A.R.E CX vs. V series

shopping for a camper can prove to be difficult.. the camper and Its options are picked out of a brochure. It’s almost like fishing in the dark. That being said.. can anyone tell me the difference between the CX classic and the V series?? The dealer said the CX ‘matches the lines of the truck better’ yea??!!?? well... how? I’ve used my best google foo and looked at the images of both.. besides the window frames.. i can’t tell how one fits better than the other.. it’s a big financial decision and I’d hate to pull the trigger without actually seeing and knowing how they both look!!.. 3rd Gen bty oh yea and windoors for sure

 

Anyone?

 

Really the only difference is the Aluminum Framed Windows. On the CX series the windows can be replaced with a windoor and not the V series. The V series is more affordable too.

 

You can do windoors on both

 

Just my 2cents. I’m researching ARE shells also. Wanted a used, but DCSB are hard to find in my area.
Unsure if you’ve checked, but best place to find difference is the A.R.E. website, 4are.com. Has each type shell, w/pics. Check tab: Features & Options. Gives list of what comes standard & what options can be used on each type. Can click on option (listed in blue) & it opens window w/item pic.
Researching Ranch tops/shells, since I heard they were a bit more affordable. Not sure, if as dependable.

 

The CX series has a recess around the side windows and rear window. I'm not sure but the roof might be constructed differently internally.

The CX weighs slightly more, might be due to more thicker fiberglass?

 

Yea the windows are recessed and i think that’s about it

 

I believe the CX has a center handle with rods to lock and the V has a handle on each side with just a little tab to lock. Having to unlock both sides would get old for me. CX has a longer warranty if I remember correctly.

 

I'm not sure but I will say that you should add everything you want up front. ARE (and the others) will charge a fortune to change it later- I wish I had gotten sliding windoors instead of just screened sliders, they're like $400 to buy them outright and install them myself. Get the sliding drop down front window as well, it'll keep you from having to remove the shell to clean the glass/cab/shell. If you think you may camp in it, consider the taller shell for more headroom.

 

The center handle is standard on both CX and V, and the double or dual lock handle is an option. I've had both and much prefer the double or dual lock system, its much more reliable and secure than the center handle system. I've had the spring loaded center lock system freeze up in cold weather whereas the dual lock system has no springs.

The hi roof models are more comfortable if you plan to sleep inside but there is a trade off if you mount racks on top. It will be harder to load/unload cargo on the racks and clearance can become an issue when parking in some garages.

 

How cold are we talking here? I’m looking at getting a CX HD myself because the my hard rolling tonneau (Bakflip Revolver X2) sometimes freezes up in the winters here. Don’t want to upgrade to the cap if I’ll just end up with the same problem....

 

check craigslist also on here there are postings with lots of caps on craigslist if it is too far from you there is always tw express.

 

Mine is a CX with a single center handle, just a T handle, not spring loaded. Like any other lock you need to lubricate it periodically and when I've been out west or in snowy conditions I try to remember to put a small piece of electrical tape over the key slot to keep dust/water out.

 

like this kind?

 

Nope, just a standard rear t-handle like in the pictures section of the CX section: https://www.4are.com/product/cx/

 

I think cx is better. Have you looked into snugtop?

 

No dealers here on east coast

 

Mostly in the 20s or lower. Coldest was 17 below. Moisture would make its way down into the lock mechanism, then overnight would freeze the lock solid and not allow the spring to release the pop up handle.

I had dual handles on another cap by Innovation (no longer in business) they're just simple flip levers and far more reliable. I opted for dual handles on my new CX, they are an option.

 

Definitely. If you think you’ll ever want it, order it if you buy new. I’ve had toppers on my trucks since 1982. I just ordered a ARE MX yesterday for my new Dbcb. I about had a heart attack at the price. My dealer did “ throw in” free carpet since I’m a return customer and ARE doesn’t do that currently. My order sheet always looks the same: Yakima rails, drop down front window, side slider and carpet. I’ve had an MX on my last 3 trucks. Other models before these.

 

I ordered an ARE V Series yesterday for my 2019 DCSB. Went with standard sliders on sides, sliding tilt front window, hard wired LED light and roof tracks. Delivery should be in about 6 weeks.