Cap/topper Recommendations

[06pirate]

OK, I tried searching, but came up blank. In the spring I'm going to want to put a cap/topper/canopy (whatever you want to call it) on my 2006 Sierra SLT ECSB. I'm leaning towards ARE because I have a dealer close by with plenty of inventory to inspect, but of course I'll order a new one painted to match. Others in consideraton are Vista, and of course Leer. Anybody have preferences? Anything about one brand or another that would prevent you from wanting it? Good/bad experiences? Note that I WILL be putting a Thule cargo rack on top to haul my 18.5 foot Easy Rider sea kayak, among other things. Thanks in advance.

[ursandal]

I've always had ARE brand toppers, never had an issue or problem. I''m also looking at racks and think I'm going to grab a Canopy rack from USRack. It is much cheaper than Thule/Yakima and allows for kayak cradles.

 

http://www.usrack.com/canopy_rack.php

[stormrider]

I have a LEER. the 100 model. I looked many of the other manufactureres and they are all very similar in build quality. I chose the LEER because that is what I liked the looks of the best on my truck.

[Stevens03]

I've had 2 A.R.E Z-Series caps over the years and they are awesome covers without issue

[rjgvt]

I always buy ARE caps for my trucks. The local dealer here is a top notch family run business that backs up everything he sells, including the aluminum caps that he makes in house.

 

The ARE cap on my last truck separated at the mounting point at the bottom of the cap after 7 years. I bought it brand new when I got the truck. Dealer sent it back to ARE, came back like new and installed back on my truck for no charge.

[knipper_03]

http://www.eaglecaps.com/2000.htm

 

Ive got an eagle cap. a white 2000 eagle cap 6.5 foot bed. Came with the truck haven't used it. But it looks nice. Made in Indiana

[knipper_03]

pics....

[Volucris]

I had an ARE cap on my old truck. It was OK - windows leaked a bit. I have a Raider Saratoga now: http://www.raider.ca/products/photos/?model_id=7

 

It's OK too. I use Yakima bolt on gutters and quick and easy's for a home made rack. I use it to carry gliders, kayaks, etc. Works great.

 

Quick-N-Easy's: http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=3200

[Jubei69]

My dad and relatives used Leer. I have friends who have used ARE, Snugtop, and Century and said the like them. I don't know anyone who has used Jason and Raider tops...

[rogerf]

I have an ARE Z-series on my '07 RCLB. Satisfied with the product and service. This cap is very well built and receive many positive comments about the appearance.

 

The only problem was the key lock on palm-style rear window mechanism kept freezing and the lock was trash after 1 Winter. They replaced the latch under warranty and I bought the add-on power module for the lock so it can be controlled with the power locks (no need for a key). Highly recommend the power option for cold climates, regret not buying it in the first place.