THINGS I HATE ABOUT MY WALK-IN FIBERGLASS DOOR | A.R.E MX Series Truck Cap Issues | Truck Camp Gear

[@CampingandTrekking]

Please comment your comment in the comments on how you solved these problems. I love learning how others find solutions to issues!

[@davidfrost650]

I've had my MX canopy for 22 years and love it. It looks to me like the biggest issues you've had are with the installer. My wiring was run tight down the inside corner as you said should have been done. As for the cutting and poor fitting due to the tailgate mounting points they should have just removed them and given them back to you in case you ever wanted to reinstall the tailgate. I'm finally buying a new truck and will be buying another one of these canopies

[@CampingandTrekking]

Ya. This was their first time installing this style. Sucks they didn’t do better

[@randykmlwa]

Two of your three issues are strictly installer issues. You should take it back and demand they fix it.

[@cfarless45]

If you're handy with splices or solder, just add more wire in and reroute the cable.

[@CampingandTrekking]

I have thought about doing that and I probably will. I also discovered a bunch of wound up extra wire that the installer didn’t add so I may have extra length that I didn’t know about

[@devildog8084]

Ordered my A.R.E shell back in the beginning of Feb. right after receiving my new 2021 Silverado 2500 8ft bed, and I just received it earlier this week (over 20 week wait) was told several times that it was being built and and that it would be shipped. Original time frame I was told was 10-12 weeks. After that just plan on getting the runaround. I even offered to drive up to Ohio and pick it up when they told me it was a shipping issue, only to find out that it hadn't been built and that it was just another line of BS they were coming up with. On a good note only 2 of the 4 windows leak....I like the function of the vented windoors but they leak pretty bad. Not looking forward to taking it the dealer, I'm sure they will make up some crap. Paid $3350.00. I recommend going with Leer (I have one on my Ram) it's been on for 12 years and have had NO issues. If I hadn't spent so mush I would take it off and use it for target practice then burn it to the ground. (With the so called fiberglass shortage) you can tell that the shell is much more flimsy than the older style. Have a nice day

[@CampingandTrekking]

I haven’t had any leaking issues and it took 10 weeks for install. Sucks to hear you had such a bad experience!

[@danieljones1784]

I wonder if they make campers like yours but with the tailgate still attached and laid down flat? I mean that would give you an extra foot of space.

[@CampingandTrekking]

I’ve seen those campers that sit in the truck bed and can be removed. But that’s so much more money and a lot more weight.

[@metalmanipulator7210]

Just ordered an A.R.E. MX HD for my 2015 Ram 2500 a few days ago. Similar to Devildog, I was told sixteen weeks til receipt. Apparently they have a backlog of orders. No problem, just some delayed gratification. I've heard quite a few people complain about wiring issues, but that's the first I've heard regarding the tailgate lugs, especially with the cutouts in the door. Doesn't seem like it should be/should have been an issue. Thanks for bringing it to our attention. I will definitely mention that to them before installation (first week of January, ugh!).

[@CampingandTrekking]

Ya. Those tailgate connection points made them have to move the hatch to the side. Still no issues but be ready for the compromise or drilling holes. That little pocket is at an angle so there are some limitations. Good luck and let me know how it goes

[@metalmanipulator7210]

@@CampingandTrekking Well, finally got my ARE MX HD installed yesterday after waiting six months. So far it seems like a good install. No horror stories like yours. But it was not without some issue of course. My truck didn't come with a backup camera when I bought it, so I ordered one with the cap ($150 didn't seem too bad with monitor, etc.). Well, it didn't show up with the shell, so I have to return again to have it installed when it does arrive. Think they comped me $50 or something for all the trouble? Nope. I'm starting to think the issues with the ARE caps are the installers/installations, not the shell itself. They couldn't remove the tailgate mounts/pivots, as they're fixed in place of course, but did remove everything else tailgate related and handed me a bag full of the parts. The cutouts in the door for the tailgate mounts look clean and from the factory. As a side note, there was a fella in the waiting room getting leaks in his ARE resolved. It was on a Tacoma and I don't think an MX if that makes any difference. He told me he hated his ARE. Ouch! I will make additional comments in the future regarding leaks, if any, and any other issues that hopefully don't arise. Hope you got your issues resolved. Wish I could post a pic here, but I'm sending one to your email.

