Alpine loop in a 99% stock Ranger Raptor.

[SlightNine]

Just got back from a camping trip in the San Juan mountains in CO. Truck did great. Learned what it actually needs, and what it actually can do stock.

The mods I have are the Ford performance tune, a vinyl tonneau cover, and body mounted rock rails for clearance. Truck averaged 19.5 mpg round trip from OK. driving speed limit (65-75) the entire way. Off road we aired down to 20 psi.

Around half of the passes and trails were still closed due to the amount of snow remaining at altitude, erosion, and land slides. We were able to run north out of Silverton to get to the Engineer pass trail to start the loop. We ran the Engineer pass/Cinnamon Pass loop clockwise.

The trip showed that the rear lower control arm mounts are the main thing that needs attention if you've already removed the factory steps. Especially true at stock ride height. The trailer plug under the tow bar also needs relocated up higher. The front edge of the muffler got a tiny bit of rash as well. None of it stopped the truck's progress. Bash plate also saw a bit of action a couple of times decending ledges.

But, how was it? One word, awesome. I went on this trip fully expecting to come home with a long list of mods to get done for next time. Lift, 35" tires, bumpers etc., but ended up with only a couple. I'll be adding skids for the rear control arm mounts, and moving the trailer plug up into the bumper. An underbelly skid that covers the transmission pan is on the list just for peace of mind.

But that's it. Ford really did pretty well with these trucks.

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[SlightNine]

It's the frame mounts for the rear lower control arms that hit. The axle ends are all good.

 

[KDub]

The occasional sighting of a local on the loop in a small car is pretty humbling. Don’t think they’re taking Black Bear Pass but still.

You may also run into a moto first-timer with a carbureted bike so an extra screwdriver donation and assist can really make someone’s day.

 

[1996-to-2025]

The occasional sighting of a local on the loop in a small car is pretty humbling.

I've gotten some looks in my 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe on top of Cinnamon and Engineer Passes, haha.

 

[Bushmechanic]

The occasional sighting of a local on the loop in a small car is pretty humbling. Don’t think they’re taking Black Bear Pass but still.

You may also run into a moto first-timer with a carbureted bike so an extra screwdriver donation and assist can really make someone’s day.

I haven't hit Black Bear Pass yet, but I really want to. Every time I was near I was doing something else.

 

[KDub]

I haven't hit Black Bear Pass yet, but I really want to. Every time I was near I was doing something else.

It’s fun in a two door, more interesting in a four door, even more interesting during tourist season where everyone has four doors.

 

[SlightNine]

Black Bear, Ophir, and Imogene passes were all closed due to slides. County estimates at least Sept until open again.

 

[Bushmechanic]

Black Bear, Ophir, and Imogene passes were all closed due to slides. County estimates at least Sept until open again.

It'll be later than that when I take my trip out West. Hopefully they can fix it, and it's safe.

 

[E40]

It's the frame mounts for the rear lower control arms that hit. The axle ends are all good.

That was my pain points as well. Let us know what you find. I'm hoping to see more more affordable options than Foutz lower arm guards ($460) which seems to be an only option at the moment.

 

[SlightNine]

Those Foust guards do look like they'd do the trick though. The Broncos lower mounts come sloped from the factory. Weird oversight by Ford to make these straight up and down.

 

[AdventureLab]

Black Bear, Ophir, and Imogene passes were all closed due to slides. County estimates at least Sept until open again.

Immogene is open now. We're headed up for the 4th of July parade in Ouray. Should be a great time.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FjfDA761A/

 

[SlightNine]

Nice!

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