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Truck Cab Guide

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1. Materials and Finishes

2. Truck Cab Guide

3. Bull Bars vs. Grille Guards

4. Side Bars vs. Running Boards

5. Advantages of a Track Mounting System

6. Rocker Mount vs. Bushing Mount

7. Jeep Customization Guide

 

Truck Cab Guide

Automotive manufacturers use different names for their various truck cab sizes. While Ford may call their largest cab the SuperCrew, Toyota calls theirs the CrewMax. However, all truck cabs generally fit into one of three categories: regular cab, extended cab or crew cab.

 

/ Regular cab

This type of truck cab is the smallest of the three, providing seating for two or three people.

It has two full-size, front-hinging doors, and unlike the other cab types, it usually has no extra space behind the first row.

 

View manufacturer names for regular cab pickups

 

 

/ Extended cab

This type of truck cab has at least two full-size, front-hinging doors and extra seating behind the first row. The back seats are accessed either by moving the main seats forward or by opening a set of smaller, rearward doors, called suicide doors.

An extended cab typcially also has a set of smaller passenger windows behind the first-row windows.

 

View manufacturer names for extended cab pickups

 

 

/ Crew cab

This type of truck cab is the largest of the three and typically has four full-size, front-hinging doors. It offers the most room with two full rows and seating for up to five or six people.

Some of the largest crew cabs also offer extra space behind the second row.

 

View manufacturer names for crew cab pickups

 

 

Truck Cab Names by Manufacturer

The table below lists each truck cab name by manufacturer and size. This categorization is only intended to promote a better understanding of the three basic types of truck cabs and does not imply certain design similarities across the various makes and models.

In the ARIES Application Guide, the names reflect those actually used by each manufacturer.

 Regular CabExtended CabCrew Cab

Chevrolet Colorado

GMC Canyon

Regular Cab

 

Extended Cab

 

Crew Cab

 

Chevrolet S-10

GMC Sonoma

Regular Cab

 

Extended Cab

 

Crew Cab

 

Chevrolet Silverado

GMC Sierra

Regular Cab

 

Extended Cab (before 2004)

Double Cab (2014 - current)

Crew Cab

 

Dodge Dakota

 

Regular Cab

 

Club Cab (before 2008)

Extended Cab (2008 - 2010)

Quad Cab (before 2008)

Crew Cab (2008 - 2010)

Dodge Ram

also see Ram

Regular Cab

 

Club Cab (1995 - 2001)

Quad Cab (1998 - 2010)

Mega Cab (2006 - 2008)

Crew Cab (2009 - 2010)

Ford Explorer Sport Trac

 

--

 

--

 

Crew Cab

 

Ford F150

 

Regular Cab

 

SuperCab

 

SuperCrew

 

Ford SuperDuty

 

Regular Cab

 

SuperCab

 

Crew Cab

 

Ford Ranger

 

Regular Cab

 

SuperCab

 

--

 

Honda Ridgeline

 

--

 

--

 

Crew Cab

 

Isuzu I-Series

 

Regular Cab

 

Extended Cab

 

Crew Cab

 

Mazda B-Series

 

Regular Cab

 

Cab Plus (1992 - 2004)

Extended Cab (2005 - 2009)

--

 

Mitsubishi Raider

 

--

 

Extended Cab

 

Double Cab

 

Nissan Frontier

 

Regular Cab

 

King Cab

 

Crew Cab

 

Nissan Titan

 

--

 

King Cab

 

Crew Cab

 

Ram 1500

 

Regular Cab

 

Quad Cab

 

Crew Cab

 

Ram 2500 & 3500

Regular Cab

 

--

Crew Cab

& Mega Cab

Toyota T100

 

Regular Cab

 

XtraCab

 

--

 

Toyota Tacoma

 

Regular Cab

 

XtraCab (1995 - 2004)

Access Cab (2005 - current)

Double Cab

 

Toyota Tundra

 

Regular Cab

 

Access Cab (2000 - 2006)

Double Cab (2007 - current)

Double Cab (2004 - 2006)

CrewMax (2007 - current)

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Truck Cab Guide

Automotive manufacturers use different names for their various truck cab sizes. While Ford may call their largest cab the SuperCrew, Toyota calls theirs the CrewMax. However, all truck cabs generally fit into one of three categories: regular cab, extended cab or crew cab.

