This video sold me on it. I ordered it Tuesday from OK4WD since they’re running a great sale and they had them in stock, and it showed up mid day Friday. So far I’m super impressed with it.
So after having watched hundreds of videos, about various tops, brands, and models, I had narrowed my search down to Alu-Cab (mostly because of price and product availability where I’m living now in Belgium). This is the video that has made my decision. I appreciate the simplicity of your post (especially because the only attachment I have for it is a nearly identical awning). Thanks for helping me spend my $$Euros$$.
Hey! Glad i could help. You'll love it, so versatile and simple. I looked at a smartcap and just felt like certain elements of it got in the way of loading things or reaching into it. Alu Cab all the way
@H2OFive0h: Good choice, you will be happy with the build quality of the Alucab. The only complaint I have is the useability of the keys on the locks, they are absolute shit. Seriously, how they can cheap out on this feature is beyond me... The mechanism that protects the keyhole from dust jams, it is not easy to use on a regular basis... What is your experience?
Excelent video. It is very clear every detail. I’m considering one of this for a LC79 single cab and sleeping inside. I have a question if you could help me. The windows can be open from inside?
I’ve been going back and forth over the contour or the GFC topper. I think this may be the way to go … more side access , and they have the tray for the front runner boxes . Nicely done
Yeah I can't speak much for the GFC. When I did my initial research I wasn't even looking at alu cab. Really thought i wanted a smart cap. But I made a list of what I actually wanted/needed out of the cap, and Alucab checked those boxes.
Great video my man. You really have the only video out there of a bracket install visual. I've been working on installing the brackets on mine today but the instructions aren't super clear, I'm not sure if they sent me the wrong threaded plates/ button head screws... if you get a chance, can you send me an up close picture of the brackets mounted from all angles? I'll send ya $20 bucks, seriously... I refuse to take this canopy off the truck now after battling it on solo as well, lol. Appreciate the videos!
I’m at work for the next 10ish hours so I won’t be able to get a shot of it until then. Shoot me a picture of what you got so far on instagram DM. No need to pay me lol
For sure! Glad you got that sorted. Yeah I remember most of the install was smooth but getting the flat slotted nuts or whatever you want to call them into the channels was a major headache due to powder coat overspray.
If you stick a pool noodle on / in your roof rack you should be able to sit your surfboard level. Ensure noodle is secure between board and rack. Have you slept in it at all?
Yeah I have a couple Creature velcro foam pads and they work great! Haven't slept in it, but we took it out camping a few times with the roof top tent and it was awesome. Having a lit cap is something I can never go back from now.
It’s great! No issues whatsoever. That included running a roof top tent, 270 awning, and two adults sleeping on top of it throughout the summer. Everything is still functioning as it should
I want one of those so bad for my 2020 tundra crewmax truck. Ok4WD in New Jersey told me they arent planning on making it for my truck at this time. Just the 2022-and newer tundra.
Really? That's ashame. Did they ever make one for your truck? You may be able to find one used in good condition, it would just be whatever older model they made
Solid review. I've Never used roof racks before but curious how you would safely mount some longboards to the alu cab load bars? Would you wrap those soft pads you have on the cab rack around the bars on the canopy?
Great video and you’ve answered a lot of my questions in these comments. Another kinda dumb question, but is it possible to clean the outside of the windows between the cab and the canopy? Seems like those would get pretty dirty after a while reducing visibility.
Yeah I would say there’s actually a lot more space between the cap and the cab than a traditional setup. From experience you can definitely get a hand and squeegee down in there if your arms are long enough.
Great video. I just unboxed mine. The installation instructions are a little confusing--e.g. the shims. Did you make a installation video? There isn't a good one on TH-cam.
I didn’t because we were leaving for a camping trip the next morning so I threw a Hail Mary and knocked it out without filming unfortunately. I actually had someone else message me about a how to install vid, so I may do a follow up and run down the process once it gets above freezing here again.
