Monday, July 24, 2017

Top 5 Best Selling Tonneau Covers from Auto Truck Depot

If your on the search to find the perfect cover for your pickup, you've come to the right place. Below is a list of the five most popular tonneau covers from Auto Truck Depot, the ones our customers enjoy the most. To find out more about each cover, just click the title and you will be directed to the tonneau cover's product page. 

1. UnderCover Flex Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

UnderCover Flex Tonneau Cover | Auto Truck Depot
  • Hard tri-fold tonneau cover
  • Panels made of FRP composite materials that are stronger, lighter and more durable than aluminum
  • Cover sits flush with its low profile design
  • Quick release cables let you open the cover from either side of the truck bed
  • Automatic slam latches ensure truck bed is secure when cover is closed
  • Can be securely propped into one of 3 positions: full coverage, 3/4 bed access or full truck bed access

 2. Access TonnoSport Roll-Up Tonneau Cover

Access TonnoSport Tonneau Cover | Auto Truck Depot
  • Soft roll-up tonneau cover
  • Seamless low profile design
  • Made of durable, reinforced double coated vinyl 
  • Cover automatically locks when closed to protect and secure your cargo
  • Trigger finger latch system lets you easily open your cover with one hand
  • Cover folds away easily for full truck bed
  • Built-in tension control dial always keeps cover tight

3. Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Tonneau Cover | Auto Truck Depot
  • Hard tri-fold tonneau cover
  • Made of extremely durable TPO dent and weather resistant panels
  • Snap on seals prevent moisture from entering the truck bed and ensures cargo stays dry in any weather
  • Durable powder-coated frame and hinges 
  • Textured matte finish provides a sleek OEM look

 4. Access Original Roll-Up Tonneau Cover

Access Original Tonneau Cover | Auto Truck Depot
  • Soft roll-up tonneau cover
  • Designed to last the life of your vehicle
  • Made to withstand all temperatures, hot or cold
  • Auto Latch II dual locking system provides added security for your cargo
  • Built in tension adjusters keep your cover looking and functioning at its best
  • Element Seal provides a water tight barrier along the front of the truck
  • Made of UV protected, stretch resistant, flexible and rugged fabric

 5. BAKFlip G2 Hard Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

BAKFlip G2 Tonneau Cover | Auto Truck Depot
  • Hard folding tonneau cover
  • Made of heavy duty airplane grade powder-coated insulated aluminum panels
  • Sleek, low profile design
  • Secure latch cable lets you open the cover from either side of truck bed
  • Provides full truck bed access, even while driving
  • Does not cover stake pocket holes and works well with other accessories like rack systems
  • Integrated buckle system lets you drive with the cover open, folded, flipped or closed
  • Quick latch cables are hidden when cover is closed and tailgate locked.
To learn about other types of tonneau covers not included in this list, check out our Tonneau Cover Collection.

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Thursday, July 20, 2017

Product Comparison: BAKFlip F1, G2, and HD Chart

BAK Industries manufactures a range of different truck bed covers. Even if you're set on a BAKFlip tonneau cover, you are still presented with a difficult decision. So in this article, I have laid out a chart that compares the features of each cover to help you more easily determine which cover is right for you.


BAKFlip HD | Auto Truck Depot

BAKFlip Features

BAKFlip F1BAKFlip G2BAKFlip HD
UNDERSIDEAluminumAluminumAluminum
EXTERIORFiberglass (FRP)AluminumAluminum
FINISHFiberglassPaintedPowder Coat
THICKNESS5/8 inch1/2 inch5/8 inch
SEALSEPDM (High Polymer)EPDMEPDM
COVER WEIGHT60 lbs55 lbs60 lbs
EVEN WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION RATING400 lbs250 lbs300 lbs
HINGEFlushRoundFlush
RAILFlushFlushFlush
UV PROTECTEDYesYesYes
DENT RESISTANCEYesNoNo

For more information, check out the Bak Covers available on Tonno Cover Depot, or get in touch now!

