The Ford 300 inline-six engine has cultivated a dedicated fan base over many years. Whether found in a vintage dump truck like my 1966 F600 or a pickup, such as this 1979 F-250, this powerplant is known for its reliability. However, there are notable differences between these two vehicles—the most significant being the larger turbocharger on the latter, which allows the truck to effortlessly tow 10,000 pounds and even produce flames through its electronically controlled two-step system. Simply put, this truck is impressive… in a good way.
The truck belongs to Lee Forraht, who shares videos featuring it on his YouTube channel, Wasted Paycheck Garage. Forraht has been an active presence in Facebook groups for the past few years, and I finally connected with him to share his story. The three-quarter-ton vehicle has undergone multiple transformations, with more on the horizon, but its current build is certainly remarkable.
Forraht shares, “My dad bought the truck in the mid-’90s specifically because it had the 300 in it. He drove it for about a year, added some speed modifications, and then hired someone to paint it. However, it got partially disassembled and primed before the painter backtracked, leaving it to sit in our farmyard for 19 years until I finally pulled it out in 2014.”
By 2020, Forraht was ready to add a turbocharger. He wasn’t the first to upgrade the Ford 300 inline-six in this manner; other notable builds include Keith Lopez’s Fairmont wagon producing 1,000 horsepower and Jaron Nelson’s rat rod featuring a unique LS-engine head. What sets Forraht’s work apart is its practical approach.
Importantly, he continues using this truck for practical purposes, such as towing tractors and skid steers. It operates like any reliable turbodiesel workhorse, but with a distinct fuel source and extensive modifications for enhanced performance. While the engine block and rotating assembly remain stock, nearly every other component has been upgraded. The valvetrain features a Comp Cams 268 camshaft, Chevy 292 I6 rocker arms, and .060-inch valve spring shims. It sports a Clifford four-barrel intake, paired with Holley Sniper electronic fuel injection. A Chevy-style HEI distributor and an MSD 6AL-2 ignition module have also been added. As a 300 I6 owner, I can attest that these upgrades significantly improve performance, not even factoring in the turbo yet.
Speaking of the turbo, it’s a 72-millimeter VS Racing unit equipped with a Tial wastegate, delivering substantial airflow into the engine. This air, once mixed with fuel for added power, exits through a custom six-into-one header and a three-inch exhaust system featuring a Flowmaster muffler and an electric exhaust cutout. This setup produces remarkable sounds, whether the truck is stationary or pulling a heavy load on the road. You can hear it for yourself:
The truck is paired with a ZF5 manual transmission and features a South Bend ceramic clutch, creating a robust setup ideal for demanding tasks. It’s equipped with leaf springs from a ’99-’04 Super Duty, along with a custom adaptation of ’86 Chevy K20 front brakes for the rear axle that brings four-wheel disc braking capability. These carefully considered upgrades enhance the vehicle’s utility, appealing to those who value functionality.
Forraht has even more modifications in mind for the truck. Like many project builders, he has ambitious plans, and given his progress so far, it’s easy to believe in his future goals. One item on his wishlist is a 7.3-liter Power Stroke intercooler, which will significantly improve air density. He also plans to install Molnar forged H-beam connecting rods, DSS forged pistons, a custom Erson camshaft, a Promaxx CNC-ported head with oversized valves, and a Melling high-volume oil pump. Additionally, ARP head studs will be an essential component.
Ultimately, Forraht’s 1979 truck embodies the spirit of what a modified vehicle should be. Each new component is integrated with the goal of enhancing performance rather than just aesthetic appeal. The impressive sounds it produces are merely a delightful bonus.
For inquiries or tips for the author, please reach out directly: caleb@thedrive.com
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