Short bed Vs Long Bed Truck pulling performance

I had a short bed first, then got my LB-CC.

They may pull the same (given the same engine/tranny/rear gear set) and the shorty is easier to fit in urban situations because of total length and turning radius, but the ride quality of the long bed, particularly with the crew cab, is FAR, FAR superior due to the much longer wheelbase.

My last 2 trucks have been extended cab, not crew cab. Currently have the extended cab with an 8' bed.

I'm surprised that the extended cab is not more popular. Seems like everyone jumps right to the crew cab. Obviously some people need that for their families. But many don't regularly haul more than 2 bodies and still go for the crew cab. For some it may be a status symbol thing.

My extended cab still allows me to haul 5 people, when the rare need arises. Reasonably comfortable, for shorter trips. Plenty of room for our big Lab dogs. One thing I really like is that the rear door opening is better for loading long cargo items, like gun cases for example, as well as easier for the dog to jump in. Basically the whole side of the truck is wide open when both doors are open.

So, obviously not for everyone, but you can have a mid-size wheel base and still get a long bed.

I bought a new Ford Ranger back in 1985. It was the long bed version, which was 7 feet with a V-6 engine. It was a good truck for a lot of uses, and the shortest bed I have ever liked in a truck. Eight feet is perfect.

I recommend going with ol-Bomersang's thoughts/suggestion.

Don't get a 2WD short bed gasser like I have, because it fits my needs. :W

Long bed. Had short beds of 5.5-6.5 lengths up until 2012 when I got a LB. Thought about replacing it with a SB but stayed with a 2018 LB because I like the extra room in the bed with the 5th hitch. I have almost 4' between the cab and 5th hitch. with an SB I'd only have 2'6". Yeah parking lots are tricky but it's worth the trade off when camping or hauling anything else. Plus I don't have to worry about the 5th cap hitting the cab with a non-slider hitch. Just a lot simpler.

Have had both long and short bed CC trucks.
LB 1st, then SB.
Didn't need the long bed - didn't notice any difference in ride.
If I were buying a new p/up today - it would be a SB again.

Purchase the truck *YOU* want for whatever reasons suit *YOUR* needs. - NOT someone else's!..:W

~

I have had short beds because they are easier to maneuver and park when using for daily transportation and they fit in my garage. On the other hand, I don't have as much room in the bed and need a slider. Doubt there is much difference when it comes to towing as long as you are within your weights.

I keep buying longer trucks and I like them better and better for everything except turning but the pros outway the cons, by far. I finally got a real CCLB and I won't go back for nothing. Craig

Real Trucks have long beds ;)

For your use, Long bed. there isn't enough space in a short bed for loading ATV's or Mowers and still having a truck box. and if you're doing mulch or dirt, the long bed will hold more.

Also, if you don't have a 5th wheel already, get the prep package, but don't actually buy the hitch until you get the trailer.

I am getting the CC SRW LB 3500HD 4x4 GN/5W Prep as well. My needs, 2 ATV's on the bed (Diamondback Tonneau cover) and a bumper pull Travel Trailer. To be within payload on the vehicle, I've got to go 1T vs 3/4T. But I never even considered the short bed. I hate not being able to put a sheet of plywood in the bed without it being on the tail gate. And if I ever load an ATV without the Tonneau cover, I want it off the tail gate. I'm getting the GN prep, as a 5th wheel toy hauler is probably in the future. But for now, I'll stick with the TT I've already got.