Introduction
A soft truck shell is an oversized, protective covering designed to be mounted on the bed of a pickup truck. It provides extra security against theft, weather and outdoor elements, as well as any debris that can fly off the bed during travel. A soft truck shell allows owners to keep what they need in their pickup close while also protecting their cargo from prying eyes or the potential of theft. Additionally, these shells are typically lightweight and easy to install without tools, making them a great choice for anyone who needs a secure way to transport goods from place to place. They can also be customized with logos, graphics and other features for those looking for a unique look for their pickup truck. With all these benefits, it’s no surprise that many people have begun considering owning a soft truck shell for their vehicle.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Owning a Soft Truck Shell
Advantages:
1. A soft truck shell is a less expensive option for vehicle cover and protection compared to other hard shells.
2. Soft truck shells are very easy to install and remove from your vehicle, making them a great option for those who don’t want the commitment of a permanent hard shell.
3. They are often designed with materials that are lightweight yet durable and provide UV protection from the sun’s rays.
4. There is usually low maintenance required for a soft truck shell, which makes it an attractive option for those who don’t want to the hassle of ongoing maintenance or repairs down the line.
Disadvantages:
1. Soft truck shells can be easily damaged by strong gusts wind, hail, and snow storms as they aren’t as weatherproof as hard shells.
2. It doesn’t typically offer much security against theft since it isn’t physically secured to the vehicle.
3. The frame may not hold during times of inclement weather such as strong winds or heavy rain, potentially putting the contents inside at risk of becoming wet or damaged in extreme cases.
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The Different Styles and Fabrics Used in Soft Truck Shells
A soft truck shell, also known as a tonneau cover, is a versatile accessory designed to protect the bed of the truck from damaging elements. It’s usually made out of an elastic fabric such as vinyl or canvas. The fabric typically comes in different colors and styles, allowing users to customize their look while protecting the cargo stored in their truck. There are also many types of hardware available so drivers can easily install and secure their covers without requiring any special tools. Most covers are designed to fold up when not in use and stay securely in place when secured with the right hardware.
Aside from vinyl and canvas, many other fabrics can be used for soft truck shells. Nylon is another popular option due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Polyester is also used because it is waterproof, lightweight and resistant to mildew or fading from UV exposure. Another type of material that’s getting more attention is air-cushioned PVC which allows for better airflow than traditional fabrics for a cooler interior temperature during hot days. Neoprene offers good insulation but has expensive hourly rates attributed to its difficult installation process. Those looking for an environmental conscience option might consider fiberglass or aluminum-reinforced plastic as both materials require less energy when creating them and offer superior protection against harsh elements such as rain, snow or sunrays.
Measuring and Choosing the Right Soft Truck Shell for Your Vehicle
When choosing the right soft truck shell for your vehicle, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you’ll want to measure the length and width of your truck bed in order to help determine what size and shape of soft truck shell is most suitable for your vehicle. This will ensure that the shell fits properly and covers the entire bed of your truck.
Next, decide which type of material you’d like for your shell’s construction. Popular materials include canvas or vinyl, although some shells also come with an aluminum frame for extra structural rigidity. Consider the color you’d prefer as well; most fabrics come in a variety of colors to match the paint on your vehicle. In addition, some manufacturers offer options like panels with tinted windows for maximum privacy and airflow.
Finally, check that any additional components such as clamps used to secure the soft truck shell to the frame of your vehicle are sturdy enough to provide proper coverage over time. Also consider additional features such as waterproofing or anti-theft locks if they suit your needs. With these factors taken into consideration, you can find the perfect soft truck shell for your particular needs and make sure it looks great too!
Step-by-Step Installation Tips for Soft Truck Shells
1. Start with the preparation of both your truck and the shell; check for any damage, then thoroughly clean both to make sure you won’t introduce dirt into your build.
2. Mount the frame supports from the kit on your truck according to the specifications provided. It is important that these are securely fitted in order to ensure a good fit and proper protection of your vehicle.
3. Test fit all pieces before you start drilling or screwing them together so that you can ensure there are no problems with sizing or gaps between each component developed along the way. If there are, then adjust accordingly prior to moving forward.
4. Install the cab back collar of your truck shell by fitting it around your tailgate and secure it with fasteners chosen in step 2. It should be in a way that leaves room for easy adjustments to handle shifting loads as needed down the line when you’re using your setup on the road.
