RLD Designs Stainless Shell/Topper/Canopy

I couldn't find enough detail photos of the this canopy (made in South Africa where they call them canopies...) so I've provided some details here.

First some overall shots of the build, then more detail for those that want to read on.

(Full build thread here: http://www.fiftyclassics.com/the-fifty-classics-tacoma-build-page/ )


I ordered the canopy late last year and it took about 4 months, 2 months longer than I was told to get it shipped from South Africa. Apparently it got stuck in Hong Kong or something. Although I told them I was frustrated I didn't ask for anything - yet they offered product because of the delay. I believe they are trying their best, it is just the realities of having this made in South Africa.

I was trying to temper my expectations after that wait, but I really like the canopy so far. Lots of guys and one girl stopped me at the gas station asking what it is. Not one question about what "Fifty Classic Adventures" is (its a book I'm writing, http://www.fiftyclassics.com/), but lots about the canopy.


It was easy to put on and they have a simple but solid attachment to the Toyota rail.


One and two person configurations.



The one drawback, especially with the table setup is the headroom. Inches matter and I added a few inches underneath the bed (bed is not on the "lumber step"). I think with the Sportsman shell that sticks up a few inches it would be fine, and is a benefit of the Sportsman.


RLD makes a clever table system that stores a folding table up against the ceiling. However it does take up headroom. It helps to take the table out for sleeping, but the frame is still there. Sometimes I think I'll just take it out, but it is about a 10 second process to set up a table so that is very nice.


This is the RLD rack (I have a Victory rack over the cab). It seems solid although I prefer the attach rails of the Prinsu/Victory.

This is the shorter rack that is really made for the short-bed canopy. If you follow in my steps you need to be aware you need to drill holes - the factory holes are for the longer rack. Interestingly, when drilling I found out the roof is double walled. Amazing that the canopy is so light.


The canopy leaks a few drops at the positive pressure vent. I haven't done it yet but some RTV should take care of it. There was also some water on the bed floor towards the front. I've heard this isn't the shell but gaps in the truck bed. I've since squirted black RTV in there but it hasn't rained hard since so I don't know yet.


RLD Designs canopy owners should take note of this. This piece of wood is slipped into the concave area and the bolts just hold it tight. The bolts do not go through the canopy. I put RTV on the shoulder where the wood contacts the metal to help ensure it doesn't slide out.

I also used this technique at the front areas, holding a reading light, USB port and light switch.


That one bolt supports the rack, the table frame and a climbing hanger. The climbing rope is used as grab handle to help get in and out of the truck (and is extra long so you can use it as a rope).

 

Looks like a great product.

 

Thank you for posting about this, considering swapping out my snugtop for one of these for the side access, table mount etc.

 

Great thread, thanks for posting! Would you share the dimensions of the wood you cut to fit in the corners? I love the idea and looking for a place to mount my monitor for my solar/battery, this would be perfect. Thanks

 

Did you look at the RSI stainless steel cap (EVO cap). Did you make a comparison of the two, if so, what pushed you to get the RLD? I dig your minimalist approach to a grab handle - climbing rope and anchors!

 

I just ordered mine.

Any update on the bed floor leak after using some RTV?

 

Would love to hear how you did this as well. I've got water coming in from my vent and sealed the outside where the vent meets the canopy but looks like I still have water dripping down the rivets. Wondering if there's a better solution?

 

Quality looks very good, really appreciate the real world detail pics

 

In my opinion the table goes under the drawers. When I build my system I mounted my table to the shell at first. That lasted 1 trip, once the table gets older or wet and you hang it about your sleeping area it gets on everything. I then lifted the drawer system and gave the table room to fit underneath the drawer system.

Looks well built. Just something I learned from my experience.

 

surprised there's not more info on TW about these. Excellent write up with great pictures. Seriously considering one of these.

 

That's an awesome set up. Also nice camping set up. Close to what I'm working towards.

 

Love your set up and drawer system! Are you sleeping in the back? I am interested in buying one of these but was hoping they create one you can open from inside if it is locked. Have you rigged it some way, so this is possible?

 

Great build out you did in there! How's the insulation/condensation?

 

Got 30 pages over here..
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/new-in-the-usa-rld-design.593043/page-29

 

Thanks!!