{"id":16059,"date":"2024-01-02T01:06:22","date_gmt":"2024-01-02T01:06:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myautomachine.com\/?p=16059"},"modified":"2024-01-02T01:06:22","modified_gmt":"2024-01-02T01:06:22","slug":"how-long-is-a-long-bed-truck","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myautomachine.com\/how-long-is-a-long-bed-truck\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long is a Long Bed Truck: Dimensions and Utility Explained","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"
When discussing pickup trucks, a frequent question is about the size of a long bed truck. I understand that the term “long bed” refers to the length of the truck’s cargo area. Typically, a long bed truck has a bed over eight feet in length. This extra length offers greater cargo space, which can be crucial for hauling larger items. Long bed trucks are a preferred choice for those needing to transport building materials, machinery, or other long objects that require the additional space.<\/p>\n
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While long bed trucks offer ample space, they also affect the overall vehicle length and maneuverability. This makes them less ideal for tight urban parking and can add to the challenge when navigating narrow spaces. However, their size and payload capacity are indispensable for certain tasks and industries, including construction and agriculture. Different models come with a variety of features, trim levels, and towing capacities, allowing potential buyers to choose a truck that best fits their specific performance and utility needs.<\/p>\n
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When discussing truck bed sizes, a long bed truck typically refers to the longest standard bed size available on a pickup truck. It provides substantial cargo space, distinguishing it clearly from standard and short bed variants.<\/p>\n
A long bed truck<\/strong> usually measures more than eight feet in length, making it the preferred choice for hauling large items that require extra space. This bed size is specifically designed for demanding tasks such as transporting construction materials or heavy equipment.<\/p>\n In contrast, standard beds<\/strong> are often around six to six and a half feet, while short beds<\/strong>, also known as sport beds, are typically five to five and a half feet in length. A long bed truck offers more space compared to these sizes, ensuring that it can accommodate larger loads and longer items without the need for an overhang or special arrangements.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I find it essential to highlight some of the popular models when discussing long bed trucks, as bed length significantly impacts utility and functionality. Each model listed here offers varying bed lengths, and the long bed variations are often the choice for those needing maximum cargo space.<\/p>\n The Ford F-Series<\/strong>, notably the Ford F-150<\/strong>, offers a long bed option usually measuring around 8 feet. It’s designed to cater to heavy-duty hauling and is commonly utilized in industries that demand substantial cargo capacity.<\/p>\n The Chevy Silverado<\/strong> lineup, which includes models like the Silverado 1500, offers long bed configurations that provide robust payload capabilities matching those who require extra space for transportation and work-related tasks.<\/p>\n Close kin to the Silverado, GMC Sierra<\/strong> trucks such as the Sierra 1500 also come with long bed variations. They are well-regarded for balancing work-ready functionality with a touch of premium design elements.<\/p>\n The Ram Pickup<\/strong> has a strong following, with options like the Ram 2500<\/strong> offering long bed versions. Often seen as a contender in the heavy-duty segment, these trucks offer substantial hauling capabilities.<\/p>\n When it comes to reliability, Toyota stands out. Both the Toyota Tundra<\/strong> and the Toyota Tacoma<\/strong> can come with longer bed options, though they typically do not reach the 8-foot mark, they do provide ample space in a dependable package.<\/p>\n https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=DAC0n-AOHXE&embed=true<\/a><\/p>\n When discussing the dimensions and cargo space of a long bed truck, it is crucial to understand the bed length and cargo capacity. These factors are essential for determining the suitability of a truck for various hauling needs.<\/p>\n To accurately assess the bed length of a truck, I use a measuring tape to determine the distance from the inside of the bulkhead to the tailgate. Long bed trucks typically have a bed length ranging from 8 feet to 8.5 feet<\/strong>. It is important to measure inside the bed’s edges since external measurements can be misleading due to varying designs and protective casing.<\/p>\n The cargo capacity of a long bed truck refers to the volume of cargo the bed can hold, which is often expressed in cubic feet. This capacity is calculated by multiplying the bed length by the width and height of the bed walls. Long bed trucks offer considerable cargo space, making them ideal for transporting large objects or a significant amount of material.<\/p>\n Cargo Volume Example<\/strong>: For an 8-foot long bed with a width of 5 feet and a side height of around 20 inches, the cargo volume would be:<\/p>\n To maximize the use of bed space, one should consider both the dimensions of the items being loaded and the total weight capacity of the truck, ensuring not to exceed the manufacturer’s specified cargo capacity limits.<\/p>\n https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=EjFXTC021g4&embed=true<\/a><\/p>\n In discussing the length of long bed trucks, it’s essential to understand truck configurations and cab sizes, as these directly impact bed length. The cab design influences not only the available space for passengers but also the overall vehicle length, which includes the bed.<\/p>\n Crew cabs offer four full-size doors providing comfortable seating for up to five or six passengers. My emphasis should be on the fact that while offering ample interior space, crew cab trucks typically have a shorter bed to maintain a manageable overall vehicle length. For instance, a long bed in a crew cab<\/strong> might measure around 8 feet.<\/p>\n On the contrary, a regular cab<\/strong> is characterized by a single row of seating and two doors. Given the limited cabin space, regular cab trucks can afford longer bed lengths without significantly affecting the vehicle’s total length. Therefore, when someone refers to a long bed truck with a regular cab, they’re often talking about bed sizes that can extend up to 8 feet or more, which is ideal for hauling large items.