A look at the wide variety of bed and tonneau covers for new trucks
Tonneau covers are a great way to protect the contents of your truck's bed from rain, dirt, snow and simple wind buffeting. Granted, a plastic tarp works well, but most of us prefer a more permanent solution in the form of some kind of Tonneau cover. Furthermore, the right tonneau or bed cover will not only protect your cargo, it can also improve the appearance of your truck with a sportier look. In the big picture, that is often one of the most notable reasons that truck owners purchase a bed cover. But there is so very much more.
Research studies indicate that upwards of one out of every five pickups in the U.S. and Canada are now fit with a bed cover or bed cap! While looking to increase the secured hauling capability of the pickup through the installation of a bed cover, another side benefit is often the increase in fuel mileage! In other words, the installation of a bed cover can often pay for itself in less than a year�s time! This is assuming the owner drives normally to maximize the opportunity to allow his new addition to aid in increasing fuel economy. Just adding a bed or tonneau cover won't automatically improve your fuel mileage.
What a cover does do is provide the truck owner with secure options. Most aftermarket covers such as those you will find in this buyers guide provide a locking feature. This allows the owner to feel comfortable securing valuable items in the bed of the truck, along with protecting the items from both driving and weather elements. Ultimately, selecting the right cover depends on the type of cargo you will be carrying and the overall look that you want to achieve with your truck. The most popular are flush style units which serve the protection needs while giving a custom, refined look to the truck. Some are specifically designed and marketed for industrial, work-related consumers while others possess style and finish that provide the security they seek, while making their trucks look good in the process. There are a wide range of bed covers to choose from so it really boils down to form and function. For those of you who are shopping for a bed cover for that new truck, here is a collection of some of the major bed cover manufacturers and their newest products.
ACCE SS� ROLL-UP COVER & RACK COMBO
Agri-Cover, Inc. (ACI) manufacturer of the ACCE SS�, LORADO�, LITERIDER� and VANISH� Roll-Up Covers are excited to announce the ACCE SS� ROLL-UP COVER & RACK Combo. By merging the benefits of the original Access Roll-Up Cover and a durable rack into one efficient package, this system greatly increases the hauling/storage capacity of a truck by providing additional levels of storage above and below the tonneau cover. Its unique design makes cargo accessible without the need to remove the rack or its contents. This is the perfect set up for those who want the security of the roll up tonneau cover along with the functionality of a rack system that allows the user to be able to haul large items without compromising the contents inside the bed. Featuring high and low clearance levels, high strength extruded aluminum and adjustable crossbars, the rack allows for increased versatility with the Access Roll-Up Cover.
Rack Features:
� Easy installation � Crossbars easily adjusted or can be removed
� Black powder coat finish � Upper and lower T-slots for flexible mounting
A.R.E. LSX & LSII TONNEAU COVERS
Using advanced components and technologies, A.R.E.'s custom design team has created the best fitting fiberglass tonneau cover on the market today. Our scissor hinge technology allows for a perfect fit that can mirror the design of your truck bed. The LSX also has more adjustability points than any other fiberglass cover, which means it can be custom fitted to your truck bed better than any other cover available. LSX features include a trimless edge, carpeted interior, scissor hinge technology, an A.R.E. designed lift assist system, and our patented palm handle.
The LSII Series is the ultimate in custom-fitted hard tonneau covers for today's pickups. A.R.E. designed each model to match the curvature and style lines of the pickup it is made to fit. Compound curves add strength as well as style. The LSII Series is equipped with an exclusive Lift Assist System that captures the 200+ lbs. of constant stress. The Lift Assist System makes it easy to open and close your LSII by absorbing the stress exerted by gas struts within the system. Other tonneaus send the force to the front corners of the truck bed which are not constructed to handle the stress. A.R.E. makes an LSII to fit all current model trucks plus most early models. The approximate weight is 90 lbs. for a mini and 120 lbs. for a full size.
BAK INDUSTRIES NEW BAKFLIP TONNEAU COVER
After discovering engineering pitfalls in various industry bed covers, BAK Industries developed the BakFlip Truck Bed Cover, the cover that literally does it all! From installing in minutes with no drilling, to sitting exactly flush with the trucks rails, the BakFlip is as aesthetically pleasing and complimentary as a fresh hanky in the pocket of a new tuxedo. The fact that it allowed full access to stake pockets was a huge bonus too, since you could now make use of all the cool tie downs, bed rails and racks that are available for new trucks.
