Trucks // WhichCar.org

Carolina Squat: Everything You Need To Know About Squatted Trucks

Devin Joy — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 03:58:58 +0000

What Is a Squatted Truck?

Truck squatting is a controversial truck trend that has been making people look twice and starting arguments among truck guys for years. The Carolina Squat is a truck mod technique that involves lowering the rear of a vehicle to give it an aggressive stance, also known as the "Cali Lean" or "Tennessee Tilt." This is a favorite mod of Southern pickup and SUV owners.

Common Vehicles That Carolina Squat

Trucks: Full-size trucks like Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverados, and Dodge Rams are popular choices for this modification.
SUVs: Large SUVs like Chevrolet Tahoes, GMC Yukons, and Cadillac Escalades have also been modified with squats.
Rarely, sedans: Some sedan owners have attempted Carolina Squats on cars like Honda Civics or Toyota Camrys.

Carolina Squat Vs. California Lean: What's The Difference?

Now, let's hop over to the land of sunshine and beaches – California. Over there, they've got their own version of the squatted truck, known as the California Lean or CenCal (short for central California). While the Carolina Squat steals the show with its exaggerated stance, the California styles take a more subtle approach, drawing inspiration from off-road racing.

California, which is close to the Pacific Ocean, is where the CenCal, Cali Lean, and Baja-Stance styles got their start. These styles all have a reverse rake. Some races in Southern California, like the Baja 500 and Baja 1,000, have an effect on these styles. In these races, the front runners have soft multi-link or leaf-sprung rear suspension, which makes their trucks nose-high. These trucks usually sit a little lower in the back than Carolina Squat trucks because of front lifts and rear lowering kits. Carolina Squat trucks sit nose-high for style.

Carolina Squat: Originating from the southeastern United States, particularly in North and South Carolina, this modification involves lifting the rear of the truck while keeping the front end low. It's often associated with a more exaggerated tilt, giving the truck a distinctive "nose-down" appearance.

California Lean: On the other hand, the California Lean is more prevalent on the West Coast, where enthusiasts opt for a subtler tilt. The rear end is slightly elevated, creating a sleek and aerodynamic profile without the dramatic stance of its Carolina counterpart.

Who Started Carolina Squat?

The Carolina Squat, also known as the "Cali Lean" or "Tennessee Tilt," originated in the early 2000s among car enthusiasts in North and South Carolina. Truck owners wanted to give their ride a unique, aggressive stance that set them apart from others on the road, and the Carolina Squat quickly gained popularity. While it's unclear who started this trend, many believe it was inspired by off-road racing trucks used in events like SCORE International Off-Road Racing Series. The Carolina Squat mimics the high front end of these race trucks.

Squatting is done primarily to look good and show off rather than improved off-road capabilities.

How to Squat Your Truck?

Want to give your ride a unique look? Learn how to perform a Carolina Squat with these simple steps.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Adjustable coil overs or airbag suspension kit specific to your vehicle make and model
Cutting tools (like an angle grinder)
Welding equipment
Safety gear (gloves, goggles, etc.)
Floor jack and jack stands for safely lifting the vehicle off the ground

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Carolina Squat

Choose the right suspension components: Get adjustable coilovers or lowering springs for the front and lift blocks or add-a-leaf kits for the rear of your truck.
Prepare your tools: Gather all necessary tools like wrenches, sockets, jack stands, hydraulic jacks, and wheel chocks before starting any work on your vehicle.
Raise and secure your truck: Safely raise both ends of your vehicle using hydraulic jacks and place them securely on jack stands. Ensure that wheel chocks are in place behind each tire for added safety.
Install front suspension modifications: Remove existing shocks or struts and replace them with new adjustable coilovers or lowering springs according to manufacturer instructions. Check out this instructional video for proper installation techniques.
Lift rear end of truck: Add lift blocks under leaf springs or install add-a-leaf kits between existing leaf spring layers per product guidelines provided by manufacturers. Check out this detailed guide for more information.
Reinstall wheels and lower truck: Once all suspension modifications are complete, reinstall the wheels and carefully lower your vehicle back onto the ground. Make sure to torque lug nuts according to manufacturer specifications.
Perform alignment check: Have a professional perform an alignment check on your truck to ensure proper handling and prevent uneven tire wear.

