I am considering getting a slide in truck bed camper. The Palomino campers seem good and priced okay for me. I am looking at Palomino Back Pack Edition SS550 or SS500. Does anyone have experience with Palomino and have advice or recommendations regarding purchasing a Palomino ?

 

I have a ss550 2017 model year. Mine has lift actuators inside. The newer models they are moved to the outside and have a lot of problems. Google is your friend for this. Don't just take my word.

I love mine and it's been nothing but great. However, mine is lucky enough to be stored inside. I started out using a 2005 f150 and ten upgraded to a 2022 f250. Both trucks did great

 

I've had a Palomino HS-8801 for 10 years (bought new in 2015). It had a lot of little issues when I first got it. But from what I understand, that's common even among more expensive campers. Once the initial problems settled down, it's been great ever since.

I don't know if this is still true, but at that time, the only place to buy a Palomino from was Cheyenne Camping Center in Iowa. They were so much cheaper than any other dealer that it makes it worth the drive.

Some of the problems I remember it having:
A couple water line connectors were loose, so it immediately leaked.
One of the ceiling trim strips fell off on the drive home.
Door wouldn't stay latched because the door frame was cut like this ---> ( So I had to add washers to fix the door latch bracket spacing.
All screws along the bottom of the back wall had their heads broken off (they were overtightened), so the back wall started separating. Scary at first, but it was an easy fix.
Front driver's tie down broke loose from camper due to using weak aluminum trim screws to mount it. Replaced all mounting screws/bolts on all tiedowns with appropriate strength.
Propane leak caused by rubber hose that was in a very tight bend, and cracked.

 

Thanks for the detailed replies. I have been checking Google reviews and other camper forums, and I see in general that for most manufacturers, there are complaints for poor quality and workmanship. Palomino says they updated the interior. Maybe it's better now ? I did not know that the external roof actuator lifts are prone to problems, but that makes sense due to dirt road dust and road water spray. I am glad not to hear of roof problems or appliance problems.