2002-2019 Dodge Ram 1500| 5 Top Rated Tri-Fold Hard Tonneau Covers for 02-19 Dodge Ram 1500,Buying Guide
Are you the proud owner of Dodge Ram 1500 and confuse in buying the tonneau cover for your truck?
If Yes!
Then this article is go to guide to choose the best tri-fold hard tonneau cover for your Dodge Ram 1500.
Choosing the right tonneau cover is very difficult task as no one even knows which tonneau cover is suitable for their truck.
There are basically two types of tonneau covers according to the material: Hard and Soft-First you have to choose which one you want to buy.
In this article we’ve talking about the hard Tonneau covers..So if you choose hard covers then only this article will benefit you.
Before going forward Let’s check how many types of tonneau covers available in the market
Folding Tonneau Covers
Comes in both hard and soft options Folding Tonneau covers are one of the most popular tonneau covers. These comes in tri-fold or bi-fold style. Hard Cover mostly comes in aluminium or metal panels whereas Soft covers comes with vinyl or fabric panels.
Roll-Up Tonneau Covers
Roll-up tonneau covers also available with both soft and hard tops. Material used is different in soft and hard covers – Soft covers made up of tear-resistance fabric whereas hard covers comes with aluminium or metal rolling panels. These are one of the most affordable covers that provide ultimate protection along with instant installation.
Retractable Tonneau Covers
These covers are strongest covers that provide ultimate protection and converts your truck bed into vault. Comes in sleek, versatile and low profile design these covers also come with automatic locking, opening and closing system making it the most luxurious covers of all. These are somehow expensive than others but will worth for the money.
Hinged Tonneau Covers
Comes in both hard and soft tops these are another type of tonneau covers. The tonneau cover is hinged with tailgate and you can open it even with single hand. Along with providing protection to your bed it also offers perfect paint-matched option. So this will let you get tonneau cover similar to your truck’s color. Like retractable tonneau covers these covers has high load capacity and shows ultimate level of protection.
Now if your choice is hard truck bed cover then let me tell you Firstly the benefits of hard tonneau covers over the soft tonneau covers..
..Hard tonneau covers are basically more stronger and durable than soft covers and they provide more security and strength to your bed cover.
But before buying the hard tonneau cover just take care of the fact that hard bed covers are little expensive then soft covers.
Now ,while buying the hard tonneau cover for your truck one should always strikes with some questions…
….From where to find the best tonneau cover?
…Which is the best tonneau cover?
….How to get most affordable and durable tonneau covers?
These are the some of the questions tht come in the mind while buying tonneau cover for your truck..
Before moving forward let’s discuss about some of the important things to consider or keep in mind while buying tonneau cover for your truck.
Compatibility
The first and foremost thing to consider while buying tonneau cover is compatibility. You should always make sure that tonneau cover that you’re planning to buy is compatible with your truck. For that always check the size of your truck and tonneau cover.
Moreover, if you’re having some extra accessories in your truck that can be truck bed liner, bed extenders, truck tool boxes, utility track system or anything else, then make sure the tonneau cover that you’re choosing gives you perfect fit with all these upgrades. And, this is bit important also to get cover that matches with your existing upgrades otherwise you will feel that you could have wasted your money.
Need
The 2nd most important point to take care of while getting tonneau cover for your truck is your need or purpose of buying. Tonneau covers are meant for protection and security though you can also` get good looks along with improved efficiency `but primarily they are made to protect your cargo or anything that is in your truck bed from foreign elements.
So, it depends upon your requirement and purpose for which you’re buying for. There are multiple types of tonneau covers in the market that comes with various functions and qualities like Hard covers offers excellent protection with good looks while soft covers offer less protection as compared to hard covers and also comes in less price.
Whereas, there are also Retractable tonneau covers available in the market that will totally convert your truck into fully armored truck with its ultimate level of protection. These cover also offers easy operation with its remote controlled functions. It totally depends upon your requirement.
