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Camper shell clamps constantly loosen

Discussion in 'Tonneau Covers, Caps and Shells' started by rock01, Apr 26, 2023.

  1. Apr 26, 2023 at 5:06 AM
    #1
    rock01

    rock01 [OP] New Member

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    I have a heavy leer fiberglass shell for my DC 1st gen with toolboxes on each side. It came kind of messed up, probably from overloading the toolboxes and I have probably continued that habit so there is definite spreading on the bottom edges, particularly at the back window.

    I have tried every clamp I can order and have added locktight as well. But the clamp on the one corner still loosens and falls off, leaving me with only 3 holding it on the bed. I have a plan to remove the stake pockets and add screws there that drill into the fiberglass to hold it down. Any ideas? I love the camper shell and can't live without the toolboxes.
     
  2. Apr 26, 2023 at 6:06 AM
    #2
    Cpl_Punishment

    Cpl_Punishment Young men never die.

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    I thought the shop that installed my canopy said you have to tighten the clamps from time to time, though I haven't done a very good job keeping up with that and I haven't had any fall off yet. :fingerscrossed:
     
  3. Apr 26, 2023 at 6:09 AM
    #3
    Hbjeff

    Hbjeff New Member

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    Does the screw come out the other side of it where you can out an extra lock nut?
     
    rock01[OP] likes this.
  4. Apr 26, 2023 at 6:11 AM
    #4
    rock01

    rock01 [OP] New Member

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    Yeah, I see that as tire shops telling you to re-tighten lugnuts at 1k miles, too. This shifts the liability onto you. I have run camper shells on 2 other trucks and never seen any loosen except for this one which I know is caused by the fiberglass spreading which then vibrates and shakes off the clamp very quickly. On one of my other trucks I take the shell on and off 3-4 times a year to haul gravel and it has never loosened. That one is an aluminum contractor shell and is by far, my favorite. Super lightweight and you can't destroy it. Just have to accept that it isn't painted and will never look as nice.
     
  5. Apr 26, 2023 at 3:30 PM
    #5
    rock01

    rock01 [OP] New Member

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    That is a great idea! May try that with locktite as well!
     
  6. Apr 26, 2023 at 3:37 PM
    #6
    mountainpete

    mountainpete Explore more

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    Function before sparkle.
    Double J style clamps? Three options: 1) try flipping them. 2) Lock washers. 3) Tack weld the nuts.
     
    rock01[OP] likes this.
  7. Apr 26, 2023 at 3:41 PM
    #7
    rock01

    rock01 [OP] New Member

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    front hitch, timbrens, camper shell

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