RV Free Wheelin'....

The 2005 Lance Max 981

I’m a huge fan of Lance truck campers, thanks to the long line of innovative designs that the California company has been producing for almost 40 years. Lance camper owners are a loyal bunch, with lots of them looking forward to purchasing new models.

That’s why I looked forward to trying out the first camper from the new Lance Max series. Debuting for Model Year 2005, the Lance Max 981 is the initial model in the Lance Max series and it’s definitely a departure for Lance in many (good) ways!

Lance takes truck camper design, engineering, and manufacturing seriously and it’s obvious with this new series. Incorporating the most-requested features from Lance owners and dealers, the Lance Max 981 features a totally new design inside and out.

Some of the things I immediately noticed during my southeastern road test included: a standard full-wall slideout that I loved; a front bathroom and rear kitchen (meaning more light and fresh air); lots of increased floor and storage space (about 25% or so more than most truck campers I’ve seen); increased capacity storage tanks; a cabover skylight; optional flat panel LCD TV; excellent insulation (my early-fall nights in the mountains saw temperatures in the 40s); and a new marine-grade TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof typically only seen on seriously high-end motorhomes. Almost a week of putting the unit through its paces revealed this camper (and the series) will meet the demands of new and veteran Lance fans.

The newly situated and redesigned galley is most definitely a highlight. There’s a three-burner cooktop atop a modern dual convection/ microwave oven that we used often for high-speed baking and more. The standard three-power-mode refrigerator has a large six cubic feet of capacity and proved more than adequate for multiple days away from a grocery store.

A small flip-up counter expands counter space beside the dual sinks. Lots of storage (including several huge drawers and a handy and secure slide-out pantry) make this camper a long-term road warrior. The solid wood storage drawer (part of the Decor Package) is evidently the largest ever built for a truck camper!

The dinette area takes full advantage of the standard full-wall slideout, essentially doubling the space when the slideout is extended using the 12-volt electric mechanism (with manual override). The result is comfortable seating for four that can quickly be converted to an optional small sofa bed.

The spacious insulated cabover sleeping area is most definitely a highlight of this new camper. A queen-sized bed, high head clearance, a large insulated skylight (with blackout shade), and lots of storage make this a place for much more than sleeping. An optional 15-inch flat-panel LCD TV features an articulated swing-arm for enjoying TV in bed or in the dinette area. Our unit also featured an optional entertainment package that featured an AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3 stereo player with four speakers.

The bathroom sits across from the refrigerator and worked well enough for its intended purpose. Along with providing a sink, raised toilet, mirrored medicine cabinet, and some additional storage, the bathroom serves as a small full-height shower stall.

An easy-to-use centralized systems monitor near the rear entry door includes all the readouts needed. The new furnace has a dual, two-speed fan function and digital thermostat, allowing for less amp draw, less LPG consumption, and a noticeably reduced noise level compared to other units we’ve used.

Outside, the new Lance Max 981 continues the design innovation trend. Some statistics of note include: 9’11” floor length; 96 3/8” exterior width; and 3240 pounds dry weight (with Standard Model features).

The TPO roof comes with a 12-year warranty and is nearly impossible to damage (including hail). It’s also generally less slippery than aluminum or rubber when wet. It comes with standard siderails that are ready for an array of optional rack components. The roof is reached by a newly-designed ladder that can be used even when the optional rear awning is deployed.

Other features on the outside of this new design include: a central utility bay containing easy-to-reach hookup services and two dealer-supplied batteries; a new heavy-duty aluminum bumper (with sewer hose and adaptor conveniently tucked inside); electric jacks with wireless remote control; dual propane tanks; and a 40-gallon fresh water tank with dual 30-gallon holding tanks (sink/shower and toilet for 60 gallons total capacity). Top-quality stainless steel and coated Everlube fastener help prevent corrosion, while LanceLock construction features a strong combination of insulation, lamination, and welded aluminum.

We used our unit on a Ford Super-Duty F 350 with a Triton V-8 diesel engine, which we found provided more than enough power, space, and comfort. Some truck options I’d recommend include: Air-Lift air bags (and dual cab control kit for air bags and shocks); cabover shocks and brackets; and a Reese Titan Class V hitch and extension (for towing toys).

Unless otherwise noted, most of the features I’ve mentioned thus far are standard. Along with the value-packed Convenience Package and Decor Package (I’d recommend getting both), some options of definite interest include: the aforementioned rear awning and a choice of two long passenger-side awnings (crankout or rollout); a 13,500-BTU air conditioner with wall control thermostat; the aforementioned entertainment package or a simpler AM/FM/CD stereo player with four speakers; a TV antenna or satellite dish, if desired; an excellent rear-view color observation camera and in-truck monitor; and an energy-saving 50-watt, 12-volt solar panel. I highly recommend using a Factory Authorized Lance Dealer for installation of any additional options!

The new Lance Max 981 is certainly a great option for first-time truck camper buyers, as well as Lance fans looking for their latest and greatest offering. The test drive certainly made me look forward to upcoming additions to the series (including an 1161 and, later, an 881).

For further information, visit www.lancecamper.com