Forum Discussion

bhartzman's avatar
bhartzman
Explorer
May 19, 2013

Long Box vs Short Box

We're anticipating buying a 5W next but need to buy the truck this year as we replace a leased vehicle. I've found a good looking 2006 Ford F350 Lariat with under 100K miles for under $19K. Super clean but it has a
6 3/4 box. Are there disadvantages to a short box truck? Should I hold out to find a 8' box? Not sure I understand how rails work on a hitch and what they do to compensate for a short box truck. Any and all info is appreciated. I'm sure you can tell I'm very much a beginner in all of this.
  • guidry's avatar
    guidry
    Explorer
    May 19, 2013
    If you are buying a newer 5th wheel trailer, most come with a tapered front that allows for turning with a shorter bed truck. The longer box will give you more storage but I haven't had a need for it. When buying my 5th, I asked the dealer if I should get a slider hitch and he could have sold me something I really didn't need but he was honest and told me that it wasn't needed. He was right. My truck bed is 6&1/2 feet.

    If the 5th wheel trailer is an older one with a flat front then you should probably get a long bed.

    Good luck

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