ARE V series

I just went to pick up my ARE V series shell for my 2016 TRD OFF ROAD LONG BED. During the install i noticed a gap alittle bigger than 1/4 in on both sides. Is that normal? It also had this trim around the bottom of shell that i was not aware of it having. I sent the shell back because the was dirt under the clear coat and a imperfection on the roof of shell as well as running led lights did not operate properly ( windoor led's would not turn on unless back door was open). There was also swirl marks all over shell. This sucks. If you guys have any pictures where the shell meets the bed i would appreciate it. I would like to have some pics to compare it to.

 

Here are some pics I just took. I got the shell about 3 months ago from a topper dealer in LA while I was visiting family. I am extremely happy with the paint coat; I think it looks exactly like the rest of my super white Tacoma. I got the most basic model which only included exterior brake lights, as far as lighting goes. The dealer did the install and brake lights work perfectly.

As far as alignment with the bed, there is room for improvement. The topper mostly follows the bed rails with about 3mm in between, but as you can see from the pics, the topper widens out a little near the rear end. There is about 6mm of spacing there. I've tried loosening the hold-downs on one side while I nudge the other side over, but haven't had any luck (and I don't want to trap any stress in the topper). Still secure and hardly noticeable unless you're looking for imperfections.

Overall, I love the topper. It does all I need it to: keep the bed dry and slow down thieves. I count myself lucky with the paint match, but we're talking about a major topper manufacturer and a major car brand, so a quality matching paint job shouldn't be considered "lucky". Hopefully they replace yours with one with a matching paint job; I wouldn't hesitate to return the next one if it has swirls or imperfections.

I got the model without the trim. It costs less and I like the look without a black line between the bed panels and topper, especially on my white truck.

Also, because I can only talk about my experience with short bed fitment, YMMV.

 

I thought it was weird with that trim around it. The place where i bought it from said it was standard.

 

They might just be trying to sell it. I know that I got the most basic version of the V series. No trim, no interior lights, one locking handle instead of two, sliding windows (mesh vents on sides, no mesh on front), basic carpet lining, exterior brake light... that's it.

 

The more pics the better where the shell meets the cab would be awesome. I think it would be good to have pictures of how the v series should fit so they dont get shafted. I like it better without the trim at the bottom.

 

Oh, watch out for the carpet, it had large bubbles in the carpet where ot did make contact with the interior of shell.

 

Any specific pics you want from me? Or was this for other people?

Also, I have no problems with the carpet. It seems to be well applied. I'll keep an eye out when the temperatures start to rise though.

 

ARE's come with two different bottom edges:

 

I have a bunch of pics in my media section of my v series. I'm completely satisfied with mine and have no unusual gaps or issues. Also no leaks.

 

You guys are great. If any of you have pics of rear looking foward where the shell meets the cab, with or without the trim pics if you got em. Just to be clear the v series can come without trim?

 

And my pics show no trim.

 

yes, you can get it with to without the trim

 

Thanks for the pictures. Pretty disappointed that im going to have to wait a month now. Going to call tomorrow and tell the guy i dont want the trim (i didnt ask for it). Hopefully it comes back correct and well put together this time. A little bummed about ARE quality, especially what you pay for these shells.

 

That fits a lot better than my Snugtop-

 

Oh no, that isnt good. I got the ARE z series cause its supposed to be the best. This is indeed concerning Ill post mine when it arrives.

 

I gotta v series that is perfect. Don't worry.

 

I have the V Series with the windoors. My only complaint is both windoors stick in the closed position. It appears there is a small piece at the top hinge that wasn't installed correctly, thus allowing the windoor to slide forward ever so slightly, but enough to contact the windoor frame and jam the door from opening. My dealer will try to adjust the frame per ARE engineers, if that doesn't work they will send new windoors. I did notice some fit and finish issues with the overall cap, as well as the paint quality.

 

Yes, it is a shame for this kind of money its a hit or miss. I called the dealer and informed him that the trim is a option with the V series and I do not want it. No doubt he told me that just so he can get rid of it.
dtsnfire19 hopefully they get those doors fix properly.
I heard that there is a ARE Quality assurance guy on this forum, maybe he can chime in on all the problems.

 

I love mine had it about 8 months now and it hasn't moved a bit since the install. Color was damn near spot on. I didn't get the windoors so I can't say anything in that.

 

This is the trimmed model right? do you have more photos ?