Dropping a truck isn’t just about turning heads; it’s also about getting the right handling and feel for daily driving. Many truck owners debate just how low to go, especially when weighing options between aesthetics, ride comfort, and handling.
Since there are a heck lot of drop kits out there—from Ford’s own Performance Drop to custom low-riding setups—deciding on the right kit for your ride can be quite a task. I am gonna take you on a guided tour discussing the pros and cons of some popular options, so you can make the best choice based on what’s important to you
Ford’s 2″-4″ Drop Kit: A Reliable, Mid-Level Drop
Ford’s factory-designed 2″-4″ Performance Drop is something of a safe middle-ground choice for those who want a slightly lower truck without diving headfirst into extreme mods. On paper, it promises a reasonable blend of style and ride quality without major trade-offs. However, some folks have noted that it doesn’t always deliver the full drop you’d expect, with actual results closer to 1.3 inches in the front and about 2.5 inches in the back. Despite this, it has the appeal of being straightforward to install—kind of a plug-and-play option with less hassle than some of the deeper drop kits.
The main draw here is that it maintains a lot of your truck’s original comfort and functionality, especially if you’re using your truck as a daily driver or for mild towing. But if you’re looking for a significant change in profile, you may find it doesn’t go low enough to make a big visual impact.
Ridetech Kits: Premium Quality for Those Who Value Comfort
If ride quality is top of your list, Ridetech is a brand you’ll likely hear praised again and again. Their drop kits don’t come cheap, but Ridetech enthusiasts argue that the smooth, almost stock-level ride quality justifies the cost. Users have consistently mentioned how well these kits perform, particularly on rougher roads where a rougher ride can quickly become a deal-breaker. With high-quality components like load-leveling airbags and sway bars included, Ridetech kits feel thoughtfully designed to handle daily driving without sacrificing comfort.
A colleague of mine in Texas shared how they tried a deeper 4″-6″ drop kit before switching to Ridetech’s 3″-5″ option. While they loved the stance of the deeper drop, they ultimately found the ride to be harsh, with the axle even hitting the frame at times. Switching to Ridetech gave them the best of both worlds—great looks with a ride that’s comfortable enough to live with day in and day out. For truck owners willing to pay a little extra for comfort and durability, Ridetech might just be the gold standard.
Custom Drops (3″-5″, 4″-6″) and Going Low
For those who love the look of a seriously lowered truck, custom drop kits—like a 3″-5″ or 4″-6″ setup—bring that aggressive stance that makes a bold statement on the road. These kits involve piecing together components like rear flip kits, coilovers, and often some custom work to get everything sitting right. With brands like Belltech and IHC, you can get a solid package that can really change up your truck’s handling, though there are definitely some trade-offs to consider.
Several owners have talked about the “Frankenstein” approach—piecing together different parts from various brands to get the exact drop and feel they want. One user with a 3/5 drop using Belltech coilovers and Fox shocks shared how they love the handling improvements but admit the ride isn’t as cushy as stock. Another mentioned that with their 4/6 setup, the axle would occasionally make contact with the frame, even with bump stops removed. These deeper drops often mean needing to adjust expectations around comfort and considering additions like a step notch or airbags if towing and load capacity are still priorities.
Balancing Your Needs: What’s Right for You?
At the end of the day, your choice of drop kit boils down to what matters most to you. If you’re after a hassle-free, modest drop that lets you keep a lot of your truck’s original ride comfort, Ford’s 2″-4″ drop kit could be your answer. For those willing to invest for top-notch comfort and quality, Ridetech’s offerings deliver a smooth, reliable ride, though at a premium price.
If you want that low-riding, eye-catching stance and don’t mind some trade-offs, a custom 3″-5″ or 4″-6″ setup will get you the look. Just be ready for a stiffer ride, and possibly more involved installation and maintenance. As one user put it, sometimes it’s worth the effort for the looks alone, especially if you’re more focused on style than daily comfort.
Finally, To Drop or Not to Drop?
Agreed that it might feel like a big task and to an extent it is, but take it from me – it’s one of the best ways to truly customize the feel and look of your ride. But before you take the plunge, think about how you’ll use your truck day-to-day. Whatever kit you choose, there will be plenty other truck enthusiasts who have been down this road so don’t be afraid to reach out to seek help.
With a lot of research followed by a little trial and error you’ll surely strike that balance between what looks good and what feels right. After all, there’s just so many options out there so there’s no need to settle. Find what works for you, and enjoy the ride!
