Automotive Tips

Get The Best Ride Out of Your Polaris ATV With Convenient Polaris Accessories

2008-11-16T01:16:00.001-08:00

If you have an ATV, particularly a Polaris ATV, then you'll definitely want to consider at least some of the many Polaris accessories that are available on the market. Many different companies and stores will offer different types of ATV accessories. Some of the more commonly found accessories for an ATV include bags, clothing and seating, storage devices and options, and even specialized accessories that enable your ATV to pull small trailers behind it.

When it comes to storage devices for Polaris accessories, you'll most often find both front and rear utility-style baskets. These baskets will often be installed using tubular slots, which enables them to quickly latch onto your ATV's rack handles. Storage boxes are another option for storage. These can be more cumbersome, but enable you to store tools, snacks and drinks safely and securely on your ATV. How about a Quad trunk? This less used Polaris accessory will wrap around the back end of your ATV. Speaking of storage, a fuel storage device is a great thing to take along on long journeys. Most of these storage devices will enable you to bring along three gallons of fuel for the ride. A specialty fender bag will wrap around your ATV's fender and keep bottles, cans and other odds and ends within easy reach of the person driving the ATV.

For comfort, Polaris accessories that provide cushioning and the like are a must. Loungers are special seat cushions that fit into the driver's seat. As a bonus, they can also function as a storage device. Apparel is another popular choice when shopping for Polaris accessories. The clothing sold under the category of ATV accessories is designed especially for those individuals who will be driving and/or riding in an ATV. Headgear, gauntlets and gaiters are popular types of Polaris apparel. Headgear protects the rider's head, while gauntlets keep hands safe and warm, and gaiters protect the ankles and feet. Thumb grips also help to protect thumbs, and utility grips and grids can help hold various farming and land tools that people may need to carry along on their ATV.

The great thing about most of the Polaris accessories listed here is that they are definitely affordable. You will often find accessories for less than $200 apiece. While this sounds like a hefty price tag, consider it against the relative cost of your Polaris ATV! If you'd like to shop for Polaris ATVs and accessories, then you can check out any sporting goods or ATV store or website.

Polaris Performance: How to get it and how to do it

2008-11-16T01:14:00.000-08:00

Polaris performance is something that weighs heavily on the minds of people who have purchased a Polaris ATV. After all, an ATV is an expensive purchase, so once it's bought and all set up, who wouldn't want to have increased speed, better fuel consumption, and generally better performance? Well, the good news is that you can do several things to increase the performance of your Polaris ATV. This article will go over some brief tips for increasing Polaris performance.

First, let it be said that most ATV accessories will not increase performance. Items like clothing, storage boxes, bags, ATV wheels, fuel storage devices, bottle holders, fender bags and baskets can help add some comfort and function to your hardcore, rugged all terrain vehicle ride, but they won't do much for increasing its performance. To ramp up the performance of your Polaris, think more along the lines of performance piping.

Performance piping can increase your Polaris performance by up to twenty-five percent! If you swap up the typical foam filter in favor of a gauze filter, you'll find that your ATV will experience a better flow rate.

Engine upgrades can really do a lot for your Polaris performance. Consider upgrading your standard all terrain vehicle engine to a four stroke engine. Make sure to add in the high compression piston choices and a high performance cam, and you'll find your ATV is ready to leap to life at the slightest touch of your foot to the gas pedal. But before you think about Polaris performance, make sure you have chosen the right ATV for the plans you wish to execute with it.

If you plan on having an ATV for work purposes, such as for use on a farm or with construction, then you'll want to purchase a utility ATV. But if you're looking for play, or will be using your ATV in a situation where it'll be going through and over all sorts of terrain, then a sports ATV is the better choice.
Another consideration for Polaris performance is the choice of two wheel drive versus four wheel drive. If your ATV will be going up and down slopes, over rocky terrain and over hard ground, then four wheel drive is the best choice. But if you simply want speed and to ride your ATV around on relatively flat stretches of terrain, then a two wheel drive ATV will provide you with better performance.

Care Your Automobiles – They'll Serve You Better

2008-11-16T01:13:00.001-08:00

People love their vehicles and care for them as much as they care for themselves. It's true that not only for rally lovers, but for a common man too their automobiles are very important just like a real friend. They need to take care of their automobiles in order to keep the relation longer than general.

Vehicle Care – Need for Performance

Caring for your vehicle is not only your duty it's your necessity that you have to do in order to get the best performance out of them. You need to make it your habit to do proper and timely care of your vehicles. In order to do that you should do following things:
1. Keep Your Vehicles Neat & Clean
2. Regular Engine Health Checkups
3. Engine Cooling System Check
4. Inspection of Vehicle for Possible Faults
5. Check Vehicle's Security System like brakes, seat belts, back and rear
lights, side and back view mirrors.
6. Wheels and Air Pressure in Wheels
7. Pollution Check
8. Routine Checkups at Company Authorized Service Centers

Spare Parts – Important For Your Vehicle's Health

Your engine spare parts are very important for your vehicles. After some time of buying your vehicle you need spare parts of your vehicles during health checkups and in case of some maintenance of your vehicles. It is strictly suggested that you purchase spare parts from a trusted source like company showroom or certified spare parts dealers.

Never go for any duplicate spare parts from grey market in order to save just a few bucks. You have invested heavy sum of money in buying your vehicle then why hesitation in buying original spare parts. You may end up with loosing charm and strength of your vehicle. Specially when it comes to your heavy duty vehicles and SUV's you should never take a chance, and only select the quality parts.

For maintenance of your automobiles select a service stations or dealer that promises to provide you best quality parts, the best tuning equipment, and the highest quality experienced tune-up technicians for your Ford Automobile. This is very important because if you'll love your vehicle and keep proper care of them, they will love you back and provide you problem free rides.

Autobodypartslocator: The most economical site for buying used transmission and used auto body parts.

2008-11-16T01:12:00.001-08:00

If you have any vehicle, unavoidably at some point of time you would have to buy body parts for it. It is obvious that the parts of the vehicles are bound to get damaged sooner or later. These damaged parts will certainly require repairing or replacement. Now, it is up to you whether you want to use new parts or the used parts for replacement.

One issue that must be coming in your mind is that whether it is right to use used body parts. The answer to the question is optimistic. This is due to the fact that there are many advantages of using used body parts like used transmission, used engines and so on. The major benefit of buying used auto body parts or any other used parts is its low price. This is the first and the foremost reason for buying used parts rather than new parts. Generally, it is observed that the used parts cost almost half to that of new parts.

Another advantage is the availability of large number of options. There are several places in the market to purchase these used auto body parts from. The place selected for purchasing used auto body parts can be a major factor in determining the cost of the product. Junk yards, salvage yards sell used auto parts of damaged vehicles transported to them. It is not that damaged vehicle parts are also damaged. Damaged vehicles too contain many parts that are capable of working properly and successfully, but as they are used parts they are sold by these yards at very low rates.

Although the above mentioned places are worthwhile to have a go, but the best place for buying used transmission, used auto body parts or any other used part is the internet. But, it should be noted that we choose the correct site to buy these used body parts. One name that is suggested for trading all body parts is the Autopartslocator. It is a premier online store that offers its customer uncountable options of all used body parts including used transmission, used auto body parts, used wheels, etc.

Now, you must be thinking that what is so special in Autopartslocator from any other online company. So, let us make you familiar with some of the advantages of trading with the company.

The Company’s site holds high reputation in the market and is regarded as the leader in supplying and purchasing used parts including used transmission, used auto body parts, used engines etc. The company has made the reputation in the market through their efficient and consistent hard work from the very beginning till date.

Factors like reliable customer support, wide options of all types of products, safe and easy buying and selling procedures are some of the attributes of the company that you would not get in any other company. This on line site has been in the business of auto parts like used transmission, used auto body parts, etc. for long enough now, to take all types of orders and cater to all kinds of need of the customers.

Visit autopartslocator for availing best quality used headlights and used rims

2008-11-16T01:10:00.000-08:00

In order to give a better life to your vehicle, it is very important to take care of replacement of worn out parts. It is considered very important to replace the worn out parts because their replacement helps in increasing the performance, efficiency as well as life of the vehicle.

If you are going for installing the brand new part, then it is sure that it is going to cost you a lot. However if you are going with the recycled or used part, then it is sure that your motive would be solved and that too without spending much amount of money. In addition, if you are of opinion that used parts are not as effective as the brand new parts then you are totally wrong as well. It is so because these used parts are manufactured with the help of high quality parts and so they also work similar to the brand new parts.

So if you are interested in knowing about the site that can help you find all sorts of used auto parts including the used headlights as well as the used rims, then autopartslocator is the site you must trust upon.

Autopartslocator is one such site that can fulfill all your good quality used auto parts need including engines, transmissions as well as used headlights and used rims. It is worth to note that it is a site that contains a very big network of junkyards, recyclers, salvage yards as well as dealers of used car parts. In case you want to have used headlights, then you are simply required to write its name as well as the price you are looking for. Thereafter it is the role of big network of this site to search for the desired used headlights that falls in your price range.

The working procedure of this site is not only unique but effective as well. It is really simple to put the request of a desired used part and that can be done even by a layman. As soon as the request part is over next step i.e. to locate the request to various salvage yards is done. After that various quotes are received from various dealers then it is left on the customer to consider the quote and talk to the salvage yard dealer with whom he wants to buy the used part.

So if you are looking for any used auto parts even the used rims, then it is advisable to visit autopartslocator. If you want to know more about this site then it is important to have a look on some of the important features of this site. Some of the main features are mentioned as under:

1. Offer all sorts of used parts: the most important feature of autopartslocator is that it offers solution for all sorts of used auto parts. Thus if you want to have good quality used engines or good looking used rims, then it is sure to get all these here at autopartslocator.

2. Best prices: another important feature of this site is that it helps in offering its customers the best used auto parts that too at best prices. So what else you need?

Autopartslocator: Buying valuable products like used engines

2008-11-16T01:09:00.000-08:00

Now a day’s people have become more compassionate about cars. They seem to be pretty much interested in replacing an older one to a newer one. But one should be careful while buying the car or any other vehicle. The most important thing that one should take into consideration is the engine of the car. If one has decided to purchase used engine for the car, he/she needs to be extra careful. One thing that makes it further more risky to buy second hand or used engine is the fact that there are no legal requirement to maintain the standard of the engine.

Engine is the backbone of any vehicle. It is important for us to select the right company for buying used engines as they are the most vital part of any vehicle. Although engines of all types of vehicles are available at various places. But it is important for us to buy a genuine and good quality rather than an inferior one.

The main reason behind purchasing the used engines rather than new one is that they are pocket friendly as they are much cheaper than new engines. Another reason can be there easy availability. They are now available pretty easily at various places like salvage yards, gas stations and flea markets. But, it should be noted that the engines purchased from such places cannot be relied upon. However, to simplify your problem of reliable used engines, there are various types of companies present in the market. One such company is Autopartslocator. It provides best used or second hand engines at the most affordable prices. Now, you must be thinking what is so unique in the company. Let us introduce you to some of the key features of the company for your consideration:

1. Excellent support system: The Company provides absolutely high class support to its customers i.e. to the buyers and the sellers. They offer their buyers the least cost of engines in the market. It also offers the most adequate and clear-cut price to the sellers of the engine. The customers of the company feels totally satisfied after making a deal with the company.

2. Variety of Products: The product range of the website is absolutely huge. One can easily get the product of its choice by simply logging on the site. One can get all types of products, from a gear box to used engine of the vehicle. So, this online store of selling and buying various auto parts can serve the customers according to their requirement.

3. Goodwill: The company posses a strong goodwill in the company. There reputation among the customers is really good and they have made this goodwill through their hard work and promise. It is rest assured once the customer buys used engines or any other product of the company he/she won’t feel cheated or bad about it later instead he/she would feel happy of his/her wise decision of shaking hands with the company.
These are only few benefits of buying used engine or any other product from the Autopartslocator. You would realize some other benefits once you purchase the products of the company.

Looking for used engines? Visit autopartslocator for buying a good used engine

2008-11-16T01:08:00.000-08:00

Do you like your car? Are you interested in making it the best car with increased efficiency as well as performance even after several years of its purchase? If your answer is yes, then it is important to note that with the help of proper maintenance and timely replacement of worn out parts you can give a new life to your vehicle.

However with increasing costs of living it is not at all easy to go for installation of the brand new parts. These brand new parts are so expensive that the person prefers to compromise with the poor performance of his car and finally opts for selling it in the price of scrap. But there must be any way by which one can give a new life to his car and that too without wasting much of the money on the brand new parts?

Yes, there is one best way by which you can increase the efficiency, performance as well as longevity of your vehicle and that too without spending huge amount of money. That option is by using the good quality recycled or used parts for your vehicle. These recycled or used parts are manufactured using the high quality parts and so even it is not at all required to worry about the working and efficiency of these parts. But what you need to keep in mind is to go for only those genuine dealers who can provide you the best quality used engines or parts.

Today when the market is full of unreliable dealers it is really important to go for such provides who can provide you the right quality used engine or other parts that you require. So if you want to play safe and want to know about one best place where you can find large number of dealers offering the best quality used engines and other used auto parts, then it is best to look for a site known as autopartslocator.

Autopartslocator is one such site that is known as the best site that can offer an extensive network of junkyards, salvage yards, recyclers and dealers of various used car parts including efficient used engines.

If you want to know more about this site, then it is really important to first go through some of the most important features of this site. Some of the main features of autopartslocator are as under:

1. Reliability: The first most important feature of this site is that it only contains the list of those dealers who are reliable. So you can get the advantage of working with a site that understands the utility of reliability and that offers you the opportunity to buy genuine used parts including used engine from reliable providers.

2. Ease of selection: Another important feature of autopartslocator is that it provides the best feature of ease of selection. This site offers large number of providers offering large number of used parts including used engines and other important parts of the vehicle. Thus you can easily select your desired product as well as the desired provider with the help of autopartslocator.

3. Cost-effectiveness: The third most important feature of autopartslocator is that it offers the cost effective solution to its customers. Firstly, you get the best quality used parts like a used engine at a very cheap price and secondly this site even helps in saving your intermediary costs. Thus you can have the truly cost effective solution from autopartslocator.

So if you want a good used engine or any other used auto parts, look for autopartslocator.

The Ongoing Hard Vs Retractable Tonneau Cover Debate

2008-11-16T01:06:00.001-08:00

Every truck owner needs a tonneau cover to, well, cover their gear, save gas and keep junk out of the bed. But, if you care about your stuff not getting stolen, you shouldn’t even consider a soft tonneau cover, which is your cheapest bed coverage option. You should stick with the two most popular options for a serious truck owner and their rig: a hard tonneau cover or a retractable model.

Hard tonneau covers are one of the most popular styles around. They’re the unquestioned choice of truck customizers and anyone who places smooth looks above all else. But, there are plenty of ways to use a hard tonneau cover for utility, and plenty of no-frills models that give you hard tonneau security without all of the custom-painted pricing. A hard tonneau also securely locks to your bed and wraps over the top of the bed rails, giving a thief virtually no chance of getting at your gear.

Hard tonneau covers have one big drawback, though: they’re hard to remove when you need to carry a big load. You can’t have full access to your bed without taking the cover completely off, which you’ll have to do when your load is taller than the top of your bed. Since hard tonneaus weight in excess of 100lbs., there’s not easy or fast way to do it, either. So, in terms of security and looks, a hard tonneau cover is king. But, when you need to carry a big and/or tall load, it may cause more hassle than its worth.

Let’s look at retractable covers now. Think of these tonneau covers as a rolling garage door for your bed. They usually operate manually with a pull strap, and lock closed at several positions including the end at the tailgate. The panels comprising a retractable tonneau cover are typically made of a resilient material like aluminum that can take a beating and keep working right, though they’re not quite as rigid as a hard tonneau cover. Some retractable tonneaus can even be opened and closed by remote. That’s right—you can get a motorized bed cover for your truck. And, whether you open it by hand or by remote, it just takes a few seconds to get relatively unobstructed access to your truck bed’s payload capacity.

Here come the downsides. First, installation is much more difficult. The rails have to be shimmed to be perfectly level before the cover will operate smoothly. The entire cover rolls into a heavy canister that stacks behind your rear window; this canister collects moisture that must be drained, which requires drilling holes for drainage lines. About that canister: it’s pretty big, and the space it occupies is space you’ll never get back for bed storage. Except for long, flat items that slide along the floor of your bed, the front foot of your carrying capacity is essentially gone. While a hard tonneau cover can give you all of your bed space after tricky disconnecting of hardware and lifting the bulky lid, a retractable cover never really gives you all of your bed space. That is, unless you’re willing to unscrew the canister, remove the rails, and unhook the drainage tubes to get your bed back.

Generally speaking, if you hardly ever carry big loads and want a cover to secure your smaller stuff, a hard tonneau cover will do your truck right for the rest of its life. If carrying big gear and having the fastest access to the most space sounds more like your brand of beer, a retractable tonneau cover will never have you thinking twice about the hard cover you passed on. And, either way you go, you’ll be quite happy to not have wasted cash on a soft tonneau disappointment.

Decisions between Gaylord and Undercover Hard Bed Covers

2008-11-16T01:04:00.002-08:00

A guy at the local truck parts place once told me that I was wasting my cash and time by buying a tonneau cover. His theory was that nobody west of the Rockies needed to cover their bed, because snow was the only thing worth keeping out of the payload. He figured that water would get past a cover anyways, and probably dry out fast. Knowing he was a fool, I bought one anyways—a cheap, soft one. So, when I went through a round of having pieces of my vinyl tonneau stolen about a month later, I returned to grill the same idiot again. After all, if nobody needed one here, and nobody wanted one here, then why was my cover worth treating like a Sprint in the salvage yard? He had no reply, just a stupid grunt.

My next step had two parts: 1. find a new truck parts shop with fewer blowhards (after all, I could just go to Kragen for that kind of entertainment), and 2. Pick a cover without loose, accessible or soft parts that could be picked clean like strands of meat dangling from a hot wing. I arrived at a hard truck bed lid as my best option. They cost considerably more than the vinyl designs, but I discovered that you really get what you pay for. On the flipside of the price tag, they also look many times better and are infinitely more secure—which was now my de-facto area of greatest need.

The first one I looked at was getting a custom Gaylord truck bed cover. There are many brands out there making a truck bed cover in this style: fiberglass construction, gas strut lifts, keyed opening, and custom paint matching. There’s no question that a lid like Gaylord’s makes is quite impressive; the price is just a bit tough to tackle—roughly 6 times higher than the softy cover I was replacing. And, it’s heavy, which means a few drawbacks for hauling a large load. First, you have to lift off the truck after undoing the struts and hinges. It’s a two-man job for certain. Then, there’s finding a place to hang the lid where the paint won’t get jacked up. I had such a place to hang the cover, and a wife who loves to prove she can handle lifting from time to time. All I had to do was get comfortable with the price.

I decided to take a look at my friend’s bed cover. He found his receipt for it so that he could tell me the brand (it was a gift, so he didn’t really know it himself). It was called an Undercover tonneau cover, and it’s much different than the Gaylord’s, despite initial similarities. First, the Undercover wasn’t smoothly painted to match; it was actually kind of rough to the touch. No big deal, I thought, because the black surface would look fine with my dark blue GMC, and it has to cut several bills off the price tag. It’s also not fiberglass, but a lighter plastic material, making removal a one-man gig. That’s another bonus, but it also contributes to the cover looking a little flimsier, and a lot less like a custom, professionally crafted item. The price tag on the Undercover (about half of the Gaylord cover) started to look nicer and nicer.

I thought about how I used my truck, which didn’t provide many answers. While I don’t carry big stuff that often, and my bed isn’t usually full, I do like being able to use my truck like a real truck when I need to. That means not worrying about scratching my lid the way I worry about the rest of the paint. Speaking of paint, I wasn’t sure how I felt about looks. I like to keep my truck sharp, but it’s hardly one of those decked-out rigs with $20K in extra work done that makes you either whip your head around or just shake it. So, a custom painted cover isn’t a must, but it wouldn’t look that bad.

Ultimately, I picked the Gaylord truck bed cover, and I did it for two reasons. First, I couldn’t get the same thing as my buddy has. Second, I was due for a prostate exam later that week, and figured I’d treat myself to the nicer lid if I survived.

Diesel Power—Pluck Yuppies from the Muck with Power to Spare

2008-11-16T01:04:00.001-08:00

These days, a big diesel rig is an indispensable part of country living. You can load it up with feed, lumber, livestock—whatever—with nary a squat. A diesel truck will go just about anywhere; they get relatively good mileage for the horsepower and the torque rating is more akin to a bulldozer than a work truck. Plus, in a pinch or when the stuff goes down, you can run the thing on vegetable oil, really.

Now up here in the "Valley of the flowers," folks are living the quintessential country life. There are lots of ranches and farms, dirt roads and swimming holes. And, being so far north they get lots and lots of snow. Now the average Bozemanite isn’t phased by the fluffy white stuff, but those city slickers that come up to hit the slopes are constantly getting their Subarus and Volvos stuck in the muck. Since the folks in Bozeman are so neighborly, they take it upon themselves to help these helpless yuppies.

Massive diesel power is the order for the day when you’re plucking tourists from snow banks. Even though a late model diesel rig comes equipped with horsepower and torque out the wazoo, some of us feel it’s not enough. Natural tinkerers, Bozemanites are always looking for more power. As far as diesels go, there’s finally a healthy aftermarket industry devoted to bringing out the best these oil-burning monsters have to offer.

The best part is all this power can be had by installing a few bolt-on parts. Intake kits, exhaust systems and power programmers are plentiful and easy to install. A few basic tools, a couple cold beers and a free afternoon are all you need to transform your rig from factory to ferocious. Installing all three of these components will add more horsepower than a Crown Vic even comes with and enough torque to power a tugboat.

This is the kind of power you need to pull citified station wagons and their goofy drivers from the crud. Hitch that Bimmer up to the bumper of your 500 horsepower mean machine and give Mr. CEO and his family the ride of their lives. In fact, you might even give his wife a little wink and a lesson on the kind of vehicles real men drive.

Beside pulling helpless executives from the mud, your hot-rod diesel can be a lot of fun at the track. Diesel drags are all the rage up here in Bozeman, in fact, it seems like the entire great white north is addicted to buckling the blacktop. Those hosers up in Canada love this stuff and they make a great majority of the performance exhaust systems at MBRP.

Diesel rigs are all the rage and a souped up truck can make even a simple commute a total blast. The performance parts are easy to come by and all the big-time performance names have thrown their hats into the diesel arena. If you’re out in the middle of nowhere, check the internet. It’s chock full of diesel speed shops and the miracle of UPS means your parts are on your doorstep in a few days. Then, you too can be the hometown hero pulling yuppies from the mud.

Have You Seen the New Wrangler Models for 2007?

2008-11-16T01:03:00.001-08:00

Jeep has created three new models of Wranglers. The new models still retain some of the looks of the older Wrangler, but there are some appearance changes and of course several improvements have been made. The Wranglers just may be more noted for their off-road capabilities and rugged style now more than ever!

The Wrangler Rubicon is built to be the hard-core 4WD unit line of the Wranglers. The differences between the models are only slightly noticeable to the naked eye. The main differences are in the manner the Wrangler Rubicon is put together and the special off-road performance features. Very little of the features of the Rubicon Wrangler was created for comfort. The Wrangler Rubicon was built to be tougher, stronger and stiffer than its counterparts. It really was created for the true-to-heart off-road 4x4 enthusiast.

The Wrangler Rubicon comes standard with 32-inch BF Goodrich off-road mud tires increasing ground clearance and delivering terrain-grabbing performance. Other standard features are the heavy-duty suspension, tunable monotube shock absorbers, heavy-duty rock rails, Tru-Lok electronic front/rear locking differentials, the Roc-Trac transfer case for the 4WD system, and the Next Generation Dana 44 heavy-duty Solid front and rear axles. The 4 wheel anti-locking breaking system and the drive-by-wire electronic throttle control come standard on all Jeep Models. The driveshafts have increased stiffness and precise balancing, the body-on-frame design, steel skid plates, and torque-to-tow are part of the improved drive train for all the Wrangler models. The tow hooks, 2 front and 1 rear, is a standard feature on the Wrangler Rubicon as are the fog lamps. The Wrangler Rubicon also comes equipped with the Sentry Key antitheft engine immobilizer. YES Essentials seat fabric is used in the cloth inserts in the Wrangler Rubicon. The Wrangler Rubicon comes standard with removable full-framed doors with light-tinted roll up windows. Most of the equipment on the Wrangler Rubicon standard or optional is designed for safety and durability thus enhancing the off-road experience.

The Wrangler Sahara was built for the off-road enthusiast who still wants some style and comfort. Some of the standard features on the Wrangler Sahara also come standard on the other models such as the cup holders, the stereo system, air conditioning the leather wrapped steering wheel with speed control positioned on the steering column, and the easy fold soft top. The Command-Trac 4WD system, the tow hooks, the anti-lock braking system with Electronic Stability Program which includes the brake assist, traction control, electronic roll mitigation and on/off-road brake lock differentials are some of the other options for the Wrangler Sahara. To add style to the Wrangler Sahara it comes standard with body-color fender flares, and tubular side steps. The 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels are an option that is available for the Wrangler Sahara, but not the other Wrangler models.

The Wrangler X is built for the adventurous that want to explore the hidden hideaways. The Wrangler X is able to travel the back-roads. Some of the standard features of the Wrangler X are the same as the standard features of the other Wrangler models with the fog lamps as the only exception. The fog lamps are available on the Wrangler X as an option. The 16-inch styled steel wheels, rear storage bin, the fold down windshield, and the removable interior drain plugs to simplify the cleaning of the wash-out interior are features that all come standard on the Wrangler X. As you can see all three of the Wrangler models are very much alike, yet they have their own performance and style differences.

Get ready to camp With Truck Tents And Thule Racks

2008-11-16T01:02:00.000-08:00

The wife and I hadn’t been getting along all that well for the past year or so. She just hadn’t been in the mood for my after-the-ballgame-and-a-six-pack advances. I read in one of her ladies’ magazines she keeps in the bathroom that getting away for a romantic weekend was a sure-fire way to “spice things up”.

With that handy piece of information in mind, I planned us a camping trip. But, this wasn’t going to be like the ones we’d taken years ago. We used to just drive down the highway a couple hundred miles, stop at rest area and sleep in my ‘78 Trans Am. Not this time. We were going to do it in style.

I got on the internet and found a tent that hooked to the rear of my 2001 Hyundai Accent. They called it a “hatchback tent”, which makes sense when you think about it. They said it would turn my rig into “a comfortable cabin” – just what the ol’ lady and I needed.

