Anybody ever build a tonneau cover?

stuckmotor · Dec 9, 2014

I'm thinking about building a tonneau cover out of plywood hinged, in the middle. Does anyone know how to keep it from leaking at the hinge and atound the rim of the pickup bed.

Chopperhed · Dec 9, 2014

Personally, I would use a closed cell sponge tape stuck to the tonneau cover around the bed sides. A rubber strip from an old bicycle inner tube sandwiched between the cover and a piano style hinge would seal that area.

That how I would do it.

Others will come up with other ideas

SandburRanch · Dec 10, 2014

You can have mine around noon time most days. Bring pizza and a helper to load it.

skyhook · Dec 10, 2014

Yep, like Chopperhed said, a good rubber strip on top of the hinge "tacked on".
Make sure the rubber is pliable when cold.

bruinruin · Dec 10, 2014

I made a tonneau cover 20+ years ago out of 1/2 plywood, 2x2's, carpet padding and black vinyl. Mine was rigid and not hinged. The edge of the vinyl was stapled to the underside of the plywood where it would be hidden. Water managed to seep under the edges and soak the padding and plywood over time. I have no idea how you'd get a good waterproof seal over a full length hinge.

stuckmotor · Dec 10, 2014

Thanks to everyone for your replies. The few diy tonneau covers I've found on line didn't address the issue. I'm guessing they leak badly.

Hiltz · Dec 10, 2014

Take a look at
hatches that are on boats. Fiberglass bass boats, runabouts, cruisers, ect. They all have a lip or channel on the bulkworks or the other door if its a double door. Hope that helps.

stuckmotor · Dec 10, 2014

Hiltz,
That does help. Thanks!

Firebrand · Dec 10, 2014

Don't bother making one when a killer double opening diamond plate unit is available from Diamondback.com! I've installed two (2) units on my GMC 2500HD/Duramax trucks which I use to haul my camera gear around. Wouldn't use anything else. Period. Check them out.

Norm W · Dec 10, 2014

I had one on an old Datsun pickup. It had 3/4" ply with a offset printing blanket over the top. It was hinged in the middle and could be locked to the tailgate. It was strong enough to take a good load on the top.