trucks-plus-feb-mar-2016-issuu by RPM Canada

CONTENTS FLUIDS:

Fluids and Lubricants Buyer’s Guide....pg 45

REBEL:

Ram’s Off-Road Inspired 1500...pg 34

Titan XD The all-new 2016 BAJA 1000:

The Bud Light Score 2015 Baja 1000 ...pg 18

BRAKES:

Brakes Buyer’s Guide ....pg 23

Nissan Titan XD ...pg 10

Detroit Auto Show Tornado Chaser: Ricky Forbes’ Tornado Chasing F-150...pg 27

ALSO INSIDE:

Fresh Tracks---------------------------------- 4 Real World Fuel Economy Testing----42

North American International Auto Show ...pg 10

Dakar Rally Recap------------------------50 Gearing Up------------------------------------62 Stuck Trucks---------------------------------70 fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE

FRESH TRACKS

Jeep Celebrates its Legendary 75 Year History with Full Lineup of Special-Edition Models The legendary Jeep brand was born in 1941 and now in 2016 is proud to celebrate 75 years of 4x4 leadership. To mark this very special occasion, Jeep is creating distinctive 75th-anniversary special-edition models of each vehicle in its current lineup. First and probably most importantly is the 2016 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited 75th anniversary edition that comes available in six colour options and has a number of distinct features. It sits on 17-inch wheels and has front and rear tow hooks and unique front and rear steel bumpers in lowgloss bronze. The power dome hood boasts functional air vents, and an available rear locker, Jeep Command-Trac 4x4 transfer case and Dana 30 front and Dana 44 rear axles will make it as capable as always. Not to be forgotten, the Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Renegade, Compass, and Patriot all receive special 75th anniversary editions as well. All models come with great features that set them apart from other examples in their respective model lineups, and all feature a Low Gloss Bronze-coloured accent in some way including tow hooks, roof rails, and badges. All models will be available in the first quarter of 2016.

Ford and DJI Looking to Make Vehicles and Drones More Compatible Ford and the world leader in professional-grade drone systems and software, DJI, are working together to drive innovation in smart drone-to-vehicle software by inviting innovators to participate in the DJI Developer Challenge. The hope is this will create drone-to-vehicle communications using Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SYNC AppLink or OpenXC with the ultimate goal being a surveying system for the United Nations Development Program to inspect emergency zones inaccessible to even the most versatile vehicles. When developed, the technology could allow United Nations first responders at earthquakes or tsunamis to quickly deploy drones to survey and map the hardest hit areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all from the cab of an F-150. According to Ford, the surveying system would ideally work by driving an F-150 as far as possible into an emergency zone and then using the Ford SYNC 3 touchscreen to identify a target area and launch a drone which would capture video and create a map of survivors with close up images. After that, the driver would utilize a smartphone to create a real-time link between the F-150, the drone, and the cloud so vehicle data could be shared. From there, data will be relayed to the drone so the driver can continue on to a new destination, and the drone will catch up and dock with the truck. Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

Volume 9, Issue No. 1 February / March 2016

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 Advertising Sales: Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan Howard J Elmer John Harwood LJ Koch Russell Purcell CONTACT INFORMATION

TRUCKS PLUS Magazine is published six times per year by RPM Media Inc.

2017 Ford Super Duty Shown in Canada for First Time Few would argue that the full-size pickup market is not the most competitive segment in the North American auto industry, and Ford was so excited about its new line of Super Duty trucks, it showed one, almost a year before it hits showrooms later this year, at perhaps the country’s most appropriate venue - the biggest agricultural trade show in Canada, the Canadian Western Agribition in Regina in November. Throngs of people were able to get a good close-up look at the pre-production F-350 on display. It is interesting to compare the new F-350 with the 2016 model. The use of aluminum in the body, and resulting reduction in weight by some 350 pounds, has allowed Ford to beef up major components like the frame (up to 24 times stiffer), leaf springs, trailer hitch, rear axle, and transfer case. All this added strength results in the most capable Super Duty ever, in terms of conventional and fifth-wheel towing, and payload. It’s going to be a long wait for people who want to buy a 2017 Super Duty. But that is the chance Ford takes by showing it so long before it reaches showrooms – it’s the way of the competitive landscape in pickups.

Toyota Canada Introduces the Tundra TRD Pro Series Trucks Toyota Canada has launched the Tundra TRD Pro Series, which will join the existing 2016 Tundra line-up. It is built off the 4x4 Tundra 5.7-litre TRD Off-Road package, and will further add capability and style for incredible off-roading experiences. Exclusive performance and capability equipment on the TRD Pro Series includes the TRD Remote Reservoir Suspension Kit, TRD Performance tailpipes and dual exhaust, TRD skid plate and 18-inch black alloy wheels. Every example will be decked out with a premium audio system with a seven-inch display screen and integrated Sirius XM Satellite Radio, plus a built-in navigation system. The new TRD Pro Series will include much of the same equipment as the TRD Off-Road model including Bilstein shock absorbers, fuel tank protector plates, clearance and backup sensors, and heated front seats, just to name a few. The trucks will be offered with the 5.7litre 381-horsepower V8 paired to a six-speed super ECT transmission, and also with either a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot cargo bed.

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

Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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Jeep Finally Confirms Long Awaited Wrangler Pickup Volume 9, Issue No. 1 February / March 2016

A Detroit News report has finally been able to confirm something that seems like we’ve been waiting an eternity for - Jeep will finally build a Wrangler pickup. The plan is to base the pickup on the next-generation Wrangler that is expected for late 2017. Jeep has been playing with the idea of a Wrangler pickup for years, highlighted by the Jeep J-12 concept seen at the 2012 Moab Easter Jeep Safari and the Jeep Gladiator concept that was originally shown at

ADVERTISER INDEX

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the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. The same report also states that Jeep is planning on launching a new compact SUV that will replace both the Compass and Patriot models but will use one of those names. It will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show in March and will be based on the Renegade/Fiat 500X platform.

THI Corporation Changes Corporate Name to Truck Hero Inc. The THI Corporation, who are a leading supplier of light duty truck accessories have officially announced that they have changed their corporate name to Truck Hero Inc. The change is apparently part of a re-branding initiative that aligns the company’s long-term strategy with its consumer driven advertising and marketing programs. President and CEO Bill Reminder was quoted as saying “We are confident that the new name will resonate with consumers and will also match the look and feel of the new advertising programs and initiatives that we will be bringing to market in the coming year.” The company is headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan and focuses on providing a full range of truck bed covers and other truck and Jeep accessories. Their brands include Extang, Truxedo, BedRug, UnderCover, Advantage, Retrax, BAK, A.R.E., N-Fab as well as two online retailers: AutoCustoms and Real Truck.

FCA Is Top-Selling Car Company in Canada for 2015 FCA Canada has announced that it has achieved its highest annual sales in its 90-year history, selling 293,061 units, and thus is Canada’s top-selling automotive brand in all of 2015. A strong year was finished off even stronger when the company posted its best December sales numbers since 2001. The Jeep brand continuously gained momentum throughout the year posting greater than a 13-percent sales increase, representing over 9,177 incremental sales for the year, with the total number set at 79,680, the Cherokee leading the sales in every month. The Ram brand also set an annual record in 2015 with 96,744 products sold, which is a three-percent increase over the previous year. The next-generation Chrysler minivan was unveiled in Detroit this year, but the current Town & Country finished strong by achieving its own annual sales record, selling 9,001 units over the past year. Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

FIRST DRIVE: NISSAN TITAN XD

Expanding the Truck Market

Story and photos by Howard J Elmer The new Nissan Titan XD is a very North American pickup truck; yet it falls outside the familiar Big Three truck categories. It’s not a half-ton, nor is it a three-quarter-ton truck. Nissan says it lives somewhere in between those two designations. Of course, this refers to payload and towing capacity, but the new Titan also has another feature that is new to the segment – a less-than-HD diesel engine. Specifically, it’s a 5.0-litre twin-turbo-diesel engine built by Cummins. Pumping out 310 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque, it is smaller than the more common 6.7-litre Cummins that the Heavy-Duty Ram uses, yet, it’s larger than the 3.0-litre EcoDiesel in the Ram 1500. So, we really do have a new truck, with a heavy-half chassis powered by a mid-range diesel engine pegged to comfortably tow over 12,000 lb. Yes, it does seem that Nissan is creating its own niche rather than fitting its truck into the existing ones. Mind you, if you’ve been around long enough, you’ll remember that this has been done before. In the early ‘80s, Ford offered both the F-100 and the F-150. The latter was offered as an HD half-ton and was rated to tow about a 1,000 lb more than the F-100. Still, this new Titan has expanded the truck market and for all truck buyers, that’s good. 10 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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its own, Nissan has learned that the North American truck market is as much about respecting its history and culture as it is about innovation and technology. This new truck ricochets off all those touch-stones. Back in the Arizona desert again for the next chapter of this story, I drove the Titan XD and towed 9,000 lb with it. I dropped 750 lb in the bed, bashed it off-road and floored it on highway on-ramps – all the things I’d do with any pickup truck; and my first impression is that this truck feels, drives and handles like it came out of a Detroit factory sporting a “Semper Fi” Marine Corps tattoo. If Nissan’s aim was to build an “American” truck, they did it.

