Honda Acty and Suzuki Carry Kei truck camper build

In this video my brother and I build campers for our 4x4 Japanese mini trucks. This is a project that we have both been planning and thinking about for awhile so it was nice to finish them and set out on the first night of camping to test them out. The goal was to make them light, warm and waterproof. We installed 2kw diesel heaters for snow camping and kept the campers low profile to get under windfall and low branches that are common on the logging roads in our area. I also included a shop tour of Mervin Manufacturing ( Lib Tech, Gnu, Roxy snowboards ) because I have had a few comments asking about where I work. Enjoy the video!

[@jamesamber6009]

I love the simplicity and durability, it's way better than today's trucks.

[@Grey_Beard72]

You and Mike did some great work on those little campers. They came out really clean looking.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! We started talking about building them right after getting the trucks but had other projects going on so it was great to finally get the time to make them. They are working so good!

[@paulie12345ish]

No burritos in a confined space space says fire marshal bill

[@OlympicOverland]

That roof vent will save the day 😂

[@Jeremiah_Dafty]

“No burritos in a confined space!” says Fire Marshal Bill.

[@OlympicOverland]

@@Jeremiah_Dafty Living dangerously, we are thrill seekers! 😂

[@Jeremiah_Dafty]

@@OlympicOverland I’m sorry. I had to read it a few times. Love the stuff you do!

[@OlympicOverland]

@@Jeremiah_Dafty thanks! I’ve got another video coming out this week and enough footage for 2 more after that so keep an eye out 👌

[@allanperryman388]

Thanks for the lib tour. Made me smile to see the factory again.

[@OlympicOverland]

Yeah Al, miss having you around the shop man!

[@Mikefestiva]

Great video Andy 👍 I’m definitely looking forward to heading out for another camping trip soon! 😊

[@OlympicOverland]

Can’t wait to get them into the snow! ❄️❄️❄️

[@paulpiatt5610]

You both have done it again. And you both make this enjoyable to watch. Thank you Andy, and Mike!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Paul! 👍👍👍

[@therealrealshocker]

You guys are so blessed to have each other in your lives! That's so badass! Bros doing cool things 💪🏼

[@OlympicOverland]

Mike and I have had some fun trips and built a lot of projects together over the years, definitely lucky to have a brother! 👍

[@mattheweidt5776]

Another fantastic job! Love the edit. Simple, small, cozy, warm and dry. I've built a few teardrop trailers and that snug cozy fit is what it's all about. I've had the big RV's too but I prefer and love the small stuff. Way to go man!

[@OlympicOverland]

Staying compact is nice for a lot of the situations that we are in and it’s nice to keep things simple for sure. Thanks!

[@trevorwoods2580]

I watched your brother's channel last week they are two great little truck's as I said to him last week I'm definitely going to be looking for one of them trucks to build one myself. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks for watching! Definitely test drive a few of the different models, they are all well built and unique. Each manufacturer’s cab has a different feel and you will know when you sit in the truck that is right for you. Have fun on the mini truck search 👍

[@9r349]

Thank you for loving Japanese Kei trucks. Your connection with you and your family and people makes me smile!

[@craigking391]

I love these truck campers. Going to build one. You guys are living the dream.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Craig! 👌

[@dragonknee]

You guys amaze me with your builds. I like when you two work together as you two think alike and are both multi talented. Nice build

[@stacyhodgson1051]

I was gone for a week and they build campers! I’m so blown away by Andy’s talent and creativity

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Jim! Mike and I were always working on projects together as kids and not much has changed all of these years! 😂

[@harryfritter8266]

Your camper turned out awesome! It's sweet that you work at a snowboard manufacturer. I started snowboarding in 1984 when I was 9 years old and it was only allowed at Copper Mountain in Colorado. It wasn't allowed at any other resort. I'm an independent trucker and have an espar diesel heater in my truck that also heats the coolant for the truck engine. Even in -20 when the truck has been sitting a mmonth it'll start after running the espar for an hour. Congratulations on your build.

[@stacyhodgson1051]

What a crazy rule. Now they’re everywhere !

