Undecided on whether to buy a hard or soft tonneau cover? Well, you might want to consider a soft tone that is hinged and opens like a hard version. While there are many versions of these on the market, the Extang FullTilt is still the number one choice.
If, like me, you have or have had a tonno hard cover, you will know all the advantages and disadvantages. They’re secure, weather resistant, won’t rattle on the road, are easy to open despite their weight, and when combined with the paint really enhance the overall look of your truck.
But, if there is a big problem that I have found with hard covers it is that when you need to transport something that is large, you have the problem of removing the cover. This is not always so easy; some fiberglass versions require two people to remove. And what about those spontaneous decisions you sometimes make? You drive somewhere with your spouse, then you find a bargain, you decide to buy it right then and there, but there’s the cover issue. It’s still in the bed of the truck and you don’t want to risk damaging it by driving down the road with the cover in a semi-closed position.
But soft covers also have their drawbacks. Most are roll tops, which means that every time you put something a little big in the truck bed, you have to undo and then redo those tricky snaps after you’ve loaded your cargo.
Ideally, a soft cover would behave like a hard tonneau cover most of the time; when you wanted to load something in the back, just open a latch and lift it up like a hard cover. But, if you need to carry something very large, you can roll it up and tie it down.
Well, that’s exactly what you get with smooth, full tones. Some manufacturers make them, but the market leader is the Extang FullTilt cover.
So what’s so good about it?
First, the cover is hinged along the entire length of the front rail. The banner is industrial grade vinyl that is mounted on spring-loaded aluminum arches. The tarp can be closed with TuffSnaps closures or a “peel & seal” J-channel tongue and groove system. Two gas springs make opening and closing smooth and effortless; when you open it, the dampers keep it open. It’s also adjustable for summer and winter weather conditions – a simple stud adjustment.
The cover comes pre-assembled and attaching it directly from the box to the truck takes just a few minutes. The entire set weighs only about 30 pounds. You can completely remove the cover in 5 minutes.
This type of cover is extremely versatile. It performs like a tonneau cover lasts most of the time, but when you need to haul large loads, you have the option to roll up the tonneau, remove the frame and use the entire truck bed.
Most Extang FullTilt tonneau cover reviews give it an extremely high rating. If there is any concern, it is that sometimes, depending on the truck model and how well the tarp has been installed, it can flap a bit when driving at highway speeds. But, most soft covers suffer from this.
Overall Extang FullTilt is a good investment. You’ll get a well-made product that’s super easy to install, versatile, safe, saves gas, and improves the overall look of your truck.