LIFT : Once I traded in my F350 for the GMC c6500 beast, the bed rail was a little high and I did not want to be towing at an extreme angle.  Thus, I had two options, get a toter type bed or lift the Raptor.  After looking at the 5k and up prices for these types of beds, I opted for lifting my Raptor.  Also, anyone who has a 6 inch lift and 35" tires on their F250/2500 or F350/3500, this is the perfect setup for that.  The Raptor already comes with its axles flipped so going up was the only solution.  Now, I could do a sub-frame on it and go through all of that welding or I could simply use 4" steel blocks to accomplish it.  The blocks were 4"(L) x 4"(H) x 3"(W).  I had to ditch the 3/8 inch u-bolts and ordered some 5/8 inch longer u-bolts.  

After a couple of hours, several jack stands, and a few strategically placed words, the Raptor was up in the air.  For the record, I have never, ever had any problem with the lift.  I know, all of the blue hairs will chastise this method but no height issues and never been blown over in a heavy wind.

RIMS:  Don't get me started on the POS 15" rims that came with the older Raptors.  I upgraded mine and the tires (225/75/r15) to 16" steel rims (with Steel valves) and 235/70/R16 tires - E rated of course.   I will be posting pictures soon.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at bkirkpatrick@email.com or you can call my cellular phone (562-843-4043).  I spend a lot of time with my family at Lucerne, Ocotillo Wells, Glamis, and along the coast.  These were just some improvements that I needed to do.

Thanks,  Brendan