2020 Ram 1500 Truck Cap Fitment Chart: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Fit types.truckstrend.com
The 2020 Ram 1500 is renowned for its blend of rugged capability, luxurious interior, and innovative features. For many owners, enhancing its utility with a truck cap (also known as a topper or camper shell) is a natural next step. A truck cap transforms your open bed into a secure, weather-protected cargo area, ideal for everything from tools and gear to camping equipment and pet transport. However, the success of this transformation hinges entirely on one critical factor: fitment. Understanding the 2020 Ram 1500 Truck Cap Fitment Chart is not just recommended; it’s essential to ensure your investment is secure, functional, and looks aesthetically pleasing.
A truck cap fitment chart is a comprehensive guide provided by manufacturers that details which specific truck cap models are compatible with particular truck makes, models, and bed configurations. For your 2020 Ram 1500, this chart will be your indispensable tool, preventing costly errors, leaks, and potential damage that arise from an ill-fitting cap. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to navigate this chart and make an informed decision for your truck.
2020 Ram 1500 Truck Cap Fitment Chart: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Fit
Understanding Your 2020 Ram 1500 Bed Dimensions
Before even glancing at a fitment chart, the first and most crucial step is to accurately identify your 2020 Ram 1500’s bed dimensions. The 2020 Ram 1500 (DT generation) primarily comes with two bed lengths:
- 5-foot 7-inch (5’7") Bed: This is the shorter bed option, commonly found on Crew Cab models.
- 6-foot 4-inch (6’4") Bed: This is the longer bed option, available on Quad Cab and some Crew Cab configurations.
How to Measure Accurately:
While your owner’s manual or vehicle specifications might list the bed length, it’s always wise to measure it yourself to avoid any ambiguity. Measure from the inside of the bulkhead (the wall closest to the cab) to the inside of the tailgate, along the top edge of the bed rails. Do not measure diagonally or along the floor of the bed.
The RamBox Cargo Management System:
A significant consideration for 2020 Ram 1500 owners is the optional RamBox cargo management system. RamBox-equipped trucks have integrated, lockable storage compartments built into the bed rails. These compartments significantly alter the width and shape of the bed rails, making standard truck caps incompatible. If your truck has RamBox, you must purchase a truck cap specifically designed for RamBox compatibility. These caps will have cut-outs or modified designs to accommodate the RamBox lids, ensuring a proper seal and functionality.
The Critical Importance of a Proper Fit
An ill-fitting truck cap isn’t just an aesthetic annoyance; it can lead to a host of problems:
- Compromised Security: Gaps or loose seals can allow unauthorized access to your cargo.
- Water Leaks: Rain, snow, and even car washes can seep into the bed, damaging contents.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: A poorly sealed cap can create aerodynamic drag.
- Damage to Truck and Cap: Friction from a cap that’s too tight or too loose can scratch paint, dent bed rails, or crack the cap itself.
- Increased Noise: Wind noise and rattling can be a constant nuisance on the road.
- Safety Hazards: A cap that isn’t properly secured can shift or even detach during driving.
A perfectly fitted cap, conversely, offers maximum protection, enhanced security, quiet operation, and a seamless integration with your truck’s design.
Types of Truck Caps Available for the 2020 Ram 1500
While fitment primarily concerns length, width, and RamBox compatibility, it’s helpful to know the general types of caps available, as this influences your choice and potential features:
- Cab-High: These caps are designed to match the height of your truck’s cab, offering a streamlined look and good aerodynamics. They are the most common type.
- Mid-Rise: Slightly taller than the cab, mid-rise caps provide additional interior cargo volume, making them popular for contractors or those needing extra headroom.
- High-Rise (or Commercial): Significantly taller than the cab, these caps maximize cargo space, often featuring rear doors for easy access. They are common for work trucks.
- Fiberglass Caps: Durable, paint-matchable to your truck, and offer a smooth, automotive finish. Most common choice for personal use.
- Aluminum Caps: Lighter, often more affordable, and typically favored for commercial or utilitarian applications due to their ruggedness.
Regardless of the style, the underlying fitment (length, width, RamBox compatibility) remains paramount.