Quick Comparison of Truck Cab Sizes


Truck Cab Names by Manufacturer

Truck Make & Model Regular Cab Extended Cab Crew Cab
Chevrolet Colorado
GMC Canyon
Regular cab Extended cab Crew cab
Chevrolet S-10
GMC Sonoma
Regular cab Extended cab Crew cab
Chevrolet Silverado
GMC Sierra
Regular cab Extended cab (before 2004)
Double cab (2014 - current)
Crew cab
Dodge Dakota Regular cab Club cab (before 2008)
Extended cab (2008 - 2010)
Quad cab (before 2008)
Crew cab (2008 - 2010)
Dodge Ram
also see Ram
Regular cab Club cab (1995 - 2001)
Quad cab (1998 - 2010)
Mega cab (2006 - 2008)
Crew cab (2009 - 2010)
Ford Explorer Sport Trac -- -- Crew cab
Ford F-150 Regular cab SuperCab SuperCrew
Ford Maverick
-- -- Crew cab
Ford Super Duty Regular cab SuperCab Crew cab
Ford Ranger Regular cab SuperCab SuperCrew
Honda Ridgeline -- -- Crew cab
Isuzu I-Series Regular cab Extended cab Crew cab
Jeep Gladiator
-- -- Crew cab
Mazda B-Series Regular cab Cab Plus (1992 - 2004)
Extended cab (2005 - 2009)
--
Mitsubishi Raider -- Extended cab Double cab
Nissan Frontier Regular cab King cab Crew cab
Nissan Titan -- King cab Crew cab
Ram 1500 Regular cab Quad cab Crew cab
Ram 2500 & 3500 Regular cab -- Crew cab
& Mega cab
Toyota T100 Regular cab XtraCab --
Toyota Tacoma Regular cab XtraCab (1995 - 2004)
Access cab (2005 - current)
Double cab
Toyota Tundra Regular cab Access cab (2000 - 2006)
Double cab (2007 - current)
Double cab (2004 - 2006)
CrewMax (2007 - current)

3 Basic Truck Cabs Explained

Regular Cab

The regular cab is the smallest of the three cab types, providing seating for two or three people.

It has two full-size, front-hinging doors, and unlike the other cab types, it usually has no extra space behind the first row.

Regular Cab Truck GraphicRegular Cab Truck Graphic

Pros of the Regular Cab Truck

  1. Maneuverability
    Regular cab trucks are typically shorter in length compared to extended or crew cab versions. This makes them easier to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots or narrow streets.
  2. Lighter Weight
    With fewer seats and less cabin space, regular cab trucks tend to be lighter than their larger counterparts. This can result in better fuel efficiency and potentially higher payload capacities.
  3. Affordability
    Generally, regular cab trucks are less expensive than extended or crew cab models. If you're on a budget, opting for a regular cab can save you money upfront.
  4. Simplicity
    Some people prefer the simplicity of a regular cab layout. With fewer features and amenities, there's less to potentially go wrong, and maintenance and repairs might be simpler and less expensive.
  5. Towing Capacity
    Due to their lighter weight and often more robust suspension setups, regular cab trucks can sometimes have higher towing capacities compared to larger cab configurations of the same model.
Regular Cab Truck Chevrolet Siverado 1500Regular Cab Truck Chevrolet Siverado 1500
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 regular cab truck

Cons of the Regular Cab Truck

  1. Limited Passenger Space
    The most obvious drawback of a regular cab truck is its limited passenger space. With only a single row of seating, they're not suitable for families or groups of passengers.
  2. Storage
    Regular cab trucks typically have less interior storage space compared to larger cab configurations. This can be a drawback if you frequently carry tools, equipment or personal belongings inside the cab. A good truck tool box can help solve this problem.
  3. Comfort
    The smaller cabin of a regular cab truck can feel cramped, especially on longer drives. Additionally, there's usually less insulation from road and engine noise compared to larger cabs, which can affect comfort levels.
  4. Limited Features
    Manufacturers often reserve certain features and options for higher trim levels or larger cab configurations. If you're looking for the latest technology or luxury amenities, you may find fewer options available in regular cab models.

