Starting with the blank canvas… I just got home from my install at Apex and planning on documenting my build-out here:
2022 Ford Maverick First Edition Hybrid. My average gas mileage pre-GFC install:
- since my cross-country move in July: 41.9 mpg (mostly local).
- Total over the 14k miles, including 4,200 miles pulling just under 1,800lbs in a trailer: 33.7 mpg
Build-out plans include:
- 200w solar
- 100ah house battery
- DC-DC charger & MPPT controller
- fridge
- solar vent fan like @pnwmountaineer
- full time rearview camera since I didn’t get windows
- top & bottom LED lights (at least red & white and dimmable, up most likely RGBIC)
- @jedgar’s drip rails
- Shittco rainfly poles
- latch covers from @Buhlockaye
- bug netting like @nat3060 has
- round the corners of the rectangle bed piece like @nat3060 and @Vice_Chief did
Ideas
- putting in a window/porthole in the front panel that opens so I can pass-thru to the cab and use as a vent that won’t be visible/accessible to randos on the street
- a pull-out drawer on one side, but with only a 4.5’ bed, I may not.
- creating a removable rainfly that attaches via velcro
- Headliner like @GainzGFC
5 Likes
Headliner 100% changes the feel and inside of the tent! Highly recommend along with @Buhlockaye lock covers if you’re in a colder environment where rain/mud will be.
2 Likes
Latch covers installed… super easy and definitely classes up the panels. Well done, @Buhlockaye
Trim installed along all the leading edges on the panels so I’m less likely to split my head open. Also, from a fit/finish perspective, it’s very nice.
Put in 10 of these tie-down points for either carabiner or 550 cord attachment points. 2 each on the top/bottom of the interior main support tubes and two on the back panel struts (these will not be load-bearing - will likely string 550cord across and use to put a roll of paper towels/etc on)
Tested out “couch mode” using 2x4s and the transform-a-floor panels.
Fridge still fits nicely with the “couch” in place.
8 Likes
Looking super good! Excited to see your build progress.
1 Like
Nice! I also have a Maverick with a GFC camper that I just got in August. Mine is an FX4 AWD. I’ve installed a Bedrug (HIGHLY recommend), the latch covers - rear only so far, the tie down points similar to yours, some LED string lights, and a cargo net. The 2x4s with the transform a floor panels is a great idea. I’ll definitely try that. My only quibble is the GFC knocked the crap out of my fuel mileage. I was getting 28-31mpg before, I’m down to 23-25 now. Oh well, I guess that’s the price of fun. Looking forward to seeing your buildout!
1 Like
@Phil3mac - Yeah, I’ve noticed a MPG hit too. I think it’s more the wind drag than the weight, so I’m looking at how to do a wind fairing/deflector to claw back some. No regrets on getting the GFC though.
FWIW I strongly recommend the Wolfbox rearview camera or similar if you didn’t get the GFC windows. I’ll do a bit of a write-up soon on my install.
For your cargo net, is that one that goes across the bed at the tailgate or something else?
Yeah it’s definitely the drag. I hardly notice the weight when driving. I have the cargo net strung from the ‘ceiling’ so I can throw my bedding and other lighter things in it when heading to camp.
I did get the windows and got a pretty heavy tint on the rear one so people can’t walk by and peek in
1 Like
A few more photos . . I’m using the old cooler to store and carry all my camp kitchen stuff. It’s a perfect size for what I’ve got and I can use it as a step to get up inside the tent
2 Likes
Can’t wait to get a Maverick again. I had an FX4, tuned making just over 290hp/370tq. Moded it quite a bit and swapped in a euro Fiesta ST steering wheel (way more comfortable). Built a simple aux battery setup in it too. I averaged 34.5 from Fort Worth, TX all the way to Libby, MT (1800ish miles) loaded down.
1 Like