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Why You Need a Wind Deflector

Wind Deflector | Auto Truck Depot
Rain guards, vent visors, vent shades, wind deflectors—whatever you want to call them—here’s why you need them. Okay, maybe you don’t need them, but they do provide numerous benefits, which might make you want them.
If your vehicle has no air conditioning, or you just like opening your window for fresh air, you may have encountered a few problems. An open window can cause loud, obnoxious noises, popping sounds, and crosswinds that can dishevel your appearance. This is especially bad if you are unfortunate enough to be sitting in the back seat. And if there’s rain in the equation, the consequences are even worse.
Vent Visors | Auto Truck Depot
The obvious solution to this mess would be a wind deflector. A wind deflector redirects and reduces airflow around the vehicle, letting you open your window comfortably. With less airflow whirling around inside your vehicle, you will also save gas mileage from reduced drag. Water is directed away from the window and sides of glass, which not only keeps you and your passengers dry, but it also prevents dirt and sediment from building up on the side windows. With a cleaner window, you get better visibility and less dirt prematurely wearing the moving parts that control your window.
Wait, there’s still more. Have you ever had to park in the scorching heat? As you may be aware, keeping your window open, even just a crack, is an invitation to thieves. Luckily, if you have a wind deflector, the crack in your window is concealed, which makes it less of a target and more difficult to get into. Thieves are lazy and want the easiest target. With a wind deflector, that vehicle will not be yours.
Something as simple as a rain guard can prevent vehicle break-ins, help you save on gas by reducing wind drag, let you comfortably ventilate your vehicle, prevent premature wearing of mechanical parts that control your window, stop sediment build up along the sides of your window, and I’m sure there’s more! What are you waiting for? Get a wind deflector for your vehicle.

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Friday, July 14, 2017

Overview: Toolbox Tonneau Covers

Toolbox Tonneau Covers aren't for everyone, but if you need one, there are usually few other options. In this blog, I will walk through a few of our best selling toolbox tonneau covers, as well as discussing some of their benefits.


American Work Cover

This workhorse is one of our newest additions, and it breaks all the rules. All toolbox tonneau covers are designed to work with tonneau covers, but they don't generally come with one. The obvious benefit to this cover is the full sized toolbox, which is built directly into the canister that stores the retractable tonneau cover. This toolbox has two powder coated trays that store your tools and gear above the rolled up cover. The cover and toolbox come with matching, OE style handles and locks to keep your gear secure. If you're looking to outfit a work truck, this cover is the way to go. An added benefit is that it's compatible with all other Truck Covers USA Accessories, meaning your truck could be the sharpest looking, most well outfitted work truck on site.


Access Roll-Up Toolbox Tonneau Cover

Most toolbox tonneau covers, however, don't come with the box. They are instead designed to be installed on vehicles that already have a toolbox on them. The Access Roll-Up Tonneau Cover is one of these. Like most toolbox tonneaus, it is designed to work seamlessly with a 19 - 20 inch toolbox. Just like the Access Original, the cover rolls up into a compact bundle, and it's very easy to use.

We carry a range of tonneau cover styles. This allows you to chose the style you like, whether it's retractable, roll-up, or tri-fold so you aren't stuck with a tonneau that doesn't operate the way you'd like. If you are looking for a Tri-Fold style toolbox tonneau, consider the Extang Solid Fold

Why a Toolbox Tonneau Cover

So, what are the benefits of a Toolbox Tonneau Cover? Well, the obvious one of course is access to your toolbox. If your truck is a working vehicle, or you need to transport tools and other small items regularly, the best way is usually a toolbox. But you're still going to want to keep your truck bed secure. They can often be locked up to add extra security and weather protection.

There are few options available for those looking to have both a toolbox and tonneau cover, and we have collected the best ones on Tonno Cover Depot to help you get what you need quickly. If you have any questions, or you would like to order yours, get in touch, or come visit us!

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Are You Aware of Mud Flap Regulations?

