Question:
recently purchased a tacoma. I'm new to trucks but have been
looking forward to getting a camper shell, which I need to learn
about.
what's a reasonable price range for a snugtop highliner? in los
angeles area? (with insulation and sliding side windows)
I've heard snugtop is the only brand that you can lock from inside. is
this pretty secure?
if my truck rear window is one piece of glass (non-sliding), is it at
all beneficial (or recommended) to have the shell w/ the folding front
window? do people drive w/ the shell window down to help visibility?
how is snugtop in terms of water leakage? is that a given? how do you
adjust for it?
I've seen a few brahmas which I liked the shape of. any recommended
dealers in los angeles? do they make versions for tacomas?
I've heard of bedrugs and I've heard of people padding their bed
themselves. what's most practical in terms of cost/effort/preserving
the truck?
I know I ask alot of questions, if you know some answers, that would
be great.
Answer:
Question: recently purchased a tacoma. I'm new to trucks but have been
looking forward to getting a camper shell, which I need to learn
about.
what's a reasonable price range for a snugtop highliner? in los
angeles area? (with insulation and sliding side windows)
Answer: I got one in 2000 for my Tundra from DACO (several dealers in
the San Fernando Valley) and it was $890. DACO, as far as I
know, does not have their own line of shells but sells Snugtops,
Innovation, A.R.I. and some other ones.
Question: how is snugtop in terms of water leakage? is that a given? how do you
adjust for it?
Answer: There was some problem with leakage from the third brake light mounting
on the top/rear of the shell. A little silicone sealant took care of it.
If you get a shell without a window in the front there is usually a
rubber grommet that goes around the opening. The problem is
that it may not seal properly between the shell and the back of
the cab where it goes over the third brake light. However, if water gets in
there it just goes through between the cab and bed and drips out.
Speaking of third brake lights, your truck's computer looks for three
brake lights and will not be happy if there are four, as I found out.
Removing the bulb from the third light on the cab and wiring the
brake light to the third light on the shell seems to keep the computer
smiling. Anything to avoid the "check engine" light from coming on.
Question: I've heard of bedrugs and I've heard of people padding their bed
themselves. what's most practical in terms of cost/effort/preserving
the truck?
Answer: I put a 1/2" rubber pad in the bed - works great.
If you go to the Snugtop web page http://www.snugtop.com/
there are rebate coupons $40 Shell, $20 Tonneau.
