If you’ve spent countless hours searching for the perfect tonneau cover lift system, you’re not alone. Your truck’s bed cover needs reliable support that won’t fail when you least expect it. Whether you’re hauling construction materials or protecting valuable cargo, the right vertical lift system makes all the difference in daily operation. Let’s examine the top performers that’ll transform your tonneau cover experience in the year 2025.
2 Truck Upfitters Gas Props for Undercover Tonneau Covers
For Undercover tonneau cover owners seeking reliable lift support, Truck Upfitters’ gas props deliver 38 pounds of pressure per strut with precise measurements of 27.5″ extended and 15.6″ compressed length.
You’ll get four ball mounts included, but remember these props only work with Undercover pickup bed covers, not fiberglass or other plastic tonneau covers. Installation requires mounting in the extended position, as you can’t compress these by hand. Make sure to measure from center socket to center socket for proper fitting.
With a potential lifespan of up to 5 years, these gas props match part numbers GPSt270P or Stabilus #0518, making them a durable replacement choice for your SE, Classic, or Elite Undercover cover.
Best For: Undercover tonneau cover owners who need to replace worn gas struts and want a reliable, direct-fit solution that matches their original equipment specifications.
Pros:
- Perfect fit compatibility with SE/Classic/Elite Undercover truck bed covers
- Complete kit includes 4 ball mounts for installation
- Durable construction with up to 5-year lifespan
Cons:
- Limited compatibility – only works with specific Undercover models
- Cannot be compressed by hand during installation
- Must be installed in extended position, which may complicate installation process
Lift Supports Depot Tonneau Cover Lift Supports (2-Pack)
Truck owners seeking reliable tonneau cover support will appreciate the Lift Supports Depot‘s 27-inch, 90-pound capacity struts that deliver exceptional value and performance. These precision-engineered lift supports are ideal for tonneau covers weighing between 45-60 pounds, with a robust design that meets or exceeds OEM specifications.
You’ll find installation straightforward with the center-mount design, and at just 8 ounces each, these supports won’t add unnecessary weight to your setup. With a 4.9-star rating from customers and proven reliability across various truck models, they’re a cost-effective alternative to dealer parts. Remember to calculate your required support by multiplying your lid’s weight by 1.5 for peak performance.
Best For: Truck owners looking for reliable, cost-effective tonneau cover lift supports for covers weighing between 45-60 pounds who want an OEM-quality replacement without dealer prices.
Pros:
- High-quality construction meeting or exceeding OEM specifications
- Excellent customer ratings (4.9/5) with proven reliability across various truck models
- Easy installation with precise fitment and center-mount design
Cons:
- Limited to specific weight range (45-60 lbs for tonneau covers)
- May require careful measurement and weight calculation before purchase
- Individual support strength cannot be combined for heavier applications
281S0001 Replacement Prop Rod for Tonneau Cover Lift Supports
When your tonneau cover’s lift support needs replacement, the 281S0001 Replacement Prop Rod offers a universal solution compatible with 10mm ball-stud systems. These aluminum-finished metal supports come in a pair and measure 17.52 inches long, fitting most BAK Hard Tri-Fold and heavy trailer covers.
You’ll appreciate the straightforward installation that requires only basic hand tools. With a 4.7-star rating from 63 customers, these prop rods deliver reliable performance and smooth operation. They’re particularly well-suited for pickup truck beds and have earned a top spot as #8 in Cargo Bed Cover Accessories, making them a trusted choice for tonneau cover maintenance.
Best For: Truck owners seeking a reliable replacement for worn tonneau cover lift supports, particularly those with BAK Hard Tri-Fold covers or similar 10mm ball-stud systems.
Pros:
- Universal fit compatible with most 10mm ball-stud tonneau covers
- Simple installation requiring only basic hand tools
- Durable aluminum finish and proven reliability with 4.7/5 star rating
Cons:
- Limited to 10mm ball-stud systems only
- May not fit some specialized or custom tonneau cover models
- Length of 17.52 inches might not be suitable for all applications
Qty (2) Tonneau Cover Lift Supports, Replaces # SE1024M80BL
Drivers seeking a reliable tonneau cover lift solution will appreciate these StrongArm universal supports, which extend to 26.32 inches and serve as direct replacements for SE1024M80BL models. You’ll find installation straightforward using basic hand tools, typically completing the job in minutes.
