The Peterbilt 388 and 389 share the classic long-nose styling that makes Peterbilt trucks so recognizable. From a distance, the two models can look very similar, and some replacement exterior parts are even sold for both. However, that doesn't mean every hood or front-end component is interchangeable.
One of the most important differences is the truck's BBC (bumper-to-back-of-cab) configuration. The Peterbilt 388 is associated with a 123-inch BBC, while the 389 was offered in both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC configurations. That distinction becomes particularly important when you're replacing a hood.
In this guide, we'll compare the Peterbilt 388 vs. 389, explain hood and BBC measurements, look at exterior parts that may be shared between the two models, and show you what to check before ordering a replacement hood.
Peterbilt 388 vs. 389 at a Glance
| Difference | Peterbilt 388 | Peterbilt 389 | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBC configuration | Typically 123 inches | Available in 123-inch and 131-inch configurations | BBC helps determine which hood configuration fits |
| Traditional hood style | Mid-length hood | Best known for its longer hood | The two models can look similar, but hood fitment can differ |
| Replacement hood options | 123-inch BBC / shorter replacement applications | 123-inch short and 131-inch extended applications | A “389 hood” isn't one universal part |
| Can you order by model alone? | No | No | Model year, BBC, OEM number and hood measurements should also be checked |
The main takeaway: A Peterbilt 388 is generally associated with the 123-inch BBC configuration, while the 389 was available with both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC configurations. That's why you shouldn't order a replacement hood based on the model badge alone.
Important: Hood centerline dimensions mentioned in this guide are examples from specific replacement hoods sold by Big Truck Hoods. They should not be treated as universal factory dimensions for every Peterbilt 388 or 389.
What Is the Difference Between a Peterbilt 388 and 389?
The simplest historical distinction is that the Peterbilt 388 used the shorter traditional front-end configuration, while the 389 became known for Peterbilt's longer hood.
Peterbilt described the Model 388 as having a mid-length hood and the Model 389 as having a long-length hood. The two models also share several aspects of their classic Peterbilt front-end design.
The BBC measurements help put that difference into perspective.
Peterbilt documentation identifies:
- Model 388-123
- Model 389-123
- Model 389-131
So while the 388 is closely associated with a 123-inch BBC, it is not accurate to say that every 389 is a 131-inch BBC truck.
That's an important detail when you're buying a replacement hood. The model number alone doesn't always tell you which hood configuration is sitting on the truck.
Big Truck Hoods groups compatible products in its Peterbilt 388/389 parts collection, where you can compare hood and exterior-part applications for both models.
What Does BBC Mean on a Peterbilt?
BBC stands for bumper to back of cab.
It's a dimensional measurement commonly used to describe conventional truck configurations.
For the 388 and 389:
- The 388 is associated with the 123-inch BBC configuration.
- The 389 was available in both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC configurations.
BBC should not be confused with hood centerline length.
A 123-inch BBC does not mean the hood itself measures 123 inches.
That's especially important when comparing replacement-hood specifications.
For example, Big Truck Hoods currently lists a short aluminum replacement hood for applicable Peterbilt 388/389 models with a 65-inch centerline measurement, despite the application being associated with the 123-inch BBC configuration.
Peterbilt 388 vs. 389 Hood Length
Hood length is one of the most useful things to examine when trying to determine which replacement hood your truck needs.
But instead of relying only on terms such as “short hood” and “long hood,” it's better to work from the truck's actual configuration and hood measurements.
Peterbilt 388 Hood
Big Truck Hoods currently lists a fiberglass replacement hood for the Peterbilt 388 Short with:
- 123-inch BBC application
- 65-inch centerline measurement
- fiberglass hood and fenders
- stainless-steel grille and surround
- OEM cross-references including L29-6110-1000 and L29-6097-101
The product is listed for 2007 and newer applications.
Big Truck Hoods also carries a short aluminum replacement hood for Peterbilt 388/389 applications. That hood also has a 65-inch centerline measurement and uses an aluminum hood structure with fiberglass components and fenders.
The important point is that 65 inches is a product-specific centerline measurement, not a universal specification for every 388 hood ever produced.
Peterbilt 389 Hood
The 389 requires additional care because there are both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC configurations.
That's why a customer shopping for a “Peterbilt 389 hood” may encounter both short and extended replacement-hood listings.
The 123-inch BBC configuration can use a shorter hood application, while the traditional extended 389 configuration corresponds to the longer 131-inch BBC front end.
Big Truck Hoods carries a dedicated Peterbilt 389 Extended aluminum replacement hood with fiberglass fenders, a stainless-steel grille and surround, and different dimensions and OEM cross-references from the short hood.
If you're replacing a 389 hood, first confirm whether you're dealing with the shorter or extended configuration.
You can compare the available options in the Peterbilt 388/389 replacement hood collection.
Peterbilt 389 Short Hood vs. Long Hood
“Short hood” and “long hood” are useful aftermarket terms, but they can become confusing if they're treated as official model definitions.
