Towing More With Your F150 or Ram 1500? These 5 Upgrades Make It Safer and Easier

Posted by Chris Groote on 5/12/2025 to Top Mods

Half-ton trucks like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 are more capable than ever, but towing pushes them to their limits. And while midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Ranger have impressive towing capacities, they are still, at heart, midsize trucks. No offense—these trucks can haul serious loads, but full-size models offer significant advantages in terms of stability, weight distribution, and overall engineering. That extra mass and design focus on heavy-duty tasks provide a higher margin of safety for drivers towing substantial trailers. If you’re looking to make towing safer and easier with your half-ton truck, the right upgrades ensure a more controlled experience. Without proper modifications, you risk trailer sway, excessive strain on your truck’s suspension, and even transmission overheating. Fortunately, a few key upgrades to even the “traditional” full size trucks can make towing much easier and significantly extend the life of your truck.

Here are five must-have modifications that improve stability, braking, and drivetrain longevity.

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Off-Roading on a Budget: Essential Mods for Your 3rd Gen Tacoma

Posted by Chris Groote on 4/11/2025 to Top Mods

Taking your bare bones 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma off the pavement doesn’t mean you can’t get where everyone’s going, and it doesn’t mean you’ve got to spend a fortune on a TRD Pro. While high-end off-road Tacomas like the TRD Pro come with factory-built capabilities, they also come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, with a few well-chosen upgrades, you can transform your base-model Tacoma into a trail-ready machine at a fraction of the cost.

One of the things that always strikes us as interesting is how seemingly modest builds can tackle tough terrain with ease. A few well-thought-out upgrades now can let you hit some great trails and gain the experience needed to know what “big” upgrades might be worth investing in later.

Take the factory limited-slip rear differential in many Tacomas—it’s helped countless trucks navigate rugged paths for years. Yes, a locking differential is an upgrade, but a smart driver with some experience can make a factory limited slip work in challenging terrain.

Your Dad’s 1983 solid axle SR-5 did it with open diffs!

For the budget-minded wheeler, there’s little need to dive into major drivetrain modifications just yet. Here are our top five upgrades to get your 3rd Gen Tacoma off the beaten path without emptying your wallet.

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Build Your Dream F150: Must-Have Mods on a $2,000 Budget

Posted by Chris Groote on 1/9/2025 to Top Mods

Not a day goes by that our teams don’t hear questions (or ask them) about projects and budgets. It’s easy to blow your budget on anything, from a date to your daily driver, but a while ago, the Stage 3 team decided to shop our own warehouse to see how far we could get balancing performance gains and looks on the most popular truck in America – the Ford F150.

Now, in that build series, we ran four tiers for our budget - $2,000, $4,500, $7,500, and "Blank Check," and the truth of the matter is when we originally built it, the truck was technically under warranty.

In 2025, though? It’d be a rare bird to find a 2018 still under warranty, and your build now might require some different upgrades, depending on whether you're chasing better performance, a sleeker look, deferred maintenance from a previous owner, or simply enhanced functionality. One thing has remained the same, though, ANY build gives you the opportunity to elevate its performance and style without burning through your savings.

Here's some new ideas mixed with some throwbacks to our original build documentation.

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7 Budget-Friendly F-150 Mods Under $500

Posted by Chris Groote on 12/17/2024 to Top Mods

The Ford F150, specifically those models from 1997-2024, has been a favorite for truck enthusiasts due to its reliability, versatility, and performance. Whether your truck is fresh off the lot or has seen its fair share of miles, there are plenty of affordable upgrades to enhance its appearance, utility, and overall driving experience—all without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking to make meaningful changes on a budget, these seven mods, all under $500, are great options for any F150 owner.

Why $500? Well, one of the best ways to truly “build” an F150 is to have a strict budget and follow it, and when you take your time and follow this strategy, you’ll find that doing a few things “here and there” can lead to some great results and never leave your wallet too empty.

(for more great ideas on Building an F150 on a Budget, check out the whole series we did on it, right here.)

