Truck beds are very useful and it is necessary to secure a truck bed with adequate protection. That is why tonneau covers are used. To haul cargo well, bed rails are used. However, it is possible to use both these equipment to get the best experience.
Can You Put A Tonneau Cover If A Truck Is Fitted With Bed Rails?
The answer is yes. Installing a tonneau cover on a truck fitted with bed rails enhances the functionality and makes cargo management simpler. This way the tonneau cover can be tightened.
Thankfully, almost all tonneau covers that we have come across in the market can be fitted easily and effortlessly with spray-on bed liners or under-the-rail liners. However, in some extreme cases, you might have to trim the liner at the bulkhead to get the right fitting.
How Do Truck Bed Rails Function?
Truck bed rails are like a sturdy and long metal bars placed on the bedside equalling the width of your truck bed. Truck bed rails help safeguard the bed from getting scratched and dented.
Types Of Bed Rails
There are 2 kinds of bed rails that will work with the majority of tonneau covers. Check out the reviews of the popular models before buying one for your truck.
- Bed Rail Installation Kit – These kits have a bed rail set. They go well with inside mount tonneau covers. It is simple to set up and use. A few inside-mount tonneau covers extend a little more over the bed rail.
- Heavy-Duty Bed Rails – These Bed Rails can be used with all types of tonneau covers, literally. They are longer to ensure better toolbox fitting.
Determine The Size Of The Bed Rail:
If you want to use a tool box, determine the width well. Measure each of the bed rail gussets on both sides and substract 1 inch to find approx. box width. The bed rails typically offer secure and strong installation. The heavy-duty models can distribute the additional load better over the truck bed sheet metal.
Precautions To Take For Surface Mount Tonneau Covers:
Bed rails are not used with surface mount tonneau covers, usually. You may need the assistance of an upholstery expert if you use such covers.
FAQs
Setting up a headache rack on your truck will need using a special installation kit. You can pick from heavy-duty or regular bed rails.
Spray-on and Under-the-rail bed liners are typically compatible with the majority of tonneau covers. You may need expert assistance to make it work, eventually.
While the bed rails are not required for tonneau cover installation, it is advisable to use them with tonneau covers for prolonged longevity of the latter.
So, it is okay to set up a tonneau cover on a truck fitted with bed rails. It will benefit the user, eventually.
