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A tonneau cover protects the items in your truck bed from weather and theft, aesthetically enhances your truck, and may even help you save some gas. But when you buy a tonneau cover, youโll need to decide whether to install it yourself or have a professional install it for you. To decide, you need to understand the basics of how to install a tonneau cover, whatโs involved, and whether youโre up for the job. Iโve installed two covers myself, plus I spoke with experts to get their take on the installation process and what you need to know.
Frank Bisciotti, editor-in-chief of RealTruck, notes that while the specific tools youโll need will vary depending on the type of tonneau cover youโre installing, you should generally be prepared with the following:
Preparing your truck bed can help ensure a smooth installation process. Bisciotti recommends you start by thoroughly cleaning the truck bed and the surrounding area where the cover will sit. Use a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and debris, then completely dry the truck.
Next, check the truck bed and rails for any damage or sharp edges that could interfere with installation. โRemove any obstacles, such as bed liners or toolboxes, unless they are compatible with the tonneau cover youโre installing,โ Bisciotti advises.
Bisciotti outlines the following steps to install a tonneau cover.
The specific steps can vary depending on the type of tonneau cover youโre installing, so always start by reading the manufacturerโs instructions.
If your cover requires assembly, start by putting together the frame according to the manufacturerโs instructions.
Next, secure the side rails to the truck bed, making sure theyโre aligned and level. โUse clamps to hold them in place if necessary, and tighten the bolts or screws,โ says Bisciotti.
Place the cover on the rails and secure it according to the instructions. If you have a roll-up or foldable cover, you may need to snap or clamp the cover onto the rails.
Adjust the cover so it fits evenly before tightening all of the clamps, bolts, and screws.
โOpen and close the cover several times to ensure smooth operation and proper alignment,โ says Bisciotti.
Once youโve installed the tonneau cover, proper usage and maintenance can prolong its life. Bisciotti notes that you should regularly clean the cover with a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer to prevent dirt and debris buildup. Additionally, avoid putting heavy objects on the cover unless itโs specifically designed to support weight. Itโs also essential to secure the cover when you drive to prevent it from flapping and getting damaged.
โRegularly inspect the cover and its components for signs of wear and tear, such as loose bolts or worn-out seals, and address any issues promptly,โ Bisciotti recommends. When youโre not using the cover, store it according to the manufacturerโs instructions to help prevent damage.
A tonneau cover, also called a truck bed cover, is a piece of cloth or a hard shell that fits over your truck bed. It protects the items in your bed from theft and the elements, making your vehicle more versatile. Some drivers feel tonneau covers also make trucks look more complete and aesthetically pleasing. To learn more, read my guide, What is a tonneau cover?
John Lin, owner of JB Motor Works in Philadelphia, says that the installation time for tonneau covers can average 30 to 60 minutes, but it also varies by brand and type. โSoft covers install more quickly than hard covers,โ he says. โRoll-ups are generally easiest, followed by tri-folds and retracting covers.โ
The decision to install a tonneau cover yourself or hire a professional is a personal choice, though the type of cover youโre installing will affect how difficult the process is. โMost handy truck owners can handle the installation themselves,โ says Lin. โHowever, getting professional help is smart if youโre unsure about drilling into your bed or have a more complex hard cover.โ
According to Bisciotti, the difficulty of the installation depends on the type of tonneau cover. Generally, soft roll-up and tri-fold covers are easier to install. Installing a hinged, retractable, or custom hard cover is usually more difficult.
โCertain brands are known for their user-friendly installation processes,โ says Bisciotti. โLook for brands that provide clear instructions, detailed installation videos, and customer support. Reviews and ratings from other users can also provide insights into the ease of installation.โ
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