2016 shell pics?

Get one of the 500lb-rated shells and you'll be golden. You might get away with it using a "standard" 200lb-rated shell, but it might start to crack over time.

 

Do you know any ratings of any of the ARE shells? Trying to avoid calling the local ARE dealers as prompted by the ARE site to get information lol

 

Not familiar with them. They definitely have a 500lb-rated shell, but I don't know the model.

 

Also, @c4lvinnn, if you're doing a lot of camping with a large family/pack, I'd seriously think about the AT Habitat, a used FlipPack, or even a drop-in camper.

As I keep adding stuff to my own truck, I'm realizing that the costs are getting up there...

A new AT Habitat is around $12k USD (might be slightly off, but close enough). That's $15,700 CAD. A huge amount of money, but then again, break down the alternative costs:

- my Leer 100XR was $4400 CAD out the door (only a 200lb dynamic rating)
- my OZ Tent RV4 was $1500 CAD
- my Front Runner roof rack was $1200 CAD (to carry the enormous OZ Tent that doesn't fit in the 6ft bed)
- my ARB 1250 rear awning (which serves the same purpose as an open AT Habitat) and Front Runner brackets to mount it was about $300 CAD
- my cot and extra mattress was another $150

That's $7550 already. Swap out the OZ Tent & roof rack for a nice hard-shell RTT (minimum $4000 CAD, but likely closer to $5000 CAD), and that's in the $8500-9500 CAD range.

Suddenly the difference between my incrementally-built setup and the "dream" is not nearly all that ridiculous.

Had I known what I know now, and had the garage-door clearance for an AT Habitat, I'd have almost certainly gone that route to begin with. I've seen plenty of Tacomas driving around with good old campers in the back (some fixed, some with elevating roofs), and I suspect that setup can be had for less than what I've already spent on mine, so that would also be a strong contender.

 

We're not there, yet. Honestly, we probably will never be doing camping/extended traveling to that degree. Just want something that can secure our gear (no open beds, so bed racks are out) and hold up a RTT for a weekend getaway. I think I found what I was looking at from ARE: the HD series cap which has an internal skeleton. Even has a 3rd gen Taco with RTT in their stock photo, lol. May not even daily with the shell and RTT on, so should be all in storage.

 

I have a HD CX shell with the internal frame. 500 lbs rating.

 

How much space do you loose inside with the internal framework?

 

The frame really does not get in the way. I have the windoors also and the frame is all behind the fiberglass.

 

Better pic. I put a rtt up on the bars and two chubby humans. Couple bottles of wine, the wife and I getting frisky we need the higher load rating.

 

Love my shell : )
Leer 100XR with integrated Thule rails.

 

What is the best way to upgrade your rear suspension to compensate for added weight without lifting the truck?
I've added the Leer 100XR, a Frontrunner roof rack, and a rooftop tent.
The back is starting to feel a little squishy especially when i load in a bunch of additional camping/bike gear.
All combined it's probably close to 550-600lbs.
If anyone has any tips it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

 

Sumo springs, check em out on Amazon approx $210

$287 SSR-610-40 | SumoSprings Rear for Toyota Tundra, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Nissan Titan

https://www.amazon.com/SuperSprings-SSR-610-40-SumoSprings-Solo-Upgrade/dp/B00O4GD38M

 

there is also a Hellwig rear sway bar kit for our trucks if you feel the rear needs more highway stability. 4wheelparts has it.

 

Where is that frame from? Custom or store bought?

 

You must be made of money!

 

how much did you pay??

 

It's easy to justify each item individually. Also the reason I don't usually add up what I'm spending on my toys... ignorance really is bliss!

 

HA! Good call. Is that internal frame attached to the shell? Just curious if you could remove and re-install if you wanted. It almost looks like a regular shell with the aluminum frame added. thanks for the photos.

 

Got my Leer 100R installed today. Pretty psyched on the fit and look. Color match is pretty on point. Went with the Thule rack, removable front window, and liner.
Was supposed to have a windoor on the passenger side but that should be arriving next week for install. Also, will be removing the giant Leer decal off rear window. Overall, I like the old school classic look of the 100R on my taco.

 

Where did you get the Dog screen? Or where could I get one?