Chloe Zhang
Plastic bedliners are a quick, cheap, and easy way to protect your truck bed from damage. However, they are not tied down and can shift during travel, causing scratches and other damage to your truck. Over time, plastic bedliners can also rub against the truck bed, causing paint damage that can lead to rust and corrosion. To recoat your truck bed with a new plastic bedliner, you will need to first remove the existing bedliner by unscrewing the Phillips-head screws that secure it to the bed. Once removed, you can install a new plastic bedliner or upgrade to a spray-in bedliner. Spray-in bedliners are made from polyurea, polyurea hybrid, or polyurethane, which offer better protection and can repair scratches, cracks, or gouges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To protect pickup truck beds, work trucks, and recreational vehicles from damage caused by weather, cargo, employees, or daily use. |
| Durability | Not made to last forever; can experience damage over time. |
| Repair | Can be repaired; made from polyurea, polyurea hybrid, or polyurethane, so repair materials are made of the same materials to bond with the original liner. |
| Maintenance | Regular maintenance can help prevent damage; remove dirt, debris, and grime buildup to prevent degradation of the protective layer. |
| Removal | Can be removed for cleaning or upgrading to a spray-in bedliner; requires hand tools and unscrewing Phillips-head screws. |
| Drawbacks | Plastic bedliners can lead to scratches, paint damage, and rust due to shifting and debris buildup underneath. |
| Alternatives | Spray-in bedliners, such as Durabak, offer better protection, resistance to weather and UV damage, and a non-slip texture. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the old plastic bedliner
Removing an old plastic bedliner can be a challenging task, requiring significant effort and careful execution to avoid damaging your truck bed. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove the old plastic bedliner from your truck:
Firstly, understand why you are removing the old plastic bedliner. It might be due to the need for cleaning, upgrading to a spray-in bedliner, or addressing any damage caused by the bedliner itself. Plastic bedliners are known to cause scratches on the truck bed due to their constant movement and shifting during travel. Additionally, they can trap water, leading to rotting and decay.
Now, let's get into the step-by-step removal process:
- Open the tailgate and get into the truck bed. This step allows you access to the bedliner and the screws securing it.
- Locate the Phillips-head screws. These screws are typically used to attach the bedliner to the truck bed. You will usually find them along the top bed rail and the perimeter of the tailgate.
- Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, unscrew all the screws that hold the bedliner and tailgate liner in place. Make sure to remove all the screws to loosen the bedliner completely.
- With the screws removed, carefully lift the tailgate liner off the truck bed using your hands. You might need assistance from a friend at this stage.
- Push the side panels of the bedliner together, towards the tailgate. This step helps in removing the bedliner through the tailgate hole. Be extremely cautious during this step, as accidental scratches on the truck bed are common.
- With the help of your friend, carefully lift and remove the bedliner out of the truck bed through the tailgate hole. If your bedliner uses circle cups or four small clips, ensure you remove them as well.
- Once removed, inspect the truck bed for any scratches, repairs, or debris left behind by the bedliner. It is common to find scratches and other damage underneath the liner.
- If you intend to install a new bedliner or repaint the truck bed, consider preparing the surface thoroughly. Proper surface preparation will ensure that the new coating or liner adheres well to the existing surface.
Remember, bedliner removal can be messy and challenging. If you are unsure about any step or feel uncomfortable with the process, it is advisable to consult a professional body shop for assistance. They can provide guidance and ensure that the removal is done safely and effectively.
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Preparing the truck bed surface
Firstly, if you have an existing plastic bedliner, it is essential to remove it carefully. Plastic bedliners are known to cause scratches and other damage to the truck bed due to their constant movement and
Once the plastic bedliner is removed, thoroughly inspect the truck bed surface for any damage. Pay close attention to scratches, cracks, chips, gouges, or signs of rust and corrosion. If you notice any damage, it is important to repair it before proceeding. You can use a suitable repair material, such as a bedliner repair kit, to patch up small damaged spots and ensure the integrity of the truck bed.