For an expert opinion, consult a professional mechanic or visit a custom car modification shop. For more information on how to perform other popular car mods, check out our guide on Popular Car Modifications.

Related: Video: Ram Rampage Prototype Spotted Without Camo in South America

Is A Squatted Truck Legal?

The legality of a squatted truck varies by state, so check local laws before attempting this modification. In some areas, suspension modifications are regulated by specific height restrictions or limits on how much the vehicle's original suspension can be altered. For example, in North Carolina, lawmakers have passed House Bill 692, which prohibits vehicles from having a front-end elevation that exceeds four inches above the rear-end elevation.

Check Local Laws: Always consult your local DMV for information about suspension modification regulations in your area.
Contact Professionals: Reach out to experienced mechanics or automotive shops for guidance on legal squatting methods and alternatives that comply with local laws.
Safety Inspections: After completing any significant modification like a Carolina Squat, ensure you pass any required safety inspections mandated by your state.

Aside from legal concerns, it's essential to consider the potential dangers associated with performing a Carolina Squat. Incorrectly done squats can cause harm to the structure and raise the center of gravity, which could make it more likely for a rollover incident. Additionally, altering your truck's suspension may also affect its handling capabilities and braking performance, potentially putting you and other road users at risk.

The People Vs. Carolina Squat

Looks like the law isn't too fond of squatted trucks either. Two states, North Carolina and Virginia, have already put the kibosh on the Carolina Squat, citing safety concerns. And now, Southern Carolina is following suit with SB363 on the horizon. It's clear that lawmakers aren't messing around when it comes to keeping the roads safe.

Related: Car Companies That Were Killed Off in the 21st Century

What Are the Dangers of Driving a Squatted Truck?

Sure, squatted trucks might turn heads on the road, but they also come with a hefty dose of danger. Imagine trying to see over the hood of your truck when it's pointing towards the sky – not exactly a recipe for safe driving, right? And let's not forget about the poor folks driving behind you; those headlights are probably blinding them!

Latest Squatted Truck News

But hey, the squatted truck community isn't going down without a fight. Some folks are worried that these bans are just the beginning, but who knows? Maybe there's a compromise on the horizon. Until then, we'll be keeping an eye on any new laws that come our way.

Questions About The Carolina Squat

Why Was the Carolina Squat Banned?

The Carolina Squat was banned due to safety concerns, as the uneven weight distribution can cause structural damage, increase the center of gravity, and make trucks more prone to rollover accidents.

Is the Carolina Squat Legal?

In many states, performing a full-blown Carolina Squat on your truck is illegal due to safety hazards it poses, but laws may vary by state, so it's important to check local regulations before making any modifications.

When Did the Carolina Squat Become Illegal?

In 2023, the new law became a reality. The front or back bumper of a "squatted" car is at least 4 inches higher than the other bumper. People who support the new law say that the change makes it harder for drivers to see through their windshield and could make it harder for them to see people or smaller cars.

Laws banning or restricting squatted trucks began appearing in various US states around 2018-2023. North Carolina officially made it illegal in December 2023 with House Bill 692, which prohibits alterations causing a difference in height greater than three inches between front and rear bumpers.

The post Carolina Squat: Everything You Need To Know About Squatted Trucks appeared first on WhichCar.org.

Ford Maverick vs Ford Ranger: Which is Best?

Devin Joy — Fri, 12 May 2023 22:13:51 +0000

For years, the 2023 Ford Ranger has been a rock-solid player in the pickup truck game, giving drivers a flexible choice. Diving deep into the Ford Ranger, we’ll stack it up against its sibling – the Maverick, and put it to the test against rival trucks.

2023 Ford Maverick Overview

CarBuzz

Introducing the Ford Maverick, a compact pickup truck that’s turning heads and winning hearts. This truck is very flexible because it has a great mix of features and performance.

Features That Make You Go “Wow.”

