Show me your shell!

I just got the ARE MX recently and I'm really liking it. I chose it over the Leer because of the little bit of extra head height, which allows me to sit upright on top of a sleeping platform in the back, if that's something you're interested in doing. I think if it was any shorter, I wouldn't be able to sit upright.

Buncha photos here:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/posts/20396305

In terms of leaks, I don't think my shell leaks at all, the one spot that I have water coming in is the front bed corners that everyone has troubles with but I wouldn't blame this on the shell or the installation, it's part of the bed.

 

Just looked at your post...you did an outstanding job

 

I guess it must depend on the dealer then. My local Leer dealer must be lazy or trying to get more money. IDK.

 

As was mine wired it into the tail lights so shit never works. Just bought some wire to wire it into my trailer hit to have it turned one whenever I want. I can see a reason why they do it but fuck its annoying

 

As for in-shell lighting? Get these and stick them in the back above the rear door but facing forward. Plenty of light.

Stick a couple to the lower edge of the rear door and when swung open they’ll light up the open tailgate as well as a lot of area behind the truck.

Tuck wires accordingly. Small gauge speaker wire is plenty to feed them. You can also bend and shape them since they’re COB.

Amon Tech 6PCs Universal Waterproof Car Trucks Daytime Running Light Lamp Super Bright 12V LED Strips COB Car Led Fog Light

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071PFC1H2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_631jDb949MG9T

 

I have made my decision and it ended up because of 2 things. One, the price difference, and two, the dealer. The A.R.E. Saved me $300 and the dealer is by far a much better dealer than the Leer one. The A.R.E. MX series is on order. Can’t wait, will post pics when it is here and installed.

BTW, the owner had a 2015 Tacoma with this MX topper on it and he never had a problem with leaks. He did mention that the 2016+ models are more prone to leaks because of front of truck bed design.

 

A good dealer is always nice to do business with. They are worth extra money.

 

Wildernest topper. Not a perfect fit, heavy, but a really great way to car camp.

 

Wow, I've never seen a topper/camper like this!

 

They're old. Mid 80's to mid 90's. Made in Colorado I think.

 

I just sold my 1992 Toyota pickup, which had an A.R.E. cap with the windoors, and I'm considering buying the MX, for my new 2019 Tacoma DCLB; do you know what the issue is with front of the truck bed design, that makes it prone to leaking? Is there a thread on TW that talks about it?

Thanks.

 

My local A.R.E. Dealer knows about it, explained it to me.....but I can’t explain it back. Because my local A.R.E. Dealer is aware of it, they install properly and everything is OK. It seems that going to the right dealer makes all the difference. I’ve found out that both Leer and A.R.E. have their problems with quality control. If you buy, inspect every inch. But having the right dealer can also make for a more pleasant experience. After further research in my area, I was told to stay away from the Leer dealer. Not Leer—-just the dealer! Sorry I can’t be more helpful. When you go to the dealer ask questions.....I asked a lot and wanted more detailed answers. I worked directly with the manager/owner. I got a tour of his shop and he showed/explained to me what they use and how. The Leer dealer was a joke.

 

^^^^ This. The dealer is the key.

 

Any of you guys have an issue with your camper moving? Mines seemed to move about .5-1" in the last couple years. Do I pick it up and move it back?

 

According many, many bad reviews... my local dealer (NW Auto Accessories, in Portland, OR.) is to be avoided at all cost.

I'll have to look at dealers further away.

 

Oh no, this is very helpful!

I'm looking at buying the A.R.E. MX Series cap; which will run approx. $2,900 - $3,100 -- I want to make sure to educate myself, before I order/buy.

At the dealer, what questions should I be asking, that [at present] I don't know to ask?

Thank you.

 

Ask him if his installation "techs" (yeah, right) are on parole, work release or are currently living in halfway houses. And I am serious as cancer.

 

Grandeur

 

Everyone buys a topper for various reasons....The dealer represents A.R.E., thus making our conversation private. I shouldn’t have to explain why. I did get to see the one I’m buying installed on a 2014 Tacoma. So I got to check it out close and personal. Mainly, was DW happy with it. Weight was also a major consideration for me along with detailed info on how it’s installed, how would I remove it, warranty issues. A.R.E. Is one of the better ones that follow up on these issues. How much clearance am I going to have for garage or carport. How ‘bout a beer? There are tons of information on the internet, this forum, and YouTube. The leaking issue was brought up from reading this forum. I did save $300 over the same shell (Leer 180). I had no problems with buying either. I guess, bottom line, even saving the money, is the dealer. Even if the price was the same, I would have still gone with the A.R.E. Dealer. Besides, many people think that front glass on top front is a real skylight Just take your time and do your research. And make sure the installers aren’t on the most wanted list Good Luck. I hope that both our MX toppers have no issues from the factory.

 

On my 1st gen there are little water drain holes in the front corners. Don’t know if this may be the issue with the newer models. Is there a fold/bend/crease in the bed rail? I’ve seen this on a few domestic trucks.