Long Name, Lots of Light
April 28, 2011 — Larson Electronics has introduced the Magnalight HIDTH-66X2-70W, a trailer-hitch-mounted flood light station that emits a 12,600 lumen flood of light capable of covering a 600-foot-long by 575-foot-wide work area.
Drawing 140 watts at 8.4 amps from a 12 volt electrical system, the new lighting system mounts with the standard push bolt and cotter pin to lock it into place. Lamps swivel up to 180 degrees and can stand from 3 feet to 8 feet tall. Larson offers several several power cord options, including a battery clamp cord and one that plugs into a 12-volt cigarette lighter outlet.
“Our trailer hitch mount option is available for all of our HID and LED lighting products,” said Rob Bresnahan with Larson Electronics’ magnalight.com. “The telescoping light towers collapse to a small, lightweight form factor for storage and portability, but once affixed to the trailer hitch, the vehicle makes an ideal weighted base for even very high wind scenarios.”
The system is rated to be water proof and as mobile as the truck they are attached to. Retail price for the Magnalight HIDTH-66X2-70W is $1,389.95. For more information visit www.magnalight.com or call 800-369-6671.
How to Fix the GM Driveline “Clunk”
April 4, 2011 — Many of the 1999 through 2007 Chevrolet and GMC pickups exhibit an annoying “clunk” either after they come to a complete stop, or just as you lift off the brake pedal after a stop to accelerate again. It really detracts from an otherwise solid product. The condition occurs when not towing.
The cause of the clunk is the slip yoke at the front of the driveshaft, which is made of a softer metal than the output shaft on the transmission. Here’s what happens.
As the yoke splines wear, they bind on the output shaft. As you apply the brakes, the rear of your truck rises, which causes the slip yoke to slide out of the transmission extension housing a bit. Then, as speed decreases, the body comes back down, and the slip yoke slides back into the transmission. Because the worn splines are binding, the yoke doesn’t slide back into the transmission smoothly. It slides back in all at once, typically when the truck has come to a complete stop. That’s when it “clunks” back into place. Two- and four-wheel drive trucks do it, and it is maddening.
There are a number of fixes. First, your GM dealer has technical service bulletin that outlines a procedure and a special grease for lubricating the shaft splines. A technician removes the driveshaft, greases the splines and reinstalls it. The fix is good for about a year, when the clunk inevitably returns and you must return to the dealer to have the procedure done again. If you are handy enough to perform such a service, use GM grease part No. 12345879, which is available at dealerships and other outlets such as Summit Racing. Red Line’s CV-2 grease is another option.
GM makes nickel-plated replacement yokes to alleviate the problem in four-wheel drive models (part No. 12477702 for 1500; part No. 12477704 for 2500) but not for two-wheel drive trucks. If lubricating it doesn’t help, you can buy an OEM replacement slip yoke and have it treated cryogenically, which makes it more durable.
BoatUS Offers Discounted Wide Load Permits
March 14, 2011 — If you need to pull a boat — or any trailer for that matter — with a beam wider than eight-and-a-half feet, you will need an oversize permit. Forty-seven states and the District of Columbia require permits for towing wide loads on public roads.
But there is more to it than just getting a permit and hitting the road. Many permits are good only for a specified period, and only a third of states allow travel after dark. In some cases, there are additional restrictions for long bridges over water and high-wind conditions.
Getting a permit for one state isn’t difficult, but if you are towing across more than one, the process becomes more challenging in terms of time and paperwork. To ease and speed the process, BoatUS Trailering Club now offers a wide-load permit service in conjunction with Mercury Permit Services.
Towing a beamy boat requires a permit in 47 states. Photo courtesy of BoatUS.
“We can help you navigate your way through each state’s complicated oversize permit application process, figure out which states have additional insurance requirements, identify those that require a US DOT number, if you need a pilot car, the best routes and which states allow weekend travel,” said BoatUS Trailering Club Director Beth McCann.
To learn more about BoatUS’ permit service, go to www.mercurypermits.net/boatus-members. To get a permit, call 888-239-7773.
Speedy Hitch Backup Camera System
February 28, 2011 — Have you always wanted a rearview backup camera system? The new Speedy Hitch Camera from Hardline Products is the backup camera system you want. Here's why.
Speedy Hitch is portable and wireless. The camera features a magnetic mount that installs in the time it takes to read this sentence. Second, the full-color, 960 x 240 display is handheld with excellent resolution and features reverse-option imaging for easier backing. The display can receive the feed from the camera from up to 50 feet away and has an optic range of 300 feet.
It comes with a carrying case, a spare battery and 12-volt charger. It’s so simple and effective it makes you wonder why no one thought of it before. Mount the camera to your tailgate, back the truck in place and hook up your trailer, then stash the system in the glove box or console. Plus, we can think of lots of other mechanical and diagnostic uses for the system, and it’s great if you have more than one tow vehicle.
Retail price for the kit is a bargain at $249. For more information, visit www.hardlineproducts.com.
Tow Test: Chevrolet's Much-Improved Silverado HD 2500
January 2011 — Chevrolet delivers on its promise of a Silverado HD suitable for serious towing. The new HD is quiet, powerful and capable of towing up to 21,700 pounds when properly equipped.
For more on the new Chevy, read the full towing test at http://www.onlinetowingguide.com/tests/2011ChevroletSilveradoHD4x4.html
BMW Plant Lets Buyers See Their Vehicles Come to Life
January 25, 2011 — BMW just announced that buyers of its new X3 model now can view production of their made-to-order vehicle via an online video portal that “will show them footage of their customized X3 being produced at the company’s plant in Spartanburg, S.C.”
First, you’ll need to order a vehicle, then create a My BMW account on bmwusa.com where you can enter your vehicle’s VIN. Seven cameras in the plant track the vehicle through production and the final stages of assembly. With no expiration date, the video offers 24-hour access to footage of the assembly process, and users can even download the video to share it with others.
“Customization is essential to the new BMW X3,” said Trudy Hardy, manager of marketing communications and consumer events for BMW of North America. “With more than 10 million distinct configurations available, we wanted to get customers excited about the birth of their unique vehicle. This production footage of the BMW X3 vehicles from our Spartanburg plant enhances the overall customer experience that is part of the BMW brand.”
The new X3 features increased interior space and functionality, efficiency and comfort. It is the first BMW SUV to come standard with electromechanical power steering. Depending on engine choice, the new X3 tows from 4,400 pounds to 4,840 pounds. The previous generation X3 towed a maximum of 3,000 pounds.
For more information, visit www.bmwusa.com.
Draw Bar Absorbs Crash Energy to Reduce Risk of Whiplash
January 20, 2011 — Lots of people leave their draw bar in the receiver, even when they’re not towing. One danger is banging your shins on it as you walk around the rear of the vehicle. Another peril, according to Jeff Mohr of Mohr Manufacturing in Burnsville, Minn., is that leaving them in place can increase the likelihood of whiplash by 22 percent in the event of a rear-end collision.
To help reduce incidence of whiplash, Mohr has introduced the Spare Bumper, the first energy-absorbing, crash-tested safety ball mount. Rubber absorbers inside and outside the draw bar also provide cushioning for everyday trailer towing.
The draw bar is offered as a Super Bumper with a 2-inch ball in chrome or black. It also comes as a Safe “T” Tri-Ball mount (1 7/8”, 2”, 2 5/16”) for people who need the added versatility to pull different sizes of trailers. The Safe “T” Tri-Ball meets SAE standard J-847 and is rated to pull up to 10,000 pounds.
Retail price for the tri-ball hitch is $119.95. The Spare Bumper starts at $139.95. For more information and a demonstration video, visit the Spare Bumper site, www.sparebumper.com.
GMC Debuts New Concept Truck
December 21, 2010 — GMC debuted a new concept truck called the All Terrain HD, which explores heavy-duty truck capabilities with greater off-road versatility.
The interesting thing about this concept is that it is based on a modified version the current production HD chassis. The cab also appears to be the same as the 2011 Sierra HD. However, the air-induction hood, front end, fenders, bed sides and tailgate are unique to the concept.
Powered by the Duramax diesel and Allison six-speed automatic, the All Terrain HD features increased ground clearance and a wider track with steeper approach and departure angles.
“The Sierra All Terrain HD concept takes GMC’s outstanding new HD platform to the next level, marries it to the legendary Duramax diesel/Allison transmission, and provides a heavy-duty expression of GMC’s premium All Terrain package,” said Lisa Hutchinson, GMC product marketing director.
The bed measures 5-feet 8-inches long, and features lockable lighted compartments, with access to a 110-volt power outlet and an air compressor. To give passengers a leg up, literally, the concept truck incorporates motorized assist steps for the cabin and cargo area.
The All Terrain HD features a wider 73-inch track, 3 inches more ground clearance, with special front upper and lower control arms, proprietary Fox shocks with remote reservoirs. What’s more, the truck can electronically disconnect the front stabilizer bar to facilitate suspension travel. Pretty cool.
More info at Edmunds InsideLine site here.
Jeep's Latest Grand Cherokee is Better by Leaps and Bounds
November, 2010 — Jeep's 2011 Grand Cherokee Overland 4x4 makes a surprisingly good tow vehicle, but that's not all there is to like about the all-new SUV. Air-adjustable, fully independent front and rear suspension give it excellent road manners.
With Up to 7,400 pounds of towing capacity in two-wheel-drive trim and 7,200 with four wheel drive, the new Grand Cherokee marks a big improvement over the previous model. For the full report, click here.
GM's Flint Assembly Plant Produces No. 13,000,000
October 6, 2010 — On the last day of September, General Motors’ Flint assembly logged a major milestone in producing its 13 millionth vehicle since the plant opened in 1947.
The 13 millionth vehicle? A 2011 GMC Sierra Denali HD. Other models that have been produced at the Flint plant include the 1953 Corvette, Bel Airs and Impalas, Monte Carlos, pickups and Suburbans.
The truck was purchased by James Stubbings, a Michigan resident and president of Heartbeat City, a Camaro restoration parts supplier in Shelby Township, Mich. Ironically enough, the Sierra was Mr. Stubbings’ 13th GMC truck.
"I am happy to be a part of today's 13 millionth vehicle celebration,” Stubbings said. “I have been a proud owner of many GM products over the years and am especially excited that my latest purchase was built right here in Michigan!"
For more information on the new Sierra Denali HD line, visit
www.gmc.com.
Ford Debuts "Torture Test" Web Documentary Series
Sept. 27, 2010 — Ford Motor Company wants consumers to know the new V6 Ecoboost engines used in the 2011 F-150 are tough.
To demonstrate, Ford has produced a Web-based documentary that features an Ecoboost V6, pulled at random from the assembly line at the Cleveland engine plant, that then undergoes dynamometer testing for the equivalent of 150,000 miles.
Afterward, the engine goes to the Kansas City assembly plant where it is installed in an F-150 and used by a logging company to haul thousands of pounds of timber up steep grades. After that it goes to Miami’s Homestead Speedway to tow a pair of NASCAR Sprint Cup Ford Fusions at full throttle for 24 hours on the track, stopping only for tires and fuel.
After that, the same engine is removed from the stock truck, dropped into an off-road race truck and entered into the 2010 Tecate SCORE Baja 1000. After the race, the engine gets torn down for inspection, all of which is shown during the five-part series.
Narrated by Mike Rowe of Discovery Channel’s Dirty Jobs program, the first of the series is available at the following link:
http://www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/f150/2011/experiencef150
The True Value of a PWC Trailer
Sept. 15, 2010 — If you think you can get away without using a decent trailer for your PWC, you might want to think again because the truck you save could be your own. Check out this video we found here.
August Pickup Truck Sales Figures a Mixed Bag
Sept. 13, 2010 — The Wall Street Journal has reported that August sales year-over-year for pickup trucks were down 4.4 percent. However, year-to-date figures for pickup trucks are up 10.6 percent over 2009, with 1,045,385 units sold to date.
Leading the market are Ford’s F-series pickups, a model designation that includes the F-150 and its Super Duty line. In August, Ford sold 47,652 of its F-series trucks. Chevrolet sold 34,084 Silverado pickups and GMC sold 11,640 Sierras during the same period.
For more information, see the full story at http://online.wsj.com/mdc/public/page/2_3022-autosales.html
New Towing Tip Video Posted on Our YouTube Channel
Sept. 8, 2010 — Check out our latest video towing tip on our YouTube channel. Click here to see it now. For more tips, you can find them on YouTube and in our archives.
Dodge Set to Debut New 2011 Durango
Sept. 7, 2010 — Dodge used the Virginia Beach half marathon to debut its new 2011 Durango SUV.
The "Dodge Rock ‘n’ Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon presented by SunTrust," held Sunday, Sept. 5, featured a new 2011 Dodge Durango pacing the event. Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles, competed in the half marathon. In fact, some 30 Dodge employees drove from Auburn Hills, Mich., to Virginia Beach, Va., in three of the new Durangos to take part in the event.
The new Durango features a softened approach to the big-rig look that has contributed to the success of its trucks and SUVs. Familiar cues, such as the “gunsight” grille are still present, but the new SUV also borrows styling touches from the new Challenger. Specs were not available today, but it will be offered with all-wheel drive. You can view a full slideshow and sign up for updates at www.dodge.com/en/2011/durango/#/home
An Aptly Named Towing Strap
August 31, 2010 — We found this item while noodling around the Internet. It’s a retractable tow strap from Smart Straps, and it's one of those ideas that makes you wonder why no one thought of it before.
The strap extends up to 14 feet in length, has a 3,000-pound safe working capacity and 10,000-pound break strength. It weighs just four pounds and sells for less than $20 at Sportsman’s Guide.com. Because it retracts, it also takes up less room in the tool box. Pretty neat.
http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/cb/cb.aspx?a=318048
New 2011 Engine Lineup for Ford's F-150
August 30, 2010 — Ford has announced a new engine lineup for its 2011 F-150 pickup trucks. Four new truck engines make their debut for 2011, all of which, Ford reports, are 20 percent more fuel efficient than the 2010 power plants.
First is a 3.7-liter V6, which delivers 300 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. Next is a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The largest engine is a 6.2-liter V8 that churns out 411 horsepower and 434 pound feet of torque.
Ford's new 5.0-liter V8 for the 2011 F-150
A 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 will become available in 2011, according to Ford. Power figures have not yet been released, but Ford is saying that the new V6 incorporates technologies used in diesel engines, such as twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. Peak torque occurs at 2,000 rpm according to Ford literature, and provides for a 11,300-pound towing capacity.
“Our new engine lineup allows greater flexibility for customers to select the powertrain choice that best suits their needs,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president of powertrain engineering. “We are in the midst of a powertrain revolution, with 30 new powertrains over the next two years, and our loyal F-150 customers are the next ones to benefit.”
Ford's new 6.2-liter V8 for the 2011 F-150
All engines feature overhead cam designs, variable valve timing and six-speed automatic transmissions as standard equipment. For more information on the 2011 F-150, visit www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/f150/.
Chevrolet Celebrates Suburban's 75th Anniversary
August 26, 2010 — Here’s something we didn’t know: The Chevrolet Suburban is the first vehicle in the industry to achieve 75 years in production. Introduced in 1935, the Suburban was the first truck-based wagon. The original model could seat eight people, or with the seats removed, carry more cargo than the car-based “sedan delivery” models of the era.
The word "icon" gets thrown around a lot, often too casually, but in the case of the Suburban, it certainly is fitting.
“Times have changed, but the Suburban remains a fixture in the industry for private and professional customers who need truck-like towing capability with maximum passenger and cargo space,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet general manager. “The Suburban’s core capabilities and dependability have remained constant for more than seven decades, and generations of people know that a Suburban will haul people and their gear.”
To celebrate the milestone, Chevrolet is offering the 75th anniversary Diamond Edition Suburban, which features a white diamond tricoat paint job and cashmere interior. For more information, visit www.chevrolet.com.
Suburbans have been hauling people and gear, and towing trailers for seven decades.
New Compact Honeywell Generators Feature Inverter Technology
Aug. 17, 2010 — Two new compact generators from Honeywell feature inverter technology, which makes them ideal for camping and other outdoor uses. The HW1000i and HW2000i can be used to power laptop computers, cordless phones, radios and televisions, lights and other electrical appliances.
With continuous power outputs of 900 and 2,000 watts, respectively, the new generators are lightweight and quiet, and can run up to five hours on 1.5 gallons of gasoline.
The new generators come with an ergonomic handle built in to the top of them, a red overload or short-circuit light, an efficiency mode that automatically optimizes fuel consumption and a low-oil indicator that shuts off the generator if the oil level is to low. They come with a two-year warranty good at service centers throughout North America.
Both models are powered by air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engines, which meet CARB, EPA and CSA standards for operation in all 50 states and throughout Canada.
MSRP for the HW1000i is $399, and $499 for the HW2000i. For more information, visit www.honeywellgenerators.com.
Horse Heaven
Aug. 11, 2010 — Horses never had it so good in Featherlite’s new 9608 straight load horse trailer.
Available in 15-, 19.5- and 28-foot lengths, the 9608 features a full-width rear ramp door with double, lighted doors above. People enter through the side doors into a dressing room that is fitted with a brush tray, halter hooks and a saddle rack. Other options include a roof-mounted hay rack, which is accessed by a 6-foot ladder.
“Many straight load horse trailers either carry two horses or six with no middle ground,” said Randy Lewis, Featherlite’s national sales manager. “Offering a four-horse straight load trailer lets our customers select just the trailer they need.”
The horse stalls feature some unique touches, such as rubber-lined stalls and flooring and nylon bushings on the stall dividers, which quell noise and vibration and keep horses calmer.
Base MSRP for the 4H model is $39,114 and $24,638 for the 2H. For more information, visit www.fthr.com or call 800-800-1230.
Lock Your Fire Extinguisher in Place
July 28, 2010 — Your father always told you to keep a fire extinguisher in your tow vehicle, but one that is just rolling around on the floor can be dangerous in a collision or during evasive maneuvers. With a new bracket from Mac's Custom Tie Downs, you can keep an extinguisher on board that won't become a deadly projectile.
CNC machined from a single pice of aluminum and fitted with all stainless hardware, the brackets look trick in any interior. Simply pull the pin to remove the extinguisher for use. The brackets are available with floor-mounting for $129.95 or tube-mounting for cars and trucks with roll bars or cages for $149.95.
For more information, visit www.macscustomtiedowns.com.
Shoulder the Load with Hitch Helper
July 7, 2010 — A heavy trailer can have detrimental effects on your tow vehicle’s braking and handling. Lots of tongue weight also can lead to a nonlevel connection, which can have you dragging your tongue jack over uneven surfaces, and possibly damaging the foot.
A simple product that can help alleviate the problem is the Hitch Helper from ACC Towing Products in Longboat Key, Fla. Hitch Helper adds a wheel beneath the coupler connection to help support the tongue of the trailer and take some of the load off the rear springs of your tow vehicle. Available in single- and dual-wheel versions, Hitch Helper sells for $795 and $1,295 respectively.
You also can choose from a number of options and features, such as shock absorbers, torsion bar suspension, and an air ride system on heavier duty models. It’s even available in stainless steel so boaters can back it into saltwater without worrying about corrosion.
For more information, call 813-767-4357, or visit www.acctowing.com.
Toyota's Tundra Exhibits Technical Excellence
June 2010 — As little as five years ago, shopping for a truck that could tow 10,000 pounds meant looking at three-quarter-ton and one-ton models with diesel engines and dual rear wheels. Oh, how things have changed.
Toyota's 2010 Tundra CrewMax 4x4 pulls 10,100 pounds, yet is still livable as a daily driver. For the full story and lots of photos, click here.
Volkswagen's TDI Diesel is The Little Engine That Can
May 2010 — The Touareg TDI presents perhaps one of the greatest compromises between a daily driver and a capable tow vehicle. We sampled one for a week, pulling trailers and running daily errands.
For the full story and towing evaluation on Volkswagen's Touareg TDI, click here.
Featherlite Debuts New “Mod Pod” Model 1609
June 10, 2010 — As popular as trucks and SUVs are, not everyone wants one. But those same people would like to be able to haul around their bikes, ATVs, kayaks and camping gear. For that demographic, Featherlite Trailers has introduced its “Mod Pod” model 1609, a versatile new utility trailer you can pull behind virtually any vehicle.
“The new size of the Mod Pod gives trailer owners more cargo space,” Randy Lewis, Featherlite’s National Sales Manager, said. “More space equals more options when hauling cargo. That puts Mod Pod owners ahead of the curve.”
Available in 8- and 10-foot lengths, and 4- and 5-foot heights, respectively, the Mod Pod also features a pop-up lid to make loading and unloading a snap.
Weighing just 1,200 pounds and starting at $6,437 for the 10-footer, the Mod Pod also can be equipped with a variety options, such as a front gravel guard, floor tie downs, a luggage rack, a tool box, an enclosed tire carrier and even a full palette of colors.
For more information, call 800-800-1230 or visit www.fthr.com.
What You Need When Towing with a VW or Audi SUV
June 3, 2010 — The 2010 Touareg we tested a few weeks back had an OEM connector we had not seen before. It had seven terminals and was round, but it was smaller than the regular RV-style seven-blade round connector that is so common. You’ll need an adapter.
We ended up getting one from an Audi dealership in the San Fernando Valley, so we’re sure the Audi Q5 and Q7 SUVs come with this same style of connector. Retail price for part number ZVW 808 007 was $37.44.
It was odd that it came in a Valley Towing Products box. We checked Valley’s Web site, but couldn’t find it among its electrical products. So if you have a VW or an Audi SUV and are scratching your head at the connector, you can get one at the dealer.
Featherlite Introduces New Multipurpose Gooseneck Trailer
May 17, 2010 — Featherlite has debuted the 3112, a gooseneck version of its bumper-pull 3110. Designed for use not only by car enthusiasts, but also landscapers, farmers and contractors, the 3112 is available in 20-, 24-, 26- and 30-foot lengths and measures a permit-free 8 feet 6 inches wide.
“Featherlite’s new Model 3112 is designed to be extremely versatile, easy-to-tow and full of great features and options,” said Featherlite national sales manager Randy Lewis. “Plus, Featherlite’s aluminum trailer construction gives owners unmatched durability and performance that can last for many years of hauling.”
The 3112 comes with a pair of 7-foot-long ramps that pull out from beneath the back of the trailer. The new model also comes fitted with stainless-steel swivel D-ring tie downs for securing cargo and vehicles, removable fenders with stainless latches and a skid-resistant extruded aluminum floor panel.
For owner convenience, the 3112 features LED lights and a lower loading height. Options include a full-width, fold-up rear ramp, aluminum tool box, a winch with remote control and recessed tire storage. The 24-footer also is available with Featherlite’s power lift tilt package, which raises and lowers the forward legs electrically.
Base MSRP is $12,104. For more information, call Featherlite Trailers at 800-800-1230, visit your local dealer or go to www.fthr.com/tnews.
Motorcycles Stay Put with Straps from M&R Products
May 7, 2010 — Whether you are taking dirt bikes to the trails, sport bikes to the track or towing a Harley to Daytona for Bike Week, one notion is constant: they need to stay put.
M&R Products offers a couple of different sets of tie-down straps to do just that. The first is the Power Four Pack, a 2-inch-wide strap set that includes a pair of cam-lock tie straps and a pair of ratcheting straps. Strap lengths are 5.5 feet and they are available in black, red, blue, yellow and silver. The kit sells for $61.
M&R also offers a deluxe kit for $72, which includes the same straps and color choices as the Power Four Pack, but also comes with Soft Touch protectors, which are essentially 6-inch straps with loops at both ends to eliminate metal-to-metal contact. The loops also are fitted with M&R’s fleece sleeves for even greater paint protection.
For more information, visit www.mrproducts.com.
Mac’s Custom Tie Downs Offers New Chain Extension Kit
May 5, 2010 — Sometimes trailers don’t have the ideal configuration for tying down a car, and you end up with tie straps that are tweaked or aren’t pulling straight from the car to the tie-down point. This happens more often than you might think, particularly with rental equipment trailers that are designed for carrying everything—but not any one thing. The kit also is great for people who find themselves carrying lots of different kinds of loads.
To solve this problem, Mac’s Custom Tie Downs now offers new chain extensions, which let users connect straps to angle iron or stake pockets that might not line up perfectly. The kits comes with four ratchet straps with chain extensions, four 24-inch axle straps, and four wrap straps with Mac’s blue duffle bag for convenient storage. The kit price also qualifies it for free ground shipping anywhere in the lower 48 United States.
Retail price is $209.95. For more information, visit www.macscustomtiedowns.com/product/322/UltraPacks/?r=CCChainEnd
Dodge's New Heavy Duty Ram 3500 Tows With Authority While Coddling its Passengers With a Surprisingly Supple Ride
April 28, 2010 — We spent a week with Dodge's 2010 Heavy Duty Ram Crew Cab dually, pulling trailers, picking up kids and grabbing groceries. The verdict? Like all long-bed duallies, it can be a challenge to park, but it's liveable as a daily driver and incredible as a tow vehicle.
Read the whole story and access photos of the new Heavy Duty Ram here.
GMC Announces New Denali HD for 2011
April 15, 2010 — For the first time since the advent of the Denali models, GMC has announced it will offer the luxury trim level in its HD line of Sierras. Starting at $45,865, the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali HD will begin arriving at dealerships in June.
“The all-new 2011 Sierra Denali HD blends capability with premium features and styling,” said GMC product marketing director Lisa Hutchinson in a news release. “With its powerful, best-in-class diesel engine, the new Sierra HD models have increased towing and hauling capabilities, a key consideration for people who use them for work or for recreation, such as towing a large boat or trailer.”
Pricing for the Duramax diesel engine and Allison transmission remains unchanged from 2010 models, at $8,395, despite an increase in fuel economy ratings, quietness, performance and emissions.
The new HD’s also boast an increased towing capability of up to 20,000 pounds and payload up to 6,335 pounds. Capacity improvements stem from an all-new fully boxed, high-strength steel frame. The new Sierra HD also offers such systems as trailer sway control, a “smart” exhaust brake and hill-start assist.
For more information, visit www.gmc.com.
Ford’s New 2011 Super Duty Diesels Pull Clean and Strong
April 13, 2010 — Power- ed by the new 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine, the forthcoming 2011 Super Duty pickups average 18 percent better fuel economy, can tow up to 26,400 pounds of trailer, and can carry 6,520 pounds of payload.
"The 2011 Super Duty is not only the most powerful, most capable and fuel-efficient heavy-duty pickup truck on the road, it performs the tough jobs with even more efficiency than ever before," said Doug Scott, Ford’s truck group marketing manager.
The increase in towing capacity and payload is as much a function of Ford’s new diesel engine as it is of the all-new 6R140 heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission. The new transmission is 25 pounds lighter than those of competitive models and features a higher stabilized operating temperature, which reduces fluid viscosity, decreases parasitic losses and, ultimately, uses less fuel.
The new B20 biodiesel-compatible engine’s catalyst heats the exhaust to 250 degrees Celsius, which oxidizes hydrocarbons into water and carbon dioxide. The NOx emissions are converted to water and inert nitrogen and doused with diesel exhaust fluid (67.5 percent water; 32.5 percent urea). The exhaust is then run through a particulate filter to scrub away soot. When full, the particulate filter is heated to 600 degrees Celsius to burn off the soot
"Having this diesel designed in-house at Ford meant we were able to work on optimizations and refinements right from the start," said Tim Ogilvie, Ford’s vehicle energy supervisor. "We're able to deliver to customers a more refined, more fuel-efficient Super Duty, with class-leading torque and horsepower and the class-leading capability they demand."
For more information, visit www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/superduty/features/
Featherlite Debuts New Lazer Livestock Trailers
April 7, 2010 — It isn’t easy to make a good looking livestock trailer, but Featherlite hasdone it with its new Lazer line. More than just a pretty face, the Lazers also boast some practical construction features.
For example, the side panels are welded to the inside of the trailer’s structural side posts, which makes the interior far easier to clean because there are no crevices to trap, well, what livestock often leaves behind.
A gooseneck design, the Lazer is available in 20-, 24- and 28-foot lengths. It has twin 7,000-pound rubber torsion axles with electric brakes and an interior height of 6 feet 6 inches, a full-swing stock gate and a lockable rear slider. The jack features a removable handle and all the clearance and stop/turn lamps are maintenance-free LEDs. Because it’s a Featherlite, it’s lightweight. Your horses should be so lucky.
For more information, visit www.fthr.com.
BMW Introduces New X5
March 25, 2010 — BMW North America launched the latest version of its X5 SAV (sport activity vehicle) at its manufacturing plant in Spartanburg, N.C.
The 2011 X5 features an entirely new range of gasoline and diesel engines for higher performance, greater fuel economy and up to 10 percent lower emissions. Many of the models now come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Yes, eight speeds. They also have been upgraded with new transfer cases, front and rear differentials and driveshafts.
Visually, the new X5 gets redesigned front and rear fascias, fenders, headlights and taillamps.
“This adaptation significantly enhances the presence of the new X5, making it look fresher and more elegant,” said Bobby Hitt, department manager for corporate affairs, BMW Manufacturing Co.
The new X5 also features such safety features as lane departure warning and active cruise control with a “stop and go” function, which ensures that it maintains the selected distance from the vehicle ahead. The system can slow the car down and even bring it to a complete stop, without the driver having to depress the brake pedal.
Early news releases had no towing capacity listed, but the previous generation X5 was rated at 6,000 pounds.
For more information, visit www.bmwusanews.com.
How Well Does the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 Perform With a Trailer in tow? OnlineTowingGuide.com Does a Complete Test and Evaluation
March 15, 2010 — The new 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie looks great, but it also makes one competent tow vehicle and a luxurious people mover. You can read the whole story and access photos and videos of the new Ram here.
— MORE —