The 2023 Ford Maverick comes standard with a hybrid powertrain, making it the first-ever hybrid pickup in its class. The Ford Maverick provides an impressive 40 MPG city fuel economy and a range of 500 miles on one tank, making it the ideal choice for those seeking economical yet effective transport.

Performance Worth Bragging About

Despite its small size, the Ford Maverick delivers a powerful performance with its 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and electric motor producing 191 horsepower combined. The base model sports a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor producing 191 horsepower combined. Need more power? Opt for the available EcoBoost engine which delivers up to 250 horsepower and has towing capabilities up to 4,000 pounds.

Sleek Design Meets Functionality

The design of the Ford Maverick strikes just the right balance between style and practicality. Its bold front grille gives off an aggressive look while still maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, there are many places to keep all of your gearhead necessities, including bins in the door pockets and storage under the seats.

In the end, the 2023 Maverick is a stylish and powerful truck that stands out. The next section will talk about how it stacks up against its sister model, the Ford Ranger.

2023 Ford Ranger Overview

If you’re a fan of midsize trucks, then the Ford Ranger is likely on your radar. The 2023 Ford Ranger, having been brought back to the US after an eight-year gap, has generated plenty of attention in the auto industry.

The 2023 Ford Ranger comes with a potent 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers impressive performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. With 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, it can tow up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped – perfect for those weekend adventures or hauling work equipment around town.

Features: The Ranger offers various trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat) with features like SYNC infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, available Wi-Fi hotspot capability and more.
Safety: It also boasts safety features such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane-Keeping System and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Versatility: With multiple cab configurations (SuperCab or SuperCrew) and bed lengths (5-foot or 6-foot), there’s a Ford Ranger suited for every need.

In addition to its capabilities under the hood and inside the cabin, let’s not forget about its rugged exterior design that commands attention wherever it goes. The bold front grille combined with aggressive body lines creates an unmistakable presence on any street corner.

2023 Ford Ranger Performance: How Does it Stack Up?

If you’re a gearhead who loves to feel the power beneath your feet, then the Ford Ranger might just be the perfect ride for you. Let’s examine how the Ford Ranger handles it’s self against the Maverick.

The heart of any truck is its engine, and the 2023 Ford Ranger doesn’t disappoint with a potent 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four that churns out an impressive 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Ranger has a ten-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly, so it can speed up quickly when it needs to.

Fuel Economy: The Ranger boasts an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of up to 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway – not too shabby for a midsize pickup.
Towing Capacity: With proper equipment, this workhorse can tow up to 7,500 pounds – more than enough muscle for most weekend warriors’ needs.
Payload Capacity: Need to haul some serious cargo? No problem. The Ford Ranger has got your back with a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,860 pounds.

In comparison to rivals like the 2023 Chevy Colorado or 2023 Toyota Tacoma, which offer multiple engine options but similar towing capacities, we’d say that the Ford Ranger holds its own quite well in terms of performance metrics. For even more off-road capabilities, Ford has the FX4 and Tremor packages, which come with upgraded suspension and off-road-tuned shocks.

How does the Ford Ranger performance fare? Quite well indeed. With its potent engine, impressive towing capacity, and solid fuel economy numbers – not to mention available off-road packages and builds– this midsize pickup is a force to be reckoned with on any terrain.

Overall, the Ford Ranger is a solid performer that can easily handle any terrain you throw at it.

2023 Ford Ranger Design: Is It Worth It?

The best things about the Ford Ranger will help us choose whether to buy it or not. The outside is rough and bold, making you want to go on an adventure. The inside is soft and useful for everyday tasks.

Aesthetics: Rugged Meets Modern

The Ford Ranger sports an aggressive front grille with sharp headlights, giving it a commanding presence on the road. Its muscular body lines flow seamlessly from front to rear, emphasizing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing style.

Interior Comfort & Functionality

Inside the cabin, you’ll find ample space for passengers and cargo alike. With available leather-trimmed seating surfaces and ergonomic controls at your fingertips, driving long distances becomes a breeze in this pickup truck. Additionally, clever storage solutions such as under-seat compartments help keep your belongings organized during those weekend getaways or work trips.

