Quote:
Originally Posted by Grasshog
My question is if I buy a trailer 5.0 without a lift kit,, number one. will I need it for a 3/4 ton F250 ?
|
Your first best resource for evaluating 'fit to your vehicle' is provided by ETI here:
Escape 5.0 Towing Compatibility Guidelines Document
I suggest that you not only consider 'rail clearance' but also hitch-height; you may (with the mentioned truck IMO likely
will) find the lift beneficial to ensure you are within the height-adjustment range of your rig so you can ensure the trailer rides 'level'. That evaluation obviously requires knowledge of your particular hitch, its height relative to your truck bed / the ground and its adjustment range.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Grasshog
... and number two,, If I do buy a 5.0 without the lift How doable is it to add?
|
Addition (or removal) of the lift kit is very "doable" but of course much depends on your mechanical skills and tools.
Look at the e-trailer webpage for the Dexter Lift Kit linked by rubicon327 in his post above. There's installation instructions and videos on that e-trailer webpage, taking the time to review those should give you a good basis for deciding if it's something you would want to undertake yourself, or, if not, it's quite "doable" by any competent automotive mechanic or RV service facility.
Personally, I followed the advice of my '5.0 mentor' (forum member David Murphy) to order my 5.0
with the lift kit installed. David suggested that at some point in my towing adventures I'd appreciate the clearance even if not strictly required for my truck in 'normal' situations. IMO / IME David was correct, I'm glad I followed his advice, no regrets whatsoever. YMMV.
Final thought just for your consideration .... if you order
with the lift kit you will have the best possible clearances and height-adjustment range for your F250; it's much more desirable to remove the kit later if you decide that's prudent than to suffer an unfortunate physical conflict immediately upon taking delivery of your new 5.0; IMO getting the lift kit from ETI would be the 'conservative' approach for your situation.