Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 Review

Let’s Dive into Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13

The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 offers a solution for F-150 owners (2004-2013, 6.5′ and 8′ beds only) seeking a clean, unobtrusive way to mount a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. This kit allows for installation without visible bed rails, maintaining the truck’s original appearance while providing a robust and secure towing platform. The under-bed mounting design means minimal interference when the hitch isn’t in use.

I’ve always prioritized functionality and aesthetics when it comes to my trucks; visible rails are a constant annoyance when hauling cargo. I needed a solution that would provide the strength and stability required for towing heavier loads, but without sacrificing the clean look of my F-150’s bed. This bracket kit seemed to be the perfect compromise.

The kit arrived well-packaged, with all components clearly labeled and seemingly well-protected. The materials appear robust, with heavy-gauge steel and a durable finish that suggests good resistance to rust and corrosion. The build quality looks top-notch, which is reassuring given the stresses these brackets will be subjected to.

I considered a few other options, including complete hitch systems with integrated under-bed mounting. I chose the Demco Hijacker UMS Series bracket kit because I already had a compatible hitch, and this allowed me to upgrade my mounting system without replacing the entire setup. The price point was also attractive, offering a cost-effective way to achieve the clean, rail-free look I desired.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential of a clean installation, but I was also aware that under-bed mounting can sometimes be more complex than traditional rail systems. I hoped the installation would be straightforward and the final result would live up to the promise of a robust and aesthetically pleasing towing solution.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 to the Test

First Use Experience

Installation was the first real test; it required careful measurements and drilling four holes in my truck bed, tasks that demanded precision and patience. After installation, I immediately hooked up my gooseneck trailer to haul a small tractor to a job site about 50 miles away. The brackets felt incredibly solid, with no noticeable flex or movement during the trip.

The weather was dry and sunny, so I didn’t encounter any challenging conditions during the initial test. However, the highway included some stretches of rough pavement and uneven surfaces, providing a good indication of the brackets’ ability to withstand typical towing stresses. The ride felt stable and controlled, giving me confidence in the security of the mounting system.

I did need some time to get used to the feel of the hitch without the visual reference of bed rails. Initially, aligning the trailer was a little more challenging, but after a few tries, I quickly adapted to the new system. The lack of bed rails made accessing items in the front of the bed much easier.

The only minor issue was a slight increase in road noise transmitted through the hitch and into the cab, likely due to the direct connection to the truck frame. However, this was easily mitigated by turning up the radio, and was barely noticeable with the windows down.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Demco Hijacker UMS Series brackets have proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve used them to haul everything from construction materials to livestock, and they’ve consistently performed without issue. The brackets have maintained their solid feel, with no signs of loosening or fatigue.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, despite the frequent use and occasional exposure to dirt and grime. The powder coat finish has held up well, resisting rust and corrosion even in harsh weather conditions. Regular cleaning with a pressure washer and occasional lubrication of the hitch pins have been sufficient to keep the system in optimal condition.

Compared to my previous rail-mounted system, the Demco Hijacker UMS Series brackets offer a significant improvement in both aesthetics and functionality. The clean, rail-free bed is much more versatile for hauling cargo, and the robust construction provides greater peace of mind when towing heavy loads. The slight increase in road noise is a minor trade-off for the overall benefits of the system.

Breaking Down the Features of Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13

Specifications

The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 is specifically designed for:

• 2004-2013 Ford F-150 trucks with 6.5′ and 8′ bed lengths (not compatible with 5.5′ beds).
• The mounting system attaches to the truck frame under the bed, requiring only four holes to be drilled in the bed for the hitch pins.
• The kit is designed for use with Demco Hijacker hitches and other compatible fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitches (compatibility should always be verified before installation).
• Construction uses high-strength steel with a durable powder coat finish for corrosion resistance.
• The design allows for a fully functional truck bed when the hitch is removed.

