GATOR 53106 Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover Installation Guide

ETX SOFT ROLL-UP TONNEAU COVER
INSTALLATION SHEET 

53106 Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover

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Parts will be shipped to you directly.
Call 800-244-2826, Mon – Fri, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CST

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CALL US FIRST 800-244-2826
WE CAN HELP YOU QUICKLY AND EASILY OVER THE PHONE
CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS
8:00 a.m. TO 5:00 p.m. CST, MONDAY – FRIDAY
PLEASE HAVE PROOF OF PURCHASE AND SERIAL NUMBER AVAILABLE BEFORE CALLING SERIAL NUMBER CAN BE FOUND ON THE FRONT ALUMINUM BAR ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE COVER

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WARRANTY REGISTRATION

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY / 10-YEAR FABRIC: Please take the time to register your cover for our industry leading warranty and support. Our goal is to provide you with quality, innovative products and make owning and maintaining your cover as hassle-free as possible. This information allows us to serve you better throughout the lifetime of the product.
To register your warranty, please visit: www.gatorcovers.com/warranty

NOTE: It is important that all areas where the bed cover mounts are clean and free of debris prior to installing.

PARTS INCLUDED IN YOUR KIT
A Driver side rail
B Passenger side rail
C Cover assembly
D 6x clamps
E 2x Hex nuts
F 2x Plastic washers
G 2x Tension adjustment blocks
H 2x Hitch pins
I 1x Weather seal pack
J 2x Bolts

TOOLS REQUIRED

• 9/16” wrench or socket
• 1/2” wrench or socket

TOOLS RECOMMENDED

• Spring clamps

1. The serial number for the cover is located here.For future reference, write it here:__

2. Peel and stick the foam weather seals (I) to each end of the driver and passenger side rails (A & B).

3. Position the driver side rail (A) against the truck bed rail. With the tailgate closed, slide the rail back until the rear seal is slightly compressed against the tailgate.
   Adjust the rail vertically so that the seal is flush with the truck bed caps. NOTE: The trigger latch is included on the driver side rail only.

4. Attach clamps (D) starting in the middle. Evenly space 3 clamps along the driver side rail (A), leaving approximately 8” on each end. Finger tighten to make sure the teeth of the clamp engage with the grooves of the side rail.
   Then tighten all clamps with a 1/2” socket or wrench. NOTE: The use of spring clamps to hold the side rail in place can assist during the installation process.

5. For optimal latching performance and cover fit, the side rails (A & B) should be level with the truck bed caps and not tilted up or down. To fine-tune side rail tilt, you can reposition the clamps. To adjust the rail tilt upwards, move the clamp as high as you can. To adjust the rail tilt lower, slide the clamp downwards toward the bottom of the rail. Tighten all clamps with a 1/2” wrench or socket. Repeat steps 3 – 5 on the passenger side rail (B).

6. To install the tension blocks (G) insert the blocks labeled with holes 2 & 3 into the rectangle cut out on the side rails (A & B). The upper block, labeled with hole 4, will be positioned on the top towards the cab. Make sure the tension blocks are pushed up against the front header.

7. Secure the tension blocks to the side rails (A & B) by inserting the hitch pins (H) into hole number 2 on the underside of the side rails. If your covers tension is too tight or too loose simply remove the tension blocks and reposition. See chart on page 4 to fine tune your tension blocks once the cover is fully installed.

8. On the cover assembly (C), identify the driver and passenger front header end plugs. Remove both plugs by pulling them outward as shown below.

9. Install the bolts (J) by sliding them into the header as shown below. Do this on both driver and passenger sides.

10. Reinstall both end plugs as shown below.

11. Place the cover (C) on the side rails (A & B) towards the front of the truck bed (near the cab). The front header seal is designed to help shed water and should be sitting on top of the bulkhead.

12. To connect the cover to the rails (A & B) thread the plastic washers (F) and hex nuts (E) onto the bolts (J) attached to the cover (C). Tighten with a 9/16” wrench or socket. Do NOT overtighten. Insert bolts on the bottom of the cover (C) through the slotted bracket in the driver and passenger side rails (A & B).

