New Truck Camper Problems: Here's What Needs Improvement // GFC V2 Pro

[@airjordan604]

Congrats on the GFC. Lone Peak starts at $5,995, and their wait times are getting better. They are constantly improving their product and are pretty transparent about everything.

[@ConnorLee]

That’s not a bad price at all! I stand happily corrected!

[@Rooki3_]

Don’t take the blame, leaks are a known common issue by the manufacturer and other “victims”. Thank you for doing this video, it will help a lot when making a decision in choosing a setup.

[@ConnorLee]

Happy to help 🤘🏼

[@herbertcornell9756]

After about a year of owning the GFC V2 I have gone with a modular setup where I use a PACK half bed rack on the driver side of my truck bed so I have a platform for sitting and storing items underneath. Seems to work pretty well!

[@ConnorLee]

Appreciate the insight brotha!

[@SigmaWolfOutdoors]

Entry level wedge camper will still be a life changing experience for you .

[@ConnorLee]

I sure hope so!

[@lfgraff1]

I agree with your thoughts on the go fast platform. I have a V1 that is now on my second truck, and my installation was better on my new truck than it was on my old one that they did. People have used the same bulb seal that they use, but rather than making three separate pieces, they use one long piece, making picture frame cuts in the corners and bending them to continue around the bed if that makes sense. That's basically what I did, and worked like a charm. Been happy overall with the camper once the original hinges were replaced, and yes, the price point is wayyyyy better than what else is out there. Have fun with it man, and you can change things up on the interior whenever you want.

[@ConnorLee]

I’ll have to give that a shot with your corner technique! That might just be the ticket. Thank you!

[@TREVORJONES___]

Top tier content - I always look forward to your videos man!

[@ConnorLee]

Aww thanks dude! Makes me happy and motivated to continue creating when reading stuff like this.

[@AllThingsOutdoors]

Watching from Australia. I have a 2014 Ford Ranger Wildtrak dual cab with a steel camper shell and diagonal sleeping build out in the bed.

[@ConnorLee]

Howdy from across the way! Sounds like an awesome setup! 🤙🏼

[@KurtisRupnow]

Southeast corner of Wisconsin! I would start out with totes, and see how it goes from there. With the sleeping platform, compartmentalized storage isn't as important as it was with the fiberglass camper shell.

[@ConnorLee]

This is very true! During the summer months most of my bedding can live up too too! I agree with the storage bins for now. Keep it simple and ease into a build

[@dee-here-now]

Love your perspective and attention to detail! Water leaks have been the bane of my existence on my fiberglass shell. I've done all kinds of things to try and solve it but I think the way it's seated just always has little micro-shifts from bumpy roads and whatnot. I finally got fed up and squeezed a bunch of silicone in there and even that didn't fix it. Fortunately I made my plywood platform/drawer easily removable so I can pull it out and get everything dry if necessary. I just put a deposit on a pop-top camper (Hiatus) so it was interesting to see that even splurging doesn't necessarily solve the issue!

[@ConnorLee]

Ahh yes, a similar experience! What kind of truck are you mounting it on? Who knows though, perhaps your new camper will fit a lot more snug! Fingers crossed for you and let us know if you discover any solutions!

[@dee-here-now]

@@ConnorLee First gen Tacoma, of course! :) One of the reasons I chose Hiatus is that they're in the PNW and specialize in wet weather. I'll definitely holler if I discover any solutions!

[@wtiger5252]

Just picked up my GFC... Great Video! from middle TN

[@ConnorLee]

Where did you go to have it installed?

[@wymtns12]

Black butyl tape, the thick, round variant at time of install is the best. I’ve install many of these and AluCabs without a leak. It’s almost invisible when finished.

[@ConnorLee]

Defitnely going to go this route! It could use this stuff in multiple sections for sure! Appreciate you friend!

[@mwauramburu]

Love the truck, watching from Kiambu, Kenya!

[@ConnorLee]

So cool to have you here! Thanks for tuning in friend!

[@wendelclements6448]

Hey man great camper top. Looking forward to see how you are going to set it up. Also looking forward to the first camp out. I’m from south Louisiana. And as always safe travels

[@ConnorLee]

Thanks friend! Glad to have you here along for the ride

[@Nolgore]

Can't expect a truck bed to be perfectly sealed no matter how much work you put into doing so. Butyl tape has been my best friend...

