BULL PROOF A5 Slimline Hardshell Rooftop Tent User Manual

SLIMLINE HARDSHELL
ROOFTOP TENT
User Manual

A5 Slimline Hardshell Rooftop Tent

bullproof.com.au
sales@bullproof.com.au

Thank you for your purchase.
Congratulations on your latest purchase of our Rooftop Tent. We can’t wait to see you out n about in our gear!
Our rooftop tent can mount directly to just about any roof racks or bars, providing the weight rating is suitable. If your set up doesn’t appear compatible, please reach out to us. Our talented team can custom make bars and brackets to make just about any set up work.
Please note: It is normal during the first set up/use, that some aluminium swarf may be present inside the rooftop tent. We try our best to remove any of this prior to boxing, however during shipping, some residual can dislodge and reappear. We advise you remove and clean it during first set up.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Before installing our Rooftop Tent, please ensure you have read through and understood the following;

• Your vehicles maximum roof load rating
• Your roof rack/bars maximum load rating including off-road capacity

If you are uncertain with this information, please contact your vehicle manufacturer and roof rack/bar supplier for specific load ratings and capabilities. This is the responsibility of the purchaser to check and confirm the above information.

Safety Information

Improper installation of the Bull Proof Rooftop Tent can result in serious injury or potentially be fatal. Please follow these installation instructions carefully to ensure correct installation and safe use of the product.

• Regularly Inspect your Rooftop Tent: It is crucial that you take the time to check over your rooftop and mounts before each trip and during. Always ensure the mounts are still firm and secure, and nothing has loosened.
• Ensure your Rooftop is securely latched before travel: Always check that your latches are secure prior to travelling. For additional security, use a padlock to lock your tent during transit.
• Ladder: Do not climb ladder until the correct angle is achieved. Always ensure safe placement and angle of the ladder before use. The recommend angle is 75 degrees.

Bull Proof is not responsible for accidents or damage caused by incorrect installation, improper use of equipment, improper maintenance of the product or failure to check vehicle / rack suitability prior to fitting.

Unboxing your Rooftop Tent

All accessories are packed inside the tent, this includes the following :

• Telescopic Ladder
• Condensation Mat
• Mounting Equipment Bag
• 4 x RTT Awning Poles
• 2 x Gas Strut Lockers
• 2 x Roof Bars
• 2 x Shoe Bags
• 2 x Pack-up Bunji cords
• Roof Bar bracket box
• Rechargeable Fan with Magnetic Base
• Foam Mattress with Cover

Whilst your rooftop is still at working height, make sure to take out your mounting equipment, ladder and roof bars (and mounting brackets). Once you have removed these items ready for mounting, lay your condensation mat out underneath the mattress so it is ready to go once its mounted on your vehicle. Make sure to close the tent up before mounting.

Mounting your RTT Bars

Whilst the rooftop is at workable height, mount your roof bars to your rooftop tent using the supplied brackets and mounting equipment. (optional step)

1. Using the top channel on the outside of the tent, slide through 4 x square nuts on each side. These will be used to bolt the brackets into. (flat side facing outwards)
2. Using the supplied 8 short button head socket bolts, loosely attach your brackets into the 8 nuts (2 per bracket).
3. Sit the bars on the brackets and secure them to the brackets with the supplied small nuts and bolts.
4. Use a measuring tape to check the correct distance apart to suit what you need before tightening the brackets to the rooftop.
5. Check that all hardware is secure and correctly fitted before use.

Please note: Our roof bars have been designed to carry no more that 30 kgs, evenly distributed. If this weight is exceeded, it will void your warranty.

Mounting your Rooftop Tent

Note: We recommend using an anti-seize lubricant on the bolts before attaching the nuts. This will help prevent galling between the nylock nut and bolt from occurring.
MOUNTING POINTS MUST BE A MIN 850mm APART (front to back). Tent opening must be towards rear of vehicle.

1. Have your mounting equipment close by and ready to go. With the tent closed up, grab a few mates (min. 2), to give you a hand lifting the rooftop tent onto the roof of your vehicle. Make sure you use safe lifting techniques to avoid any injuries.

2. Once the tent is on the roof, take some time to move it into the desired position before it is fixed down.

3. Once positioned, grab 2 x mounting plates with 2 x bolts at a time. Gently lift one corner of the rooftop at a time and slide the plate (double up) with the bolts through the c-channel underneath the tent. Repeat this 4 times at each corner and slide them to the most secure location on your racks / bars. ( The bolts should sit comfortably around the bar / fixing point ).

4. After checking that your bolts are in the right position, grab the remaining 4 x plates and 8 x nuts from your mounting kit. On each mounting plate/bolts, fit 1 x plate underneath, followed by the nut (repeated on each). This creates a sandwich affect over the bar / fixing point. Using the supplied ratchet spanner, tighten each nut till it is nice and firm, clamping the bar.
   Tip: do each nut up evenly so the plate stays straight when done up tight.

