2005 F150 4x4. I just acquired some 18" chrome ford factory rims and I plan on putting on some goodyear 295/65/18 tires. I plan to do a leveling eventually but am I going to need to do the leveling kit first so the tires will clear? Also, which is better- The 2" or 2.5"? Im thinking about going with the 2" so if I have stuff in the bed the truck wont look nose high.

 

You can clear those without the leveling kit. The 2" will still give you about .5" of rake, but it will sit level with a load in the bed.

 

Think I would be able to clear 285/70's on a 17" rim with no leveling kit? I don't want them to rub anywhere.

I wouldn't go higher than the 2" leveling kit or you'll start eating through ball joints faster than normal (ball joints aren't that expensive if that doesn't concern you)