vintageman

Hello all, I think that I have finally decided to look into leveling my 2004 F150 FX4 4wd. Measurements from the ground to the center of the wheel well for the rear is 39.0 inches and the front is 36.0. I have read that the size of the leveling kit is not actually how much the truck will be raised. Any advice on what size and brand leveling kit I should buy? Also, looking at it now, I really don't know if it has any kind of kit on it, under the rear leaf springs, there is a block with a long what looks like rod or handle on it (don't know how to describe it), but I can't tell up front. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

powerranger262

This is what the front will look like leveled.



You will end up leveled out with a 2.5" level. I recommend the Hell Bent Steel kit.

ExpresswayFord

The "handle" you see on the rear 3" block kits is to keep the use of the bump stop, for if you bottom out (because the axle is now farther away). The front kits are just a 1.5-2.5" spacer on top of the strut.

vintageman

Thanks for the quick response guys. With the 2.5 leveling kit, will I need to change anything else, like the UCAs? Wheel alignment? Is there any drawbacks to parts wearing out with the 2.5 kit, I have heard there are issues that can come up with over 2.0 inch leveling kits.
Thanks for the responses and assistance.
Tom

ExpresswayFord

You can use stock control arms. Alignment is necessary no matter what size you go. You do run the risk of wearing out ball joints prematurely, due to the increased angle of them.

danorules

You will need an alignment after install. And take a good look at all of the front end components: tie rods, ball joints, struts, and sway bar link. It will all be apart so why not replace those at that point

powerranger262

Like said above, definitely get an alignment, that's what finishes off the lift. As for wear, I have had mine leveled(2.5") for about 3 years now, and knock on wood, no issues at all.

jamie930

with 04 and most likely running on the OEM struts I would opt for the Rancho Quicklifts. Not mention the OEM springs are known to break

vintageman

Thanks for the advice, I will definitely check those and the Rancho

Stephen Kay

08 4x4, 6 years with a 2.5# level and no problems with the swaybar bushes until they finally gave out along with balljoints, struts etc.
$$$ on an overhaul for the front end and upgrade to gas shocks (the leveling removed as the damper adds 2inches they said), now 4 months later and the swaybar top bushes have disintegrated.
Can't work out should the links be longer or shorter.... Any ideas?