Tech-Savvy Features Galore

Ford SYNC® 4: Stay connected with ease thanks to the latest infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ compatibility, voice-activated navigation features along with other essential apps like Spotify or Waze.
Ford Co-Pilot360™: This suite of advanced driver-assist technologies helps ensure safety on every journey by providing features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane-Keeping System (LKS) etc., all designed to make driving safer than ever before.

So, does the Ford Ranger’s design really stack up? Absolutely. With its eye-catching aesthetics, comfortable and functional interior, and cutting-edge technology features, this truck has everything you need for both work and play. Don’t just take our word for it; head to your nearest Ford dealership today to experience the Ranger firsthand.

Performance Bottom line

The Ford Ranger comes packed with a powerful 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, punching out 270 horsepower and an impressive torque of 310 lb-ft, all tied together with a slick ten-speed automatic gearbox. The Ranger has an impressive towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,860 pounds.

Ford Ranger vs Maverick: What’s the Difference?

Deciding between the Ford Ranger and Maverick involves taking into account a few key contrasts. Let’s dive into some of these distinctions:

Size: The most obvious difference is size, with the Ranger being a midsize pickup truck while the Maverick falls under the compact category. This means that if you’re looking for more space or towing capacity, you might lean towards a Ranger.
Towing Capacity & Payload: Speaking of towing capacity, it’s worth noting that Rangers can tow up to 7,500 lbs., whereas Mavericks max out at around 4,000 lbs. Similarly, payload capacities differ – Rangers offer up to 1,860 lbs., while Mavericks provide just over half of that at approximately 1,500 lbs.
Fuel Efficiency: One area where the Maverick shines is fuel efficiency; its hybrid powertrain option boasts an impressive EPA-estimated rating of up to 42 MPG city driving. In contrast, even though Rangers have efficient EcoBoost engines available (up to an estimated combined rating of about ~23 MPG), they still lag behind in this department.
Pricing: The starting price point for a base model 2023 Ford Maverick sits lower than its counterpart – making it more affordable for those on tighter budgets who still want a reliable and versatile vehicle.

In summary, if you prioritize fuel economy and affordability, the Maverick may be your go-to choice. However, if you need a more robust truck with greater towing and payload capacities, then the Ranger is likely to better suit your needs.

The 2023 Ford Ranger and 2023 Maverick have many differences, from engine size to cabin space. Moving on to performance, the next heading will explore how the Ford Ranger stacks up in terms of power output and fuel efficiency.

2024 Ford Maverick vs 2024 Ford Ranger

With the 2023 Ford Maverick ending production in October. The auto industry awaits with eagerness the unveiling of both 2024 Ford Maverick and 2024 Ford Ranger, it is only natural for truck aficionados to ponder how these two vehicles compare. Let’s evaluate their characteristics, performance and design by comparing them side-by-side of what we know so far.

Size and Capability

The most apparent difference between these two trucks is their size. The 2024 Ford Maverick is a small pickup truck that is perfect for people who want a lot of options without giving up the ability to get around in tight spaces. On the other hand, the 2024 Ford Ranger falls under the midsize category, offering more room for passengers and cargo alike.

Powertrain Options

Ford has equipped both models with impressive powertrains that cater to different needs. The Maverick comes standard with a hybrid powertrain capable of delivering an estimated 40 MPG city driving while still providing ample towing capacity (up to 2000 lbs). In contrast, the Ranger offers more powerful engine options like its turbocharged EcoBoost engines which allow it to tow up to an impressive 7500 lbs.

Tech Features & Interior Comforts

Maverick: This small truck comes with standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You can also get heated seats or a wireless charging pad as an add-on.
Ranger: While also including essential tech elements such as smartphone integration, higher trims of the Ranger offer additional luxuries like leather upholstery and advanced driver-assist features.

In the end, whether you go for the Ford Maverick or the Ford Ranger really hinges on your personal tastes and requirements. The Maverick is great for people who want a small, fuel-efficient truck, while the Ranger is better for people who need more power and space. You can have a fun time driving either one, but if you want something different, you could also look at the Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado, or GMC Canyon.

The post Ford Maverick vs Ford Ranger: Which is Best? appeared first on WhichCar.org.