When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I have a 2018 F350 Platinum long box and want to put a topper on it. I would like it flush with the top of the truck. What is the best one out there? Any issues with the 3rd brake light camera?
Thanks in advance for your opinion and suggestions.
Any pictures of your setup for reference would be much appreciated.
We went with a Snugtop Xtra vision on our '18. The window lines match up pretty good, and I have no leaks, QC, or electrical complaints. The downside is they're pricey, quite a bit more than the ARE or Leer.
The upside for me was seeing complaints about leaks, etc. with ARE and Leer, but the only complaints I saw about Snugtop was the price. I'll pay a bit more for fewer problems...
I had an ARE Z series on my old Chevy for 3 years without a single leak or issue whatsoever. One feature that was a must have for me was the remote lock that was wired into my truck door locks. So the cap locked and unlocked with my key fob. I really liked the clean lines of the Z series. I spent about $50 on some led light strips and used 2 sided tape to adhere them to the top and wired a switch to the bedside. The under rail lights are awesome for an empty truck bed but when you start adding cargo having light shine directly down on top makes a huge difference. That and the remote lock are what I miss most.
I had a ARE MX series on my last ford for 4 years. I know that is not the style you are looking for, but I never had any leaks and would get another ARE if I had to buy a shell again. I slept in the back many nights, so I would have known.
I wouldn't think there would be any issues with the third brake light camera other than the view being obstructed, but I don't have first hand experience with that.
I remember seeing a thread in here about 3rd brakelight camera relocation. I’m sure you could relocate it to the rear of the cap or interior of the cap if you wanted to keep the ability to see what was in the bed.
I went with the ARE Z on my truck. The fit and finish are spot on, like it could've come from Ford with it. The electric lock and tip-down slider window are good options to consider.
I am interested in purchasing a camper shell as well and this is one of my concerns as well. How the camper shell would affect the camera system, not just the third brake light but also the read camera. Also is there any reason why a camper shell that is on a 2014 f250 would not fit a 2017 other than incorrect bed length?
I've had LEER, Snug Top and ARE. The new ARE is great. No leaks. Electric latch lock is great. Fold down window is really nice for cleaning the windows.