The Bak Ind BakFlip sports patented seamless hinges which allow the covers hard panels to fold forward in increments and literally fold completely out of the way with the use of integrated gas struts to reveal 100% of your truck bed without ever having to remove the cover. Now everyone can have a hard locking cover when they need one and simply fold it neatly out of the way when picking up that new fridge or taking off for the weekend with your dirt bikes on the back of your truck. The inconvenience issues of all other covers had finally been remedied. When considering the endless brilliance of the BakFlip cover, one would expect to brace themselves for the cost of this unit. Wouldn�t you know it, the BakFlip actually is the least expensive hard truck bed cover around, ringing in as music to the ears at an affordable $600.00 at retail level, even if it is made in the good old USA.
COVERCRAFT'S NEW LOW PROFILE RAIL SYSTEM TONNEAU
Covercraft's low profile rail system tonneau can be ordered in either a Zip&GO! style, which provides a continuous full-bed seal, or a traditional "snap" style with snap heads that are adjustable, to provide a tighter fit when needed. Both styles of tonneau covers use the same frame system and heavy-duty, non-shrink, textured vinyl tonneau fabric. You can access the bed from the front or the back with either style, and the tailgate operates normally when the tonneau is in place. The low-profile design looks great on any pickup.
Features include full perimeter anodized aluminum frame installs easily without drilling, adhesives or tools. Zip&GO! tonneau features a durable Santoprene� extrusion that is pressed into a security channel in the rails. This creates a smooth, continuous seal around the entire pickup. It's easy to operate in all weather conditions, simply zip.....and go! "Snap" tonneau covers use a unique molded snap base that slides into the rail security channels. The snap base can be inserted two different ways to help tension the tonneau, if required.
Both Covercraft tonneau covers use super stable vinyl coated woven polyester/fiberglass for long life and minimal weather shrinkage and expansion. This material is a little more expensive, but in the long run well worth it, as it holds it shape during summer heat and winter cold. Rail system and hardware is warranted to original owner for the life of the vehicle, and the vinyl tonneau cover is warranted against becoming unserviceable for three (3) years.
CRAFTEC INC. VINYL TONNEAU COVER
Craftec Inc. has been in the vinyl tonneau truck bed cover business for 18 years. The current product line includes tonneau covers for Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda and Mitsubishi pickups. New for 2007 is a snapless tonneau for the Chevy El Camino covering years 1964-67, 1968-72 and 1978-87.
The Craftec Inc. Soft Hatch Tonneau has no snaps or Velcro and removes entirely in less than 20 seconds for full use of your bed. Only the highest quality vinyl tonneau cover fabric is used and the frame is custom extruded aluminum for strength and durability. The cover is hatch style with hidden latch handles and is very low profile to eliminate the covered wagon look. In addition to these great features, the Craftec tonneau cover can be custom ordered in a variety of colors as well as black carbon fiber and black or silver diamond plate textures for that personal touch.
DIAMONDBACK� ALUMINUM TRUCK COVER
Diamond Back Automotive Acc. Truck Covers Commercial Solutions offers the most complete truck bed system for any work-truck application. Construction workers, engineers, surveyors, landscapers, movers, plumbers � anyone using their truck for a utility or service application � will find a complete custom truck bed solution in the Commercial Solutions system.
The DiamondBack Truck Cover is the flagship product in a complete line of truck bed solutions from DiamondBack Truck Cover . The patented truck bed cover constructed from aluminum alloy is a full .100� thick. The tough and stylish load-bearing surface combined with internal structural supports is capable of sustaining up to 1600 pounds. (Make sure to check the weight of your load and the weight restrictions of your vehicle before loading.) In addition Diamond Back Automotive Acc. also has the new Standard Edition (SE) cover. Weighing only 70-90 pounds, this no-drill, versatile, aluminum alloy truck bed cover offers a load-bearing surface capable of carrying up to 400 pounds of cargo.
The sturdy 3-panel cover design allows for quick, easy installation or removal of the cover. Front and rear panels allow access to both ends of the truck bed, while offering the ability to fold back one panel to open a portion of truck bed space for hauling. Truck bed contents are kept clean and dry as a result of integrated features like center-panel water channels, and a full compression seal. All external hardware is stainless steel and all internal hardware is zinc-plated steel for maximum strength and rust-resistance.
The Ladder Rack is a four-post rack made of powder-coated steel. With seven- gauge steel base-plates that mount under the truck cover, the DiamondBack Ladder Rack has a load rating of 500 pounds. For contractors who haul 16-foot lumber or long ladders, DiamondBack has partnered with Kargo Master� to provide a leg set as part of the Commercial Solutions system. This leg set can be added to the Kargo Master Pro II Ladder Racks to provide seamless integration with the Diamond Back Truck Cover . An optional Cab Guard has been designed to protect the window during hauling while maintaining visibility with an expanded metal screen. Tailgate Protectors and Side Tool Boxes are also available for all truck beds.
EXTANG'S TRIFECTA TRIFOLD TONNEAU
Extang's Trifecta Trifold Tonneau is an instant hit with consumers! The Trifecta comes completely assembled, and installs in just seconds. Simply position on truck, secure clamps, and go! No tools required! The Trifecta conveniently folds up to the cab for hauling large items, or can be completely removed in seconds. (Great for use with 5th-Wheels.) Spring-action SpeedKlamps at the tailgate provide instant access to your truck bed, and conveniently stow away within the bows when cover is in the folded position.
The Trifecta offers two fabric options; traditional heavy-duty
commercial grade vinyl, or the Signature Series, rich looking
vinyl-backed black canvas. Both styles are covered by Extang's Maximum
Strength Warranty. Lifetime coverage on the frame, 10 years on the
tarp. Check out the Extang Corp. website for more information, and be sure to watch the quick installation demo of the Trifecta from Truck Universe.
FOLD-A-COVER� G4-ELITE SERIES
The Fold-a-Cover division of Steffens Enterprises, Inc. has been the industry leader in hard folding tonneau covers since its inception in 1988. The goal is simple; manufacture the best products and accessories for today�s trucks and their owners� active lifestyles. Expert engineering and creative thinking are a constant commitment from our entire staff. The new G4-ELITE Series tonneau cover features a patented four-panel design that provides access to the truck bed for all types of cargo and also fifth wheel trailer hitches. Whether it�s a set of golf clubs, camping gear, tools or groceries loading and unloading is easy and convenient.
The G4-ELITE offers 34 models and is available for most domestic and world truck applications. Features include hard folding opening type and aluminum and stainless steel construction, industry first state of the art flush mounted latch and release system, easy care neutral black finish and a low profile aerodynamic design to save fuel. Shipping weight is 65 lbs. and all models are UPS shippable. Installation is easy and requires only common hand tools with most applications requiring no drilling. Models to accommodate toolboxes: Personal Caddy cargo organizer system available soon. Each Fold-A-Cover Tonneau Cover model comes with a one year warranty. The patented mounting system allows one person to remove the cover in a matter of moments. ISO9001 and ISO14001 Certified.
GAYLORD "TL SERIES" TRADITIONAL BED COVER
Gaylords Truck Bed Lids is proud to introduce a combination of tradition and modern technology with the release of the new TL Series Traditional BedCover. The TL Series captures the ever-popular style and design with a low, flush mount that wraps over the bed rails and tailgate for added security and stylish looks. The Gaylords "TL Series" Traditional Lid features no drilling installation, color matched lock and cover, no unsightly rail covering your existing bed rail and utility rack. A keyless remote option can replace the existing factory remote or integrate with your aftermarket remote.
Additional features include all new EZ Grip� clamp on system which provides for the no tools and no drilling installation. EZ Lift Hinge Assist System automatically lifts the lid open with the push of a button. An interior emergency release latch is standard on each lid along with a nylon pull strap, double neoprene seals and a dirt resistant gray interior finish. The interior carpeted headliner is also equipped with a dome light.
LEER 700 & 800 SERIES TONNEAU COVERS
The LEER 800 Series fiberglass tonneau captures the low-profile styling so popular with today�s truck enthusiasts, while providing the high level of quality and long list of standard features pickup truck owners have come to expect from LEER. Under the subtle curve of the 800 is an industry-leading complement of standard features, including the LEER Quick Release hinge system that uses simple, reliable flanges and posts to properly position the tonneau for easy �no-tools-needed� removal and replacement; the LEER FlexSeal, a hidden extrusion that unfolds as the tonneau opens, to form a barrier that keeps run-off rainwater, snow and other debris from sliding into the truck bed; a low-profile center-mounted billet stainless steel lock with integral weather cover, to lock and secure the tonneau; �joystick trigger� latches for smooth, reliable operation; an ABS shroud to hide and protect lock linkage and wiring; and nylon headliner, to provide improve appearance while deadening sound and minimizing temperature extremes
The subtly curved profile of the 800 sheds water but provides the virtually flat styling truck owners are looking for; the surface gleams with a high-gloss finish that matches the formulas used the by truck manufacturer. Tonneau edges are sanded, finished and painted, achieving the goal of making the truck and tonneau look like they were made for each other. Beyond the stunning good looks, the LEER 800 also provides functional locked, weather-protected cargo space, and, as recent tests proved, improves gas mileage by 6% to 9%.
