When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hummer H3For the Hummer driver who wants the rugged look and off road capabilities of the Hummer, but in a smaller size and with a more fuel economy friendly engine.
I have a 2008 H3. I'm looking at rooftop tents.
Is anyone using the Smittybuilt Overlander XL?
If so, does it fit well? Did it require any adaptations?
Do you endorse or oppose using said tent?
I'm a worry wart and would like to hear from some people about both form and function on these tents before I drop the money for one.
Welcome EJ. Next time, before posting anything anywhere, please read. The HF Help & Suggestion Center is NOT for any vehicle questions and states in the top sticky thread: Do NOT post vehicle questions in this section
Why would anyone spend $1k+ to sleep on the roof? You don't need a ladder if you pitch a tent on the ground. Check out SUV tents and stay off the roof, before you break something.
hummerz,
I respect your opinion and defend your right to have a differing opinion.
I do, however, have my reasons and, as a rock climber, if I can't handle a ladder then maybe I should find a new hobby.
I find myself wanting to camp in locations that are not conducive to sleeping on the ground.
Thank you, kindly, for your concern.
P.S. I'm a budget shopper and do not intend to spend $1k+ on the tent
6ft above ground is not a guaranteed safe place, pack more important things, like rambo.
First, I will state I am NOT an over-lander so I know nothing about the actual RTT construction, style and/or quality.
Overlanding forums are going to be your best resource for that aspect.
Below is just some FYI stuff for ya.
*140lbs+ on the roof will definitely change the roll center of any H3 and not for the better.
*Might want to make sure the H3 roof rails can support the amount of weight you are planning on putting up there. Even a static load (open tent, you, supplies, etc.) can be a strain on the rivnuts holding the rails to the roof.
*Depending on the age of your H3 and condition I have seen the rivnuts holding the roof rail tracks rip right through the roof sheet metal. (Nugget in Australia had a catastrophic roof failure sue to a RTT).
Originally Posted by TAINTER
TRUE! the riv nut will pull right through, cracking the thin metal beneath it.
This is Nugget (long time H3 owner and avid over-lander from down under) who had 120KG (about 265lbs) on his roof every day.
He ripped the RivNuts through the metal.
Once he had sandwiched the thin roof metal with a plates above and below to distribute the load through out the entire roof rail per side he had no issues.
He also used multiple mounting points on the roof rail to distribute the weight. 2 Roof racks ain't gunna do it, OEM or not.
Smittybuilt OverlanderXL ok to use on H3?
You don't need a ladder if you pitch a tent on the ground. Check out SUV tents and stay off the roof, before you break something.
