Treasure Valley Mustang and Ford Club

Member Car of the Month - January 1998

Lightning pickups were produced in 1993, 1994 and 1995 by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) division, with total production of approximately 12000. All were either red (like this one), black or white, with white coming out in late 1994 and into 1995.

As with most performance vehicles, the heart of the Lightning is the engine. The 351 Windsor engine has been with most of the special tricks Ford had to offer: GT40 heads and lower intake; special upper plenum and 65mm throttle body; 4 into 1 headers; special cam and pistons; and external oil cooler. Recalibrated 4-speed automatic transmission, 4" aluminum drive shaft and 4:10 Posi-Track rear end all contribute to helping this pickup run with the best of them.

The roll center of the pickup was lowered and spring rates were changed to help in the handling department. Firestone GTA radials are mounted on 17 x 8 wheels. Shocks are Monroe Formula GP's, selected for their large piston/bore diameters. Special sway bars were also installed.

The interior has all the creature comforts. Special seats, cruise control, air conditioning, tilt wheel, power windows and CD player all to make the driving enjoyment the best.

The net result of all Ford's work is a pickup that handles like a car yet still retains the ability to haul a load. On the last TVMFC outing to Idaho City, Highway 21 gave the Lightning a workout. It took every corner in stride. As Ford said in old advertisements, "Consider the F-150 Lightning a Mustang with a cargo bed".

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