Interestingly, this is a current story that has been in the works for over a decade, as in the winter of 2003, I stood on the edge of the Nissan Proving Grounds test track in Arizona, watching the roll-out of an all new truck – the Titan. That truck offered up some unique features, but it was still a very “Japanese truck” – or at least what the Japanese builders envisioned an American truck should be. That truck had some marginal success in the early market; however, its development was allowed to languish, and eventually fall off the update schedule all together. Frankly, the only reason this fact is important to mention is to differentiate that Titan from this new one. This is not the next generation of that truck. While they share the same name, the new Titan XD has virtually nothing in common with the first offering; and that’s good. Perhaps from watching Toyota, or perhaps on

12 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

The new Titan is built on a 151-inch steel ladder frame with traditional leaf spring suspension in the rear, and doublewishbone front suspension. The spacious Crew Cab is offered with a 6.5-ft bed which also features a factory-installed gooseneck hitch. A fifth-wheel hitch that fits the gooseneck holes is also offered. These available hitches point to the fact that the XD is built to haul. To that end, inside, I found an integrated trailer brake controller, Tow/Haul mode with downhill speed control, and a rear-view 7-inch colour monitor that displays a clear image for hooking up trailers (either bumper or in-bed). It also has a bird’s eye view feature for tight spots. Other driving aids include TSC (Trailer Sway Control) and a unique trailer light check feature. Using the key fob, you can stand at the rear of the trailer and have the lights cycle through - running, signals and brakes – without someone in the cab. The standard mirrors pull out for towing and they are also heated. All these features make towing a trailer a simple one-man job. I found everything worked well during my test drive, including the downhill speed control that uses the six-speed Aisin transmis-

sion to hold the load on long slopes. However, I do think Nissan missed a chance here to throw a diesel exhaust brake into the mix. Perhaps next time. The cargo carrying ability of the Titan bed was obviously another focus of the design team with items like LED bed rail lighting and tailgate illumination included. Nissan has also included its current Utili-track system that offers adjustable aluminum-alloy tie-down cleats on the side and on the floor of the bed. One surprise was a 120V utility power point outlet inside the bed; it will offer up to 400 watts of AC power. Another feature that Nissan copied from the other builders (but with its own twist) is lockable in-bed storage. Two high-impact plastic lockers, with lids and lights, fit inside the bed alongside each cargo wall. These are locked in place, yet with a few minutes work can be removed to free up the whole bed when needed. With the lockers in place, Titan maintains the all-important four-feet between sides, but with this innovation it’s not a permanent fix. It’s good to have choices. Lastly, to get into that bed, Nissan has installed a retractable step on the drivers’ side rear bumper. Kick it and it pops out; after use, kick it back in. As for interior appointments, Nissan will offer five trim levels, and all you really need to know is that the topof-the line one (Platinum Reserve) is as sumptuous and well appointed as any other expensive truck on the market. When it comes to the interior environment, it drives quietly and confidently, and with 16 cupholders, no one will ever go thirsty. As for traction, in Canada, the Titan will only be offered with 4WD. An optional electronic locking rear differential will also be available. There will also be an off-road package to order. Interestingly, this truck is just the first (and sort of a halo vehicle for the line) of three trucks. Later this year we will see a more traditional half-ton with a gas V8 and V6 offering. This truck will sit on a different frame and may offer different trims. As for the Titan XD, it only comes with the Cummins V8 diesel, in a crew cab, and the pricing will start at $52,400 for the base S trim and walk up to $73,900 for the Platinum Reserve model. The Nissan Titan XD is on sale now. 14 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

EVENTS: DETROIT AUTO SHOW

Concepts Dominate Detroit Show Story and photos by Howard J Elmer Honda Ridgeline

he only “new” pickup shown at the Detroit show this year came from the segment’s smallest player – Honda. The original Ridgeline, introduced in 2005, was retired last year after a ten-year run, and now we’ve seen what Ridgeline will become in its second generation later this year. What’s new on this truck is the body design, the key being the removal of the behind-the-cab stabilizing triangles. These gave the Ridgeline a distinctive look and also caused many observers to say it just didn’t look like a pickup truck. Well, now it does.

no doubt, are meant to facilitate the tailgate parties manufacturers seem to always be referring to. Inside, the cab is refreshed and you can expect all the electronics, screens and ports to also be updated to current expectations. Interestingly, Honda built a Ridgeline Baja race truck and exhibited it at the SEMA show in Las Vegas last fall, in advance of any other showing of the truck. This special build was also at Detroit. My question? Is Honda suggesting that the Ridgeline is moving towards a more aggressive truck image? That is a puzzle. Over the past ten years, the Ridgeline was a steady seller to a market that bought it because it was the most un-truck like pickup on the market. The rollout (towards a fall release of the new Ridgeline) will no doubt shed light on some of these questions.

What has been kept, though, are features that were unique to the original model and will still be appreciated by buyers. The exclusive under-bed storage (an idea borrowed from the Odyssey minivan) is still there. It’s large, lockable and now can be hosed out thanks to removable drain plugs. Also in the back, is the dual-action tailgate which opens flat or swings wide as need be. Power-wise, things remain relatively the same, with the new Ridgeline using a 3.5-litre direct injection V6 also found in the Pilot. This engine makes a snotty 280 horsepower and will suffice for the Ridgeline’s needs – including the estimated 5,000-pound tow rating. Curious and quirky additions to the truck bed are under-liner “exciters” which act as speakers for the 520-watt stereo system. These, fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 15

EVENTS: DETROIT AUTO SHOW

Again, it’s a concept; however, if Nissan is looking for a way to keep its truck in the press, they’ve found it. According to Jose Munoz, executive vice-president at Nissan, this concept is meant to explore future market territory that Titan could claim. Nissan does have an off-roading history, competing in both Baja and Paris-Dakar rallies. So building a Titan racer isn’t far-fetched at all. In fact, the Warrior concept took real-world cues from a recent crowd-sourced custom build on an original generation Titan that two U.S. military veterans drove on an off-road adventure in Alaska. This effort was in support of the Wounded Warrior Project.

Nissan XD Warrior concept At the Nissan booth, a beefed-up Titan XD was shown (as if the XD wasn’t brawny enough already). This concept, called the Warrior, a desert racing-inspired design, has added modified off-road suspension to the new Cummins diesel-powered Titan released just before Christmas. 16 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

The Warrior concept is raised nearly three inches to fit the 37-inch off-road tires mounted on aluminum-alloy wheels. This Warrior is also three inches wider than the Titan – space needed to fit the oversize tires and the longtravel suspension. Designers then added what they call “modern armour” to the body form, giving it a machine-like robotic quality. Front and rear bumpers have been flared, and the hood got functional vents for extra cooling. Underneath, a large front skidplate interlocks into the front bumper. Colour schemes and trim materials (in and out) as seen in the photos are custom to the Warrior.

