Trucks come with a range of options and add-ons that you might want to consider.
What is a Dually?
A dually truck has an extra set of wheels in the rear. For some truck lovers, this is a style choice. Others enjoy the extra stability and capability for towing and payload capacity offered by the extra wheels. This is especially useful if you want to add a 5th wheel hitch for trailer towing (more on that in a moment). You will see Dually’s in Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab, Chassis Cab and if you look around the road, you will see these on service vehicles, tow trucks, and even ambulances.
Bed Liners & Covers
If you are primarily using a truck to haul, rather than tow, you may want one with a bed liner. This protective addition can prevent dings, dents, and scrapes to the truck bed. There are two types – a spray-on or drop-in bed liner – and both create a skid-proof, dent-proof surface for your hauling needs. Both reduce cargo movement in your truck bed, so things don’t slide around and get damaged. A drop-in bed liner is convenient because it can be applied and removed easily. A spray-on bed liner is permanent, although they do wear out over time. However, they are tougher than drop-in bed liners and will protect your truck bed from rusting. This is probably one of the most valuable items you can find in or add to a truck!
Another useful addition to a truck bed is a tonneau cover, which offers additional protection. These covers can be soft or hard, and in addition to keeping any cargo stored in your truck bed more secure, it also makes your truck more aerodynamic, enhancing fuel efficiency. It will also protect permanent cargo, such as tools or fishing gear, from inclement weather.
Step Bars & Running Boards
Getting up into a truck can be a challenge, which is why step bars and running boards were invented! Step bars are normally an aluminum or steel tube, sometimes with rubber foot grips at the doors to your truck cab. Running boards are wider and offer a non-slip way to step up into the truck cab. Each of these also helps protect your truck from flying debris to some extent. There is usually extra space between the truck and the step bar while running boards are mounted almost flush against the truck. Keep in mind, both step bars and running boards can get especially dirty, but that might be worth the convenience!
Towing
Do you plan to tow a trailer, boat, or something else behind your truck? The difference between various towing connectors is significant. Each class of receiver hitch, from Class 1 to Class 5, has different sizes of receiver tube opening and capabilities in weight carrying capacity. Class 5 trailer hitches have the highest weight rating. You may also want to fit your truck with a weight distribution hitch if you are using between a Class III and Class V hitch. Small trucks or SUV’s might have a smaller Class II hitch that’s perfect for a small trailer, pulling bikes or jet-skis. All of these hitches mount to the frame of a vehicle.
The 5th Wheel Hitch accepts the kingpin of a 5th wheel trailer and is only compatible with pick-up trucks. This type of hitch (pin or hide-away) mounts in the bed or through your bed with a pin to the frame of your truck and is used for towing large campers, travel trailers, or larger trailers for implements, cars, animals, or more.
As you can see, there are many options when it comes to trucks and truck accessories. With something to suit every driver’s needs, you’re sure to find the perfect truck for you at Dallas Lease Returns!