Will a Truck Cap Off a 2011 Ford F-150 Fit a 2016 F-150? A Comprehensive Guide

Will a Truck Cap Off a 2011 Ford F-150 Fit a 2016 F-150? A Comprehensive Guide Usedtruck.Truckstrend.Com

So, you've got a truck cap sitting in your garage, a perfectly good topper from your old 2011 Ford F-150. You've upgraded to a shiny new 2016 F-150, and the question burning in your mind is: can you save some money and simply transfer that cap over? The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple yes or no. It hinges on a few crucial factors. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to consider before attempting this transfer, saving you time, money, and potential headaches.

Why This Matters: The Importance of Compatibility

Will a Truck Cap Off a 2011 Ford F-150 Fit a 2016 F-150? A Comprehensive Guide

Truck caps, also known as truck toppers, bed caps, or camper shells, are a fantastic addition to any pickup truck. They offer secure storage, protection from the elements, and even the potential for camping adventures. However, forcing an ill-fitting cap onto your truck can lead to several problems:

• Damage to Your Truck: An improperly sized cap can rub against the truck's paint, causing scratches and wear. It can also stress the bed rails, potentially leading to deformation or even damage.
• Leaks and Water Damage: Gaps between the cap and the truck bed will allow water, snow, and dust to enter, damaging your cargo and potentially causing rust.
• Reduced Security: A poorly fitted cap is easier to break into, negating one of the primary benefits of having a topper in the first place.
• Compromised Aesthetics: Let's face it, a cap that doesn't fit correctly just looks bad.

Therefore, understanding the factors that determine compatibility is essential before attempting to move a cap from one truck to another.

Section 1: Key Dimensions and Compatibility Factors

The most important factors determining whether a 2011 F-150 cap will fit a 2016 F-150 are the bed length and cab configuration. Here's a breakdown:

• Bed Length: Ford F-150s come in several bed lengths, typically measured in feet. Common lengths include 5.5ft, 6.5ft, and 8ft. The bed length must be identical for the cap to fit properly. A cap designed for a 6.5ft bed will not fit a 5.5ft or 8ft bed. This is the most critical factor.

  

• Cab Configuration: F-150s are available in Regular Cab, SuperCab (extended cab), and SuperCrew (crew cab) configurations. While the bed length is the primary factor, the cab configuration can influence the slope of the cap near the cab. A cap designed for a Regular Cab may not perfectly align with a SuperCab or SuperCrew, potentially causing aesthetic issues or even slight fit problems.

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  Model Year Changes (2009-2014 vs. 2015+): The 2015 Ford F-150 underwent a significant redesign, including a switch to an aluminum body. While the stated bed lengths remained similar, subtle changes in the bed rail design, tailgate shape, and overall dimensions can impact the fit of a cap designed for the earlier (2009-2014) generation.

• Bed Rail Height and Width: Even if the bed length is the same, slight variations in the height and width of the bed rails can affect how the cap sits. These differences might be subtle but can lead to gaps or improper sealing.

• Tailgate Design: The design of the tailgate seal can also impact fit. The 2016 tailgate has a slightly different contour than the 2011, which might cause slight fitment issues at the rear of the cap.

Section 2: The 2009-2014 vs. 2015+ F-150 Redesign: A Closer Look

The 2015 redesign of the F-150 is the biggest hurdle to overcome when trying to fit a cap from a 2011 model. Here's why:

• Aluminum Body: While the overall dimensions were largely maintained, the switch to aluminum meant subtle changes in manufacturing tolerances and panel fit.
• Bed Rail Profile: The shape and height of the bed rails were tweaked, which can affect how a cap sits and seals.
• Tailgate Shape: The tailgate's curvature and seal design were altered, potentially leading to fitment issues at the rear of the cap.
• Overall Aesthetics: The 2015+ F-150 has a more modern and aggressive look. An older cap might simply look out of place on the newer truck.

Section 3: How to Determine Bed Length and Cab Configuration

Before you even consider trying to fit the cap, you need to accurately determine the bed length and cab configuration of both your 2011 and 2016 F-150s. Here's how:

• Bed Length:

  • Measure the Inside: Use a measuring tape to measure the inside length of the truck bed, from the inside of the front bulkhead to the inside of the tailgate (when closed).
  • Check the Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual should specify the bed length.
  • VIN Decoder: Online VIN decoders can often provide the bed length information.

• Cab Configuration:

  • Visual Inspection: The number of doors and the size of the rear passenger area will clearly indicate whether you have a Regular Cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew.
  • Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual will specify the cab configuration.
  • VIN Decoder: Online VIN decoders can often provide the cab configuration information.

