The Ford Explorer Sport Trac offers a versatile mid-size pickup solution with a defined bed length that supports both daily driving and light hauling. Understanding the exact bed dimensions helps you plan cargo space, fit aftermarket accessories, and compare the Sport Trac to crew cab alternatives.
| Model Year | Bed Length (ft) | Bed Width (in) | Key Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 5.9 | 50 | Light hauling, home projects |
| 2008 | 5.9 | 50 | Everyday utility |
| 2009 | 5.9 | 50 | Commuter-focused hauling |
| 2010 | 5.9 | 50 | Recreational and work use |
Ford Explorer Sport Trac Bed Length Specifications
Nominal 5.9 Foot Box Design
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac uses a short-box configuration that measures approximately 5.9 feet between the front bulkhead and the tailgate. This length gives you more maneuverability in urban settings while still providing meaningful cargo capacity for furniture, lumber, or camping gear.
Internal Clear Dimensions
Manufacturers typically quote exterior bed length, but internal loading space is what matters when placing awkwardly shaped items. Expect slightly less usable inches once you account for the tailgate hinges and wheel well intrusions, so always measure your specific cargo before committing.
Payload and Tongue Weight Limits
Bed length is only one part of the equation; payload capacity and tongue weight define how much you can safely carry and tow. Consult your vehicle’s placard or owner’s manual to confirm limits, especially when loading heavy materials toward the rear of the 5.9 ft box.
Maneuverability and Parking Benefits
Shorter Box, Easier Turns
The 5.9 ft bed helps keep the overall length of the Sport Tac manageable, making tight turns through drive-thrus, garages, and rural roads more approachable than with full-size pickups.
Garage and Storage Compatibility
If your driveway or workshop has clearance constraints, the shorter bed reduces overhang and allows the tailgate to open more comfortably in confined spaces.
Urban Practicality
For city use, the Sport Trac’s bed length strikes a balance between cargo utility and everyday driving ease, giving you versatility without sacrificing too much parking flexibility.
Hauling Capacity and Bed Utility
Lumber and Plywood Loading
A 5.9 ft bed can usually accommodate standard eight-foot lumber with the tailgate down, but you may need to angle the load slightly or remove the rear seat to achieve a safe weight distribution.
Securement Considerations
Longer loads that extend slightly beyond the tailgate require additional straps or ramps, and drivers should check local regulations regarding overhang distance to avoid fines during roadside checks.
Versatility with Accessories
Adding a tonneau cover, bed liner, or side rails can protect cargo and improve aerodynamics, while maintaining the practical length of the 5.9 ft box for most hauling tasks.
Comparison with Alternative Configurations
Crew Cab vs Sport Trac Bed Length
Choosing between a Sport Trac and a crew cab with a standard bed often comes down to seating priority, because the crew cab sacrifices some bed space for rear passenger comfort while the Sport Trac preserves a near full-size box in a more compact overall package.
Real-World Tips for Using the Sport Trac Bed
- Measure your typical cargo before buying to confirm it fits comfortably inside the 5.9 ft box.
- Use low-bed cargo items or tie-down points to keep loads stable and within the bed walls.
- Consider a tonneau cover to protect tools and equipment from weather and theft.
- Check payload ratings to avoid overloading the suspension and frame.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will an 8-foot truck fit in my driveway if the Sport Trac bed is only 5.9 feet?
No, an 8-foot truck will not fit comfortably if your driveway or garage is designed around the shorter 5.9-foot box of the Sport Trac, because the longer bed increases overall vehicle length and overhang.
Can I install a longer bed on my Ford Explorer Sport Trac to increase cargo space?
Aftermarket longer beds for the Sport Trac are rare and typically require custom fabrication, affecting alignment, emissions, and safety systems, so such a modification is not a practical or recommended upgrade.
How does the 5.9 ft bed compare to standard full-size pickup boxes?
Standard full-size pickups usually offer beds around 6.5 to 8 feet, so the Sport Trac’s 5.9 ft box is shorter, trading maximum hauling length for better maneuverability and easier parking.
Does the tailgate design affect actual loading length on the Sport Trac?
Yes, the tailgate hinges and wheel well intrusions reduce usable internal length from the nominal 5.9 feet, so you should measure carefully before loading long materials to ensure a proper fit.