In need of replacing my cover, not only is the color I would like not available but wow the price, on average $245 before tax and shipping, and typically need to be replaced every 2 years. Has me thinking about making my own, a quick search turned up these 18 oz. vinyl coated tarps for a fraction of the price of a branded cover: http://www.canopiesandtarps.com/tan-vinyl-coated-tarps-18oz.html. Of course it wouldn't have some of the features like the ratcheting tie-down and clips, but I could live with a string pulled through grommets underneath and save a few hundred dollars every couple years. Any feedback is greatly appreciated, thanks in advance.
Ever tried to make your own roof top tent cover?
- Thread starter tantoco
- Start date
fullmetaljacket
New member
I have just replaced my tent cover (5 years old) , the genuine TJM one was $170AUD retail, it is the common style with raised ladder portion and zip on lower section that runs in the sail track. Maybe you could mix match a lesser brand cover with your tent.
http://www.tjm.com.au/en-oceania/product/tjm-yulara-roof-top-tent?destination=node/1809
http://www.tjm.com.au/en-oceania/product/tjm-yulara-roof-top-tent?destination=node/1809
Jimbo, thanks for the offer, that's a great deal, regrettably that model Tepui cover is 7" too short. Looks like the Gran Sabana is big enough, but 9" too wide, don't know if it's possible to cinch that much additional material around the bottom. How does it close at the bottom, the Eezi-Awn uses a webbing that is ratcheted inside a loop around the bottom, if similar I could see the bigger size just being ratcheted down more to make it fit. Thanks again.
Mike S
Sponsor - AutoHomeUSA
You can use the HD truck tarp material, it is pretty tough. Get the heaviest material that you can find and add internal upsets to reinforce the corners and other high wear spots. Use seam sealer.
The main problem is getting a fit that is tight enough not to flap in the wind (this is a primary reason for wear and failure), but at the same time it must be easy to get on and off. The ratchet strap idea solves this problem, sort of.
The main problem is getting a fit that is tight enough not to flap in the wind (this is a primary reason for wear and failure), but at the same time it must be easy to get on and off. The ratchet strap idea solves this problem, sort of.
Thanks Mike, it's a tough decision. In AZ the covers only last 2 years and having to drop $250+ every 2 years is a lot. The alternative like you noted could work but like you also point out could be a pain in the butt with lines running through grommets taking away one of the benefits which is speed of setup and take down. Was thinking of maybe a vinyl paint also that could put a few coats on the old one to make it last a little longer.