TruXedo TruXport vs. Gator ETX: Which Roll-Up Cover is Best for Your RAM?
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You drive a 2009–2018 RAM 1500 (or a newer Classic model).
You want to cover your bed to keep your groceries dry and improve your gas mileage, but you don't want to spend $1,000 on a hard cover.
You need a Soft Roll-Up.
Two names dominate this category: TruXedo and Gator.
- The TruXedo TruXport: A rugged, top-mount cover that sits 1.5 inches above the bed. It’s built like a tank and handles heavy snow loads beautifully.
- The Gator ETX / SR1: A sleek, inside-mount cover that gives you that smooth, flush "street truck" look.
Both cost less than $350. Both install in 20 minutes. But they sit on your truck very differently.
In this guide, we compare the profiles, latching systems, and tension adjusters of these two best-sellers to help you decide which style fits your build.
Compare Soft Roll-Up Styles
Sleek Flush Fit or Rugged Top Mount?
|
Cover Model |
Profile Height |
Latch System |
Best For |
|
TruXedo TruXport |
Top Mount (1.5"). Sits on rails. |
Dual Paddle. accessible from both sides. |
Winter/Snow. Sheds water best. |
|
Gator ETX / SR1 |
Inside Mount (Low). Flush look. |
Single Trigger. Easy one-hand open. |
Style. Clean, low-profile look. |
|
Tyger Auto T1 |
Top Mount. |
Dual Latch. |
Budget. Best value under $200. |
|
TruXedo Lo Pro |
Inside Mount (Ultra Low). |
Single Trigger. |
Premium. Lifetime warranty & self-adjusting tension. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Soft Roll-Up)
Can I take these through a car wash?
Yes. Soft roll-up covers are designed to handle automatic car washes. However, the high-pressure dryers might cause the vinyl to ripple slightly while the air is hitting it. We recommend using the "Wax" option to help keep the vinyl conditioned and UV protected.
Do these covers shrink in the winter?
Vinyl does contract in cold weather. However, premium covers like TruXedo and Gator feature Manual Tension Adjusters. If the cover gets too tight in January or too loose in July, you can simply turn a dial near the cab to tighten or loosen the tarp for a perfect fit year-round.
Is a soft cover secure?
It keeps honest people honest. When the cover is closed and your tailgate is locked, the latches are inaccessible. A thief cannot simply open it. However, a soft cover can be cut with a knife. If you frequently park in high-crime areas with expensive tools, we recommend upgrading to a Hard Folding Cover.
Cover your bed for less.
Get full access and weather protection without breaking the bank. Shop our verified collection of 2009–2018 RAM 1500 Soft Roll-Up Covers.