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Can You Use a Tonneau Cover With a Toolbox?

A combination of a toolbox and a tonneau cover can be quite effective and handy if you’re someone who drives a truck. I used to think that with a toolbox installed, you cannot use a tonneau cover. 

However, I have learned from experience that it’s not necessary to sacrifice protection just to use a toolbox. Having stated that, not all toolboxes and tonneau coverings can be used in tandem.

Fortunately, you have me to guide you through it. Now can you use a tonneau cover with a toolbox? Yes, you can! But there are numerous factors that need to be taken into account if you want to do so.

Let us dive in!


Can You Use a Tonneau Cover with a Side Toolbox?

Yes, it’s possible to use a tonneau cover with a toolbox. To use both a tonneau cover with a toolbox you need to select a tonneau whose size corresponds to the toolbox in order to use them both. 

However, adjustments to size and modifications may be needed as well.


Tools Required to Adjust Tonneau Cover to Fit With a Toolbox

To accommodate a toolbox, a tonneau cover might need to be modified and adjusted. For such procedures, tools are required to get the job done. Tools that you will need are: 

  • Drill and bits size 11/64
  • Sharpie/markers
  • 2 Bungee cords
  • Tape measures 
  • Straight edge 
  • Sewing machine 
  • Razor blade
  • Hacksaw

It will take between 2 to 3 hours to adapt the tonneau to fit the toolbox with the necessary tools and techniques.


Do All Tonneau Covers Work with Toolbox?

In simple words, no, not all tonneau covers work with toolboxes, except for a few.

Tonneau covers come in a specific size, which means in most cases, you need to customize them in order to install them with a toolbox.

Modifying or customizing the tonneau covers gives you the option to suit them to your own personal style and needs.

However, it can be quite tedious and time-consuming to modify a tonneau cover to fit a toolbox or a specific style.


How Do I Fit a Toolbox with a Tonneau Cover?

Sometimes I prefer to adjust my tonneau covers to my own style and requirements to fit a toolbox. Lucky for you, I am going to share simple tips on how to make such adjustments! 

Take Measurements: After determining the toolbox size, take the measurement of the tonneau cover. The center bar facing the cap should be measured after marking a half foot on the front of the second bar.

Moreover, the tonneau should be folded up before taking measurements and then using a hacksaw to cut the size. 

Attach to Halves: Once two parts are attached, you can adjust the length to fit your toolbox. Some portions, though, permit expanding up to a foot behind the first bar. 

Cutting the Overlap Area: Cut the overlap region after that, and the remaining size will now be the new tonneau’s size.

Inspect the tonneau cover and ensure that the toolbox fits properly before continuing with the procedure. Once the cover has been unrolled, label a location on the driver’s and passenger’s sides one foot from the cut edge. 

Sew Up the Tonneau: Next, cut off the parts after connecting the two marks with a straight edge. You will have considerable room for mistakes when stitching, thanks to the extra inches. Use a sewing machine to finish sewing the tonneau cover.

Drill the Tonneau: When finished, align the tonneau cover top’s two parts so that you may open it like a book. The Bungie will now be hooked through the tonneau once a hole is drilled in its frame.

However, ensure that the cover is not being drilled through. To hold the cover at highway speed, you can attach the other end to the bracket. 

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Kevin Shaw

Pickup Truck Expert

Kevin Shaw is an automotive enthusiast and expert specializing in Ford F150 pickup trucks. With over ten years of experience in the automotive industry, he has the knowledge and expertise to help you maintain and troubleshoot your F150.

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