2021-2026 Ford Raptor Leveling Kit Guide: Collars vs Springs vs Full Shocks
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 8/11/2026 to
In-Depth Review
Every 2021-2026 Ford Raptor leveling option explained: adjustable collars and spacer kits, replacement coil springs, and full replacement coilovers. Install times, lift height, and which one to buy.
(0) Comments
Baja Designs Squadron 2.0: What's New, Sport vs Pro, and Every Kit We Offer
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 8/3/2026 to
In-Depth Review
The Baja Designs Squadron 2.0 is a ground-up redesign of the most popular 3-inch LED pod in off-roading. Baja Designs claims up to 41% more performance than the original Squadron. If you run a Raptor, Super Duty, Tundra, Tacoma, or 4Runner, there is already a bolt-on Squadron 2.0 kit for your truck, and we carry them all. This guide covers what changed, how to choose Sport vs Pro, and which kit fits your rig.
Ford Maverick 2-Inch Lift Kit, Wheels & Tires: Build Part 1
Posted by Nick Kovar on 6/4/2026 to
In-Depth Review
Almost nobody is seriously building the Ford Maverick, so we did. This is Part 1 of our in-house Maverick project, and it starts where every good build starts: suspension, wheels, and tires.
Bilstein 5100 vs 6112 vs 8112 Front Shocks: The Buyer’s Guide for Truck Owners
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 3/12/2026 to
In-Depth Review
Trying to decide between Bilstein 5100, 6112, and 8112 shocks? This guide explains the real differences in ride control, off-road capability, heat resistance, and adjustability. Learn which Bilstein suspension upgrade makes the most sense for your truck based on driving style, terrain, and performance expectations.
FOX 2.0 vs 2.5 vs 3.0 Shocks: What’s the Real Difference for F-150, Ranger, Bronco & Tacoma?
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 2/20/2026 to
In-Depth Review
If you’ve been shopping FOX suspension for your truck, you’ve seen the numbers everywhere: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0. Those numbers are not just marketing fluff. They are a shorthand for shock body diameter, and they directly impact heat capacity, damping control, durability under load, and how consistent the shock feels when you drive hard.
Next-Level Rear Lighting: Why Ford Truck Owners Love the Putco Excalibur
Posted by Nick Kovar on 1/23/2026 to
In-Depth Review
When it comes to rear lighting upgrades, most options feel like an afterthought: bulky, generic, and slapped on with little regard for fit or finish. That’s where the Putco Excalibur Tailgate Light Bar changes everything. Purpose-built for Ford F150, Super Duty, and Raptor models, this tailgate light bar blends cutting-edge LED tech with OEM-style integration that feels like it came straight from the factory.
Upgrading the 2021 to 2025 Ford F-150 with ICON Stage 1: Real-World Ride, Stance, and Performance Results
Posted by Nick Kovar on 11/19/2025 to
In-Depth Review
The ICON Stage 1 Suspension System has become a go-to upgrade for late-model F-150 owners who want real gains in ride quality, control, and on-trail performance without overbuilding the truck. We recently installed the ICON Stage 1 kit on Bill’s 2023 Platinum PowerBoost F-150 and spent time both on the road and in the Arizona desert to see what this entry-level coilover system actually delivers.
Fuel Off-Road’s 5th Gen Super Duty Is an Absolute Unit – Here’s What’s On It
Posted by Nick Kovar on 10/2/2025 to
In-Depth Review
When Fuel Off-Road builds a Super Duty; they don’t do it halfway, and their latest 5th Gen Ford Super Duty is proof. This beast of a truck is fully outfitted with purpose-built gear that brings aggressive styling, serious performance upgrades, and off-road functionality all in one brutal, blacked-out package. We’re taking a closer look at the key exterior upgrades on this build, and the best part? You can get every one of these components right here at Stage 3 Motorsports.
Breaking Down the 2025 Ford Ranger & Ranger Raptor: The New Benchmark for Midsize Off-Road Trucks
Posted by Chris Groote on 8/27/2025 to
In-Depth Review
The Ford Ranger nameplate has been around for decades, but the latest iteration of the 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor might just be the best off-road truck in its class. With a completely redesigned chassis, powerful engine options, cutting-edge technology, and high-performance off-road capability, Ford has reasserted itself as the leader in the midsize truck market.
