Best Pickup Truck Cap Accessories for Tonneau Covers and Camper Shells
Finding reliable components for pickup truck caps, toppers, and camper shells helps protect cargo, extend functionality, and improve security. This article examines five compatible products that address common needs—locks, mounting clamps, gas struts, and racks—based on the provided selection. Each item is evaluated for fit, durability, and installation practicality to aid informed purchasing decisions.
Product Snapshot
- ARE T-Handle Replacement for Camper Shell Rear Door
- OTTOPO T-Handle Locks for Leer/Camper Shells
- PAMAGOO 18″ Gas Struts 40 lb (2-Pack) for Leer/ARE
- MXSAG Heavy Duty Truck Bed Cap Mounting Clamps (4 Pack)
- AA-Racks P-AC-02 Clamps For Short Bed Truck Cap (Set of 4)
The table below highlights the selected products, their brands, and a quick note on application. This serves as a quick-reference guide to accompany the main sections that follow.
| Product | Brand | Key Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARE T-Handle for Camper Shell Door | ARE | Door lock/replacement | Rear door, high-strength nylon, compatible with ARE shells |
| OTTOPO T-Handle Locks | OTTOPO | Locking latch replacement | Keyed alike option, wide compatibility |
| PAMAGOO 18″ Gas Struts (2-Pack) | PAMAGOO | Rear window lift support | 40 lb per strut, for Leer/ARE shells |
| MXSAG Mounting Clamps (4 Pack) | MXSAG | Attach tonneau/camper shell | No-drill bolt-on style, aluminum |
| AA-Racks P-AC-02 Clamps (Set of 4) | AA-Racks | Clamp kit for short-bed caps | Structural aluminum, reference size in image |
ARE T-Handle Replacement For Camper Shell Door
The ARE T-handle replacement is designed for ARE-brand camper shells, focusing on the rear door. The installation relies on a clockwise turning mechanism, with holes spaced 1.5 inches apart for mounting. The part is described as easy to replace and constructed from durable high-strength nylon, ensuring resilience in hot or cold conditions. Its compatibility is noted for ARE shells and similar models in V, CX, TW, MX, and Overland series, making it a practical option for owners who want a straightforward lock replacement without reconfiguring the entire door. Proper fit may require checking hole spacing and screw patterns in the existing door.
OTTOPO T-Handle Locks For Camper Shells
OTTOPO’s T-handle locks are presented as a versatile locking solution for multiple dual-lock truck caps, including Leer, ARE, and Century fiberglass toppers. Features include keyed-alike functionality (the same key works across included locks) and a design that supports both left- and right-side installations. The kit requires three pre-drilled holes and allows for minor hole widening in some cases. The lugs are spaced about 1.5 inches apart and sit roughly 3/8 inch deep. The installation is described as straightforward, with emphasis on compatibility and the convenience of avoiding key misplacement during travel.
PAMAGOO 18″ Gas Struts (2-Pack) For Camper Shell
The PAMAGOO gas struts are designed for Leer and ARE camper shells, offering 18.7 inches extended length and 10.08 inches compressed length with a 40-pound rating per strut. The package includes two shocks, intended to assist with lifting rear windows or doors on camper shells. Important usage notes include matching the strut pressure to the original part number and weight, and avoiding manual pre-compression, which can cause injury or misalignment. This pair is aimed at restoring smooth opening/closing action for rear windows or doors on compatible toppers.
MXSAG Heavy Duty Mounting Clamps (4 Pack)
These aluminum mounting clamps are designed to attach tonneau covers, camper shells, and topper caps to truck beds without drilling. The package includes four clamps with bolts and washers. Compatibility spans a wide range of makes such as Chevy, GMC, Ford, Dodge, Toyota, Nissan, and others, reflecting common aftermarket setups. The clamps feature zinc-plated hardware to resist rust and corrosion, and the design includes wave-stripe textures for enhanced grip and stability. Installation typically requires aligning the clamps across multiple attachment points on the bed rails and ensuring a tight, secure fit for dynamic road conditions.
AA-Racks P-AC-02 Clamp Kit
The AA-Racks P-AC-02 clamps are offered as a set of four suitable for short-bed pickups. They are constructed from structural aluminum to emphasize strength and durability. The product image and description suggest a specific size reference in the accompanying material, which is useful for verifying fit against your cap or topper. As a non-drill, bolt-on solution, these clamps are aimed at users seeking a quick, sturdy mounting option that minimizes modification to the truck bed itself.
QMI Tailgate Cap For Ram Tailgate
The QMI tailgate cap is a stainless steel accessory designed to fit Ram tailgates from 1994 to 2001, offering a mirror-polished finish and a one-piece style. It includes 3M red high-performance adhesive tape for install and is positioned as a DIY-friendly option that fits over the existing top of the tailgate. While not strictly a cap mounting component, tailgate caps are part of the broader ecosystem of camper shell and truck cap upgrades, and this piece can complement cap installations by providing a tailored aesthetic and protective edge along the tailgate area.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Fit and compatibility: Verify that clamps, locks, and gas struts match your truck make, model, and cap brand. Look for terms like “Leer,” “ARE,” and “short bed” to reduce mismatch risk.
- Material and durability: Aluminum clamps and nylon T-handles offer corrosion resistance and lightweight strength. Stainless steel options suit heavy-use environments, especially in coastal or salted-road areas.
- Installation effort: No-drill bolt-on options save time but may require precise alignment. Pre-drilled hole measurements (such as 1.5″ spacing) matter for proper mounting.
- Security vs. convenience: Locks (keyed-alike where offered) improve security but consider the trade-off of duplicate keys and potential wear on latching hardware.
- Weight and balance: Gas struts must match the weight of the window or door they assist. Oversized or undersized struts can affect opening force and long-term reliability.
- Aesthetic and finish: Polished stainless and chrome finishes harmonize with metallic shells, while matte aluminum blends with most truck aesthetics. Check surface finish compatibility with your existing hardware.
- Warranty and replacement parts: Look for brands offering replacement parts and warranty coverage, especially for critical components like locks and gas struts.
- Installation environment: If the truck bed is exposed to extreme weather, consider corrosion resistance and seals that prevent dust and moisture intrusion into clamps and lock mechanisms.
Overall, the selected products cover a spectrum of needs—from securing access doors to supporting heavy rear windows and providing reliable mounting solutions. When choosing, prioritize proper fit for your specific camper shell or tonneau setup, ensure compatible hole patterns, and balance ease of installation with long-term durability.