So, this is our recommendation if you’re buying just to add good looks and coolness to your truck then go for soft tri fold covers as those are least expensive and serves best to your purpose while if you’re looking for some extra protection for your cargo then go for the Hard covers. Retractable covers are one of the expensive covers with some comes even with remote control functions so only go for retractable covers if you’re ready to spend more…
Installation
Everyone like quick and easy installation. Mostly all of the tonneau covers comes with installation guide and instruction along with necessary hardware. But some can be installed in 10-15 mins while other take 1-2 hours also. It’s totally depend upon the cover as some comes with bolt on option while other clamped easily on bed rails. And some covers require even drilling holes also. So, it depends upon you whichever you thing would be better for you – you can take according.
Maintenance (How to Clean and maintain)
As tonneau cover comes under one of the expensive and important accessory for the truck that’s the reason it requires that level of maintenance also. The more you maintain it the more time it will stay with you.
Maintenance is not that difficult task. Just you have to do some regular checks that everything is working fine or not. Keep checking for any debris, dust, corrosion or anything else that does not look normal. Always make sure that clamps, bolts and other mounting hardware won’t be loose otherwise it will damage your cover also.
Double-check your bed rails and never leave any heavy gear or load on the tonneau cover for its long life. Moreover, you can also clean Use water and mild soap to keep your tonneau cover clean.
The soap is easy on the truck and won’t harm your cover. If you have a vinyl cover, use vinyl cleaner to keep it looking new and working properly. You can also use soft cotton cloths or sponges to dry it off.
Price
Last but not the least, this is one of the most important factor that you need to consider while buying tonneau cover for your truck. Its obvious everyone wants to buy that only cover which comes under the budget and offers the best quality.
Always choose tonneau cover according to your requirement, that will decide the price for the cover. The most cheaper ones are soft covers that offers low to medium level of protection along with good looks whereas hard covers are the expensive than soft ones and offers high level of protection along with good fuel economy and looks.
The most expensive ones are Retractable tonneau covers that not only offers protection, security and fuel economy but also comes with remote control operation- that means, to open or close the cover you just need a button and that’s it. These are also the strongest tonneau covers of all.
So, it depends upon You-go for best tonneau cover that comes under your budget.
So keeping these questions in the mind We’ve listed the 5 Top Rated Tri-Fold Hard Tonneau Covers for 2012-19 Dodge Ram 1500,Buying Guide that not only secure your truck bed but also add pretty looks to your truck.
So without wasting much time let’s start the list!
Here we Go!
#5 Lund 969250 Black Hard Fold Tonneau Cover(2002-2018 Dodge Ram 1500)
Protect your cargo and valuables with the all new Lund 969250 hard Fold tonneau cover.It is one of the best and stylish bed cover offers optimum security to your truck bed.
Let us firstly know about the brand Lund Industries- it is one of the most functional ,high-performance ,protective and stylish automotive aftermarket accessories brands in the industry.
Coming towards the part 969250-it is crafted with 6063 aluminum panels wrapped double sided which can resist any impact.The high quality marine-grade vinyl makes this cover tear-resistant.
The installation is very easy and quick-it merely take 5-10 minutes to install.
Hard covers are meant for the security and so as the Lund 969250-it comes with secure clamping system, that locks the tailgate tight and protects your cargo and valuables.
The cover is equipped with durable nylon straps that completely opens the cover and make room for oversized cargo.
The cover is very handy- it can open and close instantly without any difficulty.Its low-profile design with aerodynamic look makes your truck look more pretty and stylish.
Not only this the integrated scuff and dent-proof panels can easily withstand the evenly distributed load of 350 lbs.So now can easily go out for camping with your family and you don’t need to worry about your heavy bed camps.
The Lund 969250 can easily fits in your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 truck and is backed up by limited lifetime warranty.
