Okay, I dont really want to spend the money on doing a traditional suspension lift, but I do want to give the truck a bigger stance, from what I've seen a leveling kit can help.... Who makes good stuff? How High should I go? What prices run on quality gear? Input appreciated!

 

J/K, Look into Hell Bent Steel, Autospring and Daystar... 2-2.5" to get 35" tires on a 4x4 F150... Haven't installed one, but in our how to section there is a good write up... Shouldn't cost more than 100.00 for the parts...

 

i did a hell bent steel kit 2.5" for like 60 bucks it was good quality i wouldnt go with the 3" it will be too high and also may cause front end problems.

 

Sorry I'm still learning where to ask questions about certain things , thanks for the advice, so 2.5 it is, Is the installation a do it yourselfer?

 

You would need specialized tools to DIY... I paid my local muffler shop $60 to put on my HBS 2.5" kit - I was very impressed with the results. Just make sure you get an alignment ASAP after the kit is put on.

 

Yes, lots of people have gotten it put in under 2 hours.
How-To writeup: https://www.f150forum.com/f33/04-lev...install-29480/

"Specialized tools"... Like a floor jack, hammer, sockets, and a ratchet?

 

I was thinking the same thing. I installed mine in a hour tops. I deffinetly say this more then capable for anyone who is mechanically inclined.

 

i was running an autospring 2.5" kit for a while, and i thought it was fine. i did the install myself, and it was really easy. i wouldnt pay a shop to do it.

 

I did a 2.5 and found the front to sit slightly higher than the back so now I have to raise the rear or put a grill guard up front to bring the front back down

 

Air tools helped me out tremendously, but are not needed. I read somewhere that 04 and 05 trucks sit higher in the back than 06-08's. I personally put a 3" on my 05 and it's level. So a 2.5 would be perfect for you. As for tools, just basic ones, but an extra set of hands is a big plus. Just make sure you have deep well sockets and a big socket to fit the strut bolt and you will be fine. X2 on the Hell Bent Steel!