Rough Country 521.20
Rough Country 3" Lift Kit User Manual
Model: 521.20
Product Overview
This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Rough Country 3" Lift Kit, model 521.20, designed for 2008-2010 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD vehicles. This kit is engineered to provide increased ground clearance while maintaining factory ride quality.
Key features of this lift kit include:
- Unmatched Ground Clearance.
- Premium N3 Shock Absorbers for optimal performance on and off-road.
- Radius Arm Drop Brackets to ensure proper caster settings, crucial for maintaining OEM handling and drivability.
Safety Information
Important Safety Notice: Rough Country strongly recommends that all lift systems be installed by a certified technician. Proper knowledge of Rough Country instructions, suspension procedures, and post-installation checks are required. Installation without the necessary knowledge and expertise may compromise the integrity and operating safety of the vehicle.
Legal Disclaimer: It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure all bolts and nuts are checked for tightness after the first 500 miles of operation, and subsequently every 1,000 miles. Furthermore, the wheel alignment, steering system, suspension, and driveline systems must be inspected by a qualified, professional mechanic at least every 3,000 miles.
What's Included
The Rough Country 3" Lift Kit (Model 521.20) includes all necessary components for a complete suspension lift. The primary components are:
- Suspension Lift Kit components (coils, shocks, brackets, hardware).

Figure 1: All components of the Rough Country 3" Lift Kit, Model 521.20, including coil springs, N3 shock absorbers, radius arm drop brackets, and various installation hardware.
Installation (Setup)
This lift kit is designed for specific Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD models from 2008-2010. It is important to note that this kit does NOT fit dually models. While drilling is not required for installation, professional installation is highly recommended due to the complexity and safety implications of suspension modifications.
Pre-Installation Checks:
- Verify vehicle compatibility (2008-2010 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD, non-dually).
- Ensure all components listed in the "What's Included" section are present and undamaged.
- Gather all necessary tools and safety equipment.
- Review the complete installation instructions provided by Rough Country (not included in this general manual).
Key Components: N3 Shock Absorbers
The kit includes Premium N3 Shock Absorbers, which are critical for maintaining ride quality and performance. These shocks feature:
- 10-Stage Variable Valving
- High Pressure Nitrogen Charged
- 35mm Piston
- Chromed Hardened 18mm Piston Rod
- 54mm Shock Body designed to dissipate heat faster
- 36KN Tensile Strength
- Spring Loaded Piston Rod Seal
- Military Spec. Fluid Rated To -40° C
- Rubber bushings for better absorption
- Metallic Silver Paint finish

Figure 2: Detailed view of the Rough Country N3 Shock Absorber, highlighting its key features and construction specifications.
Operation and Post-Installation
After installation, it is crucial to perform a thorough inspection and adhere to ongoing maintenance schedules to ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle's modified suspension system.
Initial Checks (Operating):
- Torque Verification: Re-check the tightness of all bolts and nuts after the first 500 miles of driving.
- Alignment: A professional wheel alignment is mandatory immediately after installation to correct caster and camber angles affected by the lift.
- Test Drive: Conduct a cautious test drive to ensure proper handling, braking, and steering response. Listen for any unusual noises.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital for the performance and safety of your Rough Country lift kit. Adhere to the following schedule:
- Every 1,000 Miles: Re-check the tightness of all bolts and nuts associated with the lift kit and suspension components.
- Every 3,000 Miles: Have a qualified, professional mechanic inspect the wheel alignment, steering system, suspension, and driveline systems. This comprehensive check helps identify any wear or issues early.
- Periodic Cleaning: Keep suspension components clean, especially after off-road use, to prevent corrosion and wear.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installing your Rough Country 3" Lift Kit, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven Ride Height | Improper spring seating, incorrect component installation, or manufacturing defect. | Verify spring seating and component installation. Contact Rough Country support if issue persists. |
| Excessive Vibration | Driveshaft angle issues, loose components, or unbalanced tires. | Check all fasteners for tightness. Inspect driveshaft angles. Have tires balanced. |
| Poor Steering/Handling | Incorrect alignment (caster/camber), loose steering components. | Ensure professional alignment was performed. Check all steering linkages. |
| Noise from Suspension | Loose bolts, worn bushings, or component interference. | Inspect all mounting points for tightness. Check bushings for wear. Ensure no components are rubbing. |
For issues not covered here or if problems persist, it is recommended to consult a certified mechanic or contact Rough Country customer support.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Rough Country |
| Model Number | 521.20 |
| Compatible Vehicles | 2008-2010 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty 4WD (Does NOT fit dually models) |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 3 Inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Included Components | Suspension Lift Kit (Coil springs, N3 shocks, radius arm drop brackets, hardware) |
| Drilling Required | No |
| Item Weight | 146.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 10 x 10 x 10 inches (packaging/shipping dimensions) |
| UPC | 843030127565 |
Warranty and Support
The Rough Country 3" Lift Kit is backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures the quality of the product components.
For specific warranty details, claims, or technical support, please refer to the official Rough Country website or contact their customer service directly. It is important to retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
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