Ready for Adventure: Lifted 1971 Ford F250 Highboy with 3-inch Body Lift and 37’s

The lifted 1971 Ford F250 Highboy with a 3-inch body lift and 37-inch tires is a formidable off-road machine that is ready for adventure. This classic truck features a high ground clearance, large wheels, and a powerful engine that makes it an ideal vehicle for exploring rough terrains and tackling challenging obstacles.

Getting to Know the 1971 Ford F250 Highboy

The 1971 Ford F250 Highboy is a four-wheel drive truck model manufactured by Ford Motor Company from 1967 to 1977. It was designed to tackle tough off-road terrains and was popular for its high ground clearance and powerful engine options. The Highboy models were produced from 1967 to 1977 and were given this name due to the elevated stance of the truck’s suspension system.

The F250 Highboy models were built with a unique suspension system that placed the front axle above the leaf springs, resulting in a higher ground clearance. The 1971 model year featured the “Lowboy” style, which had a lower suspension design. It was also equipped with either a 360 or 390 cubic inch V8 engine, depending on the trim level. Additionally, the F250 Highboy had a four-speed manual transmission and a two-speed transfer case for four-wheel drive operation.

The 1971 Ford F250 Highboy was known for its ruggedness and durability, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts. Its design and capabilities have made it a sought-after classic truck model today.

Rise to the Challenge: Installing a 3-inch Body Lift

Installing a 3-inch body lift on a 1971 Ford F250 Highboy can provide several benefits for off-roading enthusiasts. A body lift essentially raises the body of the truck above the frame, providing more clearance for larger tires and improved off-road performance. Here are the steps to install a 3-inch body lift on a 1971 Ford F250 Highboy:

1. Gather necessary tools and equipment: You will need a floor jack, jack stands, socket set, wrenches, and a body lift kit designed for the 1971 Ford F250 Highboy.
2. Raise the truck: Use a floor jack to raise the front end of the truck and place jack stands underneath for support. Repeat the process for the rear of the truck.
3. Remove the factory body mounts: Remove the bolts securing the factory body mounts to the frame using a socket set and wrenches. The body mounts are located on the front and rear of the truck and at several points along the sides.
4. Install the body lift spacers: Insert the new body lift spacers between the frame and the body mounts. The spacers should be positioned to align with the original mounting holes.
5. Install new bolts: Use the new bolts provided in the body lift kit to secure the body mounts to the frame.
6. Reconnect components: Reconnect any components that were removed during the installation process, such as the radiator support and fuel filler neck.
7. Test the lift: After completing the installation, lower the truck off the jack stands and test the lift by checking for clearance between the tires and fenders.

It’s important to note that a body lift does not increase the suspension travel or improve the truck’s overall suspension performance. It only provides additional clearance for larger tires and improved ground clearance. Therefore, it’s recommended to also upgrade the suspension and steering components to fully take advantage of the benefits of a body lift.

Tuning Up for Tackling Any Terrain

If you’re planning to take your lifted 1971 Ford F250 Highboy with a 3-inch body lift and 37″ tires on some off-road adventures, it’s important to make sure it’s properly tuned up and maintained. Here are some tips:

1. Suspension: Make sure your suspension is in good condition and properly aligned. Check your shocks, ball joints, and steering components for wear and replace as necessary. Consider upgrading to heavy-duty or performance parts for improved off-road performance.
2. Tires: Your tires are one of the most important components for off-road performance. Make sure they’re properly inflated and in good condition. Consider upgrading to tires with more aggressive tread patterns for improved traction.
3. Brakes: Make sure your brakes are in good working condition and have plenty of pad material. Consider upgrading to high-performance brake pads and rotors for improved stopping power.
4. Engine: Have your engine tuned up and make sure all fluids are at the proper levels. Consider upgrading to a high-performance air intake and exhaust system for improved power and throttle response.
5. Lighting: If you plan on doing any off-roading at night, make sure your lighting is up to the task. Consider upgrading to high-output LED lighting for improved visibility.
6. Recovery Gear: Make sure you have the proper recovery gear on hand in case you get stuck. This includes things like tow straps, shackles, and a high-lift jack.
7. Regular Maintenance: Lastly, make sure you stay on top of regular maintenance tasks like oil changes, fluid flushes, and filter replacements. This will help ensure your vehicle stays in top condition and is ready for any adventure.

Exploring the Wild With 37 inch Tires

37-inch tires are a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts looking to tackle rugged terrain. Here are some benefits of using 37-inch tires:

1. Increased Ground Clearance: 37-inch tires provide more ground clearance than smaller tires, which can help you navigate rough terrain without getting stuck or damaged.
2. Better Traction: The larger tire size also means that there is more surface area in contact with the ground, providing better traction and stability on uneven surfaces.
3. Improved Off-Road Performance: With larger tires, your vehicle will have more clearance and more grip, which can help you tackle steep inclines, rocky surfaces, and muddy or sandy terrain with greater ease.
4. Enhanced Appearance: 37-inch tires can give your vehicle a more aggressive and rugged look, making it stand out on the road or off.
5. Durability: Many 37-inch tires are designed to be durable and resist punctures and tears, making them a reliable choice for off-road adventures.

It’s important to note that upgrading to 37-inch tires may require modifications to your vehicle’s suspension and drivetrain to accommodate the larger size. Additionally, larger tires can impact your vehicle’s fuel economy and handling, so it’s important to research and consider all factors before making the switch.

Rounding Out the Adventure: Showing Off Your Modified Highboy

If you have invested time and effort into modifying your 1971 Ford F250 Highboy with a 3-inch body lift and 37-inch tires, you’ll want to show it off! Here are some ways to showcase your vehicle and connect with other enthusiasts:

1. Attend a car show: Look for local car shows and events where you can display your Highboy and meet other car enthusiasts. You may also want to look for specific shows or events that cater to lifted trucks or off-road vehicles.
2. Join a club or forum: There are many online communities and clubs dedicated to lifted trucks and off-road vehicles, where you can share photos and information about your Highboy and connect with other enthusiasts.
3. Take a road trip: With its modifications, your Highboy is ready for adventure. Take it on a road trip and explore some off-road trails or scenic routes, and take plenty of photos along the way to share with others.
4. Use social media: Share photos and updates about your Highboy on social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook, using relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
5. Make modifications visible: Make sure the modifications to your Highboy are visible, such as adding decals or stickers to the side of the truck that showcase the lift and tire size. You could also install a custom grill or bumper that adds to the overall appearance of the vehicle.

By showcasing your modified Highboy, you can connect with others who share your passion for off-road vehicles and lifted trucks, and inspire others to tackle their own modifications.