Conqueror UEV 490 Platinum 1 Year Review - What we Love, Hate, and What we are changing

We have had our Conqueror UEV 490 Platinum for almost a year now. There are things that we love and hate about it and things we will be changing to make it even better as we prepare to live out of it full time in 2025.
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[@daviddover4563]

Love the video. We bought our 490 a few months ago from Outback RV too. You are correct about the Dometic cook top. We are looking at getting larger replacement burners from other cook tops. Also moving the solar blanket anderson plugs out from under the trailer to the front of the air compressor box. An Arctic Tern double pane window is in the future plans. My only real gripe is the time it takes to set up. If someone sees you setting up they will always ask "What kind of camper is that"? We just ask them to sit down and watch us do our thing. LOL! Hope to see you out in the woods.

[@hbdoffroad2037]

I just made extensions from 6 gauge ancor marine wire.

[@annworks4jc1]

Guys you rock so your videos have helped me in my process so much ! I love that you are practical and mature and you have experience! The makers of this trailer should really take stock in your opinion bc you are a major influencer! Your reviews are helping me make major purchase decisions

[@vince4316]

Very cool all and all. Really like all the windows and access when you're in yurt mode.

[@AndrewTurner251]

Great video, I really enjoyed it. I was in the camp of wondering about the trailer. Again thanks for making the video.

[@scottsnyder8691]

I'm not even in the market for a trailer but I just enjoy your videos. Practical advice and straightforward analysis. Maybe one day we'll need a trailer so I guess it's always good to see what's out there. Hey Goose!

[@blakejulian6878]

On the water heater, their designed for you to shut them off while lathering. Turn it back on to rinse. That's what was told while shopping for a new water heater for the fifth wheel. I went back with a propane/electric like I had. You may find an electric/propane tanked water heater that'll fit in the same spot.

[@TheGuntar]

You two are on the same timetable as my wife and I. We purchased our UEV-490 this summer. We plan to go full time in 3 years. Some of the same gripes/complaints/issues you have are the same as we do. I would like to do something with the electrical system as you do. However, I am going to wait until it gives me a reason. It hasn't yet. There are things I don't like but I can get past them (for now). I'm going to go Redarc as well. We will be leaving in the "heater/AC" unit until my wife says she is cold some night and then I think It will be replaced with a diesel heater (no moisture issues). We are going to invest in Lithium batteries at some point. Possibly for now a 30 amp generator. Just because... I think owners will understand. As a note I use the front Anderson plug (same one I plug the truck in ) to hookup my solar blankets. I see people moving or altering the one underneath. Unless you have a setup to use both plugs, its wasted $$ imho. However, I understand making the camper to our own liking. As for the stove... What in blue blazes were they thinking? I can't even get two good sized frying pans on at the same time! I need to fiure out how to make something better. Thanks for the walk around!! Be safe out there.

[@Geekette70]

100% of the same issues/complaints we have with ours, but we still love it! Can't wait to hear about your control panel swap out. We're so tired of not trusting anything the stock model says and plan to replaceours before we head out full-time, as well.

[@lilyavery8230]

Cara you are a beautiful soul...there's something extra sweet about you and just wanted to take a minute to say...never doubt yourself...not sure why...but felt this had to be said. Thanks to you both for sharing! Hugs.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@texanusa111]

The inverter is probably only powering one outlet. turn invertor on and check each outlet until you find the one that has power, just plug in phone charger and see if it charges it. Then just plug in what appliance you want to run. The invertor is only 400watts it will not run anything over 400watts. No need to gut the stove it just needs a metal wind blocker/deflector around the stove.

[@AUrenim]

I've been wanting a 490 for a few years, RV's of America (ROA) who has a channel here had done some great videos including an hour tour of the conqueror. All the issues you state here are addressed, The on demand water restarts every time flow stops, so leave it on to keep temp, which is a waste of water. They suggest installing a 6gal water heater for off grid. I also have never seen in your conqueror videos the second table which is the front floor panel of the front bed. Love your videos.

[@PacoMontes1]

I think it's great sounds really awesome like you said except for a couple of things you might want to change thumbs up

[@npero4946]

We picked up a collapsible aluminum wind break for our UEV390.

[@HolmesProspecting]

I have the same Fogatti hot water heater in my Conqueror 440. The tip for the shower is turn it on and spray into a basin until its up to temp. Once up to temp you spray down and never stop spraying. No on and off the nozzle. The water will stay the proper temp as long as you keep spraying. This is your wet down. Then you stop, soap up. Then repeat the above step into the basin until up to temp (should be quicker as there's less cold water to clear in the line) and then don't stop spraying and rinse off soap. Don't stop rinsing until you are completely done. Once done hop out, shower done. The key is you can't be on and off the sprayer as the instant hot water heater goes off the drop in pressure and it can't intermittently keep the water the same temp.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks!!

