ARB MT64 Coilovers & Shocks: Tacoma, Tundra, F-150 Guide
Posted by Nick Kovar on 5/1/2026 to
Before you Buy
ARB MT64 in plain English: the most refined no-reservoir 2.5" shock you can bolt to your truck.
2.5" bore. Aerospace aluminum body. 22.5mm shaft. 6-position adjustable spring seat. No reservoirs. No adjusters. Tuned by ARB's Old Man
(0) Comments
Wake Up Your 5.0L: The Ultimate Whipple Supercharger Guide for 2021+ F150s
Posted by Nick Kovar on 12/31/2025 to
Before you Buy
The 5.0L Coyote-powered F150 has always had muscle, but let’s be honest, there’s a whole lot more hiding under the hood just waiting to be unleashed. If you’ve ever mashed the throttle and thought, “this truck needs more,” you're not alone. And that’s exactly where Whipple’s Gen 6 Superchargers come in. With kits ranging from emissions-legal daily drivers to full-blown competition systems, Whipple delivers bolt-on boost that turns the 5.0L into a power-packing beast.
Whether you’re towing, racing, or just want to obliterate the on-ramp, this guide breaks down the entire 2021+ F150 5.0L Whipple supercharger lineup to help you choose the right kit for your goals.
S&B Cold Air Intakes for the Hurricane 3.0L: Which One Should You Choose?
Posted by Nick Kovar on 12/22/2025 to
Before you Buy
The all-new 3.0L Hurricane engine under the hood of the 2025+ Ram 1500 brings serious potential straight from the factory. With its twin-turbo layout and solid tuning foundation, it’s built to deliver strong performance while staying efficient. But like most modern engines, it's held back by a restrictive stock intake that limits airflow and chokes throttle response. That’s where S&B steps in.
In-Depth Guide: Ford Ranger Eibach Pro-Lift Springs
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 7/10/2025 to
Before you Buy
If you’re looking to boost your 2019–2023 Ford Ranger 4WD’s off-road capability and street stance without sacrificing comfort or control, the Eibach Pro-Lift Front Coil Springs offer a smart and reliable upgrade. Designed to work specifically with Eibach’s Pro-Truck front struts, these springs provide up to 3 inches of additional ride height—perfect for accommodating larger wheels and tires while maintaining stock-like ride quality. Whether you're navigating rugged terrain or cruising city streets, Eibach’s engineering delivers confidence and performance in equal measure.
Morimoto Tacoma Lighting Upgrades: The Ultimate Guide for Headlights & Fog Lights
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 7/3/2025 to
Before you Buy
If you drive a Toyota Tacoma, you already know it’s built for reliability and adventure. But what about your lighting setup? For many Tacoma owners, one of the most impactful upgrades they can make is replacing the factory headlights and fog lights. Stock halogen lights simply don’t provide the clarity, brightness, or style that modern LED systems offer—especially if you drive at night or off-road.
That’s where Morimoto comes in. Known for their cutting-edge optics, plug-and-play ease, and unbeatable build quality, Morimoto Tacoma headlights and fog lights have quickly become the go-to upgrade for enthusiasts. Whether you’re running trails after dark or just want to improve daily visibility, Morimoto offers a full line of premium LED lighting designed specifically for the Tacoma—from the XB LED projector headlights to the innovative 4Banger fog light kits.
Let’s take a closer look at why this brand dominates the Tacoma headlight upgrade space.
Coilovers for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma: Pros, Cons, and Top Picks
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 7/2/2025 to
Before you Buy
Whether you're tackling rugged trails or simply want a smoother on-road experience, upgrading the coilovers on your 2005–2023 Toyota Tacoma can dramatically change the way your truck handles. Coilovers replace the factory suspension components with adjustable, performance-tuned alternatives that enhance ride quality, off-road capability, and load handling. From weekend warriors to daily drivers, Tacoma owners often find that a quality set of coilovers is one of the best investments they can make in their truck’s performance. In this guide, we'll break down the pros and cons of coilovers and highlight the best coilover options currently on the market.
Upgrade Your Ford Ranger with Morimoto Headlights and Fog Lights: A Complete Guide
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/30/2025 to
Before you Buy
If you're ready to elevate your Ford Ranger's look and visibility, the Morimoto XB LED headlights and fog lights are the ultimate aftermarket upgrade. Engineered for 2019–2023 Ford Rangers, these lights are designed not just for style, but also for performance, safety, and long-term durability.
