If you own a truck, you know how important it is to keep your cargo safe and secure while driving. Installing a tonneau cover is a great way to protect your goods from the elements and potential theft.
However, measuring your truck bed for a tonneau cover can be a bit confusing. In this article, we will guide you through the process of measuring your truck bed for a tonneau cover.
Step 1: Determine Your Truck Bed Type
The first step in measuring your truck bed for a tonneau cover is to determine the type of truck bed you have. There are three main types of truck beds: standard, short, and long. Standard and long beds are typically found on full-size trucks, while short beds are found on smaller trucks like mid-size pickups. Measure the length, width, and height of your truck bed and use this information to determine the type of bed you have.
Step 2: Measure the Length of Your Truck Bed
Next, you need to measure the length of your truck bed. This measurement is taken from the inside of the bulkhead (the vertical wall at the front of the bed) to the inside of the tailgate. Measure the length in inches and write it down for reference.
Step 3: Measure the Width of Your Truck Bed
The next step is to measure the width of your truck bed. This measurement is taken from inside the bed rail on one side of the truck to the inside bed rail on the other side. Measure the width in inches and write it down for reference.
Step 4: Measure the Height of Your Truck Bed
Finally, measure the height of your truck bed. This measurement is taken from the top of the bed rail to the bottom of the bed floor. Measure the height in inches and write it down for reference.
Step 5: Determine the Style of Your Tonneau Cover
The style of tonneau cover you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. There are several different styles of tonneau covers, including hard covers, soft covers, roll-up covers, and retractable covers. Research different styles and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Step 6: Choose the Right Size Tonneau Cover
Once you have determined the type of truck bed you have and the style of tonneau cover you want, it is time to choose the right size tonneau cover. To do this, you need to match the measurements you took earlier (length, width, and height) with the corresponding measurements for the tonneau cover you have chosen. Most tonneau covers come in standard sizes, but some can be customized to fit your specific truck.
Step 7: Installing Your Tonneau Cover
Once you have chosen the right size tonneau cover for your truck bed, it is time to install it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that your tonneau cover is installed correctly. This may involve securing the cover to your bed rails or using clamps to hold it in place.
Test your tonneau cover to ensure that it is properly secured before driving your truck with the cover installed.
Conclusion
Measuring your truck bed for a tonneau cover may seem daunting, but it is a relatively simple process. By following these steps, you can ensure that you choose the right size tonneau cover for your truck and keep your cargo safe and secure while driving.