The Pace Edwards JackRabbit tonneau cover offers both manual and electric models. The manual version has a pull strap for easy use, while the electric one features remote operation. Both can lock every 12 inches for versatile bed access and have a flush fit with the truck bed for a sleek look. Let’s see what else it has to offer!
Main Takeaway:
Overall, my experience with the Pace Edwards Jackrabbit tonneau cover has been positive. The quality has met my expectations, providing a reliable level of security and functionality that I value in a truck bed cover. However, there’s some room for improvements, like the installation manual can be improved for a smoother setup process. Additionally, there’s a slight difference between the advertised and the actual dimensions, which could be fixed. With these slight enhancements, this cover could be beyond perfect.
Below, I’m sharing my personal experiences with all the variants of this cover when I had them installed on my Chevy Silverado and Colorado. I hope you’d benefit from them.
Things I like:
- Vinyl-aluminum JackRabbit looked great and functioned well, However vinyl did fade after 3 years.
- The locking feature was reliable, providing added security.
- The cover was user-friendly and rolled smoothly.
- Despite some initial hiccups with the installation, the cover fit perfectly on my Silverado 2019 and protected the contents well.
- The cover’s materials appeared high-quality and durable.
- It kept the cargo mostly dry, except in very harsh weather conditions.
Areas for Improvement:
- Installation was challenging due to unclear instructions, needing more than one person for proper alignment.
- The roll-up box dimensions for the 2018 Colorado were inaccurate.
- The vinyl coated cover occasionally leaked during car washes.
- Certain parts, like the sweep seals, had a shorter lifespan than expected.
- Full metal variant is way too expensive.
Have a look at the specs.
| Feature | Full Metal Version | Vinyl Version |
|---|---|---|
| Cover Material | Aluminum | Aluminum with Vinyl Lamination |
| Exterior Finish | Powder Coating | Grain Vinyl / Matte Vinyl |
| Durability | Higher, suited for heavy-duty use | Moderate, more prone to wear from rough use |
| Rail and Canister Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Weather Resistance | Coated with UV and rust resistant, comes with drain tubes | UV and rust resistant vinyl, comes with drain tubes |
| Retraction Mechanism | Continuous Tension Spring | Continuous Tension Spring |
| Retraction Method | Manual: Pull Strap or Hand Crank; Electric: Remote Controlled | Manual: Pull Strap; Electric: Remote Controlled |
| Security | Twist lock on cover | Twist lock on cover |
| Installation | Clamp-in, no drilling required | Clamp-in, no drilling required |
| Price Point | $1,896 – $2,248 | $1,340 – $1,581 |
| Warranty | Ultimate Lifetime Warranty | 5-Year limited warranty |
Table of Contents
Structure and Material
The cover is available in both a vinyl (known as JackRabbit) and a Full Metal variant (JackRabbit Full Metal). The cover smoothly slides open and close, offering a more seamless user experience.
A continuous tension spring (CTS) is employed in the retraction mechanism. This is particularly beneficial for frequent access, as it eliminates the need to fold or remove sections of the cover.
The core panels, made from lightweight yet sturdy aluminum, contribute to the cover’s overall strength and durability.
The vinyl variant, featuring a high-quality covering, offers a sleek aesthetic but may show wear over time, especially under harsh weather conditions.
In contrast, the Full Metal version features a powder-coated aluminum surface for enhanced protection against elements and scratches, making it a more durable choice for long-term use. It is expensiv in comparison and comes with unlimited lifetime warranty.
Though, if you’re looking for a cheaper option, have a look at Pace Edwards SwitchBlade. Click here.
Speaking of canister, JackRabbit has a compact shaped metal canister. It serves as a housing unit for the cover and protects it when it is fully retracted.
The drain tubes are connected to the canister. When it rains, all the water is channeled towards the canister, it takes the water out with the help of those drain tubes.
For weatherproofing, the JackRabbit employs seals made from EPDM, a synthetic rubber. These seals are essential in preventing the entry of external elements, thus maintaining the dryness and security of the truck bed.
EPDM is recognized for its robustness and superior resistance to factors like heat, UV exposure, ozone, and diverse weather conditions.
