Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

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Sep 12, 2003 | 03:36 PM

TJ-Ranger

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From: BC Canada

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

I have my fiberglass bed cover/cap/canopy in for a clear coat and thinking of a better way to mount it to the bed. When I got the truck, which has a 1 piece bed liner over the rails, the cap was screwed on, thru the bedliner and rails. 4 screws on each side. Altho this may be the simpliest way, Ive already heard 1 or 2 pop while driving...(assertively..!!)
Im thinking of using bolts instead..and possible with 'eyes' in them for tie down points.
The guy clear coating suggested 'clamps'
I guess I could drill a couple of holes thru the side of the liner and bed panels....
Has any one done something different...??

Sep 12, 2003 | 04:24 PM

jim henderson

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From: So Cal

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

My shell uses 6 clamp type devices and after 7 years still as tight and secure as when new. They mount thru precut holes in my liner. The liner had plastic plugs in it before we got the shell.

I have mounted a sehll in the past with 6 5/16 inch bolts with a flat steel plate(3x2 inches) on the top side. Worked Ok but occasionally worked loose. Screws ain't gonna cut it. Use lock washers and or locktite. If there is room use a fatter bolt than 5/16. Doesn't take much more space but much stronger.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

Sep 13, 2003 | 11:24 AM

TJ-Ranger

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From: BC Canada

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

Thanks Jim. I was thinking about using bolts with 'eye's in them for tie down points...and locking washers. But maybe clamps might be better. I guess Id be able to use the clamps for tie down points too!!. - Not that Id be tying down anything heavy..but maybe a ladder or boards.. That should work, No?
Thomas

Sep 14, 2003 | 03:22 AM

TJ-Ranger

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From: BC Canada

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

I went with the 'clamp' system. Its very tight and secure to the rail. He put in 2 on each side, but had him do a 3rd in between for extra security. I can use the clamps as tie-down points if necessary...So this worked out really good.
Thanks......

Sep 15, 2003 | 10:28 AM

jim henderson

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From: So Cal

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

I use bungee cords to tie things to the clamps. Works real well for light stuff, like ladders and propane tanks and such.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

Sep 18, 2003 | 02:08 AM

TJ-Ranger

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From: BC Canada

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

exactly..
btw.. the clearcoat canopy looks pretty good., too!

Sep 24, 2003 | 10:25 AM

pilot10

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From: San Mateo, CA

Canopy/cap install...ideas!!

I used the eye bolts on my old Ranger w/ a Raven shell. Worked out very well. Just make sure to use washers so as not to distort the mounting surface. The lock nuts are a real good idea too. I used to have to fight with the bed liner to get to the forward bolts but after a couple years I wized up and cut a notch in the liner so my hand/tool could get in there a little easier. More than once I dropped a nut behind the liner and had to go fishing.

Just remember to tighten them occasionally.

Tim