Hey guys i stumbled across this forum While doing some research on a project I'm about to start and hopefully get it done by the end of winter.

So I currently drive a 2003 ford escape Xlt fully loaded,this is my first ford and I can gladly say it won't be my last

Getting back to what I originally came here for, I have my mind set on getting a f150 and a lift kit with some monstrous tires.the thing is I don't know which year I should go with,the lift kit to purchase,the size of tire I can run without putting to much strain on the motor.

It will be used more for casual riding than off-roads.I put my spending limit to 6,000$ would that give me a decent looking smooth ride?

Your info and such is very helpful to me

 

For 6k if you shop around you might be able to pull it off.

Depending on year and 4x4 or 4x2 you'd be looking at roughly:
6" lift (1200-2000+)
35" tires (1000+)
Regear (800-1500+ depending on 4x4 or 4x2)
Install and Alignment (500+ or so)
And whatever's left you could use towards new wheels.

If you want to run bigger tires than 35's you may need to up your budget some depending on the specific truck you decide on.

 

I will be getting a 4x4 between the years 2000-2005, I don't want to have to purchase brake line extenders,Drive shaft etc so what would be the ideal lift kit to purchase?

 

Most kits include everything needed, but since every truck is a little bit different it may need something else that you won't even know about until it's installed.

 

Sounds like you want a 6 inch lift with some 35 inch tires, which is the most common setup.
First, I'd start shopping around for a nice used 4x4 to start with. Try to find one with low miles, that has been well taken care of and appears to have been "babied". It can be hard to find a 4x4 that hasn't been "ragged out". Ideally, what you are looking for is a one owner, stock truck owned by an older person. I know it's not fair to "profile" but most older people tend to take care of vehicles and spend their money on maintainance vs. flashy aftermarket accessories.

 

The 6inch with 35 tires does seem perfect for me so l'll be going with that. Should i be looking for a v6 or a v8?

 

V8, your going to want the power to turn the tires. And you'll probably want to regear the axles to 4.56 too.

 

I agree entirely with this, along with everything else said $6k should be right around what you're looking at for lift, wheels, tires, and regear. It may be a little under, might be a little over, just depends on what parts you go with.

Lift- $1,400 (basic 6")
Wheels- $1,200 (Higher end 20s, 17 or 18" can be had for $600-800 too)
35" Mud Tires - $1,600
Regear - $1,600
Install of lift and wheels/tires - $700
Total - $6,500 on the higher side to be safe, can be less with smaller wheels and if you can make a bit of a deal with the shop.

 

Grand22, I am going to be pulling off my 6" lift with 36's". Where are you located?