TacomaBuzz on the Tacoma Forums made a top-notch DIY tear drop camper and took some amazing pictures of the build process.
We’ve featured many tear drop camper builds like this and this on DoItYourselfRV, and this one is right up there in terms of craftsmanship and quality.
The builder claims it’s made of 60% recycled materials.
Would you believe he said it took him about two months to finish the entire thing!?
The Process
Starting with a recycled trailer, he used 3/4″ standard plywood for the siding and 1/8″ Luan plywood for the interior walls.
Luan plywood is a great material to work with and is quite cheap. Curtis used the material in his renovation of a conversion van.
Some other materials used in this DIY tear drop camper:
- foam board insulation
- sheet metal exterior siding (from an old above-ground swimming pool)
- salvaged windows (from another camper)
Recycling windows, siding, and wood paneling is a great money-saving idea. Larry used similar materials in his awesome DIY tear drop build.
As far as amenities, this camper lets you live in style.
TacomaBuzz added:
- recessed lighting for the interior
- roof vent with powered fan
- TV jack
- wiring for an exterior light
Take a look at some of his detailed build pictures below.
Preparing to Place the Walls
Getting ready to add the side walls.
Adding L-bracket Supports
Using L-brackets to keep the sidewalls in place.
Luan Plywood Used for the Interior Siding
You can see the L-brackets on the bottom partially covered by the Luan plywood interior. Note the neat rows of screws. What a quality build!
Cross Members in Place
Interior shot as the camper takes shape. TacomaBuzz decided to use 2″x4″ cross members rather than 2″x2″ for added stability.
Camper Ready for Insulation
Note the recessed cutouts on the rear where the rigid foam insulation will fit.
Adding the Insulation
Foam board insulation will keep the small space comfortable.
Vent Fan Added to the Roof
TacomaBuzz built in an opening for the installation of an electric vent fan.
Adding the Metal Siding
Putting up the metal siding was a two-person job.
Siding Cut to Fit the Contour
Once attached he cut off the excess metal for a nice, tight fit.
Siding the Roof
A single piece of the sheet metal covered the roof of the tear drop.
Adding the Vent
Getting ready to install the vent.
Look at That Quality Door!
Used hardware doesn’t have to look anything less than spectacular
Recessed Lighting
Nice shot of the interior with recessed lighting.
Ready to Roll
Completed DIY tear drop camper after adding flashing to seams and caulking.
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Photos credit: Tacoma Forums
