A tonneau cover should be drum tight with no sagging between the bows. It should be as tight as it can be closely fitted to your truck. A soft tonneau cover should be close fitting and tight to avoid flapping on a windy day. It should be tight enough to prevent flapping and keep your cargo secure, but not extremely tight to avoid problems. If you are unsure whether your tonneau cover is tight enough, you can check for flapping or contact a professional for advice.

How Do I Ensure My Tonneau Cover Is Drum Tight?

To ensure your tonneau cover is drum tight, you can follow these steps:

Roll the cover open to access your tension adjusters.
Check that there is no sagging between the bows.
Turn both tension adjusters counter clockwise to tighten the cover.
Close the cover and check that the rear bar snaps down with 20-30 lbs. of pressure.
If necessary, adjust the tension again until the cover is drum tight.

Proper rail placement is also important to ensure the cover looks great and functions correctly.

Can A Tonneau Cover Be Too Tight?

Yes, a tonneau cover can be too tight. If the cover is too tight, the front of the cover will be raised, and the content of your cargo may remain unprotected from rain. However, a tonneau cover should be tight enough to prevent flapping and keep your cargo secure, but not extremely tight to avoid problems. To ensure that your tonneau cover is not too tight, you can use the methods suggested in and adjust the tension until the cover is drum tight. Additionally, you can check if the cover is too tight by trying to open it and giving it a good yank, as suggested in.

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What Are The Benefits Of A Tight-Fitting Tonneau Cover?

A tight-fitting tonneau cover has several benefits. Firstly, it protects your valuables from weather damage and theft. Rain and strong UV rays can damage your cargo, but a tight-fitting tonneau cover can prevent this from happening. Secondly, a tight-fitting tonneau cover keeps your truck’s bed and contents secure. It prevents flapping in the wind and keeps your cargo from shifting while driving. Additionally, a tonneau cover gives your truck a classy look and adds to its aesthetic appeal. It also increases your truck’s mileage and avoids the risk of damage. Lastly, a tonneau cover conceals whatever you are hauling, keeping it out of plain sight and protecting your privacy.

How Can I Prevent My Tonneau Cover From Flapping In The Wind?

There are several ways to prevent your tonneau cover from flapping in the wind. One way is to install bungee cords around your roof rack frame or frame rails instead of tying them below them. Another way is to use J-hook bungees or cam buckles to reduce tonneau cover flapping. These products work by attaching to the cover and pulling it tight. Additionally, you can adjust the tension of your tonneau cover using the tension adjusters. If your cover is sagging, you can use the extra set of tensioner knobs to adjust the tension. It is important to keep your tonneau cover tight like a drum to prevent flapping in the wind.

How Do I Choose The Right Tonneau Cover For My Truck?

Choosing the right tonneau cover for your truck depends on several factors. Firstly, you should consider the security level you want and how much space you can compromise from the truck bed. Secondly, you should consider the budget and the purpose of buying the tonneau cover. Other factors to consider include affordability, durability, ease of use, intended use, and ease of access. Tonneau covers vary greatly in price, with high-end covers even including remote control systems. Additionally, you should consider the type and style of tonneau cover that suits your needs. If you use your truck bed for work, hauling supplies daily, and getting in and out of the bed often, you’ll want a tonneau cover that’s sturdy and easy to use. If your truck is mainly for style, you’ll want a protective cover that looks great and works when you need it.