[@angurisloud]

Matt & Cara: Agree with you assessment electrical system... The electrical system makes me want to rip it out and the AGM batteries are heavy and need to be replaced. The TV is small yet gets in the way - I'm likely going to replace it and rig it so it can be hung from the brace above where you are storing your cloths. The bags are leaving me wanting more, and I've found some really good alternates from S. Africa (but the company isn't very communicative). We pulled out the flip down steps and bought a pair of slip proof adjustable steps that work great. Amazon sells a magnetic mirror. Finally, the entertainment center has to go. It's junk. Having said all that - love the Conqueror. Can't wait to meet you two in person one day! Oh, and the heat pump has to go... not very usable off grid. I'm looking to go diesel heat and a battery powered AC. The AC is intended only to cool us while we are sleeping, and before the temperature cools down at night.

[@hbdoffroad2037]

Agree on the electrical system. I took it out before my first trip! Also upgraded to two 206 aH batteries. Also ripped out the AC and 50 amp shore line and plug. I just put a noco 15 amp plug which is plugged directly into the Redarc Manager 30.

[@ahmednesbitte4906]

Hi Matt, Cara and Goose. I very much liked your walk around of the Conqueror UEV 490. It seems there’s so many possibilities on how to make it your own. You guys have done a great job😊. Personally I like the Conqueror and X3 Patriot Camper but my wife likes the Xplorer RV X145 because of the shower and toilet 😂. She’ll probably win. But I can try to persuade her. 😂 but I really like this video. Great job!

[@thedewd516]

check out the uev-14. I had to for the same "requirements" you have 😁

[@ahmednesbitte4906]

@@thedewd516 I'll look into it. Thank you 😊

[@HEKNBAK]

Thanks for the review! We're thinking we may want to do something similar in the future and this looks like it could fit our needs. The only thing we aren't a big fan of is the foldout bed. Love the storage space though.

[@skinnypedalexpress4170]

We need to see you tow this thing on Pritchett canyon!

[@billybeaton4744]

Awesome video. We are going to outback RV in 2 weeks. Craig is going to sell our motor coach on consignment and we will be bringing home an OBI Dweller 13. We are looking forward to an off-grid trailer instead of the giant highway only rig we have now. Dweller has the Dometic stove also. Craig warned that I would be disappointed. Let us know if you come up with a mod for that. See you on the trail.

[@mikechandler3791]

Matt, Cara & of course Goose. We have had our UEV 490 for over a year now (June of 2021 and had to go to Boise to get it - only two distributors at that time) and have similar pros & cons. We removed the AGM's and went with Battle Born Lithium's - do not regret the switch and well worth the cost. I am switching out the AC/heat pump unit with a Propex propane heater next week. We put up the roof panel and interior walls in the back to create a bathroom area and keep the passenger side semi closed- works for us. I am curious about the electrical switch you are planning - please do a review when you get started. I am leaning the in the same direction on that. We love ours for the versatility in the mountains and the ease of getting off the grid. There isn't a perfect off-grid camper out there, it just comes down to what you are looking for and how you make one yours. Enjoy, hope to cross paths some day. You were just in our back yard (Colorado) - really enjoyed your videos - thanks.

[@Swilling]

what was the cost for your Lithium swap, we have a 490 also and thinking about doing that next year before our Alaska trip.

[@mikechandler3791]

@@Swilling they are not cheap, but I (personal opinion) feel well worth the money. Especially now that they have an internal heat system to keep them warm in extreme conditions. We paid $874.00 each. I disconnect them when winterizing the trailer as there are several built in draws for safety reasons within the invertor. Fully charged them and then disconnected them. I spoke with their support team, that was their recommendation. I really like the warranty and the fact they are made in the US (Reno NV) and have had great success working with their customer service support system both email and on the phone.

[@Swilling]

@@mikechandler3791 nice yes, expensive but clearly worth it. Did you upgrade the charging system also, or did you keep the noco that was already wired in? and just switch out the Batteries. We are in the sierras not far from Reno. so good to know.

[@mikechandler3791]

@@Swilling I have not upgraded the charging system yet, it is on my spring to do list as we prepare for the new season. Still doing some research on the best system/application to go with. Leaning towards a Redarc system and adding charging capabilities when towing. Battle Born is actually in Sparks but most people only know Reno.

