How to Install the Pace Edwards JackRabbit and JackRabbit Full Metal Retractable Tonneau Covers

Feb 20 2026

The Pace Edwards JackRabbit and JackRabbit Full Metal are sleek, spring-driven retractable truck bed covers designed for smooth manual operation, dependable security, and year-round weather protection. With their low-profile canister and continuous tension spring systems, the JackRabbit and JackRabbit Metal deliver effortless bed access without the need for electronics.
 
While installation details may vary slightly depending on your truck (Ram, Colorado, Canyon, and others), the overall process follows the same straightforward sequence.
 
This guide walks you through the major installation steps so you can install your JackRabbit or Jack Rabbit Full Metal with confidence.
 
Before You Begin
  • Tools Required:
  • 3/8” wrench or socket
  • #2 Phillips screwdriver
  • Tape measure
  • Side cut pliers
  • Masking tape
Most standard and full-size trucks will not require drilling. However, confirm your truck has factory drain holes before beginning.
 
Step 1: Remove Packaging & Inspect Components
 
  • Remove the canister from the box and discard the plywood shipping supports and bolts
  • Your kit includes:
    • Complete canister assembly
    • Left and right rails (in separate rail box)
    • Top cover
    • Clamp pack & hardware
    • Drain tubes
  • Do not use a knife to open the rail box. Open along the length of the box and lift rails out carefully to prevent scratching
  • Perform a quick parts inventory before continuing.

 

Step 2: Position the Canister
 
  • Place one or two support pieces (such as the shipping box top) in the truck bed approximately one foot from the cab.
  • Set the canister on the supports so the top clears the bed rails by 2–3 inches
  • If you have a second person available, installing the rails before fully positioning the canister can make the process easier

 

Step 3: Install the Rails
 
  • Remove protective paper from underside of rails.
  • Slide rails through the attached blanket guides on the canister.
  • Thread the blanket into the rails.
  • Slide rails into the rail grips inside the canister.
  • Push rails forward toward the cab until fully engaged
  • Secure using the supplied 1/4"-20 bolts with lock washers and flat washers
  • Complete for both sides.

 

Step 4: Reposition the Canister
 
  • Remove the temporary supports and allow the canister and rails to rest on the bed rails.
  • With the tailgate closed, adjust the rails so they sit approximately 1/16” away from the tailgate
  • This spacing allows proper tailgate clearance.

 

Step 5: Install Rail Support Shims (If Needed)
 
  • If the rails appear tipped downward at the cab end, shims may be required.
  • As shown in the Dodge Ram guide (page 4), white 1/16” and black 1/8” shims can be added at the bulkhead until rails sit level
  • If rails are level, you may proceed to clamp installation.

 

Step 6: Install Clamps & Set Between-the-Rails (BR) Measurement
 
  • Install two clamp assemblies per rail:
  • Slide Clamp Grip onto the rail at the clamp relief.
  • Assemble remaining clamp components as shown in the diagrams
  • Use the long clamp grip at the canister end and the shorter clamp grip at the tailgate end
  • Before fully tightening:
    • Set rail end caps approximately 1/16” from tailgate.
    • Measure between rails at both canister and tailgate ends.
    • Confirm measurement matches your part number's BR dimension
    • Ensure side-to-side play does not exceed 1/8” per side
    • Do not exceed 120 inch-pounds when tightening clamps

 

Step 6 (Continued): Attach the Pull Strap
 
  • Loop the pull strap through one of the tailgate-end clamp assemblies and secure the Velcro together
  • This ensures the strap remains accessible when closing the cover.

 

Step 7: Install Kickstands
 
  • Kickstands provide rail stability at the tailgate end.
  • Attach kickstand assembly to clamp grip.
  • Rotate so pivot foot contacts the flattest part of the bed wall.
  • Tighten wing nut.
  • Adjust bolt inward until rails are visually level.
  • Verify BR measurement again after leveling.
 
Step 8: Lubricate & Position Sweep Seals
 
  • Locate the sweep seals along each rail.
  • Apply provided UV protectant to underside of sweep seal and top of wear strip
  • Extend cover and ensure seal angles outward toward the cover, not inward.
  • Avoid alcohol, petroleum, or silicone-based cleaners.

 

Step 9: Install Drain Tubes
 
JackRabbit and JackRabbit Full Metal direct rainwater into the canister and out through drain tubes.
  • Confirm foam washer is on drain fitting.
  • Insert drain fittings into underside of canister until they click into place
  • Route tubing through factory drain holes or access ports.
  • Trim tubing as needed (3/4” clearance hole if drilling is required) 
  • Proper drain installation ensures optimal water management.

 

Step 10: Install Top Cover & Velcro Strap Holder
 
  • Place the top cover onto the canister and secure using the two black top cover screws.
  • Loctite thread-locking adhesive is recommended
  • If a gap exists between the foam underside and the front sill:
    • Add supplied foam to close the gap
    • With cover fully open:
    • Attach the 4” Velcro strip to the pull strap.
    • Secure Velcro strip to underside of rail to hold strap off the bed floor

 

Here are the make and model specific installation guides:
 
 

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