I picked up my '05 Crew Cab Short box a couple weeks ago and plan on using my tax return $$ to buy a topper for it. Any suggestions on the best brand/model to get? I want easy access to the back and slider windows (haulin' hounds around!). I also want to have it painted to match (Flame Red). There are several dealers here in C-Springs that sell toppers and I'm overwhelmed with choices. So far, I've seen A.R.E., SnugTop, Raider, Snugtop, Astro and Unicover available.

BTW, the truck came with a LiteRider Roll-Up Tonneau that I don't need. I plan on putting it on the classifieds section or, more likely, just selling it locally on Craigslist. Any ideas on how much I should ask?

One more thing, it also came with a set of 5th wheel receiver rails mounted in the bed. I don't want them either, but I don't want to leave any holes in the bed when I remove them. Any ideas on haw to patch up the holes so they won't rust and let water/road grime through? It's got a spry-in bedliner, so I could touch up any patch work. Thanks!

- Glynn

Oops, forgot the Tonneau cover pic.

I've had ARE on two trucks...last year I bought an ARE topper and like it as I did the others...good looks, top quality and they stand behind their product.

I have a Leer on mine. I have no complaints at all. The back window shuts solidly, has one button that realeases latches on either side. It doesn't have sliders, it has pop out windows. With those and the divider window of the topper open, there is plenty of air going through. I have had my dog in the back lots with no issues.