[@ConnorLee]

Very true! Thinking of just ruining a bead of that around the whole inside perimeter of the bed

[@tailhookactual]

Love my GFC! Prepped the bed rails prior to install on my 3G Tacoma, but still had a little water intrusion...strategic application of SikaFlex solved it in my case. Watching from Southern UT 🤘

[@ConnorLee]

Second person to mention that product for this application! I think I need to order some! Did you do any sealing modifications to the back near the lift glass/tailgate?

[@tailhookactual]

@@ConnorLee Yes, a little foam/butyl in the corners where the rear panel meets the bottom of the space frame ends.

[@HarryKuloh]

Grant! Great to see you doing a different Taco build

[@ConnorLee]

Heck yeah man!

[@HarryKuloh]

​@@ConnorLee Are you going to merge with your other ARKOffRoad channel?

[@DevonFrohne]

I just got mine two months ago on a 21' ford ranger and let me tell you, there were gaps all over the place with the tailgate especially. I have started to use a caulk gun with seal in order to fix it.

[@ConnorLee]

Has the caulking held up and done its job so far in the areas you have applied it to? Which brand did you go with?

[@Steve_0961]

Heck yeah you finally painted the mudflaps! Looks awesome with stock oe chrome bumper! Definitely pops back to 2000🤙

[@ConnorLee]

Glad you noticed! Honestly made more of a difference than I would have ever imagined!

[@Steve_0961]

@ yeah made a huge difference on my 2001. Got a new stock oem chrome bumper i still have to mount. Making the 20 years of previous owner abuse look new again

[@Steve_0961]

@@ConnorLee didn’t even notice you put the oe style taillights back on too man it looks so much better

[@CanadianCampPurr]

Next august travelling out west for wedge camper install, your channel very informative so i know what to look for during company's installation. Last year sold my cap top, spent hours trying to stop the water from pouring in. Only had a parking spot to do all the work so not the best spot to work on a truck. Replaced the side window caulking multiple times with no luck. Sold it on a rainy day, when showing the cap top to buyer could not believe water pouring through back window that side windows were fine. Reduced the price to buyer.

[@ConnorLee]

Dang! That’s a tough go. I wish it were easier to deal with all the pesky water issues, but at this point I just see it as part of the game. Do you plan to do some travel out west with the new camper or high tail or back home?

[@davidpatrick1813]

When using the torque wrench I would work it down evenly too in increments. For 40 and the pre hand snug I’d do 20, 30 then 40 and then recheck at 40 in a few minutes. Then check it the next day and periodically. (I was a mechanic for 45+ years).

[@ConnorLee]

Great advice! Thank you! Merry Christmas

[@JeepingNet]

Great video, but just a minute in, I have to comment about how great your audio and video are. I can tell you put a lot of time, knowledge, and money into it, and it really shows. (I just wanted to say it is noticed and gets my sub.)

[@ConnorLee]

Thank you! It’s my profession and I take it seriously. I try to stand out for quality and it makes me happy you take notice to it. Much love

[@4WDisLife]

I used plumber putty from homedepot to water seal things for a more “temporary" fix, but they actually hold up pretty well.

[@ConnorLee]

Hmm perhaps an alternative to something like butyl tape. Appreciate the tip!

[@4WDisLife]

@@ConnorLee no problem, I am actually waiting for the xtrusion overlands XO skeletal, watching all the camper contents on the internet now to get potential modding ides. Great content and really high production quality.

[@ConnorLee]

@@4WDisLife Thank you for noticing! Happy modding!

[@jonnewbury3482]

Nice truck! I’ve got the same one but the limited. Currently debating on what to do with the frame rust. Fix it or find a donor frame. The body is 90% rust free.

[@im_not_mad]

Build the platform out of wood with drawer system. Get a pvc rod kit, slide for fridge and I would put power supply in corner opposite of bed. Maybe consider battery and solar for power. Just my 2 cents! ✌️

[@ConnorLee]

I see what you mean about battery placement. Having it there would certainly keep it closer to the solar cables. Great idea, thank you!

