Got my unicorns hitched up

[BuddyS]

Not a camping combo for the introverted... between the truck and the camper I get a lot of people talking to me. Into the Florida wilds we go!

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[JBryant]

What is the camper and how does it expand?

 

[BuddyS]

What is the camper and how does it expand?

It's a Chesapeake Light Craft teardrop that I built from a kit. This will be my first time pulling it with the Maverick. It's only about 400lbs so it shouldn't be an issue at all.

Here's their page: https://www.clcboats.com/shop/boats/recreational-vehicles/clc-teardrop-trailer.html

 

[Mc_Flier]

I looked at the website. I can’t find the A/C unit. 🥸

 

[BuddyS]

I looked at the website. I can’t find the A/C unit. 🥸

Worst case, it's in the cab of the truck!

 

[MavFromTheDead]

It's a Chesapeake Light Craft teardrop that I built from a kit. This will be my first time pulling it with the Maverick. It's only about 400lbs so it shouldn't be an issue at all.

Here's their page: https://www.clcboats.com/shop/boats/recreational-vehicles/clc-teardrop-trailer.html

Thanks for the info. Pretty damn cool. Realistically, how about long does it take to assemble a kit like yours?

 

[Mllombardi]

It's a Chesapeake Light Craft teardrop that I built from a kit. This will be my first time pulling it with the Maverick. It's only about 400lbs so it shouldn't be an issue at all.

Here's their page: https://www.clcboats.com/shop/boats/recreational-vehicles/clc-teardrop-trailer.html

I’ve seen the Chesapeake Light Craft Teardrops at a wooden boat show and they are truly a jaw dropping work of art. Surely going to draw many to ask all about it.
Great setup!

 

[OleFordGuy]

That Sir is the most unique tear drop I've ever seen. Wow, Awesome Job. Most Impressive! Now Go Have FUN

 

[rclee]

That is one cool teardrop! I looked at the website and saw all the parts and pieces. How long did it take you to build it? Did you purchase the optional aluminum trailer, or did you source it elsewhere?

 

[BuddyS]

Thanks for the info. Pretty damn cool. Realistically, how about long does it take to assemble a kit like yours?

It's hard to say. I didn't keep track of the hours, and I essentially built it over the "covid year" in my detached garage in MD. So sometimes I'd get a lot done in a few days, then I'd step away for a while when it was just too cold to be out there. But I never felt like it was becoming work, and every builder's level of perfection or haste will have an impact. I know I spent A LOT of time sanding it smooth in search of a great finish. I'd think that the manufacturer's estimate of 250 hours is probably about right.

I should also add that I'd built 2 of their kayaks, too, so I was familiar with the materials and process.

 

[BuddyS]

That is one cool teardrop! I looked at the website and saw all the parts and pieces. How long did it take you to build it? Did you purchase the optional aluminum trailer, or did you source it elsewhere?

I (and a lot of other builders) source the aluminum trailer from Northern Tool. It's about $800 and works great.

 

[BuddyS]

So on this camping trip I made a very happy discovery -- the Maverick is a FAR better camping vehicle than my old Tacoma was. Main reason -- the tailgate is lower so it makes a great sitting and working space, and it's easy to reach over the sides of the bed to get to stuff -- camping chairs, firewood, reaching into the cooler, etc. With the Tacoma you basically had to jump up into the bed to unpack and/or reach anything. With the Maverick you can basically leave everything in there. The bed light was also a great touch that my Tacoma lacked.

And it towed the trailer beautifully... Over about 120 miles on 2-lane roads, averaging probably 50mph, I was seeing 30mpg in tow/haul mode.

 

[JimParker256]

I am so glad you posted this. I've never seen a teardrop camper that interested me until this one! First of all, it's drop-dead gorgeous! Second, the "built it yourself" aspect makes it a bit more affordable than most. And third, the ability to customize it the way YOU want makes it even nicer.

I showed it to my wife (a "comfort camping" girl, these days) and she said "That would be perfect for a lot of camping trips where you just want a place to sleep!" So maybe there's one in my future? We'll see...

 

[commadorebob]

I wish I had the talent to build that kit. Such a pretty teardrop.

 

[BuddyS]

I am so glad you posted this. I've never seen a teardrop camper that interested me until this one! First of all, it's drop-dead gorgeous! Second, the "built it yourself" aspect makes it a bit more affordable than most. And third, the ability to customize it the way YOU want makes it even nicer.

I showed it to my wife (a "comfort camping" girl, these days) and she said "That would be perfect for a lot of camping trips where you just want a place to sleep!" So maybe there's one in my future? We'll see...

Go for it! The instructions are great and it's easily do-able for anyone with some patience and a good attitude. I think all in -- kit, trailer, electronics, sandpaper, etc -- mine cost about $6500.

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