There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from standing back and admiring your truck after a fresh wash. For me, it was a sunny Saturday afternoon with my 2017 GMC Sierra sparkling in the driveway. As I ran a microfiber cloth over the bed rails, my eyes caught on the two dark, gaping holes of the rear stake pockets. They were like a missing button on a brand-new shirt—a small, unfinished detail that, once noticed, you can’t ignore. Worse than the look, however, was the collection of grime inside: decomposing leaves, pine needles, and a gritty sludge from countless rainstorms. These open pockets are not just an eyesore; they’re invitations for water and debris to collect, potentially leading to rust and corrosion deep within the truck’s bed structure. It’s a common problem for Chevy and GMC owners, a minor but persistent annoyance that detracts from an otherwise clean and functional vehicle. This is the precise problem the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers aim to solve.
- 🎁【Fitment】Compatible with 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 gmc sierra stake pocket covers are perfect for Bed Rail Covers that Cover the Hole.The Bed Rail...
- 🎁【Excellent Material】Compatible with Chevy silverado stake pocket covers 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 are made of high quality plastic material,which is...
What to Consider Before Buying Truck Bed Accessories
Truck bed accessories are more than just cosmetic upgrades; they are key solutions for protecting your investment, enhancing functionality, and maintaining your vehicle’s value. From heavy-duty tonneau covers to simple plugs, these components work together to create a secure and clean cargo area. The primary benefit is protection—shielding the bed from weather, preventing debris accumulation, and deterring theft. A well-sealed and protected truck bed is easier to clean, less prone to rust, and more versatile for hauling everything from groceries to expensive tools. It’s about transforming an open, vulnerable space into a finished, trunk-like compartment.
The ideal customer for products like the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers is a truck owner who values a clean, OEM-plus aesthetic and recognizes the long-term benefits of preventative maintenance. This is for the person who has a tonneau cover and notices small leaks, or the owner who is tired of fishing leaves out of the stake holes. It’s a finishing touch. However, if your truck is a dedicated workhorse that frequently uses stake-mounted accessories like tie-downs, racks, or side rails, permanently plugging these holes might not be practical. For those users, a more temporary or easily removable solution might be better. And if your primary goal is full-bed security and weatherproofing, a simple plug won’t suffice; you should be looking at a comprehensive tonneau cover system.
Before investing in any truck bed accessory, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Compatibility & Fitment: This is non-negotiable. Always triple-check that the accessory is designed for your truck’s specific make, model, year, and bed length. For stake pocket covers, this is especially critical, as hole sizes and shapes vary significantly, even on different trim levels of the same truck. The Moonlinks product, for instance, is specifically for 2014-2018 GM trucks and won’t fit newer models or other brands.
- Functionality & Purpose: What problem are you trying to solve? Are you blocking debris, preventing water intrusion, improving aerodynamics, or securing cargo? Stake pocket covers are for sealing and aesthetics. A tonneau cover is for security and large-scale weatherproofing. Understand the primary purpose to ensure you’re buying the right tool for the job.
- Materials & Durability: Look for materials that can withstand the elements. For plastic components like these covers, high-quality, UV-stabilized ABS plastic is a must to prevent fading, cracking, and warping in the sun. For larger accessories like tonneau covers, materials range from vinyl to aluminum to fiberglass composites, each offering different levels of security and longevity.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: How easy is the product to install, use, and remove? The Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers boast a tool-free installation, but as we discovered, removal can be tricky. Consider this trade-off. For any accessory, think about long-term care—will it hold up to automatic car washes? Does it require special cleaners or treatments to maintain its appearance and function?
Choosing the right accessories is about creating a complete system that suits your needs. These small plugs can be the final piece of the puzzle for a perfectly sealed and protected truck bed. For those wanting to see the full specs and compatibility list, it’s always wise to review the details before purchasing.
While the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers are an excellent choice for finishing your truck bed, it’s always wise to understand the full landscape of truck bed protection. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- FITMENT - {{ Enter the LICENSE PLATE in the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool at the top of this page and SELECT BED to confirm your vehicle fitment with this...
- FITMENT - {{ Enter the LICENSE PLATE in the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool at the top of this page and SELECT BED to confirm your vehicle fitment with this...
- Fitment - Compatible with 1982-1993 Chevy S10 GMC S15 Fleetside 6Ft Bed
First Impressions: A Simple Solution with a Solid Feel
The Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers arrived in simple, no-frills packaging, which is perfectly acceptable for such a straightforward product. Inside were the two covers, one for the left and one for the right side. My first impression upon handling them was positive. The Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic felt dense and substantial, not like the flimsy, brittle plastic you find on some cheap accessories. The top surface has a fine, textured finish designed to mimic the OEM plastic on the truck’s bed rails, a detail we were keen to test. Flipping them over, you can see the series of retaining tabs and the distinct, custom shape designed to lock into the stake pocket. The product description mentions an “uneven edge” for a better fit and easier removal, and you can feel a very slight taper on the underside. They felt like a purpose-built part, not a generic plug. There are no instructions included, nor are they needed; their function is immediately obvious. They looked and felt ready to provide that missing factory-finished look we were hoping for. You can check the latest price and availability for this simple but effective upgrade.