Key Features
- Fits for 2002-2018 Dodge Ram 1500; 2003-2018 Ram 2500, 3500
- Double sided aluminium panels resist impact
- Made with Tear Resistant Marine-grade Vinyl
- Install in 10 minutes
- Secure clamping system-provides tension and security
- Scuff and dent-resistant hard fold design
- Low profile design enhance your truck look
- Limited Lifetime warranty
Specifications
Brand Lund Price Moderate Installation Install in 10 Minutes Maintenance Easy Material High Quality Aluminum
Check out Customer reviews and Ratings.
#4 TonnoPro HF-251 Hard Folding Tonneau Cover (Plus $59 Free Accessories) (2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500)
If cost is the main concern then this is the best cover for you as it is the most affordable hard cover in our list.
Don’t go on the Cost-TonnoPro HF-251 hard Folding Cover protects your truck bed and gives the stylish look without comprising the security.
The TonnoPro Hardfold is lightweight bed cover-so no need to worry about the bulky tonneau covers made from fibreglass.
Made from durable aluminium metal panels with a marine grade vinyl covering-the tonneau cover gives you the feeling of vault when closed.
From the point of security it is totally secure as it comes with tailgate locks.
No need to waste time on assembling as it comes preassembles just take it out of the box and mount it on your truck.
Whenever you want to use your truck bed,either fold back the hard fold easily or just remove it in less than a minute.
You can easily carry any load while your trip as it is designed to withstand the evenly distributed load of 350 lbs.
The cover can fits in Dodge Ram crew Cab with 5.8” Short bed without a Ram box and comes with limited lifetime warranty.
Surprise-Now you can get the free gift of SureSeal tailgate seal worth $59 with the buying of this Hard fold tonneau cover-So hurry up!
Check out Customer reviews and Ratings
Key Features
- Fits with Dodge Ram Crew cab with a 5.8” Short bed (2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 )
- Made from Heavy duty aluminium sub-panels covered with the highest marine grade vinyl
- Holds upto 350 lbs (evenly distributed)
- Comes preassembled
- Install and remove in less than 5 minutes
- Limited Lifetime warranty
- Plus Free Sureseal Tailgate Seal worth $59
Specifications
Brand TonnoPRO Price Moderate Installation Install in Minutes Maintenance Easy Material Heavy duty aluminium
#3 BAK Industries 72203 F1 BakFlip Tonneau Cover (2002-19 Dodge Ram W/O Ram Box)
Enhance your Dodge Ram truck with the BAK Industries F1 BakFlip Tonneau Cover.It is one of the best fibreglass reinforced folding tonneau cover..
The BakFlip F1 model 772203 (replacing model #72203) is custom designed to fit your 2002-2017 RAM truck bed and is a refined OEM tonneau cover and will last on your pick-up truck for as long as you own it.
The BAKFlip F1 sports multiple automatic latching systems that lock the cover panels down as they are closed.
It has an impact and scratch resistant surface made from fiberglass reinforced polymers and is supported by a full alumimum sub-structure for absolutely fantastic security.
Not only this -the seals and hinges on this folding tonneau cover are made from synthetic EPDM and are guaranteed to never fail.
The tonneau cover can capable of withstanding c severe temperatures of over 40 degrees below zero and extreme levels of heat and sun.
The fiberglass top surface also stays cooler to the touch than aluminum and will withstand severe hail storms, ice build up and snow.
The BAKFlip F1 can be operated in increments as well, making it perfect for hauling trailers, 5th wheels and cargo management of all kinds.
When it comes time to use every inch of your truck bed, the BAKFlip F1 easily folds away and provides you the complete access to the bed.
It can easily fits in 2002-2017 Dodge Ram Trucks and backed up by 3 years warranty.