Leer is also proud to introduce the LEER 700 Series tonneau for the new 2007 Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra, uses unique design details that capture the styling lines of each truck it is designed to fit, giving it a true custom look. In addition to the �high-dimension� styling, the LEER 700 boasts a long list of standard features, including the LEER Superlift System of articulating gas props, for easy opening and closing; the LEER FlexSeal, that provides a continuous hidden barrier across the front edge of the tonneau, to keep rainwater, snow and other debris from sliding into the truck bed; the LEER Twist Handle, a smooth-acting cast metal handle that can easily be upgraded to keyless remote operation; nylon headliner, to provide improve appearance while deadening sound and minimizing temperature extremes; the LEER 4-Bar hinge, that moves the tonneau up and away from the truck cab, for close, attractive fits; and automotive style latches with hidden lock linkage for excellent security.
LUND INTERNATIONAL TRI-FOLD TONNEAU
Easy does it. The new Lund Genesis Tri-Fold Tonneau comes completely assembled and installs in under two minutes. Made of high-quality, double-sided, tear-resistant fabric, Genesis Tri-Fold Tonneau comes in a black matte finish with all-black rails and bows for great style, durability and simple operation. Easy-to-use clamps with quick-release, cam-action design provide tension and security for the cover, while buckle-style closure straps quickly store the cover in its open position. This is a new Lund International bed cover design that provides the owner with greater flexibility with his cargo options. Now you can open your bed cover in segments, protecting the contents of the front while accessing those of the rear. Comes in handy for those large items that wouldn't fit under a traditional bed cover.
PACE EDWARDS FULL-METAL JACKRABBIT AND BEDLOCKER
If you�d like to keep the contents of your truck bed hidden from prying eyes, but still want easy access to cargo in the bed, Pace Edwards has just what you�re looking for. Its retractable truck bed covers roll up into a canister located at the front of the bed, either completely or partially, making it easy to gain bed access. Choose from the original Roll-Top-Cover� , the JackRabbit Continuous Tension Spring Retractable, or Pace Edward�s newest model, the Full-Metal JackRabbit, which has the same features as the JackRabbit, but with the added benefit and good looks of an all-metal top blanket. If luxury is the name of your game, you�ll appreciate the BedLocker, which can be retracted electrically with a hand-held remote. Easy to use, easy to install and backed by a three-year warranty, Pace Edwards truck bed covers restore true functionality to any pick-up bed.
PENDA VENTURE� LIGHTWEIGHT BED COVER
The new Penda Venture� thermoplastic tonneau cover is the first tonneau cover to combine premium high-strength, lightweight construction and sophisticated styling that includes an attractive, rib- and brace-free interior surface. The new Penda Venture also features an advanced installation and connection system that makes it faster and easier than any other rigid cover to install, remove and use.
Now available to truck accessories dealers across North America, the Venture�s unprecedented versatility is made possible through an exclusive V-hinge� quick-release system that enables the truck owner to detach and remove the unit in a matter of seconds. The Venture also includes premium, quick-disconnect lift assists and an exclusive single-key dual-locking system that is seamlessly recessed into the unit body for an OE-style look.
The Penda Venture features a lightweight co-extruded tonneau body that is easy to raise, can quickly be removed for occasions when full truck bed access is needed, and provides the ultimate in security. The Venture requires no drilling into the truck bed for installation and features no unsightly braces or ribs on its underside, enabling customers to easily carpet the interior surface.
The Venture�s weather-tight sealing system prevents leakage and other concerns
common to conventional caps and tonneau covers. The new tonneau cover�s deep-black exterior won�t fade or crack.
Penda is supporting sales of the Venture tonneau through a broad array of marketing activities and innovative merchandising tools. The company also has introduced a unique �mini-display� featuring a fully functional Venture unit that can be used to demonstrate the construction, V-hinge installation/removal, and security benefits to prospective buyers.
RETRAX ROLLING BED COVER
Retrax has the 2007 Toyota Tundra covered. New rolling bed cover models are now available for the Tundra CrewMax 5.5� bed; Tundra Regular & Double Cab 6.5� Bed; Tundra Regular & Double Cab Long Bed; Tundra w/ Deck Rail System. The Retrax Retractable Tonneau Truck Bed Cover patented design incorporates a front cover that is flush with rolling cover, which streamlines the overall appearance and provides a firm, dependable seal to help keep the bed dry. The RETRAX system will work even with the popular Toyota Deck Rail System, allowing the truck owner to retain the cargo securing feature while providing strong protection of the stored bed contents.
