Truck Plus June / July 2018 by RPM Canada

CONTENTS DIESEL:

Diesel Products Buyers Guide ....pg 42

VW PICKUP:

Volkswagen has unveiled the Atlas Tanoak Concept ...pg 40

True Milestone SIDEBARS:

Sidebars / Running Boards Buyers Guide ...pg 34

TOWING:

Towing Products Buyers Guide ....pg 18

Ford is now offering a Power Stroke Diesel engine in the F-150 ...pg 10

Husky Install We install some Husky Liners products in our 2018 F-150 ... pg 48

ALSO INSIDE:

Interior Magic We chat with Chief Designer of Ram, SRT, Fiat Interiors, Ryan C. Nagode ...pg 28

Fresh Tracks---------------------------------- 4 Extra Look: 2018 Ford F-150 ------ 16 Truck King Fuel Data ------------------ 26 RV-ing ------------------------------------------ 52 Gearing Up----------------------------------- 56 Stuck Trucks---------------------------------62 June/JULY 2018 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE

FRESH TRACKS

GMC Introduces All-New Off-Road-Oriented Sierra AT4

MC has introduced the all-new 2019 Sierra AT4 which features the same premium refinement and bold appearance expected from GMC but with increased, authentic off-road capability and innovative technology. On the appearance side of things, the 2019 Sierra AT4 is obviously based on the just-introduced all-new 2019 Sierra and builds off of the truck’s bold looks with a broad-shouldered stance with functional design elements that support its off-road capability. The AT4 features a unique look highlighted by dark exterior finishes and modern detailing. The front and rear bumpers and the grille surround are finished in body colour while the bold grille design features a rugged texture finished in black chrome. Touches of red are used throughout the exterior including in the all-new signature AT4 emblem and unique vertical tow hooks. Inside also features darkened-trim and AT4 badging throughout. In terms of actual off-road capability, the Sierra AT4 comes standard with a 2-in. suspension lift that provides additional ground clearance, and four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case that includes low-range 4WD gearing for even the toughest of conditions. Also included are offroad tuned Rancho monotube shock absorbers, a locking rear differential and Hill Descent control. A Traction Select System is featured and allows the driver to choose from preset drive modes that have been tailored for all sorts of different terrain or weather conditions. The system effects parameters such as transmission shift points, throttle mapping and Stabilitrak to optimize performance for your current driving situations. Also increasing the off-road capability are the Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

wheel and tire options which include 18- and 20-in. wheel options with all-terrain tires as standard, with Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac MudTerrain tires offered as an option. Later in the model year, the 2019 Sierra AT4 will offer a GMC-exclusive and industry-first carbon fibre box called the CarbonPro, which is developed to increase the truck’s durability, efficiency and functionality. When combined with the MultiPro tailgate, tasks such as unloading and loading objects like motorcycles or quads are made much easier. Under the hood of the Sierra AT4 will be a choice of new versions of the 6.2L and 5.3L V8 engines or the all-new Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel engine. Maybe this is stating the obvious, but on first look it’s pretty clear that GMC hopes to attract buyers away from the Ram 1500 Rebel or Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, which are much more comparable to the AT4 than, say, the off-road machine that is the Ford F-150 Raptor.

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Volume 11, Issue No. 3 June / July 2018

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

Ford Reveals Rigorous Testing Methods for All-New 2019 Ranger Ford has released details on how it is going about testing the upcoming, all-new 2019 Ranger mid-size pickup in order to ensure it is up to its own tough durability standards and is ready for adventure the moment it rolls off the assembly line. The Ranger testing is based on the same proven standards of the F-150, and this quote from Ford Ranger chief engineer Rick Bolt basically says it all; “We torture every component – from its high-strength steel frame to its EcoBoost engine to its cloth and leather-trimmed seats – to ensure Ranger is ready for any season and nearly any terrain.” Ford begins testing of the Ranger in the lab, which progresses to the proving grounds where it is then confirmed through intense real-world challenges in locations near and far. At Ford’s Michigan Proving Grounds, a fully-loaded Ranger hits the challenging Silver Creek track with impacts so severe that Ford uses robotic drivers rather than humans to reduce the risk of injury. In the lab, a four-post shaker table abuses the Ranger for days to check against annoying squeaks and rattles. From there, in real world testing, the Ranger’s towing capability

Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan Howard J Elmer Stefanie Galeano-Zalutko Russell Purcell Rob Rothwell 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 JUNE/JULY 2018

is tested in high temperatures on the unforgiving long steep grades of Davis Dam in Arizona, while the Australian Outback further tests the truck in one of the harshest off-road environments in the entire world. To handle such rough terrains and other types of adventure, the Ranger will be offering purpose-built features like a Terrain Management System, Trail Control and blind spot monitoring with trailer support, plus a number of other features. The truck is expected to make its official return to North America in early 2019.

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Volume 11, Issue No. 3 June / July 2018

ADVERTISER INDEX

Anzo USA ------------------------------------ 5 BAK ------------------------------------------- 7 BOLT Locks -------------------------------- 41 Bright Source ------------------------------ 21 Bully Dog - --------------------------------- 63 CURT --------------------------------------- 19 Dee Zee ------------------------------------- 37 Dominion Sure Seal ---------------------- 59 Eibach -------------------------------------- 47 Enthuze ------------------------------------- 39 Extang -------------------------------------- 31 Formula Distributors - -------------------- 29 GE --------------------------------------------- 2 Husky Liners - --------------------------44,45 HyperTech - ---------------------------------- 9 Iron Cross Automotive ------------------- 35 LMC Truck --------------------------------- 49 Lordco Auto Parts ------------------------ 53 McGard ------------------------------------- 55 Pro Comp ---------------------------------- 64 Retrax -------------------------------------- 27 Road Armor - ------------------------------ 23 RPM Canada ------------------------------- 61 Rugged Liner ------------------------------ 51 Super-Bee ---------------------------------- 58 TITAN Fuel Tanks -------------------------- 57 TrailFX -----------------------------------32,33 Truck Hardware --------------------------- 25 Truxedo - ----------------------------------- 15 UnderCover -------------------------------- 43 Varsity Chrysler --------------------------- 60 WeatherTech ------------------------------- 13 Westin Automotive ------------------------ 17 PICK UP LOCATIONS

Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Chevrolet Announces Plans to Reveal Next-Gen Silverado HD Chevrolet has recently announced that the next-generation Silverado HD will debut next year as a 2020 model, joining the all-new 2019 Silverado 1500 that is set to launch later this fall. The all-new Silverado HD has been specifically designed to suit the needs of heavy-duty truck owners and will see on-road testing of prototypes beginning in the near future. Chevy says it has increased durability and validation standards for this new HD truck and that it will feature bolder, larger proportions than the outgoing model. More product information will be provided next year with production models set to roll off the assembly lines in the third quarter of 2019. This announcement comes on the heels of the all-new 2019 Silverado 1500 which was introduced in January and, through the use of mixed material and advanced manufacturing, weighs less than the outgoing model by up to 450 lbs. As with likely all new trucks coming out, it can be expected that the new Silverado HD will also be lighter than the previous model with increased towing and payload capabilities. We will provide details on the all-new truck as they emerge over the next year or so.

