Big Sky's the Limit - Custom F150

The Ford F-150 is the world's best selling vehicle with well over 800,000 sales in 2003. As a result, the F-150 accounts for a good part of the profit generated by the world's second largest automaker. When Ford decided to completely redesign and re-engineer the F-150 for the 2004 model year, this all-new full-size pickup truck had to be a winner to continue the success. The '04 F-150 is larger and heavier, with more contemporary styling, and the interior is roomier, more like a luxury sedan.

Quicksilver
To match the larger size, stronger frame, and a more refined suspension, Ford developed a more powerful V-8. The new Triton 5.4-liter engine with variable-cam timing generates over 300 hp and 365 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to a new, stronger and smoother 4-speed OD automatic transmission with optional 2-speed electronic transfer case.


The interior of the SuperCrew Lariat is as comfortable and well appointed as that found in a new Lincoln Town Car. Safety features include front airbags, optional side airbags, and 3-point safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters up front. The front passenger airbag system also has a sensor that automatically shuts off the airbag when no weight is detected.

Body Kit
Performance West Group of Vista, CA got a hold of one of the first '04 F-150 SuperCrew Lariat 4x4s to leave the factory and set out to make this all-new pickup something very unique and even more appealing. Their designers added a long list of accessories from some of the most innovative and recognizable names in the aftermarket industry. All of these products are readily available to owners of this impressive new truck who want to add their own personal touch. We followed the build-up of what is now known as "Big Sky."


The list of aftermarket companies involved with this project is long and impressive. The first turn went to Mike Face's Custom Paint shop in San Bernardino, CA. Mike's crew first removed all the body panels and repainted them with Flex Products Spectraflair Holographic Metalflake Fine Grade "Quicksilver" paint, which really accentuates the speed and agility of Big Sky. Mike also painted the custom Xenon 8-piece body kit (front fascia, rear fascia, fender flares, side skirts) in Quicksilver.