The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 offers a range of bed sizes to suit diverse needs, from hauling lumber for weekend projects to transporting large equipment for work. Understanding the available options is crucial before purchasing, ensuring the truck perfectly matches your lifestyle and cargo requirements. This guide will break down the bed sizes and their corresponding features.
Available Bed Lengths for the 2017 Ram 1500
The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 was available with three distinct bed lengths:
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5'7" (67-inch) Short Bed: This compact bed is ideal for maneuverability in tight spaces. It's perfect for city driving and situations where parking is a premium. While smaller, it still offers ample space for many everyday tasks. Think shorter loads, smaller pieces of furniture, or even a well-organized collection of tools and equipment.
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6'4" (76-inch) Standard Bed: This is often considered the goldilocks option – not too short, not too long. The 6'4" bed provides a good balance between practicality and ease of handling. It's suitable for a wide array of hauling needs, from larger pieces of furniture to building materials. It strikes a happy medium for most drivers.
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8'0" (96-inch) Long Bed: For those needing maximum cargo capacity, the 8'0" long bed is the clear winner. This is perfect for contractors, landscapers, and anyone frequently transporting longer items, such as lumber, sheetrock, or even small boats. The extra length offers unmatched versatility.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Bed Size
Beyond just the numerical length, several other factors should influence your decision:
Your Typical Cargo:
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What do you usually haul? Consider the dimensions of the longest items you regularly transport. Measuring your most frequent cargo is key to ensuring a proper fit.
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Frequency of Heavy Hauling: Do you frequently haul heavy, bulky items, or is your need for cargo space occasional? This determines the importance of maximizing bed size versus prioritizing maneuverability.
Maneuverability and Parking:
- Where do you typically drive and park? The shorter bed offers superior maneuverability in city environments and tight parking spaces. The longer bed might prove cumbersome in such situations.
Truck Cab Configuration:
The bed length is often related to the cab configuration (Regular Cab, Quad Cab, Crew Cab). Be sure to check the specifications for your chosen cab style to determine which bed lengths are compatible.
Beyond Bed Length: Other Important Considerations
While bed length is paramount, don't forget these additional features that affect your hauling capabilities:
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Payload Capacity: This refers to the maximum weight the truck can carry in the bed. This number varies depending on the bed length and other options selected.
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Box Material: The 2017 Ram 1500 utilized high-strength steel for durability. Understanding the material helps determine its resistance to wear and tear.
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Tie-Down Points: The number and placement of tie-down points are essential for securing your cargo. Ensure the truck has sufficient and well-placed tie-downs to meet your needs.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 bed size that best fits your specific requirements and ensures you're prepared for any hauling task. Remember to check the specifications for your chosen model year and trim level to confirm the exact bed dimensions and features available.
