like the smallest fleetwood evolution, but it doesn't have the forward gear basket like the evolution does.

[CJM]

I suppose maybe I can tow more cause my trucks wider and heavier than a 4runner or taco? Cause I towed a 4500lb landscape trailer loaded down with ease. Then again my trans has much different ratios too. Pulled it like nothing at all.

[Robinhood4x4]

SafariCondo Alto 1723 (http://www.safaricondo.com/alto/1723/indexeng.php)
I'm really digging this one!
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e113/slosurfer27/Trailer/Ideas%20unique%20trailers/7270.jpg


Somebody's been doing some research...

I like that safari condo but too bad it doesn't have AC.

I'm not sure of the practicality of the sylvan sport. It doesn't seem to offer any significant advantages over a tent.

[4x4mike]

Tow rating on the 4runner is 5000 lbs. Problem is the 183 horse power.

[CJM]

Tow rating on the 4runner is 5000 lbs. Problem is the 183 horse power.


I have 190 apparently..no issues. Taking it easy is where its at, you can tow insane amounts with our trucks-just gotta take it easy-oh and trailer brakes help.

[paddlenbike]

There is sure some cool stuff on the market; they pretty much have something for everyone. I need to go to the next RV show just for fun, although that can be dangerous to the pocketbook.

I used to tow a decent amount with my 3.0, which had significantly less power and only 2-valves per cylinder that slowed it down more at altitude. I would feel comfortable towing up to 3500 lbs max with the 3.4 4Runner, but would like to keep it at 3,000 lbs or less so I'm not tempted to invest in a supercharger.

I need to check out those Evolution tent trailers in person.

[slosurfer]

I'm not sure of the practicality of the sylvan sport. It doesn't seem to offer any significant advantages over a tent.


Yeah, it has a lot of versatility as far as being able to carry some toys and having the table bench inside, etc... but I've saved it more for crazy ideas for my m416. That and I think it was designed for real small cars/suv's to be able to use it.

[slosurfer]

Ken, find someplace that rents them and have Mike tow it down when you guys come to Pismo. :thumbup:

[Good Times]

Ken, aren't you "suppose to be rehabin"?

glad you're making the best use of your rehab by surfin and researching!! :D

For some time I've been thinkin of the same thing with almost the identical requirements. The plan was to buy a Alpine/Chalet a-frame trailer but I found this nice and cheap m416 on craigslist that I couldn't resist.

These trailers might be a viable option. Check it out!

Chalet RV (http://www.chaletrv.com)

[4x4mike]

I think that surfing the interweb is part of his rehab. He's got to get those arms back in action. By the looks of it he's doing well.

[paddlenbike]

Trust me, I've been burning up the internet like nobody's business. Speaking of which, I keep getting this error message, does anyone know how to fix it?

http://home.off-road.com/~kemanuel/emoticons/end_of_internet.jpg

Now that I had the casts removed from both my left and right wrists and arms, I'm hoping I will have use of the right one in a week so I don't have to hunt and peck on the keyboard anymore. :confused:

I do enjoy research and right now I am having fun learning about the new RVs. My mom just picked up this (http://www.leisurefamilyrv.com/Home/Hidden/InventoryDetails/tabid/24609/invid/456662/Default.aspx) today, and while it is pretty neat I like the idea of having something small that will go most anywhere and maximizes spaces. There is so much wasted space in the big RVs and they are so roomy that it doesn't feel like camping anymore. To me, the small RVs just seem like a cool accessory rather than 'the reason' you go camping, if that makes any sense.

[X-Tool Pimp]

Just out of curiosity, why not just get a small motorhome and flat tow your rig??

[paddlenbike]

A motorhome is not really what I'm looking for. A brand new travel trailer like I've been looking at is less than $14k.

[CJM]

I say you rent one first to check it out, see how it pulls with it and stuff.

[paddlenbike]

Cool, I found an R-pod/4Runner owner to chat with:
http://derekandbrooke.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/dsc_01241.jpg?w=600&h=400

http://derekandbrooke.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/dsc_00402.jpg?w=600&h=400

http://derekandbrooke.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/dsc_00081.jpg?w=600&h=400

http://derekandbrooke.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/dsc_0001.jpg?w=600&h=400

http://derekandbrooke.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/dsc_00822.jpg?w=600&h=400

http://derekandbrooke.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/dsc_0080.jpg?w=600&h=400

Thar 4Runner needs a set of airbags in the back--he has the tongue weight of the trailer plus the dead weight of the scooter hanging off the back. :(

[slosurfer]

Yeah, I bet those bumpstops are getting a workout! :laugh:

ARe you really chatting with him or just estalking him? :flipoff:

[4x4mike]

I didn't realize the r-pod was so tall. i think that guy may need more than some air bags.

