Ah, the simple life. After many years of physical existence, I must say from all the experiences I've had, that from here on out, I'll take it simply please. Yes I indeed can complicate things, but I never stray from, or so I like to think - simply please.
The following content are the tips and tricks that went into version two of the mothership project. A homebuilt camper on the back of a 1989 Toyota pickup. Version one resided on the same vehicle but only lasted two years, which involved a to and from and everything in between trip from Alaska and Mexico. Version one was very heavy and not very efficient, being mostly built with 3/4" plywood. Then again it did stand up against a vehicle roll over, where it proteced the truck side from the majority of the damage. Though the heavy structure could have been the cause of the roll over to begin with. Then again the driver at that time did decided to let go mid fish tail, letting god drive the vehicle, right into the ditch. Just for the record, I was at home playing on the computers.
I'm not sure how to structure this content for others, so with the help of the following pictures, I'll just list the pros and cons of version one and two.
I was going to list supplies, but after thinking about it, I came to the conclusion that I didn't want to ruin your fun. Just remember these things - think water proof (stains, roofing goop, and garage door rubber seals), think weight, think security and comfort. The most important areas to seal besides the roof are where the walls meet the bed of the truck. Speaking of roof, keep the 2x4s vertical up there, even if it means bumping your head every now and then. Flashing keeps the edges of the plywood dry and clean, rot happens at those areas. We caulked these areas before applying the flashing. I don't recommend using 2x2s and thin plywood, use 2x4s with 3/8" and 1/2". Lot's of screws were used, short for plywood and long for 2x4s and try to keep the screw count low.
Not bad for version two. Naturally the next version will be better. Well, happy travels.