After addressing any damage, it is crucial to clean the truck bed surface thoroughly. Use a hose or pressure washer to remove any dirt, debris, or grime buildup. For more stubborn areas, soap and water can be used. Remember to avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the surface. Ensure the truck bed is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Before applying the new coating, it is essential to prepare the surface properly. Sand the truck bed surface to create a rough texture, which will help the new coating adhere better. You can use a sanding block or sandpaper with a fine grit to smooth out any uneven areas and create a consistent finish. Make sure to wear the proper personal protective equipment, including a respirator and safety goggles, to avoid inhaling any dust or debris.
Finally, after sanding, wipe down the truck bed surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residual dust. Ensure the surface is free of any contaminants that may interfere with the adhesion of the new coating. Once the surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared, you can proceed with the recoating process, following the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you are using.
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Repairing damage to the truck bed
Plastic bedliners are a cheaper and easier alternative to spray-in bedliners, but they can cause damage to your truck. They are not tied down, so debris can make its way underneath, and they move and shift as you drive, leading to scratches and other damage. Drop-in bedliners also block the drain holes in your truck, causing water to sit and leading to rotting and decay.
If you decide to remove a plastic bedliner, you will need a few hand tools and possibly some help. First, open your tailgate and crawl into the bed. Find the Phillips-head screws located around the liner, including along the top of the bed rail and around the perimeter of your tailgate, and unscrew them. Then, carefully lift the tailgate liner off the truck with your hands. Push the side panels on the bedliner together and lift the bedliner out through the tailgate hole. Be very careful, as you may find scratches underneath, and it is easy to scratch the truck bed during the removal.
Once the bedliner is removed, you may find that you need to repair the truck bed before installing a new liner. Regular maintenance can help prevent damage, but there are still many things that can cause it. Weather and UV exposure can cause cracks, and heavy loads can tear or gouge the liner. Water, grease, oil, or harsh chemicals can cause stains on the bedliner and lead to wear if not cleaned.
If you find rust on your truck bed, start by assessing whether it is surface rust or structural rust. Surface rust can be addressed relatively easily, while structural rust indicates deeper corrosion that may have weakened the metal and requires more extensive repairs. To treat rust, start by thoroughly cleaning the rusty area using a mild detergent or automotive cleaner, then rinse with clean water and let it dry. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to gently scrub the affected area, removing any loose rust, flaking paint, or debris, and being careful not to damage the surrounding paint. Apply a rust converter or rust remover to the cleaned surface, following the product instructions. Once the rust is treated, clean the surface again and remove any remaining loose rust, debris, or old paint. Apply a layer of automotive primer to the repaired surface to act as a protective barrier, then apply automotive paint that matches the colour of your truck bed. For extensive rust damage, you may need to carefully remove damaged sections using tools like a cutting wheel or reciprocating saw. If your truck bed has holes due to rust damage, welding or patching may be necessary. Small holes can be filled with welding, while larger holes may require patching with sheet metal and securing with rivets, screws, or welding. Finally, apply a high-quality protective coating to the repaired areas and the entire truck bed.
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Applying the new coating
If you're looking to recoat your truck bed with a plastic bedliner, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to ensure that your truck bed is clean and free of any dirt, debris, or grime buildup. This is crucial as any debris can get caught underneath the liner, and moisture can get trapped, leading to rust and corrosion. You can use a hose or pressure washer to remove any built-up grime, and for tougher areas, soap and water can help. Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals as they may damage the surface.
Once your truck bed is clean and dry, it's time to prepare the surface for the new coating. This step is crucial as it will ensure that the new material properly adheres to the existing surface. If there are any small cracks, chips, or gouges, make sure to repair them beforehand. You can use a bedliner repair kit or a product like Durabak, which can fill in and cover up any minor damage. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product you choose and work in a well-ventilated area with the proper personal protective equipment when working with chemicals.
