Among some of the issues you can have when you install the Bakflip MX4 cover on your truck bed, is the water leakage. Though it can happen anywhere, it is likely common at the tailgate.
The issue is always disheartening, especially when you just install the cover. This article will highlight some of the causes of the issue and what could be done to resolve it. Keep reading for more information.
Bakflip MX4 Leaking At Tailgate (Causes and possible Solution)
The Bakflip MX4 is one of the most durable, popular, and quality truck bed covers you can buy on the market. Despite all the good reviews about the cover, some users still experience issues with it.
Remember that the cover is not waterproof. It is, therefore, not surprising that one of the commonest issues experienced by the user of the cover is water leakage, especially at the tailgate. The following are some of the causes of the issues and the possible solutions.
1. Pressure washer
The manufacturer recommends that you wash the cover often to avoid having some issues with it. Not only that, but regular washing also ensures that the cover lasts for a longer duration. You can wash it with a hose or make use of a pressure washer.
However, there is a high chance that you will have a water leakage issue with the Bakflip MX4 cover when you use a pressure washer at the tailgate. The pressure from the machine could lead to some water finding its way to the truck bed.
In a situation like this, you could be ruining the cargo in the cover if you are not careful. Many enthusiasts believe the use of pressure washers could leak more water into the truck bed than when there is a heavy downpour.
In most situations, the problem is caused by poor installation of the cover, the misalignment of the cover, and the closeness of the pressure washer. Below are some of the things you can do to resolve it.
Dry the truck bed
After washing the truck cover, it is recommended that you open the cover to know if there is any leakage. If you notice any traces of water, you should get a dry towel and use it to wipe the truck bed. If you have cargo that could be damaged by water, you should bring out such cargo and dry it.
Shut properly
Water leakage caused by pressure washers could be avoided rather than fixing it. One of the things you can do to avoid the issue is by shutting the tailgate properly before you begin to wash the cover.
Ensure proper installation
You don’t have to wait until you have issues with the cover before you do the right thing. If you get it right while installing the cover, it is unlikely that you have issues with water leakage at the tailgate. If you have installed the cover yourself, it is recommended that you reinstall the cover.
Proper alignment
Due to handling, care, and other factors, the Bakflip MX4 could have misaligned with the cover. In this situation, it will leak water to the truck bed through the tailgate when you use a pressure washer for it. Once you notice that the cover is not properly aligned, it is recommended that you slightly move it to align. You can also retighten some loose ends just to ensure that the cover is properly aligned.
Seek help
If you have tried the steps above and you notice traces of water in the truck bed when next you use a pressure washer for the cover, it is recommended that you call professionals for help.
2. Opened tailgate
As a truck owner, you should know that you have to properly shut the tailgate. Leaving it open could attract thieves to the valuables in the truck bed or leak water into it. Not only that, but it could also lead to noise when the truck is in motion.
Due to wear, lack of consciousness, and other factors, you likely leave the tailgate open. In such a situation, you will likely notice water in the truck bed, especially if it has rained before you remember to not shut the tailgate. If you are experiencing this issue, below are some of the things you can do.
Get rid of the water
To avoid damage to the valuables in the cargo, it is better you first get rid of the water before you think about the next thing you want to do. It is recommended that you get a dry towel and use it to wipe the water from the truck bed.
Resolve the issue
Once you know the source of the problem, which is the failure to properly shut the tailgate, you should make efforts to resolve the issue. You can try to move the tailgate in different directions to see if you will be able to shut it. If doing that is unable to resolve it, you should visit a professional.
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3. Poor installation
The improper fitting of the Bakflip MX4 cover could lead to a lot of issues, and water leakage at the tailgate is one of the common issues. You have options when you want to install the cover. You can do it yourself or you seek the assistance of a professional.
Due to weather, poor grasping of instruction, lack of expertise, and other factors, you could do a poor job while installing the Bakflip MX4 cover.
This implies that water leakage, among many others, is one of the issues you will experience. Resolving this issue is very simple. Below is a list of some of the steps you can follow.
Reinstall the cover
If you have installed the cover yourself and you believe you can get it right on the second attempt, you can go ahead to reinstall the cover.
You must, however, be careful to avoid ruining the cover any further. To ease the process of reinstalling the cover, you can watch video tutorials online, contact the manufacturer, or you can ask an experienced friend for guidance.
Trust a professional
You can trust a professional for the appropriate solution to any issue you have with the Bakflip MX4 cover. If you have tried to reinstall the cover and the problem persists, you should hire an expert for the professional installation of the cover.
4. Pool of water
Recall that the Bakflip MX4 truck bed cover is not waterproof. It is, however, designed to drain water when it rains. During a heavy downpour, you could notice a pool of water on the cover, especially when the cover has sagged.
If you leave a pool of water in the cover for a longer duration, the tailgate will likely leak water into the truck bed. Not only that, but it could also leak water into the truck bed from other parts, especially if there are holes on the cover. Highlighted below are some of the things you can do to resolve the issue.
Get rid of the water
Leaving the pool of water on the cover could leak water to the truck bed apart from the tailgate. Before you open the cover to know the level of water in the truck bed, you should first get rid of the water on the cover. You should, however, be careful when you want to get rid of the water to avoid ruining the cover.
Get a weather seal
A pool of water on the cover could leak water from other parts apart from the tailgate. If there are holes on the cover, you should block such openings with the use of a weather seal.
Professional service
Getting rid of the pool of water and drying the truck bed might not prevent the issue in the future, especially if the cover is sagging. You should hire a professional for proper resolution of the issue.
Maintenance tips for the Bakflip MX4
You can use the Bakflip MX4 for many years on the condition that you care for it properly. Not only will the cover last, but you will also enjoy the best throughout the duration. Below are some of the things you can do to care for the Bakflip MX4 cover.
Regular washing
The cover will get dirty, depending on how often you use it, the nature of the road, and other conditions. Washing the cover does more than make it look neat. It also gets rid of the dirt that could block the drainage channel. To avoid quick discoloration of the cover due to the way you wash it, ensure that you only make use of auto-rated soap.
Trust a professional
In the same way, the other parts of the truck could have issues, you could also experience problems with the cover. When it happens, you should trust a professional for prompt resolution.
Avoid UV
The UV could ruin the paint of the truck and the color of the cover when you park the truck under direct sunlight for a longer duration. If possible, you should only park in a garage or shady areas.
Conclusion
Water leakage at the tailgate of the Bakflip MX4 could ruin the cargo. You need a swift response to resolve the issue and prevent it.