Bed cap/topper question from newbie

[BuffaloBill]

This is my first truck, and I am looking at getting a bed cap. I see some rear windows are framed, and others are frameless.

From what I can see from pictures it looks like visibility out the back is less with frameless glass, but I want to maximize visibility as much as possible. What is the advantage of a frameless rear window?

Thanks

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[ryanc111]

Generally speaking it comes down to price. The frameless models tend to cost more.

 

[cghall77]

I have the Ranch Sierra cap. I don't really notice any real obstruction from glass frames. When in reverse I really don't use the review mirror and when going forward I glance in the review mirror a little, but love the tow mirrors. Having the 360 cam really help.

 

[Jeb536]

In my opinion the frameless cap windows look so much cleaner. The framed ones look old school To me.

I’ve been looking at the A.R.E. CX or Z series Starting around 3K in my area.

 

[Calson]

Main difference is how they open. The frameless ones usually pop out and the framed ones will slide to open like sliders in a house. I prefer the ones with frames.

Check out the local dealer and see what options are available with the brand they sell. I have had Snugtops on my last 3 trucks and they have maintained their color for more than 10 years and operated with no problems. The center lock on the rear is preferable.

 

[BuffaloBill]

I'm leaning towards an ARE V cap, and there's an option for either a single or double T handle for the rear window. Seems like the single T is more convenient. But does the double T offer an advantage that I'm missing?

 

[Fat Vinnie]

You will loose visibility with any cap/topper/shell. I now have 2000 miles with my Leer top and I’m used to it but it was a big adjustment over an open bed. The rear hatch is frameless but still has the bottom blacked for the latch and tailgate cover. I ordered framed side windows to get maximum air for the dogs.
Also the truck rear window to the topper front glass alignment is important for the best visibility.
Options you may want to add:
Power lock synced with your truck fob
Interior light
carpet lining for both the topper and bed ( I purchased
the Bedrug brand with the tailgate cover)
Roof racks built into the topper.
If you carry pets a pet screen for the windows
Its a plus to have a secure weather proof bed area.

 

[powerboatr]

not a f150, but
i had a leer on my 02 f350
it was great fit, i priced one for the f150 and OMG they got pricey
still on fence to get one or not. but they do look good
everytime i see this old picture makes me want to jump and get one

never really noticed visibility issues

https://www.leer.com/truck-caps/cab-high/100xq-sport-truck-cap this one is nice, but it does not come back as fit for 22??? strange

 

[Jeb536]

I went ahead and ordered the A.R.E. CX Revo. I'll post a pic when it comes in.

ARE site link

 

[BuffaloBill]

I decided on an ARE V series. Will post pictures. I was told 5-6 weeks. Any idea if this is realistic?

 

[ChemGuy]

I decided on an ARE V series. Will post pictures. I was told 5-6 weeks. Any idea if this is realistic?

I just recently purchased a Leer 100XL (headliner/remote/interior lights) - dealer said 4-5 weeks and Monday of the 5th week he called to say it had been delivered and ready to go on. Not sure if location (Southern WI) or the options I wanted added anything to the lead time but his estimate was accurate. In short form, 5-6 weeks sounds realistic.

 

[Jeb536]

I went ahead and ordered the A.R.E. CX Revo. I'll post a pic when it comes in.

ARE site link

Cap came in

 

[Calson]

I have always installed side curtains on my camper shells and with no one able to look inside I have not experienced a break-in over the past 55 years. I have always used the side mirrors and that has been good enough. My 2022 truck has the alerts for the side and rear and a rear camera so there is even less need to see through the camper shell.

My Snugtop for the F-150 has a carpet interior lining and I found that Velcro sticks very well to it and so my wife sewed Velcro strips to black fabric and the curtains but out 90% of the light and anyone outside is only going to see their reflection. Far less tempting to a potential thief.

 

[roadPilot]

Had an ARE Z-Series on my 2017 F350 Super Duty Powerstroke. I didn't really look out the rear window all that much.

 

[trexus]

Went with the ARE CX Evolve. The tint on the glass is very dark (feels darker than the Leer on my last truck). But I also had a cap pack installed and that further reduces vis since it decreases the field of view.

My rear view is honestly almost useless between the tint, the cap pack that hangs down on the inside, and the dirty dog cargo barrier I've got in the cab (4 dogs between my partner and I so two in crates in the bed, and 2 in the cab when we're together)

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