The Access Original and Limited Edition Roll-Up Tonneau Covers are designed to provide durable, secure, and convenient protection for truck beds. These covers are engineered with a combination of weather-resistant materials, adjustable tension systems, and user-friendly installation features. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process, key features, and design elements of the Access tonneau cover line, based on official product documentation and user feedback.
Installation Overview
The Access Original and Limited Edition tonneau covers are designed for ease of installation. Both models feature a clamp-on, no-drill system that allows for quick and secure attachment to the truck bed without the need for permanent modifications. According to the manufacturer, the installation process can typically be completed in under an hour with minimal tools and effort. Users have reported that the installation instructions are clear and straightforward, making the process accessible even for those with limited mechanical experience.
Tools and Materials
The installation of an Access tonneau cover requires the following tools and materials:
- Access tonneau cover kit
- Installation instructions (provided with the product)
- Optional: Allen wrench or screwdriver (for certain adjustments)
No additional tools are necessary for the clamp-on installation, which is one of the key advantages of the Access system. The manufacturer emphasizes that no drilling is required, reducing the risk of damaging the truck bed or voiding manufacturer warranties.
Step-by-Step Installation
Prepare the Truck Bed: Ensure that the truck bed is clean and free of debris. This step is crucial for achieving a secure fit and preventing any potential damage during installation.
Position the Tonneau Cover: Carefully position the tonneau cover over the truck bed. The cover should align with the bed rails and the side rails of the truck. The manufacturer recommends starting from the front of the truck and working backward to ensure proper alignment.
Attach the Clamps: The Access tonneau cover uses Tight Bite™ clamps to secure the cover to the truck bed. These clamps feature specially cut "teeth" that provide a strong grip and exceptional strength. The clamps are designed to fit snugly around the truck bed rails and can be adjusted as needed to ensure a secure fit.
Secure the Clamps: Once the clamps are in place, tighten them using the provided tension adjusters. The XT-DIAL™ Tension Adjusters allow for precise adjustments by simply turning the dial. This feature ensures that the cover remains taut and secure, even under varying weather conditions.
Install the Rear Bar and Locking System: The rear bar is an essential component of the Access tonneau cover, as it provides additional support and houses the AUTOLATCH™ II Dual Locking System. The rear bar should be positioned at the back of the truck bed and secured using the provided clamps. The AUTOLATCH™ II system features an automatic dual locking mechanism that engages when the cover is fully closed, providing an extra layer of security.
Adjust the Tension: After the cover is installed, use the XT-DIAL™ Tension Adjusters to fine-tune the tension. This step is important for ensuring that the cover remains taut and secure, especially when driving at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions.
Test the Cover: Once the installation is complete, test the cover by opening and closing it several times. The cover should roll up and down smoothly without any resistance. The AUTOLATCH™ II system should engage and disengage easily with a single downward pull.
Final Inspection: Perform a final inspection to ensure that all components are securely attached and functioning properly. Check the clamps, tension adjusters, and locking system for any signs of looseness or wear.
Key Features and Design Elements
The Access Original and Limited Edition Roll-Up Tonneau Covers are equipped with a range of features that enhance their functionality, durability, and user experience. These features are designed to provide reliable protection against the elements while offering ease of use and long-term performance.
Sealing and Weather Protection
One of the standout features of the Access tonneau cover is its comprehensive sealing system. The cover is sealed on all four sides with integrated front and rear vinyl seals and waterproof foam on the side rails. These seals work together to create a watertight barrier that protects the contents of the truck bed from rain, snow, and other environmental factors.
The front element seal is an additional feature that provides extra protection against the elements. This seal is strategically placed at the front of the truck bed and helps to prevent water and debris from entering the bed. For the Limited Edition model, the TrailSeal® Tailgate Gasket offers dependable, all-season defense against dust, rain, and snow, ensuring that the cover remains secure and effective even in harsh conditions.
Locking and Security Features
The AUTOLATCH™ II Dual Locking System is a key component of the Access tonneau cover. This system features an automatic dual locking mechanism that engages when the cover is fully closed. The latches are made of durable nylon and provide half an inch of solid engagement, ensuring that the cover remains securely locked in place. The system can be easily unlocked with a single downward pull, allowing for quick and convenient access to the truck bed.
In addition to the AUTOLATCH™ II system, the cover also features premium storage straps made of heavy-duty nylon. These straps are designed to secure the rolled-up cover and prevent it from rubbing against the cab of the truck. The straps also help to keep the cover in place during transportation, reducing the risk of damage or wear over time.
Adjustability and Convenience
The Access tonneau cover includes several features that enhance its adjustability and convenience. The XT-DIAL™ Tension Adjusters allow for direct tension control, enabling users to fine-tune the cover's tightness without the need for tools. This feature is particularly useful for adapting to different weather conditions or for ensuring a snug fit when hauling large items.
The cover also features an increased capacity design, with the cover sitting 1.5 inches above the top of the truck bed. This design maximizes usable storage space and allows for the transportation of taller cargo without compromising the cover's functionality. The black aluminum bars, side rails, and three bows provide additional structural support, ensuring that the cover remains stable and secure during use.
Aesthetic Design
The Access Original tonneau cover is known for its sleek and eye-pleasing design. The Slantback® Rear Design gives the truck a streamlined, tapered look from behind, adding a touch of style to the vehicle. This design not only enhances the visual appeal of the truck but also contributes to aerodynamics, potentially improving fuel efficiency by up to 10%.
The Limited Edition model takes the design a step further with its premium features and accessories. The cover is fully loaded with popular additions such as the EZ-RETRIEVER® Cargo Tool, which allows for effortless access to hard-to-reach corners of the truck bed. These design elements ensure that the Limited Edition model offers both functionality and style.
User Experience and Feedback
User feedback on the Access tonneau cover installation process and overall performance has been largely positive. Several customers have reported that the installation was straightforward and could be completed with minimal effort, even for those with limited experience. The clear instructions and no-drill installation were frequently cited as major advantages of the product.
One user from Minnesota noted that the installation was completed in about an hour and that the cover appeared to be of high quality. Another user from Florida mentioned that despite initial concerns about the installation process at the age of 77, the process went smoothly with the help of instructional videos. These testimonials highlight the ease of installation and the user-friendly nature of the Access tonneau cover.
The durability and weather resistance of the cover were also praised by users. Many customers appreciated the ability to securely store their gear and protect it from the elements. The waterproof gaskets and sealing system were highlighted as key features that provided peace of mind when transporting valuable items.
Conclusion
The Access Original and Limited Edition Roll-Up Tonneau Covers offer a combination of durability, functionality, and ease of installation. The no-drill clamp-on system allows for quick and secure attachment, while the sealing and locking features provide reliable protection against the elements. The adjustable tension system and increased capacity design enhance the cover's versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
User feedback indicates that the installation process is straightforward and can be completed with minimal effort, even for those with limited mechanical experience. The cover's weather-resistant materials and sealing system ensure that the contents of the truck bed remain dry and secure, while the AUTOLATCH™ II Dual Locking System provides an extra layer of security.
For users looking for a reliable, high-quality tonneau cover, the Access Original and Limited Edition models offer an excellent balance of performance, durability, and convenience. Whether used for everyday transportation or more demanding applications, these covers provide a dependable solution for protecting the truck bed and its contents.