Diamondback Switchback Hard Tonneau Cover is known for its solid durability and multi-purpose design. Its standout feature is the heavy-duty diamond plate aluminum construction, making it exceptionally strong and secure.
This cover sets itself apart in the market by offering a remarkable weight capacity, allowing for the transport of heavy items on top of the cover.
Unlike other hard tonneau covers, its modular design provides easier access and customization options, enhancing its utility for various cargo needs.
Diamondback Switchback tonneau cover stands out for its superior quality, ease of installation, and effective weatherproofing. While it excels in functionality and aesthetics, there’s room for improvement in the latch system and compatibility with certain truck accessories. Despite its higher cost, the cover’s durability quality and lifetime warranty justify the investment, making it a valuable addition to my fleet of trucks.
After extensively testing the Diamondback Switchback tonneau cover on a fleet of trucks, including models like the 2016 Colorado and 2019 Ford F150, I’ve gathered a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.
Success Points:
- Durable: It’s built tough and lasts a long time.
- Makes Trucks Look Better: Gives trucks a cool, modern look.
- Keeps Water Out: Protects the truck bed from rain and moisture effectively.
- Easy to Put On: You can install it yourself quickly, no expert needed.
- Flexible for Big Loads: The folding design lets you fit larger items without removing it.
- American Made: Good for those who like products made in the USA.
- Helpful Customer Service: They respond fast and help with replacements or shipping problems.
- Solid Clamps: Four clamps at the front keep it steady and in place.
- Lifetime Warranty: It offers a limited lifetime warranty.
Weaknesses to Address:
- Quality: The back latches aren’t as strong as they could be. Also, the the rear clamps are made of an average quality plastic.
- Issues with Automatic tailgate: It is a tad bit heavy and rests on the tailgate, so automatic tailgate doesn’t release.
- Cost: It’s pretty expensive, which might matter if you’re watching your budget.
- Extra Features: Could use some tie-downs to secure the panels in 1/3 position.
I have compiled all the specifications in a table for your convenience.
| Specifications | DiamondBack Switchback Details |
|---|---|
| Cover Type | Hard Tonneau Cover, Folding Design |
| Design | Truck-Specific, Folds in Seconds |
| Finishing | 2 finishing options (Rugged black and Smooth black) |
| Panel Core | .080” 3003 Aluminum Alloy |
| Frame Material | 3003 Aluminum Alloy with 5356 Alloy TIG Welds |
| Panel Exterior | Heavy-Duty Aluminum Design |
| Seal Material | Full-Perimeter EPDM Compression Gasket with Interior Gutters |
| Weather Resistance | Weatherproof Design, Resistant to Rain and Moisture |
| Security | Clamp Jaw Handles |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lb. Dynamic Load Rating, 1,200 lb. Static Load Rating |
| Bed Access | Full Bed Access |
| Tailgate Seal | Additional Neoprene Gasket |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty Covering Manufacture and Parts |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Gooseneck and 5th Wheel Trailers |
| Additional Features | 4 Anchor Plates and tie-down straps for Cargo Securing, Resistant to Gasoline, Diesel Fuel, Chlorine, Paint, VOC Free Coating. |
Table of Contents
Composition and Construction
DiamondBack Switchback is constructed with .080” 3003 aluminum alloy, the Switchback is both lightweight and robust, ensuring your truck isn’t weighed down while providing maximum durability. The frame, made from the same high-quality aluminum, reinforces this strength throughout the cover.
The exterior is coated with a premium spray-on bedliner material, the same type used by leading truck manufacturers. This coating guarantees resistance against various elements like gasoline and chlorine, while being easy to clean.
Additionally, it’s available in two finishing options: Rugged Black and Smooth Black. Depending on your preference, but it’s worth noting that the Smooth Black isn’t a glossy smooth finish. It also has an FRP top coat appearance, providing a sophisticated look.
Sealing is top-notch with an EPDM compression gasket, effectively keeping out rain, dust, and more, ensuring your cargo stays safe and clean.
The cover features a secure latch on the middle panel and two clamp jaw handles on the third panel for locking. While this latching system is secure, it’s not the most advanced available. Additionally, it does not include a key lock.
The cover’s flexibility in opening is a key feature, however, the fixed cab panel doesn’t allow for complete bed access, which could be a limitation for transporting taller items.
Overall, the DiamondBack Switchback tonneau cover excels in durability and flexibility with its aluminum alloy construction and triple panel design. While it may not offer the highest security features or full bed access, it remains a solid, reliable choice for those seeking a robust and adaptable truck bed cover.