I went to the city and bought a bunch of scented candles, perfumey smelling soap and a lacey outfit for her to wear. Things were shaping up pretty good, but then I started thinking that I didn’t want to pack the inside of the car with a load of junk, and besides those candles would give me headache if I had to smell them for the 50-or-so-mile drive it was going to be to KOA.

I got it in my mind I needed one of them carriers that looks like an old Big Mac box, so I could stuff all that frou-frou stuff in there. I went hunting around on the internet again and found a container that worked with my Thule rack.

I got that rack for a Christmas present from my brother-in-law. He’s some sort of hot-shot bicycle rider and said that he thought I might like to have it around. But, just between you and me, I think he gave me that thing so when he was in town, he’d have a way of hauling the bike he keeps at my folk’s house. I’m just saying.

Anyways, about a week after I ordered the stuff, it showed up at my door. Thank god, my woman was working down at the five and dime, and didn’t see all the trimmings. I strapped the box on and tested out the tent. Everything looked like it was going to work out just fine.

The next day, I got up early and painted some hearts and those little baby angels on the car with nursery school paint. I showed the new paint job to my neighbor and said the angels looked like retarded pigs, but he’s one of them book-reading types, so you can’t really trust him much.

I drove down and surprised the Mrs. at her work to whisk her away in the-now-read-to-get down ride. If you could’ve seen the look on her face. And, all her friends from work were hoot and hollering too.

Now, this ain’t that kind of article, so I’m not going to go into all the details, but let me say this – the shocks on the Accent needed to be replaced after that trip and Savannah and I are getting along just fine know. So, if you’re ever in one of those ruts, just slap a box on top, get a tent and some smelly candles and you’ll be back to business in no time.

Cargo Liners Are More Important Than You Might Think

2008-11-16T01:01:00.000-08:00

Mud. Squished dog dook. Battery acid. The dirty snow. Hawaiian Punch. Count all of these things as items you don’t want within 20 feet of your vehicle’s carpet. You know all about these things, which is why you’ve probably purchased a set of all-weather floor mats, assuming winter is of any consequence in your area. What you may have overlooked, though, is extending that coverage to the rear of your vehicle.

You might think that none of the previously mentioned items have a chance of getting in the back, simply because people aren’t typically walking or standing in the far reaches of your ride. Think again. Ever set a pair of dirty shoes back there after working or playing in the woods or snow? That’s how the mud, black snow and dog log get ground into the carpet. Ever needed to pull a battery? That’s the only place you can set it. Has there ever been a bag of groceries that remained upright the whole way home? Not unless the bag only contained a Handy Case. Hawiaiian Punch everywhere. Your loss in every situation.

When winter strikes, you need a safe zone to set all of those messy items, one with the kind of sturdy shield material that never gets beat. Face it—the mud, the snow and the stepped-in turds are going to happen. You just need a place to contain all of that mess. Think of a custom all-weather cargo mat as your own decontamination zone for virtually any mess. Because they use the right stuff and have the right tall-walled design, you can let almost anything mellow back there until you feel like dealing with it.

It gets even better. After about, oh, six months or so, when you decided to deal with whatever mess is out back, you won’t have to hassle with cleaning the cargo liner, too. Thanks to that same material that keeps messes from soiling your carpet, grime slides right off of an all-weather cargo liner with a quick squirt from your garden hose. Then, it’s ready for the next mud barrage with a fully clean slate.

Many of the same makers of the all-weather floor mats you may already own also make a cargo liner, complete with matching color and material. Brands like Husky Liners, Catch-All, and Weathertech account for the exact shape of your cargo area when crafting a custom cargo liner. Each relies on this molded fit to stay in place, no matter how much jostling is going on in your ride. So, if the winter has bite where you live, don’t rely on just the floor mats in your seating rows to protect your carpet. Make sure your cargo liner is well shielded from a wide array of enemies, too.

I Can Not Believe I Ever Drove A van Without Loading It With Bully Dog

2008-11-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Even before Scooby-Doo and their hippie-fied Mystery Machine skyrocketed to the pinnacle of popularity, I was a huge van fan. There was just something about the elongated, cylindrical shape that made my mouth water. When I was a sophomore, I took up a humiliating job at a local fish-fry just so I could save up enough bread to buy my first van. A year and a lot of forearm burns later, I was the proud owner of my very own Dodge Tradesman. The old girl was pretty beat up, but I poured every spare dollar I had into tricking her out with all the accessories I could get my hands on. First, I installed a twin-size water bed into the rear. Then, I converted the side cabinetry into a wet bar. After that came the shag carpet and stereo system. I finished it off with some velvet upholstery and incredibly opaque window tinting.

It goes without saying that my van made me a popular man around Milwaukee. Every Friday night, I would buzz over to the ice rink and park right up front. When the ladies heard my hi-fi blasting out Don’t Fear the Reaper, they knew to ditch their dates and come outside to me. I always kept the wet bar fully stocked with plenty of Coors and Schnapps, so it didn’t take long to get those girls to lose their inhibitions. Man, those were the days. Carefree and cool is the only way to live.

Unfortunately, times change, and so do girls’ tastes. About the time Reagan took office, owning a van was suddenly seen as a liability with the ladies. I didn’t want to turn my back on my Tradesman, though. She had been loyal to me, and I was going to be loyal to her in return. I tried adding on some new accessories, like a roof-mounted wing and some chrome windshield wipers, but all the girls simply sneered.

I was in the love doldrums until the turn of the millennium. I made a Y2K resolution to “get with the times, van man,” to use the parlance of the Denny’s waitress who turned down my invitation for an all-expenses-paid night out at the Red Lobster. As soon as my January 1st hangover wore off, I rolled over to the Ford dealership, said goodbye to my Tradesman, and drove home in my shiny new Excursion. From the moment I sat down behind the wheel, I was bowled over by the SUV power that my Ford pumped out. But I wanted more. So I recently installed a Pacesetter air intake and a Bully Dog performance chip, and I can barely control the explosive power of this SUV. And the love life is definitely on the upswing. What can I say—big automobiles are nature’s aphrodisiac.

Dodge Diesel Performance

2008-11-16T00:59:00.000-08:00

The Dodge Cummins diesel is a favorite of many diesel enthusiasts because of how many modifications can be done to it. The Dodge Cummins diesel comes stock with great power and fuel economy and can be tweaked to get diesel fuel mileage in the upper twenties and some even report low thirties in mpg. That is phenomenal economy for a truck. They can also be turned into ground pounding monsters. Today we will take a look at a few of the modifications that can be done to make the vehicle either more economical or more powerful.

First the most popular modification for any diesel is a performance chip. These come in chips, modules and programmers. All have the same basic functions although they will all alter the fueling in slightly different ways and have a variety of safety features. Generally for a conservative driver, with almost any diesel chip about three to four mpg increases can be achieved. Most of these chips add about 120 horse power on their top setting. There are some extreme chips though that will add about 230 hp and over 400 torque to the dodge Cummins diesel.

Probably the second most popular modification for the Dodge Cummins Diesel is performance diesel fuel injectors. Upgraded injectors can also add economy for a conservative driver. The injectors come in stages that range from 50 hp to 150 hp over stock, and even more extreme injectors can be custom made. 50 hp injectors would be for someone looking for a little more power and better economy. 150 hp injectors would be considered extreme. They also come in complete injector replacements or just nozzle or injector tip upgrades.

For any diesel that is being modified, a higher flow exhaust should be added to help it keep exhaust gas temperatures down and to relieve engine stress. Most people upgrade the size of the entire exhaust from the turbo. Others use the Aero Exhaust which is a muffler replacement only. The design of the Aero Exhaust increases the speed of the exhaust like a jet would as the exhaust flows through it. On the 2005 Dodge Cummins diesel the Aero Exhaust adds 19 hp and 38 dyno tested torque by just replacing the muffler.

Another popular modification is the cold air intake which allows more air into the engine which helps to combust a higher percentage of the fuel. This gets more power to the wheels instead of out the tail pipe in a big black cloud.

Ford Diesel Performance

2008-11-16T00:58:00.001-08:00

Ford started it and the aftermarket finished it. The Ford Powerstroke Diesel comes from the factory with a lot of power, nice fuel economy and a serious towing capacity. Ford Diesel Performance has been tweaked a lot by the diesel aftermarket, and the Ford Powerstrokes can really be tuned up. We’ll talk today about a few of the common performance upgrades.

The first upgrade that most people do to their ford diesel is the performance chip. Two of the most popular are the Diablosport Predator, and the Edge Juice with Attitude Monitor.
These performance chips function in different ways. The Diablosport Predator is a hand held tuner that plugs into the diagnostic port under the dash, and it loads up a new program to the truck. The Diablosport predator has three power settings, on the top setting it delivers 120 hp and on the economy setting can deliver a twenty five percent increase in fuel efficiency to a conservative driver. The Edge Juice is a module that mounts under the hood and the Attitude Monitor is mounted on the dash. The Edge Juice with Attitude Monitor allows you to adjust the power as you drive which is nice when towing. On the top setting it also delivers 120 hp and on the economy setting gives about a twenty five percent increase in economy as well. The attitude monitor also acts as a full digital gauge set up and is used to monitor important engine parameters. These are some of the most popular Ford diesel performance chips.

Another one of the most popular upgrades is the cold air intake. A Cold air intake is a large cone filter and is sealed away from the hot engine air. Cold air takes up less space and the more air you can get into the engine the higher the percentage of the fuel will get burned. This puts more power at the wheels and allows for better fuel economy.

The other major modification that most people do to their Ford Diesel trucks is a larger diameter and less restrictive exhaust. A less restrictive exhaust is important especially when towing heavy loads. If exhaust gas temperatures climb to high, which can happen fast when towing, damage can be done to the engine. A larger diameter exhaust also relieves back pressure on the engine which allows for better fuel economy as well since the engine doesn’t have to push the exhaust away. The Ford Powerstroke diesel really is built Ford tough and there are many ways to make it even better.

Tonneau Covers - What’s with the Frenchy Name?

2008-11-16T00:56:00.002-08:00

I try to steer clear of anything that sounds too fruity, and anything that even whiffs of the French is definitely too fruity for me. But, when I needed a truck bed cover for my Dodge, the one I bought said “tonneau” on the box. I was furious—the nerd at the local truck accessories shop must have known I would have stormed out before buying a frog product and hid the name from me. Anyways, I immediately went back and asked for a refund. What I got was a quick education in truck bed covers.

The guy behind the desk told me that, not only was this “tonneau” not French, it was made by a company called Access right here in America. Apparently, they inherited this wimpy euro name somewhere in the last 15 years, when soft vinyl covers became very popular. A “tonneau”, actually, was the name for the snap cover for the back seat of old cars, like Model Ts and such.

So, how did this name overtake something simple like “bed cover” or “truck bed cover?” Well, it had vinyl, and snaps, so some people couldn’t bother to separate them from a product that stopped appearing with regularity sometime after the Gatsbys of the world disappeared. At least that’s what that dork at the shop told me.

Me, I think it was a conspiracy, put on by the same censoring suits and hippies who back the liberal media conspiracy. Liberals love to spread French words and that hate-America-first, surrender-now attitude. It wouldn’t surprise me if they were trying to soften the truck-owning heart of America with wimpy language and gas-guzzler taxes like a 1-2 punch. If you have a truck bed cover, you’re still an all-American soldier, fighting for the American way. If you have a tonneau cover, though, you’re a weaker, softer drone just waiting for secular progressives to drag you along on their plans to fatten the wallets of New England elites. It’s a subtle word change, but it means so much more.

Right here and now, I’m calling for an extension of the French boycott that covers these fruity “tonneau covers.” From now on, they should be known as truck bed covers or freedom covers. If they’re not marked as such on the box, don’t buy it. Let the truck accessories dealers of America know what they’re supporting when they carry tonneau covers. I called the folks at Access and told them about the cause, and they told me they saw things my way, so I ended up buying one of their fine American covers anyway. They assured me that the name would change before I needed one for my next truck. And, they blacked out the word tonneau anywhere it appeared on the box. It’ll do for now.

Truck Toolbox Showdown—Delta vs. Deflecta-Shield

2008-11-16T00:56:00.001-08:00

In my business, the most important tool beside nerves of steel and a long stick is a quality box on the truck. You see, I’m a herper; you know, one of those freaks that go out into the hills to catch snakes and lizards. The actual title is Herpetologist, but those of us in the industry just call ourselves herpers. I’m in the process of taking my business fulltime and I need to find a proper box to carry my “cargo.”

Now, a truck toolbox may not seem like a traditional reptile receptacle, but they can literally save your life. You see, when you got one or two pit vipers stuck in a canvas sack, you gotta keep those things contained. Some folks use a cage, but that draws all kinds of undue attention to your rig—with a cage full of snakes and all. So I just pack those babies in my toolbox where they stay safe and sound ‘till I get back to the lab.

Since my money’s made by selling herps to zoos, labs and scientists, I want my rig to look good. The last thing the scientific community wants to deal with is some hillbilly in a jalopy out running snakes like moonshine. So, I started by purchasing a brand new Dodge 3500 diesel rig. This thing’ll go anywhere and it looks killer. My old rig had a wooden, home-built eyesore that passed as a container, so I’m gonna install one of those diamond-plate beauties on the new rig. The question is what brand?

When I started looking for a new box, I quickly discovered that there are hundreds of brands. After scouring the net and talking to the maintenance crew at the zoo, I narrowed it down to 2 brands—Delta and Deflecta-Shield. Both companies make beautiful boxes in every configuration imaginable. I’m going for one that runs along the side of the bed, since they’re a lot easier to access. After all, I don’t want to blindly fish my arm around in a box full of rattlers.

Delta seems to be the most recognizable brand around. The box I’d choose is called the Delta Pro Aluminum Innerside Toolbox and it cost around 350 bucks for the aluminum finish. At 5 feet long it’ll fit my Ram perfectly, not to mention a couple of 6-8 foot herps. When I’m not hauling precious cargo the box will hold my gear, including my 48 inch snake stick. It also has an easy push-button lock, so when I’m wrestling with a sack o’ serpents I can get that baby open in a jiffy.

The Deflecta-Shield that caught my eye is the Deflecta-Shield Challenger Side Mount Truck Toolbox. This one also comes in a bright-aluminum diamond-plate finish. The 5 footer costs just under 400 bones and has a foam-injected lid. This’ll come in real handy to keep the herps cool when the mercury’s up. The latches work with steel paddles rather than the buttons Delta uses, which could get a little hairy with a python wrapped around my arm.

Both brands build beautiful boxes and it’s hard to find much difference. In the end though, I decided to go with the Delta box. I’ll save 50 smackers and it has a longer warranty. The Deflecta-Shields have a 1-year warranty, while the Delta’s covered for 3 whole years. Those are really the only reasons I went with one over the other. Both boxes would certainly meet my snaky needs so it just came down to a matter of cash—for 50 bucks I gotta catch a lot herps.

Hand Held Diesel Programmers

2008-11-16T00:55:00.001-08:00

There are many types of hand held diesel programmers out there, the ones we are going to talk about today are the Diablosport predator tuner, the Hypertech power programmer, and the Bullydog Triple Dog. These all have similar functions and power increases and a few unique features to each.

The first one that we are going to talk about today is the BullyDog Triple Dog. One of the unique features of the Triple Dog is that it will work on any of the newer Ford, Dodge or Chevy diesel trucks. So it can be pulled off of a Ford Powerstroke and put directly onto a Chevy Duramax or Dodge Cummins. That is a very nice feature, because you can sell your truck and buy a new one even from a different company and not have to purchase another performance programmer. Also there is a free extreme program available to Triple Dog owners from Bullydog’s website. On some trucks the extreme program adds up to 230 extra horse power.

The second one we will talk about is the Diablosport Predator. This hand held programmer comes with three built in tunes for economy, economy while towing, and all out performance. This unit loads its program into the truck via the trucks diagnostic port. The Diablosport Predator also offers the ability to check and clear trouble codes as well as calibrate the speedometer for larger tires. Diablosport has a predator tuner for most new vehicles both diesel and gas. The Diablosport Predator also comes with a screen about three times larger than the competitions.

The Hypertech power programmer also comes with three programs built in and a programmer for the diesel trucks and most gas vehicles. It also has the ability to adjust the speedometer for larger tires and can check and clear trouble codes, which can save a trip to the mechanics which is worth its weight in gold at times.

Add Performance To Any Diesel

2008-11-16T00:54:00.001-08:00

The diesel aftermarket just keeps on evolving. Now you can add a chip to almost any diesel and I’m not talking about the pickup trucks. There are companies out there with diesel performance chips for big diesel pusher RV’s, Semi’s, and yes, even farm equipment. We’re going to talk about some of the main companies developing these products.

The first one is a company called Edge Products. Edge is one of the biggest names in the diesel performance arena for the diesel pickup trucks. Edge makes performance products for all the main diesel pickup trucks, several of the gas trucks, jeep vehicles that are diesel and gas powered as well as the 3126 B & E Caterpillar engines that are in RV’s and heavier duty diesel trucks.

Dr. Performance is also a top company in the diesel aftermarket and offers performance chips for all of the same engines as edge and has chips for some of the other larger engines that one would find in Diesel RV’s and some semi’s and medium duty trucks such as the 8.3L and 8.9L Cummins ISC & ISL engines as well as the DT466 Engine.

TS Performance Carries chips for all the same engines, the place where TS Performance is truly unique is in the fact that they have performance chips for most of the agricultural diesels that you would find on a farm. These agricultural chips give up to a thirty percent power increase and a good increase in fuel economy which is important especially to the farmers that are running their diesel’s most of the day. In short the diesel performance aftermarket continues to evolve and more and more people are reaping the benefits of added fuel economy and power.

More and more manufacturers are coming out with diesel including the upcoming Honda Accord diesel, and Nissan Maxima diesel as well as many others. Diesels within a few years will be running cleaner and get better fuel economy than any of their gas powered counterparts.

New Features In The New Jeep Grand Cherokee

2008-11-16T00:52:00.000-08:00

The 1949 Willys Jeep Station Wagon made headlines as the industry's first sport utility vehicle 4x4. It clearly was the lead vehicle in a long line of Jeep wagons, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee has effectively taken its place at the head of line. The Grand Cherokee now even enjoys a devout following in the off road crowd and aftermarket items are readily available to upgrade the Grand Cherokee's off-road capabilities like ARB Bumpers for Jeeps, BDS Jeep Lift Kits, and OX Lockers.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has four models: the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland, Limited, Laredo, and the SRT8. The many components that make up the Jeep Grand Cherokee all work together in a fluid motion to accomplish the goal of being one of the top and best selling sports utility vehicles. The independent front suspension and live-axle rear suspension system on the Jeep Grand Cherokee operate to deliver a smooth ride and help maintain vehicle control even under the most difficult road conditions. The Quadra-Drive II allows the driver to employ 4WD and locks the center differential while engaged in 4LO allowing excellent control for off-road conditions from the rugged hill terrain to deep snow.

The power of the Jeep Grand Cherokee comes from a varied selection of engine choices. There is the new 3.0L V6 Turbo Common-Rail Diesel Engine renowned for it's fuel economy in a 4x4 vehicle. The powerful 5.7 L HEMIâ V8 Engine with Multi-Displacement System which offers an economy saving piston displacement system, which kicks in when the Grand Cherokee maintains a cruising speed of 40 - 60 mph (4 of the 8 cylinders will deactivate adding to gas-saving efficiency). The 4.7L Flexible Fuel V8 Engine can run on gasoline or the ecologically friendly E85 without conceding any of it's power or performance. The 3.7L V6 Engine is efficient, durable and operates smoothly and quietly. The 6.1L SRT HEMIâ V8 Engine is built for pure performance. It goes from 0 - 60 mph in less than 5 seconds for some overall eye-opening takeoff speed.

Safety and security is of the utmost importance in the design of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It now offers the Electronic Stability Program in operation with the antilock braking system and the traction control system. These systems work in conjunction to limit wheel slippage and refine control of the vehicle during acceleration. The standard side-curtain and multi-stage front air bags along with the UniFrame body and safety cage design provide a noiseless ride with reduced vibration and together provide protection to the driver and passengers.

Potential owners of the Jeep Grand Cherokee can choose from the available choices of security features such as the ParkSense Rear Park Assist System, which enables you to clear tight spots, the GPS Navigation System equipped with the ParkView, which is an optional rear back-up camera allowing you to detect hidden objects when backing up, the SmartBeamÔ intelligent headlamp system adjusts high-beam brightness automatically, a standard feature on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland and Limited.

They didn't ignore the interior when up-grading today's Grand Cherokee. The interior a sophistication and unlimited elegance from the standard heated Preferred Suedeâ Microfiber and leather-trimmed front seats to the standard 6-speaker Boston Acousticâ Premium Sound System. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a spacious interior with the standard Dual Zone Climate Control and the standard sunroof that adds to the ambience of the unlimited elegance already present in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The exterior displays an elegant style all it's own with the chrome details and the Jeep signature seven-slot grille.

The 2007 Grand Cherokee allows you the opportunity to experience a sophisticated, quiet, comfortable and safe ride while traversing unpredictable terrain of on and off-road conditions making the Jeep Grand Cherokee a vehicle worth checking out.

Installing suspension lift kits

2008-11-16T00:51:00.000-08:00

If you are thinking of buying lift kits its important to understand first what it is. A lift kit is a vehicle modification that is used to lift either the suspension or the body. Installing lift kits will make the wheel wells of your vehicles to become higher so you can install bigger tires that are at least two sizes larger than stock. Currently there are two types of lift kits in the market, the body lifts and suspension lifts, each with their own advantage and disadvantage.

If you are in a tight budget you might want to consider body lifts. Body lift kit is inexpensive and made up of blocks and spacers. Offroaders does not usually prefer this kind of lift because it does not change or improve suspension or increase travel. Body lifts kit can increase the wheel wells so you can use larger tires but you might need to invest in raising the bumpers and other modifications to your car to accommodate the body lift.

On The other hand, suspension lift kit improves the clearance between the axles and ground as well as creates greater travel. By replacing the front and rear leaf springs and shocks the suspension lift kit can raise the suspension of your vehicle. If you also want to improve the articulation of your vehicle a good suspension lift kit is the right answer. Suspension lift kit will cost you a little more compare to body lift kit but you will surely love the results once you installed a suspension lift kit. Height, handling and ground clearance are some of the advantages of installing a suspension lift kit. There are lift kits as high as 18 inches but usually people prefer the 4-inch or 6-inch lift kits. Extreme lifts are not advisable because it can compromise safe handling and it is usually installed for showcase or hobbyist cars only.

Another thing to consider when you want to install lift kits is re-gearing. Installing lift kits and getting bigger tires will make your speedometer and odometer off. You can check the internet for ratio charts to give you an idea of what kind of gearing you will need for your vehicle. Re-gearing is important because it will keep the mileage of your vehicle as close to stock as possible.

Prices of lift kits vary from one manufacturer to another depending on the model and type of lift kit. Aside from the price of the lift kit you should also consider added cost for re-gearing, tires and modification cost to check if you are still on your budget. You can also try to talk first with your mechanic just to give you an idea of how much you will have to spend for the entire modification.

Before installing a lift kit you should always remember that the higher you raise your vehicle the less stable it will become specially in making sharp turns at high speeds. The recommended lift kit is 4 inches above this will make your vehicle less stable in sharp turns or lean more in banked turns such as freeway interchanges and off ramps. If you decide to install a higher suspension lift kit it is important to re-familiarize yourself with your vehicle because accidents can happen in split second such as avoiding an accident, debris or other reasons.

You might want to pay a mechanic or a trustworthy shop that specializes in 4x4 gears than installing it by yourself. There are a lot of shops out there that specializes in installing lift kits and other modifications. Do not forget to check with your dealership for warranty issues of your car before installing lift kits.

Duramax Diesel Performance

2008-11-16T00:50:00.000-08:00

Duramax Diesel Performance…. what more needs to be said? The Duramax came out with the fastest truck in the nation with their high horse power LBZ motor. The duramax is ideal to build up for power because of the almost bullet proof Allison Transmission that the truck comes with. In this article I will talk about a few of the popular modifications that are done to the Duramax.

The most popular modification for any diesel is the performance chip. One of the most popular ones out there for the Duramax is EFI Live which allows you to put custom tunes on your Duramax. You can use it to custom tune your own engine and transmission, so you aren’t restricted by pre-made tunes. It increases power, economy and shifts. Another popular tuner for the Duramax is the Diablosport Predator which comes with three performance tunes. It is uploaded into the trucks diagnostic port and puts in the performance or economy programs of your choice and has the ability to check trouble codes and adjust the speedometer for bigger tires.

Another popular modification for the Duramax diesel is a cold air intake. Probably the most well known are AFE Intakes. AFE Intakes come with five protective layers and give maximum air flow with premium filtering. They also have a filter upgrade that has 7 protective layers. Getting air into the engine is important because the more air into the engine, the higher the percentage of fuel that can be combusted. So you get the power at the wheels and better economy versus losing it out the tailpipe in a black cloud.

The third most popular modification made to the Duramax is an upgraded exhaust system. This is important especially if running a chip because the higher flow exhaust system will keep temperatures lower and the engine won’t have to exert the effort to push the exhaust away if it can flow freely away. The free flowing exhaust increases power and economy and relieves engine stress. Many people don’t want to pay the full price for a complete exhaust system. So a lot of people are using what is called the Aero Turbine Muffler. It is just a muffler replacement, but the Aero Turbine Muffler acts like a jet engine and increases the speed of the exhaust as it flows through giving benefits similar to a full exhaust system.

When I close my eyes, I see only rollbacks and razor blades

2008-11-16T00:49:00.001-08:00

Things used to be different. Back when I was in my early thirties, I collected a windfall inheritance from my parents. Rather than blowing that load right away on a Ferrari or a brick of cocaine as my scuzzy neighbor suggested, I invested it in my own company. I opened a small hardware store down in the heart of town. Those were some of the happiest days of my life. I’d wake up to a fresh pot of Folgers, head over to my shop, count nails and arrange the plungers in a fashionable way, eat a sensible lunch, and head home at 6:00 to nuke a Swanson’s and watch the Jeopardy. Yeah, those were the good times. Everyone in town knew my name, and they’d stop in every other day or so to chit-chat and maybe replenish their supply of gopher poison. I felt like I was living in a wholesome Norman Rockwell painting. But fate had some twists and turns for me, and I would have to learn the hard way that heaven doesn’t exist on earth.