There have been various news stories published about unsuspecting people being ticketed for not having mud flaps in Alberta. Most people have no idea that it is illegal to not have mud flaps on their truck or SUV until it is too late, and what's worse is that most dealerships are also unaware, or neglect to share this information.
Husky Molded Mud Guards | Auto Truck Depot
It is explained in the Global News Story, "No mud flaps? It could cost you", that the "regulation falls under Section 64 of the Vehicle Equipment Regulation. It states that the fender or mudguard must cover the entire width of the tire and extend down to the center point of the rear axle" (Ramsey). This story goes on to explain how a couple learned about this violation after receiving a ticket for not having mud flaps on their newly purchased pickup truck. What's worse is that this has happened to multiple people who have no idea of the regulation.
In another news story, "Mudflap fallout, owner discovers new truck is not road legal after leaving lot" from CTV News, Garett Alger was upset to find himself in the same circumstance after purchasing a new vehicle from a dealership. After inquiring about the lack of information given to him from the dealership, they told him that "dealers are not obliged to make sure trucks conform with this law as it's the consumer's responsibility" (Williams-Doherty).
If you have recently purchased a new pickup truck or SUV, make sure your vehicle conforms to the regulations in your region. Most drivers are unaware, and most dealerships are neglecting to share this information to customers. Do your own research, and if your vehicle requires mudflaps, Auto Truck Depot is here to help you out. We also offer professional installations of mud flaps and vehicle accessories. Take a look at the mud flaps we have available, or contact us for more information.

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca
Sources Cited
Global News. No mud flaps? It could cost you. ,N.p.: Global News, 2012. Web. 09 Feb. 2016. http://globalnews.ca/news/274479/no-mud-flaps-it-could-cost-you/
CTV News Calgary. Mudfap fallout, owner discovers new truck is not road legal after leaving lot. ,N.p: CTV News, June 2014. CTV Calgary. Web. 09 Feb. 2016. http://calgary.ctvnews.ca/mudflap-fallout-owner-discovers-new-truck-is-not-road-legal-after-leaving-lot-1.1886573 

Monday, July 10, 2017

Carry a Little More With Thule and Yakima

It doesn't matter what type of adventure seeker you are, Auto Truck Depot has everything you need to make the most out of your journey. Whether you are looking to head out to the mountains to ski or snowboard, go on an epic mountain bike ride, escape city life to go camping, or are just wanting to head out of town to escape your daily routine, we are here to help.
Cargo Boxes are one of the most convenient storage solutions for any type of vehicle. These boxes simply attach to an existing roof rack to provide additional cargo space on top of your vehicle. There are various styles, shapes and sizes, so you can find exactly what you need.
Yakima Cargo Boxes | Auto Truck Depot 
The Yakima RocketBox and SkyBox series are a great choice for anyone looking to expand the cargo space of their vehicle. The SkyBox 16 is one of our top-selling cargo boxes and provides enough cargo space for up to 3 people. It has a sleek, aerodynamic design to reduce wind drag, it is completely secure, durable, and it opens from both sides for even more convenience. If this isn't enough space, the SkyBox 21 provides up to 21 cubit feet of storage space. The SkyBox 21 is perfect for large family adventures with enough space to hold everyone's belongings.
Take a look at our large selection of Cargo Boxes to find one that's perfect for you!
Thule SnowPack 6 Ski & Snowboard Carrier | Auto Truck Depot
If you plan on going out on an epic ski or snowboard adventure, you might want look at a ski or snowboard mount. The Thule SnowPack 4 easily holds up to 4 pairs of skis or 2 snowboards on top of your vehicle, and the new smart vertical spring system adjusts for various ski thickness. The SnowPack 4 is completely secure, with a one-lock key system, and if you need space for more boards, the SnowPack 6 holds up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards. There are also various ski and snowboard hitch racks available if you are unable to utilize the cargo space on top of your vehicle, such as the Thule Tram Ski & Snowboard Carrier, which connects to a 2" receiver hitch.
If biking is your thrill, we have a large selection of bike racks and mounts that are just for you! It doesn't matter if you drive a small car, van, SUV or even an RV--there are numerous options to suite your very specific need. 
The Swagman Trailhead 2 - 2 Bike Two Arm Rack transports up to 2 bikes and includes new anti-sway cradles to prevent bike-to-bike contact. The arms easily fold away and the rack folds down to allow access to the rear of your vehicle and save space. This rack easily attaches to any existing 2" hitch receiver, and if a two bike rack isn't enough, take a look at the Trailhead 4, which can carry up to 4 bikes! Check out this short video for more details about the Trailhead 4.
Check out our selection of bike racks and mounts to find one that's perfect for you!