Extended Cab

The extended truck cab has at least two full-size, front-hinging doors and extra seating behind the first row. The back seats are accessed either by moving the main seats forward or by opening a set of smaller, rearward doors, called suicide doors.

An extended cab typically also has a set of smaller passenger windows behind the first-row windows.

Extended Cab Truck GraphicExtended Cab Truck Graphic

Pros of Extended Cab Trucks

  1. Additional Passenger Space
    The primary advantage of an extended truck cab is the extra seating space it provides. While not as roomy as crew cabs, extended cabs typically have small rear seats or jump seats that can accommodate additional passengers in a pinch.
  2. Interior Storage
    Extended cab trucks often feature additional interior storage space behind the front seats. This can be useful for storing tools, equipment or other items securely inside the cab, especially when compared to regular cab trucks.
  3. Versatility
    With the extra seating and storage space, extended cab trucks offer more versatility than regular cabs. They can comfortably accommodate small groups of passengers or provide additional cargo space when needed.
  4. Improved Comfort
    Compared to regular cab trucks, extended cabs generally offer improved comfort for front-seat occupants. There's more room to stretch out, and the additional seating options can make longer drives more comfortable for passengers.
  5. Resale Value
    In many markets, extended cab trucks retain higher resale value compared to regular cab models. The added versatility and appeal to a broader range of buyers can contribute to this higher resale value.
Extended Cab Truck Ford F-150Extended Cab Truck Ford F-150
Ford F-150 extended cab truck

Cons of Extended Cab Trucks

  1. Limited Rear Passenger Comfort
    While extended cabs provide additional seating space, the rear seats are often cramped and less comfortable than those in crew cab trucks. They may lack legroom and headroom, especially for taller passengers.
  2. Reduced Cargo Space
    The extra seating in extended cab trucks often comes at the expense of cargo space. The rear seating area can intrude into the cargo bed, limiting the available space for hauling larger items.
  3. Accessibility
    Accessing the rear seats in an extended cab truck can be more cumbersome than in a crew cab. The rear doors are typically smaller and may only open after the front doors are opened, which can be inconvenient in tight parking spaces.
  4. Higher Cost
    Trucks with an extended cab are generally more expensive than regular cab models due to the additional seating and interior features. While they're often more affordable than crew cabs, they may not fit every budget.

Crew Cab

The crew cab truck cab type is the largest of the three and typically has four full-size, front-hinging doors. It offers the most room with two full rows and seating for up to five or six people.

Some of the largest crew cabs also offer extra space behind the second row.

Crew Cab Truck GraphicCrew Cab Truck Graphic

Pros of Crew Cab Trucks

  1. Generous Passenger Space
    One of the primary advantages of crew cab trucks is their spacious interior, providing ample room for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats in crew cabs are typically full-size and offer comparable comfort to the front seats, making them suitable for long journeys.
  2. Family-Friendly
    A crew cab truck is an ideal choice for families or those who frequently transport passengers. With full-size rear seats and easy access through four full-sized doors, they provide a level of convenience and comfort that's unmatched by regular or extended cab trucks.
  3. Interior Comfort & Amenities
    Crew cab trucks often come equipped with a range of interior features and amenities, such as premium upholstery, advanced infotainment systems and more climate control options. These features enhance comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers.
  4. Cargo Flexibility
    While crew cab trucks sacrifice some bed length compared to regular or extended cab models, they offer more flexibility for carrying passengers and cargo simultaneously. Folding rear seats or cargo management systems can further enhance the truck's cargo-carrying capabilities.
  5. Resale Value
    Crew cab trucks tend to have higher resale value than regular or extended cab models due to their broader appeal and versatility. Their popularity among families and individuals seeking both passenger space and hauling capabilities contributes to their strong resale market.
Crew Cab Truck Ford F-350Crew Cab Truck Ford F-350
Ford F-350 crew cab truck

