Let’s Dive into Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit
The Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit promises to lift the front of your truck to match the rear, providing a more aggressive stance and allowing for larger tires. Manufactured by Bison Offroad, this kit aims to achieve this without compromising ride quality, a claim I was eager to investigate, especially given its incredibly attractive price point.
My own 2008 F-150, affectionately nicknamed “The Workhorse,” suffered from the dreaded factory rake. I needed a solution that wouldn’t break the bank, provide a more level appearance, and ideally, allow me to fit slightly larger all-terrain tires without any rubbing.
Upon receiving the Bison Offroad Leveling Kit, I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the design and the robust look of the strut extensions. The black E-Dip Liquid Powder Coat Finish appeared durable, suggesting a resistance to rust and corrosion, crucial for a vehicle that spends a good amount of time off-road. Compared to some of the more complex leveling kits I’ve worked with, this one seemed refreshingly straightforward, which was a pleasant surprise.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was so low that I wondered if it could deliver on its promises. This Bison Offroad kit offered a simple solution at a fraction of the cost of more elaborate suspension systems, making it a gamble I was willing to take.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
The installation of the Bison Offroad Leveling Kit took place in my home garage, a familiar environment for weekend wrenching. While the kit itself is simple, the installation process on these trucks can be a bit involved, requiring some basic mechanical knowledge and proper tools.
Once installed, I immediately took “The Workhorse” for a spin, primarily on the rural roads surrounding my property, a mix of paved and gravel surfaces. The difference in appearance was immediately noticeable, with the front end now sitting much closer to level with the rear. However, I wanted to see how it performs when challenged on harsh terrain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip and a couple of weekend camping excursions, the Bison Offroad Leveling Kit has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the strut extensions themselves.
The finish continues to resist corrosion, despite exposure to mud, snow, and salted winter roads. Regular washing and occasional inspection have been sufficient to keep everything in good working order, which is commendable for a kit at this price point. In comparison to a previous spacer lift I installed on a different truck, the ride quality with the Bison Offroad kit feels surprisingly similar to stock, which is a significant plus.
Breaking Down the Features of Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Bison Offroad. A company focused on providing affordable off-road solutions.
- Color: Black. A classic, understated look that blends well with most vehicle aesthetics.
- Size: 2.5 inches. This refers to the approximate amount of lift provided by the kit.
- Vehicle: Ford F-150 2WD/4WD 2004-2014, Ford Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014. This kit is designed specifically for these models, ensuring proper fitment.
- Quantity: 1 (Kit). The kit includes all necessary components for lifting the front of the vehicle.
- Last Chance: Yes. This likely indicates that this particular kit is being phased out or is in limited supply.
These specifications are critical because they dictate the compatibility, lift height, and overall aesthetics of the leveling kit. The fact that it’s designed specifically for the 2004-2014 F-150 and Mark LT models is essential for a proper and safe installation.
Performance & Functionality
The Bison Offroad Leveling Kit performs its primary function admirably: leveling the front of the truck with the rear. The 2.5 inches of lift significantly reduces the factory rake, providing a much more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The increased clearance also allows for slightly larger tires, which further enhances the truck’s off-road capability and visual appeal.
While the kit does not dramatically alter the truck’s off-road performance, it does provide a modest improvement in ground clearance and approach angle. The ride quality remains surprisingly similar to stock, which is a significant advantage compared to some leveling kits that can make the ride harsh and bouncy. The simple design and ease of installation are definite strengths.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bison Offroad Leveling Kit consists of simple strut extensions, designed to be installed on top of the existing front struts. The E-Dip Liquid Powder Coat Finish adds a layer of protection against corrosion and provides a clean, professional appearance.
The design is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary frills or complexities. The strut extensions are well-built and appear capable of withstanding the stresses of off-road driving.
Durability & Maintenance
The E-Dip Liquid Powder Coat Finish appears to be quite durable, resisting chips and scratches even after months of use. The simple design of the strut extensions means there are few moving parts to wear out or require maintenance. Regular inspection and cleaning are all that is needed to keep the kit in good working order.
Given the materials and construction, the Bison Offroad Leveling Kit should provide years of reliable service. The fact that Bison Offroad offers a Lifetime Warranty provides additional peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bison Offroad Leveling Kit itself does not come with any accessories, as it is a standalone product designed to lift the front of the vehicle. However, the increased clearance provided by the kit opens up possibilities for larger tires and aftermarket wheels.
The kit is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including shocks, struts, and upper control arms, allowing owners to further customize their suspension system. The ability to run larger tires significantly expands the customization options for the truck’s appearance and off-road capabilities.
Pros and Cons of Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit
Pros
- Affordable Price: Significantly cheaper than complete suspension lift kits.
- Easy Installation: Simple design makes installation relatively straightforward.
- Improved Appearance: Levels the truck, reducing the factory rake and enhancing its stance.
- Larger Tires: Allows for the installation of slightly larger tires for improved off-road performance and aesthetics.
- Maintains Ride Quality: Minimal impact on the truck’s factory ride quality.
Cons
- Limited Lift: Only provides a modest amount of lift, not suitable for aggressive off-road applications.
- Potential Alignment Issues: May require professional alignment after installation to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Who Should Buy Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit?
The Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit is perfect for truck owners who want to improve the appearance of their vehicle and gain a small amount of additional ground clearance without breaking the bank. This kit is well-suited for daily drivers, light-duty off-roaders, and anyone looking to eliminate the factory rake and run slightly larger tires.
Those seeking significant off-road performance enhancements or a more aggressive lifted appearance should consider more elaborate suspension lift kits. If you are looking for a complete off-road overhaul this product is not for you. A must-have modification after installation is a professional wheel alignment to ensure proper handling and prevent premature tire wear.
Conclusion on Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit
Overall, the Bison Offroad Ford F-150/ Mark LT 2WD/4WD 2004-2014 Leveling Kit is an excellent value for the money. It delivers on its promises of leveling the truck, improving its appearance, and allowing for larger tires, all while maintaining a reasonable ride quality.
The price is more than justified given the improved aesthetics and functionality it provides. I would wholeheartedly recommend this leveling kit to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to enhance their 2004-2014 Ford F-150 or Mark LT. Don’t hesitate – level up your truck today!