CLOSED -- Any Softopper Model GB and BS Thread

That's an option. Usually my first gig is to make a bit of coffee before I move out of my bag. Starbucks Via works just right for me with no mess.

Do you like that heater better than a Mr Buddy?

 

That's my kind of gizmo.

 

That heater is old, and I'm not sure if they even make it anymore. I have the portable buddy also and it is great. I wouldn't hesitate to get the little buddy if I was doing it now.

 

It may require you to keep a 98.6° bottle buddy close at hand. I use Gatorade bottles though, don't want to confuse it with my water bottle in the dark!

 

Thanks. They are pretty inexpensive. Just need to save a few Amazon points.

I dig your platform also. I flip-flopping between the Taco bed, a two-leg Roll-a-Cot, or a platform. It will only ever be me. The fam's idea of roughing it is a motel without a pool.

 

I've been slacking on my Gatorade collection. Great for ice in the summer and no tent exits otherwise. They definitely don't leak either.

 

Fuck! You've done your research hahahaha

 

God damn it. Now I need a net too?

 

Also, fyi guys, those nalgenes can crack w heat cycles. I use a thicker, (more wasteful, unfortunately) disposable water bottle

 

So after doing some quick math, I just ordered a 6000 mAh @ 12v battery pack from Amazon.

$33 TalentCell Rechargeable 12V 6000mAh/5V 12000mAh DC Output Lithium ion Battery Pack for LED Strip/CCTV Camera/Telescope/Modem and More, Portable Li-ion Power Bank with 12.6V Charger, Black

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ME3ZH7C/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_OJeZDb21A0GD2

Assuming the 5050 LED strips use 2watts/foot (and assuming I did the math right):

My Softopper lights are two 39” sections (78” or 6.5’ total)
6.5’X2watts per foot = 13watts
13watts/12volts = 1.0833amps (1083mA)

6000mAh battery/1083mA LEDs = 5.54hour runtime

 

Could u solar charge that?

 

Probably, it charges with 12.6V @ 1A. I don't have any solar set up though.

I was just surprised at the run time from that little battery pack.

 

I just have a little cheesy solar panel. Wonder if that would work.

 

This is the first time that I had a dry bed. It is so damn nice.

I do think I am stepping away from the Buffalo Bill Tuck. I park nose down at work and get some wetness there. If I park nose up, I get a bunch of rain streaks on about three body panels. I'm not a detailer by any stretch, but I can live easier with just the one trail from the AC rear windows.

My plan is to get a 1.5in tall strip of vinyl for the top of the tailgate. That will eliminate any worries there without dealing with the hook tape.


Also, I find myself thinking of a 3rd brake light. I know there are a lot of designs out there, but I have prototype Full 'C' harnesses running all four stock incandescents. I need to check the draw.

 

I have some Xpel that was intended for teh top of the tailgate. Never did get around to installing it yet.

XPEL Clear Surface Protection Film Roll, 6" x 84" - Polyurethane Surface Wrap Protects from Damage, Chips, Scratches - Safe for Vehicles, Countertops, Appliances, and More

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0748QNCW6/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_lQgZDbCMTW9G1

I've looked at the VLED option for a third brake light, but haven't purchased one due to the cost and the fact that it isn't "high-mounted" per RCW 46.37.070(3) and 46.37.200(3) (even though I didn't see a definition of what is considered "High-Mounted")
https://www.vleds.com/shop-products/lp-series/lpb-brake-light-72-r.html

 

I don't think the protection is needed, but it is hard to judge without seeing if it wears or not. For $20, it is easier than worrying.

VLEDs has some nice stuff, but their costs are more than I'd like to pay when there are a lot of easy LED strips out there. I just want something simple.

In my mind, anything at eye level or higher in a small car would equal high mount. With the hook and loop at the top of the rear window, it is just a natural spot. I'm thinking of mounting a strip to double sided hook and loop.

 

Please share what you end up doing. I've bought parts a few times, but end up returning them because I don't like how they look (cheap-ish quality).

 

I will do that. It may take a while for me to nail it all down.

 

Works like a charm! I built an adapter cable to match the existing connector on my softopper lights, and I'm back in business.