FORD THIRD GENERATION RAPTOR

THIRD GENERATION RAPTOR

It all started in 2009 when Ford Motor Company introduced the desert racinginspired Ford F-150 Raptor. Three generations later, the Raptor continues to be a popular choice for off-roaders.

The third-generation Raptor combines the mechanical capabilities Raptor owners have come to expect with advanced technology. A major new feature on the third-generation Raptor includes a five-link rear suspension with extra-long trailing arms. The design was based off of the way trophy-truck suspension works in desert racing. The five-link rear suspension gives the Raptor increased wheel travel. The extra-long trailing arms maintain better axle position on rough terrain. Technology was also incorporated into the suspension set-up. Engine management software controls torque output to the rear wheels for quicker starts, faster acceleration and throttle responsiveness.

Story: Shaun Ochsner Photos: Courtesy of Ford Motor Company

Ford also worked with FOX to help design the next generation of Live Valve internal bypass shocks. The shocks come with state-of-theart electronic control technology. One of the coolest features on the new FOX Live Valve shocks is their position-sensitive damping adjustability. The shocks constantly adjust to the terrain you are traveling on. The shocks are also larger. The bodies are 3.1 inches in diameter and are made of an anodized aluminum material. Thanks to an all new low friction shock fluid and electronically controlled base valve, they resist heat buildup and react faster to terrain changes. The Raptor has suspension height sensors that tell the shocks when to change damping rates independently at each corner 500 times per second. The shocks respond at the same speed as the human brain processes visual information. Once the driver recognizes the terrain change, the Raptors suspension set-up has already responded.

The third-generation Raptor is now available with 35inch or 37-inch factory fitted tires. BFG All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires come standard on the Raptor package. Approach and departure angles were improved on the new Raptor. The vehicle also boasts 25 percent more travel than the first generation.

A new Pro Power Onboard system also the Raptor to be used a mobile generator. The Raptor can be ordered with 2.0 kilowatts of exportable output that will power lights, tools and other equipment. Inside, a 12-inch screen displays a whole host of information from terrain management to truck features such as zone lighting, trailer theft alerts and trailer lighting checks. The screen can also be split to control multiple functions at once.

Finally, FORD added a new heat extractor and side vents in the hood. The front skid plate is wider offering better coverage of critical parts that tend to get damaged while off-roading. The new Raptor will be assembled at Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant. Expected availability at dealerships is planned for this summer.