First published in Street Machine’s Australia’s Toughest Fords #3, 2005

While Ford utes are as popular as ever, we don’t seem to see them modified in the numbers that we see from the Holden guys. Given that the Ford camp has the distinct advantage of being able to remove the rear tub from any model, whack a tray on it and convert it into a one-tonner, you would have thought that hordes of modified Ford utes would be roaming the streets by now.

So we had our ace pen man Ryan Carter pull out the crayon and start scribbling to create two unique Ford utes in the hope of inspiring some creativity among you ute owners out there.

The first of our bad boys is based on an AU XR8 which rolls on a set of large-diameter wheels – 19s up front and 22s on the rear. Wearing a paint mix somewhere between Blood Orange and New Ford Yellow in addition to a wide-mouth Pro Stock scoop, you can be sure this bright hay hauler won’t get lost in the crowd.

Out the back, the rear tub has been heavily customised to give a tasteful, shallow stepside back. Under the bonnet, we recommend a 347 stroker as a minimum, though the addition of a Whipple blower could only improve things as far as we’re concerned. The interior is totally up to you, but you could do worse than check the styling of the award-winning interiors of the Summernats top 60 and emulating them.

AU XR8 ute features:

• 22-inch wheels on the rear
• Wide-mouth pro stock scoop
• XR8/XR6 front
• 19-inch wheels up front
• Modern stepside back
• Bright paintwork

While the AU is more about the show, the BA Falcon we had Ryan draw up is definitely more about the go – and we’d be lying if we didn’t admit to copying what some of the Holden guys have been doing.

First, take a BA XR6 Turbo ute, rip the tub off it and replace it with a customised flat alloy tray tubbed to fit the fattest Mickey Thompsons you can fit without cutting the frame rails. There is actually a fair amount of space to work with back there, so a 10-inch-wide tyre should be a cinch. Then install a full roll cage inside this sucker because it’s headed directly into the 10-second zone – if not quicker.

Given that there are already a couple of cars down in that zone without even having their engines out, we reckon 10s should be easy with what we’ve got planned. Out comes the engine and in go forged pistons and stronger rods… and give the head a tickle in the ports while you’re there. Install larger cams for more airflow and wind up the boost, which should be no problem with your new flash tuner. Have the boosted air flowing through a new 600mm intercooler grafted into the front bar, and with 500hp at the rear wheels you’ll be flying.

We’ve fitted an XR8 bonnet to give the front a bit more bulk and the interior has copped a pair of race seats and enough Autometer gauges to satisfy any space shuttle pilot.

BA XR6 Turbo ute features:

• XR8 bonnet
• Custom alloy tray
• 10-inch-wide Weld wheels (rear)
• Roll cage through the cabin rear
• BA XR front
• 600mm intercooler
• Sponsor stickers

WHAT THE ENGINEER SAYS

We asked John Varetimidis of Consulmotive, NSW, to give us the good oil on ute mods. John certifies that modified vehicles meet current engineering standards and legal requirements.

Engine

Engine modifications, particularly to current-model vehicles, are required to meet more stringent ADRs for emissions compliance. Most commercial vehicles or light goods vehicles are not required to satisfy the same level of compliance as a passenger vehicle, although most Ford utes will use the same powerplant as the passenger vehicle.

When considering engine modifications, ensure that all emissions control equipment is retained and that you either have access to an emissions test facility or evidence of previous testing for emissions compliance – most aftermarket engine packages are now being tested before release to the general public. External exhaust noise will also be required to meet current limits and the exhaust configuration must have the same level of catalytic converters, mufflers and resonators as the manufacturer’s original system.

Chassis/Body

The Ford Falcon chassis subframe will not require any significant modifications for increased structural integrity as the vehicle is equipped with a complete separate chassis frame to support the body and suspension components. The integration of a roll cage in the rear is quite achievable as there are no direct issues with occupant safety clearances from the cabin.

Internal roll cages are not recommended for road-registered utes as most current models must comply with stringent crash testing standards. The cabin is designed to absorb impact in the event of an accident and the installation of a roll cage will directly affect the safety rating and energy-absorbing characteristics of the vehicle.

External cosmetic modifications are limited to body mouldings and slim-profile bonnet scoops which do not obscure visibility to the road or affect the structural integrity of the bonnet. Body modifications or additions available as an option from the manufacturer are recommended.

Wheels

Alternative wheels and tyres on a commercial vehicle are limited to maintaining the manufacturer’s original specifications, particularly to satisfy the load rating. The manufacturer’s tyre placard will advise the minimum specifications for load, speed and safety rating that the vehicle must maintain.

Increasing the diameter of the wheel size will be considered, provided the load rating of the wheel is satisfactory and the overall rolling diameter is similar to the original. Wheels must also have the correct offset to maintain a suitable wheel track within specified limits.

Be sure to discuss any modifications with a recognised and approved automotive engineer before you get started, and be aware of your options and obligations for all categories of vehicle mods.