Upgrading Front Coilovers on the 2019-2023 Ford Ranger 4x4
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/30/2025 to
Before you Buy
The 2019-2023 Ford Ranger 4x4 is one of the most capable and customizable mid-size trucks on the market today. While its stock suspension is decent for road driving and light trails, it leaves much to be desired once you add weight, larger tires, or get into more aggressive off-roading. That’s where a front coilover upgrade comes in.
In this article, we’ll break down why you should upgrade your front coilovers and compare four of the most popular options: Bilstein 6112, Fox 2.0 IFP, Fox 2.5 Factory Race, and ICON 2.5 coilovers.
The Best Cold Air Intake for 2011–2014 F-150 EcoBoost 3.5L — Plus the Power Package to Match
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/24/2025 to
Before you Buy
The 2011–2014 Ford F-150 EcoBoost 3.5L was a game-changer in the truck world, offering twin-turbo performance and impressive fuel economy in a half-ton pickup. But if you want to unlock even more from your EcoBoost, an upgraded cold air intake is the perfect place to start. Among the top choices, the S&B 75-5067 Cold Air Intake System with a reusable oiled cotton filter is widely regarded as the best cold air intake for 2011–2014 F-150 EcoBoost trucks.
And for drivers who want even more performance, pairing the intake with a tuner is the real game-changer — which is why we also offer it as part of the S3M Phase 1 Performance Package, complete with a custom-tuned SCT or Bully Dog device and up to five 5-Star custom tunes.
How to Make Power on the 2015–2020 Ford F-150 2.7L & 3.5L EcoBoost: Intakes, Tuners, and Exhaust Upgrades Explained
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/23/2025 to
Before you Buy
The 2015–2020 Ford F-150 with EcoBoost powerplants has earned a serious reputation for delivering V8-level performance with impressive fuel efficiency. Whether you have the nimble 2.7L twin-turbo V6 or the more muscular 3.5L variant, both offer tremendous tuning potential. These engines respond incredibly well to bolt-on upgrades—particularly when paired with a quality tune.
In this article, we’ll break down how to unlock real-world horsepower and torque gains with three of the most effective upgrades: cold air intakes, custom tuning, and exhaust systems. We’ll also include dyno-tested numbers and mod-by-mod comparisons so you can decide the best path to more power.
Gen 3 vs. Gen 3.5 Raptor: What Ford Changed and Why It Matters
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/17/2025 to
Before you Buy
The Ford Raptor has always been the benchmark for high-speed off-road trucks, and the Gen 3 (2021–2023) brought a major leap forward with its five-link rear suspension and live-valve Fox shocks. But in typical Raptor fashion, Ford didn’t stop there. The updated Gen 3.5 Raptor, arriving in 2024-2025, delivers refined power delivery, subtle design tweaks, and a serious suspension upgrade with dual-valve Fox 3.1 shocks—setting a new standard for off-road capability and on-road composure. Whether you're cross-shopping a lightly used Gen 3 or eyeing a brand-new 3.5, this breakdown will help you understand what’s changed, what’s improved, and which version is right for your build or weekend adventures.
4-Inch Lift Kit vs. 2.5-Inch Leveling Kit for the 2015-2020 Ford F150: Which One Should You Choose?
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/16/2025 to
Before you Buy
When you're looking to transform the stance and capability of your 2015–2020 Ford F-150, two popular options are a 4-inch suspension lift kit or a 2.5-inch leveling kit. Each offers unique benefits, challenges, and outcomes—so which one is right for your build?
FOX vs. Bilstein Steering Stabilizers for F-250/F-350: Which One Stops Death Wobble?
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/11/2025 to
Before you Buy
If you drive a Ford F250/F350 Super Duty you know how critical front-end stability is, especially when running larger tires, towing heavy, or navigating rough roads. One of the most cost-effective and impactful upgrades is replacing your factory steering stabilizer with an aftermarket unit.
The two most popular options in the heavy-duty market are the FOX 2.0 Performance Series and the Bilstein 5100 Series. But which is better? And more importantly, how do they help fight one of the most infamous issues Super Duty owners face—death wobble?
Let’s break it down.
