Bed rail caps are a significant addition to any pickup truck. Not only do they provide aesthetic appeal, but they also offer crucial protection for the bed rails against scratches, dings, and UV damage.
To ensure these caps remain securely fastened to your truck, it’s critical to choose a strong, reliable tape.
Among the brands available, 3M tapes are known for their outstanding performance in automotive applications. Today, we’ll discuss the top 3M tape options to use when attaching bed rail caps.
The Importance of Selecting the Right 3M Tape
Selecting the proper adhesive tape affects the longevity and durability of your bed rail caps. 3M’s range of double-sided tapes provides different levels of bonding power suitable for various automotive needs.
Below, we’ll explore three highly recommended 3M tapes suited for this task.
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1. 3M™ VHB™ Tape
3M™ VHB™ Tapes are among the most reliable and robust double-sided tapes in the market, recommended for their long-lasting bond and versatility:
- Durability: Resistant against high temperatures, UV light, and weathering.
- Conformability: Can bond to a variety of surfaces with ease.
- Strength: Capable of replacing mechanical fasteners for permanent applications.
| Product | Thickness | Bonding Power | Recommended Surfaces |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3M™ VHB™ 5952 | 45 mils | Very High | Metal, Glass, Many Plastics |
| 3M™ VHB™ 4910 | 40 mils | Very High | Clear Materials |
2. 3M™ Automotive Double Sided Foam Tapes
For a balance between strong adhesion and cost-effectiveness, the 3M™ Automotive Double Sided Foam Tapes provide a great solution:
- Compression: Foam core allows for good compression and cushioning.
- Compatibility: Ideal for a variety of automotive substrates.
- Versatility: Accommodates different thermal expansion rates.
3. 3M™ Scotch-Mount™ Molding Tapes
The 3M™ Scotch-Mount™ Molding Tapes are also an excellent choice for attaching bed rail caps, with properties such as:
- Permanent Bond: Provides a permanent bond with no need for clamps or drying time.
- Weatherproof: Designed to withstand tough environmental conditions.
- Easy Application: Simple peel and stick application for a fast, secure bond.
Installation Tips
For optimal results when using 3M tapes for bed rail caps, follow these steps:
- Clean both surfaces that the tape will adhere to, ensuring they are free of dirt, oil, or wax.
- Trim the tape to the length required without touching the adhesive side.
- Apply the tape to the cap, then peel off the backing to attach it to the truck’s bed rail.
- Apply pressure along the entire length of the cap to ensure a secure bond.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 3M tape for attaching your bed rail caps is crucial for a secure and long-lasting installation. Whether you decide on 3M™ VHB™, 3M™ Automotive Double Sided Foam, or 3M™ Scotch-Mount™ Molding Tape, ensure to follow proper installation procedures for the best results.
Protect your investment and keep your pickup truck looking great with the appropriate 3M tape for your bed rail caps.