With the Titan XD on sale now, it’s been announced that the next truck, the gas-powered Titan half-ton, will be coming in spring of 2016. Whether the Warrior might fall into this year-long product rollout is anybody’s guess at this stage. Still, I hope they build it. 2017 Ford Raptor The Ford Raptor, certainly the best off-roader Detroit has ever built, took a year off as Ford made the shift from steel to aluminum pickup bodies. This was a necessary hiatus as the low-volume trucks had to be re-engineered to fit all that wonderful suspension gadgetry into the new aluminum setup. So while the aluminumbody F-150 dropped last year, the new Raptor is dubbed a 2017 and will only bow later this year. Of course, that didn’t stop Ford from driving one out onto the stage at the Detroit show to thunderous applause. While the changeover from steel to aluminum is the headline, Ford has taken this time to also revamp a number of the Raptor’s systems, making the coming model uniquely different from the last. Frankly, it’s a new generation, not a continuation. To start, this new Raptor is going to weigh as much as 500 pounds less than its predecessor – a good thing for any off-roader. Despite this weight loss, the suspension package has been upgraded to shocks now 2.5 to 3-inches larger in diameter than the previous model used. Suspension travel has also increased to 11.2-inches

in the front and 12-inches in the rear of the truck. This aluminum body’s weight savings also means the new highoutput 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine (that will be standard in the 2017) will have an improved power-to-weight ratio. Ford actually says this smaller displacement EcoBoost engine will outperform the currently offered 6.2-litre V8. This 3.5 V6 will also be paired (for the first time) with a new tenspeed automatic transmission and a unique torque-on-demand transfer case. This is a new performance advantage added to the conventional 4X4 system. Called the Terrain Management System, it lets the driver select “modes” of 4x4 such as Rock mode, Baja mode, Sand and Mud mode, Snow and Ice mode and Street mode. Each mode optimizes the driving dynamics of the truck’s powertrain to suit the weather and terrain conditions. Carrying this Raptor will be either a 133-inch wheelbase that supports the Ford SuperCab, or a 145-inch one that features the four-full doors of the SuperCrew body. Another upgrade to this next-gen Raptor will be dual exhaust and 17-inch wheels running BF Goodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires. These new rims will also be bead-lock capable. The all-new F-150 Raptor will be built at Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan, and goes on sale in the U.S. and Canada this fall.

fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 17

OFF-ROAD: BUD LIGHT BAJA 1000 2014 Winner: Dream Team

BAJA Takes A Detour! Story by John Harwood, photos courstesy of Baja 1000

or the 48th time, desert racing enthusiasts gathered in Ensenada, Mexico, about an hour across the border on The Baja Peninsula, to race their machines back and forth between the Pacific Ocean and The Sea of Cortez, also known as The Gulf of California. They will race from sandy beaches on one side, through farmlands, over mountains, across goat trails, hugging steep cliffs on the way down, over dry lake beds, through deep silt and over rock slides to more sandy beaches on the other side. The strip of land between that extends from California to Cabo San lucas, is once again the picturesque backdrop for the Bud Light Score 2015 Baja 1000. A field a field of 239 starters competing in cars, trucks, UTVs, motorcycles and quads tackle the 821-mile course. The Baja 1000 is the last race in The Score World Desert Championship and with the success of RPM Racing’s Carlos ‘Apdaly’ Lopez of Tecate, Mexico this year, all eyes are on him in this race! Last year’s winners, the Dream Team of Rob MacCachren, Ja18 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

son Voss and Andy McMillin, were streamlined to just Rob Mac and Andy this year. This race is a loop course back to Ensenada and shorter than in 2014, so Rob decided that two drivers would suffice. Jason would now drive with Luke McMillin . Qualifying for this year’s Baja 1000 took a significant detour. It took place back in the USA, conducted in Las Vegas in conjunction with the SEMA show. The trucks lined up outside Las Vegas Convention Center and were paraded out to the Las Vegas Speedway. A very interesting result occurred in this year’s qualifying - the fastest truck was the all-new Geiser Brothers all-wheel drive Trophy Truck driven by Ricky Johnson for owner and driver of record Justin Matney, racing for RPM Racing. Trucks Plus Magazine will take a closer look at this revolutionary truck and its impact on desert racing in a future issue! Rob Mac qualified 4th and Apdaly Lopez was 6th. Before leaving Las Vegas for Ensenada, another exciting development in desert racing occurred. It was the unveiling of the new Honda Ridgeline. The team of Jeff Proctor, builder/driver Jason LaFortune and Sage Marie would test a modified version of the 2016 Honda Ridgeline in the Baja 1000! Introduced to the world

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at this year’s Superbowl, the powerplant boasts a twinturbo V6. Stay tuned to Trucks Plus for more details!

Race Day Rob Mac drove the first 470 miles before handing the truck to Andy. He lost some time after a flat tire but was still in contention. McMillin was able to catch up to Lopez but the dust was very thick and lingered. Although he was unable to pass RPM’s Adalay Lopez, the Dream Team were able to get the win on corrected

Rigid 4x4 TT Interior and Engine compartment.

time, 15 hours, 58 minutes and 33 seconds, while averaging a solid 51.41 miles per hour in the No. 11 Rockstar Energy MacCachren Motorsports Ford F-150. McMillin said at the finish line, “In the last 200 miles, I knew we had to pass Lopez to win and put some time on him as well. I was pushing really hard and the truck gave more than I really could ask from it. I was giving it my all with every gear hitting the rev limiter and really driving as hard as I could. My dad (multitime SCORE race winner Scott McMillin) said while we were out there “don’t give up because you never know what can happen before you get to the finish line. “Winning the Bud Light SCORE Baja 1000 is like no other feeling in the world. When you win this race, you know that 20 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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The five-race 2016 SCORE World Desert Championship will include five special events and for the first time all five will be in Baja California, Mexico. Here is the complete schedule: · 30th Bud Light SCORE San Felipe 250, Feb. 25-28, San Felipe, Mexico · 2nd Bud Light SCORE Baja Sur 500, April 14-17, La Paz, Mexico · 48th Bud Light SCORE Baja 500, June 1-5, Ensenada, Mexico · Inaugural Bud Light SCORE Desert Challenge, presented by Rosarito Beach, Sep. 14-18, Rosarito Beach, Mexico · 49th Bud Light SCORE Baja 1000, Nov.16-20, Ensenada, Mexico

22 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

you’ve accomplished something. We’ve got a very powerful team between the two of us and we both know how to win the race, and the guys who work on the truck do what it takes.” said MacCachren The win was the 13th career SCORE Trophy Truck Win for Rob and the 8th for Andy. It was a close 2nd for Lopez, but for the 20-year old, it was enough to win the overall SCORE World Desert Championship. The young Mexican would later receive SCORE’s rookie of the year award. The Honda Ridgeline finished the race in an impressive 25 hours. With the 2015 SCORE World Desert Championship Season in the books, we can look ahead to some exciting races in 2016.

PRODUCTS: BRAKES

BUYERS’ GUIDE AC Delco Professional Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Description: ACDelco’s Professional Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads are made with steel strands to provide strength and conduct heat away from the surface. They are designed for premium braking power and are an ideal aftermarket replacement for your vehicle. Noise dampening shims are included with the pads and no curing is required. Specifications: Tested to SAE J2784 for braking effectiveness. Applications: Made for a wide array of vehicles. Website: www.acdelco.com Alloy USA Disc Brake Rotors for Jeep Description: Alloy USA disc brake rotors for Jeep Wrangler JK are slotted and drilled for maximum cooling, and immediately improve braking performance upon installation. The rotors improve brake pad bite and reduce brake fade. Specifications: Rotors are slotted and cross-drilled. Applications: For 2007-2016 Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.alloyusa.com

Baer 15-inch Front Extreme+ Brake System Description: Baer’s 15-inch Front Extreme+ Brake system features the 6S six-piston Monoblock caliper mounted to a 15-inch two-piece slotted, drilled and zinc-plated rotor. The system includes stainless steel brake hoses and calipers that have dust and weather seals. It is meant for use with a minimum wheel size of 19 inches. Specifications: Kit includes calipers, brackets, and rotors. Applications: Designed for use with 2002-2014 Ram 1500. Website: www.baer.com

Baer 14-inch Rear AlumaSport Brake System Description: The rear AlumaSport brake system features a two-piston caliper mounted to a 14-inch one-piece slotted, drilled, zinc-plated rotor. The Baer systems include calipers that have dust and weather seals, and come complete with everything necessary for installation. They are made to re-use factory hoses. Specifications: 2-piston red calipers, 14-inch slot, drill, zinc rotors. Applications: Designed to be used with 1999-2014 GM ½-ton pickup. Website: www.baer.com

Bosch QuietCast Premium Disc Brake Pads Description: Bosch QuietCast Premium Disc Brake Pads use an advanced platform-specific, copper-free ceramic and semi-metallic friction material and utilize pre-attached, OE-style rubber core shim for remarkable noise reduction. Specifications: Features a copper-free ceramic and semi-met friction material. Applications: Full coverage for Domestic, Asian and European vehicles. Website: www.boschautoparts.com fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 23

Hawk Performance LTS Brake Pads Description: Hawk’s LTS brake pads are specifically engineered for today’s trucks and SUV using fleet and military applications. The Ferry-Carbon friction material delivers more braking power and fade resistance than OE pads. They are virtually noise free and have an excellent pad and rotor life. Specifications: Made from a Ferro-Carbon friction material. Applications: Ideal for import and domestic full-size trucks, vans and SUVs (1/2 ton) with moderate towing and hauling duty. Website: www.hawkperformance.com Performance World Ford 9-inch Truck Universal Rear Disc Brake Kit Description: Performance World’s Universal 9-inch Ford truck rear disc brake conversion kit includes all of the brackets to fit the three most popular pre-1980 Ford 9-inch rear ends. The kit comes with everything necessary including rotors, calipers, brackets, hardware, brake lines and e-brake cables. Works with 15-inch or larger wheels. Specifications: Works with trucks that have the 5x5.5-inch bolt pattern. Applications: Includes brackets to fit the three most popular Pre-1980 Ford 9inch rear ends. Website: www.performance-world.com Performance World Hydraulic Park Brake Lock Description: The hydraulic parking brake lock from Performance World is a mechanical-style lock and can be used as just simply a parking brake, or as a great anti-theft device. It uses 1/8-inch NPT fittings, is black anodized finished, and is activated using a push on-push off function. Specifications: Uses 1/8-inch NPT fittings. Applications: Universal product. Website: www.performance-world.com Power Stop Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Kit Description: Power Stop 1-Click Extreme Truck & Tow Brake kits offer superior stopping power that is ideal for those who tow or haul, as well as for the off-road enthusiast. The kits are specifically-matched components designed to produce the brake torque that is needed, due to the increase in wheel diameter or load. The rotors are drilled and slotted to reduce heat. Specifications: Kit comes with pads, rotors, premium hardware, pin bushing kit and high-temperature lubricant. Applications: Available for full-size domestic and imported trucks. Website: www.powerstop.com Power Stop Performance Calipers Description: Power Stop Performance Brake Calipers bolt directly in place of the stock calipers and look great behind either stock or custom wheels. The caliper and bracket are treated to a high-temperature red powder-coating and use all-new premium boots and seals along with high-temperature silicone lubricant on the caliper pins for long life. Specifications: Comes with new bleeder screws, hardware and pins. Applications: Available for 2015 Ford F-150 Pickup 4WD models. Website: www.powerstop.com SSBC 2011-2014 GM 2500 & 3500 Front Truck Rotors Description: The Big Bite Cross Drilled and slotted rotors for GM full-size trucks are precision drilled to vent super-heated gases and eliminate brake fade. The turbo slotting will allow you to maintain a clean pad surface which gives ideal grip and quiet braking. The rotors will provide improved braking in wet weather conditions and will ensure cooler brake temperatures. Specifications: Bolt pattern: 8 x 180mm Applications: For 2011-2014 GM 2500 and 3500 Pickup trucks. Website: www.ssbrakes.com 24 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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StopTech Axle Packs for Trucks Description: StopTechâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Axle Packs are pre-matched, direct-fit brake pad and rotor pairings designed to simplify brake system upgrades. Available as a front axle, rear axle or four-wheel kits, Axle Packs provide application-specific pre-matched systems that deliver high-performance braking for towing, hauling, or off-roading. Specifications: Truck kits feature slotted high-performance StopTech Sport Rotors and Fleet Performance high thermal-capacity pads. Applications: Made for Trucks and SUVs. Website: www.stoptech.com Teraflex Jeep JK Rear Performance Big Slotted Rotors Description: The TeraFlex JK performance rear big rotor kit is a good option for JK Wrangler owners looking for increased braking performance with larger tires. The kit allows the factory caliper and brake pads to be retained, while increasing the rotor diameter to 13.5 inches. The increased clamping distance from the rotor centre will result in greater braking leverage. Specifications: Fits dual wheel bolt patterns 5x5 or 5x5.5 inches. Applications: For Jeep JK Wranglers. Website: www.teraflex.com Tactical Xtreme TX6R Front Big Brake Kits for Ford Trucks Description: Tactical Xtreme TX6R radial-mount six-piston caliper kits are engineered for Ford F-150 trucks, providing the ultimate in high-strength braking for all types of highway and off-road extreme-duty applications. Specifications: TX6R forged aluminum six-piston calipers with 15.50x1.38-inchthick Spec37 alloy directional-vane rotors with BP-20 metallic composite compound SmartPads. Applications: 2010-present Ford F-150 Series Trucks; 6 Lug Only Website: www.wilwood.com Tactical Xtreme TX6R Front Big Brake Kits for GM Trucks Description: Tactical Xtreme TX6R radial-mount six-piston caliper kits are engineered for heavy-duty trucks and SUVs, providing the ultimate in high-strength braking for all types of highway and off-road extreme-duty applications. Specifications: TX6R forged aluminum six-piston calipers with 16.00x1.50-inchthick Spec37 alloy directional-vane rotors with BP-20 metallic composite compound SmartPads. Applications: 1999-2010 GM 2500 Series Truck/SUV; 8-Lug; Âž Ton Website: www.wilwood.com

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Tornado Chaser Story and photos by Russell Purcell

artinsville, Saskatchewan native Ricky Forbes has always been a bit of a thrill seeker, but when the 29-year old University of Saskatchewan commerce grad decided to pursue tornadoes for a living, his mother wasn’t very happy. “My parents are supportive,” said Forbes with a smile, “but I know that my mother obviously worries about my career choice. But we have a deal. I have to text her before we enter a tornado, and again when we come out. I will admit that it’s not perfect, but she would be pretty upset if she had to hear that something had happened to me on the news after the fact.” Ricky is one of a three-man team of adventurous individuals who make up the Tornado Hunters. The other two members are team leader and photographer Greg Johnson, and videographer Chris Chittick, both of Regina. Ricky’s main role is to do the bulk of the driving, but he is also pretty adept with a camera. The tornado season begins as winter comes to a close and stretches well into the summer. During this period the team spends up to six months on the road chasing the treacherous storms across the United States and largely living in one of their specially equipped Ford F-150 pickup trucks. Currently, the team utilizes a 2015 Ford F-150 Lariat. The 28 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

ultra-popular market leader now sports an aluminum body and the latest in safety and technology gadgets. The majority of the truck is stock OEM fare, as it is robust, reliable, and easy to service while on the road. However, there have been a number of modifications made to “Flash” (the truck’s nickname) to enhance team safety and facilitate filming. “We chose the Ford product for several reasons, but the most important one was the fact that it offers us the most room. When you have three or four people basically living in the truck for weeks on end with all of their gear and equipment, usable space becomes an issue.” “I have driven all the other brands during my time working on the drilling rigs and in mines, but as a tall guy (Ricky stands 6’5”) the Ford was the only one with enough headroom to allow me to be comfortable for spending long periods behind the wheel.” The F-150 was selected over a Super Duty primarily for weight and mileage reasons. In fact, there are two rival storm chasing outfits out there running tank-like vehicles that are proving too cumbersome and fuel thirsty to allow for their respective teams to actually do much chasing. “When we first started out, we looked at using a tank, but we soon realized that if you want results we need to be light and quick to get to where we need to go. I will admit that the tanks

offer excellent protection and visual impact, but they are difficult to maintain and hard to shoot from. Luckily for the tank guys, we are driving the Ford, as there have been occasions where we have had to tow them out of areas where they get stuck due to their awkward vehicle designs.” The act of piloting a vehicle of any type near, or even into, a monster tornado is obviously a dangerous task, so the team has elected to fit Flash with a variety of features which help reduce the amount of damage incurred on the body of the truck as well as to help enhance passenger safety. Safety equipment includes an external roll cage (originally engineered to fit on vehicles working in the potash mines) which incorporates mitigation bars to protect the windshield and passenger cabin from damage caused by falling trees and power poles. “When we are storm chasing, sometimes power lines and trees come down in an instant, and if we are chasing at night it is even more difficult to avoid them. In fact, this year alone, we have hit two downed trees and three sets of power lines, so having the external cage and mitigation bars has probably saved our lives.” Factory glass is used as it is optically better for filming purposes than Lexan or bullet-proof materials, and apparently the production people like the drama that comes with shattered windows. As a result, the team members wear helmets and safety eyewear to alleviate some injury risk should the windows be compromised. The truck has been coated in LINE-X, a polyurethane elastomer treatment that offers the vehicle some protection from debris that can be travelling at triple digit speeds and hits with sufficient force to impale panels or even disable the truck’s mechanicals. Cloaked in a blend of matte black and high visibility orange, the imposing Ford has plenty of curb appeal which also helps with marketing. “We have been told that the finish is near bulletproof, and have even shot a .22calibre rifle at it to test that theory. So far so good.” The truck rolls on Baja-type General Grabber tires due to the fact that they often have to cross difficult terrain, clamber over vast expanses of debris, or extricate themselves from a ditch. Forbes says that he specifically selected them as they also perform well on the highway. Heavy steel bumpers front and rear provide valuable collision protection, but they also provide mounting points for auxiliary lighting equipment which, when you in-

“I love doing this, and can’t imagine doing anything else at this point. But I am still a young guy, and having an adventure. I am doing what makes me happy, and how many people get to say that?” -Ricky Forbes clude the additional units mounted to the top racks, allows for 360-degree illumination. Heavy-duty steel cargo boxes are bolted to the floor of the truck’s bed. These have been custom-designed to allow quick access to tripods and camera gear, but also provide the team with secure storage for their personal gear and other equipment. The Tornado Hunters have been in pursuit of their dreams for five years, three of which they spent on their own selling pictures and videos captured during their encounters and focusing on their YouTube channel in an effort to perfect a viable business model and establish themselves as personalities. The affable Forbes was quick to point out that the team is also

30 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

ready and willing to take up the first responder role should they come across a situation where someone is in peril and obviously, assisting them takes priority over capturing a few images or video footage. Mr. Forbes realizes that the team is playing with fire and that there is always the potential for serious injury or even death to occur when they engage an unpredictable tornado. “I love doing this, and can’t imagine doing anything else at this point. But I am still a young guy, and having an adventure. I am doing what makes me happy, and how many people get to say that? However, I am certain that one day I will want to get off the road and have a serious relationship and eventually, a family.”

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ROAD TEST: RAM REBEL

Rebellious Ram Story and photos by LJ Koch, additional photos courtesy of Ram Canada

n 2015, Ram accounted for 26 percent of all pickup sales in Canada and was the number two best seller, a position that Ram has held for the last five years. Over that period, pickups seem to just be getting more brash and outrageous. The Ford Raptor would be one of them, with obnoxious performance on- or off-road. Here comes Dodge with its Ram 1500 Rebel. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say that it is a Raptor competitor, but it does have some compete. The Rebel is basically a hopped up Ram 1500 with a few extras. To even get into the off-road club, you first need the tires and wheels. The Rebel gets LT285/70R17 10-ply Toyo Open Country A/T tires, which are 33 inches tall and very capable. The wheels are special to the Rebel, and 17-inch cast with machined and black-painted accents. The wheels are a miss for me, but with any unique styling elements, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up to individual taste. Flared fenders borrowed from the Ram PowerWagon help cover the Toyo tires as they bulge out from the wheelwells. The blackout Rebel grille also goes along with the wheels for a very brash look. A billet silver Ram badge makes the truck and saves the grille for me. The badge is colour-coordinated with the billet silver skid plate. A sport performance hood features two nonfunctioning air vents to combine with the grille and skid plate for an aggressive look. To add to that aggressive look, there are black powder-coated tow hooks and bumpers, front and rear. Premium bi-functional halogen projector headlamps with black surround and LED markers complete the front end. The exterior look is completed with a large black powder-coated RAM on the tailgate. 34 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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The interior is bold and works on a completely different level. It starts with the bucket seats and their shadow imprint of the Toyo Open Country A/T tires and giant embroidered Rebel logos. Add to that flashy radar-red side and seat backs and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got some bam! Some might be negative and say when you change the tires, the seats wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t match. I say good job, Ram, and the seats will work for me even when the tires are long gone. The person who buys this truck gets jacked about things like this. You will never forget that you are a Rebel with all of the Rebel badging. Anodized red accent materials surround the instrument cluster,

36 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

air vents, screen, and centre console, and are inserted into the door panels. Reminds me of my 1980s DiamondBack BMX anodized wheels and seat post. Damn, I miss that bike. Brings a tear to my eye. Way to go, Ram, you made a grown man cry. The older me really appreciates the colour-matched radar red and light diesel gray dash stitching. Not unique to the Rebel, the dialbased gearshift is not something I like. Add to that, the steering wheel up-and-down shift buttons, and it all made me scream when I needed to negotiate slippery conditions on the Coquihalla Highway. Having to look down at the steering wheel to downshift

while descending an extremely icy hill caused for a delicate situation and a high heart rate. Go back to the centre console shift, please! Please! I almost made it onto an episode of Highway Thru Hell. Enough with the style. What really matters is how capable this rig is off-road, and what it has underneath. Rebel builds on a long and strong history of Ram trucks and off-road capability. The Rebel excels with its 25.3â&#x20AC;? approach angle, easily beating the competitors except for the Raptor, which isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really a competitor. It is equipped with front and rear Bilstein dampers, air suspension and four ride height settings. At max setting, the Rebel with skid plates has 10.3-inches ground clearance and offers one inch higher ride height than the standard Ram model. The Rebel is offered in two engine configurations. Option one is the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) technology. It provides up to 11.5 L/100km highway, 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque in 4WD. The 5.7-litre is also available in RWD with 10.9 L/100km. Our Rebel was equipped with the 5.7 in 4WD and the 8-speed automatic transmission, but Ram also offers the 6-speed automatic. The

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Rebel is also offered with the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, with 9.3 L/100km highway, 305 hp and 269 lb-ft, but only available in 4WD with the 8-speed automatic. Our limited time in the Rebel made us curious to find out more. Not as outrageous as the Raptor and not really trying to be. More than capable off-road for those who want to venture out into the wild, but it is just as capable on the pavement as an

everyday truck. Not sure the Raptor can say that. More realistic competitors are the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and Ford F-150 FX4. When compared to those, the Rebel is the brash and outrageous one. A truck that makes me want to turn up the Lee Brice and go wherever I feel like is exactly what off-road is all about. I like what I like, and I like the Ram Rebel...minus the grill and wheels. 40 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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“Real World” Fuel Economy Testing by Howard J Elmer

he Canadian Truck King Challenge does what we call “realworld” fuel economy testing each year. But, what does that really mean? And how does it differ from what the government does? Since 1980, the black-and-white EnerGuide stickers have found their way onto every new car. Embossed with the government of Canada logo, these fuel consumption guides have become the standard for new vehicle buyers. But how does the government determine these numbers? Well, new vehicles delivered to an Ottawa test laboratory are mounted on a two-wheel chassis dynamometer which will simulate on-road driving. The computer that controls the test is pre-programmed to take into account the particular characteristics of the test vehicle. These include aerodynamic efficiency, overall weight and rolling resistance of the vehicle (stats all supplied by the manufacturer). Each vehicle is then taken for a “simulated” drive. Each test starts with “The City Course.” This is a simulated 12-km trip during which the average speed is 32 km/h. During the trip, the vehicle is halted 18 times to represent traffic lights and the test takes 23 minutes to complete. During the test, the vehicle is at idle for four minutes and the highest speed it reaches on a stretch is a few moments at 81 km/h. A measurement device on the fuel line records the amount of fuel consumed. Once the trip is complete, it is repeated after the vehicle has been shut-off for eight minutes and both results are recorded. The second part of each test is the “Highway Course.” This highway fuel consumption calculation is made using a simulated 16-km trip with an average speed of 77 km/h. The top speed during this test hits just 97 km/h during the 13 minutes it runs. There are no stops included and the vehicle is tested from a hot start. Considering how many vehicles they have to test each year (and 42 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

