Choosing Your 2017 F150 Lift Kit: Key Criteria
Selecting the ideal lift kit for your 2017 F150 hinges on balancing aesthetic goals with functional requirements. You're looking for increased ground clearance, improved off-road capability, or simply a more imposing stance. Understanding the core mechanics of suspension lifts is paramount to making an informed decision that avoids common pitfalls like compromising ride quality or geometry.
- Suspension lift kits offer greater height than body lifts.
- Lift height dictates tire size and suspension travel.
- Key components include control arms, shocks, and springs.
- Consider ride quality and intended use for optimal selection.
The primary objective of any suspension lift is to elevate the truck's body and frame, providing more space for larger tires and increasing the vehicle's approach, departure, and breakover angles. This is achieved by modifying or replacing suspension components. Unlike body lifts, which simply place spacers between the frame and body, suspension lifts alter the truck's underpinnings, directly impacting its driving dynamics.
Understanding Lift Kit Types
For a 2017 F150, the most common and effective suspension lifts fall into two main categories: strut-spacer lifts and full suspension replacement kits. Strut-spacer lifts are generally the most budget-friendly, offering a modest increase in height by adding spacers above the factory strut assembly. Full suspension replacement kits, conversely, involve more extensive modifications, often including new control arms, shocks, and potentially taller springs, offering greater travel and superior performance for demanding off-road scenarios.
Lift Height and Tire Clearance
The height of the lift kit directly influences the maximum tire size you can fit without rubbing. For a 2017 F150, common lift heights range from 2 inches for a subtle leveling effect to 6 inches or more for aggressive off-road builds. A 2-3 inch lift typically accommodates up to 33-inch tires, while a 4-6 inch lift can easily clear 35-inch tires, and sometimes larger, depending on the wheel offset and backspacing.
Ride Quality and Component Materials
It is imperative to acknowledge that not all lift kits are created equal. The quality of materials and engineering significantly affects durability and on-road manners. Kits featuring high-grade steel, robust shock absorbers (like Fox, Bilstein, or the manufacturer's own performance shocks), and precisely engineered control arms will generally offer a better ride and longer lifespan. Our analysis indicates that kits designed with articulation and travel in mind provide the best experience for mixed-use driving.
The primary consideration involves matching the lift kit's design to your specific driving needs.
Our analysis indicates that prioritizing kits from reputable manufacturers who engineer for specific truck models, like the 2017 F150, yields superior results. This ensures optimal component geometry and integration.
Comparing Top Lift Kit Options for Your 2017 F150
When looking to elevate your 2017 F150, several manufacturers stand out for their quality and performance. We’ve identified four leading suspension lift kit options that consistently meet the demands of truck enthusiasts seeking enhanced capability and aggressive styling. Each offers a distinct approach to achieving lift, varying in complexity, cost, and ultimate performance characteristics, much like comparing a Polaris Ranger lift kit to a Can Am Defender lift kit but for your specific truck model.
Option 1: Rough Country 4-inch Suspension Lift Kit
Rough Country is known for providing accessible and capable lift kits. Their 4-inch kit for the 2017 F150 typically includes lifted knuckles, crossmembers, and lifted struts. It's a popular choice for those wanting a significant height increase without an exorbitant price tag. Installation is generally manageable for the DIY enthusiast, though professional help from lift kit installers near me is always an option.
Option 2: BDS Suspension 6-inch High Clearance Suspension System
BDS Suspension offers a premium experience with their 6-inch kit, designed for maximum ground clearance and off-road performance. This system often features robust, high-clearance control arms, Fox 2.0 shocks, and a design that maintains optimal suspension geometry. It’s built to withstand rigorous use and provides a noticeable improvement in articulation and ride quality over rough terrain.
Option 3: Zone Offroad 6-inch Suspension Lift Kit
Zone Offroad, a sister company to BDS, offers a compelling balance of performance and value. Their 6-inch kit provides a substantial lift with engineered components designed to work harmoniously with the F150's suspension. It’s a solid choice for those looking for significant clearance and capability without stepping into the highest price bracket, comparable to how a Stryker lift kit might be viewed in another segment.
Option 4: Pro Comp 6-inch Stage 1 Suspension Lift Kit
Pro Comp is another well-regarded name in the off-road aftermarket. Their 6-inch Stage 1 kit is designed to provide a substantial lift and accommodate larger tires, enhancing both the look and off-road prowess of your 2017 F150. These kits typically include necessary brackets, lifted struts, and sway bar links to ensure proper alignment and function.
| Lift Kit Option | Typical Lift Height | Key Features | Price Range (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough Country 4" | 4 inches | Lifted struts, crossmembers, knuckles | $$ |
| BDS Suspension 6" | 6 inches | High-clearance control arms, Fox shocks | $$$$ |
| Zone Offroad 6" | 6 inches | Engineered components, good value | $$$ |
| Pro Comp 6" Stage 1 | 6 inches | Lifted struts, sway bar links | $$$ |
Ensure you verify the specific kit compatibility for your 2017 F150's sub-model (e.g., 2WD vs. 4WD, engine type) to avoid purchasing incorrect components.
Each of these options represents a significant upgrade, but the optimal choice depends on your budget, desired lift height, and how you plan to use your truck.
Verdict: Which 2017 F150 Lift Kit is Right for You?
After evaluating the key criteria and comparing top-tier options, the decision for the best lift kit for your 2017 F150 comes down to a blend of performance, budget, and application. If your priority is achieving a significant, aggressive stance and maximizing tire clearance for serious off-roading, a 6-inch kit from BDS or Zone Offroad offers superior ground clearance and component robustness. The BDS kit, often featuring premium shocks, leads for ultimate off-road articulation and durability.
For those seeking a more moderate lift, perhaps for fitting slightly larger tires and achieving a more level look without a drastic change in driving dynamics, the Rough Country 4-inch kit presents an excellent value proposition. It provides a substantial visual upgrade and functional lift at a more accessible price point, making it a strong contender for daily drivers who occasionally venture off-pavement.
The true measure of a lift kit lies in its ability to enhance your truck's capability without compromising its essential character.
Consider the practicalities: installing a 6-inch kit might require additional modifications, such as extended brake lines or a recalibration of the speedometer, which are often included in higher-end packages but should be verified. The complexity of installation is also a factor; while many kits are designed for bolt-on application, larger lifts can be intricate. This precision is paramount for long-term reliability and safety.
Always factor in the cost and availability of compatible larger tires and wheels when budgeting for your lift kit installation; they are an integral part of the overall upgrade.
Ultimately, if budget is less of a concern and maximum off-road performance and aggressive aesthetics are paramount, the BDS Suspension 6-inch kit is the top recommendation. For a superb balance of cost, capability, and aggressive styling, the Zone Offroad 6-inch kit is a fantastic alternative. If a more modest, budget-friendly lift is desired, Rough Country's 4-inch option delivers considerable bang for your buck.
The final selection should align perfectly with your specific driving environment and desired outcome.