Had a Ranger with aluminim tubes for bows, and they were very stiff...the snow load was no problem. Also had an ElCamino that used two-piece aluminum tubes, and the snow bent one of them. This was a wet, sloppy Chicago snow...the kind that chokes a snowblower. Before that, I had an F250 with an 8' bed. I bought a used cover for it and the bows were solid aluminum bars. One of them was bent when I bought it, and the guy said it was from snow. Perhaps it varies with the brand...I don't know.

MR

 

I see what you mean MROLDV8. But I'm willing to take a chance with my bows. They're pretty stiff and and I think they could hold up to the task. These bows are shaped sorta like an I-beam, so they don't give very much. But anyways, thanks for the caution. If it comes a big snow and they bend, I'll say I should've listened to MROLDV8. Thanks.

 

Uhh... no.

 

uhhhhh....ok.

 

I think the only problem would be ALOT of snow putting too much weight on the material itslef and stretching it out.

 

Had a soft cover for a couple of years.... the snap on type and never had a problem with any snow loads. I too had the aluminum, slightly curved crossbars. Stretching it out in the winter is not something that will happen very easily as you'll find out if you unsnap it in cold weather!!! It will break your fingers trying to resnap it..... you're only option will be to let it sit in the sun a while and let it warm up.............
While I had the soft cover, I made a trip out west and ran into a bad rain storm and just about everything in my bed got wet! Have no idea how since all snaps were on and tight. Upon coming home, I bought an ARE LSII lid and have had no further problems regardless of weather.

 

I'm going to leave it on and just hope it doesn't become unsnapped. But when I get my 04, a hard tonneau will be on my bed for sure. Then I wouldn't have to worry about the snow! LoL!

 

After thinking about it, I went out and took it off. I changed my mind an took MROLDV8's advice since he's had a couple bad experiences with tonneau's and snow. Might as well be safe than sorry. Now my tonneau is in my storage building safe and sound and ready for Spring. Thanks MROLDV8 and everyone else who has helped.