Hello:

Looking at a full topper/shell for my 1999 F250 SD and am looking at Are and would like to hear others pro/con's regarding the optional walk-in door as opposed to the conventional tail gate/lift gate.

TIA
bill

 

Talkative bunch huh?



take care

bill

 

Given the choice, I'd take the walk in.

They usually have a top hinge that allows the back of the shell to completely open to make the bed fullly accesible.

The only bad news is having to store the tailgate somewhere and not being able to remove the shells tailgate to use your trucks tailgate.

 

I'd say its gonna depend on what your hauling.... Get the walk in if you have tools up toward the front of the bed, but if you're aways hauling lumber which is accessable from the tail end, then go the regular route

 

Jake brings up a good point, if you're gonna be hauling cargo, then do not opt for the walk-thru. It's fragile. Usually the walk-thru is for camping etc.

Like Jake said...it depends on what you're using the shell for.

 

I put the ARE walk in door type topper on my 99 SD right after I bought it new and have never regretted it. The tailgate would have meant that much more leaning over for loading and unloading stuff you've stowed right at the back. And, yes the whole back of the topper flips up for access, in addition to the walk in door. That's about the best feature.

I would like to figure out how to make a living room coffee table or bench out of the tailgate, as it is brand new!

Also, I got the contractor type, flip up side windows, instead of the sliding ones, for full access for loading and unloading stuff and am glad I did.

 

Thank you one and all gentlemen! Knowing what they say 'bout experience being the best.... I appreciate the thoughts. I think, now all I've gotta decide is if I want a Cargo Master rack or not. Your responses are appreciated.

Thanks
bill