Alternatives to RSI smartcap

My Tacoma is finally getting delivered in 10 days and I'm planning out my upgrades.

I think the first one is to get a camper shell and I'm looking at the RSI smartcap.

https://www.rsismartcap.com/

The first major modes I'm going to are:

- RSI Smartcap
- Decked drawer system
- Dometic fridge
- Goalzero battery and solar panel
- maybe the Goose Gear seat delete (60%)

I spent a lot of time fishing and camping so my truck will be a major part of my lifestyle going forward.

Any advice on alternatives to the RSI smartcap?

 

Either that or ARE, LEER, etc.

 

I had a LEER on order for months, finally got the ballz to just spend on the RSI Smartcap. Would never look back now. Great customer service, awesome product.

You could look at RLD Caps, made in the US, they are also Stainless Steel. I can't comment much past that.

https://www.rlddesignusa.com/truck-caps-canopies/

Also... check out this TW page - https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/rsi-smartcap-photo-heavy.683746/page-29#post-26034674

 

Only thing about ARE and LEER is that they are fibreglass... though you could colour match if that is your jam.

Fibreglass doesn't have the weight bearing ability of SS, and the sun fade factor depending on quality of paint and quality of Fibreglassing.

 

I've owned Leer on my last two trucks and after getting an RSi I will never go back to fiberglass again.

 

I was set on the RSi until I saw @Bustabeatgeorge go with the Alu-Cab. Looks to be much better built, lighter, and seams to seal better especially around the tailgate area.
Not to mention, it's about $700 cheaper.

 

RSI, RLD or Alu-Cab. I think the all have their downsides. The Rsi seems to have lock and leak issues but imo looks the best, the RLD is kinda in the middle looks wise but has smaller side windows than the RSI. Alu-Cab rates last on looks as it is really squared off compared to the other 2 and doesn't sit as close to the cab, no side window option but seems to be reliable and without issues.

 

no leaks in mine, although I did have re-torque every single bolt, once already to stop what I thought was a “leak”.

I have hit the lock cylinders with truck-flo once which made them slick as silk from the last few months since doing.

 

Maybe once there are enough of them out there, we will get a "RLD vs. AluCab vs. RSI" thread going with pros and cons of each.

In the meantime, I did some research and decided to go with an RLD (Gen3, all black, rear window). Really liked the looks of it, the no nonsense utility of it, and saw no terrible reviews, with a lot of glowing reviews. Some complaints about locks icing up, but other than that, didn't see any complaints. Picked up an RLD roof rack for it as well. The whole set up should make packing up for trips much easier rather than trying to cram and tarp everything in just the bed of the truck.

Just personally wouldn't go with fiberglass. I know how I use my truck. I want something that will stand up to some off road abuse and the test of time. Plus the wide open access those side doors give for tossing in firewood, unpacking, etc., was a big sell for me. And I don't have to worry about chipping fiberglass should a piece of wood or gear slip.

Should be ready for pickup in the next couple weeks hopefully. Wanted a quicksand color matched with black doors, but that was going to be 6 months out. Rhino Adventure Gear had a spare black on black already on the way on the slow boat from Africa, so I elected to pay out, have my name put on it and snag that one up. Decided to try the black on black, and if I don't like it, will look into some vinyl wrapping or color match paint later on if the all black bothers me. But I suspect I will be okay with it.

 

I just found this thread.
I wish I got the RSI Smartcap. Or maybe the GoFastCamper and cap set up.

Leer cap is fine for serving the purpose but the lighter and strong material is something I wish I had now.

 

Love my alucab except the latches, but they’ve been upgraded on newer models.

 

Be sure to consider lead times with all of the products. They're all pretty lengthy!

 

I have an RSI cap and I'm happy with my purchase. I went with EVOA and added a table from RSI. Although the locks have leaks in them, you can contact RSI and they will send you lock covers.

RSI: Made out of steel. Starts at $4000 USD
RLD: Made out of steel. Starts at $4300 USD
ARE and LEER: Made out of fiber glass. Price varies
Alu-Cab: Build in tent. Starts at $10,000 USD
GFC: Build in tent. Starts at $7,700 USD
TrailFort: Pick up only in California and it is the most expensive with build in tent. Starts at $12,500 USD

Just do some research and pick whats best for you. Spend once, cry once imo.

 

The alucab can be purchased as just a canopy without a tent.
https://ok4wd.com/brands/alucab/canopies

 

Idk where you live but I got a custom canopy made by a local. It'll hold anything.

Also my leer dcc is for sale.

 

Might sell mines if you want. Pm me

 

I heard somewhere that RLD is not going to be shipping to the USA anymore.

 

GFC is also coming out with a version of their camper that doesn't include the tent.

 

If you look at their website they are pausing taking orders. Also there is a RLD paint saga thread on TW that might be an interesting read for anyone thinking about one regarding support to distributors.

 

The new Contour cab by Alu Cab looks to compete with the RSI Smart Cap.