The pickup truck bed is very useful but often comes without enough protection. Many truck owners add bed liners and tonneau covers to protect their truck better. These accessories work well together to keep your truck bed safe.
Most tonneau covers fit well with spray-on and under-the-rail bed liners. Installing a tonneau cover is usually easy, making the tonneau cover installation process smooth. Yet, using retractable covers may need you to trim the liner at the front. Over-the-rail bed liners may require cutting notches for the covers to fit right.
If your truck lacks a bed liner and a tonneau cover, put in the liner first for best results. Brands like Truxedo and Access make excellent tonneau covers. Truck bed accessories from stores like Truck2Go often need professional installation for the best look and function.
Adding a tonneau cover and bed liner is a smart move for any truck owner. It protects your truck bed and makes it more useful.
Understanding the Compatibility of Tonneau Covers and Bedliners
Exploring pickup truck modifications can feel overwhelming. It’s vital to know how bedliners and tonneau covers work together for a safe truck bed. Understanding this ensures a smooth upgrade process.
Smooth Installation with Spray-On and Under-the-Rail Bedliners
Spray-on and under-the-rail bedliners are usually the go-to choices. These bedliners don’t get in the way of installing tonneau covers, providing a perfect fit. A 1999 F150 owner even noted an easy install with no big changes needed.
Tonneau covers like the BAK Revolver X2, Solid Fold 2.0, and Leer 700 work great with these liners. While a little trim might be needed, especially at the front, it’s not a big deal for most.
Challenges with Over-the-Rail Bedliners
Over-the-rail bedliners are a bit trickier because they cover the truck bed’s edges. This design can block the tonneau cover clamps, meaning you might have to adjust. You’ll likely need to cut small parts to make room for the cover’s clamps.
But even with these issues, covers like Mopar Tri-Fold and ProZ Profold Premium Trifold can fit after some tweaking. Trucks can still get a cool upgrade without spending too much.
Can You install a Tonneau Cover with a Bedliner?
Can you install a tonneau cover with a bedliner? Yes, you can. It offers lots of perks for your truck. Yet, depending on your bedliner type, changes might be needed to fit right.
Ensuring Secure Installation
For a secure installation, the bedliner type matters. Under-the-rail or spray-on bedliners usually fit well with tonneau covers. They make reaching the side rail, where you attach the cover, easier.
- Tip: Align the bedliner and tonneau cover well to avoid damage and keep the truck bed safe.
Steps to Modify Bedliner for Tonneau Cover Clamps
If you have an over-the-rail bedliner, you’ll need to work a bit more. Here’s how:
- First, measure where the cover’s clamps will go. This usually means marking spots at the bulkhead.
- Next, use a cutting tool to notch the bedliner. Small cuts will let the clamps fit snugly.
- Then, carefully remove any cut pieces to keep edges smooth. This helps the tonneau cover sit neatly.
- Finally, line up the tonneau cover rails with the bedliner and secure the clamps.
These steps will help secure your tonneau cover well while keeping your bedliner useful. It’s crucial to attach and align the tonneau cover properly for the best protection and security of your cargo. Companies like Truck2Go provide professional installation services for top brands such as Truxedo, Roll-N-Lock, and UnderCover.
Benefits of Using Both Tonneau Covers and Bedliners
Using a tonneau cover and a bedliner gives truck owners lots of perks. It boosts the truck’s function and its life. These add-ons keep the truck looking good and bring daily benefits.
Enhanced Cargo Security
A tonneau cover and a bedliner greatly increase cargo security. Tonneau covers help stop theft, and bedliners keep the bed safe from harm. This extra protection is key to keeping your things safe when you’re moving valuable stuff.
Better Protection Against Weather Elements
Using both a bedliner and a tonneau cover is great for beating the weather. They shield your truck bed from wetness, snow, and the sun’s rays, fighting off rust and damage. This keeps your load safe no matter the weather.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
A tonneau cover can make your truck use less fuel. It cuts down on wind resistance, which can make your truck 5% to 10% more gas efficient. This saves you money and helps the planet too.
These advantages—better cargo safety, top-notch weather defense, and more gas mileage—show why getting both a tonneau cover and bedliner is smart. It helps any truck owner keep their vehicle valuable and working well over time.
