Published June 2026 | Kym Industries - Made in the USA since 1996
Summer hauling season is in full swing, and that means your tarp system is working harder than ever. Heat, UV exposure, road vibration, and heavy use cycles can all take a toll on both electric and manual systems. A little preventive maintenance now can save you from a costly breakdown on the road - or worse, a load violation at a weigh station.
Here's what our team in Slocomb, AL recommends before and during peak summer hauling season.
1. Inspect Your Tarp Fabric First
Start with the tarp itself. Summer UV rays are the #1 enemy of tarp longevity. Look for:
- Fading or brittleness along the edges and center panels - UV degradation weakens the weave
- Small tears or pinholes that can grow rapidly under highway wind load
- Worn grommets or tie-down points that may be pulling away from the fabric
- Mildew or debris buildup in folds - especially after spring rain season
If your tarp is showing significant wear, replacing it before peak season is far cheaper than dealing with a failed cover mid-haul. Browse our full tarp cover selection to find the right replacement for your body type and application.
2. Lubricate All Moving Parts
Heat causes metal components to expand, and dry pivot points wear out fast in summer. On both electric and manual systems, lubricate:
- Tarp arms and pivot brackets - use a dry PTFE or silicone-based lubricant (avoid petroleum-based products that attract grit)
- Spring tension assemblies - check that springs are seated correctly and show no signs of fatigue or cracking
- Roller tube and end caps - ensure the tarp rolls and unrolls smoothly without binding
On our 4 Spring Aluminum Electric Tarp System, the aluminum construction resists corrosion well, but the pivot points still benefit from a seasonal lube. Same goes for the EZ-Cover Manual Tarp System - a quick lube on the crank mechanism keeps operation smooth and reduces operator fatigue.
3. Check Your Electric Motor and Wiring
If you're running an electric system, summer heat can stress wiring insulation and motor components. Do a quick check:
- Inspect all wiring connections for corrosion, fraying, or loose terminals - heat cycles expand and contract connections over time
- Test the motor under load - listen for grinding, hesitation, or unusual current draw
- Check your switch and control box for moisture intrusion - condensation from temperature swings can cause intermittent faults
- Verify ground connections are clean and tight - a poor ground is the most common cause of sluggish motor performance
If your motor is struggling, our Rotary Tarp Switch Kit is a common first fix for switch-related issues. For more serious motor problems, check out our guide on Common Electric Tarp Motor Problems (And How to Fix Them) for a full diagnostic walkthrough.
4. Inspect the Frame and Mounting Hardware
Road vibration loosens hardware over time - and summer construction season means rougher roads. Walk the full perimeter of your tarp system and:
- Torque all mounting bolts to spec - pay special attention to the front bow mount and rear roller bracket
- Check for cracks in aluminum arms - especially at weld points near the pivot
- Inspect the front bow for straightness - a bent bow causes uneven tarp tension and premature wear
- Look at your body rail where the system mounts - rust or deformation here affects system alignment
5. Test the Full Open/Close Cycle
Before your next load, run the system through several complete open and close cycles with no load on the tarp. Watch for:
- Uneven deployment (one side leading the other)
- Tarp bunching or not seating fully at the front bow
- Any hesitation or jerking in the travel
- Proper latching or securing at the closed position
Catching alignment issues now - before a loaded haul - prevents tarp damage and keeps you compliant.
6. Show a Little Pride While You're At It
If your tarp is due for replacement anyway, summer is a great time to upgrade to something that turns heads. Our American Flag Tarp is one of our most popular options - a great way to show your American pride while keeping your load covered and compliant. Built right here in Slocomb, AL, just like every system we make.
Built to Last. Backed by Experience.
Kym Industries has been manufacturing tarp systems in-house since 1996. Every system we sell is built to the same standard we'd put on our own trucks - no hidden costs, no overseas shortcuts, no compromises on quality.
If you have questions about your system or need help identifying the right replacement parts, contact our team - we're happy to help.
Browse all tarp systems → Shop Electric Tarp Systems | Shop Manual Tarp Covers