Let’s Talk About Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/350/450 Sd ’99 ’16, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is a game-changer for anyone hauling a fifth-wheel trailer with a Ford Super Duty truck. Specifically designed for Ford F250, F350, and F450 models from 1999 to 2016, this kit promises a robust and relatively easy installation, bypassing the need for drilling into the truck’s frame. Demco aims to provide a clean, nearly invisible mounting solution, perfect for those who want to retain the full functionality of their truck bed when not towing.
My journey to this product stemmed from a frustrating experience with a universal fifth-wheel hitch system. After dealing with rattling, visible rails, and a generally cumbersome setup, I yearned for a more streamlined and integrated solution. The Demco kit seemed to offer the perfect balance of strength, ease of installation, and a clean aesthetic, piquing my interest immediately.
Upon unboxing, the kit exuded quality. The steel components were heavy and coated with a durable finish, promising resistance to rust and corrosion. The included hardware appeared equally robust, inspiring confidence in the overall strength of the system. The absence of bulky rails was a welcome sight, confirming my hopes for a clean truck bed.
Compared to the B&W Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch and Reese Elite Series Under-Bed 5th Wheel Hitch, the Demco stood out due to its specific design for Ford trucks and the promise of a no-drill installation. While the other two are solid options, the Demco promised a less intrusive and cleaner installation for my specific truck model, and that made the Demco my final choice. Initial impressions were definitely positive, filling me with excitement to install and test its performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/350/450 Sd ’99 ’16, No Drill Attachment to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit on my 2015 Ford F-350 Super Duty while hauling a 38-foot fifth-wheel camper on a 500-mile round trip through the Ozark Mountains. The varying terrain provided a great opportunity to assess its stability and overall performance. I experienced everything from steep inclines to winding roads.
The Demco performed admirably in dry conditions. The hitch felt secure, and the camper tracked well behind the truck. Even over rough patches of road, there were no unsettling noises or vibrations. The peace of mind knowing the hitch was securely mounted was very welcome.
The installation required some patience, even with the “no-drill” design, and the tolerances were tight. But once properly aligned and tightened, the hitch felt rock-solid. There were zero issues or surprises after my first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and thousands of miles, the Demco hitch has proven its reliability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The powder-coated finish is still intact, even after exposure to road salt and grime.
Regular maintenance involves simply checking the tightness of the mounting bolts and lubricating the hitch components. This takes only a few minutes and ensures smooth operation. Compared to my previous universal hitch, the Demco is far superior in terms of both performance and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/350/450 Sd ’99 ’16, No Drill Attachment
Specifications
- Compatibility: Designed for 1999-2016 Ford F250/F350 Super Duty trucks (6.5′ and 8′ beds) and 2005-2016 Ford F250/F350/F450 Super Duty trucks. Ensuring compatibility with your specific truck model is critical for a proper fit and safe operation.
- Mounting Style: UMS (Under-bed Mounting System) Series; utilizes brackets mounted beneath the truck bed with minimal visible hardware. This design provides a clean and unobstructed truck bed when the fifth-wheel hitch is not in use.
- Drilling Required: Only requires four holes in the truck bed for the mounting pins. Minimizing drilling reduces installation time and potential damage to the truck’s frame.
- No-Drill Attachment: Designed to utilize existing holes in the truck frame for mounting the brackets. This significantly simplifies installation, especially for those without extensive mechanical experience.
- Material: High-strength steel construction with a durable powder-coated finish. Ensures long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion, crucial for withstanding harsh weather conditions.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the ease of installation, the strength and durability of the hitch, and the overall user experience. The no-drill attachment is a major selling point, reducing the risk of improper installation and potential damage to the truck frame. The high-strength steel construction and powder-coated finish ensure that the hitch can withstand the rigors of frequent towing.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8551000 excels in its primary function: providing a secure and stable connection between the truck and the fifth-wheel trailer. The hitch is robust and reliable, inspiring confidence even when towing heavy loads on challenging terrain. It meets and exceeds expectations, offering a smooth and comfortable towing experience.
One key strength is the near absence of rattling or excessive movement during towing. This is a significant improvement over universal hitches that often suffer from play between the hitch components and the truck bed.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with heavy-gauge steel and precise welds. The weight of the components reflects the robust construction. The under-bed mounting system is well-designed, minimizing the visual impact on the truck bed.
The design prioritizes functionality and ease of use. While the installation requires some mechanical aptitude, the instructions are clear and concise. There is a slight learning curve associated with aligning the hitch components during installation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Demco 8551000 is built to last, with a heavy-duty construction and a durable powder-coated finish. With proper care and maintenance, this hitch should provide years of reliable service. Maintaining the hitch involves regularly checking the tightness of the bolts and lubricating the moving parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8551000 kit comes with all the necessary mounting hardware. Since this kit is a mounting bracket only, the main accessories would be the fifth-wheel hitch itself. It is compatible with most standard fifth-wheel hitches designed for under-bed mounting systems.
Demco also offers a range of compatible fifth-wheel hitches specifically designed for use with this bracket kit. These hitches often feature adjustable height and other customizable options. Always check the weight rating of both the bracket kit and the hitch to ensure they are adequate for the trailer being towed.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/350/450 Sd ’99 ’16, No Drill Attachment
Pros
- No-drill installation (for frame mounting) simplifies the process and reduces the risk of damaging the truck frame.
- UMS (Under-bed Mounting System) provides a clean and unobstructed truck bed when the fifth-wheel hitch is not in use.
- High-strength steel construction ensures durability and long-lasting performance.
- Specifically designed for Ford Super Duty trucks, guaranteeing a proper fit.
- Minimal drilling required in the truck bed.
Cons
- Requires some mechanical aptitude and patience for installation.
- The $679.99 Price can be a bit steep compared to universal hitches.
Who Should Buy Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/350/450 Sd ’99 ’16, No Drill Attachment?
The Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is perfect for RV enthusiasts and frequent towers of fifth-wheel trailers. It is also ideal for those who own a Ford Super Duty truck and value a clean, unobtrusive truck bed when not towing. This kit is best for those comfortable with DIY projects or willing to pay for professional installation.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who only occasionally tow a fifth-wheel or who are not comfortable with even basic mechanical tasks. Someone who doesn’t have the patience for a moderately complex installation may also want to consider a simpler, albeit less refined, system.
Must-have accessories include a compatible fifth-wheel hitch and a torque wrench to ensure proper bolt tightening. You may need a helper to assist during installation.
Conclusion on Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/350/450 Sd ’99 ’16, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8551000 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit offers a compelling combination of strength, ease of installation, and a clean aesthetic. While the price is higher than some universal hitches, the benefits of a custom fit, no-drill frame mounting, and unobstructed truck bed make it a worthwhile investment. The price of $679.99 is justified for the quality and features offered.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a premium fifth-wheel hitch mounting solution for their Ford Super Duty truck. If you value a clean installation, robust construction, and a hassle-free towing experience, then the Demco 8551000 is an excellent choice. Upgrade your towing experience today!