These lift supports feature hardened steel shafts and patented temperature compensation module valves, ensuring consistent performance in varying weather conditions. With a 4.7-star rating from users and OEM engineering collaboration, you’re getting quality components that’ll restore your tonneau cover’s functionality. While most users praise their ease of installation and performance, you’ll want to monitor their longevity over time.
Best For: Vehicle owners seeking a direct replacement for their SE1024M80BL tonneau cover lift supports who want a reliable, weather-resistant solution with straightforward installation.
Pros:
- Easy installation requiring only basic hand tools
- Hardened steel shafts with temperature compensation valves for all-weather reliability
- High user rating (4.7/5 stars) with OEM engineering collaboration
Cons:
- Some users report concerns about long-term durability
- Premium price point compared to generic alternatives
- Limited to specific tonneau cover models and sizes
Vepagoo Gas Lift Support for Truck Bed Cover (Set of 2)
With a robust 150-pound force per strut, the Vepagoo Gas Lift Support set delivers exceptional stability for heavy-duty truck bed covers. The 26-inch struts feature model SE263P150S10 compatibility across multiple applications, including tonneau covers, truck toppers, and RV doors.
You’ll appreciate the quick 5-minute installation using just a flat screwdriver, making it easy to upgrade your existing setup. The system prevents accidental closure while hauling gear, and you’ll get responsive customer support with 24-hour email responses. Plus, an 18-month protection plan guarantees your investment is secure. Just verify your original cylinder matches the interchange number before purchasing.
Best For: Truck owners seeking a reliable, heavy-duty lift support solution for their bed covers, particularly those with tonneau covers or truck toppers requiring strong 150-pound force support.
Pros:
- Quick 5-minute installation requiring only a flat screwdriver
- Versatile compatibility with multiple applications like truck covers, RV doors, and trailer hatches
- Strong 150-pound force per strut with reliable safety features to prevent accidental closure
Cons:
- Must verify exact interchange number match before purchase
- Limited to 26-inch length which may not fit all applications
- Requires careful handling during installation to avoid damaging gas cylinders
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tonneau Cover Vertical Lift
When selecting a vertical lift system for your tonneau cover, you’ll need to match the lift force to your cover’s weight and consider whether the mounting balls are compatible with your truck’s existing hardware. You should measure both the compressed and extended lengths to guarantee proper clearance when opening and closing, while confirming the lift supports have adequate weather-resistant coatings for your climate. Make sure you’ve got enough installation space along your truck bed rails, as some lift mechanisms require wider mounting areas than others.
Lift Force Requirements
Understanding lift force requirements is essential for selecting the right tonneau cover vertical lift system. You’ll need lift supports that provide approximately 1.5 times your cover’s weight for ideal performance. If your tonneau cover weighs between 45 to 60 pounds, look for supports rated around 90 pounds of force.
For heavier covers, don’t make the mistake of combining pressure ratings. A 100-pound cover requires two separate 150-pound rated supports working independently. When selecting your lift supports, you’ll want to verify that both the extended length and mounting specifications match your cover’s dimensions. With proper selection and installation, you can expect your lift supports to perform effectively for up to five years under normal use conditions.
Mounting Ball Size Compatibility
Selecting the right mounting ball size stands as a critical factor in tonneau cover lift compatibility. You’ll need to measure your truck’s existing mounting balls carefully, as sizes typically range from 10mm and up. Getting this measurement wrong can lead to serious installation problems and potential safety risks.
Before purchasing your lift supports, you should check the manufacturer’s specifications to guarantee the mounting balls match your truck’s hardware. Don’t skip this step – an incompatible size won’t just make installation difficult; it can cause premature wear and eventual failure of your lift supports. If you’re unsure about the measurements, consult your truck’s manual or reach out to the manufacturer directly. A proper fit guarantees your tonneau cover will operate smoothly and safely for years to come.
