When purchasing a pickup truck, it is essential to find out how wide is a truck bed between wheel wells. It determines how much cargo can be loaded into the bed and how easily loading and unloading items is. Generally speaking, the width between a truck bed wheel well to wheel well ranges between 6.5 feet and 8 feet, depending on the size of the cab and the model of the truck.
For example, the width between the wheel wells on a Ford F-250 is 60.5 inches, while the standard wheel well width on most Silverado models is approximately 49 inches. Pickup truck beds typically come in three sizes: 5-5.5 feet, 6.5 feet, and 8 feet. When purchasing a vehicle, your bed size will determine the width between the wheel wells.
Whether you’re a contractor hauling tools and equipment or an outdoorsman transporting camping gear and recreational vehicles, understanding the width of a truck bed between wheel wells is essential. In this article, we will delve into truck bed widths, exploring the various sizes available and their implications for different types of cargo.
Key Takeaways
- Precise width measurement between wheel wells is crucial for installing accessories and determining fuel efficiency.
- Factors such as the truck’s type and model, the wheel wells’ size, and modifications can affect the width of the truck bed between wheel wells.
- Different truck models have varying bed widths, and even within a single model, the bed width can vary based on trim level and optional features.
- Choosing the correct truck bed width is essential to ensure sufficient space for cargo, and it also impacts loading capacity and fuel efficiency.
Understanding the measurement of a truck bed between wheel wells
Measuring the width of a truck bed between wheel wells is a task that requires precision and accuracy. Knowing this width can be beneficial when installing accessories or determining fuel efficiency.
To measure accurately, one must use a tape measure to find the distance from the wheel well to the wheel well on both sides of the vehicle bed. Place the end of the tape measure at one side of the wheel well, then extend it across the bed until it reaches the other side of the wheel well for an accurate measurement.
It is essential to ensure that no obstacles block any part of either side of each wheel well for measurements to be correct and precise.
Additionally, take multiple measurements if necessary and ensure they are consistent before recording them for future reference.
Factors that affect how wide is a truck bed between wheel wells
The width of a truck bed located between the wheel wells is affected by several factors. These include the type and model of the vehicle, the size of the wheel wells, as well as modifications such as wiring accessories and truck bed liners.
For example, different types of trucks can have varying bed widths depending on their purpose. A pickup truck may have a narrower bed than a more extensive commercial truck which often has plenty of room for large cargo loads. Different models within each type will also affect how wide the bed is.
When looking at specific measurements, it’s essential to consider any changes made to the vehicle, including adding wiring accessories or fitting a protective liner into the bed. These additions can make the space between wheel wells smaller than intended for that model.
In conclusion, it’s essential to look at all aspects when determining how wide a vehicle bed is between its wheel wells, from its original design and specs down to any modifications or additions that may have been made afterward.
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Popular truck models and their bed widths
Comparing popular truck models reveals vast disparities in bed widths between wheel wells. Bed dimensions vary greatly across vehicle types, with some models having significantly wider beds than others.
This disparity is mainly due to the various manufacturers’ differences in design and styling.
The average width of a truck bed between the wheel wells (also called the bed width) varies depending on the vehicle model. Here are some general approximations:
- Midsize Trucks: Most midsize trucks have a bed width of 59 to 63 inches between the wheel wells. Popular models like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, and Honda Ridgeline fall into this range.
- Fullsize Trucks: Fullsize trucks tend to have wider bed widths, from around 62 to 79 inches. Typical bed widths for full-size trucks are 66 to 72 inches for regular cabs, and extended cab trucks are 72 to 79 inches for crew cab trucks. Popular full-size truck models like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra fall within these ranges.
- Heavy Duty Trucks: Heavy-duty trucks built for work typically have the widest bed widths, from about 74 to 98 inches between the wheel wells. Models like the Ford F-250/F-350, Ram 2500/3500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD, and GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD tend to have the most comprehensive truck beds.
Furthermore, even within a single truck model, the bed width may change depending on the trim level or other optional features the buyer chooses.
Ultimately, it is vital to carefully research when shopping for a new vehicle to ensure it has the necessary bed size for one’s needs.
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Choosing the right truck bed for your needs
It is essential to consider the dimensions of the truck bed to ensure that it provides sufficient space for one’s needs when choosing a vehicle. The vehicle bed width between wheel wells is critical when determining loading capacity and fuel efficiency.
Loading Capacity: A wider bed allows more cargo to be loaded, increasing overall capacity. Narrower beds limit the shipment that can be loaded, reducing overall capacity.
Fuel Efficiency: Wider beds incur more excellent air resistance than narrower ones, decreasing fuel efficiency. Thinner beds have less air resistance than more expansive ones, increasing fuel efficiency.
Choosing the right truck bed for your needs requires carefully considering how wide it should be between wheel wells based on your desired loading capacity and fuel efficiency needs.
Maintenance and care for a truck bed
Maintaining a truck bed in good condition requires specific care steps to help prevent damage to the wheel wells and bed. The materials used for them can vary, but all should be treated with care to protect them from corrosion, UV rays, or other environmental factors.
Bed protection is essential and can include waxing or sealing the bed with a protective coating. Regular cleaning will also help remove dirt and debris, which can cause damage over time.
Wheel wells should also be inspected regularly for any wear or rust that could cause problems. Additionally, adding a bed liner is another way to protect it from impacts and scratches while loading or carrying heavy items in the truck.
These simple tips will ensure your truck bed stays in excellent condition for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cargo can I fit in a truck bed between wheel wells?
The cargo that can fit in a truck bed between wheel wells depends on the size of the trailer hitches and tire pressure. An oversized trailer hitch or inadequate tire pressure can reduce cargo space.
What is the average cost of a new truck bed between wheel wells?
The average cost of a new truck bed between wheel wells will depend on the selected customizing options and maintenance costs. Depending on these factors, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
Are there any safety considerations when driving with a truck bed between wheel wells?
It should consider safety considerations when carrying weight or loading cargo in a truck bed between wheel wells. These include ensuring proper load balance, secure cargo fastening, and appropriate tire inflation.
Are there any special regulations for truck beds between wheel wells in my state?
The customizing regulations for truck beds between wheel wells vary by state. Truck size comparison can help determine which rules apply in a particular area—knowing the relevant laws before making any changes to a truck bed.
How to improve my truck’s fuel efficiency with a bed between wheel wells?
Reducing the weight of a truck with a bed between wheel wells and improving its aerodynamics can improve fuel efficiency. Factors to consider include reducing cargo weight, choosing low-profile tires, adding an undertray or air dam, and using a more efficient engine.
Conclusion
It is essential to understand how wide is a truck bed between wheel wells when choosing a truck model. Popular models vary in width, and factors such as the truck’s make and model can affect bed width. There are many different sizes available that can accommodate changing needs.
It should take proper maintenance and care to ensure the longevity of the truck bed and keep it looking new for years to come. With careful review, anyone can find the perfect fit when selecting a truck bed size between wheel wells.
