New pop up camper? Topo Toppers

I hear you. What about it turned you off? For me, it was the change from the AC to the Xtra Cab. No opening back doors just wouldn't work for me and my dog. I'll be swapping it over on Monday and report back.

 

It's not a proven power plant yet...no better fuel economy...no access cab...with 6' on the trim level I would like....3" wider with no more travel. Just wheel offset and fender flares...

 

Transfer went well and it fits like a glove! This pic is before I swapped the Deaver's over, so the back is sagging a bit.

 

Anyone put solar up top? If so, how did y’all wire it to the bed?

 

I optioned mine with solar, but they used something like what is in the link. Bring it in through the top and then run the wires to wherever you need them.

$13 2 Pack of IP68 Waterproof Solar Cable Entry Gland by Restmo, Weather Resistant Dual Cable Entry Housing for Solar Panels of RV, Caravan, Marine, Boat, Cabin, White

https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-R...18204&sprefix=solar+wire+port,aps,176&sr=8-14

 

Great! Thanks for tips

 

I added solar to mine and used what was recommended above.

 

jpmurph - any more pics of that rack on your truck and which size did you 50-55-60? Eyeing j1000 vs m1000 wondering if the price is worth with lower profile 3.5 vs 5 inch height?

 

How many watts is that panel? And what adhesives did you use? I’m pretty hesitant to adhesive mount a solar panel as I know a buddy who had a bad experience. (It was about 8 years ago so I assume tech has gotten better)

 

I believe this is the Renogy 100W black Division Panel.
https://www.renogy.com/100-watt-12-volt-black-division-lightweight-monocrystalline-solar-panel/

@Jpmurph I would like some more info on how you mounted these panels as well. I have (2) of these same 100W Renogy Black Division panels mounted to my camper (DIY not a TopoTopper) using VHB tape. I am having issues with the panels getting very hot to the point that the roof panel bows up slightly from the expansion. I think I need to install them in a way that creates a larger air gap for cooling like you did.

 

This is the one I went with and a few more photos below.

$129 Vantech Universal Steel M1000 Ladder roof Van Rack w/ 55" Bars Black

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004SP2B46?ie=UTF8

 

Yea, no adhesives were used. I bought an aluminum c channel/u channel from Home Depot and cut three of them to proper lengths of the panel. something like 1/8" material with a 1/2" or 5/8" channel. Placed the open side down towards the camper and drilled two holes of corresponding lengths to the panels mounting holes. I used three aluminum lengths overall but there may be benefit to using more supports. I Used machine screws with a washer on top side and a nut on the bottom to fasten it. Making sure the panel is taught is important so it does not sag. Ive driven about 4k miles since install and have a small amount of sag that could have probably been avoided during the install phase. A sealant at the penetrations may be beneficial but I have been in a couple of rain stores with no water ingress.

 

That looks like a solid solution! I have been trying to avoid drilling holes in the roof but I may need to bite the bullet. Out of curiosity, what kind of Watts are you getting out of that single 100W? Im wondering if the temps could be impacting my efficiency as well.

 

Day 1 with Mesa from TopoToppers!
First night was awesome!

 

I’m looking at getting a Badlander for my 2nd gen SB, I’ve got a Prinsu and am curious if anyone has had any interference issues when offroad when the bed flexes and moves with a roof rack?

 

There should be a few people with Prinsu on. Off the top of my head, @WanderTaco on IG (Jake), has a full Prinsu with Topo Toppers, but Mesa, not Badlander. (Weight difference is 50-80lbs I think?)
You might want to shoot a dm since he actually offroads with it.

 

Deciding between topo topper mesa and super pacific. Anyone else go through the same decision?
I saw both at overland expo. Super pacific seems better made, keder rail tent fastener way better than bolts, t slots for better rack/awning/light placement, side doors(does anyone miss side doors on the topo?), and vents for condensation. Also bed panels looks a little better and quieter. But no side windows, 100 pounds heavier than topo and $4k more expensive.
Topo topper is lighter, cheaper, and the best part is the fit - super pacific and all others have a clunky square fit on the bed and topo tapers flush with the bed. Looks better but also a better seal.
A big purchase for me so want to make the right decision. Leaning toward topo, especially as the cost difference pays for a whole new lift on my 3rd gen tacoma. Portland is closer to me and super pacific has more immediate availabiliy but that is a smaller thing.
Since you all actually have used and lived with these, any insight on the difference would be excellent. Thanks -

 

Kinda where I'm at too. But I ruled out the super pacific because it's too pricey for me. I'm also looking at the Lone Peak Overland wedge

 

I placed an order for a mesa, should be installed by mid Oct . They are local for me which was a huge plus, I was able to visit and see production at various stages and speak to the team. Really liked everything I saw at the shop in terms of quality and care they took with assembly. The second factor was the price point, it fit my budget plain and simple. Really excited for this thing, it’s gonna be a huge upgrade over my current setup.

 

What kind of adjustable track is that you have mounted directly to the roof? That looks very handy.