When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Build threads seem to be all the rage nowadays and seems like a good place to document mods as I make them along the way so here we go!
Here is my new-to-me 2018 STX S-crew in Lead Foot. She's factory equipped with a 2.7EB, 4x4, 3.55 locking diff, and trailer tow package. I picked her up as a CPO with 23k on the clock. The only mods it had when I bought it was weathertech mats, unknown brand running boards and some form of aftermarket dual exhaust (looks to be custom made, unsure of muffler brand).
While the paperwork was still being done to make the purchase, I ordered up a set of 17x8.5 Pro Comp Series 34 Rockwells with 4.75" BS and 0 offset. I also ordered a set of Toyo Open Country AT3 in 285/75/17 (34"). I took it to my local 4WD shop and had them put in a 2.5" leveling kit/strut spacer. I normally do my own labor but with our impending ice storm about to hit Texas, I needed it done ASAP so I could get the new shoes on it. I'm glad I did because it's been a mess here all week and having this has made getting around a lot easier.
I scored a set of new takeoff SE headlights and decided to put some Hella H9 bulbs in while I had it apart. Light output is much better now.
I also installed a set of the SE black and tinted chrome badges for the front and back. I do still plan to color match the stock emblems but thought these would be a good placeholder so I'm not running around badgeless.
Next up was a set of black fender badges. I opted for a set that says Ecoboost instead of the trim level.
Lastly, I put on a set of tailgate letter inserts in matte black.
Very nice build, you might say it's, Surly. Couple of questions. Where did you find the PTM door handles, and where in Austin did you have them painted? I found some cheap Mirror caps already painted from Ebay, but having issues with the door handles.
I bought the handles off eBay at a fraction of the cost of OEM ptm handles. Quality seems to be good on them but time will tell. Worth the gamble IMO considering the price.
I also bought the painted mirror caps on eBay but when they showed up, the color wasn't correct. The shade of gray was close but it had metallic in it. Didn't look like any other stock colors so not sure what they sprayed them with. The seller refunded half what I paid so just used those as a base and had them painted when I got the handles done. I had them sprayed by American Elite Autobody in Round Rock.
My next round of mods has been slow progress. I put the truck in the shop to have the dash replaced for warping a couple of weeks ago and while the shop had it, it got hit pretty hard by a hail storm. The jury is still out on how extensive the repairs are going to be but the bulk of the damage was on the hood and roof. I've had some PDR guys look at it and while most of it can be removed via PDR, there are dents close to seams and places with no access where it's doubtful it will escape getting paint work done.
Since the hood got shredded pretty good and has to get replaced, I'm going to use the opportunity to upgrade the hood. I've ordered a steel 2" cowl hood and a set of Ram Sport hood vents to mimic what member UNBROKEN did on his truck:
Finally have auto climate control back. I was really missing this feature. Didn't think it would be a big deal but I hate having to **** with the temp **** all the time trying to get it just right. Felt like a menopausal woman constantly being too hot, then too cold, then back to too hot.
02-19-2021, 12:58 PM
Hmbre97's 2018 Lead Foot STX build