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Top 2024 F150 Exterior Upgrades for a Bold and Custom Look

Posted by Nick Kovar on 11/13/2024 to Top Mods

The 2024 Ford F150 packs a punch with its already aggressive and eye-catching design, but a few key upgrades can make it truly one of a kind. With the right exterior mods, you can add style, boost function, and make your truck stand out on any road or trail. But exterior upgrades do more than just enhance looks—they add practical benefits, too. From protective gear for rugged terrain to functional upgrades that make getting in and out easier, each mod can bring new value to your truck. So, whether you’re aiming for a bolder look or needing extra utility, our selection of exterior upgrades let you build an F150 that perfectly complements your style. In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite fender flares, grilles, bull bars, side steps, and more to show you how they can take your driving experience to the next level.

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Top 2024 F150 Performance Upgrades for Power and Efficiency

Posted by Nick Kovar on 9/27/2024 to Top Mods

The 2024 F150 is here, and so are the performance upgrades you’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re chasing more horsepower, improved torque, or better fuel efficiency, we’ve got some of the best performance parts in stock and ready to ship at Stage 3 Motorsports. From cold air intakes to tuners and exhaust systems, the right mods can transform your truck into a true powerhouse. So, if you’re ready to take your 2024 F150 to the next level, now’s the perfect time to get started. Whether you’ve got an EcoBoost 2.7L or 3.5L, the mighty 5.0L V8, or the PowerBoost, we’ve got the upgrades to unlock the full potential of your truck. Let’s dive into the best performance mods for each engine, so you can start boosting power and efficiency right away.

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Top 2024 F150 Suspension Upgrades to Improve Handling & Ride Quality

Posted by Nick Kovar on 9/16/2024 to Top Mods

With aftermarket manufacturers finally confirming fitments for many 2023 parts, now is the perfect time to start upgrading your new 2024 F150. Among the most sought-after modifications for F150 owners are suspension upgrades, which have long been a popular choice for improving performance, ride quality, and off-road capabilities. In this article, we'll dive into some of the top 2024 F150 Suspension Upgrades available now. We’ll cover a range of options from leveling kits to lift kits, as well as shocks designed to enhance your truck’s handling and versatility both on and off the road. Whether you’re aiming to improve your truck’s stance or boost its off-road prowess, these upgrades will take your F150 to the next level. And if you haven't already, check out our Confirmed Fitments for the 2024 F150 Blog for even more upgrade ideas for your new truck!

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Top Mods: 2021+ Ford Bronco Sport Accessories Under $300

Posted by Nick Kovar on 10/16/2023 to Top Mods

If you're among the adventurous souls who've embraced the 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sport as your vehicle of choice, you're already well-acquainted with its capability to conquer both urban streets and untamed trails. But what if we told you that this already remarkable SUV can become even more extraordinary with just a few key upgrades? Whether you're an overland enthusiast looking to unlock the full potential of your Bronco Sport or simply seeking ways to enhance its performance and style, we've got you covered. In this blog, we'll explore a selection of must-have accessories that won't break the bank, all priced under $300. From Spacer Leveling Kits to Exterior Accessories, Lighting Upgrades, and Interior Accessories, we've curated the top options to elevate your Bronco Sport's game. So, let's dive in and discover how you can take your trusty steed to the next level, without draining your wallet.

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Top Mods: 2021+ Ford Bronco Accessories You Can Install in a Weekend

Posted by Nick Kovar on 9/15/2023 to Top Mods

When it comes to transforming your 2021+ Ford Bronco into the ultimate off-road beast, or simply adding some practical enhancements to your daily drive, the world of accessories and modifications is a wide-open playground. In this guide, we'll explore a selection of transformative upgrades that can be easily installed in a weekend, allowing you to tailor your Bronco to your unique preferences. From bolstering its off-road capabilities to enhancing its everyday usability, these modifications offer a gateway to unleashing the full potential of your Ford Bronco. So, prepare to embark on a journey that not only elevates your vehicle's functionality but also showcases your individuality as a Bronco enthusiast. Let's dive into the exciting realm of aftermarket enhancements and discover how you can elevate your 2021+ Bronco experience today.

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Top F150 Ford Performance Mods

Posted by Jason Locke on 12/7/2022 to Top Mods

Back in the day, Ford Performance (Formerly Ford Racing, Special Vehicle Team, and Ford Team RS) wasn't known for much outside of the much sought-after Boss 302 Manifolds and a few less sought-after cat-back and axle-back systems, but a lot has changed in the last couple of years (if not months). Our friends over at Ford Performance now offer a much wider variety of F150 parts and accessories that range from potent power adders to complete suspension overhauls to awesome wheel packages to some nice and easily-installed exterior accessories that will give your F150 a new look. With everything that Ford Performance has to offer these days, we thought we'd take a deep dive into some of our favorite Ford Performance parts and accessories for the F150s.

