2009 Ford F150 Buildup - Fantastic Ford

FROM THE DRIVER SEAT
Better appearance. Better handling. Better performance. We really don't need any other reasons to take a brand-new Ford F-150 and conduct a few parts switcharoos. Ground Force's mild drop kit installed with ease, and actually saved us a few bucks since we were able to reuse the factory front shocks. The ride wasn't altered, yet it handles more precisely and the steering feel was improved. A drop wouldn't be complete without new rolling stock, and Falken delivered a knockout of a one-two combo with their attractive wheels and high-performance tires. We went with a 265/40R22 tire because it was the same overall diameter, 30.3 inches, as the OE tires, but after installing them, they measured in at just over 29 inches. This discrepancy left a larger-than-desired fenderwell gap. To resolve this, we'll add a set of Falken 305/40R22 tires (31.6 overall diameter) to fill in the void and give the wheels more protection. As far as muscle goes, the dB Exhaust system and Spectre intake brought a healthy portion of power to the table considering how simple it was to install their products. Well, Spectre's prototype intake wasn't whipped up in a matter of an hour since precise measurements and multiple tests were run in order for us to see results, but installation will be a snap once the kit goes into full retail production. Providing a powerful rumble, the dB Exhaust is completely stealth at highway speeds, with little to no in-cab drone, but step on the throttle and the 5.4L sounds like a sporty Mustang rather than a truck. We were completely impressed with installation and quality of the exhaust system. In a matter of a few hours of real installation time, we transformed our stock truck into a sporty hauler that is better equipped to take on the streets.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Time Spent Working: 7 Hours
(not counting research and design time spent at Spectre Performance)
Degree Of Difficulty: Intermediate

Tools Needed:
Assorted wrenches and sockets, Sawzall, air impact gun, assorted screwdrivers, hammer, and a spring compressor.

Parts Used:
Ground Force 2/4 drop kit #9861 $1,218.95
Falken ZIEX S/TZ04 265/40R22 tires $193 (each)
Falken Executive 22x9.5-inch wheels $267 (each)
Spectre Performance intake Retail Pricing Not Available
dB Exhaust by Corsa kit #24310 $519.95

TOTAL: $3,578.90
(prices taken from summitracing.com, autoanything.com, and discounttiredirect, and do not include shipping and installation costs)