Thinking about getting a tonneau cover for your truck? Smart move! A tonneau cover isn't just a stylish accessory; it's a practical investment. It protects your cargo from the elements, helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing drag, and can even add an extra layer of security to your truck bed. But before you can enjoy these benefits, you need to make sure you get the right size.
An ill-fitting tonneau cover is worse than no cover at all. It won't seal properly, leaving your belongings vulnerable to rain, snow, and theft. Plus, it'll just look plain awkward. Taking accurate measurements is crucial to ensuring a snug, secure fit that will maximize the benefits of your new tonneau cover. So, grab a measuring tape and let's get started on making sure you get it right the first time.
What Exactly Do I Need to Measure?
Where exactly on the truck bed do I measure for a tonneau cover?
You'll measure the inside length of your truck bed, from the inside of the front bulkhead (the wall separating the bed from the cab) to the inside edge of the tailgate when it is closed. Accuracy is crucial, so measure carefully and double-check your results.
Different tonneau cover manufacturers might have slightly different measurement requirements. However, the length measurement described above is the most critical. Always consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of the tonneau cover you are considering *before* placing your order. These instructions often include diagrams illustrating exactly where to measure and may detail any specific allowances or deductions that need to be made.
While length is paramount, you might also want to note the width of your truck bed's inner walls, particularly if you're unsure about your truck's exact model or bed configuration. Although most covers are designed to accommodate standard bed widths, having this measurement on hand can further ensure you select the correct cover. Some covers also require you to measure from the bed rail to a specific point for height/depth consideration.
What's the best way to get an accurate measurement if my truck bed isn't perfectly rectangular?
If your truck bed isn't perfectly rectangular, take multiple measurements along both the length and width and use the longest measurement you find for each dimension. This ensures the tonneau cover will fit, even in the largest area of your bed.
Truck beds are often not perfect rectangles due to manufacturing tolerances, bed liners, or slight damage over time. Measuring at only one point might give you an inaccurate reading, leading to a tonneau cover that doesn't properly fit. Taking several measurements addresses this issue. For the length, measure from the inside of the front bed wall to the inside of the tailgate at multiple points. For the width, measure between the inside walls of the bed, typically near the front, middle, and rear.
Always prioritize the longest measurement because a slightly larger tonneau cover can often be adjusted, whereas one that is too small simply won't work. It's better to err on the side of slightly larger dimensions. Also, be sure to account for any obstructions or irregularities, like bed liners that might affect the overall dimensions. If your bed has a significant deviation from a rectangle, you may want to consider a custom-fit tonneau cover to ensure a perfect seal and appearance.
Do I need to account for the bedliner when measuring for a tonneau cover?
Yes, you absolutely need to account for a bedliner when measuring for a tonneau cover. The bedliner, whether it's a spray-in or drop-in type, alters the dimensions of your truck bed. Ignoring this difference will almost certainly lead to ordering a cover that doesn't fit properly, either being too short or too long.
Different types of bedliners will affect your measurements in distinct ways. A spray-in bedliner, while conforming to the truck bed's contours, adds a layer of thickness that slightly reduces the internal length and width. A drop-in bedliner, on the other hand, typically sits *on* the bed rails and can significantly impact the distance between the front and rear of the bed where the tonneau cover will attach. These variations can be enough to throw off the fit. To accurately measure, use a tape measure and take measurements *inside* the bedliner. Measure the length from the inside of the front bulkhead (the wall separating the bed from the cab) to the inside edge of the tailgate when it's closed. Also, measure the width between the bed rails, again, from the inside edges of the bedliner. Always double-check your measurements and compare them with the tonneau cover manufacturer's specifications to ensure a proper fit, considering the liner's impact on the final dimensions.How do I measure if my truck has a toolbox installed?
The easiest way to determine if your truck has a toolbox is to simply look! A toolbox will be visibly mounted in the truck bed, typically near the cab. To measure for a tonneau cover with a toolbox, you'll need to accurately measure the distance from the inside of the toolbox (the part closest to the cab) to the end of the truck bed on both sides. The shortest distance measurement of both sides is critical, as the tonneau cover must be able to fully close in the shortest distance.
