Make no mistake. Ford's Super Duty 4x4s have changed the face of off-roading, thanks to several desirable traits, such as distinctive style, heavy-duty design, available V-10 engine, and the coveted straight axle/leaf spring configuration hung on the front of the duty's chassis. As with any truck that achieves got-to-have-one status, the Super Duty is being heavily supported by the aftermarket, with accessories specifically designed for the off-road community's new heavyweight contender. What follows is a look at suspension systems, engine performance goodies, and assorted accessories intended to enhance the Super Duty experience
Super Duty Suspension Guide:Shocks, Springs, And A Few Other Things
As previously noted, Ford's Super duty is the current favorite of enthusiasts who are focused on fitting their dutys with a lifted suspension and tall tires. here's an overview of various aftermarket offerings, from conservative to high-zoot; from strictly functional to show-me-the-undercarriage radical.
What It Is: Fabtech's 8-inch Suspension Lift
What It does: Functionally lifts a Super duty so that 38-inch-diameter tires can be installed.
Why It's Super: System includes new front spring packs with tapered leaf ends and Teflon inserts for a smooth ride; front track bar drop brackets; drop pitman arm; extended antisway bar endlinks; front urethane bumpstops. main leaves use a military eye wrap for strength; rear lift uses blocks, add-a-leaves, or complete lifted spring packs; optional dual front shock mounts.
Where to Get It: Fabtech Motorsports, Dept. Or, 1000 Beacon St., Brea, CA 92821, (714) 990- 8850, www.fabtechmotorsports.com.
What It Is: explorer Pro comp's 6-1/2-inch suspension lift
What It does: Lifts a Super duty using a matched suspension system. packs; replacement front track arm bracket; forged, drop pitman arm; special antisway bar endlinks allow full axle articulation; heavy-duty urethane bumpstops; Proride rubber spring eye bushings. Includes RS 3000 performance shocks; optional rear lifted leaf packs.
Where to Get It: Explorer Competition Products Inc., Dept. Or, 2360 Boswell Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91914, (619) 216-1444, www.explorerprocomp.com.
What It Is: Skyjacker's 8-inch suspension lift
What It does: Lifts a Super duty a full 8 inches while retaining a smooth ride.
Why It's Super: Specially designed front spring packs can be used with V-8 gas, V-8 diesel, or V-10 engines without spring sag; dOT-approved, forged, extreme-drop pitman arm; Softride hydro or optional nitro shocks; optional triple front shock hoop; optional dual front stabilizers.
Where to Get It: Skyjacker Suspension, Dept. Or, 212 Stevenson St., West Monroe, LA 71292, (800) 551-4955, www.skyjacker.com.
What It Is:Rancho Suspension's lift/ leveling suspension
What It does: raises the frontend of a Super duty 4 inches and the rear 2-1/2 inches, giving a Super duty a level stance.
Why It's Super: easy installation; includes track bar bracket, drop pitman arm, urethane bumpstops, extended antisway bar endlinks and extended DOT-approved braided brake lines. components are MIG-welded and powdercoated or plated for durability; system includes front and rear spring packs (no blocks).
Where to Get It: Rancho Suspension, dept. Or, 500 N. Field Dr., Lake Forest, IL 60045, (847) 482-5000, (800) 574-6257, www.gorancho.com.