Some trucks come and go. Others leave a mark on an entire generation.
For countless diesel enthusiasts, the 1997 Ford F-250 Power Stroke is one of those trucks. It wasn't just another pickup—it was the truck that covered bedroom walls on magazine posters, dominated conversations at local meets, and became the benchmark for what a hardworking diesel should be. It looked tough, sounded even better, and carried a reputation for reliability that still holds up decades later.
The late 1990s marked a turning point for diesel pickups, and Ford was leading the charge. At the heart of it all was the legendary 7.3L Power Stroke, an engine that earned its reputation through years of dependable service, impressive towing capability, and the unmistakable diesel rumble enthusiasts still love today. It wasn't built to win drag races. It was built to work, last, and inspire confidence every time the key turned.
That's exactly why Randall Williams knew this truck deserved to be brought back to its full potential.
If Randall's name sounds familiar, you may remember the stunning red F-350 dually we previously featured. His latest project follows the same philosophy—clean, functional, and timeless. This 1997 Ford F-250 Crew Cab Long Bed wears its original red paint with pride, complemented by a tasteful suspension lift, classic wheels, aggressive tires, and the kind of stance that looks right from every angle.
Spend a few minutes around Randall, and one thing becomes obvious—he has a soft spot for red Ford trucks. After photographing this F-250, it's easy to understand why.
The truck entered Randall's life under unexpected circumstances. After losing his previous truck in a rollover accident, he was determined to get back behind the wheel of another OBS Ford. A close friend purchased this F-250 with the understanding that Randall would make payments until it was paid off. Then something incredible happened. After Randall made just three payments, his friend surprised him by gifting him the truck as a reward for his hard work.
That generous gesture made this truck far more than another project—it became something worth preserving and perfecting.
Randall immediately focused on strengthening the drivetrain to handle future performance upgrades. The transmission received billet internal components, Raybestos clutches, a heavy-duty one-piece driveshaft, and a triple-disc torque converter, creating a foundation built for both reliability and power.
The suspension was upgraded with a Solo Motorsports Dana 50 three-inch coil kit, Skyjacker springs, and Bilstein shocks, giving the truck a confident stance while maintaining excellent road manners.
Performance upgrades under the hood are equally well thought out. A 4-inch MBRP exhaust helps the 7.3L breathe easier, while Marty's E-Fuel kit with a regulated return system, a PHP Hydra Chip, and a cold air intake improve both efficiency and responsiveness. Even with those upgrades installed, Randall admits there's still plenty more waiting to go onto the truck.
Rolling stock plays a huge role in the truck's appearance, and Randall nailed the combination. Massive 315/75R16 Cooper Discoverer STT Pro tires wrapped around Mickey Thompson Classic Lock wheels perfectly complement the classic OBS body style, giving the truck an aggressive yet period-correct look.
During our photoshoot, one thing became impossible to ignore.
This truck simply has "poster truck" energy.
The proportions are perfect. The original paint still shines, the factory interior remains remarkably well preserved, and every angle captures everything enthusiasts love about OBS Ford pickups. It's clean without being overdone, modified without losing its identity, and powerful without trying too hard.
In a world where many builds chase trends, Randall's F-250 proves that timeless styling never goes out of fashion.
Of course, he's far from finished.
Future plans include installing an S369 Irate T4 turbo kit, Full Force 238/80 fuel injectors, upgraded pushrods, and additional supporting modifications that will unlock even more potential from the legendary 7.3L Power Stroke. When those upgrades are complete, this already impressive truck will have the performance to match its unmistakable presence.
Until then, you can occasionally spot Randall cruising the roads of Oklahoma, where this beautifully preserved OBS Ford continues turning heads everywhere it goes. With any luck, we'll also see it making appearances at truck shows and diesel events in the near future.
Some trucks become classics because of their age.
Others become icons because of the stories behind them.
Randall Williams' 1997 Ford F-250 Power Stroke is fortunate enough to be both.
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