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Jake’s 2022 Ford F-150 XL "Platinum" 5.0L

One of the most popular build platforms today, the Regular Cab Short Bed F-150 has taken the automotive world by storm. With the capabilities of being both a reliable daily driver and (somehow) a pure race truck making over 1000WHP with a robust 4WD system, it makes sense why they're such a highly desired vehicle by many speed enthusiasts.

Jake Balzo, one of our Sales/Tech Representatives started with a build himself, with a 2022 Ford F-150 XL 2WD, optioned with the must-have 5.0L Coyote V8. From there, he has tastefully modified the truck from top to bottom — combining stance, performance, drivability, and styling into a cohesive package. This truck perfectly blends form and function, with the flexibility to cruise the streets, hit the track, or simply turn heads at a local car meet.

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Suspension & Stance: Low, Functional, and Refined

For suspension, Jake chose IHC Suspension’s 4/6 Drop Kit, a well-engineered solution to give the truck a more aggressive stance without sacrificing real-world usability. The 4-inch front and 6-inch rear drop perfectly complements the truck’s factory body lines, eliminating the factory rake and dialing in that leveled, custom look.

Out back, Jake added upgraded FOX Shocks, well known for their excellent ride quality and superior damping characteristics. FOX’s valving helps smooth out rough pavement while maintaining responsiveness, so the truck remains planted during spirited driving or when towing.

To ensure the truck remains practical despite the lower ride height, Jake included the IHC Helper Bag Kit. These air helper bags allow him to fine-tune the rear ride height and firmness depending on load — whether hauling a bed full of gear or towing a trailer, the helper bags ensure ride quality and geometry stay consistent. This is a great example of a build that looks show-ready but still functions as a real truck. 

F-150 suspension rear end shot

Exhaust: Lightning Style with an Attitude

Jake didn’t stop at looks — this F-150 sounds as good as it looks. The exhaust of choice is Corsa’s Xtreme Catback Pre-Tire Exit system, paired with polished tips. This setup offers a unique “Lightning-inspired” side-exit exhaust look, setting the truck apart visually while keeping weight down and improving flow.

Corsa’s Xtreme series is known for an aggressive tone with minimal drone thanks to their patented Reflective Sound Cancellation (RSC) technology. Compared to the stock system, the Xtreme catback delivers a deep, throaty exhaust note that lets the 5.0L sing all the way to redline — without overpowering the cabin on long drives.

SHOP CORSA

Corsa Performance Exhaust for 2021 F-150

Power & Tuning: Strong
Foundation for Future Boost

While the truck remains Naturally Aspirated for now, Jake has already laid the groundwork for serious power in the near future. He plans to boost the Coyote with either a Whipple or ProCharger supercharger — both proven options for this platform that will easily push the truck into 600-700+ HP territory.

In preparation, the truck currently runs a PMAS Cold Air Intake. PMAS intakes are renowned for their large, high-flow design and open-element filter, providing a noticeable increase in induction noise and freeing up airflow versus the restrictive stock airbox.

Complementing this, Jake runs a Custom E85 Tune by Rob Shoemaker of Shoemaker Performance, flashed via SCT Device. The E85 calibration takes full advantage of ethanol’s cooling and knock-resistant properties, enabling more timing and torque even in the truck’s N/A state. The combination of E85 and intake already wakes the truck up — and will be essential when forced induction arrives.

Engien bay 2022 F-150

Wheels & Tires: Street Stance Perfection

Jake’s wheel and tire combo nails the modern performance truck aesthetic. He selected Vossen HFX-01 wheels in 22x9.5 sizing, running +20 offset up front and +30 offset in the rear. This setup creates perfect flush fitment up front and a hint of rear poke, giving the truck a planted, aggressive stance without going overboard.

Wrapped around the Vossens are 305/45R22 Toyo Proxies STIII tires, a great all-season performance tire that offers solid grip in both wet and dry conditions. The wider 305 footprint gives the truck serious street presence while helping put the power down cleanly.

Vossen HFX-01

Body & Lighting: Attention to Detail Everywhere

The visual upgrades continue with Cervini’s 3” Cowl Hood, paint-matched to factory color for a seamless OEM+ look. The cowl hood not only adds visual aggression but increases airflow within the engine bay for better cooling. 

Jake also went all-in on Lethal Performance’s Painted Parts, including Mirror Caps, Door Handles, Front & Rear Emblems, Tailgate Handle, and the STX Grille Assembly. These subtle yet impactful touches bring cohesion to the truck’s look and eliminate unsightly factory chrome and ugly textured plastic — tying the build together perfectly.

For lighting, Jake added Morimoto XB Series V1 LED Taillights and matching LED 3rd Brake Light — a substantial upgrade over the factory units in both brightness and clarity. Up front, he’s running Euro-Spec OEM Ford Raptor headlights, converted for full functionality. This headlight swap provides a modern, premium look while offering superior nighttime visibility compared to stock halogens.

Front End Aesthetics F-150

Jake’s 2022 F-150 is a great example of how smart part selection and a vision for the end goal can produce a build that’s visually striking, functional, and ready for more power. The truck retains full utility thanks to thoughtful suspension choices while delivering the style, sound, and driving experience that makes it fun to drive.

As it sits, this truck turns heads on the street and at meets — and once the future supercharger goes in, it’s going to back up those looks with serious performance. We’re excited to see what’s next for Jake’s build!