Cactus Jack - Build so far (2024 Ranger Lariat FX4)

[CactusJack]

I'm about 2 months into ownership with my Cactus Grey Lariat FX4 (affectionately named Cactus Jack). Want to show what I've done so far and ask the community for resources on what I'd like to do next!

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[CactusJack]

I optioned a spray in bedliner and retractable tonneau cover from Ford Accessories. I got the Embark LS (Retrax Pro XR) with the T Slot rails for a future bed rack system.

 

[CactusJack]

And now the Bed Rack system. I went with Yakima which perfectly fits the tonneau to clear the latch when sliding open. I used my Ford Pass points to order the Yakima Reel Deal Fishing Rod holder! The setup is awesome, I can fit at least 8 poles (maybe more with some creativity)

Works perfectly for my needs, I fish a lot and since I'm already losing bed space coming from an F150, I now can load the bed full and still pack as many rods as I want!

 

[CactusJack]

My hood protector came in next, I believe it's the Lund Smoked Deflector from Ford Accessories. I did option the PPF when I did my bedliner, but after a month or so the leading edge of the hood already took a beating from bugs and a few rocks. It's one of the more subtle options and does protect the leading edge of the hood, but I wouldnt call it a "deflector" as there is no ramp, just contours to the hood.

I'm not totally in love with this one... It's a little floppy which made install with 1 person a little difficult (my OCD notices it isn't exactly perfectly aligned). The part comes with a prep pad, which I was hesitant to use but wanted to follow the directions, and instantly noticed that it oxidized the hood PPF and miscolored and faded it. Thankfully the protector covers all of what I touched before I took it further, so we'll cross that bridge if we ever have to remove the protector.

And when all said and done, when I removed the protective plastic on the protector I noticed a small chip out of the leading edge in 1 spot that looks like a rock chip already (Pic 2 left 1/3 of the hood). So moral of the story, take all the plastic off before you install to make sure it isn't damaged, and do NOT use the prep pad if you have PPF!

 

[CactusJack]

As posted in a different thread, I also threw the TripleAliners Bedmat in there. I carry a lot of soft goods like golf and fishing bags that slide and get torn up by the abrasive bedliner. The material is super cool, harder than rubber but softer than the bedliner, with decent grip. Fitment is great and even clears my drains for the tonneau. Really impressed with this one. In my opinion the best looking bedmat out there, and should hold up better than the softer rubber ones.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQPB618...pxOWIc8Oju_1Q_aem_3uEWYKOTmJx4b5W1Atkrdg&th=1

Bonus picture of a freshly groomed Brussels in the back seat hammock

 

[craigc]

And now the Bed Rack system. I went with Yakima which perfectly fits the tonneau to clear the latch when sliding open.

What bed rack system is that? I'm looking for similar and can't find that one. Got the roll-n-lock xs which is pretty similar to your cover. Your setup looks great BTW!

 

[CactusJack]

Here is my yet-to-be-completed list for the short term, and any and all feedback and input would be appreciated!

To complete the bed cargo system, I'm thinking of going with a Yakima DeepSpace 10 cargo box for the drivers side. Goal is to fit my golf clubs for size, or if I'm going on a bigger trip and have the bed loaded for some extra space. Again coming from an F150, I'm missing a lot of miscellaneous cargo space so this can be utilized in many ways. Even with the bedmat, my golf clubs just get tossed around over bumps and this will keep them more secure:
https://yakima.com/products/deepspace-10

Alternative cheap solution, the Rough Country Bed Cargo Storage Box is basically made for golf clubs and shopping bags (what we all really use a Ranger for, lol). Looks like an awesome utility for many purposes. We'll see if I cheap out and get this before the DeepSpace or not, but looks very useable
https://www.roughcountry.com/produc...xqLpsP8uY1AYCzL8UpkuJSQTLpIRh8GxoCRLwQAvD_BwE

Lastly, the big one... She needs a lift/wheel and tire combo! This one has proved difficult to lock down because nobody has released official parts for this other than a cheap spacer lift. Tires will most likely be Falken AT4W in 285/70R17. I had 2 sets of AT3Ws in previous vehicles and I love them, so the new ones should fit the bill.

I would love feedback on wheel offset as well as a suspension setup:
-I would like to replace the factory coils/struts and rear shocks. I also will plan on towing a camper in the future, so maybe I need to add-a-leaf? Factory leafs are super soft and I've hit the bumpstops just with 2 extra passengers and a lot of fishing gear. Please advise on what you see for suspension for a 2-4" lift setup.
-Wheel offset, I'm planning on a 17x9 wheel, and the wheels I want are available in a 1mm offset or a -12mm offset. I certainly wouldn't mind a little poke, but curious how those clear with a little lift. Anyone have input or photos to share??

 

[CactusJack]

What bed rack system is that? I'm looking for similar and can't find that one. Got the roll-n-lock xs which is pretty similar to your cover. Your setup looks great BTW!

Thank you! It's a little complicated for sure, I'm thankful I have an email receipt or else I would never remember it all!

I'm not familiar with the Roll-n-lock XS, is it similar to the XT with the T Slot rails? That would be mandatory for this setup.

I really wouldnt change a thing as far as the rack. It's perfect for the truck. Just gotta watch my fingers when I throw it open!

 

[Ford Motor Company]

I'm about 2 months into ownership with my Cactus Grey Lariat FX4 (affectionately named Cactus Jack). Want to show what I've done so far and ask the community for resources on what I'd like to do next!

Cactus Jack looks awesome! So glad you and your Brussel are enjoying it!!

 

[CactusJack]

Cactus Jack looks awesome! So glad you and your Brussel are enjoying it!!

Thank you @Ford Motor Company!! Do you guys have any idea when Ford Performance will release the Performance Calibration kit like was offered on the previous Rangers for the 2024s? A little more power is never a bad thing!

https://performanceparts.ford.com/part/M-9603-REB

 

[craigc]

I'm not familiar with the Roll-n-lock XS, is it similar to the XT with the T Slot rails? That would be mandatory for this setup.

Thanks! It's XT (with the T tracks), not XS....Typo

 

[CactusJack]

Thanks! It's XT (with the T tracks), not XS....Typo

Ahh okay! Yup you should be fine!

 

[JR RANGER]

Thank you! It's a little complicated for sure, I'm thankful I have an email receipt or else I would never remember it all!

I'm not familiar with the Roll-n-lock XS, is it similar to the XT with the T Slot rails? That would be mandatory for this setup.

I really wouldnt change a thing as far as the rack. It's perfect for the truck. Just gotta watch my fingers when I throw it open!

Can you show a picture of it?

 

[CactusJack]

Can you show a picture of it?

I've got 2 pictures at the top of the thread!

 

[JR RANGER]

Can you show a picture of it?

Got it. Looks good . Can you comment on Your off road experiences.

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