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to the RSI SmartCap: What You Need to Know
Posted by Chris Groote on 5/2/2025 to
Before you Buy
If you’re in the market for a truck bed cap, you’ve probably come across a variety of options—fiberglass, aluminum, and even soft tonneau covers. But if you’re looking for something that blends durability, security, and modular customization, the RSI SmartCap system might be exactly what you need. Built from automotive-grade stainless steel, SmartCap offers a modern alternative to traditional fiberglass caps, designed for overlanders, work trucks, and everyday drivers alike.
At Stage 3 Motorsports, we’ve recently added the RSI SmartCap line to our catalog including the EVO Sport, EVOa Adventure, EVOc Commercial, and EVOd Defender. Whether you're looking for a secure storage solution, an off-road adventure setup, or a durable work cap, this guide will help you determine which SmartCap is right for your truck.
Build the Ultimate Ranger: Start with the 2.7L EcoBoost Calibration Pack, Then Add These Power Boosters
Posted by Chris Groote on 4/7/2025 to
Before you Buy
Want your Ford Ranger to feel faster, stronger, and just plain better? It all starts with what’s under the hood—and thanks to Ford Performance, there’s now a smart and reliable way to unlock serious power in your 2024 Ranger with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine.
We’re talking about the Ford Performance Engine Calibration Pack (Part #M-9603-REB27). It’s easy to install, totally street-legal in all 50 states, and backed by Ford. Best of all? It makes a big impact.
Let’s take a closer look at this calibration—and then explore a few more upgrades that can take your Ranger build to the next level.
Maximizing the 2017-2020 Raptor with Tuners and Upgrades
Posted by Chris Groote on 3/3/2025 to
Before you Buy
The 2017-2020 Ford F-150 Raptor is an engineering marvel in the off-road world. Powered by a 3.5-liter high-output EcoBoost V6, this beast churns out 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Designed for dominating dunes, trails, and highways alike, the Raptor also features advanced Fox Racing suspension, aluminum-intensive construction for reduced weight, and 35-inch all-terrain tires that enhance its capability. While its factory performance was unprecedented, and remains exceptional, enthusiasts looking to push boundaries can turn to aftermarket upgrades to unlock even more potential.
It’s worth remembering the Raptor’s EcoBoost engine provides impressive power delivery, a broad torque curve, and excellent fuel efficiency for its class. Paired with the 10-speed transmission, it offers smooth, rapid gear changes that adapt to a variety of driving conditions. Meanwhile, the truck’s advanced suspension system allows for 13 inches of front and 13.9 inches of rear travel, making it a leader in off-road capability. Despite its prowess, some Raptor owners seek to personalize and enhance their truck’s performance, and that’s where Stage 3 Motorsports comes in.
Proven Performance Upgrades for the Toyota Tacoma
Posted by Chris Groote on 2/11/2025 to
Before you Buy
The Toyota Tacoma has long been the go-to truck for drivers seeking a reliable, versatile vehicle that handles daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between. While the Tacoma isn’t marketed as a high-performance vehicle, there are numerous ways to enhance its capabilities, making it quicker, more responsive, and better suited to your driving needs.
In this article, we’ll explore proven performance upgrades that provide real gains in power, handling, and usability. These aren’t about simply making your truck louder or flashier—they’re about delivering measurable improvements that make your Tacoma even more enjoyable to drive.
Top Three Rear Shock Upgrades for a Daily-Driven Tacoma
Posted by Chris Groote on 2/6/2025 to
Before you Buy
The Toyota Tacoma is renowned for its rugged reliability and versatility. Whether you’re tackling work commutes, hauling gear, or venturing off the beaten path, this truck is built to handle it all. But even the toughest trucks need a little attention, and rear shocks are one of the most overlooked yet critical components.
Upgrading your Tacoma’s rear shocks isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about enhancing your driving experience. Whether your truck is fresh off the lot or has a few years of service under its belt, swapping out factory shocks for performance upgrades can improve comfort, safety, and handling. Let’s dive into how to choose the right rear shocks, recognize when it’s time for a replacement, and why even daily drivers can benefit from an upgrade.
Elevate Your 2024-2025 Toyota Tacoma with ICON Vehicle Dynamics Lift Kits
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/17/2025 to
Before you Buy
The 2024-2025 Toyota Tacoma represents the latest evolution in off-road capability and rugged design, but even this trail-ready truck can benefit from a well-chosen suspension upgrade. ICON Vehicle Dynamics lift kits offer Tacoma owners an excellent way to enhance their truck’s off-road performance, increase ground clearance, and accommodate larger tires, all while maintaining exceptional ride quality. Before diving into the benefits of ICON lifts, let’s address a few key considerations about tire size and factory warranty impacts.
Reviving and Personalizing Your 2015 F150 EcoBoost: A Roadmap to (Re) Building Your Dream Truck
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/9/2025 to
Before you Buy
There’s something special about buying a pre-owned truck. Whether it’s the opportunity to save money, the thrill of a project, or the joy of reviving a workhorse, the ever-popular 2015 F150 EcoBoost Lariat FX4 we built a few years back would be a prime candidate even now for turning heads and hauling loads. With the right plan, you can transform your own F150 into a personalized performance machine that meets your needs and reflects your style. Let’s explore how you can breathe new life into your F150, tackle deferred maintenance, and create a custom ride—drawing inspiration from our 2015 F150 EcoBoost build.
Even better? This time of year, we’re ALL looking forward to that tax refund, so here’s some great ideas on how to use it most effectively.
Upgrade Your 2015-2024 F-150 or Raptor with Go Rhino Dominator D6 Side Steps
Posted by Chris Groote on 12/16/2024 to
Before you Buy
Trucks like the Ford F-150 and Raptor are built to handle rugged terrain and turn heads on the road. But when it comes to everyday functionality and protecting your investment, factory side steps can fall short. That’s where the Go Rhino Dominator D6 Side Steps step in—literally.
These high-performance side steps combine sleek design, durability, and unmatched protection, making them the ultimate upgrade for your truck. Let’s explore what makes the Dominator D6 the go-to choice for F-150 and Raptor owners.
Before you Buy: Choosing the Right Tonneau Cover for your 2021+ F150
Posted by Nick Kovar on 8/2/2024 to
Before you Buy
When it comes to maximizing the functionality and style of your 2021+ Ford F-150, one of the most impactful upgrades you can make is adding a tonneau cover. Also known as truck bed covers, these versatile aftermarket modifications not only enhance the exterior appeal of your vehicle but also offer a plethora of practical benefits. From protecting your cargo from harsh weather conditions to improving your truck's fuel efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag, a tonneau cover is a must-have accessory for any F-150 owner. Tonneau covers come in various styles, each tailored to meet different needs and preferences. The three primary categories—roll-up, folding, and retractable—each bring unique advantages to the table. Roll-up covers are known for their simplicity and ease of use, folding covers offer a balance of security and accessibility, and retractable covers provide a sleek look with robust functionality. In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of these three types of tonneau covers, focusing on a few of out top choices within each category. By the end of this guide, you'll have a clearer understanding of which Tonneau Cover best suits your lifestyle and enhances the capabilities of your Ford F-150.
Before you Buy: The Best Bed Accessories for your 2019+ Ford Ranger
Posted by Nick Kovar on 6/17/2024 to
Before you Buy
The Ford Ranger has long been celebrated for its versatility and rugged capability, making it a top choice for adventure seekers and hardworking individuals alike. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the 2019+ Ford Ranger is designed to handle it all with both style and ease. But what if you could enhance its functionality even further? Adding the right Bed Accessories can transform your Ranger into an even more efficient and organized machine, ready to take on any challenge. From bed racks and molle panels to innovative storage solutions and tailgate upgrades, these accessories will help you get the most out of your Ranger’s bed space. Let's dive into the best bed accessories that will elevate your Ford Ranger to the next level.
The Best Roof Racks and Storage Solutions for the 2021+ Ford Bronco Sport
Posted by Nick Kovar on 6/10/2024 to
Before you Buy
When the Ford Bronco Sport hit the market, it quickly became the vehicle of choice for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its compact size, off-road capability, and modern features, the Bronco Sport is built to tackle diverse terrains and weather conditions without compromise. Picture this: you’re on a spontaneous weekend getaway, exploring unbeaten paths with your family or friends, but your Bronco Sport is already packed to the brim. This is where adding extra storage space with a roof rack can transform your adventure, pushing the Bronco Sport’s versatility even further.
How to Improve Your Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi with a New Cold Air Intake!
