Hey I got a black 1996 f150 and I was wondering whether I should black it out or chrome. If I black it out I plan on getting smoked head and tail lights, black rims, a black grille, probly make a black grille guard, and then maybe a black roll bar with KC lights, and if I were to go chrome I would do the same just in chrome most likely. Thoughts??

 

It's all personal preference really. Do you like Chrome or blacked out? I personally don't like a lot of Chrome. I went with an argent grill, and clear headlights with black housings. I'm nowhere close to being done with the truck, a lot of work to do still.

 

Agree with ProjectDually, that it really is a question of preference. I would need to see the truck in question to really give you my opinion on your specific model. I personally like the blacked out trucks, but there are some models that chrome is really a good choice on but shouldn't be overdone (not a fan of it all over the truck like along the bottom, etc.). Even a mostly black truck with tasteful chrome is very good looking. Again, seeing the truck in question would help us to better visualize it.

 

don't do the smoked headlights and taillights though.
it is illegal in most states, and just plain stupid for street use.
the purpose of the lights is to make them as bright as possible, not dim them.
it is hard enough to see the tail lights when the sun is in your eyes.
with smoked light lenses, they become invisible, and you are just asking for someone to rear end you because they will not be able to see your brake lights come on. .

the only use for smoked light lenses is on show trucks that never get driven

 

Personal prefference.

But word to the wise..

Painted bumpers and grills CHIP A LOT

 

That's why I went with black housings and clear lens. When the truck is off, you get the appearance of a blacked out headlight, but when the lights are on, the lens are clear and uninhibiting. A happy medium to both worlds.

 

I generally don't like a lot of chrome, but all blacked out with just a touch of chrome works well. +1 on the bumpers but for ultimate durability you will want the OEM chrome bumpers the aftermarket versions aren't much more durable than a painted bumper.

 

wow guys thanks and heres the pickup,




So Whadda ya think

 

Oh and also the lights I've been looking at said that they pass all DOT regulations so idk...

 

Thats a tough call. That truck has what I would call the "right amount" of chrome on it. I think if you really want the blacked out lights, they would still look good leaving the rest of the chrome alone. If I was going to get rid of any, it would be the chrome decals around the bottom and leave the grill, light trim, door handles, and edging. The bed rail covers could go or stay and still look good. But this truck is definitely a good candidate to go completely black so I don't know if this has helped or not. LOL Personally, I like it as it is.

 

If that was my truck I would do chrome wheels, and clear headlights/turn signals, and not touch anything else.

But I think it looks good already just like it sits.