Trucks Plus February-March 2020

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CONTENTS CANOPIES:

Truck Canopies Buyers Guide ....pg 16

PRE-TRIP:

The Pre-Trip inspection is an important part of RV-ing ...pg 38

TESLA:

The Tesla Cybertruck is on the way ...pg 26

SIDEBARS:

Sidebars/Running Boards Buyers Guide ....pg 34

Texas Minivan

True Capability The pickup wars rage on as Ford introduces the 2020 Super Duty ...pg 10

RV-ing

2020 Keystone Avalanche 320RS ... pg 44

ALSO INSIDE:

All-new for 2020, the Chevrolet Suburban has been built continuously since its 1935 introduction ...pg 22

Fresh Tracks--------------------------- 4 Truck King Fuel Study---------- 28 Gearing Up---------------------------- 50 Stuck Trucks------------------------- 54 FEB/MAR 2020 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE


FRESH TRACKS

GMC Debuts Updated Canyon Mid-Size Pickup for 2021

W

ith the 2021 version of the Chevrolet Colorado midsized pickup announced at the end of last year, it should come as no surprise that its brother, the GMC Canyon, has done the same here early in 2020. Perhaps the biggest news to come out of the announcement is the addition of the first-ever Canyon AT4, which is a model in the Sierra full-size lineup that boasts many off-road upgrades. On the outside, the AT4 features a bolder design with a new larger grille and red recovery hooks, while inside features Kalahari stitching and AT4 head restraint embroidery. In terms of the aforementioned off-road upgrades, the Canyon AT4 will benefit from 31-in. Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires, off-road tuned suspension with Advanced Hill Descent Control System, and a 4WD system with Eaton G80 Rear Automatic Locking Differential. In addition to the AT4, GMC also revealed upgrades to the Canyon Denali model which will feature a more sculpted and layered pattern on the grille in addition to 5-in. chrome assist steps, signature Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020

chrome accents and Denali-exclusive 20-in. Diamond Cut aluminum wheels. Inside, the Canyon Denali will include authentic open-pore ash wood trim, aluminum dĂŠcor and unique stitching. Both the AT4 and Denali models are powered by either a best-in-class 308-horsepower 3.6L V6 or a 2.8L Duramax diesel engine that provides 369 lb-ft of torque. The 2021 GMC Canyon will be available later this year with pricing announced closer to production.



Volume 13, Issue No. 1 February / March 2020

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

2020 Ford Super Duty Features Best-In-Class Front Plow Rating In a ratings category we’re not sure many people were aware was being kept, the 2020 Ford Super Duty has achieved the best-in-class snow plow rating of 1,400-lbs, which is the highest for all gasoline-powered trucks, and 1,290 pounds, which is also best-in-class for diesel. Ford offers an available Snow Plow Prep Package for all 4x4 pickups and provides owners with heavy-duty springs and an up-rated alternator to help deal with heavy electrical loads. In addition to the Snow Plow package, the 2020 Super Duty also comes with many other features that are ideal for this time of year such as windshield wiper de-icer, a heated steering wheel and heated front and rear seats. In addition, the Deep Snow/Sand drive mode is available on all models equipped with the all-new 10-speed heavy-duty TorqShift automatic transmission. For more information on the 2020 Super Duty, check out the First Drive feature on the pages ahead.

New Chevrolet Silverado Realtree Edition Coming this Summer Chevrolet and Realtree recently announced their latest outdoor-oriented truck collaboration with the 2021 Silverado Realtree Edition. The limited-run truck pairs the ruggedness of the Silverado 1500 Custom Trail Boss truck with exclusive graphics from Realtree, which is the world’s leading and likely most popular camouflage brand. This marks the second collabora-

Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan Howard J Elmer Stephen Elmer John Gunnell Benjamin Yong CONTACT INFORMATION

TRUCKS 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

Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020

tion from the two companies, following the 2016 Silverado Realtree edition. The truck will be equipped with a 2-in. factory suspension lift and the Z71 off-road package which features monotube Rancho shocks, Hill Descent Control, automatic locking rear differential, skid plates and an AutoTrac 2-speed transfer case. The Realtree edition also boasts 20-in. black wheels wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT off-road tires. Under the hood is either the 5.3L V8 with a 6-speed transmission, or the 6.2L V8 paired to a 10-speed automatic. Realtree camouflage will be featured on the exterior graphics and interior door trim accents, while the bedliner also integrates the company’s logo. The 2021 Silverado Realtree Edition will be available at Chevrolet dealerships in the summer of this year.



Ram EcoDiesel Named Best Pickup Truck by AJAC Volume 13, Issue No. 1 February / March 2020

The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) recently announced the vehicles its members selected as the best in Canada for 2020 in each of the 12 categories that include everything from sports cars to pickup trucks. After making its return for 2020, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel was named the Best Pickup Truck by AJAC, which comes on the heels of the brand achieving its second best sales year ever. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is the most powerful half-ton diesel with 480 lb-ft. of torque and a towing capability of up to

ADVERTISER INDEX

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5,697 kg (12,560 lb.). In addition to winning the pickup category, FCA also took home the Best EV of 2020 honour with the Chrysler Pacifica/Pacifica Hybrid which has won an award each year since its 2016 debut. All 12 category winners will now qualify to be named the 2020 Canadian Car or 2020 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year which will be announced at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto on February 12, 2020. For a full list of the category winners, please visit www.ajac.ca.

PICK UP LOCATIONS

North American Car of the Year Winners Announced in Detroit The North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year awards were handed out recently with the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, Kia Telluride and Jeep Gladiator being named the big winners respectively. These awards are considered very prestigious and unique as they are chosen by a panel of fifty respected jurors from print, online, radio and broadcast media across the United States and Canada. The process began in June of 2019 with the determination of vehicle eligibility and initial rounds of voting. In the category that is most pertinent to this publication, the Jeep Gladiator beat out its Ram Heavy-Duty FCA stablemate and one of its main competitors in the Ford Ranger, to be named North American Truck of the Year. In the Car of the Year category, the Corvette Stingray beat out the Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Supra, while in the Utility Category, the Kia Telluride beat out the Hyundai Palisade and Lincoln Aviator. For more information on these vehicles or the awards themselves, visit www.northamericancaroftheyear.org. Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020



More Capability The updated 2020 Ford Super Duty is the next chapter in the ever-competitive pickup wars

T

he constant battle for horsepower supremacy has been a longstanding tenet of the auto industry, from the muscle cars of the ‘70s to the super cars of 2020, but in today’s world of heavy-duty pickup trucks, there is a battle being waged for supremacy in a different category: torque. Ram was the first to crack the almost mythical barrier of 1,000 lb-ft of torque, but Ford has already answered that challenge with its brand new 2020 Super Duty. But the American purveyor of pickups didn’t stop at just taking the torque crown; Ford has introduced more capability, technology and creature comforts than ever before into its Super Duty pickups, so let’s dive in to what is new.


Story and photos by Stephen Elmer, additional photos courtesy of Ford


Powertrain Under the hood of the Super Duty there are three engines available, only one of which is not brand new. That unit is the base 6.2-litre naturally-aspirated gas-powered V8 which still serves as the standard engine in the lower trims of Super Duty, pumping out 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Moving up, we get to the brand new 7.3-litre gas V8, introduced for the first time in the 2020 Super Duty, though it will permeate the brand’s medium duty trucks as well, powering up to the mighty F750. Power for the new “Godzilla” V8, as Ford calls it, checks in at 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque along with an impressive flat torque curve, delivering a robust power surge low in the rpm range, and pulling strong right to redline. Finally, we have the beast of the bunch and the engine that is currently leading the battle of the torque, the refreshed 6.7-litre V8 Powerstroke diesel, pumping out a mind bending 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. Updates to the big diesel include a new double-axle variable-geometry turbocharger, new steel piston heads and a variable-displacement oil pump. The old 6.2 remains mated to a six-speed automatic, but the larger engines are both paired with a brand new 10-speed automatic, a play which should help Ford with both low-end power and fuel economy. Physically, the new 10-speed is the exact same size as the small six-ratio unit, while only being four pounds heavier. What’s more, 1st gear is much lower on the 10-speed to provide better power off the line, while the top three gears are all overdrive ratios, helping to keep things economical on the highway. A brand new power takeoff has also been fitted to this transmission, offering 300 lb-ft of torque with the diesel to any implement you can hook up.

