I just put a deposit down on an ARE LSII fiberglass lid for my Screw. I like the cosmetic look of the fiberglass lids, but what are the real benefits of having a tonneau cover? For the arctic dwellers like myself (I'm in Cleveland, OH and snow is just around the corner), are they really necessary?

Thank guys

 

It depends on what you use your truck for mostly. If you plan on hauling a lot of big, bulky items around, a tonneau is probably going to get in the way. If, on the other hand, you're going to be hauling small stuff, then it's definitely worth it because it turns the bed into a big trunk, especially if you'll be hauling anything in the weather and don't have room in the cab.

I've got a SnugLid on my SuperCrew and most of the time, the only things in the bed are my medical kit and a bag with all my emergency response gear, plus occasional training supplies and groceries. However, if I want to haul something big, like some furniture, it takes about 15 minutes and two people to take it off (just did it today for the first time).

They also say the tonneau increases your gas mileage, but since I got mine from the dealer with the lid already on, I can't say from personal experience.

 

You got a good point.

I probably won't be hauling too many bulky items. In fact, I hauled a mattress set for a buddy today which is the first time I really used the bed. I heard about improved gas mileage, but with the weather changes in Ohio, is it really necessary?