for the sake of consistency), this is probably the best method. However, in small print on the EnerGuide sticker, is a disclaimer that reads: The fuel consumption you achieve with your vehicle may differ from published ratings, depending on how, where and when you drive and the optional equipment installed. The Truck King “real-world” method is the polar opposite of this. We include all the EnerGuide disclaimers’ effects in our calculations. Each one of our trucks is driven on-road, is expected to tow a trailer, haul payload and be driven off-road; in other words, they are treated exactly how an owner treats them. For the commercial vans, we loaded payload and then drove them through tight city streets, once again replicating the exact conditions that these vehicles will spend their time in. Not only do these real-world conditions reveal much more about the dynamics of each vehicle, they also let us capture fuel economy readings from each vehicle in each scenario. CTKC Method Consumption is captured by a special data logger plugged into the OBDII port of each vehicle and left there for the duration of the challenge. Once the data is collected, it gets shipped to the experts at CrossChasm, a Waterloo, ON company that specializes in fuel analysis. They unpack the data, splitting and averaging it based on each event. That means that CTCK provides a fuel economy average while towing a trailer, hauling payload and while driving empty. During the two days of back-to-back testing, judges are asked to keep the vehicles running for the duration of each cycle. As each judge drives each vehicle, on the same route, back-to-back, many trips are being made over the same terrain. However, because the idle time is also included between each changeover, this further adds to the real world-type fuel usage as does the fact that each judge drives differently. The test loop used for the majority of on-road evaluation is 17 kilometres long. Called the Head River test loop, it’s a combination of public roads spread over that 17 kilometres. It starts on gravel,

moves to a secondary paved road and finally highway. Speed limits vary from 50 to 80 km/h and the road climbs and drops off an escarpment several times. At its lowest point, it crosses the Head River twice – hence the name. Each judge drives each truck, empty, then with payload on board and finally towing a trailer over this same route. The commercial vans also use the Head River test loop for their initial empty runs. However, once we load them with payload, Ram Diesel took top fuel honours in segment. we change the route. This is called the Minden village route. It’s an intown loop that simulates inner-city deliveries and service calls. Lots of turns, congested parking lots and negotiating alleyways. Over the two days of testing, the nine judges drove almost 4,000 km combined. CrossChasm uses the data from the OBDII recorders to come up with averages for each vehicle during each event. Their report is clear and well explained. However, some of the results seem counter-intuitive, so after the raw data is scrutinized, we review it. Those numbers tell a number of interesting stories. Pickup Trucks In the pickup truck segment, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel once again had the lowest fuel consumption numbers of any truck, beating out even the smaller diesel-powered GMC Canyon. It seems that once weight is added during testing, the results can get skewed. This would seem to indicate that when “worked,” certain engines

are simply more fuel efficient than others. Another example of this is Ford’s new aluminum-bodied F-150. We had two versions of the F-150. The loggers captured an interesting story from each of these truck’s engines. The smaller 2.7-litre twin-turbocharged V6 actually used more fuel than the larger 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, presumably because it has to work harder to accomplish its tasks. The introduction of an all-new Toyota Tacoma into the market this year and an all-new Chevy Colorado last year created a new rivalry in the midsize truck segment. Our tests show that the gasoline-powered V6 engines in both trucks are nearly identical when it comes to fuel economy, making the choice between the two even tougher for consumers. However, it should be noted that the new Tacoma engine is far superior to the 4.0L version it replaces – fuel-wise.

In small commercial vans, the Nissan NV200 captured best overall fuel consumption. fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 43

Of note in the fuel report is the fact that some of the payload runs (trucks with 1,000 lb in the bed) were slightly better than the same vehicles run empty. That seems strange on the surface, but it points directly to the effect a driver has on fuel consumption. It stands to reason that drivers tend to be a bit more cautious and smooth in their operation when they have a load on, and in our opinion, this is what caused this result. What this result also points to is that â&#x20AC;&#x153;howâ&#x20AC;? a driver operates is almost as important as what is under the hood. Commercial Vans In the large van category, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter managed to capture the best overall fuel economy (a logging error did cause us to lose the numbers on the loaded run with the Mercedes vehicles). Still, from what we could see, they did lead across the board. We were also fortunate this year to have diesel engines from Ford and Ram, so our results are more apple-to-apple than ever. More interesting is the small van category, which saw the new Nissan NV200 capture the best overall fuel consumption numbers. However, the Ram ProMaster City managed to get the best fuel efficiency when transporting payload through an urban area. With that, we put our ninth Canadian Truck King Challenge to bed, with the knowledge that our real-world statistics and information continue to help consumers across Canada make the smartest choice when it comes to buying a work vehicle.

In the large van category the Mercedes-Benz was best overall.

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BUYER’S GUIDE AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean + Cold Flow Description: AMSOIL’s Diesel Injector Clean + Cold Flow combine the superior deposit-removing properties of Diesel Injector Clean with the anti-gelling properties of Diesel Cold Flow. The fluid features advanced chemistry that delivers concentrated strength to target internal diesel injector deposits, which restores horsepower and fuel economy. Specifications: Available in a 16-oz. bottle, 5-gallon pail, or 55-gallon drum. Applications: Designed for all types of diesel engines. Website: www.amsoil.com AMSOIL Premium API CJ-4 Synthetic 15W-40 Diesel Oil Description: AMSOIL’s 15W-40 Synthetic Diesel Oil delivers great lubrication in diesel engines and is formulated with the latest additive and synthetic base oil technology. The oil is a low-sulfated ash formulation that meets requirements for low-emission quality diesel oil. Specifications: 15W-40 Viscosity, available in quart, 1- and 2.5-gallon bottles and 30- and 55-gallon drums. Applications: Made for 2007 and newer heavy-duty pickup truck diesel engines requiring API CJ-4 emission-quality oil standards. Website: www.amsoil.com Castrol Edge Description: Castrol Edge is designed specifically for today’s powerful and efficient engines, and is engineered with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology which takes synthetic oils to the next levels. It contains a liquid titanium molecule that increases motor oil strength, helping your vehicle to maximize performance. Specifications: Available in the following grades: 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W30, 5W-30 A3/ B4, 5W-30 C3, 5W-40, 5W-40 Turbo Diesel, 5W-50, 10W-30, 10W-40 and 10W-60. Applications: For use in vehicles that require any of the above viscosities. Website: www.castrol.com Castrol Brake Fluid DOT 4 Description: Castrol’s Brake Fluid DOT 4 is engineered to provide outstanding performance and features a Unique Low Moisture Activity formulation to provide maximum wet boiling point protection against vapour lock brake failure. It provides superior fluidity at low temperatures for optimum braking response and mixes with conventional brake fluids. Specifications: Exceeds DOT 3 & 4 and all leaded auto manufacturers requirements. Applications: Recommended for all anti-lock braking systems (ABS), hydraulic drum and disc braking systems and hydraulic clutches requiring DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluids. Website: www.castrol.com Daystar Lubrathane Description: Daystar’s Lubrathane is a specially blended fully-synthetic lubricant designed to be installed during installation, creating a durable protective film to lubricate between polyurethane and metal components. It almost completely eliminates metal-to-metal contact even under extreme conditions. Specifications: Formulated with Teflon. Available in small canisters or larger cartridges. Applications: Universal product. Website: www.daystarweb.com fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 45

Champion Blue Flame Synthetic Diesel 5W-40 Motor Oil Description: Champion’s Blue Flame Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Motor Oil is purposebuilt to improve the performance and protection of diesel engines, and provides fuel economy improvement while delivering unmatched high-temperature film strength and lubricity protection. It is a 100-percent synthetic formula and meets new diesel engine requirements. Specifications: Available in quarts, gallons and 55-gallon drums. Applications: Meets, or exceeds, pre- and post-2007 emission specs. Website: www.championbrands.com H2Blu Diesel Exhaust Fluid Description: H2Blu Diesel Exhaust Fluid is non-toxic, stable, odourless and colourless. It is a solution of 32.5-percent automotive grade Urea and 67.5-percent de-ionized water. It helps convert the harmful oxides of nitrogen (NOx) from diesel exhaust into nitrogen and water vapour. Specifications: Comes in 9.46L jugs, 208L drums, and 1,040L totes and bulk. Applications: For diesel-powered vehicles. Website: www.h2blu.com

Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean Description: Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean is a new technology developed to reduce the cost and hassle of particulate filter maintenance. It causes the fuel to burn much cleaner, which eliminates a lot of particulate matter that would go into the exhaust system causing regens. It cleans out the matter already trapped in the filter and also cleans out injectors. Specifications: One 473 ml bottle treats up to 113.5L of diesel fuel. Applications: Made for use with Diesel engines. Website: www.lucasoil.com Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF Description: Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF (Automatic transmission fluid) is a fully synthetic fluid that is engineered to help provide resistance to oil breakdown and deposits. Additionally, it is able to improve overall transmission durability and cleanliness and will ensure smooth, crisp shifts every time. Specifications: Able to promote prompt and reliable lubrication at temperatures down to -54-degrees Celsius. Applications: Recommended for use in high-performance vehicles, SUVs, Vans, and Light trucks. Website: www.mobiloil.com Pennzoil Synthetic SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil Description: Pennzoil’s Synthetic Gear Oils are specially formulated with synthetic base stocks to meet the requirements that today’s cars, minivans, SUVs and lightduty trucks encounter in normal and sever driving conditions. The oil provides better protection than low- and high-temperature conventional mineral oil base stocks. Specifications: Available in SAE 75W-90 viscosity grade of either API GL-4 or API GL-5 service classifications. Applications: Meets requirements of today’s cars, SUVs and light-duty trucks. Website: www.pennzoil.com Recochem Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Description: Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a pure, aqueous solution of urea and water, to be used in new diesel engines using SCR technology. DEF helps reduce emissions of NOx gases that are produced inside the engine during combustion. AIR1® DEF is API certified to guarantee product quality. Specifications: Available in 3.78L, 9.46L, 208L containers; 1,041L, 1,250L, 3,100L totes; Custom storage tanks from 4,500L to 10,000L+ Applications: Designed for newer diesel trucks, on-road and construction vehicles, agricultural equipment, and passenger cars. Website: www.recochem.com 46 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

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Red Line D6 ATF Description: Red Line’s Synthetic D6 ATF (automatic transmission fluid) is a lowviscosity version of the D4ATF and is designed for better fuel efficiency. The fluid is able to provide significantly improved gear protection and the balanced frictional characteristics will provide smooth and consistent shifts. Specifications: The fluid is designed to satisfy Dexron-VI, Dexron-III, Dexron-II as well as API 70W/75W/80W and GL-4 gear oil requirements. Applications: Use on 2003 6.0L Ford Diesel Trucks, and GM Dexron VI, Mercon SP, Mercon LV, Mercon, Dexron III ’99-on automatic PNs. Website: www.redlineoil.com Royal Purple Max Atomizer Fuel Injector Cleaner Description: The Max-Atomizer is a fully-synthetic, highly concentrated highperformance fuel injector cleaner that is formulated to solve problems with today’s direct-injection engines, and can be used with any type of fuel injection. It contains highly concentrated polyether amine detergents that quickly clean clogged and coked injectors to restore 100 percent of injector flow. Specifications: For use in both gasoline and diesel engines, will not harm vehicle emissions equipment. Applications: Designed for use with direct injection engines and any type of fuel injection engines. Website: www.royalpurple.com Quaker State Winter Synthetic Blend Motor Oil Description: Quaker State Enhanced Durability Winter Synthetic Blend Motor Oil is formulated to circulate to critical engine parts faster, minimizes metal-to-metal wear, and supplies quicker engine warm-up and delivers superior performance in cold weather. It provides faster low-temperature oil flow and helps preserve battery life and power. Specifications: Available in 5W-20 and 5W-30. Applications: Available for engines that are compatible with 5W-20 and 5W-30 viscosities. Website: www.quakerstate.com

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OFF-ROAD: RALLY RECAP

like rain and thunderstorms, completely washing out roads and mountainsides. All teams were rerouted to the beginning of the 2nd stage for the next day. Stage 2 was shortened by 100 km due to floods, but competitors were happy to get the first regular day underway. Dutch drivers Hans Stacey and Gerard de Rooy were impressive, while Russia’s Kamaz team, who swept the podium last year, were 8-9-10 at the end of the stage. Australia’s Toby Price of Team KTM was the fastest bike, and nine-time WRC champion Sebastien Loeb followed by Stephane Peterhansel of Team Peugeot were 1-2 in the cars. The next three stages saw Team Peugeot dominate. Loeb won two more stage races while teammates Peterhansel and Carlos Sainz were making it look easy. It wasn’t long until they held the first three positions. Team Mini’s Nasser Al-Attiyah of Qatar and last year’s Dakar champ sat just off the pace. The Dutch drivers in the truck category were strong for the first week, but by the end of it, it looked like Kamaz and the Russians were getting close to making a big move. The bikes were very competitive between Toby Price, Paulo Goncalves of Portugal and Spain’s Joan Barreda Bort. Barreda won two stages only to be penalized for speeding in a controlled area. In the quads, it was Casale from Chile that was out in front.

Skill, Endurance and Willpower Required by John Harwood

or many of us, the new year begins with a hangover, or a self-talk about that diet and exercise program we have been promising ourselves. For some, the ringing in of the new year means the beginning of the world’s most gruelling off-road rally. The 2016 Dakar Rally takes place the first few weeks of January every year. It is not a race, but rather a carefully designed test of driving skill, endurance, team planning and the willpower to get through it all. January 2nd to 16th, 2016, the 38th Dakar took competitors through the Andes of Argentina and Bolivia from sea level to over 14,000 ft. above, on motorcycles, quads, cars and trucks. They will battle fatigue, the weather, and treacherous terrain, as well as the challenges of special and marathon sessions within the 13-stage rally. On the Prologue Stage, January 2nd, an 11kilometre route that sets the qualifying order for the next day’s regular Stage 1, a terrible accident forced its suspension. The Mini of Guo Meling from China veered off the course at the 6.6-km mark on a stretch of straight country road near Arrecifes, a small town 200 km from the Argentine capital Buenos Aires. Race chiefs immediately deployed four medical helicopters, three medical vehicles and eight local ambulances to the scene of the accident. A 34-year-old man and his son, aged 10, were the two most serious cases, and had to be rushed to hospital, with one suffering head injuries and the other chest trauma. Only 59 of the 111 cars and none of the trucks made it through before the stage was suspended. The next day’s Stage 1 was cancelled due to extreme weather that brought monsoon50 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

As the end of Stage 7 neared, all competitors looked forward to the one rest day before continuing the second week. After a week of bad weather, shortened courses and fatigue, a few late developments closed doors for some competitors and opened the doors for others. Ignacio Casale, who was leading the quads, had a bad crash which let the Patronelli brothers get out in front. Joan Barreda Bort also had problems and was out of the competition in the motorcycle class while Toby Price looked strong. The Dutch were holding off

the Russians, and Team Peugeot were dominating. Before the end of the first week though, another tragedy struck as a 63 year-old male spectator was hit and killed instantly when he was struck at the side of the road. After a rest day, the teams were ready (or not) to continue with Stage 8. The heat was extreme and the navigation tough. As Toby Price for KTM was continuing his successful ride with Paulo Goncalves holding on to second overall, everything was falling apart for Sebastien Loeb in the Peugeot. Loeb rolled his car and by the time they got it fixed, the rally was essentially over for him. He did, however, finish the rally and even won the last stage to make it four wins. It was the Mini that took the stage win this time With Loeb out of the picture for the overall win, it was Stephane Peterhansel and Carlos Sainz in two other Peugeot Toby Price couldn’t be caught on his KTM motorcycle, once he had the lead, becoming the first Australian to win the Dakar. KTM teammate Stefan Svitko of Slovakia was 2nd. The big move the Russian Red Bull Team Kamaz was making at the beginning of the second week proved more difficult than expected. The Dutch would not back down. In the end, it was Iveco’s Gerard de Rooy who kept the lead over the defending champion Kamaz driver Ayrat Mardeev, who had to settle for 2nd place this year in trucks. Another Dakar Rally is now in the books. It was one to remember with lots of twists and turns, literally and figuratively, as every time things were progressing nicely, something would be there to bite you. When you thought you were down and out, something would come along to help you out, and finally when you were caught waiting for the next round of drama, everything was status quo! cars that took turns winning stages. Nasser Al-Attiyah in his Red Bull Mini was cruising just behind the two Red Bull Peugeots. Things went from bad to worse for Honda’s Paulo Goncalves. A large branch punctured his radiator in a Special Section where you can’t receive mechanical assistance. He was towed to the next checkpoint by a teammate to find that the stage had been shortened due to the heat. This gave him the opportunity to get the bike fixed and stay 3rd overall. The next day, Paulo crashed and was airlifted to hospital with a concussion. Midway through the week, Carlos Sainz broke the gearbox on the Peugeot and it took too long to get the parts to fix it. They lost too much time. It was now Stephane Peterhansel’s race to lose. The now 12-time Dakar Champ from France cruised to victory with last year’s winner Nasser Al-Attiyah second. The Patronelli brothers were 1-2 in quads the whole week, with Marcos winning in the end. 52 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

That is what makes The Dakar Rally the premier off-road event in the world. The 2016 version was one to remember!

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TECH: NEW PRODUCTS

GEARING UP

Series 42 Blockade is Newest Rim Offering from Pro Comp

All-New UnderCover NightHawk Light Brow The new Series 42 Blockade wheel from Pro Comp features a bold eight-spoke design that has been modernized by split spokes and a deep lip design that boast over four-inches of lip. The gloss blackfinished wheel is accentuated by milled edges and accents for a great-looking finish that’s also easy to clean. The wheels are available in a 20-inch diameter with a number of bolt patterns to fit nearly all late-model Jeeps, pickups and SUVs. They boast advanced counter construction with up to a 3,650 lb. weight rating. For more information please go to www.procompusa.com

Rigid Industries Radiance Light Bars

The all-new Rigid Industries Radiance light bars are ideal for those who want coloured accents on a traditional off-road light bar. The Radiance series bars are built with the same high-grade aluminum alloy housing as the E-Series bars, but have several key features that make it unique. Some of these features include an exposed black printed circuit board, black powder-coated mounting brackets, and black extruded aluminum housing. Inside of the housing are forwardprojecting optics along with back-lighting that are available in white, amber, red, blue and green. For more information please go to www.rigidindustries.com 54 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

The new NightHawk Light Brow from UnderCover will dramatically change the attitude of your factory Jeep grill by instantly giving it a mean, aggressive appearance that enhances the already great Jeep front end. The Brow is painted to match your factory colour and features a simple installation by simply mounting the brow on your factory grill with no need for drilling. It is made from ABS Composite material and comes with a replacement weather strip to retain the factory designed weather seal. For more information please go to www.undercoverinfo.com

Addictive Desert Designs Style Rax

The ADD (Addictive Desert Designs) Style Rax is a sleek, aircraft grade aluminum style bar that gives your truck an extra option for light bars and exterior speakers. It features an adjustable width that will allow it to fit on one-ton, ¾ ton, ½ ton and ¼ ton trucks. The rack is a two side panel design that features both honeycomb and ADD dimple die and is finished in a hammer black powder coat. For more information please go to www.addictivedesertdesigns.com

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TECH: NEW PRODUCTS Rugged Ridge Hood Mount Light Bar for TJ Wrangler Rugged Ridgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hood Mount Light Bar for Jeep TJ Wranglers mounts on top of your hood using OE hood-hinge bolt mounting points and provides great lighting versatility for your vehicle. The bars feature a heavy-duty powder-coat black steel construction for ultimate durability, and installation is a breeze with no drilling required. The bars provide a perfect alternative to the more standard roof- or front bumper-mounted light bars, and will enhance the rugged look of your Jeep. For more information please go to www.ruggedridge.com

AEM Cold Air Intake System for 2015 Chevy Colorado/ GMC Canyon AEMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Cold Air Intake System for 2015 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon with the 2.5-litre four-cylinder EcoTec engine replaces the restrictive factory air intake ducting, sound resonator chamber, and the enclosed air filter box with newer, better components from AEM. The new system uses a free-flowing mandrel-bent aluminum AEM air intake tube and a large open-element reusable Dryflow filter to minimize restriction, straighten airflow, and increase the amount of air going to the engine. This results in more usable power throughout the RPM range with gains of an additional 8 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque. For more information please go to www.aemintakes.com

56 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

That was EZ.

EZ Liner Bedliner and Industrial Strength Coating

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Sinister Diesel has proudly announced that they now carry a full line of oil and coolant filtration kits for 2003-2010 Ford and 2003-2007 Dodge trucks. The oil and coolant filtration systems are available separately, and some are also available as combo kits. The kits are bypass-style systems that remove all solid particles by filtering a small amount of coolant on each pass. Each one of the kits features parts anodized in Sinister blue which prevents corrosion and creates a custom look. For more information please go to www.sinisterdiesel.com

Paramount Automotive 2015-16 Ford F-150 Raptor-Style Grille Paramount Automotive’s new Raptor-Style Packaged Grille for 2015-2016 Ford F-150 pickup trucks offers a bold, aggressive appearance that is sure to redefine the look of any truck. The grilles are rigorously tested for fit and finish and entirely replace the OE grille assembly. They feature a simple installation, come complete with amber accent lights to further enhance the overall look of your vehicle, and are made from a durable ABS plastic material that will withstand common wear and tear. For more information please go to www.paramount-automotive.com 58 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

TECH: NEW PRODUCTS Husky Liners 2015 Ford F-150 Gearbox Underseat Storage System

ReadyLift Suspension’s New 2007-2016 Jeep JK Wrangler 8-Arm SST Lift Kit Husky Liners has recently unveiled its new GearBox Underseat Storage System for the 2015 Ford F-150 SuperCrew pickup truck. The product allows users to stay clean and organized and keeps items from sliding around inside the vehicle by simply providing an allotted place to store small items. The box installs under the rear seat of the truck and features a black textured finish to give it a factory look and feel, and instantly upgrades the convenience of the truck even further. For more information please go to www.huskyliners.com

ReadyLift Suspension has recently developed a new SST Lift Kit category for the 2007-2016 Jeep JK Wrangler that come available in new 4-inch and 2.5-inch heights. The 8-Arm SST Lift Kits feature the Heavy Duty DOM tube steel control arms which are integrated into the coil spring lift kits. Both available kits come with a front track bar and are available with or without the shocks. ReadyLifts’s new TCT – Terrain Control Technology flex joints contained in heavy-duty forged housings bolt right up in replacement of the factory control arms and provide a great ride even in the roughest of terrains. For more information please go to www.readylift.com

Daystar’s New Universal Roll Bar Switch Panel

BD Diesel Cummins ISX Manifold Upgrade The BD Diesel Cummins ISX Manifold upgrade features a pulse design that works in combination with a dual-volume T6 flange, and enhances turbine response for quicker spooling. It features two evenly-placed slip joints which allow for heat expansion with no cracking, and a thick-walled durable high-silicon iron casting. BD recommends installing the manifold upgrade with a Borg Warner S410SX Turbo, as it will replace the costly HE500 series turbo and features lower maintenance costs, fewer breakdowns, and provides better pulling power. For more information please go to www.dieselperformance.com 60 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016

Daystar ’s new Universal Roll Bar Switch Panel allows users to mount auxiliary switches up and out of the w a y, w h i l e conveniently keeping them within comfortable range of the driver. The panel mounts to any vehicle with a roll cage that needs switches for a wide range of accessories. The heavy-duty panel is UV-resistant and can be mounted either inside or outside of your vehicle. It features five illuminated Daystar rocker switches and can mount to any size roll bar up to 1.75-inches in diameter or larger. For more information please go to www.daystarweb.com

LED LIGHTING Quick & easy ways to update your truck! LED Tail Light Set

Includes all-new light housings, original style lenses, silicone lens-tohousing gaskets, LED turn signal flasher and fully illustrated instructions for a complete plug-and-play installation. No cutting or splicing required.

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STUCK TRUCKS Looks like someone underestimated the depth.

You wouldn’t think this would be enough to get him stuck. Clearly... They didn’t.

Keep your head up guy, that doesn’t look too bad at all.

How many construction workers does it take to get a truck out?

Wouldn’t be Stuck Trucks if we didn’t have one of these. 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 Trucks Plus hat! 62 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE fEBRUARY/MARCH 2016