Rail is also constructed from aluminum. This choice is strategic, as aluminum resists rust and provides a sturdy yet lightweight foundation for the cover.
Both variants are available with either manual or electric retraction options. The manual variant is operated using a pull strap for the vinyl version and a handle for the Full Metal version. This allows for easy opening and closing.
The electric model, also known as the BedLocker, offers greater convenience. It can be retracted with the push of a button on a remote and can also be connected to smartphones via a Bluetooth kit.
And, same goes for Pace Edwards Ultra Groove. Click the highlighted text to read full review.
The JackRabbit features an intuitive latching system that allows for easy opening and closing. It also includes a turning knob lock for added security.
Furthermore, both variants come in both electric and manual options. The electric model offers greater convenience, allowing the cover to be retracted with the push of a button on remote. It can also be connected to any smart phones with the help of Bluetooth kit.
The retractable design allows the cover to be opened to any desired length, providing flexible access to the truck bed, a feature useful for carrying items of varying sizes.
In summary, the Pace Edwards JackRabbit tonneau cover stands out for its premium built quality and functionality. Whether you choose the vinyl or Full Metal version, both provide a convenient and secure way to protect your truck bed, with materials selected for their durability and performance.
Performance
Starting with the vinyl JackRabbit cover, its main advantage is its lightweight and flexible design. However, when it comes to weather resistance, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
It’s designed to keep most of the rain out, which is great for everyday use. But, if you’re out in a really heavy downpour, there might be a bit of water that sneaks in.
You must be thinking, do all tonneau covers leak? Check out my detailed post on it here https://toptonneaureview.com/do-all-tonneau-covers-leak/
The key to keeping everything dry is not just the vinyl cover itself, but also the seals around the edges. If they’re in good shape and properly lined up, your truck bed will stay dry.
But if they start to wear out or if there’s a bit of misalignment, that’s when you might see some moisture getting in.
One notable drawback of the vinyl cover is its vulnerability to UV rays. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the vinyl to fade and become brittle over time, reducing its effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.
This is a common issue with many vinyl products, not just the JackRabbit cover. At the same time, it prevents the aluminum panels from getting rusty, as moisture doesn’t reach the aluminum surface, ensuring durability.
Moving towards the JackRabbit full metal, this variant offers improved durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. Metal is naturally more resilient against UV rays, so it won’t fade or degrade as quickly as vinyl in sunny conditions. It’s also better equipped to handle snow and ice in colder climates.
However, metal can still be prone to issues like rust or corrosion if not properly maintained, especially in areas with a lot of moisture or road salt.
Both variants of JackRabbit should handle storms and wind well, assuming they’re properly installed and secured. However, in extreme conditions like severe hail storms, the vinyl cover might be more susceptible to damage than the metal one.
As for sand and dust, this cover does a great job at keeping them out of the truck bed. However, it should be noted that sand and dust can be problematic for the retractable mechanism.
They can get into the tracks and moving parts, potentially causing wear or jamming, which may require maintenance over time.
To mitigate these issues and prolong the life of your JackRabbit cover, regular maintenance is key. For the vinyl cover, using a UV protectant can help reduce the risk of sun damage.
Keeping the tracks and moving parts clean and lubricated can prevent issues with sand and dust. For the full metal variant, regular washing and occasional waxing can help protect against rust and corrosion.
In summary, both the vinyl and full metal JackRabbit covers have their pros and cons regarding weather resistance. Proper maintenance and care are crucial for maximizing their longevity and effectiveness.
Safety and Reliability
One of the key strengths of the JackRabbit cover is its robust build. The cover is constructed with durable materials that resist common attempts at forced entry, including resistance to tools like knives. Also, retractable covers provide good amount of security to the truck bed.
While no cover can claim to be 100% impenetrable, the Pace Edwards JackRabbit is designed to withstand and deter common forms of tampering and forced entry, significantly reducing the risk of theft or damage.
Visibility and Sealing
A critical aspect of truck bed cover security is ensuring that potential thieves cannot see what’s inside. The JackRabbit cover provides a complete seal. Once the cover is locked, it’s virtually impossible for anyone to take a peek into your truck bed.
