BIG NEWS and Plans For A Build

Quick summary

Big news: she bought her dream truck — a manual 4x4 Dodge with a Cummins — and plans a full camper build in the bed using sponsored Power Queen and Set Power gear. The video is an equipment rundown, a build overview, and a list of repairs to handle before the build begins.

Key product & electrical takeaways

• Power Queen 410 Ah 12 V battery to run the whole truck camper.
• 200 W inverter (the inverter has its own monitor).
• 500 A battery monitor with a shunt (includes a display). The shunt has a protective plastic housing (preferred over exposed-metal shunts like Victron’s).
• Dual-input 40 A unit that combines a DC-to-DC charger and a solar charge controller in one compact box (auto-switches between DC-DC and solar).
• 20 A shore-power charger for AC plug-in charging at campsites or a house.
• Set Power fridge will be used in the build (sponsor gear).

Battery-type notes

• 12 V
  • Convenient when you already have 12 V components; easier plug-in upgrades.
  • The 410 Ah 12 V delivered is a “dumb” battery (Power Queen offers smart versions too).
• 48 V
  • Better choice if starting fresh — allows smaller wiring runs.
  • Requires all compatible 48 V components.

Planned camper build highlights and intent

• Full platform camper in the truck bed with space for dogs.
• Goal: create a comfortable, resell-friendly camper (removable design so the truck remains usable).
• Consideration of materials: aluminum or wood — design will account for vehicle weight limits.
• Long-term accessory plans: sliders, roof rack, front bumper + winch, rear bumper integrated with the camper, and optional beadlocks.
• Build will proceed gradually because of a limited budget.

Pre-build repairs and issues to address

• Intermittent starting issue (diesel starts when cold but struggles when hot).
• Slight fluid leak(s).
• Steering system needs replacement/repair (steering box).
• Surface rust on fenders, doors, and quarter panels — cosmetic but planned to be fixed.
• Truck bed will be removed as part of the build work.

Other notes / personal details

• She’s 5‘9” and finds the truck tall — considering sliders to improve entry.
• Previously used Power Queen batteries (100 Ah 48 V and 100 Ah 12 V) in a Tundra and an FJ; performed well in hot Arizona conditions during long days.
• Seat covers are Carhartt covers with a rainbow texture; original seats underneath are in great condition.
• Mindset shift: from “how to live comfortably full-time in a small vehicle” (when living in an FJ) to “how cool of a camper can I build” (since full-time living isn’t required).
• Will primarily use Power Queen gear in the build to test/compare against Victron (she’s used Victron gear for 4–5 years).

Promotions / sponsor info

• Sponsors: Power Queen and Set Power.

  Power Queen spring sale — discount code: Julie8 (link in the video description).

Notable vehicles, products, and speaker

• Vehicle: manual 4x4 Dodge (Cummins engine). Previous vehicles: FJ, Tundra, and a sold bus.
• Products mentioned: Power Queen 410 Ah 12 V battery, Power Queen 100 Ah 48 V battery, 200 W inverter, 500 A monitor + shunt, 40 A DC-to-DC + solar charger, 20 A shore charger, Set Power fridge.
• Speaker / channel owner: Julie.