Chevrolet Reveals Engine and Transmission Options for 2019 Silverado, Including All-New Turbocharged Four-Cylinder In more Chevrolet news, it has been revealed that the all-new 2019 Silverado half-ton will offer eight trims paired with six engine/transmission combinations, which will allow them to tailor to the needs of an even wider variety of customers. Chevy says over half of the models will be equipped with updated versions of the proven 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines equipped with Dynamic Fuel Management, which features 17 different modes of cylinder deactivation. A new 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder will replace the 4.3L V6 as the standard engine on the Silverado LT and new RST trim, and will offer 22-percent more torque and greater fuel efficiency than the current model. The 4.3L V6 will still be offered, as will an all-new 3.0L Duramax inline-six turbo diesel that will become available in early 2019. The new 4-cylinder pushes out an impressive 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft. of torque, which is a fairly significant increase over the 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft. derived from the V6. The updated 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines push out 355 hp/383 lb-ft. and 420 hp/460 lb-ft. Respectively, and transmission options will include six-speed automatic, eight-speed automatic and ten-speed automatic. In combination with the new engines, the new truck itself features a lighter design and increased aerodynamics which improve performance. Each engine is subjected to a torture test in a dynamometer test cell where it is run for months nonstop to simulate a lifetime of work. Production of the 2019 Silverado will begin in the third quarter of this year, starting first with the crew-cab V8 models, while the fourth quarter will see production of the regular and double-cab models, plus the V6 and 2.7L turbo engines. Fuel economy estimates and towing/payload capacities will be announced closer to the official launch date.

True Milestone Ford is now offering a diesel version of its half-ton pickup for the first time in the 70-year history of the F-Series

uiet. That word describes, perfectly, the new 3.0L Power Stroke diesel just introduced by Ford. Q I’ve driven it, stood beside it while idling and floored it uphill while towing, and it is eerily quiet. This trait, plus the power it makes, now available in the F-150, makes this introduction a true milestone in the history of the F-series. And, as of today, you can order this diesel engine in your new half-ton – a first in the 70-year life of the brand. If you do – here is what you’ll be getting.

This new engine (under development for several years now) uses V6 graphite/iron block architecture;

Story and photos by Howard J Elmer, additional photos courtesy of Ford

a variable-geometry turbocharger; 29,000-psi injection fuel rail and aluminum pistons. It displaces 3.0L and makes 250 hp at 3,250 rpm and 440 lb-ft of torque at 1,750 rpm. It does use DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) along with a particulate filter and high-pressure cooled exhaust gas recirculation technology to reduce emissions. Ford’s SelectShift ten-speed automatic transmission is the other half of this new powertrain. It’s already in use with several of Ford’s engines and has been getting good reviews. This non-sequential transmission is also part of the fuel economy improvements that Ford is seeking. This effort also includes the auto stop/start feature that is now standard on all F-150s, gas or diesel.

load, and the quiet, as I already mentioned, was impressive. But then, so was the vibration and harshness – as there wasn’t any. The torque comes on as soon as you start to roll and pulls strong and straight through the gears. The strength here is evident, not just from the feel, but also from how the transmission handles the power. With ten gears, you might expect the tranny to hunt or drop several gears when the accelerator is mashed. Not so. Even during floorboard acceleration, it drops at most two gears, most often just one – it’s that strong. As for backpressure, it too is even, quiet and strong; holding just about any gear while coasting down long grades. As for the fuel numbers, I beat them. Driven gently, this engine can easily best the numbers that Ford is claiming. Overall, this introduction and my first drive of it, was a smile-inducing success. I suspect that the truck-buying public will also feel the same way about this newest F-150 engine option.

Ford is claiming a fuel consumption number of 10.8L /100 km city and 8.0L/100 km on the highway for the 3.0L. So, while these numbers are light, the capabilities of this diesel-equipped truck won’t be. To start with, the published torque number is currently best-in-class, as is the towing (up to 11,400 lb) and the payload (up to 2,020 lb). With this new Power Stroke in the stable, the F-150 now offers customers an unequalled choice of six engines. The recent first drive of this diesel was as impressive as the numbers suggest. I found it strong, efficient and very well-paired with the SelectShift transmission. I towed with it and drove it with pay-

12 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

So, while Ford’s new small diesel is certainly welcome, it does beg the question – what took them so long? Watchers of the brand (like me) have been pestering Ford about bringing in a small diesel for years. Normally, in trucks, they lead in the trends. First with an aluminum body; first with a ten-speed transmission; first with a flat rear floor; first with an integrated tailgate step; first with a factory trailer brake controller; and the list goes on. Yet, in this one area, they let Ram, GM and even Nissan do it first. Those companies have been offering small-displacement diesels in 1500-series trucks for several years now – and doing very well with them.

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The F-series sold a total of 896,764 units in 2017 (everywhere). It’s the single most popular pickup truck in Canada for over 50 consecutive years. Looking at just these numbers and even without knowing much about the auto business, you can easily see trucks are Ford’s bread, butter and dessert. So, why take so long to bring the small diesel to market? My personal opinion – EcoBoost. After its introduction in 2011, Ford repeatedly said that the “future” was all about EcoBoost. They felt that this high-compression, turbo-heavy, gas engine technology would set them apart. Well, yes, EcoBoost has its place, but as they have now finally acknowledged, so does diesel. On the other hand, this late arrival may have more to do with the long journey this engine has had to make. For starters, it’s built in England and also shares a design history with Jaguar/Land Rover. Ford’s Dagenham plant, outside London, has produced over 10 million cars and 37 million engines since Edsel Ford turned the first spade of dirt beginning its construction back in 1929.

Today, its primary business is building engines, which includes a contract with Jaguar/Land Rover (once owned by Ford but sold to Tata Motors in 2008). This 3.0L F-150 diesel started out as a clean-sheet design that would power vehicles from both companies. Then, owners changed and times changed. In the end, speculation aside, it’s a story that ends well. This new engine is impressive. If, like me, you’ve been waiting for Ford to join the new age of small diesel, you may well decide to head down to your dealer and order one. However, as the rollout begins, the new diesel will be only be available as part of the more expensive trim packages. Customers can choose this engine option for 2018 F-150 Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum edition SuperCrew trucks with either a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed configuration, and SuperCab trucks with a 6.5-foot bed. Pricing, with this restriction in mind, will then start at $51,449.00 and walk up through $77,979.00 Now, for Fleet customers, 3.0L Power Stroke diesel engines will be available on all F-150 trim levels with SuperCrew 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed configurations and SuperCab trucks with a 6.5 foot bed. That means the entry price for Fleet will be $36,749.00.

14 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

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Story and photos by Russell Purcell (@RoadTestRuss)

he Ford Motor Company has laid claim to the title of best selling light truck in North America for decades. These laurels have been earned on the back of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever-popular F-150 model that has carved out its place in the record books by attracting and maintaining a loyal customer base through both innovation and a reputation for durability. However, with gasoline prices reaching record highs across Canada, many consumers in this segment are seeking ways to soften the blow at the pump, and are looking at alternatives to the traditional gasoline-fed V8 engine that has been the staple power plant in light duty pickup applications. Ford has long offered a base model truck with a V6 engine for budget-minded shoppers, but the current iteration, a 3.3-litre unit, became overshadowed when Ford product planners embraced turbocharging several years ago and introduced the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning EcoBoost lineup of turbo V6 engines. This arsenal of three powerplants (two of which, the 2.7-litre and 3.5-litre units, are available in F-150) have become increasingly popular as they are capable of generating superior power and efficiency to the larger V8 offerings in the stable, and have become renowned for their long service intervals and exceptional reliability. Add to this the arrival of a ten-speed transmission, and efficiency stats are likely going to continue to 16 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

households already know - that pickup trucks are perfectly suited for everyday transportation, and in many cases, take the place of two cars, as they are that versatile, well-equipped and comfortable. Ford’s pickup trucks feature a “military grade” aluminum body to help keep overall weight down for efficiency, but retain structural strength needed for work, and F-150 frames are constructed of high-strength steel and reinforced to maintain both strength and stiffness. As the various manufacturers compete to produce more powerful, more efficient, and more refined trucks than ever before, it is the consumer who emerges as the real winner, as modern trucks like the F-150 offer better handling dynamics, vast improvements to both passenger safety and comfort, and an extensive equipment catalog to outfit your rig to best suit your individual needs. improve, especially for those F-150 users who log lots of highway miles. Ford is playing catch-up in one segment of the half-ton category however, that being diesel power. However, with a diesel model now set to roll into showrooms, Ford’s desire to maintain its lofty position as the sales leader in light trucks is likely to continue. Both the EcoBoost and diesel variants have been engineered for those individuals who need a vehicle that has the capability to tow, but like all F-150 models, also promise to deliver a level of passenger comfort and overall refinement that puts many passenger cars to shame. A week spent behind the wheel of a 2.7-litre EcoBoostequipped mid-range Lariat model proved what many Canadian

