Are Camper Shell For Toyota Tacoma

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If you’ve looked into fiberglass camper shells (also known as truck tops or truck caps), you’re probably aware of their price and aware that they’re not exactly inexpensive.

However, there are other variables that can increase or decrease the price of a specific shell. My LEER 100R is what I like to call a “grandpa shell” because it’s excellent but not overly sophisticated, and it’s so far fit my needs wonderfully.

I knew when I acquired my Tacoma, coming from Toyota SUVs (particularly the FJ Cruiser & 4Runner), that I would want a camper shell for a number of reasons. The main justification was that I needed the extra room to store items safely and dry. The absence of weather protection and potentially secure storage is perhaps the largest drawback of a truck bed.

I transport groceries, photographic equipment for work, my dogs, and everything else I could need for a project around the house in my truck because I use it every day.

Price for LEER 100R Truck Cap

It’s crucial to remember that LEER does not publish pricing information online; you must speak with your neighborhood dealer.

A fully and thoroughly equipped shell should cost around $3500, with the base model costing roughly $1800.

Features

Your individual needs and/or budget will have the biggest impact on the LEER 100R’s features and available alternatives.

Although the LEER 100R may be regarded as the entry-level LEER choice, the price might soon rise if you start searching beyond the basic capabilities.

If you are fortunate enough to have a dealer nearby, I suggest visiting them to learn more about the many alternatives you might be interested in and to meet with them in person.

I myself did not enjoy that luxury. I called the store numerous times before placing my order and did a lot of my own research to find reviews and images of various camper shells.

Standard Features

These are all the features that a LEER 100R will have, at the very least.

  • Personalized Design
  • Framed back door with two T-handle locks
  • Screened 50/50 Sliding Side Windows
  • Dome Light Interior
  • Distorted Glass
  • LED Third Brake Light, Recessed
  • Front Fixed Window without a Frame
  • Base Rails Made of Fiberglass for Structural Integrity
  • Installation Pockets for J-Clamps
  • Bulb Seal for Installation
  • Color-Matched Paint by Axalta (includes touch-up paint)
  • Lifetime Limited Warranty on Color and Structure

Although adding features will increase the cost of the camper shell, they might also increase its appeal to you or a potential buyer if you ever decide to sell it.

Optional Features

There are many extra features available; I’ll highlight a few below. I’ll also outline the exact choices I made based on my own requirements.

  • Carpeting inside
  • Front Sliding Window with Removal
  • Detachable Front Window (without slider)
  • 50/50 Sliding Side Window Pet Screens
  • Folding clothing hanger
  • Angler’s Rod Holder
  • Net for Overhead Cargo (requires Roof Rack Tracks)

Optional Feature Breakdown

I chose the carpeted interior over the bare fiberglass because I believe it gives the shell a more finished appearance when seen as a whole. Additionally, it ought to provide some insulation when I and the dogs are sleeping inside.

I chose roof rack tracks because I would rather have them and not need them than the other way around. One thing to keep in mind is that by choosing the roof rack tracks when ordering your shell, you will avoid voiding your structural warranty and putting the shell at danger of damage by having them installed at the factory.

As you may think, there are a lot of options for how to decorate the roof of your camper shell. You might affix crossbars or a canopy rack for a rooftop tent, for instance, or transport mountain bikes, kayaks, or extra stuff for prolonged camping trips.

When I ordered my camper, LEER was providing a coupon to upgrade the fixed front window to a removable front glass (with a sliding center piece). I had to get this update because it was free.

When the side windows are also open, the sliding component of the window allows for ample of airflow. This is a great perk for me and my dogs when we go camping (when I actually make them ride back there). The ability to remove it for cleaning the camper shell window as well as the windows on the back of the truck cab is another significant advantage. When ordering a LEER camper, do yourself a favor and make sure to check with your dealer to see if a discount coupon is available.

Pros & Cons

There are always positive and negative qualities, as there are with many aftermarket components. Naturally, these are subjective, so your results may differ.

  • Aesthetics/design
  • very good color matching
  • Simple and effective
  • a safe and dry cargo area
  • Waiting time (8 weeks for mine)
  • limited capacity for hauling because of height
  • not waterproof, but weather-sealed
  • Fiberglass is vulnerable to scuffs and chips.
  • The top of the bedside decals is just touched or covered by the side skirts.

Final Thoughts

Although owning and purchasing a camper shell has some disadvantages, I think they are outweighed by the benefits. I wasn’t interested in or able to afford a “fancy or more expensive camper shell.

I was looking for a reasonable solution that will perform the work and be attractive in the process. The LEER 100R has so far worked well for me whether I’m camping in it, lugging photographic gear for work, or just taking the dogs for a trip.

The SnugTop Super Sport Truck Cap and the Softopper Soft Top Canopy are only two of the different bed topper options and viewpoints available. Here, you can also descend the rabbit hole of entire campers, bed racks, and camper shells. Finding something that will meet your needs now or in the near future is crucial given the variety of options available.

I hope I was able to clarify any doubts you may have had about this specific setup, or at the very least provide you with a solid starting point to make your purchase decision a little bit simpler!

Toyota does it produce camper shells?

For the most affordable costs, turn to California Camper Shells for the best camper shells for your Ford vehicle. Our selection of camper shells features products from renowned companies like Snugtop, LEER, ARE, and many others. Our company is aware that your truck is more than just a car. It is your personal space, toolset, andmost importantlycarryall.

Only at California Camper Shells can you choose from the best Ford camper shells for your truck. We provide:

How much does a Tacoma Snugtop camper shell cost?

I made the decision to purchase a cover for the bed of my 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport 4X4 many months ago. I made the decision to visit my neighborhood camper shell dealership after conducting countless research on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist to determine what characteristics I would want.

I left with a SnugTop Super Sport on my truck after a brief sales pitch from the salesman and some good ol’ fashioned haggling, and I couldn’t have been more thrilled!

Features:

  • glass pop-out side windows without frames;
  • carpeting inside
  • with a front window that slides and folds.
  • Check Prices for SnugTop Super Sport Truck Bed Cap

Among its numerous applications, this cap provides a further safe and lockable storage space, a canopy over your head when automobile camping, and the opportunity for additional roof rack space.

Since 1965, SnugTop has provided a selection of truck caps and tonneau covers, so I felt confidence in my choice when I purchased my shell. For the past three months, I have driven the Super Sport on my double cab short bed (DCSB) on everything from long highway journeys to sleeping in the back to light off-roading.

Check out our review of the Softopper Soft Top if a hard shell topper is not for you. Check out Daniel’s instructive essay if you want to understand more about your alternatives or if you’re deciding between campers, bed racks, and camper shells.

When looking for the ideal cap for your truck, the sheer number of shell manufacturers (SnugTop, Leer, Century, among others) and the numerous variants they each provide with different features can rapidly become overwhelming.

This is especially true given that hard shells aren’t exactly inexpensive; it is simple to become preoccupied with each individual feature and whether or not they are worthwhile.

  • Side Windows with All Glass in a Flush Mount
  • Rear Side Windows That Extend
  • Interior Shell Headliner SNUGRUG
  • Tailgate made entirely of curved glass.
  • Multiple Roof Rack Options
  • Fuel-efficient Aerodynamic Design
  • Single-Piece Design (Fiberglass)
  • Lifetime Warranty on the Structure and Paint

This is obviously a lot to take in. Let me now outline what I believe to be the most crucial factors for you to think about before purchasing a cap for your Tacoma.

Windows

The Super Sport has pop-out parts in the back of the side windows that let a little bit of air pass through the sleeping area.

These just have the portions that open toward the back of the window and lack sliding windows. Reaching in through the side windows is crucial and not a choice with this model if you anticipate needing to access stuff towards the front of the bed.

Height

There are two height categories for hard shells: cab-high and high rise. Cab-high, as its name suggests, corresponds to your cab’s height (as the Super Sport does). High-rise caps have a higher height than the cab, giving the bed extra room.

Although I personally enjoy the cab-high design’s sleek appearance, I have had a few terrible experiences when camping where I have hit my head on the roof, which wouldn’t have happened with a high rise.

Price

Prices can vary depending on the business and type you choose. Although generally speaking, I would say the cost is between $1900 and $3500.

Although it depends on how much your neighborhood dealership charges for it, the Super Sport is in the top of that range. It’s a good idea to seek for a used shell on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to save some money.

PROS & CONS

The Super Sport’s sleek and modern appearance is what I appreciate it most. This cap has a style that avoids any bulk or extraneous elements because of the frameless windows. Personally, I think the cab-high shell looks much nicer than the others do.

The interior of this cap has carpeting, which I have grown to like. The Super Sport’s carpeted inside offers a strong layer of insulation. This is especially crucial if you’re camping because it will significantly improve interior temperature maintenance and eliminate any chance of condensation buildup. It works great with velcro if you wish to attach anything to the inside, such as DIY mosquito screens.

The security was one of the main factors in my decision to go with this shell rather than a soft topper. You can put anything in your bed knowing that it won’t be easily taken because you can lock this shell.

The robust shell’s ability to withstand the elements is the last benefit I want to discuss. This has significant advantages since it prevents everything you place in the bed from getting wet when it rains or snows. One drawback of using a rooftop tent on bed racks for camping is that if it rains, all of your essential stuff must stay in the cab with you. If you are traveling between distant locations, the hard shell also enables simple and pleasant stealth camping in the occasional Walmart parking lot.

Even while I could go on and on about how wonderful this shell is, not everyone will find it to be ideal.

The SuperSport’s major flaw is its high price. An estimate of $3400 was given to me by a nearby dealership. It’s difficult to swallow that bitter pill! By pure coincidence, the dealership I visited had already ordered similar cap for a different customer who had a third-generation Tacoma short bed in the same color but had backed out, thus the dealership deducted $1000 from the price.

If I’m being really honest, if there hadn’t been such a significant price reduction, I doubt I would have purchased this model. If you’re desperate for this item but aren’t able to spend that much money, I recommend keeping an eye on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and other websites that sell used goods.

The fact that the side windows do not spring out is the only other significant issue I have with this SnugTop. This implies that I have to climb into the bed and pull anything small that slips all the way to the front. It would be ten times simpler to do this if the side window on the sliding door could pop out. I created some drawers for the tiny objects so that I could pull them out and utilize my bed fully, which makes this problem quite simple to resolve.

The weight is a small point to keep in mind. Your Tacoma’s back end will sag somewhat, just like it would if you put anything substantial in your bed. When I first bought the shell, the front featured a two-leveling kit. My truck’s back end started to dramatically sag after the cap was put. I reasoned that now would be a good moment to lift the rear, so I am now level once more, but weight is something to take into account.

I can’t say that I would suggest this choice to every vehicle owner I know because of the cost. However, if you’re seeking for a reliable option for covert camping or secure, weatherproof storage space under your bed, this is a terrific productas long as you can afford the steep price or find one used.

Overall, I am completely delighted with my decision to purchase the SnugTop Super Sport. I can say that I have no regrets about buying this cap because I have used it both on and off-road and slept under it numerous times.

Truck camper shells: Are they worthwhile?

Truck caps will increase your truck’s height and give it an SUV-like appearance even though a truck topper should be level with the cab. A truck cap can enable you to go camping and spend the night in your truck’s bed.

The large cargo space can be protected by truck tops, keeping it waterproof. Giving it the ideal defense additionally safeguards whatever you can be transporting in the truck bed. Therefore, the cap can also protect any objects you are carrying, such as tools or even groceries.

Therefore, if you’re thinking of purchasing a truck cap and questioning, “Are Truck Toppers Worth It? Think about your other plans besides camping, food shopping, and covering your bed and cargo from the elements.

  • What does a vehicle load rating of 2000 pounds mean?
  • Why are there flaps on the exhaust of semi-trucks?
  • What’s the thing on the truck’s back called?

How much does a Toyota Tacoma topper cost?

Once you’ve chosen the fundamental duties your topper will carry out, it’s time to choose a material. There are often three or four choices:

Composite/Plastic

Aluminum is by far the least cheapest material: A brand-new aluminum topper with basic features is often available for less than $1,000. The majority range in price from $900 to $1200. (installed). Nevertheless, aluminum

  • They typically only come in white or black, and many people dislike the way a white topper appears on a truck that is any other color.
  • Aluminum tops eventually look filthy and damaged, especially the cheaper toppers.

A standard white aluminum topper is a good option if you’re not at all bothered with appearance (or if you have a white truck). If you want a genuine commercial topping with features like storage, lockable toolboxes, double doors on the sides, etc., or if you want to reduce weight, aluminum is also a suitable option.

Aluminum toppers are still very common because fiberglass toppers are generally more expensive (it’s difficult to find one for less than $1,200 installedmost cost $1,800-$3,000 installed), even though they typically look terrific and are frequently coated to match your truck’s factory paint job. In addition to being hefty (they can weigh up to 200 lbs, depending on options), fiberglass toppers are also difficult to obtain fiberglass toppers made for industrial usage (although they are available).

A relatively recent option are composite/plastic toppers. They’re a solid middle ground between aluminum and fiberglass, offering many of the characteristics of metal without losing aesthetics, although having a fairly restricted color choices. These more recent composite toppers come in a wide range of prices, but in general, you can expect to pay more for composite than aluminum (but still less than fiberglass). A good range, depending on the features, is between $1,200 and $1,800 (installed).

Last but not least, SmartCap, a relatively new competitor in the market, produces its truck toppers from stainless steel. Even though they are some of the most expensive truck bed toppers on our list, they are also unquestionably the toughest and most long-lasting. Truck caps made by SmartCap are produced in South Africa and distributed in this country.

NOTE: All costs are averages based on the vehicle and apply to full-size vehicles. Simply because the Ford F-150 is more popular, a topper for a Tundra can cost more than a topper for a Ford F-150. Similar to how a full-size truck topper for a RAM or Sierra might cost a little less, a topper for a new Chevy Colorado or Toyota Tacoma might.

Can you get asleep in a short Tacoma bed?

Both a short bed (60.5 inches in length) and a long bed are available in third-generation Toyota Tacomas (from 2015 to the present) (73.5 in. length). HEST mattresses can be used in a Toyota Tacoma short bed with the tailgate down (see photographs below), or in a Toyota Tacoma long bed with the tailgate closed.

Can any truck accommodate any camper shell?

  • You receive a covered area above the bed, which gives your bed more height and storage space.
  • safeguards pricey possessions
  • is suitable for camping.
  • A cap is a fashion accessory for your truck. Ideal if you frequently travel and take vacations and need additional storage. Excellent for hunters and fishermen who enjoy the outdoors.
  • Safekeeping for valuables
  • Excellent for hunting and traveling with dogs.
  • you with dry storage
  • For work trucks that require additional space for tools and equipment, a cap is fantastic.
  • A tonneau bed cover may be a better choice if you want to keep that truck look.
  • Some trucks’ height volumes may be restricted by it. It will restrict what you can place in the bed if you want to haul something taller than your cab.
  • Which window arrangement is best for you? There are numerous choices for side windows.
  • Lighting: Do you require it, and if so, what kind?
  • Rafter Rack
  • Do you intend to mount anything on the peak of your cap in the future? Inquire about your alternatives for a roof.
  • Optional front windows: This is MASSIVE. Will you prefer to wash your cap’s front or a window with a drop-down opening? Does your truck have a sliding rear windshield? Will dogs be riding in the back with you?

Yes, you can! Your ability to spread your legs as you sleep and the size of your bed both play a role in this. You can add a few extremely cool extras to your ARE truck cap to truly take your camping to the next level:

  • You may add a… because the Topper EZ Lift system raises your cap off your bed and gives you additional headroom.
  • Tent! TopperEZ offers a contractor kit for work vehicles as well as a weekender pop out tent for camping. You can camp in your vehicle if you raise the cap’s roof and install a tent.
  • Include the air mattress from Airbedz truck bed that is tailored to fit in your bed around the wheel wells.
  • Actually, it’s more of a lifestyle and convenience item, and you almost never get more money when you subsequently sell it.
  • Probably not. It requires knowledge to install it correctly. Knowing the right cap placement, wiring, taping, and clamping techniques is essential. These are not mud flaps, and you cannot simply slap them on.
  • can void the guarantee if the cap is harmed during installation or the installation is done incorrectly.
  • You are in charge of any warranty and installation problems if you do the installation yourself.

According to ARE, it will take between 15 and 17 weeks to receive a fiberglass truck cap and 5-7 weeks to get an aluminum truck top due to COVID’s aftereffects on the supply chain and a resin shortage.

The structure is the most crucial factor when looking at utilized. Check the windows for cracks and leaks by looking for dark streaks between the frame and cap. Also keep in mind that these caps are designed for particular automobiles. That denotes the identical make and model for a particular model year range (see below)

Nothing cross-fits unless your truck is older than the 1990s. There will be problems with fit, watertightness, and safety. Caps cannot be swapped across brands (e.g., Ford and Chevy), models (e.g., F-150 and F-250), or year ranges (2018 Chevy 1500 to 2019)

Even if the bed size is the same for all trucks, the cab variations will preclude cross fitting because every shell is customized for each truck.