Best size wood for bed crossmember

Hello all! Day one with my 2020 1794 and I want to cut a price of wood for my bed to keep everything from sliding forward. When I measured it seemed that a 2x4 or 2x6 would be loose unless a cut it long and jammed it in there which I don’t want to do. What have you used for this?

 

Lowes has a ratcheting adjustable cargo bar that would work.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/CargoSmart-40-70In-Adjustable-Ratcheting-Cargo-Bar/1000029077

 

Before I replaced it with an adjustable pole, I had a 2x4 that I hinged in the middle.
This would allow it to be pressed firmly into place , as well as store neatly.

 

Thanks. That looks cool. I’ll have to check if I can get it in Canada.

 

Just be careful not to push it out too hard! I have seen Truck bed in the back at the tail gate pushed out so far the tail gate would not latch shut and have seen them bent inward from people over doing ratcheting straps. there are bed stiffeners available.

 

That looks great! I have the spray in liner that has spots where it seems wood would slide in but seems like a 2x4 would be loose. Yours looks secure though. I’ll have to cut a price and see! Much appreciated!

not only learning tundras but pick ups as well! Last veh was an expedition

 

I use a 2x6. I think it's perfect. Keeps stuff from rolling around but short enough that I can reach over it. Problem is the bed on the CM is wider than it is long. If I'm not using the divider it stays in my garage. Which of course means I had to paint it red so I don't accidently mistake it for a piece of scrap 2x6 and cur it in half someday.

 

Great thanks! And you find it’s not “whobbley “ in those slots?

 

The plumbers at work really like these, but they have tool box beds so there isn’t much flex, maybe I’ll get one for my work truck

 

Found this https://www.princessauto.com/en/40-to-70-in-ratcheting-cargo-bar/product/PA0008466559

maybe I’ll get it.

 

If it wobbles in those slots I've never noticed or heard it. Its not a super tight fit (wobble wise) just cut it carefully to minimize left to right.. Seems like I use it most when hunting, or toting a chain saw around. So not exactly pavement crawling. It stays put. Does its job.

 

I run a 2x8 in mine and cut it to tolerances that basically allow it to slide right in if it's placed in the slots straight up and down; if I try to install one side at a time, it binds up going in.

Very slight amount of play, but nothing noticeable when riding in the cab...

You can also put in some perpendicular short boards (same size or 2x6) between the 'crossmember' and the tailgate to partition off the area for shopping bags, coolers, etc... (anything you normally transport), and I'd imagine the extra weight and 'legs' on the 'crossmember' would help stabilize it.

 

I did this also, works well for keeping 5 gallon gas cans and groceries in place!

 

Great idea thanks!

 

I did this over Thanksgiving so that I could put my ice chest in my bed.

I used a 2x4, painted it matte black with a $3 spray paint from Lowes. Cut was 66 and 5/16 inches.

 

Thanks I was going to cut at 67 and trim from there, so good to know!

 

66 5/16. Thanks!