Let’s Talk About Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Fifth-wheel towing. It’s the realm of serious campers, livestock haulers, and those who need to move significant weight. The Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment promises to deliver a streamlined, sturdy, and relatively painless way to get your Ford Super Duty ready for heavy lifting. The claim of “no drill attachment” immediately piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve relied on conventional hitches and weight distribution systems, but I recently acquired a larger travel trailer, necessitating a fifth-wheel setup. After hours of research and countless forum discussions, I landed on this Demco kit, lured by the promise of an easier installation and a robust connection. This is more than just a bracket; it’s the foundation of a reliable towing system, and I’m keen to see if it lives up to the hype.
Unboxing the kit revealed a collection of heavy-gauge steel components, coated in a durable black finish. The weight alone speaks to the strength of the materials. Initial inspection confirmed that the build quality appears solid, with clean welds and precise cuts on all the pieces.
Compared to other frame mounting kits I’ve seen – some requiring extensive drilling and modification – the Demco system stood out for its seemingly straightforward approach. I was specifically comparing it against a similar kit from Reese and another from Curt, both of which seemed to involve a more complicated installation process. I chose the Demco for its no-drill claim and the reputation for Demco products being robust.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The pieces looked well-made and the instructions seemed clear. The big question: would the “no drill” promise translate to a truly hassle-free installation? I was excited to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was the installation itself, which I undertook in my garage, armed with the instructions and a standard set of tools. The advertised no-drill installation was largely accurate. However, some maneuvering and creative wrenching were still required to align everything perfectly with the existing frame holes on my 2018 Ford F-350.
The mounting was done in dry conditions. The ease of using pre-existing holes made a world of difference compared to having to drill. It took me about 4 hours with the help of a friend.
Once installed, the hitch felt incredibly solid. My first tow was a short trip hauling a 10,000-pound travel trailer. No issues were observed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve towed my travel trailer over 5,000 miles across various terrains, from flat highways to winding mountain roads. There is no squeaking or loosening of bolts.
The powder coat finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear despite exposure to road salt and debris. I’ve inspected the brackets regularly and found no signs of rust or cracking. Regular torque checks are easy, and so far, there hasn’t been a need to retighten anything significantly.
I had previously used a universal rail kit with my old truck, and the difference in stability with this custom-fit Demco bracket is night and day. I am much more confident hauling my trailer. It is much better than the competitor’s products.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Specifications
Compatibility: Specifically designed for 2017-2019 Ford F250 and F350 Super Duty trucks with 6.5′ and 8′ beds. Ensuring compatibility is paramount to a proper fit and safe towing.
Mounting Style: SL-Series, utilizing manual slider rails that attach to bed rails via six bolts. This system allows for some fore-and-aft movement of the hitch, crucial for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Attachment Type: Primarily no-drill, utilizing existing factory holes in the truck frame. This significantly reduces installation time and complexity compared to traditional drilling methods.
Material: Heavy-duty steel construction with a durable powder-coat finish. The robust materials and coating contribute to the kit’s strength and resistance to corrosion.
Slider Rail Compatibility: Designed to work with Demco Hijacker SL-Series 5th wheel hitches. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance within the Demco ecosystem.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment excels in providing a solid and stable foundation for fifth-wheel towing. It is easily a crucial element for fifth wheel towing. The no-drill installation is a significant advantage, saving time and reducing the risk of damaging the truck’s frame.
The system is engineered to distribute the towing load evenly across the truck’s frame. This prevents stress concentration and ensures safe and predictable handling, even with heavy loads. While the no-drill design is a huge plus, a few mounting points required some patience to line up perfectly.
The kit meets my expectations and provides a robust and dependable platform for fifth-wheel towing. It enhances safety and stability, making long hauls more comfortable and confidence-inspiring.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco kit is designed with a focus on strength and ease of installation. The heavy-gauge steel construction inspires confidence, while the precise fit minimizes the need for modifications. The black powder-coat finish not only looks good but also provides excellent protection against the elements.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, though the initial installation does require some mechanical aptitude. The instructions are clear, but some steps may benefit from having a second person to assist.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment suggests that it is built to last. The heavy-duty steel and powder-coat finish are designed to withstand years of use and exposure to harsh conditions. Regular inspection and torque checks are recommended, but maintenance is generally minimal.
Cleaning the brackets is as simple as hosing them down and applying a coat of protectant spray to prevent rust. The powder coat finish is resistant to most chemicals and abrasions, ensuring that it maintains its appearance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment is specifically designed to work with Demco Hijacker SL-Series fifth-wheel hitches. This ensures seamless compatibility and optimal performance. There are no significant customization options for the brackets themselves, as they are engineered for a specific fit and function.
While the kit is primarily designed for Demco hitches, some users may find that it is compatible with other brands that utilize a similar rail system. However, it is essential to verify compatibility before attempting to install a non-Demco hitch. The system is designed to work with the Demco slider rails.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Pros
- No-Drill Installation: Significantly reduces installation time and complexity, minimizing the risk of damaging the truck’s frame.
- Robust Construction: Heavy-duty steel and powder-coat finish ensure long-lasting durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Precise Fit: Engineered specifically for 2017-2019 Ford F250/F350 Super Duty trucks, providing a secure and stable connection.
- Enhanced Stability: Provides a solid foundation for fifth-wheel towing, improving handling and reducing sway.
- Easy Maintenance: Minimal maintenance required, with a durable finish that resists wear and tear.
Cons
- Slight alignment challenges: Achieving perfect alignment during installation may require some patience and maneuvering.
- Demco hitch requirement: Primarily designed for use with Demco Hijacker SL-Series hitches, limiting compatibility with other brands.
Who Should Buy Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment?
This kit is perfect for owners of 2017-2019 Ford F250 and F350 Super Duty trucks who need a reliable and easy-to-install fifth-wheel mounting system. It is also for RVers who are not confident in their drilling abilities. It is ideal for those who value a clean and professional installation without the hassle of drilling into their truck’s frame.
Those who should skip this product include individuals with trucks outside the specified year range, those who prefer to weld their own mounting system, or those who require compatibility with a wide range of fifth-wheel hitch brands (outside of the Demco ecosystem). Those who want a non-sliding hitch should also skip this product.
A must-have accessory is the Demco Hijacker SL-Series fifth-wheel hitch, as the bracket kit is designed to work seamlessly with it. A torque wrench is also essential for ensuring proper bolt tightening during installation.
Conclusion on Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8553017 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment delivers on its promise of a sturdy and relatively easy-to-install fifth-wheel mounting system. The no-drill design is a significant advantage, saving time and reducing the risk of damaging the truck’s frame.
At $219.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, precise fit, and ease of installation. It is a good price for peace of mind on the road. The Demco offers excellent value for those seeking a reliable and hassle-free towing solution.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone with a compatible Ford Super Duty truck who needs a solid and dependable foundation for fifth-wheel towing. Ditch the drill and upgrade your towing game with the Demco.