Cheap RTT for those on a budget.

So, gave the set up a three day test run as my son and I are planning a two week trip to NM and CO the second half of July. The conduit center supports did their job fairly well but the center support bar was always off to one side or the other by day break. Not sure I can get a third bar in time to lock it in place, as they were custom made from a semi-local vendor. Will update with a fix, when I find one. Other than that ... worked well, decent night's sleep ... at 90 degrees and 80% humidity.

 

Did you just straight up use 4 u-bolts and it bolted on and holds steady? Been seeing people having legs support it and am curious if the tent will fall through in the middle or what the deal is with that.

 

There is a pole that goes down the middle of the tent under the floor.
On mine, I did attach at the 4 corners and then U bolted the center support.

 

That’s enough to support the weight of people inside? Just wasn’t sure if the middle of the tent would potentially be comprimied from bolting down on the edges only.

 

Very stable, very strong. Have had two adults in it, didn't budge.

 

Check out my thread to see more details, if you would like.

starts here

 

Ques

Love the set up would you mind sharing more pictures?

 

Thanks! Don't really have any other pictures at this time but we're leaving for CO and NM next Wednesday ... I'll be sure to take a few of the setup along the way!

 

Is that the SE Diamondback? If so, any concerns with the 400# weight limit? I think LLOD ended up swapping to the HD model when he added the RRT on his setup.

 

So a question for the original post. Does the ply wood hold up in the weather - rain/snow/etc? Also Han anyone else had any support solutions besides the wood? I’m thinking about doing this because I’m usually camping by myself so I don’t need to spend the money on a Bigger RTT. Just a bit skeptical on the support part of the tent.

 

I think you mean @hightechcoonass
His modification to the tent. Correct?

 

No @WNYTACO put some wood underneath the the tent cot for support but wouldn’t it be ruined by weather? And I see that other guys have Putin multiple 4x4’s but still have no been 100% satisfied with how the tent holds up. So I was wondering if anyone came up with solutions because I want to pull the trigger on this project lol

 

Actually, you are right. Just looked through the thread and saw that @hightechcoonass had the ply wood. Was wondering how that held up? Still looking for best possible options on supporting the tent and weight in it if anyone has any inputs.

 

I didn't use plywood but if you did you could get marine grade or coat it with paint to help with moisture. A good waterproof cover over the tent when it is collapsed would help too. It is definitely a fun project!

 

Like I said I really want to do it. Just stuck on the support aspect. But from what I see everyone pretty much has been fine and is content with the end product.

 

Agree. It is a fun project for a fraction of what a true RTT costs. I have very much enjoyed making the one I have and continue to modify.

 

I’ll have it done by the summer time when most of my trips take place. Thanks guys!

 

Great winter project.

 

Looks like this ladder is $53 right now. Down from the usual $70.