It is the only known one that remains in existence.
Most Americans will recognize the Checker Marathon as the taxicab that appears in every American movie between the 1960s and the 1980s. However, this one is quite different. Lynds Camper Services converted it into a small but capable camper in 1977. The Silodrome featured this quirky vehicle. Photos courtesy Bill Beurkens.
This little motorhome, which is a Checker-based campervan, goes by the name Champer. It is the last one still in existence. The 1965 Checker Marathon station wagon was the original form of this vehicle. It is not the typical sedan. Marathon had a body-on frame chassis. The builder cut off the bodywork below the B-pillar to install this camper section.
The 1965 Marathon was made available with three Chevy-sourced engines including a 3.8-liter Inline-Six, 4.64-liter v8 and a 5.4-liter V8. This camper received a 6.56-liter, V8 from a 1977 GMC van during its conversion. A heavy-duty rear axle was added and an upgraded brake system were also included.
These improvements would allow the Champer to handle the additional drag and weight of the camper. It still looks impressively compact from the outside.
Although the Champer does not have fresh or gray water tanks there is a kitchenette that has a stove, oven and refrigerator. The 1970s-inspired finishings are reminiscent of the 1970s, with a palette that favors browns and beiges. The driving area is doubled. You can also convert the seating area at the back into space for sleeping. You will find plenty of storage space.
Bill Beurkens, in addition to taking the photos, also owns Champer. It was purchased in Louisiana by Bill Beurkens from the parents and siblings of the original owner. Beurkens completed some restoration work to make the motorhome roadworthy once again. These photos show that the machine is beautiful and has a hint of its incredible history.