I have a 2019 F350 Crew Cab DRW long bed arriving in mid-month (July 2018). It is on a train right now. In trying to research the fit to my 2007 Lance 1181, I have learned from some that hard rubber Horse Stall mats are the recommended solution for the height adjustment that I will need. Someone did point out that Ford recommended 3/4" plywood in the bed to solve the difference. I will make the choice when the new truck arrives. Personally, I like the plywood with a conventional bed mat solution. My camper has badly damaged the bed on my current truck, because the entire weight of the camper rides on the side edges of the camper and before I added plywood to my damaged bed, the bed became extremely bowed up in the middle at the rear. . The aluminum bed is about 5" longer as well, so the TC will not be against the front of the bed. Sounds like I need a mod to use that 5" of space efficiently .
Next, consider that the aluminum allowed Ford to redesign the frame, making it from fully boxed steel and the result is 24 times stiffer. I'm thinking that I will be able to forego the Lance struts that were necessary with the flexibility of the older frame. My new truck will have a payload rating of about 6500 lbs. Well over the loaded weight of my heavy Lance.
Finally, I went for the gasser for those who know the issues with the 6.0 L diesel I have suffered thru. 385 horses and fairly good torque will be sufficient for my needs.
Anticipation.....
Rick
