The Cliff Notes: Full Systems are signed off, Coils should start shipping late October, Full Suspension Systems November/December.
The LEVELING Commuter, Backcountry and Pintop Systems are DONE. These will be available for the following:
- 2011-16: F250/F350 4×4, 6.2 Gas, 2.5″ Front Lift
- 2017-19: F250/F350 4×4, 6.2 Gas, 2.0″-2.5″ Front Lift
- 2020+: F250/F350 4×4, 7.3 Gas, 3″ Front Lift
We will not be doing a taller lift for the gas trucks, ONLY the leveling lift heights. Sway bar, Leaf spring, Radius Arm, Differential Guard and Steering Stabilizer options will be shared with the diesel platform!
Follow the TFL guys as they continue to document their journey on our first production GAS specific system!
Gas Super Duty R&D
It’s been a long time coming… As long as we’ve been in the Diesel-Equipped Super Duty market, we’ve been queried about their gas-equipped correlate. 2005-07, the 5.4L Gas option made no sense as it was often found in work-trucks and the V10 was extremely rare so the platform was ignored. 2008-10 found a boost in V10 sales. The already proven monster of a motor in the newly redesigned Super Duty brought interest from a local customer, Jason Stroud. The V10 was such a pig that it only offered slight reduction in weight over it’s Diesel counterpart. Circa 2011, we threw our 4.5″ Lift Spring in; this platform saw 1/2″ more lift than the diesel but the ride was stellar. Threw some tuning in the King 2.5″ Shocks and off Jason went to slay the deserts of Southern California (still slaying today, by the way).
As it was a simple modification to an existing system and valving, it was a no brainier. Popular? Nope – to date, i can only remember doing the one system but it really wasn’t ever made public. Next up, the 2011 redesign and discontinuation of the monstrous, thirsty V10 in favor of a 6.2L Gas Motor inherited from the half-ton market (Raptor). This motor was designed to be robust with it’s cast iron block while still offering a significant weight savings thanks to it’s aluminum heads and pistons. These weight savings meant 6.2L Gas customers saw 1″ additional lift from the stated height of the Carli Springs designed on the diesel.
This wouldn’t normally be a deal-breaker, especially if the ride was respectable, BUT Ford decided to lighten the caster on these 11+ trucks. This meant more lift and limited room to correct caster for people adapting our Diesel Kits to their gas-burners. A call into Carli about compatibility resulted in us outlining the extra inch of lift and not recommending installation as we have a very stringent R&D process to ensure perfect compatibility; adaptation to a lighter platform obviously would not meet out standards, nor would light caster with maxed out shims result in a pleasurable driving experience.
Enter the 7.3L Godzilla Motor.
Starting in 2008, the EPA and auto manufacturers began handicapping Diesel equipped trucks. First (actually well before 2008) there was the Catalytic Converter – mildly limiting but only really when adding power – then 2008 Brought the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), 2011 then brought DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid). Every step taken in the direction of clean emissions leads to added cost, decreased performance or both. Stack this with the EPA slapping 6-figure fines on manufacturers messing with these emissions controls and you’ve created space in the marketplace for a motor that offers reasonable efficiency compared to the modern, restricted diesels without the $10,000.00 markup. Well, Ford has done exactly that. We’ve always gotten calls on the 6.2L but not near enough to justify a kit for them exclusively – the 7.3L has proved to be a different story. We’re getting tons of calls on fully optioned trucks equipped with the Godzilla motor.
We did, however, want this kit to be backward compatible with the 6.2L trucks as we believe it to be a great motor and it’s in a similar weight class as the new Big Block. That said, Our first step, test the coil spring. We developed a reduced rate coil to test in a local customer’s truck. The Spring sat at 2.5″ of front lift exactly on this customer’s (already) Pintop equipped 2016 F250 QCSB (Quad Cab Short Bed). He was running a GFC (Go Fast Camper) which dropped the rear a touch but the lift was perfect.
