Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions we get regarding the Sawtooth STRETCH (Adaptive Cargo Management System). If you don’t see your question, feel free to reach out to us directly on our website contact form, or email at info@sawtootht.com.

Product Features and Specifications

How much can the Sawtooth STRETCH ACMS expand to cover large cargo?

There is no single expansion height because it depends on several factors, including your truck's bed length, bed width, the location of the cargo within the bed, and the shape of the load itself.

In general, larger truck beds provide more available material, allowing the Sawtooth STRETCH ACMS to expand higher and cover taller cargo than smaller truck beds. Cargo positioned near the center of the bed typically allows for greater vertical expansion than cargo located near the cab, tailgate, or bed rails.

Because every truck and cargo configuration is different, the maximum expansion height will vary.

Is the Sawtooth STRETCH a truck bed cover?

No. Sawtooth is an Adaptive Cargo Management System (ACMS), not a truck bed cover or Tonneau Cover. Truck Bed Covers and Tonneau covers are static, flat systems that must be removed when cargo exceeds bed height. Sawtooth creates an adjustable cargo enclosure that expands above the bed rails to secure oversized loads, then retracts out of the way when not needed. It operates more like a flexible truck cap, providing variable storage capacity instead of a fixed cover.

Do I have to remove the Sawtooth STRETCH when hauling cargo above the bed rails?

No. That is one of the biggest differences between the Sawtooth STRETCH and a traditional flat tonneau cover.

Most traditional truck bed covers are designed to remain flat across the top of the bed. When cargo extends above the bed rails, the cover typically has to be opened, folded, rolled, retracted, or removed.

The Sawtooth STRETCH is different. Its flexible composite material expands upward and around tall, oversized, and irregularly shaped cargo. This allows you to keep your cargo covered while using significantly more of the available space above the truck bed.

When the oversized cargo is removed, the STRETCH returns to its normal low-profile configuration.

This adaptability is why Sawtooth refers to the STRETCH as an Adaptive Cargo Management System, or ACMS, rather than a conventional tonneau cover.

Does the Sawtooth STRETCH reduce usable truck-bed space?

No. The Sawtooth STRETCH was designed to preserve as much usable truck-bed space as possible.

Unlike retractable tonneau covers that may require a large storage canister inside the front of the truck bed, the Sawtooth STRETCH does not require a bulky enclosure that occupies a significant portion of the bed.

Its low-profile rail system mounts along the bed, while the removable cross-support bows span the bed above the cargo area.

More importantly, the STRETCH can expand above the bed rails when needed. Instead of limiting you to the space below a flat tonneau cover, it allows you to use substantially more of the truck's available cargo volume.

Can I use my entire truck bed with the Sawtooth STRETCH installed?

Yes. The Sawtooth STRETCH was specifically designed to let you make greater use of your truck bed without removing the system every time your cargo changes.

For smaller loads, the STRETCH operates in its normal low-profile position. For taller or irregular cargo, the composite material can expand upward and around the load.

This gives you the flexibility of a truck bed cover when you want a low-profile enclosure, while still allowing you to carry cargo that extends above the bed rails.

You do not have to choose between having a cover installed and being able to haul oversized cargo.

How secure is the Sawtooth STRETCH?

Sawtooth is designed to secure and conceal your gear across a wide range of cargo sizes. Its reinforced composite material helps deter tampering while keeping contents out of sight. Unlike a truck bed cover that only protects low-profile loads, Sawtooth expands to fully enclose and secure tall or irregular cargo. While it is not a rigid shell, it provides strong, real-world security with far greater versatility.

Is the Sawtooth STRETCH waterproof?

Sawtooth is designed to be highly water-resistant and to protect your cargo in real-world conditions. Its tensioned design and integrated cross-support bows help shed water, snow, and debris while minimizing pooling. In heavy rain or extreme conditions, some moisture may still enter the bed, as with any soft system. For added protection, applying 303 Aerospace Protectant helps enhance water resistance and improves water shedding performance.

Can I put cargo on top of the Sawtooth STRETCH?

No. Sawtooth is designed to enclose and secure cargo, not support weight on top. The cross-support structure is engineered to maintain shape and tension, not to carry loads. Placing items on top may damage the system and is not recommended.

