Installing tonneau cover on metal frame (no bed rails)

I just bought this 04 double cab and want to install a tonneau cover. I noticed it does not have bed rails except for the tailgate. Hoping this isn’t too dumb of a question, but is installing a tonneau cover an issue on metal frame side bed rails?

 

Can anyone advise?

 

It will rub the paint. That tailgate protector probably wore a hole in the paint already.

Foam strips under the tonneau mounting rails will help prevent paint damage.

 

Thank you

 

You could also try putting plastic caps over the bed rails. Bushwhacker makes them, but also Xpel makes an adhesive black "PPF" that you could put down instead for a sleeker look. Then you can put your tonneau rails on top of the plastic cap/PPF without worrying about paint rub.
For what it's worth, most tonneau covers have the rails mounted on the insides of the bed rails, not on top - at least that's how my Access cover worked.
Or foam strips work too
Also - Old Green is probably right. That tailgate plastic has a tendency to scrape up the plastic. I put the black PPF underneath it to stop that from happening.

 

Thank you!

 

The XPEL Universal Bed Rail Kit might be just what I've been looking for. I don't think you can get the Bushwhacker for the 5' bed. Westin used to also make rail caps for both the 6' and 5' 1st gen beds - but those are out of production and unavailable everywhere. The XPEL is a better price than both as well.

 

Installing a tonneau cover on metal bed rails won't be an issue. Looking at your bed, I don't see a lip on the inside of the bed rail for a clamp to fit around. Tacoma beds typically have the Deck Rails in this case, which would be how the tonneau cover rails would attach to the bed. Is that factory drop-in liner or aftermarket?

 

Aftermarket liner. Assuming they will have to cut into the liner?

 

It's hard to say without a close-up of the bed rails. But if it's blocking the inside ledge of the bed rails, then most likely yes. Otherwise, OE Deck Rails will have to be installed. Then you'd want to find a tonneau cover that will fit with the Deck Rails.

 

I just installed a G2 BakFlip on my ‘04 Xtra cab and used the Xpel bed rail tape. My rails were kinda shot after I took my topper off and couldn’t afford a spray on liner right now so a cheap temporary fix. The rails for this cover mount underneath and only sit on the edge of the truck bed rails, it’s easy to put on and fits perfectly.

 

I found the Xpel bed rail tape at a good price:

https://tools.woot.com/offers/xpel-clear-universal-bed-rail-guard-1

Looks good on your truck @TacoLolo! Seems like it might be the best option for first gens, I ordered some.

 

That's a nifty product that you found. Definitely keeps things looking nice. The G2 looks great on your Tacoma!

 

Thanks @PAIRDICE, this size will work also

$25 XPEL Black Universal Door Sill Guard (60" x 2.75") Paint Protection Film Kit

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003EP52I8?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&th=1

 

Hey thanks, I’m happy with the way it all turned out!