Lots of great info in this thread, as I'm looking to find a hard cover that I can install my Thule rack and basket/skicarrier on top of the cover, but also easily be able to remove it when I need a full bed for large items. (Probably need full bed once/month?)
I also came from an Avalanche and loved that I could easily remove the panels on my own when I need the truck bed. The Thule rack/basket system mounted directly to the hard panels that offered a quick release button on each tower, then I could remove the full rack/basket in about a minute, another minute to remove the 3 hard panels.
That is my one hang-up at this stage with this Ridgelander setup, its seems like a pain to remove and re-install the cover on my own without help, as its one piece vs separate panels?
Also considering the Diamondback SE, where similar to my Avalanche setup, Id be able to drill through the cover to mount my Thule rack and basket, which easily removes from the cover. I like that I could remove the Diamondback SE cover by myself as it separates into three manageable pieces, but the center piece has 4 bolt on clamps that seem like a pain to remove/re-install. Just not as easy as I'd prefer...
I dont really have a great solution to my specific needs so still researching best option. Attached are pics to my Thule rack/basket/ski carrier and what I'd like to replicate with my new Raptor.
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