Best way to weather proof a topper on a 1st gen?

Hi all,

Looking for some help for a truck topper newbie. I've got leaks coming down into the bed from the corners during rain. I tried putting on a new camper seal but seems like it wasn't enough. What combination of sealers/products or methods has worked for any of you out there with toppers and stopped your leaks?

 

Good question. I'll be watching for good advice as well.

 

What seal did you use? The best seals I have found are -

$33 ESI Super Cap Seal 23 FT (1 1/2" Width x 1/2" Height x 23' Length) EPDM Rubber for Caps 200 lbs or Less

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C7VU9BA

$28 ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal 10ft for use with Truck Caps and Tonneau Covers

https://smile.amazon.com/Ultimate-Tailgate-Seal-Taper-10ft/dp/B00IPQWXZQ/


If still using that cheap ass foam tape, ditch it. Use EPDM seals, use the SuperCap Seal.

EDIT: Proper prep is key. Follow the instructions. Clean the surfaces and remove all traces of the old seal. Best way to do this is to very carefully lay the cap on its roof after removing. This way you can easily clean and prep.

 

Ive put a new double seal on, resealed windows, siliconed the corners etc. It still leaks somewhat. Just the inevitable movement over time causes that seal to fail. Either build a platform or throw down a tarp for your gear.

 

Is this a new topper on your old truck, or has it been on the truck for ??? years?
Where the water appears is not always where it enters the topper.
Is there a bedliner between the topper and the truck?
Was the topper ordered new by you from a Leer dealer? In that case, take it to a Leer dealer and ask for their help. My dealer is superb at after-purchase service. Has replaced window screens and struts and can get spare parts.
Or is it a used one that you acquired otherwise, or that came with a used truck purchase? It that case it may not be a custom fit.Get the serial number (inside, left side, near rear clamp) and ask Leer dealer to confirm that it is custom for your truck.
Are you certain all clamps are properly set, and that the bottom of the shell is well aligned with the top of the bed and/or bedliner? My Leer shell tends to spread out at the rear, leaving gaps between the shell and the rear window/door. Very challenging to get them pushed back in alignment and reclamped.
Good luck with your quest!

 

I used the stuff they put around windshields....I got it at autozone. Kind of like a long roll of black tar/putty. It's called ribbon sealer for windshields. Been on my shell for years...no leaks

 

I just redid mine as well. I second the remarks about using the double bead edpm seal. Since I live in CA I had to test with a hose, lol. I guess I'll see this winter if it's OK.
I spent a lot of time cleaning since the shell was on there for over 15 years. I've redone my window seals but need to replace the gaskets on the sliding windows.