How Are Camper Shells Mounted

Like the question I just posted about sleeping platforms, I found a million posts about camper shells (a.k.a. caps), but I can't find an answer to my specific question. I have a 2013 Taco with the composite bed and the "track" that goes around 3 sides of the bed that accepts the cleats for tying stuff down. How exactly do the camper shell dealers recommend clamping a shell down? I'm hoping I don't have to remove the plastic on top of my bed rails because I intend to take my shell off whenever I'm not using it. Are there clamps that have a piece that go in that track, or is there enough space under that track and is the track secure enough to clamp to it? I'd like to see some photos if anyone can refer me to some.
Thanks.
Steve

 

Clamps; mine has six- three per side. I'm using an older style but the shell has been on there since 2006; I need to pull it and clean everything and replace the seal.



Here's another, newer, style:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/API-Truck-C...-Tacoma-Clamps-AC110UMBP4TC-NEW-/261181323453

 

My Leer mounts with bolts that go into aluminum stock inside the bed rails

 

Thanks for the reply. So does your Taco have that track or rail system around 3 sides? ...and do the clamps have a piece that goes in that track or do they go under it? Does your bed have the plastic on top of the bed rails and did you leave that on and mount the shell on top of it?

 

Like dis

 

You're exactly right. Mine mounts the same way that Oz's does. And you don't need to remove the plastic rail caps.

 

Yes to all; it has the track (see picture) and part of the clamps goes in the track. Yes, the bed is intact.

 

I ordered up a set of the newer style that BajaTacoma provided the link to (http://www.ebay.com/itm/API-Truck-Ca...-/261181323453). The instructions say to remove the plastic piece from the end of the track. Can anyone tell me the proper way to remove that plastic end piece?
Thanks.

 

It just pulls out

 

I use these same ones but they are bigger and "beefier" I guess.
Got them as a freebie..very nice. I like that I didnt have to drill holes into my bed. Easy removal. Especially since after this trip I am taking on friday I want to take the ole shell off for a while. Its getting STINKY in there for no reason.

 

Where did you get those? That looks great and functional.

 

Came with my Leer

 

Part number?

 

Found it... Better Built...

 

ARE DCU cap. clamps the installer used barely grab the lip of the cap.

anyone know of a clamp which has enough reach to get good bearing on the bottom cap frame plate? thanks

 

Can buy them here too: https://www.truckoutfittersplus.com/store/topper_parts_clamps.htm