Whether you're hauling gravel, mulch, or construction debris, covering your load isn't just good practice — it’s often required by law. That's why so many haulers are upgrading to electric tarp systems for convenience, compliance, and safety.
If you’ve got a pull-behind dump trailer that didn’t come with factory-installed pivot pin mounts, don’t worry — you can still install a Kym Industries electric tarp system with a bit of fabrication work. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of retrofitting your trailer to accommodate a Kym Industries tarp system, even if it didn’t come tarp-ready from the factory.
Why Choose Kym Industries?
Kym Industries tarp kits are designed with durability, reliability, and user-friendliness in mind. Each kit includes:
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Heavy-duty tarp arms
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600-watt electric motor (3-year warranty)
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Aluminum tarp roller bar
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Pre-wired switch (or optional wireless remote)
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Mounting hardware
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Heavy-duty tarp designed for all-weather hauling
Kym Industries is trusted by contractors, landscapers, and fleet operators across the country — and for good reason. Let’s get into the install.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Tools:
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Drill & metal drill bits
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Angle grinder or cutting tool
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Welder (optional but ideal for mounting brackets)
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Wrenches & socket set
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Measuring tape & level
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C-clamps or vice grips
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Wire crimpers & heat shrink tubing
Materials:
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Kym Industries Electric Tarp Kit
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Steel plate or angle iron (for custom pivot mounts)
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Grade 8 bolts, washers, and locknuts
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Wiring conduit or loom
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Rust-inhibiting primer & paint
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1: Mock Up Your Kym Industries Tarp System
Before cutting or drilling, lay out your Kym tarp system on the trailer to determine the best mounting locations. The roller bar will mount at the front of the dump body, and the arms will pivot just behind it — usually at the bottom middle of the trailer walls.
Use a measuring tape and level to ensure both sides are symmetrical and aligned.
Step 2: Build Custom Pivot Pin Mounts
Since your trailer doesn’t have factory mounts, you’ll need to fabricate your own pivot brackets.
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Mark Pivot Points – On both sides of the trailer, mark the position where the tarp arms will pivot. The ideal height is just under the trailer’s top rail or right above the fender.
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Fabricate Mounting Brackets – Use 1/4" thick steel plate or angle iron to create a sturdy base for the pivot pin. Drill or cut holes to match the Kym Industries arm hardware.
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Secure the Brackets – You can bolt the brackets directly to the trailer’s frame or weld them for a cleaner and more secure install.
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Paint for Protection – Use a rust-inhibiting primer and top coat to protect your new brackets from corrosion.
🔧 Tip: Clamp the brackets in place and test-fit the tarp arms before drilling final holes.
Step 3: Install the Roller Bar
Mount the Kym Industries roller bar across the front of your trailer bed. Use the provided brackets to bolt it to the top rail or front header board. Make sure it’s centered and level.
Unroll the tarp and attach it to the roller, per Kym’s installation guide.
Step 4: Install Tarp Arms and Connect to Pivot Brackets
With your custom pivot mounts in place, install the tarp arms into position using the pivot hardware included in the Kym kit. Secure the arms with the supplied pins or bolts.
Extend the arms to check for clearance along the sides of the trailer. Make any necessary adjustments now — before wiring the motor.
Step 5: Mount and Wire the Electric Motor
Install the electric motor from your Kym Industries kit on the roller tube. Follow these wiring steps:
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Route the wiring along the trailer frame, using protective loom or conduit.
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Connect to power – Usually a 12V deep-cycle battery mounted on the trailer tongue.
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Install the control switch – Mount the switch where it’s easily accessible, or opt for the wireless remote upgrade.
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Secure all connections with heat shrink tubing and weatherproof terminals.
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Test the system by fully extending and retracting the tarp.
⚡ Don’t forget: Use an inline fuse or circuit breaker near the power source to protect the motor.
Step 6: Final Check & Adjustments
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Tighten all bolts and hardware
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Check tarp alignment and arm tension
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Extend and retract the tarp a few times to ensure smooth operation
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Make final adjustments to limit over-travel or binding
If your Kym system includes wind deflectors, anti-sail straps, or tarp hold-downs, install them now.
Maintenance Tips for Your Kym Industries Tarp System
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Lubricate pivot points every few months
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Inspect wiring for wear or corrosion regularly
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Wash and dry the tarp occasionally to extend its lifespan
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Check hardware for loosening due to vibration or dumping operations
Final Thoughts
Retrofitting your dump trailer with a Kym Industries electric tarp system is a smart upgrade — even if it didn’t come with factory pivot pin mounts. With a little DIY work or help from a local fabricator, you’ll have a professional-grade, motorized tarp system that saves time and keeps your load legal and secure.
Need help picking the right tarp size or kit for your trailer? [Contact us here] — we’re happy to help you get it right the first time.