Tell me about modular truck caps....

[huntsman22]

I spend quite a few nights in my fiberglass shell. It is old and has a few cracks, and a crappy door, but still works OK. I found an outfit that supposedly makes a modular aluminum one for older, fullsize 8' bed pickups. Thinking about upgrading..... How's condensation in them? Tell me any upsides or disadvantages, likes/dislikes.

This is what I'm considering. Thanks, Don

TALON 8' TOPPER - NGHTOWL OFF-ROAD

Talon 8 by NGHTOWL Off-Road - A game-changing aluminum truck topper designed exclusively for 8-foot truck beds, combining unparalleled access, versatility, and durability.Key Features:• 4-Door Configuration: Features two gullwing doors on each side, offering unmatched accessibility and...

nghtowloffroad.com

 

[Whaledriver]

That one looks to be an Alibaba Chinese import. Lots of companies importing those now and putting a healthy markup on them. I believe there was a thread where a guy ordered from China for around 1600 delivered. Seemed to be a decent product. I am looking at a similar setup myself.

 

[huntsman22]

I can't find one on alibaba to fit a '99 F-350 longbed, but these guys do 'em. Thanks

 

[K9kodi]

I think there’s a reason not many notable companies make aluminum modular caps for long beds.
If the fiberglass one isn’t an option for a new one you can always look at a metal work cap. But I’d bet the aluminum one, if new(er) would work just fine.

 

[Ferrulewax]

I came across this video today:

 

[K9kodi]

After looking at it again, they said custom made to order. I’d have to call and see if it’d made in usa

 

[naked wombats]

Worth doing some reading up on nghtowl, they are an importer/dropshipper of the aliexpress Chinese caps.

While there might be something to them having an existing relationship with the actual manufacturer, there are also some people with horror stories.

I was interested at first when I came across them posting a cool looking 8' cap on marketplace, and saw they were a "local" to me company.

I have toyed with ordering direct from aliexpress a few times now, but hadn't pulled the trigger yet.

 

[K9kodi]

I don’t have the gambling balls to try ordering from there haha

 

[K9kodi]

I mean, if they import it or have some stock, sure I’d spend less there then others and no one else I know has a modular 8’ cap.

 

[BLJ]

Would a normal contractor cap work for you?
A lot of them on my local Marketplace for 8’ beds.

 

[K9kodi]

Email response

 

[K9kodi]

Here’s the email response

 

[K9kodi]

We can definitely get you set up for the F-350, and we have a brand new model that would be badass! With quick lead times - if you were considering ordering before the 20th of this month, I can guarantee your topper to ship out first week of February. This model would start at 4250.

We have multiple production facilities, our team in China is very good, if you want USA made, we can absolutely do that for you, but the price would start at 7250.

We’re a small batch company and not quite ready to move 100% of manufacturing here to Texas, but maybe closer to the end of the 2026.

I’ll attach some photos of the new model, there are multiple different customization options so just know you can change anything.

This model has internal hinges, a composite layer in the roof panel for insulation, optional power locking latches, and a bunch of upgraded hardware and a refreshed design.

If you’d like to jump on a quick phone call, I’d be happy to tell you more and price you out a build.

Linus
NGHTOWL Off-Road

 

[huntsman22]

k9k, I talked to Linus at nghtowl. Nice feller.... I'm just having doubts. They say it goes into production within 48 hours after payment and yet takes 18 weeks on a special order. I can see it taking maybe a month for the little chinamens to build it, and another month on the 'slow boat from China' shipping deal. What happens with it in the other 2 and a half months? I reckon I was just looking to see if anyone here has experience with them and has maybe spent a few nights in 'em. also, my gambling balls are shrunk up so far inside that I'm having a hard time finding them....Thanks guys.

 

[K9kodi]

I’d assume a buffer for customs enforcement. Things can sit in customs and if Linus gave a hard date of 2 months and customs holds it, people would start asking for money back.

just wish he’d order a number and front money and keep em in stock. I have a hard time offloading that amt of cash and crossing fingers

 

[Muddler]

I bought a cap from Alibaba back in November I believe. Pretty sure the company I bought it from would do custom stuff. So long as XPO doesn't shaft me again it should be delivered today. I'll take pics and write up a post once it's on.

 

[huntsman22]

looking forward to that, muddler.

 

[K9kodi]

Yea very stoked to see it. What was the lead time and what made you feel comfortable to order from them on that platform