Performance and Durability
The DiamondBack Switchback tonneau cover does an impressive job of keeping water out, thanks to its EPDM gaskets and seals. It is designed to resist water effectively, with chamfered edges that sit 2 inches above the truck bed and direct water into the seal gutters.
That’s precisely why the Diamondback Switchback is on my list of the best tri-fold hard tonneau covers. Click here to see the full list.
However, heavy storms can still pose a challenge. If your truck is parked in an open area during a severe storm, there’s a small chance moisture could get in. So, it’s best to avoid such situations.
The cover is coated with a material that not only protects against dents, scratches, and UV rays but also helps maintain its appearance. This coating ensures the color doesn’t fade, and the cover retains its new look over time.
The frame itself is finished with a powder-coated black layer, which effectively guards against corrosion. It prevents the frame from direct exposure to water and other environmental elements. The seals are high-quality rubber, known for their durability and resistance to breaking.
However, it’s important to regularly check the seals, especially before heading out in rainy weather. Over time, exposure to harsh sun could affect the seals’ adhesive properties, potentially allowing moisture to seep into the truck bed.
The top of the Switchback is indeed a tough cookie, thanks to its durable material and solid build quality. This cover is built to hold up quite well against hailstorms, protecting your truck bed from potential dents and scratches.
Cautionary Approach: While it’s great to know that the cover can handle hail, it’s wise not to test its limits unnecessarily.
In terms of performance against various weather conditions, the material is quite durable. It can withstand snow, hail, rain. While the material is top-notch and outstanding, be cautious and conduct regular checks and seek shelter during severe hailstorm.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when dealing with the unpredictability of weather!
Security Features
Switchback stands out for its sturdy design and secure sealing. So, when it’s locked, it effectively prevents anyone from sneaking a peek into your truck bed, providing a solid layer of privacy for whatever you’re carrying.
The cover’s locking mechanism is an integral part of its security. It locks with clamps that can’t be opened unless the tailgate is opened first. So, if your tailgate is locked, it significantly enhances the overall security of the cover, deterring potential thieves.
Although, the cover itself doesn’t have a separate key lock, its security is inherently tied to the tailgate.
Regarding resistance to forced entry, like with knives or other sharp tools, the Switchback’s material is quite resilient. While it’s not entirely cut-proof, penetrating it would require specialized equipment, serving as a strong deterrent to anyone considering breaking in.
While the Diamondback Switchback cover provides a solid level of security and protection, its lack of a key lock might not meet the expectations of those seeking the highest level of security.
Usage and Impact
Opening Flexibility: The cover is designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to flip it open easily. This flexibility is helpful for accessing cargo of different sizes.
However, depending on the weight and design of the cover, some users might find it requires a bit of effort to open and adjust, especially if you are a female of senior citizen.
Locking and Unlocking: The cover’s locking mechanism is integrated with the truck’s tailgate. It’s a convenient feature, but it’s worth noting that the security of the cover is dependent on the tailgate lock.
Ride Comfort: The cover is sturdy and doesn’t make any sound because of its tie down strings and its weight.
It does help reduce wind drag, though it’s not a low-profile cover. You may notice an improvement in fuel efficiency, particularly if you’ve previously driven your truck without a cover.
Maintenance: Maintaining the cover involves regular cleaning and checking the seals and locking mechanisms. It is easy to clean because its surface is resistant to elements.
Diamondback Switchback cover offers various advantages such as convenience, cargo security, and potential improvements in driving experience, it’s important to consider the physical effort required to operate the cover.
Is it Worth the Investment?
The Diamondback Switchback, priced at $1,849 and backed by a limited lifetime warranty, sits at a higher price point, making it a considerable investment.
It’s not necessarily within everyone’s budget, but its quality speaks for itself. The material quality is exceptional, contributing to its durability.
This isn’t just a purchase; it’s a one-time investment for a tonneau cover that you’re likely to keep for life. Also, they are offering VOC free coating.
Switchback stands out with its best-in-class features: it’s a solid, premium-quality cover with a unique design, setting it apart from typical mainstream options.
Its ease of use, excellent water resistance, and the assurance of a limited lifetime warranty make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize top-notch quality and longevity in a tonneau cover.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, I’d say the Diamondback Switchback is the toughest cover I’ve used. It excels in water resistance, durability, and is both easy to use and maintain.
Admittedly, its weight might be challenging for some, particularly females or senior citizens. The primary drawback is the absence of a key-lock.
However, don’t let that fool you; it’s still quite secure. The cover resists dents and scratches effectively, and its paint remains intact without peeling.
And let’s not forget the cherry on top: it comes with a lifetime warranty. So, if you’re in a position to invest and appreciate the finer things in life, this cover is definitely for you.
