A John Deere AMT622 Reborn: Welcome to the Wildest Mini Camper Project on YouTube
Once built for hauling hay and fence posts, this forgotten John Deere AMT622 is getting a second chance. One that involves high horsepower, off-road tires, and a fully functional camping setup. In true StealthBuilt fashion, this isn’t just a restoration, it’s a radical transformation into an off-road-ready mini overlanding camper unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
In Episode 1 of the Dirt Turtle series, Ryan Cole and Sam Kimmel take viewers on the journey from rusty relic to trail-blazing camper, introducing the concept, stripping it down, and laying the foundation for what might become the most talked-about DIY camper build on the internet.
Why the AMT622? Built for Payload. Perfect for Overlanding.
Sam scored the AMT622, a five-wheeled utility workhorse with a 1,000 lb payload, for just $425 off Facebook Marketplace. While it was crusty, knocking, and barely running, it had “good bones,” making it the ideal base for a budget-friendly off-road camper conversion.
This episode answers the question: Can you really build a badass off-road camper for under $6,000? The goal? A rig with:
- New engine & drivetrain
- Custom-built frame
- Solar power setup
- Heavy-duty off-road tires
- Hidden camping storage & gear compartments
All this packed into a small footprint with big character.
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Meet the Team: DIY Builds from Two Lifelong Friends
This isn’t a corporate build with a giant shop and paid crew; this is garage-built creativity. Sam Kimmel, the driving force behind StealthBuilt, flies in longtime friend and tech pro Ryan Cole from Arizona to help engineer the build. With over 20 years of IT experience and a passion for weekend fabrication, Ryan brings the wiring skills and practical know-how needed to resurrect this machine.
They’re joined on Day 2 by Brandon, a local wrench who helps break bolts, bust rust, and keep the build moving.
The Tear-Down Begins: Replacing the Heart of the Beast
The first few days are filled with:
- Power washing decades of grime
- Removing the old Kawasaki engine with a horrific rod knock
- Swapping in a new Subaru engine
- Fixing brakes, axles, and busted wiring
- Debating paint schemes, camper layout, and… pot pie rating systems?
Yes, between grinding steering wheels and hunting down bearings, the crew keeps it real with plenty of laughs, offbeat conversations, and on-camera honesty.
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Big Tires. Bigger Plans. The Build is Just Getting Started
Massive off-road tires are mounted, suspension is inspected, and the team begins fabricating mounts for the flatbed and camper platform. The plan is bold: build a modular camper frame with a sleeping deck above, gear storage below, and smart upgrades like solar, a 12V power bank, and water storage, all hidden in plain sight.
Ryan also tackles the wiring overhaul, adding weather-protected components and custom-fit ignition replacements. This isn’t just a flashy build, it’s one built to work.
What’s Next in the Dirt Turtle Series?
With the mechanical foundation complete, Episode 1 ends with the crew preparing to design and fabricate the camper portion. They’ll be crafting:
- A custom frame and cab
- A fully skinned and insulated camper box
- Space-efficient interior for sleeping, storage, and off-grid living
The goal? To prove that anyone with a vision, some basic tools, and a little stubbornness can turn scrap into something spectacular.
Why This Series Matters for DIY Builders and Overlanding Fans
StealthBuilt’s Dirt Turtle isn’t just another overlanding project; it’s a blueprint for building something epic on a budget. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or a weekend warrior, this series offers:
- Real-world advice and transparent pricing
- Creative problem-solving and workarounds
- Loads of inspiration for your next garage build
And most of all, it’s entertaining as hell.
Join the Journey: Subscribe and Follow the Build
This is just Episode 1, and the Dirt Turtle is just getting warmed up. Upcoming episodes will dive into custom fabrication, camper construction, and off-road shakedowns.
🔧 Watch the full video on YouTube
🎥 Subscribe to StealthBuilt for every new episode
📸 Follow behind-the-scenes content on Instagram and TikTok @StealthBuilt
🧢 New merch and build-themed gear launching soon at StealthBuilt.com
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