Daily Slideshow: Custom Truck Builder Makes Comeback With This 1954 F-100
After a multi-year absence, one notable custom truck builder explodes back on the scene with this awesome F-100.
1. Don't Call It a Comeback
Maybe building magazine-worthy custom trucks is like riding a bicycle. At least, it sure seems that way with Chris Brown, owner, and operator of St. Cloud, Florida-based Stand Out Customs. After all, it was way back in 2002 when Brown's last feature truck appeared in the pages of Sport Truck magazine. He's built several vehicles since those glory days, but nothing specifically geared toward feature truck status. Until now, because his latest build scored just that in the pages of Hot Rod. And judging by the incredible styling and clever engineering that went into this 1954 F-100, we'd say that he hasn't lost his Midas touch.
2. Old School Tricks on a New Build
Brown found the basis for his latest build already partially built, which gave him a head start on the whole process. He proceeded to accentuate the gorgeous factory lines of the F-100 by chopping the top three inches total, with a slight rake toward the front. He then continued with the old hot rod tricks by channeling the body over the frame and making the hood tilt forward. Finishing off the smooth, low look is a full set of fresh chrome, new headlight bezels, and deleted bumpers both front and rear.
3. Purposeful Design
You won't find some sort of basic stitch job on the inside of this hot-rodded F-100, either. The Mustang buckets have been trimmed down to keep them below the window line, a subtle but important touch on a truck destined for magazine fame. The center console is a custom piece that runs the entire length of the cab and holds both the stereo and the controls for the air suspension. The whole thing was then covered in luscious looking Camel and tan vinyl, with darker brown carpeting adding a nice contrast.
4. Simple, Effective, Ford Power
Brown didn't go crazy with some sort of modern, fuel-injected, or forced-induction powerplant. Instead, he's relying on the proven formula of a carbureted Ford 302 that's been stroked out to 347 cubic inches. The Edelbrock 600 cfm carb and intake add some power, and dual exhaust with MagnaFlow mufflers adds some sound. The punchy mill is backed up by a C4 automatic transmission with a B&M shift kit for lightning quick gear selections. And all of that power winds up back at an 8.8-inch rear end with highway-friendly 3.55 gears.
5. Solid Foundation
To ensure the foundation of this classic F-100 was as solid as its appearance, the frame was boxed for strength. A four-link suspension replaced the stock pieces, while a front end sourced from a 1997 Mustang modernized both the steering and brakes. The previous owner had already installed an air ride setup, so Brown simply re-engineered all the components until it was to his liking. With a set of massive ADR Technologies Sterling 22-inch wheels and 30-series, Desenti tires tucked up under the fenders, this old F-truck rides like something much newer. And we can't think of a better way for an old player in the custom truck world to make a comeback than this!
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