RTT orientation?

[SafetyDan]

I have recently acquired a RTT, my question is should I orient it to open over the rear or passengers side? It seems to me that it would be more stable over the rear. Thanks for your input.

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[Glocker]

I have recently acquired a RTT, my question is should I orient it to open over the rear or passengers side? It seems to me that it would be more stable over the rear. Thanks for your input.

I bought mine used and it came setup from the previous owner to open over the rear. I'm going to try it out like that and hope it works out for me while using the tailgate as a kitchen surface. Having it open to the rear makes sense for me, as I can potentially crash out in the RTT while overnighting at BBQ competitions. Most of the time I'm parked in a regular parking spot, of which there are very few. I could potentially open the tent over the rear and stay in my parking spot. I couldn't do that and have the ladder go down into the spot next to mine because there just isn't enough room. So for now, over the rear!

 

[Msfitoy]

 

[GibbonsMonkey]

I have recently acquired a RTT, my question is should I orient it to open over the rear or passengers side? It seems to me that it would be more stable over the rear. Thanks for your input.

It really depends on the tent. Do you know the model?

 

[SafetyDan]

It really depends on the tent. Do you know the model?

Cascadia Mt Shasta "Pioneer"

 

[VoodooRanger]

I have a Mt. Shasta, and I have her opening to my drivers side. Was just preference at the time, but lately I have been considering moving her to open to the rear.
1. To see if it'll kill off some whistling I am getting on the highway at 80MPH, which I believe may be air getting into the cover.
2. To offer some cover when I am hanging out by the tailgate.

Only thing that'll keep me from going the rear opening route will be if I pick up a 270* awning.

 

[VoodooRanger]

Here are photos from last weeks camping trip. As you can see the passenger side can be used as an entry or exit, but I would need to climb in using the rear wheel. Facing the tent entry to the rear would allow that opening to be towards the cab. I would then need to see how much space is left for me to prop up the entry/rain fly. As you can see in one of the pictures, the cab facing window isn't help up by the prop rod on one end. That's because there isn't enough space between the cab and the opening for the rod in the tent base. Using a bungee cord and suction hook mounted to the roof, I was able to open it up when I need full opening.

 

[Msfitoy]

The main reason I swing out back is so the ladder runs with direction of travel (when folded up on the roof) and that helps with aero a bit...also if the truck fits the path then the tent can fit as well... ?

 

[GibbonsMonkey]

One thing to consider is tailgate usage if you open to the rear. I find it’s handy for cooking on and not as much if the ladder is in the way.

 

[SafetyDan]

Here are photos from last weeks camping trip. As you can see the passenger side can be used as an entry or exit, but I would need to climb in using the rear wheel. Facing the tent entry to the rear would allow that opening to be towards the cab. I would then need to see how much space is left for me to prop up the entry/rain fly. As you can see in one of the pictures, the cab facing window isn't help up by the prop rod on one end. That's because there isn't enough space between the cab and the opening for the rod in the tent base. Using a bungee cord and suction hook mounted to the roof, I was able to open it up when I need full opening.

The main reason I swing out back is so the ladder runs with direction of travel (when folded up on the roof) and that helps with aero a bit...also if the truck fits the path then the tent can fit as well... ?

 

[SafetyDan]

The main reason I swing out back is so the ladder runs with direction of travel (when folded up on the roof) and that helps with aero a bit...also if the truck fits the path then the tent can fit as well... ?

Are the mounting runners (attached to the RTT) under the RTT orientated front to rear or side to side when opening it over the rear?

 

[Msfitoy]

The main reason I swing out back is so the ladder runs with direction of travel (when folded up on the roof) and that helps with aero a bit...also if the truck fits the path then the tent can fit as well... ?

Another advantage with this orientation...after I modify the ladder for quick release , I will be able to drive slowly if I need to re position the camper without breaking it down...

 

[Msfitoy]

Are the mounting runners (attached to the RTT) under the RTT orientated front to rear or side to side when opening it over the rear?

The RTT runner are fore and aft...the bed load bars are side to side...

 

[SafetyDan]

Another advantage with this orientation...after I modify the ladder for quick release , I will be able to drive slowly if I need to re position the camper without breaking it down...

Looks like I will have to reorient the runners. as mine are set up for opening over the side.

One should be able to just retract the telescopic ladder and put it in the bed still attached for a short move.

 

[DrewKD88]

Mine opens over the Driver side. This makes the most sense for tailgate access. I use my tailgate often for cooking and fridge access while at camp. I'm 6'3" with a mid height rack. I don't want to have to duck every time I use the Tailgate. Plus I have an annex that would block the rear if I had it oriented towards the back. Additionally I use an awning that covers the Tailgate and gives a larger footprint than the tent does.

Fitting in one parking spot is a great idea but I don't want to be that close to people. I need space. If I don't have enough space to flip my tent out to the side then I'll feel too cramped. That just isn't for me. The other option is to get a wedge style tent if you have a full height rack.

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