Posted by Nick Kovar on 6/2/2024 to
Before you Buy
At Stage 3 Motorsports, we pride ourselves on offering a wide variety of cold air intake systems to help elevate your truck's overall performance. If you own a 2019+ Ram 1500 5.7L Hemi, you're in for a treat. Today, we'll dive into some of our favorite cold air intakes for this powerful truck, and see just how they can take your adventures to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned truck enthusiast or a new owner looking to boost your vehicle's performance, this article will guide you through the reasons as to why an aftermarket cold air intake makes for a worthy investment.
2021+ Ford F150 Floor Mats: WeatherTech vs Husky Liners
Posted by Nick Kovar on 5/27/2024 to
Before you Buy
When it comes to protecting your 2021+ Ford F150's interior, choosing the right floor mats is essential. While F150s typically do come with floor mats from the factory, their basic designs often lack the durability and comprehensive coverage needed for heavy-duty use and abuse. High-quality aftermarket floor liners from brands like WeatherTech and Husky Liners can offer superior protection, helping to keep your truck’s interior clean and well-maintained. This not only enhances your driving experience but also preserves the resale value of your vehicle. In this article, we'll review the WeatherTech HP Floorliners, WeatherTech Digital Fit, Husky WeatherBeater, and Husky X-Act Contour floor liners, comparing their features, benefits, and costs to help you make an informed decision for your ride.
Revamp Your Ride: Game-Changing Mods for the 2021+ Ford F-150 Raptor
Posted by Nick Kovar on 5/3/2024 to
Before you Buy
The Ford F-150 Raptor is truly a beast in its own right, crafted for high-performance off-road action straight from the factory. Known for its impressive power and aggressive styling, the Raptor is a favorite among truck enthusiasts. However, even the best can be made better with a few simple upgrades. In this guide, we'll explore some of the top performance enhancements for the 2021 and newer Ford F-150 Raptor, focusing on engine modifications, lighting upgrades, and a few select aftermarket accessories that complement its already formidable capabilities.
Before you Buy: AWE Exhaust Systems for F150s
Posted by Nick Kovar on 3/20/2024 to
Before you Buy
Does the factory exhaust system equipped on your F150 leave a lot to be desired in terms of both sound and quality? If so, it's time to consider upgrading to an AWE Exhaust System. Renowned for their exceptional quality and unique sound profile, AWE stands out as the go-to choice for F-150 enthusiasts seeking to elevate their driving experience. In this article, we'll explore what makes AWE exhaust systems the ultimate choice for your truck, from their distinct sound to innovative 180 Technology and comprehensive warranty coverage. Plus, we'll shed light on the ease of installation, ensuring that your upgrade is hassle-free. Let's discover why AWE is the perfect fit for your F-150.
Before you Buy: Are Bora Wheel Spacers Worth It?
Posted by Nick Kovar on 2/14/2024 to
Before you Buy
In the world of truck customization, the search for improved performance and upgraded aesthetics often leads enthusiasts down various rabbit holes to find the best aftermarket upgrades. If you've ever pondered the idea of adding wheel spacers to your rig, you're certainly not alone. Wheel spacers have become a popular choice among truck owners looking to enhance the stance and handling of their vehicles, causing a ton of questions and concerns to arise from the truck community. If you're contemplating whether Bora Wheel Spacers are the right addition for your F150, Bronco, or Super Duty, this article is your go-to guide. We'll break down what exactly wheel spacers are, highlight their advantages, shed some light on their drawbacks, and explore some noteworthy upgrades tailored for different trucks.
Before you Buy: The Best Overland Upgrades for your 2019+ Ford Ranger
Posted by Nick Kovar on 2/6/2024 to
Before you Buy
For the modern adventurer or weekend warrior looking to conquer untamed trails, you'll need more than just a reliable vehicle to enjoy the thrill of off-road exploration. Transforming your 2019+ Ranger into a versatile overland machine will require some serious effort, but the payoff of challenging new terrain is well worth it. In this guide, we'll dive into the world of overland upgrades, checking out the benefits of key enhancements such as Roof Racks, Bumpers, Off-Road Light Mounts, Recovery Gear, All-Terrain Tires and more. Notably, we won't be discussing suspension upgrades in this article; however, if you're looking to lift your Ford Ranger, be sure to check out our post that covers all-things suspension. This way, you can customize your off-road experience to the fullest extent for a truly one-of-a-kind 2019+ Ford Ranger overland build.