This prepped us for the next round – the guys at TFL Truck called us to setup their 2020 F250 XLT – 7.3L with a Pintop System and custom leaf springs for their “No Pavement Needed” Series in which they’d take the rig across the country off pavement living out of the Hawk Camper to be installed. Once we got the truck in our possession – we got to work. The springs installed for a 3″ lift on their 2020; perfect. The entire lineup was prototyped on their truck; Commuter, Backcountry and Pintop were all custom valved to the gas-motor and the new gas-specific front springs.
Once the production systems were complete, the Custom Deaver Springs went in to support the weight of the camper and the TFL crew was off to Four Wheel Camper for the next Phase of the build.
So for a 2008 v10 would the diesel springs and shock valving still provide a good ride?
Not sure on this one, Stuart – we’ve not tested a V10 on the gas springs.
I’d also be interested in a 4.5-5.5″ for the 7.3. It’s a tough decision to either go with the brand you want, or the height you prefer.
Hey Brian – we have a few customers running the Diesel kit on their 7.3L, our recommendation is to add a big bumper/winch. Some have and it’s brought them into the correct lift range, other are still enjoying the lift at the higher baseline.
Hey Dan, 2022 F250, planning around 37×12.50R18 ridge grapplers with no rub. Mostly highway, some dirt roads but nothing fast. 1000 lbs in the bed constant, no heavy towing. Best ride possible is priority #1. Which system and what rim offset/backspacing do you recommend?
3.5″ Backcountry, Heavy-Duty Full Progressive Lead Springs and 0 offset wheels, no more than 9″ wide. As the Backcountry shocks are still a ways out from Fox, I would recommend the Pintop as they’re more available.
I’ve had my pintop system on my 21 gas 6.2 for about 3 months now definitely a night and day difference, although I notice some spring noise coming from the front going over speed bumps at Slow speeds… not so much a clunk but more of a fast coil vibration type of noise. Any idea what this is? Or is this normal
Hey Emil – My guess, whomever did your install has your brake line brackets that come off the front of the bucket contacting your coils. The springs themselves will not make noise. I’d jump under the front of the truck and have a look. If you’re hearing a vibration, the coils are hitting something and you’ll be able to see indications of contact.
Just installed a leveling kit with add-a-packs (used F250 leafs) on my ’20 F350 gas 7.3L. The kit provided exactly 2.5″ of front lift and with the F250 leafs and add-a-pack, I am dead level. I was expecting more lift from both. Thoughts?
Hey Kyle – We measured exactly 3″ on our test truck but, perhaps yours is better equipped than the XLT unit on which these were developed? Not sure, honestly. If you got the same lift out of both sides (Driver and Pass), you’re likely slightly heavier up front.
The difference between the gas and diesel kits is purely based on the weight difference between the two engines, correct? How much weight difference is that exactly? If someone was wanting to go with aftermarket bumpers and a winch, would that help dampen the stiffness of the diesel kit if used on the 7.3 platform? Would that then open up the application of the 5.5″ kit on the 7.3?
Hey Sean – that’s correct, based on weight alone. The Diesel coils account for an additional 350lbs (approx) at ride height. Yes, adding 350lbs to the front of the 7.3L gas will perform as an unloaded diesel AND open the option to run the 4.5″ Diesel Systems on the Gas Platform.
How much of a decrease in ride quality would the diesel coils provide compared to the gas ones on a 7.3L truck?
The difference in rate is only about 250lbs at ride height. You’ll see more lift from the Diesel Spring and the ride will be slightly stiffer. It would be the perfect coil to pair with a 7.3L with an aftermarket HD bumper/winch.
Thanks Dan.
IF I were swap to the diesel coil, what other adjustments would need to be made? I assume the trackbar would need to be lengthened slightly, what about caster correction? Are the 2* shims sufficient?
+1 on wanting the 5.5″ kit on the 7.3L gas super duty.
Dan, can I run the 5.5″ diesel kit on my gas Tremor?
Can the shocks at least be tuned/valved for the lighter gas engine? What’s the exact specs of the CS-FMRC-05 coil springs (diameter, length, rate, inside diameter)? – does anyone sell a coil spring with the same hight but with 20% less force that I can use with your kit?
