Tonneau Bed Covers
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3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2024
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Tonneau Bed Covers
Hey Gang.
We are placing an order for an F-350 Lariat SRW short bed with the blacked out sport package.
I want to have a "top-of-the-line" hard bed cover installed.
Durability and zero (hopefully) water intrusion are priorities.
Hoping to get some recommendations for...
1) type (folding, tilting, retracting (manual or motorized)
2) top brands to consider
Thanks!
We are placing an order for an F-350 Lariat SRW short bed with the blacked out sport package.
I want to have a "top-of-the-line" hard bed cover installed.
Durability and zero (hopefully) water intrusion are priorities.
Hoping to get some recommendations for...
1) type (folding, tilting, retracting (manual or motorized)
2) top brands to consider
Thanks!
5th Wheeling
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 25
Likes: 8
Moderator
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 12,050
Likes: 1,549
From: Media PA
Obviously a hard cover like Diamondback will provide the best protection from water getting into the bed, but a solid cover only works in certain use situations. I have an F-450 on order that will be used to pull a fifth wheel camper and I too am looking at high quality covers to keep the bed contents (mostly) dry and secure when not hitched. So far I am liking the retractable covers over the folding ones but I have not yet decided, but I am leaning more towards retractable. It would great to hear from folks with some experience with various covers.
So far the RetraxPro XR and the Pace Edward’s UltraGroove Metal are at the top of my list. I would like to have the T-slots in the side rails to have the option of a couple of racks to haul kayaks and paddle boards above the bed and cover.
So far the RetraxPro XR and the Pace Edward’s UltraGroove Metal are at the top of my list. I would like to have the T-slots in the side rails to have the option of a couple of racks to haul kayaks and paddle boards above the bed and cover.
Trailering
Joined: Jan 2021
Posts: 24
Likes: 7
I have the retrax on my 22 F450. Had it on my 20 F350 as well. Works great when I tow my toy hauler as I can lock it close to the hitch to still provide protection for item close to the cab. The only leaks I have are under heavy rain near the tailgate. They make a gasket to help but alignment of the cover really helps. I had the ford dealer install it on my 450 but it leaked. Took it to a retreat dealer who adjusted it and made a world of difference. It's a great cover for towing fifth wheels for protection and rain.
The best part of the retrax is that you can stop it and lock it anywhere along the track.
The best part of the retrax is that you can stop it and lock it anywhere along the track.
Last edited by compgen25; Feb 17, 2024 at 11:36 AM.
Tuned
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 411
Likes: 106
I have a Roll n Lock and really like it. No water intrusion except right at the tailgate sides where it drips down the edges of the tailgate, but that is with any cover. It's low profile and metal under vinyl, and while you do have the housing at the front of the bed, we store things under it just fine. I pull a fifth wheel and usually keep the cover partially closed to cover items at the front of the bed. My only wish would be to have more preset stopping points for partial-closed use.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 23,174
Likes: 1,678
From: Stephensville WI
My truck has a Peragon bed cover. I opted for the Platinum trim level, which comes with dual deadbolt locks. I have had no water intrusion or snow intrusion issues. Made in the USA, not to mention outstanding customer service.
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3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2024
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Thanks a bunch for all of the quick, quality replies!
You've given me some great choices to consider.
You've given me some great choices to consider.
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Cross-Country
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 81
Likes: 45
https://realtruck.com/p/bak-revolver...ord/f350/2024/ I have had this cover on 4 different trucks, usually the only water intrusion I get is around the tailgate but I don't run a seal on the tailgate. Its locking aluminum slats covered in vinyl and when rolled up I get at least 3/4 view out of the back window and it takes up no bed space. It's also easily removable with 4 *****.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 1,463
Likes: 537
From: Wasilla, AK
If security is the main issue Diamondback is the answer. Plus, the two I have owned do not leak beyond the occasional drop or two . Add in the fact you can walk on top of them and secure stuff on the top. They come with cleats for tie down straps. Or opt for the HD version and you can park a ATV on top of it.
And the company offers a military discount. Expect to wait 6-8 weeks from order to delivery. Install is pretty easy but have a helper.
And the company offers a military discount. Expect to wait 6-8 weeks from order to delivery. Install is pretty easy but have a helper.
5th Wheeling
Joined: Dec 2023
Posts: 32
Likes: 4
I have had two BAK' flips. Solid and fairly easy to use. I don't have a 5th wheel yet, I can't compare if I will need a retractable yet. Water comes in at the tail gate only, and only when in a deluge of rain or the carwash.
Tuned
Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 348
Likes: 146
From: Houston
I have a BAKflip now and had a Gator retractable on my old 150. I much prefer the foldable style so far as I don't lose any bed space for the cover housing on the retractable ones. I only ever had mild water intrusion so far during car washes or heavy downpours. I believe it will still be sufficient when we upgrade our TT to a 5th wheel later as the final fold is beyond where the hitch would sit.
More Turbo
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 708
Likes: 161
From: Everett, Washington
If you live around alot of trees with pine needles, go with a tri fold such as tonnopro hard folding or something similar. Soft covers pool water and retractable collects needles. I say tonnopro because they don't leak like most folding covers and the vinyl is one solid thick cover on top when closed.