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! Those espar coolant heaters are deluxe, I have considered looking for a small one for our Cummins. It’s pretty crazy much things have changed with snowboarding over the years. It was so hard to find gear back in the day, everyone just used Sorel’s for boots and you had to drill your binding locations. Resorts didn’t know what to do with them and it was definitely frowned on for a long time! 👍

[@harryfritter8266]

@@OlympicOverland I saved all of my vintage boards and gear, but my older brother paid a visit one year and stole all of them and my vintage mountain bikes and game stations. It was like 11 years ago and I still haven't gotten over it. I remember riding in rachle mountaineering boots and tnf pants and jacket because nobody sold gear. I had Burton, barfoot, gnu, nidecker, kemper, nitro. I had another one called an alpine surf that was two powder skis with linkage and a deck in between and when you would lean to turn, the linkage would raise or lower the skis. I had a mono ski too

[@OlympicOverland]

@@harryfritter8266 that’s a proper collection! That crazy articulating boards sounds like a strange snow skate that I found in one of our storage areas at the shop. Mike Olson found it somewhere but it had a weird pivot that would lean both skis under the top deck. Wild stuff!

[@Logos_Life33]

Have fun boys with your new to you toys. Affordable and practical. Most important thing in the world is how you include your family. Anxious to see how they hold up to the rough terrain.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Marcel! Lots of fun so far and the campers are holding up better than expected. I have a few more camping videos in the works. Really looking forward to some sunshine soon! Cheers 👍

[@edwinpillay1409]

Thanks guys, I'm retired and found this amazing vehicle on my email and decided to get one cause I don't have a problem with stick shift and the all purpose weather, simple to fix ' I'm familiar with it, will be watching your videos for tips turning it out as a camper.Thanks again.

[@chillyspoon]

Fantastic builds both of them and really cool to see where you work too; it all makes sense now given that you can make or fix literally anything!! :)

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! 😁

[@nohopeforthekids]

You and Mike seem like such cool dudes. I really enjoy your videos, especially because I live in Tacoma so it's cool to see some PNW spots. Thanks for another great video.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks for watching! I should have another one out soon 👍

[@peacenpowder]

Wow, a little bonus segment from the marvin factory. I had an old gnu antigravity and some jamie lynn boards. They would go perfect with that little truck..

[@allanperryman388]

Rad campers! You guys are awesome. That's the best boss ever!

[@OlympicOverland]

Daylin is making progress on a camper for his Ranger, I will get him in another video when he finishes his build 👍

[@allanperryman388]

@Olympic Overland I will keep an eye out for that. I'm getting ideas for my little pickup, or I might do one on a small trailer.

[@Nick-hm9rh]

Absolutely adore theese setups. Hope one day to make my own!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Nick! 👍

[@haydenslides]

You're welcome Andy! Looks rad!

[@OlympicOverland]

That heater is working out great Kyle, glad you had one in stock! 😂

[@joshuaclark647]

I have been waiting for this episode to drop finally!!!! Love everything about your channel, Would really like to see more Mini truck videos and some Indepth vids on this build

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man! I will definitely be posting more Kei truck camping videos and should have a more detailed look at the camper in a future video. The goal for this year is to post more so stay tuned 👌

[@utahnick]

I just realized these exist. Really want one. Great video!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! They are great trucks and make most chores pretty fun. I’ve definitely used mine more than I had expected 👍

[@jeffreyfitzwater485]

Doing it right Andy! Awesome to watch!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Fitz! Miss hanging out with you man, we need to do some skating next time you are in town 👍

[@jeffreyfitzwater485]

@@OlympicOverland Look forward to it!

[@cdrderfyt]

The two of you make me super jealous of your trucks.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks for watching! 😁

[@timwelsh9849]

Love these, you seem to have fun with them too, good work

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Tim! I’m actually eating lunch in it at the beach right now & editing the next video 😁

[@_autoverse]

Firstly great work on the camper boxes, it’s neat that they’re self contained and can be removed. Secondly, the edit of the vid is cool and it’s clear you’re enjoying making these vids. The intro was nice and tight, the music worked well with the pace of it.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! I’m having fun editing these and hoping to push myself to post more this year. The more videos I edit and work on the more efficient things seem to get and that helps craft a style in the process (I hope 😂).

[@nox4337]

This is so sick. I cant wait to move to washington to buy one of these and take it out on adventures.

