Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prolong the life of my tarp?
Ensure proper tension is always applied, tarp should not flutter in the wind. We recommend using tarp safety cords in heavy winds.
How do I check my tarp's tension?
EZ-LOC & ROLTEC Manual: Crank tarp under latch plate, lower handle to a vertical position and lift into handle holder. Pressure required to place handle into holder depends on handle length:
• 8 ft. long = 25 lbs.
• 10 ft. long = 20 lbs.
• 12 ft. long = 15 lbs.
Electric: Ensure tarp is snug under latch plate.
SRT-2: Tension channels (slotted grooves) are level at bottom on the spools.
How do I adjust my tarp tension?
EZ-LOC & ROLTEC Manual: Simply unroll and remove all tension. Remove crank from spline, rotate 1 to 2 teeth, reassemble and recheck.
Electric: Hold switch until motor cranks tarp snug under the latch plate.
SRT-2: Apply tension with ratchet until tension channels (slotted grooves) are level at bottom on the spools.
Why won't my bungee cord return in cold weather?
Bungee loses memory in the cold but will regain elasticity once it warms up. Upgrading to an in-roll tube cable return or cable return eliminates bungees.
Why doesn't my bungee cord return?
Over time sun deteriorates the bungee's elasticity. Upgrading to an in-roll tube cable return or cable return eliminates bungees.
Why is my tarp wearing out over the bows?
You may not have proper tension applied causing tarp to flutter in the wind or one bow may be set higher making the tarp wear more quickly on this bow during the rolling process. Over time bows may get a rough texture, we recommend using bow covers or bow reinforcements on a new replacement tarp.
Should I upgrade to 22 oz. fabric?
We recommend 22 oz. fabric if you use your tarp frequently. Our 22 oz. fabric is stronger and will last longer if taken care of properly.
What type of end cap should i choose?
Determined by box type and application:
• ALUMINUM: Commonly used on square boxes, lightweight and corrosion resistant.
• GALVANIZED STEEL: Commonly used on square boxes, more economical than aluminum but could rust over time in corrosive environments.
• STAINLESS STEEL: Designed for fertilizer industry to provide superior corrosion resistance and long-lasting performance.
• RUBBER: Designed for construction dump boxes to retain full usage of the box and keeps air from getting under tarp when traveling at high speeds.
Will my tarp color fade over time?
Our premium commercial grade, UV protected vinyl minimizes the harmful effects of UV rays. However, all tarps will eventually fade.
Do any of your tarps help improve safety conditions?
Upgrading to electric will increase safety and efficiency by making the tarp system completely automatic. Tarp safety cords can improve the safety of a manual roll tarp in windy conditions. Our SRT-2® Spool Roll Tarp with spring-loaded tension at both ends secures the tarp making rolling and unrolling safer in windy conditions.
How can I fix holes or small tears in my tarp?
We offer easy to use tarp repair kits that include 8 oz. vinyl cement with two trim-to-fit 5 ft. by 1 ft. pieces of vinyl. Available in 18 oz. black, white, gray, red, orange, yellow, green, blue and brown fabric.
What information do I need to order a replacement tarp?
Provide AGRI-COVER® Roll Tarp Serial Number or complete our box detail sheet for replacement tarps.
Where is the serial number located on my system?
Tarp serial numbers are located at rear of tarp on stationary tube side. Electric motor serial numbers are located on motor and gear box, both are needed.
How do I measure radius corners for best results?
Place a carpenter square on radius corner of trailer. Then measure to the point where radius starts from each side of the trailer's corner.
Why should I upgrade to heavy-duty bows?
To gain a larger opening for loading, as fewer HD Aluminum Bows are needed to handle the weight of the tarp compared to Standard Galvanized Steel Bows. HD Aluminum Bows should be used on wider spans, such as grain carts 120 in. or wider.
What is the roll-up tarp warranty?
Agri-Cover, Inc. extends the following Limited Warranty to the original retail purchaser of any AGRI-COVER® Roll Tarp System. Agri-Cover, Inc. warrants these tarps to be free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal use for one (1) year from date of manufacture unless accompanied by proof of purchase.
How do I replace my AUTOLOCK™ Drive Lines?
Purchase a replacement drive line which comes with step by step instructions.
What should I do if there is a power failure on my electric tarp?
If system has a battery cutoff switch, ensure it is turned to "ON" position.
Check all wiring components.
• Check positive (+) and negative (-) wire connections on vehicle battery.
• Retighten and re-crimp loose connections.
• Replace any corroded connections.
• Check all wire for worn or bare spots. Verify 12 volts or more come into Control Box or Switch Control while system is operating.
Check power sources.
• Check vehicle battery and charge, replace if required. Check for physical damage to any equipment.
• Check for physical damage to any equipment. Repair or replace if required.
For specific troubleshooting problems, refer to the instructions.
Is it easy to add an electric motor to my existing manual tarp?
Yes, purchase an electric tarp conversion that suits your needs and follow the easy step by step instructions.
Which Return to choose for manual operation?
• BUNGEE WITH COLLAR: Most economical option. Installs on drive side.
• IN-TUBE BUNGEE RETURN: Standard on most applications. Installs on non-drive side. Commonly used where rear return cannot be mounted.
• CABLE RETURN: Strong and long-lasting, a better return in lieu of a bungee. Installs on drive and non-drive side.
• IN-ROLL TUBE CABLE RETURN: Versatile, strong and long-lasting, better return in lieu of a bungee. Installs on non-drive side. Commonly used where rear return cannot be mounted.
Which Return to choose for electric operation?
SPRING ARM: Commonly used on solid end wall (no rear door) applications like semi grain trailers and pup trailers
SPRING ARM WITH CHAIN: Commonly used on top hinge, side hinge or double rear door applications like refuse trailers, transfer trailers, chip trailers and end dump trailers
SIDE MOUNTED SPRING BOX: Commonly used on side hinge door with reverse roll application where return cannot be mounted on the rear like rear conveyor semi-trailers, fertilizer tenders, wood chip trailers, refuse trailers and end dump trucks
IN-ROLL TUBE CABLE RETURN: Commonly used on side hinge door with reverse roll application where return cannot be mounted on the rear like semi-trailers with rear conveyor
CABLE RETURN: Commonly used on grain trailers with a rear auger and tenders
Which Return is best for refuse, transfer, chip and end dump trailers?
SPRING ARM WITH CHAIN: Best and most versatile return for forestry and refuse transfer trailers and end dumps. Commonly used on drop deck, live bottom belt as well as end dumps with top hinge, combination top hinge with recessed hinge pin, double doors and double door with top hinge combination.
SIDE MOUNTED SPRING BOX: Better return for forestry drop deck and live bottom transfer trailers. Commonly used on trailers where return cannot be mounted on the rear like a side hinge door with reverse roll.
IN-TUBE CABLE RETURN: Good return for forestry drop deck and live bottom transfer trailers. Commonly used on trailers where return cannot be mounted on the rear like a side hinge door with reverse roll.