When measuring with a toolbox, precision is even more important. Most tonneau covers designed to work with toolboxes are specifically made to fit around the toolbox, but they still require accurate measurements to ensure a proper and secure fit. If your measurements are off, you risk the tonneau cover not closing correctly, which can lead to water leaks and damage to your cargo. Therefore, use a high-quality measuring tape and double-check your measurements to avoid any errors.
Consider the type of toolbox you have, as some tonneau cover manufacturers will have specific models designed for particular toolbox styles (e.g., crossover toolboxes). Before purchasing, research which tonneau covers are compatible with your toolbox or measure the toolbox dimensions themselves (height, width, and depth) to compare against the tonneau cover's specifications. Many retailers offer fit guides or have customer service representatives who can help determine compatibility.
What happens if I measure incorrectly - will the tonneau cover not fit?
Yes, if you measure your truck bed incorrectly, the tonneau cover will likely not fit properly. Even small discrepancies can prevent the cover from latching securely, sealing correctly against the elements, or even being installed at all.
An undersized measurement, meaning you've underestimated the length or width of your bed, will result in a cover that's too short or narrow. You won't be able to stretch it to fit, and you'll be left with exposed areas of your truck bed. Conversely, if you overestimate, the cover will be too long or wide. This can prevent it from sitting flush against the bulkhead (the front wall of the bed) or the side rails, leading to gaps where water and debris can enter. In either scenario, you'll be unable to properly secure the cover, rendering it useless and potentially even damaging the cover itself or your truck bed.
Furthermore, some tonneau covers, particularly hard folding or retractable models, have specific mounting hardware that relies on precise measurements to align correctly with the truck bed rails. If your measurements are off, these mounting points won't line up, making installation impossible without modification, which often voids the warranty. For example, if measuring for a rolling cover and you misjudge the width, the rails might be too close together or too far apart to accommodate the rolling mechanism, leading to binding or complete failure to operate.
Should I measure with the tailgate open or closed for a proper tonneau cover fit?
Always measure with the tailgate closed. Tonneau cover measurements are designed to account for the closed tailgate's position, ensuring a snug and weather-tight seal when the cover is installed. Measuring with the tailgate open will result in an inaccurate measurement and a tonneau cover that is too short.
A tonneau cover is designed to fit snugly against the inside of the truck bed walls and along the top edge of the closed tailgate. This precise fit is crucial for both security and weather protection. If you measure with the tailgate open, you’ll essentially be shortening the effective length of your truck bed in your calculation. This shortened length will then be used to order a tonneau cover that won’t reach the tailgate when it's closed. To ensure accurate tonneau cover fitment, use a measuring tape to measure the inside length of your truck bed from the front bulkhead (the wall behind the cab) to the inside of the closed tailgate. Consult the tonneau cover manufacturer's instructions and fit guides, which often provide specific measurement locations and rounding guidelines. Pay close attention to whether the instructions specify measuring to the top or bottom edge of the tailgate lip. Double-check your measurement to avoid errors that can lead to ordering the wrong size.Are there different measuring techniques for different types of tonneau covers?
Yes, while the fundamental principles of measuring your truck bed remain consistent, specific measuring techniques can vary slightly depending on the type of tonneau cover you intend to purchase. The main difference lies in accounting for any unique features of the cover's mounting system or how it interacts with elements like bed rails or stake pockets.
Different tonneau cover designs necessitate slightly altered measuring approaches. For example, a soft roll-up cover might require a measurement that accounts for the mounting hardware sitting flush with the bed rails, while a hard folding cover might need measurements to accommodate any overlapping sections when closed. Similarly, retractable covers often have specific housing dimensions that need to be considered when measuring the length of the bed. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult the manufacturer's instructions or measuring guide specific to the tonneau cover type you are considering. These guides will highlight any unique measuring considerations and ensure an accurate fit. Following these guidelines will prevent issues like purchasing a cover that is too long or short, or one that interferes with other truck bed accessories.And there you have it! Measuring for your tonneau cover might seem a little daunting at first, but with these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit for your truck. Thanks so much for taking the time to learn with us, and don't hesitate to come back anytime you need a little help with your truck projects. Happy hauling!