Check out customer reviews and ratings
Key Features
- Fit in 2002-19 Dodge Ram W/O Ram Box 6′ 4″ bed
- Impact and Scratch resistant surface made from aluminium panels
- Seals and Hinges for Extra Security
- Capable of Resisting Severe temperatures,hail storms,ice builds and snow
- Gives Complete access to the bed
- Easy to Install and remove
- Backed up by 3 years warranty
Specifications
Brand BAK Flip Price Moderate Installation Install in Minutes Maintenance Easy Material Aircraft- Quality Aluminum
#2 Gator FX3 Tonneau Cover 610207 -5.7 ft Bed 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 5.7 Ft Bed w/o RamBox
Gator is one of the well known brand that offers best in class products and customer service.It offers high class truck bed covers that protects your valuables from being damaged.
Don’t worry about the quality while choosing the Gator FX3 Hard Tonneau cover as it encompasses the best features of different types if covers.
Known for its ultimate security the Gator FX3 cover features fibreglass reinforces polymer at top panels and aluminium at bottom panels. The Reinforced Polymer stays more cooler and resist any impact.
Not only this the specially designed hinges allow the cover to fold up all the way to the cab of the truck and makes room and gives unrestricted bed access just like the soft tonneau cover.
This cover is so durable and weather resistant that even the high rains does not destroy your valuables due to its extremely durable seals made of EPDM which keeps your bed dry.
To operate it just lock the panel into place with the slam latches and to unlock you just have to pull the cable.
The FX3 cover is so reliable and strong that you can load up to 300 lbs of evenly distributed weight on top of the cover to make your camping or trip much easier.
Coming to its installation,It takes hardly an hour and there is not any drilling required as it comes with drill free clamps -so no need to drill!
Along with these features the cover backed up with 2 year warranty.
Check out customer reviews and ratings
Key Features
- Fit in 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 5.7 Ft Bed w/o RamBox
- Fiberglass Reinforced polymer Top Panel
- Aluminum Below panel
- Protects from UV and weather resistant
- Can handle up to 300 pounds of distributed weight
- Each panel locks individually into the side rails for added security
- Resist Impacts
- 2 year Warranty
- EPDM Seals keeps bed dry
- Drill Free Installation
Specifications
Brand Gator Price Moderate Installation Install in Minutes Maintenance Easy Material Aircraft- Quality Aluminum
#1 BAK 26207 BakFlip G2 Truck Bed Cover(2009-2017 Dodge RAM )
Wait for the #1 position is over BAK Industries 26207 BakFlip G2 Truck bed cover stands First in out list.
This is one of the best cover that gives complete protection and security without compromising the bed access.
Bak Industries are known for the durability, reliability and quality. There are many reasons why people choose Bak Industries tonneau covers for their truck-resistance to harsh weather,from extreme temperatures, security and strength are some of them.
The Bak Industries G2 (Generation 2) Tonneau Cover / Truck Bed Cover is the newest generation (G2 = “GENERATION 2”) of the original hard, folding multi-panel tonneau covers.
Crafted from super strong aluminium with a durable ½” thick EPS core this cover is the optimum combination of style and security.
This cover has Black Scratch and UV Resistant ABS panels so you have all the security of a locking hard tonneau cover and have instant access to your entire truck bed.
The cover is integrated with tailgate lock providing the ultimate security to your bed.
The Bak G2 Hard cover is 100% weatherproof-with tongue and groove weather stripping you don’t have to worry about rain and snow.
Moreover while protecting your cargo and valuables from the extreme weather it doesn’t change it shape and also don’t shrink and expand.
The innovative BAKFlip G2 cover folds all the way forward and up against the truck’s rear cab (rear window) giving you access to all of your truck bed without removing the cover.
Installation is very easy with this cover just you have to take it out from the box put it on the truck and clamp it!
It comes with innovative lockin arms that secure the cover when it’s folded against your rear window.
The BAKFlip is also easily removable with 2 fastening knobs and weighs only 40 lbs! PLUS – The BAKFlip Does not interfere with stakehole pockets on your truck, so it works perfectly with side rails, headache racks, tie downs, overhead truck racks, etc
The cover can hold up to 300 lbs of evenly distributed weight and backed up by 2 years warranty.
