Best Electric Tarp System for Dump Trailer: 5 Options Compared

Covering your dump trailer load quickly and safely is essential for any job. An electric tarp system saves you time and effort, letting you secure your load from the cab or ground without manual cranking.

This guide compares five top electric tarp systems for dump trailers, focusing on durability, ease of installation, and compatibility. Whether you need a complete kit or a replacement motor, you’ll find the right option here.

Carolina Tarps Dump Trailer Tarp System – Polished Aluminum for Long Beds

The Carolina Tarps Dump Trailer Tarp System is a front-to-back, direct drive electric underbody flip tarp designed for trailers up to 28 feet. Its polished aluminum build offers a sleek look while resisting rust, making it a durable choice for frequent use. The system comes with everything you need for installation, including mounting hardware and a rotary switch with 50 feet of 6-gauge battery cable, allowing you to operate it from the ground or cab.

This system is ideal for larger dump bodies, as the direct drive mechanism provides consistent coverage from front to back. The aluminum arms are lightweight yet strong, reducing strain on your trailer. While the tarp is not included, you can pair it with any cover that has grommets or a spline. For a complete, ready-to-install solution for long trailers, this is a top contender.

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• This front to back, direct drive electric dump trailer tarp system is made from polished aluminum and comes with everything you need to install on dump bodies up to 28' long.

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Carolina Tarps 4-Spring System – Flexible Tarp Compatibility

The Carolina Tarps Electric Aluminum 4-Spring Dump Truck Tarp System features heavy-duty, rust-proof aluminum arms that are lightweight and durable. It includes an installation hardware kit for fast setup and a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. The rotary switch comes with 50 feet of 6-gauge dual conductor battery cable, letting you cover your load from the ground or cab, saving time and money.

This system is compatible with any cover that has grommets or a spline on one end and a pocket on the other, giving you flexibility in tarp selection. The 4-spring design ensures smooth operation, and the polished aluminum adds a professional look. While you need to purchase a tarp separately, this system’s adaptability makes it a great choice if you already have a preferred cover or want to use different tarps for different loads.

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• Heavy Duty Rust Proof Aluminum – Gives a polished look while also being lightweight and durable
• Installation Hardware Kit – Comes with everything you need for a fast and easy installation and a 1-year manufacturers warranty – Tarp Not Included
• Rotary Switch with 50' of 6-Gauge Dual Conductor Battery Cable – Cover your load from the ground or cab, saving you time and money
• Compatible With Any Cover – Can be used with any cover that has grommets or a spline on one end and a pocket on the other
• Fits Truck Beds 8-24ft Long and Under 95" Wide – Versatility makes this an ideal solution to all your tarp system needs – 78" Lower Arms allow extra length for our system

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ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS Arm Kit – Universal Fit for Custom Beds

The ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS Electric Aluminum Arm 4 Spring Dump Truck Flip Tarp System Kit is built with heavy-duty aluminum and precision robotic welds for superior strength and rust resistance. It features telescoping arms that fit dump beds up to 23 feet long and a telescoping cross tube adjustable from 93 to 110 inches wide. You can cut the cross tube for narrower beds, ensuring a custom fit.

This system is designed for electric flip-style tarp systems or manual hand crank setups (with a friction brake). The arms are sold separately, so you’ll need to purchase a motor and tarp to complete the system. The adjustable design makes it a versatile option for trailers with non-standard dimensions. If you already have a motor or prefer a manual crank, this arm kit offers a durable, flexible foundation.

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• Heavy-Duty Aluminum Construction: Built with precision robotic welds for superior strength and rust resistance—outlasts steel arm systems.
• Universal Fit: Telescoping arms allow for use on dump beds up to 23’ long and the telescoping cross tube allows for use on dump beds up to 110” wide.
• Adjustable Design: Cross tube (for tarp) is adjustable from 93”-110” out of the box. Simply cut the cross tube if your dump bed is narrower than 93 inches. Cross tube can be cut down to 24” total width for special applications requiring narrow pivoting arms.
• Electric or Manual Operation: Works with any brand of electric ‘flip-style’ tarp system or manual hand crank tarp system (friction brake required for manual hand crank systems).
• Easy Side-Mount Installation: Includes all hardware for quick setup—ideal for new installs or replacing a broken arm system.
• Reliable, Versatile Performance: Works with mesh or vinyl asphalt tarps; included center flanges keep the tarp aligned to prevent edge fraying.

