Colorado 4x4 Crewcab - Camper?

[retrocruiser]

Would like to know how one would best modify the load capability of the pick-up without costing an arm and leg. Airbags seem to be the best bet, Timbrens are good as well, both for the rear. I am researching the ability to carry a 1000 lb pop up camper. As most know if you put a 1000 lb camper on dry you only have enough capacity left for a 12 year old to drive, no passengers and a 1/4 tank of gas.

The question continues with tires and front suspension, tire load I am sure can be upgraded a little, front suspension would likely require a change or maybe not. Bottomline is that I likely bought the wrong vehicle but before I decide to make a change a little research won't hurt.

[FatherPatriot]

I've seen little hatchback cars pulling a pop-up camper...not sure why that would be an issue even with a base model 4 cyl work truck. There is a sticker directly over my hitch that says max towing weight 5000 lbs, max tongue weight 600 lbs.

You aren't talking about a truck camper that fits on the bed/over the cab are you?

[naskie18]

Best bet is to trade it for the right vehicle.

While there are things you can do to improve how the truck handles the load, none of them will help you legally, should you ever be involved in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

If you're content ingoring the above and hoping you don't get caught, then airbags, an add-a-leaf, or other "helper" setups are advantageous.

Front brake/suspension upgrades aren't likely to help your cause, and rear brake upgrades are likely out of the realm of possibility.

Tires may help, but I highly doubt that's your limiting factor.

Sorry the news is likely not what you wanted to hear....

[WV Mountain Man]

I towed 1800 lb pop up with my 2005 Colorado 3.5 Ext. Cab. I tow mainly in West Virginia and had no problems with hitch weight , dropped rear end about 1.5 inches.
You should have no problem with 1000 lb trailer. I believe the limit was 4000 lbs for my Colorado.

[WV Mountain Man]

I looked at your message again.
Are you talking about a camper on top of the truck bed?
If so, my manual on the 2005 colorado said no to high load at truck bed.

[4x4x4doors]

Check this guy out. He carries an in-bed popup on his crew cab.
2005 Chevy Colorado Build Up - Expedition Portal

[davn]

I think he means a camper to fit in the bed, in addition to changes to the truck he will most likely have to modify the camper as well, when I last casually researched this I found none that would fit let alone be recommended for the 355. Hope he isnt too tall......