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June/JULY 2018 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 17

PRODUCTS: TOWING PRODUCTS

BUYERS’ GUIDE B&W Tow & Stow Hitch Description: B&W’s Tow & Stow hitch features adjustable height settings as well as multiple ball sizes to allow it to fit just about any trailer. It is easily stowed under the vehicle when you are not towing, which keeps it out of the way when not in use. The hitch boasts a steel construction for durability and fits any standard 2-, 2.5- or 3-in. receiver. Specifications: Features an anti-theft design that allows you to insert lockable pin, and even when not in the ball portion, is not removable while the hitch is installed on a vehicle. Applications: Fits any standard 2-, 2.5- or 3-in. receiver. Website: www.bwtrailerhitches.com BOLT Off-Vehicle Coupler Lock Description: Conveniently secure your unattended trailer with just one key, your ignition key, with the BOLT Off-Vehicle Coupler Lock! The BOLT Off-Vehicle Coupler Lock provides a visible theft deterrent and maximum security for your trailer. Specifications: Designed to fit a wide range of trailer couplers, the Off-Vehicle Coupler Lock has a powder-coated finish for durability and weather resistance. As with all BOLT Lock products, the BOLT Off-Vehicle Coupler Lock comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Applications: Most Chevy, GMC, Ford, Lincoln, Ram, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles. See BOLTLock.com for a full list of the supported vehicles. Website: www.BOLTLock.com BOLT 5/8-Inch Receiver Lock Description: BOLT’s 5/8-in. Receiver Lock features a stainless steel shaft and opens with your ignition key once programmed on the first turn. It is weatherproof and the auto return spring locks automatically when the key is removed. It features a double ball bearing locking mechanism and plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. Specifications: Fits Class 3, 4 and 5 hitches. Applications: GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan, and Toyota. Website: www.boltlock.com

CURT Spectrum™ Brake Control #51170 Description: The CURT Spectrum™ brake control provides powerful brake operation while maintaining a clean, integrated OE look and feel on the dash of your vehicle. It is comprised of a main module and a separate user interface. This interface is a simple rotary knob with a push-button and ten tri-colour LEDs to control and monitor all trailer brake activity. Specifications: Features a triple-axis accelerometer for highly responsive, smooth stops on any grade. Applications: Many Website: www.curtmfg.com CURT Light-Duty TruTrack™ Weight Distribution System #17499 Description: The CURT TruTrack™ is an advanced weight distribution hitch that offers smooth, safe towing by combining precise weight distribution with integrated sway control. It uses a hardened spring and cam system, built into the hitch head, to actively stop trailer sway. It also features adjustable support brackets, instead of chains, to keep the trailer better aligned with the tow vehicle. Specifications: This light-duty TruTrack™ model is rated for 5,000 to 8,000 lbs. GTW. 10K and 15K models are also available. Applications: Many Website: www.curtmfg.com 18 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

CURT Towed-Vehicle RV Harnesses Description: Dinghy-towing a vehicle is easy with a CURT RV harness. The harness plugs into the vehicle’s taillights and provides a standard wiring connector to plug into the RV. There are also add-ons for equipping the vehicle with its own trailer wiring connector. Specifications: Plugs into vehicle’s taillights. Applications: Many Website: www.curtmfg.com

CURT 3-In. Ball Mounts & Accessories Description: CURT now carries a number of towing accessories to accommodate the new 3-in. trailer hitch receivers. Our industrial-duty forged 3-in. ball mounts are tested to 21,000 lbs. GTW and 2,800 lbs. TW. They feature a highly durable carbide powder coat finish and are available in drop options of 4-, 6- and 8-in. Specifications: Also offered are a 3-in. hitch lock and 3-in. hitch pin and clip, as well as a reducer sleeve set to adapt a 3-in. receiver to a smaller shank size. Applications: Any 3-in. receiver with a 5/8-in. pin hole Website: www.curtmfg.com

Enthuze Class III Hitch Description: Enthuze Class III Hitches are made with vehicle-specific design offering superior strength and fit. Made with a co-cured rust-resistant liquid Bonderite coating and durable black powder coat finish, and an open-back receiver for easy cleaning. Specifications: Made with a vehicle-specific design for a custom fit. Applications: Available for many late model trucks and SUVs. Website: www.enthuze.ca

Fastway e2 Hitch Description: Fastway’s e2 Hitch features rigid brackets to give you permanent sway control, which is an improvement over old chain-style hitches that are a hassle to remove when backing up and making tight turns. Integrated sway control offers many benefits including no backing or turning restrictions, and simple and easy-to-understand adjustments. Specifications: Available in round bar and trunnion styles with max trailer ratings of 4,500 lbs. to 10,000 lbs. Applications: Universal product. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com

Draw-Tite 18K Hi-Rise Fifth-Wheel Conversion Hitch Description: Draw-Tite’s 18K Hi-Rise Fifth-Wheel Conversion Hitch converts a gooseneck hitch into a fifth-wheel hitch and features a four-way pivoting head with a self-latching jaw design. The four-degree side-to-side pivot offers better control while the hitch features two bolts for bed height adjustments. The hitch features a lockable, extended-length handle and offset legs to enhance performance while braking. Specifications: 18K gross trailer weight, 4.5K pin weight capacity. Applications: Only works with B&W Gooseneck Hitch and Cequent series heads. Website: www.draw-tite.com

20 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Master Lock Stainless Steel Barbell Extended-Length Receiver Lock Description: The Master Lock features a 5/8-in. stainless steel barbell extended-length receiver lock which includes the push-to-lock locking mechanism which is easily used by pushing the lock body firmly onto the pin and removing the key. The Weather Tough seal and watertight cap provides additional protection from moisture and dirt. Specifications: Class III/IV 10,000lb. load rating. Applications: Designed to fit Toyota Tundra, Ford F-150/F-250/F-350, GMC/Chevy 2500/3500 and Ram trucks with heavy-duty tow packages. Website: www.masterlock.com Reese Titan 16K Fifth-Wheel Hitch Description: Reese’s new Titan 16K fifth-wheel hitch features a new contoured handle with a customized grip that includes universal control instructions, and a premium Reese arch with pin mounting holes that better align with current rail kits. The hitch is SAE J2638 compliant, sidewinder compatible and features a new cast head, new cast jam system and a new cast pivot beam. Specifications: Requires rails and installation kit. 16,000 lbs. capacity / 4,000 lbs. pin and weight capacity. Applications: For pickups capable of towing fifth-wheel trailers. Website: www.reeseprod.com Smittybilt Aluminum Adjustable Hitch Description: Smittybilt’s Aluminum Adjustable Drop Hitch Ball Mount boasts a 6-in. drop to adjust to the proper height easily, and comes with reversible 2 to 2-5/16-in. steel balls. It is machined from a high-grade billet aluminum for added strength and has a polished finish for a stylish touch. Specifications: 6,000 lbs maximum load rating. Applications: Works with all 2-in. hitch receivers. Website: www.smittybilt.com

Smittybilt Mount Drop Hitch Description: Smittybilt’s Mount Drop Hitch features reinforced gussets on drop ball mounts for added strength and are robotic welded for a precision fit. They feature a tough powder coat for corrosion and rust protection and are made from hammer-forged hardened Q235 steel. Specifications: Class III rated. Up to 6,000 lbs GTW and 600 lbs tongue weight. Applications: Fits 2x2 receivers. Website: www.smittybilt.com

Trimax TRZ6AL Adjustable Drop Hitch Description: Trimax’s TRZ6AL 6-in. adjustable drop hitch with locking ball mount includes dual 2- and 2-5/16-in. chrome balls and receiver lock, and has a 10,000 lbs. tow rating with a tongue weight rating of 1,500 lbs. The hitch is able to adjust in 1-in. increments and can be flipped and used as a drop or rise hitch. Specifications: Features a 10,000 lbs. tow rating and tongue weight rating of 1,500 lbs. Applications: Not applications specific. Website: www.trimaxlocks.com

Westin Automotive Class III & IV Receiver Hitches Description: Westin’s Class III & IV Receiver Hitches have a high-quality textured black powder coat finish to match the vehicle cladding and bumper trims and all hitches provide a unique delta cut safety chain loop and stylized forged steel collar. Hitch includes a mounting tap for electrical connector and requires no drilling for installation. Specifications: Class III hitches offer 3.500-10,000 lb. towing capacity while Class IV hitches offer 10,000 lb. towing capacity. Applications: Available for many late model trucks and SUVs. Website: www.westinautomotive.com 22 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Truck King Fuel Study Story and photos by Howard J Elmer

ach year the Canadian Truck King Challenge does what we call “real-world” fuel economy testing. But, what does that really mean? And how does it differ from what the government does? Well, for starters, the government tests in a laboratory. New vehicles are mounted on a two-wheel chassis dynamometer which simulates on-road driving to measure fuel consumption. The computer that controls the test is pre-programmed to take into account the particular characteristics of the test vehicle.

24 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Each vehicle is then taken for a “simulated” drive. Once the trip is complete, it is repeated after the vehicle has been shut-off for eight minutes and both results are recorded. The Truck King “real-world” method is the polar opposite of this. Each one of our trucks is driven empty on-road, is expected to tow a trailer, and haul payload; in other words, they are treated exactly how an owner treats them. We repeat a set loop over and over – but changing up drivers each time, which adds another point to this real-world operation. The numbers we produce are then a result of these tests. All results 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. This is the fifth year we have produced the real-world fuel report. Previous year’s results can be found at our website www. truckking.ca Continued on Page 26

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26 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

ALL-NEW • DURABLE POWDER COATED SLATS • GLIDES ON 4 SEALED ANTI-BIND BEARINGS • FLUSH-MOUNTED CANISTER COVER

NOW AVAILABLE! The Retrax IX combines durable aluminum with a powerful and incredibly scratch resistant matte finish. The low-profile design incorporates a front canister that is flush with the truck bed cover and streamlines the overall look .

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INTERVIEW: CHIEF DESIGNER RAM, SRT, FIAT INTERIORS

A Designer by Design Story by Rob Rothwell, photos courtesy of FCA Canada

How Ryan Nagode is shaping the future

Four-and-a-half years before my introduction to Ryan in an upscale “distillery” bar in Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown, he and his team were laying the groundwork for the wood- and leather-lined Ram cabin we now find ourselves in.

Ryan has class, I have little. He also knows a thing or two about design, which is obvious from his pointed double-buckle hi-cut black leather shoes and tailored jeans.

Good designs don’t happen by accident, and Ryan knows this better than anyone. “It’s a labour of love, that’s for sure,” says Ryan about the time it takes to complete a design project and get everyone onboard and excited.

’m sitting in an automotive masterpiece with a guy I first met in a bar. He was drinking a gin and tonic while I mugged a pint of craft-brewed ale. (Don’t go there.)

I don’t normally notice these things, but I want to this time. Ryan C. Nagode is the chief designer of Ram, SRT, and Fiat interiors. This dude is cool; his obsessively-trimmed 7-day beard makes a statement of perfection, where mine simply reflects laziness. I met Ryan at a reception hosted by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles the night before the 2018 Vancouver Auto Show kicked off, and was anxious to connect with him at the show. I wanted to learn more about the role of an interior designer and how he came to be the head honcho for the stunning cabin of the 2019 Ram. On opening day, we climbed into the Ram Longhorn on display - me in the driver’s perch, Ryan riding shotgun in the FCA-supplied boardroom. Ryan’s been with Fiat Chrysler now for 15 years, joining Chrysler directly out of design school before ascending the ranks to chief interior designer for half of all FCA products – the fun half. Ryan honed his artistic side at the Cleveland School of Art, but he was breathing design work while other toddlers were chewing crayons, thanks to his dad, who made a living as a designer at Fisher Price Toys. In fact, friends and family members were either artists or designers of some sort or other. Heading off to art school, Ryan’s intended path was to lead him into a world of industrial design. That was until a gearhead friend dragged him to a design class for cars, and pretty much from that moment forward, it was a one-way road to automotive design. 28 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

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Ryan rightly points out that top-tier trucks, such as their Longhorn and Limited, are more like SUVs with a box than conventional pickups, and that buyers of these vehicles aren’t necessarily brand loyal. “They want the latest and greatest technology, and they’ll jump from one to another to get it” remarks Ryan. The capricious nature of buyers forces Ryan and his design team to define themselves as “future thinkers.” And really, with a four-year turnaround from conception to production, they must “crystal ball” to predict customer wants and expectations so far ahead. A certainty though, is what customers “dislike,” and that’s filtered out early. I was curious about what Ryan views as the greatest challenge in the field of automotive interior design. Any guesses? As it applies to truck cabs, Ryan was very clear in his answer. It’s the vast range of trim levels in these modern workhorses that suck the life out of a designer.

Designing truck interiors is particularly challenging says Ryan. “You can’t ignore that it’s got to do its job as a truck,” he says. “We did a lot up front with pen to paper on the styling to make everything function, which included lots of breadboard mock-ups exploring space usage and how clever we could be with that.” To my surprise, Ryan says that they still work with clay to create life-size mock-ups that look and feel real, right down to using genuine stitching in the clay dashboard. One of the tricks in building these models is the use of latex house paints to cover surfaces, says Ryan. The mock-ups, which look very realistic, are kept internal and not sent out to research clinics. (Hmm…the detective in me figures this is done to protect those clever design elements, such as configurable storage cubbies, iPod holders, and passive phone chargers from being pilfered by the competition.) Ryan talks about the importance of the full-size mock-ups. “You can only do so much in the computer. For a truck, you’ve got to sit behind it, feel it, use it, and make sure that what you’re putting in works.” I raised with Ryan the issue of distracted driving due to touch-screen interfaces, asking how the industry plans to deal with that. Ryan reached forward and switched off the massive 12-inch screen facing us, then pointed out how all of the primary vehicle functions, such as HVAC and audio, could be controlled through redundant buttons that surround the screen. “I don’t have to touch the screen,” Ryan said, while also mentioning that they use large switchgear to accommodate gloves. This is good I thought, especially for Canadian winters, but what’s in the future for car interiors, I asked him. “You can’t ignore the screens,” he said, pointing to the smaller screen residing between the tachometer and speedometer in the instrument panel. “There are seven zones of information there. You can reconfigure them or clean them out completely if you want less information.” Configurability of information is what Ryan sees in the future, in which drivers can choose what information is important and where and how it should be displayed. 30 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

From base utilitarian models to the rolling living-rooms of the top-tier segment, the broad range of available content, luxury, and decor is difficult to accommodate in a modern cab design. So, what’s the technique? “Being smart about how we swap things in and out so there’s more of a modular approach to it,” says Ryan. But “smart” from a production perspective doesn’t necessarily translate into “beauty” from a consumer perspective. Yet in this way, Ryan and his team have hit a homer. The Longhorn cabin in which we chat is trimmed with appliques of Barn Wood, as the Ram teams calls it. The wood is genuine, thick, and roughly hewn compared to anything else I’ve had the organic joy of running my fingers over in a vehicle. Each Barn Wood Longhorn cab features an authentic hot-iron branding on the wood adorning the dash, which reads “Longhorn.” No two brandings are exactly the same. Again: new, innovative, unique, and giddy-up cool. Congrats to Ryan and his team of visionaries. Four-and-a-half years ago they embarked upon a journey that culminated in today’s automotive masterpiece. For Ryan, though, that journey began many decades earlier, sparked by a twinkle in his dad’s eye and a Fisher Price toy.