<\/p>\n Extended cab trucks provide a compromise between cabin space and bed length. These trucks have additional rear space behind the front seats, but it’s less than what I’d find in a crew cab. The extended cab’s additional space might come from rear-hinged doors, as seen in extended cab<\/strong> options, which provides access to small rear seats or storage area.<\/p>\n Other variants, like the double cab<\/strong> and the super cab<\/strong>, offer four door access, but they differ slightly in terms of rear seating space and door design. These variants often come with a medium-length bed, which strikes a balance between being a functional cargo hauler and accommodating passengers comfortably. While not as long as the beds associated with regular cabs, I can expect bed lengths in these trucks to range from around 6 to 7 feet, depending on the manufacturer specifics and design.<\/p>\n In all, the configuration of the cab is a significant determinant of bed length in trucks. Whether I prioritize passenger capacity or cargo space will guide my decision on which cab variant and bed length combination are ideal for my needs.<\/p>\n https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=nnLctLzL6_k&embed=true<\/a><\/p>\n In my exploration of long bed trucks, I focus particularly on their robust performance and exceptional towing capabilities, which cater to those with demanding hauling needs.<\/p>\n When I consider the powertrains of long bed trucks, my attention goes directly to the variety of engines offered. These trucks often come with a range of powertrain options, from efficient V6 engines to more powerful V8s and even diesel engines for maximum torque. For instance, the Power Wagon<\/strong>\u2014a variant known for its heavy-duty capabilities\u2014typically offers a more robust engine to handle strenuous tasks.<\/p>\n The towing and payload capacities of these trucks are pivotal to my discussion. They are specifically designed to tow heavy trailers and haul large payloads without compromising stability or performance. For a long bed truck, the maximum towing capacity can sometimes exceed 10,000 pounds, while the payload capacity is often impressive as well. I have seen trucks equipped to handle upwards of 2,000 pounds of payload, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. For example, when discussing maximum towing capacity, it’s not uncommon for my focus to shift towards the capabilities of trucks like the heavy-duty<\/strong> variants, which are engineered to maximize towing and hauling potential.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In exploring truck configurations, I’ve found that both trim levels and bed options critically define a truck’s usability and appearance. Here, I’ll navigate through the intricacies of trim variations and delve into the extended bed choices available for pickups.<\/p>\n When discussing trim levels<\/strong>, I consider the varying packages which dictate a truck’s features and capabilities. For instance, the Ford Ranger<\/strong> comes in several trims, including the XL, XLT, and Lariat, where the XLT trim offers an appealing balance of cost and features. It typically includes enhancements such as a better infotainment system and advanced safety features over the base XL. Similarly, a Chevy Colorado<\/strong> can be outfitted in trims ranging from the Work Truck to the off-road-focused ZR2.<\/p>\n Moving to bed options<\/strong>, trucks like the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado offer beds in different lengths. On the Ranger, there’s commonly a choice between the 5-foot short bed or the 6-foot long bed, providing flexibility for hauling needs. The long bed, as the term suggests, provides additional cargo space and is particularly advantageous for those carrying longer items regularly.<\/p>\n The Power Wagon<\/strong> and Rebel<\/strong>, which are specific trims of the Ram series, also come with varying bed lengths. Each trim level could affect the availability of bed length options, and higher trims like the Rebel might offer exclusive features related to the truck bed, like integrated storage systems or bed lighting \u2014 attributes that elevate the truck’s functionality and resilience in off-road conditions.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Caring for long bed trucks is essential for preserving their functionality and value. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and durability, especially since these vehicles often serve as work trucks, subjected to heavy-duty use.<\/p>\n I understand that the bed of the truck is one of its most utilized features; it’s the workhorse area where all the heavy lifting happens. To protect it, I apply a spray-on or drop-in bedliner, which is a protective coating that absorbs shock and reduces cargo slippage. Weekly inspections<\/strong> for scratches or dents are vital. For any signs of damage, I take immediate action to prevent rust and corrosion.<\/p>\n Maintaining my long bed truck involves a disciplined approach to routine servicing. Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, I perform the following:<\/p>\n Adhering to these maintenance tasks is non-negotiable if I aim to keep my truck reliable on the road.<\/p>\nComparison with Standard and Short Beds<\/h3>\n
Popular Long Bed Truck Models<\/h2>\n
Ford F-Series<\/h3>\n
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Chevrolet Silverado<\/h3>\n
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GMC Sierra<\/h3>\n
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Ram Pickup<\/h3>\n
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Toyota Trucks<\/h3>\n
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Dimensions and Cargo Space<\/h2>\n
Measuring Truck Beds<\/h3>\n
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Cargo Capacity Analysis<\/h3>\n
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8 ft (length) x 5 ft (width) x 1.67 ft (height) = Approximately 66.7 cubic feet of bed space\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Truck Configurations and Cab Sizes<\/h2>\n
Crew Cab Versus Regular Cab<\/h3>\n
Extended Cab and Other Variants<\/h3>\n
Performance and Towing Capacity<\/h2>\n
Engine and Powertrain Options<\/h3>\n
Maximum Towing and Payload<\/h3>\n
Trim Levels and Bed Options<\/h2>\n
Understanding Trim Variations<\/h3>\n
Extended Bed and Other Options<\/h3>\n
Care and Maintenance for Long Bed Trucks<\/h2>\n
Protecting the Truck Bed<\/h3>\n
Routine Servicing Tips<\/h3>\n
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Purchasing a Long Bed Truck<\/h2>\n