[@destnotknown]

Sell it and buy a Conqueror UEV-14. Check out ROA Offroad. They have the electrical and off grid HVAC sorted out. I love Outback RV in Denton, but ROA is a little further down the road in terms of a finished product.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

I've seen the UEV-14. It's no where near as rugged as the 490 but it's very nice! It's also quite a bit larger and heavier.

[@blackLEADrose]

Nice set up but han solo wants his Millennium Falcon back

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

He can’t have it!!! 😂

[@semorebutts3613]

You guys should check out the brand new 2023 conqueror uev 14 built for the American market. It’s so beautiful. Rvs of America you tube channel just did a tour of it a few days ago.

[@johnshue8082]

wow the yurt capability is awesome! unique!

[@garagepie]

The best of the best!

[@DestinationArkansas]

That thing is awesome

[@hereto246]

Glad I found your video review. For +$50k the changes/issues you've pointed out are pushing me elsewhere.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Nah. It's an awesome camper.

[@dougburnett07]

Thanks for the video, this was a great review that answered some questions I had about using it. I would like to know your experience with the canvas pop out front bed. Have yall been in any storms with the pop out extended? How well does it hold up to stormy wind gusts and heavy rain?

[@frenchie4wd]

The whole time we were in Michigan it was torrential rains. Haha. It didn’t leak at all!

[@chadi7173]

I love the awning style. I remember when you first got it and showed with the walls all up. Curious if critters get in? My wife is pretty insistent on an ARB room with the floor. She’s got a think about legless critters..

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

I haven’t had any critters get in yet but I’m sure it’s possible.

[@adamhuglo111]

Personally I think the UAV 14 is a better option regarding privacy/dunny etc. I don't know what US specs are Re - Electrics, but Aus spec uses full RedArc which is tried and tested gun systems. Maybe rent a UAV 14 for a couple of days and think about trading up? Being on the road permanently and having to set up every couple of days gets old quick. 👍

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

The UEV14 is nice for sure but it's larger and heavier than the 490. We have no intention of setting up every couple of days. We will go to an area and stay for a few weeks at a time.

[@krashnpa]

Hey guys, thanks for the honest review. How does that hulk tow with Sully? Is it a struggle?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

It pulls great behind the Gladiator. Fully loaded it's about 4000lbs so it's well within my 7000lb tow rating and handles just fine.

[@frenchie4wd]

We should mention that Sully was also regeared so that helps.

[@krashnpa]

@@frenchie4wd we have trailer of similar weight, 4k, with a 5200 max gvwr but it has a lot more height and frontal real estate than the U490, lol. We run 37s, 5.38s and a supercharger and it will pull it fine, but you get a good head wind or hit considerable altitude and you know it's there for sure. We're looking at getting something a little more in line with what you guys have, so appreciate the feedback as it helps with our decision. 💰💰💰

[@alldabeanzracing9650]

maybe give a walk through in its "stealth" mode. Not popped out/up, etc. Like if you were stuck in a parking lot and didn't want to draw a bunch of attention.

[@michaelnugara1]

Thanks for the honest review. I think for the purchase price there shouldn't be any major issues. The water heater, stove and 12v negative feedback is enough for me to not look at one. Thanks for sharing Mick

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Those are all very minor issues. The quality and design of the trailer are amazing!! Nothing is perfect.

[@semorebutts3613]

up grading the electrical system must have a video! lol

[@ii1825]

Nice rig but man $55k plus and you gotta redo the electrical...wow. Couldn't you have got the Redarc from the beginning?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

I think the 2023s come with Redarc in them.

[@angurisloud]

Conqueror ships one and only one configuration into the US. It's frustrating, but the Conqueror is highly modified even in Australia.

[@davidtorrance1345]

Hi there, great channel, did you guys ever change out the electrical panel to redarc to clean it up? Thanks for any info on this if you did

[@MrRerod]

Replace all the inverters and batteries etc? Wow. You'd think they would be on the level at that price..

[@stevemeck364]

Felt same way about the water heater. Changed mine to a truma. Night and day.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Got a link?

[@stevemeck364]

@@OzarkOverlandAdventures if you pull up truma will give you authorized dealers that can do install and sell you unit. They will not sell direct to customers.

[@tacoma_jon]

If your shower head has a flow regulator in it, it can cause the fluctuations you talked about. See if you can remove it if it does and then check it.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks! I'll check.

[@josephcampbell007]

I'm new to the channel, and a new Gladiator owner. just a thought if you are going to upgrade the electronics, how about an induction cooktop to help cut down on your propane use. love the videos, and the fact that you are not affraid to show your mistakes.