Whether you're looking at the standard Ranger lineup or considering the high-flying, desert-dominating Raptor, there’s no doubt that Ford’s midsize truck is engineered to take on anything in its path. Let's break down what makes the 2025 Ranger and Ranger Raptor stand out, and why it may just be the best new off-road truck on the market.
Subtle. Savage. Bright. Meet the Baja Designs S1 Vent Light Kit for Your 2022-2025 Tundra
Posted by Chris Groote on 8/7/2025 to
In-Depth Review
The 2022-2025 Tundra is already a bold-looking truck. With its aggressive front grille, sharp body lines, and that unmistakable presence on the road, it doesn’t exactly whisper its way through traffic. But if you're the kind of owner who believes the right details make all the difference, then you’re going to love what Baja Designs just cooked up.
Enter the S1 Vent LED Light Kit—a sleek, functional, and just plain cool way to give your Tundra's front end a little extra edge.
In-Depth Guide: Toyota Tacoma Eibach Pro-Lift Springs – Performance, Payload & Off-Road Confidence
Posted by Bill Lindsay on 7/8/2025 to
In-Depth Review
For Toyota Tacoma owners looking to boost off-road capability, improve ground clearance, and support additional gear without sacrificing ride quality, Eibach’s Pro-Lift Springs offer a proven and purpose-built suspension upgrade. Whether you’re a weekend trail runner, overland adventurer, or simply want to level your rig for everyday driving, this lift solution stands out for its engineering, durability, and balanced performance.
This article explores the Eibach Pro-Lift Spring system for the 2016–2025 Toyota Tacoma, breaking down what makes these springs different, how they perform under load, and why they’re a smart upgrade for any serious Tacoma owner.
The Bronco Raptor: A Different Animal Entirely
Posted by Chris Groote on 2/6/2025 to
In-Depth Review
When it comes to off-road vehicles, the Ford Bronco has long been an icon, offering rugged versatility and a nod to adventurers everywhere. But if you think the Bronco Raptor is just a "better Bronco," think again. Ford didn’t just tweak the standard Bronco for the Raptor—they rebuilt it into something entirely different. This beast is less of a variant and more of a purpose-built machine, tailor-made for conquering terrains most vehicles wouldn’t dare approach.
At Stage 3 Motorsports, we’re all about “Built Not Bought” but the simple truth is the Bronco Raptor deserves to be viewed as an incredible off roader, right off the lot.
The Unsung Hero of Engine Performance: Air Oil Separators for EcoBoost and Coyote Engines
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/23/2025 to
In-Depth Review
When it comes to protecting your Ford engine and ensuring peak performance, the Air Oil Separator (AOS) often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. For turbocharged EcoBoost engines, an Air Oil Separator is almost a necessity. While naturally aspirated 5.0 and 5.2 Coyote motors may also see some benefits, the advantages are particularly pronounced for forced induction setups. Let’s explore why these small but mighty devices matter, focusing primarily on EcoBoost engines.
Building Your Overlanding Dream Rig
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/17/2025 to
In-Depth Review
Overlanding has surged in popularity, and enthusiasts are now discovering that nearly any truck can become the perfect platform for adventure—especially if you choose a truck with the right foundation. Enter our 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor, which we built up for overlanding from the original idea as a performance-focused street truck with its turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost engine and (in our case) less spacious single cab layout, the truth is, though, when it comes to overlanding, sometimes the less optimal truck can be the best choice, IF you plan it well. There are always options and alternatives to traditional overlanding platforms.
At Stage 3 Motorsports, we took our short-wheelbase Tremor and transformed it into a capable overlanding rig, proving that even a truck initially marketed for on-road performance can shine off the beaten path. If you’re considering a late-model Tremor (or any other single cab) for your next build, let our project serve as your roadmap to creating a trail-ready vehicle that’s practical, reliable, and adventure-ready.