What We Like
- Provides a clean, finished factory appearance
- Effectively seals stake pockets from rain, dirt, and debris
- Made from durable, textured ABS plastic that matches OEM trim
- Extremely easy and tool-free snap-in installation
What We Didn’t Like
- Fit is not perfectly flush, sitting about 1/8″ above the rail
- Can have a tendency to pop up slightly, especially in the heat
Deep Dive: A Hands-On Performance Analysis of the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers
A product this simple lives or dies by its execution. It’s not about flashy features; it’s about fit, finish, and durability. After several weeks of testing on our 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 through sun, rain, and highway driving, we have a comprehensive verdict on how the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers perform in the real world.
Installation and The Quest for a Perfect Fit
Moonlinks advertises a “super easy” installation, and for the most part, they deliver on that promise. Aligning the cover with the stake pocket is intuitive. The initial push meets resistance as the plastic tabs engage with the inside of the pocket. For us, a firm press with the palm of our hand wasn’t quite enough to seat it fully. This experience aligns with many users who noted the fit is very snug. One user mentioned, “Installation was easy using a soft faced mallet,” and we found this to be the best method. A few gentle taps with a rubber mallet set the cover into place with a satisfying thud. The entire process for both sides took less than a minute.
However, the “perfect fit” is a matter of debate. The most common observation, which we confirmed immediately, is that these covers do not sit perfectly flush with the bed rail cap. As one user accurately described, “they stick up about an 1/8\”.” This isn’t a defect; it appears to be a design choice. The slight lip it creates may contribute to a better seal against water, and as another user cleverly pointed out, it was “VERY useful for getting a screwdriver underneath to remove them.” Without that lip, removal would be nearly impossible without damaging the rail cap. While some buyers may be disappointed by the lack of a truly flush fit, we came to see it as a practical compromise. The more pressing issue we encountered, echoed by several owners, is the tendency for one end to “pop up” after a day or so, especially after the truck sits in direct sunlight. A firm push with a thumb snaps it back into place, but it’s an annoyance that detracts from the “set it and forget it” ideal. This suggests that thermal expansion of the plastic or slight variations in truck stake pockets can affect the long-term seating of the covers.
Aesthetics and Material Durability
From five feet away, the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers are a massive aesthetic improvement. They transform the look of the bed rail from incomplete to intentionally finished. The textured black finish is an impressively close match to the factory plastic on our GMC Sierra’s rails. It doesn’t look like a cheap, shiny add-on; it blends in seamlessly, appearing as though it could have come from the factory. One user noted the “texture is a close match,” and we fully agree. This is a critical detail that Moonlinks got right.
In terms of durability, the ABS plastic has held up exceptionally well. After weeks of exposure to harsh sun and several high-pressure car washes, there is no sign of fading, discoloration, or cracking. They repel water effectively, and the seal they create has been solid. We intentionally monitored the pockets after heavy rain and found them to be completely dry inside, confirming another user’s report that they “keep dampness out of covered bed.” The only minor cosmetic flaw we observed was a very slight “ripple” or raised area on the surface, as one user described. It’s only visible if you’re looking for it at just the right angle and is a minor artifact of the manufacturing process. For a functional part on a truck, it’s a non-issue, but those seeking absolute perfection should be aware. For a component that delivers such a significant visual upgrade, these minor imperfections are easy to overlook, especially given the affordable price point for a set of these durable covers.
Functionality: More Than Just a Pretty Plug
Beyond looks, the primary function of the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers is to act as a barrier, and in this, they excel. Our truck is parked under a large pine tree, and before installing the covers, the stake pockets were a constant collection point for needles, seeds, and rainwater, creating a soupy mess. After installation, the problem was completely eliminated. The top of the bed rail is now a smooth, continuous surface that is easy to wipe clean. Dust, pollen, and water simply run off. This is especially beneficial for truck owners with tonneau covers. Many tonneau cover systems have minor gaps near the corners, and an open stake pocket can be a primary source of water intrusion into the bed. As one owner confirmed, “Ordered because my bed cover has very slight leak on right side from the cap opening so needed it closed off.” These plugs effectively solve that specific problem.
The flip side of this secure, tight fit is the challenge of removal. If you need to use your stake pockets for tie-downs or a ladder rack, be prepared for a bit of work. As one user presciently noted, “Good luck getting them out if you use your holes.” We tested this by simulating the installation of a bed-mounted accessory. Using a small flathead screwdriver wrapped in a microfiber towel to prevent scratching, we carefully worked the edge up. It took some patience, but thanks to the slightly raised lip, it was possible. We agree with the user who wished for a small, integrated removal loop, but that would spoil the sleek, OEM look. It’s a clear trade-off: you get a semi-permanent, clean-looking seal at the cost of easy access. For the majority of truck owners who never use their stake pockets, this is a perfect compromise. The protective benefit is a feature that really sets it apart for preserving the truck’s condition.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment from other users largely mirrors our own findings. There’s a strong consensus that the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers are a valuable, low-cost upgrade that significantly improves the truck’s appearance. Positive comments frequently praise the “snug fit” and how they “look great.” One happy customer succinctly stated, “My only complaint is that I didn’t buy them sooner. Fits great and easy to install.”
