Same story here...bolts over clamps

Bought the truck 8 months ago, previous owner had clamps (6). They were falling off after every gravel/dirt road, pothole, etc. I was literally tightening them every time I went out. Water came in at the front corners between the bed and the cap when driving highway in the rain.

Last month I replaced all the gasket tape, and went with 8 beefy bolts to hold it on. Took 2 evenings (including silicone sealer around the windows, and pressure washing everything). Cost $2 for bolts and washers, about $3 at the car wash, and $15 for new foam tape. Its been much better, the bolts don't loosen up (used lockwashers) and the leaks are gone. Plus I think its more rigid this way, the back door fits tighter and doesn't rattle any more.


Been out camping in it twice since, and I must say I trust it more than a tent in the rain.