About three years ago, the abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of town was demolished. Up from the ashes of its carcass sprung my nemesis: Wal Mart. Suddenly, no one in town wanted to come into my shop and buy my wares. Apparently, the promise of a quart of paint that costs forty-seven cents less than mine proved too powerful a ploy for the townsfolk. No one seemed to care that the paint they were buying was made from the ground-up bones of child laborers who died from the noxious fumes at the overseas paint factory. I tried engaging in a price war, but they pummeled me on all fronts. In seven months, I was out of business.

Dejected, I consoled myself with hard alcohol and pastries. In no time flat, I had packed on an extra 150 pounds. I hit rock bottom when my wife left me for the Wal Mart warehouse manager. Et tu, Madeline?

Rather than wallowing in self-pity, I realized that I wouldn’t be happy until I had revenge. I needed to jam my fist into the belly of the Wal Beast, rip out its black heart, and bite off a still-beating hunk of the muscle while it stares, gasps and collapses at my American-made shoes. For that kind of mission, though, I knew it would have to be an inside job. So I turned in an application, interviewed with a pimple-faced punk of an assistant manager, and got a job as a cashier. Don’t get me wrong—it’s hard work. I’m only able to take two toilet brakes per shift, and I’ve found myself standing in a puddle of my own asparagus juice many a time, which has only heightened my hatred for the company.

I’m making steady progress in my preparations. I’ve been mapping the air ducts and testing the response time of the security guard who rolls around the parking lot in his dusty Caprice. I even installed a Pace Edwards JackRabbit Retractable Tonneau Cover onto my Ranger’s bed. That way, when the time to strike arrives, I’ll be able to sneak my arsenal to work without anyone catching a glimpse and ratting me out. Plus, I get better fuel mileage, and that’s good for the environment. But not as good as whipping out the Wal Blight that is popping up all over these United States like canker sores on a rock star’s lips.

Husky Liners or Weathertech Floor Liners: which would the mob choose?

2008-11-16T00:48:00.001-08:00

When people ask me how I first became interested in the Cosa Nostra, I can pinpoint the exact moment. It was August 11th, a muggy Sunday afternoon with no games on TV. HBO was running a recap of Saturday night’s big premier, What Women Want, so I treated the pay channel like it had crabs and avoided it. Then, a magical moment happened, and I’m talking very, very magical—like Moses parting the Red Sea or Lazarus creeping back out of the grave magical. Here’s what happened: I stumbled across The Godfather playing on TBS. Now, to some people, this would hardly constitute a defining moment in one’s life, but I was forever changed by the experience. You see, I had never seen The Godfather before. Even though I’m no spring chicken, I had never run across this film. Sure, I’d heard people talking about it at parties, and Bruce Vilanch couldn’t write an awards ceremony script without dropping scene references like he drops Twinkies. But, for the first (and certainly not the last) time, on that Sunday afternoon, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted to be a made man.

Because I grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona, I knew practically nothing about The Black Hand. So I sat down and started to do some research using the one source I knew I could rely on: Hollywood. I took a trip to Blockbuster and came home with a mountain of flicks. Goodfellas, White Heat, Casino, Carlito’s Way, Donnie Brasco, Angels with Dirty Faces, Pulp Fiction—I watched them all. I even sat through stinkers like Oscar and My Blue Heaven! I mean, I’m talking serious dedication.

Five weeks and four bottles of aspirin later, I had logged over 200 hours of straight mafia movie viewing. I didn’t realize it at first, but I started subconsciously transforming into a bona fide goombah. It was a very subtle change, like paint drying. I really didn’t notice it until one morning I found myself putting on a blue and black track suit to wear to work instead of my usual Haggard khakis and Nautica polo. I stepped in front of the mirror to take a good look at myself, and I saw what had happened: my hair was dyed black and greased back; a tangle of gold crucifixes dangled from my neck and matched the gold horseshoe ring on my pinkie; and a pair of sock garters clung to my calves. After soaking in my image for a minute, an epiphany struck me like a .22 caliber bullet: I had become a wise guy.

Though my dress and affect changed, my physical possessions still reflected my previous life. My first move was to push my Suzuki Sidekick into the lake and pick up a flashy new Cadillac Escalade. Then, I decided to accessorize it to the nines, but I wasn’t sure which cargo liner to go with: the Husky Liners or the Weathertech Floor Liners. Both were custom-made for a form fit and they both promised all-weather protection. So I had to ask myself, WWTD (What Would Tony Soprano Do)? He’d probably appreciate the textured tread on the Husky Liners, but the high walls of the Weathertech Floor Liners would keep pools of blood and little pieces of brain from sloshing around after a hit. So I went with Weathertech. And I’m even working on my Italian. Right now, I just know 1 word: “Fuhgetuhboudit.” I can’t find it in any dictionaries, so I’m guessing it’s a special code word that gets you discount prices at the Olive Garden. Life is good.

I double-dog dare you to stain my GMC truck’s seats!

2008-11-16T00:46:00.000-08:00

As a young lad growing up in Flushing Meadows, New Jersey, I was sick a lot. It wasn’t like I had something exotic or exciting like flesh-eating bacteria or Groats’ Syndrome. I just seemed to get the stomach flu once or twice a month. My mother shuttled me all over the Garden State to see specialists, but all the white-coats were baffled. Except for the puking, I didn’t really mind being ill. Elementary school was a bore, and my homeroom teacher had this horrible lazy eye that would creep me out and give me nightmares. So I relished staying home. I’d lounge on the couch, eat cinnamon toast (when I wasn’t doubled-over with diarrhea), and watch my most favorite game show: Double Dare. I was captivated by all those healthy boys and girls wading through pools of baked beans and picking through giant noses filled with green frosted cream. No matter how crummy my tummy was feeling, I’d always perk up whenever my show came on Nickelodeon.

This routine went on for nearly 2 years, and I was adjusting to my infirmity nicely. That was before Child Protective Services came knocking on our apartment door. Apparently, my primary doctor had been keeping an eye on my case for some time, and he ran some secret blood tests that showed low levels of insecticide in my system. After a brief inquiry, the doctors discovered that my only sickness was Munchausen by proxy because my mom was poisoning me to get attention. She was shipped off to jail, and I got placed in a foster home with a couple of Mormons with bad methadone addictions. They were very distant, but they did have cable television. Double Dare became my only source of solace, and Marc Summers was like my surrogate father. I wouldn’t have survived without him.

Those trying days are past me now. I grew up, became a carpenter, and live alone in a house that I’m building from scratch. So far, I’ve got the foundation all poured and the walls mostly framed, so there’s still plenty of work to do before I can move in. The only project that I have finished is the backyard landscape, which is basically a replica of my favorite Double Dare obstacle courses. There’s the Sundae Slide, Down the Hatch, and even the Human Hamster Wheel. But the piece de resistance is the giant foot with a built-in toe jam generator. Every morning before work, I make a run through the course to get my mind ready for the day. It’s my Starbucks. Even when it’s cold and the creamed corn is icy, I’ll still slide around.

Pickup Truck Single Exhaust Stack: A Cloud In The Sky

2008-11-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

What is more impressive to a diesel truck owner than billowing a big black cloud into the sky? Nothing! The newest craze in the diesel aftermarket is Exhaust Stacks. Is there anything aside from looks that these vertical tail pipes can give? This is the question of many. We will talk about the different types of exhaust stacks in this brief time.

The most popular of any exhaust stacks out there by far is the dual exhaust stack kit. Grand Rock, a leading exhaust stack manufacturer makes exhaust stack kits with four and five inch connections under the bed and stack tip sizes ranging from four to seven inches and come in a variety of tip styles. These systems also are available in turbo back systems. Even by just adding a bed kit which is basically a cat-back stack system, the benefit can be great. From the under the bed connection the system goes from four inch to dual five inch which really opens up the exhaust allowing the exhaust gas temperatures to stay cooler and the engine to create more power due to the relieved back pressure on the engine. One of the best parts of upgrading to an exhaust stack system is the dramatic change in looks of the truck.

The newest version of the exhaust stack in the diesel aftermarket is the single exhaust stack. There is an increase in exhaust flow with the single exhaust stack over the stock exhaust system. The single exhaust stack goes from a four inch connection under the bed to five inch in the bed. Although it doesn’t increase performance as much as it would if it went from the stock exhaust to twin pipes there is a unique dramatic effect that the single exhaust stack has. The single exhaust stack puts all the exhaust out one pipe which creates one big and thick cloud in the sky. To make it smoke like that one must be running rich on the fuel, but in my experience every time I’ve seen a single stacked truck get on the gas and dump a big black cloud into the sky, shortly after people come by thinking that there is a big fire going on. Imagine there surprise when they see that it was a truck that made the big black cloud that was thrusted straight up in the air. Needless to say the single exhaust stack is a real attention getter.

In conclusion exhaust stacks are not for everyone. The people that want to get attention or be the biggest meanest looking truck in town……exhaust stacks are a must.

Preventing Truck Theft: What You Can Do

2008-11-16T00:44:00.000-08:00

Every year, hundreds of air brake lock systems and other security measures are rendered useless and proven ineffective by thieves. In 2005 for example, the Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated that around $12 to $20 billion worth of cargo and equipment are stolen every year in the country.

And with expensive goods (electronics, cards, etc.) being transported on the road everyday and trucks becoming increasingly pricier, thieves that target trucks and tractors are not bound to slow down anytime soon. The only solution is to take preventive measures to protect your investment and cargo. Here are some basic tips you can follow to ensure you won’t fall prey to the many truck thieves that lurk around the parking lot:

§ Never leave your key inside the ignition. You might be in dire need to use the bathroom, but believe me when I tell you that the few seconds it will take to remove the key and put it in your pocket is worth the discomfort.

§ Take extra precautions before you travel by finding out which places along your route have high crime rates. Avoid these areas if you can, but if passing through them is an absolute imperative, then jus be doubly careful than you would normally be.

§ Take alternative routes once in a while. This prevents thieves from being able to map out your routine and plan a robbery attack against you.

§ When stopping for a meal, park your truck in a spot visible and accessible from where you will be sitting. It’s also best if you choose where you take your breaks and avoid stopping in restaurants or stations with a questionable reputation.

§ Don’t leave a running tractor unattended. Doing this is like giving crooks an open invitation to rob you and drive away with your vehicle.

§ Make it harder for thieves to steal your truck by putting protective bars on the passenger side window, the side that, according to reports, most thieves enter the vehicle from.
§ Installing a vehicle protection device is one of the most effective way of preventing truck theft --just make sure your buy a reliable one. One of the most affordable and effective car protection devices today is the air lock security system. The security device prevents theft by blocking an air line from the air brakes. This means unless the truck driver deactivates the system, the vehicle will not move and your investment and cargo will remains safe.

Yes, you may have installed tracking device in your truck to let you know where it is at all times and you may fully trust the policemen in your town/city, but remember that an ounce of prevention is always better that a pound of cure. Take these safety precautions and keep your truck (and investment) safe.

Keepin’ It On the Level with a Performance Leveling Kit

2008-11-16T00:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally did it. I saved up enough money to buy a brand new Ford F-150. Oh man, she’s a beauty. I got the SuperCrew cab, 5.4L Triton V8, Lariat edition—basically all the bells and whistles you’d want in a truck. She’s a comely bright red, so I call her the Red Rocker, my little Red Rocker. In case you aren’t getting the point—I love this truck.

A couple weeks ago while cruising the Red Rocker on some dirt trails; I found a wallet with a few grand inside. There was no ID or phone numbers inside, nothing but 23 crispy new Benjamins and a Starbucks gift card. The card actually had $5.29 on it, nearly enough to get me a half-caff caramel macchiato with extra whipped cream. Wahoo, what a score! I was hopped-up on caffeine, sugar and had 2300 smackers burning a hole in my pocket.

While still buzzing on the macchiato, I decided to pay a visit to my local truck performance shop. The money I found was just enough to get me a big-ass electric winch and one of those gnarly winch bumpers to mount it to. I’d had my eyes on this set up for months, but the Red Rocker’s monthly payment leaves me little walking money. As you probably guessed, I was totally ecstatic and out of my head with my new winch and bumper. I paid the installers, even dropped ‘em a hefty tip, and drove over to my home boy Jim’s house to show it off.

As soon as Jimmy saw my rig, he started laughing his head off. I mean this guy was doubled over and giggling like a girl. I asked what the hell he was laughing at, and between breaths he managed to utter stink bug. What the hell is he talking about? Jim finally gathered himself enough to explain: my truck’s profile looked like a stink bug. He was right; the weight of that huge bumper and winch combo had put the squat on my front end. The rear of the truck was sticking up in the air, just like a stink bug.

I immediately rushed back to the truck shop, but the counter guy just raised his hands and said that all sales are final. Scrambling for a solution, I asked him what I could do about the squat. The guy recommended a leveling kit. He explained a leveling kit is a system of simple spacers that raises the front of your rig a few inches to level the truck out. Aha, just what I need! Of course! But what is this gonna cost me?

The shop guy quoted me about 200 bucks, plus installation. After Jim and I hit the liquor store and the Jack-in-the-Box, I was down to 197 bones. I coerced a fin from Jim, bought the kit and decided to do the install myself. Jim helped out and we got the Red Rocker leveled out in no time. Now I drive around town with the Red Rocker’s nose up and my precious pride intact.

Trailer Towing and Parking Lot Punch-Outs

2008-11-16T00:42:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, I took my new Airstream trailer on her maiden voyage—a simple test run—and ended up getting more than I bargained for. Before I get into the story of my weekend from hell, let me brag about my new unit. This thing is a true beauty, Airstream really had their stuff together when they designed it. She’s a thirty-three footer decked-out to the gills with all the niceties from home.

You see, this trailer’s American made, so my chest swells with pride when I grab that stainless steel handle and step inside. She’s decked out with double insulation, diamond tuck & roll, toilet, shower, refrigerator—we’re completely self-contained! In fact, I’m tempted to just sell the condo, park this baby at the Indian Lake KOA and start my early retirement.

But I digress, let’s get back to my bloody Sunday. I’ve got my new trailer hitch and towing mirrors installed and ready to roll. The Airstream is hitched-up to my brand new F-250, the lights and brakes are working and everything else’s in order. With only a small amount of consternation I back out of my driveway and hit the local highway. I gotta tell you—the Airstream tows like a dream and the F-250 has no problem yanking that baby around town. I even beat some numbskull at red light who tried to drag race me in his old Coronet.

Once on the open road everything was going smoothly until I heard some yahoo honking at me. I’m not sure what I did to upset him, but he was obviously hopping mad. In my mirrors I could see this wacko darting back and forth, pumping his fists, flipping me the bird and pounding on his steering wheel. Admittedly I was a bit put off, so I thumbed my nose at him, then I thumbed my teeth—just to drive the message home. Judging by his red face and the steam coming from his ears, this only served to really upset him.

I was in my happy place at the time, out pulling my new rig around, so I decided to pay this guy no mind. I continued driving, just ignoring the idiot. I remembered that I needed to do some banking so I took the next exit. I needed some cash to take my lady out later, and the bank parking lot would provide a great proving ground to test my technical towing abilities.

I get the rig parked with no problems and start walking toward the bank. Just then, this crazy freak starts rushing me. Just when I identified him as the screaming jerk I’d encountered on the road, he sucker-punched me right in the jaw. I fell hard, nearly blacking out. Then I heard him shout, “Take that to the bank!”

Next thing I know, he’s gone and I have an achy jaw. I’m sure he ran off to tell all his friends just how bad he is—before I could get back up and beat him silly.

All in all, it wasn’t so bad—sometimes it takes a good, sharp blow to the face to clear the cobwebs. I’m supremely happy with my new Airstream and all the towing accessories I loaded my F-250 with. Only, now I know to be a little more careful when I’m out there towing my rig among the restless native population.

Ford Trucks vs. Chevy Trucks: Why all the Hostility?

2008-11-16T00:40:00.000-08:00

Standing in the sweltering, wet-wool-blanket air of DFW on a Friday morning in July, I began to panic at the mostly empty state of my pockets. Fearing that my car keys were wedged in a grimy seatback pocket or nestled in a weathered bowl next to some security checkpoint, I started to scramble. Some of my forehead sweat had nothing to do with the 90%+ humidity. Relief set in when I remembered that I had left my keys at home on purpose. The H on my security remote could have gotten me lynched here.

Among the sea of Ford, Dodge and Chevy rigs, I managed to flag-down my cousin in his GMC. See, the “professional grade” version of a regular-old Chevy truck is somewhat of a smart alternative brand here—like a Saab might be where I’m from. Feeling the full-blast relief of triple AC vents blasting my face, I began to examine the truck brand hostility by digging for my cousin’s perspective. He dropped a wad of brown spit into the empty Big Gulp in one cup holder and set his beer into the other. He had what he considered an outsider’s perspective on the biggest conflict of all: Ford versus Chevy. He was an outcast from the Ford circles, and a somewhat-acceptable outsider who could enter the Chevy clans on a temporary guest pass only. He said the two groups rarely knowingly mixed, and when they did knowingly mix, they either ignored the white elephant on the barbecue or picked fights. To get a first-hand look at the clash, we’d have to get in on a neighborhood gathering where the meat and the Marlboros were both being chain smoked. We needed to get into someone’s backyard barbecue.

Luckily, 5:00 was approaching on a Friday in Texas. BBQ was immanent; four yards were linking up for a huge one at 6. People from up to 5 or so blocks would be on the way. Since most of the all-American truck owners coming have their eyes set on 20 or so beers, they’d be leaving their trucks at home and hoofing it. Unless somebody rolled up a sleeve, Ford and Chevy owners would be mingling and either not know it, or know it and just internalize it. Perfect—a hotbed for studying the hostility between fans of the two automakers.

Talking to one of these guys was like talking to a hundred. I didn’t know this until I had talked to a hundred, though. You see, (fill in short name starting with a J here) works 12-hour days as a (fill in construction or trade job you can do without a license for cash under the table) to pay for his (Ford or Chevy), new gear for his (Ford or Chevy), and a case of (Bud, Miller or Coors), even though his (wife or girlfriend or mom) gives him crap about getting his act together. He was raised to love (Ford or Chevy) from the beginning and to hate (Ford or Chevy), because (Fords or Chevys) break down all the time and have less power. Besides (Ford or Chevy) is the real all-American brand—not (Ford or Chevy). His dad and his dad’s dad and his dad’s dad’s dad drove a (Ford or Chevy), which is the way it’s always been and it’s never changing.

A fascinating pattern developed. Within the narrow scope of acceptable brands, the Ford guys gravitated toward the same beers, the same grocery stores, the same restaurants with goofy crap on the walls. Same with the Chevy guys. While the F-Series crew swigged Coors, took a drag off a Winston and picked a little pork out of their teeth before packing a pinch of Cope, the Silverado gang chucked their Bud can in the bushes and snuffed-out their Marlboro before creating an indistinguishable mix of rib sauce and Kodiak spit on their lower lip. The guys at the Bud bucket were talking about watching the race at Hooter’s the next day; the clan around the Coors cooler was just finishing their plans for the TGI Friday’s gathering.

Have these massive bodies of truck owners been dancing around each other for years? Or, had they picked the rest of their brands around staying as segregated as possible from the loathsome morons driving the other brand of truck? What must an entire life spent making so many choices from so few options, locked into a life course based on the path of 4 generations of men before you, be like? Not a man questioned it. Not a one wondered what the inside of a Toyota was like, or how their tongues would handle a Heineken, or if a few drags of Turkish Gold would produce a level of nicotine nirvana that changes one’s view of the world. Heck, these brands aren’t even reaching very far at all, and they’d be enough to set millions of worlds on tilt.

Just as I was on the brink of a sociological breakthrough, a big bastard named BJ wandered in wearing a way-too-tight black shirt with the genius slogan “I’d Rather Be Cummin’ Than Strokin’” in bright white letters stretched across his belly. A Dodge man was in the yard now. Allegiances were about to be declared. Let the red-faced drunken yelling and fist throwing begin. Then, the answer was so clear: all of the Chevy and Ford and Dodge hostility was fueled by blind hate and fear. These goons needed something to belong to—something that couldn’t tell them they couldn’t belong to it—so they felt some sense of identity though their souls were mostly voids with cancer stick residue and macro-brew foam as a slick lining. They lacked the mental capacity to accept things that are different. Not to do different things, but just to accept them. So they stacked their trucks with Chevy accessories and Ford accessories like the silver hairs on a Gorilla, wildly screamed at each other on the highways or the local Sonic, and came to blows any time they got close enough to do so. They’d never branch out or calm down, because they’d have nothing left if they did. They’d have to get to know themselves, which is the last person they’d ever want to hang out with. And, they could never admit this brand-loyalist BS has been a wasted life path for four generations now, so they push the fifth one right into the same thing. That way, they can at least relate.

Having finally found my answer, I made my next move by harnessing the same sensibility I learned in, oh, elementary school or so: I fled for the airport as fast as I could.

Garage Flooring, a Whole New Ball Game.

2008-11-16T00:39:00.000-08:00

Now once upon a time in the world of garage flooring it used to be pretty simple, if you wanted to have something other than the bare concrete then you either got some clear coat protectant or you painted it. Today that is no longer the case, as with everything else in the world, people have found ways to "pimp out" their garage floors. Two of the most popular ways that have come around as of late are epoxy coating and garage flooring tiles. Within each category there are several styles and colors available and the install times can vary, but here is the breakdown of the pros and cons of each.

When it comes to garage floor epoxy coatings there are several options. Rustoleum is one of the better known manufacturers of this type of coating. If you are sitting on the edge as to which kind of garage flooring you should use, you should make note that one of the very first things that Rustoleum says on their Info page is that you should not do epoxy coating if you have Sealed Concrete, Poorly Bonded Previous Paint or Loose or Poorly Cured Concrete or Concrete Dust you can take yourself out of the running for this option right now. What you will see as you shop around for garage floor coverings is that epoxy coating is a good less expensive option for preferably newer homes with newer garages going in some of the downfalls of the epoxy coating are first, the almost toxic process of applying it to your garage floor, the majority of epoxy coatings require a multistage process with very strong smelling chemicals and sometimes acid etching is involved. Also, if you live in climates where your garage is going to be wet, epoxy coating doesn't offer that traction that other garage flooring materials do. My recommendation is that if you are looking to flip a house and looking for a quick way to make the garage look a lot better but you are not going to have to deal with the usability side of it then epoxy coating is the way to go.

My research and experience has shown that there is a better, cleaner, healthier alternative to epoxy coating when it comes to garage floor covering and that is garage floor tile. The best Garage floor tile that I have found in my searching is made by a company out of Salt Lake City, Utah called RaceDeck. Their flooring is designed so that really anyone can just snap them together, almost like the linkin logs of garage flooring. You can buy either 12"x12" or 18"x18" these can go down on any concrete surface just as long as it is flat so you don't have to worry about whether it is sealed or purely cured etc.. Another nice thing about products like RaceDeck is the fact that there are no harmful chemicals that you have to work with and inhale; it’s just a matter of snapping the tiles together.

So if you are in the market for new garage flooring I would recommend something like RaceDeck flooring that is simple, clean and can just snap together within a matter of hours.

Performance Air Filters—Turn Your Competition Green with Envy

2008-11-16T00:37:00.002-08:00

Adding performance modifications to your car can be a pretty daunting exercise. With so many parts available and so many levels of performance on the market, it’s hard to even define what people consider performance. For instance, a Corvette pretty much screams performance right out of the box. Then again, squeezing 10 extra horsepower out of 120-horse Honda motor can also be seen as major performance boost.

Some folks are after the ultimate performance, Ferrari and Lamborghini style; others simply want to improve their existing performance, Hyundai and Saturn style. And of course, performance is relative. What 155 MPH means to one man could very well be another man’s nightmare; and while one man considers 55 MPG a benchmark for performance, it’s a total waste of time to another.

The one product that all performance seekers can agree on is the aftermarket air filter. It’s a fact that engines are basically glorified air pumps. Air gets drawn into the engine where it’s heated, exploded and shot out the exhaust. Simple physics dictates that if you can get more air in, you’ll get more air out; which makes more power in the process. This extra power can be used to improve performance—speed, mileage or otherwise.

A more powerful engine not only runs stronger, it runs more efficiently. So if the mileage miser keeps his foot out of the throttle, the power will translate to increased mileage. This is due to the fact that the more powerful engine has an easier time of moving the car. And of course, any extra power gives the speed freak what he’s after—quickness.

There are many performance air filters to choose from, but most use the same basic design. About 30 years ago, K&N developed the cotton-gauze filter media which revolutionized the industry. This material lets more air pass, traps more dirt and lasts much longer than traditional paper media. Since then, most companies have taken K&N’s basic design and tweaked it a bit to gain a market foothold.

The major difference between air filter brands is going to be their list of vehicles. Large companies like K&N and Green Filters have extensive application lists that include nearly every vehicle you can think of. They also produce universal fit options as well as race-specific filters for everything from Indy cars to go-carts.

So, when you’re looking for that performance edge, whether it’s speed, torque or mileage, a performance air filter should be your first stop. Your engine will run better, you’ll experience results instantly and installation takes only minutes. You’ll feel good about the upgrade and your car will thank you for it.

4 Pieces of Flare No Truck Can Do Without

2008-11-16T00:37:00.001-08:00

More flair Jimmy, more flair. This exact phrase emanates from my stupid manager’s pie hole every morning. You see, he’s the manager of the restaurant where I wait tables. You may have heard of it; Jolly’s Cantina. Anyway, Jolly’s is one of those restaurants that they fill with kitsch in an attempt to manufacture some “atmosphere.” And, as a Jolly’s employee, it’s my job to fill my uniform with flair and act as jolly as possible.

The job wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for my boss, Miles. He’s one of those restaurant managers who take his role very seriously. You know; one of those super skinny guys with a tie and a zit-pocked face who runs around so fast you’d swear he eats jet fuel for breakfast. Well, Miles and I don’t quite see eye to eye on the Jolly’s uniform requirements. I don the bare minimum that the rules stipulate, but Miles sees my efforts as purely mediocre. That’s why every morning he bombards me with the flair.

When I’m not waiting tables, I out cruisin in my 2002 Dodge Ram with a Cummins diesel. This baby sits sky high on a 12” lift kit and 44” monster mudders. I’ve got an AEM intake, Edge injectors, a Superchips Flash Paq and an MBRP 5” exhaust. Needless to say, the old Dodge is one bad-ass beast of a rig.

The other night, driving home after a mind-numbing shift with Miles on my back, I got pulled over by the local cop. He’s a mean one, the kind of cop that’d give your grandma a ticket for being too old. I couldn’t believe it, but old Roscoe pulled me over for my tires. He said they were sticking out too far from under the wheel wells. When I asked Barney Miller what I was supposed to do about it, he said first pay the ticket, then get some fender flares. All I could hear was; more flair Jimmy, more flair.

