Pickup box lids

[Jeepman]

I just bought an extended cab pickup and plan to put a lid,not a cap, over the box. I don't need a cap, I like the looks of a lid, and I understand that with a cap or a lid I'll get better gas mileage.

I have found that there are a number of ways I can go, each option has its advantages and disadvantages. The options available are rolltop, soft tonneau, hard fiberglass tonneau, and multiple foldup panels. I use the pickup very little for hauling stuff other than when I go fishing and camping.

I would appreciate you comments as to which lid(s) you have found most advantageous for you. Thanks

[Gray Wolf]

I have the folding panel type on a 99 Silverado extended cab. Works great for me. Folds up quickly, don't have to fasten a hundred snaps when replacing (tonneau), don't have to bungi cord the cover when hauling something higher then the sides (fibreglass). Can be totally removed in less than 5 minutes. Locks on front and back.

I have not seen the roll-up. Might be worth investigating.

[Hans]

LAST EDITED ON Apr-16-01 AT 01:35PM (CST)[p]I've used a rollup style built by "Access" on my last two trucks (total of about 6 years wear so far).

I really like the rollups over the "solid" covers, because they are instantly out of the way if you need to haul something large.

Of the rollups I looked at, the "Access" brand was my choice because it is instantly adjustable to compensate for stretching, it has no snaps to break, doesn't interfere with the tailgate opening, all the bows/bars/etc rollup right along with the canvas, and doesn't interfere with bed-rails/stake pockets, etc.

You can see a picture at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/brakob/files/225snow.jpg

Hans

[cmb]

I use and have used soft covers on my rangers for years. generally I have been happy. only problem is trying to put it back on in sub-20degree weather. thw current one I have is by tekstyles(SP?) and has snaps that slide on the frame and quick release bows. my concern with roll-up models is ease of use when covered in ice or snow. other down side to soft covers is that you can't lock it. Personaly I like the looks of a decent soft cover, they are less expensive, and easy and convienient to use. I have driven several rentals with the glass covers, great units ,but more costly and not practicle if you occasionaly need to move taller/lagrer items.

[800proX]

i agree with Hans - i love my access toneu cover. it is the best of both worlds IMO, by having availability when rolled back and the cover which cna be let out and in place in less than a minute.

jeff

[Fishnfuul]

I have the hard cover, and I like it as far as keeping things dry and safely locked up. The only thing I would suggest if you go with a hard cover would be to get the type that allows you to remove it without un-doing all the clamps in case you ever need to haul a large item.

[Dodge1]

I've got a Gaylord fiberglass lid on my new Silverado. Neat lid, easy to install & remove, excellent quality and the price is right.

http://www.gaylordslids.com/

No affiliation with Gaylord or this company

http://www.californiaconcepts.com/

[Eyecon]

I have owned both types of lids.I prefer the roll up Access cover the best,provided security is'nt a problem.There is no snaps only Velcro and it rolls out of the way when hauling big items.The glass covers look nice and offer lockable security,but if you haul something large it takes two guys to remove the lid.Plus you have to store it.Take your chances on the Access cover I never had the theft I worried about,if its out of sight hopefully no one will bother looking.I have tryed two brands of glass lids and they both wore the paint off the box(not good)

[Jeepman]

Say, thank you so much for taking the time to respond to my post and for sharing good information.

[Mobydick]

The Access Roll-up cover is working well for me. When I installed it I also got the tailgate lock ($45). www.accesscover.com