This Once Totaled 2004 Lightning is a Perfect Race Truck Build

There are a ton of fast Lightnings out there in the world, most of them relegated to track only status.  The vast majority of those trucks started out as “innocent” builds that quickly got out of hand. Many were even converted with few miles and little to no wear.

The perfect base for a race truck, however, are probably the ones that already can’t be driven on the street. This 2004 Lightning is a good example. It was totaled out by the insurance company following a wreck that bent the rear section of the frame.  Despite being professionally repaired, it’s future (sadly) lies only off the public roads.

The latest owner tried and eventually gave up trying to reinstate the title to salvage status, so now he’s making it available for the bargain basement price of $6,000.  For that kind of coin, you’ll have plenty of cash left over to turn this Lightning into a track star.

So if you’ve been dreaming of piloting a race truck for some time now, this might be your perfect opportunity.  This ’04 is cheap, drives good, and already has a great engine to build upon.  Plus, you’ll be saving one of the most iconic trucks in Ford’s history, which is a worthwhile cause in itself.

Love the lightning? Talk about in the forums here! >>

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.