[@neilp1911]

Did you end up installing the redarc controller? I just got my uev 490 and I'm worried about the panel that came with it. Specifically the battery charge % display - i think its really inaccurate. Saw this video and wonder if this ended uo working for you

[@athoutdoors9921]

What do you think of the Airstream Basecamp X? I want to go full time in about 10 years and want a Jeep Gladiator and Basecamp X. I also really like your setup as it seems tougher.

[@frenchie4wd]

I love airstreams. But they are just really expensive and not quite as capable off-road.

[@Spdrcerjt-f4m]

I've done a lot of research on trailers including the Basecamp. It is really more for dirt roads, so depends on where and what you plan on doing. Also the quality of construction is not really there from what I have seen. Plenty of KZbin videos from actual owners showing that. One owner only had it for two weeks and their shower head came right off the wall. Yes, it will, and was covered under warranty, but it allowed one to see how it was constructed. Since you mentioned Airstream, if you are looking for a more traditional RV manufacturer, I would suggest the NuCamp Tab 400 Boondock edition. It is of much higher quality construction than the Basecamp in my opinion, and you will be able to go to all of the places the Basecamp would go.

[@pcarr8618]

Hi. Been following. Did you guys evaluate the 440 platinum? Any in site after a year in the 490?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

The layout of the 440 didn’t work for us.

[@pcarr8618]

@@OzarkOverlandAdventures How so.

[@TygerBlueEyes]

I came back and watched this video again. Did you do any of the changes yet that you talked about?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

We have changed out the batteries from the crappy AGM batteries to Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries and it's amazing!! There is a video on it. I've also removed the AC/Heat pump. No video on that. Freed up a lot of space.

[@TygerBlueEyes]

cool I'll watch it. @@OzarkOverlandAdventures

[@mikeandloraholly3902]

My wife and I are going most timing travel for the next two years. We have a Gladiator regeared with 4.88’s. Have explored all trailers from patriot to Hike 100 FLX. My main concern is over taxing the gladiator wearing it out. How does Sully do towing the UEV? Thank you.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Sully tows our Conqueror great. It's well within the tow rating of the Rubicon.

[@mikeandloraholly3902]

@@OzarkOverlandAdventures unfortunately I have the Mojave edition. Air bags with the 4.88 gears should be fine, No?

[@mrenkil]

M&C, have you tried the zero breeze in the 490 yet? I’m good to remove heater and air unit as it only works with shore power but summer time, I will need the air to sleep on some of those beautiful AR humid nights.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Not yet but we will this summer to see how it works.

[@NameRankAndSerialNumber]

I’m about to buy one but after this video I’m having 2nd thought’s. This issues with the stove, shower, electronics, and ac/heater combined seems like a headache. If only one of theses was an issue I’d be ok. Especially the stove! We wanna cook and boil water and all that. Kinda seems like they are selling a great “shell” but the meat and potatoes are lacking. I don’t know what to do now! My first choice was a Overkill camper SO 510 but they are not listed in NADA and getting financing for a non NADA certified trailer is crazy. SOS!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Nah. None of these issues impact how much we love this thing! These are just things we want to change before we start living in it full time.

[@NameRankAndSerialNumber]

@@OzarkOverlandAdventures so can’t run the heater or ac unless plugged into shore power?

[@hbdoffroad2037]

@@NameRankAndSerialNumber the heater is not all that great even plugged in. You get to below 40 degrees and it’s useless!

[@NameRankAndSerialNumber]

Thanks a lot. I decided to go with off grid trailer. Expedition 2.0. Hope to see you out there one of these days

[@REV0_01]

Y’all going to the overland expo in VA

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

We will be there!

[@REV0_01]

@@OzarkOverlandAdventures sweet I will look y’all up . I will be there Saturday

[@DestinationArkansas]

How long does it take to fully set up with all the walls fully enclosed?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Fully with all the walls I can do in less than 20 minutes.

[@DestinationArkansas]

@@OzarkOverlandAdventures wow I wasn’t expecting it to be that quick. I can’t wait for more videos with it. That thing gives new meaning to “Mobile home” lol

[@123JumpingJacks]

Do you guys do any cols weather camp outs?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

We sure do.

[@123JumpingJacks]

​@@OzarkOverlandAdventures I am confused about the heater. You said you would remove it. Don't you need it for cold weather?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

@@123JumpingJacks the heater in the Conqueror only works when plugged into shore power and even then it’s not good. I removed it since we will rarely be anywhere with shore power and we use a diesel heater in the colder months.

[@TabletopBlitz]

So if you’re not connected to power you cant use the AC?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Correct. ACs use a lot of power.

[@jasonkaw8400]

sounds like you don't like it more than our like it!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Then you weren’t paying attention

[@JBdontcare]

I'm in East Tx I see yall running around close to me lol