5. Do one last check on each nut to ensure it is done up securely.

Telescopic Ladder

Please read the following information before using your telescopic ladder.

BEFORE USING

• When positioning or transporting ladder, please check that it is suitably placed to avoid any damage.
• Inspect the ladder after delivery and before using to confirm condition and operation of all parts.
• For safety and prevention of injury, please ensure the ladder has been positioned correctly to your rooftop tent by following these recommendations.

MOUNTING LADDER

• With the ladder still compacted, hook on to the rooftop tent ladder racks and pull down to extend the ladder out, till it contacts the ground.
• Inclination angle should NOT exceed 75 degrees
• Ladder must be situated on an even and unmovable surface.

IMPORTANT

• Do not exceed the weight limit of 150kgs
• Always face the ladder when ascending and descending
• Keep a secure grip on the ladder when using
• Always ensure the buttons are in the “locked” position before climbing

Set up & Pack down of your Rooftop Tent

Now that your rooftop is securely fixed to your vehicle, lets run through the fun stuff.

SET UP

• Un-hook your latches and gently push up on the handle, let the gas struts do the rest of the work for you.
• One your rooftop is open, hook your ladder on for easy access.
• Pull down the elastic bunji cord (assists with pack up), and sit it around the front corner channels of the tent..
• Using the 4 x awning poles, position them in the supplied pole inserts and gently flex back to hook into the eyelets of the canvas.
• Using the 2 x black gas strut lockers, clip each one on the gas strut for added safety.

The tent is now ready for use.

PACK DOWN

• Remove your gas strut lockers and place them on the mattress inside
• Ensure your fan is laying flat on the mattress and bedding is evenly distributed in the centre of the mattress to allow room for the canvas when packed up.
• Unhook your rooftop tent awning poles and lay flat inside the tent.
• Using the 2 x supplied short bunji cords inside the tent, clip them to the plastic loops on either side of the side entrance ways. (This will help tension the canvas in).
• Now that the inside of your tent is ready. Stand at the rear of your vehicle ready to pull the tent down.
• Ensure the elastic bunji cord on the outside is lifted back up onto the canvas to assist pulling it in.
• Leave the side canvas doors down half way, and the mesh fully done up, to stop the canvas from blowing out when compressing.
• Use the supplied rope to pull the rooftop down. As it is closing, tuck the canvas inside so it doesn’t get caught between the sealing rubbers on the roof lid and baseboard. Secure the tent down with the latches and retract your ladder for storage in your vehicle.

CARE & MAINTENANCE

GENERAL MAINTENANCE TIPS
Caring for your rooftop tent is essential to ensure longevity and optimal performance. It will look after you as well as you look after it.

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your rooftop tent regularly to remove dirt, debris, and stains. Use a mild soap and water solution, and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the fabric or waterproof coatings.

2. Air your tent out: Always air your tent out after use, and even if not in use, thoroughly air the tent out every 2 weeks (especially in the colder months), to dry out any potential moisture buildup.
   • Allow the tent to dry over a few hours, ideally in direct sunlight. If not possible, open it up in an undercover space till completely dry.
   • Check the mattress and condensation mat, remove to allow everything to dry completely.

3. Storage:  When not in use, store your rooftop in a dry and well-ventilated area.
   • Make sure the tent is completely dry before storing it to prevent moisture- related issues.
   • Store your mattress and condensation mat out of the tent when possible.
   • Use a dehumidifier inside the tent to reduce humidity and prevent condensation.

4. Inspect for Damage : Regularly inspect your rooftop tent for any signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or worn-out components. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.

5. Maintenance of Zippers and Hardware : Check the zippers, hinges, latches, and other hardware regularly for signs of wear or corrosion. Lubricate them to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

6. Weatherproofing : Reapply waterproofing treatments to the tent fabric as necessary, especially after cleaning or prolonged exposure to the elements.
   • After a long time of use, it is natural for fabric to show general signs of wear. By applying a sprayon waterproof treatment and/or UV protectant, you can preserve the fabric life and ensure optimal functionality.
   • Use a canvas/fabric specific product to avoid damaging the rooftop.
   • Always patch test a product and read the instructions before coating the fabric entirely!

7. Check the mounts : Take time to check your mounting points to ensure nothing has loosened or looks weak. This is a great habit to get in, especially before leaving for a trip.

8. Professional Inspection and Repair : If you’re unsure about how to address a particular issue or if your rooftop tent requires extensive repairs, please reach out to us so we can assist you and the problem.

