Ninth-Gen Super Duty Gets Overlanding Makeover

Global Lexicon

Sharing its title with NASA's next space venture, and named after the Greek goddess of the wilderness, Project Artemis embodies self-reliance in uncharted times. Involving numerous partners, this 1997 F-250 Super Duty was all about reinventing adventure at the height of the global pandemic. Initiated by Hemmings, Project Artemis goes far to redefine 'overlanding' in the truck-world lexicon.

Photos courtesy of KTL.

Journey Goal

There are lots to unravel with Project Artemis, but challenging times require a different approach. When lockdowns and social distancing were the norms, motor media group Hemmings set out to inject a bit of freedom into the everyday. Their venture led to a heady concept, which is described as “self-reliant overland travel to remote destinations where the journey is the principal goal.”

Discovery Emphasis

Hemmings' quest is better known as 'overlanding,' a combination of remote travel, off-roading, and camping, often for extended periods. It is a term common almost everywhere but in America. The origins of overlanding date back to the introduction of the automobile. By the 1940s, it had become a formalized activity, with an emphasis on adventure and discovery.

Ultimate Rig

With outdoors being one of the safer places during Covid, it is no surprise that off-road vehicle sales spiked. Slightly ahead of that trend, Hemmings decided to accelerate the process and build the ultimate overlanding machine. With this in mind, they partnered with Ford Performance and KTL Restorations to re-imagine a classic truck as a fun, but reliable getaway rig.

Paired Classic

To get Project Artemis rolling, Hemmings chose a ninth-generation F-250 Super Duty. Part of their rationale was that OBS (Old Body Style) Fords of this era are quickly becoming the next go-to classic. The choice paired well with both Ford Performance and KTL Restorations as those outfits were in the process of launching their own line of parts for OBS trucks.

Perfect Snap

Hemmings stated, “The original diesel-powered F-250 was almost too nice to disassemble.” For most F-Series enthusiasts, the Super Duty would have been pretty near perfect as is, but this was no ordinary build. Ford Performance supplied a 7.3-liter, 430 horsepower 'Godzilla' crate engine that was reportedly a “snap” to install in the F-250s engine bay. It was then coupled to a 10R140 transmission.

Necessary Fit

RYD Motorsports, located in Vancouver, British Columbia is considered the best source for OBS suspension solutions. The F-250's Twin-Traction I-beam was replaced with Super Duty Dana 60 axles. RYD custom-made all the necessary components to fit the axles and accommodate the 37'' Mickey Thompson Baja tires, mounted on 20'' Method 304 wheels. Disc brakes from Wilwood Engineering take care of stopping duties.

Amazing Build

Project Artemis rivals a King Ranch for comfort. The all-digital dash is from Holley Pro Six. Front and rear winch bumpers were custom-fit by Warn Industries. Leitner Designs supplied the box rack, while the rooftop tent came from Freespirit Recreation. In the end, over forty partners contributed to the amazing build. For an up-close tour of Project Artemis, check out this YouTube feature video.

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