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Big Power, Big Capability Driving both of these new engines proved to us that Ford truly is the current king of power, as each one is best-in-class and feels every bit of it. The new gas engine delivers strong, linear power enhanced by the crisp shifts of the 10-speed, which seems like it always knows where it wants to be. Jump in the turbodiesel, floor it, and prepare for all that twisting power and wild ponies to toss you back in your seat. Even hooked up to a 15,000-lb fifth wheel trailer, the 6.7-liter diesel barely changes its acceleration character. Cruise empty down the interstate and it’s also clear that Ford spent plenty of time making sure that unladen, the Super Duty doesn’t punish its occupants for being ready for so much weight, as quiet and comfortable are the best ways to describe the highway drive. Now, with all that power comes great capability. In fact, at the high end, drivers legally must bump up to a Class A license in Canada just to pull the maximum weight. When properly equipped (the necessary configuration for each rating is in brackets), the Super Duty is ready to haul 7,850 pounds of payload (F-350 6.7L 4x2 single-rear wheel regular cab), pull a gooseneck trailer that weighs up to 37,000 pounds (F-450 6.7L 4x2 dual-rear wheel regular cab), haul a 32,500-pound fifth wheel (same as gooseneck) or drag along a 24,200pound conventional bumper pull trailer (F-450 6.7L 4x2 crew cab).

now standard on XLT and higher trims and include lane-keep assist, blind spot monitoring that also works when you have a trailer installed, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking and automatic high beams. Inside the truck, wireless charging has been added for your smartphone and a wireless 4G LTE modem with WiFi capability has been made standard on every single new Super Duty. For the actual drive, Ford has added a flurry of driving modes to the Super Duty, including tow/haul, eco, slippery and deep sand/snow, each of which will change the shift mapping and traction control settings to tailor the truck to the situation. When it comes time to backup with a trailer on, the 2020 Super Duty is the only game in town with a tech-based system to get your trailer where you need it: Pro Trailer Backup Assist. This is a small knob by your right knee that is able to steer the trailer without you needing to touch the steering wheel. Simply turn the knob the direction

Technology Raw pulling power is important to get a load moving, but keeping that load safe and under control is much easier now thanks to plenty of new technology in this 2020 Super Duty. Driver assistance features have been installed on the truck to keep it between the lines and on the road. These are FEB/MAR 2020 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 13


off-road cruise control, not something that is new to pickups, but a first for heavy-duty trucks here in the Tremor. Trail control allows you to forget about your feet and just drive, with a brain that thinks surprisingly like a human. On a steep descent filled with uneven rocks with trail control set at 1 mph, the truck began to creep down, and when it would drop off a rock and feel like it was ready to run away, trail control would bring the big rig to a calm stop, take a second to re-group, then continue on, much like a human driver would do. As these systems go, the Super Duty’s trail control is the smartest I’ve used. For numbers, the Tremor offers 10.8-inches of ground clearance and a 31-degree approach angle.

you would like the trailer to go, control the throttle and brake, and you’re in business. And it really is that easy, with even the most inexperienced trailer driver able to use it their first time in the truck. What’s even better is that on gooseneck and fifth-wheel applications, a yaw sensor is simply attached close to the connecting pin on the trailer, and that’s all it takes to be ready to use Pro Trailer. Besides this system, a cornucopia of camera angles is available from the Super Duty, including a trailer-mounted rear view camera, allowing you to see what’s behind your tow behind. Off-Road Shaker Another brand new package from Ford for the 2020 Super Duty is the Tremor, bringing along off-road equipment that makes this big Super Duty a heavy-duty mountain goat. The package includes a set of 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires, about a two-inch lift achieved with long springs in the front and blocks in the rear, a locking rear differential, Dana limited-slip front differential and two exclusive off-road driving aids: rock crawl mode and trail control. The former is like all the other drive modes, changing the shift mapping and traction to keep you on the rocks, while the latter is

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Pricing So what will all that new technology and capability cost? The price spread on this new Super Duty in Canada is massive, spread out over six trim levels: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited. At the low end, the cheapest truck is the F-250 XL starting at $41,859. Moving up to the volume-seller XLT model in the F-250 brings the price tag up to $48,789, while loading up an F-250 with the top-end Limited package brings the price up to a whopping $97,029. As for the F-350, that truck starts at $44,489 for the XL with singlerear wheels and $45,739 with duallies. At the top end, get ready for this: the F-350 Limited with dual-rear wheels sells for a starting price of $100,879. And that’s not even the most expensive of the bunch, with that crown going to the $104,429 starting price of the F-450 Limited. The Verdict The confidence that’s provided by the new powertrains coupled with the most advanced technology systems in trucks anywhere is simply immense, making even the largest of loads feel small. Couple that with the climbing power of the Tremor and the comfort of the truck unladen, and there truly is a 2020 Ford Super Duty for every single usage case out there.


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PRODUCTS: CANOPIES

BUYERS’ GUIDE Action Contour IV Description: Action’s Contour IV is a smooth, cab-high profile with simple yet elegant design lines that guarantee a precision fit. The recessed and contoured single T-handle rear door and recessed radius half-slider window make for great functionality, and the 12V interior LED dome light allows you to see inside of the truck bed at night. Specifications: Quality construction, dark grey carpet interior, tilt-down picture window, Axalta automotive paint. Applications: Available for most late model pickups. Website: www.actiontrucks.com Action Innovator III Description: Action’s Innovator III truck canopy features an aerodynamic shape and extra interior height which makes it easier to get in and out and to load and unload cargo. The Innovator III comes with a long list of standard features including, but not limited to, 31percent tint dark glass, a heavy-duty rear door, front picture window, third brake light and radius slide slider. Specifications: Optional equipment includes a double T-handle, fold-down front slider, interior fabric lining, side doors, privacy side doors and roof rack, to name a few. Applications: Available for most late model pickups. Website: www.actiontrucks.com A.R.E. CX Revo Description: Meet your truck’s match. A.R.E.’s newest generation reinvents what you thought you knew about truck canopies. With the industry’s first tailgate-formed rear door, frameless side windows and OneMotion handle design, the CX Revo generation is made for today’s trucks. Standard 12V LED dome light with ActiveTilt keeps the bed illuminated and the optional keyless entry allows for easy access using your truck’s key fob. Specifications: Additional standard options include dark gray headliner. Applications: Visit website for full application listings. Website: www.4are.com/product/revo A.R.E. Z2 Description: A.R.E.’s new Z2 canopy features its exclusive urethane side window technology and a frameless door with contour strip that will give a sleek and stylish look to your truck. The Z2 can be purchased with many popular options such as keyless entry or roof racks to meet just about any need. The canopy can be painted to match your truck’s colour and features a slam latch system. Specifications: The Z2 features A.R.E.’s patented palm handle with automotive lock. Applications: Visit website for updated application listings. Website: www.4are.com

Arrow Matrix Canopy Description: Arrow’s Matrix Canopy features a custom one-piece molded construction for new vehicles, and is painted to code to ensure an exact colour match. The tinted, frameless, recessed windows provide a streamlined look while the strong, fibreglass construction provides incredible durability. Specifications: Interior and brake lights included. Applications: Available for a wide variety of late-model pickups. Website: www.arrowtruckcaps.com 16 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020



