RSI Smart Cap

[GRR95]

Does anyone run a RSI Smart Cap for their upland rig? I have seen some threads mentioning the smart cap but nothing in regards to upland and how it works when hauling dogs around in cold and warm conditions. My main concerns are;

1. Does it get excessively hot in the summer and with that does the small window help enough for air flow?
2. Has condensation been an issue?
3. Any issues with water intrusion or dust?
4. Any general comments on if the smart cap, is worth the money. (a new leer is $4,500+ when set up for upland and dogs so not to worried about that)

Thanks for the help!

 

[hoooogan]

Another option is OVS. My buddy has one and loves it. Didn't cost an arm and a leg either. Just a leg.

Expedition - Truck Cap W/Full Wing Doors, Front and Rear Windows & 3rd Brake Light

Find the perfect Truck Topper Camper Shell with Expedition - Truck Cap Full Wing Doors, Front & Rear Windows a 3rd brake light.

overlandvehiclesystems.com

I have some experience with shells and pop-up toppers, so here:
1) Yes, it is going to get hot. Its a black metal box. Cracking a window will help, but it'll still be considerably hotter than ambient due to the nature of the shell. I had a GFC which has plain metal panels. Cold and heat transfer was a problem. I lined the panels with Reflectix, which helped. Depending on your area, you might consider rigging up a fan of some sort for hot weather.
2) Condensation is inevitable unless you take drastic measures to vent or dry the air (forced air heater, diesel or propane). No good way around that. Be cold and drafty or get a heater. Fan will help too.
3) If the caps are assembled well, it won't leak or have much dust intrusion. You can always add a dab of silicone to trouble areas. BUT, you also need to take steps to seal the bed/tailgate/bed rail caps. I know my Colorado had a massive gap between bed and tailgate.
4) Worth is subjective, but I love having a secure place to store my things. Also, being a singular color, resell will be easier since you aren't dealing with paint matching.

 

[RunNGunSC]

I love my smart cap and think it would work well. It is very rigid. Mine does have the windows but they do look like they are relatively small.

 

[mxgsfmdpx]

So far so good. No top tent and no dogs in the back yet. Slept a couple nights in it with all windows open and the back open.

I tested the water proof and dust proof abilities by parking it out in two VERY heavy monsoons. Blowing dust followed by very heavy downpours. It stayed dry and dust free. We shall see how it goes long term and through the fall and winter hunts.