[DQDick]

Welcome to the forum. We won't all always agree on our advice, but you'll get the opinions of folks who've "been there and done that" which will help you decide what's best for you. The truck debate will be the first place folks will disagree, but the important thing is that the weight of the Monty you choose be within the weight limits established on the door panel of your truck. The type of hitch is also a question on which many disagree, but if your truck is a short bed you will want or need a slider depending on the year of Monty you buy. The toppers are an interesting question. We have them because we camp where it's hot both summer and winter and the shade they provide is important. Others have them to prevent branches, pine needles etc from getting on top of the slides and them having to sweep the slides before they close them. That one is really an individual decision.