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The cover used for the bed of your truck is called a tonneau cover. Its main purpose is to give protection to the stuff kept in the bed of your pick-up truck. There are different types of tonneau covers available, and depending on the quality of the material used, the prices vary from around $100 to $2000.

The Different Types of Tonneau Covers:

Aluminum Tonneau Covers

Aluminum tonneau covers are the most popular ones. They are available under two different brands of aluminum; extreme flat, and laser life. Both serve the same, the only difference is that laser life is painted with a tough black coat to match the trim of your truck, whereas extreme flat is painted so that it matches the paint of your truck.

Retractable Tonneau Covers

These covers are designed so that they can retract automatically and roll up into the storage box. Though they are hard tonneau covers, you can stuff large items without removing the cover from the bed. They can provide the security of a hard top and are also very convenient like a soft top. The only thing is, you have to make some space for the canister in the front, and they are also prone to leaking. The installation may not be easy as it may require some drilling. They are a bit more expensive than aluminum covers.

Fiberglass Tonneau Covers

Fiberglass tonneau covers are popular as they are secure and are generally painted to match the body of your truck. The only setback is the weight - they are very heavy, so it gets very difficult to remove the cover from the bed when you are going to put in a large item.

Folding Tonneau Covers

Folding tonneau covers are the newest invention. These are very convenient to use as they can be folded when putting items in the bed. The only problem is they are prone to leaking, but surely if you do not mind that then they are great covers for your truck bed.

Vinyl Tonneau Covers

Vinyl tonneau covers provide the same protection as other covers, but the good thing about these is they are light weight. This makes it easier while installing the cover, and also when loading items into your truck. They can be easily removed when not needed. They are also cheaper as compared to other covers.

The Benefits of a Tonneau Cover:

A tonneau cover protects your luggage or other items kept in the bed of your truck. It increases the security of your personal belongings, as it conceals whatever is under it. A tonneau cover also improves the gas mileage of your truck approximately up to 8%. This way you can save on your gas bill. For more advanced security, a locking hard top tonneau cover can be used. This can be latched to the tail gate, and your belongings can be secured under lock and key.

While buying a tonneau cover, check on the functionality of it. See if the cover is easy to install or remove, and also how convenient it is to use. The durability and life of a tonneau cover depends mainly on how it is handled. If it is used extensively in hot sun, during snow or hard rain, its life may be shorter than it should be. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to take care of your tonneau cover.

Article by Stefan Rockhaus. Tonneau Covers provides detailed information on the various types of truck tonneau covers Related articles can be found at Car Stuff Online - You may reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and this resource box is left intact.

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When I purchased my first truck, a showroom new 1985 Ford F-150, it was a basic offering needing some serious upgrades. One of the first products I purchased was a snap-on tonneau cover that adequately covered the truck’s eight foot bed. Although I did not have the truck for long, it proved to be one of my favorite “add-ons” and it actually saved me some money. If you’re shopping for a new tonneau cover there are some important things for you to keep in mind before finalizing your purchase. Let’s take a look at five of them.

You get what you pay for! A tonneau cover can be had cheaply or it can cost you a small fortune. In the middle area, where most consumers shop, there are several reasonably priced models that are durable, long lasting, and attractive. Some covers look cheap — and they are, while others look expensive — but they really are not. Generally, you will pay less for a soft-top tonneau cover than for a hard-top cover, so it becomes a matter of personal preference which style you decide to buy.

They are easy to maintain. Quite true! For the most part, if you are washing your truck, you will clean your cover the same way. However, do not use the car tire or dashboard cleaning agents on your cover. Manufacturers such as for the Extang Tonneau Cover will have specific care instructions for you to follow. Your local auto supply store should carry products specifically designed to help you clean and shine your tonneau cover.

You will reap security dividends. Even a soft, non-locking tonneau cover is better to have on your truck bed than no cover at all, as tempting items are kept away from thieves’ eyes. Still, if you carry valuable merchandise, consider a locking, hard cover version. Covers such as those offered by Truxedo Tonneau Cover can meet your security requirements.

Resale value will be strong. If you take good care of your truck and outfit it with a premium tonneau cover, you will be able to command a good resale value when it is time for you to sell your truck.

Decent fuel savings. With gas prices surging, one way you can save as much as 10-15% at the pump is to have a tonneau cover installed. Wind drag is greatly reduced when your tonneau cover is securely in place.

Most tonneau covers come with a one year limited warranty, which should be adequate for you. Your online auto parts supplier can provide detailed information about product offerings, care/maintenance, prices, shipping/handling information, and more.

I hope you enjoy your new tonneau cover as much as I enjoyed mine!

Matt is a contributing writer to automobile sites including Car Parts Stuff.

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A few years ago, people would scoff at you if you told them that you were looking for trucks with the best gas mileage. But, as truck sales began to slip downwards, manufacturers started giving due importance to this factor. Today, there has been a dramatic change in the scenario.

The rising costs of gas, has propelled potential truck buyers to go for trucks that can meet their gas mileage demands. Truck makers have now taken firm steps to improve the fuel economy of their makes at all levels.

Usually the ranking of the top five trucks based on gas mileage is founded on a combination factors. The prime parameters are the fuel economy rating given by EPA, the transmission of the vehicle, and its inherent popularity amongst car buyers. The formula for calculation for most gas mileage rankings is a combination of the city mpg rating, which forms 55 percent of criterion, and the highway mpg rating that completes the remaining criteria.

It is really very difficult to bring forth a list that enumerates the top 5 trucks on the basis of fuel efficiency. Not one, not two, but three trucks hold the first rank. This spot is shared by the 2006 Ford Ranger one of the premier trucks that are out in the market today. Ford has made it a point to come out with trucks that offer the best gas mileage. This is why most of their newer models find a place on the best gas mileage list year after year.

However, all the trucks, which feature in the list, have the same engine; the 2006 Ford Ranger is a supremely refined version of its older model that came out in 2005. It has the better off-road capability then other trucks in the rankings and is one of the best alternatives in your search for a truck giving you the best gas mileage.

The completely redesigned 2006 Toyota Tacoma comes next in the list. The Toyota Tacoma is one of the roomier trucks available in the market and its looks are an epitome of sophistication. The only disadvantage of the 2006 Toyota Tacoma is its price tag. It is more expensive then the others.

If you are looking for something on the cheaper side then the 2006 Mazda B-series is the truck that you must go for. A fuel-efficient truck delivers on its promise. It is called in some circles as the bargain pickup truck. Don’t expect styling and comfort but you do get an unashamed practicality with this vehicle.

The Toyota Tundra is the next in line of your picks. It comes with 4.0 liter V6 engine that is geared to give you competitive gas mileage. The truck gives you a mileage of 20 /mpg on the highway and a 16/mpg when you drive in the city.

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 comes a close fifth in the rankings. It comes with a mild hybrid engine that enables the electric motor to keep the vehicles running when idle so the gas engine can be shut off.

Description: When looking for trucks with great gas mileage, the list can be pretty large. You will have a wide variety to choose from. Select the one that best suits your requirement. This article lists out the top five!

Author Rich Marsiglia, ATM Restyle Truck Accessories | Tonneau Covers | Truck Tires.

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