Every now and then, we come across a project from the community that’s too good not to share. we found this recently posted some photos and comments about how they created a sealed pass-through between their truck cab and camper shell using an accordion boot — and let’s just say, it’s clean, clever, and totally functional.
Here is our reaction to the post and the comments with helpful insights.
The Backstory
It started with a simple post: “Seeing as some people asked for pictures how I sealed my camper pass through, I thought I’ll just post them.” From there, interest followed. People wanted to know how he did it, what materials he used, and how well it’s held up over time.
The truck in question was a Toyota Hilux, which — as some fellow Americans noted — is a dream rig that’s hard to get stateside for at least another 20 years. Still, the setup he shared was impressive and inspiring.
The Pass-Through Setup
According to the user, the process started by removing both the rear window from the truck cab and the front window from the camper shell. In place of the glass, he shaped 3mm aluminum sheets to fit the window frames. Then he cut matching rectangular openings in both panels — perfectly aligned — so the accordion boot could slide over them evenly.
Once the cuts were made and test-fitted, he glued the accordion boot into place using silicone adhesive. The result? A sealed, weatherproof pass-through that’s been 100% leak-free through rain, snow, and the test of time.
It’s been years, and the seal is still going strong.
Why It Works
Aside from just looking clean and stealthy, the pass-through has some major functional perks:
- Quick and easy access between cab and camper
- Better stealth camping — no need to get out and climb in from the back
- Ability to hear and monitor pets in the camper while driving
- Easier to keep the dirty and clean zones separate
- Still fully waterproof and snowproof
He summed it up perfectly: “Best of both worlds.”
Installation Questions That Came Up
A few others chimed in with smart questions, so we thought we’d address them here:
Do you need to remove your topper to do this?
Not necessarily. If you remove the windows and can work from both sides, you can get it done without taking the topper off completely
What about road noise and drafts?
Yes, there was some road noise, and a small draft coming from the camper itself, but nothing unbearable. The user mentioned plans to add insulation to the cab later on.
Is it noticeable from the outside?
With a sunshade in the front windshield and side window coverings, it’s pretty much undetectable — making it great for stealth camping setups.
Community Reactions
Other folks in the community loved the idea. One person commented,
“I WILL tell people I got it from a fellow redditor though. Cheers.”
Another said they’d done a similar install on their Toyota Tundra and after 8 years, it’s still leak-free.
Of course, there was the occasional comment from someone who couldn’t quite fit through their window
“Sadly I don’t fit through the opening… the window isn’t that big”,
Overall response was full of admiration and people eager to try it themselves.
Final Thoughts
This kind of install is a great reminder of how much utility and comfort a well-sealed pass-through can bring — especially when paired with a high-quality accordion boot. It’s stealthy, it’s clean, and when done right, it lasts for years.
Got a similar setup? We’d love to feature it! Reach out and send us your photos, notes, or build details.
Rubber Boot Seal
You can order rubber boot material for your special project requiring pass through access. These seals are extruded from a durable EPDM synthetic rubber compound and incorporate a flexible spring steel clip for attachment to any flange. This material is sold by the foot.