Century Royal Truck Canopy Description: The Century Royal Truck Canopies feature fit, colour and style that have been specifically designed for the model of your truck. The SUV-inspired side windows have twistout rear vents with screens, while the rear door is frameless and features curved glass with rotary latches and teardrop handle. Specifications: All molds feature a trim-less edge and skirted sides to conceal bed rail caps. Wide range of additional options available. Applications: Available for a wide range of truck models. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.centurycaps.com

Century Ultra Sport Description: Century’s Ultra Sport canopy is a cab-high example that features custom-fit styling, 1/3-side sliding windows with screens that provide generous air flow, and an all-glass rear door with rotary latches and a twist handle. Specifications: Has a 12V interior dome light, dark tint on all windows, and J-clamp installation. Applications: See website for complete application listing. Website: www.centurycaps.com

Leer 200XQ Sport SmartCap Truck Canopy Description: The new 200XQ Sport, the industry’s very first smart canopy, is defining the future of smart canopy design and technology. This sleek, high-end, fibreglass canopy is engineered to include luxury features, and an SUV-style look and feel that give truck owners an experience unlike any other. Specifications: Access rear door with your Smart Phone - Easy access and sleek design keypad display - Optional high-performance audio/video rear system including large-screen TV Applications: Chevrolet Silverado with 5.8-ft beds. Website: www.LEER.com

Leer 100XL Canopy Description: The Leer 100XL fibreglass canopy is a custom-fit premium canopy, featuring recessed SUV-style side windows with twist-out vents and screens to securely protect valuable cargo while enhancing the truck’s aerodynamics with a classy, finished look. Specifications: Standard features include insulated roof, recessed LED third-brake light, frameless curved glass rear door, and LEER twist handle lock with hinged weather cover. Applications: Available for most late-model pickups. Website: www.leer.com

Raider Phantom Canopy Description: The Phantom is Raider’s premium truck canopy model and features SUVinspired styling. It is a cab-high model that boasts a frameless curved glass rear door with a single teardrop twist handle, and frameless tip-out side windows. Standard features include recessed LED third brake light, insulated roof, interior 12V dome light, and fixed front window, just to name a few. Specifications: Additional options include front sliding window, keyless entry, interior headliner, single clothes rack, Thule roof rack systems, gear net, and side window delete. Applications: Available for a wide range of pickups. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.raidercaps.com 18 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020



Raider Vagabond Elite Description: Raider’s Vagabond Elite offers great ventilation with its standard 1/3-side sliding windows with screens, and provides the style enhancement of a frameless curved glass rear door with a centre-mounted handle. Standard features include a recessed LED third brake light, custom fit design, and skirted sides. Specifications: Available with a wide variety of options including front sliding window, solid sides, keyless entry, and cargo hooks, just to name a few. Applications: Available for virtually every late-model pickup on the road today. Website: www.raidercaps.com

Range Rider Apex Description: Range Rider’s Apex canopy features sleek curves and an overall stylish design with frameless side windows with a rear tip-out portion and screens. The OEM all-glass door is supported by gas props and also features a built-in rear brake light for added safety. Additionally, an interior dome light is used for extra vision. Specifications: Heavy-duty fibreglass shell and bottom-flange construction. Applications: Available for a wide variety of late-model pickups. Website: www.rangerider.com

SnugTop XTR Description: SnugTop’s XTR fibreglass truck canopy features a stylish design that fits in seamlessly with your truck and provides a built-in, 2-in. diameter tubular roof rack which further increases its capability. The flush-mounted, all-glass side windows feature a rear part that pops out to increase ventilation, while the one-piece construction canopy also features a built-in LED brake light. Specifications: The all-glass tailgate features curved glass and the roof offers multiple roof rack options. Applications: Visit website for complete application listings. Website: www.snugtop.com

Spacekap WILD Description: Spacekap’s WILD commercial canopy is ideal for those looking to give their truck similar characteristics to a regular cargo van with 53-in. interior height and full-length side doors to allow for easy access from the outside. This unit will separate the cargo zone from the driver’s cab which creates a natural sound barrier between your tools and other equipment. Specifications: Made using Owens Corning Fibreglass and Spacekap’s composite recipe to make it lightweight yet strong. Applications: Available for Ford, GMC/Chevrolet and Ram/Dodge applications. Website: www.spacekap.com

Spacekap Compak Description: Spacekap’s Compak work truck canopy is a cab-level design that is streamlined and also gives you full accessibility. It features full-length doors and an optional Space-Slide single- or dual-tray system. It is available in both a 6-foot and 8-foot bed configuration and features 44-inches of headroom. Specifications: Features both side access and 40/60 rear doors. Applications: Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.spacekap.com

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FIRST LOOK: 2021 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN

Texas Minivan Story and photos by Howard J Elmer, additional photos courtesy of Chevrolet Canada

I

t’s often called the Texas minivan, as a tongue-in-cheek wink at its size. It’s also the darling of U.S. government agencies and has been a supporting actor in hundreds of movies. It’s none other than the Chevrolet Suburban – a truck that has been built continuously since its introduction in 1935. In fact, it’s done so many movies that the Suburban just recently received its own “star” on the sidewalk of Hollywood Boulevard – the only automobile to ever be honoured in that way. Unveiled recently with the usual fanfare, this was not a simple publicity stunt – this star was earned. Suburbans have appeared in hundreds of movies starting in the early ‘50s. These include classics like Peter

Fonda’s “Easy Rider,” Clint Eastwood’s “Play Misty for Me,” Harrison Ford’s “Clear and Present Danger” and comedies like “Honey I Shrunk the Kids.” Suburbans have also burrowed deep into our Pop-culture, often helped by television shows such as Starsky and Hutch, CHiPs and more recently Rescue Me, which have featured Suburbans in key roles. But one of the more famous trucks was James Gandolfini’s Suburban used on the HBO crime show, The Sopranos. This TV prop was sold in 2014 at the Barrett-Jackson collector’s auction for $110,000.US. That price included a signed message on the sun visor – “Take good care of my car. Tony.” But, the Chevrolet Suburban’s true claim to fame is that it’s the single longest-running uninterrupted production vehicle ever built. Fast forward to December, 2019 and you’ll see that the 2021 model we saw unveiled recently in Detroit now extends the Suburban’s longest running nameplate record to 85 years and 12 generations, and it’s still going strong - owning the lion’s share of the full-size SUV market. In 1935 though, the original Suburban was built to simply move railway passengers and their trunks from the stations to hotels. Back then, this purpose-built cargo and people mover was sold strictly as a commercial vehicle; it’s also doubtful that Chevy executives ever saw any other future for the Suburban at that time. In fact, that is so long ago that race-car driver and founder of the brand, Louis Chevrolet, was still around to test the first one. Later, the word “Carryall” was added to the name to highlight its purpose; mainly because the name

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Suburban was more of a general designation in those early days - attached to any station wagon type body with windows. For decades Dodge, Plymouth, Studebaker and Nash all built Suburban wagons. It wasn’t till the ‘80s that Chevrolet finally trademarked the name and dropped the Carryall tag. So, what about the popular term SUV? Well that wouldn’t even emerge in vehicle vernacular till the mid-’60s when the Suburban was already over 30 years old. That’s when the first marketing campaigns emerged offering the Suburban as a personal-use vehicle. Today it’s firmly entrenched in the personal-use full-size market and in its newest form, Chevrolet is making sure customers are getting what they want. This 2021 Suburban is larger, more comfortable and offers even more cargo room than its predecessor. The wheelbase has grown by four inches (134.1-in.) adding legroom in the second and third row. For the first time, the second-row seat can slide, adjusting as much as 10-inches forward or back. That third-row seat also sits lower thanks to a new chassis that doesn’t rise at the rear as in previous generations. It will be significantly more comfortable. In total, cargo room has also increased by 23 cu.ft. This new frame is also supported by new suspension – an Air Ride system that offers load leveling at all four corners of the vehicle and up to four-inches of ride-height adjustment. This is in addition to the standard independent rear suspension paired with Magnetic Ride Control which is one of the fastest-reacting damping systems in the industry, using sensors to continually “read” the road and alter the damping rate of the shocks almost instantly. Air Ride, of course, works automatically, however there is also a driver-selectable control that lowers the suspension two inches (when stopped) to aid passenger entry and exit. This control will also raise the body for additional off-road ground clearance of one inch at low speeds in 4WD HI, and another one inch in 4WD LO. Suburban’s standard engine is the long-serving 5.3L V8 (355 hp) paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. A 6.2L V8 (420 hp) is standard on the High Country model. Both engines, though,