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Top 6 2021-2022 F150 Accessories!

Posted by Jason Locke on 11/11/2022 to Top Mods

The state of the aftermarket parts industry as a whole lately, in a single phrase, is "not good." Supply chain issues are still rampant. The latest vehicle models are still hard to come by for research and development. Shipping delays are still pretty common industry-wide. Thus the usual tidal wave of aftermarket parts and accessories that we'd usually see when a new F150 model year hits the market has been more of a trickle. That being said, we have more than a few 2021-2022 F150 Parts and Accessories available that will let you get better handling, more protection, and an awesome exterior look and we have enough data at this point to give you our Top 6 2021-2022 F150 Parts so that you can see what other folks are grabbing for their trucks going into the holiday season. There's a little bit of everything, and most of it is extremely budget-friendly so that you don't have to break your bank and save some cash for other gear.

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Top Mods: Top 2022 Tundra Spacer Leveling Kits!

Posted by Nick Kovar on 7/1/2022 to Top Mods

In recent months, it hasn't been the easiest for 2022 Tundra owners looking to upgrade and modify their trucks into formidable off-road machines. New trucks, especially a new generation of trucks, make it difficult for manufacturers to pump out aftermarket accessories because of the time it takes to ensure a perfect fitment and fucntion for each application. Most notably, Spacer Leveling Kits take even longer to hit the shelves compared to some other upgrades as the last thing you want to have to deal with is suspension issues when you're out on the trails. Luckily for you, we only work with trusted and reliable brands to bring you and your rig improved off-road performance and a whole new stance in a single and affordable package. In this article, we've picked out the 4 best 2022 Tundra Spacer Leveling Kits we currently offer to deliver the desired performance and utility you need for every adventure!

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Top Mods: Top 5 New Parts for 2022 Tundras

Posted by Nick Kovar on 5/15/2022 to Top Mods

The new 2022 Tundra commenced the third generation of Tundras and represents the end of an era, at least for Toyota. This means that every performance part and accessory that fit the 2nd gen 2014-2021 Tundra won't fit these new and updated trucks. We're just now starting to see some of the new 2022 Tundra Performance Upgrades hit the market, allowing you to finally modify and improve your truck's functionality and stye. In this article, we're going to be covering the top 5 mods that you can install on your Tundra including upgrades like leveling kits, tonneau covers, cold air intakes, bed racks, and wheels to ensure your truck will be running at it's best.

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Top Mods: Top 5 Bronco 4-Door Side Steps & Rock Sliders!

Posted by Adrian Geske on 5/7/2022 to Top Mods

It can be a real pain having to figure out how to hoist yourself into your lifted 2021-2022 Ford Bronco 4-Door. A traction aided stepping area is a life saver after those long days when you do not have the strength to climb up to the cab. Bronco 4-Door Side Steps & Rock Sliders are the best way to make this task much easier, while adding a protective element for your Bronco 4-Door overland adventures. Slide right over rocks, boulders, stumps, and other common obstacles that you will run into out on the trails without damaging your body panels or door sills. Check out our Top 5 Bronco Side Steps & Rock Sliders available right now that will add the ultimate combination of convenience and off-road capability.

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Top Mods: Top 5 2021-2022 F150 Cat-Back Exhaust Kits!

Posted by Jason Locke on 5/6/2022 to Top Mods

Even though parts in general have been coming out pretty slow for the 2021-2022 F150s (especially for my taste), one set of 2021-2022 upgrades that aren't in short supply are cat-back exhaust kits. In fact, there's so many that it can be pretty tough to choose which cat-back system is right for your 2021-2022 F150. That's why we here at Stage 3 are picking out our Top 5 2021-2022 F150 cat-back exhausts to help you narrow it down. While we don't have complete sound clips of these new 2021-2022 F150 cat-backs, we've tried many of them in the past on our various F150 Project Trucks, and these exhaust systems will be a great addition to practically any F150 build, regardless of engine option.

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Top Mods: Top 5 Bronco Overland Upgrades!