Peterbilt historically distinguished the 388 and 389 by referring to the 388 as a mid-length-hood model and the 389 as a long-length-hood model.
Replacement-parts catalogs may use different terminology.
For example, Big Truck Hoods currently lists a replacement hood specifically for:
Peterbilt 388 / 389 Short
That hood has a 65-inch centerline measurement.
There is also a separate Peterbilt 388/389 Short Car Hauler hood. Although that hood also has a 65-inch centerline measurement for a 123-inch BBC application, it is two inches shorter at the cowl than the non-car-hauler version.
That's a good example of why two hoods can sound similar on paper without necessarily being the same part.
Don't Order a Hood Based on “Short” or “Long” Alone
Before ordering, verify:
- truck model
- model year
- BBC configuration
- hood centerline measurement
- OEM hood number
- specialty application, if applicable
- any previous front-end modifications
These checks are particularly important if the truck has been repaired or customized in the past.
How to Measure a Peterbilt 388 or 389 Hood
Big Truck Hoods recommends checking the hood's centerline measurement when confirming fitment.
The basic process is:
- Place the tape measure at the center rear of the hood near the windshield.
- Run the tape along the center of the hood toward the front.
- Continue down toward the grille or nose using the measurement points specified for the replacement hood.
- Compare the result with the product specifications.
- Verify the OEM part number at the same time.
Big Truck Hoods' replacement-hood listings instruct customers to verify the make/model, OEM number and centerline measurement before ordering.
Because different products may specify slightly different measurement endpoints, such as the grille or grille surround, always follow the measurements provided for the particular replacement hood you're considering.
Are Peterbilt 388 and 389 Hoods Interchangeable?
Some Peterbilt 388 and 389 hood applications overlap, but not all 388 and 389 hoods are interchangeable.
For example, the short Peterbilt 388/389 replacement hood is specifically listed for both 388 and 389 Short applications.
The longer 389 front end, however, requires a different hood configuration, such as the Peterbilt 389 Extended hood.
Specialty configurations are another consideration. The 388/389 Short Car Hauler hood, for example, has its own dimensional notes and OEM cross-references.
The safest approach is to confirm the model, model year, BBC, hood measurement and OEM part number before ordering.
Exterior Parts: What Do the Peterbilt 388 and 389 Share?
The 388 and 389 do share some exterior replacement components.
The key is to verify each individual part rather than assuming that everything—or nothing—is interchangeable.
Hoods
This is where configuration matters most.
Big Truck Hoods carries several Peterbilt 388/389 replacement hoods, including short, extended and car-hauler applications.
When buying a hood, pay particular attention to:
- BBC
- centerline measurement
- OEM number
- cowl dimensions
- intended application
Headlights
Some replacement headlights are explicitly sold for both models.
For example, Big Truck Hoods carries Peterbilt 388/389 replacement headlights and headlight components, including applications for 2007–2015 trucks.
A specific example is the chrome projector headlight for Peterbilt 388/389 models.
That doesn't mean all headlights from every 388 and 389 model year interchange. Use the model year and OEM number to verify the individual assembly.
Grille Components
There is also overlap in some grille-related components.
Big Truck Hoods offers a stainless-steel grille trim set for Peterbilt 388/389 models, while several complete replacement hoods are supplied with grille components already installed.
Check the individual application before assuming that a grille or surround from one front-end configuration will fit another.
Bumpers
Certain replacement bumpers also fit both the Peterbilt 388 and 389.
For example, Big Truck Hoods lists an 18-inch Ultramax steel chrome bumper for Peterbilt 388/389 models for 2007 and newer applications.
Other options include a steel chrome bumper with tapered ends and fog-light cutouts.
The important point is that hood differences don't necessarily mean every front-end part is different. Fitment needs to be checked component by component.
How Can You Tell Which Hood Your Peterbilt Needs?
If you're ordering an expensive replacement hood, don't rely on a visual comparison alone.
A truck may have been:
- repaired after a collision
- fitted with aftermarket bodywork
- converted or modified
- fitted with replacement headlights or grilles
- repainted or rebadged
Instead, work through the following checks.
1. Confirm the Model
Use the truck's identification information rather than exterior badges alone.
Determine whether you're working with a 388 or 389.
2. Confirm the BBC Configuration
Don't automatically assume that “389” means 131-inch BBC.
Peterbilt documentation includes both 389-123 and 389-131 configurations.
3. Measure the Existing Hood
Compare the hood centerline measurement with the dimensions given for the replacement part.
For example, the current 388/389 Short aluminum replacement hood lists a 65-inch centerline measurement.
Remember that this is a hood measurement—not the BBC.
4. Find the OEM Part Number
Cross-referencing the original part number provides another useful fitment check.
For example, the short aluminum 388/389 replacement currently cross-references:
- L29-6097-101
- L29-6097-102
- L29-6110-1000
- L29-6110-2000
Specialty hoods may use different OEM references even when they initially appear similar.
5. Verify Before Painting
Replacement hoods should be inspected and test-fitted before paint.
