Just made my first big purchase, wish me luck

Ordered a Diamondback HD cover for the Tacoma. The military discount helped a bit, but I think I'm suffering from some sticker-shock. Anyone who already has installed one of these - any tips, hints, advice, etc that might not be written in the instructions? Thanks in advance.

 

Good lucky Kenny chesney

 

Die in a fire! lol Though I suppose that's better than Kenny G.

 

BTW, I'm very surprised there aren't more discussions about these particular covers.

 

I’m assuming you have the new hinges, but if not be careful not to bed the pins.

As far as installation goes, the easiest way i’ve found is not clamp the center section at all until the very end. If you have 2 people its very easy. 1 is doable but much more difficult

Place the center section near the middle of the bed
Attach the front panel and fold down
Attach rear panel and fold down
Adjust topper to center on bed as desired
Latch front and rear panel (adjust if necessary just to get the latch to close)
Install clamps on center section
Fine tune latch adjustment

I prefer the topper to be on the tighter side when sealed so I had someone hold down the topper while I adjusted the latching mechanism. Otherwise find something heavy to set on top of it.

If you’ve got more questions, let me know

 

Would have thought the truck was a big purchase first.

 

Most folks wanting a similar level of security and weather proofing would pick a topper. Because cargo space and price being not much more.

My cover is a soft tri fold. Don't need lockable security, only need semi-dry, but do need fast, easy one man removal for certain loads.

 

I almost went with a topper - the deciding factor was not having a garage or anyplace safe to store it should I need to remove it. I figure I can stash the cover inside the house if need be.

 

@Kennedyusmc has one I think

 

Installed cover two days ago along with a 13" deep cross bin. Instructions are very good from DiamondBack and Shellshock.
Very happy with purchase!

 

Some would say the diamond back would be more secure than certain models of toppers/shells. A window busted out in a topper would be alot easier than using a pry bar for a diamondback. In reality they are getting into both if the thieves really want to.