Questions about Bed rail prep and preventing leaks prior to canopy install

The header rail on the '16 is obviously a source for leaks if not fixed. I'm about to pull the trigger on getting a local welder to make a new header bar that is an inch longer on each side so I don't have to use a gallon of Marine sealant to get it sealed up. The stock front rail is higher when compared to the sides. How does your canopy fit with the height difference? I assume if the underside of the canopy is flush it would sit better on a flush box. What are your thoughts?

 

My Snugtop is molded to drop down at the front to compensate for the height difference.Mine is a 15, but I think the 16,17 are the same.

 

Hmmmm, so if I go with a snug top I'd have to leave the un evenness stock. I'm no engineer but Toyota could have done a better job than this.

 

Most canopies/caps should be moulded to fit properly. The weatherstripping/bulb on the bottom of the cap should be all you need.

 

Most truck brands do this,the plastic bed cap sides sit higher ,I don't like it either. The canopy manufacturer compensate for the height difference,not just Snugtop. Buy a good canopy,have it installed buy a good canopy dealer you should be good to go.

 

In addition to the gaps at the ends, my installer removed the front rail, sealed underneath it, and reinstalled it.

Any canopy made for the Tacoma will be designed for the factory rail height.

 

I bought a used 3rd gen with an ARE glass shell that had been installed by a local camper store. Lots of leaks around the front. I used some 3M 2228 tape applied on the inside and outside corners of the bed and it helped a bit. I then hoisted up the shell for more access, applied more of the 2228 tape and it's pretty waterproof now. The problem in my case was the corners, not the front rail, and the gaps in the upper part of the bed where the front/side and plastic rail caps come together, not the mismatch in height. And my installer only used foam tape under the sides and front of the shell, not a bulb gasket, but I didn't bother replacing that. Best way to find the gaps is in the dark with a light. If I have to do it again I'll use sealant, black Sikaflex urethane, $6 a tube at the HW store should be plenty.

 

Thanks guys!