I have been debating this canopy. I have a tacoma sport, so less rugged looking. I just wonder if I will look funny with a topper like this on the back. Also I do not have anything on the roof so it would stick out above the cab.
Depends what you're going for and what you want to get out of it I guess. It's definitely not as "sleek" looking as something like an ARE or Leer, but I love the space and utility of it.
Great video. I'm planning to purchase and install one myself as well. What did you use to seal the canopy to the bed rails? Camper shell tape, silicon caulking, etc? If you used tape, did you apply the sticky side to the canopy or bed rails or does it matter? Any hints on the install besides finding a buddy to help? Thanks!
Hey thank you! So you don’t need any sort of tape. The canopy comes with a rubber seal attached to the bottom edge that sits on the bed rails. If you do want it to be water tight(ish) I would say grab some caulking for the corners of the bed closest to the cab. The Tacoma bed has some small gaps there that can let water through.
Thank you! I’m sure that you could. If you want to lock yourself in it, you’d have to go with some sort of replacement latches though. I’ve tried with the stock ones and there doesn’t appear to be any way to do so.
Can you elaborate on why can't a slimline rack be installed, The canopy is to wide? Doesn't frontrunner have various sizes? I'm getting the contour installed in a few weeks was hoping to get a frontrunner rack on it.
The dimensions of the mounting rails. They’re too wide to mount it straight on top. I had asked the distributor who I bought it from about a frontrunner rack specifically, he looked into it, and said no dice. I’m sure you could use some angled footings, but I wouldn’t risk a heavy load on that since now you’re putting torque on the mounting channels
I've been loving it, quality is superb. Still trying to decide on a rack solution of some sort. You went with 1450 load bars? Did you end up getting a rack?
I'm looking to get this for my '23 Tacoma Offroad long bed. Contacted a local dealer last night but haven't heard back. Just wondering what the lead time was when you got this?
The same one I had on my bed rack. It's a 3 person fold out. Weighs about 110lbs and with us and a dog will be about a 450lb static load, so we're good on static/dynamic weight.
The mounting channels use an 8mm hex bolt. So, anything that can fit on that *should* as long as it's wide enough. If you're considering buying one I would just call whichever distributor you're going through and make sure though. I don't know anything about the frontrunner system so I can't say for sure.
Looks like it: ok4wd.com/contour-canopy-ford-f150-5-5-2021-black/?PMax+-+Campers+%26+Truck+Caps&hsa_acc=6374043358&hsa_cam=21816478521&hsa_grp=&hsa_ad=&hsa_src=x&hsa_tgt=&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_MVJpcVsmuHGhKaT2uUUd7NZ-bk&gclid=Cj0KCQiAuou6BhDhARIsAIfgrn7R_iZuBDfXYa2WNIOEC4IxNhRIktnsttxiSmMIcli_gZAWLlh4nP8aApArEALw_wcB
It’s replacing it in their lineup. IMO better overall look and functionality, addition of the positive pressure event is huge, etc. So if you see the Explorer for sale somewhere it’s old inventory.
Nope, the cap itself is water tight. The cab end of the bed itself is letting a little water in but that's a known thing. I'll throw some silicon sealant in the gap which should take care of it
THAT IS SO COOL CANOPY, ARE YOU BOUGHT THAT DIRECT FROM SOUTH AFRICA, IF SO, HOW LONG TO ARIVE? I’M IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN ORANGE COUNTY AREA, IS THAT CANOPY MADE FOR 2023 F-150 PLATINUM 5’5 BED SIZE. IT SEEMS QUITE SIMPLE TO PUT IT TOGETHER BY MYSELF DESPITE IS NOT THAT HEAVY, IS THE PRICE IS THE SAME THAT ONE YOU HAVE WITH THAT ONE WITH WINDOW ON BOTH SIDE THE RUCK, I GET IT WHY YOU PICK WITHOUT WINDOW GLASS FOR A SECURITY YOUR BELONGING BUT WITHE SIDE WINDOWS GLASS DO THEY ALSO CAN PUT IT PROTECTION LIKE A GUARD AROUND THE GLASS WINDOWS TO IT? IS THAT COME WITH IT OR YOU HAVE TO PURCHASE SEPARATELY? PLEASE HELP ME OUT ABOUT THIS, I WOULD LIVE TO BUY IT IF THEY MADE FOR MY F-150 5’5 BED. THANK YOU, I APPRECIATE IT.
