New to the site. I just found it! I am a first time truck owner and own a 2006 F-150 XLT super cab bought a year ago.
It is a great truck.

I am not mechanically inclined, but like to read what everyone is doing to their trucks. Very interesting.

I have read ALL of the threads about putting larger and taller tires on this site. I currently have 275/65/18. They are needing to be replaced. I have no problem putting the same size tire on, but would go bigger if the price were right and I didn't have to do much to the truck. I drive highway miles a lot more than off-road (mostly on the beach or some country roads where I live.).

If I were to buy 285/70/18's for my truck, why would I need a leveling kit for the front end? Is this for cosmetic reasons? From what I have read here on the site, if I get 295/70/18 or larger, THEN i would need a leveling kit. This I understand. The tire is larger than what the Ford allowed to be put in the wheel well and would rub turning, etc. Anything smaller than that would be o.k.

So here is my real question:
For a Ford F-150 XLT Super Cab, what is the reasons to install a leveling kit if I replace my 275/65/18 tires with 285/70/18 tires? Do I really need a leveling kit to be installed?
Do I have all my facts correct?

Signed: Completely confused.
Thanks guys.

 

Going with the little wider tire you will need the leveling kit for clearance on the lower portion of the front fender. As the wheels turn right to left the extra width will need just a bit more clearance. Some times you can get away with a little trimming on the lower plastic portion, but the leveling kit is a better way to go. It also does improve the look of the truck with the leveling kit. A lot of F150 owners will add the leveling kit even when running the stock size.

 

Thanks Derrick.
Your last two sentences explain a lot. Last night I decided to go ahead and get a leveling kit with the purchase of my tires. From other forums on this site, other members have gone ahead and did everything all at once. Also, I don't want to have to trim the front fender on my own truck and accidentally mess something up. I don't want to put that responsiblility on anyone I get to do the work for me either. The leveling kit is the way to go.
Thanks again.

 

Derrick,
Are all leveling kits 2" or should I look into something bigger?

 

Most of the leveling kits are 2" or 2.5". Either one would work for your application. If your just doing the front the 2" would be the best set up.

 

Cool. Thanks.
I have read here that it's not that hard to install.
I'll post a picture after I get everything done. Describe how I went about everything.
Thanks.

 

Should be nothing to it. Can't wait to see the pics when its done. Your welcome.