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CONTENTS 2019 PREVIEW: Part 3 featuring some competitive events ...pg 28
FWD MUSEUM: The birthplace of 4WD is getting a makeover ...pg 24
M/T TIRES:
Mud-Terrain Tires Buyers Guide ...pg 16
WINCHES:
Winch Buyers Guide ... pg 32
Lost Lookouts
TRD Pro Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is a truly old-school off-road machine! ...pg 10
1978 Cherokee Chief
B.C.’s abandoned fire lookouts make for some great off-roading ...pg 20
Brianne Hollingsworth’s 1978 Jeep Cherokee Chief is a family heirloom ...pg 38
ALSO INSIDE:
Fresh Tracks------------------------------ 4 Gearing Up--------------------------------42 Winchin’ Out------------------------------46 APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE
FRESH TRACKS
Updated 2020 Toyota Tacoma Debuts in Chicago
T
oyota has revealed an updated 2020 Tacoma in Chicago, which comes at a perfect time, as the mid-size pickup market is heating up thanks to the recent resurgence of the Colorado/ Canyon GM twins, the re-introduction of the Ford Ranger, and rumours of Nissan’s Frontier getting a long-awaited redesign. The new model serves as a mid-cycle refresh to a truck that was introduced as completely redesigned back in 2016 after nearly 10 years of the previous generation. The truck will now offer revised styling, expanded multimedia tech, added comfort and convenience features, and additional off-road goodies for the TRD Pro model. Beginning on the outside, the 2020 Tacoma features a new front grille design and new or updated wheels which tailor to each specific model. Inside of the Tacoma, a new 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat is available, as is a new multimedia system that now offers Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The SR model will now boast a 7-in. touchscreen, while SR5 models and higher will feature an 8-in. touchscreen display. Each of the six model grades will receive their own specific upgrades starting with the base SR model, all the way up to the top-of-the-line Limited model. The off-road-oriented TRD Pro model is probably the most distinctive model in the lineup and will be offered with a plethora of new features as well, including new sequential LED/DRL headlamps, an updated 16-in. wheel design and black-insert taillamps. The Rigid Industries LED fog lights come standard and a new Army Green colour will be available for 2020. Neither pricing nor an on-sale date has been released yet, but we will be sure to keep you updated once they do. OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Volume 3, Issue No. 2 April / May 2019
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Publisher: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Distribution Manager: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor: Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca
Mopar-Designed Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 1941 Makes European Debut The new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 1941 model has made its European debut at the Geneva International Motor Show, and Jeep says it’s made to take the desire for adventure to the max. The Mopar-designed model features many Jeep Authentic Accessories and Jeep Performance Parts which are meant to enhance its look and build on its legendary off-road capability. The Jeep features a 2-in. suspension lift kit, snorkel, rock rails, black door sill, black fuel filler door and all-weather mats. As a finishing touch, a 1941 livery commemorates an important year for the Jeep brand as it was the first appearance of the
Advertising Sales: Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan John Gunnell Stefanie Galeano-Zalutko Spencer Whitney CONTACT INFORMATION
OFF-ROAD PLUS Magazine is published seven times per year by RPM Media Inc. MAILING ADDRESS: 2460 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada V3C 1T4 TELEPHONE: (604) 629-9669 FAX: (778) 285-2449 TOLL FREE: (888)-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca WEBSITE: www.rpmcanada.ca Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183
original Willys Jeep. Other heritage-inspired details of this new Jeep include the wheel, gear knob and tailgate table, while it is also enhanced with other accessories selected from the Jeep Wrangler range which totals more than 200 accessories, including a matte black grille, mud guards, off-road lights and the Hella Yella yellow paintwork. Inside also features upgrades including a black mesh sun bonnet and front grab handles. Given that this is the European debut, there’s no guarantee that the model will be available on our side of the pond, but if it is, we will be sure to update you.
OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Angled PowerPly XD™ 3 ply + 50% extra denier cords.
Reduces noise and improves on-center feel to reduce side-slip.
50% larger SideBiters® compared to the Baja MTZP3.
Mickey Thompson introduces the baddest mud tire on the planet. We create tires for our loyal off-roaders who live this extreme life. Our products are niche, our technology is rich & the BAJA BOSS™ is the next evolution in our quest for the perfect PREMIUM EXTREME MUD TIRE. MICKEYTHOMPSONTIRES.COM #BAJABOSSNATION CONSTRUCTED FOR THE BROTHERHOOD OF MUD, WE SALUTE YOU!
Volume 3, Issue No. 2 April / May 2019
ADVERTISER INDEX
Anzo USA ------------------------------------ 2 BDS Suspension -------------------------- 37 BOLT ---------------------------------------- 48 Bright Source -------------------------------- 9 Eibach -------------------------------------- 44 Formula Distributors - -------------------- 29 Husky Liners - --------------------------18,19 HyperTech - ---------------------------------- 5 ICI ------------------------------------------- 41 Iron Cross Automotive ------------------- 21 Lordco Auto Parts ------------------------ 35 Mickey Thompson -------------------------- 7 Nitto Tires ---------------------------------- 33 Rugged Ridge ----------------------------- 15 Superchips --------------------------------- 45 TrailFX -------------------------------------- 47 PICK UP LOCATIONS
Hennessey Introduces the 2019 VelociRaptor Ford Ranger Hennessey Performance (HPE) has utilized its experience in building thousands of VelociRaptor-powered Ford Raptor trucks to create the VelociRaptor Ranger which, of course, is based on the all-new 2019 Ford Ranger. To start, Hennessey has obviously increased power, taking the 270 horsepower generated from the 2.3L turbocharged EcoBoost engine and increasing it up to 350 horsepower along with 385 lb-ft of torque, which is up from 310. In order to achieve the upgraded power numbers, the VelociRaptor Ranger sees increased air flow through a new high-flow air induction system, less restrictive and aggressive-sounding stainless steel catback exhaust system, and ECU tuning for increased boost. The new power numbers allow the VelociRaptor Ranger to go from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in just 6.1 seconds. In addition to the increase in power, Hennessey has also upped the ante in terms of off-road performance. This begins with a Stage 1 off-road suspension upgrade which features a 4-in. lift along with 17-in. alloy wheels and upgraded BFGoodrich Off-Road tires. In addition, the VelociRaptor Ranger also gets an upgraded front bumper with LED lights and an optional winch upgrade, plus a roof-mounted LED light bar is also available. Production will be limited to just 500 units for 2019 and the truck will cost roughly $64,950 USD which includes the cost of the truck and the full list of upgrades.
Rugged Ridge Unveils New Logo and Announces New Aggressive Design Philosophy Rugged Ridge, a Truck Hero Inc. company and a leading manufacturer of high-quality Jeep, truck and off-road parts and accessories, recently shared its new design philosophy which is accompanied by an updated logo and branding design. Rugged Ridge was established back in 2005 by parent company Omix-ADA to serve as its aftermarket Jeep accessories brand, and over the last 14 years, the company has been hard at work creating thousands of Jeep Wrangler accessories to service the needs of the Jeep and off-road communities. In 2017, Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge were purchased by aftermarket parts giant Truck Hero Inc. and this change, along with the launch of the new Jeep Wrangler JL, inspired a renewed philosophy in product design which is to aggressively engineer the most innovative products available for today’s Jeep owner. Continuing on what they’ve already built, the company has made a commitment to deliver materials of exceptional quality, precise fitments and the finest premium finishes. As mentioned, the new philosophy encouraged a fresh approach to the company’s corporate branding strategy with new branding and logos created to suggest a more aggressive and contemporary concept. The ‘RR’ imagery represents a modern interpretation of mountains and trails which are, of course, the type of terrain where Jeeps perform best. “We took our experience from developing thousands of Jeep accessories and combined it with the knowledge and support of Truck Hero Inc. to decide where we should take our brand over the coming decade,” said Henk van Dongen, Director of Marketing at Rugged Ridge. “With the excitement surrounding the new Wrangler JL, our innovative design philosophy strives to raise the standard in the marketplace. We’re excited to debut our updated branding and logos to reflect these changes.” For more information on the rebranding and to view Rugged Ridge’s complete line of products, please visit www.ruggedridge.com
OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Old-School Off-Roader The 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
he Toyota 4Runner is a strange vehicle in the sense that, in so many ways, it does follow the massive auto T industry trend of being an SUV but in others, it doesn’t fit at all. The SUV features a true body-on-frame design when almost every other SUV has become unibody, boasts a large naturally aspirated 4.0L V6 under the hood where others are moving to smaller, turbocharged units, and leaves a little to be desired in terms of infotainment and technology features.
Now, that may have sounded like I was putting down the current version of the 4Runner, however my intentions were quite the opposite. All of the things I listed are just some of the things that have endeared the SUV to me ever since I first drove one 5-6 years ago, on top of having an ageless, sharp looking appearance that is as good as it’s ever been. Having recently had the opportunity to test the off-road-oriented TRD Pro model for the first time recently, I found that I loved it even more.
Story and photos by Jordan Allan, additional photos courtesy of Toyota Canada
First, let’s talk about what differentiates the TRD Pro Model from the other 4Runner offerings. To start, it and the entire current TRD Pro family, which also includes the Tacoma and Tundra, ride on 2.5-in. TRD Pro-exclusive Fox Internal Bypass shocks that were specifically tuned for each vehicle by TRD. The aluminum-bodied shocks offer supreme damping performance in a wide variety of driving situations, which leaves you with a perfectly comfortable and capable ride 100-percent of the time. A 1/4-in front skid plate is stamped with new red TRD lettering while the matte black TRD alloy 17-in. wheels now feature a new offset that provides it with nearly a 1-in. wider track in the front and rear for added stability. The aforementioned wheels are usually wrapped in a set of Nitto Grappler all-terrain tires, however our test came during a late winter storm, so the Toyo Observe GSi-5’s came in handy. Quickly, on top of the functionality upgrades, the TRD Pro model also features a number of appearance upgrades including special floor mats, shift knob, seats, available LED fogs, a blacked-out grille and projector-beam headlights with a smoked out trim. As I mentioned, I do love the overall exterior look of the 4Runner, especially the TRD Pro model, and probably wouldn’t change one thing even if I could. The SUV remains pretty much the same since this first generation was introduced back in 2010 and facelifted in 2014, which is not abnormal for Toyota as they’ve done similar things with the Tacoma and FJ Cruiser and clearly buy in to the mantra ‘if
12 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ In saying that, news has already come up of a few upgrades for the 2020 4Runner, but by the sounds of it they will remain relatively minor and won’t change the overall feel. I said earlier that the interior does feel a bit dated and truthfully, despite my love for the vehicle overall, it does. In saying that however, I don’t think there could be a better fit. The volume, tuning and HVAC knobs are huge and only add to the rugged feel of the truck while the rest of it does enough that it won’t affect your creature comforts that you’ve been accustomed to in other new vehicles. The 6.1-in. touchscreen infotainment display still has Bluetooth and Navigation while a small display sits between the large speedometer and tachometer to help you keep track of things like safety systems and your speed digitally. Safety features are aplenty despite its old-school nature, with the Star Safety System coming standard on all TRD Pro models, and it includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
seats have plenty of room for either more people or extra gear if you somehow fill up the rear. A new, powder-coated roof rack was introduced for 2019 and allows you to easily store larger items like coolers or some items that you may not want riding around inside with you after a lengthy stay in the bush. City driving in the 4Runner was a breeze and although you won’t forget you’re driving a vehicle of its size, it’s far from a burden and is manoeuvrable on tight downtown streets or packed mall parking lots. Another point worth mentioning is that, even with the added roof rack, larger tires and slight suspension lift, I was able to park the 4Runner in my underground parking lot, which is especially important if you’re not a fan of early morning windshield scraping. Although I took it down some rough gravel back roads, I was nowhere near to testing the 4Runner’s true off-road capabilities, which
During the test week with the 4Runner, we had a late winter snow storm which is something of a rarity here on the West Coast, but I soon found that I would be driving the perfect vehicle for it. The well-balanced SUV would not slide out in nearly any circumstances without even needing 4WD and the high-clearance and wide stance allowed me to retain a sense of balance even while traveling through some pretty deep, fresh fallen snow. Funny enough, and in typical Vancouver fashion, by the end of the week, temperatures crept above the freezing level and had me day-dreaming of future camping trips whilst sitting in what is probably best described as an absolute camping machine. The rear cargo area is enormous, both in its depth and height, and the back APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 13
$58,522. Now, if I can put my fanboy hat on here again, I think the price can easily be justified. Sure, there will be some who look at the list of its technology features and outdated interior and decide that it’s not for them and that is just fine. However, aside from the Jeep Wrangler, the 4Runner TRD Pro is the most factory off-roadcapable SUV out there, and if weekend adventures or the outdoor lifestyle appeal to you, that will mean something. One last point on the price would be that Toyotas have an incredible reputation for holding their values for extremely long periods of time, which is evidenced by one quick look at the used vehicle
by all accounts and some YouTube research, is top notch. Also it’s probably safe to assume that vehicles with a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) and Crawl Control (CRAWL) are going to perform well when the pavement ends. The KDSS adjusts the suspension system for better wheel articulation, while the CRAWL will automatically modulate the throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings. A lever-controlled transfer case further adds to the oldschool theme, while the Multi-Terrain Select allows you to choose from four modes that will help you regulate wheelspin by adjusting both the engine throttle setting and traction control. Lastly, an electronically controlled locking rear differential will evenly distribute power to both wheels, which comes especially handy when tackling large obstacles and uneven terrain. Maybe the one downfall of the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is its price tag, which begins at $56,580 with our test model coming in at
market for just about any Tacoma, Tundra or 4Runner. The prices remain very high and have for years, which definitely should say something about their long-term durability. In fact, maybe five or six years down the road, I will do another search and see what a 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro would cost me then. It’s that good.
Price as Tested: ..........................................................$58,522 Engine: .................................................4.0L DOHC 24-valve V6 Power: ....................................................... 270 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque: .................................................... 278 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm Transmission: ..................................................... 5-speed auto Curb Weight: . ............................................. 2,111 kg / 4,655 lb. Fuel Efficiency Rating: ..........14.3 / 11.9 L/100 km, city/hwy
14 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
THE ADVENTURE SEEKER
At Rugged Ridge we develop uniquely designed, attractive, durable and functional parts and accessories. Whether it is styling that you want or parts to make your rig more capable, Rugged Ridge has everything you need for your adventure. Available through retailers nationwide.
WWW.RUGGEDRIDGE.COM Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC, Omix-ADA® KU PQV CHƒ NKCVGF YKVJ (%# 75 ..%
PRODUCTS: MUD-TERRAIN TIRES
BUYERS’ GUIDE Antares Tires DEEP DIGGER MT Description: The Deep Digger MT has an aggressive tread design for excellent traction on- and off-road. Its uniform tread contact area makes for sure-footed handling on all terrains. Built with special silicon technology, this tire is M&S All-Season rated. Website: www.formuladistributors.com
BFGoodrich Mud Terrain T/A KM3 Description: BFGoodrich’s new T/A KM3 tire features a Terrain-Attack tread design that powers through mud and loose soil, and huge tread blocks which are designed to deliver incredible grip from any angle of approach, while mud-phobic bars release compacted mud for continued traction. The Krawl-TEK compound enhances grip on rock and slick surfaces, and the linear flex zone allows the tire to flex and envelop objects in aired-down driving situations. Website: www.bfgoodrichtires.ca
Dick Cepek Extreme Country Description: The new Extreme Country mud-terrain tire has been designed with a proven tread compound for excellent traction, responsive handling, even wear, longer life and a quieter ride. Available in 21 popular sizes, the Extreme Country line delivers stability and responsive grip on irregular surfaces, with a heavy-duty carcass that enhances sidewall strength. Wide outer tread voids and angled shoulder scallops offer added grip in mud and loose soil. Website: www.dickcepek.com
Fury Off-Road Country Hunter M/T 2 Description: Fury Off-Road’s Country Hunter M/T 2 tires feature a new tread design that offers the aggressiveness that is necessary to conquer even the toughest of off-road situations. The tire will still offer the same on-road characteristics of the M/T tire which include excellent traction and a smooth, quiet ride. Website: www.furytires.com
General Grabber X3 Description: General Tire’s Grabber X3 tire is the ideal mud-terrain tire that offers off-road traction but also has a good balance of on-road performance. The DuraGen Technology features a strong, cut- and chip-resistant compound that is coupled with ultra-high-strength steel belts and a broad, flat contour to provide confident stability. The high void-pattern design and evacuation channels allow for high traction levels in mud, while providing an efficient selfcleaning ability at the same time. The tire is capable in mud, rock, and dirt terrains, while also providing a quiet ride during on-road situations. Website: www.generaltire.ca 16 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Goodyear Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar Description: Goodyear’s Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar tire features Dupont Kevlar-reinforced sidewalls that increase its puncture resistance by up to 35 percent. The wraparound tread helps deliver sidewall traction in mud, sand and rocks, while an innovative asymmetric tread design helps provide enhanced on-road traction and aggressive off-road traction. Additionally, the advanced silica rubber provides superb off-road and wet traction. Website: www.goodyear.ca
Kumho Road Venture MT Description: Kumho’s Road Venture MT KL71 is a race-proven, mudslinging off-road tire that has surprisingly good on-road manners. The extra-deep cut and chip-resistant directional compound will withstand the most brutal of environments, while the tread design is engineered to promote self cleaning. It is available in sizes ranging from flotation sizes for lifted vehicles to LT-metric sizes in load ranges C, D and E for the applications that require extra load-carrying capacity. Website: www.kumhotire.ca
Maxxis RAZR MT Description: Maxxis’ Razr MT tire has been engineered using the brand’s involvement in off-road racing and features a new off-road compound with new chemical fillers for maximum tear and chip resistance as well as tread life. The new pattern has deeply sculpted centre blocks which maximize mud traction, while the mud ejectors improve self cleaning. Website: www.maxxiscanada.com
Mickey Thompson Baja Boss Description: Mickey Thompson’s new Baja Boss extreme mud-terrain tire features deep, wide voids and the company’s PowerPly XD 3-ply sidewall construction for maximum traction. The Baja Boss will be available in 18 high load-carrying capacity sizes from 17- to 24-in. for a variety of light truck and SUV models, with an additional 18 sizes coming later. The tires will feature a soft-asymmetrical tread pattern design to give the look and feel of off-road capability. Website: www.mickeythompsontires.com
Nexen Tires ROADIAN MTX Description: The Roadian MTX features an aggressive design that is extremely versatile for on- and off-road driving. Each tire boasts a dual sidewall design that allows you to customize the look of the tire on your vehicle. The Roadian MTX also features a standard 3-Ply design and F-Load (12-ply rated) weight rating that makes it extremely capable for heavy hauling. With such rugged traits you wouldn’t expect the Roadian MTX to be as quiet as it is on the highway, but thanks to its patented tread block design, the road noise has been minimized. Website: www.formuladistributors.com
APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 17
Nitto Ridge Grappler Description: Nitto’s Ridge Grappler is aggressive-looking and designed to handle some tough terrain, but with a smoother “on road” ride. The advanced hybrid tread design provides an unexpected level of ride comfort for a tire in this rugged class. It features heavy-duty construction, and is always on- or off-road ready. Website: www.nittotire.com
Nitto Trail Grappler M/T Description: The Nitto Trail Grappler M/T blends some of the off-road performance found in the Mud Grappler with the on-road comfort of the Terra Grappler to create a tire that is both more aggressive and quieter than other tires in the class. To assist with the on-road comfort, Nitto engineers used advanced sound analysis equipment to reduce noise levels that are often associated with off-road tires. Website: www.nittotire.com
Pit Bull Maddog LT M/T Radials Description: The Pit Bull Maddog Mud Terrain LT Radial tire is designed for serious enthusiasts who desire increased load-carrying capacity, extra ground clearance and an off-road look as well as function, all coupled with tame on-road driving characteristics. The tires feature three circumferential groove channels and large tread blocks that increase stability and enhance handling. They also come with rim guards and feature a chip- and tear-resistant rubber compound that allow them to fend off sidewall cuts or abrasions. Website: www.pitbulltires.com
GO AHEAD, THROW DOWN.
Pro Comp Xtreme MT2 Description: Pro Comp’s Xtreme MT2 radial is designed to provide great performance both on- and off-road, as it delivers the toughness and traction to get your vehicle through any situation. The aggressive open tread design was optimized using computer modeling to deliver unsurpassed grip and control, without making excessive noise while on-road. Additionally, it delivers self-cleaning performance in mud and snow. Website: www.procompusa.com
Toyo Tires Open Country M/T Description: The light truck Open Country M/T mud terrain tire is designed for enthusiasts who require extra ground clearance, load-carrying capacity and off-road capability. As an added bonus, it also provides great on-road performance. It incorporates new production technology along with Toyo’s award-winning DSOC II Technology. What this means for you is levels of uniformity and durability unmatched by other mud terrain tires. This advanced balance and construction strength provides uncompromised control. Website: www.toyotires.ca
Toyo Open Country R/T Description: Toyo’s Open Country R/T is not only designed to be aggressive in off-road adventures, they also provide a smoother on-road driving experience. The Open Country R/T combines the best features found in the Open Country A/T II for all-terrain and paved road performance, while blending many of the off-road features found in the legendary Open Country M/T. Website: www.toyotires.ca
Form is our Function Precision fit to perfectly match the contours of your SUV.
Easy. Now. Husky Cargo Liners are ridiculously easy to install, remove, and clean.
Go to HuskyLiners.com or call 800.344.8759 to avoid unwanted stains and damage.
Tough to Beat. Made from a proprietary material blend that is sporty and rugged.
Lost Fire Lookouts of B.C.
Eureka Lookout
One of the more unique ways to explore the province’s mountain ranges in a 4x4 Depending on the time of year, roads can be impassable with snow.
Story by Spencer Whitney, photos courtesy of Spencer Whitney and Tina Rahn
E
ver since the early days of off-road vehicles, British Columbia has relied on them for all kinds of uses. Today we use them as a convenient means to experience wilderness, but at one point, they were an essential means for accessing parts of the province that were otherwise only connected by rail or horseback. Forestry has also always been important here. For over 100 years, the B.C. Forest Service (BCFS) has managed one of our most valuable natural resources, protecting forests and trees from fire damage, excessive logging practices, and other threats.
Idaho Peak is an easy drive with a 3 hour round trip hike to access the lookout.
In the mid 20th century, as the population in B.C. grew and more people were moving to towns near the wild forests of the province, the BCFS established a network of fire lookouts to help protect public property and valuable forest resources from the spread of fires. During the dry season, these lookouts were staffed and equipped so that rangers could quickly detect fires and dispatch crews to fight them. This was in the days before instant cellular or satellite communication, after all. Each lookout would be staffed during the dry season (May to September) by one or two people, who in the 1960s earned about $250 a month. There was barely a corner of the province that wasn’t covered by the view from these fire lookouts. However, due to evolving technology, very few - if any - are still used today. Many lookouts were closed in the 1970s and ‘80s, and almost all of them have been demolished. Fortunately for off-roaders, the trails leading to them offer some challenging terrain, and the viewpoints at the end are among the best around. Best of all, nearly every fire lookout site was made to be vehicle-accessible, offering a unique way to explore the province’s mountain ranges in a 4x4. Accessing fire lookout sites can range from challenging to enjoyable. Some trails, such as the ones leading to Buchanan and Cornwall, are easily drivable in any stock 4x4 but might be made difficult depending on the time of year – mud and snow in the spring can make access
20 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
IRON CROSS
HARDLINE SERIES
ʼˡ˧˥ˢ˗˨˖˜ˡ˚ ˧˛˘ ʻʴ˅ʷʿʼˁʸ ˙˥ˢˡ˧ ˔ˡ˗ ˥˘˔˥ ˕˨ˠˣ˘˥˦ ˙˥ˢˠ ʼ˥ˢˡ ʶ˥ˢ˦˦
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ˀˈʿˇʼ˃ʿʸ ʿʼʺʻˇʼˁʺ ˂˃ˇʼ˂ˁˆʔ
˅ʸʴ˅ ʵˈˀ˃ʸ˅ ʵʸʷ ʴʶʶʸˆˆ ˆˇʸ˃
ʻʴ˅ʷʿʼˁʸ ʹʸʴˇˈ˅ʸˆ ʹ˅˂ˁˇ ʵˈˀ˃ʸ˅
ϧ ˆʸˁˆ˂˅ ʶ˂ˀ˃ʴˇʼʵʿʸ ϧ ʵ˂ʿˇ ˂ˁ ˃ʿʴˇʸˆ ϧ ˁˈˀʸ˅˂ˈˆ ʿʼʺʻˇ ˂˃ˇʼ˂ˁˆ ϧ ˀʴˇˇʸ ʵʿʴʶʾ ʹʼˁʼˆʻ ϧ ʿ˂ˊ ˃˅˂ʹʼʿʸ ʿ˂˂ʾ
˅ʸʴ˅ ʵˈˀ˃ʸ˅
ϧ ʵ˂ʿˇ ˂ˁ ˃ʿʴˇʸˆ ϧ ˆʸˁˆ˂˅ ʶ˂ˀ˃ʴˇʼʵʿʸ ϧ ˆˇʸ˃ ʼˁ ʵˈˀ˃ʸ˅ ϧ ʵʴʶʾˈ˃ ʿʼʺʻˇ ˂˃ˇʼ˂ˁ ϧ ˀʴˇˇʸ ʵʿʴʶʾ ʹʼˁʼˆʻ
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Posing in front of Cornwall lookout.
tricky. Other sites have been abandoned for decades and the roads long deactivated, which means lots of brush and a possibly unmarked route. Before attempting a visit, it’s important to ask around in the community and find out how challenging the route might be. You could encounter washouts, downed trees, or even livestock fences built right across what seems like an open road. (A good resource is the B.C. Forest Fire Lookouts group on Facebook.) Once you reach the top, you might find a rustic building, or you might find that there’s nothing left. That’s okay, because the view is almost always fantastic – the buildings were positioned to enable a good view of the surrounding terrain, sometimes even 150 km in to the distance. Of the remaining lookout structures, there are a few significant lookouts that are still intact and others that have been totally restored. It’s an exciting sight when you first spot a lookout after a long drive up a mountain! The lookout at Nahatlatch, just west of Boston Bar, is probably the most well-known in B.C. due to its proximity to Metro Vancouver’s population, and the restoration performed by the province and the Four-Wheel-Drive Association of B.C. several years ago. It’s a particularly easy drive, but watch out for other vehicles – especially on long weekends. Those with historical interests will want to check out other intact lookouts at Begbie, Jesmond, Cornwall, Buchanan and Lavina - to name just a few of the 150+ fire lookouts that once existed across B.C. (They’re all named for the mountain they sit atop, or the area.) Lavina, near Kaslo, is a particularly challenging trip. The road to the top has long been deactivated, and climbs to the summit in a relatively short distance. Several switchbacks also feature a risky 1,000-foot steep drop to the terrain below. The reward, however, is worth the stressful drive. Lavina sits at around 7,800 feet and offers stunning panoramic views of B.C.’s southern interior mountain ranges. Of course, there are plenty of very easily accessible lookouts, and exploring them is a great way to get in to off-roading if
Interior of Eureka lookout as it may have looked in service.
The view from Buchanan lookout. 22 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Idaho Peak Lookout.
you’re not ready to tackle difficult trails. Some sites are just a twohour detour from major routes in the province. As with any off-road adventure, make sure you are well equipped for any situation. Fire lookout trails can be great day trips, but are in remote areas without many resources or passers-by. For more than just a day trip, there are often free rec sites nearby with basic facilities. Just make sure you tread lightly, and pack out what you pack in. Why were forest fire lookouts removed in the first place? Forestry is still important today, but we have other methods of tracking and detecting forest fires. A network of lightning detectors was installed throughout B.C. in the 1980s, allowing the Forest Service to detect strikes and send crews much faster than visual identification from lookouts. Aircraft also aid in spotting fires, and now even drones are being used to track and map fire activity. There are also many more people traveling in the back country, and cellular service is getting better every year. Fire lookouts do live on – some are still manned
Nahatlatch - restored by 4WDABC and Province of B.C.
– but they become less relevant with the introduction of new high tech firefighting innovations. Still, some residents of high-risk areas are concerned that these new devices won’t fully protect them in the event of a large, rapidly changing forest fire, and have suggested that some of them be rebuilt and staffed. Fortunately, there are groups out there who want to see many more restored. The 4WDABC is actively looking for support to restore another fire lookout, and for maintenance help at Lavina, Cornwall and Nahatlatch - the three that they have so far negotiated to manage. With any luck, we may even see some missing lookouts reappear.
When you’re traveling the back country, you can report fires just like rangers did at the lookouts. If you see a wildfire anywhere, at any time of year, don’t assume someone else has reported it! Call *5555 on your cell phone immediately. View of Mt. Lavina lookout from the access road.
APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 23
New FWD Museum
Birthplace of 4WD museum is getting a makeover Story and photos by John Gunnell
I
n December, Off-Road Plus got an exclusive look at the beginning of a fabulous museum that will honour the birthplace of four-wheel drive. A true history buff named Mark Thomas gave us a tour of The New FWD Museum in Clintonville, Wis. We saw nearly 60 unique off-road vehicles and the huge, former factory where the new museum will grow. Museum was too small For many years, The FWD Museum was a small collection housed in the tiny machine shop where four-wheel drive was invented. Now, thanks to the combined efforts of Marcia Olen and Mark Thomas, plus many volunteers who are helping them, the museum is moving to larger new quarters where vehicles and historical artifacts of the Four Wheel Drive Co.’s past will be displayed on a much grander scale.
This Teracruiser is FWD’s largest vehicle and only two are known to exist. 24 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
In the summer of 2017, the Shawano Evening Leader newspaper announced that the FWD Museum was moving into a large building that once housed the Topp-Stewart Tractor Co. and later Atlas Conveyor, Nordberg, Rexnord and Badger Transport. The 60,000-sq.-ft. steel and concrete building provides more space for the museum, as well as room for a library, photo archives, research area, offices, gift shop and meeting room. Marcia’s grandfather, Walter Olen, was Four Wheel Drive’s first president. “The old museum is made of oil-soaked wood” explained Thomas, a former Clintonville resident who now lives in Birmingham, Mich. “We’re concerned that a fire could destroy important history. The building will stay and be redone to look like the shop it once was. The history of FWD is important to the world,” Thomas added. “The present museum is too small to adequately represent that history. There’s nothing newer than 1916 in that building.” The Birth of 4WD Clintonville machinist Otto Zachow and his brother-in-law, William Besserdich, designed a front drive axle with steerable hubs and universal joints around 1906, when one of their cars got stuck in mud. A transfer case and driveshafts necessary for a four-wheel drive system were added. During the summer of 1907, patent applications were filed and the two men built their first car. By 1908, they tested a big touring car—later dubbed “The Battleship”—with a steam engine. The four-wheel drive worked well, but the engine was overly heavy and didn’t hold up well. They eventually installed a gasoline engine in the car. Believe it or not, the original steam engine still survives in the museum. A second, gas-powered car was successfully tested. Then, financing for a manufacturing operation was arranged through local doctor W.H. Finney. Letters of incorporation for the Badger Four Wheel Drive Co. were filed late in 1908. A car called the “Battleship” was built in 1910. It also still survives in the museum today.
Truck of Kitchener, Ontario by 1919. A British subsidiary was set up at Slough in 1921. In the post WWI era, business slowed. Trucks that returned to the U.S. were sold cheaply as war surplus units. Naturally, Clintonville itself grew smaller. However, the Model B remained in production until 1930, by which time it was a real dinosaur. New FWD trucks were totally redesigned and aimed at the specialized, purpose-built markets such as snow plows, utility trucks, fire engines, and oil field service trucks. Of course, in the five years between 1941 and 1945, when World War II was happening, FWD made over 30,000 military vehicles with special features to help soldiers, sailors and airmen.
The gray FWD is a 1913 Model B prototype and the other is a British Army truck. Next, Finney bailed out of the deal and Walter A. Olen bought in. He became the first president of the company. The Badger name was replaced by Four Wheel Drive Auto Co. which was then shortened to FWD. From 1910 to 1911, FWD built at least six cars. They then decided that the truck business was a better market for the invention. Military Vehicles put FWD on the map An important development at this time was a cross-country trial that the U.S. Army was doing to test whether it could become a mechanized force. FWD arranged for Army Captain A. E. Williams to come to the factory to do a test drive of one of the 4x4 cars. Williams’ visit led to the purchase of an FWD chassis for the test. With a body mounted on back, it became a “Scout Car” that proved the benefits of all-wheel drive. It outperformed three two-wheel drive trucks in a tortuous 1,500-mile test early in 1912. In the spring of 1912, Williams went to Sparta, Wis., for summer manoeuvres and further testing of the trucks. The Scout Car and two new FWD trucks were tested in wartime conditions. The summer test was favourable, and the Army purchased more trucks. With the outbreak of World War I around the corner, the FWD Model B and the Jeffrey Quad (a 4x4 made by Nash) would prove the value of off-road trucks in a war.
In 1958, the company became FWD Corp. In 1963, FWD acquired Seagrave Fire Apparatus and moved it from Columbus, Ohio, to Clintonville. Many tower ladders made in the ‘90s on Seagrave chassis carried FWD nameplates. They used Baker Aerialscopes made by a company that FWD acquired, along with Almonte Fire Trucks. In 2003, FWD, FWD Corp., Seagrave, Baker Aerialscope, and Almonte were sold to an investment group headed by former American LaFrance executive James Hebe. Today, Seagrave is the flagship company of ELB Capital Management. Visiting the Old FWD Museum We met Mark Thomas at his favourite restaurant in Clintonville the day after Christmas. It’s called the Living Room and it is decorated with antiques. The date and décor told us that Mark is a hard worker and history buff. He said he worked at Ford for a time, but decided he didn’t want to be a corporate executive. He preferred being an entrepreneur and wound up in real estate. That’s a big help when you’re buying an old factory to improve the Four Wheel Drive Museum (www.fourwheeldrivefoundation.com) in Clintonville or an old school to make into the Pontiac Transportation Museum (www.pontiactransportationmuseum.org) in Pontiac, Mich., Mark’s other passion. We started with a look at the Zachow & Besserdich machine shop near a park not far from downtown Clintonville. It looked very much
When the European Allies entered World War I in the summer of 1914, there was an immediate need for FWD trucks. The British Army quickly ordered 50 units. Then, the U.S. Army ordered 147 trucks, many of which were used to chase down the bandit Pancho Villa in Mexico. By 1917, FWD tendered its total output to the U.S. Army and 3,750 FWD Model B 3-ton trucks were ordered. The Wisconsin company was now on the international map as was the City of Clintonville, which grew larger as new workers and thousands of soldiers, who had to be trained to drive the trucks, flocked into town. After WWI To keep up with wartime demand, the FWD Model B truck was produced under licence by Peerless Motor Co. of Cleveland, Ohio; Kissel Motor Car Co., of Hartford, Wis.; Premier Motor Corp. of Indianapolis, Ind. and Mitchell Motor Car Co. of Racine, Wis. A Canadian subsidiary was also set up in conjunction with Dominion
Mr. Blizzard FWD snowplow is named for a talented plower and is fully restored. APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 25
The old museum in the Zachow & Besserdich machine shop will remain open. This is the former tractor factory where the New FWD Museum is housed.
FWD fire truck donated by the Village of Emmett Fire Dept. the way it looked in 1981 when we went there to do research for our book The Complete Four Wheel Drive Manual: Converting, Collecting, Restoring & Repairing. There was a bit of new paint and the walls of the Old FWD Museum had fewer old photographs mounted on them. As far as vehicles, the old museum housed a 1905 REO runabout like the one that got stuck in the mud, a 1911 auto called the Nancy Hank that was used for tests and for picking up mail at the FWD factory, an unrestored FWD Model B chassis, a prototype 1-1/2-ton This museum quality artwork pays homage to FWD heavyduty utility trucks.
that was because the roof leaked and the museum staff thought it would be good to remove and digitize the photos. There were more photos of the FWD Special, an FWD-Miller race car that was built around 1930 and raced in the Indy 500 in 1932-1936. Then, after World War II, it was also used in sports car competitions. Mark showed us several different types of actual Eliason snowmobiles and a prototype fibreglass-bodied Seagrave car from the 1950s. We also saw Walter A. Olens’ desk and office furnishings, and an exhibit about an early FWD test driver named Luella Bates who demonstrated that ladies could drive an FWD truck. There were also other FWD historical artifacts; in fact, too many to mention. Visiting the New FWD Museum We drove a mile or three to get to the New FWD Museum. It’s a huge place. Part of the building dates back to the Topp-Stewart Tractor manufacturing days and another part is more modern, from when Atlas Conveyor, Nordberg, Rexnord and Badger Transport were operating there. That latter part is a very large factory space with high ceilings, brand new LED lighting and gigantic gantry cranes that could pick up and move the heaviest truck there. In the first room we came to, most vehicles were angle-parked as if they had been arranged for exhibition. The first was the huge, impressive old touring car called “The Battleship.” This car is part of FWD’s earliest period. The chassis is from 1907 or so and the body was added in 1909. It is “The First Successful Four-Wheel-Drive Auto Made in the United States.” When the body ordered for this car arrived in 1909, city newspaper editor Joe Cotton described it as “Surely a dandy, deep maroon in colour, large and roomy, holding eight people all told—two in front, four in the rear and two in folding seats.”
U.S. Army test truck and a four-wheel-drive racing car called the “Butterball Special.” Mark also pointed out the 1906-1907 steam engine first used in the “Battleship.”
Just past the Battleship was a beautiful FWD Model B that we had last seen in the Don Chew Collection in Colorado. It was donated to the FWD Foundation, which runs the museum, by Chew’s family. Next to it was a 1914 Model B Ammunitions Carrier that was used by the British Army in WWI. It has a camouflage paint job and was in the small museum when we went there around 1980-1981.
In another part of the old building was a Seagrave V-12 fire truck engine that was derived from a Pierce-Arrow auto engine. There were photos on the wall telling some of the history of Eliason snowmobiles (another company that FWD owned). Other photos and posters told of FWD “firsts” and the history of FWD oil field service trucks. There were fewer photos than we saw there in the ‘80s. Mark said
Next on that side of the room was a red Model B stake bed truck that was recently sold at a classic car auction. Then, a 1916 Seagrave fire truck that is one of two or three that still exist with a rare large Seagrave engine. And parked alongside was an FWD open-cab pumper that had served the City of Clintonville for many years. There was also a green FWD dump truck that appeared to be from
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In another room, there was a fascinating collection of the wooden and aluminum patterns used to cast metal parts for FWD trucks. There were hundreds and hundreds of patterns stored on pallets that were stacked three or four high. Also stored in other parts of the building are photographs and documents that are being digitized, thousands of very old glass plate photo negatives from the early days of FWD, and even light-up FWD logos.
This prototype FWD 1-1/2-ton truck resides in the old FWD Museum. the ‘30s and a red FWD semi-tractor from the ‘40s or ‘50s. The colour combo of the two trucks fit the holiday season. On the other side of the room was one of a handful of Teracruisers that FWD built for the U.S. Air Force. They consist of a power unit with large flotation tires and a matching trailer, and were the largest vehicles FWD ever built. A beautiful Seagrave hook-and-ladder truck and an American LaFrance open cab pumper from the McMullen Fire Dept. in Lapeer, Mich., came next. Parked off by itself, was “Mr. Blizzard,” a professionally-restored orange FWD snowplow lettered as the “Town Road Dept. No. 1” truck.
The Four Wheel Drive Foundation that runs the FWD Museum is a non-profit, charitable organization formed for the purpose of maintaining and expanding an historical museum to house vehicles and memorabilia pertaining to the early development of the four-wheeldrive principle. The Foundation is seeking donations of historically significant vehicles, as well as print and paper documents, to archive and manage under the guidelines of the National Association of Automobile Museums. The Foundation is also seeking to preserve historical films and to create new films and other media. Members are in the process of developing outreach programs and activities and seek to market commemoratives. The Foundation is a tax-exempt entity and donations are fully deductible. Donations go to Four Wheel Drive Foundation, in care of John Rosenheim, CPA, Secretary Treasurer, 79 8th Street, Clintonville, WI 54929. Check the Foundation’s Website above for museum admissions and hours of operation.
This was nothing compared to the literal fleet of FWD and Seagrave products parked in the “gantry crane room.” There were dozens of huge vehicles that had been donated to the museum. Some were in good original condition, some were restored and some were in need of restoration. They included rigs such as a prototype FWD “pickup” and a prototype refuge truck cab. There were numerous fire engines and snowplow trucks, as well as a few unattached plows that are going to need a lift from a crane. There was also an FWD-Wagner WA-17 four-wheel-drive tractor, which is the largest of that model ever built. FWD purchased Wagner, which had its manufacturing plant in Portland, Oregon. Mark Thomas is the owner of this awesome machine. It seemed like every truck had a story behind it and Mark Thomas seemed to know those stories.
Nancy Hank started out as an Army test car and wound up as the FWD mail car.
The Butterball is a British racing car that spent most of its life in the FWD Museum. APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 27
PREVIEW: 2019 EVENTS PART 3
Let’s Ride!
Story by Stefanie Galeano-Zalutko
O
ff-roaders have spent much of the off-season preparing for battle. “If you’re anything like us, we bet you spent late fall pushing your rig to its limits. After all, you knew there was an entire winter season to fix it up just right for spring. 4x4 shops were slammed with driveline repairs, axle strengthening, bridging and replacement, differential and frame work, custom fabrication, ring and pinion, gear swaps, and air lockers,” says The Engine Block. Now, a devout Canadian 4x4 community is eager to put such winter work to the ultimate test, with plans to trailblaze through the 2019
Ultra4 North Series, TMR Customs Off Road Racing Series, and Festival Hors Route. Mark your calendars, secure the time off, and let’s ride! 2019 Ultra4 North Series + Regional Racing with Punisher 4x4 and YORR “It may feel like the dust is still settling from February’s King of The Hammers, the grand finale of the Ultra4 Racing season, whose popularity seems to double with each passing year,” says The Engine Block, “but the road to Hammertown runs through a full year’s worth of qualifying events, and it’s already time for drivers to strap their helmets back on and get down to the business of earning a spot in next year’s race.” This year, Ultra4 Racing has teamed up with Punisher 4x4 and Yellowstone Off-Road Racing (YORR) to bring you a brand-new, high-energy, pulse-pounding endurance race series—the Ultra4 North. Consisting of three races running throughout the United States and Canada, the new event is a huge opportunity for the North’s off-road racing community, giving drivers a chance to earn a spot in the world’s most grueling one-day, off-road race.
Photo Courtesy Ultra4 Racing 28 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Opening the Ultra4 North series is Big Sky 200 just outside Broadview, Montana, May 10-11. The second race, the TCR 100, heads north of the border to Alberta, Canada, running the weekend of August 16-17. The final race of the series, and last regional race of the season, returns to Montana for the Wild West 100 on September 20-21.
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In addition to the Ultra4 pro classes will be grassroots and sportsman race classes hosted by Punisher 4x4 and YORR, specially tailored for local racers, including the Buffalo Chip 100 on June 22 in Sturgis, South Dakota and the High Desert 100 July 26-27 in Powell, Wyoming. The TCR Off-Road Challenge/Off-Road Hill Climb and Shootout June 29-30 in Alix, Alberta is keeping off-road enthusiasm high over the summer. Open to all street-legal Jeeps, 4x4 trucks, trail wheelers, and off-road race vehicles, the event offers plenty of wheeling fun and kicks off the 2019 Trail Creek Mud and Music Festival. “Ultra4’s constant expansion into new territory is a testament to just how fan-friendly this sport truly is, and how passionate its competitors are,” adds The Engine Block. “But if you want to run with the big dogs at King Of The Hammers, you’re gonna have to get off the porch and prove your worth in a qualifying event.” 2019 TMR Customs Off Road Racing Series A non-profit series, TMR Customs Off Road Racing is dedicated to good old-fashioned rock-crawlin’, dirt flyin’, and hill jumpin’ 4WD fun for the whole family. This year’s lineup includes four action-packed events across Canada, separated into three vehicle classes: Stock, Modified, and Unlimited. Kicking off festivities is CRAWLfest (May 25)—the race that made this series possible. Originating in 2011, CRAWLfest began as an event for off-road tube buggies, gradually expanding to include 4WD rock crawlers of all shapes and sizes. Held annually at the Trudeau Park Lodge in Tweed, Ontario the weekend after May Long Weekend, CRAWLfest promises “a great crowd, world-class race machines, and drivers that don’t hold back,” according to TMR. Next on the docket is off-road and rock racing at Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga (June 15). This event is held in partnership
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with the Ontario Offroad Racing Association (OORA) and offers exciting wheel-to-wheel, short course racing action. Racing continues in Capreol for the next event, the Capreol Rock Race (September 7). This year, the venue will host its first ever wheelto-wheel race with drivers competing on a 10 km-long looped course. Afterwards is a Hill Kill event for those looking to push their rigs to the limit. Rounding out the series is Thunder in the Hills (September 21) at Ray’s Place (formerly the South Wind Motel) in Minden, Ontario. With over 131 acres, the private property offers plenty of wooded trails for both casual wheeling and the race itself. As the last chance to compete or spectate in the 2019 TMR Customs Off Road Racing Series, this is a can’t miss event. 2019 Festival Hors Route This summer, don’t miss Quebec’s biggest off-roading event, the 2019 Festival Hors Route, running August 2-4. The enormous gathering, drawing hundreds of competitors and thousands of fans, promises unforgettable excitement for its 17th year of annual off-road celebrations.
The family-friendly event is hosted at the Sainte-Cécile Range in Ste-Béatrix with a special kid’s zone featuring games, water slides, face painting, and more. The little ones can also join in the off-road fun, as races for children 15 and under were added to the program in 2017 with much success. Monster Truck appearances delight crowds of all ages, with plenty of engine-roaring, mud-slinging fun. Past years have seen the likes of Jim Doak’s Mustang-bodied monster rig, “Beyond The Law,” Mike Moskalenko’s 1955 Chevy mega truck, “Blu Bayou,” and Quebec-native Jimmy Pigeon’s insane Chevrolet Silverado, “Xtreme Jim.” No matter where this off-road season takes you, remember to pack accordingly, Tread Lightly!, and travel in a group.
Open to both amateurs and professionals, the Festival Hors Route features a variety of challenges for Jeeps, 4x4 trucks, ATVs, buggies, mountain bikes, monster trucks, and more. Competitions include Mud Bog and Mud Drag races, as well as an Extreme 4x4 Challenge pitting drivers against mud, holes, bumps, and obstacles throughout a man-made circuit known as King of the Mountain. APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 31
PRODUCTS: WINCHES
BUYERS’ GUIDE Bulldog 12.5k Alpha Truck Winch
Description: Bulldog’s 12.5k Alpha Truck winch features a premium six-horsepower series-wound motor with overheating protection that features an LED feedback light and auto reconnect. The winch features a wired hand control with a 12-ft. lead but has a wireless option available. The three-stage planetary gear train provides incredible pulling power and will help you get out of even the toughest of situations. Capacity: 12,500 lbs. Website: www.bulldogwinch.com
DK2 Warrior Ninja Series Electric Winches Description: DK2’s Warrior Ninja Series 12V electric winches are ideal for large ATVs and small trailers and feature a huge high-power motor, heavy-duty clutch, heavy-duty steel gearing and heavy-duty waterproof contactors that ensure reliability. The strengthened steel drum makes it ideal to use with synthetic rope while the watertight four-pin connection allows for the use of a plug-and-play wireless controller. All models are available in synthetic rope or steel. Capacity: 2,500 – 3,500 lbs. Website: www.detailk2.com
Kodiak Polar EXT K8000 Description: Kodiak’s Polar EXT winch features all-metal gearing and automatic load-holding brakes. The fast performance line speed will allow you to quickly get out of your situation without having to stand around and wait. The winch comes with a non-integrated waterproof solenoid, a remote control with a 15-ft. wire, and a wireless remote control. Capacity: 8,000 lbs. Website: www.kodiakwinch.com
Mile Marker SEC12 Description: Mile Marker’s SEC12 premium winch is able to pull an impressive 12,000 lbs, and can rescue you from even the most aggressive off-road environments. The powerful serieswound motors, rugged planetary gear sets, robust controls, full-sealed 500-amp solenoids and body all work together to provide incredible performance. The winch is built with marine-grade remote control connectors and is fully water-, mud- and snow-proof. Capacity: 12,000 lbs. Website: www.milemarker.com
Ramsey Patriot 8000 Description: Ramsey’s Patriot 8000 winch features an efficient, series-wound electric reversible motor and a proven three-stage planetary gear system that has been made with fast line speed in mind. The motor and solenoids are grounded directly to the battery while an automatic load-holding brake is utilized for strength. A 12-ft. controller is offered as is a wireless remote. Capacity: 8,000 lbs. Website: www.ramsey.com 32 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Just riding the dream!
Advanced design and construction ... create a durable, versatile all terrain, all weather tire that can handle tough off road conditions to smooth winding highways. Great looks, great ride. You’ll know you are riding on a tire built just right. Nitto Tires .. are you ready!
nittotires.ca
Rugged Ridge Trekker Series Winches Description: Rugged Ridge Trekker Series recovery winches feature a heavy duty 6.6 series-wound motor that delivers consistent pull strength through a bulletproof 3-stage planetary drive gear. A 212:1 gear ratio means you see quicker line speeds, getting you back to wheeling in record time. And since the real world is where these winches really shine, we equipped them to survive in the worst conditions imaginable. With an IP-68 waterproof rating, they are practically impervious to all the water, dirt and sand that leaves lesser winches in a billow of smoke. Trekker Series Winches are available with a handy wireless remote and 26-metre synthetic line. Capacity: 10,000 and 12,500 lbs. Website: www.ruggedridge.com Rugged Ridge Nautic Series Winch Description: The Nautic 9,500-lb. Performance Winches feature a durable 6.6-hp serieswound motor for long-life and impressive pulling power, with an innovative X-braced gearbox housing and motor cap for increased strength. Solenoid, motor and gearbox achieve an IP67 waterproof rating, so you can count on consistent all-weather performance. The tough threestage planetary gearbox features a 172.8:1 gear ratio, delivering power and reliability, while the automatic load holding brake system (in the drum) provides exceptional control. Includes 100-ft of 23/64-in. synthetic rope, aluminum fairlead, powder-coated latch hook, durable 12-ft all-weather cable, remote controller and sturdy solenoid box . Capacity: Available in either 9,500 or 12,500 pound ratings. Website: www.ruggedridge.com
Smittybilt XRC 2 ATV Winch Description: Smittybilt’s XRC 2 ATV Winch is one of the most powerful 2,000-lb. winches available on the market, and features a fast line speed. It utilizes a 3.9-hp motor equipped with a 3-stage planetary gear system with a 136:1 gear ratio. Specifications: Comes with 11-foot remote control, high-performance solenoid and wire loom, 4-way rolled fairlead and a universal mounting plate. Capacity: 2,000 lbs. Website: www.smittybilt.com
Superwinch Tiger Shark 9500 SR Description: Superwinch’s Tiger Shark 9500 SR winch features synthetic rope and a redesigned brake that moves it into the motor so that the drum stays cool and the rope stays strong. The weather-sealed 5.2-horsepower motor reduces damage from the elements, while the ergonomically-shaped free-spool control is both easy to grip and effortless to operate. Capacity: 9,500 lbs. Website: www.superwinch.com
TrailFX ATV/UTV Winch Description: TrailFX’s ATV/UTV winches offer varying load capacities and meet IP67 standards for water resistance, and feature a 3.8-4.5 horsepower permanent magnet motor, three-stage planetary gear, steel or synthetic rope as well as aluminum or four-way roller fairlead options and a mini-rocker switch. Specifications: Hand-held remote control available. Capacity: 3,500 – 4,500 lbs. Website: www.trailfx.com
34 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
100 Mile House Abbotsford Agassiz Aldergrove Armstrong Bridgeview Burnaby - Douglas Rd Burnaby - Edmonds Burnaby - Metrotown Cache Creek Campbell River Castlegar Chase Chilliwack - Sardis Chilliwack - Yale Clearbrook Cloverdale Coquitlam - Clarke Rd Courtenay Cranbrook Creston Delta Duncan East Kelowna Enderby Fernie Fruitvale Golden Grand Forks
(250) 395-4051 (604) 850-1446 (604) 796-3141 (604) 856-3483 (250) 546-8110 (604) 930-9316 (604) 291-6840 (604) 522-3947 (604) 412-9955 (250) 457-9644 (250) 830-1788 (250) 365-5015 (250) 679-3088 (604) 858-2200 (604) 792-1999 (604) 556-9800 (604) 576-2821 (604) 931-3830 (250) 338-6266 (250) 417-0888 (250) 428-5335 (604) 597-8668 (250) 746-8181 (250) 491-0531 (250) 838-2200 (250) 423-4477 (250) 367-7581 (250) 344-7488 (250) 442-5995
Hope Invermere Kamloops Kamloops II Kamloops IV Kelowna Kimberley Ladner Ladysmith Lake Cowichan Langford Langley Lillooet Lumby Maple Ridge Merritt Mission Nanaimo Nanaimo II Nelson Newton North Kamloops North Vancouver North Vancouver II Oliver Osoyoos Parksville Penticton Pitt Meadows
(604) 869-2441 (250) 342-9210 (250) 374-4488 (250) 374-9922 (250) 372-2282 (250) 763-3621 (250) 427-4500 (604) 946-4679 (250) 912-0050 (250) 749-3341 (250) 391-1438 (604) 533-2444 (250) 256-0599 (250) 547-1355 (604) 467-1191 (250) 378-9004 (604) 826-7121 (250) 390-9232 (250) 753-1711 (250) 352-4699 (604) 543-2811 (250) 376-8200 (604) 984-0277 (604) 985-2222 (250) 498-0600 (250) 495-0445 (250) 248-5718 (250) 490-8880 (604) 465-7200
Port Alberni Port Coquitlam PORT Coquitlam - OXFORD Port Kells Powell River Prince George Princeton Qualicum Beach Quesnel Revelstoke Richmond Salmon Arm Sidney Smithers Squamish Summerland Trail Tsawwassen Valemount Vancouver - E 2nd Vancouver - S.W. Marine Drive Vernon Victoria West Kelowna Whistler White Rock Winfield
SIN
(250) 723-4200 (604) 942-3994 (604) 942-4113 (604) 513-2288 (604) 485-4477 (250) 612-0223 (250) 295-3880 (250) 752-5621 (250) 992-6880 (250) 814-0116 (604) 276-1866 (250) 832-7030 (250) 655-9311 (250) 847-0195 (604) 892-5988 (250) 404-0139 (250) 368-9116 (604) 943-1599 (250) 566-4140 (604) 879-9391 (604) 324-8000 (250) 503-2238 (250) 380-2088 (250) 707-0106 (604) 932-0900 (604) 531-8877 (250) 766-4457
CE 1974
TrailFX Reflex Series Winches Description: Off-road enthusiasts can tackle the challenges on the trail head with the Reflex Series winch from TrailFX. Pick your capacity - 8,000 lbs, 9,500 lbs, or 12,000 lbs. Crawl with confidence as Reflex Series winches meet IP68 standards for water resistance and feature a die-cast aluminum control box, powerful motor performance, wire or synthetic rope, as well as aluminum or four-way roller fairlead options and a wireless remote control. TrailFX winches have a limited lifetime warranty on mechanical components and a limited one-year warranty on electrical components. Capacity: 8,000 lbs., 9,500 lbs., or 12,000 lbs. Website: www.TrailFX.com
WARN ZEON Platinum Description: With state-of-the-art features, cutting-edge technology, and world-class engineering, the ZEON Platinum is the future of winching. The one-of-a-kind Advanced Wireless Remote controls the clutch and power in/power out, plus it displays motor temperature and vehicle battery info. It also can control two 12-volt accessories, which can be plugged directly into the winch. Capacity: Available in 10,000 and 12,000-lb. capacities with Spydura synthetic rope or steel rope. Website: www.warn.com
WARN 16.5ti-s Description: The 16.5ti-s features the full diagnostic ability of WARN thermometric technology, plus the extreme sealing, durability, and reliability that the WARN ti winches are known for. And with a massive 16,500 lb. capacity and 80-ft of 3/8-in. Spydura synthetic rope, this winch is ready for the big trucks and hard, long pulls. Capacity: 16,500 lbs. Website: www.warn.com
WARN AXON 45Rc Description: With the all-new AXON™ lineup, WARN has taken winching to the next level by combining a powerful motor and first-of-its-kind digital contactor into one unit called a Motactor™. The WARN Motactor™ increases performance, drops installation time, and provides never-beforeseen levels of performance and feedback to the user. Tech is nothing without durability, so WARN made AXON the most durable powersports winch ever. All-metal construction, waterproof sealing, and increased structural rigidity are made for extreme environments. It’s smart, tough, and perfect for a wide range of powersports vehicles. The AXON 45Rc has a hefty 4,500 lb. capacity winch in a narrow, short-drum version specifically made to fit a variety of sport side-by-sides. Capacity: 4,500 lbs. Website: www.warn.com
Westin Automotive Off-Road Series Waterproof Winches Description: Westin’s Off-Road Series Winches include the Off-Road 12.5 and Off-Road 12.5S winches that boast single-rated steel or synthetic pull lines up to 12,500 lbs. Also offered in the line are the 9.5 and 9.5S winches that boast single-rated steel or synthetic pull lines up to 9,500 lbs. All four products include a 6.6-horsepower 12v series-wound motor and corded controller. Specifications: Available with a black finish. Capacity: 9,500 or 12,500 lbs. Website: www.westinautomotive.com
36 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
SUSPENSION SYSTEMS AND UPGRADES FOR YOUR JL WRANGLER
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Family Heirloom
Brianne Hollingsworth’s Restored 1978 Cherokee Chief Story and photos by John A. Gunnell (With Thanks to Brianne Hollingsworth)
B
rianne Hollingsworth of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, restored a 1978 AMC Jeep Cherokee Chief with a bit of a family history. This Jeep was originally purchased as a new vehicle in 1978 and her grandparents were the first owners. They wanted a vehicle that would get them to and from their mountain house in Boone, North Carolina.
“During the winter, if you didn’t have a 4x4, you couldn’t get up and down the mountain,” Brianne explained. “I have fond memories of my grandma picking me up at elementary school when she would visit us. I loved riding in grandma’s Jeep.”
Brianne was able to acquire the Jeep in the mid-1990s. “I already had a 1994 Grand Cherokee at the time,” she recalls. “However, I was in need of a second vehicle and my grandfather offered me the old Cherokee Chief. He and my grandmother had gotten rid of their mountain house in Boone, but Brianne Hollingsworth does some luckily they had kept the Jeep.” tweaking to the four-barrel carb Apparently, the 4x4 had been sitting in in her Jeep. the garage for many years and hadn’t been driven in quite a while. “She wasn’t in too bad of shape,” Brianne told Off Road Plus. “I think that, at that time, she had around 80,000 miles of use. The body and frame were not rusty, since she had been sitting garaged for probably 10 years. She just needed some simple stuff like tires, fluids, etc., to get her back to driving status.” Brianne drove the Jeep from her grandparents’ Durham, North Carolina home back to her own new home in Atlanta, Georgia. Her original goal was simply to turn the old Jeep into a running vehicle, a milestone she achieved many years ago. Today her goal now is to continue with proper periodic maintenance, but also to perform upgrades both cosmetic and mechanical. “I just generally want to show her some love,” Brianne says of the Forest Green wagon.
38 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
This Cherokee Chief has the 360-cid American Motors Corp. V8, which is fitted with a four-barrel carburetor. This engine has a 4.08 x 3.44-in. bore and stroke and an 8.25:1 compression ratio. It produces 195 hp @ 4,400 rpm and 295 lb-ft. of torque. The automatic transmission in Brianne’s Jeep is a General Motors-built Turbo-Hydra-Matic 400. The two-door wagon became Brianne’s primary vehicle after her Grand Cherokee went away. The Jeep’s odometer reading is now at 144,000 miles. Since acquiring the 4x4, Brianne has done quite a few repairs and improvements. She replaced several universal joints, which required removal of the driveshafts. She fixed the dashboard wiring, which was faulty, and repaired some gauges. The vacuum lines needed to be corrected and replaced to get the heater and defroster system working. Brianne is certainly not afraid of doing electrical work on cars. She rewired the headlights on the Jeep and added the proper relays. Then, she upgraded and improved the wiring harness for the rear power-operated tailgate window. Other chores included fixing the rear brake drums, repainting the original wheel rims, clearing out 10+ years of leaves, pine needles, etc., that had accumulated in the fresh air vents and upgrading the broken plastic fluid reservoirs to metal ones. Brianne replaced the window and door weather stripping, added LED lighting and replaced the fuel tank and fuel sender unit. She says she still has LED lighting projects to finish. Some parts of the restoration project required outside help. “I didn’t have the tools or knowledge needed to rebuild the engine and add some upgrades to it,” Brianne explained. “I also had the exterior paint redone by someone skilled in those areas.” Brianne rolled up her sleeves to install a four-inch suspension lift kit. She also replaced the radiator and re-attached the interior headliner. “There are other things I did that I can’t even remember,” she said. “My project lists tend to get pretty long.” To date, Brianne has restored the Jeep and a Corvette. “When I decided I wanted a Corvette, I specifically picked the style,” she
Some of the Jeep’s U-Joints had to be replaced requiring drive shaft removal.
explained. “But I was flexible about the year and model. On the other hand, the Jeep was a “family heirloom” that simply fell into my lap at the right time. I’m glad I got it back in the ‘90s. Jeeps weren’t the big deal then that they are now.” This helped her get the project done for less than it would cost now. Brianne says that the space she has to work on cars “is pretty limited.” She owns a two-car garage, but it has to serve as a workshop, a Corvette parking spot, a laundry room, a storage space, etc. “The Jeep spends most of its time parked in the driveway,” Brianne pointed out “Even if the Corvette wasn’t in the garage, the Jeep would be outside. It just doesn’t fit very well in a two-car because its a little long and a bit on the tall side.” Brianne likes to have her own tools, unless an expensive, onetime-use tool is required for a specific job. “I really prefer to have my own tools,” she emphasized. “When I first started to do more work on my vehicles, I realized right away that a little toolbox wasn’t going to cut it, so I started looking for a rolling tool chest. I figured I could pick up something used, but probably not very big, for about $700.” Brianne put the word out to a mechanic friend of hers and continued to search on places like Craigslist and Facebook. A few days The Jeep’s tailgate window required installation of a new wiring harness.
A Forest Green respray was squirted on the Jeep by a talented painter. APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 39
later, she got a message from the same mechanic friend that he needed to show her something. “He pulled into my driveway in a tailgate lift truck with an enormous rolling tool chest. He had acquired the chest for free from another mechanic who was simply getting rid of it. I was suddenly the proud owner of an enormous rolling tool chest, which I have been filling up ever since.”
Brianne’s regular job is nursing and she has to plan everything tightly in order to allocate enough time to car projects like the Jeep restoration. “Working 12-hour shifts several days in a row leaves several days free to do whatever I want,” she told us. “I get a 40-hour work week in three days, unlike most who work 40 hours in five days. It is just me and my sister at home, since my kids are grown and on their own. So, time availability isn’t so much a problem as having enough money to do everything on my project list.” When asked to compare working on a 4x4 like the Jeep to working on the Corvette, Brianne replied, “Everything (on the Jeep) is bigger, heavier and more robust. With it being a Jeep from the 1970s, there was very little of anything made of plastic. Everything was metal.” Then, she added, “With the Jeep, everything was a learning experience from the electricals to the mechanical and vacuum systems. If I had to pick one big difference, I would probably go with the fact that some of the electrical wiring in the 1970s was pretty sketchy.” Most specialty parts Brianne used came from BJ’s Off Road ( www.bjsoffroad.com). Full Size Jeep Parts (www.fsjjeepparts. com) of Port Orange, Fla., is another supplier. “I have about three companies that I generally trust for proper parts,” she noted. “Local off-road shops don’t have readymade stuff for a 1978 Cherokee Chief.
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The electrical relays for the headlights had to be upgraded.
FSJ forums are another good source of suppliers and there is always eBay, which works as well.” Many mechanical parts came from local auto parts stores. “American Motors Corp. (AMC) got parts from everyone in the 1970s,” Brianne correctly pointed out. “Even though AMC built my particular engine, the TH400 transmission is from General Motors, with some other parts being Chrysler and Ford. I recently went to a local off-road place to browse. When they asked if they could help me, I told them, ‘You don’t have anything in here that fits what I’ve got.’ Of course, they then get curious and excited when I tell them I have a ‘78. Show-and-tell often follows that.”
One thing about restoring the Jeep was that Brianne thinks it cost less than the Corvette project did. “I think the Corvette has been more expensive simply because it is a Corvette,” she guessed. “Full Sized Jeep (FSJ) parts are bigger, heavier, special and less plentiful, which would make one think of exclusivity, but despite there being dozens of Corvette specialty parts places, there is a premium (price) for anything Corvette-related simply because of the Corvette name. Twelve dollars for a Corvette screw. . . come on!”
Brianne wasn’t exactly certain which part of restoring the Jeep was most difficult. “Sometimes, simply working on her (she calls the Jeep ‘her’ a lot) can be difficult,” she noted. “Most fixes I complete occur in the driveway, since she is almost too tall and too long to fit into the garage. Any garage work has to be completed in a day, since she sticks out. Parts can be difficult, too. I can think of three projects I can’t complete simply due to parts not being made anymore; I’m going to have to figure out a work-around.”
Nevertheless, Brianne loves both vehicles she has worked on. “I have absolutely no plans to sell either one,” she said with an air of resolution in her voice.
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APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 41
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
GEARING UP HyperTech Releases All-New Innovative Throttle Optimizer REACT
The new REACT from HyperTech is an innovative throttle optimizer that offers fully customizable control over your vehicle’s throttle response. The simple knob allows you to switch between multiple modes and control the throttle intensity of each mode on the fly. The
Westin Automotive New Outlaw Front Off-Road Bumper product installs easily and is completely plug-and-play while also featuring an automatic setup sequence. Additionally, the REACT comes with a magnetic A/C vent mount with a pedestal swivel mount also available. The REACT is available in three versions - Performance, Tow, and Off-Road, each of which has been specifically designed to aid in their respective categories. For more information please go to www.hypertech-inc.com
Westin Automotive’ s New Outlaw Off-Road front bumper is available for many makes and models of trucks, and is manufactured from strong 14-gauge steel which provides the ultimate in durability, while also improving your truck’s front-end style. A 2-in.-diameter tube frame with 1.5-in.-diameter centre tubes are featured with integrated bolt-on LED light mounts for up to two single or one double 30-in. LED light bar. The bumpers also come equipped with mounting points for additional back lighting and offer both an optional Outlaw Skid plate and Outlaw LED light kit. For more information please go to www.westinautomotive.com
WeatherTech’s Offering Universal Portable Cell Phone Holder
Go Rhino has recently released its new Trailline Bumpers that will give your Jeep Wrangler JL a truly customized look. The bumpers are designed with capacity to fit up to a 12,500-lb. winch, and also include the signature rhino horn tow hooks and shackle mounts. The lockable gear drawer offers an optional lock that is codeable to your vehicle’s ignition key, and the bumper itself is compatible with factory fog lights. No cutting is necessary for installation and the bumper also comes with three optional light bar mounts.
WeatherTech’s CupFone is a mobile phone holder that is able to sit conveniently in any vehicle’s cup holder and provides fully adjustable tilt and rotation which allows you to position the phone to be in your line of sight when using navigation apps. The CupFone allows you to leave your phone plugged in while in the holder and also allows you to effortlessly remove it with one hand without having to disconnect the charging cord. The holder is able to fit devices that measure between 2-3/8to 3-3/8-in. wide and 9/16-in. deep.
For more information please go to www.gorhino.com
For more information please go to www.weathertech.ca
Go Rhino Trailline Bumper Replacements for Jeep Wrangler JL
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Revtek Coil Over Suspension for Toyota Revtekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coilovers have been designed from the ground up and allow a lift height of up to 3-in. while maintaining the factory suspension geometry to ensure your on-road ride is not compromised. Included with the kit are upgraded rear shocks, a differential drop and fully assembled front struts. The coil over kits are available now for late model Toyota 4Runners and Tacomas, and Revtek says more applications are coming soon. For more information please go to www.revtek.com
New ProRock 44 Axle Assembly for Jeep Wrangler JL from Dynatrac The new Dynatrac ProRock 44 axle assembly from Dynatrac offers incredible strength and unmatched ground clearance in a small package. The ProRock 44 comes with many uncompromising standard features like 3-in.-diameter, thick-wall axle tubes, unique heavy-duty Dynatrac end forgings, thicker suspension brackets and much more. The new axle assembly eliminates the front-axle disconnect and includes new chromoly inner axleshafts and offers the most ground clearance of any 44-based axle. They are available in two standard widths to fit Sport, Sahara and Rubicon Jeep models and also in custom widths. For more information please go to www.dynatrac.com
Holley Announces Sniper EFI HyperSpark Distributors for Six-Cylinder Jeeps
Holley has announced the release of Sniper EFI HyperSpark Distributors for six-cylinder Jeeps, which will serve as the ideal way to add timing control to virtually any Sniper EFI installation through plug-and-play technology. The product has been specifically designed for 258 cubic-inch Jeep engines, and the kits feature a high-output HyperSpark CD Ignition Box that will produce 535 volts of primary voltage and a HyperSpark Ignition Coil which will send 45,000 volts worth of power to the plugs. Additionally, a billet aluminum distributor housing features a Hall Effect crank-signal sensor that delivers an RPM signal while the shutter wheel is pinned and welded to the shaft. For more information please go to www.holley.com
New Air Locker Pressure Gauges Available from Auto Meter Auto Meterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new precision mechanical Air Locker Pressure gauges will allow drivers to monitor onboard vehicle air used to actuate locking differentials from within the cabin. This allows drivers to easily troubleshoot supply settings and detect loss of system pressure that could prevent proper driveline engagement, and provides a warning to possible driveline damage. The gauges are available in a few different styles, including Ultra-Lite, Traditional Chrome or with the Jeep branding to fit just about any style of off-road vehicle. For more information please go to www.autometer.com APRIL/MAY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 43
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
Eibach’s PRO-LIFT-LIT Springs for Chevy Colorado ZR2
Alloy USA is now offering a red powder-coated Boulder Aluminum Differential Cover, made from A356-T6 cast aluminum for strong impact resistance, and featuring a precision-machined sealing surface which allow gaskets or RTV sealant to be used for a leak-free seal. The cover is designed to help protect internal components from damage caused by contact with rocks and other terrain, while off-road plus aid in dissipating heat from the differential. The covers come complete with a magnetic drain plug and include a specially designed dipstick bolt.
E i b a c h ’s P R O - L I F TKIT springs for the 201819 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 are designed to provide a suspension lift for your truck without the use of coilover systems or spacer lifts. The springs allow for a full range of suspension travel without additional stress on bushings and ball-joints, as seen with some spacer lift systems. The kits are available for the front of the Colorado ZR2 and provide 1.25-in. of lift. They are manufactured utilizing the same technology as Eibach’s ERO Off-road Race Springs.
For more information please go to www.alloyusa.com
For more information please go to www.eibach.com
Alloy USA Boulder Red Aluminum Cover for Dana 44
REAL WORLD TOUGH. Made by Eibach and individually dyno tested for quality and performance. The PRO-TRUCK, PRO-TRUCK Sport and PRO-TRUCK Sport Leveling Shocks pack a punch of on-road and off-road dominance in any situation. Stock or lifted, we have the right performance shocks for your truck or SUV. Call today and experience the Eibach Difference. Consumer Inquiries 800-227-2242
44 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Wholesale Inquiries 800-263-8621
eibachcanada.com
WINCHIN’ OUT It’s quite surprising how deep this actually was.
First of all, why didn’t they go around it and second, how did they get stuck?
Well, at least there’s a big tree right there to attach the winch line to.
Sponsored by:
®
He looks kind of mad but he likely only has himself to blame.
Not a winch, but the Jeep is hoping it works just as well.
Looks like someone veered a little too far off of the path.
We’re sure that most of you have had the misfortune of getting stuck while out on a weekend adventure. So send us your photos of your adventure to stucktrucks@rpmcanada.ca and if we use your photos we’ll send you a cool RPM Media hat! 46 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE APRIL/MAY 2019
Conveniently secure all of your locks with just one key, your ignition key!