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integrated trailer brake controller, a Hitch Guidance with Hitch View feature and the Chevrolet trailering app. Drivers will now have up to nine camera views – more than any competitive full-size SUV. The camera views alone will improve the trailering experience with easier hitching using rear camera guidelines, and help with lowspeed manoeuvres. Other new features include a trailering app with trailer profiles, trailer tire pressure and temperature monitoring and Side Blind Zone Alert for trailering. Suburban will now also carry Chevy’s industry-first trailering label located on the driver’s side door jamb.This label provides customers with the exact weight capacities of their specific vehicle.

now use Chevy’s new Dynamic Fuel Management technology – a fuel saving system that, through cylinder deactivation, maximizes power (when needed) and fuel economy. Both engines also feature stop/start tech, direct injection and variable valve timing. Also new to Suburban for 2021 is a diesel engine option. The Duramax 3L inline-six turbo-diesel engine will be available on all models except Z71. Currently available in the Silverado pickup, this small diesel is rated at 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. This is an industry first for full-size SUVs (for now anyway). A key benefit of the diesel will certainly be the best fuel economy in the full-size segment. The rollout of the new Suburban is planned for spring 2020; however, the diesel engine option may not be available till the fall of the year. Another important function of Suburban’s full ladder frame design has always been towing. I noted that Chevy has paid special attention to this trait this time around by adding new trailering technologies pioneered by the Silverado pickups. A Max Trailering package is available and includes a high-capacity radiator and cooling fan, an

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Chevrolet has also increased the electronically-based safety and connectivity features in Suburban ten-fold. There are now as many as 30 safety and driver convenience technologies. They include Restraint system with driver inboard seat-mounted side-impact airbag; Passenger Sensing System; HD Rear Vision Camera; Automatic Emergency Braking; Forward Collision Alert; Following Distance Indicator; Front Pedestrian Braking; Rear Park Assist; and IntelliBeam automatic headlamp control. The new interior and dash feature Chevrolet’s infotainment system. It offers up to a 10-inch-diagonal colour touchscreen. It’s one of five connected and configurable screens offered. On the windshield you will find an exclusive 15-inch diagonal Head-Up Display, while in the back an available rear-seat media package includes dual 12.6-inch-diagonal LCD touchscreens. These screens can be seen from the second and third rows and with independent connections passengers can watch different content on each side. For the first time, rear seat passengers can also view content from an Android phone and access the Nav system to find points of interest; they can then transfer the data to the info screen up front for the driver to view. This is in addition to Chevy’s built-in Wi-Fi (4G LTE) that can support multiple devices. Pricing on the new Suburban is not yet available.


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FIRST LOOK: TESLA CYBERTRUCK

Electrifying Story by Benjamin Yong, photos courtesy of Tesla

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ho would have thought in 2020 that the biggest news to come out of the truck segment would be a zero-emissions pickup made by a technology company? Well here we are, and Tesla has recently announced they are building just that. In late November, Elon Musk took to the stage in California amid much fanfare to introduce the Cybertruck, the sixth model in the all-electric lineup. Purely based on aesthetics, it’s hard to believe the metallic and trapezoidal vehicle is poised to go up against established old-timers such as the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado. “Trucks have been the same for a very long time. Like 100 years,” said Musk addressing a full house at the Tesla Design Center in Hawthorne, located southwest of Los Angeles. “We wanted to try something different.” That said, MSRP is in the ballpark of its competition. Tesla’s entry starts at roughly $50,000 ($39,900 USD) compared to $48,000 for a midrange 2020 F-150 Lariat or Silverado 1500 LT. There’s also a 6.5-foot bed offering 100 cubic feet of storage, too — although concealed by an aerodynamic motorized tonneau cover complete with integrated solar panels. As many others have observed, the Cybertruck, measuring 2,027 millimetres wide and standing 1,095 millimetres tall, appears to be lifted straight out of another time period. In fact, Musk himself has previously said styling influence came from films including Blade Runner and The Spy Who Loved Me, the 10th installment in the 007 franchise. 26 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


Seating inside accommodates six occupants, who are greeted with a familiar giant 17-inch touchscreen display controlling the usual infotainment and climate settings, as well as stuff you’d find on a typical smartphone like a calendar and web browser. And as on a mobile device, users may pinch and swipe to their heart’s content, and update software wirelessly, over-the-air. Three trims are available. The base is a single-motor/ rear-wheel drive configuration, capable of traveling 402 kilometres on a single charge and getting from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6.5 seconds. The next spec up is dualmotor/all-wheel drive, and the top-of-the-line model is a tri-motor/all-wheel drive setup, the latter possessing a total range of 804 kilometres and a quarter-mile time of 10.8 seconds. Boasting harder edges than a park bench, the body is crafted out of allegedly bullet-proof (.38 calibre) “ultra-hard 30-times cold-rolled stainless steel,” the same material used on the rockets of sister company SpaceX. Even the glass is supposed to be stronger than the kind usually found on a typical pickup. Unfortunately, a demonstration of the above claim did not go well during the presentation. Head designer Franz Von Holzhausen came out and threw a metal ball against a side window, which cracked immediately. “Well, maybe that was a little too hard,” says a sheepish Musk in response, adding a later fix will be applied. A thin blade of LEDs at the front serve as headlights, and a similar strip at the rear, the taillights. And nope, Tesla has made the decision to forego a conventional rear window, instead utilizing cameras for visibility when the bed is covered. The vehicle sits atop four-inch-high adaptive dampening suspension and chunky black solid wheels, easily passing for a set lifted straight off a Hot Wheels car.

Topping up the battery is a simple affair: plug-in at home, or at any of the brand’s 15,000-plus Superchargers. Those wanting to get the Cybertruck a little dirty should be pleased to hear each one can handle a 3,500-pound payload, and tow up to an estimated 7,500 pounds (single motor), 10,000 pounds (dual motor) and 14,000 pounds (tri motor). Variable ride height yields a maximum ground clearance of 16 inches. Tesla Autopilot driver assistance features are standard. Buyers wanting to bundle an optional fully self-driving package need to cough up an extra $9,200 (approximately) on top, advertised as a pre-sale price likely to increase in the future. Interested? Pre-orders are being taken now on the website (www. tesla.com) for a $150 refundable deposit. Production for the two higher grades is slated to commence in late 2021, with the single motor pickup due a year later. More information is expected closer to the official launch date.

