Here’s a build that is sure to raise some eyebrows. Have a look at Travis Doherty’s Ford Ranger with a Toyota 1UZ-FE V8 topped with an Eaton M122 blower from a late model Shelby Mustang GT500.

Refreshing that it’s not a Chevy small block, huh? Let’s go over the details of the installation of this motor that’s usually found in stuffy old Lexus LS400, SC400, and GS400 cars.

The Far East V8 is mostly stock but breathed on with Crower valve springs, MegaSquirt II ECU, LQ9 ignition coils, and 550 cc RX-7 Turbo II injectors. Running 10 psi of boost, the engine makes 333 hp and 338 lb-ft of torque to the wheels via a GM TH400 transmission with manual valve body. The install is clean as a whistle.

Other than the blown Toyota motor, the truck is pretty conventional with a long travel suspension system, four-link suspension out back, roll cage, monster wheels, fiberglass fenders, and a prerunner-style front bumper.

Still, we can’t help wonder why not a small block Chevy as parts practically grow on trees here in the U.S. and a big chunk of the off-road aftermarket industry is built around GM’s workhorse. Maybe Doherty wanted anything BUT a Chevy to keep things interesting.

Nevertheless, check out the videos of this rig making rooster tails in the sand. The motor sure sounds like a friggin’ V8 and makes a ferocious wail at full throttle. Bottom line is this is a fun little truck packing a mean bite and Travis looks like he’s having a ball on the dunes.