[@OutOfOfficeCamping]

Being able to stand up is a game changer! Enjoy. 😊 I did my build out with 1/8th .0125 5052 aluminum all bent on finger brake. Basically 2 storage trunks which can be seen here on a full rig tour kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHrEn4dri6mfq7s . My power stations and cooler is all in my backseat. 🛻+⛺️=🙂! Mark (& Teresa) Hampstead Maryland • Purpose Built Adventure Rig © • Ford Ranger FX4 - GFC Camper V2 # 1919 • Kia Soulverlander • Nissan Xterra Off-Road •

[@ConnorLee]

Thank for the link! I see what you mean, the aluminum looks awesome!

[@Bjmanies11_]

Watching from NC! If I had a Taco and a GFC setup, I'd probably run that paired with a Decked drawer system for the organization.

[@ConnorLee]

I’ve looked at those and they are the business! NC! You’re my neighbor

[@Bjmanies11_]

@@ConnorLeeyessir! I’m the same guy that was on IG trying to help you get that seatbelt situation sorted out, red 4 runner.

[@robertjohnson1403]

For the leaks in the bed you just get a tube of silicone caulk where it is leaking then take it to the car wash with a high pressure spray and see where water intrudes. Fixed in about 5 minutes.

[@ConnorLee]

Any brands you recommend? I’ve thought about this but would want something that can be somewhat easily removed/replaced if needed. Cheers!

[@robertjohnson1403]

Just generic tube of silicone from the hardware store like the type used in bathroom sink installs. I have a GFC and I did this to a few spots on the camper and also in the bed of my Tundra. There were more leaks in the bed than the GFC. I haven’t had any leaks since

[@CanadianCampPurr]

Whole month of August in Calgary!...summer going to lay down some floor/rug but remove it until time of 3400km drive.

[@ConnorLee]

Sounds like a blast! Enjoy it

[@CrippleCreekStudios]

I’d love to see a build series on an extruded aluminum setup. But, I’d love to see a build series on whatever you do. Watching from St. Louis.

[@ConnorLee]

Just drove through St Louis! I too am leaning towards extruded. Especially given the lack of water tightness. Would be good to have materials that don’t absorb water/mold

[@TheLotroNerd]

Most truck beds are warped with a high point in the middle up against the cab. So its rounded and shorter towards where you ran extra gasketing.

[@ConnorLee]

Awww that’s helpful to know! How do you obtain that sort of knowledge haha. So helpful

[@TheLotroNerd]

@@ConnorLee Just found it on my truck. and then started seeing it on pretty much every truck especially tacoma and tundras around gen 1 gen 2

[@jeev49]

GFC is notorious for not sealing their campers at their factory. did you pick the camper up from them? the more i read up on their customer service the more inclined i am to go with the OVRLND camper

[@ConnorLee]

I picked mine up in Kansas City!

[@thecoloradoathlete]

Topo Toppers start at $6950. GFC used to be best priced, best features, best weight, and best lead times. Now they're just getting left behind with features, overpriced compared to competitors, some of the longest lead times, but the weight is undeniably the lightest (but not by much anymore). It's a bare bones canopy camper with the worst mattress, no permanent pass through, and some of the lowest quality tent material. I personally don't think it should cost $9k. I'm swapping my bars and softshell RTT for a SmartCap Evo Defender and a slimline hardshell RTT, $5k total. I was such a huge fan of GFC 3 years ago, but they just haven't kept up. SuperPacific is great, but damn is it expensive. I can't justify the pass through feature for another $5k for most canopy campers. If I were to opt for canopy camper, I would go with Topo Toppers.

[@ConnorLee]

Appreciate the insight on this! Sounds like you’ve got a good setup lined up though! Keep us posted on how it goes please

[@thecoloradoathlete]

@@ConnorLee You're the real winner with a 1st gen Tacoma, no matter what you camp in, that thing is awesome

[@ConnorLee]

@@thecoloradoathlete Thanks bud!

[@onanadventure151]

It looks great on your truck. I'm strongly considering the GFC but I'm concerned how any over-the-cab topper like this will effect my gas mileage. Can you let us know how the gas mileage differs with and without it?

[@ConnorLee]

So far it’s dropped me maybe 2mpg but that’s more so in city. Highway still seems about the same. Further testing required but that’s my initial consensus

[@chrisr..6406]

They should just attache a two inch wide piece of rubber to three bottom that slightly extends onto the bedsides.