[@OlympicOverland]

They make anywhere fun 😁

[@Ardent445]

Hi been following your videos for a while now - great stuff. I dont have one of these Japanese mini trucks but do a have a Haflinger which predates these by about 50 years but is similar but far more basic - same size engine, slightly smaller vehicle, same size wheels, about 10mph slower but a bit more capable offroad (portal axles and diff locks). I have got a lot of great ideas from your testing (wheel size vs speed etc) and this camper build. Great vids - thanks

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! The Haflinger’s are awesome machines and incredible off-road. We only have a rear diff lock but you can fully lock and that’s like magic in nasty terrain! There was a Haflinger for sale at Sodomoto in Seattle awhile ago and I really wanted it, such a cool design.

[@Aintyourbuddy_guy]

those little kei trucks are cool, that dashboard looks similar to my old civic hatchback

[@hayabusayamabuki7325]

英語出来なくて御免なさい。貴方の軽トラ素敵な キャンピングカーに大変身ですね。軽トラも嬉しそう😁　日本の軽トラを大切にして下さり嬉しいです。此れからも、軽トラの楽しさ・便利さを沢山　楽しんで下さい♪。 　因みに、ダイハツの軽バンもターボや四駆もあって　此方もキャンピングカーに改装して楽しむ日本人が沢山いますよ。 　まだ肌寒い季節ですがお身体御慈愛なさってお過ごしください。楽しい動画を公開して下さり　有難う！

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you for watching and I appreciate the great comment! My Acty light truck is probably one of the best vehicles that I have owned. Stacy wants to buy a van so we have been looking for the right one, a turbo would be nice! We recently had a chance to drive a Honda Acty fire truck, it was in excellent condition. Cheers! 👍

[@outbacktrekking3713]

This is great stuff. I love identifying the different places you travel. I used to drive the lake 3 times a day, so I know that stretch of road pretty good. Just stay behind the log trucks! Lol.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man! It was great to meet you the other day. 👌

[@outbacktrekking3713]

@@OlympicOverland Agreed. It was fun meeting the two of you. I'm starting my teardrop build this weekend. That will be interesting.

[@OlympicOverland]

@@outbacktrekking3713 I’m looking forward to seeing it!

[@BERTRAND85O]

That’s a sweet setup!!!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! It’s been a fun build 👍

[@iclmb510]

Awesome little camper builds and love the trucks. You need to check your exhaust on the diesel heater. It has to be able to drain the water generated during combustion. There is a lot of info online about it. I’ve got four of these little heaters and love them.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man, we have been having a lot of fun with the campers! I’ve heard others talk about condensation with the exhaust on these heaters too but in the last 5 years of running them in various camper builds I haven’t had any issues yet with the 5kw or 2kw versions. I know people have also had soot issue’s with the burn chambers but I always run them hot for awhile before shutting them down and that has worked good on regular pump diesel for me. 👌

[@shutterbugabe]

Amazing camper man! Really enjoyed this video. Not sure if you remember, but I ended up buying the acty attack earlier this month. It’s only got 19,xxx miles (score! haha). Love this little beast. It’s a lot more capable and useful than I ever could’ve imagined. Keep up the good videos.

[@OlympicOverland]

Congratulations on that Attack! They are such great trucks and are just as fun as they are useful. Definitely one of my favorite vehicles ever 👍

[@Liberty4Ever]

Great video! Thanks! I'm on the tall side so I'd be inclined to make a slightly longer mini truck camper - maybe the length of the bed with the tailgate lowered. I might be inclined to go a bit high tech and use 2" foam (used for concrete underlayment) with fiberglass for a glass over foam construction. I might put a rack on top for kayaks with a little ladder up one side on the back, but I could also use the rack to winch the camper into and off the truck. I might not have a heater, because I probably wouldn't camp much in the winter and the foam construction would be so easy to heat that small space that the 75 watts of heat my body produces could take off the chill. Maybe I'd have a simple heater that uses an external air source, burns kerosene or diesel fuel with a small wick, approximately 200 watts, with a long radiating 2" stainless exhaust that vents out the top. I'd probably have a carbon monoxide alarm just in case. Quiet 12 volt powered roof exhaust vent and a floor level screened vent that could be opened for ventilation. A hammock cot would be great for summer camping. A simple ultralight camp stove - probably alcohol or an MSR Whisperlite. Three gallon water jug and an ice chest. This could be a great little micro bugout vehicle or tiny overland vehicle. It could also be awesome cheap housing for a college student. I lived in my VW bus one semester.