When you're ready to apply the new coating, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment. For a plastic drop-in bedliner, you'll need to lay it carefully into your truck bed, ensuring it's secure and doesn't shift around. If you're using a spray-on bedliner, you can use a spray gun or air-assisted spray equipment to apply an even coat. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you're using.
For a durable and long-lasting finish, consider using a product that offers excellent adhesion and protection, such as Total Coat Bedliner, which can be applied to clean, bare metal, primed, painted, or top-coated surfaces. A thick coating of around 1 mm (40 mil) will maintain its original elasticity for many years without cracking or peeling. Alternatively, Durabak offers a weather-resistant, UV-stable, and non-slip coating that anyone can apply. It's available in a range of colours and provides protection against abrasion and impact.
Remember to allow sufficient curing time for your new coating before using your truck bed. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended curing time, as it may vary depending on the product and environmental conditions. Once the coating has fully cured, you can start using your truck bed, knowing that it's protected from the elements, cargo, and daily use.
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Maintaining the new bedliner
Regular Cleaning
Dirt, debris, and grime can build up on your bedliner over time, leading to the degradation of its protective layer. Regularly clean your bedliner using a hose or pressure washer to remove any accumulated dirt and grime. For more stubborn areas, use soap and water to ensure a thorough cleaning. Remember to avoid using harsh chemicals, as they may damage the bedliner material.
Protect from Weather and UV Exposure
If your truck is stored or used outdoors, protect your bedliner from extreme weather conditions and UV radiation. UV rays can cause the colour of your bedliner to fade and degrade over time if it isn't UV-stable. Consider using a bedliner product that offers UV protection, such as Durabak, which comes in various colours and provides resistance to weather and UV damage.
Prevent Liquid Spills
Liquid spills, such as water, grease, oil, or harsh chemicals, can cause stains and wear on your bedliner if left unattended. Ensure any spills are cleaned promptly to maintain the integrity of the bedliner's protection.
Inspect and Repair
Conduct regular inspections of your bedliner to identify any small cracks, chips, or gouges. Catching these issues early will help prevent them from becoming bigger problems. If you notice any damage, repair it promptly using repair materials made from polyurea, polyurea hybrid, or polyurethane, which will bond with the original liner. Ensure proper surface preparation before making repairs for a seamless blend.
Avoid Damage from Cargo
Be cautious when loading and unloading sharp and heavy objects, as they can puncture or tear the bedliner. Consider using a soft rubber mat underneath your cargo to prevent direct contact with the bedliner, reducing the chances of scratches or punctures.
Upgrade from Plastic Bedliners
If you currently have a plastic bedliner, consider upgrading to a spray-in bedliner. Plastic bedliners can move around during travel, leading to scratches and damage to your truck bed's paint job. They can also trap water, causing rust and corrosion. By upgrading to a spray-in bedliner, you'll achieve better protection and avoid the issues commonly associated with plastic bedliners.
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Frequently asked questions
Truck bedliners are exposed to damage from weather, cargo, employees, daily use, UV exposure, and harsh chemicals. Over time, cracks, scratches, and gouges may form, warranting repair or recoating.
First, decide whether to repair, recoat, or replace your bedliner. If you decide to recoat, hire a professional to ensure the new material is properly applied. Before making any repairs, thoroughly prepare the surface to ensure the repair material will bond to the existing coating. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area and use proper personal protective equipment when working with chemicals.
You can use truck bed liner paint to restore your vehicle after removing the plastic bedliner. Durabak is another option that comes in over 18 colours and is resistant to weather, heat, and UV damage. Alternatively, Total Coat Bedliner provides exceptional adhesion on most metals, primers, paints, and fibreglass.
Regular maintenance can help prevent damage to your truck bedliner. Regularly remove dirt, debris, and grime buildup using a hose or pressure washer, and soap and water for rougher areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the material. Conduct inspections to catch small cracks, chips, and gouges early on, and be careful when loading and unloading sharp and heavy objects.
