Picked up a used SmartCap on Craigslist a few days back, and I’m happy to share that, like others have mentioned, there’s no noticeable difference in fuel efficiency. If anything, it seems to handle slightly better at higher highway speeds, but I’ll need more time to confirm.
It’s been through some intense rainstorms and stayed mostly dry, except for a small leak from a gap in the rear weather strip, which should be an easy fix. Overall, I’m really impressed. It’s a solidly built shell and looks great with the Lightning. One of the best features is the small glass window that lets the bed camera and light work properly—most of the other shells I considered didn’t have this.
Lyle said:
SmartCaps look awesome on trucks! I wanted one but couldn’t justify the price. I ended up going for a cheap knockoff, and I actually love it.
@Jory
It’s just a no-name brand you’ll see all over Alibaba. Lots of companies import it and rebrand it. I paid 2700 CAD, while the real SmartCap is over 7000 CAD.
Lyle said: @Jory
It’s just a no-name brand you’ll see all over Alibaba. Lots of companies import it and rebrand it. I paid 2700 CAD, while the real SmartCap is over 7000 CAD.
Do you have any pics? I’ve been curious about those.
Kai said: @Lyle
Looks really good for the price! How does it hold up in rain? And can you still use the bed camera?
Rainproofing depends a lot on the installation. I’ve had mine for about a month and haven’t seen leaks, though we’ve only had snow so far, no heavy rain. About the camera, no, it doesn’t work with this cap, but I don’t mind. The main reason I used the camera was to check my load, and now the cap keeps everything secure.
It’s not as feature-packed as the SmartCap. For example, it doesn’t have a sliding window to the cab or a vent system. But considering it’s less than half the price, I’m okay with those trade-offs.
Lyle said: @Jory
It’s just a no-name brand you’ll see all over Alibaba. Lots of companies import it and rebrand it. I paid 2700 CAD, while the real SmartCap is over 7000 CAD.
Is there an option for a full side glass panel, like on SmartCaps? The ones I’ve seen are like yours—not as sleek but much cheaper.
@Keaton
I’ve never seen a SmartCap with a full glass panel either. Look at the original post—theirs has a small window too, just more flush than mine. I think older SmartCaps had inset windows like this one.
It definitely increased my efficiency. I have the osv cap. After 5 months my rear seal is now busted and leaking. It’s hard to blame the cap, the angle of the tailgate is hard to keep a good seal on and not damage the rubber with daily use.