13. Unroll the cover (C) evenly towards the tailgate.

14. Place the rear header into the header stops which are located on both side rails (A & B). Rotate the rear header downwards until you feel the cover latch in place. A clicking sound will indicate a correctly installed cover. NOTE: We recommend closing the tailgate first and then closing the cover.

15. To secure the hook and loop grab the fabric and pull evenly over the hook track to engage the hook and loop.

16. Once the side of the hook and loop are engaged, use the palms of your hand to firmly push the loop strip into the hook track the entire length of the cover. This will prevent wind from lifting the cover and causing possible damage. Do this on both driver and passenger sides.

COVER IN THE CLOSED POSITION

You are ready to drive with the cover in the closed position.
NOTE: If the tailgate has a key lock, the cover is secured until the tailgate is unlocked and opened.

COVER IN THE OPEN POSITION

To drive with the cover in the open position, pull the latch towards you to release the cover (located on driver side rail). Roll the cover toward the cab of the truck, making sure that both sides roll evenly. Secure the cover by placing both retainer hooks into the retainer loops You are ready to drive with the cover in the opened position. 

FINE TUNING TENSION ADJUSTMENT BLOCKS

Proper tension allows the cover to look and perform at its best. If the cover feels too tight or too loose when opening or closing it, adjust the tension during the warmest part of the day.

SETTING COVER TENSION

• Roll the cover (C) open to adjust both tension blocks (G).
• Pull hitch pin (H) and rotate tension blocks (G) to the desired position.
• Replace hitch pin (H). Driver and passenger blocks must always be in the same position.
• Close cover and check adjustment.
  Repeat until satisfactory tension has been achieved.

Position 1 is set for maximum forward tension. The NUMBER 1 is positioned on the top front.
The hitch pin always goes into the bottom front hole. Position 2 is set for less forward tension. The NUMBER 2 is positioned on the top front.
The hitch pin always goes into the bottom front hole. Position 3 is set for less forward tension. The NUMBER 3 is positioned on the top front.
The hitch pin always goes into the bottom front hole.
Position 4 is set for least forward tension. The NUMBER 4 is positioned on the top front.
The hitch pin always goes into the bottom front hole.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

To order replacement parts, it is best to contact our Customer Service Department for assistance to ensure that you get the correct part for your vehicle application.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

• Please specify length or make and model of vehicle.

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY

WARRANTY COVERAGE
This truck bed cover is warrantied against defects in materials or workmanship as follows. This warranty is void if the product has been damaged in an accident, or due to neglect, unforeseeable use, improper installation, improper servicing, or other cause not arising out of defects in material or workmanship.

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY ON HARD PARTS
All hardware included with your truck bed cover, including rails, clamps and bows carry a limited lifetime warranty, subject to the terms below.

LIMITED 10-YEAR WARRANTY ON THE FABRIC
The fabric on your truck bed cover carries a limited warranty for ten (10) years from the original date of purchase, subject to the terms below.

WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE
The warranty is to the initial consumer purchasing the truck bed cover and it is not transferrable to a subsequent end user.
Proof of purchase may be required to enforce these warranty rights.

WARRANTY CONDITIONS
Failure to follow these warnings and care instructions will void the warranty:

• Clean with mild automotive soap and water only.

• Do not use conditioners that contain silicone or petroleum (e.g., Armor All®).

• The tonneau cover must be secured at all points when the vehicle is in motion. When not fully closed with the rear latch engaged the cover must be completely rolled up and secured at the cab with both provided retainer straps attached.
  Do NOT drive with the bed cover in a partially open position.

• Cargo should not contact the tarp at any point. Protrusions in the tarp will stress the vinyl fabric. Cargo may also shift while traveling causing it to press against the vinyl fabric and damage it.

• Do NOT tie cargo to truck bed cover framework.

• Check rail clamps for tightness after a week of driving following the installation of the cover and periodically thereafter.

• Do NOT roll the cover into the rear cab window. Do NOT stow the cover against the cab of the truck.

• If the cover is going to be rolled open for an extended amount of time, periodically re-roll the cover and secure the retainer straps to ensure the cover doesn’t rest against the cab of the truck.