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Thursday, July 6, 2017

Grille Guards and Bull Bars: What They Do and Why You Want Them

bars-7
At first glance, a Grille Guard or Bull Bar may seem a little extravagant. When I first started looking into them I thought they were entirely aesthetic, and who has that kind of money to spend on something that just looks good but serves no real purpose? Some of us, certainly, but not most.
But I’m here to tell you that my first impression was wrong, and I would imagine that some of yours were too. In this article I will discuss some of the more important uses for Bull Bars and Grille Guards, as well as share some of my own thoughts on which models work for which applications.
The first thing to keep in mind is that while Grille Guards and Bull Bars are often used to accentuate the beefiness of a large truck, or to make trucks look bigger and tougher, they are a little bit more versatile. They can be added to big and small trucks as well as SUVs, and different models are going to look better and be more compatible with different applications.
They serve several other purposes besides just being aesthetically pleasing. Do you go off-road a lot? Do you go camping places where there isn’t a lot of access to light? Have you ever wished you’d had just a little bit more light? Well, this is one of the primary functions of Bull Bars and Grille Guards. The Aries brand models we carry, such as the Pro Series 3″ Bull Bars come set up with pre-drilled mounting holes in the crossbars. These can be used to mount auxiliary lights such as fog lights, LED Light Bars, and othegrill-5r light accessories. The Pro Series Grille Guard is even more versatile. The light mounting crossbar here gives you options for a single 20 – 30″ LED light bar, two 10″ bars, or three 7″ bars that can be adjust and redirected for maximum versatility.
Add on lights are extremely useful in emergency situations. If you’re off-road, lose track of time, and find yourself needing to get back in the dark, extra light never hurts. If you’re out camping and need to set up in the dark, or you have to do maintenance on vehicles or equipment, the extra light could make the difference between finishing the task and being forced to make concessions you don’t want to make. Aries also makes tow hooks for larger trucks that are compatible with the Bull Bars and Grille Racks as well.
Another important function of Grille Guards and Bull Bars is protection. Protection of your vehicle from various outside forces. It doesn’t matter it you’re driving on the highway or a gravel road, debris is always kicked up. Small stones, dirt and mud particles, and many other pieces of material can be flung into the front of your truck. Not only can some of these things (like bugs) be hard to clean off of your vehicles paint, they can also leave dents and chips that will lower your resale value and look bad.grill-1
Bull Bars in particular protect your vehicle from this kind of damage,as they come with removable skid plates. These skid plates are brushed 304 stainless steel, which means they are designed to hide minor scratches and grime, and they can be more easily cleaned without fear of damage. Plus they are removable, which increases the ease of cleaning as well as allowing you to take them off if you don’t need them. Both the Grille Guards and the Bull Bars come with protective cages for any light mounts you may want to add.
The Aries Bull Bars and Grille Guards are made from a couple of different materials. Many of them are 304 grade stainless steel, which is a steel that contains a high percentage of nickel. Because of this, the 304 stainless is considered rust proof and is extremely resistant to corrosion. These are particularly good for places close to the ocean, or for anyone who finds their vehicles tend to rust or corrode quickly. Stainless steel is also quite durable, and can protect the front end of your vehicle from minor impacts, minimizing damage.
grill-9
Many of the Grille Guards and Bull Bars are also available in a carbon steel tubing option. The carbon steel is powder coated to protect it from rust and corrosion. Powder coating is an extremely durable process of coating over the metal with a rust proof layer. The powder coating is chip, peel, and scratch resistant and the texture helps hide minor scratches and grime. This means that the carbon steel look can often be easier to keep looking clean. The carbon steel is also stronger than the stainless steel is, meaning it can help protect your vehicle form a bit more damage.
Keep in mind that these are not perfect. It’s not likely that a bull bar will bring your vehicle out unscathed if you rear end someone at high speeds. They are primarily designed to protect the front end of your vehicle from making contact with things that can scratch it, like larger rocks, logs, tree branches, and other off-road obstacles.  Studies have shown that in low speed collisions, Bull Bars and Grill Guards can protect your bumper, lights, and grill from damage, both surface and structural. If the collision is made if a sedentary object, bars-7it is even possible that they will help you push that object for a little ways, although that may scratch your guard or bar. In high speed high impact collisions, your Bull Bars or Grille Guard can collapse into the front of your vehicle.
On a final note, Grill Guards and Bull Bars install quickly and easily by bolting on to factory installed mounts on the underside of your truck. This means no drilling to install. Hopefully this article has helped you make up your mind about your purchase of these products. You can check out our selection of Grille Guards and Bull Bars, and if you have any questions contact us at 1-403-253-4330, toll free at 1-855-253-4330, or by email at info@tonnocoverdepot.ca

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Will Installing a Tonneau Cover Violate my Truck's Lease?

