New camper shell on the way... Question for those who have one already...

I have a new Snugtop Rebel camper shell on the way in the next few weeks and I’m getting the truck ready for it... I ordered the shell with the keyless entry option for the back glass, and I just ordered the OEM remote locking tailgate kit and will be installing that before I get the shell (so both the back glass and tailgate will lock/unlock with the key fob). I’ll also seal up the front bulkhead part of the bed, where it’s known to leak before the shell gets here.

I got windoors on both sides and the fold down sliding front window. I did not get the “Sportsman” option (which allows for a 500 lb. weight capacity on top of the shell) because I don’t want a roof top tent. I did order the shell with a Yakima Jetstream rack, but it’ll just be for kayaks and paddle boards, so no more than about 150 lbs. max will go up there, so the normal shell will be fine for that.

I’ll be getting some bed stiffeners too, so I think I have everything in order for the new shell. The only other thing I’m contemplating is an add-a-leaf/small lift to raise the rear back up to compensate for the extra weight of the shell (which will be about 200 lbs.). Those of you who have a shell now, do you think lifting the back up will even be necessary? How much did your camper shell sag the rear down? I think if it’s under .5”, I probably won’t bother with a lift. But if every time I haul anything back there, it looks like I’m doing the Carolina squat, then I’ll definitely do an add-a-leaf. What do you guys recommend? Thx

 

I had an add a leaf from wheelers that gave me ~1.5" with my shell and I liked the ride.
Ran it with my stock shocks.
Was like $75 and the install wasn't hard.
Now have a new HD leaf pack cause added bumpers and armor.
I also have total chaos bed stiffeners and I like them too.

Have u seen these threads:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/show-me-your-shell.13598/
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...eping-platform-drawer-storage-systems.424709/

 

I just saw Toytec sells 1/2” spacers for $20 each + shipping/tax (link below). Anyone used these to level out the ride after installing a camper? Is 1/2” about how much it sags after a shell (I’m totally guessing at a 1/2”)? I don’t really want any extra lift or rake (compared to what I have now) after the shell, I just want it to sit about the same as pre-shell.

 

I installed an ARE MX midrise canopy on my 2014 about 2 years ago, factory suspension & it maybe dropped it 1/2” at most. Still had a noticeable rake to it. The leafs are notoriously weak, eventually it’ll probably start to do the squat. Another option is getting air bags, you’ll be able to adjust the height w those at least. I put on the @At The Helm bed stiffeners, and a bed mat is an excellent addition also

 

Brian, you don’t need to touch the rear springs. Just send it. Been there. Here is my truck back on the stock recall springs; it’s fine Enjoy that beastie of a cap!

 

Thanks for the insight guys. Cool, I’ll just roll with it as is and maybe look into upgrading the suspension in the more distant future once the suspension sags a lot/wears out. Glad to know the camper won’t sag it much, I’m not worried about a half inch. @Big Foot, I’ll check out those bed stiffeners...

 

I picked up the shell you described last weekend and have not noticed any sag at all on my 2021 Pro