Let's See Some Softoppers

From the research I have gathered each state will be different in requirements and enforcement. 3rd brake light must be above the stock tail lights to be considered a 3rd brake light. Some states require any topper that covers the stock light to have a light, while other states are more lenient and say that if a vehicle has a 3rd brake light but the topper covers and doesn't have one built in from the factory there is no requirement to modify the topper from its original configuration. Some states also during inspection classify the softopper as quickly removable and not fixed like a hard topper would be so the topper can be placed in the down position during inspection to pass and they wont bat an eye.

Again depending on the state and how strict its enforced the cops may use it as a reason to stop you to check for other things (intoxication, ID check) Others may be more strict and require it.

That being said an LED taillight strip from Amazon with a 4pin connector zip tied to the rear bar allowing it to hang down into the window would work if you need one in a pinch while not causing your topper to be modified. Then it can be unplugged and put down without damaging the topper or the brake light/wires. I always thought if I got a roof rack I would tap the 3rd brake light and mount a LED strip on the back of the rack so its technically above the topper and visible. However I live in Indiana where a lot of these minor laws are ignored like window tint and stuff. Basically unless I give the cop a reason to throw the book at me, I am usually good. So I have gone the route of not placing one, also its going to be a fix-it ticket in most states so I can easily just drive to the courthouse put the topper down so the light is visible and pay the fine then put it up until the next cop decides to ding me again.

 

Beautiful

 

Any of you have a Softopper with the optional camper top add-on ? I am curious about its use and practicality.

 

Still loving my softopper a year later!

 

Anyone know how to adjust the topper to get rid of the this wrinkle towards the back near the button snap of the topper? I've tried to adjust the topper in a bunch of different ways.

 

You tried pulling the strap a little tighter? It looks like there's some extra tension on that last snap.

 

The tension is all on the topper itself. There's very little tension on the strap. I might try moving the topper down a hole on the pivot point. See if that works.

But I'll try adjusting the rear again and see if there's anything I can do. Thanks!!

 

Love my softopper! Also, shameless plug! (Figured there might be interest in here) My custom Softopper compatible rack is for sale! PM me for details!

 

That's what I mean. There should be even tension on the straps and snaps. Unbutton all the snaps both sides, pull on the black straps inside attaching the frame rail to the crossbars, starting with the ones closest to the cab, to snug the crossbars down evenly, then snap the canvas snaps starting from the ones closest to the cab.

 

I really want to get a soft topper. I even (rather poorly) photoshopped one on my truck to get an idea of what it might look like.




What is the best bang for your buck when it comes to these? Any specific brand or style you have loved?

 

Softopper is a brand [www.softopper.com], but it is used as a general term as well like Kleenex is to tissue. Honestly the only 2 brands i know of are Softopper and Bestop [www.bestop.com], and the only way to get a deal on them is to keep an eye out on Craigslist, Facebook, or the For Sale threads (thats what I did, got one in new condition for $450). Otherwise be ready to pony up $700-800 buying brand new.

 

Didn't know that, thanks!

I will definitely try to find a deal on one before forking out on a new one. But if I cant then I guess Ill have to start saving my pennies!

Cheers

 

Buy once, cry once. They are absolutely worth the pretty pennies IMO.

But if you can find a used one in really good shape on the cheap, I support that!

 

I did the math.

$750ish new for a ST.

$2300 for a rigid color matched cap.

Sell truck in 6 years, new owner does not want the rigid cap. I keep it and sell it for $700 just to get rid of it and it takes 6 months for a buyer that has the same color truck I had. Lost 2/3 of the cost

ST:. New owner of my truck does not want the ST. I keep it and sell it for $400 in 2 days. Lost 1/3 the value

Most likely the ST will go on my new truck, so I actually will lose nothing.

Even if you can't find a used one, buying new is still a good investment.

 

Gotta love fkn math!!!

 

Anyone’s Softopper on their 2nd gen have gaps like this?

 

Have tried changing the pivot pin position?

 

Good point. I’m going to try that today. Just bought the topper used last night to replace my bestop. Didn’t even realize there were different pin positions

 

Also try adjusting that rear plastic bracket that holds the tailgate bar. Yours is all the way forward. Bring it back some.

 

What’s up guys

I’m looking for any hardware for a softtopper Tacoma shortbed
Any will help !

Thanks in advance