Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/105105
Side toolboxes, a feature on several A.R.E. models, are a great benefit around jobsites. Upgrading to A.R.E.'s DCU truck cap made contractor Tim Walton's F-350 much more functional and user friendly while giving it a decidedly more professional look to represent his finish carpentry business. Tim ordered his unit with the maximum number of interior lights, which is a good idea for contractors who are often loading tools and supplies in the dark. The quality of the door latching mechanisms on the DCU have sturdy components and definite locking positions. The long throw on the steel rods make the locks on the DCU very secure. A sturdy T-handle in a flush-mount locking mechanism is one of the industrial grade distinctions of the DCU. The KargoMaster rack has a number of well-placed hooks for securing cargo straps. After using the DCU for a few wet, cold months, we've found the design, quality of materials and workmanship live up to A.R.E.'s reputation: All of the moving parts are still moving, the doors seal well against the weather and the locking mechanisms are secure and easy to operate. Tim Walton, the pickup's owner, has been enjoying the Kargo Master rack for hauling lumber, ladders and an occasional miter saw table. But the BedSlide gets the most attention on the jobsite, and rightly so: Anyone with experience crawling into a pickup bed to retrieve tools can appreciate having them pull right out on a big tray for easy access. We're all about upgrading pickups here at ProPickup and the addition of an A.R.E. DCU truck cap has been a definite upgrade for one of our own. (To see more images, go to propickupmag.com/products/product reviews.) ProPickup_2011 Buyer's Guide Part 1.indd 19 Quick and easy access to tools and supplies is something most contractors will really appreciate. Prior to getting his new DCU canopy from A.R.E., Tim called fitting tools under the tonneau cover of his short box "playing Tetris." Besides not being able to fit everything he needed into the pickup, it was a battle to get a specific tool out of the pile without unloading most of it. Tim's full-length side door design means he has only three locks to check before leaving the pickup unattended. If he forgets one of the side locks, intruders cannot gain entry into the main cargo area because of the side toolbox design. A screen protects the hatchback window from inside damage and outside break-ins. propickupmag.com PROPICKUP 19 3/22/12 10:44 AM