UNDERCOVER Elite One-Piece Truck Bed Tonneau Cover UC1178 User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your UNDERCOVER Elite One-Piece Truck Bed Tonneau Cover. The Elite cover is engineered for durability and security, featuring a textured finish and an integrated locking mechanism. It also includes a Cargo Retriever and a removable LED light for enhanced utility.

Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation or operation to ensure proper use and to maximize the lifespan of your product.

2. Safety Information

• Always ensure the tonneau cover is properly latched and secured before driving.
• Do not exceed the weight limit of 500 pounds of evenly distributed weight on the cover.
• Exercise caution when handling the cover during installation and removal due to its size and weight (approximately 105 pounds).
• Keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts during operation to prevent injury.
• Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:

• Tonneau cover
• Hardware kit
• Installation guide

4. Installation Instructions

The UNDERCOVER Elite Tonneau Cover is designed for a straightforward installation. Refer to the detailed steps below and the accompanying videos for visual guidance.

4.1. Tools Required

• 1/2" Wrench or Socket
• Scissors
• Rubbing Alcohol (for cleaning)

4.2. Pre-Installation Steps

1. Measure Your Truck Bed: Ensure you have the correct bed size for your tonneau cover. Measure the length of your truck bed floor from the bulkhead to the tailgate. Round to the nearest inch. For example, 67 inches is a 5' 7" bed. If your measurement is within a few inches of a standard bed size (e.g., 5' 10" or 6' 7"), you likely have that standard size. If it's more than 6 inches off, re-measure.
Play video

Video: How to Measure Your Truck Bed. This video demonstrates the correct method for measuring your truck bed to ensure proper fitment of your tonneau cover.

2. Clean the Bulkhead: Thoroughly clean the bulkhead surface with rubbing alcohol to ensure proper adhesion of the seal.
3. Apply Bulkhead Seal: Remove the backing from the provided seal and attach it to the inside edge of the bulkhead, as far away from the cab as possible, just before the bulkhead starts to round down. Trim any excess with scissors.

4.3. Rail Installation

4. Attach Drain Tubes to Rails: Connect the drain tubes to the fittings at the front of each bed rail. Position the tubes to divert water out of the truck bed.
5. Position Side Rails: Attach both side rails to the truck bed. Note that rails are left and right specific. Ensure the prop rod goes to the inside and the drain cup goes towards the bulkhead.
6. Install Shims (if necessary): If there is a gap between the bed cap and the bed cap cover above the wheel well, install a shim to prevent the rail from pitching down when clamped. Peel back the adhesive protector and ensure the shim is placed high up and securely. Some locations may not require shims.
7. Secure Rails with Clamps: Take the clamp apart by removing the bolt and washer. Place the clamp halves around the bed rail and bed cap. Insert the bolt through the threaded hole and hand-tighten. Ensure the clamp is properly clamping to the side rail.
8. Tighten Clamps: Once the cover is positioned, tighten the star knobs on the front mounting bolts. Use a 1/2" wrench or socket to tighten the clamps to 10 ft-lbs.

4.4. Cover Placement

9. Prepare Cover: The cover comes folded. Unfold the header panel. On the header panel, you will find holes for clip receivers. Insert the clip receiver into the hole, ensuring the opening faces towards the clip. Secure with the provided screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.
10. Install Cover Retaining Clamps: Loosen the star knob on the cover retaining clamp. Push up on the knob to expose the square head of the carriage bolt. Slide the carriage bolt into the channel on the cover, ensuring the notch rests inside the channel and the fatter side faces towards the rail. Snug it down temporarily.
11. Place Cover on Rails: With assistance, carefully place the folded cover onto the installed rails, just behind the bulkhead. Ensure the smallest panel is towards the cab of the truck and the front flap covers the bulkhead.
12. Unfold and Center Cover: Carefully unfold each panel towards the tailgate, positioning it so that it is centered side-to-side and front-to-back on the truck bed. Ensure the latches on both sides engage with the cover mounting rail.
13. Secure Front Panel: Underneath the cover, locate the cover retaining clamp. Lower the clamp down and slide it over so that the notch traps the rail. Ensure the back side of the notch stays engaged in the track. Tighten the star knob until snug.

4.5. Post-Installation Check

After installation, test the cover for proper operation. Adjust as needed, then tighten all star knobs and clamps securely.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Opening the Cover

1. Lower your truck's tailgate.
2. Pull the release cables on each of the three panels to disengage them from the side rails.
3. Carefully fold each panel towards the cab of the truck.
4. Secure the folded panels using the integrated prop rods or straps to prevent movement while driving.

Image: The UnderCover Elite Tonneau Cover fully installed on a truck bed. This image shows the sleek, low-profile design of the cover when closed.

Image: Close-up view of the integrated locking mechanism. The handle and keyhole are visible, demonstrating the secure storage feature.

5.2. Closing the Cover

1. Release the prop rods or straps securing the folded panels.
2. Carefully unfold each panel towards the tailgate, ensuring each panel latches securely into the side rails.
3. Close the tailgate. The integrated locking mechanism will secure the cover.

5.3. Using the Cargo Retriever and LED Light

• The Cargo Retriever extends your reach to access items at the front of the bed without climbing in.
• The removable LED light provides versatile lighting for your truck bed.

Image: A hand demonstrating the use of the Cargo Retriever. This tool helps retrieve items from the front of the truck bed.

Image: The removable LED light installed, providing illumination inside the truck bed.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the cover regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the textured ABS composite finish.
• Seal Inspection: Periodically inspect the seals around the cover and bulkhead for any signs of wear or damage. Replace seals as needed to maintain water resistance.
• Hardware Check: Regularly check all clamps, bolts, and moving parts for tightness and proper function. Tighten any loose hardware.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Brand: UNDERCOVER
• Model: Elite (UC1178)
• Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) composite
• Exterior Finish: Textured
• Lock Type: Key
• Weight Limit: 500 Pounds (evenly distributed)
• Item Weight: Approximately 105 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 78 x 86 x 5 inches
• Fitment: 2019 - 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 (does not fit Carbon Bed) 5' 10" Bed (69.9")
• Batteries: 6 CR2 batteries required (included for LED light)

9. Warranty and Support

The UnderCover Elite cover comes with a 3-year guarantee on structure and a 1-year guarantee on parts & hardware. It is proudly made in the USA with globally sourced materials and is backed by a US-based customer support team.

For customer support or warranty claims, please contact the manufacturer directly. Refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or visit the official UNDERCOVER website.