[@OlympicOverland]

Happy building man, let me know when it’s done! 👍

[@billrivenbark8983]

I believe I’d put a winch on that bad boy just in case! Nice build.

[@Attaz1]

Awesome builds 🤙🏼

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man! The camper’s have been kind of a work in progress like most of my builds but they are functioning great and have already been on a bunch of trips 👍

[@confuseddazed4729]

Fantastic camper build! As an Acty owner in Washington I've been drooling over your camper videos 😂 I need one for my Acty but lack decent construction skills or decent free time to make one anytime soon but maybe one day!

[@OlympicOverland]

You can do it! It’s a fun project and can be done with some simple tools and a bit of lumber. Most of the stuff that I used can be purchased at Home Depot except for windows (look for used ones) and roof vent but it’s all pretty inexpensive. Try to keep everything as light as possible and framing with 2x2’s goes pretty quickly. Good luck on your build and enjoy that Acty, cheers!

[@peterschnare4377]

Do you guys have plans you can share ?

[@DansJapanTravels-rk7pm]

Great video. I am building a camper out of foam on my Daihatsu Jumbo.

[@user-iw4oy7yk1j]

I love you man them Little campers are so cool I like the little truck too I want one

[@MV-Dan]

This is so sick!

[@OlympicOverland]

It’s been a fun build and we have been using these campers non stop! 👌

[@michaellynch31]

Sweet nice job

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Michael! We should get a coffee soon, I want to hear about your last trip.

[@tarfu98]

I live just out side of Capital Forest, here in Washington. That said, I want to get one of these little trucks. They are perfect for getting around on the back roads and the "goat trails" around here.

[@Strangernightg]

If i may say so myself those little campers , Tiny homes if you will aren't a bad idea for homeless people as long as they have a drivers license it would be a great place to call home when you aint got nowhere else to call home . Let me say also that's an epic little truck for multy tasking. Thank you for sharing your video . 👍🙌

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! Those little campers have worked really well and feel like a “Home away from home” on all of my trips. The longer I stay out camping the harder it is to come home 😁

[@brandonbynum6356]

That's a good Friday night!

[@OlympicOverland]

👌

[@hesham1319]

much love from tokyo . keep it up

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you!!! I would love to visit Japan someday 👍

[@hesham1319]

@@OlympicOverland . please if u visit japan let me know am glad to help u .

[@stephen_north]

Been watching your brothers channel for a month now. Just found yours. You guys are so cool. I have a Daihatsu hijet jumbo. And will be building a similar camper soon. Ontario Canada.

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi thanks for watching! The Jumbo’s are great trucks man, the extra cab space is really nice. Good luck on the camper build, I really enjoyed the fold down bed sides and flatbed aspect of these for a custom setup. My only advice would be to try to keep it as light as possible. Cheers!👍

[@stephen_north]

@@OlympicOverland yes weight is the kei 😁

[@OlympicOverland]

@@stephen_north 👌😂

[@johnpoe5569]

Love it dude!!!!!!!!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks John!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

What a cool setup. Well done. That design is amazing. New follower here. Crow✌️

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks for watching and welcome to the channel! I have a few videos in the editing process now so hopefully posting a new one soon 👌

[@tturner7786]

Nice! Lib tech legendary boards. Thats super cool. Used to sell the pickle 🥒 etc. for shop in hood river. I left before they got the skate bananas i think that was 10 years ago. Love the trucks too. Bummed we cant use them in Oregon so lame.

[@OlympicOverland]

It’s a bummer that Oregon makes it so difficult to register these trucks. From a safety standpoint how could they be more dangerous than a small bore street legal motorcycle? Thanks for pushing those old Lib’s at the shop in Hood River! The Hood River skatepark is one of my favorites 👍

[@nilocm6365]

super cool, there's a dealership in ny selling jdm imports like these and I have the itch to snag one and do something cool like you've done here

[@OlympicOverland]

Definitely go test drive some, they are fun! Try to drive all of the different brands if you can. They all have a different cab feel 👍

[@user-qx9od6fp3y]

love the content, i actually watched mikes video a few weeks ago on these kei trucks. thought they looked familar, and i actually originally found your channel because i was looking to see how others setup their cummins for overland/travel small world i guess (:

[@OlympicOverland]

Ha ha nice! 👍

[@Wildsurf75]

Holy shit I have never wanted something so bad in my life. And you work for Mervin???? You’re living the life man. Making me wanna move back to the west coast lol

[@scallywagsph296]

this kei truck camper is great.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! It’s been a lot of fun 👍

[@TravelAbventuresUnbound]

Love the Ali G costume in the thumbnail.