Check out Customer Reviews and Ratings
Key Features
- Fits in 2009-2017 Dodge RAM
- Bed size: 75 inch approx. 5’ 7” – Short Bed
- Made from Aircraft Grade Aluminum/Black Powder Coat
- Complete combination of Security with stylish looks
- Gives complete access to bed
- Comes with tailgate lock for security
- Locking arms secure the cover while folding
- 100% weatherproof
- Capable of holding up to 300 lbs of evenly distributed weight
- Backed up by 2 years warranty
Specifications
Brand BAKFlip Price Moderate Installation Install in Minutes Maintenance Easy Material Aircraft- Quality Aluminum
Protection and Security for your Truck bed
The main benefit of having tonneau cover is the protection and security of anything whether it is cargo or anything else that you keep in your bed. Tonneau cover locks your bed and make it complete closed vault that will safe your cargo from being jumping out and also provide protection against any thieves.
Moreover it protects your cargo or bed from being exposed to UV rays while in rainy season keeps your cargo dry all the time. With some of the tonneau covers that comes with complete locking mechanism you can even safeguard your valuables along with other items.
Increase Durability and Life of truck bed
It also provides protection to your bed as due to rain, dust or UV rays or any other foreign material, there are high chances that your truck bed will damage due to corrosion– But with tonneau cover, you can ultimately increase the life of your truck bed by not letting it exposed to external weather.
Safe Transportation of Luggage or Cargo
Apart from providing security to your cargo, the tonneau covers also provide safe transportation of your luggage or any cargo. So whether you’re hauling or going to camping with your family, tonneau cover will allow you safely carry your camping gear or any other valuable without getting exposed to rain, snow, wind or any other foreign material.
So, if you’re planning to go out with your family or friends and finding difficulty in carrying your gears or tent with yourself then you must need a tonneau cover in your truck.
Even if you’re going to your work, you can easily keep your equipment safe in your truck bed with the bed cover installed in it.
Improved Fuel Economy
This is the other most important benefit you will get along with the first 2 advantages. This is one of the advantage of the tonneau cover that most of the truck owners fail to observe.
After installation of tonneau cover you will get to notice increase in fuel economy of your truck, no doubt that will not very high but yes… it will create impact in long run.
A tonneau cover will help reduce aerodynamic drag and can improve gas mileage. It will cover your truck into vault and your bed will generate less air drag as compared to open bed as showing in the pic below. This will increase your mileage by around 5%, some vehicles area also able to save even 10%.
Better Organisation of Cargo
With the tonneau cover installed in your bed you can better arrange your cargo in organised way as it will eliminate any impact of wind on the cargo. This will allow you to add more cargo or valuables in your bed as if you keep your cargo in proper organised way then then every inch of your bed is being used effectively.
Increase Resale Value
This is the long run benefit you will get after installing tonneau cover in your truck. As the cover protects your truck bed by not letting it exposed to external weather condition but also will make your truck look like new without any wear or corrosion signs that will automatically increase the value of your truck while reselling.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed the article Top 5 Best Rated Hard Tonneau Covers for 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 to its entire bits.
We do hope that this article helped you in making a definitive choice when it comes to choosing an Best and affordable tonneau cover for your Dodge Ram 1500 Truck.
If it really helped you,we’ll be glad if you could share this article on social media services like Google+,Twitter,linkedin,Stumple Upon and Facebook using the Sharing buttons on the Top and End of this articles.
If you have any query Feel free to add you thoughts in the comment section below.
We’ll happy to know your views.Do expect a quick reply.
Stay tunned for more updates.Thank You.
Vicky Dwaj, Founder and CEO of TrucksEnthusiasts , is an automobile engineer passionate about pickup trucks and accessories. Follow his journey to discover the latest trends in off-road accessories, cars, and truck parts.
