David EilersFebruary 3, 2015

Anyone Recognize this Camper / Canopy?

We are hoping someone recognizes the type of camper on this Willys Truck. It looks like it was built for Willys trucks it fits so well. Below the color photos are a couple of black and white photos showing a similar but slightly different example.

These were part of a series of photos at FourWheeler.com. What's interesting is that the trailers windows look identical in style to the canopy below. Maybe they were built by the same company?

Benita shared a photo of the camper shell that came with their new FC project. It is similar to the other two.

Another camping shell similar to the first. No manufacture mentioned.

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/938088-vintage-camper-shell.html

23 Comments

DaveFebruary 3, 2015 at 1:43 PM
I have a piece of literature for that topper. Can't get to it right now, though.
Bob LaneFebruary 3, 2015 at 3:22 PM
I saw one of this style camper on a willys jeep pickup in a bone yard in Moundhouse, Nevada, a the name platen the camper said it was made in Reno, Nevada. I can't remember the name of the company its been a while back, but will try to get back to the yard and fine out.
RandyFebruary 3, 2015 at 5:31 PM
There used to be a place in Reno that made campers like that, as Bob mentioned.....I can't remember the name of the place but I could show you where it used to be...
RandyFebruary 3, 2015 at 6:19 PM
I'm thinking it may be a Caravan Camper shell...they have been built in Reno since the 50's.......
LewFebruary 3, 2015 at 6:38 PM
Those windows were commonly used on trailers and campers of that vintage. Look at the trailer behind in the B&W. The construction is pretty simple and would not be difficult to duplicate. Finding a large window for the rear looks the most challenging.
npd811February 3, 2015 at 9:13 PM
If the Reno connection fails, There is a guy named Gordon White who owns the webpage www.truckcampermagazine.com who is quite knowledgeable about all things related to truck campers. For what it may be worth to you.
deilersFebruary 3, 2015 at 9:25 PM
npd811: good idea! I'll email him.
JosephFebruary 4, 2015 at 1:43 AM
Looks to be an Alaskan camper.
scramboleerFebruary 4, 2015 at 4:57 AM
I sent Caravan Campers this link and got this very kind response: "Hello, we haven't made any of those as long as I have been here (37 years) we do have some measurements in our archives so I am sure Caravan made some back in the day. We would be willing to build a new shell but would need to physically see and measure that truck to do so. All of the shells in those pictures are Pullman campers, I don't know if they are still around. Thank you" So, who are Pullman Campers?
scramboleerFebruary 4, 2015 at 5:04 AM
Pullman links: http://truckcampers.fanworks.org/the_camper_that_started_it_all.html http://www.ihpartsamerica.com/forums/ih-vehicles-sale/7136-1963-ih-truck-trailer-pullman-camper.html https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6163/6193152918_c47430182f_z.jpg
deilersFebruary 4, 2015 at 5:07 AM
I agree the shells look a lot like the Pullmans, except they don't have the sliding roof. Maybe the Pullman is an alteration of a previous design or company?
deilersFebruary 4, 2015 at 5:20 AM
How about a vintage sportsman camping shell? http://www.theawningshoppe.com/index.php?module=photoalbum&PHPWS_Album_id=20&PHPWS_Photo_op=view&PHPWS_Photo_id=885 or http://www.theawningshoppe.com/index.php?module=photoalbum&PHPWS_Album_id=20&PHPWS_Photo_op=view&PHPWS_Photo_id=888
SteveOctober 21, 2015 at 6:45 AM
It is a Sportsman's Top canopy. I have one for my 1950 Chevy truck. It should have a brass tag on the rear, passenger side of the canopy. I'm trying to find parts for mine so I can get it back to original condition. Below is a link to some info on my truck. http://www.stovebolt.com/gallery/andereggen_steve_1950.html
David EilersOctober 21, 2015 at 4:50 PM
Thanks for the information Steve. Nice looking truck btw!
DennisApril 10, 2016 at 6:20 AM
I have that camping on my truck I live in Massachusetts ..I picked it up and Colorado it is Puff selling the truck and camper anybody's interested can send pictures
DennisApril 10, 2016 at 6:21 AM
I actually have the whole truck and camper setup for sale the one in the picture the frame is Puff I will send pictures
DennisApril 10, 2016 at 6:24 AM
I actually have the whole truck and camper setup for sale the one in the picture the frame is Puff I will send pictures it's 1953 5 windows truck chevy 3600 with rare camper
David EilersApril 11, 2016 at 2:30 AM
Hi Dennis, Thanks for the note. So the maker of the hardtop is Puff or the model type is Puff? - Dave
John careyJuly 30, 2019 at 7:20 PM
It’s a 50’s sportsman camper shell ;)
David EilersJuly 30, 2019 at 8:26 PM
Thanks John!
Brian FieldOctober 27, 2023 at 2:55 AM
I met an old man about 20 years ago in Klamath falls Oregon. He was in his 90's and I learned he built a line of custom canapys for light trucks. I wish I remembered his name and had got some literature about the ones he had built. they were awesome and I wanted one. the one pictured looks like his work.
David EilersOctober 27, 2023 at 4:07 PM
Hi Brian, Thanks for that information and lead. Hopefully, we can determine if the man you remember was the builder of these. - Dave
Brett CalhounJanuary 21, 2026 at 3:08 PM
It’s a “Sportsman Top” by Thorobred out of Gardena CA. I have one with rear right plate and serial number and the “Sportsman Top” for over the rear door. They are out of business. The Caravan top company in Reno is still around. I think the double side window top is a Caravan.