Posted by Adrian Geske on 4/23/2022 to Top Mods

The 2021-2022 Ford Bronco is the perfect vehicle to go all out creating an overland build with. There are tons of upgrades and accessories out there now, but it may be hard to choose where to focus your funds to start your transformation. At Stage 3 Motorsports, we have compiled a list of the Top 5 Overland Upgrades that you can make right now for a serious impact on your performance, utility, and appearance. We have highlighted the top products in the categories of Leveling Kits, Wheels & Tires, Roof Racks, and Off-Road Light Mounts for you to dip your toes into the overland upgrades you can make. Bronco overland upgrades are important for being prepared for anything off the beaten path. Taking on rough terrains and spending time out in remote locations is an activity you have to come prepared for. Proper storage from roof racks, visibility from off-road light mounts, and rock crawling capability from wheels, tires, and leveling kits are the only way to be ready for anything out in the wild. When overlanding, the journey is the destination, and that journey is not going to be a smooth one without the proper Bronco overland mods.

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Top Mods: Top 5 2021-2022 Raptor Upgrades Currently Available!

Posted by Jason Locke on 4/23/2022 to Top Mods

The 2021-2022 Raptors are landing in force, and I've personally seen more than a few zipping around the Phoenix area as of late. However, the aftermarket has struggled to keep up, and I can't remember a time where such little amount of parts are available for a new truck. Still, there is at least some parts and accessories for 2021-2022 Raptors available to order right now (as of 4-22-2022, anyway), and with a decent amount of cross-fitment between the standard 2021-2022 F150s, there's at least enough of a selection to get your tough, custom 2021-2022 Raptor build off the ground and give your Raptor improved looks, utility, lighting, interior protection, and power. Hopefully as supply and production issues ease, we'll start seeing some more awesome Raptor parts and accessories get released, but in the mean time, here's our Top must-do upgrades for the 2021-2022 Raptors that are actually available to order as of right now.

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Top Mods: Top 5 2020-2022 Super Duty Front Bumpers

Posted by Corey Decker on 4/23/2022 to Top Mods

Now that you've got your 2020-2022 F250 or F350 Super Duty it's time to look for some upgrades and modifications. When it comes to an upgrade that looks good and adds functionality, the best thing to add is a front bumper. It can be a bit overwhelming looking at front bumpers though because of all the different options like winch mounts, D-rings, full guards, pre-runner guards, lighting setups, etc. So we put together a list of the top 5 2020-2022 Super Duty bumpers we have available to make it that much easier. Here are some of our favorite front bumpers, but in case none of these fit your style or build vision then we also have a ton of other 2020-2022 F250 & F350 Super Duty Front Bumpers to choose from.

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Top Mods: Top 5 4Runner Overland Upgrades

Posted by Nick Kovar on 4/23/2022 to Top Mods

When it comes time to upgrade the look and functionality of your 2010-2022 4Runner, your SUV deserves the best performance parts and accessories for any occasion. Here at Stage 3, we only work with trusted and reliable brands to ensure your off-road adventures and every day commutes are made easy and enjoyable. Save some time and potential hassle with aftermarket Leveling Kits, Wheels, Tires, Roof Racks, and Off-Road Light Mounts as these are some of the most effective upgrades you can install on your rig. Whether you're an overland expert or newbie adventurer, we're here to help you find the best 2010-2022 4Runner Parts & Accessories.

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Recommended Camping Gear Essentials!

Posted by Zach Schwoebel on 5/13/2021 to Top Mods

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Recommended First Upgrades for Your New 2021 F-150!

Posted by Zach Schwoebel on 5/3/2021 to Top Mods

Want to know what upgrades we recommend for our new 2021 F150? Fortunately for you and your new rig, we've got you covered. We'll get into the mods for extra utility, performance, and style out of your new F150.

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Before you Buy: The Top 5 2015-2020 F150 Parts of 2020!

Posted by Jason Locke on 9/19/2020 to Top Mods

There are an absolute ton of aftermarket parts and accessories available for the 2015-2020 F150s, so much in fact, that it can be pretty tough to navigate the huge amount of options out there. While we here at Stage 3 can give you expert advice based on real-world experience with a large chunk of the performance parts we have on the site, we though it would be prudent to take a look at our top five selling parts for 2020 to see what other customers found wanting on their trucks to give you some more guidance on what you should grab for your very own 2015-2020 F150 build. Take a look after the jump at what many other F150 owners decided they needed for their truck.

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Top Mods: Five Best Selling 2019-2020 Ford Ranger Parts!

