Ford

Ford has given enthusiasts plenty of different starting points, from Mustangs and older F-Series pickups to Broncos and Raptors. Those vehicles attract different kinds of builds, but they share something useful: communities of owners and aftermarket companies that keep developing parts for them long after they leave the showroom.

The original Bronco is a good example of how that history started. For the 1966 model year, Ford offered it as an open Roadster, a short-roof pickup called the Sports Utility, and a fully enclosed Wagon. The familiar SUV shape was only one of three versions of the same small 4x4.

That variety carries into the Ford aftermarket today. Mustang owners have suspension, powertrain, and chassis upgrades to work with, while truck and Bronco builds bring lighting, protection, load carrying, and off-road suspension into the picture. Older pickups have their own following among people combining classic bodies with newer mechanical components.

Why We Like Ford At 9AM:

Ford fits several sides of what we enjoy about building vehicles. An older pickup with updated suspension, a Mustang getting ready for track days, and a Bronco built for weekends off-road all give us something to get interested in. We like seeing the different directions people take the same platform.

A Mustang and an F-150 might share a manufacturer, but the parts and priorities can be completely different. These are some of the areas Ford owners commonly work on.

Suspension and Chassis
Mustang builds often involve springs, coilovers, adjustable arms, and bushings to address ride height and suspension behavior. Truck and Bronco owners may be looking at leveling kits, shocks, control arms, or more involved suspension systems. The right combination depends on the vehicle’s weight, intended use, and existing modifications.

Intake and Exhaust
Intake and exhaust upgrades can change airflow, sound, and engine response, depending on the application. Engine choice matters here. Parts for a naturally aspirated Mustang, an EcoBoost truck, and a diesel pickup aren’t interchangeable, and some changes require supporting calibration.

Lighting and Exterior Protection
Auxiliary lighting, bumpers, and protective components are common additions to F-Series and Bronco builds. Mounting location, clearance, and added weight all deserve attention when combining these parts with other accessories.

Wheels and Fitment
Wheel width, offset, tire size, and brake clearance need to work together. A setup chosen for a lowered Mustang has different requirements from one intended for a lifted truck. Model year and trim can also change what fits.

Interior and Controls
Seats, steering wheels, shifters, and switch panels give owners ways to adapt the interior to their use. A track-focused cockpit might prioritize support and access to controls, while a daily-driven truck needs to stay comfortable and convenient.