Let’s Dive into Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13
The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13 is designed to provide a solid and reliable foundation for installing a fifth-wheel hitch in your Ford F150. Specifically tailored for 2004-2013 models with 6.5′ and 8′ beds (excluding the 5.5′ bed), this kit simplifies the often-complex installation process, making it a popular choice for RV enthusiasts. With its focus on ease of installation and compatibility with Demco Hijacker SL series hitches, it promises a secure and efficient solution for towing needs.
I needed a dependable and straightforward mounting system for my fifth-wheel hitch when I upgraded to a larger RV a few years back. Previously, I was using a universal rail system, but I wanted something more vehicle-specific for improved safety and stability. The promise of a direct fit and enhanced security drew me to the Demco Hijacker SL Series Mounting Bracket Kit.
Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the robust construction of the brackets and rails. The heavy-gauge steel gave me confidence in its ability to withstand the stresses of towing. The included hardware seemed complete and well-organized, suggesting a thoughtful design.
I considered a universal rail kit and a competitor’s custom-fit kit, but the Demco kit stood out due to its reputation for precise fitment and its compatibility with my existing Demco Hijacker hitch head. Also, the competitor’s kit had some user reviews that described complicated drilling and alignment issues. The Demco seemed to avoid these potential challenges.
My first impression was excitement mingled with a bit of apprehension. While the kit appeared well-made, I was slightly concerned about the installation process, as any custom-fit bracket system can present challenges if not perfectly aligned. Ultimately, I felt confident that the Dethmers Manufacturing Company product would offer the stability and security I was seeking for my towing setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit on my 2012 Ford F150 with an 8-foot bed. The initial testing ground was a weekend camping trip to the mountains, towing a 30-foot fifth-wheel camper. I wanted to test its stability and ease of use under real-world conditions.
The Demco mounting bracket system performed admirably in various conditions, including paved highways and some moderately rough gravel roads. I even encountered some rain and muddy conditions, and the brackets held firm without any noticeable slippage or instability. The secure connection between the hitch and the truck bed provided a smooth and confident towing experience.
The initial installation took a full afternoon, and I found the instructions clear, although a few steps required careful attention to ensure proper alignment. I initially experienced some challenges with drilling the pilot holes through the truck bed, but after re-checking the measurements and using a center punch, the remaining holes aligned perfectly. After the initial install there was virtually no learning curve.
The only issue I noticed initially was a slight increase in road noise, likely due to the direct connection between the hitch and the truck frame. I quickly resolved this by adding some rubber isolators between the brackets and the bed, which significantly reduced the noise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and thousands of miles towing my fifth-wheel, the Demco Hijacker SL Series Mounting Bracket Kit has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I have taken it on multiple long-distance trips and countless weekend getaways and it has consistently delivered a stable and secure towing experience. I’ve towed through everything from scorching desert heat to freezing mountain passes, and the Demco system has held up without any issues.
The bracket kit has shown no signs of wear and tear, and the powder-coated finish has resisted rust and corrosion despite exposure to road salt and harsh weather conditions. I check the bolts regularly for tightness, and so far, they have remained secure. The heavy-duty steel construction of the brackets gives me confidence in its long-term durability.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply hose down the brackets after each trip and apply a light coat of lubricant to the sliding rails to ensure smooth operation. I occasionally inspect the mounting points for any signs of stress or damage, but so far, everything looks solid.
Compared to my previous universal rail system, the Demco kit is a significant upgrade. The custom fit provides a much more secure and stable connection, reducing sway and improving overall handling. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability, durability, and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13
Specifications
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for 2004-2013 Ford F150 trucks with 6.5′ and 8′ bed lengths. Important Note: Not compatible with 5.5′ bed models.
- Mounting Style: Utilizes a manual slider rail that runs front to back in the truck bed. This design allows for easy adjustments when maneuvering the fifth-wheel.
- Attachment Method: Attaches to the bed rails with six bolts per side, connecting to the brackets underneath the truck bed. The six-bolt design ensures a secure and stable connection.
- Material: Constructed from heavy-duty steel with a durable powder-coated finish. The high-strength steel is designed to withstand the stress of heavy towing.