Note : Avoid car washes with your rooftop! The high-pressure water and chemicals used can damage your tents structural components and fabric.

CONDENSATION

Condensation is a problem that every camper will face at some point, and can happen regardless if the tent is in use or not. For those that are new to the camping scene, it is important to understand that this is a natural occurrence that can be reduced but not entirely avoided. During the cold season, condensation will always present substantially more. When the moist air meets a cold surface, it will convert into liquid droplets. This explains the ‘wet’ appearance on the surfaces inside your tent.
Just to put this in perspective, the average person will exhale up to 17.5ml of water every hour, that means approx. 210ml every 12 hours! With 2 people in the tent, that’s almost half a liter of water collecting over 12 hours.

• This is of course influenced by many factors, being “active..” in your tent will result in more condensation. *

By taking the right preventative steps and implementing our tips n tricks, you can minimise condensation significantly.

What makes condensation worse:

• Wet or damp equipment in the tent
• Camping near water sources such as a lake, river, beach or creek (moist air).
• Poor ventilation and air circulation
• Excessive exhaling
• Cold, wet and high humidity weather conditions

1. Temperature Differences: The temperature difference inside the tent, to the outside, causes moisture in the air to condense on these surfaces. To mitigate this, try ventilating your rooftop to balance the temperature inside and outside.
2. Humidity: High humidity levels can exacerbate condensation issues. Using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products inside the tent can help reduce humidity.
3. Proper Ventilation: Ensure that your rooftop tent has adequate ventilation. Keeping these your side doors partially or fully open will help prevent condensation by allowing moist air to escape and fresh air to enter.
4. Air Circulation: Use the supplied fan or a fan of your choice inside the tent to improve air circulation. This can help distribute warm air more evenly and reduce condensation build up.
5. Weather Conditions: Be mindful of weather conditions when camping. Cold, wet and humid weather is more likely to lead to condensation issues.
6. Moisture Control: Use moisture-absorbing products or silica gel packs inside the tent to help control humidity levels. These products can absorb excess moisture from the air, reducing the likelihood of condensation.
7. Proper Use of Bedding: Ensure bedding materials like sleeping bags or blankets are breathable and moisture-wicking to prevent them from trapping moisture next to your body and contributing to condensation.

Preventive Measures: Take preventive measures like wiping down surfaces prone to condensation each morning and evening to remove excess moisture. We highly suggest getting yourself a Chamois cloth for their super absorbent qualities.

MOULD

REMOVING MOULD BUILD-UP
Removing mould requires thorough cleaning and disinfecting to ensure the tent is safe for continued use. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove any mould safely:
Safety Precautions: Before you begin, ensure you’re wearing appropriate protective gear such as gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling mould spores or any chemicals used.

1. Ventilation : Set up the rooftop tent in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.
2. Brushing and Vacuuming: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any loose mould spores from the surface of the tent. Follow up by vacuuming the tent to remove any remaining debris.
3. Cleaning Solution: Prepare a cleaning solution using a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water or use a specialized tent cleaner. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the tent fabric.
4. Spot Test: Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire tent, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage to the fabric.
5. Scrubbing: Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the affected areas of the tent. Pay close attention to seams, corners, and any areas with visible mould growth.
6. Rinsing : After scrubbing, rinse the tent thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
7. Drying: Allow the tent to air dry completely in a sunny, well-ventilated area. Ensure the tent is completely dry and try using a moisture absorbing product (dehumidifier) before storing it to prevent mould from returning.

A Rooftop Tent is a valuable investment, and requires regular care and maintenance to promote a long life and optimal performance so you can continue to enjoy your travels to the fullest. By following every piece of information we have provided above, we can assure you that you will get the most out of your purchase for many years to come. Remember, your rooftop tent will look after you for as long as you look after it!

12 MONTH LIMITED WARRANTY

Full 12 month warranty from date of purchase against all manufacturing defects.
Warranty will cover any defects in design or manufacture which results in the product failing to perform substantially as described in authorised advertising or literature.
We will either repair or replace the product at our discretion providing that the fault is found to have been caused by a design or manufacturing defect and not misuse or tampering.

This warranty will not cover:

• Normal wear and tear from use, including fading, scratches, and abrasions.
• Damage caused by misuse, abuse, accidents, alterations, or improper installation.
• Damage resulting from extreme weather conditions, including wind, hail, or storms.
• Damage caused by unauthorised repairs or modifications.
• Any incidental or consequential damages.

TO MAKE A CLAIM, PLEASE ENSURE YOU RETAIN YOUR
SALES RECEIPT OF PURCHASE AND CONTACT US ASAP:
sales@bullproof.com.au
(03) 9125 7069

References

• BULL PROOF | Outdoor, 4x4 & Hunting Gear – Bull Proof Pty Ltd

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