These specifications are crucial for a safe and reliable towing experience. The compatibility with specific truck models ensures a proper fit and optimal weight distribution. The high-strength steel construction provides the necessary strength to handle heavy loads, and the corrosion-resistant finish ensures longevity in harsh environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and stable mounting platform for fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitches, allowing for confident towing of heavy loads. The under-bed design minimizes interference with the truck bed when the hitch is not in use, maximizing versatility.

The main strength of this kit is its ability to provide a robust towing solution without compromising the aesthetics or functionality of the truck bed. The installation process, while requiring precision, is relatively straightforward. The main weakness is the potential for increased road noise.

The bracket kit meets and exceeds my expectations. I needed a mounting solution that would be both strong and unobtrusive, and this kit delivers on both fronts. The peace of mind knowing that my trailer is securely attached is invaluable.

Design & Ergonomics

The Demco Hijacker UMS Series bracket kit features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both strength and ease of use. The heavy-gauge steel construction provides a solid foundation for towing, while the precise fit ensures proper alignment and weight distribution. The weight of the kit reflects its robust construction, instilling confidence in its ability to handle heavy loads.

The installation process, while requiring some mechanical skill, is relatively straightforward with clear instructions. The only potential learning curve is the initial alignment of the hitch pins, but this quickly becomes second nature with practice. The under-bed design minimizes interference with the truck bed, allowing for easy loading and unloading of cargo.

Durability & Maintenance

The heavy-duty construction and durable powder coat finish of the Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 suggest it will last for many years with proper care. The absence of moving parts minimizes the risk of mechanical failure, further enhancing its longevity. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to keep the system in optimal condition.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime, and lubrication of the hitch pins to ensure smooth operation. The durable finish resists rust and corrosion, minimizing the need for more extensive maintenance. The kit is designed for long-term use and is unlikely to require any major repairs or replacements.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 comes with all the necessary hardware for installation, including brackets, bolts, and instructions. The kit itself doesn’t offer many customization options, but its compatibility with a wide range of fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitches allows for customization of the towing system.

The kit is designed to work with most standard hitches, but it’s always a good idea to double-check compatibility before making a purchase. I have a Demco Hijacker hitch, so I knew it would work perfectly. Some owners may choose to add aftermarket accessories, such as a rubber bed mat to protect the truck bed from scratches or a set of hitch pin locks for added security.

Pros and Cons of Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13

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Who Should Buy Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13?

The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 is perfect for F-150 owners who frequently tow fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers and want a clean, unobtrusive mounting solution. It’s ideal for those who value both functionality and aesthetics. It suits contractors, ranchers, and RV enthusiasts who need to haul heavy loads without sacrificing the versatility of their truck bed.

This product is not suitable for owners of 5.5′ bed F-150s, as it’s not compatible with that bed length. It’s also not recommended for those who are uncomfortable drilling holes in their truck bed or prefer a simpler, bolt-on installation. Owners of trucks older or newer than the 2004-2013 range should verify compatibility before purchasing.

A must-have accessory is a torque wrench to ensure proper bolt tightening during installation. Also, consider purchasing a rubber bed mat to protect the truck bed from scratches and dents. Finally, hitch pin locks can provide added security against theft.

Conclusion on Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13

Overall, the Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8551001 Demco Hijacker Ums Series Under Bed Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F 150 ’04 ’13 is an excellent product that delivers on its promise of a clean, robust, and versatile towing solution. The under-bed mounting design minimizes interference with the truck bed, allowing for easy loading and unloading of cargo. The peace of mind knowing that my trailer is securely attached is invaluable.

The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the robust construction, and the overall performance of the product. While the installation requires some effort and precision, the end result is well worth the investment. The brackets have exceeded my expectations.

I would highly recommend this product to any F-150 owner who frequently tows fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers and wants a clean, unobtrusive mounting solution. If you’re looking for a way to maximize the versatility of your truck bed without sacrificing towing capacity, the Demco Hijacker UMS Series brackets are an excellent choice. Upgrade your towing experience today!