[@ConnorLee]

Are you saying add that to the GFC manufacturing process or add it just before the bed seal?

[@jakefischer8281]

Surprised the camper base doesn't overlap the bed a little.

[@ConnorLee]

Me too!

[@TalkingwithPops]

Great video… I’m considering a topper for my Frontier.

[@ConnorLee]

What kind of topper are looking for, ideally?

[@TalkingwithPops]

@ not sure… I’ve never considered a topper before until watching your video. Also, I don’t have a timeframe yet.

[@hauk3839]

I tried to get gfc on Dodge Dakota. Nice truck. They only do select models and I was willing to do one custom and wait for it. Gfc said nope can't do it. I had to settle with something that didn't work

[@ConnorLee]

:( that’s super unfortunate. I wish they would create such a simple platform that the dimensions could easily be adjusted to fit any truck, old or new. Sorry to hear about that man.

[@neilkinney7369]

Keep rubbing on it until it works. Sometimes, you need to fix things if you want them to be nice.

[@ConnorLee]

Truer words were never spoken!

[@ryanjaramillo8152]

That is a camper sealant similar to butyl tape? It’s used to seal HVAC ductwork. I’ve heard other people using that.

[@ConnorLee]

I’ll have to check that out, I’m always looking for alternative solutions!

[@ChasingTheAdventureOutdoors]

Check out ark offroad and grahams old GFC setup….thing was dialed AF

[@ConnorLee]

I shall! Thanks!

[@kyledempsey1376]

Any water intrusion issues beyond the camper truck interface? Heard some are having issues with this. Picking up mine in February and worried about the quality based on others’ experiences.

[@ConnorLee]

So far so good on the other areas! Just the mating surface between truck and cap at the moment.

[@avery_c]

Hey man. What size fridge do you have currently? I have a gfc myself and curious for size comparison. Thanks!

[@ConnorLee]

its a 41Qt I believe. www.bougerv.com/products/rocky-12v-camp-fridge?US-fridge-rocky-Lowerfunnel-20240830&Chelsea&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAyJS7BhBiEiwAyS9uNZlIMJmrEH-f_2Inh7uZg6dsuMACHF-0vrfRqmvAweE4SvChOqmaqxoCCO4QAvD_BwE

[@im_not_mad]

Ovrland Camper

[@intotheoutside4299]

new here! as a guy in a 3rd gen 4runner naturally i love your tacoma! excited to see some adventures in the new setup! also im in KY if you ever want to colab bro!

[@ConnorLee]

Ayyy love KY. Did some wheeling on The KY adventure tour last year. Such a beautiful place.

[@intotheoutside4299]

@ConnorLee yeah man its awesome! im headin out to land between the lakes dec 27-31st to do some exploring around down there!

[@PlayOutdoors]

Great video, keep them coming. I like your ingenuity, MANUAL tacoma, and green motorcycle in the background. Is that a SCL500?

[@ConnorLee]

Thanks man, really appreciate that. Girlfriends bike and you got it! Manual everything 🤘🏼

[@ttksa470]

i'd give sikaflex a shot, if you decide to redo it.

[@ConnorLee]

This is an invaluable comment. Thank you a million!

[@whateverrobert]

Where is the Honda prelude. Still have it? Still doing work on it?

[@ConnorLee]

Still have it, working on little things here and there but want to resume content on it once I get my hands on a welder to begin addressing the rusted panels.

[@whateverrobert]

@ yeah I’m fixing my other vehicles as well.

[@southbayproducts5371]

What's up from California

[@ConnorLee]

Howdy and welcome!

[@sarthaksharma5156]

watching from india

[@ConnorLee]

Welcome friend!

[@wendelclements6448]

I would have never took fault to that

[@ConnorLee]

🤷‍♂️

[@TheLotroNerd]

Hot Dam!

[@jaimymac7]

Conner, check out this build! If I was building out a wedge camper, this is the idea I would start with. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHTUlJuVobVom8Usi=yJmUchPXXKIA0Mfv

[@ConnorLee]

Such a cool setup! Thanks for passing this along

[@ellerybice3787]

I knew it ! 🫣 Dirty Harbor freight, 🥾💩💩💩

[@ConnorLee]

Hahaha