Well time to update this thread, I've neglected it. Few updates on the Ex, I've passed 140k miles a little bit ago. Got the front windows tinted 35% last summer. Tonight was the biggest mod's shes seen in awhile.






I decided it was time to ditch the 2.5" lift shackles. I ordered X-code springs from ATS and I snagged a 2016 Super Duty front bumper from work and decided to jump into it tonight. The bumper will take a little work but I think I can make it fit decently. I got one spring in tonight, my sway bar end links and bushings are totally shot so I gotta pick those up tomorrow and finish up. I'm very excited to see how it drives after this.

Pics from tonight...getting started


parts



see a difference?



stock with 2.5" lift shackle



new ATS x-code



can you say shot?

 

I am curious to see how the bumper turns out. Keep us updated.

 

Looking good Russ! Can't wait to see some more Alaska Scenery pics!

 

Chuck, I'm going to try and get out with some road trips and camping this summer w/the Ex so i'll get as many pics as possible.


Bumper didn't turn out for crap, so I put the stocker back on with the lower valance plastic from the new bumper. Also put the front plate back on to be a little more legal then I was.

Ended up putting new sway bar end links, bushings and a steering stabilizer. The truck drives like brand new now. It used to squeak, clunk..ect and sounded terrible. It's tight and soaks up bumps and road imperfections like it should.








I'm going to change up the AUX lighting, that's why the light bar is off.

 

i think the new bumper looked good!!!

send it to me hehe

i just picked up an 08+ rear bumper for my dually. now both trucks have new rear bumpers

 

I still want to do the rear bumper, I've got about 8 to choose from at work.


Random pic from dinner tonight at my grandparents.

 

Looks good Russ. I am with you on the rear bumper, they do make it look a little sharper. The front for me varies vehicle to vehicle and is a bit large for yours.

 

Looking good Russ!
I agree on the new front bumper, I have not seen one yet that actually looks right on an earlier truck like our EXs, too many gaps and poor alignment. I think with some time, a grinder and welding one of those bumpers could be made to look like it belongs there. The rear bumpers really do work well on our rigs, I have one on my wish list (and it's going to get cut up and welded too ).

 

How much did you pay for the front/how much will the rear cost you? Got any black rear bumper plastics laying around? I need one for my new 2012 bumper. Didn't come with the plastic top piece

 

@ufvj217

I picked up my 08+ Rear for $100 on CL with a small ding. Russ is in Alaska, shipping will probably cost more than new parts cost. Check the link below.

2011 Ford F250 Super Duty Truck Rear Bumper Step Pad for Models With Proximity Sensor Toyota 9C3Z17B807BA at 1A Auto.com

 

Ex looks great Russ!

 

JUST saw this thread. Very nice photos and commentary, kinda reminds me of your Expedition thread I saw back when I had my 98 in the other forum.

The new bumper looks good, I always did like your old setup with the light bar on the front though.
Keep the pics coming man!

 

first question, how'd you "tag" me? didn't know we could do that on here. haha.

next, darn, 160 bux, didn't know they were that much. theres a black bumper pad on CL in my area for 125 obo, been on there for months. i texted the guy and asked what his lowest bottom line would be, said i didn't want to offend and low ball, but i did mention i know i've seen it on CL for at least 3 months. so if he just wants to get rid of the thing, like i do with some things that just don't sell after months and months, he may take an insanely low amount to just get rid of it. waiting on a response from him. i paid $90 for my chrome rear bumper from a 2012, with a slight crease on the right side. pics are in my thread if you are interested. i also recently found out that the newer rear bumpers are pieces, not 1 single part. kinda neat in case you dent 1 side, you can buy that piece, not the entire bumper. i was wondering why i kept seeing half pieces of these bumpers on ebay.

 

Aside from the lack of plate, what's not so legal on your truck?

 

Window tint, AK doesn't allow anything on the two front windows. I've had my F-150 tinted 35% (same as the Ex) for two years and never been hassled...yet (knock on wood!)

Thanks guys, after getting the pickup the Ex has sat a lot. Now it drives so good I may put a few more miles on it switching between them.

I get the bumpers from work for a song and dance, don't really want to say what it is because it could make you cry haha. No extra bumper plastics they are all brand new take off's complete.