Do you wonder if you can use a bed extender and a folding tonneau cover together on your pickup truck? This is a good question that many truck owners ask. In this article, we will look at whether bed extenders and folding tonneau covers can be used together. We will also discuss what to consider when using both truck accessories.
What is a Bed Extender?
A bed extender is an accessory that attaches to the tailgate of a pickup truck. It creates more cargo space by extending the bed of the truck. When not in use, a bed extender folds up against the tailgate.
Bed extenders are handy for carrying long items like ladders, pipes, and lumber. They provide an extra two to three feet of usable cargo space.
What is a Folding Tonneau Cover?
A tonneau cover goes over the bed of a pickup truck. It protects cargo from weather and theft. Soft folding tonneau covers are made from vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass. They fold up toward the cab when not in use.
Folding tonneau covers are popular because they offer security while still allowing full bed access. They also keep cargo clean and dry.
Can You Use Both Together?
The short answer is yes, you can mount a bed extender on a truck that has a folding tonneau cover. With the right accessories, the two can work together.
Many truck owners safely use bed extenders with their folding tonneau covers. The key is making sure the two accessories are compatible.
What to Consider When Using a Bed Extender and Tonneau Cover
Here are some important things to think about if you want to use both accessories:
Choose Compatible Accessories
- Not all tonneau covers work with bed extenders. Do research to make sure yours are compatible.
- Look for a bed extender made to work with your specific tonneau cover brand and model. Custom mounting brackets may be needed.
- Folding aluminum tonneau covers often work best with bed extenders. Make sure the cover is reinforced to handle the extra weight.
Allow Proper Operation
- Make sure the bed extender can fold up fully when not in use. It should not block the tonneau cover.
- The tonneau cover also needs to open and close properly with the bed extender installed.
- Check that the mounting location of the bed extender does not interfere with tonneau cover operation.
Consider Weight Capacity
- Know the weight limit of your tonneau cover. Exceeding this can damage the cover.
- Heavy items on the extended bed may put too much strain on the tonneau cover.
- Follow all weight limits recommended by the manufacturer to avoid equipment damage.
Get Proper Installation
- Have a truck accessories professional install the bed extender for you.
- Custom mounting brackets may be required to work with your tonneau cover.
- Proper installation ensures safe use and prevents premature wear or damage.
Truck Accessories Made to Work Together
Many folding tonneau covers and bed extenders are designed to complement each other. Here are some examples:
BAK Industries Roll-X Tonneau Cover
- This roll-up aluminum tonneau cover is reinforced to handle a bed extender.
- Special brackets are available to mount a BAK bed extender above the canister.
- Allows full operation of both accessories when properly installed.
Extang Trifecta 2.0 Tonneau Cover
- Folding fiberglass panels rated for bed extenders.
- Integrated top-mounting points for Extang bed extenders.
- Lets the cover fold fully with extender installed.
Amp Research BedXtender
- Unique U-shaped brackets mount over or under the tonneau cover.
- Compatible with soft roll-up and folding covers from leading brands.
- Bed extender folds upright when not needed for full tonneau functionality.
The Bottom Line
Yes, you can install a bed extender on a pickup truck that has a folding tonneau cover. Choosing compatible accessories and proper installation ensures both can be used safely. Leading brands like BAK, Extang, and Amp Research make tonneau covers and extenders designed to work together. With the right accessories, you can enjoy the benefits of both products on your truck.
