Introduction
So this is my first build, thought I would do things a little differently. Re: the Table of contents above: I plan on updating as the build proceeds. All items listed are complete and most of the write up and pics were organized in word for cut and paste into this thread. I likely will post one a day to allow for comments etc. In this way the comments can be close to posts to resemble other builds that stretch out over time.
Introduction
Hi, my real name is Gordon, most of my friends just call me G or Big G. As many of you might know I ordered my Raptor as soon as the new 2012 order books opened in late August, it was birthed on Feb 6, it sat in Michigan Salt for a month rusting, finally took delivery on March 13, 2012. So I had a lot of time on my hands to think about what I wanted to do with the truck, Mod wise.
There are a lot of great builds in the forums and some very talented folks. I learn something from everyone’s. So thank you. What seemed to me to be missing often times was the WHY. Why did folks do what they did. How do they intend to use the Truck, so with that in mind here is a little background on me and how I plan to use it.
I have been an auto enthusiast since a teenager, tricking out a ’66 Chevy El Camino in the late seventies. In early 80’s I restored a rare 71 Monte Carlo SS-454 while worked for 5 years as Marketing Director for Auto Aftermarket company. Organized and staffed several elaborate Auto Trade show booths every year. One of the benefits of this job required me to borrow vehicles for pattern making. I got to drive Ferrari, Jags, Bentleys, RR, AMGs, BMWs, Audis, Porsches and one off’s from Europe not usually seen in this country. I sold the Monte Carlo for capital to start a business in ’86 in Office Automation Equipment. (still running the business 26 years later, interesting American Success story, but I digress.) Drove an Acura NSX for 10 years, then BMW 550i and currently have a 2010 MBZ AMG E63 – Best ever sports sedan ever made, so when it came time to get a more serious off-road vehicle, only the best would do.
Been doing desert off-road driving for 16 years, almost always with one to four of my kids in tow, camping is our thing although day trips are common, Have used 4WD Suburbans/Tahoes for 13+ years, a Suburu before that. I could never make it thru most of the passes in the Anza Borrego Desert. So ability to haul 3 or 4 kids and high ground clearance was a top priority. After watching Raptors Fly, I knew that was something I wanted to do as well.
But I also do a lot of Handyman work, managing several residential and commercial properties, so I needed a way to secure tools and also haul lumber, irrigation and landscape materials. I am an avid Skier and we often drive 1000 miles or more for winter ski vacations.
So versatility is important, Fun is primary, looking bad-ass, not hard to do out of the box, but like most of us, I want to make the truck a reflection of my inner me.
