One of the big highlights of my build is the custom Tradesman Truck Tops topper. My design centered around the idea of wanting to build a sleep platform with storage underneath. Because of this I chose to have it built 26" above the bed, insulated, carpet lined and a vent put in the roof. They offer several vent options but I chose a basic vent. One nice thing about the basic vent is that without a fan in the way it cranks open wide and doubles as a stargazing window at night.
For the sides Tradesman can do windows, no windows, full length lift doors with windows (windoors) or w/out windows, or side lift tool boxes. On mine I chose for the driver side split in half with one windoor and one toolbox. The windoor has a sliding window with security mesh and the tool box has an internal shelf and dividers and a fold-down shelf that's all carpeted. I've turned the toolbox into my kitchen. On the passenger side is a full length windoor with two sliding windows with security mesh. The windoors, tool box and rear door open wide and I had mine all wired such that when they open they turn on interior LEDs. There is a LED strip inside the top and one LED strip inside the toolbox.
Attention to detail is shown in the reinforced points on each door. If you somehow manage to turn the T-handle when the door is open and then try to close it, the locking rods won't damage the top. Additionally, the locking rods on the T-handles are stout and the reinforced point mean your gear is secure.
Another thing to mention is their proprietary door hinges. They are actual full length hinges, not just an open channel that can spread with time & use.
Tradesman's has various options for the rear - single cargo door, double (ambulance) cargo doors, Full lift door, or half door w/ glass. But here is where their ability to customize made my topper unique. I went with a half door with glass & security mesh and diamond plate panels on each side. On the driver's side I installed a Powertank mount that holds a 8" propane tank and haven't completely decided on what to mount on the passenger side - maybe an on-board water system??
I also opted for what they call their Municipal Equipment upgrade that adds reinforced gussets in the corners and extra roof ribs. This upgrade was recommended for off-road use and since I plan on keeping my truck for years I wanted my topper to last as long as my Taco.
Like with the rest of the topper the front wall has a variety of options: a solid wall, a solid window, a sliding window, a fold-down EZ clean window, or what I went with which is a fold-down EZ clean sliding window.
Other upgrades I went with are the ungraded D-gasket seal, a LED third brake light, and extra strips of aluminum running the length of the roof to add strength to a set of Yakima tracks I had installed.
I mailed them the side mirror cover and the color matched the topper perfectly!
All the doors seal up tight and it got really dusty so the seals got tested. On my second outing I added a small brush to my toolbox kit so that I could dust off the back door before opening it to keep the inside sleeping area clean. Having the quick access close toolbox is a huge plus. Tailgate cooking couldn't get any easier than having the mounted propane tank and kitchen toolbox.
I'm 5'9" and my girlfriend is 5'2" and I naturallly sleep with my knees bent on my side so we sleep comfortably. And there is enough room between the top of the platform and roof to not feel coffin-like. Actually plenty of room to rest on my elbow and change clothes. Additionally, I made my platform so that the center can be pulled out and placed on the bed to make a large area to chill in if the weather gets bad.
