Diamondback Topper thoughts?

they seem like they are amazing. What is the collective thought?

 

For me, they are too heavy, bulky, and I don't need that level of security/toughness. I got Rugged Liner trifold. I like the fact that I can remove the whole thing in 5 minutes if I needed to but it still provides a good level of security.

 

My thoughts as well. I like the security living in Memphis TN. I saw one but haven’t lived with one yet so I want to see some real life testimony.

 

It’s nice to have IMO. I got Dakar EL096R heavy leaf springs in the back. So the added weight is a bonus to help keep the back down!

 

Those leaf springs look nice! Do you have more weight in the back than just the diamondback cover and some gear?

 

Yea I got a full steel rack, RTT, tools, awning...
Here’s the whole setup.
https://youtu.be/pROtfj4IFDE

But yea sometimes I need to take alll that stuff off when not camping so the added weight helps.

 

I have the SD and love it. All the parts together are heavier than many other options, but each part is light enough that I am able to install and remove it myself easily.

 

I have a near identical set up. I am curious where you got the hardware to mount your awning?

 

So I kind of jimmied one together with parts that aren’t necessarily supposed to go together but I think it works.

KBVooDoo/max modular makes an awning bracket, but it doesn’t lift it very high above the rack system. Also, if you have the premium rack like me; you’ll have to drill holes into the rack to fit these awning brackets.

https://www.max-modular.com/shop-max-modular/universal-awning-brackets

I wanted to raise the awning higher, so I found these 1/2 thick steel brackets made for holding up 200 pound granite slabs. I figured that would be strong enough!

But yea... drilling through 1/2 in steel isn’t fun so be prepared!

Countertop Support Bracket 12" Steel L-Bracket

Countertop Support Bracket 12" Steel L-Bracket

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S5HLEQE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iW8iCbTNMBX84

 

I have the HD and I love it, though admittedly there is some sticker-shock at first.
It's sturdy as hell - I feel like it turns my entire truck bed into a giant safe.
With the veterans' discount I bought the storage bin to keep all my camping gear easily accessible and organized.

Edit: haven't had it long enough to know if the added weight will help driving in snow, but if so, that'll just be a bonus.

 

The only reason I'm not getting a Diamondback is because it's difficult, if not impossible, to access a large portion of the bed area when used with a rack+RTT.

As a result, I'm installing a retractable cover instead. Doing so will allow me to access the entire bed area regardless of what I have mounted above.

 

Thank you very much!

 

Happy to help! but yea, I added a few holes to the KBVooDoo Rack system to make it work. Specifically holes for the short end of the bracket to bolt into the horizontal portion of the rack. I also used 3 bolts per bracket to hold the awning. Here's another video just showing the brackets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iggWcQGdF8w

 

Thanks again - I have the same cover, rack, and RTT - was not happy with the height of my awning and this will be a nice change for next camping season.

 

I have the HD and love it. Run a cross bar/ RTT setup myself. I also store a lot of firearms related stuff in the bed for 2-3 weeks at a time so the security is necessary. Mine is mostly waterproof too which is nice.

 

Thanks for all the input!

 

I second the security for gun storage... big reason I went with the diamondback

 

I've had the SE on my truck for two years now, including the cab guard, rear rack and tool box. I have been extremely happy with the setup, but needed to make one modification. The rack on the cab guard sits just above the cab, so I had to add a cross bar 4" to 5" higher so I could get my canoe on without rubbing on the roof. Also, if you live in a cold climate with a lot of snow and ice, sometimes a panel my freeze to the bed rail, thought it helps some if you spray silicone on the gaskets. The security is awesome, and I have no problems leaving my expensive fly rods, gear and tools in the bed. I don't think you will be disappointed, the customer service is top notch as well.

 

Couldn't be happier with mine...worth every penny. With that said I went online to the diamondback outlet where they'll sell covers directly for a $400 discount due to slight to bigger imperfections. In my case, slight uneven bedliner application. It's secure and with a little bit of silicone weather proof too.

 

I love it!