Can I lock the Sawtooth STRETCH?

Sawtooth does not use a built-in locking mechanism by design. Its focus is fast use, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to changing cargo. When paired with a locking tailgate, it still helps keep gear secured and out of sight, while avoiding the added complexity and limitations that come with fixed locking systems.

Does water shed off of my Sawtooth STRETCH

Every Sawtooth ACMS comes with easily removable cross bars that bow up to help guide water off the composite material.  In some instances you may get pooling but simply driving your pickup will shed that water off your STRETCH.  To help limit water entering through the composite material we included cross support bows that slide into sleeves mounted under the composite material which help minimize this.  Finally, regularly using 303 Aerospace Protectant helps to eliminate water absorption and to shed water and snow from the ACMS.

Will my Sawtooth STRETCH handle harsh winters with snow and ice accumulation?

Your Sawtooth STRETCH is designed to handle cold snowy winters. Sawtooth ACMS was developed at high elevations in the Rocky Mountains to handle extreme cold and snow loads. Each ACMS has easily removable cross bars that keep snow from “sagging’ the composite material downward when no cargo is under the ACMS. Please note, all materials that are exposed to extremely cold temperatures naturally become more rigid. Your Sawtooth too will become more rigid during extreme cold temperatures. During extreme cold temperatures, the Sawtooth STRETCH will be somewhat limited in flexibility and may require extra pull strength and patience while the ACMS stretches and hooks to the rail frame under load conditions.

Does Sawtooth offer a lockable system?

Sawtooth does not use a traditional lock-and-key system. Instead, it secures cargo through direct contact and tension, stretching tightly around your load to hold it in place and prevent shifting during transport. This approach keeps gear contained, covered, and out of sight while maintaining the flexibility to handle a wide range of cargo sizes.

Will the composite material droop or sag under snow or heavy rain?

Under heavy snow or significant water buildup, some temporary sagging may occur. Sawtooth is designed with integrated cross-support bows that maintain tension and help minimize sagging while promoting water and snow runoff. Applying a fabric protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant further enhances water shedding and overall performance.

Can cargo come into contact with my Sawtooth STRETCH?

Yes. Sawtooth is designed for direct contact with cargo, using a durable, flexible composite that stretches to conform around your load while maintaining tension and coverage. This allows it to secure a wide range of cargo sizes and shapes.
Avoid sharp or jagged edges that could snag or damage the material. When needed, pad or reposition items to protect the system and ensure long-term performance.

Why did Sawtooth design the STRETCH with replaceable components?

We believe a durable product should also be repairable.

The Sawtooth STRETCH was designed as a serviceable system with many individually replaceable components. If a component becomes worn or damaged, the goal is to replace the affected component rather than discard an otherwise functional system.

Many conventional tonneau covers use integrated assemblies that can make individual components difficult or impractical to replace. Depending on the design and manufacturer, damage to one portion of the cover can require replacement of a much larger assembly.

Sawtooth takes a different approach. Components such as rails, clamps, bows, buckles, hardware, and even the composite cover can be serviced or replaced individually when appropriate.

This approach can extend the useful life of the Sawtooth STRETCH and reduce unnecessary replacement of components that are still functioning properly.

Installation and Operation

How do I install and operate the Sawtooth ACMS?

Sawtooth is designed for straightforward installation and simple day-to-day use. For step-by-step guidance, please review the latest PDF Installation and Operation Manual on our Installation & Operation Instructions page. You can also watch quick overview videos on that page for a visual walkthrough of setup and operation.

Can you open and close the tailgate with the Sawtooth STRETCH installed?

Yes, the Sawtooth is supported over the tailgate with our black powder coated aluminum rail frame. The tailgate can be opened and closed easily. The Sawtooth Frame even includes a gasket against the tailgate to help prevent water and dust from entering the truck bed.

Is it normal to see adhesive around the bow sleeves on the underside?

Yes. Sawtooth uses a high-strength adhesive to secure the bow sleeves to the composite material, eliminating the need for stitching that could introduce holes and compromise performance. As the system breaks in and adapts to your environment, some adhesive may become more visible, this is normal and does not affect function.

For best results, remove the support bows before rolling the system and unroll it carefully over cargo. Avoid pulling or peeling the sleeves from the material, as this can cause damage and may void the warranty.


