What is the wheelbase of a 1958 F-100 short bed?
The wheelbase of a 1958 Ford F-100 short bed was approximately 115 inches (about 9 feet 7 inches).
In Ford's 1958 F-Series, the wheelbase varied by body style and bed length. The F-100 short bed used the shorter wheelbase, while the long bed carried a longer measurement. The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles and a key factor in ride quality, payload, and turning radius. This article examines what that figure means for collectors, restorers, and drivers curious about mid-20th-century trucks.
Wheelbase specifications by bed length
Below is a concise breakdown of how bed length aligned with wheelbase in the 1958 F-Series, focusing on the F-100.
- Short-bed F-100: approximately 115 inches wheelbase (about 9 feet 7 inches).
- Long-bed F-100 (rear axle farther back): approximately 125 inches wheelbase (about 10 feet 5 inches).
Measurements can vary slightly by production year and any factory or aftermarket modifications, so for precise figures a build sheet or factory service data should be consulted.
Notes for collectors
If you are restoring a 1958 F-100, verify wheelbase via the data plate, VIN, or chassis stamps, and cross-check with original dealership documentation or an era sales brochure to confirm bed configuration.
Summary
For the 1958 F-100 in short-bed form, the wheelbase is commonly cited at about 115 inches. This dimension reflects the era's design, balancing payload space with maneuverability. Always confirm with a specific vehicle’s documentation, as there can be minor production variances.
