I just got a 97 f150 ext cab 5.4 4x4 auto, tons of miles, like when you think it's alot double it. We're guessing around 700k. Information on the truck are fairly simple, it was bought brand new in 97. The transmission has been rebuilt, the engine is out of a 03 or 04. Still plug wire truck.

My goal is simple. I want it to run and play with raptors. We have a couple raptors in the family and they just think there's nothing better. This will not be a daily driver, I enjoy my cars and powerstroke. So I got this to tear up and go nuts.

I'm in the air if I will build the 5.4 or swap a new model engine in.

I have no idea on suspension, so any advice would help.

 

As much as I have loved my 97-03 trucks, the Raptor is all around a better vehicle than a '97 F150 will ever be. The money you would spend trying to outrun and out-suspension a Raptor would be better spent buying a Raptor and modding it to outrun your buddy's Raptor.

 

Point blank is you can't.
The Rapter has to many upgrade you cannot put in a 97 motor.
Good luck.

 

There is a show on Spike TV called Extreme 4x4 that did exactly this a couple years ago. They took a 97 and built a monster to beat Raptors with. Here is a link to the 1st episode, more info on this can be found using our friend google.

Half-Price Raptor Part 1 / Jeep TJ Part 1 | Xtreme 4x4 | PowerBlockTV - Full Episodes

 

Cheapest way would be to buy a raptor