Buying a Used Camper Shell: 9 Checks Before You Pay

Used shells sell for a fraction of new, but a shell that's an inch off leaks, rattles and looks wrong. Run through these before you hand over cash.

1. Find out what truck it came off. Year, make, model, bed length — then check it against your truck in the compare tool. Different generations of the same model often have different beds.
2. Read the serial tag. Most manufacturers can tell you the original truck from the tag inside the shell.
3. Measure rail to rail. Outside rail width at the front and back of the shell, and inside length. Compare to your own truck — see how to measure.
4. Check the cab height. A flush-mount shell built for a taller cab will stick up; one built for a lower cab leaves a step.
5. Look at the front window area. Many beds bulge at the front wall; shells are shaped to match.
6. Inspect the frame and corners for cracks, especially fiberglass around clamp points and the rear door hinges.
7. Open every window and the rear door. Struts, locks and seals are easy to replace; a warped rear door isn't.
8. Check the third brake light and wiring.
9. Budget for installation. New clamps, bulb seal and wiring typically run $75–$200 if you do it yourself, more at a shop.

Found a shell that crossed over between two different trucks? Share a fit report — it's the most useful thing you can add to this site.