Liking your set up. When searching "overland F150" on Google it's the one that shows up the most. You've seem to try new things and swap out a lot. One thing is I can't find that front bumper. Seems to be a prototype if not custom job,
I have a 5.0 2015 XLT SC 4x4 with e lock. My previous was a 2014 Tacoma TRD 4D with e-lockers. Loved it except I have 2 school age kids still. My work truck is a 5.0 2014 XLT SC 4x4 and I love the room. It's also a all use, purpose vehicle and the inside room was hard not to pass up. I personally don't have a preference for a brand. They all have their good and bad but mostly all major brands are close. F150 seem to be the most popular on the road.
When we went to shop for one (dealer new) they pushed the 2.7 and 3.5 hard. I test drove them and yes, they have power. I saw the rated tow power on those are exaggerated and manufacturers know 99% will never tow that capacity. However one thing I know very well is that turbo systems will be the first major component to wear out or require maintenance. Ask any trucker out there. So a non-turbo 5.0 it is.
Other than a set of Rigid lights mine is still stock. At 23k miles it's been flawless. This week I'll be adding a 30" RDS grille and complete a set of rock lights to light up the ground. Not for visual effects but practical use. They don't add any weight or bulk for the size and getting a good visual of undercarriage and motor is important.
Next step is leveling/lift, so I'll see where I go. Next goes the tires. 285/70R17 om stock wheels. But I am looking at a UCA upgrade.
What I don't like:
3.31 gears
23 gal tank
White color
Solutions:
-The tank is definitely getting swapped out. I could care less if the DTE is accurate but I'm hearing that now they can be re-flashed. If I get the parts I can do it myself.
-Gears, maybe it's just me. Maybe the tranny can handle it. Maybe I'll just swap them out later to 3.73
-Either plasti dip, wrap, repaint, or don't care. Not important. Maybe throw a green stripe and make it look like a Border Patrol truck minus the DHS shield.