Posted by Stephen Sandefur on 9/11/2020 to Top Mods

The 2019-2020 Ford Ranger has proven to be a major success in North America, and it feels like more Rangers are out on the road as the months pass. The Ranger is a nice truck, but if you leave it at stock, then you're doing yourself a disservice. Almost two years since the first Ranger rolled off the assembly line, the aftermarket community has released a sea of upgrades to completely transform your Ranger into something completely better. If you're new to the game and feel overwhelmed with so many parts out on the market, what are the essential buys for your Ranger? Don't worry because Stage 3 Motorsports and our customers have you covered! The top five selling Ranger products give great insight into what's a must buy for Ford's newest model of truck.

Stage 3 Motorsports' white 2019-2020 Ford Ranger Project Truck off-road in Williams, Arizona!

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Top Mods: 2019-2020 Ford Ranger Budget Upgrades

Posted by Stephen Sandefur on 5/10/2020 to Top Mods

The past few months, we have watched the world get turned upside down due to the global Coronavirus pandemic. While times are tough, all of us here at Stage 3 Motorsports like to turn to our comfort zone: mean off-road trucks. We want to give everyone an opportunity to bring some normalcy back to life during Covid-19. Modifying your truck doesn't have to break your bank, especially during these uncertain times. If your 2019-2020 Ford Ranger hasn't received modifications yet, you don't have to wait to turn your midsize truck into an off-road machine. It is certainly possible to beef up your Ranger without spending too much dough. The mentioned parts will make a huge impact on your Ranger and are high-quality despite their prices. We recommend some budget leveling spacers, tuning devices, panel air filters, and tires to help out your Ranger.

Rear of Stage 3 Motorsports' stock 2019 Ford Ranger!

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Top Mods: Ten F250 & F350 6.7L Powerstroke Upgrades for Buyers on a Budget

Posted by Jordan Gerblick on 7/7/2019 to Top Mods

Ever wondered what your F250 or F350 is really capable of, even on a modest budget? You'd be surprised. Bolt-on power upgrades and tuning are both effective and affordable, but there are plenty more upgrades to choose from for 6.7L Powerstroke drivers on a budget. From simple bolt-on parts like intake kits and intercooler pipes to helper springs and shocks, we're here to prove that modding your 6.7L F250 doesn't need to break the bank. As part of our new 'Top Mods' blog series, we'll be taking a look at Stage 3's top 10 F250/F350 6.7L Powerstroke mods for folks working with a tighter budget.

Top 10 Budget 2017-2019 Super Duty Mods!

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Blog Home

Towing More With Your F150 or Ram 1500? These 5 Upgrades Make It Safer and Easier

Off-Roading on a Budget: Essential Mods for Your 3rd Gen Tacoma

Build Your Dream F150: Must-Have Mods on a $2,000 Budget

7 Budget-Friendly F-150 Mods Under $500

Top 2024 F150 Exterior Upgrades for a Bold and Custom Look

Top 2024 F150 Performance Upgrades for Power and Efficiency

Top 2024 F150 Suspension Upgrades to Improve Handling & Ride Quality

Top Mods: 2021+ Ford Bronco Sport Accessories Under $300

Top Mods: 2021+ Ford Bronco Accessories You Can Install in a Weekend

Top F150 Ford Performance Mods

Top 6 2021-2022 F150 Accessories!

Top Mods: Top 2022 Tundra Spacer Leveling Kits!

Top Mods: Top 5 New Parts for 2022 Tundras

Top Mods: Top 5 Bronco 4-Door Side Steps & Rock Sliders!

Top Mods: Top 5 2021-2022 F150 Cat-Back Exhaust Kits!

Top Mods: Top 5 Bronco Overland Upgrades!

Top Mods: Top 5 2021-2022 Raptor Upgrades Currently Available!

Top Mods: Top 5 2020-2022 Super Duty Front Bumpers

Top Mods: Top 5 4Runner Overland Upgrades

Recommended Camping Gear Essentials!

Recommended First Upgrades for Your New 2021 F-150!

Before you Buy: The Top 5 2015-2020 F150 Parts of 2020!

Top Mods: Five Best Selling 2019-2020 Ford Ranger Parts!

Top Mods: 2019-2020 Ford Ranger Budget Upgrades

Top Mods: Ten F250 & F350 6.7L Powerstroke Upgrades for Buyers on a Budget

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