Here is how I attach a tarp to my 2010 Ford E-350 SMB for a windbreak. But you could adapt this plan to work with any make, model, or year of rig. It is cheap, simple to set up, and easy to store. I use a thin lightweight nylon tarp. I dries fast, doesn’t take up much space, and can be rolled/wadded up into any shape you need for storage. I attached a ball bungee to two of the corners on the long side. The bungees are used to attach the tarp in place, and also to wrap up the tarp when not in use.
I start by hooking one bungee (see the blue ball) to the large threaded bolt that attaches the frame to the body, right underneath a large rubber bushing inside of the front wheel and shock.
Originally there were a couple extra inches of threads, so I screwed on a couple nuts to the bottom, tightening them against each other. Or you could just put on one aircraft nut. Ideally I would have used an aircraft wing nut, but I didn’t have one in stock in my garage, and it really isn’t that critical. What matters is that the bungee cord fits into the space between the nuts, and won’t easily slip off the bolt.
Next I attach the other bungie to the rear leaf spring bracket.
Then I pull the top of the tarp over the running board, and secure it with a couple clamps.
Finally, I find some heavy stuff to hold down the bottom of the tarp. Rocks, firewood, the dog, whatever is handy.
And there you have it, you are out of the wind. Time to enjoy a cold one, lay on the ground and chew on a cow clavicle, or whatever turns you on. Pre-COVID there was easily room for 4 people to huddle out of even a howling wind. If the wind is coming from the ends you can just wrap the tarp around the back or front wheels.
The wind usually does blow out in the high desert where the borders of Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada meet. (aka the “I.O.N. Triangle”, not to be confused with the more famous “Four Corners” region of the SW.) The wind might blow, but with this tarp setup it won’t suck to be outside and enjoy the solitude. In this high desert there are great views to be had, endless rugged roads to drive, and surprisingly good fishing to be had.
And who doesn’t enjoy cooking up some tasty trout while out in the boondocks?
Sportsmobeebs, Sporty for short
Ford Zilla
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