canopy

I have a similar setup and agree with Andy's comments

Dean,

Have a similar set up to Norm (different brand of canopy) and agree with what he said.

My steel tray was originally built to survive the rigours of station life, which it has done well, but it's bloody heavy. Am also looking at an alloy tray, or perhaps fabricate a lighter one using steel & alloy.

Our aluminium slide on was built by a mob in Hervey Bay Qld which has since changed hands, but still doing good work. Has a bedroom and kitchen in it, but you probably wouldn't need these. While the alloy canopies are of lightweight material, they need a fair amount of framework, so lose out a bit there. F'glass may be lighter, but think the "skin" would be much thicker, to give it strength.

As well as Norm & Andy, there a number of other members that have, or have had alloy canopies. Phil G & Rosco are 2 that come to mind. If you were to do a search on here for "alloy camper", I'm sure you get lots of ideas, and a few photos.



Bob

Thanks Norm .Sounds like the way to go. I'll check out Concept Canopies

X 2 for Concept Canopies Norm. Unique construction system and perfect sealing doors. Very happy with mine over 3 years.

You would think that heat build up in aluminium would be the case but I have never experienced it as an issue.
I run a fridge and a freezer in my alloy canopy and have been in the Simpson Desert in up to 53 degrees and it was not a problem and more than happy with how it performed.
Mine is raw allow, I don't know perhaps they would absorb more heat if they were painted or in steel ?
My canopy is over five years old with in excess of 100,000 offroad kilometres on it and are happy with how it performs.
Just relaying my personal experience

Mine was white painted aluminium and it was very good on the hottest of SA days. I think the aluminium transmits heat both ways very well, so the temp inside stays close to ambient and white probably reflects heat better than darker colours.