Locking Tonneau Cover that Maximizes Bed Space and Visibility for 2021 Ford F350 Short Bed

Updated 05/12/2022 | Published 05/11/2022

Products Featured in This Question

RetraxPRO MX Hard Tonneau Cover - Retractable - Aluminum - Matte Black

(47)

$2199.99

Leer Soft Tonneau Cover - Roll Up - Vinyl and Aluminum

(32)

$422.25

Question:

Hi there! I have a F350 short bed and will be towing a 5th wheel. Looking for a tonneau cover that provides 1 full bed access, 2 full view of the 5th wheel hitch when backing up and 3 lockable preferred. I was originally looking at a cannister style like the Retrax but want the full bed access now. I will be storing a generator and a 20 lbs propane tank in the front of the bed before the 5th wheel hitch. Your great ideas are greatly appreciated! Thanks.

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

The best option to meet all the parameters you mentioned would be to use a roll up cover like # LE96VR from Leer.

When it's rolled up, it won't completely block your view out the rear window and won't take up much if any room in the truck bed. If your tailgate locks, the latches that allow the cover to be rolled up will be inaccessible as long as the tailgate is closed and locked.

This will be your best bet, as a folding cover will block your view out the rear window, and a roll up cover will use a canister that takes up bed space, like the # RT80485 cover you'd looked at, or will sit atop the bed at the front and possibly get in the way during turns.

I've linked to an install/demonstration video that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L