Ford Sport Trac: Z Camper Shell Options

Ford Sport Trac owners have been discussing the merits of adding a camper shell to their vehicles for some time. The addition of a camper shell provides weather-resistant, lockable storage for cargo, although it does make it more difficult to transport oversized goods. Camper shells can be purchased new or second-hand, with prices ranging from $300 to $1800. Some owners have also expressed concerns about the difficulty of reselling a vehicle with a camper shell, as it limits the number of potential buyers.

Pros and cons of a camper shell

Camper shells are solid covers for the back of a pickup truck. They are also known as truck caps or truck canopies. They can be made of fibreglass or vinyl. Here are some pros and cons of camper shells:

Pros

• They can provide extra storage space and lock away your belongings securely.
• They can keep your cargo dry and protect it from the elements.
• They can give your truck a sleeker look.
• They can be useful if you are transporting dogs.
• They can keep snow out of your truck bed.
• They can be purchased second-hand at a reasonable price.

Cons

• They can be expensive to buy new.
• They can rattle.
• They can get too hot for dogs.
• They can obstruct your visibility.
• They can make you look like an old man.
• They can be difficult to resell.
• They can be difficult to find.

Compatibility with different models

The Ford Sport Trac is a popular vehicle for those seeking a truck with a camper shell. The camper shell provides additional cargo space, a secure storage area, and protection from the elements. When considering a camper shell, it is important to ensure compatibility with your specific model of Ford Sport Trac.

The first generation of Ford Sport Trac was produced from 2001 to 2005, and the second generation was introduced in 2007 and lasted until 2010. The body and bed of the Ford Sport Trac remained the same within these two generations, respectively. This means that a camper shell designed for a 2001-2005 Ford Sport Trac will also fit a 2002-2005 model.

For example, if you own a 2004 Sport Trac, you may consider purchasing a camper shell from a 2003 Sport Trac, as these two models share the same body and bed design. Additionally, some owners of the 2007-2010 Ford Sport Trac have expressed interest in finding camper shells for their vehicles, which can be more challenging due to the limited options available for this generation.

It is worth noting that some aftermarket tonneau covers may differ between the first and second generations of the Ford Sport Trac. When shopping for a camper shell, it is advisable to take measurements of your truck's bed length, width, and height to ensure a proper fit.

Furthermore, some camper shells may require specific mounting clamps that bolt into existing holes in the bedside of your truck. It is important to inquire about these clamps when purchasing a camper shell to ensure a secure and proper installation.

Overall, the Ford Sport Trac is a versatile vehicle that can be enhanced with the addition of a camper shell. By considering the model year and generation of your truck, you can make an informed decision about compatibility and find the perfect camper shell to suit your needs.

Installation process

The installation process for a camper shell on a Ford Sport Trac will depend on the specific model and year of your vehicle, as well as the type of camper shell you choose. Here is a general overview of the installation process, which may vary depending on your specific situation:

Before beginning the installation, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials, including the camper shell, clamps, foam camper tape, and any other hardware required for the installation. It is also recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the camper shell, as they may have specific guidelines or requirements for installation.

Firstly, you will need to prepare the Ford Sport Trac by ensuring the bed is clean and free of any debris or objects that may interfere with the installation. Carefully measure the bed to ensure the camper shell will fit properly, and identify the existing holes in the bedside where the clamps will be attached. If necessary, you may need to drill new holes, but it is important to be cautious to avoid damaging the vehicle.

Next, you will need to position the camper shell onto the bed of the Ford Sport Trac. This may require assistance, as the shell can be heavy and cumbersome. Ensure the shell is properly aligned and fits securely onto the bed.

Once the camper shell is in position, you can begin securing it in place. Attach the clamps to the camper shell and tighten them securely, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the clamps are properly aligned with the holes in the bedside and that they are tightened sufficiently to hold the shell in place.

After the clamps are secured, you may need to apply foam camper tape to the inside edges of the camper shell, creating a seal between the shell and the truck bed. This helps protect against moisture and provides additional security for your cargo.

Finally, you can make any necessary adjustments to ensure the camper shell is properly fitted and secure. Test the locks and windows to ensure they are functioning correctly, and verify that the shell is stable and does not shift or move during transit.

It is important to note that this is a general overview, and the specific steps may vary depending on your vehicle and the type of camper shell you choose. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines, and if you are unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the installation process, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.

Storage and transportation

Camper shells and toppers are a great addition to any pickup truck, providing weather-resistant, lockable storage for your cargo. They also make your truck look sleek and are great for providing extra cargo space.

However, they do come with some drawbacks. For example, it can be difficult to transport oversized goods like ladders and lumber with a camper shell installed. Additionally, they can be hard to find and may require professional installation.

If you're looking for a camper shell for your Ford Sport Trac, it's important to consider the year and generation of your vehicle, as well as the type of shell you want. For example, some camper shells are made from steel or aluminium, while others are made from fibreglass. You also need to ensure that you have the correct clamps to mount the shell to your truck.

When it comes to storage and transportation, a camper shell can be a great asset. It provides a large, secure space that can be locked, keeping your belongings safe and protected from the elements. This is especially useful if you need to transport valuable or sensitive items, such as electronics or musical instruments.

Additionally, a camper shell can help to streamline your vehicle's profile, reducing wind resistance and improving fuel efficiency. This is especially true for items that would typically be stored on a roof rack, such as kayaks or bikes. With a camper shell, you can keep your gear out of the wind and securely mounted inside your truck bed.

However, it's important to consider the limitations of a camper shell. While they provide additional storage, they also reduce the overall height of your truck bed, which can make it difficult to transport large or oversized items. For example, you may need to transport a piece of furniture or a particularly large musical instrument, and a camper shell may not provide enough clearance.

In these cases, it's important to consider alternative storage and transportation methods. For example, you could invest in a roof rack or cargo box that mounts to the top of your vehicle. This would provide additional storage space while still allowing full use of your truck bed. Another option could be to utilise a trailer, which would provide even more storage space and could be a better option for transporting particularly large or bulky items.

Overall, a camper shell can be a great asset for storage and transportation, providing a secure and weather-resistant space for your belongings. However, it's important to consider the limitations and ensure that you have the correct equipment and accessories to make the most of your setup.

Cost and maintenance

The cost of a Ford Sport Trac camper shell varies depending on the manufacturer and the features included. Some owners have reported prices ranging from $300 to $1,585 for a camper shell. For example, one owner mentioned that a LEER dealer quoted them a price of $1,585 plus tax for a camper shell, while another individual found a camper shell for their Ford Sport Trac for $907, or $850 with a military discount, including installation.

It's worth noting that the cost of installation may be separate from the cost of the camper shell itself. Installation can be done by professional installers or even enthusiasts themselves. The process typically involves using clamps or hooks to secure the camper shell to the truck bed.

Maintenance and repair costs for the Ford Explorer Sport Trac range from $105 to $1,939, with an average of $311. The annual cost to maintain a Ford Explorer Sport Trac is estimated to be approximately $1,383, depending on the service provider.

Some common services and repairs for the Ford Explorer Sport Trac include:

• Oil changes
• CV axle/shaft assembly replacement
• Brake caliper replacement
• Camshaft position sensor replacement
• Car door lock actuator replacement
• Exterior car door handle replacement
• Strut assembly replacement
• Fuel pressure regulator replacement
• Headlight bulb replacement
• Power steering pump replacement
• Serpentine/drive belt replacement
• Water pump replacement

Frequently asked questions