Ram Dually Truck Cap Fitment: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Investment

Ram Dually Truck Cap Fitment: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Investment cars.truckstrend.com

The Ram Dually truck, with its formidable presence and incredible towing capabilities, is a workhorse designed for serious tasks. Whether you use it for hauling heavy loads, towing large trailers, or as a reliable family hauler, maximizing its utility often involves adding a truck cap. However, fitting a truck cap to a Ram Dually is not as straightforward as with a standard pickup. "Ram Dually Truck Cap Fitment" refers to the specialized process of selecting, measuring, and installing a truck cap that perfectly accommodates the unique dimensions of a Ram Dually’s bed, particularly its prominent fender flares. This guide will delve deep into the intricacies of this process, providing you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision and ensure a perfect fit, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of your powerful truck.

Understanding the Ram Dually Bed: More Than Just Wider Fenders

Ram Dually Truck Cap Fitment: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Investment

At the heart of Ram Dually truck cap fitment lies the distinctive design of the Dually bed. Unlike single-rear-wheel trucks, Dually models feature an extended, wider bed housing two wheels on each side of the rear axle. This configuration necessitates significantly wider fender flares that protrude well beyond the standard bed rails. These flares are the primary challenge for cap manufacturers, as a standard truck cap designed for a single-rear-wheel Ram would simply not clear the Dually’s wide hips.

Furthermore, Ram Dually trucks typically come with an 8-foot long bed, though shorter options may exist for specific cab configurations or aftermarket modifications. The combination of extreme width at the fenders and a potentially long bed demands a cap that is custom-molded or specifically engineered to conform to these unique dimensions. Ignoring these specificities will inevitably lead to an ill-fitting, non-functional, and potentially damaging cap installation.

Why Dually-Specific Caps Are Essential

Attempting to install a standard truck cap on a Ram Dually is a recipe for disaster. The cap would either sit precariously on top of the fender flares, leaving large gaps along the bed rails, or simply be impossible to lower onto the bed at all. Dually-specific caps are designed with a wider base and often a "cut-out" or "flared" lower section that extends over and around the rear fender wells. This specialized molding ensures a flush, weather-tight seal along the entire perimeter of the bed, including the areas above the wide fenders. Without this precision, the cap would fail to provide adequate protection against the elements, compromise security, and detract significantly from the vehicle’s appearance.

Key Fitment Considerations for Ram Dually Caps

Achieving perfect fitment for your Ram Dually truck cap requires meticulous attention to several critical factors:

1. Bed Length: Ram Dually trucks most commonly feature an 8-foot (long box) bed. While less common, some configurations or specialized chassis may have a 6.4-foot (short box) equivalent. Always measure your bed length from the bulkhead (front of the bed) to the inside of the tailgate when closed.



2. Cab Style: The cab style (Regular Cab, Quad Cab, Crew Cab, or Mega Cab) dictates the overall length of the truck but typically does not directly affect the cap fitment unless you have a very rare short-bed dually. However, it’s good practice to provide this information to manufacturers for accurate ordering.
3. Fender Flares/Width: This is the most crucial aspect. Dually caps must be wider at the bottom to clear these flares. Manufacturers achieve this through specific molds that account for the exact width and contour of the Dually fenders for a given Ram generation.
4. Bed Rail Height and Profile: While dually caps are wider, they also need to match the specific height and profile of the Ram’s bed rails. Ram trucks have unique rail caps and contours that a well-fitting cap will sit flush upon, ensuring a watertight seal.
5. Tailgate Design: Modern truck tailgates are complex, often featuring cameras, sensors, and even multi-function designs. A truck cap must be designed to clear the tailgate when closed and allow for proper operation. Some caps may include specific seals or cutouts for tailgate functionality.
6. Year and Generation Specifics: Ram trucks undergo design changes with each new generation (e.g., 4th Gen 2009-2018 vs. 5th Gen 2019+). These changes can affect bed dimensions, rail profiles, and tailgate designs, meaning a cap for a 2017 Ram Dually will likely not fit a 2023 Ram Dually perfectly. Always specify the exact year of your truck.

Types of Ram Dually Truck Caps

Manufacturers have developed various types of caps to meet the specific needs of Ram Dually owners:

• Fiberglass Caps: These are the most popular choice, offering a sleek, automotive-grade finish that can be painted to match your truck’s color. They provide excellent weather protection, security, and aesthetics. Options include various window configurations, interior lighting, headliners, and roof racks.



