Enough of the oil and lube wars

[Chief USA]

How about a truck bed cap war?



Just kidding!



I have seen a few posts here about truck toppers, etc. Based on what I read and researched I went and looked at some ARE and LEER truck bed toppers today. I was appalled at the really poor quality and workmanship. (i. e. trim screw installed crooked & tightened down so much that the trim was crushed, corrosion, huge gaps in the window trim rings, etc. )



I don't know the first thing about who makes the best or even a good quality truck bed topper. Not interested in starting any skunk peeein' contests.



Can you guys that have truck bed toppers give me some feed back on your experiences, prices and opinions please?



Maybe the dealer I went to just had old demostrator stock laying out, but in any case, if this is the best there is... ... ... ..... I think I will pass on a topper and keep my money in my wallet. Thank in advance for your replies.



Randy

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

Your best bet would probably be to keep your eyes open around parking lots and on the street - and when you are able, check out the ones that appeal to you up close to get the brand name and overall quality - and if you can, ask the owner how he likes it...

 

[illflem]

I like Raider canopys--"The value leader. A product from Canada that sets the benchmark for value. Raider has the most technologically advanced manufacturing plant in the industry. This allows them to offer high quality at a great price. "

http://www.allamericancanopies.com/canopy_Raider.asp

 

[KL]

Randy, I currently have a Raven brand topper. I have also had a Glasstite topper on a previous truck (86). Raven toppers are made by Glasstite toppers but have a rear metal door with 2 handles while the Glasstite model has a Fiberglass door with 2 handles, but is a few hundred dollars more. The Fiberglass door is the best sealing door I have ever seen. but I went with the Raven topper on my new truck (I got it for my 96 Dodge, but it still fits my new one), because I could not afford the extra money at the time.



What ever you get, get one with two rear handles. The single handle locking mechanisms dont work for long. A big plus of fiberglass is their strength, important especially in snow country. But they are heavy, so if you would be constantly putting it on and taking it off, Aluminum may be the way to go. Good luck. KL

 

[rfcom]

Topper

I had a Raider on my '96 RAM gasser. They painted it and the colour matched perfect. It was on for 6 years and never had a problem with it. Very good fit and finish. Also included the center mount brake light and interior light and sliding side and front windows. FWIW.



Jim

 

[Prairie Dog]

For the new Dodge body, Lear has a nice canopy that has glass that comes all the way to the front edge and all the way down to the bottom edge of the canopy. The windows line up with the cab windows and are the same height. The back window is curved and looks like a SUV setup. It looks somewhat like a Suburban when it's installed. Lear also has a cab window that both slides open and then can swing down out of the way to facilitate cleaning your truck rear window. The rear canopy window has automotive style latches and swings up over the back of the canopy in a manner that keeps rain from spilling into your bed area when opened. Should have mine in about 2 weeks.

 

[Rob Levandoski]

Over the summer I ordered an ARE for my truck and was really psyched about the looks. After the install I looked at the interior craftsmanship and IT SUCKED ! The moulding was twisted, screws were set so deep they broke the aluminum trim, and the rear door needed extra muscle to close. Needless to say, the cap looks cool but I surely wouldn't buy another, or recommend to my fellow TDR's a similar cap, based on what I've purchased.



The truck still looks cool though !

 

[JTMcCracken]

Do you use amsoil on the door hinges??? ; )

JTMcC

 

[Chief USA]

"Homer's Duck Butter" spooned onto the hinges and worked in works much better!

 

[JTMcCracken]

rfrazier,

I am afraid I must report you to the TDR Police Force. You are blatantly trying to bait and start a massive flame war amoungtst the Butter combatants, both pro and con, shame on you!!! Shame, shame! JTMcC

 

[illflem]

oil wars

In order to remain neutral I've decided to mix Delo and Amsoil half and half,

 

[Patriot Diesel]

Glasstite gets my vote...

About 3 months ago I was considering a cap for my truck. I looked at the top of the line cab high models from ARE, Leer, and Glasstite. The Glasstite was more money but in my opinion worth every penny. The fit, finish and quality are incredible. I saw one on a 2003 the other day and it looked fantastic.



Jeff

 

[DPKetchum]

I bet a BHAF would mount on one to add some ventilation. Oo. But what air filter would you suggest