Let's See Some Softoppers

Maybe a dumb question, trying to avoid a gotcha...will the softopper side rails cover the gaps in the bed rail caps on trucks that had the factory tonneau cover?

 

I agree with you.....

Change my mind

 

you are talking about the notches that are cutout for the latch? If so, yes it will.

 

Hey guys, I’m new to the Softopper world. I just recently picked up a used Softopper in great shape from a member here for my 2nd gen DCLB. So far I love it! Seems like it will fit my needs perfectly. That said, I’ve got some questions about it.

1. Best way to store/protect the clear plastic windows? The topper will spend most of its life in the garage, should I leave the windows attached to the topper while folded up? Or maybe take them off and store them flat?

2. How many clamps? It obviously came with 4 clamps for the bedside rails, but I’m thinking I might add 1 more clamp per side in the middle of the rail, overkill?

3. I think it’s advertised as 4 season friendly, but how much snow/weight can it handle? I frequently go to Big Bear, Mammoth, Frazier with a decent amount of snow periodically. All good?

4. I found one post here recommending to use 303 protectant for the windows. I assume this will suffice for the black fabric as well? I scrolled thru this thread a bit and saw people recommending Chemical Guys convertible stuff too. Any other recommendations?

 

To each their own, not sure I see the need for the PVC if you follow the method from the linked video (angling up the back corner) which sounds like you do as well as I. But, again, I do things some others probably think don't make sense. Although, I'd like a way to roll up the back and not have the aluminum tube sticking out either side. That's my main annoyance with the Softopper.

 

I'm not sure I understand what you mean about the tube sticking out the side.

 

I leave my softopper on year-round. Had one on my old Chevy Colorado when I lived in Austin, kept it on my truck for 2+ years. Have had one on my Taco for 4 months now in Louisiana. Haven't run into any issues. It comes with 4 clamps, but i purchased 4 extras, so now I have 4 per side. May be overkill, but I like the uniformity of it being secured to the bedrails.

Can't speak for the other two, as I only have had light snow on my old one twice. Once in Colorado, and once again when we got our once per 18 months snowfall in Austin.

 

Rear-window when I roll it up, the aluminum tube that is used to secure the window to the bedrail frames protrudes out on either side of the "roll" at the top.

 

Oh yeah, I gotcha. If I plan on rolling around with the back up I just take the whole window off. That's what I did last summer, and now that winter is coming to an end I may start doing that again. Just toss it in the garage.

 

You go safari-mode most of the non-winter months then?

 

Not quite, I go sides down and no back window. It allows for some protection from the elements with my gear, but I can get in and out of the bed easier.

 

Interesting. I usually don't go that route, but, what works, works. Cheers!

 

Yep, that's what I love about these toppers. So versatile to suit whatever someone wants to do!

 

Alright, what's your favorite Captain Beefheart album? I'm spinning Trout Mask Replica right now.

 

Safe as Milk, I'd have to say

 

GOOD ONE.

 

Thanks for the input! I’ll probably pick up another set of clamps just to make myself feel better. Lol

 

I’ve had about 29” on mine. I obviously brushed the snow off before driving. As you know, snow is a weird thing and comes in different types. There’s the fluffy stuff that’s really light and the wet heavy crap so your mileage may vary. But it doesn’t really seem to be an issue.

 

I received and installed my Softopper yesterday. I really love its functionality for my needs. I will add the third brake light soon.

 

Oh my gosh it’s so clean!