Hard lids and or ute security systems

[alpha1]

Hi there,

I was wondering what are the best hard lids on the market?, what are the pit falls with hard lids?, are there any brands or types of hard lids that buyers should keep away from?.

I really like the look of the Hard lid option but I am concerned that this will restrict my access into the back of the ute near the rear window- the angle from pics looks to be quite tight. Hard lids also look like they will also cause issues if carrying ladders etc?

I currently have a roller shutter type fitted to my rodeo, this does offer excellent security but these cannot be installed in conjuction with tub liners, they also look pretty ordinary.

I am trying to find the best possible option for my needs so your feedback, suggestions and recomendations are appreciated.


Cheers

Adam

[Old Lion]

Hi Adam
I have an EGR hard lid on my VE and can't fault it . I previously had a
canopy on a VY so the small obstruction caused by the hump is no probs .
Access is really no different to me between the two , it works off the central locking and all the tools,stock are safe from prying low life scum .
As far as ladders go , why not get one of those multi function collapsible
ladders that will take up less space , then you won't need roof racks so your
ride can look the part . Or fit a towbar and deck out a trailer , then lock it up at home and take the ute out to play !

Cheers
Old Lion

[alpha1]

Hi Adam
I have an EGR hard lid on my VE and can't fault it . I previously had a
canopy on a VY so the small obstruction caused by the hump is no probs .
Access is really no different to me between the two , it works off the central locking and all the tools,stock are safe from prying low life scum .
As far as ladders go , why not get one of those multi function collapsible
ladders that will take up less space , then you won't need roof racks so your
ride can look the part . Or fit a towbar and deck out a trailer , then lock it up at home and take the ute out to play !

Cheers
Old Lion


Thanks Old lion...the EGR lids look like the way to go so far, is yours the slim line one or the double hump style?

A trailer does seem like the obvious solution but heaps of my work is in shopping centers so parking is a bugga at the best of times, let alone trying to find double spots so that a tralier can fit.

I have seen those ladder extension brackets that simply push into the square section where the tow ball and tongue fit..this is a simple solution for a rear bar without having a permanent bar in place.

Can you reach in easily to the area below the rear window towards the middle without any issues?


Thnx

Adam

[Wonky]

I have a slimline lid from Flat Top Products in Dandy and along with the automatic opening/closing actuators set up I have it's virtually theftproof. No external locks give a really smooth look and to open it without the remote people would be trying to work against 2 actuators (electronic rams). Total cost of lid and automatic opening/closing set-up is less than list price of an EGR lid!

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o274/gcovo/SSV%20Ute/hardlid3sm.jpg

The guy also has some new style humped lids now, available for VE very shortly if not already. I'm tempted to swap! :)

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o274/gcovo/Misc/vzstorm001.jpg
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o274/gcovo/Misc/vzstorm006.jpg
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o274/gcovo/Misc/vzstorm007.jpg

[Lincoln87]

personally the flatter ones look better. and the fact you can see out the back.

went for a testy drive with a mate in a SS with the flat one and you can see backwards.
sat in a VE maloo at the motor show, and wow. good luck people in my blind spots cause im chagin lanes.!!



ive also seen a ute around Wollongong getting around with .. i guess roof racks on the back of the hard cover. look like shiiet imo, but i guess they serve the purpose.

[UTESRULE]

+1 :rofl::rofl::rofl: the humps are shit to look back off cant see anything unless ur car is dropped to the bullshit u might see something then but get a flat one looks much better like what wonky has

[alpha1]

Hi there Wonky,

I do like the idea of the automation and your flat lid has got to be one of the best ive seen.

Can your lid be removed completely easily? apparently the EGR lids can be totally removed quite quickly with two people - I think this is great especially if a weekend tip run is on the cards or if bulky things like some furniture needs to be shifted.

I would like to see a hard lid which is hinged down the centre, this would solve my problems....i could carry a ladder and have full ute access at the same time, and if designed correctly the two halves can be removed seperately so that complete removal could be done by 1 person.:dancenana:

[Old Lion]

Thanks Old lion...the EGR lids look like the way to go so far, is yours the slim line one or the double hump style?

A trailer does seem like the obvious solution but heaps of my work is in shopping centers so parking is a bugga at the best of times, let alone trying to find double spots so that a tralier can fit.

I have seen those ladder extension brackets that simply push into the square section where the tow ball and tongue fit..this is a simple solution for a rear bar without having a permanent bar in place.

Can you reach in easily to the area below the rear window towards the middle without any issues?


Thnx

Adam

Adam ,most of my gear sits in those large plastic storage tubs and i haven't had a problem accessing stuff under the rear window , so long as its not to
bulky.

As for the twin humps that people say block their vision , i use those funny things called mirrors !!

Cheers Old Lion

[Wonky]

Hi there Wonky,

I do like the idea of the automation and your flat lid has got to be one of the best ive seen.

Can your lid be removed completely easily? apparently the EGR lids can be totally removed quite quickly with two people - I think this is great especially if a weekend tip run is on the cards or if bulky things like some furniture needs to be shifted.

Hi Adam,

Yep, my lid comes off about the same as any other - about 30 secs with two people. The actuators unclip the same as struts.

Cheers,
Gary