Extended Length Measurements
Beyond the mounting ball size, proper extended length measurements play a key role in your tonneau cover’s performance. You’ll need to measure from the center of one ball mount to the other while your cover is fully open to get an accurate reading. Most vertical lift supports range between 26 to 27.5 inches in extended length.
When you’re replacing existing lift supports, it’s critical to match the current measurements to guarantee proper functionality. If you’re installing new supports, verify that the extended length aligns with your specific tonneau cover model’s requirements. Remember that the lift support’s length directly impacts its ability to handle your cover’s weight, so choosing the correct size isn’t just about fit – it’s about guaranteeing ideal lifting performance and safety.
Weather Resistance Properties
The three most essential weather resistance properties of tonneau cover lift supports directly impact their longevity and performance. You’ll want to make certain your cover’s material is highly resistant to both moisture and UV rays, protecting it from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight. The gas props and lift supports should feature heavy-duty seals and weather-resistant cylinders that won’t fail in extreme conditions.
Look for robust gasket seals that effectively keep water and debris out of your truck bed. These protective features aren’t just about immediate functionality – they’ll extend the life of your tonneau cover and its lifting mechanism. Don’t forget to maintain your cover’s weather resistance by regularly cleaning it and checking the seals for signs of wear.
Installation Space Needed
Proper installation space remains a crucial factor when choosing a vertical lift tonneau cover for your truck. You’ll need to measure the distance between ball mount centers carefully to guarantee your lift supports fit correctly. Remember that some models require installation while extended, so you’ll need extra clearance during the setup process.
Check your truck bed’s configuration, paying close attention to potential interference from bed rails or sidewalls. Your tonneau cover’s design might limit vertical movement if it overlaps with these components. Don’t forget to account for both the compressed and extended lengths of the lift supports within your available space. Additionally, heavier covers require stronger lift supports, which may need more installation room to function properly and securely support the cover’s weight.
Material and Build Quality
Selecting high-quality materials for your tonneau cover’s vertical lift system dramatically impacts its longevity and performance. You’ll want to focus on lifts made from durable aluminum or heavy-duty steel, as they’ll provide superior strength compared to plastic options. Look for lift supports with higher weight ratings, particularly those rated for 90 lbs or more, to guarantee reliable operation.
When evaluating build quality, choose products that meet or exceed OEM specifications. You’ll need to verify that the mounting dimensions match your truck’s specifications exactly for peak performance. Additionally, check that the lift system’s construction can withstand various weather conditions – this is vital for maintaining functionality year-round. Well-built lifts will resist corrosion, maintain smooth operation, and provide consistent support throughout their lifespan.
Replacement Part Numbers
Identifying correct replacement part numbers stands as a critical step when choosing vertical lift supports for your tonneau cover. You’ll need to verify compatibility with OEM numbers like SE1024M80BL, GPSt270P, or SE263P150S10 to ascertain proper fitment for your specific model.
When selecting replacement supports, you’ll want to measure the extended length between center mounts, which typically ranges from 26 to 27 inches. Pay close attention to weight capacity ratings, as they can vary from 38 to 150 pounds. It’s vital to match this with your cover’s weight requirements.
Don’t forget to check interchange numbers and cross-reference them with industry compatibility charts. This will help you find equivalent options if the exact OEM part isn’t available, saving you time and potential installation headaches.
Weight Support Capacity
When choosing vertical lift supports for your tonneau cover, weight capacity stands as the most significant factor to evaluate. You’ll need to select supports that can handle at least 1.5 times your lid’s weight for ideal performance and safety. The typical support capacity ranges from 38 to 150 pounds, depending on the model.
For heavier tonneau covers around 100 pounds, you’ll want to install two lift supports with combined ratings that exceed the total lid weight. Don’t risk installing supports with insufficient capacity, as this can lead to premature failure and potential safety hazards. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to verify compatibility with your cover’s weight. Proper weight support capacity isn’t just about functionality—it’s vital for the long-term durability of your tonneau cover system.