Camper shell or toolboxs

Thinking about putting a camper shell on my 03 double cab need something to keep my tools in. I also would need to get a hitch carrier to haul my dirt bike then. I dont know if it would worth the money or just better off setting up some toolboxs. Thanks for any input.

 

First things first, how many tools do you need to keep in your truck?

 

X2

I like the toolboxes better though...

 

I have both hahah!
Toolbox for summer and cap for winter!

The box is great in the summer because I carry tools and saws and cold beer in it, but I need the cap in the winter to carry my ski equipment permanently without fear of it being stolen, not to mention it keeps the snow off them.
I have also slept in the back with the shell on.

 

I'd say toolbox unless you have a crap load of tools and you're gonna have the ones that run all the way down the bed rails and make your bed essentially useless.

 

I guess it depends on how you use your truck. ...i can't have a shell because i haul things that just wouldn't fit.

i do, however, like the way the shells look. ..just won't work for me.

 

i really like the best top soft tops but i have a tool box that i keep everything in
and i mean its packed full of tools and things i need
is there no way to use both
mines bolted down to the top of the bed rails too so i doubt i could use that but their are those low pro ones that just bolt down to the bed floor

 

I have had the shell on my 2002 since new and admit it is good and bad. It's in the way a lot of times but I have trailers and a bike carrier. The tool boxes I've had on other trucks are good and bad too so I'm not much help in your decision.
Like STLharry says, makes a place to sleep at Bike Week or for a nap on the road.
I have a rack on the shell so it nice for carrying long things like ladders, lumber, kayaks,etc.



Maybe, keep an eye on craigslist for a used one to try out? If it doesn't work out for you then resell it.

 

+1 on a dry place to sleep. I have a trailer for oversized items.
You can pack more stuff in the bed with a topper. One with side doors is easier for accessing a loaded bed.
I have a box and topper. When I have a garage, I'm making a hoist for the top. I love my topper with sealing foam on the tailgate it stays clean.

 

I just bought a used tacoma that came with a craftsman tool box on the back. It looks really convenient, but I haven't had a chance to use it yet as I have no keys and the lock is broken.

 

You have three choices for that lock. Hire a locksmith, learn to pick locks, or drill it out.

 

Actually I've been trying to get a hold of craftsman to see if I can get it serviced. The box I have has two locks on it (one on either side of the car), and one of them is broken and not locking. The other one is unlocked though.

Not to high jack the thread, but how much do you think it'd cost?

 

Since you have one side open, you might be able to unscrew the other lock. Otherwise, $60 or so for locksmith. Call around for the best deal.

 

Thanks for your input on this. I could fit all the tools I need in in a tool box or two just was thinking a camper might be better. I have had about $1500.00
worth of tools ripped off in the last year so I need to mount some tool boxes or get a camper. Thanks again this site is cool.