Navigating the 2020 Ram 1500 Truck Cap Fitment Chart
A fitment chart is your roadmap to compatibility. While actual charts vary by manufacturer, they generally include the following information:
- Truck Manufacturer: RAM
- Truck Model: 1500
- Model Year: 2020
- Bed Length: 5’7" or 6’4"
- RamBox Compatibility: Yes/No or Specific Model
- Truck Cap Manufacturer: ARE, Leer, SnugTop, ATC, etc.
- Truck Cap Model Name/Series: e.g., ARE CX Revo, Leer 100R, SnugTop Rebel
- Part Number (if applicable): Specific identifier for the cap.
- Notes/Special Considerations: Any unique requirements or features.
How to Use the Chart:
- Identify Your Truck: Start by confirming your 2020 Ram 1500’s bed length and whether it has RamBox.
- Locate Matching Entries: Scan the chart for entries that match your specific truck configuration (e.g., "2020 Ram 1500, 5’7" Bed, No RamBox").
- Explore Compatible Caps: Once you’ve narrowed down the options, you’ll see a list of compatible truck cap models from various manufacturers.
- Consider Features & Budget: From the compatible list, you can then delve into the features, aesthetics, and pricing of each specific cap model to make your final choice.
Key Considerations Beyond the Chart
While the fitment chart dictates compatibility, several other factors should influence your purchase:
- Material & Durability: Fiberglass offers a sleek look and is highly customizable (paint-matching), while aluminum is more utilitarian and often lighter. Consider your primary use.
- Features: Do you need tinted windows, a pet screen, interior lighting, carpeted headliner, remote keyless entry, or heavy-duty roof rack options?
- Weight Capacity: If you plan to carry heavy loads on the roof (e.g., kayaks, bikes, roof top tents), ensure the cap’s roof has an adequate dynamic and static weight rating.
- Security: Look for robust locking mechanisms. Many modern caps integrate with your truck’s key fob.
- Paint Match: Reputable manufacturers can paint-match your cap to your truck’s OEM color code for a factory-like finish.
- Installation: While some DIYers attempt installation, professional installation by an authorized dealer is highly recommended to ensure proper sealing, wiring (for lights/locks), and secure clamping.
- Budget: Truck caps can range from under $1,500 to over $4,000, depending on material, features, and manufacturer.
Tips for a Successful Truck Cap Purchase
- Measure Twice, Buy Once: Re-confirm your bed length.
- Verify RamBox Status: This is critical for 2020 Ram 1500 owners.
- Consult with a Reputable Dealer: Truck cap dealers specialize in fitment and can provide expert advice, access to specific charts, and professional installation.
- Read Reviews: Look for feedback on specific cap models and manufacturers regarding durability, weather sealing, and customer service.
- Consider Future Needs: Think about how you might use your truck in the coming years. Will you need more cargo space, a roof rack, or specific access features?
- Don’t Overlook Used Options: If budget is a major concern, the used market can offer good deals, but be extra diligent with fitment and condition.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- RamBox Interference:
- Challenge: Standard caps won’t fit RamBox beds.
- Solution: Purchase a RamBox-specific cap. These are designed with recesses for the RamBox lids.
- Bed Liners:
- Challenge: Over-the-rail bed liners can sometimes interfere with the cap’s clamping system.
- Solution: Most caps are designed to work with under-the-rail liners. If you have an over-the-rail liner, discuss this with your dealer. They may need to trim the liner or use specialized clamps.
- Existing Accessories:
- Challenge: Tonneau covers, bed rails, or other existing bed accessories might conflict with cap installation.
- Solution: Remove existing accessories before cap installation. Most caps are a standalone bed accessory.
- Finding Discontinued Models:
- Challenge: If you’re looking for a specific older model cap, it might be hard to find new.
- Solution: Explore the used market (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, specialized forums), but ensure the fitment is exact and inspect the cap thoroughly for damage.
