Imagine a truck bed cover that opens at the push of a button, keeps your cargo safe, and looks sleek doing it.
That’s the GatorTrax Electric in a nutshell. This high-tech tonneau cover combines convenience, security, and style in one package.
But is it worth the investment for your truck? Let’s dive into the details and find out if this cover is the game-changer it claims to be.
GatorTrax Electric Tonneau Cover Review
Key Features
- Remote-controlled electric operation
- Durable polycarbonate construction
- Low-profile design
- Maintenance-free ball bearings
- Integrated LED cargo light
What We Like
- Effortless electric operation
- Robust security features
- Sleek, low-profile appearance
- Weather-resistant design
- Easy installation process
What We Don’t Like
- Higher price point than manual covers
- Potential for electronic malfunctions
- Limited manual override options
Seamless Electric Operation: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Gone are the days of struggling with stubborn latches or wrestling with heavy covers. The GatorTrax Electric brings the future to your fingertips – literally.
With just a press of a button on the included remote, you can open or close your truck bed cover from up to 30 feet away. Imagine pulling up to a job site or campground and having your gear accessible before you even step out of the cab.
The electromagnetic brake allows you to stop the cover at any position, giving you the flexibility to haul items of various sizes without fully exposing your bed.
However, keep in mind that relying on electronic operation means you’ll want to keep spare batteries handy for the remote.
Robust Cargo Protection: Keeping Your Valuables Safe
When it comes to protecting your gear, the GatorTrax Electric doesn’t mess around. The rugged polycarbonate slats and rigid aluminum frame create a formidable barrier against theft and harsh weather.
You’ll appreciate the peace of mind knowing your tools, camping equipment, or work supplies are secure whether you’re parked downtown or at a remote job site.
The cover’s tight seal helps keep out dust and moisture, ensuring your cargo stays clean and dry.
However, no system is perfect – some users have reported minor water seepage during heavy rainstorms or car washes. To maximize protection, you might want to add a bit of weather stripping along the tailgate for that extra layer of security.
Low-Profile Design: Enhancing Your Truck’s Aesthetics
Let’s face it – you want your truck to look good. The GatorTrax Electric’s sleek, low-profile design sits nearly flush with your bed rails, giving your pickup a clean, streamlined appearance.
Available in both glossy and matte black finishes, this cover complements virtually any truck color or style.
The compact 11×11-inch canister housing the retraction mechanism is surprisingly unobtrusive, preserving most of your bed space.
You’ll find that this cover not only protects your cargo but also enhances your truck’s overall look. Keep in mind, though, that the low profile might make it a bit trickier to clean underneath compared to some higher-sitting covers.
Maintenance-Free Ball Bearings: Effortless Performance
One of the standout features of the GatorTrax Electric is its use of sealed ball bearings in the roller system. This clever design choice means you can say goodbye to squeaky, sticky rollers that plague some other tonneau covers.
The smooth operation not only makes using the cover a pleasure but also reduces wear and tear, potentially extending the life of your investment.
You won’t need to worry about lubricating or cleaning the mechanism, even in dusty or salty environments.
However, while the bearings themselves are maintenance-free, it’s still a good idea to keep the tracks clean of debris to ensure optimal performance.
UV-Resistant Durability: Built to Last
Living with your truck means exposing it to the elements, and the GatorTrax Electric is designed to weather the storm – literally.
The polycarbonate slats are coated with a UV-resistant finish, helping to prevent sun damage and fading over time. This means your cover will continue to look great and perform well, season after season.
The durable construction also resists impacts and scratches, maintaining its appearance even with regular use.
While the UV protection is impressive, extremely harsh environments might still cause some wear over extended periods. Consider parking in shaded areas when possible to maximize the cover’s lifespan.
Easy Installation: Set Up in Minutes
Don’t let the high-tech features fool you – the GatorTrax Electric is designed for easy, at-home installation. Most users report completing the setup in about 1-2 hours, even with limited DIY experience.
The kit comes with all necessary hardware and detailed instructions. You’ll appreciate the bolt-on design that doesn’t require drilling into your truck bed.
However, the electrical connection to your truck’s battery might be a bit intimidating for some.
If you’re not comfortable with basic auto electrical work, consider professional installation to ensure everything is connected correctly and safely.
Versatile Bed Access: Maximizing Usable Space
One concern with tonneau covers is losing valuable bed space. The GatorTrax Electric addresses this by taking up less than 10% of your usable bed area when fully retracted.
This means you can still haul large items when needed without removing the entire cover. The ability to stop the cover at any point also allows for versatile cargo configurations.
You can easily accommodate items of varying heights while still protecting the rest of your bed.
Keep in mind that the canister does occupy some space at the front of the bed, so measure carefully if you frequently haul items that extend the full length of your truck bed.
Integrated LED Cargo Light: Illuminating Your Truck Bed
A clever feature that sets the GatorTrax Electric apart is its built-in LED cargo light. Mounted in the canister, this light illuminates your entire truck bed at the press of a button.
No more fumbling in the dark or relying on your phone’s flashlight to find that tool you need. It’s especially handy for early morning job sites or late-night camping setups.
The LED design means long-lasting, energy-efficient lighting. However, some users have reported that the light could be brighter for larger truck beds.
Consider supplementing with additional lighting if you frequently work in very low-light conditions.
Final Thoughts: Is the GatorTrax Electric the Right Choice for You?
The GatorTrax Electric offers a compelling blend of convenience, security, and style for truck owners who demand the best.
Its electric operation and durable construction make it a standout choice for both work and play. While the price point is higher than manual alternatives, the added features and ease of use can justify the investment for many.
If you value cutting-edge technology and are willing to pay a premium for convenience, the GatorTrax Electric could be the perfect addition to your truck.
Ready to upgrade your truck bed protection? The GatorTrax Electric might just be the cover you’ve been waiting for.