When I calmed down, I realized I could use these fender flares to help solve my flair problem with Miles. If that creep wanted more flair, he was gonna get it—in a big way. My plan was to simply install the flares and then show Miles what I’d done. The next time he asks for more flair, I’ll just direct his attention to my truck. “There ya go Miles, all the flare/flair you can handle.

2 nights later I called in sick and had my shift covered by my buddy, Juan. During his break, Juan called to tell me that Miles was fuming mad and cursing my name to anyone who’d listen. He was calling me a goldbrick and a champion for mediocrity. This got me so mad that I hopped into my truck and sped down to Jolly’s to have it out with Miles.

When I spied Miles smoking a cigarette out behind Jolly’s my temper just flared. Without thinking, I mashed the throttle on that old Cummins and in a billow of black smoke I launched the Dodge right over Miles’ Merkur XR4Ti—monster truck style. Those big mudders were churning up glass and metal, throwing debris all over Jolly’s back lot. The best part wasn’t the stupid look on Miles’ face, but the way my new fender flares kept the flying debris from scratching my rig!

In the end, I lost my job, but I have a new one down at the quarry. The hours and pay are great, and I don’t have to deal with Miles anymore. And, the only flair I have to contend with is the cool set of fender flares that are still doing a great job of protecting my truck.

A Super Truck Fit for a Super Fan

2008-11-16T00:33:00.002-08:00

My name is Leslie, and I am a wrestle-aholic. The first step to recovery is acknowledging that you have a problem, but frankly, I don’t care. I love wrestling, wrestlers and everything that goes along with this fantastic sport. If watching a wrestling match is a disease, I hope they never find a cure.

I watch all the different wrestling organizations on TV, but my favorite has to be our local SABYWF—the Southern Arizona Back-Yard Wrestling Federation. Most of their bouts aren’t actually televised, so I go see ‘em live every chance I get. My girlfriend Kay-Kay and I cruise around southern Arizona following the tour and our favorite wrestlers.

Kay-Kay’s favorite is the Flyin’ Hawaiian, a very tall, very muscular Polynesian wrestler who moved to Arizona after a short stint in the army. I find him handsome and all, but my favorite is Wildcat Jackson. He’s a dreamy 6’ 7”, 325 lb mountain of masculinity that makes otherwise-normal women squeal on site.

After repeatedly trying to meet the Wildcat, I’d given up hope on ever getting to know him. His manager, wrestling bad guy Jumbo Jenkins, has a policy about letting fans backstage—unless they’re sporting 38 double-Ds anyway. Well, one night after the fights, Kay-Kay and I stopped at the 7-11 for some road supplies. And, guess who was their picking up a 12-pack of post-bout pain reliever? That’s right; the Wildcat!

Paralyzed by fear, I still didn’t say anything to him. But, he was driving 2006 Chevy Silverado, just like me! I couldn’t believe that my idol and hopeful future husband drove the same rig as me. Of course, Wildcat’s was lifted to the sky and equipped with huge mud tires. But this gave me an idea.

According to the SABYWF schedule, the tour was coming to a backyard in my neighborhood. I decided to lift my truck just like Wildcat’s and facilitate another “chance meeting.” I figured he couldn’t resist me if he could see what a huge fan I am. So, Kay-Kay and I sold some clothes on E-bay and pooled our next few paychecks to buy the lift kit and tires for my Silverado.

I decided to buy the Rancho Complete Lift Kit. It provides 4-full inches of lift, comes with everything I need and it lets me slip a set of gnarly 35” tires underneath. Rancho is the number-one name in suspension, which really helped in my decision. We had a few bucks left over from the E-bay money, so I tossed in a set of Bushwacker Fender Flares to buff up my truck’s stance a bit. There was no way Wildcat could resist me now.

Fight night came and I was ready. Kay-Kay and I followed Wildcat after the fight, hoping he’d go to the 7-11 again. Unfortunately, he stopped at the TGIF to pick up his girlfriend. Girlfriend! How could he have a girlfriend?! Without thinking I jumped from my lifted Silverado and grabbed that girl by the hair. I don’t know what got into me, but I lifted her skinny butt over my head and body slammed her to the pavement. Then I slapped Kay-Kay’s hand, tag-team style, and watch her put that hussy into a sleeper hold.

Next thing I know, Kay-Kay and I are in the back of a police cruiser, arrested for assault and battery. Needless to say, Wildcat won’t have anything to do with me, at least not until I’m off probation. But, in the end, my truck’s got a killer-looking lift and I’m still attending SABYWF wrestling matches, where I cheer my fighting idols on to victory.

Suspension Lifts Kits—Your Truck’s Answer to Platform Shoes

2008-11-16T00:33:00.001-08:00

Suspension lift kits have come along way since the days when desert rats modified their rigs with axle blocks and add-a-leafs. Today’s suspension lift kits are so technically advanced that it takes an engineering degree to make any sense at all, and it continues to get more complex. Modern truck builders use complicated set ups to try and find the balance between ride quality and off-road performance.

The aftermarket suspension industry is the only place to start when looking to lift your truck. When the off-road scene took off few decades ago, folks began tinkering with their truck’s suspension. A few entrepreneurs quickly caught on and as the industry grew, their businesses grew right along with it. These days suspension lift kits are big business.

Whether you wanna lift your rig for a cool look, better performance or towing big loads, the market has every option covered. You can spend a few bucks on some performance shocks and simple brackets to completely change your rig’s height and look. You can also opt to ditch the stock springs and shocks altogether for a set of adjustable air bags. Or, if so inclined, you can go with something like a 15” body and suspension lift kit that requires an air-traffic controller to pull into your driveway.

In order to get a smooth road ride and improved handling for off-road use, you’ll need to get a quality lift kit. All kits will give you more ground clearance, of course, with the increased wheel travel helping to smooth the trails. A quality kit will include performance shocks that not only rebuff bumps and ruts; they can do wonders for your on-road handling as well.

When serious off-roading is in order, a full-blown suspension lift kit is the only way to go. The most affordable kits lift both the front and rear of your rig between 2 and 6 inches. The better kits replace shocks and springs; and depending on how high you’re going, they may replace steering knuckles or add differential spacers to maintain factory-like handling. Many lift kits don’t require welding and can be installed in your driveway, but most manufacturers encourage you to seek a professional for the installation.

Whether you use your rig for work or play, a high-quality suspension lift kit lends a major change to your rig’s altitude and attitude. Looks and performance are both seriously altered, hopefully for the better. There are a lot of kits and styles available, so careful consideration must be taken to meet your lift needs and stay within your budget. Luckily, an eager suspension industry is waiting to serve you.

5 things I love about my Truxedo tonneau cover

2008-11-16T00:31:00.000-08:00

First, it has no snaps. My first tonneau cover had tons of snaps and after only a few months I grew weary of the process of snapping them all back in place. It is like if your pants had 45 buttons to unbutton every time you needed to go to the bathroom – enough to make you think twice about going. Instead it has super heavy-duty Velcro that is a snap, no pun intended, to open and close.

Second, my new tonneau is virtually weather- and waterproof. On a recent trip to Lubbock, Texas I encountered a pretty bad storm with high winds and heavy rain and when I got where I was going there was NO dust or water in my truck bed. I installed the seals that came with my new tonneau and they worked really well. My order came with a free tailgate seal which was a nice addition.

Third, the material is heavy-duty vinyl that looks and feels substantial. And, my tonneau came with some kind of tension control devices that keep the tonneau stretched tight in cold weather. Without this, you could wake up in the morning to find a pool of water in the middle of your truck bed cover. And, where I live, that would be a breeding ground for mosquitos.

Fourth, the installation was fast and easy. I was able to install it myself; well, my wife actually helped. It took the two of us about 40 minutes which, admittedly, is longer then the 15-30 minutes that Truxedo advertises. I never was that good with instructions but my truxedo tonneau came with clamps that secure the rear part of the tonneau - it was kind of a no-brainer.

Last but not least, I love is the fact that my Truxedo tonneau came with a lifetime warranty. You just can’t beat that. I won’t keep my F-150 for a lifetime, not with the miles I drive but it is nice to know. I wish the dishwasher I bought at Home Depot came with such a guarantee.

Plush Motorhome – Hire Them for Good Times Ahead

2008-11-16T00:30:00.000-08:00

If you want to break free and let your hair loose, then here is some thing very exciting for you that will get you up and about. Now you can go for a joy ride to any destination (or just about anywhere you wish, if you do not have any destination) in a plush motorhome. Hire a plush motorhome today and enjoy the serendipity that life offers at every corner you turn or just about anywhere on the way.

Motorhome hire is a growing trend in the UK and other parts of Europe, today. More and more Brits are switching to motorhomes from caravans or getting hitched to a home from home being towed behind them. Motorhomes promise a more comfortable journey with all-in-one facilities – it is more like a home, and sometimes even better than that.

Motorhome hire is more likely to be seen among the middle-aged people who are financially well-off and wish to roam about free of worries and essentially free of troubles. The common mindset found among this segment is that they have the right to travel in comfort and with every facility at hand. The standard facilities include – satellite television as well as satnav, showers, sound systems, air conditions, refrigerator, complete wardrobe, a well furnished toilet, and also at times a garage.

It is very easy to get a plush motorhome. Hire Motorhomes from leading sites online, where you can take your pick from a fleet of dependable and full bodied vehicles such as Fiat CI Motorhomes of 4, 5 and 6 berth. All the vehicles are well furnished and well equipped with facilities of high standards. These vehicles have economical turbo diesel engines. Some of the good sites also provide you a full tank of fuel at the start and they also give a comprehensive demonstration of the vehicle for you to get started.

Motorhome Hire For The Traveller At Heart

2008-11-16T00:29:00.000-08:00

Motorhomes define luxury in a brand new way. It is a home from home and it has got all the luxuries you have in home. As per the industry figures, annually, more than 9,000 new motorhomes have been registered in UK now, while it was just 5,800 in the year 2000.

The days of the caravanners are gone. Now more and more people are going for motorhome hire. It may be a sad news for the caravanners as this is also the year when national Caravan Club completes hundred years. The increasing popularity of motorhomes, compared to caravanners, can be attributed to the luxuries that you get with motorhome hire.

The new age travellers do not want to compromise on comfort. And the plush motorhomes are just ideal for such travellers. Right from comfortable berths to well equipped bathrooms – you can have all that you need to turn your vehicle into your home. You can have your complete wardrobe and also important equipments of entertainment.

Luxury does not get limited to the interiors of the Motorhomes. You can also have the luxury of travelling at your own pace. You can enjoy the journey how you want to – go wherever you wish to - at a speed you want to move at.

With having a motorhome hire, you can travel all across UK and around. You can explore new places or simply go to places you have visited before and would love visiting again. Your motorhome gives you the freedom to cruise just the way you like to without having to depend on others.

You can get motorhome hire or buy from online services. There are a number of good web based services that provide motorhome hire or buy to the travellers of free spirit. So let your spirit take you where you want to go and don't compromise on your comfort along the way.

Purchasing a Used Car-Tips on how to purchase a Pre-Owned Vehicle and Avoid the Lemons

2008-11-16T00:23:00.000-08:00

Used cars can be a great way to get a deal on a car and still get a good vehicle. Shopping around and doing it wisely can lead you to a great used car. Being too hasty can cause you to buy a lemon. If you do a thorough analysis of a car, you can come away with a car that will stand the test of time. Deciding on a vehicle you are looking to purchase is the first step. Make your decision about what you're looking for in a car before stepping onto the car lot, or calling a private party. It's advisable to have an idea on how much mileage your "new" car could have, as well as some sense of how many features you'd like.

To begin, check online for car values and visit car sales sites. You will get a feel for what the base price will be on the car you choose. Beware of a deal that's too good to believe. It usually is. If the price tag on the vehicle is too low, it can signal that the car will require costly repairs later on.

Don't forget to check your state's Lemon Laws. These laws help prevent the sales of abnormally poor vehicles - lemons - which are defined as vehicles requiring a certain number of repairs for a certain number of problems within a given period of time, most often 30 to 45 days.

When you look at your states specific laws, make sure to check for the exact details. With the law on your side, you should have more courage to ask the hard questions that will keep you from purchasing a lemon. Writing down and looking up the VIN number can help you avoid the purchase of a lemon. For cars you're seriously considering, grab the VIN number. It's located on the driver's side of the dashboard, close to the windshield. You can use the VIN, plus $20, to obtain a report on the vehicle. Even the most thorough inspection can only tell you about the car today, but a VIN report can uncover everything in the car's past. It will include anything from accidents to expensive repairs. While low cost may usually be bad, don't count out a low cost car too quickly, if it's through a dealer. While a dealer may be more expensive than a private party, the cars they sell are often thoroughly inspected and include a warranty. This could be a great way to avoid a lemon. Make sure you are not buying a lemon, but that you are getting a good value. Low cost is not the only aspect of purchasing a used car.

Motorhome Hire – The Luxury Travel is A Click Away

2008-11-16T00:21:00.000-08:00

When it comes to travelling, motorhome hire services provide you a journey in the lap of luxury. Nothing beats the comfort level that is provided by motorhomes. It is a good option, especially for those of us who do not want to compromise on the luxury part, yet want to travel around.

Motorhome hire hire is not a new concept. However, the designs and the furnishing of these luxury vehicles have really got much better than the earlier prototypes. Now, motorhomes are fitted with all the latest equipments and furnishings, so that the travellers do not feel out of home or any kind of discomfort.

Nowadays, there are different companies that provide motorhome hire services and each supplier has a line of luxury goods or ergonomic fittings that enhance comfort, improve functionality, create more space, and give more room to move about freely. The new age motorhomes are sure to delight anyone who loves travelling and comfortable journey.

Some of the common features that you would find in any kind of motorhome hire services are:

A well equipped bathroom – The bathrooms in the current line of motorhomes are spacious and well-furnished. Some have showers separated from the bathroom, so that the bathroom do not get tied up when there are two or more people travelling in the motorhomes.

Comfortable furniture – The motorhomes of today come with all the latest line of furniture. These furniture are both comfortable and at the same time do not consume much space. Swivel chairs and 3/4/5 comfortable berths make the interior better.

Motorhome hire services are easily found over the Internet. If you want to book a campervan hire, you can do it with the help of just a click. Simply sitting at home, you can get the luxurious vehicle and along with it you can get excellent customer care.

Campervan Hire – For The Wide Eyed Wanderer

2008-11-16T00:19:00.000-08:00

Travelling is fun and for the travellers at heart, this is one activity they would give their right hand for. And therefore they brave all sorts of weather and all kinds of terrain for the love of exploring the unexplored and re-discovering the discovered. And in their endeavour, they often compromise on the freedom of going anywhere they wish to or at any pace they feel like.

If you are one such wide eyed wanderer, then here is some good news for you. Now you can move around at your own sweet speed and that too with all the comfort you want. With the help of campervan hire, you can have your home out of home and enjoy your travel at the same time.

The freedom of self drive is best understood by the free spirited traveller. You can enjoy every moment of your journey, stop wherever you wish to, turn wherever you feel like, enjoy the weather outside and best of all, you do not have to depend on anyone.

Along with the leisure of your self drive, you have all the luxuries of your home at hand. You get all the facilities in a compervan like a well equipped bathroom, a well furnished interior with 3/4/5 berths and all the equipments of comfort. You can even carry your refrigerator along with you.

Campervans provide cheap accommodation and travel. And that is the reason why they are experiencing growing popularity. The days of the caravanners are slowly and surely being replaced by the campervanners.

There are many web based suppliers of campervans. You can log on to their site and get your campervan hire without any hassles. They offer friendly assistance to familiarise you with the campervan and its facilities. And it is left to you to take it to anywhere you wish to.

Motorhome Hire – Luxury without the Pinch

2008-11-16T00:18:00.001-08:00

Motorhomes are for those who love travelling at their own free will. No restrictions on the road you wish to take, no compromising on the luxury and certainly no hassles or dependency on others. All you have is the open road and your free spirit. However the best part about motorhome hire is the cost part.

A common misconception about motorhome hire is that it is a costly affair. And this is probably the reason why people are still shy to use this service to fulfil their travelling urges. But this is absolutely far from the truth – motorhome hire is a very cost-effective service. You can compare the prices of your touring in any other way with the prices of motorhome hire. You would surely get sweetly surprised at the result.

The rates of motorhome hire are much lower than any other travelling expenditure. However, the prices differ from one service provider to another. Also, there is a difference in the cost depending upon the following factors:

Motorhome Hire Charges in Different Seasons
The charges of motorhomes hire differ with season. While the prices may experience a slight hike in the summers, they are much lower during the winters.

Motorhome Hire Charges as per Number of Berths
Of course, the charges get higher with the increase in number of berths. But when you compare it with other means of accommodation while on a trip, you will see a cost-effective option in motorhome hire.

Motorhome Hire Charges as per Facilities
Motorhomes are all about luxury along with travelling without the pinch of costliness. But the charges may vary as per the additional facilities provided.

Whatever the reason for difference in motorhome hire charges, one thing is for sure, this mode of travelling saves a lot of money and yet provides good luxury to make your journey wonderful.

Motorhome Hire Facilities Make Life Easy

2008-11-16T00:16:00.000-08:00

One of the main reasons for the extreme popularity of motorhome hire services are the excellent user-friendly facilities provided with each motorhomes. You have more control over your lifestyle while travelling than otherwise. This is thanks to the various luxury goods that you can carry along in your motorhome.

Motorhome, as they say, is home outside home. You feel at home while travelling in a motorhome as you have the various facilities in there that you had at home, and also because you can personalise this space just like your home. You can maintain your privacy, while at the same time travel and see the world around you with motorhome hire.

Just like you do at home, you can also cook in your motorhomes if you want to avoid food outside. Many prefer home food, but they have to compromise on that while travelling. But with the cooking facilities in motorhome hire services, you can fill yourself to your heart's content. You can also use this cooking facility to prepare dishes with fruits and vegetables that you find while on your way. There is nothing like cooking the local food with the local flavour and that too fresh from the gardens.

Motorhomes have AC facilities. So, if you are travelling in scorching heat, you can always find peace inside the motorhomes. This AC facility is particularly helpful in the summer seasons. Motorhomes hire is also beneficial if you or someone travelling with you has a physical or mental disability and therefore need space and extra attention.

You can find motorhome hire services through some good web based suppliers. All you have to do is log in and search for a professional motorhome hire service and go through their offerings. If the bill fits you, then just go for it and enjoy your travel like a free spirited wanderer.

Campervan Hire For Your Honeymoon

2008-11-16T00:15:00.000-08:00

How about a campervan hire for your honeymoon? Sounds intriguing? Well, after you read up this bit, you would find it more exciting than anything else. People love visiting good places, especially when it is a honeymoon trip. You can make it all the more exciting by travelling in a campervan.

Honeymoon in a campervan hire? Yes, why not? Imagine you do not have to depend on anyone or anything else for travelling to various destinations. All you do is explore the unexplored at your own free will, or go to your favourite destinations as and when you please. You can travel at your own sweet pace and see whatever you want to, stay put wherever you wish.

Plus, you have the complete comfort of your own home. You do not have to negotiate for better deals with the hotels or inns. You do not have to wait for transport facilities. You do not have to depend on anything at all. You can travel in your own campervan hire. Live there all throughout without doing any negotiation or without any need to shift.

Besides that, you have complete luxurious lifestyle in a compervan. You have lavish bathrooms, comfortable beds, easy chairs and swivels, a fully furnished kitchen and a lot more. You can stop short anywhere and sit outside to enjoy the weather or scenery. You can visit new places that are not yet explored by the tourism industry. You can stay as close to nature as you wish to and you can also stay near city life.

In campervan hire, romance is guaranteed. Imagine watching the moon together underneath a starlit sky. You have to stretch your head out from the balcony of your hotel room in order to see the moon; but in a campervan, you can put two comfortable chairs outside in open space and watch the clouds slowly cover the moon casting magic all around.

Motorhome Hire – Cook Your Way To A Spicy Experience

2008-11-16T00:13:00.000-08:00

Motorhome hire is a wonderful solution for those who love their freedom above anything else. Freedom to move about where the heart wishes to, freedom to stay as and how one wishes to and freedom to set one's own speed. Motorhomes also provide another freedom – and that is freedom to have a luxurious life even while travelling.

The luxuries that standard motorhomes can provide exceed any other means of travelling, even caravans. There is a proper bathroom, good furnishing, facilities to cook and proper comfortable beds to sleep in. One of the best things about having a motorhome hire is that you can cook your meals if you wish.

Yes, a lot of people like cooking their own food. But that is not possible while travelling in public transport. As a result, we do not have a choice than to have food from outside. But with motorhome hire, now you can get your food cooked like you do at home and relish your travel with good meals.

People want to cook their food in Motorhomes for different reasons. The reason may be a medical problem. Lots of people, much as they love travelling and going places, may not be able to do so because they may have a medical problem and therefore they are not allowed food from outside.

Then there are those who love to be close to nature, so much so they want to cook the locally grown plant. They try out the local flavour and spice it up the way the inhabitants of those places prefer. This is also a great way to enjoy your travel and also a rich source of a spicy experience. And such projects can materialise with your own gas hob and microwave in your motorhomes.

Motorhome hire can be great fun. And they can also assist you to have rich experience and a wonderful time.

Live Like a Gypsy with Motorhome Hire

2008-11-16T00:12:00.000-08:00

The word 'motorhome' conjures a picture of a home on wheels. The gypsy life and the elaborate caravans that have been part of the folklore and the imagination of many writers and poets is instantly brought to life by these mobile houses. Now you can live your imagination and travel across the world, and at the same time experience the comfort of your home by using Motorhome hire.

Motorhomes are also known as Recreational Vehicles . More and more people these days prefer travelling in a motorhome rather than taking the conventional mode of transport, like a plane or a train. They even avoid taking along their personal car, since a car is not spacious enough and tends to give a cramped feeling after some time.

Whether it is for the purpose of trekking and camping with friends or going for a romantic getaway, travelling in a motorhome will make the experience more fulfilling and memorable. Almost all tourist cities and towns offer motorhome hire services these days.

Motorhome hire is the best option, when the traveller wishes to enjoy the journey leading to the destination. It provides the person the freedom to travel at his own pace, and even take the risk of extending his stay while camping in mountainous areas or places with a harsh terrain or even remote and rural areas.

A motorhome is equipped entirely like a home, with beds, space for eating and cooking, furniture like tables and chairs, kitchens and storage areas. Some larger and more elaborate motorhomes hire even have bathrooms, refrigerators, satellite televisions and the Internet, and even space for parking a car inside. The charges of a motorhome hire are quite reasonable and easily affordable for almost all people. So, take up motorhome hire and experience the comfort of your home while travelling anywhere.

Setting The Record Straight For Cold Air Intakes vs. Short Air Intakes

2008-11-16T00:10:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that cold air intakes and short ram intakes both have their pros and cons. That being said, they are also very similar. The Short Air Intake System, AKA as a Ram Air Intake or Cold Air Induction, is a system that will utilize some type of external scoop that faces forward on the vehicle. Normally, it works with a pair of snorkels or a single hood scoop through which fresh air enters. Now the Ram Intake does exactly what it sounds like. As you start driving, fresh air is “rammed” through your hood, forced down the intake manifold, and filtered through the air cleaner. Once you hit thirty five mph, this intake system will act similarly to a turbo charger; taking in more and more air to increase your horsepower. Oh yea, and they are much cheaper.

Let’s look at Cold Air Intakes. The Cold Air System replaces your stock air cleaner box and its plumbing with a simple tube that relocates the air intake to a position where it is picking up cold air from outside the engine compartment. This system consists of a large tube that allows greater airflow capability than the stock filter system. I’ve noticed that people have expressed concerns about water penetrating their engines with this system. First, it is HIGHLY unlikely that this will ever be a problem. Rain and water droplets are no problem. The only case that could be a potential threat is if you drove into an extremely deep puddle, submerging the intake head. The car would have to be in the water so that the intake was submerged, and then it would start sucking up water, making your engine hydro-lock.

In both cases the intake is collecting air from outside your engine compartment. The purpose of the intake is to collect a colder air charge than inside the engine compartment, allowing the fuel management system to give the engine a denser air/fuel charge into the combustion chamber. To clarify: Cold Air = More Horsepower. The warm air from your engine compartment is good for fuel economy, but because is has less oxygen molecules than a cold air charge, the fuel will be leaned out. This increases your fuel efficiency, but decreases your horsepower. To conclude, you should look at your car and figure out what system will work with your car’s ground clearance and hood type.

Highway Robbery, Don't Overpay For K and N Air FIlters

2008-11-16T00:09:00.000-08:00

Last summer I took my kids on a road trip down to Disney. The trip was exciting, but you should be fully aware of what you are getting yourself into when contemplating this idea. I wrote this to warn people of the potential dangers, not to mention the seemingly endless hours of driving. I have an eleven-year-old son and an eight-year-old daughter, to put things in perspective. If you are going to making a long trip like this, I would suggest purchasing a portable DVD player or bringing along a laptop with movies. Sure, these electronics may put a dent in your wallet, but if they keep your kids content then they will be worth it—trust me. Also bring along lots of food, drinks, snacks, etc. The last thing you want to be doing is stopping every half an hour to cater to the separate eating habits of everyone in the car. You should probably get on the road AEAP (as early as possible). This way you avoid traffic and hopefully get in a few hours of driving while your kids sleep.

To shift gears a bit, you should also think about your car’s maintenance. Most cars need to have their oil changed every 3,000 miles. If you are taking a long trip, odds are that you will need to get your oil changed somewhere along your voyage. I know, going to another mechanic may seem like cheating on your wife, but it’s a one time thing. As we passed through Georgia and I realized I needed an oil change 1,000 miles ago, worries of engine problems began to haunt me. I didn’t want to always have my car’s oil on the back of my mind while on vacation, so I sucked it up and pulled into a local gas station. A mechanic started working on my car right away, which was a relief. He started on changing the oil, but when he finished he tried selling me a new air filter. I said, “I only wanted an oil change.” Then he went off on some pitch about how dire it is too replace the air filter. He kept trying to charge me $75 for the new one, but the price seemed a bit high, so eventually I told him I was going to call the cops if he didn’t let me go. Anyway the vacation went fine and my car didn’t blow up. I did go and talk to my mechanic when I got home and it turned out that I did need to get a new air filter.

Which Is A Better Buy, Roll Up Truck Bed Covers Or Folding Truck Bed Covers?