[@CampingandTrekking]

@@metalmanipulator7210 That's great to hear that you've been navigating those things and it's working out so far. I haven't changed anything since my last video just because it hasn't been a big issue yet. I think I may take a look at the wiring at some point, but I've just taped a lot of things down for now. I've continued to use it and went through a teens temp cold night and 30mph. Still no leaks or any issues like that with seals. If you're ever in the Oklahoma area don't be afraid to reach out and say hi! I also have a video about things I like so far too. maybe you can compare and contrast what you're liking after a few months!

[@mitchwinder1204]

You could spend an afternoon and cleanup and lengthen that wiring mess to your CHMSL. A couple of smart splices wouldn’t hurt that at all.

[@CampingandTrekking]

It’s on the to do list but it isn’t a big pressing matter yet. But I’d like to get it figured out soon!

[@1142VS]

I have the same truck cap, I really love it. Some of the problems I've encountered are similar to yours, it doesn't close tightly but I've had no water issues however it can be drafty around the door on windy days. I have the dame door handle and it doesn't lock from the inside however there is a strap, that came with the cap, that I place over the lever that provides some measure of security.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Ya. I also use the very bottom straps and just close the entire thing and strap it at the bottom two points if I want security. A few ways to do!

[@BoomerFLURY]

I've had my MX walk-in since 2016 and really like it. My biggest complaint now is the interior window frame screws are falling out. I screw them back in and put duct tape over them to keep in. Not great. Customer service says to crimp the frame to grip the screws. Not sure how that will hold up.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Ya I could see how those little screws and thin metal would fail over time. There were a few close calls with me and wind. But survived

[@Tommy-rr7ez]

I would try some lock tite! It should keep them in there. I hope this will help yall!

[@Tommy-rr7ez]

​@@CampingandTrekkingHey buddy I would for sure make them redo that electric cable. That's ridiculous and sloppy! I would catch that cable putting things in or out and if you are planning on doing something to inside like to camp that cable is going to be a major problem. But even if your not planning on doing anything but have a sharp rig it's still not ok and if the shop that done that won't do anything there is always higher up. Local advertisement not just YT can be good or bad for business. Shame you are having to go through this! I hope and pray they will step up and do the right thing! And where the back sides out of wack my opion is they should replace the whole topper at no cost. Thanks for letting us know buddy!

[@CampingandTrekking]

@@Tommy-rr7ez thanks for the advice but the truck has been sold so it's someone else's issue. :/

[@4WhirledPeaceProductions]

Have been doing a minor / major rehab on my 2000 silverado, just getting ready to remove rear door. I will send some pics if i can figure it out. Knowing what i know about these now after 24 years, and having time to study it and watch it age, I do not think they are the most precise mold and fitment. Cap have always fit and looks beautiful. Back in 2000 I was so excited to have new truck new camper top, was doing quite a bit of traveling. Anyway, the thrill wore off after a while, so I tried to sell for $500, no takers. I knew I needed to redo front suspension and rear air bags, shocks pressure clean undercarriage, and decided while doing all these other repairs, the lift gate was going to be worked into the schedule. Starting to fab new walk through door, sand and paint entire lift gate, not show quality at all, BUT I am blacking out front grill, lower 18" down sides, all bumper plastic, prepped and blacked out. So I will probably black out door and hatch. I have been using HF Armor Kote bedliner (finish is exactly the look i want), for lower 18", front grill, and so probably the lift door also. There are some stress cracks at hinge points and around windows, so HF AK bedliner will flex a little because those area will probably crack again. Will have to imbed inserts for all bracket attachments for lift cylinders, and whatever else needs fixing. Anyway, enjoy your top and have a good day.

[@axemanfishing2703]

Thanks for the video, that is a cool unit. Easy fixes, add extra wire using connectors, shrink wrap the wire and secutre it to the corner, Easy job. For the wind, add a lanyard to the door using steel cable, also an easy fix. In the time it took to make this video, you could have done the work, but still saying thanks for the video.