Steps to Properly Install a Tonneau Cover with a Bedliner
Installing a tonneau cover right is key to keep your truck’s cargo safe. Follow these steps for a great setup.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Start with preparing. Clean the truck bed well. Make sure your bed liner works with the tonneau cover. This avoids trouble later.
Fixing Rails to the Truck Bed
After preparing, attach the rails to the truck bed. They should be tight. You might need to cut the bed liner for over-the-rail types. Getting the rails right stops future problems.
Adjusting Alignment and Sealing
Next, line up the tonneau cover right. Good installation means sealing well to keep water and dirt out. Put on seals at the cab side or tailgate. Adjust to fix any gaps.
Connecting Drainage Tubes (If Applicable)
If your cover has drainage tubes, hook them up. Lead them to the truck bed corners. This keeps water from pooling in the bed. It keeps your cargo dry and organizes your truck better.
Following these instructions ensures your tonneau cover is installed right. It makes your truck more useful and better looking. For in-depth help, contact experts like Truck2Go. They’re pros in fitting brands like Truxedo and BAK.
Choosing the Right Tonneau Cover and Bedliner for Your Truck
When picking a tonneau cover and bedliner for your truck, think about what you need. If you move luggage, equipment, or hunting gear often, keeping your cargo safe matters. Brands like Truxedo, Access, Roll-N-Lock, UnderCover, and BAK offer durable and high-performing covers.
It’s important to choose a bedliner that works well with your tonneau cover. Spray-on and under-the-rail bedliners usually work with most covers and are easy to install. But, over-the-rail bedliners might need you to cut or adjust them to fit right.
DualLiner is a brand that has changed the game with their bedliners. They offer features that protect your truck and make it more convenient. Their ZeroSkid® rubber floor stops water from gathering underneath and keeps the paint safe. The treatment they use fights off fading and damage from the sun. The design also helps keep your cargo from moving too much.
Talking to experts like Truck2Go can help you figure out the best choice. They can give you insights on the different options. By looking at features and how they work, you can pick the perfect mix of tonneau cover and bedliner for your truck.
| Feature | Spray-On/Under-the-Rail Bedliner | Over-the-Rail Bedliner |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Effort | Low | Moderate to High |
| Compatibility | Most Tonneau Covers | May Require Trimming |
| Weather Protection | Excellent | Good |
| Cargo Security | High | Moderate |
Paying attention to certain factors ensures an easy and effective install. This improves your truck’s use and look. In the end, the right tonneau cover and bedliner will make your truck more useful and last longer.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
After you install your tonneau cover and bedliner, you might face some issues. Solving these problems quickly helps avoid bigger issues later. Let’s look at common problems like fitment errors, leaks, and damage. We’ll also give useful troubleshooting tips.
Dealing with Fitment Issues
Improper fitment is a common concern. Despite Retrax offering sizes for different truck beds, errors can happen. It’s vital to ensure everything aligns well with your truck. Double-check the installation guide. Adjustments might be necessary, especially with certain bedliners. A well-fitted cover should be secure and quiet.
Addressing Leaks and Water Seepage
Leaks are common, especially under bad weather. A good seal is the best defense. Check seals often and replace any that are damaged. Also, make sure drainage tubes are well placed. Experts like LINE-X have strong prevention steps against water and rust. But, if you’re doing it yourself, be extra vigilant. Regular checks are needed to keep it watertight.
Avoiding Damage to Both Tonneau Cover and Bedliner
To prevent damage, regular cleaning is crucial. Use mild soap and water with a bristle brush. This works for 80% of spray-on bedliner owners. Avoid harsh chemicals or rough materials that can harm the surface. Also, watch for issues with rails and tracks over time. Regular checks and quick fixes can make your truck accessories last longer. Following these tips keeps your investments in great shape for future use.
Hey there, I’m Alex Hanson and I’m passionate about all things covers! Whether you’re looking for a car seat cover to protect your vehicle or an oven cover to keep your kitchen clean, I’m here to help. With years of experience in the industry, I have plenty of knowledge and insights to share with my readers. So, if you care about protecting your belongings and making them look their best, you’re encouraged to read my blog as I explore the perfect cover for every need.