• Aluminum/Commercial Caps: Built for heavy-duty use, these caps are often seen on work trucks. They are incredibly durable, lightweight, and typically feature side access doors, shelving, and ladder racks. While not as aesthetically refined as fiberglass, their utility is unmatched.
• Specialty/Custom Caps: Some manufacturers offer unique designs like wedge caps (taller at the rear) for increased cargo volume or even walk-in caps for specialized applications. These are often custom-built and come at a premium.

Benefits of a Properly Fitted Dually Cap

Investing in a correctly fitted Ram Dually truck cap offers numerous advantages:

• Enhanced Security: A locking cap secures your cargo, protecting tools, equipment, and personal belongings from theft.
• Superior Weather Protection: A tight seal keeps rain, snow, dust, and debris out, safeguarding your cargo from the elements.
• Increased Cargo Capacity: The enclosed space of the bed becomes usable, allowing you to transport more items, even bulky ones, without fear of them blowing out or getting wet.
• Improved Aesthetics: A color-matched fiberglass cap can seamlessly integrate with your truck’s lines, enhancing its overall appearance.
• Potential Fuel Efficiency: While minor, a properly designed cap can reduce aerodynamic drag, potentially leading to slight improvements in fuel economy, especially at highway speeds.

The Fitment Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ensuring a perfect fit involves a systematic approach:

1. Accurate Measurement: Before anything else, precisely measure your truck bed.

   • Bed Length: Measure from the bulkhead to the inside edge of the closed tailgate.
   • Bed Width: Measure across the top of the bed rails at the front, middle, and rear.
   • Over-Fender Width: This is crucial. Measure the maximum width of your truck over the widest point of the rear fender flares. Provide this to the cap dealer.
   • Bed Rail Height: Measure from the bottom of the bed to the top of the bed rail.
   • Truck Year, Make, Model, Trim, and Cab Style: Have all this information readily available.

2. Researching Manufacturers: Not all cap manufacturers produce Dually-specific caps. Focus on reputable brands known for their quality and specialized offerings, such as ARE, Leer, Snugtop, ATC, and Ranch. Check their websites or authorized dealers for models explicitly designed for Ram Dually trucks.

3. Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf: For Dually trucks, "off-the-shelf" usually means a cap specifically molded for Duallys, rather than a generic one. True custom caps are rare and expensive. You’ll typically be ordering a Dually-specific mold from a major manufacturer.

4. Ordering Considerations:

   • Color Match: Provide your truck’s paint code for a factory-matched finish.
   • Window Options: Sliding side windows, solid sides, or full glass.
   • Interior Features: Carpeted headliner, interior lighting, clothes hangers.
   • Roof Racks: Reinforced roof for carrying ladders, kayaks, or additional gear.
   • Security Features: Advanced locking mechanisms.
   • Electrical Connections: Ensure your truck has the necessary wiring for cap lighting or power outlets.

5. Professional Installation vs. DIY: While some might attempt DIY installation, professional installation is highly recommended for Dually caps. They are large, heavy, and require precise alignment for proper sealing and safety. Dealers have the right equipment and expertise to ensure a secure, watertight fit and proper electrical connections. Improper installation can lead to leaks, damage to the truck, or even the cap coming loose during travel.

Challenges and Solutions

• Availability: Dually-specific caps are produced in lower volumes than standard caps, meaning fewer options and potentially longer lead times.
  • Solution: Plan ahead, order well in advance, and be prepared to wait for the right product.
• Cost: Due to specialized molds and lower production runs, Dually caps are typically more expensive than their single-rear-wheel counterparts.
  • Solution: View it as a long-term investment in your truck’s utility and protection. Compare quotes from multiple authorized dealers.
• Shipping and Logistics: The sheer size of a Dually cap can make shipping challenging and costly if not picked up directly from a dealer.
  • Solution: Purchase from a local authorized dealer who can handle receiving and installation.
• Color Matching: Achieving a perfect color match is crucial for aesthetics.
  • Solution: Always provide your exact factory paint code to the dealer. Reputable manufacturers use high-quality automotive paints.
• Weight Distribution: A heavy cap, especially an aluminum commercial one, adds significant weight.
  • Solution: Ensure your truck’s suspension is rated for the added weight, though most Duallys are built to handle substantial loads.

Tips for Success

• Measure Thrice, Order Once: This cannot be stressed enough. Small errors in measurement can lead to huge fitment problems.
• Consult with Reputable Dealers: Work with authorized dealers who specialize in truck accessories and have experience with Dually fitments. They can guide you through options and ensure correct ordering.
• Consider Your Usage Needs: Are you primarily protecting tools, or do you need to camp in it? Your intended use will dictate the features and type of cap you need.
• Don’t Compromise on Quality: A cheaper, ill-fitting cap will cause more headaches and cost more in the long run.
• Check Warranty and Support: Understand the manufacturer’s warranty on the cap and the dealer’s warranty on installation.

Estimated Pricing for Ram Dually Truck Caps

Pricing for Ram Dually truck caps can vary significantly based on material, features, brand, and customization. The estimates below are for the cap itself, excluding professional installation, which typically adds $200-$500.

Cap Type/Material	Features	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Notes
Basic Fiberglass	Painted to match, front picture window, rear door, no interior liner, manual lock	$2,500 – $3,500	Entry-level, good weather protection.
Mid-Range Fiberglass	Painted to match, sliding side windows, interior dome light, carpeted headliner, keyless entry option	$3,500 – $4,800	Popular choice, good balance of features and cost.
Premium Fiberglass	Painted to match, frameless windows, LED lighting, power locks, reinforced roof, specific interior finishes, advanced security	$4,800 – $6,500+	Top-tier features, often with enhanced aesthetics.
Basic Aluminum/Commercial	Unpainted (mill finish), side access doors, rear door, basic latches	$2,000 – $3,000	Utilitarian, durable, common for work trucks.
Heavy-Duty Aluminum/Commercial	Painted (white or black), reinforced frame, integrated shelving/bins, ladder racks, heavy-duty latches, interior lighting	$3,000 – $5,000+	Built for extreme use, highly customizable.
Specialty/Custom Options	Wedge design, walk-in, custom height, unique configurations	Add $500 – $2,000+ to base price	Varies greatly depending on complexity.
Optional Add-ons	Roof racks, interior power outlets, specific lighting, pet screens, tailgate seals, remote lock	$100 – $800+ per option	Can quickly add up depending on desired features.

Note: These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on market conditions, specific manufacturer, dealer location, and current promotions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a standard truck cap on my Ram Dually?
A1: Absolutely not. A standard cap will not clear the wide rear fender flares of a Dually and will not fit properly, if at all. You need a Dually-specific cap.

Q2: Are Dually truck caps harder to find than regular caps?
A2: Yes, they are produced in lower volumes due to the specialized molds required and the smaller market share of Dually trucks. This means fewer options and potentially longer lead times.

Q3: How do I ensure the color matches my truck perfectly?
A3: Provide your truck’s exact factory paint code to the cap dealer. Reputable manufacturers use high-quality automotive paint systems to ensure a near-perfect match.

Q4: Is professional installation necessary for a Dually cap?
A4: Highly recommended. Dually caps are large and heavy, requiring precise alignment for a watertight seal and secure mounting. Professionals have the tools and experience to do it correctly and safely.

Q5: Will adding a truck cap affect my Ram Dually’s towing capacity?
A5: The weight of the cap itself will add to your truck’s curb weight, slightly reducing your available payload capacity. However, for a Ram Dually, which has substantial payload and towing capabilities, the impact is usually negligible unless you’re consistently maxing out your GVWR.

Q6: Can I transfer a Dually cap from an older Ram to a newer one?
A6: Unlikely. Ram truck bed dimensions, rail profiles, and tailgate designs change with each new generation. A cap from a 4th Gen Ram Dually (2009-2018) will likely not fit a 5th Gen Ram Dually (2019+) perfectly. Always verify fitment with a dealer.

Q7: How long does it take to get a Dually truck cap after ordering?
A7: Lead times vary significantly by manufacturer, time of year, and customization. It can range from 4-6 weeks for common models to 8-12 weeks or more for highly customized or less common options.

Conclusion

Fitting a truck cap to a Ram Dually is a specialized endeavor that requires careful planning and attention to detail. By understanding the unique characteristics of the Dually bed, recognizing the need for Dually-specific caps, and meticulously considering all fitment factors, you can ensure a successful outcome. Investing in a properly fitted cap not only protects your valuable cargo from the elements and theft but also enhances the overall utility and aesthetic appeal of your powerful Ram Dually. Take the time to research, measure precisely, and work with reputable professionals, and you’ll enjoy years of secure, weather-protected, and versatile hauling with your impressive truck.