A common question asked by those looking to purchase a tonneau cover for their leased vehicle is, will installing a tonneau cover violate my lease agreement? The easy answer is no, and this is because most tonneau covers can be easily installed without making any permanent modifications or changes to the vehicle. 
Access TonnoSport Roll-Up Tonneau Cover | Auto Truck Depot
There are various reasons why someone may choose to lease over finance a pickup, and one of the primary reasons is that the monthly lease payments are less than monthly loan payments. Preet Benerjee explains in her article, "Lease or buy a car: What's the better option?" that, "instead of of borrowing the full purchase price of the [vehicle], you are only borrowing the amount the [vehicle] will depreciate over the term of your lease" (Benerjee). A leased vehicle can be traded in every 2-3 years for a newer model, which lets drivers abandon older vehicles and the problems they may accumulate, especially if used for work purposes once the lease term ends. 
The leasing company is the actual owner of the vehicle, so there are certain restrictions to what can be done to a leased vehicle without violating a lease agreement. Types of changes that may violate a lease agreement include any alterations in suspension or any type of modification that will permanently alter the vehicle. This includes drilling or cutting of any kind.
When choosing accessories for your leased truck, it is important to choose ones that can be installed and removed without making any permanent changes. In the article, "Can I put a tonneau cover on a leased truck? Yes. Here's why", Logan Adams explains, "Roll-Up [Access Tonneau] Covers do not require any permanent modification of a truck. They attach to a truck's bed rails using TITE BITE™ clamps that attach to the bed without drilling and maintain a superior grip between the truck bed cover and the bed" (Adams).
Check out this installation video from Access to see the process.

The majority of tonneau covers, like the Extang Solid Fold 2.0, can be installed and removed without any modification, and even used on the next truck. The best thing you can do is check that the tonneau cover you are thinking about purchasing does not require any type of drilling or vehicle modification to install. This can be done by reviewing the product's installation manuals, and if you still have some uncertainty, the best thing you can do is contact the leasing company to find out.
Below are links to Installation Manuals for Tonneau Covers carried by Auto Truck Depot for your reference:

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca
Sources Cited:
Banerjee, Preet. 'Lease Or Buy A Car: What's The Better Option?'. Household Finance. The Globe and Mail, 2015. Web. 2 Dec. 2015.
Adams, Logan. 'Can I Put A Tonneau Cover On A Leased Truck? Yes. Here's Why'. Agri-Cover, Inc. Blog: Truck Bed Covers, Snow Plows, ATV Accessories, Agricultural Tarps Blog. ACI Agri-Cover, Inc., 2014. Web. 27 May. 2014

Friday, June 30, 2017

2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty May Be the Toughest Yet


The new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty may be the toughest of its class. This new pickup has been especially designed for reduced weight and increased strength. The new body is constructed of high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy, which is more dent resistant than ever before and resistant to corrosion. The frame is made of over 95% high-strength steel, and is proposed to be up to 24 times stiffer than previous frames. The four wheel drive components are more durable than before, as well as the drivetrain, axles and towing hardware. And with this increase in strength, the overall weight has been reduced up to 350 pounds.
2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty
This new design has been tested thoroughly by Ford engineers through virtual testing prior to field testing to predict its durability over the most extreme terrains while maximized with aftermarket equipment. The tests showed no concerns, even when loaded with aftermarket equipment beyond its maximum capacity.
The new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty is proposed to be the toughest, most capable Super Duty yet, with its advanced material construction, reduced weight and "all-new, segment-exclusive smart technology to help increase customer productivity, comfort and convenience."


Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Source:
Dearborn, Mitch (2015, November 25). From Salt Spreaders to ATV Platforms: Ford Tough Tests All-New Super Duty Cargo Boxes with Aftermarket Equipment [The Ford Motor Company Media Center]. Retrieved from https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2015/11/25/ford-tests-all-new-super-duty-cargo-boxes.html

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Overview: Jeep Bumpers

Are you looking to spice up your Jeep's style and help keep the front end of your vehicle protected on and off the road? Tonno Cover Depot has a wide selection of Jeep bumpers to suit your needs. In a previous blog post, I outlined the details of the Jeep Modular Bumper. While it is one of the most expensive aftermarket bumpers, there's good reason for it. Check out the article to learn more. If you don't need something as hardcore as the modular bumper, we do carry other options as well.


Aries Pro Series Grille Guard

Yes, I know, it's technically a Grille Guard not a bumper. This means that it isn't going to replace the bumper you already have. However, I have included it here because the Aries Pro Series Grille Guard is designed specifically for the Jeep Wrangler and it features a style that is similar to our Tube Bumpers. The Pro Series features a patented LED Light Bar Housing that can hold bars up to 20" which comes with an interchangeable faceplate to protect your bar from bug goop and rock damage.


The hardened T6 aluminum construction is lightweight, meaning it's easy to handle, while being durable, long lasting, and rust proof. Plus, the textured black powder coating adds an extra corrosion resistance and helps hide minor scratches and grime. This grille guard offers rugged off road style coupled with great functionality to make it an unbeatable add on for your Wrangler.

Aries Jeep Wrangler Tube Bumpers



There are two different versions of the Aries Jeep Tube Bumpers, Stainless Steel and Semi-Gloss Black Carbon Steel. They are both designed with the Jeep driver in mind, and are engineered to replace your current bumper by mounting to factory anchor points. This means quick installation and no drilling or modification to your vehicle! They are constructed from 3" heavy wall tubing with a classic style that will give your Jeep a cool new look. 

The carbon steel is a much heavier, more impact resistant material. This means big impacts are less likely to scratch or damage the bumper. However, if the powder coating comes off, or moisture gets underneath it somehow, the carbon steel can rust, corroding the strength and durability of your bumper. the 304 Stainless Steel is high in nickel, which means its almost completely rust proof, but the mirror-like surface can scratch more easily. While small scratches can be buffed out with polish, the potential for marring the surface may outweigh the rustproof benefits for you.

They are also designed to be compatible with other off road accessories, like winches, so your Jeep will be ready for whatever the wilderness can throw at you.

If you're going to be upgrading you Jeep bumper, make sure you keep it legal. Here in Alberta, front plates aren't required but most other places they are. If you replace your bumper, make sure you get a Licence Plate Bracket to install on the bumper to keep your vehicle road legal.

Jeeps are meant to be driven hard, taken to places few have traveled. They are the vehicles of explorers, adventurers, and wanderers. So make sure your Jeep can do everything you need it to, and get out to those trails.

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca

Monday, June 26, 2017

How To Choose the Right Roof Rack

Roof Rack Systems are ideal for anyone looking to add extra cargo space on the top of their vehicle. Cargo racks can be used to mount longer objects and items that may not fit inside the vehicle, and they can also be used to mount other accessories like cargo boxesbags or basketsbike or ski and snowboard mounts, and more.
A roof rack system consists of load bars/crossbars and feet/towers. The feet (also known as towers) attach the top of the vehicle and are used to hold and support the load bars (also know as crossbars). Most often a roof rack system will consist of 4 feet and two crossbars, which run across the roof of the car. 
Every installation is slightly different, depending on the hardware purchased, but most systems are made to install quickly and easily. It is a good idea to buy the same brand of feet and crossbars to be sure the components are compatible.
In this article, I will outline the different systems within each brand. Roof Rack Systems are designed to be built according to your needs, so you can get specific towers that will work with your vehicle.

Yakima Roof Rack Systems

Yakima Rail Grab Towers

Yakima RailGrab | Auto Truck Depot
Yakima RailGrab Towers are ideal for vehicles with a raised or flush roof and install easily with a clamp-in design and are compatible with Yakima Crossbars.

