A retractable tonneau cover is a popular truck bed cover that rolls up into a canister at the front of the truck bed. This allows for full access to the bed when needed. However, to open properly, retractable covers require a certain amount of minimum clearance.
How Much Clearance is Needed?
The exact minimum clearance needed can vary depending on the specific retractable cover. Different brands and models have different dimensions that factor into the amount of space required. However, there are some general guidelines:
User Experiences
According to one truck owner on an online forum, their retractable tonneau cover needs about 6 inches of clearance when fully retracted into the canister. This provides a rough estimate, though other covers may need slightly more or less.
Manufacturer Specifications
Checking manufacturer specifications is the best way to know the exact minimum clearance required for a particular retractable cover. For example, one source mentions a specific brand’s cover has a canister dimension plus about 2 inches of overhang from the cover that does not fully retract.
So the total clearance needed would be the canister height plus 2 inches – which could potentially be 8 inches or more, depending on the specific model. Always check the manufacturer’s specs for the exact measurements.
General Guidelines
While exact measurements vary, most quality retractable covers require 6-10 inches of minimum clearance when fully retracted. Lower-profile designs may need clearance towards the lower end of that range, while covers with larger canisters will need clearance at the higher end.
It’s important to measure carefully to ensure enough room for unobstructed opening and closing.
Why is Clearance Important?
The minimum clearance for retractable tonneau covers is important for several reasons:
Allow Full Operation
First and foremost, adequate clearance allows the cover to open and close properly. Without enough room, the cover could get stuck or damaged when retracting. Enough overhead space prevents jamming and allows full range of motion.
Prevent Damage
If a retractable cover opens into an obstruction like the cab ceiling or headache rack, it could get dented or scratched. The cover material and/or the vehicle could be damaged without proper clearance.
Maintain Weather Protection
Retractable covers provide weather protection for the truck bed when closed. But without enough overhead room, the cover may not fully close and seal. Gaps could let in rain, snow, and debris. Proper clearance helps ensure full closure.
Follow Manufacturer Recommendations
Every retractable cover is engineered and tested to work correctly within certain parameters. Not providing the recommended minimum clearance goes against the manufacturer’s guidelines. It risks voiding warranties if damage occurs.
Allow Access to Bed
The advantage of a retractable cover is the ability to open the bed for hauling larger items. But without enough clearance, the cover can’t retract fully into the canister to allow open access when needed.
Measuring for Clearance
When shopping for a retractable tonneau cover, you’ll need to measure for clearance first:
Use a Tape Measure
Use an accurate tape measure to measure from the top of the truck bed rails up to the cab ceiling or underside of a headache rack if present. For the most precision, measure at both the front and back of the bed rails and average the two numbers.
Consider Truck Alterations
Things like a lift kit, taller tires, or a camper shell raise the height of the truck bed. Make sure to measure from the current altered bed height, not the original factory height.
Compare to Cover Dimensions
Once you’ve measured your available clearance, compare it to the manufacturer specs for the retractable cover you’re considering. Make sure your clearance meets or exceeds the minimum height requirements.
Inadequate Clearance?
If your available clearance is less than the cover needs, you have a few options: Choose a lower-profile retractable cover that needs less room, modify the truck to increase clearance (remove headache rack), or consider a different style of tonneau cover like a roll-up or folding cover.
Tips for Measuring Truck Bed Clearance
Here are some helpful tips for accurately measuring the overhead clearance above your truck bed:
- Use a metal tape measure for durability and accuracy.
- For retracted height, don’t forget to factor in the canister size.
- Measure at both front and back bed rails to account for any slope in the ceiling.
- Have someone press down on the cover while measuring for a more precise retracted height.
- Measure along the length of the bed rails to find the lowest point of clearance.
- Remember to measure from the current bed height if it’s been altered, not stock height.
- Re-check measurements if installing a bed extender or other accessory.
- photographer’s tape measures also helpful to get measurements from different angles.
Accurately measuring truck bed clearance takes the guesswork out of buying a retractable tonneau cover and ensures you get a cover that will install and perform as intended. Taking the time to get precise measurements will prevent headaches down the road.
Will a Retractable Cover Fit My Truck?
To determine if a particular retractable tonneau cover will fit your truck, there are a few key factors to consider:
Truck Bed Length
- Measure the length of your truck bed. Retractable covers are truck-specific and made to fit particular bed lengths.
Truck Bed Rail Configuration
- Retractable covers mount to the bed rails. Measure the width between rails and note if they are standard or tapered.
Truck Make, Model, & Year
- Covers are designed for specific truck makes, models, and years. Choose one made to fit your truck’s specs.
Bed Rail Accessory Compatibility
- Will the cover work with bed rail caps, bedliners, tie downs, or other accessories?
Available Clearance
- Critically important! Double check the available clearance in your truck bed against the cover’s required minimum height.