2008-11-16T00:07:00.000-08:00

Tonneau covers seem to be all the rage these days, especially out here in Southern California. A lot of guys buy them because they make their trucks look better not because they really need them. Of course, I like the way they make my truck look too but mainly I like tonneau covers because they keep people from stealing my stuff while protecting my possessions from the elements.

I like the lightweight roll-up tonneau covers. They are simple to install and they open up the truck bed completely as opposed to the hard top covers which tend to offer more limited access. There are different types of roll up tonneau covers: there are the vinyl fabric types and the hinged, hard type that roll up on a spool. On my last truck I had the Lund Genesis seal and peel tonneau. It had velcro side and could roll up like a sheet of heavy-duty vinyl.

Lately, I have noticed some trucks that use the folding-type covers that seem more substantial then the roll up type. So I thought I would do a little comparison shopping. My main criteria was a lightweight but tough tonneau that gives easy and full access to my truck bed. I did a search online for both types of truck bed covers and read the descriptions as well as the customer reviews. One thing I noticed is that there seems to be a smaller selection of folding tonneau covers then roll up tonneaus. The roll up covers were made by manufacturers like Extang, Truxedo, and Lund with price ranges from $200 - 400.

The folding type truck bed covers were more expensive with price ranges from $500 – 800. One of the brands that caught my attention was BAK, they make the Bakflip folding tonneau cover and it was on the low-end of the price spectrum. It comes in four foldable sections that can be locked in various positions including one that allows you to protect your rear window when you are hauling freight. You can fold it up completely or in sections.

After some searching a reading product description, I narrowed it down to the Bakflip folding tonneau cover and the Truxedo Truxport roll up tonneau. Both have cool, innovative features and can be locked for security. In the end , I went with the Bakflip even though it was nearly twice the price. I really wanted a tonneau that was strong enough to stand on and that locked securely. And, I really like the fact that you can open it in sections and even lock it down in different configurations. Very cool.

SCT Tuners Can Help You Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself

2008-11-16T00:06:00.000-08:00

I’m twenty two so I’ve been driving for a few years now. I’m no veteran, but being a pro skier I spend a fare amount of time in my car driving to mountains all over the Northeast. Actually, I pretty much live in my car during the winter. Driving to contests, photo shoots, and demos are a big part of my job. My sponsor pays for gas, but I’m usually driving myself to events at new locations. I prefer driving myself to contests because the drive gives me some time to mentally prepare and allows me to think through my runs. I still am as nervous for contests now as I was at my first one.

To calm my nerves, I usually grab a coffee and crank some mellow tunes for the trip over to the mountain. But on the way to my last competition my check engine light turned on. “Great, just what I need,” I thought to myself. I pulled over, turned my car off and on again, and the little red light was still illuminated. I was still fifty miles away; fifty long miles of twisting, desolate mountain road. The last thing I needed was to deal with car problems. If my car broke down, it would have taken hours for a AAA truck to find me in the mountains. Not to mention, I was supposed to meet with potential sponsors. My relaxing, early morning drive turned into a stress filled trek. Skiing was the last thing on my mind. I couldn’t stop worrying about my car breaking down and making it there on time. Despite all my anxiety and visions of worst-case scenarios, I made it to the competition on time, but ended up placing horribly. I’m not going to make excuses, but the added aggravation definitely didn’t help. On the chairlift, I was telling another guy in the competition about my drive up, which he found quite comical. Anyway, he told me to look into getting a chip programmer. Apparently these little ipod looking things can decipher your car’s check engine message.

A House, A Woman, A Car And A Trailer Hitch!

2008-11-16T00:04:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows this problem: You want to spend your holidays with your whole family in the mountains, but there is no space to stow your toys. And it is fact, a man needs his toys. So what to do? I could leave my son home, but he loves the snow and I love fishing with him at the lake. I could leave my little daughter at home, but she cleans up all rooms so carefully. So there is just one possibility. I could spend the holiday without my wife Mary. To be honest, there are no reasons why I should bring my wife. She doesn't fish, she doesn't clean up the house, and she doesn’t cook good food. There is just one disadvantage, my mother-in-law. She would kill me if I hurt her little daughter.

So I have to find another way to solve this tricky problem. And here it is. Of a friend of mine I heard that there are small devices called trailer hitches, which are perfect for towing my toys. Beside that Trailer Hitches are made for easy bolt-on installation. Of course, I am a real man and know how to install each kind of technical stuff, but it is good to know that my little son can install it too.

And there are so many other benefits you will get by the trailer hitch. I can tow all my toys along wherever I roam with a Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch. From snowmobiles to ATV's, the trailer hitch allows me to bring them all. I think this vacation trip will be great. I have all I need. Plus my woman! I only have to buy a trailer hitch. I think I will buy via Internet that is the easiest way.

How My Tonneau Cover Saved Me Money At the Pump

2008-11-16T00:02:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you need to own a truck. I work at a motorcycle repair shop, so I am often transport large parts or bikes on the back of my truck. I haven’t had any complaints with my Dodge Ram—except at the gas station. This truck eats up fuel faster than Kobayashi eats hot dogs. I mean, it seems like every time I glance down at the fuel gage, the needle is pointing down. I probably got a measly fifteen miles per gallon, which just did not cut it. So I did what most people do when they don’t know an answer, and turned to Google.

I found a lot of informational articles and read up on improving my truck’s gas mileage. I discovered that aerodynamics play a huge role in how many miles per gallon your vehicle gets. And you many not know this, but pick up trucks aren’t exactly built for speed. When driving your pick up, air flows up the hood, over the cab, shoots down into the bed, and then hits the tailgate, creating drag, which is the problem. The more drag, the harder it is for your truck to cut through the air, and hence, requiring more fuel. Don’t worry, I didn’t know any of this either. But I did read a few articles about how companies tested truck aerodynamics. What they found was that tonneau covers can greatly reduce drag, which ultimately translates into fuel efficiency. I don’t know about you, but that sold me. Sure, a tonneau cover can be a few bucks, but in the long run, I am saving money every week at the pump, protecting my truck bed, and creating a secure storage area on my truck. I found that I get over 17 MPG now! That’s three more miles per gallon. Apparently, adding a tonneau cover is the best way to increase fuel efficiency, but you can also make sure your tires are fully inflated and consider purchasing a new air filter.

Don’t Let the Bed Rugs Bite

2008-11-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

The other day I took the wife and kids out to go see a movie—it cost an arm and a leg! I bought four tickets, a jumbo tub of popcorn, gummy bears, and 2 sodas. It cost nearly $60! And for what? Two hours of bad acting and a few steps closer to a cavity. Now I don’t want to sound like a cheapskate, but I think we didn't get much bang for our buck. On top of that, I work all week and would just like to spend some quality time with my family; we barely talked. I think we spent more time waiting in line and dealing with crowds than actually having fun. Personally, I would have preferred hanging around a campfire. Growing up in rural Montana, I have learned to appreciate the outdoors and the serenity of nature. We currently live in Philli, but we have started taking weekend camping trips to various camp grounds in western Pennsylvania and have had a lot of great times—until we tried sleeping in the bed of my pick up.

It was dusk. The sounds of insects in the summertime filled the cool night’s air. It was perfect—until the clouds rolled in. A group of rain clouds quickly passed over us, drenching the grounds, but didn’t scare us away. We took shelter in my truck until the rain passed. Unfortunately, we were left standing in mud. We had driven a few hours, so going home was out of the question and pitching a tent on the ground would have meant sleeping in a puddle, so we decided to sleep in the truck bed. I had an old ratty bed liner in there, which provided our backs with minimal comfort—but at least it kept us dry. I think I would have preferred the mud because when we woke up it looked as if we had the chickenpox. Apparently the liner was infested with some sort of bed bug. What a nightmare!

Protect Your Tools at Work Sites With Truck Toolboxes

2008-11-16T00:00:00.001-08:00

I have been installing cabinets and trim in houses for 13 years now. It all started with a summer job working for my Uncle Ed. I was home from college for summer and was looking to make some extra dough, so my uncle occasionally I worked for my uncle installing trim on new construction. I wasn’t used to the manual labor, but I got used to it real quick. And I found that I loved it. I didn’t like breaking my back, but I did like making my own hours, working at my own pace, and working with my hands. Pretty soon I bought my own tools and truck and started my own business.

Now anyone in this like of work will tell you how important your tools are. They are your livelihood; they put dinner on the table. I’ve heard some horror stories about some guys leaving their tools in their truck beds, going into a house, and coming back to find all of their equipment gone. This would be a nightmare. I’ve spent thousands of dollars on my tools and have grown accustomed to using my specific set. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I when I look at my hammer, I see all the nicks and chips in and it reminds me of all my jobs. Sorry, I don’t want to get all sentimental on you, but I’m just saying a worker’s tools are very important.

I’ve met a lot of people from working at all different sites, and I’ve found that people are always walking in and out of construction sites. Some of them are good guys, but most of them aren’t the nicest fellows to say the least. They would have no problem walking off with your new saw. Anyway, I use some heavy duty lockable toolboxes so my tools aren’t on the back of my mind while I’m working. I’ve heard guys arguing over Delta and Dee Zee brands; but what’s really the difference? I choose one brand for my wheel wells and a different one for massive crossover storage. Rather than listening to a bunch of schmucks, go out and do some research and find the best box that fits your situation. It’s not rocket science.

Tonneau Covers May Spark A Soccer Mom Revolution

2008-11-15T23:58:00.000-08:00

When I upgraded to a new Mustang, my wife took over my old Toyota Tacoma. She was only going to drive my truck for a few months until she found a new car, but it’s been a year now and she won’t give it up. She likes sitting up high while she drives and having the bed for dirty cleats. Not to mention having four-wheel-drive in the winter, which can be quite helpful when battling Northeastern blizzards.

Now I don’t necessarily want to have to buy a new car, but the truck is starting to have problems and I think we should get rid of it before it dies. My wife recently became the assistant coach of our son’s soccer team, so she usually has to transport soccer balls, cones, jerseys, first aid kits, and water jugs to practice. Mini vans have a ton a space, but she loves having the truck bed; and it really can fit a lot. Honestly, I think she is just in denial of becoming a mini van driving soccer mom. We’re a younger, hip couple, so I don’t think she is ready to trade in her older bohemian lifestyle for a new conventional, boring one. I can sympathize with her; I bought a Mustang.

Well marriage is all about compromise, and by compromise I mean keeping misses pleased, so I think we will be getting another pick up. My main concern is protecting the contents in the truck bed from rain and snow. Sure, the bed is great for muddy cleats and dirty gear, but what about groceries? A whole load of groceries won’t fit in the cab and we still need to eat, even on days of inclement weather. “A mini van can definitely fit a ton of groceries inside,” I commented to my wife, but of course she had a response. She always does. “Two words. Tonneau covers,” she replied. Tonneau covers are solid panels that cover pick up truck beds. Well, I guess she has everything figured out, I just hope she doesn’t come crying to me when she wishes she had more interior space. Who knows, maybe soccer moms will start rebelling and dominate the pick up truck market.

Come On Baby Light My Fire With Some Gibosn Exhaust Headers

2008-11-15T23:56:00.000-08:00

My 2001 Dakota has always been good to me. It has a bed large enough to accommodate all of my needs, a comfortable interior, and best of all, a big engine; I sprung for the 250-horsepower 5.9-liter V8. The power, the sound, the speed—I love it all. The only problem is that I’ve had the truck for seven years now and I feel like my driving experience has lost its passion. It’s like dating someone for a few years and getting to the point where there are no more surprises. It’s vanilla. I miss romping on the pedal and feeling the excitement as the wheels exhale white smoke.

Up until this point I have added a few aftermarket accessories, but they have all been cosmetic—window tints, a Maxx Grille Guard, and an Extang tonneau cover. One night I was over at the track with a buddy of mine and I was telling him about my dilemma. "Why don't you work on the engine to get your needle going?" he asked. I was thinking about throwing an exhaust on, but I don’t want my truck to be too loud. The last thing I need is everyone in my neighborhood flashing me dirty looks when I cruise down the street. So I went down to my local auto shop and they recommended exhaust headers. Apparently, new performance exhaust headers can add gains of 10-20 horsepower and 10-30 lbs. of torque. That’s pretty good if you ask me. I think I can add even more ponies if I add a high performance exhaust as well, but I think I will take one thing at a time. After a little research, I found some sweet headers that are 50-state street legal, which is good because I live in California and the cops here are strict. I’ve heard stories of people getting tickets for having blinking valve caps, which is ridiculous if you ask me.

I think the headers will make an excellent choice for me. I think a big horsepower gain at a moderate price tag will rekindle the flame between me and my Dakota.

Aero Turbine Mufflers Increase Power And Fuel Economy

2008-11-15T23:49:00.000-08:00

The Aero Turbine Muffler accomplishes four main things. It increases fuel economy, it increases horsepower and torque, it reduces exhaust gas temperatures, and it improves engine longevity. I will explain how it accomplishes all this through its design and inner workings.

The mufflers that come on most of today’s vehicles are full of baffles and restrictions. This creates back pressure on the engine that decreases performance, economy, and engine longevity. Aero Exhaust has created the Aero Turbine Muffler; this muffler has a straight through design and the inner workings of a jet engine. The muffler works like a jet engine to increase the flow of the exhaust as it flows through. This makes it so the engine doesn’t have to push the exhaust away. The aero turbine actually vacuums the exhaust away from the engine. Getting the exhaust away from the engine and letting it breathe freely dramatically increases performance and engine longevity. It also reduces exhaust gas temperatures which makes it safe to add other performance modifications and run more power. Most importantly is the economy increase, especially with today’s gas prices that are only on the rise. Thousands of users are experiencing huge increases in fuel economy on gas vehicles and diesels alike. Most are experiencing about a 15% increase in economy and there are even some getting up 25% better economy.

With the straight through type design of the Aero Turbine, most would expect it to be extremely loud. The swirling motion that the muffler adds to the exhaust as it flows through muffles the sound, and lowers the exhaust tone. So you end up with a deep throaty sound. It also comes in a resonated version, which has a built in resonator in the front of the muffler. Both versions have identical performance and economy increases, the only difference is that the resonated version of the muffler is closer to stock sound levels, although it still has a deep throaty tone to it. The non resonated version has more sound to it. The Mufflers work on all gas and diesel vehicles from cars to trucks and all the way up to even motor homes and RV’s.

Aftermarket Upgrades to Enhance Your Jeep's Performance

2008-11-15T23:48:00.000-08:00

Serious off-road enthusiasts do not worry about mud or scratches on their Jeeps because they will have a lot more come the end of the week. They are modern day explorers and adventurers that want to go where no one has ever gone before. They are usually off exploring those caves or driving up that mountain to see how far they can go. When driving unpredictable terrain, the off-road enthusiast does not know the word "can't". You can't get there by car, you can't cross that creek bed, or you can't drive up that mountain. These are all heard as challenges. The off-roader now wants, no, must find a way to conquer that obstacle.

To meet these challenges the typical serious off-road Jeeper wants to enhance their Jeep by adding aftermarket performance parts that help them achieve the optimum rock-crawling, trail-thrashing ability. Specialized aftermarket trail performance components are made specifically for each model, whether it is a Wrangler, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, or Liberty.

Accessories are readily available to improve engine performance, vehicle handling, ground-clearance and trail convenience.To increase horsepower there are a multitude of aftermarket upgrades available. Hi-flow air intake systems increase the flow of air to the engine. This allows your engine to breathe easier. The air filter is designed to achieve virtual unrestricted airflow and still filter the air of dust and debris, which not only delivers added power but also helps prolong the life of the engine. Computer chips and programmer boxes are designed to improve horsepower and/or gas mileage giving you the ability to optimize the power of your Jeep. These programmers allow you to tune your Jeep to receive more rotary force (torque) or to customize your Jeep's limit to allow for faster acceleration. High performance exhaust systems are not installed just to make noise. They increase the exhaust flow of your Jeep lessening the backpressure, which helps to produce more power, and, yes your Jeep will have a deeper, meaner roar to it as well.

Suspension lift kits increase the handling and ground clearance of your Jeep. You install taller suspension components (higher lift springs and longer recoil shocks). These systems deliver lift, better articulation, better offroad handling, and allow for larger tires; all this for better off-road traction and handling.

Polyurethane mounts and bushings provide better performance and extended wear. Polyurethane transmission mounts replace worn rubber factory mounts, which can lead to hard shifting and sloppiness in the drive train. Changing these rubber factory mounts to the new polyurethane mounts will also lessen breakage when placing high levels of power demands on the system. Polyurethane bushings improve the handling and feel of your Jeep, and provide the necessary stiffness to the body and cab, while maintaining a certain resilience to ensure a firmer ride.

An on-board air system offers trailside convenience for the 4x4 enthusiast. It is a common practice for trail riders to air down their tires for maximum traction when maneuvering on rough terrain. Having on-board air makes it much easier for the Jeep driver to air back up the tires so their Jeep will perform properly on paved roads on their way back to the city from the off road excursion.

High-end performance Jeep alternaters are designed to meet the high-level demands on the electric system out on the trails. They ensure that you will have the power needed for your Jeep's system.

These specialized off-road components mentioned above are just some of the high-end parts that are available to Jeep owners for meeting the special demands from the trails. Contact your Jeep specialist to learn more about these components and others that are designed to maximize the performance of your Jeep.

Mack Trucks – One of the World's leading Truck manufacturing companies

2008-11-15T23:46:00.000-08:00

"MACK TRUCKS" are one of the best subsidiary of AB Volvo as they are very efficient and enduring, as "BULLDOGS" are very powerful amongst its breed so is "MACK TRUCKS" amongst all leading brands.

Mack Trucks are the best in building heavy-duty trucks capable of enduring a punishing terrain and the vagaries of nature. Mack Trucks is one of the world's leading truck-manufacturing companies. We have our headquarters Florida,USA and branches across USA. Mack Trucks is a top producer in the vocational, on-road-vehicle market. It is also the most popular manufacturer of heavy-duty off-road trucks in America.

The journey of Mack Trucks began in 1893 when the Mack brothers, Jack and Augustus, bought over Fallesen & Berry factory. Soon, the Macks started experimenting with various steam and electric motor cars. Inspired by the inventions taking place all around him, Jack envisioned the building of heavy-duty trucks and thus began an eventful journey. The first product from the house of Macks was a bus, which was used by sightseeing concessionaire Harris and McGuire, for eight years before it was converted into a truck.

In the early 1900s, Mack Trucks became famous as ever-reliable trucks that could easily endure rugged terrains.
Soon enough, Mack Truck Inc. were the first truck manufacturers to introduce a constant mesh feature that protected gears from being damaged osr stripped by inexperienced drivers.

In 1919, Manhattan Trucks was re-christened as ‘Mack’. Later, in 1922, it adopted bulldog as its corporate logo. As to how a bulldog was chosen as, a symbol of Mack Truck Inc. is an interesting story in itself. Lore at Mack Truck Inc. say that during the First World War, the British government had chosen the sturdy Mack trucks for transporting important war supplies and food requirements to the soldiers on the front. These Mack trucks, with their blunt-nosed hood, resembled a bulldog. Besides, the Mack trucks were proving as tenacious as bulldogs. These qualities reminded the British soldiers of their official mascot the ‘British Bulldog’. Now, Mack Truck Inc. viewed this as a matter of pride and hence they adopted the bulldog as a corporate symbol to represent all the future generation of Mack trucks.

Since then, Mack trucks have undertaken important missions of national and international importance. For instance, they played an important role in the trans-continental convoy conducted by the US Army, which highlighted the need for a national highway system. Similarly, Mack Truck Inc. played a major role in the building of the Boulder dam. It also played an important role in the Second World War. Mack trucks found themselves adorning the role of prime movers, personnel carriers, wrecker trucks, tank transporters, and more.

Thus, Mack Trucks has played an important role in the American history and are now serving the needs of a modernized world by providing various upliftments in the working and manufacture of transportation.

Making my truck look good

2008-11-15T23:43:00.000-08:00

Just like that, she was gone. Of course, I was floored, but what kept ringing in my head was the part about my truck. I liked that girl, but I love my truck. Why was she sick of it? Of all the things to say. Did she say it out of spite or was there really something wrong with it.

“It” is actually a sweet ’05 F-150. Sure it’s not brand new, but it’s not a junker either. But, I started to think maybe she was on to something. Maybe the ol’ F-Rig, as I liked to call it, was in need of a makeover – look, the only reason I even know what a “makeover” is, is because of the now ex. She made watch those stupid shows. Sorry, I’m still a little touchy about that.

Anyway, I wasn’t sure what I wanted, so I fired up my laptop at a local coffee shop and searched for Ford truck accessories. I found a bunch of sites that had tons of cool stuff, but what really caught my eye were the chrome accents. Darn it! Calling them “accents” after my earlier use of the word “makeover” is going to make sound like a sissy, not that there’s anything wrong with being one, it’s just not for me. So, let’s just call them “chrome truck accessories”, or to be hip and cool, how about “bling”. Scratch that. I don’t like using “bling”. It’s like saying “all that and a bag of chips”.

Alright, back on point. I figured some chrome would do the F-Rig some good, maybe help to turn a few lady heads, since I was now back on the market. I checked out a few of the plastic tape-on door handles, but decided to go with solid billet replacements because they were just way cooler. I also ordered a chrome fuel door. That was actually the piece that got me my next girl, but that’s a story for another day.

When the parts arrived, I was a bit surprised with door handles. I mean, they were just about what I expected build-quality wise, but they looked liked they’d be easier to install than I anticipated. But, like in love, I was totally wrong. In fact, if I hadn’t called my buddy Joe, I might still not be able to close my doors. In the manufacturer’s defense, I’m not really good at taking doors apart. Don’t get me wrong, I can turn a wrench, but there’s something about those clips. Some folks can do that kind of stuff, I can’t. The chrome gas cap was a piece of cake. Really, like 20 minutes and I was good to go.

All said and done, putting the chrome accents, I mean, chrome accessories on the ol’ F-Rig has made life not so bad after that disastrous day. In fact, things are looking a lot “brighter”. That was lame, wasn’t it?

Dont Fight Over Getting a Draw Tite or a Hidden Hitch

2008-11-15T23:32:00.000-08:00

When looking to make a statement with the bar that brings the trailer-ed toys to the playground, brand is a big factor for many drivers. But, it’s a much bigger factor than it probably needs to be. That’s because the three biggest names in custom trailer hitches—Draw Tite, Hidden Hitch and lesser-known Reese—are all owned by the same company: Cequent Group.

That’s right: while many a toy-hauling trucker has debated the merits of one hitch brand versus another, losing sleep and play time, the money for their eventual purchase ends up in the same hands either way. Cequent also controls about eight other big names in towing and hauling in both the auto and RV markets, giving them (and their parent company TriMas) a stranglehold on how recreational heavy items travel in this land.

So, now that some of the brand tension and suspense is lost, let’s take a deeper look at the actual differences between the two Cequent products badged as Hidden Hitch or Draw Tite. First up is Hidden Hitch, the first company to offer a round tube hitch style. That round tube is Hidden’s most visible trademark besides their distinct logo, straying drastically from the more bulky body of a square tube hitch. Beyond the distinct look, Hidden Hitch pioneered quality certifications that pass auto manufacturer standards, and they’ve bested rigorous salt spray tests. Hidden Hitch believes that passing these tests and meeting these industry standards equals ultimate quality.

But, Draw Tite sees Hidden’s quality and raises it 60 years of experience in the towing industry. A Draw Tite hitch is big. It’s bulky. It’s rugged. There’s certainly nothing slim, smooth or cute about a Draw Tite hitch. It’s hardly “hidden,” and you wouldn’t want it to be. You want everything and everyone—from the trailer you haul to the gawking yokel on the boat dock—to know that you mean towing business. A Draw Tite hitch is laser-cut, robotically welded, and thoroughly e-coated to lock rust out. That sounds nice and manly.

So, what’s the big difference between the two hitch brands? The bottom line comes down to the branding of the two Cequent tentacles. Hidden Hitch is generally targeted toward the SUV or wagon driver who wants a hitch for one of three reasons (or all 3 on occasion): 1. putting a hitch-mounted bike rack on the back for getting the kiddies to school; 2. pulling a small trailer or camper irregularly; or 3. to look a bit cooler with a hitch on the back. Draw Tite is the brand for pulling big with zero bull. Either way you go, that cash will end up in Mr. Cequent’s pocket (if there is such a man) at the end of the day.

Trucking Safety: ''C'' Is for the Cautious Driver

2008-10-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for drivers who are least likely to cause accidents, those with a Core C behavioral style are the ones you want to hire and retain. Caution is not only their middle name; it's their first name.

Safety research shows drivers' natural behaviors and attitudes are a greater predictor of their chances of causing accidents than their level of safety training. (Source: Behavioral-Values Research Associates, 1993) It makes sense. If a person's main concern is safety, he or she will behave in a much more careful manner behind the wheel than someone whose first concern is, say, being in charge or interacting with other people.

Understanding behavioral patterns and values will tell you which drivers to hire if safety is your top concern. A behavioral assessment measures normal behavior in four areas: D (Dominant), I (Influencing), S (Steadiness), and C (Cautious, Compliant to Standards).

The D factor determines how drivers tend to handle problems and challenges, the I factor looks at their interactions and influence with others, the S at how they respond to the pace of the environment, and the C at how they respond to rules and regulations set by company and federal regulations.

A DISC behavioral assessment shows how the applicant ranks in each of the four factors from 0% to 100%. Fifty percent is the mid line; above this the person is said to be high in the factor, below 50% - low. The higher or lower the ranking, the more intense the behavior will be. In this article, we'll look at the highs and lows of the C factor.

Research shows the safest drivers are high in the C factor. Here's the reason why.

Drivers who score highest in the Cautious/Compliant behavioral factor are careful, cautious, detail oriented, and accurate. They follow rules to the letter. They are low risk takers and dislike making mistakes. In fact, the fear of making mistakes is one of their biggest stress factors.

Drivers low in the C factor are the opposite. They are high risk takers and tend to be careless, especially with details; they are likely to break rules and ask forgiveness, whereas High C drivers ask permission before acting or making decisions. Low C drivers can be arbitrary and hard to manage.

Your ideal driver has this behavioral profile: High in the S (Steadiness) and C (Cautious) factors, and low in the D (Dominant) and I (Influencing) styles. To see a sample of the ideal driver's profile, click here. (If that doesn't work, contact us and we'll email you a sample report.)

Research and experience prove trucking companies that use behavioral assessments to pre-screen driver applicants and hire only those who fit the safe driver profile have reduced accidents, costs, workers' comp claims, and turnover.

Most importantly, they have saved lives.

©2006 Annette Estes. All Rights Reserved. Permission to reprint granted as long as entire text and tag line are included.