• Before opening, the cover must be free of all foreign materials including snow and ice.

• Do NOT tow your vehicle from the rear with the cover on your vehicle. If towing from the rear is required, the cover MUST be removed from the vehicle and properly stored.

WARRANTY PERFORMANCE
If all warranty conditions are met, a defective truck bed cover, tarp, or hardware component will either be repaired or replaced (at our option). We reserve the right, for any warranty, to substitute a newer model of bed cover having similar form and function, to offer a warranty discount on an entire replacement system, and/or provide remedies other than those mentioned in this document.

WARRANTY PROCESS
A Return Material Authorization number must be obtained from our Customer Service Department prior to returning any product.
We may require the original item to be returned postage prepaid for final determination. Shipping charges will apply for any repair or replacement. Other than postage or shipping charges, no charge will be made for repair or replacement under this warranty. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. As a consumer, you may also have additional rights and remedies under the laws of your state.

IMPORTANT OPERATING TIPS

• After closing the cover, the operator must secure the hook and loop by running their hand down the driver and passenger side rails, pushing down on the cover material.
• If the side rails are tipping, adjust the clamps in order to level the side rails and ensure a proper fit.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• DO NOT place objects on or against the cover or framework.
• DO NOT tie cargo to truck bed cover framework.
• NEVER allow children or pets to occupy the pickup box while the cover is closed.

COVER CARE AND MAINTENANCE

• Clean with mild automotive soap and water only.
• A soft vinyl protectant may be used to keep the vinyl surface clean and protected from the elements. It may also help protect against fading, discoloration, and cracking from harmful UV rays. Do not use vinyl conditioners (i.e., Armor All ®) because they will shrink the vinyl.

TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS

WHY IS MY COVER HOLDING WATER AFTER IT RAINS?

• Water pooling on the cover is normal because our cross bows are not arched. Since they are designed to sit flat some water may accumulate on the top of the cover. Once you drive your truck, the water will shed from the cover. Make sure to retighten the hook and loop fasteners along the length of the bed.

WRINKLES ON THE VINYL FABRIC AFTER ROLLING COVER CLOSED

• Pull the vinyl fabric taut from each side. For best results, the help of a second person pulling on the opposite side is preferable.

SAGGING VINYL FABRIC BETWEEN THE CROSS BOWS

• Adjustment to tension blocks may be required.

WIND LIFTS UP THE EDGE OF THE VINYL FABRIC

• Make sure to engage the hook and loop on the driver and passenger side rails after closing the cover. This may need to be done periodically when taking long trips.

VINYL FABRIC FLUTTERS EXCESSIVELY WHEN DRIVING

• Adjustment to tension blocks may be required.
• Make sure hook and loop fasteners are set. See Step 15-16.

SNOW AND ICE ACCUMULATION ON THE VINYL FABRIC

• Use broom or brush to remove loose snow and ice. DO NOT use sharp or pointed tools to remove snow and ice.
• Direct sunlight will help melt snow and ice off the vinyl fabric.

TONNEAU COVER WILL NOT LATCH

• Check side rails to make sure they are level. See Step 5.
• Make sure the header seal is not caught between side rails & header.
• Check the position of side rails on the pickup box. They may be positioned too low. See Step 5.
• Make sure the cover has proper tension. See fine tuning tension blocks section.

VINYL FABRIC IS TOO TIGHT OR TOO LOOSE

• Adjustment to tension blocks may be required.

VINYL FABRIC HAS SHIFTED TOO FAR TO ONE SIDE

• Unlatch the cover at the tailgate, release the hook and loop along both sides, go to the shorter side of the tarp and tug. The vinyl fabric will slide in the aluminum headers. Pull on the shorter side until the tarp appears centered on the whole system.
  Latch the cover and secure the hook and loop down both sides. Repeat if more adjustment is needed.

Gator Truck Bed Protection •800-244-2826
Part# 1118325 Rev D Rev. 11-30-21

References

• Amazon Sign-In
• Robot or human?
• RealTruck Warranty Registration | RealTruck

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