How have you water proofed the titanic sized gaps on front of bed...

I am getting ready to install the Diamondback bed cover and am perplexed on what to do to seal the huge gaps on both sides of the bed at the front.

I did try to search for this topic but was unable to find a post about it.

 

While I think you can make these covers water shedding I don’t think you can really waterproof them. I’m sure some good gasket materials are available.

 

The ones under the bed side rails? Buy a sheet of closed cell foam and cut two large blocks from it, adhere it up under the rail in those front corners should be fairly golden after that. For the two gaps between the front rail and side rail just use the provided foam squares that came with your cover (or make them yourself). Just my suggestions.

 

Thank you, did not know they would come with some but that would be good if they do.

 

Some covers do, some don't. Most provide that little square you just take the front rail off and apply it to the ends, then reinstall. That seals up the most obvious gaps at the front. The gaps under the bed side rails are huge though, can literally poke a finger out from bed in those corners.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/rubber-plugs-for-gaps-in-bed-rail-available-now.420884/page-2

 

2 packs per side:
Sugru Moldable Glue - Original Formula - Black 8-Pack - I000465

Sugru Moldable Glue - Original Formula - All-Purpose Adhesive, Advanced Silicone Technology - Holds up to 4.4 lb - Black 8-Pack

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007VXJM58/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Te58DbF06AED7

 

are you talking about the drain holes near the front corners on the floor? Those holes are there to drain any water that accumulates in the truck bed.

I'm just trying to visualize where you are asking about. I don't have a 3rd gen.

 

Look up under the rails toward the cab. In the 3rd gen there is a gap between the bed, and the rail that could allow water through. It certainly allows aid and light to pass.

I do not think the 1st gens have this issue since they are a metal bed and metal rail. It may or may not exist in 2nd gens, I have not owned a 2nd nor have I laid in the bed of one looking for the gap.

 

I've had a Diamond Back for about 6 months, it's awesome! I did not seal those gaps when I first installed it and it did leak there. I used masking tape and taped around the gaps (to keep the caulk job clean) and then used clear silicone to fill the gaps. It worked and I now have no leaks. Another tip is to close everything up and look for daylight.

 

Thank you. I wasn't aware, as I said, I don t have a 3rd gen but will eventually. I'll have to look for some pics.

 

I’ve had my DB for over a year. I’ve driven through rain storms and several automatic and hand washes. The amount of water that leaks in the bed is almost not enough to talk about. With the factory rubber bed mat, it stays under the mat and runs out the tailgate. Again, not an issue for me. Also, I transport some high end guns in mine(deer lease trips).

 

How did you find that thread about this exact issue so quickly?

Please share how a humble forum user can go about finding such information!

 

I have mine all sealed up from a canopy I installed.

I just took the canopy off, so I'll take some pictures when I get home from work.

Basically just a combination of foam fit in the gap and sealant

 

I used this stuff since it's easy to apply, and just as easy to remove:

$31 3M Strip Calk, 08578, Black Color, Soft Butyl Rubber, Paintable Immediately, 1 ft Strips, 60/Carton

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000PEZ1L4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

I used the Toyota plugs made for the factory tonneau. Pricey for what they are, but effective. Minor trimming is required on the bed rail covers.

 

i have the cheap Tyger trifold soft tonneau cover from Amazon. Definitely see the gap up front. As much as it rains here in Washington state my bed stays fairly dry.
edit- of course i don't have anything in the bed that i absolutely need dry.

 

$27 Great Stuff 283064 12OZ GS Pond&Stone Foam Sealant, Each, Black

https://www.amazon.com/GREAT-STUFF-Stone-Insulating-Sealant/dp/B001AQ0FVC

Sticks better than caulk, silicone, moldable glue, etc. I sprayed it in there and let it expand. Once expanded took a knife and shaped it. Then taped around it and sprayed it with a couple coats of plasti-dip so it looks clean. Diamondback is watertight now (I live in Oregon and truck is parked outside).

 

I knew it existed so I just had to find it again. When you go into the advanced search make sure to check the "most relevant" box instead of the default "most recent". That helps bring the older threads to the top of your search results.

 

Thank you all for the feedback and help!

I am going to try this option first as it looks pretty easy and feed back on the site is really good.