Looks like I need to buy a lot bigger camper!

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_lb0pltMf6-Q/SWs_7AD5UKI/AAAAAAAAABg/Rjg5cVIG_2Y/s1600-h/lj80+cARAVAN

I'd like to see how that rig does going uphill!

Keith; finally sat down and figured this for you , and I'm well over half way there w/just materials, not to even include the additional features you mentioned to me...(more time=$)

I'd have to say that $800 bucks is very fair if it's a direct replacement ! 
Wish I could have been more help...

I've come to pretty much the same conclusion in adding up the prices of canvas to do it myself.  I have found one cheap option but I'm not sure about it.  The open area of the camper is 12x7 foot.  Coleman and Wenzel both makes dome tents in that size for between $90 and $140.  I could mount the tent to the trailer.  That would allow me to be off the ground and to stand up in the middle.  The downside is that it wouldn't be stable in windy conditions and tents in general aren't as weathertite as a canvas camper.  I'm still considering options though.  Here is a quick mock-up.

Looks like I need to buy a lot bigger camper!

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_lb0pltMf6-Q/SWs_7AD5UKI/AAAAAAAAABg/Rjg5cVIG_2Y/s1600-h/lj80+cARAVAN

That looks like its a very lightweight setup, if you look through the windows you can't see any cupboards. Also its on a German plate and they are pretty strict

I've talked about these before, how about building your own?  

An Explorer Box (the one pictured weighed in at 393 lbs)


An Explorer Pod


Multi-purpose


Visit Compact Camping Concepts for details

Full Disclosure: Yes, I own Compact Camping Concepts

Keith,

We have been towing our camper to Zukimelt for quite a few years now.  You are going to love being able to sleep up off the ground, especially when it rains

 


How bad is the canvas you have now?  Is it repairable?  When we first got our Apache, it needed mending, screens and zippers.  Other than a couple rips, the canvas was in fair shape.   A. B Kelly, 212 W Main in Cary (a little hard to find, around back and in basement) did our canvas repair, and it is still holding up pretty well. Talk to Bill Braun.

It's pretty bad.  It rips when you move it much.  I'll have to talk to them about if they would make a whole new one and what the price might be.

It's pretty bad.  It rips when you move it much.  I'll have to talk to them about if they would make a whole new one and what the price might be.

If its that bad, you will need a replacement.  A B Kelly is OK for repairs, but they tend toward the high end on their custom boat covers (their primary business).  you might check with Bear Creek Canvas,  I've heard good things about their quality.  They are said to have patterns for most of the old campers, and can also  make a pattern from your old canvas.

Bear Creek is who I have been talking with.  They do have very good reviews.  I sent them the old tenting this morning to use for a pattern.  They are going to put 4 windows in it and the large ones will have clear plastic in addition to the screen.  That way the camper will be usable in cooler weather.  Can't wait to get it back and set it up.

Camper tent is back.  Can't wait for Zukiworld!

http://www.keithert.com/appleby/appleby.html

Good looking setup.  IMO ideal for a suzuki.

Sweet Camper!

That is really nice. 

I'm hoping to make it to Zukimelt this year.  I'm looking forward to seeing that rig in person. 

Are you staying at the Badlands, or Steam Corner?

Leaning towards Badlands but don't know the pro's and con's of each.  What do you like?