Truck owners often wonder what wheelbase their truck has. This is important information to know, as it can determine how well a truck handles, how much cargo it can carry, and how much weight can be placed on the truck bed. Knowing the wheelbase of a truck is also helpful when purchasing accessories or parts for the vehicle. In this article, we'll explain what wheelbase is, how to measure it, and the various wheelbase sizes available for pickup trucks.
What is Wheelbase?
Wheelbase is the distance between the center of the front wheels and the center of the rear wheels. This measurement can affect the overall handling of a vehicle, as well as the amount of weight that can be carried in the bed of the truck.
The wheelbase of a truck can also affect the ride quality. A longer wheelbase means a smoother ride, while a shorter wheelbase can result in a rougher ride. A longer wheelbase also allows for a larger cargo bed, which can be beneficial for those who need to carry large items in their truck.
How to Measure Wheelbase
Measuring the wheelbase of your truck is relatively easy. All you need is a measuring tape and a flat surface. Start by measuring the distance between the center of the front wheels, then measure the distance between the center of the rear wheels. Finally, measure the distance between the two points. The result is the wheelbase measurement of your truck.
Common Wheelbase Sizes for Pickup Trucks
Pickup trucks come in a variety of sizes, with different wheelbases. The most common wheelbase sizes for pickup trucks are:
- Short Wheelbase: 109-127 inches
- Regular Wheelbase: 128-145 inches
- Long Wheelbase: 146-160 inches
The wheelbase of your truck will depend on the model and year of the vehicle. You can find the exact wheelbase measurement in your vehicle's manual or by contacting the manufacturer.
Why is Wheelbase Important?
The wheelbase of a pickup truck can affect a variety of factors, from handling and ride quality to cargo capacity and towing capacity. A longer wheelbase means a smoother ride, while a shorter wheelbase can result in a rougher ride. A longer wheelbase also allows for more cargo capacity, which is beneficial for those who need to carry large items in their truck. Additionally, a longer wheelbase can provide more stability when towing, which is important when hauling heavy loads.
Conclusion
Knowing the wheelbase of your truck is important for a variety of reasons, from ride quality and cargo capacity to towing stability. Measuring the wheelbase is relatively easy, and the most common wheelbase sizes for pickup trucks are short (109-127 inches), regular (128-145 inches), and long (146-160 inches). Knowing the wheelbase size of your truck can help you make informed decisions about parts, accessories, and modifications for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the wheelbase of a Ford F150?
The wheelbase of a Ford F150 depends on the model and year of the vehicle. The wheelbase of the 2019 Ford F150 ranges from 126-156 inches.
What is the difference between wheelbase and track width?
Wheelbase is the distance between the center of the front wheels and the center of the rear wheels. Track width is the distance between the center of one wheel to the center of the wheel on the opposite side of the vehicle.
Does wheelbase affect handling?
Yes, wheelbase can affect handling. A longer wheelbase can provide more stability, while a shorter wheelbase can result in a rougher ride.
Is wheelbase the same for all trucks?
No, wheelbase is not the same for all trucks. The wheelbase of a truck will depend on the model and year of the vehicle.
What is the longest wheelbase available for pickup trucks?
The longest wheelbase available for pickup trucks is 160 inches.
Can wheelbase be changed?
Yes, wheelbase can be changed by installing a lift kit or by changing the suspension. However, it is important to make sure that any modifications are done properly and safely.
What is the best wheelbase for towing?
The best wheelbase for towing is a longer wheelbase, as it provides more stability. The longest wheelbase available for pickup trucks is 160 inches.
Does wheelbase affect fuel economy?
Yes, wheelbase can affect fuel economy. A longer wheelbase can result in better fuel economy, as it reduces the amount of energy needed to move the vehicle.
Does wheelbase affect cargo capacity?
Yes, wheelbase can affect cargo capacity. A longer wheelbase allows for a larger cargo bed, which is beneficial for those who need to carry large items in their truck.
Does wheelbase affect ride quality?
Yes, wheelbase can affect ride quality. A longer wheelbase means a smoother ride, while a shorter wheelbase can result in a rougher ride.
What is the shortest wheelbase available for pickup trucks?
The shortest wheelbase available for pickup trucks is 109 inches.
Does wheelbase affect acceleration?
Yes, wheelbase can affect acceleration. A shorter wheelbase can result in quicker acceleration, while a longer wheelbase can result in slower acceleration.
Does wheelbase affect braking?
Yes, wheelbase can affect braking. A longer wheelbase can result in slower braking, while a shorter wheelbase can result in quicker braking.
Does wheelbase affect steering?
Yes, wheelbase can affect steering. A longer wheelbase can result in more difficult steering, while a shorter wheelbase can result in easier steering.