Soft tonneau covers are popular among truck owners who want a simple way to protect their truck bed. But if you’re wondering whether these covers actually keep water out, you’re not alone. Waterproofing is one of the main things people look for, especially if they’re carrying items that can get damaged when wet. Here’s a look at how well soft tonneau covers can block water and what you need to consider. How Well Do Soft Tonneau Covers Repel Water? Soft tonneau covers, usually made from vinyl or other durable fabrics, are designed to be water-resistant, not completely waterproof. While these...
Tonneau Covers in Extreme Heat Explained
When it comes to using a tonneau cover in extreme heat, there’s more to consider than just choosing a cover. From material choices to ventilation, handling high temperatures can affect everything from your cargo to the cover itself. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your truck bed and cargo stay protected and cool. Why Does It Get So Hot Under a Tonneau Cover? Tonneau covers can trap heat, creating a greenhouse effect that raises temperatures under the cover significantly, often by 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit above the outside temperature. If you’re parked in direct sunlight, the...
Should my coolant reservoir be full when cold?
Keeping your car in top condition can feel tricky, but some simple steps go a long way. One question that comes up a lot is, “Should my coolant reservoir be full when the engine is cold?” It’s a fair question, especially when you’re keeping an eye on your car’s cooling system. Understanding Your Coolant System The coolant reservoir plays a key role in the cooling system of your car. It holds extra coolant that helps manage the engine’s temperature. When your engine gets hot, the coolant expands and overflows into the reservoir. When it cools down, it gets sucked back...
What happens if you put too much coolant in the reservoir tank?
When it comes to maintaining your car’s engine health, one part people often overlook is the coolant reservoir tank. Sure, you know you need coolant, but what happens if you add too much? Most folks think “more is better,” but that’s not always the case with your cooling system. The Role of Coolant in Your Car The coolant, also known as antifreeze, is essential in regulating your engine’s temperature. It prevents the engine from overheating and stops the water in the system from freezing in cold temperatures. It keeps your engine’s performance at an optimal level. Adding too much can...
How do you detect where a coolant leak is coming from?
Coolant leaks can be tricky. If left alone, they can cause engine damage and cost a lot in repairs. Detecting where a coolant leak is coming from isn’t always obvious, but with the right approach, you can figure it out and prevent serious problems. Look for the Signs Before you can pinpoint the leak, look for some obvious signs. Do you see any puddles under your car? If it’s green, yellow, or orange, chances are it’s coolant. Check your temperature gauge as well. If it’s spiking, then something’s wrong. Also, notice any strange smells, especially a sweet odor – it’s...
Can you go through an automatic car wash with a soft tonneau cover?
Wondering if you can take your truck through an automatic car wash with a soft tonneau cover on? A lot of truck owners have the same question, especially since tonneau covers are built for weather protection, not necessarily the rough handling of a car wash. Taking care of your cover while keeping your truck clean becomes a bit of a balancing act. Are Soft Tonneau Covers Safe in Automatic Car Washes? If you’ve got a soft tonneau cover, you might be concerned about how it holds up against those strong car wash brushes, sprays, and the high-pressure jets. Generally, a...
Do Tonneau Covers Save Gas? Mythbusters Look Into It
Many truck owners have been told that adding a tonneau cover to their truck can save on gas. But is it true or just a rumor? The Mythbusters show took a crack at this question, but it’s still a topic of debate. To really figure out if a tonneau cover can help reduce fuel consumption, it helps to understand what they do and how they impact a truck’s aerodynamics. Can a Tonneau Cover Improve Gas Mileage? A tonneau cover covers your truck bed, smoothing out the airflow over it. In theory, this helps to reduce drag, which can improve gas...
Is it okay to add new coolant to old coolant?
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle’s cooling system, you might have wondered, “Is it okay to add new coolant to old?” You aren’t the only one who’s asked. This is a common question and an important one, because the coolant in your engine does more than keep the engine temperature down—it protects against corrosion and helps maintain the overall health of your car. But what happens when old and new coolant mix? What Happens When You Mix Old Coolant with New? Adding new coolant to old isn’t something to take lightly. Coolant breaks down over time, losing its effectiveness...
Is soft or hard tonneau cover better?
When you’re choosing between a soft tonneau cover and a hard tonneau cover, it can feel like a tough decision. Both types have their own pros and cons, and each one fits different needs for truck owners. It all depends on what you need from a cover. Do you want better security? Are you looking to save some cash? Or maybe weather resistance matters the most? What’s a Soft Tonneau Cover? A soft tonneau cover is usually made from vinyl or canvas materials. They’re generally lighter and flexible, making them easier to roll up or fold when you need to...
Why is coolant not circulating from reservoir to radiator?
Experiencing issues with your vehicle’s coolant circulation can be perplexing and potentially harmful to your engine. Let’s explore several common reasons behind this problem and provide guidance on how to address them. 1. Faulty Water Pump The water pump is essential for propelling coolant through the engine and radiator. If it malfunctions due to wear or damage, coolant flow can be significantly impeded. Indications of a failing water pump include overheating, coolant leaks, and unusual noises from the engine compartment 2. Malfunctioning Thermostat The thermostat regulates coolant flow based on engine temperature. If it becomes stuck open or closed, it...