Questions about truck caps (Leer)

Just bought a 2009 Tacoma. Very nice, like new. I love it. I want to get a Leer truck cap, but have a couple of questions. Since I want sliding, screened side windows, I will be getting the 100XR. I will be getting the Thule tracks and an interior headliner.

I will also be getting a sliding front window, but do I need to get the removable sliding window? What advantage does that offer?

I am interested in the "locking overhead storage bin," but would like to know how secure it is (secure enough to leave a gun and/or other valuables?).

Also, the top three models all come with a "rotary latch system," but the 100XR comes with a "flip-lock handle" as opposed to the 100XQ and 100XL which come with a "twist-handle lock." What's the difference? I am concerned about security. My old Leer 100R (on my '92 Toyota 4x4) could be broken into by a 10 year-old so I had to add padlocks, but can't add padlocks so easily to the all glass rear window of the higher end models, and don't really want to put holes in the rear gate).

Any answers, advice, and/or suggestions are most welcome. Security and ventilation are my top issues.

Thanks!
-Joe

 

You might want to call leer-that's what I did. They do sell these things for a living and it literally takes 5 minutes. lol

 

I wouldn't leave firearms without a proper safe bolted to STEEL. Your insurance agent may not like that idea either.

 

The removable front window is a must. With the way modern fiberglass caps contour to the rear of the cab, there's no room to get between them to clean the windows. Popping out the front window on the cap lets you clean it as well as the back window of the cab.

Edit- Might also think about whether or not you'll ever want to haul more weight on top in the future. If so, the Leer 100RCC with the Dewalt rack is designed to handle up to 400lbs on top.

 

If I had to do it again I'd get the removable sliding rear window for the reason mentioned above. Simply allows you to clean the back glass of the truck.

 

100% agree

Love my 100RCC with removable front window

 

I had some of the same concerns that you did. I went to all the local topper dealers in this area and looked at every brand available here (ARE, LEER, JASON, RANCH and a couple of others). Finally, I couldn't decide between the LEER XR or the ARE Z. The ARE Z is by far the highest quality built, it's ridiculous esp if you compare them to the other competitors (including some of the other ARE models). The big question for me was to have the fold down side doors or just sliders (the Z only comes with side sliders which is fine but I'd rather have this model with side fold downs) so I made this post:

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/225461-topper.html

Lots of interesting responses, esp in regard to possible paint problems, etc...

 

Thanks for the input. Yes, I could call Leer, but really wanted input from users, not salespeople. I guess the removable front window is a must. I already have a Thule rack system on my old truck so will be using that, hence Leer. ARE would be a consideration if it weren't for the Thule vs. Yakima question. Besides the basic feet and cross bars, I also have a very large Thule cargo box and a bike holder.

Again, thanks.