Clamp on or bolt on camper shell

chenster · #1 (**permalink**) 03-03-2006, 01:07 AM

I ordered A.R.E MX camper shell. It will take 1 month to build. My question is should I ask installer to clamp on or bolt on? What’s good point and bad point each, and what size & how many bolts & washer should I get if I am going for the bolt on? Thanks.

Sincerely
Chenster

RichR · #2 (**permalink**) 03-03-2006, 03:07 AM

Chenster,
I had an ARE MX put on my truck about two months ago.
It should be clamped on.
The rails are made of fiberglass(for the bed rail wrap) so I wouldn't think tightening a bolt through would work.
Some caps have aluminum(CH on previos truck)rails you can bolt through.
I hope you like the MX.
My dogs like it more than I do!

NateF0022 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-03-2006, 09:46 PM

Now why would you drill a HOLE in your truck to mount a campershell when you can clamp it on.

I'm all about clamps...they hold great and no holes.

chenster · #4 (**permalink**) 03-04-2006, 11:16 PM

Thanks for answering. The reason that I ask is because the clamps dealer provided seems small. Also I seen on the trucks TV, which the host didn't use clamp, instead he bolted it to the vehicle to secure the camper shell.
I don’t plan to take it off, that’s why I ask the question. I don’t mind if there are holes on the rail or not since I won’t get camper shell off. According to the dealer, he said the bolt with washer will be same as clamp on.
I do go light off-road here and there, and I understand the bad warps and twists, so I really hope by bolt on the camper shell, it won’t be come loose.
I would appreciate if anyone have more input. Thanks.