Why the EZ-Dumper® 6’ Short Bed Insert is the Best Fit for Compact Pickups
For decades, contractors and homeowners with full-size trucks had the advantage of adding hydraulic dump inserts to improve productivity. But what about short-bed pickups? Many drivers own 6-foot beds and need the same hauling power in a more compact setup. That’s where the EZ-Dumper® 6’ short bed insert comes in.
This model delivers the same toughness and performance EZ-Dumper® is known for, scaled to fit smaller trucks without sacrificing strength. If you own a compact pickup and want to stop shoveling loads by hand, this insert is designed specifically for you.
Why Short-Bed Owners Need a Dump Insert
Short-bed pickups are convenient, versatile, and easier to maneuver in urban or tight work environments. Landscapers, snow removal teams, and homeowners rely on them for daily hauling. But unloading by hand wastes time and puts unnecessary strain on the body.
The EZ-Dumper® 6’ insert solves this by transforming your pickup into a true dump truck in just a few hours. With a push of a button, loads of mulch, gravel, or debris empty themselves, saving both time and energy.
Key Features of the 6’ EZ-Dumper® Insert
- Capacity: Holds 1.5 cubic yards of material while maintaining the same 6,000 lb lift capacity as the full-size 8’ insert.
- Hydraulics: Equipped with a 12V Monarch double-acting pump, powered directly by the truck’s battery, delivering a full dump angle of 51° in seconds.
- Durability: Built from 12-gauge steel floors and 14-gauge steel sides, powder coated for protection. Also available in stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance.
- Fitment: Designed to fit most standard 6-foot short-bed pickups, with no major modifications needed.
This combination of strength and compact fit makes it the go-to solution for smaller trucks that still need professional-grade hauling power.
How the 6’ Insert Compares to the 8’ Model
Some buyers wonder if the smaller insert sacrifices performance compared to its big brother. The answer: not at all. Both models are built to the same specifications, with the primary difference being bed length and capacity.
Here’s a comparison of the two:
| Feature | 6’ Short Bed Insert | 8’ Full-Size Insert |
|---|---|---|
| Bed Length | 74-1/8” | 96” |
| Unloaded Weight | 691 lbs | 787 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 6,000 lbs | 6,000 lbs |
| Volume Capacity | 1.5 cubic yards | 2 cubic yards |
| Dump Angle | 51° | 51° |
| Material Options | Steel or Stainless | Steel or Stainless |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
The table makes clear that both inserts offer the same power and hydraulic performance. The only real tradeoff is volume: the 6’ insert is ideal for smaller loads or operators who don’t need maximum capacity.
Benefits for Compact Pickup Owners
1. Perfect Fit for Small Trucks
Unlike retrofitting or cutting corners, the 6’ insert is engineered specifically for short-bed pickups. It bolts in securely without modifications, preserving the truck’s structure.
2. Professional-Grade Power
Despite its smaller size, the short-bed model lifts the same 6,000 lbs as the 8’ version. That means you can handle stone, wet soil, and construction debris with ease.
3. Versatility Across Industries
- Landscapers use the 6’ model for mulch, topsoil, and yard waste.
- Snow contractors use it for salt and snow hauling.
- Homeowners appreciate the convenience of quickly unloading firewood, gravel, or seasonal cleanup debris.
4. Cost-Effective Upgrade
Instead of purchasing a dump trailer or larger truck, short-bed owners can add a 6’ insert and instantly expand their truck’s capabilities at a fraction of the cost.
Installation and Setup
Like all EZ-Dumper® inserts, the 6’ short-bed model is simple to install. Most owners complete installation in 2–3 hours using only basic tools. The insert bolts down using four clamps, connects to the truck’s battery, and is ready to operate immediately.
The smaller size makes it easier to maneuver into place, but it retains the same ease-of-use as the full-size insert.
Maintenance Considerations
Keeping your 6’ insert in top condition requires only basic upkeep:
- Regularly grease pivot points using the threaded grease fittings.
- Inspect wiring and battery connections before heavy use.
- Touch up scratches on powder-coated models to prevent rust.
- Stainless models need minimal maintenance thanks to natural corrosion resistance.
With proper care, the insert will deliver years of reliable service.
FAQs About the EZ-Dumper® 6’ Short Bed Insert
Will the 6’ insert fit my truck?
Yes, the 6’ model is designed for most standard short-bed pickups. Always confirm bed length before ordering.
Is the 6’ insert weaker than the 8’ version?
No. Both have the same 6,000 lb lift capacity and 51° dump angle. The only difference is volume.
Can I install it myself?
Yes. Installation usually takes 2–3 hours with standard tools. Dealers can also install it professionally.
What materials can it handle?
The 6’ insert handles everything from mulch to stone. Stainless steel models are best for corrosive materials like salt.
Does it come with a warranty?
Yes. EZ-Dumper® offers a two-year warranty covering parts and labor from front to tailgate.
Final Thoughts
For pickup owners with short beds, the EZ-Dumper® 6’ insert is the ideal way to add serious hauling power without upgrading trucks. It delivers the same rugged performance and hydraulic strength as the full-size model, all in a compact package tailored for smaller beds.
Whether you’re a contractor, snow removal operator, or homeowner, this insert provides the efficiency, reliability, and long-term value that EZ-Dumper® has delivered since 1972.