5. Secure the back corners of your soft truck shell with more fasteners ensuring they will stay firmly attached even when travelling over rough roads, then attach other necessary pieces such as countertops, storage bins, etc., according to instructions outlined with each part (depending on what components were included in your particular package).
6. Attach an end cap at either end of your shell in order to keep out weather/dust while also preventing any loose items from being caught under it while driving down the road or trails; these should be screwed into place tightly but not overly tight which could cause deformation due to too much tension being applied at once which would limit mobility of individual pieces taking away functionality created by having separate compartments for organization purposes when travelling about!
How to Care for and Maintain Your Soft Truck Shell
Caring for and maintaining your soft truck shell is an essential part of extending its life and helping to keep it in top condition. Here are some tips for caring for your truck shell:
1. Clean Off Debris and Dirt Regularly. Keeping up with regular cleaning of the exterior of your shell is important in order to maintain its quality and aesthetic value. Make sure to use a mild car wash soap and a soft cloth or microfiber mitt to help extend the life of the shell.
2. Keep It Protected from Sun Exposure. Too much sun exposure can cause damage to the shell’s paint, fabric, or interior surface, so make sure to park it in a covered area whenever possible or cover it when you aren’t using it.
3. Repair Any Damage Immediately. If there are any rips, tears, or holes in your truck shell, make sure to get them patched up quickly as rain and other elements can quickly penetrate the material if left unattended for too long.
4. Inspect and Tighten Bolts Periodically. Over time, bolts on soft shells tend to loosen due to vibration from driving over bumps and potholes, so be sure to periodically check each side of the bed rails and any other mounting points on your truck bed in order to ensure that all bolts are secure enough before travelling long distances with heavier cargo loads inside your truck bed.
5. Check Your Gasket Seals Regularly. Gaskets are an important part of keeping water out of your bed should you travel through heavy rainfall areas, so making this part of your inspection process will help prolong the life and look of your soft truck shell considerably by avoiding corrosion down the line.
Common Problems and Solutions for Soft Truck Shells
Soft truck shells, also known as tonneau covers, are widely used on pickups to protect cargo from water and thieves. However, they can suffer damage over time due to weathering. Here are some of the most common problems that owners experience with soft truck shells, along with possible solutions:
• Leaks: One of the most common issues is leaky seams that allow water to enter and soak your cargo. To fix this problem you will need to check all of the seams of your shell for tears or holes and repair them with a good quality sealant designed for outdoor use.
• Stains: Stains caused by bird droppings or other contaminants can make them look shabby and tattered in no time. To minimize stains you should purchase a tonneau cover that is treated for protection against UV rays and water. Additionally, you should regularly clean your shell with a mild soap solution then apply a protective wax.
• Fasteners: When fasteners are loose it can cause flapping which creates noise as well as potential damage to the covering over time. Make sure to regularly check fasteners around the edges of your shell to make sure they remain tight so they don’t move around.
• Mildew: Mold or mildew growth is common in humid climates or when moisture builds up underneath the shell due to leaky seams or other sources of moisture such as rain showers. To prevent mold growth first use a non-abrasive brush to scrub off any existing mildew then thoroughly clean your truck bed with a mixture of bleach and water before applying protective wax over top the entire shell surface.
Summary and Resources for Further Information About Soft Truck Shells
Soft truck shells provide a way to safely and securely transport cargo, which can be anything from equipment to groceries or luggage. These lightweight, often fabric-based shells are constructed with metal support frames and can be attached to the top of most pickup trucks. Depending on the size, soft truck shells provide up to 8 feet of covered space for storage, offering complete access to all sections on either side of the bed.
The benefits of using a soft truck shell include protection from weather and debris while also allowing you to easily unload your cargo at its destination. As they use only minimal hardware, installation is an easy process that requires only minutes and no tools. The lightweight material make them much easier to manage during setup and removal than heavier suspended cargo options.
For those looking for further information about soft truck shells there are various resources available:
* Consumer Reports: https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-truck-accessories/what-you-need-to-know-about-truck-caps/
* Truck Caps Unlimited: https://truckcapsunlimited.com/softopper/
* Softopper: https://www.softopper.com/faq/
