RSI Smart Cap

@OffroadAlliance.com thanks for clarifying

 

We're continuing to ship out 5ft caps with plenty in stock. 6ft caps started shipping a few days ago! If you're looking for an RSI cap shoot me a PM, email or give us a call.

 

Hey @OffroadAlliance.com what do I need specifically to mount a roof rack system to the SmartCap? I think they're universal mounting rails and that yakima or thule should work just fine.
Is this the case? What base do I need to mount to the rails? I checked around these forums but couldn't find my exact answer.
Thanks

 

The SmartCap does come with integrated t-slot channels on every cap. Being so new, we have not had a chance to test fit which t-slot adapters actually work. We tried one set of Yakima rails and their feet with t-slot adapters were too small. You may just need to try a few different bases to see which ones are compatible. Being a brand new product, just not a lot of experience with all these other aftermarket parts and fitment.

We've consulted with RSI as well, they unforunately cannot confirm fitment either.

 

Darn, copy that. If you hear any updates, please update this thread! I need to get a roof rack before my trip coming up in a month and want to be sure and order the right thing.
Thanks!

 

Finally got around to building and installing my RSI Smart Cap- I'll be honest that there are things I really like about this cap and only a few complaints. First thing that struck me was how easy it is to build and install. 2 guys can pick this thing up no problem and move it around as needed (as mentioned above it weighs around 180lbs) . I also love the fact its steel and not fiberglass (think magnets and greater stability/ less cracking on taking on and off). Build is high quality and the windows and clasps are great, though I live in the high desert and don't worry about them freezing up often. In that regard I am also not overly concerned with it's ability to keep out water (thing is well built, there shouldn't be problems)- all of my gear is stored in water tight containers anyway, and most of the moisture issues are going to be from the Tacoma bed itself as we all know. However, the positive pressure air vent was a huge consideration for me, as dust is my main nemesis in this part of the world. There are other advantages mentioned in other threads I won't go into, but lastly I think it looks great....

The main issue I have with it and that is it runs a bit small/ short, as you will see in the photos. When first considering this cap I saw there was an inch or 2 of the tailgate top rail exposed. We were told, as @OffroadAlliance.com mentions above, that those pictures were from a prototype and that the final product would be an inch longer. After I installed and there was still the gap I contacted RSI, their North American rep Jake, and @OffroadAlliance.com. Communication has been great with all 3, and they assure me I have the final product and not a prototype length. I do plan to move it back to cover the tailgate rail a bit as was suggested to me, but any way you move it will leave some rail exposed either on front or back. And there's also a small amount of rail exposed on the sides as the pictures show, but I prefer this to the overhanging style of most modern fiberglass campers. At any rate, it's in no way a deal breaker for me. The 2nd gripe is the brake light doesn't yet have a t-connector to plug into your taillight, so you have to hardwire it or wait. Supposedly RSI will cover the cost of hardwiring (?) but with how I intend to take the cap on and off I will have to rethink my wiring possibilities. Last gripe is the RSI SmartCap Logo on the side, which is integrated into the textured matte vinyl. Comon guys- I already paid enough for the cap, I should be able to debadge it as I wish, or at least make it a touch more subtle. Ah well, if anyone has ideas on how to cover it....

On to the photos:

 

Looks like we are in the same part of the country...
I siliconed the 2 spots where the topper meets the truck bed and hopefully that will keep the water out.
Also, its pulling hard on my rails and I think there was water intruding on the sides of the bed as well. I live in the desert so am waiting for rain to prove me wrong.

And I agree with your last statement about the LOGO. Its so bright and in your face. I think I may spray paint mine if I get sick enough of it.

One last tip: if you just use their wiring harness and tap into the tail light, with some of your own modding/fabbing, then you can still unplug the brake light wiring and remove the cap. I can show pictures of mine if you would like.
I also just used magnets to secure a net on the underside of the top! Now I can store extra gear. I love the magnetic ability....

 

Looks awesome on the MGM.

 

Yes- post some pics so I can see what you did with the brake light.
In regards to the logo- I'm already sick of people asking "what's smart about it?" Sure there's "smart" features, but I'm not a RSI rep so anymore I just say "keeps stuff dry"... guarantee no one asks that about fiberglass caps.

 

Also- I said I would post about aftermarket racks- but I have yet to grab a prinsu to check. What I know is that the positive air vent sits at 1.25" above the roof, which is 1/2' above the top of the rails. I sealed up the bed rails using moldable glue on the top and have done the same to other holes as I find them toward the cab.

 

Thanks for all of those details. The glue looks solid. How is yours by the tail gate? My DRUBBER is getting a little screwed up from opening the tailgate now. Do you have any photos of yours? Thanks man

 

Keep in mind it has only been on less than a week- but mine still looks new. Seems crazy yours is already showing wear?

 

Huh... I'm surprised these are magnetic. I figured they used 304 stainless. Did some digging and it looks like they are using 409, which is typically used for exhausts. I'm sure it's structurally fine and probably how they keep the costs down, but keep an eye on scratches because 409 SST is more prone to rusting.

 

Yea, the fitment is weird where the rubber meets the tailgate. I cut it to make it fit better and its peeling back...

 

Thanks. I sure hope it doesn't get rusty.

 

Hi there, long time lurker, first time commenter. I just bought my first Tacoma (2020 Off-Road double cab, long bed, cement) and I'm shopping for canopies. I have a question about the positive pressure vent. This cap is really interesting to me, but I live in the Seattle area and have to deal with lots of rain. How does the air vent keep water out? I saw a photo on a Jeep Gladiator forum where someone removed the the top "scoop" piece of the vent and it showed the filter material in the recess below, but it was unclear how it prevents water from draining through the roof when parked. Does anyone have any further info?

 

These are the photos from that forum, supplied by a RSI North America rep...

 

When mine shows up and I get it all put together I will test it out and let you know. I'm in Monroe so equal amounts of rain

 

We've sold a number of caps to guys in the Northwest for Dodges, Fords, etc. So far, no one has mentioned water instrusion from the top air vent as being an issue. We've asked RSI for any additional details that they may be able to provide as well. We'll update the thread if we receive any customer feedback or info from RSI.

 

Me like, a lot!!!