Off-Roading 101: Ford F-150 Raptor Upgrades

Quick question - how do you take the best-selling vehicle in North America and make it even better? The answer - you give it a wider body, skid plates, Fox shock absorbers, and a killer name. Enter the Ford F-150 Raptor.

When the Raptor first debuted in 2009, it was a game-changer in the truck world. It had distinctive features that set it apart from the typical lift-and-level package. In the process, the Raptor blazed a trail that other manufacturers would eventually explore.

In the 12 years that followed, the Raptor has only become even more of an icon in the truck and off-road spaces. It’s been raced in Baja, set the bar for other manufacturers, and generated a fanbase that always wants more. Here at ORW, we offer several products that fit with this upgrade lifestyle. Let’s go over some options that will take this already killer truck and make it even better.

Off-Road Suspension Systems

First and foremost, you’ll need a suspension system that can handle off-road conditions. The right suspension system will both maximize your truck’s performance and provide you with a smooth, comfortable ride.

ICON Vehicle Dynamics Stage 4 Suspension System is uniquely designed with performance in mind. Built to maximize wheel travel and improve ride quality, this system has several moving parts that together for a great driving experience, both on and off-road. Best of all it’s built to last: ICON coil springs are guaranteed for life.

Another suspension system worth mentioning is the ICON Vehicle Dynamics Stage 5 System . It also increased wheel travel and ride quality, but without any reduction in towing capacity. Its shocks are specially made for the F-150, providing superior damping and vehicle control. The system is easy to install, 100% bolt-on, no drilling is required.

Control Arms

Element (left) and ICON (right) billet control arms for the Ford F-150 Raptor.

Control arms are one area of improvement. From the factory, the control arms are pretty simple units; stamped steel with ball joints pressed in. Improving on this, you can order upper control arms made from tubular steel or billet aluminum from Element Hard Parts and ICON. These offerings include a uni-ball joint, which offers much greater travel than a standard ball joint. On top of improved strength and articulation, you can now also look at more serious shocks.

As for upgrades for these trucks, we’d recommend you check out our selection of SDi, ICON, King, and others. These companies all make shocks that fit every budget level, whether it’s a larger diameter, remote reservoir, adjustable or non-adjustable, and so on. Our staff at every ORW branch will put you in the right direction to meet your needs.

Cold Air Intakes

A good air intakes system will give you a big boost in horsepower and torque: just what you need to make it up and over steep inclines. Check out these air intake systems for a full-throttle ride.

The K&N Performance Air Intake System guarantees increased horsepower and torque. Each intake valve has a high flow, reusable air filter to keep your engine dust-free. This durable air filter gives you up to 100,000 miles of driving before it needs to be changed. Few other intake systems offer such a long performance.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake gives you extra horsepower and throttle while keeping your engine clean. The cooler air it sucks in gives your engine better combustion capability, meaning better performance. This easy-to-install intake can be put on fast for an instantly recognizable boost in power.

Exhaust Systems

There are many kinds of truck enthusiasts, but we all have our own style. Whether you want to come off as sleek and fast or aggressive and powerful, the right exhaust system could give you that missing touch.

Give your truck an aggressive look with the Rough Country Dual Cat-Back Exhaust System . This system produces a loud roar that will put a smile on your face every time you hit the gas. The black-tipped dual exhaust will give your truck that tough-guy look you’ve been looking for. Simple clip-on installation, this exhaust system will make your truck the coolest-sounding vehicle on the road.

If you’re more the strong, silent type, then maybe you should go with a quieter option. The MagnaFlow Direct-Fit Muffler Kit reduces exhaust noise to a low roar. Loud enough to turn heads but quiet enough not to wake the neighbors. A great addition to your vehicle.

Off-Road Bumpers

ADD Bomber (left) and PRO V2 (right) bumpers for the late-model Raptor.

To better protect your investment, you might also want to invest in bumpers. Addictive Desert Designs (ADD) offers several models to choose from, including the PRO V1 and V2, Bomber, Stealth, and others. Each offers unique styling and improvements, like a higher approach angle, as well as locations for auxiliary lights and a winch. Other companies in this space include DV8, Body Armor 4x4, and Rough Country.

With a smooth ride, better protection, and knockout looks, your Ford Raptor will maintain its iconic status for years to come. Stop by any of our eight locations today to find out more about upgrades for these Blue Oval trucks.

Off-Road Lights

When you’re out in the wilderness and dusk falls, you’ll want a lighting system you can depend on. Sure, your truck has lights, but will they provide you with the illumination you need to get the job done? These innovative lighting systems will light up the darkest night, check them out below.

The Rough Country Hidden Grille Kit is a great addition to your truck’s lights. It’s easy to install and only requires minor drilling. Fitting right into the grill, it looks 100% natural and gives your factory lights a big boost. With 30 high-intensity LEDs giving off 12000 lumens, shadowy terrain will light up instantly wherever you turn your wheel.

If you need floodlights that cast a wide beam at a far distance, then Baja Designs A Pillar Kit is perfect for you. Once installed on top of your truck, you’ll be able to see farther than ever before. The kit includes everything you need for installation, no modifications are necessary. Whether working, traveling, or finding your way back home, these 5000K daylight LEDs will light your path.

Wheels

When off-roading, the kind of wheels you're rolling on could make or break your trip. Perhaps it’s time to upgrade from factory wheels to something a little more professional. Check out these premium off-road wheels below.

ICON Alloys Compression Titanium will give your truck a bold new look. The COMPRESSION has been designed to increase caliper clearance and improve wheel position, giving your vehicle free suspension travel and improved steering. Look cool while navigating the roughest terrain with ICON Alloys COMPRESSION wheels.

Method Race Wheels MR305 NV look as cool as they handle. These matte black 17x8.5 inch wheels have a load rating of up to 2500 lbs, making them some of the toughest off-road wheels around. They’ll really take your wheels to the next level.

Conclusion

The Ford F-150 Raptor has been a top-performing truck for over a decade. Its innovative design and improved performance over the original kept fans coming back for more. Off-Road Warehouse has all the upgrades you need to take your F-150 Raptor to the next level.