Gator Sfx Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

Get the Lowdown on This Popular Tri-Fold Truck Bed Cover

The Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover is one of the most popular truck bed covers on the market today. This lightweight yet durable soft roll-up cover provides reliable protection for the truck bed and anything stored inside.

With its budget-friendly price point and hassle-free installation, it’s easy to see why so many truck owners are drawn to the Gator SFX tri-fold. But how well does this tonneau cover really perform? And is it the right choice for your truck? This buying guide has got you covered.

Below we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover to decide if it’s the right pick for you. From key features and benefits to cost, installation, materials, and more, we’ll cover it all! Let’s get started.

Overview of the Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

The Gator SFX tri-fold tonneau is a soft, roll-up truck bed cover made of vinyl material over an aluminum frame. The cover features a low-profile design and folds into thirds for easy opening, closing, and storing.

When closed, the Gator SFX provides complete coverage of the truck bed, protecting cargo from weather and theft. But you can still quickly access the bed by simply folding the cover forward. Side rails and rear clamps also keep the cover tightly secured.

While basic in its design and features, the Gator SFX gets high marks for its affordable price and simple, hassle-free installation – two qualities that really attract budget-focused truck owners.

Overall, it’s a great choice if you want a basic soft tonneau cover that still provides reliable protection without breaking the bank. Now let’s look closer at the key features and benefits of this popular cover.

Key Features and Benefits of the Gator SFX

Here are the main features and advantages offered by the Gator SFX tri-fold tonneau cover:

• Complete truck bed coverage – When closed, the cover seals off the entire bed for security and protection.
• Tri-fold design – Folds into thirds for quick and easy access to the bed. Makes opening, closing, and removing a breeze.
• Low-profile look – Sleek, rounded design that contours to the bed for a stylish, integrated appearance.
• Vinyl over aluminum construction – The vinyl material is durable and weather-resistant while the aluminum frame provides sturdy support.
• Budget-friendly price – More affordable than many other soft truck bed covers. Great value for the price.
• Quick, easy installation – Requires no drilling. Installs with simple rear clamps and front header seals.
• Gas struts – Provide smooth, effortless opening and closing of the cover.
• Available for a wide range of trucks – Compatible with most truck makes and models.

For truck owners who want reliable protection, easy access, and a stylish look at a budget cost, the Gator SFX brings a lot to the table. But how much does this popular tri-fold run?

Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover Pricing

The Gator SFX tonneau cover retails for $189 to $379 depending on the specific truck make and model.

Here’s a quick price breakdown:

• Small/midsize truck models – $189 to $269
• Full-size truck models – $309 to $379

These retail prices are for the tonneau cover only and do not include additional installation accessories, including sealant and wiring kits. So your total cost may be a bit higher depending on your specific needs.

However, even factoring in additional installation items, the Gator SFX remains one of the most budget-friendly soft folding truck bed covers on the market. The price makes it accessible for most truck owners.

You can often find the Gator SFX on sale from various retailers, especially for older or less common truck models. So shopping around and watching for deals can help save you money on this already value-priced cover.

Now let’s go over where you can buy the Gator SFX tri-fold both online and in physical stores.

Where to Buy the Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

The Gator SFX is sold through various automotive parts retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar stores. Here are some of the best places to find it:

• Amazon – Wide selection of models with free shipping for Prime members
• AutoZone – Frequently stocks the most common SFX models for pickup
• Walmart – Budget prices with in-store and online purchasing
• 4 Wheel Parts – Specializes in truck/SUV parts including the full SFX catalog
• RealTruck – Large online retailer with all models and accessories
• Rough Country – Trusted source for off-road accessories and parts
• eBay – New and used SFX tonneaus sold by various vendors

The great availability of the Gator SFX, both online and in-store, makes it easy to purchase. Be sure to get the exact model designed specifically for your truck’s make, model, and year.

Installation is also straightforward. But before getting into that, let’s go over some key performance factors of the SFX tri-fold.

Gator SFX Performance, Materials, and Design

How does the Gator SFX measure up when it comes to real-world performance and durability? Here’s an overview of how it handles some key areas:

• Water resistance – The vinyl material is water-resistant for basic protection. But not fully waterproof in heavy rain.
• Weathering – Vinyl stands up reasonably well to sun, heat, snow, and ice. Aluminum frame avoids corrosion.
• Security – Locking rear header provides decent security but can be compromised if determined thief. Not as secure as a hard lid cover.
• Longevity – Quality is just okay. With care, lasts 3-5 years typically before wearing out. Warranty is 1 year.
• Driving performance – Low-profile design has minimal effect on wind resistance and mileage. Noise level is average for a soft cover.
• Appearance – Glossy vinyl finish looks good when new. Tends to fade over time. Available in black or tan.
• Weight – Light aluminum frame and vinyl material keep weight about 55 pounds or less.