Driving Jobs And Courier Jobs - Importance of Time Management To Achieve Both!

2008-10-22T09:41:00.003-07:00

I have a question for you? How is it that one freelance courier can make between £750 and £980 from courier jobs per week while another in the exact same circumstances can only make between £150 and £250 per week? What’s the difference between them?

In this article I want to talk to you about time management. One of the reasons freelance couriers are struggling is because it seems there is never enough hours in the day. While this is not true, the real reason is a wastage of time.

You see time is the only real modern currency we have today to trade with. You can’t save time and use it later. So how you use your time is a great and direct determining factor in your success a s a freelance courier.

I believe it is more important to work smarter then it is to work harder when both acquiring courier jobs or doing courier jobs so the correct allocation of your time is crucially essential to avoid having stress as a result of having to do too much in too little time.

To give you a rough outline of what you should be doing when you first start your freelance courier business, should make it clear as to why proper time management is so important:

1. You have to survey your area to scout and identify potential star customers. This includes customers from 2 segments initially namely private companies and courier companies.

2. You then have to present your business in a professional manner to these companies to build credibility and establish trust. This could be in the form of having a smart universal outfit or uniform with a company identity badge.

Large courier companies like CityLink, parcel force etc. all have their staff wear company close to establish branding and professionalism in the minds of customers. You should do the same.

3. Now that you have researched and surveyed your target customer base, created a professional image and established some sort of brand in the minds of the customer, you need to make contact with those customers. This is where you’ll start making phone calls, send out direct mail pieces, place classified ads and advertise on Google’s search engine.

4. Once you have some appointments with customers you need to have a service agreement ready to show customers why and how you are better then Tom, Dick and Harry freelance couriers down the road.

Yes, as a freelance courier you will not be the only one tendering for work so it’s important to understand what makes you unique from your competition for example you might offer a lower price, better support, faster delivery times etc.

5. Once you’ve bagged a number of customers it only make good business sense to keep in touch with those customers and that can be via phone or direct mail or email. I recommend email because you can automate the process – more on that in a later article.

As you can see just from the small list of activities I have mentioned, there’s a lot to do, and wasting time surfing the net or talking to friends on the phone will severely detract from the time you need to grow and market your business.

So how can you be more productive and manage your time more effectively?

The first thing you need to do is to list all the activities that is directly responsible for bringing in the work. You can start by making a detailed list of the activities you need to do as mentioned earlier in the article.

You need to focus your time on these activities above all things so prioritize your list in that order of importance.

The next you need to do is to break that list of activities into segments and focus your attention on one part of that particular activity. For example, if you need to make a list of star customers in the private companies segment, don’t mix up that list with courier companies.

Do one thing thorough and as long as it’s an activity that directly contributes to your business growth, you will immediately become more productive while growing your business rapidly.

Next you need to assign times by when you need to complete these activities as well as having a check list to check up on yourself as you make progress. Check off the things you have completed and immediately move to the next activity on your list.

I find that by making yourself a poster with the words, “ BACK TO WORK” generally helps when I’m sitting idle. You might want to try a similar idea.

Remember not many people are born with perfect time management skills so you have to practise it until it becomes a habit. I’ve included a very useful piece of software called Time Keeper that you can use to track, how, and where you spend your time.

I Hope this article shed some light on the importance of time management.

Until then I wish you much success

Andre Hendricks
http://www.drivingjobs-uk.com

2008-10-22T09:41:00.002-07:00

Do Nitrous Oxide Systems (NOS) Have A Practical Purpose On Diesels?

2008-10-22T09:41:00.001-07:00

There are many people out there that will justify anything that they can so they can feel good about doing something, or having something in their possession. The question is, does nitrous have any practical application on a diesel engine, but first a little information about nitrous oxide.

The Nitrous kits for diesels that we run are pretty easy to install, with all of the wiring and solenoids self contained in two boxes, with all necessary hardware and fittings. And can even be installed if you have NOT O-ringed your heads, although if you do have stock heads you should limit the amount of nitrous being sprayed.

Nitrous Oxide when burned at high temperatures, releases oxygen. With nitrous burning it allows for a 50% saturation of oxygen, while atmospheric air only allows for about a 20% saturation of oxygen. The more oxygen, the more power. Nitrous dramatically increases power instantly. Nitrous also will dramatically lower the exhaust gas temperatures. Propane will also lower exhaust temperature some, but nothing like nitrous will. But does it have any real application?

Nitrous could be used in very small shots to keep things cool and give a little power, but the price would be way too much for the gain that you would get. Other than that, nitrous is friend only to those who are challenged to a drag race, or for the man who just has to be the fastest. There is really no towing application for nitrous oxide. With anything that will increase power so dramatically you need to take precautions as well, and should have a full set of gauges and the ability to monitor all of your engines parameters. So in conclusion, does running a nitrous oxide system have any real application on a diesel engine? Answered as an individual that has to have all the bells and whistles, I’m going to have to answer with an emphatic YES! So its only real purpose is for fun and racing.

www.parleysdieselperformance.com

Diesel Performance- Miracle or Snake Oil

2008-10-22T09:40:00.001-07:00

There are so many products out there that seem to be just too good to
be true and there are too many people out there that are more than willing to
take advantage of another’s lack of knowledge. There are also sooo many out
there that are willing to play on peoples emotions, you know, the whole “you
can have amazing results for practically nothing, and for only minutes a day at
no cost to you”. We’ve all heard it before. So what makes diesel performance
products, like a chip, or a cold air intake, or an exhaust any different. You
might ask yourself, can adding something that small to my vehicle produce as
great results as so many people tell me they do? Or will these items really pay
for themselves in the form of added fuel economy, and reduced wear and tear on
my vehicle? It is these questions about these products that I am going to address,
and at the same time educate, because knowledge is power my friends.

If you were to modify a gas engine for performance, you would be required
to install a different camshaft, bore out the cylinders to increase displacement, install
high compression pistons and heads, increase fuel intake capability by installing a
larger carburetor or injection system, adding a turbo charger or supercharger, adding a
chip, and enlarging the exhaust system. But then you are still restricted by
emission control systems. On the other hand, diesel trucks and cars are
mostly turbo charged, and they already run at a higher compression ratio. Whereas
on the gas vehicles you would have to make those changes. If you were to make
those changes to a gas engine you would truly have a ground pounding beast, but
would lose every day drive ability. The Diesels on the other hand are nice
to drive around even with considerable modification. With a cold air intake,
a chip, more efficient injectors, and a more open exhaust system, the diesels are still
a nice ride, but when you really give it the gas, all heck breaks loose. There
is enormous power without reducing drive ability.

Because of the nature of diesel engines they are designed from the
factory to withstand much higher compression ratios than a gas engine. The
diesel fuel combusts when it is compressed to a certain point whether or not
there is optimum air. By simply shooting more fuel into the combustion chamber
you can make more power. When you then improve the air ratio & timing of the
fuel - you can make dramatic power and also improve engine efficiency. Gasoline
requires a spark to ignite it & must have the appropriate mixture of air to burn
properly. There is also a lot more energy in a given amount of diesel fuel than
in an equal amount of gasoline.

I will now break down the most popular modifications and explain their
benefits.

1. A cold air intake is sealed away from the hot engine air, and is
located where it can take in more air. Cold air intakes are equipped with a filter
that can take in up to 300% more air. Cold air takes up less space. So there
can be more air, more air helps to burn all the fuel, thus giving more power
and better fuel economy.

2. Chips make alterations to how the fuel is delivered to the engine, making
it more efficient and more powerful.

3. A bigger exhaust or a mandrel bent exhaust (keeps the tube round, and the size
constant) improves exhaust flow. Getting exhaust away from the engine is just as
important in combustion as getting air into the engine. There are exhausts now
that will even vacuum exhaust away from the engine, making it so that the
engine doesn’t have to do that work.

All of these modifications add to the fuel economy of the diesel
engine, and will over time actually pay for themselves in gas savings, and will
continue for years after they are paid for to keep your money in your pocket.
Diesels are the wave of the future and more and more economy vehicles are being
produced in diesel versions because they are capable of so much better economy.

www.parleysdieselperformance.com

Duramax vs. Cummins vs. Powerstroke - A matter of Sexuality?

2008-10-22T09:39:00.001-07:00

Duramax vs. Cummins seems to be the question on everybody’s mind. Let’s be honest Duramax vs. Cummins, has never been the real question, neither has Duramax vs. Powerstroke or Cummins vs. Powerstroke in any of these debates. For the most reasonable answer to these questions that I have found I look back to the teachings of a wise professor. A Philosophy teacher I once had was discussing what he had found to be the main causes of homosexuality after years of being a counselor for school districts and at the local prison, he said that they were genetics, environmental and hormonal. Might I be so bold as to say that it really doesn’t matter who makes the truck or how durable the components are in the truck are but the real answer to the question Duramax vs. Cummins or Powerstroke vs. Cummins or Duramax vs. Powerstroke is what did your father drive (genetic) where did you grow up, what did the people around you growing up drive, what do your current friends drive (environmental), and what body style really “does it” for you (hormonal).

Another factor into this question that my professor went over was the fact that men are attracted to form rather intellect, so just as some men are attracted to women that chew (Powerstroke Owners) men will be attracted to different trucks based on how they look to them. Another factor that I think can fall in line with this is how does the truck make the man look to the ladies? Have you ever noticed how when you are in a parking lot and you see a huge Power Stroke pull into the parking lot with a 12 inch lift and 35 inch Super Swamper Boggers on it and then it will park and out pops the 4’5” driver in his wranglers and a belt buckle that is almost as tall as him. Then you catch a glimpse inside the cab of the truck just before he closed the door and you can see the seat up as far as it can go and sometimes, not all the time, but sometimes I swear I see a stack of phone books. I don’t know what it is but it is the strangest phenomenon, I think that factors into the whole form thing as well, the fact that the men need to feel secure about themselves, maybe they missed the memo that the new Jeep Liberty’s have a nice little diesel in them as well, and they wouldn’t need a ladder to pull themselves up into it.

Now I hope you don’t think that this is it and that I am going to leave you hanging. You know I would never do that my friends. I will be back soon enough with some factual base and research that has been done over the past several years I will include dyno results for max horsepower, shop transcripts for history of what make had which problems etc.. But for now stick with my theory of the three degrees of Trucksuality.

www.parleysdieselperformance.com

The Changing Face of Indian Auto Industry

2008-10-22T09:37:00.002-07:00

With a good growth in the Indian economy and a low inflation rate, the auto industry considers it would certainly be a fine starting point for getting foreign vehicles to the Indian auto industry. It is expected that as the years go on sales of the finest passenger cars is going to rise.

To survive in the auto industry today, one is thought to produce practically high-quality cars for consumption on mass scale & that too at attractive prices. The production cost of cars in India is definitely less than that in Japan, USA, or Germany.

The Indian auto industry structure is exceptional when weighed against other developed markets of the world. India has a large market for four-wheelers, with a sizeable market for two-wheelers (bikes, motorcycles & scooters), three-wheelers & commercial truck markets.

But, with growth of Indian automotive sector it has also entered Asian elite group of auto-manufacturing nations. If worldwide Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) desires to rule Indian roads, they would have to manufacture cars, which are world-class having Indian cost configurations.

The Indian car market which includes SUVs (sport/utility vehicles), has grown & diversified over the past 10 years in excess of a dozen key automakers, 2 dozen models & 50 variants.

In the past few years' auto producers from all around the world are speeding up to India to take benefits of growing disposable earnings. India is rising as a huge legend in the markets for passenger cars. A large number of new car models are being designed & being launched by Indian automobile producers, thus the new cars need to be exceptionally forceful to obtain a part of this increasing pie.

Thus, to avail further information about Indian Automobile Industry, its growth & potential read the report: "Indian Automobile Industry: An Analysis (2005-2010)" published by RNCOS at:
http://www.rncos.com/Report/IM028.htm

RNCOS is an industry leader in the field of online business research. We specialize in industry research on various business verticals. To read our other reports, please visit us at our website: - http://www.rncos.com/Report.htm or email us at info@rncos.com.

To get the latest news visit our newly launched Blog section at http://www.rncos.com/Blog/

Diesel Performance Chips- The Greatest Thing Since Sliced Bread

2008-10-22T09:37:00.001-07:00

Diesel Performance Chips have evolved over the last decade or so that they have been in use, and have vastly gained popularity. The reason for their evolution and following is because the diesel performance chips are able to dramatically increase power and I mean dramatically. There are diesel performance chips that can increase power as much as 230 horse power and 400 foot pounds of torque. That is almost as much power as some of the diesel trucks come with bone stock. There are three ways that diesel performance chips are able to create power and improve economy.

The first way that I will discuss that the diesel performance chips are able to increase power and economy is through duration. Duration means that the injectors are held open longer so that more fuel can be injected into the cylinder. More fuel equals more power. Diesel performance chips that use duration are not a good choice for a fuel mileage gain, but it does create large amounts of power.

The second way is timing. Timing means that the fuel is injected earlier. Timing when used correctly also adds a great amount of power and adds to economy. The goal of timing on diesel performance chips is to get the fuel in the cylinder at a more efficient time. If that is accomplished then more power is extracted from each molecule of fuel.

The third way that diesel performance chips increase power and economy is through pressure. Pressure means that the fuel rails line pressure is increased, so more fuel is injected which creates more power, but at the same time having more pressure to the fuel when it gets to the injector helps it to create a finer mist or atomize as the fuel exits the several little holes in the injector tip. This improved atomization also helps the fuel to mix better with the air that enters the cylinder and is able to extract more power out of the fuel.

Many of the diesel performance chips, modules, boxes, tuners, and the like use a combination of two of these techniques, and some use all of them. So essentially by adding more fuel and improving the way the engine burns the fuel and especially the increased amount of fuel, the diesel performance chips can dramatically increase power and economy.

Darwins Theory of Diesel Performance!!!

2008-10-22T09:35:00.001-07:00

If Darwin himself were alive today I dare say that he would be driving a diesel. No other engine out there has more perfectly illustrated his theories of evolution than the diesel. Now as true as it might be that diesels were once known for being the “slow and smelly” vehicles on the road car makers as well as several performance companies have set out on a mission to put an end to that reputation. With the additions of a turbo or multiple turbos (i.e. '08 Powerstroke) and intercooler(s) as well as intakes, chips/modules and exhaust systems the reputation once held by diesels is now evolving, Darwin would be so proud.

So why diesel performance? In the past there never really was a question as to which “species” was more dominant when it came to performance. It has not been until recently that there has even needed to be a debate as to which is better, gas performance or diesel performance and even today you will have people try to argue that gas performance is where it is at but I am here to say that not only is there more horsepower available for the money when it comes to performance products for diesels but you will have longer engine life as well as maintain if not increased fuel mileage.

One of the strongest points in the argument for Diesel Performance is the fact that you can add engine mods to a diesel engine and it won’t harm the engine or make it burn hotter to the extent of damaging the engine permanently. Don't get me wrong you can still fry your engine but diesel engines are built much stronger and much more durable. One of the main reasons that diesel engines are so durable or will last longer in general is the way that combustion occurs in the engine. Diesel engines “fire” or “combust” differently than gas engines mainly because of the type of fuel that is used. In gasoline engines a spark plug is used to combust the fuel but in a diesel combustion occurs mainly due to the temperature of the compressed air which causes the fuel to ignite. Because of this diesel engines are built more durable because they have a higher compression ratios (20:1 for a typical diesel vs. 8:1 for a typical gasoline engine) it is being built to withstand this higher compression that makes these engines more ready for performance modifications straight from the factory.

As the diesel engine has evolved over the years turbo chargers have been added to increase power as well as efficiency, this has made way for huge increases in horsepower both stock as well as with the addition of after market products. One of the main reasons that diesel performance is so much more viable is the fact that because the engine is built for a higher compression ratio anyway so it is going to be able to withstand the boost that is created by a turbo much better than a gasoline engine, also allowing the addition of performance modifications without shortening the life of the engine as usually happens with gasoline engines when performance mods are added.

Like it or not diesel performance is here to stay, and whether or not you believe in evolution it's happening and will continue to happen in the diesel performance market. Don’t be surprised when you see good old Darwin himself roll past you on the street in his tweaked out diesel.

2008-10-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

Roll Out With An Extang Black Max Soft Roll Up Tonneau cover

2008-10-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

It all starts with the premium black vinyl tarp that both opens and seals the Extang Black Max closed with ease. Beneath the tarp is a black powder-coated aluminum frame with spring-loaded bows that give you full-bed access in a flash. The durable snaps of the Black Max are even adjustable with the seasons for ideal tension and aerodynamics.

Hit the road with better gas mileage, weather-resistant storage and great all-black looks when you cover your bed with the Extang Black Max Tonneau Cover. Its tough snaps seal the elements out and give you easy access to all corners of your bed, all at a budget-friendly price.

Best yet, you can add the Extang Black Max to your truck bed in 15 minutes or less with Extang’s hassle-free, drill-free clamps. Plus, Extang backs your Black Max with a 10-year tarp warranty and a Lifetime Warranty on the frame. Don’t wait another minute to put the style, quality and gas savings of the Extang Black Max on your truck.

Extang Black Max user comments:

"Easy and fast to install. No adhesives. This really is a great product. I found it easier to snap all the buttons, then from the inside, insert the the three spring loaded ribs."

"Installation was a breeze. Under 20 minutes to put it all together could not have asked for more. The tonneau itself is a little loose on the bed of the truck and it sinks at highway speeds. If it were a bit tighter it would be perfect. Also wished the ribs did not stick up so far up in the air. Other than that, I would recommend this cover to all as it's black frame hides very well with the stock bedliner."

"Very happy with the Tonneau cover fits well easy to use. Looks awesome. Don't recommend putting the tonneau on for the first time when it cool out. But it was simple....excellent instructions! Took about 15 minutes to do! Recommend highly!"

"This is a nice cover for the price. Its a little tricky if you a over the edge bed liner but I got it done. Nice Quality."

"Installing the Extang BlackMax Tonneau cover was an adventure for me...a very good one. The product came in a very good and packaging that secured the items inside. It took me about five minutes to unpack and identify each item. It took me another five minutes (slow) to assemble the frame and place it on top of the bed. It took me another three minutes to figure out how to use the brackets - short and long. And ten more minutes later the frame is completly clamped and secured on the truck.The tonneau canvas fits right on the frame. Extra pads for better sealing and extra buttos were also provided. I am very very satisfied."

Diesel Truck Exhaust Stacks, The Hottest Thing On The Road

2008-10-22T09:33:00.002-07:00

Exhaust stacks are the hottest item in the diesel performance aftermarket. Diesel exhaust stacks look great and are functional. In this Article I will attempt to address the functionality of truck exhaust stacks and the different variations of truck exhaust stacks that are available. First I will address the main companies making exhaust stack systems.

MBRP Inc. is the manufacturer of the MBRP Smokers exhaust stacks. The MBRP Smokers exhaust stacks were designed to give the aggressive Big Rig look and the classic MBRP sound. MBRP has both turbo back exhaust stacks systems and universal bed kits that go through the bed and connect onto the stock exhaust system offering the look at a reasonable price. Both the turbo back exhaust stack system and the universal “T” Pipe bed kit are made of stainless steel. The Turbo back exhaust stacks are mandrel bent and will give maximum exhaust flow, fuel mileage gain, power increase, and minimize the EGT’s. The diesel exhaust stack “T” pipe bed kits are more for looks, although there still will be a performance gain. MBRP offer 4, 5 and 6 inch exhaust stacks and have the options of a straight cut, mitre or angle cut, a curved end or turn out tip, and bull hauler stacks. These stack variations come in either 36 inch or 48 inches long. There is also an aluminum checker plate cover over the “T” pipe in the bed, it give a nice complete finished look and will keep the hot “T” pipe from touching anything.

Grand Rock truck exhaust systems make chrome exhaust stacks for trucks and big rigs. Chrome exhaust stacks are also very durable and have the mirror finish that many look for. Grand Rocks Chrome exhaust stacks come in 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 inch sizes. Grand Rock also offers their chrome universal Powerflow “T” pipe bed kit for those who are just looking for the big rig look and a small performance gain. They also offer a turbo back chrome exhaust stack system for those looking for all out performance and looks. Chrome exhaust stack systems are very durable and are a lot less expensive. Chrome exhaust stacks look great and are a great value.

Most people that buy truck exhaust stacks have them for either looks or performance gains and maximum exhaust flow. Some though have exhaust stacks for functional reasons. Imagine having a flatbed that you use to haul things day in and day out. Wouldn’t it be nice to get the exhaust up above everything you are working on so you aren’t constantly choking on exhaust fumes. In conclusion, truck exhaust stacks are functional and look great, and above all, add to performance, economy, and help keep temperatures down so that your expensive truck will last longer than you need it to.

Increasing The Efficiency of Turbo Diesel Trucks and Cars

2008-10-22T09:33:00.001-07:00

When it comes to diesel performance, the options that are available are many and are each equipped to do something very unique. I will attempt to address all of the most popular diesel performance modifications and their varied applications. Diesel performance has become the craze as of late, and has created quite a following. Diesel engines run at a high compression ratio and are capable of great economy and astounding power.

Without debate, the diesel performance chip and diesel performance module are the most popular diesel performance modification out there. By adding a chip, tuner, or module. The diesel engines, by enhancing injection timing, line pressure, the duration that the injectors are held open, or just by dumping more fuel are able to create another 25 to 200 horsepower. That is after a fifteen minute install that doesn’t require you to pay a mechanic or have you diesel truck or diesel car out of commission while it is being worked on by the mechanic. They are easy to install, and can be installed by most individuals with limited knowledge of the workings of the diesel engine. Most diesel performance chips and modules these days come with a monitor or digital gauge set up to monitor the new working levels of your diesel truck or car. The diesel performance chip and module have won the diesel performance market over hands down.

The next two items that I will address together are the cold air intake and the exhaust system, both of which move air. Getting air into the diesel engine is just as important as getting exhaust out of the engine. The cold air intake includes a high flowing filter, some of which are able to move up to 300% more air than the stock filter. More air into the engine helps a higher percentage of the fuel to be combusted which creates more power and better economy due to it not going out the tail pipe in a black cloud. On the other hand extreme fueling modifications should not be made if there hasn’t been sufficient accommodations made to get the exhaust out the back end. The reason a mandrel bent exhaust, higher flow exhaust, or larger diameter exhaust is so important is because when you increase power you generally increase heat. Without a way to get the back pressure to move along and decrease heat, engine damage could be the result.

The Pointers to Consider about Booklet Printing

2008-10-22T09:31:00.002-07:00

Do you know booklets are now used for marketing?

The booklets which are deemed as just an ordinary type of small panes that are fastened together with card cover are now recognized by many business-minded individuals as an effective medium that offers great marketing potential. What’s great about them is that they are very handy in the sense that they are easy to mail to your prospects.

What to Consider?
When you want to make a nice-looking booklet, you should consider on what to make. This means you have to make your mind up on how you will do it, will you create a booklet in a printed copy or in an electronic download version. You can choose between the two by deliberating on your own liking but you must take into account that your personal predilection may not be applicable to others. Hence, there are several considerations that you have to think about before you’re able to make money with your booklets.

Pointers
Weigh up some of these important pointers:

• A printed booklet is considered by many as more effective than the downloaded version especially if the printed form is made in long-lasting and eye-catching print.

• The downloaded version of booklet is widely accessible since you can download it anytime, anywhere.

• The printed version of booklet is more secured than the downloaded one since the electronic download version is not copy protected.

• Sometimes your prospective customers may feel uneasy in downloading files, which can trigger their frustrations.

• The printed form of booklet is ideal when you want to offer some other items along with the booklet like video tapes.

• Some people prefer to browse the downloaded file than taking time to read the printed version.

• There is much higher risk of fraud in booklets that are available in downloaded format than those booklets set to prospects by mail.

Printing
If you’ve chosen the printed form of booklet, you will definitely ask yourself this question, “how will I create a booklet?” With regard to this, there are many printing solutions that you can get online to assist you with your booklet printing needs. The majority of these solutions can be obtained immediately in the World Wide Web. There are so many printing companies that offer valuable services to make booklet. Make use of these services to create the booklet of your dreams.

Different booklet printing services can be used just to come up with the booklet that is within your expectations. You can create booklet by using some graphics program like Quark, PageMaker, MS Word, InDesign and MS Publisher. You can print your booklets in black and white or full color format depending on your custom specifications.

If you want to be sure of the quality of your booklet, you can ask a printing company for some professional assistance. Just remember to choose the right company that offers quality services.

Fleet Safety – How to Hire and Keep Steady, Reliable Drivers

2008-10-22T09:31:00.001-07:00

Behavioral experts will tell you the safest drivers are those high in the S (Steadiness) and C (Compliant) behavioral factors. Research and experience prove this to be true. These are the good drivers you want to keep. You do that by understanding their needs and managing them effectively. Surveys have repeatedly shown that money isn't what employees want most from their company; being treated well ranks even higher than being paid well.

In this article, we'll look at ways to relate to drivers with the Core S behavioral style. By doing these things, you'll be able to more effectively and easily manage and motivate them.

Understanding their desire for safety and security, you can manage drivers (and others) high in the S factor effectively by knowing that they need:

Reassurances that they're doing the job right.
A manager who delegates in detail.
Support in making high-risk decisions.
To be encouraged to be more independent.
Complete instructions on assignments.
A manager who prefers quality over quantity.

Effectively motivate Core S drivers by understanding that they want:

Time to perform to their high standards.
Precision work to perform.
To be part of a quality-oriented work group.
Better planning and fewer changes in the organization.
Information in a logical order.
Respect for their slower pace and quiet manner.

Taking the time to learn what individuals want will make you a better manager. The people who work for you appreciate knowing you understand their wants and needs and provide them in the workplace. Good managers manage by needs and motivate by wants. And they know they can't manage everyone in the same way.

It's also important to learn how to (and how not to) communicate with drivers who have the Core S behavioral style. Here are tips on how to interact most effectively with your drivers (and others) who have this behavioral styles:

DO these things:

Provide personal assurances, clear, specific solutions with maximum guarantees.
Prepare your “case” in advance.
Provide guarantees that their decisions will minimize risk; give assurance that provides them with benefits.
If you're going to make changes in their work duties or schedule, be sure to give them a lot of time to prepare for the changes ahead of time.
Define clearly, preferably in writing, what is expected of them and what tasks they are to do.
Watch their body language for areas of disagreement. They probably won't tell you when they're upset; they'll pretend everything is all right even when it isn't.
Use a thoughtful approach; build your credibility by listing pros and cons to any suggestion you make.
Use a soft, slow tone of voice and be friendly; let them know you appreciate all they do for the company.