FEB/MAR 2020 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 27


2020 Truck King Fuel Study

Story and photos by Howard J Elmer

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or the seventh year in a row, the Canadian Truck King Challenge has produced a fuel economy report that comes out of what we call “real-world” testing. And, we are proud to say that the Ministry of Natural Resources has once again supported us in collecting, analyzing and bringing you, the Canadian truck buyer, this fuel data. So, what is “real-world” testing? First off, the Truck King “real-world” method is the polar opposite of what the government does. They test vehicles in a laboratory on a stationary dynamometer which simulates on-road driving to measure fuel consumption. This computer controls a “simulated” drive that lasts about 20 minutes and tries to cover city/highway/stop-and-go and idle conditions. The results they get are what’s shown on those black and white window

stickers you’ll see on all new vehicles. As a consistent method, this works and the results are a good guideline. There is another way of doing it though, and that’s our way. Real drivers – actually driving, while the fuel data recorders work in the background as the judges drive and evaluate this year’s entries. Which for 2020 were the mid-size trucks on offer. This is how we do it. Each one of the new trucks we test is driven empty on-road by five different judges over the same 20-km test route. Then these judges drive the same trucks while towing a trailer, and then again while hauling payload. In other words, they are doing exactly what a Canadian truck owner does on a daily basis. What makes our method unique is that it takes the human element into consideration. Judges drive the loop over and over; changing up drivers each time. Of course, everyone drives differently and so do the judges; this adds a dose of reality to this realworld test. These are the numbers we report. All the stats are measured using a FleetCarma C5 logger. These units plug into the OBD port of the vehicles and obtain both standard and proprietary signals required for energy analysis. The company, FleetCarma, then produces an average of all those loops, by all those judges, in each condition. This is the seventh year we have produced the real-world fuel report. Previous year’s results can be found on our website. Just one more word on the results you’ll see. Each year the Canadian Truck King Challenge tests the newest trucks made available to us. Some years we skip certain classes and sometimes certain makes/ models/powertrains are simply not provided by the manufacturers. Continued on Pg. 30

28 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020



30 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


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PRODUCTS: SIDEBARS / RUNNING BOARDS

BUYERS’ GUIDE AMP Research Powerstep Smart Series Electric Running Boards

Description: AMP Research has recently introduced the PowerStep Smart Series electric running boards for trucks and SUVs that were developed with handheld technology and aesthetics in mind. The design of the boards will complement just about any truck or SUV they are installed on, and the in-app flexibility allows you to override your steps to stay up or down and power the auxiliary LED light system on and off. Specifications: The boards themselves incorporate a highly-textured, powder-coat step surface for maximum grip as well as high-strength, die-cast aluminum-alloy components for strength and durability. Applications: Visit website for application listings. Website: www.amp-research.com ARIES ActionTrac Powered Running Boards Description: ARIES ActionTrac™ boards are the next generation of power running boards. These side steps are unique from other power step designs because they feature a patented step-within-a-step™. They are equipped with a control module for safe, smooth, automated operation; they feature a no-splice and no-drill bracket installation; and they feature weatherresistant, powder-coated aluminum construction assembled in the USA. Specifications: Material: Aluminum Finish: Carbide black powder coat Applications: Most models of trucks including Chevy, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Nissan, Ram and Toyota. Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator. Website: www.ariesuautomotive.com Bestop Powerboard NX for Trucks Description: Bestop’s Powerboard NX utilizes wi-fi modules attached to the door jams to detect when the door opens and closes to then communicate to the wireless controller to operate the boards independently. This eliminates the need to remove the door panels or cutting into under-dash wiring. The boards drop down about 6-in. and out 2-in. to create a stair-step into your truck, and offer a sturdy 6.25-in. non-slip step area. Specifications: Integrated LED light kit mounts to linkage or to body and illuminates board and ground below for easier access. Features 600-lb. capacity per side. Applications: Available for a wide range of pickups. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.bestop.com Dee Zee Rough Step Running Boards Description: Dee Zee’s rugged Rough Step Running Boards feature a grated design which allows mud, water and snow to easily pass through which prevents buildup while providing exceptional traction to get in and out of your vehicle. The boards are coated with Dee Zee’s patented NRT (No Rust Technology) black powder coat for optimal ruggedness and resistance against corrosion. Specifications: Forged from a choice of industrial-gauge steel or heavy-duty aluminum. Applications: Available for a wide variety of trucks. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.deezee.com EGR Side Steps Description: EGR’s Side Steps are custom-designed for each vehicle for an integrated appearance, and have end caps made from a UV-stable, scratch-resistant material that can be easily painted. The steps are load-tested and are designed to increase vehicle accessibility, while the anti-slip inbuilt tread provides a secure footing. Specifications: Manufactured from extruded aluminum. Applications: Available for a wide array of applications. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.egrusa.com Enthuze 4X Series Side Bar Description: Enthuze’s 4X Series Side Bars are made from durable 4-in. oval tubing and come with custom mounting brackets, aggressive custom polyethylene step pads, OE-style bends for a fully integrated look, and are both E-coated and powder coated. Additionally, the bars feature polished welded end caps to complete the look. Specifications: Durable 4-in. oval tubing, custom mounting brackets included, aggressive custom polyethylene step pads, OE-style bends, E-coated and powder coated. Applications: Most models of Chevy, Ford, Dodge, Honda, Jeep, Toyota Website: www.enthuze.ca 34 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


Go Rhino Side Step Options for Ford Ranger Description: Go Rhino is now offering a lot of side step options for the new 2019 Ford Ranger. Many different styles of sidebars will be offered including the OEXtreme Series, 1000 Series, 2019 Honda Black Edition RB10, RB20, Dominator D6 andRidgeline Dominator D2. The wide variety of available styles will allow Ranger owners to pick the one that best suits the overall appearance of their truck. Specifications: Dominator D2, RB10, RB20 and Dominator D6 available with optional 4-in. drop steps and matching hitch steps. Applications: Now available for the Ford Ranger. Website: www.gorhino.com

Go Industries Diamond Tread Steps Description: Go Industries Diamond Tread steps offer a wide, 6-in. top plate for safe and easy entry and exit into your vehicle, which especially comes in handy with lifted applications. They are available in three different lengths and come in a black powder coat gloss finish that will provide your truck with a blacked out look while also providing the bars with protection. Specifications: Built from 1.9-in., 14-gauge tubing with 1/8-in. thick diamond tread plate. Applications: Available for GM, Ram and Ford applications. Website: www.goindustries.com

Iron Cross Commercial Series Trak Steps Description: Iron Cross Automotive’s new Commercial Series Trak Steps are a unique take on the common tread step sidebars with their perforated round traction steps. The Trak step offers excellent grip for muddy/slick situations without the need for sharp treads that can catch and damage your shoes or other clothing. Specifications: The product comes with vehicle-specific brackets for best fit. Manufactured from heavy formed steel construction. Applications: Available for Chevrolet, Ram, Ford, Toyota and GMC applications. Website: www.ironcrossautomotive.com Luverne GripStep Running Boards Description: LUVERNE Grip Step™ running boards are specifically engineered in the USA, with work trucks and commercial vans in mind. They offer unparalleled traction and safety, a generous stepping surface and superior corrosion resistance. These truck running boards also come with the XD bracket system to maximize strength and rigidity. Specifications: Material: Aluminum. Finish: Textured black powder coat Applications: Most models of trucks including Chevy, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Nissan, Ram and Toyota. Most models of fleet vans including Dodge, Ford, Freightliner, Mercedes-Benz and Ram. Website: www.luvernetruck.com Lund 6-In. Oval Straight-Composite Nerf Bars Description: Lund’s 6-in. oval composite nerf bars are constructed with cutting-edge polymers mated to a recessed extruded aluminum frame which results in super-strong bars that are virtually corrosion-free. The wide step surface features UV-resistant rubber pads that are larger than traditional bar steps to provide great traction and stability when stepping in and out of your truck. Specifications: All mounting hardware is included. No drilling or special hardware required for installation. Applications: Visit website for complete application listings. Website: www.lundinternational.com N-FAB EpYx Steps Description: N-FAB’s EpYx is a drop-down step with an expanded step plate for ease of access to stock or lifted vehicles. It’s made of steel and can be purchased in pairs and as a kit with step rails and brackets. The modern angular design of the steps fits tight to the body for a clean look, and installation is made easy with new modular brackets that allow for simple adjustments to provide that perfect fit. Specifications: Sold in pairs as a kit with step rails and brackets packaged together. Full steel construction for strength and durability. Available in cab-length configuration and a textured black powder coat finish. Applications: New applications now available for the 2019 GMC Sierra and 2019 Chevy Silverado new body styles. Fits most GM, Ford, Dodge/Ram, Toyota, Nissan and Honda trucks. Website: www.n-fab.com FEB/MAR 2020 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 35