[@amadara-dev]

Kei trucks prices are now a little bit expensive because of high demands in Canada and middle east, but still cheap compared to other 4x4 trucks. I am planning to buy a Kei Van which is a DA64W or which they called Suzuki Everwagon it's perfect for our mini camping trips with my wife and my kid. I don't care if it's small as long as it serves its purpose. Enjoy every journey.

[@OlympicOverland]

They are great machines and I have always wanted one of the vans as well. They are small, nimble and will take you to a lot of places that larger trucks just can’t go. Cheers 👌

[@diegoeduardoleivatapia1878]

Because of people like you I madly want to have one of those hahaha

[@stacyhodgson1051]

So good !

[@OlympicOverland]

A great addition to the fleet 😂

[@Montana_Outdoor_Adventures]

Awesome little truck/camper build....you guys got me thinking, and that is dangerous. LOL

[@OlympicOverland]

They are fun!

[@stacyhodgson1051]

Can’t wait to see the finishing touches

[@OlympicOverland]

Finishing interior trim and the solar panel is going on next 👌

[@taklopcic]

Do you guys plan to have a detailed build on the structure itself? Planning my Kei truck delivery and really want to do something like this for local bike races etc. Awesome vid!

[@OlympicOverland]

@@taklopcic Hi Thomas, these are just prototypes so I probably won’t do a detailed review for awhile. We are testing the build and it’s working great so far but we will probably build more this summer after I find out how well they hold up to some off-road use this winter. I will have a bunch of videos using the camper and do a more detailed tour of it soon 👍

[@taklopcic]

@@OlympicOverland Love it, starting my mini truck search as my buddy has brought 4 into the states through various methods and I think one of these with a little camper on the back would be perfect for local camping/local bike races and overall just a cool thing to get out in the woods with. Thanks! Looking forward to more videos! - p.s. I want a coleman mini bike now 👌

[@OlympicOverland]

@@taklopcic ha ha the mini bike is an excellent pairing for Kei trucks! 👍

[@Snowtrails11]

@10:29, snowboard on the wall that says "Firecrotch" LMAO

[@Mikefestiva]

Haha that was a custom made board, the guys cutting the base thought it was a funny request so they cut an extra one for the wall, there’s some really funny ones people have ordered, the best one said (I EAT A$$). 😂 WTF

[@stacyhodgson1051]

Did you spot the 🍆on the wall in the shop ?

[@OlympicOverland]

The old DIY program! We saw some good ones come through through over the years 😂

[@isaaclohnes548]

Nice job Andy! Give me a break to catch up though haha!! I’m just only starting my Dodge build ✌️

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man, enjoy those videos!

[@yewsoonfatt]

love this

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! 👍

[@ngocbui2679]

Can you show me how to make this room, i have a garage and i want to make it to travel all over vietnam with my wife and kids, great idea!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! To keep the camper light, affordable and simple I framed it from 2”x2” wood and sheeted with 5mm plywood. The exterior is then covered with thin plastic but aluminum or thin steel sheeting would also work well depending on availability. You could also use a thick layer of boat paint. If the camper is going on a Kei truck try to keep it as light as possible. Also add corner bracing to your camper frame if you will be using it in harsh off-road conditions. Good luck on your build and let me know when you finish, I would love to see pictures. Cheers! 👍

[@badsamaritan8223]

I would kill to get my hands on a Kei Truck. But honestly, I'd be happy with a classic 80s Toyota Hilux. Really hope the EV revolution brings back these compact pickups, and with AC inverters built in, for all the power you'd need to live on. I've settled on a little pickup truck trailer, that I'm going to build an ultralight foam camper for my 2011 Rav4 on.

[@positivelynegative3260]

Video evidence that K trucks are awesome!

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man, they are great machines 👍

[@stannyland]

very nice

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Stanny!

[@yung1388]

I like it very much

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you! It has been a fun project and I am looking forward to making more camping videos soon 👍

[@rouvenpeters2339]

How long is the bed inside ? Because I also want to build one but I’m not sure if it will fit me

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi, the useable bed length inside after the finished wall thickness is about 5’ 8” and the tailgate will still close. You can get a bit more room to frame if you take the rear window rack out. You could also just frame it longer and leave the tailgate off.

