Looking for an electric tarp system to cover a dump trailer quickly and reliably? This guide highlights five top options suited for different dump-bed sizes and mounting preferences. Each pick is evaluated for installation ease, material durability, and suitability for specific dump-bed lengths and widths. Best for professionals with frequent tarp usage, mid-sized fleets needing straightforward installation, or owners seeking rust-proof aluminum components. The table below summarizes key specs to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Bed Length Coverage | Material | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring Dump Truck Tarp System | Various (aluminum arms, 4 springs) | Aluminum | General dump trucks, easy installation | Includes warranty; tarp not included |
| Carolina Tarps Dump Trailer Tarp System (Up to 28′) | Up to 28′ | Aluminum | Dump trailers up to 28′ | Front-to-back direct drive |
| Mytee Products Complete Electric Aluminum 4-Spring System | Up to 24′ | Aluminum | Complete kit with mesh tarp | Includes switch kit and hardware |
| Kym Industries Electric Aluminum 4-Spring (7’6″ x 18′ tarp) | Up to 24′ bed | Aluminum | Rust-proof arms, wide coverage | Black mesh tarp option |
| ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 600W Motor Universal Replacement | Compatible with up to 28′ beds | Aluminum/Metal components | Motor replacement for many systems | Universal fit; replaceable parts |
Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring Dump Truck Tarp System
Best for versatility and straightforward setup on standard dump trucks. This system uses heavy-duty rust-proof aluminum construction for durability and a polished appearance. It includes an installation hardware kit and a rotary switch with a 50-foot 6-gauge dual conductor battery cable, enabling ground- or cab-side operation to cover loads quickly. Tarp not included, so pair with a compatible tarp for full coverage.
Who it’s for: Professionals needing a reliable, corrosion-resistant setup that balances easy installation with robust performance. Why selected: Aluminum construction plus a full hardware kit makes this a solid, all-around choice for many dump trucks.
Caution: Verify compatibility with your specific bed length and mounting points before purchasing, as some trailers require minor adaptions not included in the kit.
Carolina Tarps Dump Trailer Tarp System | Up To 28′
This front-to-back, direct-drive electric tarp system is designed for trailers up to 28 feet long. Polished aluminum construction provides a lightweight yet strong framework that resists corrosion. It includes all required installation hardware, ensuring a smoother setup for fleet operators. Tarp is not included.
Best for: Long trailers that need a simple direct-drive mechanism with solid aluminum components. Why chosen: It streamlines installation and covers larger bed lengths with consistent operation.
Limitation: Limited to the 28′ maximum length unless extended components are purchased separately.
Electric Aluminum Arm 4 Spring Dump Truck Tarp System Kit (Arms Only)
Selected for its heavy-duty aluminum arms and universal fit. The kit features telescoping arms compatible with dump beds up to 23 feet long and up to 110 inches wide, with an adjustable cross tube to accommodate various tarp sizes. This option emphasizes robust build and flexibility in mounting.
Best for: Fleets needing a versatile arm kit that can be tuned to different bed widths and lengths. Why chosen: The adjustable cross tube and telescoping arms support a wide range of trailer configurations.
Caution: The arms are offered as a kit; ensure you also source the compatible tarp and motor to complete your system.
Mytee Products Complete Electric Aluminum 4-Spring System
The Mytee complete system includes an electric 4-spring setup with an 8′ x 16′ mesh tarp suitable for dump trucks up to 24 feet long and under 106 inches wide. It comes with a tarp switch kit, pivot pins, and stainless components for long-lasting use. Rust-proof aluminum parts help resist corrosion in harsh conditions.
Best for: Operators needing a complete, all-in-one solution with a mesh tarp included. Why chosen: It provides a ready-to-install package with essential hardware and a secure motor system.
Caution: Ensure your bed width aligns with the 106″ maximum width stated for this kit.
Kym Industries Electric Aluminum 4-Spring (7’6″ x 18′) Tarp System
This system uses 93″ upper and 93″ lower polished aluminum, providing rust-proof durability and easier handling. It offers 24′ coverage and is designed to fit beds up to 24′ and 110″ wide. A black mesh tarp option is available to suit different needs and budgets.