DON'T do these things:

Be vague; don't offer opinions and probabilities.
Threaten, cajole, wheedle, or coax them.
Push too hard for quick action or decisions; don't be unrealistic with deadlines
Offer assurance and guarantees you can't fulfill.
Be insincere
Be loud, boisterous, abrupt, or rapid in your speech or body movements.
Manipulate or push them into agreeing because they probably won't “fight back.”
Rush headlong into business or the agenda.
Leave them without backup support.

The ideal work situation for drivers with Core S behavioral styles includes a stable and predictable environment, personal attention and compliments for each assignment well done, being able to finish one assignment before starting on another, communication through logic and not emotion, little conflict between people, a close relationship with a small group of associates, a familiar work environment with a predictable pattern, a preference for technical work specializing in one area.

Behavioral style analysis and values assessments can give you crucial information you need to know to determine whether to hire particular drivers; and if you do, how to manage them so they will stay with your company and be outstanding employees.

In our next article, we'll look at how to effectively manage drivers with the Core C (Cautious, Compliant) behavioral style.

©2007 Annette Estes. All Rights Reserved. Permission to reprint granted as long as entire text and tag line are included.

Tips for purchasing an electric forklift or a pallet stacker

2008-10-22T09:30:00.003-07:00

When purchasing industrial equipment, nothing matters more than being an experimented buyer. Or, in the case where you’re not such a buyer, you need to do your best to become one. Spending more than necessary or choosing characteristics of no immediate use are only a few of the common mistakes that can be very easily made. That’s why if you’re looking to buy an electric forklift, a pallet stacker or anything of the sort there are several aspects you need to look into.

There are three main types of forklifts available on the market. Depending on the type of business you’re running and on the manner in which you’ll be using the forklift, you must choose wisely. The electric forklift is one such type and if space isn’t an issue and you’re not operating on rough terrain, it’s the best possible option. It has the lowest overall operating costs you can find and it’s perfectly suitable for lifting heavy materials.

Generally, fueling methods are crucial because not any forklift can be used indoors. Some can’t be used at all in such circumstances and some require heavy ventilation. However, one of the main advantages of the electric forklift is that it’s excellent for indoor use and has zero emanations. Furthermore, it’s got the lowest fuel cost per hour out of all forklifts. In time, this helps counterbalancing the fact that its initial price is slightly higher than that of an IC (internal combustion) forklift. But if your business implies a warehouse or any other type of indoor use, this is definitely the best possible solution. Needless to say, an electric forklift is an extremely quiet piece of machinery (otherwise, it would be quite a nuisance when operating indoors) and it also requires no fuel storage at all. Owing to its indoor use and to the less harsh environment, it can operate for longer time intervals than other forklifts. Therefore, once again, in the long term it really pays off.

On the other hand, charging an electric forklift is a slightly more complicated matter. The total charging/cooling time takes about 16 hours and because of this, those who need it operating in more than one shift also need to purchase additional batteries. This can add a few thousand dollars to the initial price. Also, it requires a battery charging station which needs to be set in a specifically dry, ventilated place; also, special cranes are needed in order to move the batteries from one place to another. Remember – electric forklifts are not suitable for outdoor use. Perhaps, in a special situation, a well paved parking lot could be okay, but rain could bring about serious damage.

Of course, there is an entire series of factors that also need consideration when purchasing a pallet stacker. First of all, a pallet stacker tends to be dangerous when not used appropriately – there have been reported cases of people trapped under a stacker that toppled over and fell. Therefore, safety comes first. Be careful who operates with your pallet stacker.

Look out for a pallet stacker that’s fit for operating in narrow aisles and that has enough lifting force in spite of its relatively modest dimensions. A counterbalance pallet stacker, for example, would be a great option – it’s flexible and its counterbalance layout allows you to lift heavier objects. Also, pay attention to the number and size of pallets the stacker can operate with optimal outcomes. Take your time to consider how many pallets per minute you need delivered by the stacker: operations range between 6 and 15 (or more) discharged pallets per minute. In the end, the selection of a stacker depends, the same as it happens in the case of forklifts, on how demanding your business operations are.

What you need to know about a lift truck

2008-10-22T09:30:00.001-07:00

Whatever you call it, be it forklift or lift truck, we are basically talking about the same type of machinery. It was invented somewhere in the 1920s and it’s been indispensable to industrial activities ever since. As we all know it, any successful operation starts with the appropriate amount of research. When purchasing a forklift, the first thing you need is time.

You need time to prospect the market – look around, talk to the right people, get some prices and become at least reasonably oriented. Always ask for any additional details. Consider charging/fueling possibilities, accessories, warranty and brand as factors that may get you paying a lot more than the initial price. Anyway, once you’re clear as to what features you’re looking for, expect to pay a few extra thousand dollars for each individual forklift and then pick your best option.

If you give a deeper thought to the whole process, it’s all a matter of priority. If you have lower funds at your disposal, you can go for an internal combustion forklift which, although cheaper, is unsuitable for indoor use and has a medium life span. An electric forklift, on the other hand, has a higher initial price (the more that we consider all the accessories), but it lasts much longer. It all comes down to how, where and for how long you need to use your forklift.

In any case, if an electric forklift suits your needs but is too expensive, you might want to consider buying it second hand. A used electric forklift will probably have its price lowered down to half (including accessories). You have to ask for all the details just like buying it new, in order to make sure you get all the facilities that the initial buyer also got. Remember, however, that you can’t rely on a used electric forklift for too long (both on short term and on long term). It’s definitely going to break down eventually, but if it does so too often, it might not be worth the initial low price considering what you’ll have to pay for maintenance and repairing. Always remember to calculate the overall costs including the wage of the forklift operator.

Of course, you have always the possibility to lease an electric forklift. Companies prefer this because they have a warranty on the whole period of the lease. However, if you need one on a daily basis and for a medium to long period of time, the situation is the same – buying one might be a much cheaper option.

Anyway, there’s no better method of determining whether you want or not to buy a certain lift truck than having it operate at your workplace. Most dealers will allow you to use the lift truck in the actual workspace for a time interval ranging between two, three hours and two, three days. This gives you a great chance to get in touch with all its features and ergonomics. It also enables you to include your lift truck drivers in the decision making process. Remember that people who sell forklifts will help you evaluate your requirements by measuring the available space and the weight of a typical load, so feel free to take advantage of every facility.

The Economics Of Truck Wrapping

2008-10-22T09:29:00.001-07:00

In the past, car wrapping was all the craze. But since the realization that larger vehicles like trucks, trains, and buses cover a bigger clientele, primarily because they are able to drive around much bigger and more visible advertisements, wrapping vinyl ad graphics around such media has become the trend.

What Benefits Do We Get From Truck Wrapping?

The basic philosophy behind effective outdoor advertising is this: the more the people who see it, the better it is for sales. Think of it this way: If you are just standing at the pavement waiting for the bus, what would catch your attention more -- the truck fully dressed up with colorful vinyl graphic ads, or the poster on the window of the shop across the street? Notice how the impact of the truck graphic easily trumps that of the poster?

Truck wrapping multiplies the effects of simple car wrapping to significant levels. In fact, a study by Product Acceptance Research Inc showed that when compared to static or non-moving advertisements, motion displays or mobile ads have the ability to boost revenue by 100%. And if your message is as large as a truck, it could boom to unthinkable peaks!

Win-Win Deal

The best thing about truck wrapping is that it does not just benefit the advertiser. If you own a truck, you can profit by offering your vehicle as a mobile medium. And because vehicle wrapping industry prices are quoted based on the size of the surface to be worked on, you can expect to earn big. The marketer profits, you profit; nobody loses! Such is the beauty of the truck wrapping industry. And because it is a growing trend, it can only get better.

The One and Only Off-Road Vehicle Deserves The Best Parts

2008-10-22T09:28:00.002-07:00

When we speak of 4-wheeling or offroading one brand quickly comes to mind, Jeep. This iconoclastic auto currently built by the Daimler-Chrysler has an outstanding reputation of being a tough, dependable and terrain chomping machine. Jeeps reputation was first earned during World War II where the US Army and its allies used it as a small general transport vehicle. Jeep didn't sit on its already lofty laurels. The brand has continued to build and develop its off-road reputation over the years following the war. Today the Jeep name is synonymous with off-road performance.For such a durable and reliable vehicle to withstand the dangers and punishment of offroad driving, extremely dependable and strong parts are needed. Many aftermarket Jeep part manufacturers such as Warn, ARB, Bestop, Tuffy, SkyJacker, and Rough Country carry the very same reputation for toughness and dependability, and they should. After all, they've been used and abused by Jeep 4x4 aficionados over the past 20 years and they've stood up to the punishment! For those of us dedicated to 4x4 adventure, it is a necessary requirement for our Jeeps to have only the best replacement auto parts and aftermarket accessories made today to maximize the already impressive offroad capabilities of our vehicles. Understanding that our Jeeps deserve the best replacement Jeep parts and accessories, Xtreme Terrain Concepts offers only the most reliable performance auto parts, replacement aftermarket auto parts, and accessories for all of the Jeep models, including the Willys, Jeep CJ, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Liberty. Among the best quality Jeep parts offered at Xtreme Terrain Concepts (XTC) are high quality offroad Jeep lights by KC KiLites. They offer fog lights, driving lights, and long-range driving lights. All built to take the pounding out on the trails. XTC also carries reliable aftermarket replacement Jeep Wrangler headlights, Jeep Wrangler side lights, and Jeep Wrangler taillights. These products will ensure that you have the lighting you need out in the wilderness where visibility is low and your chances of having an accident are higher. We all know it is important to be equipped with the proper auto lights when driving off-road, but having the basic headlights and taillights is not enough when you're out on the trails pounding through the mud, rocks, dirt and snow. Especially when the weather is not cooperating. High performance Jeep driving lights and fog lights will cut through the fog, rain and whatever else you'll run into so you'll be able to see where you're going. Even though the coldest months are behind us, you still need to maintain your Jeep by getting top quality replacement parts when you find your existing parts not in top-notch working order. Doing the best job to maintain your Jeep will help reduce the risk of costly damage by part malfunction or even worse, an accident. Let Xtreme Terrain Concepts help you to maintain your Jeep with quality aftermarket replacement parts and aftermarket accessories. We carry a lot more than just lights. We also offer top quality Jeep alternators, Jeep Wrangler radiators, Jeep starters, Jeep mirrors, Jeep soft tops, Jeep lift kits and much, much more! Click through the links and you'll find out what other auto parts we carry for your 4x4 Jeep.

Extang - Cranking Out Top-Notch Tonneau Covers Since 1982

2008-10-22T09:28:00.001-07:00

Each Extang tonneau cover matches the love you have for your truck with equal parts quality, superior design, easy installation and sharp looks. If you’re driving with an uncovered bed or an inferior cover out back, a sharp new Extang tonneau cover is all you need for security, style and improved mileage.

Looking for a snapping roll-up tonneau cover? Have your eye on a fast peel & seal type? Settled on a durable hook & loop closure model? Extang makes them all, makes them right, and makes them in a custom design for your specific truck bed. Extang doesn’t have a warehouse of one-size-fits-all tonneau covers—each is made to order, rolled out and cut to size from their premium vinyl and sewn tough to last.

When you’re looking to cover your bed, go with the proven quality, custom style and steady performance of an Extang. Every Extang tonneau cover takes just minutes to install, adding class, security and fuel economy savings without breaking a sweat. So go ahead—Extang your truck.

Best yet, you can always Extang your truck for less when buying online. Many shops carry the full lineup of custom Extang tonneau covers at deep discounted deals that slash serious cash off of list price and the rip-off rate charged by your local shop.

I found the following Extang reviews for their products online:

"The day I received my Tuff Tonneau, snow was forcasted for the next day. After dinner I layed the components on my garage floor then began to snap the frame together. Within a half hour the Tonneau frame and supports were attached to the rails and the cover was attached on 3 sides. The temp im my garage was about 25 degrees making the final attachement difficult. By placing a small ceramic heater in the truck bed the tonneau was more plyable and in a few minutes the job was complete. Nice product!"

"Cover fit great. Looks good for a soft cover. Installed in 40 degree weather no problem. Received within a few days of ordering. Would recommend for anyone who doesn't want to spend a lot for a quality cover."

"first it got here quick, it went on quick and easy looks really good. it,s simply the best value as soft covers go. very pleased with this product."

"My husband and I purchased the Extang Tuff Tonneau III Cover for our son's birthday. He loves the look and convenience of the cover. Less than 45 minutes he had it installed and ready to show off."

"This tonneau is absolutely worth every cent you pay for it. I got this Tonneau for my 2002 chevy S-10 ext. cab and its a perfect fit exactly to the bed and was easy to install only took me 20 min. to finish the installation over all This is a great product!!"

"The Tuff Tonneau III is definitly worth it's price. One thing I like about it over a hard shell is that when I need to carry something big all I have to do is roll it up. It doesn't stick up in the air like a big speedbreak. Rolling up also helps me when backing my Sea Doo into the water. I can roll it up, put down the tailgate and see what the trailer is doing."

Husky Liners - The Heavy Duty Floor Mat Maker

2008-10-22T09:27:00.002-07:00

Husky Liners is located in the beautiful “Sunflower State” of Kansas where they operate a 160,000 square foot, state-of-the art facility. Over 100 Husky Liners employees are dedicated to producing the finest products on the market. Husky Liners is an ISO & QS certified company, so you know every product is of the highest quality.

Never a company to rests on its laurels, Husky Liners has expanded their products beyond liners and mats. Now producing custom molded mud guards, Husky Liners has your truck and SUV protected inside and out. Husky Liners also produces flo-through tailgates, sunshades and contractor racks.

Since 1998, Husky Liners consistently ranks as one of the fastest growing companies in the country. Their dedication to high quality and innovative product development continues to impress Husky Liners’ customers, keeping them coming back for more. To experience the legend for yourself, AutoAnything brings you a wide selection of Husky Liner products designed to keep your truck and SUV in like-new condition. and breaking.

Here are a few online reviews that I found for Husky Liners:

"I just bought a 2002 toyota Highlander and the carpet in the back was all stained. It was very unattractive. I recently purchased the Huskey Liner for the back of my car and it has made a huge difference. My dog can get in with muddy paws and I have no worries. I suggest the cargo liner for everyone!"

"The Husky Liners are great. We live by the beach and throw wet wetsuits, towels and whatever in the back without worrying. Saltwater can really destroy your car's interior, and the liner keeps your car looking new."

"I was dissapointed when I first saw the liner because it was rolled up and didn't unroll flat. But I put it in my truck anyway. Wouldn't you know it, by the next day (probably thanks to a really hot car) it had flattend out perfectly! My only wish is that it was a LITTLE more from fitting to my Expedition. There are a few spaces I would like closed up. Otherwise, I love it!"

"This cargo liner is wonderful!! It protects the cargo area from pet hair and leaks from garbage bags etc. Also, grocery shopping has never been easier, as the bags stay put on the ride home!! I highly recommend this product for anyone who has kids, pets, or an outdoors enthusiast. Wonderful product and excellent service from AutoAnything!!"

With Moving New York, make your relocation easy

2008-10-22T09:27:00.001-07:00

Relocating to a new place carries with it excitement and anxiety as well. You may need to relocate within the state, country or outside. Needless to say that moving whether to New York or any other place needs one to put in huge efforts. For moving to or in New York, many movers company in New York provide their services to help individuals or business in making the transition smooth. You may not realize this, till you actually go about the whole process, but there are loads of things for you to do.

Hiring professional service for moving New York to do the work for you is the best thing for you to do. Let us accept the fact; you will not be able to deal with this on your own. The whole exercise can be somewhat challenging without professional help. The first thing which you will need to take care of is to find enough boxes of the correct size to carry your goods. You are best judge to determine what all stuff you have to carry, so find the boxes according to your needs.

There are certain things that you must have with you to make the entire process smooth for you. You must hire services of such packers who are perfect in their job. You will be moving all your household stuff, and surely you would not like any harm to be caused to your things. Take care that all the breakable stuff are packed in such a manner they do not break. The boxes which you use for moving your goods must be of special quality and not the ordinary boxes which are found everywhere.

Do not forget to buy a good quality marker to mark all the boxes. Well, you will be having many boxes, and surely you would not want to go to the new house and spend time searching for stuff that you need urgently. It can be a very frustrating experience for you, if you have to search for things and then end up not finding them. Remember; do not make the boxes too heavy. Moving heavy stuff is a difficult task, and your movers will have a tough time dealing with this.

If you have certain precious art pieces or other stuff that you want to take with you to the new place, there is provision for that also. There are certain moving companies in New York that are expert in helping customers move their precious goods like art masterpieces, a grand piano or may be even an antique statue. You can move anything that you wish to take with you.

Moving to a new place must be a wonderful experience for you, and you must not face difficulty of any kind. After all you are going with your family to settle down to a new place, so everything must be just perfect for you. The best way to do this is to ensure that you have hired the best movers to help you in relocating.

Boost the power and performance of your car with a KandN Cold Air Intake or reusable KandN Air Filter.

2008-10-22T09:26:00.001-07:00

More and more car and truck enthusiast's are upgrading their performance with a K&N cold air intake. Here's a primer on some of their top selling products:

The K&N FIPK Air Intake has custom engineering with a cooler crosslink nylon intake tract and a famous K&N Filtercharger cone filter. This air intake will boost your vehicle's power across the RPM band and can even improve fuel economy.

The K&N 63 Series AirCharger Air Intake is on of K&N's newest designs. In fact, this product is so new that it isn't CARB certified yet. The 63 Series features the biggest possible K&N Filtercharger and a cool air tube for dramatically improved power and comes with a 1-year warranty.

Next is the K&N Typhoon Air Intake System, which is built in a short ram, cold air, or a convertible sort ram/cold air intake design. They come with a polished, Red, Silver or Blue metal intake tube and an incredible 10-year/1,000,000-mile warranty.

Last, but not least is the the K&N 77 Series Air Intake Kit which will give your truck or SUV more show and go. This famous K&N performance product comes with a smooth metal intake pipe in polished aluminum or gunmetal gray, a long-lasting K&N filtercharger air filter and, to top it off, a 10-year/1,000,000-mile warranty.

Thousands of people evevryday are realizing the benefits of upgrading to a high-quality, super-long-lasting, reusable air filter from K&N. Spend a little more now to replace inferior stock or aftermarket parts with a K&N air filter considered, “the world’s best air filter.” The cotton-gauze K&N filter boosts horsepower, never needs replacing, is environmentally friendly, improves fuel economy and comes with a 10-year / 1,000,000 mile warranty.

The following are a few of the K&N product reviews that we have found from some K&N brand users:

"Over the last 10 years or so, I have used K&N products in all my cars and trucks. Having used their FIPK kits on my last two vehicles I can say with some certainty that this is one of the best products that I have seen come out of K&N's design team. Well made, excellent fit and finish, and does add an outstanding custom look. Functionally, it provides a significant air flow increase over the stock design and has a very pleasing sound when you plant your right foot on the gas pedal. Heavy duty, great function, superior finish, performance boost - this has it all. My only issues may be heat (time will tell on this one) from the engine may be transmitted through the metal tube more easily than the composite FIPK units and the cost (although the cost is comparible to their competitors)."

"Got the K&N filter for my 1986 Chevy PU with a 305 - They are not famous for good MPG. I can tell a real difference in the power and it sounds like it is breathing much better. MPG has also improved. Thanks"

"Over the past year we've added K&N filters to everything we own that moves my RoadStar motorcycle and my wife's FZI, my Audi TT, her Isuzu trooper and my 1980 Corvette. Everything works better-the vet came alive!"

"The K&N filter fit perfectly in my 04 Supercrew. I noticed a difference in engine response as well. The price was great considering the stock air filter is about two thirds the cost of the K&N. This filter is worth the money."

Improve the power and performance of your car with a KandN Air Intake and reusable KandN Air Filters.

2008-10-22T09:25:00.002-07:00

If you could look underneath the hood of an auto enthusiast's car ot truck, it is very likely that you'll see a K&N air intake. Here's a primer on some of their top selling products:
The K&N FIPK Air Intake has custom engineering with a cooler crosslink nylon intake tract and a famous K&N Filtercharger cone filter. This air intake will boost your vehicle's power across the RPM band and can even improve fuel economy.

The K&N 63 Series AirCharger Air Intake is on of K&N's newest designs. In fact, this product is so new that it isn't CARB certified yet. The 63 Series features the biggest possible K&N Filtercharger and a cool air tube for dramatically improved power and comes with a 1-year warranty.

Next is the K&N Typhoon Air Intake System, which is built in a short ram, cold air, or a convertible sort ram/cold air intake design. They come with a polished, Red, Silver or Blue metal intake tube and an incredible 10-year/1,000,000-mile warranty.

Last, but not least is the the K&N 77 Series Air Intake Kit which will give your truck or SUV more show and go. This famous K&N performance product comes with a smooth metal intake pipe in polished aluminum or gunmetal gray, a long-lasting K&N filtercharger air filter and, to top it off, a 10-year/1,000,000-mile warranty.

Thousands of people evevryday are realizing the benefits of upgrading to a high-quality, super-long-lasting, reusable air filter from K&N. Spend a little more now to replace inferior stock or aftermarket parts with a K&N air filter considered, “the world’s best air filter.” The cotton-gauze K&N filter boosts horsepower, never needs replacing, is environmentally friendly, improves fuel economy and comes with a 10-year / 1,000,000 mile warranty.

The following are a few of the K&N product reviews that we have found from some K&N brand users:
"Wow!, after my K&N 63 Series Air charger was installed I couldn't believe the increased power and torque I experienced. Installation cost only $95 at my 350Z specialist mechanic! I'm really glad I bought this item. I expect to see better gas mileage as well but haven't had the time to test it out for any distance."

"I own a 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche Z71. The K&N FIPK blows the stock unit away. I have a Corsa catback exhaust, so now my truck eats and poops well. The K&N FIPK was easy to install. Installation instructions were clear and easy to follow. Professional fit and finish. I didn't buy my truck because it was good on gas. Maybe the K&N FIPK helps my fuel mileage, but I can't keep my foot out the the gas long enough to tell. The performance gains are what I wanted and got. The harmonics of the K&N along with my Corsa catback are music to my ears. I love it!!!Sounds like a big 4 barrel kicking in with a turbo devouring every gulp of air it can suck in!!!"

"Over the past year we've added K&N filters to everything we own that moves my RoadStar motorcycle and my wife's FZI, my Audi TT, her Isuzu trooper and my 1980 Corvette. Everything works better-the vet came alive!"

"I have used K&N Air Filters since I started driving. The K&N Air Filter has improved the gas milage on my car. I can also feel the difference in my acceleration. I recomend it to everyone."

Why your next pickup should be a GM

2008-10-22T09:25:00.001-07:00

Oddly enough, out of all of the research done into hybrid technology GM has been forward thinking enough to make theirs are not only affordable, but ingenious as well. They now offer both the Sierra and the Silverado pickups as hybrids country wide. Using a technology not formerly seen in hybrids, GM attempted to not only lower emissions in their pickups, but to make them handier as well.

Affordable Technology
GM wanted to make a hybrid truck that was too well priced to turn down, the major complaint of the hybrid models is high price tag which counteracts the gas mileage benefits. In response to this GM produced their pick up hybrids to cost only $1500.00-$2500.00 more than its gas guzzling brothers, saved with tax cuts at the pump within the first few years of ownership. Especially if you consider that the hybrids produce a 10% improvement in fuel economy, all without sacrificing any power.

Both the Sierra and Silverado offer the same 245 horsepower V8 engine, and can tow up to 7,700 pounds. If you consider that pickup truck drivers are not sacrificing any power and when sitting stopped in traffic it emits very limited pollution for their size.

Hybrid System
GM employs what they call a "flywheel alternator starter hybrid system" which uses a compact electric motor incorporated between the engine and the transmission. This electric engine runs the truck when it is slowing or idling at a standstill. They calibrate the flywheel alternator system to turn off the engine more frequently than even those systems used in most smaller hybrid models. Eliminating much of the pollution caused by slow moving traffic in high volume.

Now Your Work Truck Can Double As A Generator
Both the Sierra and the Silverado boost four 120-volt, 20 amp three-prong outlets which can be used to provide power for electrical tools and electronics. This eliminates any need for a gassy generator spewing fumes into the air at a work site. The truck must be running, but utilizing it's electric engine allows it to run virtually emission free. GM reports that their hybrid trucks can continue to pump out power for up to 32 hours non-stop before needing to refuel. Aimed specifically at contractors, whose need to access abundant sources of energy and drive long miles to job sites fuel this intelligent new take on a work truck.

Testers Report
The power source for tools was not quite as juicy as GM would have you think, however the idea is a brilliant one. No doubt in a few generations they will have nailed down this imperfection in an already forward thinking vehicle.

Although the gas mileage is a tad better overall, it borders on insignificant. Which again is certain to be addressed and updated in generations to come. Reviewers say that the feel of the engine cutting out as you hit ten miles an hour is a bit disconcerting, and takes some getting used to, but its pollution saving benefits far outweigh that small detail. Every accessory on the truck is electrical, so the gas engine only runs when it is needed to for its sole purpose, to accelerate the vehicle.

Overall Appeal
The brilliance behind the ideas developed for these pickup truck models is really what drives them at this point. Fine tuning is necessary of any piece of equipment and GM has been making pick up trucks for a long time. They will continue to address the issues and refine the existing good points, driving the hybrid market to continue to bring us new and innovative ideas.

A New York City Storage company will definitely help you

2008-10-22T09:24:00.001-07:00

Are you planning to relocate somewhere in New York or planning to move out from there? If this is the scene, then you definitely need the services of a New York City storage compsany that will help you in shifting your belongings. When it comes to shifting you important things, it really becomes tedious. You have to really pack every other belonging of yours, store it in a safe place and then put it in the van or truck that will carry off your things. This is really tiresome and you may end up getting all the more frustrated. A New York City storage company would definitely come to your rescue in this case.

Basically, a New York City Storage Company would do the entire work for you. All you have to do is just sit without any tension and your packing task would be handled completely. What the professionals of such company would do is arrange for boxes and packs that can be used for packing your important stuff. Suppose, you have some art masterpieces in your home or even office, then a New York City storage company would provide you storage space in their warehouse. The space provided by such company in their warehouse would the safe enough for your material. After all, professionals of such company work towards the satisfaction of their customers.

It is not just that a New York City storage company will provide their services only for office shifting, but they would also be offering their services for shifting home essentials too. Whether you have a painting or a piano or any other important thing, New York City storage companies will surely be supportive in this regard. With the help of their assistance, you can free yourself from the tension of packing the stuff and worrying about looking a place for its storage. Another thing is that you may have fear of getting your most precious items broken.