Special Configurations
- For special bed options like the RamBox system, confirm the cover is designed to fit around those configurations.
As long as your measurements match the advertised specs of the cover, it should install properly. But don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer if you have any uncertainties.
Tips for Measuring Truck Bed Dimensions
To determine retractable cover compatibility, you’ll need accurate measurements of your truck bed. Here are some tips for measuring bed dimensions:
- Use a steel tape measure for precision.
- Measure length from tailgate to cab, not including the extra overhang into the cab.
- For width, measure rail to rail at front, middle, and rear of bed to account for any taper or bulge.
- Note the height of the bed rails if altered from the factory height.
- Pay special attention to measuring for clearance from rail top to ceiling.
- Take photos of measurements for reference.
- Measure twice to ensure accuracy.
- Refer to online forums if unsure about measurement points.
- Have a friend help measure for ease and accuracy.
Taking precise measurements of your unique truck bed will allow you to shop confidently for a retractable cover that will fit correctly. Don’t assume advertised bed lengths will match your exact measurements.
Options for Lacking Clearance
What if you measure your truck only to find there is insufficient clearance for a retractable tonneau cover? Don’t give up hope! Here are some options to consider:
Lower-Profile Retractable Cover
Look for a retractable cover with a slimmer canister that needs less overhead room when fully retracted. While canister sizes vary, some compact options only need about 6 inches.
Modify the Truck
Removing accessories like a headache rack or lowering a suspension lift could help increase clearance. But only make modifications if feasible and cost-effective.
Folding Cover
Soft folding or “tri-fold” covers have panels that fold up instead of retracting into a canister. They can work with very limited clearance.
Roll-Up Cover
Vinyl roll-up covers also require minimal headroom since they roll up at the cab end of the bed rails, not in a canister.
Different Truck
If all else fails, switching to a truck model with a higher bed-to-ceiling clearance could be the solution. But this should only be a last resort if you need a tonneau cover.
With some clever solutions, limited clearance doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker for certain tonneau covers. Carefully compare your measurements to the options to find a cover that will fit.
Important Considerations Before Buying
Before purchasing a retractable tonneau cover, keep these important considerations in mind:
Measure Twice, Buy Once
- Accurately measuring bed dimensions and clearance before buying prevents improper fit and frustrations later.
Security Features
- Retractable covers lock to secure gear. Determine if you want key lock, electric lock, or both for maximum security.
Construction Quality
- Higher cost covers typically have better construction from aluminum and vinyl. Cheaper covers may warp or leak over time.
Weather Protection
- Make sure the cover seals tightly when closed to prevent moisture and debris from entering the bed interior.
Ease of Operation
- Retractable covers roll up for full bed access. Make sure the system retracts and closes smoothly every time.
Appearance
- Some covers are stylish and color-matched to your truck. Decide if appearance is an important factor.
Special Bed Configurations
- For special beds like the RamBox, confirm the cover is designed to work around those unique dimensions.
Warranty Coverage
- Look for at least a 1-3 year warranty on materials and operation. Longer warranties provide more peace of mind.
Doing your homework before purchasing will help ensure you get the right retractable cover for your needs and avoid disappointments down the road. Never settle on a final cover choice until you’ve confirmed all measurements and details.
FAQs
How are retractable covers measured?
Retractable covers are measured based on the canister size plus overhang when fully retracted. They are also measured by length to fit specific truck bed lengths and by width to fit different bed rail configurations.
Can you put a retractable cover on any truck?
No, retractable covers are custom made to fit specific truck makes, models, and bed lengths. They are not universal. You need to match your exact truck specs to the cover.
Do retractable covers leak?
Quality retractable covers are designed to be waterproof when fully closed. However, poor construction or damaged/worn seals could potentially lead to leaks over time. Proper care helps maintain water protection.
How much weight can a retractable cover hold?
Weight capacity varies by brand and construction material. Many steel or aluminum covers hold 200+ pounds when evenly distributed. Always check manufacturer ratings.
Will a retractable cover work with a bedliner?
Retractable covers are usually compatible with bedliners. Some may require small modifications for smooth operation and sealing. Check with the manufacturer to confirm.
How do you lock a retractable cover?
Most retractables come with either a key lock on the tailgate or an electronic lock on the canister to securely lock the cover. Some provide both lock options. The locks prevent the cover from being opened without the key or code.
Should I remove tonneau cover before driving?
No, retractable covers are secured and designed to safely drive with the cover installed and closed. However, some covers can be opened partially for hauling oversized cargo that exceeds the bed length.
How long do retractable tonneaus last
With proper maintenance and care, a quality retractable cover should last approximately 5-10 years in most cases before needing replacement. Higher-end aluminum covers generally last longer than cheaper vinyl models when well cared for.