Let’s Talk About Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Fifth-wheel hitches represent a serious commitment to hauling, and the mounting system is the unsung hero of that setup. That’s why I decided to dive deep into the Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment. It promises a robust and, crucially, a mostly drill-free installation for specific Ford Super Duty trucks, a feature that instantly piqued my interest.
Having spent over a decade wrestling with various mounting solutions for everything from horse trailers to construction equipment, I was on the hunt for a system that balances strength, ease of installation, and minimal modification to the truck frame. The promise of a “no drill attachment” for my ’18 F-350 Super Duty was a siren song, and Demco‘s reputation for quality sealed the deal. Unboxing the kit, I was immediately struck by the heft of the steel and the clean, powder-coated finish of the brackets. The included hardware looked robust, and the instructions, while a bit dense, seemed straightforward enough.
Compared to the universal rail kits I’ve used in the past, which often require meticulous measuring, drilling, and agonizing over placement, this Demco kit felt like a tailored solution. The Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose system offers a similar clean bed solution, but requires drilling. B&W Turnoverball system is also very popular, but again, requires bed modification. I chose the Demco solution, hoping for a blend of ease and a cleaner install. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, a carryover from years of experience where promises of “easy installation” often end in frustration and a trip to the hardware store.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums 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, transforming my driveway into a temporary workshop. I followed the instructions closely, and while the “no drill attachment” claim holds true in some areas, it’s not entirely drill-free. The frame brackets mount using existing holes in the truck frame, which is fantastic. However, installing the UMS (Under-bed Mounting System) still required drilling four holes through the truck bed for the mounting pins. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was a crucial clarification. The overall installation took about 4 hours with basic tools. The instructions could have been clearer, but the fit was precise once I understood the intended arrangement.
The conditions were typical for a late spring day: dry, but a bit breezy. One trick I found helpful was using a center punch to accurately mark the drill locations after carefully positioning the UMS plates. This ensured the holes lined up perfectly. I encountered no major snags, although wrestling the heavy steel brackets into position alone was a bit challenging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few months of use, primarily hauling a 38-foot fifth-wheel camper for weekend trips, the Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment has proven its mettle. There are no signs of loosening or shifting. The powder-coat finish still looks good, despite exposure to road salt and grime. I routinely inspect the mounting points before each trip, and everything remains solid.
Compared to my previous experience with a rail-mounted system, this Demco kit offers a much cleaner and more integrated look when the fifth-wheel hitch is removed. Maintenance involves simply cleaning the brackets and applying a bit of grease to the mounting pins to prevent corrosion. It significantly outperforms the universal rail system that I had previously. The custom fit provides increased confidence and stability.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Specifications
Compatibility: Designed specifically for 2017-2019 Ford F250 and F350 Super Duty trucks with 6.5′ and 8′ beds. This model-specific fit is crucial for proper installation and safety.
Mounting Style: UMS (Under-bed Mounting System) utilizing existing frame holes for the majority of the installation. This design offers a cleaner look and reduces the need for extensive drilling.
Drilling Requirement: Requires drilling four holes through the truck bed for the mounting pins. This is a key detail to be aware of despite the “no drill attachment” claim.
Material: Heavy-duty steel construction with a powder-coat finish for corrosion resistance. This ensures long-lasting durability and protection from the elements.
Hitch Compatibility: Designed for use with Demco Hijacker UMS Series fifth-wheel hitches. Compatibility with other brands may vary, so confirm before purchasing.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment performs admirably by providing a solid and secure mounting point for the fifth-wheel hitch. There is minimal flex or movement during towing. The UMS design allows for near-complete bed access when the hitch is removed, which is a significant advantage over traditional rail systems. The strength and stability provide peace of mind when towing heavy loads.
The only area for improvement is the instruction manual, which could be more detailed and include clearer diagrams. The kit meets expectations for strength and stability, but the installation process could be streamlined with better documentation.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with robust steel and a durable powder-coat finish. The brackets are heavy, which reflects their strength, but can make installation a bit cumbersome. The UMS design is relatively user-friendly, but requires careful alignment and precise drilling for the mounting pins.
The under-bed mounting design offers a cleaner and less obtrusive look compared to above-bed rail systems. There is a moderate learning curve due to the complexity of the installation, but the result is a secure and aesthetically pleasing setup.
Durability & Maintenance
The heavy-duty steel construction and powder-coat finish suggest that this kit will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the mounting pins will help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The kit is designed for long-term durability and requires minimal maintenance beyond basic cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment is primarily designed to work with Demco Hijacker UMS Series fifth-wheel hitches. While some users may be able to adapt it for use with other hitches, it’s crucial to verify compatibility before attempting any modifications. There aren’t many customization options available for the bracket itself, as it’s designed for a specific purpose.
It’s wise to invest in a high-quality fifth-wheel hitch that complements the robust mounting system. Ensure that any accessories or modifications adhere to Demco‘s specifications and safety guidelines.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Pros
- Model-specific fit for 2017-2019 Ford Super Duty trucks ensures proper installation and safety.
- UMS (Under-bed Mounting System) offers a clean and unobtrusive look when the hitch is removed.
- Utilizes existing frame holes for a mostly drill-free installation (frame brackets).
- Heavy-duty steel construction with a durable powder-coat finish for long-lasting performance.
- Provides a solid and secure mounting point for fifth-wheel hitches, minimizing flex and movement.
Cons
- Requires drilling four holes through the truck bed for the mounting pins, despite the “no drill attachment” claim.
- Instruction manual could be clearer and more detailed.
Who Should Buy Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment?
The Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment is perfect for owners of 2017-2019 Ford F250/F350 Super Duty trucks who want a robust and relatively clean fifth-wheel hitch mounting solution. This is a good fit for RV enthusiasts, horse trailer owners, and anyone who frequently tows heavy loads and values a secure and aesthetically pleasing setup.
Anyone who is completely averse to drilling into their truck bed or who owns a truck outside the specified year range should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a high-quality Demco Hijacker UMS Series fifth-wheel hitch to ensure proper compatibility and optimal performance.
Conclusion on Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8551009 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Ford F250/F350 Sd ’17 ’19, No Drill Attachment offers a solid balance of strength, a relatively clean installation, and a model-specific fit for Ford Super Duty trucks. While the “no drill attachment” claim is slightly misleading, the reduced drilling compared to universal rail kits is still a significant advantage. At a price of $558.99, the value is justified by the robust construction and long-term durability.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a reliable and aesthetically pleasing fifth-wheel hitch mounting solution for their compatible Ford Super Duty truck. Don’t hesitate to invest in this kit and experience the confidence and peace of mind that comes with a properly installed and secure fifth-wheel hitch.