Airplex retractable aluminum tonneau cover open on a Ford F-150

Airplex Retractable Tonneau Cover — Ford F-150

Interlocking aluminum slats retract into a low-profile canister at the front of the F-150’s 5.5 ft bed, giving you full, unobstructed bed access without ever removing the cover. Mounts with bed rail clamps — no drilling required.

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Overview

This retractable cover is built specifically for the Ford F-150’s 5.5 ft bed — a hard-slat alternative to a folding or roll-up cover for owners who want both security and full bed access without a tradeoff. Interlocking extruded-aluminum slats connect on a flexible spine that slides along side rails into a compact canister mounted just behind the cab.

Because the slats retract rather than fold or roll off to one side, you get a hard-cover surface with the same open-bed convenience as a soft roll-up — pull the cover back, load anything from lumber to a full-size mattress, then slide it closed and lock it down again. It’s the style most F-150 owners choose when they don’t want to choose between security and access.

Built From

Slat Construction

Interlocking extruded-aluminum slats connect on a flexible spine, giving a rigid closed surface that still curls smoothly into the canister.

Canister Housing

A weather-sealed aluminum canister at the front of the bed houses the retracted slats and protects the mechanism from road debris.

Seals

EPDM rubber rail and tailgate seals keep rain and road spray out when the cover is closed and locked.

Hardware

Corrosion-resistant mounting hardware and a smooth-glide rail track keep the slide action consistent for years.

Confirming Your Ford F-150’s Fit

Bed length has to match exactly for the side rails and canister to seat correctly. This cover is built for the F-150’s 5.5 ft bed — check your bed length on the door jamb sticker or in your owner’s manual before ordering, since the F-150 is also sold with 6.5 ft and 8 ft bed options depending on cab configuration.

How Installation Works

  1. Clean the bed rails. Wipe down the factory rail where the side tracks will mount.
  2. Mount the canister. Position the canister housing at the front of the bed and clamp it to the rails.
  3. Attach the side tracks. Run the side rail tracks back to the tailgate and clamp them down evenly.
  4. Feed the slat assembly. Guide the slat cover into the tracks and confirm it slides smoothly end to end.
  5. Test the lock. Slide the cover fully closed and confirm the tailgate lock engages before your first drive.

Specifications

FitmentFord F-150, 5.5 ft bed
Cover StyleRetractable, interlocking aluminum slats
CanisterFront-mount, weather-sealed aluminum
MountingBed rail clamps, no drilling
SealRail and tailgate EPDM rubber seal
OperationManual slide, tailgate lock
AccessFull, unobstructed bed access
Install Time1–2 hours, one person

Why This Cover

  • Full bed access without removing the cover from the truck
  • Hard aluminum slats hold up better than vinyl against punctures and UV
  • Rail clamp mounting means no drilling into the F-150’s bed
  • Tailgate lock keeps the cover secured when closed
  • Low-profile canister keeps a clean look at the front of the bed

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this fit the 2015–2024 Ford F-150?

Yes, this cover is fitted for Ford F-150 model years 2015–2024 with a 5.5 ft bed. Check your bed length on the door jamb sticker if you’re unsure which bed size your truck has.

Does the canister get in the way of anything mounted near the cab?

No. The canister sits low and just behind the cab, clear of factory tie-down points and most bed-mounted accessories.

Can I install this by myself?

Yes, though the canister and side tracks make this a slightly longer install than a folding or roll-up cover — most owners complete it solo in 1–2 hours.

Can I stop the cover partway open?

Yes. The slide mechanism holds its position anywhere along the track, so you can open just enough to reach what you need.

How do I maintain the slide mechanism?

Keep the side tracks clear of dirt and debris and avoid harsh solvents on the seals. Replacement seals and hardware are sold separately if either ever needs attention.

Ready to Cover Your F-150 Bed?

Full bed access, no-drill mount, hard aluminum slats — fitted to your exact truck.

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