[@CampingandTrekking]

It worked for me in the travels I had at the time. I only have minimal complaints. I’ve since sold but use the info where you can.

[@MrD308]

Thanks for sharing that. For me, it would be over 5500.00 dollars for the Mx shell and walk-in door with minimal options. That’s just ridiculous in my book. The fit and wiring is kind of an embarrassment for the manufacturer. That’s a lot of money to pay for issues like that. One of my biggest concerns was keeping it watertight. Looking at the video that doesn’t appear to be possible. Thanks again for the review. You just convinced me to not buy one of these campers. I’m sorry for your issues with it. You shouldn’t have those problems. A.R.E. Should make it right without hacking the door up.

[@CampingandTrekking]

It stayed water tight for me and I didn't have any water issues. Obviously there were some gaps but I guess I got lucky. The wiring was my main concern but again, never had any big issues even though it looked like crap. I wouldn't be opposed to this type of bed top again if I could ensure that those cosmetic things didn't turn into something worse over time.

[@4WhirledPeaceProductions]

Bought mine in 2000 give it a decade or 2, trying to rebuild mine now to fit and seal better, also, make sure door latch stays tight, mine got a little loose, wind ripped it open and gone, tempered glass, it just disappeared. all in all, i do like it still

[@CampingandTrekking]

But it’s still kicking 10 years later!!??

[@Tommy-rr7ez]

​@@CampingandTrekkingTo be honest I just got a raised roof topper last week but I have had several over my life time but when it comes to the wind, the wind can get all of them if we're not careful. I hope things work out for yall! My is used in great condition and I gave $200 for it but that's rare. Have a great day!

[@hyperaxe69]

Whoever installed this should be fired. You got taken with that install. Those wires are a fire hazard, too short and will wear on the bare metal. The door should have fit square, it's the installers job to achieve that. This looks like a DIY hack job. Get your money back!

[@edgarshoe]

how much weight do the gas struts hold up?

[@CampingandTrekking]

not sure but the door is a few pounds. It's fiberglass and a glass door.

[@unyotv1107]

Hi ..I'm interested to buy one of those. I wanna move and live on my truck...any advice that you can share?

[@CampingandTrekking]

The shell was great and there's a lot more room since it has the higher top. I never lived full time in mine only up to about a month. But with the right gear this topper could be used for a long time! good luck!

[@Niafifia]

I have an inside strap at the glass door knob that was installed. I was told it was to lock it but is to short to get around the handle. I'm thinking to figure out a longer strap. Sorry you have had issues. When my hatch closes it can close wrong and I'm suspecting the tailgate latch you point out. However I don't have a gap like you have. I'll look at it and see if I can help at all.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Ya some kind of bar or strap would work. Just not a big issue yet

[@bramnovak881]

same here, except my strap does work. sort of a tight fit, but after using it a bunch it has loosened up.

[@Niafifia]

@@CampingandTrekking Because you said bar that sparked an idea. Thank you! I have the HD endoskeleton. I'm going to bend a bar where it goes around that and then around the handle. Hopefully it works. I'm trying it today.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Tag me if you make a video or take a picture. Would love to see what you come up with!

[@Niafifia]

@@CampingandTrekking Are you in the fb Pickup Truck Camping group? What I did was simple and it is solid!

[@danielbortner9646]

What is the make,model and year of your truck??

[@CampingandTrekking]

I think it was a 2014 chevy Silverado with the 6.5ft bed

[@puddlesjumper]

How much did the door cost or if it came with the shell total$$$? BTW, way too many issues with the fitment to be accepted by any customer. Very sloppy installation that would've required a fix before paying them or cash back compensation.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Total cost was about $5000 for cap door and rack. And everything has worked so never needed to worry about anything. But the truck is sold now so not my problem anymore

[@pickuppalace]

@@CampingandTrekking add another $1000 for the 2022 Brandon tax....

[@bramnovak881]

I am super surprised they moved the canopy door over instead if cutting out the tailgate mounts that will never be used again.

[@CampingandTrekking]

I don’t know if I’d want that to be cut out. Being able to put the tailgate on one day again doesn’t seem like a bad idea. But idk. Maybe

[@dezmod1644]

Is it dust proof? Can you open with bug screens?

[@CampingandTrekking]

Mine did pretty good against dust. It does have a rubber seal that works well even on backroads. Maybe you could figure it out if you have a big enough bug screen. I have seen some videos of people putting netting on the hatch when it's open.

[@michaelmyers3892]

Still putting money aside because I like this style of toppers over the traditional style, much easier on my knees instead claiming over the tailgate n other things

[@CampingandTrekking]

I liked the style a lot!

[@michaelmyers3892]

@@CampingandTrekking I prefer the whole back door unit over the tailgate and lifting up the glass hatch which is very expensive to replace, I'm 56 and climbing over things are getting rougher LOL

[@JasonTheMunicipalMechanic]

That tailgate bracket should be just bolted on. You should be able to remove it.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Oh really?! I’ll take a closer look. Thanks!

[@lb7144]

@@CampingandTrekking Couple of torx star bolts hold the tailgate bracket in. Maybe you could remove those and have the door adjusted. It looks good on your truck. Good luck with making those adjustments.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Appreciate the info!

[@pickuppalace]

the shell was not made to be notched around the tailgate pivot brackets, this was done by the installer. And the wiring is hilarious! ...smh

[@seanpaula8924]

Thanks for the heads up.

[@lauraduncan2125]

I have the same topper. How do you clean in between the cab window and the topper window. They made it impossible to get to?

[@CampingandTrekking]

I have a fold inward front window. So I can touch the cab window and the front window folded in

[@geomatrix5452]

Swiffer with long handle...

[@nonagreeable]

Hi, do you still have the cap? I'm trying to order new struts for my door but don't have the part #. Do you know the part #?

[@CampingandTrekking]

Sorry, I sold the truck and cap about 2 months ago. Good luck. How are you enjoying the set up?

[@nonagreeable]

@@CampingandTrekking ok thanks anyways. This is actually my second one, hadn't planned on buying another one but found it on FB for $100 so I had to get it. Thanks anyways

[@CampingandTrekking]

@@nonagreeable glad it's going good. Enjoy!

[@rockerdad2]

I would take it back and get the wire done correct. He did a lousy job. Its your money ask them to fix.

[@markgeater3036]

Your truck outfitter is a hack

[@dontheplumber9338]

I would call out the installer, what about customer service?

[@CampingandTrekking]

I hit the road soon after and started traveling so I dealt with it best I could. It was good enough for a year of travel. But the truck has since been sold so I’ll be getting a new rig and learning from this previous issues!

[@fatsquirrel2554]

Wouldn’t expect that from ARE

[@CampingandTrekking]

Prob more the installer

[@MichaelRoyDuckworth]

You have a wiring hazard! Those wires are rubbing against sharp metal. There should have been grommets installed. Since the installer obviously has little knowledge. I would gets some grommets the then extend the wires with splices and securing them.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Thanks for the info. I’ll look into it!

[@fongvang935]

thats so expensive yet looks like a crappy job.

[@CampingandTrekking]

Well it’s survived a 3500 mile two week camping trip so far. I hope all these problems don’t become bigger issues

[@riggitydoo5116]

Man up, fix the wires.

[@CampingandTrekking]

It’s since been sold

[@richardnorthcutt1462]

Take it back and get it installed correctly. Stop crying. Don’t open it in the wind ….Duh ….. Quality control….tail gate ….go back to install… tell the clowns to get it right… Inside lock… the handle is available at ARE ….. your complaint is with install not ARE

[@terryjames5552]

I wouldn't have accepted it like that.

[@CampingandTrekking]

It was take it or leave it at the time but it worked out fine for the entire time I had it. Maybe I just got lucky

[@C69FH]

Wow..... that's an expensive learning experience... 😮 I would've lost my marbles and requesting my money back. I've done it before on my last Jason Canopy and then went up to a Tag/Leer setup

[@CampingandTrekking]

It really was a learning experience. Unfortunately, I wanted to get on the road and left on my truck year shortly after that so I was stuck with what I got!