SNUGLID �SL� TONNEAU COVER
Owners of Chevrolet�s boldly restyled 2007 Silverado can gain the benefits of the
Snugtop award-winning SnugLid �SL� series fiberglass tonneau cover. This
latest Snuglid Tonneau Cover is for the Silverado 1500 Extra Cab or Regular Cab Short Bed
(69.3�). Primary advantages include enhanced styling, secure cargo storage, and
an improvement in fuel economy.
Key features of this low profile lid include a special �hidden� hinge mechanism
that swings open much like a hood, has no exposed pivots, and comes standard
with a Rotary Slam Latch for convenient one-hand operation. Also available is a
keyless remote, which �pops� the lid open at the push of a button, as well as
SnugRug bed carpeting to compliment the lid.
A perfect compliment to the Silverado�s new lines, the sleek SnugLid �SL� has
finished edges so it virtually blends into the truck�s body. It�s painted to
match Chevy factory colors using DuPont�s ChromaPremier basecoat/clearcoat
process and is covered by a Lifetime Paint Warranty. And, like all SnugLids,
it�s also backed by a Lifetime Structural Warranty.
SPORT MASTERS SLANT-SIDE TONNEAU COVER
This remarkable heavy-duty vinyl Tonneau Cover from Sport Masters lets you unlatch and lift the cover for full access to the bed... without unsnapping! Plus, there's no drilling. The black enameled frame clamps securely to the truck bed. And its smooth aerodynamic profile improves gas mileage and saves money. The tubular supports add strength and durability to shed rain and snow. Reinforced corners on the vinyl keep your cover in great shape for years. And removal is easy with a special quick-release pin.
The Slant Side Tonneau Cover provides access to all four sides of truck bed...cover rolls up...secured with tie-down straps. Stainless steel snaps on frame are preset for easier snapping of cover. Special frame adjuster compensates for weather conditions...if cover is snug, remove frame adjuster for a perfect fit. Easy to install and very easy to use. A must for any truck owner who frequently uses the bed of their truck and wants access from areas other than just the tailgate.
TARPEEZ� SOFT COVER TARP
Introducing Tarpeez soft cover tarp that covers the stuff in your truck bed.
If you�re a real truck users, someone who uses their truck to haul stuff then a Tarpeez is a must have! TARPEEZ� is a durable soft cover tarp that protects the stuff you haul in your truck and it�s compact enough to fit conveniently under the seat of your truck when your not hauling a load. That means you�ll always have a way to protect your load, and others from your stuff blowing out of your truck�s bed. If you use your truck to haul stuff then TARPEEZ is for you. Whether it�s a small load once a week or a big load everyday, TARPEEZ will save you time and money.
TARPEEZ is held onto the truck with one continuous piece of bungee, and then secured by 8 hooks. It can be used when your truck is almost empty or overflowing and can be attached in a matter of seconds and best of all it�s affordable. TARPEEZ only costs $47.99 for a short bed truck, and $57.99 for a long bed truck
TRUCK COVERS USA AMERICAN ROLL COVER AND AMERICAN WORK COVER
The American Roll Cover is designed to expertly fit virtually very make and model of pickup truck on the road today. The cover is double wall constructed using strong, lightweight aluminum. The American Roll Cover is the only roll cover tough enough to withhold +500lbs. The cover is finished with an attractive textured powder coated finish for enhanced durability and scratch resistance. The smallest canister on the market (8x8 inches) gives this cover load capabilities like no other. A unique flex-tube 4-way drainage system and wider side rail seals ensure that unfavorable weather conditions will not lead to rust or mechanical problems. The American Roll Cover features a specialized locking system that keeps your load safe and your truck bed cargo secure. The retractable cover is tension driven for ease of movement, and has a stop and lock point every 12 inches. This means you have the option of an open truck bed, a closed truck bed, or a partially open truck bed to provide just the right amount of cargo coverage and security for any load. The new Keyless Entry option is also available � This new Keyless Entry release handle enables you very convenient access to your load. Remember, this is an add-on option and not standard equipment � so be sure to ask for it.
Truck Covers USA also introduces a new team effort, a tool box and American Roll Cover combination that makes a marriage of the highest product qualities � thus, Truck Covers USA introduces you to the American Work Cover. This multifunctional product was engineered & designed with the work truck in mind. With new innovative features & products, Truck Covers USA sets itself apart from the competition.
