If you want to take full advantage of your truck’s utility, the bed has to be versatile.
In a recent installation, YouTuber MyTorino decided to upgrade his truck with a Westin Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover. The Westin Hard Tri-Fold is a premium choice for truck owners. Its heavy-duty aircraft-grade aluminum panels and sleek, textured matte black finish provide both security and a modern look. While you may find some truck accessory installations intimidating, this Tonneau cover is a totally DIY project; all you need are a few common tools and a bit of patience.
Unboxing And Initial Rail Assembly
We always recommend you begin with a thorough unboxing. Get all the parts out, be sure they’re all there, and in good shape. MyTorino noted the primo packaging and dove into the first step: assembling the side rails. This requires a 4mm Allen key to connect the driver and passenger side extensions to the main rails. These pieces slide into a groove and are secured by tightening the provided Allen screws to create a single, sturdy rail unit.
- Check all components: cover, rails, and hardware box.
- Use the provided 4mm Allen key for rail connections.
- Ensure the left and right side extensions are correctly oriented before tightening.
Preparing The Truck Bed
Once the rails are pre-assembled, focus shifts to the truck bed itself. A foam seal is applied across the front of the bed rail to ensure a weather-resistant fit. Following the foam application, the hardware kit comes into play. Westin provides all necessary clips, rod support clips, and bolts. MyTorino assembled these loosely, threading the bolts through the slots so they could be adjusted later.
- Apply the foam seal across the front bulkhead for moisture protection.
- Loosely assemble the eight bed clips to allow for sliding adjustments.
- Keep hardware in a shaded area to avoid burning fingers on sun-heated metal.
Mounting The Side Rails And Hardware
The side rails are designed to slide onto the inner rail of the bedside. They are held in place by clamps that tighten from the bottom. The goal is to keep the rails horizontal and in the same plane as the bedside. Install them loosely at the start, then adjust them to be slightly tighter – MyTorino found this method helps maintain alignment when the heavy cover is eventually placed on top.
The Heavy Lift And Alignment Tips
The Westin Hard Tri-Fold is a robust piece of equipment. It is ideally a two-person lift, but MyTorino managed the installation solo. One of the most crutial details about this step of the process involves the front seal. It is essential to ensure the front seal is free, unstuck, and flopped over the edge of the front bedside where it belongs. If the seal gets caught, the cover will not sit flush or provide a proper weather barrier.
- Install Tip: Use a wood block (or similar object) to support the weight of the cover while tightening the brackets. This keeps the cover level and removes pressure from the hardware during the final torque.
- Double-check that the front flap is resting over the outside of the bed rail to prevent leaks.
- Check that the rails are snug against the front bed rail without interfering with the tailgate operation.
Final Adjustments And Quality Review
After the cover is positioned, the final step is to align the latches. The tri-fold design allows for easy access to the bed, and the aircraft-grade aluminum will make sure your cargo remains secure from both weather and prying eyes. Double check that your latches are clicking into place correctly, then tighten the front screws down.
“Nicely packed, high quality, and… it looks a lot better than the previous one I had on here!“
MyTorino
Upgrade Your Truck With A Westin Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
As an industry leading manufacturer of quality automotive aftermarket products for Trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs for decades, Westin Automotive has the products and expertise to help you upgrade your truck, your way. Westin Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover benefits include:
- Durable aluminum panels for superior protection against the elements and impacts
- Compace, three section fold up that gives you flexible access to your truck bed
- Weatherproof and dustproof seals
- Flush mount reduces wind resistance and gives an OE appearance
- Internal drainage system keeps your truck bed dry
- Designed to handle up to 661 lbs. of evenly distributed weight
- Custom-fit design, no-drill installation
Westin has been an industry-leading manufacturer of quality automotive aftermarket products for decades. We have what you need to get the most out of your truck bed. Check out our online catalog for more information on tonneau covers, bumper upgrades, and many other accessories that will enhance the looks and capabilities of your truck – order today!
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