High header rail

Just got a new Tacoma. I am attempting to install a Leer HR350M tonneau cover. However, the bed’s header rail sits about 1/4” higher than the side rails. This leaves an unacceptable gap at the front section of the cover.

Anyone come across any after market product that address this? (I’m hoping there is a shorter rail out there.) It’s a sharp looking cover, so I’d like to make it work. Filling the gap with a filler is not an option.

 

The front and side rails (caps) should be flush (at least mine are).

I suggest taking the front rail off (it's held on by 5 Torx bolts) and seeing if there is anything underneath, such as a weatherstrip, making it sit higher. Remove that, substitute a bead of silicone sealant, and reinstall the rail.

 

Uninstalling and reinstalling worked for me. Add the header accessory rail while you’re at it!

 

Thanks for the responses. Yup, the rail can’t be lowered. It sits right on the top of the bed liner. There is no room for adjustment. I’ve checked a few other 3rd Gen Tacomas, they were all the same.


The the top of the rail sits about .130” above the side rails. There must be a reason for it, but if you are putting on a cover or a cap, it’s just a pain.


I contacted Leer about this. They sent me instructions for a recommended fix. It involved adding filler material, including some under the side rail caps. I didn’t like the looks of that, so I went my own way.


I reworked the front seal on the cover. This brought the front section down so it wasn’t sitting so high. I also added some bulb seals to the corners. It doesn’t sit perfectly flat, but it looks ok.


Other than that issue, I am very satisfied with the HR350M cover. The side rails were simple to install. (One tip - I used two sided tape to position the spacers, rather than the method they suggested.) The mounts slide right into the Toyota cargo system rails. The front clamps make it easy to remove the cover assembly. The latching system is sturdy and easy to use. I like that the prop rods keep the cover of the back of the cab when it’s open. It’s a sharp looking cover.