Hi Mark – We do not recommend it. The 5.5″ kit (3.5″ on a Tremor) maxes out the factory drag link at full droop and the thread engagement on the heim in the adjustable track bar at ride height. Being 1″ taller, you’re getting closer to maxing the drag link at ride height and running out of thread to center the axle on the track bar. Compound this with incorrect spring rates (up front) and shock valving and you’re spending a LOT of money on a compromise.
There are no current plans for a 5.5″ Gas system nor do we know of anyone doing this.
Any plans or updates on offering the 5.5″ kits for the 7.3L, Pintop specifically? I understand that in the past was not worth it due to the low demand, but that will soon change. In the past, the ratio of gas to diesel engines on the Ford super dutys was very low, it was rare to see a gas F350. For the 2021 model year production, it was about 20% gas, 80% diesel, so far for 2022, about 35/65, and it will continue to rise for obvious reasons. I am a big Carli fanatic and will hate to have to go to another manufacturer to get the clearance I need.
Hey Juan – No current plans, unfortunately.
Im wanting to run around a 1.5″ level on my ’15 Diesel F250. What would be the result of running a GAS 2.5″ commuter setup (if in production) on a diesel platform? Would the increased weight settle the springs more?
Hi Todd – this has not been tested as that spring rate is too low for the diesel.
What sort of set up do you recommend for an F350 7.3L Tremor package to help with overall ride quality but maintain decent towing capacity, eg 14,000+ conventional, 18,000 5th/Gooseneck? Your video mentions full progressive replacement, but both the Commuter and Backcountry kits seem to only offer the Add-a-Pack for rear spring options. How much height is gained on the Tremor with these builds if sticking with 35s?
Hey Bruce – The F350 leaf pack is a bit of a nightmare to work with; that’s why we’re big proponent of the full springs on the F350s. Give us a shout at the shop so we can discuss your application a bit more prior to making a recommendation! 888-992-2754
Hi Dan, I noticed that there is not a torsion sway bar option for the 2011-16 6.2 kit. Is there a reason for this?
Hi Nick – We’ve not yet released the TSB for the 11-16. There’s no current ETA on it, unfortunately.
I have a 2021 7.3 gas Tremor Lariat loaded with every option Lithium Gray with Black out package. I’m interested in 3.5 or 4.5+ inch lift I want to run 37×12.50 on 17×8.5-9” wide or 18×8.5-9” wide wheels could the 3.5” current Backcountry kit work with no tire rub with this wheel and tire spec without rub?
Please advise
Hey Jamie – 0 Offset on 9″ wide is what you’re after.
hey Dan…i would like to order the back country for the 7.3 gas if it available. I would also like to order the add a packs.
My truck is a 2021 XL f350 CC SB. From what I have read I think my front will get + 3.5″ of lift and the rear will get + 1/2 to 1″?
Thanks
On the 7.3L, you’ll see about 3″ up front and 1/2 to 1″ rear!
Hi Jeff, I have a 2020 tremor with the 7.3 gas also. How do you like the level kit. Did it soften the ride? Can you post some pics?
Hi Brian – Not sure I understand the question being asked here as this article was not written nor maintained by the owner of the truck nor is there anyone named Jeff connected to the truck in my recollection. Feel free to clarify and I’d be happy to help.
The truck runs a lighter rate coil spring and custom tuned shocks designed specifically for the purpose of softening the ride!
– Dan
Hi Dan- Thanks for the fast reply. There was a post from Jeff Jassby October 6, 2020 at 2:42 pm. I was looking for some pics of his truck.
10-4, you replied to the main article, not Jeff’s specific post. Thus the confusion.
Hi Dan, I have a 2020 f 350 7.3 gas crew cab. Can i use the 3-1/2″ diesel lift? If so will the ride be stiffer than stock?
Hi Brian – I’m not sure why you’d want to do this when there’s a gas coil available? Yes, you could throw in the diesel system but you’ll see about 1″ more than the stated lift and the ride won’t be as refined as it would with a tuned Gas system.
That’s a shame regarding the lack of an option for 5.5″ lift for a 2020 7.3L. My business will be elsewhere.
