It's often said that a picture is worth 1,000 words, but when it comes to cars, the sound of a raucous V8 engine might be worth even more. From the rumbling, choppy idle to the screaming redline, we always enjoy a classic car that sounds as good as it looks. Craig LoPresti, also known by his YouTube handle TheCraig909, has a 1971 Ford F-100 that most certainly falls into this category. He describes the sound of its built, cammed, 500-horsepower Ford small block as "insane," and after hearing it, we agree with the description.
Craig's '71 F-100 Project
This F-100 has been a long-term project for Craig, with the intention of turning it into a NASCAR-inspired muscle truck. It has gone through a few different engine and transmission setups, and is currently powered by a built 306ci small block V8 that's topped with an air cleaner emblazoned with the words "Small Block Killer!" — a nod to his history of blowing up motors.
Here's a quick parts overview from his engine setup video:
- • D1 302 small block bored out .040 over
- • Racetek forged pistons
- • SCAT forged H-beam rods
- • Rebalanced stock crank
• ICE billet ignition system with 2-step - • Holley HP125 fuel pump
- • Holley QFT 750 carburetor
- • Anderson N-91 hydraulic roller camshaft
- • AFR Renegade 185 heads
- • AFR Renegade intake manifold
- • Derale high-output electric fan
- • March Performance pulley system
At this point, Craig's truck was fast and sounded awesome, but 50+ years of exposure and use had left some parts of it missing or looking a little worse for wear. So, he turned to Classic Industries to get some much-needed Ford F-100 parts for the interior and exterior.
The faded side markers were one of the first things to go. Although Craig loves the truck's worn patina and has no intention of painting it, sorting out these details provides some nice contrast against the rusty sheetmetal. The taillamp lenses were also replaced.
The F-100's Sport Custom emblems were pitted and had completely lost their shine, but a new set from the Classic Industries F-Series catalog immediately resolved that problem.
Similarly, the old hood emblems were swapped out for new FORD hood emblems that shine brightly again.
Inside the cab, Craig replaced the window crank arms, window crank knobs, door lock pins, and the driver's side window regulator with OER Authorized reproduction parts. He also installed new seatbelts and an OER Authorized gas pedal.
Craig's F-100 is a blast to drive, sounds great, and now it looks a lot cleaner, too! Head over to his YouTube channel or check out the video below to see (and hear) it for yourself:
Looking for Classic Ford F-Series Parts?
If you're a classic Ford truck owner or restorer, Classic Industries has the parts you need to keep your F-100, F-150, F-250, or other 1932-2014 Ford truck looking great and running strong. Click the button below to browse our selection of Ford truck parts online:
