Diamond Utility Bed / FourWheel Camper 

Installed on Bill's 98 Dodge Ram

Note:   This was replaced by a Safari Vehicles camper in 2000.
See Bill's Earthroamer.com page for the latest information.

 
           
More photos showing Bill's full length sliding drawer.  Click for full size image.
I didn't weigh the truck before and after, but Diamond said their bed is about 300lbs heavier than the stock bed. I suspect they are underestimating the weight of their bed. If I had to guess, I would bet that it's closer to 500lbs heavier than stock. I've got a short box, so the weight increase for a long box will be even greater.

With the Four Wheel Camper (700lbs), Diamond bed, and full tank of fuel, I'm about a 1/4" away from the camper springs making contact.

One unexpected but pleasant benefit is that the truck is much quieter than it was with the stock bed. I've read that spray in linings help quiet the truck, and I think the heavier bed gives a similar effect. I think the stock bed tends to act like a big sounding board.

On the downside, I've probably lost 1-2 mpg, (but the extra storage is awesome!)

-Bill-

This setup is similar to Dave Fritz's. Both are Dodge Ram 2500HD 4X4 diesel pickups with winch bumpers, Diamond utility beds, and Fourwheel campers. 
For additional information:  Fritz's camper page     Fritz's utility bed page

 
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All photos by Bill Swails
EarthRoamer@aol.com
This page, including all typo's, was posted by Dave Fritz