For moderate climates and basic cargo protection needs on a budget, the Gator SFX delivers. Next, let’s look at installation.

Installing the Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

One of the biggest selling points of the Gator SFX is how quick and easy it is to install on your truck. Here are the basic steps:

1. Position the cover on the truck bed and make sure it is centered and aligned evenly.
2. Clamp the two rear corners of the tonneau to the back of the truck bed using the provided clamps.
3. Adjust the tension of the cover by tightening or loosening the clamps as needed.
4. At the front header, attach the weather stripping first, then install the header rail with the provided bolts.
5. Open and close the cover several times to make sure it operates smoothly. Adjust clamps as needed.
6. Apply provided sealant around the edges to create a watertight seal (optional).
7. Connect the dome light switch wiring kit to enable automatic dome light functionality (optional).

The whole process can usually be completed in less than an hour with just basic tools and no drilling required. Detailed instructions with pictures are also provided.

Just be sure your truck box is empty and clean before getting started. And have a helper make it easier. With the simple install, you can start enjoying the benefits of your Gator SFX quickly.

Truck Compatibility for the Gator SFX

The Gator SFX tri-fold is made to fit a wide range of popular truck makes and models. Here are the years and beds it is designed to be compatible with:

Full-Size Trucks:

• Ford F-150 – 2009 to 2021 – 5.5ft, 6.5ft, 8ft bed
• Ford F-250, F-350 – 2005 to 2020 – 6.5ft, 8ft bed
• Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra – 2007 to 2021 – 5.8ft, 6.6ft, 8ft bed
• Ram 1500, 2500, 3500 – 2009 to 2021 – 6ft 4in, 8ft bed
• Toyota Tundra – 2007 to 2021 – 5.5ft, 6.5ft, 8.1ft bed
• Nissan Titan – 2004 to 2019 – 5.6ft, 7.3ft bed

Midsize Trucks:

• Toyota Tacoma – 2005 to 2021 – 5ft, 6ft bed
• Nissan Frontier – 2005 to 2021 – 5ft, 6ft bed
• Chevrolet Colorado – 2004 to 2021 – 5ft 2in, 6ft 2in bed
• GMC Canyon – 2004 to 2021 – 5ft 2in, 6ft 2in bed

The Gator SFX is also available for less common truck models. Be sure to choose the exact right fit for your specific truck when ordering.

Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover Reviews

With thousands of truck owners using the Gator SFX tonneau cover, there are plenty of reviews that provide helpful insights into its real-world performance.

Here is an overview of what users like and dislike about this budget-priced soft cover:

Pros

• Great low cost tonneau option
• Installs quickly and easily
• Folds away for full bed access
• Made of decent and durable materials
• Improves gas mileage slightly
• Good value for the price

Cons

• Not fully waterproof in heavy rain
• Security not as robust as a hard cover
• Vinyl prone to fading and wearing over time
• Long-term durability just average
• Limited warranty period

Overall, if you want an affordable, entry-level soft tonneau that installs in minutes and provides good basic protection, the Gator SFX earns high marks for value. Just don’t expect premium materials or performance.

How Does the Gator SFX Compare to Other Tonneau Covers?

The Gator SFX tri-fold competes most closely with other budget-priced soft rolling covers like the Lund Genesis Tri-Fold and Tyger Auto T3 Tri-Fold. Compared to these, the Gator SFX holds its own quite well for a lower cost.

When looking at upgrades, soft folding covers like the BakFlip G2 and Extang Trifecta 2.0 offer greater durability, security, and weather protection for about twice the price.

For maximum security and protection, hard folding and retractable covers such as the BakFlip MX4, RetraxPRO XR, or Roll-N-Lock LG220 are the best but come with a premium price tag.

So the Gator SFX hits a nice sweet spot between price and offerings. Just remember, you get what you pay for with tonneaus. Higher cost means better construction, materials, security and longevity.

Key Takeaways on the Gator SFX Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

Here are some key parting thoughts on this popular budget truck bed cover:

• Provides good basic protection at a very wallet-friendly price
• Straightforward, hassle-free installation is a major perk
• Best suited for fair weather regions that get limited rain and snow
• Not the most heavy duty or waterproof cover out there
• Quality and durability is decent but not on par with premium brands
• Great option for the budget-focused truck owner who values ease of use

For truck owners wanting everyday protection and improved gas mileage without a big dent in their wallet, the Gator SFX is a solid choice. Just set your expectations accordingly and take good care of it for best results.