All:
Thank you for your responses.
It is my intent to err on the side of caution. Of all our trucks, mine's cargo/load capacity -- 3400 pounds, no kidding -- may be highest. When I bough the truck, I knew some camper was in the future and I wanted my truck well within CYA loading. This mounting is a vast improvement over factory. As such I believe I meet the minimum safety requirement for paved travel.
Based on Pat's (pvstoy) pictures and mounting, I expect this system to work fine for my uses; however, I will keep my mind on safety and an eye on my mounting. If this doesn't work, I'll move to C-channel or go larger on the bottom plates.
I am freeway testing it this week and will return to the aforementioned campground soon for a trail test. I will check the mounting every few initial trail miles and before transitioning on/off pavement.
I will keep you posted regarding my findings and experience.
Bobva:
I appreciate your concern. I emailed Happijac and never got a response. I read the HJ instructions and was not compelled. I had a choice: wait until I had $550 saved for Happijac mounts or spend $40 and go camping.
If needed, I'll improve my mounting to spread the load and/or catch the cross members. You'll notice from the picture I'm only an inch or so away from the frame bolted bed cross member. This is the same for all 4 plates.
As far as my insurance and the state: an installation stronger than factory is all they'll like use as a data point. Now, a good body shop... That's a good idea. Next time it's convenient, I'll do this.
Yes, Pat should have used different wording than "comfort level", since safety is involved. That said, he's wheeled his camper hard and believes bed mount is sufficient. So, the safety issue is probably moot to him.
JohnD:
LAWNMOWERMAN has a story of dropping his camper out the back of his truck on a trail. My takeaway: you should check your turnbuckles regularly. Especially on washboard roads. Make it part of your checklist...
One reason for going to direct mount is quick, easy visible mount verification: just look under the truck. I couldn't easily/quickly do that with hidden turnbuckles! Checking this is part of my travel checklist.
Thanks for checking with Alaskan!
BTW, I'm of the opinion that your rope mount -- or shoelace mount! -- is an improvement over the turnbuckles.
Pat:
I love the truck: you're a fool to sell it!!!
Ah, sorry. Thanks for the data points. How sturdy is your Toyota bed?
Jay:
Yes, it's a Ford. I'm not really a Ford guy so much as an American Full Size Solid Axle Guy. So Ford, Dodge, older GM is all the same to me...
Stan:
Thanks for chiming in. I haven't tested it yet, but I'm sure the camper comes off almost as fast. Furthermore, I suspect the camper will center faster using drift pins. It takes me forever -- or at minimum, 30 minutes -- to center right now...