I've got a '15 supercab and I'm wanting a camper shell for a few camping trips per year. I won't be sleeping in it, I just need a little security and a way to keep things relatively dry back there. If I was gonna use it all the time I'd just go buy a new one. However, I have a big lumber rack on my bed most of the year, so I'd rather not drop $1500 on something that will spend roughly 340 days a year leaned up in the back yard.

Meanwhile, on craigslist there are a lot of used shells for under $500 that seem like they could fit. What's the story? Can I get a shell made for an earlier 6.5' bed and make it work? I don't need it to be 100% leak proof--I know the wide top of the '15 tailgate won't be covered. Is this possible or will it be a huge headache?

THANKS.

 

It may look silly, but an 09-14 topper will work. They are a little larger than the bed, so should drop right on. The rear door may need some trimming off the bottom so it can close. Somewhere I saw a thread here where someone actually did that. The front part may be tight to the cab, so that would be the only concern.

 

Thanks for the info! I'll look for that thread. Is there any chance a topper off of a Chevy or Dodge would fit as well?

 

I'm looking for the same info. I have a chance to pick up a color matching camper shell off a 2013 for my 2017 for $700. I was hoping it may be an issue of just changing out the back glass to fit the 2017 tailgate.

 

http://www.autoanything.com/hitch-be...d-camper-shell

Something like that would be pretty cheap (compared), fit right, and come off and store easier than a fiberglass shell.

 

Thanks for the link! I've thought about those soft toppers, but I'm worried they don't provide much security for when I'll be parked in cities. If it was just for camping it would work.

 

parked in cities...


Not much security with a canopy, either. The locking tailgate helps a bit, but anything visible, even a bag of rags, will attract thieves. A cooler might be full of beer...

 

Well, I agree with you that a hard shell isn't fort knox, but I still think it's an added level of protection over the soft tops. I figure if it takes someone a rock or a hammer and making a lot of noise, that's an added level of commitment over, say, a pocket knife and quietly cutting open a soft top.

I also agree with you on keeping things out of site--i'll cover any windows for sure.

 

Here is one who tried it,

https://www.f150forum.com/f118/new-m...2/#post4246249

 

HaH Found it!

https://www.f150forum.com/f118/r-e-z...estion-373272/

I have an ARE, but not like the one in this link, and thought about it, but the door wouldn't work, and its Tuxedo Black, and my new truck is Ruby red. Right now its just taking up room in my carport, so need to figure out what to do with it.