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Top Security | Installing a SNUG TOP

MARCO A. PATIÑO . June 29, 2021 . COOL GEAR
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SECURING YOUR GEAR WITH A STYLISH SNUG TOP

Regular cab trucks do not offer much in the way of a storage area aside from the area behind the seats. This leaves the bed as the only way to transport not just large items, but groceries, luggage and other valuables as well. Unfortunately, the bed is open to the elements, and more importantly, thieves. This is where a bed cover comes into play. There are several different options and styles available from color-matched lids to camper shells. We headed over to SnugTop in Long Beach, California, to see the different options and select which best fits with the style and functionality of this ’13 Ram 1500 truck.

SnugTop has been in the business of producing high-quality truck caps for more than 50 years. Throughout its long history, SnugTop has remained current with the market and offers high-quality, well-designed products to fit the needs of both recreational and work truck users. All caps, from its sleek tonneau covers to fitted truck caps, are made at SnugTop’s facility in Long Beach.

We opted for the SnugTop SnugLid SL

Because of its sleek and low-profile styling. The design of the lid contours to the curves of modern trucks for an integrated look. The lid came color matched perfectly to the factory paint on the ’13 Ram 1500 truck. Some of the features include a gas strut and hidden hinge system, as well as an LED light and carpeted headliner. The installation only requires a few hand tools, and with the Snugrip mounting system there is no need for any drilling or modifications to the factory bed. You will need a few friends to help you install the SnugTop lid, however, to avoid damaging the paint. A waterproof locking system ensures that your cargo and valuables are secured as the lid covers the tailgate. In about an hour’s time, you can have your bed secure and add an integrated accessory that matches the style of your truck. St

SNUG TOP install on ’13 Ram truck
We begin with a new ’13 Ram truck with Platinum Line-X coating in the bed.
SnugTop SnugLid SL
The SnugTop SnugLid SL comes wrapped and packaged with foam.
Tools for installing SnugTop Kit
These are the only tools needed. That’s right, it’s a simple no-drill, bolt-on operation, thanks to the Snugrip mounting system.

The side bed rails are removed from the SnugLid for installation on the bed rails.
The front brackets are bolted into place on the side rails.
Using the supplied Snugrip clamps, the side rails are secured loosely to the bed.

A piece of weather stripping is installed on top of the bulkhead to keep out water. Then the front brace is slid over the studs on the side rails and tightened in place.
The power and ground leads needed for the light are run through a drain plug and underneath the truck inside of the frame.

The SnugLid SL is placed over the bed and adjusted until an even one-finger gap all around is achieved.

SnugTop

SnugTop
The hinges are secured to the brackets on the side bed rails, and the gas struts are secured from the lid to the brackets.
The front brackets are tightened.

SnugTop

The latching rods are adjusted for proper fit.
SnugTop Install
The last step is to ground the black wire and run the red power wire to one of the power terminals on the battery for the light.

Features

The SnugLid features a waterproof lock.
The thin hidden hinges remain out of the way of any cargo. The underside is lined with carpeting that can be easily cleaned.
If the lid needs to be removed, a simple pull of the handles and struts removes the cover from the brackets.
A touch-light is helpful when removing items at night.
The SnugLid SL contours nicely to the bed of the ’13 Ram truck and came painted to match as well!
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