Waterproof plastic bed rails before topper installation?

[T-Wrecks]

From what I've read toppers are installed on top of the plastic bed rails with spacers to support the weight. Is that correct with ARE toppers? Does anyone have water leakage around them with a fiberglass topper? It's a really bad design, hope it's the only one...

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[bigb]

I'm going to get an ARE and I asked about leaks, the sales person said it will not leak. He told me they lay down a foam gasket all the way around, then the topper hangs far enough over the plastic rails that water runs down off the edge instead of inwards. He didn't say anything about spacers but now you've got me wondering, I can't have a gap where dust can get in on the dirts roads I frequent.

My ARE on my Superduty never leaked a drop or took on dust (once I sealed the tailgate), but those bed rails were not pre punched for accessories either.

You can contact ARE (which is owned by RealTruck) with questions but I've found the local dealer to be more helpful.

 

[T-Wrecks]

There's a video in this post sealing the outside of the rail with what looks like silicone for a tonneau cover. Might be a good idea with a topper to keep dust out too.

https://www.ranger6g.com/forum/thre...nger-feedback-or-comments-needed.10667/page-2

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