Nowadays, pickup trucks are popular in the city and rural lifestyle as well to transport heavy stuff and accessories. But as pick up truck beds usually remained open, the problem arose to protect the carried wealth from theft or being exposed to environmental elements, like dust, water or snow. A truck bed cover is a perfect solution to get rid of the mark.
There are many types of covering technology and design available in the market. Today we are discussing two retractable hard tonneau covers from the very reputed USA brand Retrax and Roll-N-Lock. Though both of the model’s covering systems are very similar, there are still different, which you need to know before making a buying decision. In this article, we are covering the similarities and differences between RetraxPRO MX and Roll-N-Lock M-Series tonneau covers.
Why compare
Comparing two products of the same type gives you a better understanding of both contenders and helps you choose the right one for better purpose solving. Here our experts go over both models and try to find out their uniqueness based on Material used, Design and outlook, Functionality, Installation and Warranty policy. Let’s jump on the main topic now.
RetraxPRO MX vs Roll-N-Lock M Comparison Table Guide
Material: Aluminum slats | Material: Aluminum plate and vinyl sheet |
Design and exterior: * Low-profile * Ball-bearing rollers | Design and exterior: * Ergonomic design * Aerodynamic housing lid * Low-profile |
Usability: Flush-mounted latch | Usability: Contour hinge design |
Installation: Clamp-on design | Installation: Clamp-on design |
Warranty: Legendary Lifetime Warranty | Warranty: 3 Years Warranty |
Material
With an incredibly resilient black powder coat matte finish, RetraxPRO MX is a part of the brand’s premium aluminum series cover- made of industry-grade super-strong aluminum slats in the covering panel. All the guide rails and sidebar are also made of a single piece of durable aluminum angle bar. The robust structure can hold up to 500 lbs. Of evenly distributed weight on the top of the closed top.
On the other hand, the M-series of Roll-N-Lock combines aluminum plate and vinyl sheet to make the covering panel. This patented aluminum undercarriage comes up with a very identical design concept to ensure a tough and rigid surface on your truck bed.
Design and exterior
RetraxPRO MX ensures a surprisingly low profile design, where the front cover remains tightly flushed with the truck bed cover for a better appearance and dependable seal as well. This patented design operates by ball bearing rollers for a smooth passing on rails without the risk of getting jam, freeze or fail. All the structure is finely crafted not to look gorgeous with the matte finish exterior but also to provide full bed access whenever the cover remains fully open.
At the same time, the Roll-N-Lock M-series comes with a very ergonomic design where the whole canister is compactly fitted within a 7 ¼” deep aerodynamic housing lid. It can preserve your precious cargo space more efficiently. Also the torsion spring enclosed 3” aluminum casing remained clamped inside the bed rail to provide a low profile appearance. But for the vinyl top, it looks a bit solemn regarding the other contender.
Usability
Both models were done quite well to ensure the highest usability within a practical price range. RetraxPRO MX features a unique spiral track system to prevent the top panel from freeing up more space in the cargo area in conjunction with safely moving the covering panel from coming into contact with itself. The innovative sealed ball-bearing roller facilitates the whole cover to retract efficiently onto the aluminum support beam.
The flush-mounted latch is used to glide the cover in one hand when you need access. Along with the rail, this cover can be locked in an open position. When remaining closed, the durable locking mechanism can protect your carriage from any unwanted intervention.
Samely, the M series introduces their patented contoured hinge design along with a torsion spring enclosed aluminum casing for a sleek frictionless rotating panel. This cover can be opened at four positions with the support of Ratchet style latching mechanism. A firm locking system keeps the panel secure in an open or closed position.
Installation
The simple clamp-on design of RetraxPRO MX allows this to be installed within 45 minutes to an hour without any professional help. By following the instruction manual, anyone can easily install the device on the truck bed, even without using any power tools.
Though the M series also springs up with their patented clamp-on design; it is a little difficult when compared with the other one. It might take 2 hours to complete the installation process.
Warranty
In this section, RetraxPRO MX will surely win the race with their Legendary Lifetime Guarantee when set side by side with the Roll-N-Lock M series 3 years of limited warranty. Both of the models are USA manufactured and earned a good reputation for their clean customer support and brand value.
By scrutinizing all the puzzling blocks, our experts will surely keep RetraxPRO MX ahead of the Roll-N-Lock M series considering durability, appearance and warranty. But it also needs to mention that RetraxPRO MX comes with a higher price tag. Now, you must determine which one would be the perfect solution for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In order to install a Retrax bed cover, you will need the following tools: a drill, a socket set, and a screwdriver set. You will also need to purchase the Retrax brackets, which are available at most hardware stores.
1. Begin by removing the old bed cover from your truck bed. If there is any damage to the paint beneath the old cover, be sure to sand and repaint the area before proceeding.
2. Once the old cover is removed, clean the surface of the bed with soapy water and a sponge. This will help ensure that the new cover adheres properly.
3. Next, use a drill to create four holes in each corner of the truck bed. These holes should be slightly larger than the diameter of the screws that will be used to secure the brackets.
4. Place a bracket in each corner of the bed, and use the screws to secure them in place.
5. Now, it’s time to install the Retrax cover itself. Start by aligning the front edge of the cover with the front edge of the truck bed. Then, use the provided clamps to secure the cover in place.
6. Finally, drill four holes through the cover and into the brackets. Use bolts to secure the cover to the brackets, and then tighten all bolts until they are snug.
That’s it! You’ve now installed your new Retrax bed cover and are ready to hit the road.
| RetraxPRO MX | Roll-N-Lock M |
| Check Current Price on Amazon | Check Current Price on Amazon |
