10 Auto Insurance Myths You Should Know About

The truth about fallacies of many car owners believing that the insurance premium coverage for their new car is covered, and maybe the truth just might make you change course.
(1) "No-fault insurance means, is it not my fault?" That means that your insurance company pays for your damages regardless of who's at fault. No they don’t!

(2) "Can the color of my car affect my insurance rate?" No!
What do influence your rate are your vehicle's year, make, model, body type, engine size, credit history and driving record.

(3)"If I lend my car to a friend and that friend is in an accident, his or her insurance company will pay for the damages…right?" Wrong!

Your car is your responsibility! And guess what, even though you weren't present at the time of the accident, you still will receive a mark on your insurance record and your insurance premium could possibly go up.

(4) "Is my insurance rate is set by the government?" No!
The government has nothing to do with your car insurance rate. Where you live, your credit score, marital status and your driving record is what actually affects your premium.

(5) "I recently paid my insurance premium. Is my new car I just purchased is covered?"

Not necessarily. Most automobile policies require that the policyholder notify the insurance company or agent within a specified number of days, if indeed coverage is desired for the newly purchased vehicle.

(6) "Is it a fact that male driver under the age of 25 pay more for auto insurance?" Yes! Male driver under 25 years old can potentially pay more for car insurance than female drivers. However, across the board, teenagers and mature adults pay more for auto insurance, due in large part because these age groups are typically involved in more automobile accidents.

(7) "Can my credit score have any affect on my insurance rate?" Your credit score really does matter! Many Insurance companies take your credit score into consideration when deciding to increase or renew your auto insurance coverage.

(8) "Even without comprehensive coverage, am I still covered for theft, windstorms, and hail and deer accidents?" Many drivers believe that if they only purchase collision insurance, which covers accidents involving objects, that they will also be covered for incidents that involve vandalism, hail, animal accidents and fires. That simply is not true. You need to purchase both collision and comprehensive coverage in order to fully protect your vehicle from all of these situations.

(9) "Can my personal auto insurance cover both my personal and business use of my car?"

If you occasionally use your personal car for business purposes such as transporting clients, going to and from meetings or hauling business equipment, then you will more than likely need to extend your personal car insurance to cover your business use as well. Plus, if your employees use their car while working for you, you will want to also obtain a separate non-owned car insurance policy.

(10) "I've never had nor been involved in a car accident, do I still need automobile insurance?" Yes!

Some drivers are lucky enough never to have been or to be involved in an accident. However, if by chance you do have an accident; your risk of losing everything is great. Car insurance is the best protection you can have in the event an automobile accident occurs. It's also a legal issue - you are required, by law, to have some basic form of auto insurance, and failing to do so carries some fairly strict punishments.

Hitch Anything

Automobiles have always been a target for thieves as most vehicles are much easier to break into than houses and unattended vehicles parked in structures or side streets allow thieves to commit their crimes virtually undetected. Even if your SUV has an alarm system, don't rely on it to keep your vehicle safe. Here are some tips to follow to deter thieves from choosing your SUV to break into:

First, don't leave valuables in plain view inside the vehicle. While some car thieves intend on stealing the actual car, many are just after the valuable objects left inside—laptops, electronics, purses, etc. These "smash and grab" thefts, where the thief quickly smashes a window, reaches in, grabs the goods, and runs off, can happen in less than 15 seconds. Unlike cars, in which valuables can be locked in a trunk, the nature of SUVs with their windows all around, make them greater targets for this type of theft. Because you can't always carry your valuables with you, we suggest installing a cargo cover in the back which acts as a shield to protect valuables from the sun as well as keeping them out of view from anyone passing by the SUV. Isuzu sells these types of retractable covers for the Ascender 5-Passenger for under $136.00, and they're available for most other SUV models as well.

Second, don't buy an SUV with third-row seats. These optional third-row seats are relatively cheap if bought as factory option (the Chevrolet Tahoe LS's seat is only $460.00), but the retail price for replacing the seat can be upwards of more than $1, 000.00. Because of their high demand and expense, as well as their lack of a traceable serial number, third-row seats have become a hot commodity for car thieves. Officer David Stennick of the Long Beach, California police department said, "[Third-row seat theft] has become a real problem over the last several months. Thieves aren't just stealing third-row seats stored in private garages. They're breaking into parked SUVs and grabbing third-row seats in the middle of the day." SUVs like the Toyota Highlander and Chevy Tahoe are primary targets. Until the automotive industry reacts to the surge in theft and begins to manufacture seats that are serialized in multiple places, we suggest avoiding those types of SUVs. It certainly decreases your chances of being a victim.

Third, don't keep key identity documents in your car. Be careful to remove mail, auto club information, credit card information, insurance and registration information from your SUV each time you get out. Keep your registration and insurance card in your wallet – after all, it doesn't need to be there if you aren't anyway. With identity theft continuing to be a growing problem, you can limit the access a thief has to information about you and your life by being prepared just in case your SUV is broken into. While we know it's a hassle to replace a broken window or stolen goods from your SUV, problems associated with identity theft can last a lifetime.

Fourth, pay attention to where you park. Always choose lots with security cameras, security guards, or high traffic volume over lots that are dark or nearly vacant. Thieves don't want to take chances they don't have to take, so if you're parked in a well-lit, busy place and have nothing of value that can be instantly seen inside the vehicle, chances are, they'll move on to a different SUV.

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Beyond The Road

Honda Accord is the first Japanese brand manufactured in the United States backyard back in 1982. It has evolved from a compact hatchback into mid-sized sedan. This evolution is necessary to fit the American taste for bigger cars, making the Accord pushed at the upper limit of mid-size cars and just below full-sized cars by EPA standards. Honda managed to do this while having in mind fuel efficiency to consider. Honda’s charm worked well on the Americans, being the best selling Japanese car in the U.S. from 1982 to 1997.

Honda conceptualized Accord with a V6 engine that looks sporty with a long hood. The name Accord is said to be derived from Honda’s desire for “accord” and harmony between people, society and their automobile. It has been a model in meeting emission standards and fuel efficiency since 1970, and takes pride of being the only car that passed United States government standards without using a catalytic converter. Although a bigger car, the Honda Accord also used the same transverse engine layout of the smaller Honda Civic which is also operating on a front-wheel drive.

The Accord is produced in Marysville, Ohio Automotive Plant since 1982 and in Guangzhou, China joint venture since 1999.

Motor Trend named the Accord as the “Best of the Best” and “The Benchmark” in its October 2007 reviews. It was compared head to head with the Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord emerged in the end and in all aspects to be showing more. Autoweek, known for its reputation in keeping an eye to the minutest detail of every model that comes out found that “there is little to criticize in the all-new Honda Accord.” Autoweek alluded to the model as a masterpiece of “tiny carpet installer” who managed to put every piece of the material stretched around every bend and tightly fitted just right into each corner.

USA Today automotive section editor James R. Healey could no nothing except to praise the Accord. He was impressed by its larger interior, refined powertrain and what has been accorded to every detail placed in it. He called the people behind Honda as a group belonging to the gifted and the talented people.

Honda’s marketing tag “Beyond the Road” is fueling the Accord to a higher plane of customer satisfaction. Asserting that car owners are “more than just drivers” and that Honda Accord is “engineered more than a car and built for the road and everything beyond it.” It full-size sedan lets you feel a commanding presence with its inspiring lines and details, plus a wide variety of colors to choose from. The doors are extra-wide for easy boarding and alighting.

Powered by a 268 horsepower V6 engine, there is a choice between 5-speed automatic transmission and 5-speed manual. Prices start at $20,360 for the starter LX stock. There are also varied stock like the LX Premium, EX, EX-L, EX V6 and EX-L V6, the most expensive stock at $28,060.

Make your Accord’s presence felt “Beyond the Road” with Honda Accord Keychains, a collection of masterfully crafted key ornaments. There are flawless steel designs called the ‘Teardrop’ and ‘Valet’ keychains, engraved with the Honda logo and the text ‘Accord’.

www.onsalejeepparts.com

All The Secrets You Need To Know For Better Gas Mileage.

Everyone is affected by the increase in gas prices. The increased cost at the gas pump has many families needing to tighten their budgets. One way to decrease your cost at the pump is to increase your gas mileage. This may seem an clear solution, but there are several ways to improve gas mileage that are easy to do.

One of the best ways of increasing gas mileage is to maintain your vehicle. Make sure the tires are properly inflated. Having the right amount of pressure in your tires can increase your gas mileage significantly. Make sure that when you have your oil changed, that your air filter is checked. Having a clean air filter also affects gas mileage. Making sure that you properly maintain your car not only increases gas mileage, but it also helps extend the life of your car. With people watching their budgets more closely, they tend to drive their cars for longer periods of time.

Another way of increasing gas mileage is to watch your driving habits. There are several things that each driver does routinely that can impact gas mileage. The most published tip regarding this is to decrease your speed. By driving the speed limit you can greatly improve your gas mileage. This also increases your safety and the safety of others on the road. When driving in the city try to avoid rapid acceleration.

Rapid acceleration greatly decreases gas mileage. Excessive breaking also uses more gas. To get the most out of each gallon of gas try to avoid doing this. Excessive breaking or traveling the break is often a habit that young drivers get into, because of lack of confidence. It pays to discuss this with your teenage driver.

If you are in the market for a new car and are worried about getting the best gas mileage possible, consider one of the hybrid cars. There are more models to choose from due to the rise in gas prices. Several of the hybrid models get extremely good gas mileage. The hybrid car is improving in appearance, availability and performance. The high price of gas has caused many manufactures to increase their production of the hybrid car to give consumers better gas mileage. Due to the increase in the number of hybrid cars produced, there is no longer the waiting list to contend with when purchasing one. Most car dealers have several hybrid models to choose from on their showroom floor.

In addition to changing your driving habits to increase gas mileage, you can also cut down on the number of trips you make with your vehicle. If you are going a short distance consider walking or riding a bike. Try to incorporate as many errands into one trip as possible so that you will decrease the miles you drive. Small changes in habits can save money at the pump by improving gas mileage.

On Sale Jeep Parts

It might be a long way from the outback or actual off road driving but Chrysler is becoming very innovative in its marketing efforts to allow potential clients to experience the Jeep’s trail rated difference!

In early October at the South Florida International Auto Show, Chrysler set up what they called “Camp Jeep”.  To those less term enriched, Jeep made a driving exhibit to give test drivers the real-life experience of driving a Jeep off road. This was no minor feat for Jeep. To build their course at the Miami Beach Convention Center, they had to haul in over 220 yards of mulch and spend almost six days developing the obstacle course. The trail featured a water obstacle and an 18-foot “hill” as well as other driving challenges. All to show potential clients just what a Jeep can do out on the trails.

If this wasn’t enough, Chrysler is going it one better at their upcoming "Full Throttle Test Drive Event" at the Wild Rivers Water Park in Irvine, CA (Los Angeles area) this Saturday (Oct. 28) and Sunday (Oct. 29). Chrysler will be featuring its full line of vehicles on three different specialty courses, one of which will be a 4x4 off-road adventure course.  Consumers will get the chance to test the off-road capability of Chrysler’s Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee and Commander on the course.

This event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and is free. Food and drinks will be available. People interested in attending are being encouraged to pre-register for a general arrival time on Saturday or Sunday by calling 888-809-7088 or visiting http://www.ridedrivewin.com/pr. Pre-registration is not required to attend. You do need to be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license to participate in the vehicle driving tests.

Is it worth the expense to construct these man-made obstacle courses? Chrysler must think so and some marketing studies would seem to indicate that it is as well. According to market research, 40% of the people that attend these types of auto shows will buy a vehicle within a year of the event.

We applaud Chrysler for their innovative way to demonstrate their vehicles’ performance and to give people a chance to see for themselves what they feel like out on the trails.  We look for more marketing innovations out of Chrysler as they make a push to further strengthen their off-road image.

At XtremeTerrain.com we have everything you need for your Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and any other Jeep make or model: Interior and exterior accessories, suspension and performance parts, restoration and body parts, travel accessories, and much more.  Quality aftermarket parts can be purchased easily at our online shop at our always low prices. Just go to On Sale Jeep Parts

How To Detect A Flood Damaged Vehicle

Flooded Vehicle - is considered, a vehicle that was damaged by water level raised to seating level. Most flood damaged cars, trucks and SUVs are sent to a salvage yard, but some are cleaned up and put into the auto market where they'll be bought by unsuspecting buyers who think they're getting a great deal.

Flooded water leaves long lasting damage. Electrical and mechanical components will probably fail early. Mold and mildew can also create a serious problem. Any remaining warranty is voided. While buying a used car be on the lookout for these cars even if you don't live in a flooded area, because dishonest people move them around. Here are some tips and points to detect flooded vehicles.

I) Get a Vehicle History Report
Enter the vehicle's VIN number to get a history report. Carfax does a great job of researching a vehicle's background, but a clean slate is not a 100% guarantee that the car or truck hasn't suffered water damage. You can also contact CarSnaps and ask them for advice or request a vehicle background report.

II) Look for Moisture.
Look for moisture within the lights. Check the glove compartment, console and trunk and inspect them for any sign of dampness moisture or the dirt that looks like a leftover from a flood. Look under the hood for accumulated dirt or signs of rust. Check under the seats for signs of moisture.

III) Take a deep Sniff
This can really help in detecting flooded vehicles. Do you smell a sour, mildewy-like odor? Soaked seats, carpeting and other components are difficult to dry in a hurry, so there's plenty of time for mold and mildew to grow, especially if the flood occurred in a hot and humid location.

IV) Look for Mismatched Interior Components
Does the carpeting look brand new or mismatched or too new for the vehicle? Do seat covers seem out of place with the carpeting? Components that don't match-up might have been changed in a hurry after the vehicle was pulled from flood waters.

V) Request free advice from CarSnaps
Contact CarSnaps.com and request free advice from their qualified technicians who are there to help and it is free so there is nothing to lose.

VI) Let Your Technician Examine the Vehicle
Take the vehicle to a technician if possible and ask for a thorough examination. Experienced auto technicians see evidence of flood damage more often than most individuals do, so they know exactly what to look for.

VII) Turn it On and Go for a Drive
Turn the car on and check every electrical system possible, including the exterior and interior lights, the gauges, the clock and the audio system and the dash lights that display air bag and seat belt information. Go for a drive and test electrical components again to make sure they work correctly. 90% of the time you will be able to suspect an electrical problem with flooded vehicle unless it is repaired or electrical parts are not damaged which is very rare though.

Flooded vehicles should be avoided as much as possible even if seller tell you about the manufacturer warranty because warranty voids when a car goes through a flood. If you suspect a flooded vehicle walk away from it. Flooded vehicles are not worth the hassle they provide.
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Aftermarket Upgrades To Enhance Your Jeep’s Performance

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.
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How Does NOS Work?

Nitrous Oxide injection is a popular performance modification that offers maximum returns on spending. The direct outcome of using Nitrous Oxide injection is additional power to your vehicle. This results into better garnering of energy from combustion of fuel, revved up engine and eventual boost in over all performance of the vehicle.

Nitrous oxide is more popular than other performance modifications as besides better performance per unit of money spent, Nitrous installations are easier to accomplish. These installations can be used as and when the need arises. The Nitrous oxide injections are available to meet any magnitude of power need from 25 HP to over 500 extra HP. This performance option caters to the computer controlled fuel injected engines. The Nitrous systems are portable enough to be easily removed or transferred to another vehicle. In comparison to other performance options, Nitrous Oxide systems are feasible, as they cost least and install without much difficulty. To install NOS, all you need are some common hand tools and barely three to four hours time. There is no other performance option that can buy you more performance for lesser money than Nitrous.

Nitrous oxide is colorless, non-flammable and a slightly sweet smelling gas. Also known as laughing gas because of its euphoric effects, Nitrous is also known as NOS after the famous trademark catering Nitrous Oxide injection systems.

[How Does It Work?]

Nitrous oxides functions along identical principle as followed by sodium chlorate upon heating. It constitutes of two parts of Nitrogen and one part of Oxygen (N2O). When Nitrous Oxide is heated to a temperature of about 570 degrees F (~300 degree C), it splits into oxygen and nitrogen. So, injection of Nitrous oxide into the engine results into more oxygen available during combustion. As there is more oxygen available during combustion, the engine can also intake more fuel, and consequently generate more power. Thus, Nitrous oxide is one of the simplest manners to give a substantial horsepower boost to any gasoline engine.

Secondly, when pressurized Nitrous oxide is injected into the intake manifold, it boils and vaporizes. As a result, Nitrous oxide provides significant cooling effect on the intake air. With the cooling effect, the temperature of the intake air reduces by 60-75 degrees F. This in turn, increases air density and subsequent higher concentration of oxygen inside the cylinder. Thus additional power is generated. As per standard rule, every 10 degrees F reduction in intake charge temperature causes 1% increase in power. For example, a 350 HP engine with an intake temperature drop of 70 degrees F shall gain around 25HP on the cooling affect alone.

Thirdly, the nitrogen released during the process of heating also supports the performance aspect. As Nitrogen dampens down the increased cylinder pressure, it controls the combustion process eventually.

Nitrous oxide is colossal just like any other gas. Even its liquid form does not excuse the bulky nature of the gas. The engine requires a huge quantity of Nitrous Oxide to keep the 5-liter engine running at 4,000 rotations per minute (RPM). The speed of 4,000-RPM rate is secured by combustion of 10,000 liters of air every minute. In sharp contrast, the engine consumes only 0.2 liters of gasoline. In nutshell, the engine shall require magnanimous quantity of Nitrous oxide to run your vehicle continuously. Therefore, a car normally carries limited amount of nitrous oxide, which is used very selectively by the driver, by pushing a button.

Nitrous system offers improvement of 1 to 3 full seconds and 10 to 15 MPH in the quarter mile. Other factors viz. engine size, tires, jetting, gearing etc. determine the final results. It is best used with a wide-open throttle, unless a progressive controller is used. It can be safely applied above 2,500 rotations per minute (RPM) under full throttle conditions.

Forged aluminum pistons are one of the best modifications to complement NOS. Other important modifications may be a forged crankshaft, a high quality race type connecting rod, a high output fuel pump dedicated to feeding the additional fuel demands of Nitrous system and a racing fuel with high specific gravity and an octane rating of 110 or more.

For effective performance through Nitrous Oxide, it is important to choose the correct Horse Power for a given application. To elaborate, as the energy will be released in the cylinder, the load on various components to perform will also increase proportionately. If the energy released is greater than the ability to handle the energy, it will amount to wear and tear of the machinery. While 4 cyl. engines allow an extra 40-60 HP, 6 cyl. engines allow 75-100 extra HP only. On identical lines, while small blocks V8’s (302/350/400cid) typically allow up to 140 extra HP, big blocks V8’s (427/454) accept from 125–200 extra HP.

As Nitrous looses the optimal flow rate at very cold temperatures, NOS kit has a nitrous pressure gauge that allows you to monitor the pressure to approximately 800-900 psi. In colder climates, it is always advisable to purchase a bottle heater kit, part # 14161 to keep the ambient temperature to 70-90 degrees F.

Further, the condition of the engine is important to keep in mind while choosing NOS kit for your vehicle. A worn out and poorly tuned up vehicle will not be able to sustain NOS pressure and will be instead harmed by abnormal wear.

Though the button triggering on Nitrous oxide may be held pressed until the bottle containing it is rendered empty, it is recommended that Nitrous Oxide may be used for 15 continuous seconds or lesser. The Nitrous bottle can be easily refilled from any NOS certified distributor. The NOS bottle must not be overfilled as overfilling and/ or too much heat can result into excessive bottle pressures, following a blown out safety seal and eventual release of all the contents out of the bottle.


Nitrous Oxide magnifies the output of any engine – be it stock engine or modified engine, to lend more power and better performance. However, it is important to keep the condition and horsepower of the engine in mind before introducing particular NOS to it to secure positive results only.

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Customize Your Off-Road Vehicle

In these times when we're all being defined by numbers and crunched into conformity, we still want something that expresses our own style. Something that says, "This is me."

For some time, an underworld of car customization has existed. But today, it's not just low-riders and hot-doggers who want to make a personal statement. With the popularity of shows such as "American Chopper" and "Pimp My Ride," orders for custom cars and bikes have skyrocketed.

Now, ATV and utility vehicle owners are just as eager to spruce up their rides. They are beginning to appreciate their sturdy off-road vehicles - more often associated with hunting and farming - and are dreaming up ways to make them unique. Each becomes a signature piece, reflecting the taste and style of the owner.

The trend, spearheaded by celebrities and sports stars, now is becoming more mainstream, according to Polaris, a leading manufacturer of ATVs and utility vehicles. The Southwest, especially California and Arizona, seems to be the hub of this new fad.

Here are some of the hottest ways to customize your ride:

* Flames: Since the 1950s, painted flames scorching the front and sides of hot rods have meant speed. Today, this classic design still leads the pack.

* Chrome: The luxurious Packards and Cords of the 1930s

were loaded with shine and sparkle. Grills, doors - everything that could gleam, did gleam. Even now, chrome says high style.

* Color-keyed rims: They would have loved this in the 1960s. Bright primaries, strong earth tones, simple neutrals -choose a color and your ride is instantly one of a kind.

* Sound systems: Install one in the bed or roof. Whether your music of choice is golden oldies or heavy metal, everything will sound better. And on those camping trips when you're deprived of your usual comforts, you can still enjoy quality sound.

Find more truck accessories here!

Do You Need a 4x4

Sooner or later, most serious campers get to thinking about the "need" to own a four-wheel drive.  So, right up front, here’s my answer: A definite "maybe"!

You see, it’s all to do with your personal outdoor lifestyle.  Many outdoorsy types mistakenly believe that, since camping takes place in "the bush", they obviously need the off-road ability of a four-wheel drive.  Not true.  Well, not necessarily true anyway.
       
Confused?  Let’s go back a step or two.
       
Firstly, there are a few relevant questions that only you can answer.  For example: Will you and your family be camping alone in fairly remote areas?  If so, how often?
       
But don’t rush it; answers need to be honest.  I mean, we all start out believing that we’ll frequently head off on hairy-chested expeditions.  The reality is, though, because of family or economic considerations -- or genuine lack of experience -- things rarely turn out that way.  That’s the main reason you see all those late model 4WDs in the used car lots.  After all, there’s little point tying up maybe $15,000 more than the equivalent 2WD would cost, only to find later that you just don’t need a vehicle with all-wheel traction.
         
On the other hand, if you prefer to get well away from the tourists and holiday hordes, or prefer camping with your family in splendid isolation, then for you a 4WD might be essential.

The answer can only be found in an honest appraisal of your camping history, the highs and lows throughout that history, and the direction in which you and your family really would like your outdoor activities to go.
       
Mind you, a 4X4 can certainly extend your horizons considerably. Whether alone or with another family or two, the extra wilderness areas that become available make additional investment much easier to justify.  With their higher ground clearance, significantly increased traction for those tricky access trails (particularly after rain or snow), and improved load carrying and towing abilities, the average 4WD won’t be beaten for serious -- or mildly adventurous -- camping.
       
That’s not all.  These days a 4X4 does not have to be your "second car" since levels of comfort in most models are now on a par with conventional -- even luxurious! -- family station wagons.  Reliability, ruggedness and resale value of the 4WD also help ensure that any cost premium becomes purely academic.
       
But, having said all that, we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that, scattered across the country there are thousands of superb campsites, including national and state parks, reserves, and commercial campgrounds. The vast majority of these are easily accessible, which is more reason still to be absolutely certain, up front, that you’ll get reasonable return for your higher dollar investment.

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Body Kits

The top reason why people customize their wheels with a body kit is the looks but the body kit can improve as well the overall performance of your vehicle. Before getting started on buying a body kit, take into consideration certain concerns.

A body kit typically includes ground effects usually an air dam and side skirts. These ground effects fit on the vehicle's bottom edges and improves the down force by altering the air flow. The car looks lowered to the ground.

A kit can also include spoilers and wings. Under the front bumper is positioned a front spoiler to lessen the aerodynamic drag. A spoiler on the rear creates a down force to help increase grip or traction during acceleration.

The material that the body kit is made of should be considered. Generally there are two types of materials used in fabricating kits. You have the urethane and the fiberglass. Fiberglass has a better fit and can be repaired if a piece gets damaged. On the other hand, urethane once it gets damaged cannot be repaired but it is more resistant to soft impacts. Fiberglass has a better finish than urethane, and the paint generally looks better on it. Urethane is advisable if you live in an area that has rough roads and snow. Fiberglass is ideal with smooth roads and with a decent weather.

When you have considered a particular kit, calling the manufacturer of that kit would be good. Ask for what material your choice body kit is made of, if there is any warranty and if it is necessary for factory pieces from your vehicle's safety structure to be removed in order that the kit will fit accordingly. If it is necessary for the factory pieces to be removed, then don't bother buying the kit. Avoid purchasing body kits that require factory pieces from your car's structure to be removed.

Quality comes with price. Top quality fiberglass resin made in the U.S. can be expensive, while you can also find cheap fiberglass. It is all up to you how much you are willing to invest in your body kit.

Even the most accomplished do-it-yourselfers find installing a body kit quite complicated that it would be advisable to seek professional help. Ask your body kit manufacturer for recommended dealers in your area or recommended shops that could do the job. Check other sources like the yellow pages and the internet as well. Make sure that the shop has ample experience in such field and could do a good job at painting the kit. Check out pictures of previous works that the shop has done and select the shop that is most comfortable for you.
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How To Install Truck Running Boards

If you are a pick up truck or SUV owner, one of the most popular accessories for these types of vehicles are running boards. Running boards are particularly useful as they allow easier access to your truck’s cabin in addition to simply “lookin’ good”. You can outfit your vehicle yourself with running boards by following three simple steps. Depending on the brand of running board you purchase, the procedures involved may vary somewhat. Lund running boards are industry hot sellers and the company helps make installation a breeze by outlining how to get the job done:
 1. Insert the square head bolts into the extruded channels on the underside of the board, then attach the Multi-Fit brackets loosely with supplied washers and nuts.
 2. After determining mounting position on the truck, the end caps and step pads are attached with matching black rivets.
 3. Mounting methods vary slightly with application. Multi-Fit Running boards are bolted in place with clip nuts and bolts at factory holes. Tighten after determining alignment is correct. That’s it! Before you know it your running boards are securely in place and ready for use. When shopping for running boards, please note that the quality of the products marketed can vary. A top of the line running board such as those sold by Lund or IronCross running boards is typically made out of tough polymer materials or diamond plated aluminum and will, therefore, adequately hold your weight and resist deterioration.

You can order running boards that light up, choose boards that have a wide step area, and even select running boards that allow you to paint the shell yourself. Running boards are made for SUVs from the Kia Sorento to the Ford Expedition, and for trucks from the Toyota Tacoma to the GMC Sierra Denali. Mounting kits are usually sold separately, so before completing your order make sure that all the parts as well as instructions are included with your shipment. By shopping with a reputable online retailer and installing the running boards yourself you can save plenty of money and have the satisfaction of knowing that you did the installation.

Find your running boards at www.hitchanything.com

Aftermarket Upgrades To Enhance Your Jeep’s Performance

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.
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Tips on Preparing Your Truck for Summer Driving

Spring is the perfect time to get your vehicle ready for the busy summer driving season ahead. It's wise to have your vehicle checked out before summer's heavy vacation traffic and stop-and-go conditions begin in earnest.

The experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offer the following tips on getting your vehicle ready:

* Read the owner's manual and follow the recommended service schedules. Pay attention to "regular" vs. "severe" schedules listed, and determine which is appropriate for your driving conditions and habits.

* Look for an orderly repair facility with modern equipment in the service bays and qualified automotive technicians on staff, as evidenced by trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work and training, as well as national certification of the individual technicians by ASE.

* Flush and refill the cooling system (radiator) according to the service manual's recommendations. The level, condition and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. Make sure the engine has cooled down before removing the radiator cap. Engine overheating is the most frequent summer breakdown.

* Have engine performance problems corrected, such as hard starts, rough idling and stalling. You'll get better gasoline mileage, and you could prevent more expensive repairs.

* Don't neglect your transmission and brakes. Costly repairs can be prevented by routine service. Neglected brakes can create safety issues, too.

* Seek out a qualified auto technician to check the condition of belts, clamps and hoses, but be proactive by looking for signs of wear, cracking or fraying.

* Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a technician qualified to handle refrigerants. Older units often contain ozone-depleting chemicals that could be released into the air through improper or incompetent service.

* Change the oil and oil filter as specified in the owner's manual. This simple, inexpensive service can increase the life of your vehicle.

* Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV) as recommended in the service manual.

* Check the condition of tires, including the spare. Let the tires "cool down" before checking their pressure. Uneven wear, "cupping," vibrations or "pulling" to one side indicates problems with your tires or suspension system.

Stay On the Road To Safety In All Conditions

Sometimes, whether or not you're a good driver is less important than the weather you're driving in. Of the nearly 6.2 million traffic accidents that occur a year, approximately one million are weather-related, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Fortunately, newer vehicles are now equipped with sophisticated technology solutions to help drivers navigate through a variety of weather conditions safely. Before you get caught in the next storm or even rain shower, take time to think through the poor weather conditions you may encounter and what you need to do to stay safe.

Take a Brake: If you've ever had your brakes lock up on slippery surfaces, you know why to look for vehicles with Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS). With this technology, drivers can apply maximum brake pressure without fear of locking up the tires or skidding out of control.

Burnin' Rubber: To keep your wheels from spinning on slippery surfaces, look for vehicles with Traction Control Systems (TCS). This technology prevents wheels from spinning during acceleration on normal or slippery surfaces by applying brakes to all four wheels. The newest version of this technology, called All-Speed Traction Control, decreases excess engine power to give you the best acceleration on slippery surfaces.

The Straight and Narrow: You're less likely to go off the road or lose control of your vehicle after swerving to miss something ahead in a vehicle with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP). This system keeps vehicles moving in the intended direction of travel by applying selective throttle and braking to the appropriate wheels to get the vehicle back on course. This is especially important when driving on mixed surface conditions, such as snow, sleet, ice or gravel, but works on all surfaces.

Stop, Drop and Roll: If vehicle rollover is a concern, look for vehicles with Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM). If driving conditions approach a rollover scenario, ERM applies a burst of full-braking power to the appropriate wheel to help stabilize the vehicle.

While the latest technology systems operate automatically, it is important for drivers to understand their vehicle's safety and technology features according to leading safety experts at the Chrysler Group.

"Taking the time to understand the latest safety technology available in new vehicles will give consumers the knowledge they need to face the varying weather conditions," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President Product Development, Chrysler Group. "These features will help drivers and passengers stay safe and will help reduce the number of weather-related traffic accidents that occur on the road."

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4x4 Truck Tires - For The Big Boys

Big Tires can help get you out of some nasty stuff

What do you want to see?  A blur of forest and land slide by as you spin in all directions with mud surrounding your truck as if you’ve become engulfed in a tornado that’s comprised strictly of earth and water, is certainly a compelling option.  And, that’s right, it can be an option.  But, there’s something else that perhaps, unfortunately, cannot be ignored.  Sometimes you need to get to work.   And unless your office is conveniently located well off the highway, by way of some little known and covered path, well then you may need to consider the handling and driving of your vehicle under multiple conditions.

Its not always glamorous, but the fact is your 4x4 tires are probably going to ride upon reasonably dry, smooth surfaces.  But, that’s not to say that you can’t be ready for anything.  More practical purposes for having a 4x4, and the 4x4 tires that go with it, are things such as slippery conditions due to snow or mud depending on where you live and drive.  But this is why you can have it all with All Terrain tires, as used with your 4x4.

You can cut down on the discomforts of riding on mud or off road tires, such as noisy street driving that may seem as bumpy as if you are actually off road and also undesirable aspects, such as potentially greatly reduced fuel efficiency.  But, yet, be ready for when you know (or more importantly when you don’t know) you are going to want good traction and grip from your 4x4 tires.  The name says it all, you’re going to be able to tackle all terrains and yet not wish you had something different on your 4x4.

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Your SUV: Your New Paint Job

Look sharp in cut rate auto body shop or you may lose more than you gain. A good paint job to spruce up your SUV up truck may lose you more than you gain.  A good job takes time, skill and equipment.

Why should you pay big dollars to have your SUV repainted when you can get the job done for much less cost? After all for appearances if you place both of these jobs side by side they may well look fine.

In fact, one may be actually be as good as the other – and you will be in the chips with the cheaper job. A low overhead , a low margin of profit and a volume business can make it possible for one shop to charge bargain basement prices and turn out a job that will stand up for years.

But cutting pries may also mean cutting corners. If you have ever painted a car or even a fence you know that a job takes time, patience and a good degree of skill. There are many chances for cutting corners. Failing to sand off rust for instance. Or skipping various steps in the process.

Here are some defects that might show up over time in a corner cutting paint job.

The most common defect is “Peeling”. Peeling is what happens most often. Sometimes the entire paint film lifts off right down to bare metal and you can see rust that was not removed. Or the sealing has not stuck to the primer coat or finish stuck to sealer.

Next in line is wrinkling. Wrinkling is a condition that you can almost always blame on the man or women who did the job. Perhaps too heavy a coat of paint was applied. Or the painter may have used a thinner that dried too fast.  In warm weather this will produce a very heavy coat that will surface dry too rapidly. Insufficient thinner is another cause of wrinkling.

Cracking and checking may come from too much haste in turning out the job. Applying finish coasts before the coats underneath dry may well have occurred. Sudden temperature changes or the movement of body panels may cause fine cracks.

Should you take back a defective job like this – the painter may tell you that that “spotting in” would fix it up. It will not. The entire panel must be completely refinished.

Blistering of paint can be caused by a variety of conditions but if it happens soon after the car comes from the auto body shop you can almost always blame the painter.

Poor preparation of the metal always causes blisters and bubbles. Perhaps various steps were missed or fudged. Grease oil or dirt may have been left on the surface before painting began. Moisture or oil in the air line of the spray gun can cause blisters as well.

But if the job is done at a time of high temperature and humidity, be cautious about blaming the shop. These conditions may blister the very best paint job. Even nearby chemical plants or pollution can cause this as well.

How can you avoid such defects and problems? True in even in a full high priced job, some of these defects some or even all of these defects can show up. But your chances of missing them are far better.

Above all, know the shop and its reputation. If you are doubtful stand around awhile and watch. You might well do this while awaiting your estimate.

After all it is your SUV. Your vehicle is the best representation of you. Being careful and thorough is always the best policy.
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How to Fix Your Lifted Jeep Cherokee’s “Death Wobble”

If you drive a Jeep Cherokee or Grand Cherokee and are considering a suspension lift, you may want to think twice. Unfortunately, I was forced to learn this the hard way. I bought a brand new 2001 Jeep Cherokee a couple years ago, and almost immediately stacked on Pro Comp’s 3” lift kit with some 32 x 11.50 r 15 Super Swamper TSL tires. After a couple months of good riding, I started to experience what jeep enthusiasts have come to know as “the death wobble.”

The death wobble is basically when you are driving your lifted jeep down the road and the front end starts to shake violently. It can happen at virtually any speed, though mostly above 40 mph or so, and is a frightening experience, especially for those witnessing it for the first time. Now it doesn’t throw you off the road or anything … the front end just shakes. And the only way to stop it is to slow down and pull over. So it wasn’t that hard to get used to at first. But as it happened more and more, it seemed to get more and more out of control.

After driving with at least one death wobble per day for about three months, I decided to take it into the shop and see what the problem was. Being of course that off-road shops are primarily in the business of ripping people off, they gave me a list of “everything that was wrong with the front end that is causing the ‘TJ shimmy.’” Their proposal included the rotation and balancing of my tires, new front (and rear “cause you might as well”) shocks, new and stronger track bar, new and stronger drop pitman arm, new and stronger lower control arms with some special urethane bushings, and new sway bar links. Basically, with the exception of my original lift springs, the reinstallation of the entire Pro Comp lift kit with “better” components.

The bill was just over $1000.00. But to fix my death wobble, and hence my daily fear for my life, it was worth it. And even better, the new components would be strong enough to support a 6” lift if I ever wanted to go that big. The words of the salesman still ring in my ears: “Dude, you could totally run 35s with this setup.”

For the next couple months, everything ran fine again and I just assumed that my former Pro Comp parts just sucked. I even took the kid’s advice and jumped up to 33 x 12.50 r 15 tires. My new components were working brilliantly. Then one day, riding down I-70 toward the mountains, I hit a pothole and back came the death wobble. For the next couple months, I experienced the death wobble every time I hit a pothole, crack, or even merged onto a simple uneven lane.

Back at the shop, the guys, obviously not recognizing me from six months before, gave me the same proposal as the first time … almost word for word, too. My shocks, track bar, pitman arm and control arms were all shot again and needed replaced with their “better and stronger components.” The guys didn’t even take the time to see if my components were the same ones they had sitting on the shelf. In fact, the parts they wanted to give me this time were likely the same Pro Comp components they had replaced initially. At this point, I realized that I’d have to take matters into my own hands.

I had a buddy sit in the driver’s seat of my jeep and shake the steering wheel back and forth in an attempt to recreate the death wobble so I could view it from the other side. After not even two minutes, it became clear to me what the problem was. All my components were fine. The shaking was coming from the frame rail, which is connected to the axle.

What was happening was simple: My tires, as off road tires tend to do, kept going out of balance. Therefore, when I hit a pothole or uneven pavement, or too high a road speed, the tires would start to wobble and fight back and forth against each other. This is probably how Fred Flintstone felt driving around with those rock tires. The fighting tires would cause the axle to shake back and forth, which in turn caused the frame rail to shake. Hence the death wobble. Now the wobble could have been stabilized by the bar attached to the frame rail; if only it was attached to a real frame.

See, Jeep Cherokees and Grand Cherokees have what is referred to as a unibody design. This means that they don’t have frames like a real vehicle, just a combination between a frame and a body. It’s kind of like a tin can on wheels. And if you put tires under that tin can that are too big and heavy for it to handle, it’s going to shake all over the road.

Now I’m not saying don’t lift your Cherokee, I’m just saying don’t lift your Cherokee too high. It can handle 31s or 32s, but if you get any bigger or heavier tires, it won’t be strong enough to consistently support them. If you want to lift a Jeep vehicle for off road purposes, I’d recommend a Wrangler. It has a frame, meaning it can handle big and heavy tires, not to mention a roll over.

If you’ve already got a Jeep Cherokee and are experiencing death wobble, don’t listen to the guys at the shop. They’re just trying to get your money! Test each of the components of your front end yourself. Most of them are rock solid and rarely need replacement. Instead, just get your tires balanced. It should fix the problem right away, at least until the tires go out of balance again. To end it permanently, unless you can somehow fabricate a stabilizer bar to strengthen the front-end frame rail, the only thing you can really do is switch down to smaller tires. Or buy a normal road car …

No matter what make of pickup truck you own, chances are you want to change it from the way the factory supplied it. Whether you use your vehicle for work, off-road play or some of both, you can find performance parts, accessories and customization products to make your pickup truck unique. When you want your pickup truck to look and perform better, accessories will help you customize it. 

While it’s possible to get some accessories from the Chevy, GMC, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Mazda, Nissan or Toyota dealer where you bought your truck, you will find a much bigger selection of items online. You may also get better bargains shopping this way. Some popular makers of pickup truck accessories include Lund, Westin, Dee Zee, Outland, Auto Ventshade, Warn, Saddleman, Thule, PIAA, Vector, Wolo, Deflecta Shield, Pilot, Hoppy, Grizzly and Protecta. 

Exterior accessories

There are many types of exterior pickup truck accessories to enhance the appearance of the outside of your truck. They include air dams, bras and masks, bug shields, bumpers, fender flares, graphics and emblems, grille guards, hood ornaments, hoods and scoops, mirrors, racks and cargo accessories, roll pans, running boards, splash guards, tool boxes, truck steps, tire covers, visors, wings and spoilers and wiper cowls. Select items that will complement your truck’s basic lines and that will work well together instead of looking cluttered. 

Interior accessories

Installing interior accessories is all about improving the comfort level when riding in your truck. Some examples are 12 volt accessories, cargo trays and liners, consoles and racks, dash covers and trim, door accessories, floor mats, horns, instrument panel covers, pet accessories, seat covers, seats and steering wheel covers. 

How about adding some electronics to enhance your ride? Choices include CBs and scanners, cruise controls, GMRS radio, GPS and navigation systems, power inverters, radar and laser detectors, remote starters, security systems and antennas. You might also want to upgrade the standard radio that came with your truck to a stereo CD or satellite radio system. 

Accessories cushion the load and improve the ride

Trucks are all about hauling things, so why not do it in style? Pickup truck accessories for your truck bed include cargo control, bed mats, bed liners, bed protection, bed rails, tailgate accessories and tonneau covers. You might also want towing accessories like hitch balls, hitch mounts, hitch covers, hitch steps, hitch wiring, hitches, tow hooks and straps, towing mirrors, winch accessories, winches and winch mounting systems. 

By improving your pickup’s suspension and brakes you make the ride both smoother and safer. To do this, you might need anti-sway bars, bars and arms, bushings and shackles, hubs, lift kits, lowering kits, shocks and struts, skit plates and trusses and springs. Adding more lighting not only improves the truck’s appearance, it also improves safety. Some typical lighting pickup truck accessories are accent lighting, auxiliary lighting, back-up lights, bulbs and lamps, driving and fog lights, headlights, interior lights, light bars, light covers, light guards, marker lights, neon lighting, spotlights, taillights, tow lighting and wiring, turn signal lights and warning lights. 

Electrical and exhaust systems are essential
If your pickup won’t start, it doesn’t matter how good it looks. If you’ve got this problem or fear it might happen, try buying alternator accessories, battery accessories, battery chargers, chassis wiring or jump start systems. If the problem is on the exhaust end, you might need catalytic converters, exhaust systems, exhaust tips and extensions, headers or mufflers. 

To do all this work yourself, you’ll need some tools and equipment. Useful items include tire pressure gauges, car care products, computer software, creepers and seats, diagnostic equipment, engine hoists and stands, garage and parking accessories, jacks, stands, ramps, paint, sanding materials and abrasives. 

And once your truck is tricked out to your heart’s desire, get out your camera. You’re going to want to showoff your new, improved truck to all of your friends.

If you own a pickup truck you might have the desire to change it up a little. Doesn’t matter what kind of change or look you are going for you can get the right parts that will transform the look of your car. 

You can get accessories at the dealer you bought your car from, but buying the accessories online will give you a wider rang of selections. Not only will shopping online give you a wider selection but you can save quite a bit of money. You will more likely encounter deals and bargains on the internet. 

Let’s talk about exterior accessories first. There are many different exterior accessories available to change the outside of your truck. Some of the accessories are air dams, bug shields, bumpers, bras and masks, fender flares, graphics and emblems, grille guards, hoods and scoops, mirrors, roll pans, truck steps, rack and cargo accessories, wings and spoilers and the list goes on. However you should select items that will complement your truck, make sure it doesn’t look all cluttered. 

Changing the interior of your car is more the comfort then anything else. Some example of accessories you can get are seat covers, door accessories, floor mats, horns, cargo trays and liner, 12 volt accessories, instrumental panel covers, pet accessories and much more. 

Another way to change you interior is by adding electronic features. Such as GPS and navigation systems, CD or satellite radio, radar and laser detector, security systems and antennas, remote starters and many other things. 

It is hard t list all the different types of accessories that you can add to your truck in one article. You will be able to see and find out more accessories available on the internet. You might just find what you are looking for. Whatever you have in mind you will be able to get the truck you’ve always wanted.

Just picked up some bull ring tiedowns for my truck, Very nice looking pieces. Have a capacity of 1000lbs, sold in pairs

I got them at Hitch Anything

Well worth the money.

Parts of most trailer hitches are removable. The ball part of the hitch, the part that is used to fasten the cargo to the truck usually rests in the trailer hitch receiver opening. When the ball is removed, the receiver opening is left hollow. This opening protrudes from the tail of the truck and has sharp edges. People could bump into the metal rod or cut themselves on its sharp corners. 

It is a good idea to use a trailer hitch cover to protect the trailer hitch receiver opening. Trailer hitch covers can cover the opening and keep any debris from clogging it. Trailer hitch covers also protect people from cutting themselves or bumping into the hard edges. 

It can be inconvenient and time consuming to remove foreign objects from the hitch receiver opening. Dead, wet leaves, mud, sand, and other disgusting substances can clog the opening and make it difficult to secure the hitch to the truck. No debris can get into the opening if a cover blocks it. The trailer hitch cover fits into the receiver opening and covers the sharp and hard edges. Many trailer hitch covers are padded, so that people who bump into them do not get bruised. The covers are secured in the opening so that they do not fall out when the truck is in motion. 

There are a wide variety of trailer hitch covers available. They can have nearly any type of theme imaginable. Some have college logos, animal shapes, catchphrases, emblems, or cartoon characters on them. People can add their own personal touch to the appearance of their truck by choosing one of these unique covers. Other trailer hitch covers contain working break lights that help alert drivers behind the truck when the truck is slowing down. 

Trailer hitch covers provide safety to a pickup truck. People can’t injure themselves on the trailer hitch receiver opening if a protective cover blocks it. With the wide variety of covers available, anyone is sure to find a cover that fits their personality.

Raised Trucks

There was a day when trucks were a working man’s vehicle and scratches were expected. Shells protected valuables and tonneau covers protected tools. Those days are over and truck enthusiasts are souping up their rides more than ever before. With the addition of popular movies featuring fancy cars and popular television shows that glorify plasma screens and ground shaking stereo systems, the custom truck rage is here to stay.

As a sign of manhood or personal taste, many truck owners decide to lift their rides for a performance altered appearance. Lift kits can actually be found online and can be installed on your truck in a do-it-yourself fashion. Some lift systems can be somewhat difficult to install, but after all, challenges are what get us men going and when we are determined, who knows what will happen.

The following bullet points are the benefits to installing a suspension system on your truck:

Style

Performance

Increase in ground clearance

Looks that could make a grown man cry!

The sky’s the limit when you go high-profile with your truck or SUV! Lift Kits push ground clearance and aggressive looks to new heights, letting you conquer on or off-road obstacles with confidence. Lift Kit Manufacturers make custom parts that will fit your specific truck to a “T” to give you the look that you’ve been wanting. My lift kit was recently tested at an off road rally down near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and let me tell you – I didn’t get stuck in the dirt. Ground clearance was needed on the off road trails that we were on and the drool on my buddies faces proved that the style could easily make a grown man cry.

A trailer can add a new dimension to the sense of freedom associated with boating. Once you have a 
 trailer, you’re pretty much free to boat anywhere  you decide, lakes, rivers, or inlets. A trailer   allows you to explore your area, and is also the  most affordable way to store your boat.

Starting out

If you’ve never owned or trailer or trailered a boat before, there are several things you should know  and consider. The first thing is the towing capacity of your truck, car, or SUV. If you don’t know, you
 an easily find the information in your owner’s  manual.  Normally, small cars or family sedans aren’t suitable for towing, although small boats may not be a problem, if you have the proper towing equipment installed on the car. Most standard trucks or SUV’s can tow  boats up to 25 feet, although you’ll need to check  the owner’s manual to be sure.

Weighing in 

In your boat’s owners manual, you’ll find the dry weight of your boat. The dry weight is the weight of the boat without fuel or gear. Always make sure you assess your vehicle’s towing capacity, and add a few hundred pounds to the dry weight to cover  these types of extras.

Muscle and power
As the weight, length, and beam of a boat increases,  so does the power needed to retrieve and launch it. Smaller boats may be easier for one person to handle,  although larger boats will require more than one person. If you need extra help, don’t be afraid to ask for it – as trailer boaters are always ready to 

give you a hand if you need it.