ecko04
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Operation Video
Let’s start with the basics: the instruction manual isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. If you’re the type who likes to read through a manual, gather everything you need, and expect a smooth process — you’re in for a rough time.
However, if you don’t mind a few hiccups along the way, you’ll get through this install in about 4-5 hours. I managed to complete mine solo in roughly 5 hours, despite a broken finger from a week earlier.
That said, the cover itself is excellent — top-notch quality and silent in operation.
There’s currently a tri-fold tonneau cover waiting at the dealership for me that was included as part of my purchase deal, but I wanted electric. I thought about going with EGR but they told me their system doesn’t play well with the Lightning. I figured I’d give this one a shot and go from there.
Bestwyll Electric Tonneau Cover - https://a.co/d/2Cmunbm
The Hiccups:
The App and Key Fob:
The app is basic but functional, allowing you to control the cover as long as you’re within Bluetooth range. The secondary key fob is of good quality and works well. The factory fob is another option, press unlock three times and the cover opens/closes, press again and it’ll stop. There’s also the interior button that has the same functionality. I appreciate the range of operation options, which are typically only available with covers that cost double or triple this price.
Issues with the Seller:
I had a significant issue with the seller misrepresenting product availability. They claimed the item was in stock and ready to ship, but in reality, the shipment hadn’t arrived from China. Instead, the seller generated a tracking number without shipping the item, leading to a delay of over a week. Despite their claims, this was not due to FedEx or Black Friday shipping volume, but rather their failure to have the product on hand. Multiple attempts were made to shift the blame to FedEx, even though the carrier had not yet received the package.
Let’s start with the basics: the instruction manual isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. If you’re the type who likes to read through a manual, gather everything you need, and expect a smooth process — you’re in for a rough time.
However, if you don’t mind a few hiccups along the way, you’ll get through this install in about 4-5 hours. I managed to complete mine solo in roughly 5 hours, despite a broken finger from a week earlier.
That said, the cover itself is excellent — top-notch quality and silent in operation.
There’s currently a tri-fold tonneau cover waiting at the dealership for me that was included as part of my purchase deal, but I wanted electric. I thought about going with EGR but they told me their system doesn’t play well with the Lightning. I figured I’d give this one a shot and go from there.
Bestwyll Electric Tonneau Cover - https://a.co/d/2Cmunbm
The Hiccups:
- Attaching the side rails to the canister before moving it to the truck:
The instructions are practically useless here. You’ll need to figure it out yourself. Use the shorter screws to attach the rails to the canister. These aren’t clearly marked, so don’t mistakenly use the longer screws. - Offset brackets placement:
The offset brackets should go toward the front of the bed, not the rear. While it’s possible to move them later, it’s much easier to install them in the correct position the first time. - Adjustable brackets and tailgate clearance:
The brackets are adjustable up and down. If your tailgate doesn’t close properly, loosen (but don’t remove) the bolts. Ensure the canister is pushed as far forward as possible, then adjust the rear brackets slightly upward for extra clearance. With patience, it’ll work, and the tailgate will close properly. I’ve attached a video showing it in action with the cover closed. - Yellow wire connection for factory key fob operation:
The yellow wire is used to integrate with the factory key fob. The connection point varies by model:- For F-150s (including Lightning and Raptor), the wire is located at the driver’s side B-pillar, on the brown plug.
- With the plug's tab facing down, connect the yellow wire to pin position 4 (bottom row, 4th slot from the right). In my F-150 Lightning (2024), the wire was brown with green.
- Lifting Onto the Vehicle:
- I managed to do this by myself, but you really shouldn’t. With the rails attached, the unit becomes awkwardly shaped. While it’s not terribly heavy (a little over 100 lbs), the size and shape make it challenging to handle alone.
- If you’re determined to go solo, ensure you have plenty of space to maneuver. I moved my truck outside to give myself ample room. To avoid accidental scratches, use something like moving blankets to protect the sides of the vehicle.
- That said, the safest and smartest option is to grab someone to help. Having an extra set of hands will not only make the lift easier but will also reduce the risk of damage to the cover or your vehicle — and prevent potential injury.
The App and Key Fob:
The app is basic but functional, allowing you to control the cover as long as you’re within Bluetooth range. The secondary key fob is of good quality and works well. The factory fob is another option, press unlock three times and the cover opens/closes, press again and it’ll stop. There’s also the interior button that has the same functionality. I appreciate the range of operation options, which are typically only available with covers that cost double or triple this price.
Issues with the Seller:
I had a significant issue with the seller misrepresenting product availability. They claimed the item was in stock and ready to ship, but in reality, the shipment hadn’t arrived from China. Instead, the seller generated a tracking number without shipping the item, leading to a delay of over a week. Despite their claims, this was not due to FedEx or Black Friday shipping volume, but rather their failure to have the product on hand. Multiple attempts were made to shift the blame to FedEx, even though the carrier had not yet received the package.