Smittybilt Sure Steps Description: Smittybilt’s Sure Step sidebars are all custom fitted to the specific vehicle applications to ensure a proper fit and a safe step. The step pads are secured with five pins 2019leaving HondanoRidgeline Edition into a squashed step, exposed Black metal and no flimsy pad attachments, while a third centre bracket for additional support is incorporated. Specifications: Powdercoat painted, 3/8- to ¼-in. steel with no-drill brackets. Applications: Available for a wide range of GM, Ford, Dodge (Ram), and Toyota Pickups. Website: www.smittybilt.com

Steelcraft STX500 Running Boards Description: Steelcraft Automotive’s new STX 500 Series running boards come 6-in. wide to match many trucks’ OE running boards, and feature a formed structure which adds both strength and durability. They are available in black powder coat or a brilliant polished stainless steel and feature a textured full-width step pad which provides you with a safe and easy step in and out of your vehicle. Specifications: The running boards simply connect to the OE mounting locations for an easy installation with no drilling necessary. Applications: The running boards are available in several lengths to fit many applications. Website: www.steelcraftautomotive.com TrailFX Trapezoid Step Bars Description: TrailFX’s Trapezoid Side Steps are constructed from a tough, high-quality material and feature rocker panel mounting and dual, UV-resistant, deep-tread step pads. Heavy- duty plastic end caps are featured while the mounting bracket has injection-molded trim covers. Specifications: Manufactured from high quality, mirror-finished T-304 stainless steel and matte black stainless steel. Applications: Website: www.trailfx.com Truck Hardware Gatorgear Nerfboards Description: Canada’s ultimate running board, these extremely heavy-duty boards are built to last the life of your truck. They offer a superior look and function to protect your vehicle from road debris, and with their ‘no-slip-grip’ step plates, they ensure safety in all weather conditions. Handbuilt to order, with no-drill installation, these unique boards stand out from the rest... any other step is a step down Specifications: Made of 18-Gauge Stainless Steel, Manufactured in Alberta using premium materials and features fully-welded construction and heavy-duty powder-coated mounting brackets. Applications: For most full-size trucks, please see website for applications Website: www.truckhardware.ca Truck Hardware’s Gatorgear Step Bar Fillers for OEM Steps Description: Designed to fill in the gap! These simple-to-install protectors bolt-in using OE hardware and seal the factory step bars to protect the lower body from rock chips, keep the steps clear of mud and ice, and prevent passengers from slipping their feet between the step and cab. Available in Black Aluminum or Stainless Steel Specifications: Made in Canada using premium materials, rubber sealed against bottom of vehicle, quick and easy no-drill installation Applications: Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Ram & Nissan Trucks with factory side steps Website: www.truckhardware.ca Westin Automotive’s Outlaw Nerf Step Bars Description: Westin Automotive’s New Outlaw Nerf Step Bars offer a great balance of function and strength that result in a rugged look that has been designed with durability in mind. The step bars have been engineered to fit tightly against rocker panels which, of course, provide protection for your vehicle while also improving access to the cab. Specifications: The bars are made with 16-gauge steel on the step surface as well as 2-in. diameter tubing and feature bolt-on installation and an e-coated base coat and textured black powder coat top finish for the ultimate in durability. Applications: Visit website for application listings. Website: www.westinautomotive.com 36 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


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The PreTrip Inspection

Does anyone do that anymore? Story and photos by Howard J Elmer, additional photos courtesy of the manufacturers

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very RVer knows, in a general way, what a PreTrip Inspection is – otherwise known simply as the Circle Check. It’s a walk around your rig looking, touching and mentally evaluating the road worthiness of your tow vehicle and trailer (or Motorhome) prior to hitting the road. So, let me ask you a crucial question then – Do you do a Circle Check before starting a trip? Do you do it every time? If you are honest, you’ll probably answer – No. The reality is that Circle Checks are

much like your yearly physical with your doctor. You know you should do it religiously, but sometimes it just doesn’t happen – right? So, why is that? I can think of a couple of reasons, the first one being a sense of complacency that we all fall into. Consider that RV builders and the Automotive manufacturers are producing ever higher quality of vehicles, which includes overall reliability – that’s a fact. So, many of today’s owners, enjoying these well-built products, quickly stop doing Circle Checks because they trust their rig – and most of the time their trust is rewarded – but not always. Breakdowns do occur and statistics show that most are caused not by poor factory engineering but by lack of attention to simple, necessary maintenance items, things that may well have been caught early during a routine Circle Check. Another reason for this failure to do PreTrip checks is the Smartphone age we live in. So, while you can check your tow vehicle and trailer lights on your phone today – you still need to physically bend over and visually inspect all your tires. I fear that for some folks, if they can’t do it on their phones – well, they just don’t do it. Maybe the whole idea of walking all the way around the rig just seems out-of-date and old-fashioned. And, of course, we all claim that we are just too busy to spend the time – right? However, I’d like to remind RVers that these checks are important. In fact, airlines flying the most sophisticated machines in the world today still rely on manual PreTrip Checklists. Think of any movie you’ve ever seen where the pilots are in the cockpit going through their checklists, item by item - that actually happens. Furthermore, even in this computer-driven age, pilots still

38 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


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walk around their planes on the tarmac before each flight, visually inspecting the aircraft. So, if the aviation industry still thinks these manual checks are important, shouldn’t RVers? So ends my sermon for today. Now I’d like to offer a recap of the items to check – and a proven method for doing an effective Circle Check. But first, there is lots to look over long before you hook up for your trip. Tow Vehicle Inspection: Frankly, doing this some days before setting out on a trip is the smart move as it gives you time to fix any problems rather than on the day of departure – which will now eat into precious vacation days. Get under the hood and do all the fluid checks first: • Engine oil • Transmission fluid • Radiator coolant • Power steering fluid (unless it’s electric) • Brake fluid • Battery cell fluid (if not sealed) • Next, visually inspect belts, hoses and electrical cables for wear, leaks, tightness and snug fit. Tire Inspection: This applies to the trailer and tow vehicle or Motorhome. • Always check tire pressure cold – do it before your trip and at intervals during travel (when tires are cold). • Check for uneven tread wear (this is often the first sign of a mechanical problem that causes that uneven wear). • Look for cracks in the sidewalls and also inside the treads. (Remember, low kilometres on tires does not prevent them from ageing. Rubber dries out over time and fails.) • Hand check lugs for tightness and look for unexplained wear marks around the studs (this is an early warning of potential failure) each time you check air pressure. 40 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020

Lights and Control systems: (these are integral parts of a Pre-Trip Circle Check – but they can be done beforehand – create your own regular routine). Check all the following, either by circling your rig or with a partner’s help. • Turn signals • Brake lights • Headlights (low and high beams) • Backup lights • Clearance lights • Start the engine and check that all gauges are operating • Check windshield wipers – also assess wear of blades • Try the horn (don’t laugh, its required by the Highway Traffic Act) • Check camera lenses around the truck (if equipped) are clean and operating properly. (TIP – I carry a rag as I do my Circle Check, wiping lenses, mirrors and lights as I go. Visibility matters.) • If the Motorhome is equipped with air brakes, pump the pedal till the warning air pressure buzzer sounds and then check to see that the pressure comes back to normal quickly.