This video sold me on it. I ordered it Tuesday from OK4WD since they’re running a great sale and they had them in stock, and it showed up mid day Friday. So far I’m super impressed with it.
Wish I was getting commission lol. Yeah it’s a rock solid platform. One year in and zero complaints here. Simple system that does what I need
So after having watched hundreds of videos, about various tops, brands, and models, I had narrowed my search down to Alu-Cab (mostly because of price and product availability where I’m living now in Belgium). This is the video that has made my decision. I appreciate the simplicity of your post (especially because the only attachment I have for it is a nearly identical awning). Thanks for helping me spend my $$Euros$$.
Hey! Glad i could help. You'll love it, so versatile and simple. I looked at a smartcap and just felt like certain elements of it got in the way of loading things or reaching into it. Alu Cab all the way
@H2OFive0h: Good choice, you will be happy with the build quality of the Alucab. The only complaint I have is the useability of the keys on the locks, they are absolute shit. Seriously, how they can cheap out on this feature is beyond me... The mechanism that protects the keyhole from dust jams, it is not easy to use on a regular basis... What is your experience?
Excelent video. It is very clear every detail.
I’m considering one of this for a LC79 single cab and sleeping inside.
I have a question if you could help me.
The windows can be open from inside?
I believe the models with the sliding window can. However the full doors themselves cannot
I’ve been going back and forth over the contour or the GFC topper. I think this may be the way to go … more side access , and they have the tray for the front runner boxes . Nicely done
Yeah I can't speak much for the GFC. When I did my initial research I wasn't even looking at alu cab. Really thought i wanted a smart cap. But I made a list of what I actually wanted/needed out of the cap, and Alucab checked those boxes.
Great video my man. You really have the only video out there of a bracket install visual. I've been working on installing the brackets on mine today but the instructions aren't super clear, I'm not sure if they sent me the wrong threaded plates/ button head screws... if you get a chance, can you send me an up close picture of the brackets mounted from all angles? I'll send ya $20 bucks, seriously... I refuse to take this canopy off the truck now after battling it on solo as well, lol. Appreciate the videos!
I’m at work for the next 10ish hours so I won’t be able to get a shot of it until then. Shoot me a picture of what you got so far on instagram DM. No need to pay me lol
@ I finally just figured it out after studying screenshots of your setup, appreciate you reaching out and offering a helping hand!
For sure! Glad you got that sorted. Yeah I remember most of the install was smooth but getting the flat slotted nuts or whatever you want to call them into the channels was a major headache due to powder coat overspray.
would it be possible to give me the dimension between tailgate and the top of rear window and from bed floor to the rails inside. thanks
35in from the floor to the back hatch lowest point, 38in from floor to ceiling inside bed.
If you stick a pool noodle on / in your roof rack you should be able to sit your surfboard level. Ensure noodle is secure between board and rack.
Have you slept in it at all?
Yeah I have a couple Creature velcro foam pads and they work great!
Haven't slept in it, but we took it out camping a few times with the roof top tent and it was awesome. Having a lit cap is something I can never go back from now.
Your video has been out a year. Can you give us an update and tell us how the Alu Cap is performing?
It’s great! No issues whatsoever. That included running a roof top tent, 270 awning, and two adults sleeping on top of it throughout the summer. Everything is still functioning as it should
I want one of those so bad for my 2020 tundra crewmax truck. Ok4WD in New Jersey told me they arent planning on making it for my truck at this time. Just the 2022-and newer tundra.
