ELMN80R

So I picked up my 2019 F150 XLT 5.0 RCSB 4x4 with Tow Package (that combo is why the rear end sits so high) and I absolutely LOVE IT, except for the height of the rear end!


2019 XLT 4x4 RCSB with Tow Package

I wanted to level the truck & then get the Air Lift 59570 Ride Control Kit with Air Lift 25856 Load Controller Dual Heavy Duty Compressor.

That way, if I tow my friends car hauler trailer, the rear end won't sag.

I purchased the M-3000-HA from Ford Performance (which they say drops the rear 1.5") but I've heard it only drops the rear by 1"


M-3000-HA Rear Drop Shackle Kit (with 2.5 degree Shims)

That kit was shipped directly from Ford Performance to my door, and it included the 2.5 degree shims.

Here's where I have some questions, the Instruction Sheet Ford provides (google M-3000-H Instructions for a PDF) says to install the drop shackles, but LEAVE the 4x4 blocks.

Now, if I wanted to install these shackles & axle shims, but also REMOVE the 4x4 blocks, would I need a higher degree shim?

Also, on some other shackle kits (I believe it was the H-3000-H4 FRONT & REAR kit) it included a 5/16" Shim for the TRANSMISSION. From what I can tell, that was only for 2015-2017 though...

I don't want to lower the front of this truck at all, so I'm only focusing on the rear.

My questions are;

1. Is there anyone who has installed the M-3000-HA rear shackle kit on a 4x4 with Tow Pack & also removed the 4x4 blocks?

2. Can I install the shackles, remove the 4x4 Blocks & get away with just using the 2.5 Degree shims, or will I need different axle shims?

3. Would I need (or should I look into) the 5/16" Transmission Shim?

I'll be ordering some 2WD U-Bolts to replace the longer 4x4 if I do remove the blocks, but I just want some advice or info from someone who's lowered the rear of a 2018+ with 4x4 & tow package.

I'll keep you guys posted with any updates on this thread!

Strokerswild

iTrader: (1)

My RCSB has the tow package as well. I've removed the blocks (used 2WD u-bolts), I'll be interested to see what you do here....

Flamingtaco

Holy crap, that wheel well gap is HUGE! I can't believe Ford would actually let a truck that heavily raked out the door. It appears they aren't bothering with proper springs for your combo. Does the code on your springs match the screws? HDPP? What's your payload?

Strokerswild

iTrader: (1)

Yeah, mine had nowhere near that much rake in stock form.....

dcmII

Is the spare tire removed? And gas tank empty? That's about how my screw sits when empty, with spare removed.

It is my understanding that those shims work if you remove the blocks and use the shackles. I simply swapped shackles and didn't use the shims and I had no issues.

The problem to watch for. Make sure the rear shocks aren't bottoming out. I swapped the factory shocks with the Fox 2.0 and then did the drop shackle. I noticed the driver's side shock was bottoming out under normal driving conditions. The passenger side has a bit more clearance due to the angles of the mounts on axles. So if you do the shackle and remove the block, you may need a shorter shock.

Also, when I picked up some concrete bags, I removed the spare tire (everything counts) and made a few trips. On the last trip I decided to measure how much the rear dropped with the weight. I was measuring from ground to top of wheel well centered on the rear wheel. So when you have a payload package that allows for 1,500 pounds, you don't want to be *** on ground, **** in the sky while driving. That's why there's the rake you see. Ford could put a stiffer spring set that doesn't sag as much, but then you'd have a harsh ride like some of those other guys. Most people towing or hauling anything will be around the 600-900 pound mark. Giving you a smooth, level ride.

WEIGHT POUNDS DROP INCHES

60 0.25
120 0.5
180 0.75
240 1
300 1.18
360 1.25
500 1.5
720 2
1,020 3
1,440 4
1,860 5

DJC_001

iTrader: (1)

I used the exact kit that you have from Ford Performance M-3000-HA Rear Drop Shackle Kit (with 2.5 degree Shims) and it dropped my truck 1 and 5/16 inches measured on the level shop floor after driving it for a week after install. I used the shims and put them on mine and my ride is smoother then stock but I have heard other people not using the shims and they have had no issues.

I also left the blocks in my rear end but my rake is no where near as pronounced as yours but mine is a crew cab and this shackle kit did the right amount of level for what I was looking for. I did not want to raise the front as I already had 33" on my truck with no rubbing and I am happy with them and do not feel the need for 35" tires. I probably could have just pulled my blocks and got the same result as using the shackle kit but I am happy how it all turned out. Best of luck.

ELMN80R

[QUOTE=dcmII;6336374]Is the spare tire removed? And gas tank empty? That's about how my screw sits when empty, with spare removed[/QUOTrE]

Fuel tank filled, spare tire installed lol

ELMN80R

My door sticker says;

GAWR for the front/3000lbs and rear is 3800lbs

GVWR is 6400lbs

Vehicle registration weight is 4363lbs

6400 - 4363 = 2037

So payload is 2037lbs?

I'm still learning about payload ratings and tow limits etc...

ELMN80R

I called Ford Performance, they said I should be able to use the shackles and do a block removal as long as I use the 2.5 degree spacers.

Although he did advise me to call Ground Force and see if they'd recommend using the 5/16" transmission shim, and switching out the bump stops.

(I'm waiting for a call back).

2018LLB4x2

I'd opt for removing the block first as it won't reduce the suspension travel before hitting the bump stops.