Choosing A Tonneau Cover: Which One Is Right For You
Trifold? Solid? Roll-up? Retracting? Your needs will determine the kind you should buy.
This article was updated September 9, 2022 with new products and fresh information.
Pickup owners love their trucks. This is known. What’s also clear is that the majority of pickup owners don’t need or use their truck beds very often. Covering your truck bed with a tonneau cover can protect it from the elements and debris. And there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that covering your truck’s bed can reduce aerodynamic drag and, therefore, increase fuel efficiency.
Q: Do Tonneau Covers Improve Gas Mileage
Frankly, the jury is still out on this. Some studies claim an emphatic “yes!” Others, like this outdated 2013 study from Consumer Reports, claim that any aerodynamic advantage is negligible, and overall mileage is actually compromised by the added weight a tonneau cover brings. We’re looking forward to putting this theory to the test ourselves in the future.
For now, while a tonneau cover can theoretically reduce aerodynamic drag and improve fuel efficiency and, therefore, gas mileage, in our opinion the greatest value here lies in the security and protection it providesand the overall improved looks of a truck. But if you’re really looking at a tonneau cover to save you money, opt for a lightweight one.
Q: Should I Get A Hard
If you want waterproof security and a locking mechanism to protect any valuables you may want to keep in your tuck, you should opt for a hard-shell tonneau cover. But be advised, it will add weight to the vehicle and potentially negate any added fuel efficiency. A soft cover will be lighter weight, but won’t be as secure or durable. Your call.
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Patriot Eagle Tonneau Cover
- Painted to match your truck’s OEM paint code
- Lift assist hinges make it easy to open and close the cover
- Rotary latch can withstand over 1,000 lbs. of force
- Push button to release latch and open cover
- No drilling required for installation
- Perimeter weather seal maximizes water resistance
- Multiple accessories available
- Made in the USA
- Product is special order, NO cancellations once order is placed
The Patriot Eagle Tonneau Cover is a one-piece painted cover that matches your truck’s OEM paint code. The Eagle is designed to wrap around the sides of your bed, providing outstanding water resistance. Operating the cover is easy: just unlock the rotary latch and push the button. The cover’s lift supports assist with raising and lowering the Eagle.
Underneath the cover, a carpeted headliner provides a finished look. Optional accessories include a cargo net and keyless entry remote. The Patriot Eagle Tonneau Cover comes with a lifetime workmanship warranty and a one-year warranty on the painted finish.
Please note: Product is special order, NO cancellations once order is placed
Defective Or Missing Seal
If a seal is damaged or missing, you must replace or repair the tonneau cover as soon as possible to prevent further damage or the cover wearing out faster than it should.
If a tonneau cover seal is damaged or has fallen off, the cover can flip hence allowing air, dust, and water to penetrate and damage the hard retractable cover further and faster
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Cover Doesnt Fit Right
Each cover is designed to fit a specific type of tonneau. So, you should make sure that you have purchased the right size and design cover for your particular truck by either checking the specific models offered for the cover, or you can measure the truck bed in preparation for buying a new cover.
If the size is right, you should check whether the cover is installed correctly. If the installation is correctly done, then check the seal and the hardware.
You should also ascertain that nothing came loose or even damaged when purchasing. A defect could be making the cover to pull away in certain truck bed regions.
Truck Cap Handles And Locks
Safety is non-negotiable when you use a truck cap on a regular basis. At SiraWeb, we provide the truck cap handles and locks you need to feel comfortable and secure. Our handles and locks are perfect for a variety of popular truck cap and topper brands, including Leer, Century, Gemtop, Raider, Astro, Covermaster, Unicover and more.
Our huge selection includes T-handles and locks, push button locks, glass door handles, cargo covers, construction caps and a variety of other products. These handles and locks come in multiple different colors, styles and designs, which ensure you can find a perfect match for your truck cap.
SiraWeb is your source for truck cap handles, locks and more. We specialize in providing high-quality truck accessories, gas props and struts, Tonneau covers and other products that have high performance over a long lifespan. To best serve our customers, we provide fast shipping to domestic and international addresses as well as a hassle-free return policy. You depend on your truck caps for both work and play, which is why we offer a huge selection of the parts you need to keep your truck caps fully operational. For handles, locks and other truck cap needs, turn to SiraWeb. Browse our selection of truck cap handles and locks below.
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Problems Measuring A Tonneau Cover For Your Truck
Its crucial to understand the dimensions of your trucks bed length before ordering a tonneau cover. You should know that not every trucks measurements are the same as indicated in the vehicle manual.
To begin, have a measuring device that extends beyond 10 feet and a paper to write or your phones notes app to record the measurements. Also, you should be aware that not all automotive manufacturers make beds of the same length.
However, there are three specific nomenclatures that are pursued in truck bed measurements short, standard and long bed.
The trick in measuring the truck bed is to measure the length in inches at least twice to get it correctly.
- You should place the end of the measuring tape at the bulkhead or space where the truck bed attaches to the back of the cab.
- Measure the closest point to the side of the bed and record down the figure
- Extend the measuring tape to the inside edge of the tailgate and take measurements too
After you have the measurements, take the number of inches measured and divide them by 12 to determine your pickups bed length.
Q: Can I Install A Tonneau Cover Myself
Sure, you can. Most modern tonneau covers can be installed by any reasonably handy do-it-yourselfer with the proper toolsand the willingness to experiment on his own vehicle. To that end, if you’re unsure, we definitely recommend professional installation. Hey, it’s your truck.
Still undecided about which tonneau cover is right for you? Check out some of these great selections.
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The Cover Wont Open Or Becomes Stuck
A good tonneau cover should smoothly glide while opening and closing it. However, it might start to get stuck or become harder to operate over time.
When your tonneau cover wont open or becomes stuck, there could be some rust in the opening mechanism. Apply some lubrication to these areas and check to see if there is some damage or general depreciation due to age and frequent use. Consider checking out our post about opening different tonneau covers.
