A simplified installation tool for installing a cover strip in a linear guide rail assembly is provided. The installation tool includes a body having a channel that extends across a bottom surface of the body that is adapted to receive a guide rail. The channel is defined by an upper surface with a lead-in angled projection and sides defined by two L-shaped guide portions that extend from the upper surface and that face each other. Two undercut areas of the channel are located between the L-shaped guide portions and the upper surface of the channel. Retention tabs of the installation tool can attach to the carriage of the linear guide rail assembly. The lead-in angled projection provides a downward force on the cover strip as the carriage travels along the guide rail to press the cover strip into a flattened state within a slot of the guide rail.