[@rouvenpeters2339]

@@OlympicOverland thank you very much

[@OlympicOverland]

@@rouvenpeters2339 no problem, thanks for watching! 👍

[@jonmarshall1502]

Too much fun. Hope you don’t mind if I share this.

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi Jon, thanks for sharing it!

[@Patmac74]

I'd love to see a full build playlist of the build

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi, I may do a more detailed build video at some point. Still testing a few new materials on these prototypes to see how well they hold up to heavy use. So far they are doing great 👍

[@crazymisada]

im also looking forward to that video !! id love to build one for my mini

[@OlympicOverland]

@@crazymisada 👌

[@utagawahiroshige9824]

天才！

[@thehomelessone96]

That’s really niceCamper that you put together question if I was to buy one of them vehicles would you build me a camper for a reasonable price

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you! I am considering building a few more this Summer so contact me in the spring for a better timeline on the next build.

[@user-zg3rz6sw7i]

Good

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you! 👍

[@Nikimcd62]

We're you in Lincoln Nebraska today?? There is one exactly like that here I seen today. It's the coolest thing!

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi, We haven’t been through Nebraska yet with our truck but maybe someday! We are on the west coast but I’ve been seeing lots of Kei trucks popping up 👍

[@ZGondi]

Fucking amazing, maybe one day... Maybe one day

[@dylanhaselhoff2190]

They can go anywhere… except the highway. All love tho, those things are sweet

[@OlympicOverland]

Did you watch the video ha ha? I did a 60 mile round trip for work to test how it handled with the camper up to 60mph and most of it was on the highway. Maybe some states don’t allow it but I use mine on the highway often, it’s a 10 mile/55 mph drive for me to get groceries. 👍

[@typerightseesight]

those things are just too cool. lol.

[@OlympicOverland]

Always fun 🤩

[@AntonChigurh989]

Love this vid. Watched it like 25 times now. Would love to do a project like this with my dad (While we have time together) Could you guys share details, like dimensions, materials, specs etc Or even a more detailed discription of what it took to go from idea to finished article There's a specific spot I want to camp in with this type of setup.

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi! The camper build would definitely be a great project to do with your Dad, it’s nice to get some quality time with family while you can and the camper build is a fairly straightforward and enjoyable one. My advice would be to keep everything as light as possible. We framed with 2x2’s and used simple foil bubble insulation, thin ply on the sides laminated with plastic but I would recommend aluminum or very thin sheet metal to side with (the plastic bubbles slightly in hot temps). Both trucks had slight differences in dimensions so just start with your own bed dimensions. My bunk is about 5’8” inside but if you need a longer sleeping bunk consider leaving the tailgate off and framing slightly longer. Our windows were just salvaged ones that I had laying around from other camper projects so I would collect a few before you start the build so you can frame to each windows dimension. The 2kw diesel heaters have worked out really well and don’t forget to add a roof vent to help with condensation when snow camping. Cheers! 👍

[@AntonChigurh989]

Thanks a ton. Any insight on a mattress? Did you costume make a mattress or just make use of an existing one?

[@OlympicOverland]

@@AntonChigurh989 I bought foam and a canvas cover from Home Depot for this build. On other builds I typically get foam custom cut to the size that I need from one of our local hardware stores but fabric stores usually have it too. I’m always trying to find it on sale, it is always way more expensive than it should be! 👍

[@AntonChigurh989]

​@@OlympicOverlandI really appreciate the advice, you guys are the best

[@OlympicOverland]

@@AntonChigurh989 👍

[@skiprank]

Try to utilize the space above the truck you could put a mini bed on that.

[@OlympicOverland]

I wanted to keep the camper low because of the tight terrain and trails that it’s used on. Lots of windfall and low branches in my area. The sleeping bunk that i designed into it works great for 2 people. I have seen many cabover campers on Kei trucks in Japan but factoring in weight and wind drag is huge when only having a 660cc engine.

[@61racing11]

I was going to build a simple box for mine but i love the idea of the notch for the diesel heater... i just might have to copy this platform sooner than later... love both of the trucks/campers! Also would be curious to know what you used for the outside layer and corner tape... Enjoy them!!

