Extang install

holderp · January 8, 2003

I am looking to put an Extang on my new GMC. I had one on my S-10 for six years and was fairly happy with it. My question is if any of you installed one on your late model fullsize, what did you do about the factory tailgate cap? I recall that the frame needs to be shimmed on the sides so the tailgate portion of the frame can clear the tailgate. Will a set of plastic bed rail caps do the job?

While we're at it, anybody have any experience with extang's snapless tonnos? I had a classic and it could be a bear snapping the darn thing down when it was cold.

holderp · January 16, 2003

Anybody??

GM Truck Family Man · January 16, 2003

I have a Tuff Tonno III (snapless) on my '03. I did not remove the tailgate guard to install. I had one on my '01 and it fit the same way. I does fit snug when closing the tailgate but I prefer that to help keep debris from coming into the box. I also had a tailgate seal on my '01 which did a great job keeping the box clean. I have a Sabre on my S-10 which is also snapless and really like the way they look. If its really cold (I live in WI) and I have trouble stretching it, I take a hair dryer and blow warm air over it until it loosens up. I keep it 12-15" above the tonno so it doesn't melt or discolor. Hope this helps, I have been satisfied with Extang.

Dkalvin · January 16, 2003

I've got the Black Max on my truck and it fits great. I did not have to shim anything. Only problem I've had with it is that I've broken a couple snaps.

My last truck had the snapless cover. It look great but was a PIA when it was cold. If you have a garage I would go for the snapless version. IMHO it looks better than the rest.

kshuart · January 17, 2003

Speaking of broken snaps, I had a cover on an S-10 a few years ago. After 2 broken snaps, I figured out if I just lightly sprayed them with some WD-40 2-3 times a year, the snaps worked just fine. No more broken ones, and never had a problem with them coming undone either.

My Extang worked out just fine on the S-10 and almost went with one again, but decided to try a Truxedo on my new truck (see signature). No problem with the cap on the tailgate, but you have to open the tailgate to release the cover (could be good or bad). Another good thing is the bows roll up with the cover. No messing around with them when the cover is open.

http://www.runlevelzero.net/ken/images_trucks/DSC00080.JPG