Rock Crawl Setup

[CarbonMetal553]

Hello, all

I've posted a few times in other sections about some quality issues I've had on my truck. I fully intend in getting all of this fixed under warranty. Once this happens, I plan on starting a rock crawl build and would like to get some suggestions.

My previous truck, a 2023 Tundra had a pretty basic RC 3.5 lift. I don't think the quality was the best and I am looking to stay away from RC this time if at all possible.

Here are some details:
-Wille be offloading 3-4 times a year. May bump it up to 6 times a year. This amount is specific to hitting trails.
-Terrain for trails is moderate to high difficulty. Definitely a lot of rocks, deep mud, water, etc. Will be legitimately rock crawling.
-General off-roading for camping and outdoor activities will happen multiple times a year.
-My truck is a 5.0L 2023 STX with 12K miles.
-I plan on keeping this truck for the long run, so goal is for optimal performance + longevity

Here are some questions:
-What is the general rule of thumb for maximum lift height? Some say anything above 3 inches not only increases wear and tear of your truck, but also makes it very top heavy and hinders your ability to do things like rock crawl.
-For level kits, I've been looking at the Ford Performance, and Roush Performance
-For lift kits, I've been looking at Ready Lift 3.5 Set 2.1 which would put me at 3.5 inches and if I have to go RC, this one which would put me right at 3 inches. Need suggestions here. I don't want to spend over $3K on a level or lift kit.
-For wheels and tires, I was thinking about a 17 inch wheel and the biggest Nitto Ridge Grapplers I can fit on either lift or level. Need suggestions here
-Again, looking for max performance off-road and max longevity for vehicle health.

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[ThumperF150]

My truck is on Eibach coil overs set at 2” which is the max I can go. I also have JBA UCAs, with full Talons Garage skids. I’m running 35x11.50s with stock 3.73 gears and rear e locker. I plan to go to 4.11 gears with a front LSD.

I will NOT be rock crawling my truck. I have a built Jeep for that.

If I were going to do serious off roading in my 150 I’d want steel skids, not aluminum, weld on STRONG rock sliders, MUCH beefier steering and tie rod set up and stronger front axles. Why???? Because these are all parts I have broken or had issues with on the trail. I have also needed my winch many times so that is another consideration.

I am unaware of steel skids or weld on rock sliders or HD steering rack for the 150.

 

[Jeff1024]

Rock Crawling and longevity are two words that generally do not go together.

I have been out of the game for some time, so things could have changed, but imho a Full Size 6,000lb IFS Tuck is a terrible platform to do serious rock crawling in.

Take the money you would spend to modify your F150 and buy a beater Wrangler to drive in the rocks. Your F150 will be a perfect platform to tow your jeep.

 

[Aonarch]

These aren't built for Rock Crawling, but as a guy with a lot of experience I'll give my advice.

RC is trash. Don't do that.

You'll want 2.5" lift up front. Bilstein 6112, Eibach, Fox, etc.

You will want UCAs.

You will want Tremor CVs.

Bring extra tie rods and the tools to replace.

I'd add the Tremor front LSD, or a elocker.

You might want to re-gear to 4.10s. 3.73 minimum.

You will want 35x11.5. If you are rock crawling go with BFG KM3s. Ridge Grapplers are not great tires.

You want full steel skids from RCI.

You want a rear diff cover from Spicer.

You want sliders. RCI or White Knuckle.

You want a winch. Probably go with steel front and rear bumper.

Everything I posted should be mandatory day 1.

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