Kimbo Camper BS and Mods

Have been obsessively watching the 4th gen thread, and now that it's finally revealed, I'm kind of leaning towards snagging one of the last 3rd gen ACs... Lots of cool tech on the new one, but the new extended cab not having doors for the pooch is a let down. How many people are running the Kimbo on a 5ft bed out of interest?

 

I know it's not the same, but I am running a Ram crew with a 6'4 bed and it is tight.

 

It’s definitely not post worthy but if you really want one I can. It’s just 5-6 pallets stacked with for casters on the bottom one. Have a spare tire on top for extra height and a soft base. Built it in about 10min.

 

Are you able to get the propane storage as an option separate from the heater and ventilation system? I'm interested in "outside" storage options.

 

The propane storage is standard. You’ll get it without the propane stove/heater.

 

We have an awning for summer. Pretty simple design and strong. I’m using a 6x8 heavy duty tarp attached to the Kimbo with stainless steel pad eyes sealed with Sika Flex 221. Also using some adjustable tent poles.

This set up can be completely taken down and stored. If the tarp starts to age it’s an easy and cheap replacement. With multiple eye loops it’s easy to adjust the size and have options to tie to trees. It’s also capable of positioning it further away from the camper if wanted using some cams. I’ll be using the eye hook to hang gear too. All this came to under $100.

And you can also see my 10min Kimbo stand in use.

 

love it

 

I’m the 4door short bed and have put over 7000 miles on mine in a month. Works great, I have no complaints.

 

That is a cool idea - and the price is right!

Have you thought about putting a length of PVC pipe across the mounting points (held in with the carabiners) with a slot cut lengthwise and slide the tarp through to keep the tarp from sagging in the middle?

 

That would certainly work or clipping through the grommets. Right now it's pretty tight but we'll see if it stretches over the summer. I believe the main difference between this DIY style and the store bought is the rigidly of the sides. With the DIY you'll need to stake it down or use what you have to anchor the two supports which is easy enough. The store bought design you would be fine until the wind picks up and then you would need to do the same. I feel like its a good pay off for not having something kinda permanent attached to the Kimbo.

 

It appears the payload is greatly increased on the 2024. One statement by Toyota said the ‘24 TRD off-road was 1709 # of payload, while the spec on same for 2023 is only 1135 #. If confirmed as details come out, that’s a huge difference and would make me wait on a 2024!

 

That and the 2400w inverter are going to make a hell of a package. Unfortunately [and of course fortunately!] it looks like I’ll be picking up a Kimbo next weekend, and I currently don’t have a truck. Trying to find a couple year old taco, but used market is still a bit silly. So find myself leaning towards a new ‘23 AC to enjoy the Kimbo with for a year or two while the rush / kinks get sorted on the gen4.

 

Hey! I had been slowly going through this thread reading a bunch of stuff and I saw you live in AK. I also live in AK and am planning on buying a Kimbo. I was wondering if you still live in AK if I could maybe just come take a look at it and see what it looks like in person? Would also love any feedback you have on how it is to camp in the winter with it here in AK. Thanks so much!

 

Might need to pick up the Kimbo before I’m able to do air bags / e-rated tires. Pretty sure I know the answer, but… any thoughts on if this is completely a no go for a couple hour drive?

 

Came across this surfin Craig's List. Located in Colorado.

https://denver.craigslist.org/rvs/d/salida-aluminum-truck-camper-32k-kimbo/7626570791.html

 

Tires would be the main concern, but if you are absolutely unable to get the tires just take it slow. Tires build up heat depending on the weather so be careful with the PSI. Kimbo did hold mine about a month until I was able to drive out. That might buy you some more time.

 

Yeah perhaps i can squeeze in tires if I can find them in stock somewhere, and then handle bags later. Appreciate the response. And buying from a private seller, so wanna grab it before it gets snagged from someone else

 

Got it. Yeah the airbags can wait. SL tires would be a tense drive. Maybe go your second best pick for E-rated.

 

Re: tires, I’ll be stuffing whatever i get onto stock ‘23 Sport wheels. Trying to figure out if I go 265/65/17 or 265/70/17. Once again, thanks if anyone has suggestions. This thread has been an amazing resource.

 

I went 245/75/17 so 31.5in. They are under 50lbs and help a little with traction in certain conditions being a skinny. They are on TRD Sema wheels and spacers though so they get pushed out a little. I can fit larger but fuel economy is a factor of course. A wider tire would help with stability I'm guessing with a stock setup, just a little heaver tire.