Cons of Crew Cab Trucks

  1. Higher Cost
    Crew cab trucks are generally more expensive than regular or extended cab models due to their larger size and additional features. The increased upfront cost can be a deterrent for buyers on a budget.
  2. Reduced Bed Length
    To accommodate the larger cabin, crew cab trucks often have shorter bed lengths compared to their regular or extended cab counterparts. This can limit their utility for hauling larger items such as furniture, ATVs, or construction materials.
  3. Fuel Efficiency
    Crew cab trucks tend to have lower fuel efficiency compared to smaller cab configurations, primarily due to their larger size and heavier weight. This can result in higher fuel costs over time, especially for drivers who frequently commute or travel long distances.
  4. Limited Off-Road Capability
    Some crew cab trucks may have reduced off-road capability compared to their regular or extended cab counterparts. The longer wheelbase and lower ground clearance can hinder maneuverability and obstacle clearance in rough terrain.
Mega Cab Truck Ram 3500Mega Cab Truck Ram 3500
Ram Mega Cab, an extended version of the traditional crew cab

Cab Considerations When Buying Running Boards

When choosing between cab-length running boards and wheel-to-wheel running boards for your truck, several factors come into play, and it’s important to consider your truck's cab size in the decision.

Cab-Length Running Boards

Cab-Length Running Boards ARIESCab-Length Running Boards ARIES
  • Accessibility
    Cab-length running boards typically provide easier access to the cab, especially for front-seat passengers. They extend along the length of the cab, making it convenient to step into and out of the vehicle from either the front or rear doors.
  • Aesthetic Appeal
    Cab-length running boards often offer a sleek and integrated appearance, blending seamlessly with the truck's body lines. They can enhance the overall look of the vehicle without appearing bulky or obtrusive.
  • Protection
    While cab-length running boards primarily serve as steps for entering the cab, they can also provide some extra protection to the lower body panels from road debris, mud and small rocks. However, their coverage is more limited compared to wheel-to-wheel running boards.
  • Cost
    Cab-length running boards are usually less expensive than wheel-to-wheel running boards since they cover a shorter distance along the vehicle's side.

Wheel-to-Wheel Running Boards

Wheel-to-Wheel Running Boards ARIESWheel-to-Wheel Running Boards ARIES
  • Extended Coverage
    Wheel-to-wheel running boards extend from the front wheel to the rear wheel, providing additional coverage along the entire length of the cab and bed. This extended coverage offers more accessibility and convenience, especially when accessing items in the bed of the truck.
  • Functionality
    More than just steps for entering the cab, wheel-to-wheel running boards also provide a platform for accessing the bed of the truck. This added functionality can be beneficial for loading and unloading cargo, reaching items stored in the bed, or working on the roof or cargo rack.
  • Appearance
    While wheel-to-wheel running boards provide practical benefits, some may find their appearance less sleek or integrated compared to cab-length running boards. They can protrude further from the side of the truck and may alter its aesthetic profile.
  • Cost
    Due to their extended coverage and additional functionality, wheel-to-wheel running boards are typically more expensive than cab-length running boards.

Ultimately, the choice between cab-length and wheel-to-wheel running boards depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize accessibility, aesthetic appeal and cost-effectiveness, cab-length running boards may be the better option. However, if you require extended coverage and enhanced functionality for your truck (especially for a work truck), wheel-to-wheel running boards might be worth the additional investment.

Disclaimer: These photographs, recommendations, and approximations are intended for demonstration purposes only. Always consult the manufacturer’s Owner's Manual. All non-Lippert product names, logos, brands, and other trademarks shown are the property of their respective trademark owners, and use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.