Truck Camper Shells

Camper shells are often referred to as truck tops or cab extenders and are the large cabins attached to a pickup vehicle’s bed to create cargo space that is resistant to theft and protected from the weather. Adding a camper shell also helps in improving fuel efficiency by reducing drag and thus enhancing the aerodynamics of the pickup truck.

Camper shells are either made out of aluminum or fiberglass. The main differences are that aluminum tops are manufactured from a standard mold and have less of a contoured look. They cost in the $400 price range. On the otherhand, fiberglass tops are manufactured from a custom mold specifically designed for the manufacturer and model. They cost around $1,000 and generally come painted to match the color of the pickup vehicle.

Keep in mind these four considerations before purchasing a camper shell:

* Consider which features you would like to add as options to the standard truck top. You can choose from gas-assisted shocks, third brake lights, tempered safety glass, interior dome lights, paint finish, carpeted interior, rear window packages, clothes rod, defrost system, style of trim, power locks, air deflectors, windshield wiper, spoilers, utility racks,roof mounted racks, and side access doors. Whew!

* Pay attention to the lift system that is built into the truck top itself. Most truck beds were not designed to have constant 200 pounds of pressure pushing or pulling on the front corners of the bed, so the cap's lift system plays an important role. For example, there are gas props that add pressure to the truck bed. Some manufactures have built-in systems to their truck tops alleviating the pressure from the props, thus extending the life of the truck bed and framework of the truck top.

* Camper shells are relatively heavy and difficult to remove and replace on a frequent basis. It even takes two people to install one on a truck. However, there are creative owners that have devised ways to store and hoist the camper shells by themselves.

* Finally, you'll want to choose from a manufacturer that makes a custom fit for your particular vehicle make and model. While the majority manufactured today will fit most common truck models but there are some that do not.

There are also two types of camper shells: hard cover and soft cover. Hard covers won't blow off even at highway speeds and are available with hinge systems for easy lift. They can provide better security because they are lockable. Hard covers are also completely waterproof so you need not worry when there is a heavy rain. In the otherhand, soft covers provide a less rigid top. However, some are sturdy enough for 1-2 people to stand on and can even support 12 inches of wet snow with ease. Soft cover shells come with adjusters that allow one to select the tension desired. Either way, your truck will certainly be enhanced with a camper shell, and whatever your need, one will likely serve you well.

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