I need your opinion... Bed Topper

I saw a 2013 av that someone was selling and I need to know if modifying the my 2002 av to fit a regular truck topper would be too much work or if it would be worth the effort. I will attach the hyperlink for his craigslist post for a visual (if I can figure it out).

Thank you for your opinion on this.


https://denver.craigslist.org/cto/d/2013-chevy-avalanche/6706752201.html

Search SNUGTOP
They made bed topper to fit AVYS.

I agree with above posters, if you want a hard top why reinvent the wheel, buy a Snugtop and not waste lots of time and money trying to make a standard truck topper fit.
I noticed in the photos that top blocks the third brake light and in some states it would NOT be legal and pass inspections. You would need a third brake light on the back of the topper. Just my opinion if someone wants a topper on an AV and they plan to leave it on the majority of the time then maybe they should have bought a Suburban? If they plan to install and remove it frequently then they will need a pit crew or hoist/storage setup to handle the install/removal/storage of the top when not in use. Since it is not a one person job.
Then even with a Snugtop you will loose the use of the side storage bins unless you also do the "boat hatch mod" and cut holes in the inside bed sides.
Seems like an AV specific bed tent might be cheaper and easier for the occasional camping trip?
But as my late mother in law used to say "That's why the make chocolate and vanilla" so everyone can get what they like.....

You guys are awesome. Thank you for your opinions. It really has heled open my eyes a little. I will stick with the av specific mods and not mess up my avy.

Think I'm in the minority on this one, but I really like what they did.  I have a Snugtop and love it with exception of losing the saddle bags.  I like how they were able to remove the saddle bag lids and maintain access to them.

Yes, a Snugtop does require a bit of effort to put on and take off, but I can do it in just half an hour with only my wife and daughter helping me move and place it.  It does add another level of versitility to the Swiss Army Knife of vehicles.  I normally don't leave mine on for extended periods of time but have lately since my bed panels are leaking like Niagara Falls and I haven't had time to work on them

Yes, stay with the Snugtop. I think it  looks better, its finished nicely on the inside, and you can add boat hatches ( bought mine for around $40 each) for saddlebag access. Probably an easier mod than adapting another brand topper. I've had mine for15 yrs and love it. I can remove it by myself in about 20 min.

Just looked a the add again.  Gotta give the person credit for attention to detail.  They even moved the BDE logo to the back of the custom top.  Don't necessarily care for the riveted look but to each their own. 

If you look around and are patient, you can probably find a Snugtop for $500 or less.  I got mine for around $250 - $300.  Granted it's a bit rough around the edges but functions perfectly.  Longer term, since the entire truck is going to need some rust work and repaint, I'll spray it with bed liner to match the cladding and spray the roof rails body color yellow.