Learn me about soft tonneau's

I'm looking to take the plunge on a soft tonneau for my 08 DC SB. I have just a few questions.

1. How do they handle the desert heat and sun?

2. What kind of regular maintenance is involved?

3. Can it be driven through a car wash?

4. What brand and where to buy? I'm looking for something with crossbars that will be able to handle a few inches of snow. Also, be able to roll up to fit my quad in the bed.

Thanks TW,

Zac

 

1. Can't tell you about the desert but it gets pretty hot here in SC and they stretch some in the heat so you want one you can adjust.

2. Maintenance, just wash it. I also use 303 Aerospace Protectant on mine.

3. Yes, it can go through a car wash (I have).

4. Any of the Access brand covers. I have the Literider. Contact truckalterations.com. The Truxedo tonneaus are also good.

 

I have the Extang and have had it through two summers with an average temp of about 117 during the summer. I use the extang spray on it about once a month and it has held up well. It has three cross bars and the rear detaches to open up the bed so it will fully function. If you get the snap model you can flip the snaps in the summer to pull it tighter then back in the winter. I got mine from http://www.truckaddons.com at a great price with the protect-ant and tailgate seal for free.

 

I have an Advantage Torza top. It's not a roll up, but a tri-fold.

I've had atleast 2 other rollup covers (w/snaps) and I'm much rather have the tri-fold. You don't ever have to worry about needing to attach the vinyl to the frame (especially in cold weather). The vinyl on the tri-fold is part of the frame - you bend the frame. You can remove the entire cover anytime for hauling or whatever.

Because its vinyl, it gets softer & expands (so to speak) in the heat. It gets hard & contracts in the cold.

I keep mine clean and put vinyl protectant (whatever is laying around the house, usually Armorall).

Mine has multiple bows. It'll handle many inches of snow - although, I ALWAYS clean the snow off because its just dangerous for other drivers behind me. The snow always flies off.... I wouldn't necessarily let the snow on it....cuz it adds weight as it melts. It's not a question of whether it can hande it, but how to keep it maintained so it'll last longer.

I bought mine locally. Some picts in my gallery...
http://www.lieblweb.com/cpg/thumbnails.php?album=16&page=1
http://www.lieblweb.com/cpg/thumbnails.php?album=16&page=2

 

They are awesome. I love mine. Simply wash it with the rest of the truck and wipe it down with armoral when your done. Gives it that jet black glossy shine and also keeps it front getting fried by the sun.