This week we're diving into our 2024 Ford Raptor Shop Truck project build. This isn’t just another Raptor anymore - this rig is being prepped for serious work and adventure, particularly for the rugged King of the Hammers event coming up in Johnson Valley, California. Let's take a closer look at what we've done to this truck so far.
Bed Setup: Purpose-Built for Getting to the Action
Starting at the back, this Raptor’s bed is set up to tackle just about anything. We recently installed a prototype bedside accessory rail along with a prototype slider system... we've been hearing from a lot of you guys that this system needs to come out ASAP - we've finalized the designs and will have more information for you soon! This system includes our Universal MOLLE Tech Plates that can either accommodate MOLLE/PALS bags and attachments, or can be removed so it is stripped down to a basic T-slot attachment bar.
Sitting proudly atop the bed is an SDHQ chase rack spare tire carrier, designed to secure two spare 37-inch BFG tires. In the middle of this rack is a mounted Pro Eagle Jack, bolstered by an SDHQ-manufactured adapter plate, and a Power Tank for easy airing-up during low-traction trips. There’s even room for our Warn winch hitch mount setup that will live on the chase rack until it's needed for extra recovery power. Matt wants to make sure everyone we go out exploring with (including ourselves) are able to be recovered from most sticky situations.
Speaking of convenience, SDHQ has also added a few clever features like the traction/recovery board tunnel in the middle on the bottom, rugged Mac's tie-down straps for the spares and pre-drilled modular faces for securing other essential off-road items. In addition to the chase rack, our BuiltRight F-150/Raptor Bedside Rack system accommodates our shovel, propane tank, fire extinguisher and cable lock mount - keeping everything locked down, especially considering we can't use a tonneau cover with the spares mounted to this chase rack. From Overland Expo-ready camping setups to chasing the action through King of the Hammers terrain, this bed setup is ready to handle it all.
Interior: Practicality Meets High-Tech Connectivity
Inside the cab, the functionality doesn’t stop. We've installed and outfitted our rigid Seat Back MOLLE Panel Kits, allowing for safe storage of heavier, hard-sided items in addition to our soft MOLLE Pouches. Matt took a second to show off one of our favorite products, our Mounting Bracket System for Milwaukee Packout on the back of his driver’s seat. These brackets allow for easy, reliable access to your Packouts so you can carry essential gear or tools for whatever the job might need. We also outfitted the driver's panel with a couple additional pouches for first aid kits and snacks - because let’s face it, when you're a dad of 2 and off the grid from time-to-time, you need both.
A standout feature of this build is the wireless connectivity setup. Matt outfitted the truck with a Ubiquiti outdoor wireless access point, ensuring a small crowd could have a strong internet connection even in remote areas - perfect for when you're out at King of the Hammers or camping with friends at a State Park. This Raptor is more than just a capable truck; it’s becoming an off-road command center!
Under The Hood: Power and Control
Of course, performance reinforcement and vehicle enjoyment is paramount for us, so we couldn't skip a beat there. Almost immediately after picking up the truck, we added a host of COBB goodies under the hood, including their Redline carbon parts for the Raptor, a front-mounted intercooler and TurboSmart's vent-to-atmosphere blow-off valve. These upgrades are designed to handle higher boost pressures and more sustained abuse for serious off-road driving. These upgrades will be essential once we're out in the dunes and hitting the whoops! Our electronic power distribution is controlled by sPod's HD BantamX system, making it painless and quick to add or remove circuits for accessories like lights or winches.
Lighting: Ready for Anything
The Raptor Build’s lighting setup is designed for rugged reliability and maximum visibility - without looking too over the top and cluttering the front end. At the base of the truck's windshield you'll find Baja Designs XL Racer Edition lights mounted to SDHQ Built's beefy A-pillar brackets, complemented by their S1/SAE Squadron fog pocket kit down on the front bumper. Behind the grille, there's another set of Baja Designs lights - their OnX6+ bars are perfect for illuminating those pitch-black or dusty desert nights. Under the rear bumper we mounted their S2 reverse light kit as well. The entire system is controlled by a BantamX HD sPod unit, making it easy to wire and manage the various light combinations. This setup isn't for show; it legitimately illuminates from the ditch to the horizon evenly with proper aiming. We love the ridiculously powerful lights Baja Designs creates and couldn't be happier with the setup so far!
Suspension: Built to Handle the Rougher Stuff
On to the suspension side of things, we upgraded the front end with SDI top hats, allowing the Raptor to run 37-inch tires without rubbing. The rear suspension is still a work in progress considering we’re waiting to see how weight distribution pans out across the truck. Once we have the bed fully loaded with gear like our spares, Power Tank, a Warn winch and extra fuel, the rig will sit a lot differently and we want to accommodate for that. Depending on the results, we may add upgraded Eibach springs to carry the load more effectively.
Final Thoughts: Just The Beginning For This Raptor
As Matt says in the video, “This truck will probably never be done...” and that’s the thing about these builds - they evolve along with the needs of the owner, the terrain, the company's priorities and gear. From innovative storage solutions to serious performance upgrades, we're outfitting this 2024 Ford Raptor for the hardworking truck owner who demands the most from their vehicle. Whether you're spectating King of the Hammers or just need a rugged, capable truck for day-to-day hauling, let this build serve as inspiration for making your truck work as hard as you do.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to tweak, refine and add to this Raptor Build. Until then, keep your truck running strong, your gear secured and stay ready for whatever the road or trail throws at you!
Watch the full 2024 Raptor Build Breakdown below:
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