frfghtrchd
08-03-2011, 06:52 AM
I have noticed a few questions about the softtopper. I purchased a black one for my Crew Max 1 year ago now. I live in Ohio and it handles the snow loads and ice well. I would rate it at 98% water proof and I did not apply the seam sealer. I also did not apply the velcro to hold down rear flap. The zippers and bar across back hold it down good enough for me plus I wanted a little more air movement since I often have 4 dogs in the bed. It does flap a bit but you don't hear it and a minimal amount of snow or rain mist may get in over the tailgate. I did use the screw-in fasteners to secure front flap to plastic bedliner. For the other users with dogs or needing front access to bed from the cab. You can order an extra front flap with a hole cut and stitched in the window. I did but have yet to actually use it. The hole is wide enough I could crawl from cab into bed. I do however replace rear window in summer with the optional screen and that allows plenty of ventilation for the dogs. We drive around alot with the sides and back rolled up with the dogs back there and it does just fine. Make sure you lighten the 4 tiedowns though. I drove 105 mph through New Mexico on the way to Arizona for a 14 day hunting trip with the Soft Topper on and it did great. Did not flap or or nothing, just smooth sailing. I have over 1600 miles of off roading with this as well through desert, mountains, and woods and not one rip so far. I did however notice some wear on the inside where it rubs the aluminum frame at the joint where it assembles together. A quick fix with the file on the leatherman solved that. They just left a few burs from the saw and it rubbed it. I will try and get some pics up for you too see it in action.