Tiger 4x4 copycat??

[climbing coastie]

I'm getting closer to getting rid of my new van and have been looking at options out there. I really like the idea of 4x4 and being able to access the coach area from the cab, but the only thing I can find that sort of fits my wants is a Tiger RV and I don't have that kind of cash nor want something that fancy. I'd love to buy an empty rig from them and do the conversion myself.

I've looked into getting a 3/4 or 1 ton truck and putting a flat bed on it. I've found a local place that will fabricate a custom "shell" of a camper onto it. But they don't modify the cab for pass through. I'm wanting more than just trying to squeeze through the windows, but can't find anyone to do the modifications to the cab or know how to seal the area off.

Anyone know where I can find someone willing to do this kind of work. I'm in CA but willing to travel to get the work done.

 

[buckwilk]

This fellow did basically what you are talking about, http://www.exploringelements.com/vehicles/eexp/ as I recall he wanted to have a pass thru also and it didn't work out, don't remember why. It's in his build thread. I met him at the Overland Expo in Mormon Lake Az. last May, good guy and helpful. I'm sure he would be able to answer any questions you would have. I run a cab over and tow a Cherokee, glad to help if needed.

 

[FALCON]

Wow, that truck is awesome. Sure it would stick out in a city, but holy smokes, I want it! (I certainly don't want to pay for it though)

 

[buckwilk]

Build one !

 

[highdesertranger]

Tiger might build you a shell, ask them, they are pretty easy to work with. if not, I agree with buckwilk build it your self. how big of a cab pass through do you want? are you going to RTR? highdesertranger

 

[climbing coastie]

I contacted Tiger and am waiting for a response.

I would like as big of a passthrough as possible. I want to be able to step through it instead of crawling through. Maybe 3' wide and at least the height of the truck. If it is possible to include the cutout into the roof of the truck that would be great. Tiger's pass through looks pretty big and I would like something similar.

I don't intend on going to RTR as I don't think I will have a rig then. With any luck my van will have been bought back and I'll be in the process of finding it's replacement.

 

[buckwilk]

CC, just looked at your blog. What a mess that van has been for you. I don't know about this for your exact problem but this tact has worked for me a couple of times. You stated that the problems you are having are well known to the dealerships and they aren't informing their customers before hand. 1. Contact the attorney generals office in the area you bought the van and ask them for advice, that's what they're there for. It is possible that knowingly selling a faulty product may be fraud. 2. The insurance board in your state can tell you what insurance company insures and bonds the dealership that sold you the van. Contact that insurance company and file a claim on their bond. This costs you nothing and the insurance company will notify the dealer that he has an issue and needs to take care of it. If the dealer does nothing the insurance company can take steps to settle the issue and the dealer risks losing his bond which means the insurance company may cancel him. That is a big deal in the business world leading to increased costs, poor ratings by the BBB, etc. These steps will cost you nothing and may help you get a resolution, worst case they will raise your profile with the dealer and the factory as a serious claimant. Good luck, take care.

 

[mockturtle]

I contacted Tiger and am waiting for a response.

I would like as big of a passthrough as possible. I want to be able to step through it instead of crawling through. Maybe 3' wide and at least the height of the truck. If it is possible to include the cutout into the roof of the truck that would be great. Tiger's pass through looks pretty big and I would like something similar.

I don't intend on going to RTR as I don't think I will have a rig then. With any luck my van will have been bought back and I'll be in the process of finding it's replacement.

You might find some useful information here:  Tiger Forum

In mine, you'd have to be a midget to walk from the coach to the cab but I find it extremely useful to be able to access the cab/extended cab area from the coach, even if on my hands & knees, without going outside.  I can get back and forth, as well, but it's not easy as I opted for a large console.  I think that, without the console, you might be able to get in with just bending over.  With the cab-over, there isn't room to stand.