HARD FOLDING COVER WITH ULTIMATE STRENGTH & WEATHER PROTECTION

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PRODUCTS: SIDEBARS / RUNNING BOARDS

BUYERS’ GUIDE AMP Research Releases Powerstep for Vans and CUVs Description: AMP Research has released the PowerStep Electric Running Boards for Vans and CUVs, designed to deploy out horizontally from the vehicle for a safe stepping platform. Available now for the Ford Transit commercial van, both the hinged and the sliding doors trigger the PowerStep to deploy, then retract out of sight when the door closes. This provides improved ground clearance, aerodynamics and appearance. Specifications: The steps are available in passenger-side only or as a pair, and are made with a high-strength Diecast aluminum and finished in a high-texture powder coat for durability and grip. Applications: Available for the Ford Transit. Website: www.amp-research.com ARIES ActionTrac™ Powered Running Boards Description: ARIES ActionTrac™ powered running boards are unique because of their innovative step-within-a-step™ design and simple-2-install™ system. They’re actually two steps in one, providing the easiest possible access, especially on larger, lifted trucks and Jeeps. Rather than being retracted underneath the vehicle, the steps fold up into the contoured housing, adding a stylish, aftermarket look. Specifications: The housing also seals off the steps and all electrical components from exposure to the elements. For the fastest and easiest possible installation, all ActionTrac™ running boards install with no splicing required, and most require no drilling for the brackets. Applications: Many Website: www.ariesautomotive.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 offers 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 6-In. Side Steps Description: Dee Zee’s 6-in. Side Steps provide ample step area as you climb in and out of your rig. Molded step pads at each door provide unmatched traction. No-drill installation with custom-fit braces. Specifications: Available in 3 lengths: Regular Cab (51-in.), Extended Cab (73-in.) and Crew Cab (86-in.) Material: Available in Steel or Aluminum; Finish: Textured Black or Silver Applications: Most models Ford, Chevy, GMC, and Dodge/Ram, Jeep, Nissan, and Toyota. 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 34 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Enthuze Blackout Series Side Bar Description: Enthuze’s Blackout Series Side Bars are made from stainless steel tubing and feature aggressive custom polyethylene step pads to provide a safe and easy step in-and- out of your vehicle, plus that blackout look you want. The durable finish provides superior corrosion resistance to ensure they last longer, and each set comes with custom mounting brackets. Specifications: Made from durable 4-in. oval tubing and features a black powder coat finish. Applications: Available for Ram, Ford, GM, Toyota and Honda applications. Website: www.enthuze.ca

Go Industries Rancher Rugged Steps Description: Go Industries’ Rancher Rugged Steps offer a wide step area and feature highstrength, custom steel brackets with no drilling necessary for installation. The steps come in the Ultimate Armour Finish and are made from 1.9-in., 14-gauge round tubing with 2-in., 10-gauge steel runners which are sure to withstand just about any punishment you throw at them. Specifications: Constructed from 1.9-in., 14-gauge round tubing with 2-in., 10-gauge steel runners. Optional mud scraper is available. Applications: Available for GM, Ram, Ford, and Toyota applications. Website: www.goindustries.com

Go Rhino RB20 Running Boards Description: Go Rhino’s RB20 running boards offer a “Raptor-style” design and offers the same great benefits of the RB10 running boards but with the new design. The boards feature cut-outs that are very similar to one of the most popular, off-road capable trucks available on the market today. They feature a textured bed liner finish for grip and durability. Specifications: Running boards include mounting brackets and are available in a black powder-coat finish. Applications: Available for a wide variety of trucks. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.gorhino.com

Iron Cross Automotive Sidearm Step Description: Iron Cross’ SideArm Step features a unique and ground breaking design, which will complement the look of your vehicle whether it is stock or completely custom. Adding function to form these steps provide the most ergonomic step up of anything on the market today. Specifications: Made from 14 gauge steel, Finish: Matte Black, Applications: Most models of Chevy, GMC, Dodge, Ford, Nissan, and Toyota pickup trucks and the 4 door Jeep JK 2007-2017. Website: www.ironcrossautomotive.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 36 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Luverne SlimGrip 5-In. Running Boards Description: Luverne’s SlimGrip 5-In. Running Boards add a sleek and rugged style to your truck thanks to a narrowed profile and angular end caps. The running boards feature open treads to knock dirt and snow off of boots, while the expanded metal treads provide you with maximum traction and safety even in lifted truck applications. Specifications: Running boards utilize the VersaTrac mounting system for easy installation. The powder coated aluminum construction is designed to be lightweight yet strong. Applications: Available for a wide variety of trucks. Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.luvernetruck.com N-Fab Predator Pro Description: With one of the industry’s tightest fitting tubes, the N-FAB Predator Pro step system creates an ultimate clean look on your truck or Jeep®. Our patented drop-down hoop step has a large dimpled step pad for ease of access in any condition. Predator Pro’s fully-welded one-piece design provides strength, durability, and installation. 100-percent aluminum construction for long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance in the toughest environments. The engineered aluminum extruded main bar with aluminum end caps fits tight to the body, creating the ultimate in clean style. Specifications: Standard colour is textured black. Available in cab length configuration. Features a dimpled step pad for secure footing in any condition. Applications: Available for many trucks and Jeeps. Visit website for complete application listings. Website: www.n-fab.com

Romik Max Bars Side Steps Description: Romik’s Max Bars Side Steps are a Romik signature product made from highquality materials and completed with a bullet end. The UV-resistant step pads finish off the look and provide you with a safe surface to use when getting in and out of your truck. Specifications: Manufactured from polished stainless steel. Applications: Available for a wide array of applications. Website: www.romik.com

June/JULY 2018 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 37

Smittybilt Nerf Steps Description: Smittybilt’s Nerf Steps offer an innovative design that is ideal for lifted truck applications. The drop-down design is built from a 3-in. main tube and cleated step plates for great stability. Each bar is custom-made for each application and is designed to go wheelto-wheel on all models. The drop-down step with welded steel step pad is also reinforced to prevent breakage and cracking. Specifications: Steps boast a 445-lb rating and feature a high-gloss black powdercoat finish in a high-polished 304 marine grade stainless steel. Applications: Available for Ram, GM, Ford, Toyota and Nissan applications. Website: www.smittybilt.com

Steelcraft 4X Series 4-In. Sidebars Description: Steelcraft’s all-new 4-in. bar is taking the aftermarket world by storm. With sleek bends and rugged, aggressive step pads, these side bars will take your truck to the next level in both style and functionality. 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.steelcraftautomotive.com

TrailFX 4-Inch Trapezoid Side Steps Description: The all-new 4-in. trapezoid-shaped side steps from TrailFX are designed to shine and stand out in the crowd. These steps feature mirror-finished SS304 stainless steel construction, dual UV resistance, deep-tread step pads, heavy-duty injection-molded end caps, easy bolt-on rocker panel installation and a limited lifetime warranty. Specifications: Feature a mirror-finished SS304 stainless steel construction. Applications: Ford, Chevy, GMC, Dodge and Toyota. Website: www.trailfx.com

Truck Hardware’s Gatorgear Nerfboards Description: The 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 anti-slip step plates, they ensure safety in all weather conditions. Hand-built and 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

Westin Automotive HDX Stainless Drop Nerf Step Bars Description: Westin Automotive’s all-new HDX Stainless Drop Nerf Step Bars are manufactured from corrosion-resistant, black powder-coated stainless steel for strength and to keep performing well under even the toughest of conditions. The bars feature a one-piece construction that provide over two more inches of step area than some competitors, and fit tight to your vehicle’s rocker panel. Specifications: The step plates are rust-resistant and die-stamped to provide maximum traction, while a notched bar design is utilized along with a heavy-duty step plate. No drilling is required for installation. Applications: Visit website for complete listings. Website: www.westinautomotive.com 38 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

FIRST LOOK: VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS TANOAK CONCEPT

VW Pickup? Story and photos by Benjamin Yong, additional photos courtesy of Volkswagen

n an era where few true auto show surprises still exist, what with the Internet and ubiquitous pre-event debuts, Volkswagen showed it’s still possible to have an ace up the proverbial sleeve. The manufacturer generated quite a bit of hubbub by announcing the Atlas Tanoak at this year’s New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), a five-passenger pickup based on VW’s MQB modular transverse matrix architecture platform upon which the production Atlas crossover is built.

Volkswagen Shows Off Its Mid-Size Pickup Truck Concept in New York

Although technically called an Atlas, the Tanoak — named after a towering species of tree native to the American Pacific Coast — is 401 millimetres longer, measuring a total length of 5,438 mm with a width of 2,029 mm and a height of 1,844. This puts it in midsize truck territory, challenging the Chevrolet Colorado, upcoming Ford Ranger and fellow imports the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline. Similar

So why a truck, and why now? “It’s been a long time since VW sold a truck in North America (34 years to be exact, and it was one based off the Rabbit hatchback). We wanted to show the bandwidth of the MQB platform, and foster the idea that the Atlas could become more of a family of vehicles,” says Mark Gillies, product and technology communications senior manager at Volkswagen of America. He adds such an offering would round out the company’s portfolio across all five big segments in the U.S. market that also include compact and midsize sedans and sport utilities. Another SUV, the Atlas Cross Sport, was unveiled during the same time at NYIAS. to the Ridgeline, a unibody construction has been utilized rather than a traditional bodyon-frame, translating into a more car-like ride that many consumers find attractive. While the two related models share visual traits up to the B-pillar section, designers have given the front fascia a rugged treatment such as reinforcing the bumper, adding underbody protection and a central winch, reshaping the grille and headlamp and raising the central portion of the hood. Moving towards the other end of the vehicle, there are contrasting plastic fender flares, 20-inch alloy wheels and doors for the dual rear cab. Out back, a lowhinged tailgate opens to reveal a 1,628-mm cargo bed perfect for transporting recreational equipment such as bicycles or surfboards. 40 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

manipulated even for a driver wearing work gloves. Seeing as how the Tanoak is a concept, Volkswagen has implemented some trick exterior lighting features. Open a door, and the large roundel at the front gradually brightens, bleeding onto the slats of the grille and headlamp surrounds. The VW logo at the rear is similarly lit, along with an LED strip installed in a unique sliding bed rail that can be toggled on or off to provide illumination as needed. The Wolfsburg-based automaker stated at the presentation that there are currently no official plans to make the Tanoak a reality. Stay tuned. Unlike its competitors, the Tanoak treats occupants to a heavily digital interior experience. The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit relays all important onboard information such as speed, RPMs, etcetera virtually through a high definition central screen, and a secondary touch display controls everything from entertainment to climate settings. An ambient cabin lighting system softly shines yellow or blue at nighttime, shifting when the vehicle is switched from City to Off-road mode. Speaking of performance, a 3.6-litre V6 FSI gasoline engine sits under the hood producing 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Power is put to the ground using 4MOTION all-wheel drive with Active Control, allowing users to choose from various on- and off-road pre-sets optimizing grip on dry, wet, icy or dirt-covered road surfaces. A low-range gear reduction function is available as well when the driving conditions become particularly hairy. Transmission changes are implemented via a metallic switch on the new shifter grip, designed to be easily

AS EASY AS IGNITION KEY June/JULY 2018 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 41

PRODUCTS: DIESEL PRODUCTS

BUYERS’ GUIDE aFe Power DFS780 PRO Fuel System for Ram EcoDiesel Description: aFe Power’s DFS780 PRO Fuel system for the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel features the contoured CNC machining of the manifold passages which will enhance flow and reduce pressure drop due to flow restrictions. The heavy-duty bracket easily mounts with the supplied hardware while the marine-grade motor is completely protected against dust intrusion. Specifications: Features a 187 GPH Flow Rating and runs in series with factory lift pump. Applications: Made for the 2014-16 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel models. Website: www.afepower.com Airaid MXP Air Intake System Description: Airaid’s MXP Air Intake system starts with a replacement one-piece roto-molded air box that addresses the shortcomings of the restrictive factory design. Housed inside the air box is a premium air filter for outstanding air flow and filtration, while air is directed through a new air intake tube made from polyethylene. The system incorporates fresh air ducting which further promotes airflow, which will provide horsepower and acceleration gains for GM HD trucks. Specifications: Replaces stock intake tubing, air filter and air box. High-airflow washable and reusable air filter media. Applications: For the 2017-18 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD. Website: www.airaid.com Banks Derringer L5P Tuner for Duramax Description: Banks Power’s Derringer L5P Tuner for the GM Duramax diesel engine is available as a stand-alone tuner with power level switch or as a system with the iDash 1.8 Super Gauge which is available with or without data logging. The tuner’s calibration is continuously adjusting to provide you the peak performance under every driving condition. Specifications: Tuner utilizes OBD-II data to fine-tune its calibration on the fly without having to change its power level. Applications: For 2017+ GM Trucks with the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine. Website: www.bankspower.com BD Diesel TapShifter with Valve Body for Dodge Description: BD Diesel’s new TapShifter for 3rd generation Dodge diesel trucks provides you with gear selection and converter lock-up control and allows you to shift either auto or manually and provides manual torque converter lock-up clutch control. It works great with stock shifting and has a gear limiting function as well as sealed plug-in wiring with no cutting or tapping of wires required. TapShifter is great for street, towing or racing applications. Specifications: Kit includes exchange BD valve body, new model shift lever, BD control module, BD gear selection display and wiring harness. Applications: For the 2003-2007 Dodge Ram HD. Website: www.dieselperformance.com Bully Dog GTX Performance Programmer (Gas & Diesel) Description: Bully Dog’s GTX is performance tuning re-imagined - no computers necessary. It’s the easiest-to-use tuner on the market, loaded with powerful features and the most advanced hardware todate. The new GTX Performance Programmer starts up in under 10 seconds and is super-responsive, sporting a 5-inch capacitive glass touch screen that rivals today’s smart phones. Along with the ability to hold 20 custom tunes, GTX comes preloaded with three powerful tuning levels: Tow, Street, and Performance. GTX is also the premier data monitoring solution, giving drivers the ability to monitor the industry’s most extensive list of PIDS, or engine parameters, on an easy-to-use device. Specifications: 5-in. Capacitive Touch Screen, 3 Preloaded Bully Dog Tunes, 20 Custom Tune File Capacity, Rapid Start-Up, Industry-leading PID List, On-Screen Data Logging, WiFi capability to download tunes, Grab & Go Magnetic Mount, Customizable Gauge Layouts. Applications: Most trucks covered. Website: www.bullydog.com 42 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Castrol 15W-40 GTX Diesel Description: Castrol’s GTX Diesel motor oil is a premium quality lubricant that is formulated to provide exceptional lubrication for today’s light-truck diesel engines. The oil provides protection from piston deposits, oil thickening and valve train wear, while also minimizing engine sludge formation. It is made to provide exceptional performance in engines operating under severe service conditions including towing and hauling under high temperatures. Specifications: The special viscosity protects and maintains cleanliness in hot running, heavy diesel and heavy-duty gasoline engines. Applications: Applicable for on- and off-road diesel light trucks. Website: www.castrol.com

