Let’s Talk About Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04
Fifth-wheel hitches are the unsung heroes of heavy hauling, and a reliable mounting system is the foundation of any such setup. The Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04 promises precisely that: a secure and straightforward connection between your truck and your fifth-wheel trailer. It’s a product designed to make towing safer and easier, specifically tailored for the workhorse Ford Super Duty trucks of the late 90s and early 2000s.
My personal journey with these bracket kits started back when I was outfitting a ’01 F-250 for some serious cross-country travel with a sizable RV in tow. I needed something that could handle the stress of thousands of miles and varying terrains, and I refused to compromise on safety.
The kit arrived well-packaged, and my initial impression was one of robust construction. The steel looked thick and well-coated, hinting at a product built to last. In comparing it to universal rail kits I had used previously, the vehicle-specific design of the Demco kit was immediately appealing, promising a potentially easier and more secure installation.
My initial reaction was optimistic, if not a little apprehensive about the installation process. I was hoping for a seamless fit, avoiding the headaches that can sometimes come with aftermarket parts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit by installing it on my ’01 F-250 and subsequently towing a 30-foot fifth-wheel camper across a 500-mile loop through the Appalachian Mountains. The route included steep grades, winding roads, and some stretches of rough, unpaved forest service roads.
The brackets performed admirably in varying conditions, from dry highway driving to a couple of hours in a steady rain. There were no noticeable shifts or looseness in the hitch connection, even when navigating tight turns and bumpy terrain. Getting the brackets installed took an afternoon with a buddy; following the instructions closely made the job manageable.
The biggest surprise was how much quieter the ride became. With my previous setup, I experienced a fair amount of clunking and rattling. The Demco brackets provided a much tighter, more secure fit, which significantly reduced noise and vibration during towing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After logging over 10,000 miles with the Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit, including a trip to Alaska on some notoriously rough roads, I can confidently say it’s a durable and reliable piece of equipment. The powder coating has held up well, showing only minor scratches and no signs of rust despite exposure to road salt and harsh weather.
Maintenance has been minimal: occasional cleaning and tightening of the bolts. I also apply a bit of grease to the contact points to prevent seizing.
Compared to my previous universal rail system, the Demco kit is a significant upgrade. The vehicle-specific design provides a much more secure and stable towing experience, minimizing sway and improving overall handling.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04
Specifications
The Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is specifically designed for 1999-2004 Ford F250 and F350 Super Duty trucks with both 6.5′ and 8′ beds. This kit is part of Demco’s Premier Series, designed to be used with industry-standard bed rails that utilize a four-bolt mounting system. This means you’ll need to ensure your fifth-wheel hitch is compatible with this standard, or purchase compatible rails separately.
The kit consists of two frame mounting brackets and all the necessary hardware for installation. The brackets are constructed from heavy-duty steel and finished with a durable powder coating. The powder coating is essential for protecting the brackets from rust and corrosion, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions.
One of the key features of the Demco Premier Series is the option for no-drill installation on some truck models. This can save significant time and effort during installation, as well as reduce the risk of damaging the truck’s frame. However, depending on the specific truck configuration, some drilling may still be required.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit excels in providing a secure and stable foundation for fifth-wheel towing. The vehicle-specific design ensures a precise fit, which minimizes movement and sway during towing.
A key strength is the robust construction. The heavy-duty steel brackets inspire confidence, knowing they can withstand the stresses of heavy loads and rough roads. The main area for improvement could be enhanced installation instructions, as some steps may require additional clarification for DIYers.
The product definitely meets my expectations and, in some ways, exceeds them. The reduction in noise and sway compared to my previous setup is remarkable.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit prioritizes strength and ease of installation. The brackets are well-engineered and fit snugly against the truck’s frame.
The weight of the brackets reflects their robust construction, but this is a necessary trade-off for durability. Installation is relatively straightforward, although it can be a bit time-consuming.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the heavy-duty construction and powder-coated finish, the Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is built to last. With proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and bolt tightening, it should provide years of reliable service.
The powder coating is relatively easy to clean and resistant to scratches and corrosion. This minimizes the need for extensive maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. However, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of industry-standard fifth-wheel hitches and bed rails. This allows for flexibility in choosing the hitch that best suits your towing needs.
While there are no specific customization options for the bracket kit itself, you can customize your overall towing setup with aftermarket hitches, airbags, and other accessories. This allows you to fine-tune your truck’s towing performance and comfort.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04
Pros
- Vehicle-specific design ensures a precise fit for 1999-2004 Ford F250/F350 Super Duty trucks.
- Heavy-duty steel construction provides exceptional strength and durability for demanding towing applications.
- Powder-coated finish offers excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the brackets.
- Potential for no-drill installation saves time and effort, reducing the risk of damaging the truck’s frame (depending on specific truck configuration).
- Compatible with industry-standard fifth-wheel hitches and bed rails, offering flexibility in choosing towing equipment.
Cons
- Installation may still require some drilling depending on the truck model and configuration.
- Installation instructions could be more detailed and user-friendly.
Who Should Buy Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04?
The Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is perfect for owners of 1999-2004 Ford F250 and F350 Super Duty trucks who plan to tow fifth-wheel trailers. It’s ideal for RV enthusiasts, contractors hauling equipment, and anyone needing a reliable and robust towing solution.
This product may not be necessary for those who only occasionally tow light loads or use a different type of hitch (e.g., gooseneck or bumper pull). If you are uncomfortable with drilling or performing mechanical work on your truck, professional installation might be required.
Must-have accessories include a compatible fifth-wheel hitch and bed rails (if not already owned). Airbags or other suspension enhancements can further improve towing stability and ride quality.
Conclusion on Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04
The Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’99 ’04 is a well-engineered and durable product that provides a solid foundation for fifth-wheel towing. Its vehicle-specific design, heavy-duty construction, and corrosion-resistant finish make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about towing with their Ford Super Duty.
At a price of $93.99, the value proposition is excellent, considering the enhanced safety and stability it provides compared to universal rail systems. I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting fifth-wheel mounting solution for their 1999-2004 Ford Super Duty.
Don’t compromise on safety or stability. Invest in the Demco 8552006 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit and experience the peace of mind that comes with a secure and reliable towing setup.