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Kym Industries System – Complete with Mesh Tarp for Beds Up to 24 Feet

The Kym Industries Electric Aluminum 4-Spring Dump Truck Tarp System comes with a 7’6″ x 18′ black mesh tarp, making it a complete package for beds up to 24 feet long and 110 inches wide. The 93-inch upper and lower polished aluminum arms are rust-proof, lightweight, and durable, providing reliable coverage. The 4-spring design ensures smooth flipping action, and the system includes all necessary hardware for installation.

This system is ideal if you want a ready-to-use solution without sourcing a separate tarp. The mesh tarp is suitable for covering loose materials like gravel or dirt, allowing airflow while keeping loads secure. The polished aluminum arms resist corrosion, extending the system’s lifespan. However, the mesh may not be ideal for fine materials. For a straightforward, all-in-one option, this system delivers convenience and durability.

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• 93" Upper and Lower Polished Aluminum Rust Proof, Lightweight and Durable Arms to Easily Achieve 24' of Coverage.

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ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 1200W Motor – Powerful Replacement for Long Beds

The ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 1200W/90:1-2 HP Universal Replacement Dump Truck Trailer Tarp Motor is one of the strongest on the market. It features a 12 VDC, 2 HP, 1200-watt reversing gear motor with 50 NM operating torque and a sealed worm gear. The 5-bolt pattern accommodates 3 or 4 bolt mounting systems, and it includes a chrome cover and all mounting hardware. This motor replaces units from Roll Rite, Donovan, Kym Industries, and more.

With a 90:1 gear ratio, it provides ample torque for dump bodies up to 40 feet, making it a powerful upgrade or replacement. The 3-year warranty offers long-term reliability. The universal 3/4″ x 4″ shaft with two holes for thru bolts ensures compatibility with most systems. If your current motor fails or you need more power, this unit is a robust choice. Just note that it’s a motor only, so you’ll need compatible arms and tarp.

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• 1200 WATT tarp motor has a 5 Bolt Pattern for 3 or 4 bolt mounting system, 90:1 Gear Ratio
• UNIVERSAL FIT for Dump Bodies up to 40 feet and works with most Electric Tarp Systems, Replaces: Roll Rite, Donovan, Tarping Systems Inc, Kym Industries, TarpUSA, Aero, US Tarp, Buyers, Pull Tarp, Mountain Tarp
• One of the Strongest Tarp Motors on the market! 12 VDC, 2 HP, 1200-WATTS, 40 AMPS, Reversing Gear Motor, 50 NM Operating Torque
• Sealed Worm Gear with universal 3/4" x 4" Shaft with 2 holes for thru bolts. 3 Year Warranty – Chrome Cover and All Mounting Hardware Included

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Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider

Choosing the right electric tarp system for your dump trailer involves key factors like material, motor power, and fit. This guide highlights what to look for.

• Material: Aluminum is lightweight and rust-proof, ideal for durability and easy maintenance. Steel is heavier but may be less expensive.
• Motor Power: A 1200W motor with a 90:1 gear ratio provides strong torque for beds up to 40 feet. Ensure it matches your trailer's length.
• Adjustability: Telescoping arms and adjustable cross tubes allow the system to fit various bed lengths and widths, from 93 to 110 inches wide.
• Installation Kit: Look for kits that include mounting hardware, cables, and switches for a straightforward setup. Some systems require separate tarp purchases.
• Warranty: A warranty of at least one year, like the 3-year option on some motors, provides peace of mind against defects.

Conclusion

Selecting the best electric tarp system depends on your trailer’s size and your need for durability. For long beds up to 28 feet, the Carolina Tarps underbody system offers a complete polished aluminum solution. If you prefer a versatile motor, the ALL TRUCK PRODUCTS 1200W unit provides universal compatibility and strong performance.

Consider your budget and whether you need a tarp included. The Kym Industries system comes with a mesh tarp, while others require separate purchase. For most users, a reliable motor and rust-proof arms are the top priorities.