Has anyone ever built a homemade overhead camper for a TJ?

npalmi88

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Aug 27, 2018
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New Orleans, LA
I've seen them made production in a pop top for JK's but I was wondering if anyone here or anywhere ever made a homemade one for a TJ that is solid and not a pop up. Generally anything production is WAAAYYY overpriced for what it is. I drove OTR truck for 10 years and love the idea of overlanding in my TJ. I may start planning how to do this.
 
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I have not seen one on a TJ but here is an idea from an old FJ..

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Lots of aluminium, lots of commercial truck body extrusions, I'm not sure how affordable it is
 
There is a JKU build out there done as a home build using Wests Epoxy Boat Building techniques. It is pretty amazing. I'll try to find the link.
 
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They are. Exceptionally so, and the rig gets VERY unbalanced as a result.
This is why I tow a homebilt teardrop trailer.
Plus at 60 plus I like a full mattress to sleep on.
My trailer fully loaded is 1400#.

Of course a tag axle solves all balance problems.
AMC sold several of these.

CJ5 Tag Camper.jpg


And keep in mind, there is hardly a mod we do which increases stability or balance.
 
This is

This is why I tow a homebilt teardrop trailer.
Plus at 60 plus I like a full mattress to sleep on.
My trailer fully loaded is 1400#.

Of course a tag axle solves all balance problems.
AMC sold several of these.

And keep in mind, there is hardly a mod we do which increases stability or balance.

Stability, balance and the ability to easily reverse out of a situation is what has guided most of my LJ build. There's a simple solution, though: carry less.
 
I would vote for an off-road trailer over an overhead camper. The idea is super cool but with the already limited room in the rear of the TJ, it would be very small and cramped. Plus as said, the weight distribution would be a nightmare to figure out.

However, prove me wrong, I'd love to see how it turns out.
 
Most often the big problem is weight. Plywood is one of the worst products unless it is thin.
Try using the products used in manufactured cargo trailer or boats.
 
From the 1960s I think these campers are still built.

2128b7dceddeada7594d490da2559063.jpeg


The toigh part with a TJ is getting enough space without too much overhang.
Weight will be another since every system adds more weight.
Then if you want to add water, food, propane.

As you outfit I'd advise backpacker equipment.
If you don't want to carry it 5 miles, it is too big/heavy.
 
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