Best for: Those who want strong aluminum arms with reliable outdoor durability and a clean look. Why chosen: The rust-proof aluminum and broad coverage meet typical dump-bed requirements.
Caution: Confirm your tarp width and mounting points match the 110″ width and arm dimensions before purchase.
Kym Industries Electric Aluminum 4-Spring (20′ Bed) With Tarp
Includes polished aluminum upper and lower arms for up to 20′ bed coverage, with a 12V 50:1 Apache electric motor. The system also includes a rotary switch kit with a 50-foot dual-conductor copper battery cable. Best for smaller to mid-sized dumps where fast opening/closing is a priority.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing fast operation and a compact footprint. Why chosen: The motor and wiring kit support quick, reliable operation for smaller dumps.
Caution: This option uses a smaller bed width; ensure compatibility with your specific trailer’s width and mounting layout.
ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS Universal Replacement Dump Tarp Motor
This universal, 600W motor is designed to replace motor components in various tarp systems up to 28 feet. It features a 50:1 gear ratio that enables faster load covering and has a 0.75″ x 3″ output shaft compatible with common tarp rollers.
Best for: Owners looking to upgrade or repair an existing tarp system with a compatible motor. Why chosen: The universal fit broadens compatibility across many older or custom setups.
Caution: This is a motor component, not a full tarp system; ensure your system’s compatibility before purchasing.
ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 7′ X 26′ Electric Aluminum Arm Tarp System Kit
This kit features telescoping 4-spring polished aluminum arms with side-mount pivots and a heavy-duty 95″ extruded tarp axle. It includes a 12V 1.5 HP 50:1 tarp gear motor with a chrome motor cover for robust performance and easy operation.
Best for: Longer bed applications that require sturdy arms and a reliable motor. Why chosen: Tall coverage and strong mounting provide consistent performance on bigger trailers.
Caution: Ensure bed length and width match the 7′ x 26′ setup to avoid clearance issues with the tarp and mounting hardware.
Buying Guide
What bed size and width should I target?
Choose a tarp system that matches your trailer’s bed length and width. Systems labeled up to 24′, 28′, or adjustable arms span different ranges. For wider beds, confirm the maximum width aligns with your trailer’s rails to avoid overhang or interference.
What material matters most?
Aluminum components resist rust and stay lightweight, improving longevity and ease of use. Rust-proof aluminum arms are common in mid- to high-end systems and generally perform better in outdoor conditions than steel parts.
How important is the motor power?
Motor power, typically listed as 12V with a gear ratio like 50:1, affects how quickly the tarp deploys and retracts. Higher power systems provide faster operation but may require a robust power source and wiring.
Is a complete kit better than a parts-only option?
Complete kits simplify installation because they include hardware, switches, and often a tarp. If you already own a compatible tarp or want flexibility, arms-only or motor-only options can be more cost-effective but require sourcing additional components.
What about warranties and support?
Look for systems that include a hardware kit, a switch, and a reasonable warranty. A warranty helps protect against rust, mechanical failure, and fit issues after installation.
What is a realistic installation timeline?
Most 4-spring aluminum tarp systems install within a few hours for a standard trailer, assuming you have basic hand tools. Kits with more adjustable components may require extra time for alignment and testing the retraction cycle.
What are common limitations to watch for?
Limitations often include bed length or width compatibility, tarp availability, or the need for minor adaptations. Some kits do not include a tarp, so you must purchase one separately. Always verify compatibility with your trailer before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the typical lifespan of an aluminum tarp system? Answer: Aluminum components generally resist rust and can last many seasons with proper maintenance.
- Do these systems require professional installation? Answer: Most can be installed by a mechanically inclined user, but some setups may benefit from professional help for precise alignment.
- Can I retrofit a tarp system onto an older trailer? Answer: Yes, with arms or motor replacements and the correct mounting hardware, many trailers can be retrofitted.
- Are mesh tarps compatible with all systems? Answer: Mesh tarps are common and compatible with most 4-spring aluminum tarp systems.
- How do I choose between 28′ and 24′ bed systems? Answer: Choose based on your trailer’s maximum bed length; 28′ systems accommodate longer beds, while 24′ is sufficient for shorter lengths.
- Will the system work with my existing tarp? Answer: It depends on the system’s mounting points and tarp size. Check the dimensions and attachment method before purchasing.