Ringbrothers Reveal Rockin’ F-100 Restomod with SEMA Truck Debut
Famed duo transform rusted ’54 farm truck into stunning 1956 Ford pickup.
The Ringbrothers, Mike and Jim Ring, have a solid reputation for building wild customs for other people. But now the renowned custom shop has debuted their own labor of love: An impeccably restored pickup at the 2017 SEMA Show.
Named “Clem 101,” this Ford F-100 has extensive body modifications, stunning chrome work, and newly engineered Ringbrothers billet accessories. The truck was initially designed and built by the guys for use as a shop truck. But as the build progressed, ol’ Clem had some loftier ideas in mind.
The ambitious project, which began as a rusty 1954 F-100, evolved into a 1956 model when the Rings swapped out the ’54 cab for a ’56.
They custom-built the bed from scratch, widened the fenders three inches, and wheel openings were narrowed.
The truck retained the original and awesome 1954 grille, and complemented it with modified front and rear bumpers featuring chrome work performed by Advanced Plating.
The doors were customized with rounded corners, and hand formed running boards now extend from the front to back fender. All was finished in a flawless “Speedy P Green” color.
‘Clem 101’ has a 5.0l Ford Coyote motor with Ford Racing fuel injection, and four-speed automatic transmission. Both are lubricated by Royal Purple, with Prestone keeping the engine at optimal temp.
The wheelbase was extended in front, utilizing a custom Ford Crown Victoria subframe that was narrowed to fit the F-100. To accommodate this, front fenders were also extended forward. And, because it wouldn’t truly be the Ringbrothers style without it, new billet hood hinges were engineered, as well as custom tie downs for the bed. This is part of their signature craftsmanship, combining unique details like a completely machined tailgate and a custom-fabricated trailer hitch.
The power comes from a 415-horsepower 5.0-liter Ford Coyote crate motor with Ford Racing fuel injection, hooked to a four-speed automatic transmission. Both are well-lubricated by Royal Purple synthetic engine and transmission oil. Prestone coolant helps keep the engine running at the optimal temperature, while custom stainless steel Flowmaster headers and exhaust give the truck a unique performance tone.
Power is put to the ground with a John’s Industries nine inch rear end. RideTech coilovers and four-link rear suspension along with a custom QA1 front sway bar help keep the truck firmly planted around corners. The truck rolls on a set of HRE Vintage Series 545 forged wheels sized at 19×11 in the front and 20×13 in the rear, and is shod in Nitto tires sized 305/35/19 up front and 305/50/20 out back. Putting ‘Clem’ to a stop is Baer six-piston disc brakes on all four corners.
Old school aesthetics meets new school technology with a Kicker stereo system, plush custom interior by Upholstery Unlimited, gauges from Classic Instruments, and a Vintage Air Gen IV Magnum climate control system.
We think this restomod is a SEMA standout. What do you think of Clem?
Photos for F-150 Online by Manuel Carrillo III