Section 4: The Test Fit: Proceed with Caution

If you've determined that the bed length is the same, and you're aware of the potential differences due to the redesign, you can attempt a test fit. However, proceed with caution:

1. Preparation: Clean both the truck bed rails and the cap's mounting surfaces thoroughly. This will help ensure a proper seal and prevent scratches.
2. Careful Placement: With a helper (truck caps are heavy!), carefully lift the cap and position it onto the bed rails.
3. Observe the Fit: Pay close attention to how the cap sits on the bed rails. Look for any gaps, areas where the cap is rubbing against the truck, or unevenness.
4. Check the Tailgate: Close the tailgate and see how it lines up with the cap. Are there any gaps? Does the tailgate rub against the cap?
5. Don't Force It: If the cap is clearly not fitting properly, do not force it. This can damage both the cap and your truck.

Section 5: Potential Solutions and Modifications

If the test fit reveals minor issues, you might be able to make some modifications:

• Weather Stripping: Adding extra weather stripping around the bed rails can help to seal gaps and prevent leaks. Use high-quality automotive weather stripping.
• Shims: Shims can be used to level the cap if it's not sitting evenly on the bed rails.
• Professional Installation: A professional truck cap installer might be able to make minor adjustments to the cap to improve the fit.
• Used Cap Market: Consider selling your 2011 cap and purchasing a used cap specifically designed for a 2016 F-150.

Section 6: The Cost of Doing It Wrong: Avoiding Damage

Remember, forcing a cap that doesn't fit can be more expensive in the long run. Potential costs include:

• Paint Repair: Scratches and damage to the truck's paint can be costly to repair.
• Bed Rail Repair: Damaged bed rails can require extensive bodywork.
• Water Damage Repair: Water leaks can lead to rust and damage to cargo.
• New Cap Purchase: If you damage your existing cap trying to force it to fit, you'll have to buy a new one anyway.

Section 7: A Word on Aesthetics and Value

Even if you can technically make the cap fit, consider the overall aesthetics. A cap designed for an older model might look dated on a newer truck. Additionally, a properly fitting cap will maintain the resale value of your truck, while a poorly fitted one can detract from it.

Price Table: Truck Cap Considerations

Item	Description	Estimated Cost
New Truck Cap (2016 F-150)	Specifically designed for a 2016 F-150, ensures proper fit and aesthetics.	$1,500 - $4,000+
Used Truck Cap (2016 F-150)	A more affordable option, but condition and features may vary.	$800 - $2,500
Weather Stripping	High-quality automotive weather stripping for sealing gaps.	$20 - $50
Shims	To level the cap if it's not sitting evenly.	$5 - $20
Professional Installation	Labor cost for a professional to install and adjust the cap.	$100 - $300
Paint Repair	Cost to repair scratches or damage to the truck's paint.	$200 - $1,000+
Bed Rail Repair	Cost to repair damaged bed rails.	$500 - $2,000+

Conclusion: Proceed with Caution and Informed Decisions

In conclusion, while it might be possible to fit a truck cap from a 2011 Ford F-150 onto a 2016 F-150, it's not a guaranteed fit. The bed length is the primary factor, but the 2015 redesign introduced subtle changes that can affect compatibility. A careful test fit, potential modifications, and a realistic assessment of the aesthetics are essential. Ultimately, investing in a cap specifically designed for your 2016 F-150 is often the best choice to ensure a proper fit, prevent damage, and maintain the value of your truck. Don't let saving a few dollars upfront cost you more in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will a cap from a 2010 F-150 definitely not fit a 2017 F-150?

A: Not definitely, but it's highly unlikely without modifications. The bed length must be identical. Even if it is, the 2015 redesign means subtle differences exist that can impact the fit.

Q: Where can I find used truck caps for sale?

A: Online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are good places to start. Also, check with local truck accessory stores and salvage yards.

Q: Can a professional truck cap installer make any cap fit any truck?

A: No. While they can make minor adjustments, they can't overcome significant size differences or design incompatibilities.

Q: Is it better to buy a new or used truck cap?

A: That depends on your budget and needs. A new cap guarantees a perfect fit and comes with a warranty. A used cap can save you money, but you'll need to inspect it carefully for damage and ensure it fits your truck.

Q: What kind of weather stripping should I use for a truck cap?

A: Use high-quality automotive weather stripping specifically designed for sealing gaps. Look for weather stripping that is resistant to UV rays and extreme temperatures.

Q: Are all truck caps the same height?

A: No. Truck caps come in various heights, including cab-high, mid-rise, and high-rise. Consider your cargo needs when choosing a cap height.

Q: Does the material of the truck cap (fiberglass vs. aluminum) affect the fit?

A: Not directly. The material itself doesn't usually affect the fit, but the manufacturing tolerances can vary between different brands and materials.