Lift-up Hard Tri-fold mod (hinge mechanism for front of bed access)

Greetings,

I'm just wondering if anyone has attempted a mod similar to this. I built it a couple weeks ago and have been testing it's design ever since. There is no permanent alterations to the truck or tonneau and can be completely changed back to factory. It uses the cargo rails and some hardware that came with the tonneau plus around $18 worth of material from a metal supplier.

Also the tonneau can still be removed in a couple minutes leaving the hinges in place for a quick reinstall (possibly no tools required if "thumb" screws). It locks in the upright position (2 heights) and with the tonneau folded out and locked there is no access to the front of the bed. The cover can be swung up with one hand standing beside the truck and I'm not a terribly strong individual.

This is an Xtang (Extang?) tonneau shown but the hinge may work with others.

I'm thinking if there is enough interest then maybe I'll do a write-up or even draw-up some plans with a no-weld option.

I'd like to compare the design with anyone else who has attempted this.

 

I’m hoping you still check this forum because this is exactly what I need for my tonneau cover. The only one available for my truck is the one I have now with the lift shocks but it’s such a pain to get anything out of the bed. I just wanted to protect my tools, not make it more difficult to get to. Can you send any info on how you did yours so I can do the same to mine?