So, you're thinking about beefing up your 2018 F150 with a leveling kit and some bigger tires? Awesome! You've come to the right place. Figuring out the perfect tire size after installing a leveling kit can be a bit tricky, but don't sweat it. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get that aggressive look without any rubbing or clearance issues. Let's dive in and get your truck looking its best!

Understanding Leveling Kits

First off, let's talk about leveling kits. What exactly do they do? Simply put, a leveling kit raises the front of your truck to match the height of the rear. From the factory, most trucks have a bit of a rake, meaning the front sits lower than the rear. This is done for a few reasons, like improving fuel economy and providing better load-carrying capacity. But, let's be honest, it doesn't always look the coolest.

Why Install a Leveling Kit?

• Aesthetics: This is the big one for most people. Leveling kits give your truck a more aggressive, balanced stance. No more nose-down look!
• Larger Tires: This is where the fun begins! A leveling kit creates more space in your wheel wells, allowing you to fit larger, more aggressive tires.
• Improved Ground Clearance: While it's not a huge lift, a leveling kit can give you a bit more clearance for off-roading or navigating rough terrain.

Types of Leveling Kits

• Coil Spacers: These are the most common and generally the most affordable option. They sit on top of your factory coil springs, lifting the front of the truck.
• Strut Spacers: Similar to coil spacers, but they mount on top of the strut assembly. These are also a budget-friendly option.
• New Struts: These replace your entire front strut assembly with longer, lifted struts. They offer a better ride quality compared to spacers but are more expensive.

Choosing the right leveling kit depends on your budget and how you plan to use your truck. For most people, coil or strut spacers are perfectly adequate for achieving a leveled look and fitting larger tires. However, if you're serious about off-roading or want the best possible ride quality, upgrading to new struts might be worth the investment.

Measuring Your Wheel Well

Before you even think about ordering new tires, you need to know how much space you're working with. Grab a tape measure, because we're going to get down and dirty with some measurements. Knowing these dimensions will help you avoid any headaches later on.

Key Measurements

• Fender Height: Measure from the ground to the highest point of your front fender, both before and after installing the leveling kit. This will tell you exactly how much lift you've gained.
• Wheel Well Depth: Measure from the center of your wheel hub to the top of the fender. This gives you an idea of the maximum tire radius you can fit.
• Clearance at Full Lock: Turn your steering wheel all the way to one side (full lock) and check the clearance between the tire and the wheel well liner, suspension components, and frame. Repeat on the other side. This is crucial for preventing rubbing.

Why These Measurements Matter

The fender height tells you the overall lift you've achieved, while the wheel well depth gives you a general idea of the largest tire size you can accommodate. However, the clearance at full lock is the most critical measurement. Even if a tire seems like it will fit based on fender height and wheel well depth, it can still rub at full lock due to the tire's width and the wheel's offset.

Pro Tip: Take these measurements with the truck on level ground and the tires properly inflated. Also, consider that tire sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers, so it's always best to err on the side of caution.

Recommended Tire Sizes for 2018 F150 with Leveling Kit

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some recommended tire sizes for your 2018 F150 after installing a leveling kit. Keep in mind that these are general recommendations, and your specific results may vary depending on the leveling kit you use, the wheel offset, and the tire manufacturer. Always double-check your measurements and clearance before making a purchase.

2-Inch Leveling Kit

A 2-inch leveling kit is a popular choice for the 2018 F150, as it provides a noticeable lift without requiring extensive modifications. With a 2-inch leveling kit, you can typically fit tires up to 33 inches in diameter without any major rubbing issues. However, wider tires may still require some minor trimming or adjustments.

• Common Sizes:
  • 275/60R20 (33x11.0R20)
  • 285/65R18 (32.6x11.3R18)
  • 285/60R20 (33.5x11.3R20) - May require minor trimming

These sizes offer a good balance of aesthetics and functionality, providing a more aggressive look without sacrificing too much fuel economy or ride quality. The 275/60R20 is a particularly popular choice, as it's widely available and offers a good compromise between size and practicality. However, if you're looking for something a bit more aggressive, the 285/60R20 can be a great option, but be prepared to do some minor trimming if necessary.

2.5-Inch Leveling Kit

A 2.5-inch leveling kit provides a bit more lift than a 2-inch kit, allowing you to fit slightly larger tires. With a 2.5-inch kit, you can typically fit tires up to 34 inches in diameter, but again, wider tires may require some trimming.

