Upfit Your Ford F-150 with a WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover

Adding a tonneau cover to your Ford F-150 is one of the best ways to protect your cargo, improve security, and enhance your truck’s fuel economy. The WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover is a durable, easy-to-use solution designed to keep your truck bed safe from weather, theft, and debris while maintaining quick access to your gear.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the installing a WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover on a 2021 Ford F-150 with a 5.5-foot bed. While bed sizes may vary, the installation steps remain similar across all models.

Watch the full install video here.

Why Choose the WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover?

Unlike bulky hardcovers, this roll-up tonneau cover provides quick access to your truck bed without sacrificing security or protection. Key benefits include:

  • Weather-Resistant Protection – Shields your truck bed from rain, snow, and debris.
  • Heavy-Duty Construction – Built with reinforced vinyl and aluminum side rails for durability.
  • Easy Roll-Up Design – Allows for fast access to cargo without removing the cover.
  • Secure Locking System – Tension control knobs and Velcro side seals keep the cover tight and secure.
  • Improved Fuel Efficiency – Reduces aerodynamic drag for better gas mileage.
  • No-Drill Installation – Uses clamps and adhesive seals, making it easy to install.

Tools & Materials Needed

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools:

  • Spring clamps (for temporary rail positioning)
  • Torque wrench (set to 20 ft-lbs)
  • Allen wrench (included in the kit)
  • Measuring tape
  • Alcohol wipes (for cleaning surfaces before applying adhesive seals)
  • Utility knife or scissors (for trimming seals if needed)

Pro Tip:
Before starting, lay out all the parts and read through the WeatherTech installation guide included in the box. This will help ensure a smooth installation.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Install the Side Rails

  • Start with the driver-side rail. The Velcro strip should face outward, and the latching mechanism should be near the tailgate.
  • Position the rail along the truck bed’s side, using spring clamps to temporarily hold it in place.
  • Repeat the process for the passenger-side rail, ensuring both rails are level and evenly aligned.

2. Secure the Rails with Clamps

  • Depending on your truck’s bed length, you’ll have three or four clamps per side.
  • Attach the first clamp near the front, as far forward as possible.
  • Secure the second clamp near the rear, as close to the tailgate as possible.
  • Position the middle clamp evenly between the first two.
  • Tighten all clamps to 20 ft-lbs using a torque wrench.

Pro Tip:
The clamps have two orientations—one for flat surfaces and another for angled rails. Choose the best fit for your truck bed.

3. Apply the Front and Rear Rubber Seals

  • Use alcohol wipes to clean the front and rear surfaces where the rubber seals will attach.
  • Peel off the adhesive backing and apply the front seal at the cab end of the bed.
  • Repeat the process for the rear seals, tucking them slightly under the side rails for a tight, weather-resistant fit.

4. Install the Tensioner Rods

  • Locate the tensioner rods labeled “L” for driver side and “R” for passenger side.
  • Slide the small slider nut into the designated channel on each side rail.
  • Attach the rods using the provided bolts and washers, leaving them finger-tight for now.

5. Position the Cover and Secure It to the Front Rail

  • Place the tonneau cover at the tailgate and unroll it toward the cab.
  • Align the front edge with the mounting holes on the side rails.
  • Insert bolts through the pre-drilled holes and secure them with washers and nuts.

6. Adjust Tension and Secure the Cover

  • Center the cover between the rails by measuring the gap on each side—it should be even on both sides.
  • Make sure the vinyl material at the front is tucked under the front seal.
  • Tighten the tensioner rods to secure the cover in place.

7. Test the Roll-Up Mechanism

  • Unroll the cover toward the tailgate and latch it into place under the locking mechanism.
  • Close the tailgate to check for a tight seal.
  • If the cover is too loose or too tight, adjust the tension knobs at the front for a perfect fit.

Pro Tip:
The cover may feel slightly tight the first few times you use it, but it will loosen over time. If adjustments are needed, turn the tension knobs evenly on both sides.

Why the WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover is a Great Upgrade

1. Year-Round Protection

  • Keeps your truck bed dry and debris-free in rain, snow, and dusty conditions.
  • Rubber seals and Velcro strips ensure a secure, weather-tight seal.

2. Secure Your Cargo

  • The latching system and tailgate lock keep your cargo safe from theft.
  • The low-profile design helps prevent prying or tampering.

3. Improves Fuel Efficiency

  • Studies show that a tonneau cover can reduce drag and improve gas mileage by up to 10%.

4. Simple, No-Drill Installation

  • No need to modify your truck—this cover clamps onto existing bed rails.
  • Can be installed or removed in under an hour.

Final Thoughts: Is the WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover Worth It?

The WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover is a practical, durable, and easy-to-use upgrade for any Ford F-150 owner.

  • Protects your cargo from weather and theft
  • Rolls up easily for full truck bed access
  • Improves gas mileage with aerodynamic design
  • Quick, no-drill installation with a secure fit

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile tonneau cover, the WeatherTech Roll Up Tonneau Cover is a top-tier choice.

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