[@OlympicOverland]

That space on the side was too good to pass up, definitely make’s routing the heater intake/exhaust nice and gains some storage space for shovels/ tools. The corner tape is gnarly, it’s called Eternabond and does a great job of sealing things up. I can’t recommend the plastic sheeting on the outside yet because these are just prototypes and I’m interested to see how it does over a long period of time but will do an update eventually on how it performs. Aluminum sheet is always a pretty safe bet for siding but I was interested in trying something different on this build to continue exploring new materials. Thanks for watching!

[@61racing11]

@Olympic Overland Awesome, thanks man!!!! Im planning on making it within the next few weeks so thanks for the help!!!

[@BadgerCanyonMotorsports]

I'm working on an aluminum frame camper design for my kei truck, scrum, over in eastern WA. Would love to get together with you guys sometime for a trip.

[@OlympicOverland]

Nice! I would love to check out your build. We have some trips planned your direction when the weather warms up 👍

[@agentssg1]

Can yall post the plans for that camper build soon? That would be awesome

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi, these are just prototypes and we are testing some new materials so I don’t have any build plans to post yet. I want to see how well they hold up off-road over the next few months but so far they are working great! If you build your own, just keep it as light as possible and start with a bunk length and interior dimensions that fits your height and the way you like to travel. These will be your starting dimensions to build up your floor plan. For me this was easy because I have spent a lot of time in many different camper builds over the years and wanted something that was simple and refined but everyone one has a different approach to how they camp so building something that is unique to your style is the best way to go. 👍

[@easyriderkei]

カッコイイ

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you! 😁

[@andrewluttinen8903]

Would you ever be willing to share the building plans/dimensions for your camper build? I just bought a Subaru Sambar and am looking to build something similar! Super inspiring content! Keep it coming :)

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! Between the two trucks dimensions varied a bit so I imagine the Sambar would have slightly different measurements as well depending on whether you retained the cab rack and slight variations in bed side height. I built mine so I had just a bit of clearance for headroom when sitting on the bunk and the exact amount of room for the bunk length so the tailgate could close. If you are taller I would just build it longer and remove the tailgate. The framing was very simple to keep it as light as possible so instead of welding it like other builds that I’ve done it just utilizes simple 2x2 wood framing with a very light plywood skin bonded to Polywall (Polywall bubbles in the heat unfortunately) but I would use thin aluminum to sheet it next time. My best advice would be to keep it as light as possible and build around your height. Cheers man!

[@jamesbillings9891]

Lovely work ! I'd love to know what material you used on the external corners of the camper body?

[@snoman71]

This is *really* amazing. I love this. Do you guys have a build list on any of these videos?

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks! I don’t have a build list but might do a video with a closer look at the construction. Everything has worked out great and held up very well. Between the trucks measurements varied slightly but simple 2x2 framing has proven to be a light weight and sturdy option for these campers. My best build advice would be to keep everything as absolutely light as possible. Cheers 👍

[@snoman71]

@OlympicOverland Thanks for the quick response. Out of your and yours, which truck handles and drives best on the highway vs offroad capability?

[@OlympicOverland]

@@snoman71 I really like how balanced the Honda feels on the road, it’s a mid engine design so that helps a lot with weight distribution. The Daihatsu, Suzuki and Mitsubishi’s have front engine designs that make them slightly more front heavy but it leaves room for a hydraulic cylinder if you want a dump bed (which is nice). Honda makes an Acty dump but they are rare and typically offered in the SDX 5 speed model. Both of our trucks are very comparable off-road. They both have low gearing and rear differential locks and this is key if you plan on using your truck off-road often on gnarly trails. Trucks with open diffs still do great but it’s worth buying one with a diff lock if you plan on getting into nasty terrain. We both have similar lifts on our trucks and are using the same tires so that is probably what makes them very equal on the trails. Keep an eye out for a 4 speed Honda Acty Attack, they have the UL 1st and reverse gears and diff lock. All of the 4x4 Kei trucks are fun and I don’t think you can go wrong with any of them. Happy shopping! 👍

[@keatonmatlock394]

Man, so happy to come across the videos that you and Mike do. You guys have me obsessed with kei trucks now haha. The campers are so fuckin cool and look to function beautifully. I was curious what they ended up weighing dry? Payload is 770lbs I read? Thanks dude.