• Common Sizes:
  • 285/65R20 (34.6x11.3R20) - May require minor trimming
  • 295/60R20 (34.4x11.6R20) - May require minor trimming
  • 305/55R20 (33.2x12.0R20)

The 285/65R20 and 295/60R20 sizes offer a more aggressive look compared to the 33-inch tires, but they may require some minor trimming to prevent rubbing, especially at full lock. The 305/55R20 is a good option if you want a wider tire without going too tall, but keep in mind that it may also require some adjustments.

3-Inch Leveling Kit

A 3-inch leveling kit is the most aggressive option for the 2018 F150, providing the most lift and allowing you to fit the largest tires. With a 3-inch kit, you can typically fit tires up to 35 inches in diameter, but significant trimming and modifications may be required.

• Common Sizes:
  • 35x12.50R20
  • 295/65R20 (35.1x11.6R20) - May require significant trimming

Going with 35-inch tires will definitely give your truck a head-turning look, but be prepared for some potential drawbacks. You may experience a decrease in fuel economy, a harsher ride, and the need for more extensive modifications to prevent rubbing. Trimming the wheel well liners, modifying the crash bars, and adjusting the suspension may all be necessary.

Important Note: When choosing a tire size, always consider the wheel offset. A wheel with a more negative offset will push the tire further out, increasing the likelihood of rubbing. If you're unsure about the wheel offset, consult with a tire and wheel specialist.

Choosing the Right Tires

Okay, so you know what size tires you can fit, but how do you choose the right tires for your needs? There are a few factors to consider, including your driving habits, the type of terrain you'll be encountering, and your personal preferences.

Tire Types

• All-Season Tires: These are the most common type of tire, offering a good balance of ride quality, tread life, and all-weather performance. They're a good choice for daily driving and light off-roading.
• All-Terrain Tires: These tires have a more aggressive tread pattern than all-season tires, providing better traction in off-road conditions. They're a good choice if you frequently encounter dirt roads, gravel, or snow.
• Mud Tires: These are the most aggressive type of tire, designed for extreme off-roading in mud, sand, and rocks. They have large, chunky tread blocks that provide maximum traction, but they can be noisy on the road and may wear out quickly.

Other Considerations

• Load Rating: Make sure the tires you choose have a load rating that meets or exceeds the requirements of your truck. This is especially important if you frequently haul heavy loads or tow trailers.
• Tread Life: Consider the tread life of the tires, especially if you do a lot of highway driving. Some tires are designed to last longer than others.
• Noise Level: If you're concerned about noise, choose tires with a quieter tread pattern. Mud tires, in particular, can be quite noisy on the road.
• Price: Tire prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, size, and type. Set a budget and shop around to find the best deal.

Installation Tips

So, you've got your leveling kit and your new tires. Now it's time to put them on your truck. Unless you're an experienced mechanic, it's generally recommended to have a professional install the leveling kit and tires. However, if you're feeling adventurous and have the right tools and knowledge, you can tackle the job yourself.

Leveling Kit Installation

• Read the Instructions: This may seem obvious, but it's crucial to read and understand the instructions that come with your leveling kit before you start. Each kit is different, and the installation procedure may vary.
• Use the Right Tools: You'll need a good set of wrenches, sockets, a torque wrench, and a ball joint separator. A spring compressor may also be necessary, depending on the type of leveling kit you're installing.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time and double-check your work to ensure everything is properly installed and torqued to the correct specifications.
• Get an Alignment: After installing the leveling kit, it's essential to get a wheel alignment. This will ensure that your tires wear evenly and that your truck handles properly.

Tire Installation

• Use a Jack and Jack Stands: Never work on a vehicle that's supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands to provide a stable and secure base.
• Torque the Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. Overtightening can damage the wheels and studs, while undertightening can cause the wheels to come loose.
• Check the Tire Pressure: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the tire sidewall or in your owner's manual.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right leveling kit and tire size for your 2018 F150 can transform its look and performance. By understanding the different types of leveling kits, measuring your wheel well, and considering your driving needs, you can find the perfect combination to achieve the aggressive stance you're after. Just remember to always double-check your measurements, consult with a professional if you're unsure, and prioritize safety during the installation process. Now go out there and make your F150 the envy of the neighborhood!