However, the constructive criticism is just as consistent and focuses almost entirely on the nuances of the fit. The most common issue reported is the tendency for them to pop up. As one detailed review put it, “It has a tendency to pop up on one end after sitting in the sun but easily bumped in with a hand.” Another user was less forgiving, stating, “after about 10 miles on the road they started lifting up… they still pop up so I am returning these.” This highlights that while the issue is common, the tolerance for it varies by user. The fact that the covers don’t sit perfectly flush is the other major point of discussion, though many, like us, see it as a functional design choice rather than a flaw.
Alternatives to Consider for Total Bed Protection
While the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers are fantastic for perfecting one specific detail, your truck bed protection goals might be more comprehensive. If you’re looking for a complete solution for security and weatherproofing, a full tonneau cover is the next logical step. Here’s how a few popular alternatives serve a different, broader purpose.
1. MOSTPLUS 6.5 FT Soft Quad Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Compatible for 2002-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body & Classic ; Compatible with 2003-2024 Dodge Ram 2500 3500 | fleetside 6.5'/ 6.4' bed——78 inch
- Patented Clamp-On Lock,Integrated clip fastening System will ensure security and stability. 1 Pcs of Stick Touch Lamp Included
If your primary goal is to cover the entire bed on a budget, the MOSTPLUS Soft Quad Fold is a compelling option. Unlike the Moonlinks plugs, which seal small holes, this product provides full-bed coverage. Its soft, vinyl material and quad-fold design offer versatility, allowing you to access different parts of the bed without removing the entire cover. This is ideal for the user who needs to keep cargo dry and out of sight but doesn’t require the high security of a hard cover. It’s a practical, entry-level solution for overall protection, whereas the Moonlinks covers are a finishing touch for those who may or may not already have a cover.
2. Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-fold Tonneau Cover 5
- FITMENT - {{ Enter the LICENSE PLATE in the Amazon Confirmed Fit tool at the top of this page and SELECT BED to confirm your vehicle fitment with this...
- DESIGN - US patented. Cover is dual-coated and made out of heavy duty 24oz. marine-grade vinyl, with aircraft-grade aluminum frames, and comes with...
The Tyger Auto T3 is one of the most popular soft tri-fold covers on the market, known for its quality construction and easy, no-drill installation. This cover is a step up in build quality from many budget options and is designed for a specific vehicle—in this case, the Jeep Gladiator. This illustrates the importance of vehicle-specific fitment. A user choosing the Tyger T3 is looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, full-bed solution that offers excellent weather resistance. While the Moonlinks plugs solve a water ingress point, the Tyger T3 aims to prevent water from ever reaching the bed rails in the first place, making it a more comprehensive but also more expensive solution.
3. RealTruck BAKFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
- Fits 2020 - 2026 Chevy/GMC Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500 6' 10" Bed (82.2")
- THE BEST-SELLING TRUCK BED COVER IN THE WORLD JUST GOT BETTER
For the truck owner who demands maximum security and a premium, ultra-low-profile look, the BAKFlip MX4 is a top-tier choice. Made from heavy-duty aluminum panels with a matte black finish, this hard-folding cover essentially turns your truck bed into a secure vault. It sits flush with the bed rails for a sleek, integrated appearance. This product is for someone whose priorities are theft prevention and durability above all else. It represents the highest end of the bed protection spectrum, where the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers would serve as a complementary accessory to ensure even the smallest gaps are sealed for a truly weatherproof and secure system.
The Final Verdict: A Worthwhile and Affordable Finishing Touch
After extensive hands-on testing, we can confidently recommend the Moonlinks Stake Pocket Covers to any 2014-2018 GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado owner looking to give their truck a clean, finished look. They are a simple, elegant, and effective solution to the problem of open, debris-collecting stake pockets. The durable ABS material and textured finish match the factory trim perfectly, and their ability to block water and dirt is undeniable.
You must, however, be realistic about the fit. They will likely sit about an eighth of an inch proud of the bed rail, and you may find yourself occasionally pushing an edge back down, especially after a hot day. For us, these are minor quirks that are far outweighed by the aesthetic and protective benefits. If you rarely or never use your stake pockets and are tired of looking at those unsightly holes, this is one of the best and most affordable upgrades you can make. For the price of a couple of coffees, you can solve a persistent annoyance and add a subtle but significant touch of refinement to your truck. If you’re ready to complete the look of your truck bed, we highly recommend you grab a set and see the difference for yourself.
Last update on 2025-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API