Topper Compatability from 1st Gen to 2nd Gen

Has anyone transferred a topper from a 1st gen to a 2nd gen. I've found a guy here who is willing to give me a really nice topper from a 2001 tacoma DC. He gave me dimensions over the phone while it sits on his truck. The numbers were pretty close and I couldn't see where he was measuring from. My truck is a 2008 DC SB. I'm thinking it would be close but not sure if it is a perfect swap from one to the other.

It's about a 100 mile drive so I figured I'd ask you guys for advice before making the trip. I believe he said it was A.R.E brand.

Thanks for any input.

 

If you don't get any definitive answers here or don't get answers quick enough, go to ARE's or Leer's website and see what they're fitment chart says. If it's set-up that certain models only fit certain years, there's a good chance they can't be interchanged. Or, call ARE customer service.

 

I'd be very surprised if it was a perfect fit - my shell has a code on it that specifies '05+. It's designed to mate up with the cab and wrap over the top of the bed, both very important considerations IME.

Also be advised, they use special clamps to work with those fancy rails on the side of the 2nd gen bed. And in my case, the rail at the front had to be removed.

Good luck!

 

Good call. I went on their website and used the chat tool. Here was the response.

Guy from A.R.E: Jason, the cap isn't made for the 2008 truck, but it is close to where it might fit ok for you. We don't recommend putting caps on trucks they aren't intended for, but its up to you if you'd like to try. </B>

 

Haha, I see you got a very definitive answer... I would imagine they'd be close but not exact. All depends on what you can live with. Like the other poster said, today's caps are made to hug the contours of the truck so a perfect fit is doubtful.

Mounting hardware is something to keep in mind though. You may end up spending a decent amount of money for new hardware going from a 1st gen to a 2nd gen.