The right electric tarp system can speed up loading, protect grain from the elements, and reduce manual labor on farm and trucking operations. This article reviews five top-performing electric tarp systems designed for grain trailers and dump trucks with beds up to 24 feet. Each option blends durable aluminum construction, reliable motors, and easy installation. Read on to compare features, compatibility, and performance considerations to choose the best tarping solution for your operation.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Brand | Bed Coverage | Motor/Drive | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kym Industries Electric 4-Spring Dump Truck Tarp System | Kym Industries Inc. | Up to 24′ long, 110″ wide | 12V 50:1 Apache Electric Motor | Aluminum arms, black mesh tarp included |
| Mytee Products Complete Electric Aluminum 4-Spring System | Mytee Products | Up to 24′ long, under 106″ wide | Electric system with 4 springs | Pivot pins, stainless steel bushings, aluminum parts |
| Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring System | Carolina Tarps | Up to 24′ long | Rotary switch with 50′ 6-Gauge dual conductor cable | One-year warranty; tarp not included |
| ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 600W/50:1 Electric Tarp Motor | ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS | Most systems up to 28′ beds | Universal 50:1 gear ratio motor | Replaces several brands; universal fit |
| SUMORISE Dump Trailer Tarp 7’X18′ | SUMORISE | 7′ x 16′ mesh tarp (as listed) | Electric drive option via compatible systems | Heavy-duty PVC mesh, reinforced corners |
Kym Industries Electric 4-Spring System For Dump Trucks
The Kym Industries tarping system is designed for beds up to 24 feet with a 110-inch width, featuring 93-inch upper and lower polished aluminum arms for rust resistance and durability. The 12V 50:1 Apache electric motor provides reliable daily operation, with a black mesh tarp included for immediate use. A rotary switch kit paired with 50 feet of 6-gauge dual-conductor battery cable completes the control package. This setup emphasizes modularity and a lightweight frame to simplify installation and service in bucket truck or trailer operations.
Key considerations:
- Aluminum arms resist corrosion and reduce weight, aiding motor performance.
- The included tarp allows quick deployment without sourcing a separate cover.
- System compatibility with wider and taller loads hinges on frame geometry and mounting.
- The rotary switch and cable assembly support straightforward control from the cab or ground.
Mytee Products Electric 4-Spring Dump Truck Tarp System
Mytee Products offers a complete electric tarp system designed for 24-foot beds and under 106 inches in width. The kit includes aluminum components that resist rust, a tarp switch kit, and pivot pins with four springs for balanced operation. The system emphasizes durable hardware such as stainless steel bushings and 3/4-inch axle bearings with flanges to ensure smooth rolling and long service life. Installation focuses on strong mounting brackets and compatible axles to preserve tension and prevent flutter during transport.
Key considerations:
- All-aluminum construction reduces weight and minimizes corrosion risk.
- Stainless hardware and bushings improve longevity in dusty or abrasive environments.
- Pivot pins and spring arrangement support consistent tarp tension across cycles.
- Compatibility with bed widths around 106 inches necessitates precise mounting and alignment.
Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring System
Carolina Tarps’ electric aluminum 4-spring system emphasizes rust-proof aluminum construction paired with a complete installation hardware kit. While the tarp itself is not included, the kit is designed for a fast installation with a 1-year manufacturers warranty on the system components. The rotary switch with a 50-foot 6-gauge dual-conductor battery cable enables straightforward control from ground level or the cab, helping to streamline loading cycles and reduce manual labor for operators handling multiple loads daily.
Key considerations:
- Aluminum construction balances strength and lightness for heavy loads.
- Warranty offers baseline protection against component failure.
- Missing tarp means you must source a compatible cover separately.
- Ground-level control minimizes climbing to operate the tarp prior to loading or unloading.
ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 600W/50:1 Universal Tarp Motor
This replacement motor by ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS is designed for universal compatibility with dump bodies up to 28 feet, offering a 50:1 gear ratio for rapid tarp operation. The output shaft has a 0.75-inch diameter with three-inch length and multiple drilled holes to fit common tarp roller axles. The universal fit positioning makes this motor a versatile option for fleets with mixed bed lengths or older tarping systems needing an upgrade. A chrome cover adds a finished look while protecting the internal mechanism from exposure.
Key considerations:
- High gear ratio speeds up tarp deployment and retraction.
- Designed to replace a range of brands, simplifying upgrades.
- Upper compatibility with beds up to 28 feet offers flexibility for larger trailers.
- Proper mounting is essential for safe and reliable operation.
SUMORISE Dump Trailer Tarp 7’X18′
SUMORISE presents a heavy-duty mesh tarp designed for dump trailers with robust UV protection and reinforced stitching. The 7′ x 18′ coverage aligns with common trailer dimensions, and reinforced corners with double-stitched edging extend tarpaulin life under frequent loading cycles. The tarp features built-in pockets and brass grommets for secure attachment to crossbars and rollers. While primarily a tarp, SUMORISE emphasizes longevity for fleets that frequently operate in windy or wet environments where mesh tarps protect loads while allowing airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
Key considerations:
- Durable mesh fabric with UV protection supports long outdoor use.
- Reinforced corners reduce edge wear and fraying over time.
- Built-in pockets accommodate crossbar mounting for quick setup.
- Black color reduces glare and helps hide dirt between washings.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Electric Tarps
Choosing the right electric tarp system involves balancing bed dimensions, load type, and fleet operating conditions. Consider the following perspectives to ensure you pick a solution that fits long-term needs.
- Bed dimensions and width: Confirm your trailer or dump bed length and width (commonly 24 feet by up to 110 inches). Systems with adjustable arms or four-spring designs often provide the best coverage for wide beds and tall loads.
- Material and corrosion resistance: Aluminum arms and rust-proof components extend service life in grain, dust, and humidity-heavy environments. Stainless bushings and reinforced hardware reduce maintenance.
- Motor power and gearing: A 50:1 gear ratio is common for rapid tarp deployment. Ensure the motor wattage and torque align with your average load and weather conditions.
- Tarp compatibility: Some kits include tarps; others require you to source a compatible cover separately. Verify fabric type (mesh vs solid) and gusseting for wind resistance and load containment.
- Wiring and controls: Look for a 50-foot copper dual-conductor cable and a durable rotary or toggle switch. Ground-level controls improve operator safety and efficiency during loading operations.
- Warranty and serviceability: A baseline warranty (1–3 years) provides protection for structural components and electronics. Availability of replacement parts is important for fleet uptime.
- Upgrade-paths and universal fit: If your fleet uses multiple trailer sizes, a universal motor or modular system can simplify maintenance and reduce inventory.
- Installation effort: Some kits require extensive mounting brackets and axle alignment, while others emphasize quick installation with minimal drilling or permanent modifications.
- Safety considerations: Ensure covers are secured to prevent loosening in transit, and verify that wiring is protected from abrasion and moisture exposure.
By evaluating these factors against your typical loads, climate, and maintenance capabilities, you can select an electric tarp system that delivers reliable performance and reduces manual handling on grain trailers and dump trucks alike.