Regular use of the recommended protective coating also helps maintain the tautness of the composite material and reduce lifting and flapping. This reduces unnecessary stress on the bow sleeves and their adhesive attachment and helps support long-term performance.

Can one person install the Sawtooth STRETCH, and does installation require drilling?

Yes. The Sawtooth STRETCH is designed for straightforward one-person installation.

The system attaches to the truck bed without requiring permanent modification to the vehicle. No drilling into the truck bed is required for normal installation.

Once installed, the STRETCH is designed for simple everyday operation. The flexible cover and removable cross-support bows allow the system to quickly adapt as your cargo changes.

Always follow the current Sawtooth Installation and Operation Instructions for your specific system.

Does the Sawtooth STRETCH flap in the wind?

It can, especially when when the STRETCH is laying flat and a strong cross wind pushes sideways against the side of the pickup truck while driving at high speeds.  You can also get lifting of the cover towards the cab side of the bed.  This is normal and will not affect the performance of the ACMS.  We include cross support bows that slide into sleeves mounted under the stretch composite material which help control much of the flapping. Regularly using 303 Aerospace Protectant helps to reduce lifting and flapping by conditioning the tautness of the material. Occasionally, cross bows may come out of their receivers. Simply place them back in their receives if this occurs.  You may try rotating the bows 180 degrees, or switching bows to see if it helps.  Occasionally, the spring side of the cross bow may get stuck inside of the end of the bow.  If this occurs, simply pull it out and the spring will extend again.

How quickly can I switch from a flat cover to covering oversized cargo?

Very quickly.

There is no complicated folding mechanism, retractable canister, or large rigid panel assembly to remove. When you need to carry taller cargo, release the Sawtooth STRETCH from the rail where needed, position your cargo, and stretch the composite cover around the load.

The flexible material adapts to the size and shape of the cargo rather than forcing the cargo to fit underneath a fixed-height cover.

Once the oversized cargo is removed, the STRETCH can return to its normal low-profile configuration.

Always make sure the STRETCH is properly secured to the rail system before driving.

Maintenance and Care

How do I maintain the Sawtooth STRETCH ACMS?

Sawtooth is designed for low-maintenance, everyday use. Periodically clean the surface with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris, and apply a fabric protectant as needed to maintain water resistance and performance. To keep your warranty valid, we recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant. For full care details and best practices, refer to the latest PDF Installation and Operation Manual on our Installation & Operation Instructions page.

Collapsible row

How do I clean my Sawtooth ACMS?

Your Sawtooth ACMS is naturally stain resistant, but occasional cleaning, as needed, will help keep your STRETCH looking sharp. You can clean your Sawtooth at your local car wash or by hand with a soft sponge or soft washcloth and rinse under cold water thoroughly to remove any excess soap.  When cleaning, for best results use mild liquid soap and water. Never clean with petroleum or citrus-based products.

Regularly applying 303 Aerospace Protectant helps keep your cover clean.

How do I keep my Sawtooth STRETCH looking black and sharp?

After cleaning with a mild soap and thoroughly rinsing off the excess soap, treat the composite stretch material with a UV protectant and hydrophobic coating instead of petroleum-based products.  The UV protectant coating will keep the composite material from greying, preserve the water-resistant membrane, and maintain the warranty.  To keep your warranty valid, we recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant. The hydrophobic coating will help maintain the water-resistance properties of the ACMS.  Please note that petroleum based products will dry out and damage the composite material and void the warranty.

How do I know when I have applied enough protective coating?

To keep your warranty valid, we recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant. Follow the directions on the bottle. Be sure to apply at least two coats spaced 24 hours apart. Finally, quickly reapply after every wash, or at a minimum once per month, to eliminate water absorption and to shed water and snow from the ACMS.

Warranty and Returns

Are Sawtooth products warrantied?

Yes. Sawtooth stands behind the quality and performance of its systems with a comprehensive warranty. For full details, please visit our For full details, please visit our warranty page. To keep your warranty valid, we recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant.

Does cargo touching the Sawtooth STRETCH void the warranty?

No. The Sawtooth STRETCH is specifically designed to come into direct contact with cargo.

