I'm about to be getting a FX4 '99 F150 (Reg Cab, 8 Ft. Bed) with a 4.6L. The truck is in good mechanical condition. I was told all it needs is some exhaust work. It's gonna be my daily driver, so I don't want to do anything too crazy to it. That being said, I want it to be off road capable, more so than a factory FX4. I wont be getting it for another 2 or 3 months, so I've got time to think about exactly what I want to change on it. I want 35's, but want clearance for 37's. I've been looking into OX lockers, as opposed to ARB or Eaton. Of course, I want to add other superfluous goodies like a light bar, grille guard, and all that other crap. What I'm looking for input on, in particular though, is what type of lift (suspension/body/or combo) should I get,, what type of locker, and what should I be looking out for (going bad) with the truck. The truck has been babied its whole life, 1 owner, regular oil changes, never driven hard, but has 203000 on the odo. I figure I should also throw in that I plan on doing the work myself in the barn and I will probably have access to a friend's lift.
Oh, and sorry if this is in the wrong section, wasn't sure if it belonged under "1997 to 2003 F150" or 4X4.

Thanks,
Michael

 

welcome to FTE.
you may get a better response posting up in the 97 to 03 F150 forum, most of us do not use the newer f150's.
i you want, i can move your post up there.

 

If you could move it, that'd be great.

Thanks,
Michael

 

no problem, i will do it rite now.

 

bump?.....

 

I was looking into similar upgrades for my '03. I wouldn't use a body lift unless needed to fit large tires after suspension lift installed. I actually bought a ProComp 4" suspension lift kit a few years ago, but haven't installed it. Not sure I will now (lost the desire, and no time). I was also looking into an automatic locker for rear end. A Powertrax No-Slip Automatic Locker looked good. I've never been able to figure out if Powertrax makes one that fits my truck. Does your truck have the 8.8" rear end? You'll probably want to upgrade the gears also. I'm running stock gears (3.55 I believe) with 33" mud tires with stock suspension. I think 35s would fit with some trimming. I think a 4" lift would need at least 37" tires to look proportionate. There are many options for light bars, grille guards. etc. I would buy what you can afford and what looks good to you. Try to get stainless steel or all aluminum for steps and other metal parts.


I would check all the hoses. Look for any fluid leaks. Check heat/AC functionality. Exhaust manifolds can warp then leak over time. The EGR tube fitting and nut will rot. The exhaust bolts connecting exhaust manifolds to flanges rot. The stick on exhaust heat shields will trap water/dirt/sand/salt and rot the bed. Check the bed ribs also.