[paddlenbike]

ARe you really chatting with him or just estalking him? :flipoff:


I did actually e-stalk his travel blog for a day or two before I realized it made more sense to e-mail him. :) Now we just need to get him on UY.

He rented that R-pod. Try before you buy--that's the ticket!

[4x4mike]

Use your interwebs skills and find one. It'll make going to Pismo that much easier. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.

[slosurfer]

Use your interwebs skills and find one. It'll make going to Pismo that much easier. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.


Do they make one with a handicap entrance and an internet connection? :laugh:

[paddlenbike]

Do they make one with a handicap entrance and an internet connection? :laugh:


When I get better I am going to kick your.....wait, I probably still couldn't. :D

Maybe I can make you jealous here. Today I went to Lowes and rode around in the electric wheelchair/shopping cart thingy, and if that wasn't good enough, we used my handicap plackard to park right up front. SO HA, TOP THAT BIZNATCH! :flipoff:

[X-Tool Pimp]

Do they make one with a handicap entrance and an internet connection? :laugh:


When I get better I am going to kick your.....wait, I probably still couldn't. :D

Maybe I can make you jealous here. Today I went to Lowes and rode around in the electric wheelchair/shopping cart thingy, and if that wasn't good enough, we used my handicap plackard to park right up front. SO HA, TOP THAT BIZNATCH! :flipoff:


HAHA I ride in those :tongueout: to but Im that butt head thats parked in the middle of the lumber pick up area :laugh:


TOP OF PAGE 3 BROUGHT TO YOU BY ME :tongueout:

[paddlenbike]

I am totally becoming an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) nazi. Half the time the handicap spaces are further away than the regular spots. Then they added those yellow squares with the raised bumps near the handicap areas...try going over those with a walker!! I already did the tennis ball mod to my walker but now I'm thinking it needs bigger tires just so I can get over those yellow things in the handicap areas! (Those were meant for increased traction so people don't slip--ever walked over one when it was wet? My god...)

Okay, back to your regularly scheduled programming.

[corax]

how about - http://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/ - the "Ponderosa" (http://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/ponspecs.html) is fully equipped (toilet, shower, stove, fridge, A/C, furnace, etc)

http://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/hmponderosa.png
http://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/poncouch.jpghttp://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/ponbed.jpghttp://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/ponbath.jpg
http://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/ponsinkstove.jpghttp://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/ponfridg.jpg

WEIGHT APPROX 1,480 LBS
UNLOADED TRAILER WEIGHT
(W/HITCH WEIGHT): 880 LBS
GVWR: 2,999LB
CCC: 1,519 LBS
HITCH WEIGHT: 180 LBS
NO. OF AXLES: 1 TORSION
EXT. LENGTH: 12'6"
EXT. WIDTH: 5'8"
EXT. HEIGHT: 7'4"
INT. HEIGHT: 6"
EXT. WALL MATERIAL: FIBERGLASS
EXT. ROOF MATERIAL: FIBERGLASS
ROOF/WALL/FLOOR FRAMING: FIBERGLASS
PRIMARY INSULATION: SPUN FIBERGLASS
FABRIC WALLS
UNDERBELLY MATERIAL: FIBERGLASS
STD. FLOOR COVERINGS: VINYL
STD. WINDOW COVERINGS: FABRIC
STOVE: 2 BURNERS
OVEN: N/A
MICROWAVE: STD
REFRIGERATOR
DOMESTIC 3-WAY POWER SOURCE(S):
120/A/C 120DC LPG
STOW AWAY SHOWER
TOILET: STD
FURNACE: STD (1) 16,000 BTU
A/C: STD (1) 5,000 BTU
FANTASTIC ROOF VENT
LPG CAP: 5.5GAL
FRESHWATER CAP: 30 GAL
GRAY-WATER CAP: PORT connect directly to honey wagon?
WATER HEATER CAP: 6 GAL
INVERTER: OPT
CONVERTER RATING: 30 AMPS
BEDS: 54" X 76"

OPTIONS:
8" BOX AWNING
TV
2.8 KW GENERATOR
ADDITIONAL FLOORPLANS - 1
DVD PLAYER
UNITS AVAILABLE: US & CANADA

[DHC6twinotter]

http://www.weiscrafttrailers.com/pictures/hmponderosa.png


I like that! Looks like a dog kennel on wheels. :thumbup:

[4x4mike]

I like it. If only it was a little bigger.

[CJM]

Hows about this, http://www.scamptrailers.com/Showroom/16Trailers.aspx