Topper clamp recommendations?

this is what I have right now, but I would like something that goes through the hole.

 

alll the topper clamps I have ever seen are.....clamps. Similar to what you have.

If you want to thru-bolt, just drill and put a bolt in that hole with a nut on the bottom.

 

Not just a bolt and nut, use fender washers too so you're actually fastening to some surface area of the materials. A 3/8" bolt on each corner will get the job done just fine and I would use nuts with a nylon lock ring to prevent unwanted loosening from vibrations. If you use eyebolts, you gain tie down anchors too.

 

So your saying I should just drill a different hole further back in the fiber glass to where I can bolt through the bed?

 

98% of camper shells on the road are held in place by clamps like the one you have. What’s the motivation to use that hole?

 

I just like putting it in the hole.
lol I just would feel better about it being more secure, but if it’s fine then I’ll leave it.

 

4 clamps is usually sufficient. Some add 2 more for a total of 6, especially on longer bed trucks. Never seen a camper shell blow off or fall off on the freeway. Make sure your gasket, or seal between the shell and bed rail is in good shape.

 

I don’t have a gasket right now.

 

Why? Water?

 

It's hard to tell from the pic, but it looks like you could use a J bolt to hook the edge of the bed and then use a washer and nut to secure it from the top. Personally, I think the clamps will work fine.

 

Water. Friction. The gasket keeps two harder materials from grinding each other down. Also gives the top some grip when clamped down to prevent shifting.

 

https://truckoutfittersplus.com/truck_topper_parts/topper_parts_clamps/Leer-Topper-Clamp-85467.html

 

I don't think that will work. OP doesn't have rails. Not sure any 2nd gens had them, but wouldn't stake my life on it.

 

My 2019 SR5 TRD Offroad + SR5 Upgrade had the rails.

Yeah, I see he has no rails now. Bummer.

 

I was differentiating between 2nd and 2.5 gen. My 2.5 had the rails as well, but I don't know that any trucks older than 2014 had them.

 

All I'm really trying to say is that 4 bolts, 4 nylon lock nuts, and 8 fender washers all preferably stainless steel will keep it on there and look good. There won't be no ugly and bulky clamps in the way when your trying to get things done either. The hole location isn't rocket science, just 6-16" from each end should be fine. As said above, weatherstrip should be between the bed rail and the shell rail. 1/4"x 1 1/2" fairly dense foam rubber type will be available at most hardware stores.

 

These are the clamps you're looking for