Unlike conventional tonneau covers that generally create a flat barrier above the cargo, the Sawtooth STRETCH uses flexible composite material that can stretch and conform around loads extending above the truck bed.

Normal contact between properly loaded cargo and the composite material does not, by itself, void the warranty.

Customers should still use reasonable care. Sharp, jagged, abrasive, or improperly secured cargo can cut, puncture, or otherwise damage the material. Pad or reposition sharp edges when necessary and properly secure all cargo before driving.

Warranty coverage remains subject to the terms and exclusions of the Sawtooth Limited Warranty.

What is the lifetime expectancy of the Sawtooth ACMS?

We have a limited lifetime warranty on our Sawtooth STRETCH.  We warranty the composite textile material for one year and the remaining parts for the lifetime you own the original vehicle.  Please see our warranty page here.  If properly maintained, you can expect years of service out of your Sawtooth ACMS. In the rare event that the STRETCH is damaged outside of the warranty, you can simply purchase a new replacement composite material, at a reduced rate, without having to purchase an entirely new system!

What happens if I accidentally damage the Sawtooth STRETCH composite cover?

You usually do not need to replace the entire Sawtooth STRETCH system.

The composite cover is a replaceable component. If it is accidentally cut, punctured, excessively worn, or otherwise damaged outside of warranty coverage, Sawtooth can provide a replacement composite cover for compatible systems.

Your existing rails, bows, clamps, and other serviceable components can continue to be used if they remain in good condition.

This is an important difference in the way Sawtooth was designed. Damage to one replaceable component does not automatically mean throwing away an otherwise functional cargo-management system.

If you damage your cover, contact Sawtooth with your truck year, make, model, bed size, and photos of the damage. We can help determine what needs to be replaced.

Can I return my order?

Yes. Returns are accepted on unopened systems. Please review the warranty and returns page for full details and requirements.

Ordering and Shipping

When will my order Ship?

Your ordered Sawtooth ACMS will typically ship within 5 working days after placing your order.  This does not include holidays and weekends.

Are replacement components available for the Sawtooth STRETCH?

Yes. One of the advantages of the Sawtooth STRETCH is that it was designed to be serviceable.

Many traditional tonneau covers use integrated or proprietary assemblies that can make a damaged or worn component difficult to replace individually. In some cases, customers may need to replace a large assembly or even the entire cover.

Sawtooth takes a different approach. Many STRETCH components can be replaced individually, including hardware, bows, rails, clamps, buckles, and the composite cover itself.

This can extend the useful life of the system and avoid replacing an otherwise functional truck bed system because of one damaged or worn component.

If you need a replacement component, contact Sawtooth with your vehicle year, make, model, bed size, and a description or photo of the part you need. We can help identify the correct replacement.

If you believe a component failed because of a defect, contact Sawtooth before purchasing a replacement so we can determine whether it may be covered under the Sawtooth warranty.

I don’t see my truck make, model, year, or bed size. Can I still buy a Sawtooth STRETCH?

Yes. Sawtooth systems are produced for many popular truck configurations, and custom options are available for others. If you don’t see your specific setup listed, contact us and we’ll help determine the right fit.

What Payment Methods do you Accept?

Sawtooth accepts major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express, as well as PayPal. For international wire transfers, please contact us for details.

When will my credit card be charged?

Your card will typically be charged the day you make the purchase, or the next business day.

How do I order a replacement part for my Sawtooth STRETCH?

Contact us through our website with your truck’s year, make, model, bed size, and the part you need. We’ll confirm compatibility, pricing, and next steps to complete your order.

Are other colors available?

Sawtooth is currently available in black. This finish is selected for durability, low glare, and a clean, consistent look over time.

What should I do if I ordered the wrong size?

If your order hasn’t shipped, we can typically stop delivery and apply the original purchase to the properly sized unit. Let us know as soon as you realize you ordered the wrong size!

If your STRETCH has already shipped or arrived, we’ll need you to ship the tonneau back. Upon receipt, we will apply the original purchase to the the appropriately sized unit.

In either scenario above, you will need to make up the difference in price if the unit you need is larger than the unit you ordered. We will work with you to make that easy and fast!

Compatibility

I have a toolbox on my truck. Will Sawtooth STRETCH fit?

