Buying a used shell... advice

Hey guys,
I'm looking into shells for my 2012 Crew Cab 4x4 long bed and started looking into some used options to save a little money. I've done some research and I haven't really been able to find the answers to all my questions so I figured I'd check in with the experts here. I've never had a shell on any of my trucks and just want to make sure I'm not overlooking anything.

Are there are common failures or wear-points I should spend extra time looking for when buying?

Install - from what I've found online it looks like it's something I should be able to install fairly easily as long as I have 1 person to help lift it onto my truck. Correct?

Fit - since my truck has the same bed dimensions as the access and extended cab versions (73.5" x 56.7"), I can use the same shells, right?

Price - since this is used (assuming it's in decent condition) what do you think would be a fair price when compared to a new one?

Sorry if these questions seem pretty basic, but like I said I've got virtually no first hand experience with camper shells.

Thanks
-Dave

 

You can run a shell from an access cab or a double cab long bed, but not a regular (single) cab. The angle of the back of the cab is different on the single cab.

 

I'm experienced with LEERs, 100R and 100XL. Both mount using the accessory rail, very easy. For safety, use 2 guys to easily mount or remove it. Tilt front window is a real nice feature, I highly recommend it. My prices may be old, but new about $1200 for as 100R, $1800 for a 100XL with tilt window. If you can get a used one for 50%-75% of that, it's a good deal assuming it's not real old or beat. The only ones that I've seen that I would consider are LEER and ARE. Gerico I didn't like, Snugtop is not available around me, soft toppers I'm not a fan of.

Double cab short bed with a LEER 100R


Double cab long bed with a LEER 100XL

 

Awesome, thanks for the input guys, much appreciated.

One of the ones I came across does not have a front window, just a rubber boot "connecting" the shell to the cab. Based on what I've read I think I'll avoid this.

The search continues...

 

It depends on your timeline too. If you have time to look then take the time. Also look by around other nearby large cities' craigslists. I was in Omaha and was looking out to Desmoines because a lot of people were moving out of the city around there to suburbs. I was able to find a fully loaded ARE for a shortbed for 600 and it's an $1800 topper. Good Luck.

 

If you go with a boot either put a clear decal where the boot meets the cab or turn the boot in, which I did for air flow for the dogs. The boot will wear thru your cab paint.
I picked up a snug top super sport for 800 and got it painted for 200 on Craigslist.

 

Thanks for the input guys! I found a used Leer in great condition for a great price. I'll post up some pics tomorrow after the install!

Now I just need to figure out a rack system for a 15.5' kayak. It never ends...

 

Anyone know what is the size of a single
Cab bed I am looking for a camper shell I have measured but I need a expert answer I have some people selling me camper shells