truck camper tie downs

[dangerranger]

Its been along time since I have had a cab over camper. at least 20yrs. the accepted method at that time was to tie it down to the bed. now it seems that every one is tieing them down to the frame. I have an opertunity to trade for a cab over and need to get a good tie down system. has anyone had any good experiance with them? Its going on a Dodge 2500 and is a 10' camper. I see some of them stick out of the frame mounted hitch. and others that go under the bumper. thanks, DR

[Bigeasy]

DR-

I just bought my second P/U slide in camper last year.  On both I have used a system (Happy Jack) that mounts to the front wall of the bed, and to the rear bumper.  The camper attaches with turnbuckles.  It works well.  I have seen the systems that are mounted with a bar to the frame, but I don't like them.  They reduce ground clearance, and you are always hitting your legs on them.  I attached a pic to show you what I mean.  The mounting bar is heavy steel, and runs the full width of the bed, and is attached with 8 heavy bolts.  Two holes are drilled in the rear bumper, and the hooks for the rear mounts are bolted in.  I have used both campers quite a bit off road, and they stay put.  Key is to use a soft rubber matt on the floor of the truck bed before putting the camper on.  Makes a big difference in preventing the camper from sliding around.

Larry

[dangerranger]

 That [the happy jack] looks like exactly what I need.  Ive seen a couple of them in parking lots. the kits that I found  for sale localy atach to the frame and stick out at shin highth. thanks , DR