Sawtooth is designed to span and seal the full truck bed opening. Because of this, it is not compatible with most toolbox setups that occupy bed space near the rails or cab.

Will Sawtooth STRETCH work with other truck bed accessories?

Sawtooth is compatible with many common accessories such as bed liners, rail caps, and certain rail systems. Because configurations can vary, we recommend reviewing how Sawtooth installs and interfaces with your truck before ordering to ensure proper fit.

Are other colors available?

Sawtooth is currently available in black. This finish is selected for durability, low glare, and a clean, consistent look over time.

Performance and Durability

Can cargo come into contact with the Sawtooth STRETCH?

Yes. The Sawtooth STRETCH ACMS is engineered to interact directly with cargo. The composite textile is designed to stretch over and hold common loads securely in place. Use reasonable care with sharp or jagged items, as they can damage the material. Always assess your cargo before covering.

Can the Sawtooth STRETCH flap or move in the wind?

It can, especially when when the STRETCH is laying flat and a strong cross wind pushes sideways against the side of the pickup truck while driving at high speeds.  You can also get lifting of the cover towards the cab side of the bed.  This is normal and will not affect the performance of the ACMS.  Sawtooth includes cross support bows that slide into sleeves mounted under the composite textile which help control much of the flapping.  Regularly using 
303 Aerospace Protectant helps to reduce lifting and flapping by conditioning the tautness of the fabric. Occasionally, cross bows may come out of their receivers. Simply place them back in their receives if this occurs.  You may try rotating the bows 180 degrees, or switching bows to see if it helps.  Occasionally, the spring side of the cross bow may get stuck inside of the end of the bow.  If this occurs, simply pull it out and the spring will extend again.

Is it normal to see adhesive around the bow sleeves on the underside?

Yes. A small amount of visible adhesive around the bow sleeves can be normal and does not necessarily indicate a problem.

The bow sleeves are bonded to the composite cover material as part of the manufacturing process. Over time, heat, UV exposure, repeated flexing, and excessive movement of the cover can place additional stress on these attachment points.

Proper maintenance is important. Sawtooth recommends regularly applying 303 Aerospace Protectant to help protect the composite material from UV exposure and maintain its flexibility and condition. Keeping the cover properly installed, tensioned, and maintained also helps reduce excessive flapping and unnecessary stress on the bow-sleeve attachments.

If a bow sleeve is separating from the cover material or appears to be failing, please contact Sawtooth for assistance.

Can I drive with the Sawtooth STRETCH expanded over cargo?

Yes. The Sawtooth STRETCH is designed to cover and secure cargo while the vehicle is being driven, including cargo that extends above the truck-bed rails.

Before driving, make sure the cargo itself is properly secured and that the STRETCH is correctly positioned and attached to the rail system.

The composite material should be stretched securely around the load without sharp or jagged edges that could cut or puncture it.

Because every load is different, always evaluate the size, shape, weight, and stability of your cargo before driving. Follow the Sawtooth Installation and Operation Instructions and all applicable cargo-securement requirements.

Are replacement components available for the Sawtooth STRETCH?

Yes. One of the advantages of the Sawtooth STRETCH is that it was designed to be serviceable.

Many traditional tonneau covers use integrated or proprietary assemblies that can make a damaged or worn component difficult to replace individually. In some cases, customers may be pushed toward replacing a large assembly or even the entire cover.

Sawtooth takes a different approach. Many STRETCH components can be replaced individually, including hardware, bows, rails, clamps, buckles, and the composite fabric cover itself. This can extend the useful life of the system and avoid replacing an otherwise functional truck bed cover because of one damaged or worn component.

If you need a replacement component, contact Sawtooth with your vehicle, model year, bed size, and a description or photo of the part. We can help identify the correct replacement.

If you believe a component failed because of a defect, contact us before purchasing a replacement so we can determine whether it may be covered under the Sawtooth warranty.

Is the Sawtooth STRETCH ACMS lockable?

No. Sawtooth does not produce a lockable “lock and key” ACMS at this time. When we talk about “securing cargo” in our marketing promotions and on our website, we are referring to the Sawtooth's unique ability to come in direct contact with cargo and stretch tightly around it, providing protection from shifting while driving and far more effectively “securing” your cargo in place than competing products.