Revitalizing the 2017 Ford F-250 6.7L Power Stroke: Your Next Project Truck
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/16/2025 to
In-Depth Review
The 2017 Ford F-250 Super Duty, equipped with the formidable 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, marked a significant evolution in Ford's lineup. With its aluminum body, high-strength steel frame, and impressive towing capabilities, it quickly became a favorite among truck enthusiasts and professionals alike. As we step into 2025, these trucks have become more accessible in the used market, presenting an excellent opportunity for those looking to embark on a project build.
In this article, we'll delve into the pros and cons of the 2017 F-250, drawing from years of user data, and revisit the original build we did at Stage 3 Motorsports on our own 2017 Ford F250 Super Duty to inspire your own revitalization journey.
Hunting Rig Reality: Building and Maintaining a Truck That Gets the Job Done
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/13/2025 to
In-Depth Review
When Stage 3 Motorsports introduced the First Lite 2020 F150 Hunting Rig Build, it was more than a showcase of custom upgrades. It was a blueprint for crafting a capable, reliable vehicle tailored for hunting’s unique challenges. While many admired its features, such as lift kits, lighting enhancements, and storage solutions, not everyone has – or wants – a newer rig with a bank note on it to bounce around in the outback. The simple reality is that most hunters rely on older, high-mileage trucks for a lot of reasons, and cost is absolutely one of them.
And the simple fact is, the Ford F150 can be found for sale everywhere, and with just a few tweaks from Stage 3 Motorsports, it can do everything you ever need in the field.
Building a Tacoma on a Tight Budget: First Steps for Your Dream Build
Posted by Chris Groote on 12/16/2024 to
In-Depth Review
The Toyota Tacoma is a legend among trucks for its reliability, versatility, and capability. Whether you're outfitting your Tacoma for off-road adventures, giving it a performance boost, or simply personalizing it to match your style, every great build starts somewhere.
But there’s the golden rule to any build or restoration or rescue: the “Whoa!” has to match the “Go!”
Safety and functionality should always come first. Once your Tacoma is road- and trail-ready, you can begin chasing your vision—whether that’s conquering rugged trails, hauling gear, or just turning heads on your commute. Let’s dive into the essentials for starting your Tacoma build without breaking the bank.
How to Upgrade Your Ford Ranger for Under $2,500
Posted by Chris Groote on 12/13/2024 to
In-Depth Review
The 2019-2024 Ford Ranger is already a capable and stylish midsize truck. Whether you’re driving it off the dealer’s used lot or picking up a deal on Marketplace, there’s a lot you can do to make it stand out—without blowing your budget. For less than $2,500, you can upgrade your Ranger’s looks and handling, enhance its functionality, and even add a touch of off-road capability.
Best of all, these upgrades won’t void your warranty or require a major investment in tools or expertise. Let’s dive into how you can transform your Ford Ranger while keeping it affordable, but before we spend your money too quickly, ANYTIME you buy a used vehicle, no matter what, you need to be assessing (for yourself) that it’s safe to drive and there are no pressing issues like brakes, worn tires, or electrical issues that need to be addressed right away. If you did buy a basket case, you likely knew what you were getting before money changed hands…
If you’re dealing with a solid late model though, keep reading!
How to Prepare Your Super Duty for Winter: Key Upgrades and Maintenance
Posted by Nick Kovar on 10/29/2024 to
In-Depth Review
When winter rolls around, it doesn’t just mean a drop in temperatures; it brings new challenges to the road. Icy surfaces, snow buildup, and sub-zero temperatures all impact how vehicles handle, especially for powerhouse trucks like the Ford Super Duty. And while Super Duty trucks do excel in tough conditions, winter weather demands extra preparation to keep these machines running safely and smoothly. Cold air thickens fluids, icy roads test tire grip, and the extra load on batteries can leave your truck feeling the strain. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your Super Duty in top shape for winter driving. From essential maintenance tips to winter-specific upgrades, each section is designed to give you practical steps to improve reliability, comfort, and performance in colder months.
The Hidden Issue Plaguing 2020-2024 6.7L Powerstroke Trucks and How to Fix It
Posted by Nick Kovar on 7/24/2024 to
In-Depth Review
If you own a 2020-2024 Powerstroke truck, you may be blissfully unaware of a small but mighty component that could be causing big headaches: the MAP sensor. This little sensor tends to get extremely dirty, thanks to the truck’s exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) systems. While it may seem like a minor issue, a dirty MAP sensor can lead to reduced fuel economy and diminished engine performance. But don’t worry, there’s an effective fix for this common problem. In this article, we’ll delve into what the MAP sensor does, why it gets so dirty, and how the S&B MAP Sensor Spacer Kit can save your engine from unnecessary wear and tear.
Fuel Efficiency Hacks for New Ford Bronco Owners
Posted by Nick Kovar on 5/21/2024 to
In-Depth Review
Are you a proud new owner of a 2021-2024 Ford Bronco? Whether you're tackling rugged trails or cruising the city streets, improving your Bronco's fuel efficiency can save you money and reduce your environmental impact. In this guide, we'll share practical tips on enhancing your Bronco’s fuel efficiency through maintenance, driving habits, and lightweight modifications. Let's get started!
Survival Gear for Your 4Runner: Preparing for the Unexpected
Posted by Nick Kovar on 4/30/2024 to
In-Depth Review
The Toyota 4Runner has long been celebrated for its rugged durability and off-road prowess. Known for its ability to handle both the challenges of daily commuting and the rigors of off-road adventure, the 4Runner stands out as a truly versatile adventure vehicle. In this article, we'll dive into why the 4Runner is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts and detail the essential upgrades that can transform it into a survival-ready machine. Whether you’re planning to cross deserts, climb mountains, or simply need to feel prepared for any unexpected situation, these modifications will ensure your 4Runner is ready for anything that comes it way.
Ram 1500 Towing Capabilities: An In-Depth Look (2009+ Models)
Posted by Nick Kovar on 4/15/2024 to
In-Depth Review
The Ram 1500 has is a true powerhouse in the world of pickups, especially for those who need a reliable towing machine. Since 2009, the Ram 1500 series has seen significant improvements, not only in power and durability but also in technology and towing capabilities. In this guide, we’ll explore the towing specifications of various Ram 1500 models from 2009 onwards, answer a few of the most pressing questions surrounding the topic, and discuss how just a few aftermarket upgrades available at Stage 3 Motorsports can enhance your towing experience.
In-Depth Review: 2018+ F150 OLM Lighting Upgrades
Posted by Nick Kovar on 1/3/2024 to
In-Depth Review
It's an unfortunate fact that the factory lighting components equipped on your 2018+ Ford F150 are anything but special, leaving a lot to be desired in terms of overall style and performance. If you've ever found yourself underwhelmed by the lack of illumination produced by your lights, or if you've ever wanted to update the front-end appearance of your ride, these OLM Lighting Upgrades offer the perfect solution to elevating your driving experience to new heights. In this in-depth review, we'll discuss the various lighting upgrades OLM offers for the 2018-2023 F150, exploring the enhanced appeal, functionality, and performance that could redefine your F150's presence both on and off the road. Prepare to see your truck in a new light - quite literally.
In-Depth Review: Why Bilstein Shocks are the Best Option for your 2015+ F-150
Posted by Nick Kovar on 9/29/2023 to
In-Depth Review
Within the realm of pickups, few names resonate as strongly as the Ford F-150. Renowned for its power, versatility, and ruggedness, the 2015+ Ford F-150 stands as a testament to American engineering. Yet, even in its excellence, there's a hidden secret that many F-150 owners discover – the factory shocks leave much to be desired. Whether you're navigating daily commutes or conquering off-road terrain, the difference between a comfortable ride and a thrilling adventure often boils down to one crucial component: your shocks/struts. This is where Bilstein, a name synonymous with precision engineering and premium performance, steps onto the stage. In this article, we'll dive deep into why these shocks are the undisputed champions for your 2015+ F-150. From their exceptional range of products with impressive affordability, to the unparalleled benefits they bring to both daily drivers and off-road enthusiasts, we'll explore why Bilstein stands tall in the aftermarket shock game. So, fasten your seatbelts as we journey through the world of F-150 shocks and unveil why Bilstein is the ultimate choice.
In-Depth Review: The Perfect Leveling Kit for your 2022-2023 Ford F150 Lightning!
