A bed extender is an accessory that can be attached to the rear of a pickup truck to temporarily extend the bed length. Bed extenders are handy for carrying long items like lumber, kayaks, ladders, etc. that may not fully fit within the bed.

Bed extenders come in two main styles – hitch-mounted and tailgate-mounted. Hitch-mounted bed extenders attach to the truck’s trailer hitch receiver and extend back over the rear bumper when needed. Tailgate-mounted models usually attach to the top edge of the tailgate and flip back under the tailgate when not in use.

What is a Retractable Tonneau Cover?

A retractable tonneau cover is a popular truck bed cover that can roll up or “retract” into a canister at the front of the truck bed. This allows the cover to be opened or closed quickly and conveniently to access the full bed without removing the cover.

Retractable tonneau covers are made of vinyl or aluminum panels that smoothly glide along rails to open or close. The retractable design provides versatile cargo space access while still keeping the bed covered and contents secure when closed.

Are Bed Extenders and Retractable Tonneau Covers Compatible?

The short answer is yes, you can use a bed extender with a retractable tonneau cover in many cases. However, compatibility depends on the specific bed extender style and tonneau cover model you have.

Compatibility with Hitch-Mounted Bed Extenders

Hitch-mounted bed extenders are usually compatible with any retractable tonneau cover. Since hitch extenders mount to the trailer hitch under the rear bumper, they do not interfere with or attach to the tonneau cover itself. You simply need to make sure you have enough space between the end of the closed tonneau cover and your rear bumper to attach the hitch extender.

Compatibility with Tailgate-Mounted Bed Extenders

Tailgate-mounted bed extenders require more consideration for compatibility. The extenders mount to the top edge of the tailgate, which must integrate properly with the rear edge of the retractable tonneau cover.

There are a few factors that affect compatibility:

Tonneau cover design – Some covers may have a thicker or squared-off rear section that could conflict with a tailgate extender mounting. Low-profile covers are more likely to be compatible.
Position of tonneau rails – If the rear tonneau rails mount very close to the tailgate edge, the extender brackets may interfere. Covers with rails set back from the tailgate offer more room.
Tailgate clearance – Extenders need adequate clearance around the tailgate edge to mount properly. Tonneaus with tight tailgate gaps could be problematic.
Tailgate operation – The extender must allow the tailgate to open fully. Some extenders may limit tailgate angle.

Tips for Ensuring Compatibility

If you want to use a bed extender with your retractable tonneau cover, here are some tips:

Carefully check product specs and dimensions to assess clearance.
Look for customer reviews verifying compatibility between your exact extender and tonneau models.
Contact the manufacturer if you are uncertain about compatibility. They should be able to advise.
Hitch-mounted extenders avoid any mounting or space issues with the tonneau cover.
Allow adequate space between the tonneau cover and tailgate for extender mounting brackets.
Adjustable extender mounts may provide more fit flexibility.

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Benefits of Using a Bed Extender with Tonneau Cover

Using a bed extender together with a retractable tonneau cover can give you the best of both worlds. Here are some benefits:

Increase bed space when needed – Carry longer items with the extender while keeping a covered/secured bed for other cargo.
Better aerodynamics – The tonneau cover gives you a smooth, tapered rear profile for improved gas mileage. The extender only flips out when needed.
Greater versatility – Go from fully covered bed to extended bed quickly and easily. The retractable tonneau can still open partially over the extender if needed.
Weather protection – Items carried on the extender stay dry and covered beneath the retractable tonneau. Uncovered extenders allow splashing and dust.
Security – Valuables locked inside the covered bed stay protected. The extender carries items externally.
Convenience – No need to fully remove the tonneau to use an extender. Flip it open and extend the bed!

Tips for Using a Bed Extender with a Retractable Tonneau

Follow these tips to properly use a bed extender together with your retractable tonneau cover:

Make sure the extender properly fits your truck bed without contacting the tonneau cover or rails.
Don’t overload the extender beyond the recommended weight capacity. This could damage the extender or tonneau.
When not in use, ensure the extender is fully collapsed flush against the tailgate beneath the tonneau.
Take care when opening or closing the tonneau cover to avoid hitting the extender. Fully retract the cover first.
If securing cargo on the extender, don’t overtighten straps/ropes against the tonneau cover.
Avoid using an extender in extremely windy conditions, as it creates side forces that could damage the tonneau.
Make sure your tailgate release is still accessible with the extender installed.
Check that brake lights, turn signals, license plate, etc. are not obscured by the extender.

Conclusion

Using a bed extender is an excellent way to temporarily expand the usable cargo space on your pickup when needed. And today’s retractable tonneau covers provide the versatility to keep your bed covered yet quickly accessible.

By selecting compatible models and following proper use tips, you can successfully use a bed extender together with a retractable tonneau. This allows you to transform your truck bed for hauling long or oversized items while still enjoying the benefits of a retractable cover. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to take on any cargo challenge!