In the Trailer or Motorhome: On Board Systems Check So, while a Circle Check takes place outside the hooked-up combination, another check may be just as important – that’s your OnBoard Systems Check. Allow me to state the obvious – arriving at the campground and discovering you’re out of propane is going to create all kinds of havoc – not the least of which is the round-robin blame game that will ensue with your family all pointing at each other. So, the time to do this is prior to departure – again, not on the day of. Give yourself time to run up to the propane store. • Check the On-Board gauge panel – most RVs have very good ones – this is where to start. Look at the tanks, levels, DC power and propane, then run everything just to be sure it all works. • Don’t forget the fresh water. Fill up at home - hoses can be tough to find on the road. • The Water System – check taps, lines, connections and valves. Run the demand pump and watch for (and listen for) leaks or open taps. • Dump System and Valves – have you got the hose? Do the valves open and close properly? Is anything leaking? • House Battery – check connections and look for corrosion; check fluid if possible; make sure it’s securely fastened and properly covered. • Interior Lights – try them all on DC. If you can connect to AC shore power, run everything else. • Generator – Got one? Well, run it and see if everything comes on. • Appliances and HVAC – fire them and make sure they run – heat and cool. • LP Gas System – do you have propane? Check the fittings for tightness, then light each of the appliances and observe. Always follow your nose when checking the propane system. If there is a problem, you’ll smell it. TIP – I do my On-Board checks in the same order each time I do one. This action creates a habit in which I’m less likely to overlook something. The PreTrip Circle Check: We’ve now arrived at the point where it’s time to do the Circle Check. Your rig is hooked up and you’re about to hit the road. So, at this point you’ll understand that if you’ve preformed all the checks that I described up to this point in the story, then the Circle Check is nothing more than a last-minute failsafe procedure. And, that’s what it should be. 42 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020

Starting at the Driver’s Door: • With the Vehicle running – turn on all the lights and activate the 4-way flashers. • Walking counter clockwise, observe and touch – tires, nuts and lights. • Pay special attention to the trailer connection. Is the coupler secure; are the pins in place, are safety chains attached (not dragging); is light connection secure and free to move? If using an equalizing hitch, inspect each of the components. • If it’s a fifth-wheel connection, visually inspect that the jaws are closed. Is the safety pin in place? Is the break-away line attached? Overall condition and look of the hitch components. • Moving down the trailer: observe condition of body, windows, vents, tires and lights. Remember to look up – trailers are tall – and watch for open vents and antennas left up. • Rounding the rear of the unit, note the 4-way lights flashing • Proceed up the other side of the trailer repeating each step as described. Check all storage and access doors – are they locked? • When looking at the connection again, look to see that the attitude of the combination is level. • Walking around the front of the tow vehicle, make sure you closed the hood. • Back in your tow vehicle – adjust your mirrors once more and then test your trailer brakes for the proper gain setting by using the hand control while rolling at an idle. • By doing these checks regularly and the same way each time you’ll create a good habit that will give you an earned sense of security every time you operate your rig. • Now, head out for your next great RVing adventure. Let me end by saying I know most RVers are very careful and diligent about the care and maintenance of their vehicles. And frankly, I doubt anyone will read my lists and find something they didn’t know about. No – instead, what I hope all readers will take away from these reminders is that the checks must be made regularly. And there is a real reward; if they are done in a consistent, follow the list-like manner, you will reduce your costly on-road frustrations. On a personal note: I’ve written out a check-list for myself that addresses the specific systems of my personal truck and trailer. I have it on a clipboard and I follow it each time. I figure if it works for pilots and astronauts, I’m in good company. Just remember, you can and want to solve maintenance problems long before you hit the road, and these checks will help you do that.



RV-ING: 2020 KEYSTONE AVALANCHE 320RS

Modern Fifth Wheel Story and photos by Howard J Elmer

F

ifth Wheel travel trailers make up the bulk of new RV sales in Canada today. Of course, this trend has been growing for a while now; and I see no reason for this market domination to slow in the future. But why have Fifth Wheels sold so well? The success of the modern Fifth Wheel trailer has everything to do with the continuing evolution and popularity of the pickup truck. Here is a case of one industry – Automotive – having a profound influence on

another – RV builders. Just look at the stats on the Keystone Avalanche 320RS I tested for this review. At 35-ft 8-in. in length, it features three slide outs and has a dry weight of 11,571 lb. But this is hardly the biggest trailer in the Avalanche lineup – that distinction goes to the 396BH which has four slide outs, two full bathrooms and a loft. It’s 41-ft 6-in. in length and has a dry weight of 13,940 lb. To haul weights and lengths like these, you need Heavy Duty pickup trucks. This segment of the truck market now makes up over 20 percent of total pickup truck sales; and the Detroit builders will tell you that its the increasing numbers of recreational haulers that are driving those sales. My tow vehicle for this test was the 2019 Ram 3500HD powered by the new 6.7L Cummins diesel engine (which now makes 1,000 lb-ft of torque). This truck will haul over 30,000 lb. My truck was also equipped with a factory-installed Fifth Wheel hitch (which included a removable Gooseneck hitch ball) and in-bed 7-pin electrical cord plug-in. Preparing the hookup, I watch the screen in the centre stack where a clear image of the trailer was shown. This is part of the seven-camera surround view system in the Ram; an in-bed camera view showed me the hitch and pin lining up as I backed under the trailer. This system includes a camera that can be installed at the rear of your trailer as well. Now that cleans up a huge blind spot! Once the trailer was on the hitch, I felt the rear air suspension compressor come on as it automatically raised the truck and trailer to a level attitude. These are just two of the integrated systems that now help the driver mange the load. In fact, with the Ram, (and most new HD trucks) a network of driver-assist features now makes handling large trailers like these, safer and much less stressful than in the past. Some of the other systems that are becoming indispensable when towing trailers this size are Adaptive cruise control; Automatic Emergency Braking – which also extends to the trailer brakes; Engine braking and selectable transmission gearing for holding the rig steady on long downgrades; a Tire Pressure Monitoring System that accommodates

44 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020



up to six truck tires and the tires on your trailer as well. And, I should mention, these new HD trucks are quiet, comfortable, ride well and have beautifully appointed interiors that feature every possible modern electronic and infotainment system. The net effect of all this technology and engineering is that you can tow the biggest trailer on the market comfortably, without anxiety. You’ll feel that you are in complete control of the load and that is the best feeling of all. Keystone’s Avalanche lineup is aimed at full-timers and large active families. The trailers all offer substantial floor space and up-sized features like King-size beds. The main floor features a kitchen island that sits in the middle of the action. Housing the twin sinks it faces the free-standing dining table and the theatre-seat next to it in a slide-out. The sinks both have covers and when in place, create a large food prep surface. A swiveling gooseneck faucet stays out of the way. From that theatre seat, the two of you can watch the 50-inch flat-screen TV (over the fireplace which also has a heating function) directly across from

46 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020

you. This is a good sight line – no off-set, neck craning viewing needed here. But, the most comfortable viewing spot will be the full-length hide-a-bed sofa that takes up the entire rear wall of the trailer. (I confess I like to lay on the couch while watching TV). The rest of the kitchen appliances (including an optional 18 cu.ft. refrigerator) are directly behind the centre island. A full oven and a built-in microwave above the stove flanks another good-sized counter area. Kitchen cabinets are found above and below this kitchen layout. All this, the entertainment centre (with its own cabinets), fireplace and the kitchen are housed in a second large slide-out; which, because it’s opposite the dining table slide, makes for a very spacious main salon when open. On the dividing wall (next to the fridge) is a full-sized glass-doored pantry and next to it is a counter top - which I’d think of as a desk space. Above and below it is more storage in the form of drawers and what’s called a “curio cabinet.” As this is not specifically part of the kitchen, it truly can be an office type space – or catch-all. Frankly, every trailer needs a spot for “stuff” – well, this one has it. I should note here that when the slides are closed, you really don’t have use of the amenities – this trailer design needs to be opened for full use. When you do get to where you are going, the Avalanche uses a six-point hydraulic auto-leveling system to get you set up fast. The Avalanche décor is nicely coordinated (colours, shapes and styles). But past this, Keystone has gone further by adding small touches that give the whole palette a more upscale feel. You’ll note nice hardware, a ceiling fan, glass paneled cabinet doors, artsy wood inlays and some very nice light fixtures. This is also a very light, bright trailer. Windows are very large and take up as much of the wall space as I suppose the structural engineer would allow. Stepping up towards the master bedroom, the full bath is on the left. It features an oversize shower with a surround that has integrated shelves and a seat. It has a glass sliding door, skylight overhead and low step-in height. The sink is large and the mirrored medicine cabinet