Posted by Nick Kovar on 8/18/2023 to
In-Depth Review
The commanding presence and dynamic capabilities of the new 2022-2023 Ford F150 Lightning have redefined what a modern truck can achieve. From its striking design to its raw power, the F150 Lightning embodies a new era of driving excitement. Yet, even with its remarkable features, there's always room for improvement, especially when it comes to off-road performance and style. Here at Stage 3, we recognize your aspiration to amplify your Lightning's off-road prowess and create a driving experience like no other. That's why we've meticulously developed a Leveling Kit engineered specifically for the 2022-2023 F150 Lightning, providing you with the tools to elevate your adventures to new heights.
2021 Bronco Badlands Build – Part 1 (Video)
Posted by Zach Schwoebel on 7/22/2022 to
In-Depth Review
It’s time to start turning wrenches on our 2021 Badlands Bronco and we're kicking off the build series by bolting on a rugged Old Man Emu suspension for some additional lift and better off-road performance. We also grabbed a full set of 17x9" 1mm offset Fuel Rebel wheels and wrapped them in 37" BFGoodrich KO2 tires to size up our Bronco’s footprint on the trail. The result is not only a menacing stance, but also a practical step up in off-road capability for this Bronco build.
![]()
Before you Buy: 2021-2022 F150 Fox Stage 1 Suspension Package Install Video!
Posted by Jason Locke on 7/1/2022 to
In-Depth Review
It's no secret that we here at Stage 3 are huge fans of F150 Fox 2.0 Front Coilovers and Fox 2.0 Rear shocks, and more than a few of our past F150 Project Trucks have had Fox 2.0s on them at one point or another. Naturally, our latest F150 project was destined to get a set, and we installed our 2021-2022 F150 Fox 2.0 Stage 1 Suspension Package on our 2021 F150 Project Build and got it all on video. The 2021-2022 F150 Fox Stage 1 Package comes with a pair of 2021-2022 F150 Fox 2.0 Front Coilovers and a pair of 2021-2022 Fox 2.0 Rear Shocks so that you get a ride quality, handling, and off-road performance improvement on all four corners of your tough 2021-2022 F150 truck. Moreover, the Fox 2.0s manage to keep a smooth on-road road, making them an excellent choice for do-it-all F150s. Check out the install video after the jump and learn more about the Fox 2.0s.
![]()
In Depth Review: Our Thoughts on the New 2022 Bronco Raptor!
Posted by Jason Locke on 2/7/2022 to
In-Depth Review
Our Dear Ford Overlords have officially announced the 2022 Bronco Raptor, which is nothing but a good thing, though we're dubious of how that "2022" will work out at this juncture. Regardless, it's great to see that Ford is really dedicated to the Bronco platform and are going for FCA's Jeep jugular. The 2022 Bronco looks great, has a ton of features, comes standard with a beefy suspension, and has an even bigger EcoBoost V6 than the current Bronco lineup. That being said, there were some things that we didn't like, and I'm going to be a little more Debbie Downer than our dear A-List YouTube celebrity Noah in the video after the jump. While I personally think it's going to be a fine truck (especially for folks that don't like to modify their vehicles), I'm just not sure about the cost/benefit of the Bronco Raptor with how much the aftermarket has already stepped up to do a lot of what Ford did on the Bronco Raptor (and often better) at a price point devoid of dealership markups. See the video after the jump, as well as my unwanted opinions.
2021 F150 PowerBoost on a 2.3" Leveling Kit and 34" Tires
Posted by Jason Locke on 1/28/2022 to
In-Depth Review
With the immense capabilities and power of the 2021 F150 PowerBoost models, it doesn't take much to turn these trucks into adventure-ready rigs. Even a basic leveling kit and decent set of tires goes a long way to making the 2021-2022 F150s looking great in general, but there is something definitely special about a leveled F150 PowerBoost. Our own 2021 F150 PowerBoost truck received one of our 2021-2022 F150 2.3" Spacer Leveling Kit that retains the factory front coilover assemblies to save some cash. With that extra ride height to play with, we were able to fit on a 34" tire in the form of an LT295/60R20 Nitto Recon Grapple A/T Tire that's wrapped around a 20x9" Fuel Rebel wheel with a matte black finish and 20mm offset. The combination leaves a near-stock ride (with the tires at sub 40psi pressures), all while giving our leveled PowerBoost a great look that's clean and mean.
