Hello, this is my first post on the forum. I am a new owner of a 2024 F150 XLT. I’ve just had a bed liner sprayed in and now I need to get a tonneau cover.
I was almost set on getting a BAK X4S, but I’ve seen multiple posts about poor quality and craftsmanship, such as aluminum shavings and end pieces breaking off the rails.
On my previous truck, I had a Lomax folding cover, which I liked, but I do not want another one due to the space they take up and the view it blocks.
I prefer a hard roll-up cover, so I am looking for suggestions or perhaps reassurance about the BAK X4S. Thank you in advance, and thank you for your membership in the forum. I did try searching but couldn’t find any recommendations.
I chose the WeatherTech trifold metal cover, and it is been reliable. I had Ford install it because I was too busy. It’s easy to use, and when I need the full bed for larger items, I can remove it completely in just 2 minutes. I considered a hard roll top, but it takes up 6-12 inches because of the mechanism.
I have used both a hard Backflip and a hard rolling cover.
Backflip:
Pros: Full bed access, three positions, solid and secure (anti-theft).
Cons: Blocks the entire back window when flipped up, more complex to install and remove if needed.
Roll:
Pros: Full bed access, solid and secure (anti-theft), maintains most visibility out the rear window, easier to install and remove.
Cons: Vinyl top may tear, magnets might not always attach, can only be fully opened or fully closed, slight leak at the tailgate due to weather strip placement (possibly an installation issue), felt straps came off on a hot day.
Personally, I dislike the “sit on top” style due to its appearance. Given the two options, I will probably go back to the Backflip for my next truck, despite my dislike for the obstructed rear view.
Sure, the Retrax bed cover isn’t the cheapest option, but the ease of use makes it a winner for me. Plus, it keeps everything in the truck bed safe and protected from the elements.
I have been using the Enthuze hard tri-fold for a month now. Installation was a breeze, thanks to getting it from Amazon for $700. The only drawback is that it does not fully fold upright against the back window like some competitors (e.g., Bakflip). Admittedly, the rubber seals started peeling a bit, but that’s entirely on me - washing the truck in -43°C weather wasn’t the best idea!
Here is the cover I have on my 2013. I traded a Snug-Top for it, but I think it costs around $1500 new. It is made entirely of aluminum and is very durable. I can walk across the entire cover with my 280-pound weight without worrying about damaging it. It has a 500-pound load rating on top. I highly recommend this model or something similar. I would avoid plastic covers, but in general, roll-up covers are definitely the better choice in my opinion.
I purchased a Tyger trifold soft cover for around $250 on Amazon, and it still looks brand new after two winters. My cover has two safety straps that attach to the side of the bed, along with the four regular clamps. It comes off in about a minute if I need the full length of the bed. Overall, I’m very satisfied with it.