Truck Cap Questions & Answers

Truck caps are known by different names, such as truck toppers, camper shells, or canopies. These generally interchangeable terms all describe something you install on a truck bed to give you a covered cargo area. A truck cap is different from a tonneau cover, which provides a simple cover for a truck bed that's flush with the bed rails.

A truck cap also covers the bed, but it does so in a way that's level with the top of the cab. This gives you more than just a covered bed, but a covered cargo hold like an SUV. Fiberglass truck caps tend to be the most common, but aluminum ones are also available.

Let's explore some common questions and answers about truck caps.

What is a Truck Cap?

You might find a truck cap going by other names, including camper shell, truck topper, or bed cap. Another older name for a truck cap is canopy. As mentioned above, truck caps provide a cover for your truck bed at cab level, rather than flush with the bed rails like a tonneau cover. Truck caps are usually constructed of fiberglass or aluminum. Truck caps may also come with additional features like locking doors, windows, and dome lights.

How Much Does a Truck Cap Weigh?

Truck caps usually weigh somewhere between 150 and 200 pounds. This depends largely on the material it's made of. For example, the A.R.E. CX series truck caps usually weigh between 120 and 185 pounds. The weight of a truck cap also depends on the size of the bed. A long bed truck cap will generally weigh more than a short bed truck cap.

How Do You Measure a Truck Bed for a Cap?

To measure your truck bed for a cap, you'll need to start by measuring the length from the inside of the bulkhead to the inside of the tailgate. Then, measure the width from both inside edges. Note both measurements in inches. When you measure the bed rails, make sure to measure along the rail, not across the top of the rail.

You might think just checking the measurements from the manufacturer will work, but these measurements are often rounded off to the nearest foot, so the exact measurement of your bed might be different. You must have exact measurements for installing a bed cap.

If you have a tailgate liner, that might affect your measurements, and flared or step sides might also affect the measurements and the fit of a truck cap.

How Do You Install a Truck Cap?

The first thing to check before you install any truck cap is the manufacturer's directions for your specific product. You'll also need at least two people to install the cap. Truck caps aren't terribly heavy, but it's the awkward bulk of the cap that makes them nearly impossible to install with only one person. New truck caps typically come with the clamps and hardware to install the cap on the bed rails. Finally, you will also need to complete any wiring the truck cap needs according to your model's directions.

How Do You Dispose of a Fiberglass Truck Cap?

Properly disposing of a fiberglass truck cap may depend on where you live. IN general, you'll probably need to take it to a local commercial dump or landfill. You can also try to offer it for sale in case someone needs it for a project or a dog shelter. Sometimes scrap yards or RV salvage yards will also take truck caps and even pay you for them.

How Do You Store a Truck Cap Outside?

There are a few considerations for storing your truck cap outside. In most cases, your truck cap stays outside because it's part of your truck. Truck caps aren't completely waterproof, so you might find some moisture getting inside if you live in an area where it snows or rains a lot. If you find that it's humid inside, you can add a moisture absorber.

You might consider putting a cover over your truck cap if it stays outside for a length of time in bad weather. However, sun damage is also a possibility, so it's a good idea to use UV protection. It's important to keep your truck cap clean when it's stored outside. Wash and dry it regularly so that grime doesn't build up.

When you need a fiberglass truck cap, Action has you covered. Adding a fiberglass truck cap adds to the look of your truck and keeps your cargo secure. Choose from a wide range of truck cap models at Action, including Action Contour IV and the comprehensive A.R.E. Series.