Yakima Control Towers

Yakima Control Towers | Auto Truck Depot
Yakima Control Towers are designed to create a solid engagement for vehicles with factory racks, mounting points or permanent installations. These are quick and easy to use and they're compatible with Yakima Crossbars.

Yakima Q Towers

Yakima Q Towers | Auto Truck Depot
Yakima Q Towers can accommodate for a vehicle with a naked roof. They are designed to turn the top of your vehicle into a useful place for hailing cargo, even if no previous racks or mounting spots are available. These towers are compatible to Yakima Crossbars and most round load bars.

Yakima 1A RainGutter Towers

Yakima RainGutter Towers | Auto Truck Depot
Yakima 1A RainGutter Towers connect easily without the need of any tools to the rain gutters of your vehicle. This works on vehicles with rain gutters as a permanent installation and is compatible with Yakima Crossbars and most round load bars.
Other accessories are also available for Yakima Roof Rack Systems, such as the Yakima BedRock Truck Bed Towers, which allow you to install a Yakima rack onto your truck bed. These towers are also compatible with Yakima Crossbars.
Yakima Tracks | Auto Truck Depot
If your vehicle roof is too slanted or small for a standard roof rack system, you can still install a system with the accompaniment of Yakima Tracks, which provide a permanent roof rack installation solution. 

Thule Roof Rack Systems

Thule Rack Systems are very similar to Yakima systems, although there are some slight variations, such as the AeroBlade Edge, which comes with both the load bar and feet as one unit.

Thule AeroBlade Edge

Thule AeroBlade Edge
This unit connects to factory rails, or with an adapter kit, and can be used as a permanent mount on any vehicle. The AeroBlade Edge is one of the strongest and lightest roof rack systems available.

Thule Rapid Series 

Thule AeroBlade Load Bar | Auto Truck Depot
The Rapid series feet made by Thule are compatible with Thule AeroBlade Load Bars only. These load bars are very well designed for strength and aerodynamics, and require Thule Rapid feet for installation.

Thule Rapid Traverse Feet

Rapid Traverse Foot Pack | Auto Truck Depot
Rapid Traverse Feet provide a strong hold and safe fit. They are designed for a quick and easy installation and they are only compatible with Rapid Aero and AeroBlade Load Bars.

Thule Rapid Crossroad Feet

Thule Rapid Crossroad Foot Pack | Auto Truck Depot
Rapid Crossroad Feet are used to convert an existing factory rack into a full-featured Thule Roof Rack System. They have built in tools for installation, and are compatible with Thule AeroBlade Load Bars only.

Thule Rapid Podium Feet

Thule Rapid Podium Foot Pack
The Rapid Podium Feet feature a sleek, low-profile look for vehicles with integrated, fixed point, flush mount rail, t-track or custom install attachment. They provide a seamless factory appearance and are only compatible with Thule AeroBade Edge Loadbars

Standard Thule Roof Rack Systems

Standard Thule Roof Rack systems are compatible with Thule Square Load Bars and most other square load bars. They are very similar in style, but more compatible with standard hardware.

 Thule Crossroad Feet

Thule Square Crossroad Foot Pack | Auto Truck Depot
Thule Crossroad Feet let you convert an existing factory rack with raised side rails on your vehicle into a full-featured Thule Roof Rack System. These feet are compatible with Thule Square Load Bars, and allow you to maximize the cargo hauling potential of your vehicle.

Thule Gutter Feet

Thule Gutter Foot Pack | Auto Truck Depot
Thule Gutter Feet install onto vehicles with rain gutters as a permanent solution for Thule Roof Rack Systems. Thule Gutter Feet are compatible with Thule Square Crossbars, and increase the versatility of Thule racks by allowing you to mount them to an otherwise unusable surface.

Thule Podium Feet

Thule Podium Foot Pack | Auto Truck Depot
Thule Podium Feet let you add a full-featured Thule Roof Rack System to any vehicle with an integrated fix point, flush mount rail, t-truck or as a custom installation. It works with Thule Square Crossbars to provide a seamless factory rack appearance.
For vehicles with slanted or small roofs, Thule offers the Traverse Short Roof Adapter, which creates a base, enabling the installation of Thule Roof Rack Systems.

Auto Truck Depot

107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca