Truck Cap frustrations

[NorthernWoodsman]

I'm really set on fiberglass for a variety of reasons including maintenance and noise, but primarily fit. It matches all of the bevels and angles of the cab rather than the "close enough" you get with a giant sheet of metal folded in thirds. There is a company that makes an aluminum cap that will fit so I have that option but really don't want it for the above mentioned reason. That and from what I've read, the fiberglass is lighter.

fiberglass lighter than aluminum? haven't heard that before. having owned both i can say that from my experience an aluminum canopy is going to be a lot lighter than any fiberglass one. again, from my experience.

i think that if gemtop made you a canopy specifically for your truck they could match the angles of the truck pretty close. but, like i said before, it'll be expensive.

i still think your best bet is craigslist. usually you can find canopies for that style truck from ~$100-200 depending on condition.

best of luck to you.

 

[Martyn]

My suggestion is this:

Create a front platform on the bed next to the cab. Make it 14-16" wide. Place a regular shell behind that.

Use the shelf behind the cab for storage, may be a small tool chest, fuel, water etc.

 

[beerhiker]

is this what your looking for?

http://www.colorado4x4.org/vbb/showthread.php?t=177650

 

[STAGE 2]

fiberglass lighter than aluminum? haven't heard that before. having owned both i can say that from my experience an aluminum canopy is going to be a lot lighter than any fiberglass one. again, from my experience.

Its not that the aluminum is heavier, its that the steel frame that sits under the aluminum makes the total overall weight heavier.

My suggestion is this:

Create a front platform on the bed next to the cab. Make it 14-16" wide. Place a regular shell behind that.

Use the shelf behind the cab for storage, may be a small tool chest, fuel, water etc.

I thought about that, but it kind of kills the advantage of having the space of a longbed.

My other thought was that an enterprising overlanding company specializing in trailers and camper tops would come out with a new model for 2011 that happened to fit an 85 toyota:sombrero:

 

[STAGE 2]

is this what your looking for?

http://www.colorado4x4.org/vbb/showthread.php?t=177650

Cant tell. There arent any pics.

 

[NorthernWoodsman]

Its not that the aluminum is heavier, its that the steel frame that sits under the aluminum makes the total overall weight heavier.


Well, honestly, I have owned both and the fiberglass canopy was much, much heavier than the aluminum one i had. i could almost pick up the aluminum canopy myself, but it took two or three people to carry the fiberglass one. I suggest you find one of each and test out the weight for yourself. Personally, I like fiberglass canopies for a variety of reasons. But, if you're concerned about weight then aluminum is the better choice.

 

[STAGE 2]

Well, honestly, I have owned both and the fiberglass canopy was much, much heavier than the aluminum one i had. i could almost pick up the aluminum canopy myself, but it took two or three people to carry the fiberglass one. I suggest you find one of each and test out the weight for yourself. Personally, I like fiberglass canopies for a variety of reasons. But, if you're concerned about weight then aluminum is the better choice.

For a cab high shell, the fiberglass weighs in at 140 and the aluminum is 200. I'm sure this can and does vary by maker and by truck, but of the available ones I'm looking at this is whats listed.

 

[RallyHHRT]

Tried to read all the posts, and I didn't notice anyone mention the possiblity of a Ford Ranger camper shell. Back in the 80's there was a single cab ranger with a 7' bed. I have a fiberglass shell off of an 87 Ranger if you're interested and it fits. I guess the width is the only issue. I'm not sure if it differs from a yota. Anyway, it can use a little refurbishing, but it's yours if you want it and could find a way to get it home. (Not sure where you are from, but the cap is in PA).