Sorry to hear that, Jim. Best of luck to you on your build!
Any further thoughts/discussions/possibilities of upping the game for the 7.3L owners to the 5.5″ kit?
Hi Tom – Not at this time, unfortunately.
Hey Dan, did you guys ever get a Tremor to confirm how much lift is achieved with the 3” Spring level kit on a Tremor?
Just wondering as I’m about to order my kit for my 2020 Tremor, and wanted to know if it was 2” or 2.5”.
Thanks for help!
Hi Dan – we updated the measurements for the tremor HERE. Hope this helps!
Dan, I just ordered the level 7.3 gas system from CJC with the rear shocks and adjustable track bar. I installed the 295 65 20 Yokahama X-AT cause it was the tallest tire in its class…supposedly. My question is will the tires look to small in height for that size lift. I was trying to not go with 37’s this time.
Hey Jeff, they’ll probably look OK on the 3.5″ System. The lift doesn’t “Need” 37s to look propper but i do think they fill out the wheel well better.
I am local to SoCal and just ordered a Rapid Red Tremor with the 7.3
Need a 2020 Tremor, 7.3, test mule? Jus askin?
Hi Michael, Are you local to us in Southern California?
What are your thoughts on fitting a pair of 37×11.50 on stocks wheels without rubbing, with the 7.3 gas kit?
Demand is rising! I to was looking for the 4.5/5.5 kit for the 7.3gas. Truck on order and wanted to have this lit installed around early October. Hope the future isn’t far away!
Thanks for the comment, noted!
Why? I’ve been waiting months for news on a gas kit and now that it’s here no 4.5. Disappointing.
Sorry man, we haven’t gotten a lot of interest in the 4.5/5.5″ for the Gas trucks so we stuck to the leveling systems. Doesn’t mean it won’t happen in the future but the demand doesn’t seem to be there at this time.
I’m only a few hours away if the time comes to do a test fit of a 4.5/5.5 on a gas Tremor.
Tom
Great news! So if someone wanted the 4.5” kit on their 2020 7.3, could the diesel kit be used but substitute the gas specific springs and shocks In the kit?
Not quite, there’s no 4.5/5.5″ coil for the Gas trucks – we’re keeping the gas systems to the “leveling” 2.5/3.5″ height.
Ok. Do you know of any other manufacturer that would make a compatible spring coil that could be used in the 4.5” pintop? Or would you guys be willing to do a one off custom spring? I really want the 4.5” lift and I know a ton of others want the same. Sucks to be limited just because of the gas engine
A 4.5- 5.5 inch option would be awesome for the 2020 7.3L. Really disappointed I will not be able to purchase a Carli system to achieve the ground clearance I’m looking fo.
How do your systems not require a new pitman arm? Does the factory setup have enough adjustment? I see most other kits out there offer a new pitman arm.
Hi Ed, most other lift kits reuse the non-adjustable factory track bar. In order to center the axle, you must relocate/drop this bar. When you drop the track bar, you need to drop the steering with an equivalent drop pitman arm. Then, you need to drop the bump stops to ensure your dropped suspension & steering geometry doesn’t collapse the steering onto itself before the bump stops contact the axle. This leads to a ton of cheap, needless brackets and less up-travel to accommodate the new, dropped geometry. We provide a FAR stronger adjustable track bar to recenter the axle and have you lengthen the steering to match the length of the track bar. There’s plenty of adjustment in the steering and WAY more travel to be had when maintaining the factory angles/geometry in addition to the benefits of adding a stronger link (track bar).
OK. Thanks for the explanation.
So for a “2020+: F250/F350 4×4, 7.3 Gas, 3″ Front Lift” how much does this kit lift a TREMOR ? I have one and have been waiting to get one of these kits, just want to know what the final lift spec is.
Hi Dan, it’s been discussed that the Tremor is the same height as the older 17-19 Super Duties but we’ve been unable to confirm this as we’ve not yet had one in our shop. I would assume 2-2.5″ but, until we can get one in our shop, i cannot advise for sure.