F-350 Short Bed, F-350 DRW, F-450???

[Cummins12V98]

Thru 2016 the fords did not need the risers. 17's DO. So basically ALL of the big 3 need risers 17 and newer.

[rynosback]

Originally Posted by Cummins12V98

Thru 2016 the fords did not need the risers. 17's DO. So basically ALL of the big 3 need risers 17 and newer.

And always better to have some extra bed rail clearance.

[wingnut60]

FWIW--
Here is pic of my hitchup--'17 450/RSSA. Sits pretty level, good clearance without the risers.
However, for the cost from the factory, it would be a no-brainer to add them.

[Cummins12V98]

Originally Posted by wingnut60

FWIW--
Here is pic of my hitchup--'17 450/RSSA. Sits pretty level, good clearance without the risers.
However, for the cost from the factory, it would be a no-brainer to add them.

On flat ground measure bottom to ground at rear and front. Also weigh each axle, you will be surprised at how much more your rear axle is carrying.

Here is mine prior to the 3" risers. I measured 5-6" more at the front than the rear in this pic!

[wingnut60]

Ah,, well, Ron--you have a Ram.....

[Cummins12V98]

Originally Posted by wingnut60

Ah,, well, Ron--you have a Ram.....

Not sure what that has to with anything??? Just relying to help.

[GynormousMellon]

Originally Posted by wingnut60

FWIW--
Here is pic of my hitchup--'17 450/RSSA. Sits pretty level, good clearance without the risers.
However, for the cost from the factory, it would be a no-brainer to add them.

How do you like your 450? Interested in your experience with the ride when not towing and turning with that wide track axle towing and not towing.

I keep hearing that the engine in the 450 is "detuned" but can't find any proof of that or for that matter, what it means to preformance. With the massive 430 axle, detunning the engine, if a real thing, probably doesn't effect power.

What kind of MPG are you realistically seeing when not towing?

Thanks in advance

[wingnut60]

Really like it so far, but only 4600 miles with about 3500 towing. Just finished a solo run to Houston down I-45, running 65-80 constantly. 14.7 mpg.
The 6.7 engines are 'detuned' ONLY in the cab/chassis models use in commercial apps. The pickup has the full HP/TQ listed.
After owning 2 350s w/o the shorter turning radius, and 2 previous 450s, I will not drive one w/o it--just makes my life easier in backing into campsites. Some say it isn't needed, but I find it very useful. If you were looking at used, there are '15 & '16 350 duallys that came with the wide track front end, called Max Tow package. This is the shorter turning radius and 4:30 gears. Hard to find, but they are out there--you can tell them by the flares on the front fenders and the colored extensions on the ends of the front bumper.
They 'detune' the cab/chassis units for long-term durability under commercial conditions and multiple drivers who don't care for their equipment. I have friends with businesses who tried the detuned versions and went back to pickups, removing the pickup beds for the equipment beds--too many complaints from workers about drivability.

[GynormousMellon]

Originally Posted by wingnut60

Really like it so far, but only 4600 miles with about 3500 towing. Just finished a solo run to Houston down I-45, running 65-80 constantly. 14.7 mpg.
The 6.7 engines are 'detuned' ONLY in the cab/chassis models use in commercial apps. The pickup has the full HP/TQ listed.
After owning 2 350s w/o the shorter turning radius, and 2 previous 450s, I will not drive one w/o it--just makes my life easier in backing into campsites. Some say it isn't needed, but I find it very useful. If you were looking at used, there are '15 & '16 350 duallys that came with the wide track front end, called Max Tow package. This is the shorter turning radius and 4:30 gears. Hard to find, but they are out there--you can tell them by the flares on the front fenders and the colored extensions on the ends of the front bumper.
They 'detune' the cab/chassis units for long-term durability under commercial conditions and multiple drivers who don't care for their equipment. I have friends with businesses who tried the detuned versions and went back to pickups, removing the pickup beds for the equipment beds--too many complaints from workers about drivability.

Thank you for the info!!

[Manos]

This is same question and same situation (I am in NOVA area as well) that I was debating about 6 months ago. I went with 2017 F350 DRW because I found what I wanted on the lot. If you go the F350 route I do recommend the adaptive steering and the camera package that gives you a 360 view of truck. This wont help you turn as tight as the 450, but the adaptive steering helps make it much easier -quicker follow your planned turns. The camera allows you use 100% of open real estate with confidence that you wont hit anything.
Been driving this F350 CCLB DRW as my daily driver in DC area since we bought it.

Our DRV is being built now with a target finish time in the second 1/2 of Dec.

[Cummins12V98]

^^^^^ I assume you have checked the box for the 2" risers???

[mtntrek]

Originally Posted by Cummins12V98

^^^^^ I assume you have checked the box for the 2" risers???

Great point Cummins, even the most experienced of us can gain from having seasoned owners particularly of similar models review our MSRP build sheets. Best of luck Manos.
The beauty of these forums indeed.
Be well.

[Littlebaler]

Yes, it is too bad they keep making thes pickups taller. You really have to watch for clearance on some thes bridges and overpasses .

[Manos]

Yes sir definitely checked the box for the 2" risers. Thanks for double checking thou. That was one of the reason we ordered our DRV rather than take something in stock was the 2 inch risers.
That is one great things about online forums - folks sharing. On a ford truck specific forum I found that it might be possible to lower the rear of my truck as well. I have started the research into smaller spacer blocks for the rear of my truck just in case. I don't want to this mod to my new truck, but it is option if I cannot tow level and get 6+ inches minimum clearance.
I am hoping between the 2 inch risers, the adjustment on the hitch and the pin box adjustments I will be able to make that happen.

[Cummins12V98]

Originally Posted by Manos

Yes sir definitely checked the box for the 2" risers. Thanks for double checking thou. That was one of the reason we ordered our DRV rather than take something in stock was the 2 inch risers.
That is one great things about online forums - folks sharing. On a ford truck specific forum I found that it might be possible to lower the rear of my truck as well. I have started the research into smaller spacer blocks for the rear of my truck just in case. I don't want to this mod to my new truck, but it is option if I cannot tow level and get 6+ inches minimum clearance.
I am hoping between the 2 inch risers, the adjustment on the hitch and the pin box adjustments I will be able to make that happen.

You will be fine.

[FTboomer2B]

Interesting and coincidental thread!
We are currently in the process of purchasing an RV and a TV.
Since the DVR is used - any options besides the risers? We are waiting on the F450 to reach the dealer.

TIA
Billie

[wingnut60]

Scroll back up to #23--I don't have a problem with my '17 450 at this point. It may well depend on the hitch you decide on, I am using a B&W Companion that fits the factory pucks. Have clearance at about 5-6" all around and towing about 1" high in front on the 38RSSA. Not saying you won't have a problem, but maybe not as bad as you are thinking. Which model trailer are you buying? I would make a stipulation in the deal that the clearance is sufficient when you hitch up or they make it correct.
Many are saying/needing the risers, so you may also. It will require a trip to Morryde to do it correctly if your DRV has the Morryde IS on it. If it is standard spring suspension, any spring/axle shop can retrofit it.

[FTboomer2B]

Thank you wingnut60 - Good suggestions

2014 38TKSB4 with independent suspension