A.R.E. Camper Shells

saguaro wrote:
Bought a Ram 1500 Classic with an 8 ft. bed recently. Went to a local dealership and had them install an A.R.E. camper shell. After installation I immediately discovered the handle to the back flap was so tight I could barely turn it with all my strength (and I was a small college linebacker). Next I learned that the same problem existed with all three sliding windows, in particular the one at the front behind the cab. It took the local shop an hour and a half to fix the rear handle so it opened as easily as the ones on the side. As for the jammed up sliding windows I was told they would loosen up with use. Really? I doubt it. When I got home I applied Vaseline to the slides but that didn't help. Next I tried WD-40 which helped enough I can now open all three windows without throwing my back out but they are all still ridiculously tight. How did these problems get by quality control at the A.R.E. factory? Or do they even have quality control? Another question; why is there no way to lock the back flap from the inside? Has not occurred to A.R.E. that some of their customers would be using their camper shell to camp in (who could have guessed?)and perhaps would like to lock the rear flap so that any unsavory character who happens by during the wee hours cannot stroll over and open the shell to find you sleeping in there? This camper shell is good looking and feels solid but it looks to me like A.R.E. is not paying much attention to their product.

Somethings I take away from your post and comments: I bought my topper used so I would expect to have to do repairs and needed TLC, but if buying new
you are correct, everything should be in perfect working order..... a manufacturer or dealer warranty issue

My Leer topper does not lock from the inside, and I’m not sure I would want to, but it has an aluminum frame around the glass so adding a hasp would be no big deal.

There are many solo hunters/campers/fisherman using toppers and there has been for decades. Slide in T/C’s have gotten stupid high in price for what they are, and I won’t buy something yet I can’t put under roof when not using.

Also, X2 on either lithium spray or graphite bases lubricant like Lock Ease for the handle locks......WD40 is a poor choice, once it dries out it has no lubrication benefits


Good Luck