Truck Camper Prep

[Phil314]

Just wanted to share my latest project. 1 more step toward a truck camper.

I looked at Torklift lower StableLoad but decided I was going to build something instead.
I wanted something easy and quick to install but also fully removable.
And a little less redneck than plastic felling wedges and hose clamps.

After some measurements, I decided to use some 3" axle pinion shims.
6 degree worked great for the front, 4 degree for the rear.
dug up some scrap bar stock from under the work bench and set to work.

Got them built yesterday. Today was install and test drive.
Total install time is about 5 minutes max. They just slip over the end of the spring and tighten both bolts.
Some adjustability forward and back for more preload.

Test drive they worked great. Ride is a little more firm, but not harsh. Should ride great with more weight.
Overall, very happy with them so far.

And before anyone asks, I'm going to be adding safety tethers just to be safe.
Not because I'm worried about them coming loose and hitting someone else.
But because I put some time and effort into these and I don't want to loose them.

 

[Chadx]

@Phil314 Really nice work making these. I've seen StableLoad, felling wedges, high durometer isolation pads, stall matts, etc. and trying to decide what I go with since I don't have the skills to fab up something as slick as you did here.
Also, any additional insight on use and ride now that it's been 8+ months?

 

[Phil314]

@Phil314 Really nice work making these. I've seen StableLoad, felling wedges, high durometer isolation pads, stall matts, etc. and trying to decide what I go with since I don't have the skills to fab up something as slick as you did here.
Also, any additional insight on use and ride now that it's been 8+ months?

Part of the reason I made these is I wasn't sold on the other options.
I wanted something very simple and fully removable.
I also wanted something that had a large contact area.

So far these have been working flawless. They take most of the sag out.
I may build something for the top overloads in the future.

Ride quality is still good unload and great when loaded.
But I usually just remove them if not needed, since they are so easy to remove.
Added safety loops and tethers even though I've had zero movement out of them.

 

[Chadx]

Thanks for the update. Looks great. Curious on the measurements of both degrees plates. What is overall length of each? And what is tallest end of each (max rise)?

Let us know when you decide to go into full, or at least limited, production. Ha. I know, I know. It was just a labor of love and personal-use project. Stableload charges $400 - $450 for a lower spring kit...and it requires drilling all your springs. Just sayin'.

 

[Phil314]

Thanks for the update. Looks great. Curious on the measurements of both degrees plates. What is overall length of each? And what is tallest end of each (max rise)?

Let us know when you decide to go into full, or at least limited, production. Ha. I know, I know. It was just a labor of love and personal-use project. Stableload charges $400 - $450 for a lower spring kit...and it requires drilling all your springs. Just sayin'.

All the specs are here. They are mild steel, so fully weldable.

Amazon.com

I'm always building stuff, mostly for myself.
I've considered doing limited runs, but really don't want to deal with the liability if someone uses my stuff in a dumb way.

 

[Chadx]

Thanks for the link. Found and read the detailed specs.
Understandable regarding the "stupid human tricks" concern.