dump kit conversion question

[fastcarz3]

hey guys just ordered a dump kit conversion thatll turn my pickup bed into a dumper. before you guys get all crazy and tell me i shoulda got an insert or bought a dump trailer im only using this for lightduty lifting mulch and compost. i already have one on my 02 chevy and for 6 yrs have not had one problem with it. i solved one of the biggest problem people had with the bed bounching when going over bumps by welding up some hold down brackets that i can slide into place when the beds down to secure it. have a question for anyone that has installed this on a ford though i read somewhere that installing the kit that i would need to remove the factory hitch. 2 questions can i modify the bumper in any way to clear the hitch? or can i modify the hitch itself?(my cousin does heavy metal fabrication).

[Citypol86]

If you can, post pics, etc. I'm interested in adding this to my truck. Thanks.

Later...
Brewster...

[fastcarz3]

i havent recieved the kit yet but read i was looking for someone to chime in that already did a conversion on a ford.

[Raining111]

I would think you could modify the bumper to clear the hitch. and especially if you know someone who does ironwork, then it should be no problem.

[Jack_99V10]

Depends on what kit you bought.

Stealth sells an "Over the Bumper" kit that allows your bumper and your hitch to remain attached to the frame. If you bought one from John, your bumper is now a part of the bed, and will now need modification to tow.

Please give me any other information you might have on this kit. Is it the same manufacturer you bought the Chevy kit through? PM if need be, I'd really appreciate it.

[rocdril]

I put a kit from "Northern Tool" on my 02 F350 a couple years ago. It took about a day in my own shop. There is no way I could figure to keep or modify the stock bumper. I use the hitch constantly, so I fabricated a custom bumper. When the body dumps there is only about 1 inch between the bottom of the bed and the pintle hook. The stock bumper will not clear. Im not sure how to post pics, If I can figure it out Ill post some.

[Jack_99V10]

I almost bought the one from Northern on a whim actually. Then the insert started looking really good... and then I always wanted to have it with me if I needed it... and I like my bumper... which is why I've been investigating the Stealth Dumps.

Stealth Dump Trucks, Inc. Pick-up Truck Dump Bed Kits (757)890-4888

This is the insert:
Dump-Pro! Turn your Pickup into a Dumptruck in Minutes! Dump-Pro(R) Website

[WildWildWest]

For $3,250 this could be an intersting option. I like the Stealth Dump.

[Jack_99V10]

If anyone moves on one of these please keep us informed... its not a small investment and it isn't making my truck and faster... so I'd like some real world feedback

[fastcarz3]

ok i recieved the kit will mess around with it this week coming. The one i have on my chevy i had installed at a truckshop this kit looks similar. this one i bought was from able trailers.com $1019+shipping. i def have to keep my hitch so im thinking of just fabbing up some 2x4 stock and maybe welding some diamond plate to it to dress it up. or going the other route having my cousin do some heavy steel modification to the hitch itself as of now im not sure what measurements look like so will keep you all updated


jack99v10 i saw the stealth kit big price difference. i wont be using the lift enough to need to spend that much. nice looking kit though

rocdril if you could send me some pics of your install tonka66@aol.com i'd appreciate that

[Jack_99V10]

Sweet... congrats.

I'm also running a 3" body lift... which I would have to maintain during the installation... do you think that would be possible?