The Drifter - Specs and FAQ

The whole ceiling has 1" of insulation, as well as the lower part of the cabover section. As mentioned there is a tent insulation package that is almost ready for release and the Strawfoot window coverings will help a bunch on the windows. The side insulation definitely helps with keeping heat in or out (esp on a black powder coated camper) but if you want to cover all your bases you should also consider insulation on floor, bedsides, bulkhead and tailgate as well.

The idea of insulating the front cab wall has been tossed around but would really only help in cold weather as that whole surface is shaded and not an issue in summer so the cost vs benefit ratio doesn't really support it. That being said last time I camped in stupid cold weather I hung moving blankets up front and against the rear door which did help a little, so figuring out a DIY solution would be worth your time if you plan on doing a bunch of cold weather camping.

 

I will probably pursue this instead of a heater to keep thing simple.

 

Hey y’all,
I’m brand new to the Tacoma World forum.
I’m #vo-135, ordered 5/23/19. Paid the 2nd invoice 9/3/20 and was told it was going into production. (Waiting about 18 months so far)

I have been trying to get an update for weeks and haven’t heard anything. Hit them up via email, Instagram, phone, text message...still haven’t got a reply.

Was getting nervous this was a Pelfry Bilt situation...but after reading all the other posts it kinda put my mind at ease. I’m guessing they are just too busy to reply?

I’m constantly checking my email haha. Will let you guys know if I get any update.

 

Welcome to TW!
I would say say your Drifter is being built. I somehow thought Vagabond was past #135 though . I guess my wait continues on.
You’re almost there, have fun with your new Drifter!

 

If you elected for powdercoating and some other options, it likely will be after some other ones with higher VO-### numbers due to timing on that.

 

The 1 thing I added was a maxx air fan. Planning on doing a lot of modifications myself though.

 

Are you sure about this decision...

 

What do you mean? The decision about adding a fan, not adding more things, or doing modifications myself?

 

Not adding more from factory. I would definitely consider powercoat, roof L-track, interior lighting, insulation, one windoor (at least). I have a barebones Drifter and wish I had some of those options.

 

Thanks, J! Good to know

 

Gotcha, yeah this is definitely a budget build (other than the camper itself). I’ll end up adding most of those things myself other than the powder coat. Might get it wrapped eventually.

 

I mounted a 10 lb propane tank on my Tundra tailgate. I didn't like the way it flexed with the tank so I used two cans of the minimally expanding foam insulation inside the tailgate. I left one of the weep holes open in the center and only went a little higher than the cross-brace so as not to interfere with the linkage and camera wiring. It barely added any weight and now my tailgate sheet metal doesn't flex. If you are looking to add insulation to your tailgate that doesn't take up space, I would highly recommend this but you have to be EXTREMELY CAREFUL or you will wind up with a mess. You need to do it in phases so it doesn't bow your tailgate and you should know it cures over the coarse of several hours and insulation will "grow" out of any holes. So you need to protect any surfaces around the holes. I recommend just taking the tailgate off to do it.

 

I only added fan and windoors and I'm totally happy with my choices. Just another opinion....

 

I feel! Only reason I say that is bc some
of the things can only be done in the beginning from factory. Either way, you’ll be stoked

 

cool idea! i went the lazy route and stuffed as much 1" foam insulation into mine and a layer of Reflectix lol. makes quite a difference thermally but wont help with flex the way your idea does.

 

Forsure.
Not gonna lie I’m a little nervous about drilling holes in a brand new camper haha.

 

It'll be all good! I've drilled close to 50 holes on mine now doing just L-track. Definitely becomes easier over time haha.

The reason I asked about adding the upgrades is because for some things (like L-track), the price difference doing it yourself vs. having them do it is marginal savings. For example, doing the top L-track identical to how Vagabond did it was $156 in L-track + $8 in hardware + $8 in silicone. You save $78 doing it yourself.

Just giving you my personal experience on it. I really wish I had the interior lighting up top too since that's the only time they can hide the wiring behind the ceiling insulation panel.

 

Now add in your time and you're at a net loss. The other thing to think about is what happens if you fuck up on your measurements, the L-track gets bent, it ends up leaking, or any other unforseen misshap, that is now your problem to deal with and fix.

 

Yeah I definitely considered that. I appreciate the info.

I probably should have done the top L-tracks at least...but it’s probably too late now.
I already paid the 2nd invoice and it is literally impossible to communicate with them. Tried every possibly way to get ahold of them the last 2-3 weeks

 

Yup. I could’ve spent 1 hour at work and covered the costs of them installing it.

Not trying to put anyone off from doing it themselves at all!