Really? That's ashame. Did they ever make one for your truck? You may be able to find one used in good condition, it would just be whatever older model they made
Solid review. I've Never used roof racks before but curious how you would safely mount some longboards to the alu cab load bars? Would you wrap those soft pads you have on the cab rack around the bars on the canopy?
Yep exactly. I’ve had a couple short boards and even some SUPs on there and just used the Velcro on foam pads. No issues
Great video and you’ve answered a lot of my questions in these comments. Another kinda dumb question, but is it possible to clean the outside of the windows between the cab and the canopy? Seems like those would get pretty dirty after a while reducing visibility.
Yeah I would say there’s actually a lot more space between the cap and the cab than a traditional setup. From experience you can definitely get a hand and squeegee down in there if your arms are long enough.
Great video. I just unboxed mine. The installation instructions are a little confusing--e.g. the shims. Did you make a installation video? There isn't a good one on TH-cam.
I didn’t because we were leaving for a camping trip the next morning so I threw a Hail Mary and knocked it out without filming unfortunately. I actually had someone else message me about a how to install vid, so I may do a follow up and run down the process once it gets above freezing here again.
@@MikesGearGarage Thank you for the quick reply. I'm glad I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the good work.
Much appreciated. I'll try to knock it out this weekend if I get some spare time.
Can you please show the awning brackets and hiw you mounted it
2x 8mm hex bolts slid in facing threads up, bracket on top, washer and lock nut. Pretty simple!
@Tacosauce4x4 that's on OVS correct ? Is the two load bars enough to handle that awning?
@Garrett Hackett yes and yes. I had it mounted from two points on my bed rack, and it was never an issue
Thanks for the vid. I have one one the way for my tacoma. ...curious, what are the width of the bars you got, 1450 or 1250?
Much appreciated!
1450. Figured better to have too much than not enough and it was perfect for the tent plus awning setup.
I have been debating this canopy. I have a tacoma sport, so less rugged looking. I just wonder if I will look funny with a topper like this on the back. Also I do not have anything on the roof so it would stick out above the cab.
Depends what you're going for and what you want to get out of it I guess. It's definitely not as "sleek" looking as something like an ARE or Leer, but I love the space and utility of it.
Great video. I'm planning to purchase and install one myself as well. What did you use to seal the canopy to the bed rails? Camper shell tape, silicon caulking, etc? If you used tape, did you apply the sticky side to the canopy or bed rails or does it matter? Any hints on the install besides finding a buddy to help? Thanks!
Hey thank you! So you don’t need any sort of tape. The canopy comes with a rubber seal attached to the bottom edge that sits on the bed rails. If you do want it to be water tight(ish) I would say grab some caulking for the corners of the bed closest to the cab. The Tacoma bed has some small gaps there that can let water through.
@@MikesGearGarage Thank you for the quick feedback.
For sure
Great review! Can you sleep inside the canopy?
Thank you! I’m sure that you could. If you want to lock yourself in it, you’d have to go with some sort of replacement latches though. I’ve tried with the stock ones and there doesn’t appear to be any way to do so.
Thanks for this video. I have a question. Is the rear window tempered glass or plexiglass ? TIA.
Great question. I don't know for a fact, but it appears to be tempered glass based on the feel and clarity of it.
What’s the height from the bottom of your bed to the top of the canopy? I’m with you on why this one is better than smart cap
35in from the floor of the bed to the hatch, and on the interior 38in from floor to ceiling
Can you elaborate on why can't a slimline rack be installed, The canopy is to wide? Doesn't frontrunner have various sizes? I'm getting the contour installed in a few weeks was hoping to get a frontrunner rack on it.
The dimensions of the mounting rails. They’re too wide to mount it straight on top. I had asked the distributor who I bought it from about a frontrunner rack specifically, he looked into it, and said no dice. I’m sure you could use some angled footings, but I wouldn’t risk a heavy load on that since now you’re putting torque on the mounting channels
I've been loving it, quality is superb. Still trying to decide on a rack solution of some sort. You went with 1450 load bars? Did you end up getting a rack?
