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Flashback to pre-covid December 2019, I picked up this 2019 Ford F-150 XLT, 5.0 4x4 brand new. I had an identical truck, but a 2015 and loved it.
I quickly ditched the stock wheel and tire set up. I went with some 295/70/18 Nitto Ridge Grapplers wrapping a set of 18x9 0 offset ProComp Series 41.
Did it ever rub, I installed a 2 inch puck style spacer as soon as I got home. While the puck did it’s intended purpose by increasing front ride height, it rode terribly. I complained to myself every time I drove the truck.
I added a few minor things to “buy some time” before I could actually nail down some things that are later added. I added a basic tri-fold tonneau cover. It did it’s job, kept gear somewhat “safe.”
The Cap.
I found one, just a state away. The world was just awakening from COVID’s lockdown. There was no new caps anywhere to be found, except this one. J7 Magnetic gray, frameless rear window and yes I desired the solid side windows. I was pumped and hopped in the truck.
A short time later, after countless hours of debate and researching I settled on a set of Bilstein 6112 coilovers in the front with the 5160 shocks in the rear. Boy, I was “shocked.” They ride amazing and soak up incredibly. I sourced them from a few sales and promos, I think I’m right about $700 into them.
The truck was set up “well enough” for my current state. Held all the ski and bike gear I own. Took us on many trips and had some great lot camping nights. I added a few minor things along the way, mostly Diode Dynamic lighting.
When I hit the 30k mile mark I refreshed the rubber and wheels to a set of 295/70r18 Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T tires on Method NV 305 18x9 0 offset wheels. The same specs as my original set up. I’m blown away at the epic performance of these tires!
One night, my girlfriend walked through the door. Straight faced and stern stated “I want to head out west.”
Those were probably the best six words one could hear living on the East Coast.
We’re headed out the last week of January and heading back “sometime in March.”
I had approximately two months to plan. I’m down to one, my living room looks like an off-road store. I’ve got an itinerary, maps full of hi-lighter and a lot to install.
Conveniently, the truck breaks down and has been at the dealer for over a week with at least another left. Roof rack to install, tent to erect, skid plates to mount, spare to swap, lighting to wire up with a shakedown the weekend of the 15th.
It may not be the best time in terms of trail accessibility but the western United States is massive and there’s still plenty to explore. A good part of the trip is visiting some friends, not to mention we’re skiers so a number of nights will be at Ikon resorts.
I quickly ditched the stock wheel and tire set up. I went with some 295/70/18 Nitto Ridge Grapplers wrapping a set of 18x9 0 offset ProComp Series 41.
Did it ever rub, I installed a 2 inch puck style spacer as soon as I got home. While the puck did it’s intended purpose by increasing front ride height, it rode terribly. I complained to myself every time I drove the truck.
I added a few minor things to “buy some time” before I could actually nail down some things that are later added. I added a basic tri-fold tonneau cover. It did it’s job, kept gear somewhat “safe.”
The Cap.
I found one, just a state away. The world was just awakening from COVID’s lockdown. There was no new caps anywhere to be found, except this one. J7 Magnetic gray, frameless rear window and yes I desired the solid side windows. I was pumped and hopped in the truck.
A short time later, after countless hours of debate and researching I settled on a set of Bilstein 6112 coilovers in the front with the 5160 shocks in the rear. Boy, I was “shocked.” They ride amazing and soak up incredibly. I sourced them from a few sales and promos, I think I’m right about $700 into them.
The truck was set up “well enough” for my current state. Held all the ski and bike gear I own. Took us on many trips and had some great lot camping nights. I added a few minor things along the way, mostly Diode Dynamic lighting.
When I hit the 30k mile mark I refreshed the rubber and wheels to a set of 295/70r18 Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T tires on Method NV 305 18x9 0 offset wheels. The same specs as my original set up. I’m blown away at the epic performance of these tires!
One night, my girlfriend walked through the door. Straight faced and stern stated “I want to head out west.”
Those were probably the best six words one could hear living on the East Coast.
We’re headed out the last week of January and heading back “sometime in March.”
I had approximately two months to plan. I’m down to one, my living room looks like an off-road store. I’ve got an itinerary, maps full of hi-lighter and a lot to install.
Conveniently, the truck breaks down and has been at the dealer for over a week with at least another left. Roof rack to install, tent to erect, skid plates to mount, spare to swap, lighting to wire up with a shakedown the weekend of the 15th.
It may not be the best time in terms of trail accessibility but the western United States is massive and there’s still plenty to explore. A good part of the trip is visiting some friends, not to mention we’re skiers so a number of nights will be at Ikon resorts.
I hope to use this as a journal of the truck’s adventures and build.
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