- Slider Rail: Part of the SL Series. Allows the fifth-wheel hitch to slide backwards for improved turning clearance.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the kit’s compatibility, stability, and ease of use. The vehicle-specific design ensures a precise fit, while the heavy-duty construction provides long-lasting durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit performs exceptionally well in its primary function: providing a secure and stable mounting platform for a fifth-wheel hitch. Its custom fit ensures that the hitch is properly aligned and supported, resulting in improved towing stability and handling.
The strength of the Demco Hijacker SL Series Mounting Bracket Kit lies in its precise fitment and robust construction. The weakness, as with any truck bed mounting system that requires drilling, could be the chance for error in the installation. A helpful addition would be to include a template, but this is easily mitigated with some careful measurements and a steady hand.
The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit meets and exceeds my expectations for a custom-fit fifth-wheel mounting system. It delivers on its promise of easy installation, secure fitment, and long-lasting durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco mounting bracket kit features a straightforward and functional design. The heavy-gauge steel construction provides a solid and stable base, and the powder-coated finish enhances its resistance to rust and corrosion.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, with clear instructions and a logical layout. Although drilling is required, the process is manageable with basic tools and some patience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its heavy-duty construction and durable finish, the Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit is built to last for many years. The steel brackets are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent towing, and the powder coating provides excellent protection against the elements.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the sliding rails. The sturdy construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure that the kit will remain in good condition with minimal effort.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13 kit does not come with extensive accessories, as its primary purpose is to provide a solid mounting base. However, it’s designed to be compatible with Demco Hijacker SL series fifth-wheel hitches.
While the bracket kit itself offers limited customization options, the fifth-wheel hitch that mounts to it can be customized with various accessories, such as different hitch heads or height adjustment kits.
Pros and Cons of Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13
Pros
- Precise Fit: The custom design ensures a perfect fit for 2004-2013 Ford F150 trucks (6.5′ and 8′ beds). This results in a more stable and secure towing experience.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Made from high-strength steel with a durable powder-coated finish, guaranteeing long-lasting reliability. The robust construction can withstand the stresses of heavy towing.
- Relatively Easy Installation: With clear instructions and straightforward design, the kit can be installed with basic tools, saving time and money on professional installation.
- Compatibility with Demco Hitches: Specifically designed to work with Demco Hijacker SL series fifth-wheel hitches, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.
- Enhanced Towing Stability: The solid mounting platform provides improved stability and reduced sway, resulting in a smoother and safer towing experience.
Cons
- Drilling Required: Installation requires drilling holes in the truck bed, which may deter some users. It is important to take accurate measurements before drilling into the truck bed.
- Bed Length Limitation: Not compatible with 5.5′ bed F150 models, limiting its use to specific truck configurations.
Who Should Buy Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13?
This Dethmers Manufacturing Company mounting bracket kit is perfect for RV enthusiasts and anyone who frequently tows a fifth-wheel trailer with a 2004-2013 Ford F150 (6.5′ or 8′ bed). It is also a great choice for those who value a secure, stable, and easy-to-install mounting system.
If you own a Ford F150 with a 5.5′ bed, this kit is not compatible, and you should seek an alternative mounting solution. Individuals uncomfortable with drilling into their truck bed may also want to consider other options, although the improved stability and security are well worth the effort for serious towers.
Consider purchasing a high-quality drill bit set and a center punch to ensure accurate and clean drilling. Also, you may want to consider using rubber isolators to reduce noise transmission between the brackets and the truck frame.
Conclusion on Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13
The Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13 provides a reliable and robust solution for mounting a fifth-wheel hitch in your Ford F150. Its custom fit, heavy-duty construction, and relatively easy installation make it a standout choice in the market.
At a price of $173.99, the Dethmers Manufacturing Company 8553002 Demco Hijacker Sl Series Mounting Bracket Kit Ford F150 ’04 ’13 is justified by its quality construction and enhanced safety. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your fifth-wheel is securely mounted is priceless.
I wholeheartedly recommend this mounting bracket kit to anyone seeking a durable, reliable, and easy-to-install solution for their 2004-2013 Ford F150. Upgrade your towing experience today with the Demco Hijacker SL Series Mounting Bracket Kit and enjoy the open road with confidence.