I'm looking to get this for my '23 Tacoma Offroad long bed. Contacted a local dealer last night but haven't heard back. Just wondering what the lead time was when you got this?
Three months from OK4WD
I essentially have the same build as you, except I have the previous explorer canopy. What size tent are you planning to put on top of your alu cab?
The same one I had on my bed rack. It's a 3 person fold out. Weighs about 110lbs and with us and a dog will be about a 450lb static load, so we're good on static/dynamic weight.
Do you know if the frontrunner load bars or roof racks with mount on too?
The mounting channels use an 8mm hex bolt. So, anything that can fit on that *should* as long as it's wide enough. If you're considering buying one I would just call whichever distributor you're going through and make sure though. I don't know anything about the frontrunner system so I can't say for sure.
Is alu cab made for F-150 too ?
/
Looks like it: ok4wd.com/contour-canopy-ford-f150-5-5-2021-black/?PMax+-+Campers+%26+Truck+Caps&hsa_acc=6374043358&hsa_cam=21816478521&hsa_grp=&hsa_ad=&hsa_src=x&hsa_tgt=&hsa_kw=&hsa_mt=&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_MVJpcVsmuHGhKaT2uUUd7NZ-bk&gclid=Cj0KCQiAuou6BhDhARIsAIfgrn7R_iZuBDfXYa2WNIOEC4IxNhRIktnsttxiSmMIcli_gZAWLlh4nP8aApArEALw_wcB
Can you lock/unlock the canopy from inside the canopy?
Yes, with a little modification it's definitely possible. Doesn't come factory that way though
@@MikesGearGarageHave you already done this? How about a quick video on it? It's the primary thing that prevents me from getting one. Thanks.
For sure. I'll see what I can do
Any update to this? I have the same question that's keeping me from pulling the trigger
Why did you choose the Contour over the Explorer model?
It’s replacing it in their lineup. IMO better overall look and functionality, addition of the positive pressure event is huge, etc.
So if you see the Explorer for sale somewhere it’s old inventory.
Do you know the roof load capacity?
According to their websites it’s 200kg static, 400kg dynamic.
Any leaks??
Nope, the cap itself is water tight. The cab end of the bed itself is letting a little water in but that's a known thing. I'll throw some silicon sealant in the gap which should take care of it
No leaks along the length of the bed surface of the bed, where the cap meets the top of the bed (and tailgate)?
How do you dustproof it?
That's the beauty of the positive pressure vent.
How much did this cost you?
Everything.
Jk. No more really than an ARE or Leer
THAT IS SO COOL CANOPY, ARE YOU BOUGHT THAT DIRECT FROM SOUTH AFRICA, IF SO, HOW LONG TO ARIVE? I’M IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN ORANGE COUNTY AREA, IS THAT CANOPY MADE FOR 2023 F-150 PLATINUM 5’5 BED SIZE. IT SEEMS QUITE SIMPLE TO PUT IT TOGETHER BY MYSELF DESPITE IS NOT THAT HEAVY, IS THE PRICE IS THE SAME THAT ONE YOU HAVE WITH THAT ONE WITH WINDOW ON BOTH SIDE THE RUCK, I GET IT WHY YOU PICK WITHOUT WINDOW GLASS FOR A SECURITY YOUR BELONGING BUT WITHE SIDE WINDOWS GLASS DO THEY ALSO CAN PUT IT PROTECTION LIKE A GUARD AROUND THE GLASS WINDOWS TO IT? IS THAT COME WITH IT OR YOU HAVE TO PURCHASE SEPARATELY? PLEASE HELP ME OUT ABOUT THIS, I WOULD LIVE TO BUY IT IF THEY MADE FOR MY F-150 5’5 BED. THANK YOU, I APPRECIATE IT.