Science Serving Sick ToysTM
Can-Back Installation
Use your browser's BACK button to return to the page you were viewing.
Lose Weight Now! Can-Back's HOW... And it's a snap (literally)!
These photos show the installation on an '85 4Runner. HOWEVER, Can-Backs are also available for all Toyota trucks and '84-'89 'Runners. Installation is very similar for all of these, with the exception that truck versions have a front panel while the 'Runner version has an open front that snaps to the cab roof. Can-Back will even custom-make a top for your bob-tail rig!
Those clever Can-Back designer-dudes made use of the 'Runner's stock hardtop mounting holes. Just remember to disconnect the stock top's wiring harness before you remove the shell.
The new Can-Back (or Pachyderm, if you opt for the stainless steel hoops) comes with all the needed side rails, tailgate piece, hoops and hardware. The hoops are labeled to make correct positioning easy.
The side rails come with thick foam sealer pads already in place. The provided Allen-head bolts quickly and easily attach the rails to the stock top's mounting holes. At this point, the bolts are left a little loose to allow easy hoop fitment.
The cab connector is a piece of flat stock that follows the cab edge. It bolts to the stock hard-top mounting holes and provides the front snap anchors for the leading edge of the Can-Back fabric. The fit is snug and precise, and Can-Back stresses that you need to make sure the stock hard top seal is in good shape. That's your insurance against leaks and excessive wind noise.
The 4Runner Can-Back includes cab straps (left photo) to connect the cab connector to the side rails. The threaded snap-top screw is provided with the kit. Now it's time to bolt on the hoops. Start with the front hoop and leave 'em loose at this point. Note the foam pad which helps with noise insulation.
After all three hoops are installed, it's time to bolt up the horizontal spreader bars. The tabs on the bars are for mounting the roof rack system. You have the choice mounting the spreader bars to position the rack closer to the cab (as shown here) or closer to the tail. Next, check all bolts and connectors for proper position and tighten them all.
Can-Back tops are made from tough, high-quality, heavy-duty waterproof canvas. Installing the top is simple and straightforward. The bottom-side has numerous straps and buckles for attaching the top to the hoops and adjusting the tension. The fabric edge snaps to the cab connector, side rails and tailgate piece (see below). There's even a bolt-rope setup (above right) that cinches the rear of the top and adds extra tension security.
Can-Back's tailgate piece is self adhesive and attaches to the tailgate. The lower rear edge of the top snaps here. Broad hook-and-loop tabs secure the rear corners. Neat, tight and weatherproof!
The finished basic installation is shown above left. You can easily add an optional roof rack (right, on a Tacoma). Bolt-on racks for bicycles, skis, kayaks and other sports equipment are also available.