Locking Mechanism and Tailgate Security
The locking system of the JackRabbit is tied to the tailgate of the truck. The cover can only be unlocked by first opening the tailgate. This adds an extra barrier, if your tailgate is equipped with its own lock.
With a locked tailgate, the cover becomes an obstacle for potential thieves, deterring an estimated 98% of casual theft attempts.
User Feedback and Security Issues
Complaints or concerns about security breaches are rare. However, it’s always wise to remain vigilant and consider additional security measures if you frequently carry high-value items.
Additional Security Tips
To enhance security further, consider:
- Regularly checking the cover and tailgate lock for signs of wear or tampering.
- Being mindful of where you park, opt for well-lit, populated areas when possible.
- Adding an additional aftermarket lock to the tailgate for an extra layer of security.
In conclusion, the Pace Edwards JackRabbit cover design deters theft and protects your cargo, without compromising on convenience. Remember, no security system is infallible, but by taking the right precautions and utilizing the JackRabbit’s features effectively, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft.
Usage
The Pace Edwards JackRabbit tonneau cover, available in both manual and electric models, is designed to assist senior citizens and female truck owners, while providing peace of mind regarding cargo security.
Both the manual and electric models of the JackRabbit cover are user-friendly. The manual version typically employs a pull strap mechanism, making it straightforward to lock and unlock.
The electric model, on the other hand, offers the convenience of remote operation. This means you can secure or access your cargo using a remote.
You can easily adjust the cover to partially cover your truck bed, or you can fully retract it into the canister for complete bed access. This is useful for accommodating different types of loads.
By providing a smooth, flat surface over your truck bed, the JackRabbit cover enhances your vehicle’s aerodynamics. This can lead to reduced air drag and potentially better fuel efficiency.
Moreover, the sleek design of the cover adds an aesthetic appeal to your vehicle, enhancing the overall driving experience.
When it comes to maintenance, the choice between a vinyl or full metal cover depends on your preference and needs. Vinyl covers may require regular cleaning and conditioning to maintain their look and durability.
Full metal covers, while typically more robust, might need occasional wiping down to keep them looking great. Both types are designed for durability and ease of use.
The (optional) Explorer Rails for the JackRabbit cover are really handy for carrying more stuff on your truck. They make it super easy to attach racks and gear, so you can haul more stuff on it.
In summary, the Pace Edwards JackRabbit tonneau cover offers a convenient, secure, and stylish solution for your truck bed. Maintenance is generally straightforward, ensuring that your cover remains an asset rather than a chore.
A Word on its Cost
The Pace Edwards JackRabbit tonneau cover, with its vinyl version priced at $1,340 – $1,581 and a 5-year warranty, and the full metal variant at $1,896 – $2,248 with a lifetime warranty, is a solid choice.
It’s easy to use, low maintenance, and you can pick between manual or electric, whatever suits you.
It’s a bit pricey, but you get a premium, long-lasting cover that’s great at protecting your stuff. Worth it if it fits your needs and budget.
To Wrap Up
In essence, the Pace Edwards JackRabbit tonneau cover is pretty solid truck bed cover. It looks premium, it’s super easy to use, and keeps your stuff safe and dry in the truck bed.
Sure, setting it up can be a bit of a hassle and it needs some looking after, but overall, it’s a great choice if you want to add some extra security and style to your truck. Plus, the electric version is super convenient.
The quality is really great, and the way it smoothly opens and closes is a big plus. If I had to pick just one cover to stick with for good, this would be my go-to in the retractable cover category.
Incredible article! As a truck enthusiast like yourself, who often hauls gear for camping, I’m particularly interested in the load-bearing capacity of the JackRabbit Tonneau Covers. I’ve heard varying things about their strength. Could you shed some light on this? I have a Ford F-150 and often carry heavy camping gear. Thanks for the great info!
I’m delighted to hear that you found the article enjoyable! Regarding the load-bearing capacity of the JackRabbit Tonneau Cover, it’s important to note that they’re not designed for heavy loads on top. However, they are excellent for keeping items secure inside the bed. Based on my experience, their weight capacity ranges from 150 to 180 pounds, although the manufacturer hasn’t specifically mentioned this.