Long or short wheelbase. Does it matter?
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Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Albuquerque
Long or short wheelbase. Does it matter?
When it comes time to order my new 2017 F150 SuperCrew cab 4x4...I'm thinking I'll go with the long wheelbase or 6.5' bed.
My question(s): Which wheelbase long or short drives the best? How about over freeway expansion joints?
Besides overall length and obvious bed sizes, any benefits to the ride over one or the another?
biz
My question(s): Which wheelbase long or short drives the best? How about over freeway expansion joints?
Besides overall length and obvious bed sizes, any benefits to the ride over one or the another?
biz
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 3,274
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From: Seattle area
I test drove a CC with a 5.5' and 6.5' box. There was a noticeable difference in turning radius, but I don't remember any ride quality difference. There are times I miss the longer bed, but I'm glad I got the shorter wheel base on almost a daily basis when I'm parking.
Not sure if those side beds in the CC configuration are the same wheelbase with a SC with the 6.5' and 8' beds, but I bet they're close.
Not sure if those side beds in the CC configuration are the same wheelbase with a SC with the 6.5' and 8' beds, but I bet they're close.
Moderator
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,227
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From: San Antonio, TX
I gotta say, my CC 6.5 bed is tougher to maneuver than my old Super Duty CC short bed, which had a noticibly tighter turning radius. Not many expansion joints around these parts, so I have no answer for that.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Albuquerque
Appreciate the replies and your experiences.
That is very interesting on the SD comparison to your new F150...and the tight turning radius. I believe they are both 156" wheelbase.
Driving my 2012 SD around town...almost always park backing up to my spot. It just seems easier.
Hopefully, I'll get to test drive a SuperCrew with 6.5' bed before placing my order. Only thing...is they are hard to find at the local dealers.
The expansion joints on the freeway can be remedied with good shocks. I'm already planning to go with Fox 2.0's.
biz
That is very interesting on the SD comparison to your new F150...and the tight turning radius. I believe they are both 156" wheelbase.
Driving my 2012 SD around town...almost always park backing up to my spot. It just seems easier.
Hopefully, I'll get to test drive a SuperCrew with 6.5' bed before placing my order. Only thing...is they are hard to find at the local dealers.
The expansion joints on the freeway can be remedied with good shocks. I'm already planning to go with Fox 2.0's.
biz
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 1,801
Likes: 48
From: Abilene TX.
I WILL get a 6.5 on my next Super Crew. I had that option on my 07 but my last 2 trucks 2012 and 2015 have both been 5.5 and i have some fishing poles that just won't fit among other things. 6.5 is handier for hauling building materials. I have driven a F350 crew cab, at work, with an 8 ft bed you want to talk about difficult to maneuver in a parking lot!! I alos pulled a 30ft goose neck trailer with it as well.
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Posting Guru
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My 2012 had the 5.5.. the new one has the 6.5 because it holds value better and I can sleep there.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Albuquerque
I'll be going with the 2nd Gen 3.5L Ecoboost. It's not for the hp, but the 470 lb-ft torque!! 
For the size and weight of this truck...it's going to be hard to keep my foot out of the "go-pedal".
Plus, I'm excited to run with the 10 spd transmission.
biz
For the size and weight of this truck...it's going to be hard to keep my foot out of the "go-pedal".Plus, I'm excited to run with the 10 spd transmission.
biz
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Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Albuquerque
Based on responses, it appears that both the F150 short bed and long bed ride about the same. Only concerns are maneuverability in parking lots. For me...that is a non issue coming from a 2012 SuperDuty CC SWB.
The new '17 F150 will be about the same wheelbase at 156" as my SD.
Plus, I'm sure the Fox 2.0 shocks...will help the ride immensely.
biz
The new '17 F150 will be about the same wheelbase at 156" as my SD.
Plus, I'm sure the Fox 2.0 shocks...will help the ride immensely.
biz
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Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Albuquerque
biz
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 1,801
Likes: 48
From: Abilene TX.
No you don't. I have seen 3 at my dealer and 2 were stripped work trucks. Not saying that's bad , just not what I want. the other thing is if you want to pull a trailer same problem. Everything the dealer orders will have the highest available gear ratio, i suppose for mileage, not for pulling. I WILL order my next truck!