We have trouble getting into the 2012, and will need a step stool for my mom to get in and out, when I looked at the 2018's when I was contemplating an F350 over the platinum I have now, I had a hard time getting my leg up high enough to the step on them, they are too tall, and like you, would need drop shanks for everything I tow. Finding that Curt with 2" shank that fits the SD, and has nearly twice the weight carrying was a great find. I found it on Amazon for $208, and will have it on Monday.

 

My opinion is that the reducer has a little "slop" but is OK for towing a small utility or rental trailer, but I use a 2-1/2" Weigh Safe Adjustable Draw Bar for the heavy stuff.
The reducer was not provided with my 2019 F-350 Lariat because it is now an accessory item. I ordered a CURT #45405 Reducer and was totally p****d-off when I noticed the "Made In China" sticker. I'll buy the Ford reducer from the dealer.

 

I've had very good luck buying Curt branded towing parts for all my work trucks and trailers. Everything from tongue jacks to pintle rings have been very good quality for the price. Just because you find something with a USA sticker on it doesn't mean it's going to be better quality.

 

The OEM reducer is flared at the end You slide it in until it stops and the holes line up, unlike using a generic adapter. The aftermarket adapter I bought did not come out to the lip of the hitch hole. I believe it makes for a sloppier fit and possible pin hole wear. I ended up buying an OEM after seeing the fit differences

Regardless of what size shank you use, you will get some play. I like how an anti rattle clamp tightens things up.

 

I installed a Curt 15410 2" receiver, which has a 2500# WC capacity and 17000 GTWR. All my shanks fit nice and snug, but will need a 6" drop shank to tow my smaller trailers since it is 3" higher than the F150 and I already use a 3" drop shank for that truck. I don't plan to tow the small trailers at any time with the F350 though, just the travel trailer. The only thing I have a concern about are the chain loops, they look a bit tight to the receiver and the shank pin sits over half of the openings. I may need a smaller locking pin.

$210 for the receiver vs $150 or more for the 2 1/2" Blue Ox Shank plus a reducer and drop shanks etc, the receiver seemed like a good solution. It also looks better than the factory hitch, it is tighter against the bumper.