firesapple

In the next couple of months, I will be ordering a Ford F-150 2x4, SuperCrew Lariet, Ecoboost in order to get exactly what I want vs. getting one from the dealer lot.

But here is my question: What's better a 5.5 or a 6.5 box bed ??? The majority of the F150 SuperCrew down here are 5.5, not sure why.

Before some of you ask........ I will be using this truck as my primary vehicle (to/from work, and everyday use). Being a firefighter in South Florida, I do not see myself using the bed for much other then small projects at home. I'm just afraid to order a 5.5 bed and later wishing I would have ordered the 6.5 size (especially since I plan on keeping it for at least 10 years).

So, I want to hear from the truck expects on their advise and the pro/cons on having either bed.

Thank you in advanced

mlts22

If it is your DD, then you might be best off with the 5.5" bed and a bed extender. The reason for this is that it is easier to park the short bed on a daily basis, as well as get over lanes when in rush hour. The downside is that if you drop a toolbox in a 5.5" bed, you end up not that much usable bed space.

It is your choice -- a lot of people love their 6.5" beds, because the bed is still usable even with a toolbox. However, if you don't need the extra foot in the bed all the time, the 5.5" would be perfect.

09FordFX4

Well the 6.5' is a really long truck with the supercrew, if you don't see that as an issue go with it because it may come in handy. If you really don't think you need it, go with the 5.5' and get a bed extender

shortride

iTrader: (1)

It usually boils down to a personal choice and how you're going to use the truck. People have different opinions on what looks the best.

Personally I like my 5.5' bed. Things you can buy that must be hauled in a pickup that come in standard lengths are neither 5.5' or 6.5'. If you like the looks of a 5.5' bed better, buy a bed extender and you can haul just about anything a 6.6' bed can. There's a slight difference in weight also.

firesapple

I wish I could see two similar trucks (one 5.5 and the other 6.5) side by side to compare. But like I said, no local dealer around my area has a SuperCrew with a 6.5 bed. The bed extender is a look idea, not sure why I never thought about it.

Thanks so far for the advises. Keep them coming.

darkmoone

A couple things to note regarding your decision:
* The 6.5' actually has a longer drive shaft than the 5.5' - This means that it doesn't turn as sharp. However, because of that there is also room for the hydraulic steps that can be put in front of the rear tires for easier bed access on the sides.
* Some people have mentioned that 1 foot was the difference between parking in their garage vs. parking outside.
* Weight/Mileage - I believe they state they get around the same mileage, but there's a bit more weight on the 6.5' for obvious reasons.
* Bed room - Obvious factor here. Think through if there will be times (and how frequent you want that extra bed space (for example a 6' couch)

FYI I have the SCrew with a 6.5' bed. I use it as my daily commuter. I do IT work in Seattle so I'm parking at client sites, in garages, etc. Is it as easy to park as my Audi was? No. Have I ever had a time I couldn't part it and was screwed because of the truck size? No.

My friend has a 5.5' and loves his too. From your description I think you'd be fine either way.

My recommendation - Test drive both and try to park both. That will help you determine if that 1' drive train difference is acceptable for you or not.

Oh...and I have a bed extender on mine so I can get to 8' if needed. Believe it or not I've actually used that a couple times already.

Good luck!

jzinckgra

I'm kinda in the same boat. definitely need the 6.5' bed, but like the looks of the screw better, but damn, that's a long truck dimension wise. Might have to go with the supercab with 6.5' bed, but noticed on Ford site, that many of the F150 truck models become very limited with the scab/6.5'. Why didn't they offer a 6' and get rid of the 5.5'?

jt_04

Obviously, the real reason it can't turn as sharp is because it has a longer wheelbase, which requires a longer drive shaft.

I love my 6.5 bed, but it can be hard to maneuver. I use it as a daily driver with the occasional load in the back and have actually needed that extra foot of bed space before. but of course, i have a toolbox in there too.

seadragon

I have the 5.5 bed and am very happy with it. I've not yet run into any problems using the bed. I also have the bed extender which is very handy.

A difference that one may not notice immediately is the 5.5 has a one piece drive shaft vs 2 piece with the 6.5. Not sure how important it is, but there's no carrier bearing to worry about with the one piece. If that bearing is out of adjustment or worn, it can cause vibration problems. There have been quite a few complaints on various forums about the "bump from behind" sensation when stopping.

Ford has a TSB out for the 2 piece shaft on some earlier trucks...

TSB 09-25-5
Some 2009-2010 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2 piece driveshaft only and built on or before 12/1/2009 may exhibit a rear driveshaft slip/bump concern on light to moderate acceleration from a stop or when coming to stop with light braking.

jt_04

everyone seems quick to point out that the 2-piece drive shaft is a possible point of weakness with the 6.5 bed (not just in this thread, but every time this comes up). it's important to remember this isn't the only place Ford is using a 2-piece driveshaft. many, if not all, F250s, 350s, etc all use it. It's not a complicated concept and it's definitely not a new concept.