Basic Betty Build

[basicbetty]

Proudly ordered my first new truck back on June 25th and recently got the scheduling email for week of September 9th. I figure starting a build thread might ease my impatient butterflies, so here we go!

2024 F150 SuperCrew Short Bed, 5.0, Lariat 502a w/ black appearance and Tow/Haul (3.73 + locking rear dif)

The goal is to build a Basic Betty work truck on the outside with the guts and performance of the ultimate daily-commuverlander-camper. Initial plan is to absolutely drain the bank account for a warrantied Gen 5 Whipple, Ford Performance Bilsteins, and a Decked system. I know I'm going to overpay for the shocks and Whipple install at a dealer, but I guess having everything warrantied on my first brand new truck just feels right.

Second step is to burn through the OEM tires (thanks to the Whipple) and throw 35s on, then swap the running boards for RCI sliders and matching skid plates.

Final big addition will be a lightweight wedge camper. I was all-in on SuperPacific until seeing the new GoFast V2 Pro... not sure which will be right for me.

With my first baby on the way, who knows how long I'll actually take between those bigger projects. But, I'm pumped for the process and should hopefully share plenty of small DIY projects along the way. I welcome all tips, tricks, and heckling. Any must-dos as soon as I pick her up?? Cheers!

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[JBrochacho]

I bought mine used, but if I were taking it off the lot, my first stop would be to get windows tinted, ceramic coated, undercoated, or the bed lined (can you still install a Decked system in a lined bed?). My truck's previous (Canadian) owner had the wherewithal to put on PPF on some key areas--including the headlights--and I am beyond appreciative of that.

Aside from that, I'll be keeping tabs on your build! You have a cool list of additions on your to-do list!

 

[Ford Motor Company]

Proudly ordered my first new truck back on June 25th and recently got the scheduling email for week of September 9th. I figure starting a build thread might ease my impatient butterflies, so here we go!

2024 F150 SuperCrew Short Bed, 5.0, Lariat 502a w/ black appearance and Tow/Haul (3.73 + locking rear dif)

The goal is to build a Basic Betty work truck on the outside with the guts and performance of the ultimate daily-commuverlander-camper. Initial plan is to absolutely drain the bank account for a warrantied Gen 5 Whipple, Ford Performance Bilsteins, and a Decked system. I know I'm going to overpay for the shocks and Whipple install at a dealer, but I guess having everything warrantied on my first brand new truck just feels right.

Second step is to burn through the OEM tires (thanks to the Whipple) and throw 35s on, then swap the running boards for RCI sliders and matching skid plates.

Final big addition will be a lightweight wedge camper. I was all-in on SuperPacific until seeing the new GoFast V2 Pro... not sure which will be right for me.

With my first baby on the way, who knows how long I'll actually take between those bigger projects. But, I'm pumped for the process and should hopefully share plenty of small DIY projects along the way. I welcome all tips, tricks, and heckling. Any must-dos as soon as I pick her up?? Cheers!

Congratulations Jake! Hope you love it just as much as we do.

 

[basicbetty]

I bought mine used, but if I were taking it off the lot, my first stop would be to get windows tinted, ceramic coated, undercoated, or the bed lined (can you still install a Decked system in a lined bed?). My truck's previous (Canadian) owner had the wherewithal to put on PPF on some key areas--including the headlights--and I am beyond appreciative of that.

Aside from that, I'll be keeping tabs on your build! You have a cool list of additions on your to-do list!

Yeah, Decked can go on bed liner but I'm thinking I'll wait for now since the bed will mostly be covered/protected by the decked system. Maybe a little clear coat or well-placed protection in a couple high-use spots would be smart. Thanks!

I've been looking at the DIY kits from Chemical Guys for the undercarriage protection and ceramic coating. I go lurk in the detailing threads and see what you guys are recommending for the budget-friendly options.

 

[basicbetty]

Delivered in exactly 100 days. She will be at Ken Grody for a bit getting the Whipple, Bilsteins, and Decked. Can't wait to share pics with you all soon!

 

[LFRoss]

I assume you’ve taken possession of the truck? How’s everything working out so far?

 

[basicbetty]

I assume you’ve taken possession of the truck? How’s everything working out so far?

Still waiting (not so patiently). Everything but the Whipple is installed and ready to go... Friday's update said the blower is still a couple weeks out. Frustrating, but worth the wait I'm sure.

 

[LFRoss]

Still waiting (not so patiently). Everything but the Whipple is installed and ready to go... Friday's update said the blower is still a couple weeks out. Frustrating, but worth the wait I'm sure.

Could you get the truck and then take it back once the Whipple has been delivered to get it installed? Or are you having everything done as an included into the final price of the truck?

 

[basicbetty]

Could you get the truck and then take it back once the Whipple has been delivered to get it installed? Or are you having everything done as an included into the final price of the truck?

I could... my thought is I really want the FULL 3y/36k to be with the Whipple on I just got my first bill in the mail though, so it feels really dumb to pay so much for a brand new truck just sitting there. If I wasn't so slammed at work, I probably would go grab it.

 

[LFRoss]

I could... my thought is I really want the FULL 3y/36k to be with the Whipple on I just got my first bill in the mail though, so it feels really dumb to pay so much for a brand new truck just sitting there. If I wasn't so slammed at work, I probably would go grab it.

Yea I understand wanting the whole warranty on the whipple. But doesn’t the warranty start from the day you sign all the paperwork? So the 3 years is already started even though you are not putting on miles

 

[basicbetty]

One week with the truck so far and I'm in love! The pedal on the right is just as fun as my Tesla Model 3, but the Borla S-type and Whipple combo sound better than a symphony.

It rained the day after I picked her up so here are some quick-n-dirty pics before I start more little projects. The dealer did: Whipple, Borla S-type, Ford Performance Bilstein suspension (leveling kit), bed liner, Decked drawer system, and rolling tonneau cover.

 

[missileboy]

Get a UPR (or whatever brand you like) catch can! I catch about 2-3 ounces of muck every 1000 miles or so. UPP makes a plug and play kit for the Whipped F150's! Too easy to install.

21-24 Ford F-150 5.0 Breather Tank Plug N Play™ - UPR Products

 

[basicbetty]

Get a UPR (or whatever brand you like) catch can! I catch about 2-3 ounces of muck every 1000 miles or so. UPP makes a plug and play kit for the Whipped F150's! Too easy to install.

21-24 Ford F-150 5.0 Breather Tank Plug N Play™ - UPR Products

I'll add it to the list! Thanks

 

[lrb_35128]

Looking good while you're roaring through the neighborhood...

 

[basicbetty]

I don't know if I just wasn't paying attention... or if you Whippled guys were holding out on us, but this truck is SO MUCH FUN! This is my perfect daily driver and weekend warrior.

I've added a few little touches since last post: BuiltRight stubby antenna, Baselayer floor mats, glove box divider, Dometic center console fridge (yes really, and I love it), Diode Dynamics license plate LEDs, H3R extinguisher and driver seat mount, and a few bits and bobs from OCD plug including the matte screen protector.

FWIW- I tried the Raxiom license plate LEDs first, but the light color was different than the factory LEDs. Looked silly. I also tried the EGR in-channel window visors but after several beers could not get the windows to cooperate.

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