Edge Insight CTS2 Tuner Description: Edge’s CTS2 performance monitor features a 5-in. full-colour, high-resolution display and a custom colour mixer for gauge arcs, needles and background of your choosing. It offers multiple gauge screen layouts and features an HDMI-style plug for power and linking to EAS accessories. The monitor is able to switch between U.S. or Metric units of measure and displays dozens of vehicle parameters. Specifications: Ideal for those who wish to monitor vehicle performance and not program. Applications: Available for 1996 and newer vehicles equipped with an OBDII port including diesel trucks. Website: www.edgeproducts.com

FASS FA Series Adjustable Fuel Pumps Description: FASS FA Series Adjustable fuel pumps are one of the most versatile highperformance fuel pumps, as they allow the customer to tweak the fuel pressure to the engine on the fly. The boost compensation port also gives the pump added and more consistent fuel pressure based on boost referencing from the turbo, which keeps fuel pressure in line with the needs of the engine. Specifications: Flow rates from 95 – 260 gph and fuel pressure from 0-75 psi. Applications: Available for Ford, Ram, and GM applications. Website: www.fassride.com

MUDDOG

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MUD FLAPS

Flex-A-Lite Direct-Fit Electric Fans for Super Duty Description: Flex-A-Lite’s Direct Fit Electric Fans for the Ford Super Duty trucks are able to recover horsepower and boost your fuel economy by replacing your stuck clutch fan assembly with this dual electric fan system. It features two 15-in. S-blade electric fans and a Variable Speed Controller that varies the fan speed from 60-100% depending on current radiator temperatures. Specifications: UP to 6,800 cfm of airflow. Provides your engine with a quicker warm up. Applications: Made for the 2003-2007 Ford Super Duty Pickups. Website: www.flex-a-lite.com

Hays Classic Super Truck Clutch Kit for Dodge Trucks Description: Hays Super Truck clutch kits have been specifically designed for severe usage trucks such as off-road and performance street trucks. Every unit is built to withstand extreme conditions and extreme over-use. Each kit features completely all-new parts made by Hays and the kit is made with top-of-the-line components to ensure extended service life. Specifications: Disc diameter is 12-1/4-in. Applications: Made for Dodge trucks with the 5.9L Cummins turbo diesel or 8.0L V10 engine. Website: www.holley.com

Hypertech Max Energy 2.0 Tuner For Trucks Description: Max Energy 2.0 Power Programmers maximize horsepower, torque and performance, and deliver 1-3 more miles per gallon. The Max Energy 2.0 recalibrates the speedometer/odometer when using larger tires or different rear axle ratios, and reprograms the tire pressure monitoring system when using larger replacement tires. Specifications: New features include adjustable throttle response, Tow/Street/ Sport/Performance options for both Normal or Sport modes, and shift response tunes for Track/Performance/Sport/ Street/ Tow/Mileage/or Hyper-Mileage. Applications: ’04-’16 Ford Gas Trucks, including ’15-’16 Ford 3.5L V6 EcoBoost-powered F-150s. Website: www.hypertech-inc.com

UNIVERSAL PROTECTION FOR ALL MAN KIND

Introducing MudDog™ Mud Flaps. Made from an impact resistant material that will protect your truck from the rage of the road. They'll ﬁt almost any truck and are eaaaasy to install. You could say, this dog’s bark is as big as it’s bite.

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Designed to ﬁt almost any truck, MudDog Mud Flaps protect you and those around you.

12” wide ﬂaps will withstand whatever the road throws their way.

EASY. NOW. Just turn a couple of screws and you will be back on the road in no time at all.

Go to HuskyLiners.com or call 800.344.8759 and order MudDog Flaps for your truck today.

Hypertech Speedometer Calibrator Description: Hypertech’s Speedometer Calibrator can correct the speedometer and odometer for tires up to 54 inches, depending on the application, and for non-stock rear gear ratios. The calibrator comes with a USB cable and a CD containing software to enable quick updates and upgrades over the internet. Specifications: Speedometer Calibrator can be upgraded to a Max Energy Power Programmer via the internet. Applications: Available for a wide array of Trucks and SUVs. Website: www.hypertech-inc.com

K&N 57-1571 FIPK Air Intake System for Ram 1500 Diesel Description: K&N’s 57-1571 FIPK air intake system replaces the restrictive factory air filter and air intake housing on the Ram 1500 with the EcoDiesel engine option. The intake is designed to dramatically reduce the restriction and to smooth and straighten air flow. This allows your engine to inhale a larger amount of air than the factory air filter assembly which means more usable power and acceleration throughout the truck’s RPM range. Specifications: Air intake comes with a chrome-topped high-flow air filter and a heat shield that installs into the original upper air filter housing. Applications: Made for Ram 1500 with EcoDiesel engine option. Website: www.knfilters.ca

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

MagnaFlow Black DPF Series Description: MagnaFlow’s Black DPF Series is now available for the new Ford Super Duty and features the same stainless construction of other systems but with the added protection and style of a high-temp satin black coating that is applied from the tailpipe to the tip. The system is mandrel-bent and will not only provide your truck with power gains, but will also provide a deep aggressive tone. Specifications: Manufactured from 409 stainless steel with a high-temperature satin black coating. Applications: Now available for the 2017 Ford Super Duty. Website: www.magnaflow.com

MBRP XP Series for Ford Super Duty Description: MBRP’s XP Series 4-in. filter-back exhaust for the new Ford Super Duty trucks with the PowerStroke diesel engine provides your truck with up to 18 more horsepower and 28 more lb-ft of torque, and will also lower EGTs. In addition, you will experience better throttle response and greater fuel efficiency. The exhaust system will minimize back pressure and will drop exhaust gas temperature by up to 200-degrees Fahrenheit. Specifications: Manufactured from rugged 16-gauge T409. Applications: Available for 2017-2018 Ford Super Duty with the 6.7L PowerStroke Diesel engine. Website: www.mbrpautomotive.com 46 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