2020 Ram 1500 Truck Cap Fitment Chart (Sample/Hypothetical Price Table)
This table provides a hypothetical overview of common truck cap manufacturers and models that would typically fit a 2020 Ram 1500, along with estimated price ranges. Actual prices will vary based on features, dealer, location, and market conditions.
| Truck Cap Manufacturer | Cap Model/Series | Ram 1500 Bed Length | RamBox Compatible | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Key Features & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARE | CX Revo | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,800 – $4,200 | Premium fiberglass, frameless windows, automotive paint match, available with remote lock, LED lighting. RamBox specific models available. |
| ARE | MX Series | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,600 – $3,800 | Mid-rise design for extra headroom, fiberglass, painted to match, various window options. RamBox specific models available. |
| ARE | V Series | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,000 – $3,200 | Cab-high fiberglass, value-oriented, good aesthetics, carpeted interior option. RamBox specific models available. |
| Leer | 100R | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,500 – $3,700 | Cab-high fiberglass, popular choice, 50/50 sliding windows, LED third brake light. RamBox specific models available. |
| Leer | 100XQ | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $3,000 – $4,500 | Premium cab-high, frameless curved glass, interior headliner, remote lock integration. RamBox specific models available. |
| Leer | 180CC | 5’7", 6’4" | No | $2,700 – $4,000 | Mid-rise commercial cap, heavy-duty aluminum frame, side access doors, ideal for work. Not typically RamBox compatible. |
| SnugTop | Rebel | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,900 – $4,300 | Premium cab-high, excellent fit & finish, frameless windows, LED interior light, optional carpeted headliner. |
| SnugTop | Sport Hi-Liner | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,700 – $4,000 | Mid-rise design, extra cargo capacity, durable construction, various options. |
| ATC | Spectrum | 5’7", 6’4" | Yes/No (Specific) | $2,000 – $3,300 | Fiberglass cab-high, good value, custom paint, front picture window. |
| ATC | Lifestyle (ALU) | 5’7", 6’4" | No | $1,800 – $2,800 | Aluminum utility cap, durable, side access, often used for commercial or rugged applications. |
Note: "Yes/No (Specific)" in the RamBox Compatible column indicates that the manufacturer offers specific versions of their caps designed to accommodate the RamBox system. Always verify the exact part number or model for RamBox compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a truck cap from a different make/model of truck on my 2020 Ram 1500?
A1: Almost certainly not. Truck beds vary significantly in length, width, tailgate angle, and bed rail design between manufacturers and even generations of the same model. An exact fit is crucial.
Q2: Does the RamBox cargo management system affect truck cap fitment?
A2: Absolutely. The RamBox system integrates storage into the bed rails, requiring a specially designed truck cap with recesses or cut-outs to accommodate these compartments. Standard caps will not fit RamBox-equipped trucks.
Q3: How do I accurately measure my 2020 Ram 1500 truck bed for a cap?
A3: Measure the length from the inside of the bulkhead (front wall of the bed) to the inside of the tailgate, along the top of the bed rails. Also, note if you have RamBox.
Q4: Can I install a truck cap myself?
A4: While technically possible for some, professional installation is highly recommended. It ensures proper sealing against leaks, correct wiring for lights and locks, and secure clamping to prevent damage or shifting during driving.
Q5: Do truck caps improve fuel economy?
A5: The effect on fuel economy is often debated. While a cap can make the truck more aerodynamic than an open bed, the added weight can offset any gains. Any improvement is likely marginal.
Q6: What’s the difference between a cab-high and a mid-rise truck cap?
A6: A cab-high cap matches the height of your truck’s cab for a sleek, integrated look. A mid-rise cap is slightly taller than the cab, providing more interior cargo volume and headroom.
Q7: How long does a truck cap typically last?
A7: With proper care, a quality fiberglass truck cap can last 10-15 years or even longer, often outliving the truck itself. Aluminum caps are also very durable.
Conclusion
Investing in a truck cap for your 2020 Ram 1500 is a smart move to enhance its versatility, security, and weather protection. However, the cornerstone of this investment’s success lies in achieving the perfect fit. By understanding your truck’s specific bed dimensions, recognizing the impact of the RamBox system, and diligently consulting the 2020 Ram 1500 Truck Cap Fitment Chart, you can confidently select a cap that integrates seamlessly with your vehicle. Take your time, do your research, and don’t hesitate to consult with experienced dealers to ensure your Ram 1500 is equipped with the ideal cap for all your adventures and work needs.
