Using a utility/service truck bed?

codycr6

New member
I am researching for my first build and considering using a used truck service bed as a base. There is a completed trailer in my area built this way, and I am trying to decide whether to buy his and modify or start from scratch. His used a service bed from a Ranger that he narrowed some, current inside the box dimensions are about 40 inches wide and 78 inches long. Not sure about overall outside width, but probably 5 feet or so. Already has the axle flip, 2,000lb axle, 15 inch wheels with 235/70/15's. Also has a rack above it at about 6 feet, and he previously used a RTT. Price is reasonable. Question is, do I want the narrowed version, or build my own with a full 48 inches between the wheel wells in case I want to haul my atv with us? We can store most of our gear in the compartments, RTT overhead, and use the middle box for either the atv or coolers and such. Buying his rig would throw that option out. Would be more expensive to build from scratch, but I would probably go with a heavier axle and hubs that match one of my tow vehicles. 00g0g_aK4X3zSdmBm_600x450.jpg00P0P_eBjKpKGSzyk_600x450.jpg00U0U_areZPhYLJPi_600x450.jpg00808_jcDQnOidqne_600x450.jpg
 

codycr6

New member
I'm not sure if the width would be an issue. Both of my current tow rigs are full sized. For long distance trips with mild terrain, we would probably use my F250. For rougher areas, probably my Bronco.g,lg,lgff.jpg20180120_170550_1516626682207.jpg
 

PCO6

Adventurer
I think these are a great foundation for a build. I saw one (can't find a pic) where the guy used the "cavity" down the centre as a kennel for his dogs. He basically built an expanded metal gate on the back side of the trailer. The open top was covered by his RTT. The dogs looked happy!
 
Here is mine.

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codycr6

New member
What size is yours? I don't really have a good way to wrestle one of these bodies around in my shop, so I am going to seriously consider buying that one that is about 75% of what I want. I wanted one I could still fit my atv in the back of, but that would be a full size bed and possibly too wide for some trails.
 
What size is yours? I don't really have a good way to wrestle one of these bodies around in my shop, so I am going to seriously consider buying that one that is about 75% of what I want. I wanted one I could still fit my atv in the back of, but that would be a full size bed and possibly too wide for some trails.

Mine bed is off a Tacoma.
 

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