This Homemade Truck Camper is Brilliant

Whether you call it DIY, built-not-bought, or run-what-you-brung, the absolute best way to become intimately familiar with a vehicle is to build it yourself. Hours spent wrenching in the garage or driveway will not only save hard earned cash, but the knowledge gained by doing it yourself may save your bacon when Mr Murphy shows up deep in the backcountry. Building your own rig will also make it easier to assemble a spare parts kit, as well as the tools needed to replace them. Jim Feehan is the mastermind and the hand that created the 2001 Dodge Ram 3500 you see before you.

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By Brandon LibbyMay 16, 2017

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Jim’s custom flatbed is the central component of his build. Not only does it provide a secure mounting platform for the camper, but it also includes mounting points for a pair of under bed storage boxes, a swing out tire carrier, and a large air tank for his on board air system. In addition to the camper, the bed can also be configured to carry a number of other components including jerry cans, a Hi-Lift jack, and a set of MAXTRAX -just to name a few.

The interior of the camper is accessed through the passenger side door, or from the rear by releasing the swing out tire carrier, and raising the large rear hatch. Once inside you will find a thick comfortable mattress that provides a touch of comfort for those long trips into the backcountry along with a set of custom curtains that urge voyeuristic bears to move on. Lifting the rear of the mattress reveals a hidden storage box for securing camp chairs and other gear. Large tinted windows provide a generous amount of light and panoramic views of nature with a spot of privacy. 12V interior lighting was also installed for nighttime reading.

The extended cab is a bit tight for rear passengers, but has more than enough space for a 63 QT ARB fridge/freezer, 15 gallons of potable water, a solar charge controller, recovery gear bag and a host of other miscellaneous items. The front dash houses the switch panel that controls the ARB air compressor and locking differentials. A large solar panel sits atop the cab of the truck providing the necessary charge for the battery and 63 QT ARB fridge/freezer.

The front of the truck is protected by a Buckstop bull bar which houses a Recon 17,500 lb winch. Factory skid plates help to keep vulnerable components safe from rocks and other large obstacles.

Jim tells us that he has driven this rig from Key West, Florida to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska and back -that says a lot for the reliability and capability of this rig. We think he has done a fantastic job of creating one of the best outfitted overland rigs we have ever seen. Let us know what you think in the comment section below.