Do you own a pickup truck and are wondering if you can put a toolbox in the truck bed if you have a tonneau cover installed? This is an excellent question that many truck owners have. The short answer is yes, you can put a toolbox in your truck bed with a tonneau cover, but there are some important considerations.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about installing a toolbox with a tonneau cover.

So whether you already have a tonneau cover and are looking to add a toolbox, or vice versa, this guide will provide the information you need to make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

What Types of Tonneau Covers Work With Toolboxes?

When selecting a tonneau cover to use with a toolbox, you’ll need to choose the right style that can accommodate a toolbox in the truck bed. Here are some tonneau cover types that typically work well with toolboxes:

Roll-up Tonneau Covers

Pros: Roll-up covers are the most adaptable for using with a toolbox. The vinyl cover easily rolls up and out of the way to allow toolbox access. Many roll-ups have a frame design that provides ample space for a toolbox.
Cons: Exposed toolbox when cover is rolled up. Roll-up covers also tend to be less durable than hard covers.

Retractable Tonneau Covers

Pros: Retractable covers open and close easily for toolbox access. When closed, the toolbox is protected from weather.
Cons: Retractable covers are more expensive. The canister housing may interfere with some toolbox positions.

Hard Folding Tonneau Covers

Pros: When closed, hard folding covers securely protect the toolbox. Some tri-fold and quad-fold options fold over the toolbox.
Cons: Folding panels may hit larger toolboxes when opening or closing the cover. Limited accessibility to the toolbox when cover is closed.

Hinged Tonneau Covers

Pros: Hinged covers allow the cover to fold for easy toolbox access. Provides good toolbox security when closed.
Cons: Hinged covers are less common and can have interference issues between cover panel and toolbox.

Tips for Picking the Right Toolbox and Tonneau Combo

Choosing compatible toolbox and tonneau cover models is key to proper installation and function. Here are some top tips for picking the right combo:

Match the size of the toolbox to the truck bed – don’t overwhelm the bed space.
Consider the position of the toolbox and how the tonneau will open/close around it.
For roll-up covers, choose a low-profile toolbox that sits below the cover housing.
Make sure the height of the toolbox allows the tonneau cover to close and seal properly.
Pick a tonneau cover design that is specifically made to work with toolboxes.
Research brand compatibility – some tonneau and toolbox brands are designed to pair together.
For hard covers, ensure the panels or lid can open/close without hitting the toolbox.
Allow for clearance on all sides of the toolbox for cover functionality.

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Modifying an Existing Tonneau Cover to Work with a Toolbox

If you already have a tonneau cover installed and want to add a toolbox, some modification to the tonneau may be required. Here are some tips:

For roll-up covers, you can often just roll up the cover to access the toolbox. Ensure the toolbox fits under the cover housing.
On retractable covers, you may need to adjust the canister’s position to avoid the toolbox.
With a folding cover, look for interference points and relieve areas of the cover panels that may hit the toolbox.
For hinged covers, add stops to limit panel travel when opening so it clears the toolbox.
Cutting/trimming the tonneau cover panels is possible for extra clearance around a toolbox. This will compromise weather protection.
Altering the cover mounting position can allow more room for the toolbox to fit in the bed.
Spacers can provide extra clearance between the cover rails and toolbox – but may leave gaps.
Professional tonneau modification shops can customize the cover for toolbox fit.

Proper Installation Tips for Tonneau Cover and Toolbox

Once you have compatible tonneau cover and toolbox models, proper installation is critical. Follow these tips for best results:

Always check truck bed rail height and adjust toolbox position accordingly.
Ensure the tonneau mounting hardware doesn’t interfere with the toolbox placement.
Use weather seals around the toolbox edges to prevent water intrusion under the tonneau.
Make sure the toolbox lid opens fully without catching on the tonneau cover.
Allow for toolbox lid overhang if lid opens outside the cover.
Position clamps so they don’t conflict with the toolbox.
Seal/weatherproof any cuts, holes or gaps created in the tonneau cover.
Close and open the cover multiple times to check for clearance issues and binding.
Secure the toolbox firmly so it doesn’t shift and impact cover fit.

The Benefits of Adding a Toolbox with a Tonneau Cover

With the right tonneau cover and toolbox combination installed in your truck bed, you gain useful features:

Extra secure storage for tools and gear both inside the truck bed and in the toolbox.
Greater coverage from weather when the tonneau cover is closed over the toolbox.
Versatility to quickly access the toolbox when you need tools.
Organization to keep specific tools in the toolbox and other cargo in the bed.
Protection against theft for high-value tools stored in a locked toolbox under the tonneau cover.
Enhanced functionality – the bed cover doesn’t have to limit toolbox usage.

So with careful planning, selection and installation, you can absolutely put a toolbox in your truck bed despite having a tonneau cover. This dual setup provides the best of both worlds – bed protection and organized tool storage!