What is the difference between Ford Flareside and Stepside?
The main difference between Ford Flareside and Stepside trucks lies in the design of their truck beds. Flareside trucks have a more traditional, squared-off truck bed, while Stepside trucks feature a narrower bed with fenders that extend out over the wheels, creating a distinctive "step" on the side of the bed.
Ford Flareside Trucks
Ford Flareside trucks have a standard, rectangular truck bed that is the same width as the cab of the vehicle. This design provides a larger, more spacious cargo area compared to Stepside models. The fenders on Flareside trucks are flush with the sides of the bed, giving the truck a more squared-off, utilitarian appearance. Flareside trucks are often seen as more practical for hauling large or bulky items due to their wider bed.
Ford Stepside Trucks
In contrast, Ford Stepside trucks feature a narrower truck bed with fenders that extend out over the wheels. This creates a distinctive "step" on the side of the bed, which can make it easier to access the cargo area. Stepside trucks are often seen as more stylish and visually appealing, with a more classic, retro-inspired look.
However, the narrower bed of a Stepside truck means it has less overall cargo capacity compared to a Flareside model. This can be a consideration for those who need to haul larger or heavier loads on a regular basis.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Bed Design: Flareside trucks have a standard, rectangular bed, while Stepside trucks have a narrower bed with extended fenders.
- Cargo Capacity: Flareside trucks have a larger, more spacious cargo area, while Stepside trucks have less overall capacity.
- Appearance: Flareside trucks have a more utilitarian, squared-off look, while Stepside trucks have a more classic, retro-inspired style.
Ultimately, the choice between a Ford Flareside or Stepside truck will depend on the individual's needs and preferences, such as the types of cargo they need to haul and the overall aesthetic they're going for with their vehicle.
Why did they stop making stepside trucks?
The reason for the extinction was multifold. Dated styling was undoubtedly a factor, especially when juxtaposed against modern trucks' ever more angular lines. Not to mention reduced practicality and the cost efficiencies of building and offering only a single kind of bed.
What are the benefits of a stepside bed?
One advantage of stepside truck beds is their perfectly rectangular cargo space. Because the bed doesn't fit over the wheel wells, you won't have to work around the awkward humps that form around the tires inside the bed. This feature is great for truck owners who want streamlined bed space.
What's the point of stepside trucks?
The stepside models featured a large step fore of the rear wheel well arch, making it easy to step up and access cargo in the box of the truck.
Did Ford make a stepside?
'STEPSIDE' is a Chevrolet-only tradename! NEVER use 'stepside' to describe a Ford 'flareside'. This is the first time Ford used the tradenames 'Styleside' and 'Flareside' to describe the different cargo box styles. 1957 Ford magazine advertisements touting "new styleside pickup".
What is a stepside bed on a truck?
Stepside beds: Stepside beds are similar to short and long beds but with a couple of key distinctions. Stepside beds feature a step in the space where the bed meets the cab or between the door and the back wheel. They also have visible rounded fenders that protrude outside of the actual bed.
What is a Ford Flareside?
Ford's full-size pickup trucks come with either flareside or styleside bed designs. Flareside designs feature rounded fenders that extend outward from the truck. Meanwhile, styleside designs have a flat-sided bed with wheel arches contained within.
Are stepside beds lighter?
Long beds, dually beds, flatbeds, and dump beds are designed to handle heavy loads. Short beds and stepside beds are better suited for lighter tasks.
Why did they quit making stepside trucks?
The reason for the extinction was multifold. Dated styling was undoubtedly a factor, especially when juxtaposed against modern trucks' ever more angular lines. Not to mention reduced practicality and the cost efficiencies of building and offering only a single kind of bed.
What does Ford call Stepside?
flareside
Ford decided they preferred the term "flareside" Jeep went with "sportside" or "thriftside" while Dodge latched onto "utiline" Because Chevy started the ball rollingmost people just use stepside these days. Besides, when you think about itstepside is the term that makes the most sense.
Are flareside and stepside the same?
Flareside, or stepside, trucks are the more traditional style, even though they're uncommon in modern trucks. Essentially, this is the “two-box” pickup design. The cab and bed are bolted separately to a ladder frame, creating a clear division between them. The bed itself is narrow with flares around the rear wheels.