What matters most is the cost that you will be paying to a New York City storage company? There are a lot many such companies present in New York and adjoining areas that charge only for that work that they carry out for you. The price that may be charged will be according to the storage space being provided by them in their warehouse, before shifting your stuff to the destination point. If you happen to get the services of a New York City storage company at the rate that you have thought, then you surely are one of the luckiest chaps.

Many times, a situation may arise that you might require the services of a New York City storage company on immediate basis. At this point of time, instead of wasting your time in looking for such company here and there, you can log on to internet. In fact, internet is the best option for looking a New York City storage company. All you need is a computer with internet facility and you can get the desired information on just one click.

Edge Performance Transforms your Diesel Truck into a Modern Hot Rod

2008-10-22T09:23:00.002-07:00

To get your diesel juices flowing, check out Edge Performance. Their collection of modules, programmers and monitors are guaranteed to sharpen your rig’s performance edge. Whether your competition is a quarter-mile drag or a 10% grade, Edge products deliver the power and torque we crave.

Any power project starts with a performance module. Hands down, a module is the easiest way to extract hidden torque and horsepower from your diesel mill. In fact, your oiler is hiding more power than the average econo-car even has! By optimizing fuel and timing, a monitor like the Edge Juice can squeeze an extra 125 ponies and 300 ft/lbs of torque from your truck. It’s that simple; just plug the module into your OBD-II port and hang on tight.

Keeping tabs on this much power is a must. Adding a performance monitor like the Edge Attitude lets you control your module from the comfort of your truck’s cab. And, a performance monitor also gives you a cockpit full of gauges. All your truck’s vital statistics are right at your fingertips: MPH, RPM, EGT and boost pressure. Plus, you can track 0-60, quarter-mile and best-pass times so you know how your rig stacks up against the contenders.

Drawing from both these products is the ultimate in diesel tuning—the power programmer. A power programmer is essentially a module and a monitor in one package that’s overflowing with features. The Edge Evolution Programmer monitors up to 24 different vitals and packs a triple-digit punch of horsepower and torque. Customs programs tune your truck for any driving situation—performance, towing—even fuel economy. And, these adjustments can be made on the fly in seconds.

Don’t worry about voiding your warranty or raising the dealer’s eyebrow with any of these Edge products. Once unplugged, modules and programmers leave no footprint and are completely undetectable. When you take your rig in for dealer maintenance, simply unplug your gear and remove it. Once the work is done, plug ‘er back in and get back to buckling the blacktop.

If you want to smoke the track, tow serious tonnage over serious grades or reduce your visits to the pump, any of these products from Edge Performance are designed to do the trick. Check out what other diesel enthusiasts are saying about Edge Performance:

"Quick and easy installation! I wouldn't have thought something so small could pack this Big of a PUNCH!!! Definatly worth the money. Before I was afraid to pass anyone, due to no responce. Now I find myself passing everyone. An EGT & BOOST gage a MUST!! Enjoy! I AM!!"

"Wow! was the first thing I could say after controlling the huge smile on my face. All I can say now is I wished I would have ordered this years ago. I tow a 24 ft. rv and use to hate climbing steep grades at 45-50 mph with the throttle pegged now I take the same hills set on #2 at about 65 mph with throttle left to spare. Not real sure about gas savings but I know it's not any worse than it use to be. I love my truck again!!! Rick"

"Awesome POWER!!! Simple to install and easy to use."

"Wow! All that power with no sweat to install. Perfect for someone that wants the power without all the hassle. I installed it myself and I can barely change my own oil!"

The Right Way to Design Vehicle Wraps

2008-10-22T09:23:00.001-07:00

There are basically three things you need to consider before deciding what to print on a vehicle wrap. First, how big is the vehicle and how does its contour slide? Second, given the surface you will be working on, what kind of graphics or designs would best fit the space? And, third, what is the purpose of the wrap?

Assessing the surface

You cannot design a wrap if you do not know what type of vehicle it is going to be installed in. The shape and size of the unit is very important. For instance, if you're dressing a truck, you will need a larger sheet of self-adhesive vinyl. But if you're dressing a motorcycle, then you get to save money by printing on small sheets.

Deciding on the design

Let's say you would like to showcase your flower shop on the wrap. Will you have enough working space to fully print a colorful bouquet, or will too many flowers turn your the wrap into an eyesore on the road? If you have a small space, perhaps just your company's logo will do, or a digital print of one or two of your most sophisticated products.

What is it for?

If you're planning to market your business using a vehicle wrap, then you might consider keeping it as simple as possible. You want an ad that will command the attention of the people around it. However, if you put in too many things on a mobile advertisement, you might distract drivers and cause accidents on the road. Limit your copy and graphics to visually digestible levels. To effectively market your product, what you need is catch-all, not a list of your services in full regalia.

In sum, while what you put on a vehicle wrap is your call, you have to be responsible enough to realize that it will be rolling around town and catching attention. It's good to be the talk of the town, but when it starts getting destructive to others, then that's a different story.

For Diesel Performance, Trust Bully Dog to let the Ponies Out

2008-10-22T09:22:00.001-07:00

When it comes to hot-rodding diesel trucks, nobody delivers a bite as ferocious as Bully Dog. Since 1999, these guys have been lighting fires under diesel rigs with their hefty lineup of monitors, modules and programmers. Bully Dog’s track record of safely extracting massive amounts of power and torque is how they maintain such a high-profile in the world of diesel performance.

When you’re ready to make your oiler scream like a banshee, there are a few must-have items. Let’s start with control modules. Modules are a quick, no-frills way to add massive power and torque to your rig. Plug one these babies into your OBD-II port and stand by for some stuck-in-your-seat action. For instance, the Bully Dog Dyno Dominator cranks a staggering 171 extra horsepower from a Duramax engine—more ponies than your grandma’s grocery getter even came with!

Take the power a step further and add a performance monitor to the mix. While they don’t actually add power, monitors let you control your module from your driver’s seat. That means you can shift between power levels on-the-fly and tune for special parameters like tire size. The best feature comes in the form of gauges. Bully Dog’s Outlook Monitor displays every engine parameter you’d ever need; MPH, RPM, boost, EGTs, even tranny temperature. It also serves as a virtual dyno that displays horsepower and torque along with quarter-mile and 0-60 times.

The best of both worlds comes in the form of a power programmer. Basically, programmers are a combination module/monitor in one unit. Plug the likes of a Bully Dog Power Pup into your OBD-II port and hang on my darling, you’re gonna go! Extracting huge power gains is no problem for a programmer and it has the added features that you get with a monitor. Kind of like a one-stop-shop for over-the-top performance.

All of these upgrades are readily available and super easy to install. Speed enthusiasts everywhere are ditching their traditional muscle and switching to diesel—hot rods for the 21st century. Don’t take my word for it; check out what your fellow torque junkies are saying about Bully Dog:

"Amazing! The added power I received on just the first setting (50 HP gain) for towing made my truck act like it was on steroids! When I'm not towing my 6 horse trailer, I now get a 2 mile per gallon increase. If you have a diesel truck, don't hesitate to buy the Power Pup as it's worth every penny you'll pay for it."

"installed the triple dog downloader in my 2006 ram. Cannot describe the power and performance the truck now has. It blows everything off the road if you can control it. Worth the investment over and over"

"The bullyDog chip made all the difference in this truck. In stage 2 the truck really comes to life. It makes the 7.3 so much more throttle sensitive it is amazing. The power band is much wider than stock. I couldn’t believe the torque gain in stage 2 and stage 3 is awesome."

The lazy man’s guide to creative traffic evasion

2008-10-22T09:21:00.002-07:00

Traffic is a lot like jury duty. The only people who have to suffer through it are the ones who don’t have enough sense to dodge it. Now, we all know a million and one ways to thumb our nose at civic responsibilities, but getting out of gridlock requires some higher-order thinking. I mean, you can’t just show up at the freeway onramp nibbling on a raw hotdog without any pants on and expect everyone to get out of your way like they do down at the courthouse. Here are a handful of ideas on how you can creatively make your way around town without ever having to idle away on an overpass.

As people move farther and farther away from the cities, suburbs and exurbs looking for affordable housing and safer streets, rural roads are becoming more clogged than a teenager’s pores. Thankfully, there’s no more fertile ground for plotting out a stop-and-go free commute than The Sticks. Anytime the thoroughfare gets swamped, just pull off the shoulder, drop into 4-wheel drive, and gun it. Don’t let front yards scare you off, either—gravel can be re-raked, clothes lines will be found eventually, and mailboxes are always on sale. The only downside to rough-riding through the mud is that your rig can get mighty grimy mighty quick, so be sure to slap on some truck mud flaps first.

For the urban off-roader, I have just 2 words for you: train tracks. Any set of railroad or trolley tracks is ideal for getting across town in a hurry. A few warnings, though: public transportation is notorious for making frequent stops, so be sure to leave plenty of room between yourself and that big steel sausage in front of you. Also, this technique can get a tad bumpy, so I don’t recommend eating a Slim Jim while you do it, unless you have no gag reflex. What’s more, tunnels can get damn dark, so I’d suggest adding some Piaa lights onto your truck. That and a set of sturdy shocks are about all you need to start up your very own Blue Line.

Well, those ideas should give you a good starting point for figuring out how the best, most reckless method for steering clear of traffic. The only other nugget of wisdom I can impart on all of you budding automotive anarchists is this: don’t skimp on seat covers. You’ll be going where no pickup was intended to go, so you’ll be hitting plenty of uneven terrain. All that rocking while you’re rolling will ultimately lead to some nasty spills, and the only thing worse than a big smudge of barbeque sauce on your leather upholstery is sitting in traffic.
Happy Trails.

Preparing Your Truck For Summer

2008-10-22T09:21:00.001-07:00

As summer starts up people will start getting into their cars and trucks. But it is the season which has to be checked out. Summer would also mean that temperatures would be reaching beyond a limit which is something you should think on. The heat would be terrible that would remain the same for the entire season. As the temperatures go high and you have to travel long, it is very important to prepare your truck for summer. This makes your vehicle the perfect one to be for safe traveling. If any problem results and you get up stuck in the side of a busy road or a parking lot then it could be unsafe and could even lead to lots of tensions and confusion.

For the preparation of your truck for summer, it is very important to check the negative effects of heat and other problems in your vehicle. For keeping you and your loved ones safe in summer it is very important to check all these and especially the battery. It is considered to be important as the heavy electrical loads such as game systems, video equipments and the stereo systems could kill the battery along with the extremely hot temperature. This would in turn lead to putting you in terrible danger.

There are several things to be remembered for preparing your truck for summer. The first is to check your battery as the summer heat can be a danger. The connection between the posts and cables should be kept clean. Check the fluid levels always by opening the battery caps, but always wear eye protection. http://tonocover.com/ has all that is required for the automotive needs and it also offers free shipping on most of the products.

The coolant levels and the other fluids are to be checked often. For preparing your truck for summer it is very important to replace the antifreeze annually and the cooling system should be checked always. Other than all these it is very important to check out the engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids and also the windshield washer solvent.

The hoses and belts should always be examined as the heat could result in leaks and damage. The electrical system, power steering and the air conditioning should be checked often. A loose belt or a damaged belt could lead to overheating of the engine. The varieties of truck accessories in the website http://tonocover.com/ are simply magnificent and attractive and are also available at low prices.

The gas as well as the performance mileage should be maximized. Thus the preparations of your truck for summer would be complete. Along with it always make it sure that the tires are inflated and if it is not, then it may seem like driving with parking breaks and above all it could also cost more than driving with inflated tires. The air filters are also to be checked always as it leads to burning of gas for the particular amount of air and also leads to gas wastage. This also results in losing engine power. The gas mileage could be improved by replacing the clogged air filter. It is also proved that the improvement could be about ten percent.

The Easy-Bake Recipe for a Souped-up Diesel Rig

2008-10-22T09:20:00.001-07:00

Ingredients:
1 Superchips Flashpaq Tuner
1 MBRP Turbo-Back Diesel Exhaust System
1 Quadzilla Monster Air Intake Kit
2 cups elbow grease
6-pack of sudsy brew
1 dash of tire smoke, according to taste

Directions:
Park your rig in a flat, shady spot and allow to cool. While your truck sits cooling, crack open a sudsy brew and open the other ingredients. Each component includes a complete instruction sheet—familiarize yourself with these while sipping the icy beverage.

The most labor intensive part of this recipe is the exhaust kit. Once your rig is cool, remove the factory exhaust and down pipe. Toss the remains aside. Carefully follow the included instructions and mount the MBRP exhaust kit and down pipe to your truck. This free-flowing system increases power and torque, decreases EGTs and lends a throaty rumble to your rig. Once bolted-up, let the truck sit while you prepare the cold-air intake kit. Crack another brew.

While the exhaust system steeps, open the Quadzilla Monster Air Intake Kit and prepare to blend with the exhaust. Skim the factory intake from the top of your powerplant, being careful not to damage the air sensor. This will prevent the dreaded check-engine light from turning on later. Install the intake kit according to Quadzilla’s directions—stirring occasionally. Once blended, the cold-air intake and the exhaust system rise together to form a free-breathing, power-producing machine. Relax for a spell with another brew, you’ve earned it.

The icing on this performance cake is the Superchips Flashpaq Tuner. Once the intake and exhaust has completely baked, it takes only a few minutes to install the tuner. Again, closely follow Superchips’ directions and plug the consol into your OBD-II port. Choose your tune and set the desired parameters. Now, pop open one final celebratory bottle of suds because your done!

Step into your well-done rig and fire it up. Depending on how closely the recipe was followed, your horsepower and torque numbers should look more like oven settings than factory specs. And, don’t worry—that billowing smoke is coming from the rubber burning beneath your triple-baked diesel rig.

Take your Diesel Rig from Mild to Wild the Electronic Way

2008-10-22T09:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Misanthropic Mike,
I finally managed to buy my dream ride—a full-size diesel truck. I love this truck, but I’m wondering what I can do to make it more powerful. My brother-in-law Merle has a really fast truck, but he’s so afraid I’m gonna beat the pants off him, he won’t tell me what I need to do. Mike, where do I go from here? Eddie K. from Kissimmee, FL

Eddie,
The first thing you need to do is let old Merle keep his pants ON. Trust me; nobody wants to see your kin driving around in their skivvies. Secondly, pull your head out of your exhaust pipe and start tuning that new oil-burner of yours the electronic way. That’s where I come in.

Now, I don’t know anything about you and your buddy Merle, but I’m guessing neither of you can tell a box wrench from a baseball bat. So I’m gonna show you how to really tune that big diesel with some easy-to-use electronic gear—power programmers and control modules.

Don’t get all nervous you little jellyfish; you won’t even have to pop the hood to squeeze crazy horsepower and torque from that oil-burning mill of yours. Power programmers and modules plug right into your rig’s OBD-II port. Oh yeah, let me clarify that for Mr. Masculine here; the OBD-II port is that cute little pluggy looking thingy under your dash. See it? Go get a module from your favorite performance shop and plug it in right there. That’s it, you’re done.

Modules like the ones from Quadzilla Diesel Performance deliver huge power gains the instant you install ‘em. I’m talking triple-digit power gains, Eddie. Now, don’t get all teary-eyed on me, you haven’t beat your brother-in-law, yet. If you wanna take the performance a step further, I recommended skipping the module and going straight to a power programmer.

Power programmers work like modules, but they take the tuning a step further by handing you the controls. Plug it into the same place and choose the tune that best meets your needs. Most programmers have a standard mode that ups the ponies for everyday driving. Whether you’re towing your home, poaching manatees or whatever it is you folks do down there, standard mode does it with authority.

Now when it comes to smearing Merle’s good name all over the Confederacy, click that baby into race mode. Switching your programmer to race mode is gonna make your rig leave that wily brother-in-law of yours coughing on billows of black and white smoke. And Eddie, that’s black diesel smoke from your tailpipe and puffy white clouds from your spinning tires—these are good things!

In conclusion Eddie, take your sissified self down to your favorite speed shop and pop a module or programmer into that truck of yours. Trust me, Merle’s gonna turn tail and run when he hears you your hopped-up rig rumbling his way. Oh yeah, and Eddie, grow a spine you little pansy.

Magnaflow vs. Flowmaster—King Kong vs. Godzilla Revisited

2008-10-22T09:18:00.002-07:00

The old war bird has done me right over the years. Kept the construction money flowing in the boom times; got me to the unemployment office in the flat times. She never fails to start and I can load ‘er down like no one’s business. It’s only fitting that I outfit her with a real nice exhaust system.

I read the truck mags and forums and I’m down to 2 brands—Magnaflow and Flowmaster. Both are popular with the truck crowd, each camp claiming their brand is king. Instead of listening to a bunch city-slicker fools, I got to the bottom of this myself. Let’s start with Magnaflow.

Magnaflow has been in the performance-exhaust game for about 25 years. They’re located in southern California—the heart of hot-rod country. Magnaflow banners are plastered all over the race tracks and a fair amount of the racers are using ‘em.

Like all the other exhaust makers, Magnaflow yammers on about mandrel-bent this and that. Since that means nothing to me, I need some numbers. The Magnaflow kit for my rig claims 22 horsepower and 22 ft-lbs of torque. Not bad considering me and my buddy Bobby can bolt it up in a coupla hours. For the price, it works out to about $25 per horsepower gained.

What about Flowmaster? Again, it seems like all exhaust companies want us to believe mandrel-bending is akin to the second coming. I mean, does anyone crush-bend their tubes? Come on guys, tell us something new.

Anyway, back to Flowmaster. These guys have also been around for about 25 years. They hail from northern California—the heart of hippie country. But, I won’t hold that against them. Flowmaster systems are really popular with racers and they seem to dominate the other companies in brand visibility.

The Flowmaster system for my rig claims—you guessed it—22 horsepower. Of course, the Flows cost a little less, averaging about $20 per gained horsepower. The difference is the material. Flowmaster uses aluminized steel, Magnaflow uses stainless. This could come down to a longevity issue.

Since I really love my old Betty, she’s getting’ the Magnaflow system. I plan to keep ‘er for the duration, so stainless steel is the way to go. As far as performance, both brands seem to deliver about the same power and torque.

Trailer Hitches—a Guide to Getting Hitched Without the Heartache

2008-10-22T09:18:00.001-07:00

See, it was the bumper hitch that snapped clean off my rig. My Power Wagon’s a beast, but her bumper’s no match for that big coach. The spill naturally caused all kinds of carnage with Sissy’s belongings. The china dishes from momma were lost and most of her Hummel figurines were smashed.

So, Sissy’s crying and her house’s sittin’ catawampus on the main drag of the Shady Acres Mobile Home Court. Acting fast, I set out to get me one of them proper trailer hitches. You know the ones custom built to bolt directly to your rig’s frame. What I found was a whole lot of choices and even more gibberish.

First, hitches are broken up into classes. Now, I haven’t gone to class since I dropped out of St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys. When I learned they meant “weight” class, it was a relief. Of the four classes, the higher numbers tow more weight. The lower classes use a smaller 1.25 inch receiver; classes III and IV use a larger 2 inch receiver.

Now, my inclination is to go for the highest rating—10,000 lbs. But remember, you can’t exceed your rig’s tow rating. Of course, the old Power Wagon can handle anything, so I went for the 10k. Then, I had to find the right hitch, the one made to fit my rig. This wasn’t so hard since there are a lot of these bad boys to choose from.

So, I took this thing home and got to fabricating. Some folks might pay a fancy mechanic, but if you’re handy, it ain’t a problem. The hitch came with an easy set of directions, but I didn’t need ‘em. The hitch bolted right up, and with my neighbor Erwin’s help, it took less than 30 minutes.

We booked it back to Shady Acres and the dang manager had already called a tow truck. Lucky for us, Sissy was busy wooing the driver with her feminine wiles. With my future ex-brother-in-law distracted, me and Erwin hooked the coach up to the new hitch and pulled that beast over to the Starlight.

Thanks to my custom trailer hitch, I was the hero that day. Sissy got hitched to the tow truck driver, Crumb, who bought her a new Hummel collection and some fancy plates. Life at the Starlight’s better ‘n ever since they refilled the pool and got a new bingo flashboard. Plus, me, Erwin and the Power Wagon tow folk’s homes as a full time gig now and business is booming!

Light Up the Night or Blind Jerks on the Road with Auxiliary Lights

2008-10-22T09:17:00.002-07:00

A set of gnarly off-road lights is just about the final piece to your customization puzzle. You can get a pair of performance lights for the factory openings in your bumper, or line up a bank of lamps for extreme power. They come in all sizes—from less than 3” in diameter to beastly 6” housings—for making whatever kind of statement you want. And, with the wide array of makers out there, you can fit a set into just about any budget.

Also, off-road lights like the ones made by PIAA, KC and Hella come in more patterns than sheer brightness. You can pick a long, narrow beam pattern for distance, known as a “driving light.” On the opposite end of the lighting spectrum, “flood lights” sacrifice distance for a massive spread. To cut through nasty weather, a wide and low-intensity “fog light” beam adds to your overall visibility. But, most light buyers stick with the tried-and-true “off-road light” pattern, with awesome brightness and outstanding range.

There are also a variety of bulb options. Most off-road and other auxiliary lights are powered by high-efficiency halogen lights. That’s why most modest light setups can be run off your current battery, with no need for an upgrade. Also, if you have some serious scratch to spend on lights, you can opt for HIDs—incredibly low draw for such clean lighting power. Bulbs for most off road lights are easy to replace, and available at big department or home stores. You may want a set of light covers or light grilles with those new lamps, though. A tossed rock can easily put an unprotected lamp out of commission.

Off-road and other vehicle auxiliary lights usually spark a few common questions. “Why do I need such extreme lighting power on my rig?” The answer is, of course, that your fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun sets. You can keep on chuggin’ through the mud, rocks or dunes well past sundown, or use your lights to set a course through nasty weather. Or, heck, you can even keep your local pickup basketball game playing late. “Isn’t a set of lights extremely hard to wire?” It’s not as hard as you might think, especially with the plug-and-play harnesses provided with most light kits. You could be fired-up in less than an hour. “Would Marty McFly’s or Walker’s truck have been as cool without lights?” No. Absolutely not.

Brakes Hung-Over? Go Premium and Skip the Headaches

2008-10-22T09:17:00.001-07:00

Picking rotors at the local parts chain store: it can be harder than choosing which sub-par, soapy domestic suds to grab at the slim pickings stadium beer stand. Like the pale beer paradox at the ballgame, all of the parts store’s disc brands look the same, feel the same and disappoint the same (and probably taste the same, too, but I wouldn’t try it). That’s why, with both beer and brakes, you should stick to a higher grade.

A set of performance rotors is in order if you truly like the refined taste of proper stopping. But, you won’t find them at the local chain parts store, or down the sad auto aisle of the mega mart (not far from the 36 packs without a buzz in the box). Instead, browse online for a good price on performance rotors from a brand like DBA Brakes.

Performance discs like the ones DBA makes run much cooler than stock or standard replacements. They help you stop better and make all of your other car brakes parts last longer. It’s kind of like the difference between a warm Coors Light and a crisp Sam Adams with budding icicles floating on top. Only your safety depends on it. No pressure.

Want to go beyond the Sammy equivalent and head straight for a smooth stout? Pick a big brake kit like the ones made by SSBC. You not only get the cooler performance rotors, you also get more powerful calipers with the bite of barleywine. This, my friend, is the real king of brakes. Of course, with the premium brew equivalent comes a premium price: big brake kits will almost drain your beer fund dry.

The best part: performance car brakes parts install just as easily as their inferior counterparts. That means you can crack open one or two or 24 bottles of the good stuff and get to wrenchin’ in your own driveway. Just make sure you let someone else do the test drive when you’re done. You can enjoy the newfound stopping power after a lengthy nap.

Learnin the differences between nerf bars and Nerf footballs, the hard way

2008-10-22T09:16:00.001-07:00

To begin with, I should say that I’ve been an avid Nerf fanatic since I gripped my first of many pink and black Turbo Juniors back in ‘84. Did you know that Nerf is actually an acronym for Non-Expanding Recreational Foam? Well, I know that, and now you know it as well, along with my level of Nerf geekdom. I can’t explain it, but holding that football gives me an unbelievable feeling of masculine power. With one flex of my arm muscles, I can pinch that sucker down into nothing more than a helpless wad. Then, I just ease off my death grip, and it pops right back into place. Good as new. I guess you could say that I feel like Nero at the Coliseum or an instrument of God when I’m choking the life out of my Nerf toys and then sparing them at that last minute. All balls must respect my grip.

The only thing I enjoy more than smothering a Nerf is accessorizing my F-150. I’ve already got a paint-matched Gaylord’s tonneau cover, a 4” Fabtech lift with 36” BF Goodrich rubbers, and every piece of Putco chrome I could get my hands on. My next move was to add some step bars so my mother wouldn’t have to agitate her sciatica climbing into the cab. When I started looking around, I was pleasantly puzzled to see that these steps were being called nerf bars. Sure, there are no similarities between my neon toys and those stainless steel and powder-coated nerf bars, but I knew I had to get a set.

After doing my research, I found that a lot of people were raving about Westin nerf bars and Nasta nerf bars. It almost came down to a coin toss, but my inner dawg told me to go with Nasta. My online order arrived about a week later, and it only took about an hour to bolt those bad boys into place. To show off my latest upgrade, I rounded up my Mom and Uncles and cruised down to the park on the next sunny Saturday afternoon. Man, I have to say that those nerf bars were glistening like a couple of sterling straws from a heavenly malt shop. Feeling like a million bucks, I decided to toss the ol’ foam around, which turned out to be a terrible idea.

Now, there were a couple of cuties in cutoffs hanging around, so I decided to let loose with my Nerfing skills. I told my Uncle Devon that I was going long, and I tore off down the field. Unfortunately, Devon was a second-string QB at his community college, so he released a Hail Mary that was big enough to absolve even Cain. I had to turn on the afterburners to get under it, and then it took a last-second dive to catch that sucker. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize that I had high-stepped it into the parking lot. So when I came down with my Nerf ball, my head clipped the side of my new Nasta nerf bar. I can’t remember a whole lot about that day, except waking up on a gurney and seeing those two cuties in cutoffs staring at me from the back of the crowd of gawkers that had gathered around the ambulance. The rest is all an achy haze.

I lost a lot of blood from the silver dollar-sized flap of skin that scraped off my scalp, and it took a few days before I stopped seeing double. But I’m happy to say that the only damage to my nerf bar was a bit of gore, which hosed right off.