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks Keaton! We haven’t actually weighed the campers yet but 2 or 3 people can move them pretty easily so I am guessing they are around 300-350lbs but I will try to get to one of the local scales at some point to get an accurate weight and will include that in a future video.

[@keatonmatlock394]

@@OlympicOverland Awesome, that’s about what I was estimating as well after seeing you guys lift them. Can I ask ya what kind of damage you did as far as material costs?

[@OlympicOverland]

@@keatonmatlock394 we were under $1000 for raw materials on this build. Most of the windows and side hatch were salvaged from other build projects so that helps. The diesel heaters and Lifepo4 battery boxes add a bit of extra cost to the total as well but they have been one of my favorite (& simple) camper builds so far. They have held up great to terrain that would shake most campers apart 😁

[@keatonmatlock394]

@@OlympicOverland Hell yeah, man. Well I love them and think they’re super creative and functional. Appreciate the replies, dude. Also on a side note, I’ve had Lib decks in my quiver for about 15 years now and they always rip, so just wanted to say thanks for kickin ass at Mervin as well 🤘🏽 Thanks again and lookin forward to more Acty vids!

[@OlympicOverland]

@@keatonmatlock394 thanks man! I will add some more behind the scenes shop footage to some of the upcoming videos 👍

[@ExpediteTravels]

Loving you and your brother's camper setup. Wondering how you guys strap your campers down to the bed ?

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man! I have broken a lot of different camper tie down systems over the years off-road so really only use bolt through mounting now. These are anchored to the bed with oversized Rivnuts and large grade 8 hardware in 4 corners, really sturdy and they have held up great.

[@ExpediteTravels]

@@OlympicOverland awesome thanks for getting back to me. Much appreciated.

[@OlympicOverland]

👍

[@goingbonzo5923]

I like what you guys did there. My question is how did you anchor them to the bed of your mini?

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks man! I have broken a lot of camper anchor systems over the years and decided a long time ago that directly bolting through works best for me and how I use my trucks. These campers use large rivnut’s in the bed to hold them and it’s been working great. Lots of other was to go for fastening a camper but in our application’s this works best. Cheers 👌

[@LukmanHakim-hv5cw]

Bagus sekali🎉🎉🎉

[@OlympicOverland]

Thank you! 👍

[@mitchellbeymer]

Hi guys, love the campers, really inspiring people to get these trucks and make the most of them, trying to build my own. How do you guys attach the campers to the trucks? Spent a bunch of time trying to figure it out but cant see how they're attached from the video. Thanks again.

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi! We used oversized Rivnuts anchored in the bed to attach the campers and they have worked great. I’ve broken so many different types of camper tie down systems off-road over the years that I really only use bolt down mounting now. Large fender washers and quality hardware will do the trick, we mounted them through all four corners. 👌

[@mitchellbeymer]

@@OlympicOverland Awesome, had me perplexed hahaha. Thanks for the quick response.

[@user-kw2qs6ng7n]

Nice、🎉

[@OlympicOverland]

Thanks!

[@KaiVrolyk]

Great Video. Hope to do something similar with my Acty. How is your heater in your Acty? I find mine gets luke warm at best.

[@OlympicOverland]

Our heater has been great fortunately! It’s been so cold lately and that little cab heats up quick. I would check your thermostat if you haven’t already replaced it, definitely sounds like a possibility and they are pretty inexpensive.

[@bryanschuler9097]

I see all that plywood in the bed and think: "Wow, you guys must be rich!!"

[@Master-Blaster-4x4]

where is that spot on the beach / ocean? i live close by and would like to visit that place

[@jamesmorin119]

What did you use to seal and waterproof the shell?

[@user-hi6cn9vf3o]

人生楽しんでください!

[@andyb5187]

Great little camper you've made there. Could I ask what wheel and tyre size you run on the Acty please? Offset aswell if possible? Thanks for the great content.

[@OlympicOverland]

Hi, I am using early 90’s Honda Civic 14” steelies but I’ve found that a lot of generic 4x100 steelies for snow tires seem to fit and the offset is close enough that they clear the struts just fine. The tires are 14” Forceum MT08 8 ply mud terrain tires 165/80r13

[@andyb5187]

@@OlympicOverland That's brilliant, thanks for the info mate

[@OlympicOverland]

@@andyb5187 anytime!