Can someone set me straight about leveling kit vs add a leafs - 35's vs 285

[ScottyP5947]

Hi there!
So I am looking to do a minor lift to the nose and tail of my truck. I want to add a 2" add a leaf in the back, more capacity and cheap to do. Up front is where things get foggy for me. I want just 2", 2.5" if I have to. I have read that I can add 2" add a leafs up front and have no issues with the track bar, etc. I know that leveling kits come with the track bar bracket because they are 2.5", right? If I added 2" add a leafs up front will I have issues with alignment, etc? What would I need to correct it? Should I just get the leveling kit? What about the mini-spring packs on ebay? Lame or what?
How about shackles up front? I can get 2" shackles and keep the same ride, will I need a track bar for that?

I am looking to clear 285's, that's it.
Will they clear 35's? Do you guys like your 35's with 3:73's? I have heard some bad things about 35's and such a low gear ratio around town and it sucking up all the power. What do you say?
I just wish I could get a 295/75/16 that's E load rated...

Thanks in advance...
Scott

[choupique108]

id do a add a leaf out back with a hanger kit up front.

[Raul@Stealth Automotive]

i would go with 2" drop down hangers not shackles.... something like this: 2" Shackle Leveling Kit

it might be more expensive then your average ebay kit... but its a good complete kit. you wont have any issues with it...

as far as tires it will clear 35's and your fine with the stock gears

-Raul

[choupique108]

you should be able to clear 285s with stock height.

[01flatbed]

my 01 one ton clears 285's stock, idk if the 250 differws to the 350's tho. no rubbing lock to lock either

[smokenstroke]

My old 2000 F250 2x4 cleared 285's without scrubbing.

[ScottyP5947]

so what about a shackle or add a leaf up front without using an adjustable bracket? Will I have issues? I may get 285's on it now, stock, but I still want to bump it up in height. So no sluggishness with 35's? I bet they pull like wild on the freeway.
Scott

[smokenstroke]

Mine are 305/55/20's which are about a 34'' tire. Thay ride better than my dads 285's. No pull or sluggishness. 7.3 has pleanty of power!

[ScottyP5947]

What about alignment issues with the add a leaf only up front or with the shackle kit even, thats what I a looking to find out. I think I will still go with a 285 tire, as I can get e load rating and 80 psi for mpg.
Scott