[Pmedic4]

We have a cheap, roll up, snap down cover on our truck bed, and I was worried even the 1 1/2" side rails would reduce the clearance for our 5vr over the bed. Hasn't been a problem or even an issue.

I personally like having the bed cover, simply because it protects the Hitch from the elements 95% of the time, and ours looks like new, but just 2 years old. Plus I'm sure the lubrication points stay a little better without being rained on all the time. Right now during winter, the hitch is sitting in the garage, and unfortunately my truck is longer than my garage, so my truck sits out 100% of the time.