Found a topper off a '97 RAM shortbox. I thought I read somewhere that the box on all '94-'01 RAM's were the same, and toppers that fit one, would fit all the others in this generation. Does that sound right? Looking for one to fit my '00 RAM.

 

A topper from a '97 shortbed will fit a '00 shortbed. Not to be a dick, but anyone with eyes knows that.

 

are the bed rails a PITA to remove? what do the holes look like?

 

Yea, as Purpl said, it will will definitely fit. Check to pistons on the rear window and check for leaks around all the windows on it too. It cost me $40 for new pistons on my first topper, you could probably find cheaper, and I had to add some sealant around the windows on my new one. Also some foam tape on the bed rails or the topper helps seal it better