I want to put a truck cap on my 2004 Ram 2500 short bed.

I'm looking at the following models: [ul][*]A.R.E. Z Series[*]Leer XL Series[*]Jeraco Supreme Series[/ul]Anyone have any comments about any of these choices? Other recommendations?

 

if you order one, be sure to ask about the optional drop down rear window, This cost me about 20 dollars extra, But let the window in the cap next to the cab fold down. It's great to be able to clean between the 2 sets of windows at the cab. Another two options I ordered was: one single button on frameless rear glass. One press of the button and the rear glass opens. If not you have to hand ***** on both side. The other was open out side glass. Not a SUV look but it's great to open the side window and reach in and get something out of the front. I forget my brand name but here's a pic

 

Although I haven't looked into shells lately, I can tell you from experience that the ones that are NOT painted (color in the top layer of fiberglass) tend to have finish problems early on if you don't keep them really well polished. I believe Leer paints theirs - much better choice in my book...

 

Those caps look pretty nice, I don't have much expirence with them though. If you don't mind the lack of security, you check out the Canback caps. I have one on my 01 Tacoma and its been great. The rear and sides can be rolled up for access and a safari look. It does limit security because it can be unsnapped or cut open, but I've never had any problems.

[IMG]local://upfiles/16793/B9F3E6BE1F724A378A9CB835472F56B1.jpg[/IMG]

 

I've had a Z series before. Great looking cap, fit the truck nicely. Paint was very nice, matched perfect. Had the optional drop down front window (a must), carpeted top (nice if you sleep back there at all).

The only complaint I ever had with it was the latches on the back window. I was constantly adjusting them to get it to close without slamming the back window.

Other than that, I'd buy an ARE again.

 

I appreciate all the opinions and suggestions. I had not thought about how I was going to clean between the cap and the cab. I'll definitely get the drop down window. I'll also pay close attention to how the finish is applied.

Thanks. Anyone else have additional comments/opinions?

 

I actually thought about getting one of those caps. They look pretty cool. How do they open at the back? Is the back window glass, or plastic? I don't know if i could drive without being able to see out of the sides, but the cap DOES look cool.