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The Avalanche looks good – but how does it tow? With the Ram 3500 doing the pulling it was smooth, hardly noticeable at all. Of course, that was mostly because of the truck, but Keystone also points out that they have added substantially to the quality of the running gear. The trailer uses Road Armor suspension that equalizes axle load to dampen shock and vibration. Tires are G-rated and the axles are rated at 7,000 lb. each. It also had an upgraded pin box. Some other things you don’t see but are important to the overall construction and quality of the trailer are: Unified Wiring Standard, Tru-Fit five-point slide construction, no-fail Tuf-Lok A/C duct joiners and insulation (roof – R28, Floor – R37, Walls- R10) and heated holding tanks that will let you camp in down to -4 F temperatures without fear of frozen water lines. I had a nice day with the Avalanche, and being that I was doing the driving in late fall, I admit to having had a strong urge to just keep heading south - and explain later. has plenty of shelves. The porcelain toilet is off-set in the corner between the main door and the secondary entry to the bedroom (these are both hard doors – the bedroom one sliding). This position keeps it off the wall and allows plenty of space around it. The large master bedroom features the third slide-out that moves the head of the bed out. This is a 70 x 80-inch King Bed. This slide has cross-draft windows and a full-wall padded headboard. The room is carpeted and across from the bed is a chest TV with a hard counter top. In the nose of the trailer you’ll find a wall-to-wall wardrobe that features sliding (mirrored) doors next to floor-to-ceiling highboy (this space is also prepped to accept a stackable washer/dryer if you prefer). And, if this is a full-timer’s trailer as I suggest, you need this much space. The bed also lifts for bulk storage underneath as well. Speaking of storage, large outside doors give access to the ample basement storage (145 cu.ft) from either side of the trailer as well as the front. It’s also heated.

48 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020

Length:...........................................................................35 ft 8 in Height:............................................................................13 ft 2 in Width:..................................................................................100 in Interior Height:..............................................................8 ft 4 in Dry Weight:.................................................................11,571 lb. Carrying Capacity:.....................................................3,429 lb. GVWR:.......................................................................... 15,000 lb. Fresh water:.....................................................................66 gal Grey water:.......................................................................83 gal Black water:.....................................................................49 gal LPG......................................................................................60 gal Base Price:.................................................................... $60,668 Price as tested: . .............................................MSRP $79,081

Test trailer supplied courtesy of Camping In Style, Brooklin, ON.


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TECH: NEW PRODUCTS

GEARING UP

HyperTech Max Energy Spectrum Power Programmer HyperTech’s new Max Energy Spectrum Power Programmer features a large, 4.3-in., daylight readable colour display in a bold package. The Spectrum’s fast processor speeds mean faster programming and a more fluid user experience, and it offers optimized

Elevate Rack System by Truck Hero The all-new Elevate Rack System by Truck Hero allows customers to choose from one of two rack options: the Elevate Fixed Rack which is ideal for users looking for a simple solution to their cargo needs and the Elevate Telescoping rack which provides more adjustability and versatility. The rack system is ideal for those who are hauling kayaks, bikes or just about any large item that would take most if not all of your truck bed space. The added bonus of these racks is that they are fully able to incorporate your Truck Hero tonneau cover functionality and allow for full use. The Elevate is produced by Truxedo and has a maximum on-road rating of 750-lbs. and a maximum off-road rating of 250-lbs.

engine tuning for maximum performance, application specific performance features and the most powerful tuning available for towing. In addition to the tuning capabilities, the Spectrum also has the ability to read, display and clear diagnostic trouble codes.

For more information please go to www.truck-hero.com

For more information please go to www.hypertech.com

Westin Automotive’s HDX Drop Hitch Step

PRO-TRUCK-LIFT Now Available for the 2016-2019 Toyota Tundra from Eibach The new HDX Drop Hitch Step from Westin Automotive slides into any standard 2-in. receiver hitch and provides users with convenient access to the truck bed or roof rack of their truck or SUV. The antirattle bracket firmly secures the hitch step to eliminate annoying rattling, while a receiver pin secures the hitch bracket inside the receiver hitch. The surface on the step pad is approximately 2-1/4in. below the centre of the receiver hitch.

Eibach has built upon decades of off-road racing victory to create the PRO-TRUCK-LIFT that combines a series of PRO-LIFT-KIT springs and PRO-TRUCK Sport shocks to create a perfectly tuned suspension system that is ideal for both on- and off-road performance. Each lift kit is designed to deliver the maximum ride height while also not compromising the integrity of factory bushings, ball joints and other components. The product is now available for the 2016-2019 Toyota Tundra pickup truck.

For more information please go to www.westinautomotive.com

For more information please go to www.eibach.com

50 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


Iron Cross Automotive’s Commercial Series Headache Rack Iron Cross Automotive’s new Commercial Series headache rack is built with laser-cut Molle pattern instead of louvres, which provides the rear window protection you’d expect but with a more stylish look. In addition, the Molle pattern allows for easy attachment points and

ICON Alloys Announces New Sizes of Rebound Wheels ICON Alloys has recently announced new 18x9 sizes of the Rebound wheel that is designed for midsize, full-size and heavy-duty pickup trucks. They are available in five-, six- and eight-lug patterns and also with application-specific fitment dimensions. The new wheels yield a 2,750-lb load rating for the five and six-lug versions and a 4,000-lb load rating on the eight-lug version. The Rebound wheel is available in bronze, satin black or titanium finishes.

also features a removable centre screen. Optional light brackets are available, while all necessary hardware for installation is included. The product is available for Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Ram, Ford and Toyota applications.

For more information please go to www.iconalloys.com

For more information please go to www.ironcrossautomotive.com

TRUCK | JEEP | SUV

FEB/MAR 2020 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 51


TECH: NEW PRODUCTS Fastway Introduces the Integrated Scale Ball Mount Fastway has unveiled the newest addition in the FLASH Ball Mount line with the introduction of the Integrated Scale Ball Mount or ISBM. One of the most innovative features on the ISBM is the integrated tongue weight scale that helps trailer owners reach proper tongue weight for each trailer load, which improves both towing performance and safety. The product is made with aircraft-grade aluminum and weighs less than half of some comparable steel ball mounts, which makes carrying, adjusting and installing the ISBM that much easier. For more information please go to www.fastwaytrailer.com

BOLT Lock Now Offering a Wide Range of Products for Ford Ranger BOLT Lock has recently introduced a complete set of its patented breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology locks for the recently returned Ford Ranger. BOLT is offering a full variety of products including padlocks, 5/8-in. receiver locks, six-foot cable locks, coupler pin locks and off-vehicle coupler locks. The aforementioned patented technology has created tumblers which permanently memorize a vehicle’s ignition key upon the first insertion and rotation. This reduces the need for more keys while the locks themselves resist picking and bumping, while the bright red design stands out for theft deterrence. For more information please go to www.boltlock.com

Toyo Tires New Open Country H/T II All-Season Toyo’s new Open Country H/T II all-season light truck highway tire is designed for ride comfort without sacrificing any durability. The tire offers great on-road performance and is ideal for city driving or long stretches on the highway. In addition, the tire features added durability and traction for some off-road driving whether it be to get to your favourite camping spot or to get to a certain part of the job site. The Open Country H/T II is available in a wide range of sizes and provides a versatile look for your light truck, SUV or crossover. For more information please go to www.toyotires.ca

52 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


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STUCK TRUCKS Sometimes even the cops get stuck. Nothing says ‘Murica!’ quite like this photo.

Perhaps they shouldn’t have gone that close to the water.

That’s going to be quite a heavy load to try and get out of there.

The worst part is, there isn’t a clear way out of this.

Maybe this guy should’ve approached this at an angle.

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! 54 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE FEB/MAR 2020


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