Americans love the new Ranger small chassis truck, but unfortunately, Ford is not yet marketing the potent Raptor version Stateside. Which is exactly where PaxPower spotted an opportunity.
Ranger Raptor substitute
This is a forbidden compact truck fruit straight from Ford. The T6 Ranger has made a great comeback to the North American market, but one issue is that its Raptor version, isn't present. Whilst most other Ford truck markets who retail the Ranger also has an option on the Ranger Raptor, American customers do not. Demand will beget innovation and American aftermarket specialist, PaxPower, has built its idea of a Stateside spec Ranger Raptor.
Stepping it up
The PaxPower Ranger Raptor project started as a conventional T6 Lariat FX4. Using this proven platform, PaxPower's technical people let their imaginations go wild creating the ultimate aftermarket Ranger Raptor clone. The conversion is dramatic, but so are the demands of small power truck enthusiasts.
>>Join the conversation about PaxPower's Ranger Lariat FX4 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Not a toy truck
The PaxPower Ranger has a defined stance, which distinguishes it from other compact pick-up trucks. There is no doubt that it means business - in much the same way that Ford's OEM Ranger Raptor does. These are compact trucks that will go anywhere the trail winds and are virtually unstoppable. With improved suspension and clearances, the PaxPower Ranger Raptor is dream truck for serious off-road enthusiasts.
>>Join the conversation about PaxPower's Ranger Lariat FX4 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Real Raptor bits onboard
Although it's built off a Lariat FX4 spec, this PaxPower Raptor looks very different than any Ranger you can buy in American. To achieve the required look, PaxPower sourced the actual Ranger Raptor panels from overseas markets where the truck is sold. Hence the reshaped hood and bumpers with wider overall proportions. The front bumper-mounted LED light bar, is an aftermarket modification, though.
>>Join the conversation about PaxPower's Ranger Lariat FX4 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Built for big terrain exploring
Viewed from side-on, there are some interesting details. Unlike an actual Ranger Raptor, this PaxPower build sadly does not have the punched up side-steps that allow for easier access to the cab. What it does have are some great 17-inch off-road wheels and a lot of ground clearance, which is obvious when you see how much lift there is between the tire and fender extensions.
>>Join the conversation about PaxPower's Ranger Lariat FX4 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
Small diesel engine with lots of power
To achieve the required ride height and off-road ability of a true Raptor worthy Ranger, PaxPower went for a custom suspension solution. Its 2.5-inch lift and terrain crushing ability are provided by a BajaKits upgrade, which features high volume shocks and redesigned control arms. Where PaxPower has remained true to the international Range Raptor formula, is the powertrain. The engine is a 2-liter turbodiesel, which has been modified to 350 horsepower and is mated to a ten-speed transmission.
>>Join the conversation about PaxPower's Ranger Lariat FX4 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
And this was the inspiration
So, how well did PaxPower do with their American market Ranger Raptor build attempt? We'd say they've gotten pretty close to emulating the spirit of the original Ranger Raptor, pictured above. The only real differences are its side-steps, grille and front bumper. But in most other respects, PaxPower has done a great job of showing American Ranger Raptor fans that there is a possible solution for them to acquire the ultimate compact Ford performance truck.
>>Join the conversation about PaxPower's Ranger Lariat FX4 right here in the Ford Trucks Forum!
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