Erickson Big Bed Extender: Installation & Review

At some point or another, you may have to place something in the back for your truck that, unfortunately, is longer that your truck bed.

Usually, you try to strap it down and pray it doesn't fall off. While this can work, the person driving behind you might not be so confident in your tie down skills. Thankfully, there's a way to extend your truck bed for those awkward length items. And better yet, you can do it yourself.

Make your Truck an Extended Bed w/ Erickson Big Bed Extender

First off- my automotive skills are glaringly lacking, so when this project came down the pipeline, I said, "WHAAAAAAAAAATT. Vehicles?" Let's say if my life was a video game- my car skills are Level Zero.

Here's a Father's Day project you might fight interesting... the Ranchero Rebuild.

But that's doesn't even matter when it comes to the Erickson Big Bed Extender (as you will see), a really easy addition to your truck (or van, or really any type of vehicle with a trailer hitch). This easy to use extension has a 400 pound capacity to help carry lumber, kayaks, ladders, etc.

Anyways, let me set you the stage: hot, dusty, sunburned and hungry. Jake and I open the Erickson Big Bed thinking, "Alright, this is just a still photo shoot for the blog and it will be a lot quicker than video, so total completion time about 45 minutes. Then we go eat Howard's."

But this automotive accessory had a total install time of about- 3 minutes. Below we have a list of pictures and instructions to give you a better idea about the installation of this extender before (or after) you buy the product.

Want to see me install a Better Built truck box in 45 seconds (time-lapse may be involved).

Here is the how-to:

1. Open the box.

2. Put the hitch into the receiving slot. Pin it.

3. Use the included bolts to lock the elbow in place.

4. Use the latch pin (included) to set height for the arms.

5. Push the arms down.

And Bam! Done! Pizza time.

As you can see, this is a simple solution for those longer items and is rather easy to put together. There's still going to be some strapping down involved, but the kayak, ladder or whatever will be more stable, so the guy driving behind you isn't completely terrified that it's going to come flying out at him.

You can purchase the Erickson Big Bed Extender online here.