Big Truck Hoods' product pages state that inspection and dry fitting are required before painting and that a part may require modification during final assembly.
Checking fitment first can help avoid investing in paint and finish work before discovering that an adjustment is needed.
Which Peterbilt Replacement Hood Do You Need?
Once you've identified the truck and measured the existing hood, you can narrow down the correct replacement.
Shopping for a Peterbilt 388 Hood?
Start by confirming:
- model year
- 123-inch BBC application
- centerline measurement
- OEM number
- standard or specialty configuration
Big Truck Hoods currently carries both fiberglass and aluminum replacement options for applicable Peterbilt 388 configurations.
View Peterbilt 388/389 replacement hoods.
Shopping for a Peterbilt 389 Hood?
First determine whether your truck uses the:
- 123-inch BBC configuration, or
- 131-inch BBC configuration
Then compare the hood measurements, OEM numbers and application notes with the replacement you're considering.
The Peterbilt 388/389 hood collection includes both short and extended replacement options.
Aluminum vs. Fiberglass Peterbilt Replacement Hoods
Peterbilt's original 388/389 design used aluminum hood construction, but aftermarket replacement options can introduce other materials and construction methods.
For example, Big Truck Hoods currently carries:
- a fiberglass Peterbilt 388 Short hood with fiberglass fenders
- a riveted aluminum Peterbilt 388/389 Short hood with fiberglass fenders
Both are replacement options, but they aren't identical products.
When comparing hood materials, consider:
- fitment
- weight
- repairability
- cost
- availability
- paint preparation
- included grille and fender components
For a more detailed material comparison, read Comparing Hood Material Lifespans: Fiberglass vs. Aluminum vs. Steel.
If you're specifically considering fiberglass, Big Truck Hoods also explains why fiberglass is widely used for aftermarket truck hoods.
Whichever replacement you choose, test-fit it before painting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Peterbilt 388 the same as a 389?
No. The 388 and 389 are separate Peterbilt models, although they share styling and some exterior components. Traditionally, the 388 is associated with Peterbilt's mid-length front end, while the 389 became known as the longer-hood model.
What is the main difference between a Peterbilt 388 and 389?
One of the key traditional differences is the front-end length. The 388 is associated with the 123-inch BBC configuration, while the 389 was offered in both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC versions. Because of that, the truck's exact configuration matters when selecting a replacement hood.
Is every Peterbilt 389 a long hood?
No. Although the 389 is best known for its long hood, Peterbilt documentation includes both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC 389 configurations.
Are Peterbilt 388 and 389 hoods interchangeable?
Some replacement hoods are designed for both 388 and 389 Short applications, but not every 388 and 389 hood is interchangeable.
The Peterbilt 388/389 hood collection shows the different replacement configurations currently available.
What is the BBC of a Peterbilt 388?
The Peterbilt 388 is associated with the 123-inch BBC configuration.
What is the BBC of a Peterbilt 389?
Peterbilt documentation includes both 389-123 and 389-131 configurations. Therefore, you shouldn't determine the BBC from the 389 model designation alone.
How long is a Peterbilt 388 hood?
There isn't one measurement that should be treated as universal for every replacement hood.
As one example, Big Truck Hoods currently sells a Peterbilt 388 Short fiberglass replacement hood with a 65-inch centerline measurement for a 123-inch BBC application.
Always compare your measurements with the specific replacement part you're considering.
What is the difference between a Peterbilt 389 short hood and long hood?
In replacement-parts terminology, a 389 Short generally refers to the shorter 123-inch BBC front-end application, while the extended configuration relates to the longer 389 front end.
Because multiple configurations exist, verify the BBC and actual hood measurements before ordering.
Do Peterbilt 388 and 389 headlights interchange?
Some do. Big Truck Hoods carries headlights and headlight components for both Peterbilt 388 and 389 models, including certain 2007–2015 applications.
Always verify the model year and OEM number for the individual part.
How do I know which Peterbilt hood I need?
Confirm the truck model and year, identify the BBC configuration, measure the existing hood centerline and compare the OEM part number with the replacement hood.
If you're still deciding whether an existing fiberglass hood is repairable, see the Big Truck Hoods fiberglass hood repair guide before replacing it.
Find the Right Peterbilt 388 or 389 Parts
The Peterbilt 388 and 389 have plenty in common, but their differences matter when you're replacing expensive front-end components.
Most importantly, don't reduce the comparison to “388 equals short hood, 389 equals long hood.”
The 388 is associated with Peterbilt's 123-inch BBC configuration, while the 389 was available in both 123-inch and 131-inch BBC configurations. Specialty applications can add another layer to fitment.
Before ordering a hood, confirm the truck's model, model year, BBC, centerline measurement, OEM number and specific application.
Certain headlights, grille parts and bumpers may be shared across the two models, but those components should also be verified individually.
Browse Peterbilt 388/389 parts at Big Truck Hoods.
Need help identifying a replacement hood or front-end part? Contact Big Truck Hoods with your truck model, model year, OEM part number and hood measurements to help narrow down the correct application.