Red Line Diesel Fuel Catalyst Description: Red Line’s Diesel Fuel Catalyst is designed for use in all diesel engines, as it compensates for the latest low-sulfur fuels. The catalyst promotes better fuel combustion and fuel system lubrication, and also provides faster ignition and reduced detonation and smoke, while improving efficiency. It utilizes powerful high-temperature detergents to clean fuel injectors. Specifications: Available in a winterized formula which reduces pour point of typical fuel by up to 25-degrees Fahrenheit. Applications: Made specifically for diesel engines. Website: www.redlineoil.com Sinister Diesel Ford 7.3L Intake Elbow Kit Description: Sinister Diesel’s new Intake Elbow Kit for 7.3L Powerstroke-equipped Ford Super Duty is an upgrade to both the performance and appearance of your truck. The large-diameter, CNC-machined, mandrel-bent aluminum tubing eliminates the problem of restricted air caused by the stock pipes. The increased diameter and large radius bends create a noticeable increase in performance and turbo spool. Additionally, the TIG-welded, pressure-tested base plate holds higher boost levels. Specifications: Pipes are powder-coated Sinister Blue for added durability and a customized look. Applications: For the 1995.5-2003 Ford 7.3L Powerstrokes. Website: www.sinisterdiesel.com TITAN Fuel Tanks Travel Trekker 40 Description: TITAN Fuel Tanks’ new compact Travel Trekker 40 auxiliary fuel system is made from military grade, cross-linked polymer and works great with almost any full-size diesel truck including half ton pickups with utility beds, RamBox and those equipped with a factory fifth-wheel package. The use of the remarkable TITAN Electronic Controller pumps fuel from the Travel Trekker 40 to the vehicle’s primary fuel tank until it is automatically stopped by the controller or the button is touched again. Specifications: The controller monitors and reports the fuel level in the auxiliary system at all times. Applications: Fits almost any full-sized diesel trucks. Website: www.titanfueltanks.com

REAL WORLD TOUGH. Made by Eibach and individually dyno tested for quality and performance. The PRO-TRUCK, PRO-TRUCK Sport and PRO-TRUCK Sport Leveling Shocks pack a punch of on-road and off-road dominance in any situation. Stock or lifted, we have the right performance shocks for your truck or SUV. Call today and experience the Eibach Difference. Consumer Inquiries 800-227-2242

Wholesale Inquiries 800-263-8621

eibachcanada.com

June/JULY 2018 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 47

HUSKY LINERS INSTALL

All of our Husky products laid out and ready to go, including the Centre Hump Liner which bridges the gap between the driver and passenger side liners to further protect the vehicle.

TECH H

aving spent the last few months with our 2018 Ford F-150 XLT CrewCab provided by the fine folks down at Metro Ford in Port Coquitlam, B.C., we noticed that, although the interior is well designed and provides ample amounts of storage space, there were a few shortfalls. The small OEM floor mats provided little protection for the majority of the truck’s interior carpet and, although you are left with a ton of space with the rear seats folded up, it is essentially just a large flat area that doesn’t actually secure any cargo, leaving it to freely roll around while driving. After doing some research, we contacted our friends over at Husky Liners, who specialize in correcting exactly these problems. Luckily for us, the Husky team was generous enough to send over a complete front and rear set of their X-Act Contour Floor Liners, as well as the GearBox Under Seat Storage system, all designed specifically for our truck. Once we removed the OEM mats and went through the very easy install, which was as easy as you’d expect, we immediately noticed

a huge improvement as the FormFit, vehicle-specific design left very little interior carpet exposed throughout the whole truck, and we now have a secure spot to store smaller items we don’t want rolling around in the back seat area. This will preserve our vehicle’s interior for years to come and will make day-to-day usage just that much easier. The X-Act Contour Liners are designed to hold spills or any mess in the liner which makes it easy for us to simply remove, clean, and put back in without anything touching the actual interior of our truck. This will come especially in handy during the winter months, where our shoes and boots are covered with snow, mud and road salt, which often make it impossible to keep your vehicle clean. We’d like to once again express big thanks to the crew down at Metro Ford for assisting us with getting our F-150, and to Tina and her team at Husky Liners for providing us with the ultimate interior protection and functionality. We look forward to many, many years of interior cleanliness. As you can see, our OEM floor mats do not cover very much of the actual interior carpet at all.

Our 2018 Ford F-150 XLT from Metro Ford 48 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

AARON'S 1987 Ford Bronco

A FIRST TRUCK FOR THE SECOND TIME.

There’s only one vehicle Aaron’s grandfather bought brand-new, right off the lot – his 1987 Ford Bronco. Always garaged and well-maintained, not even his ‘67 Mustang received such care. When his grandfather passed, the Bronco became Aaron’s. His goal was to restore this iconic truck to how his grandfather would have seen it for the first time on that lot in Gladwin, Michigan. At LMC Truck, we understand the special place a truck can hold in the heart of a family. Because her odometer doesn’t just count miles. It counts memories. And we want to make sure they never stop. Read Aaron’s story and share your own at LMCTruckLife.com

Chevy/GMC 1947-13

| Ford 1948-15 | Dodge 1972-15 | LMCTruck.com | 800.562.8782

Once we removed the OEM stuff, we began installing the Husky floor liners which fit perfectly and will hold firmly in place thanks to the StayPut Cleats found on the underside.

Same goes for the back seat where very little is covered by the OEM mats. Once fully installed, it becomes very obvious that basically anywhere your feet will be is completely covered, and the liners will easily hold any spills or mess within itself, which makes clean-up a breeze.

The only adjustment we did have to make was with the rear liner, where we had to trim a small strip in order to fit perfectly around our centre console. Once we were happy with the placement of our liners, we installed the GearBox, which provides a ton of space to hold smaller items and even has a couple of different sections to keep your gear even more organized.

With the seats folded back down, the GearBox is hardly noticeable and covers any of the contents you have inside. 50 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

TOUGH AFFORDABLE

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> Optional Short Net Divider

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RV-ING: 2018 PALOMINO RCHS 1802

Special Niche Story and photos by Howard J Elmer

ruck campers occupy a special niche within the RVing family. Their very design exists because of the pickup truck; and that’s the first thing you need if you want one. So while the “why” of a truck camper is obvious to those looking for one, its other attributes require a bit more discussion. This thought (for me) arises because of the size and weight restrictions inherent in these piggyback RVs. Frankly, for the money, a comparable travel trailer will give you way more space and floorplan options; but then, if you have or/are considering a truck camper, you’ve already thought of the unique features that this type of unit offers. For everyone else, here they are: 1. Rough country access. Your truck has 4WD and rugged tires; it also has good ground clearance and a suspension that is built for off-road travel. So, if your truck can get in there – well then so can your truck camper. 2. The right truck camper does not impede your ability to tow a trailer. This is one of the reasons that these campers are popular with the horsey crowd – as they tow their animals to places and events where having accommodation on site is a definite benefit. 3. With the right lift kit, the truck camper takes just a few minutes more to unload than the time required to uncouple a trailer. 4. Like a trailer or fifth-wheel, when you trade in your truck you don’t have to change up your camper – it continues to serve regardless of what new pickup hauls it. 52 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

The unit I went out to test is built by Palomino, which is now part of the Forest River Company. They have been building a variety of RVs for 50 years – 2018 being the anniversary of that milestone. As for truck campers, they have been in that market for at least the past 30 years, building a variety of units that will fit anything from a mid-size Chevy Colorado up to a Ram 3500 HD. With a wide range of models and floorplans, they have something to suit most every truck and the experience to make it work. For my purposes I decided to test a design, the 1802, which is built to fit a 1500-series. Or as we old guys like to say – a half-ton. The truck I chose to put under this camper is the 2018 Ford F-150 with a 6.5-ft bed. It’s a SuperCrew cab and is powered by the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine, ten-speed transmission and two-speed 4WD.

SIN

CE 1974

Total Exterior Length: . ................................................. 15’4” Total Exterior Width:............................................................7’ Floor Length:...........................................................................9’ Exterior Height w/ladder:............................................... 7’7” Interior Height:................................................................... 6’6” Fresh Water:.....................................................................31 gal Black Water: ......................................................................4 gal Grey Water: ..........................................................................N/A Cab-over Bed Size:................................................... 60x74-in. LPGas ..................................................................................20 lb Dinette Bed Size: ..................................................... 40x73-in. Center of Gravity: ...........................................................38 in. Camper weight: . .......................................... 776 kg (1,710 lb)

Interestingly, none of these fixtures cramps the interior. I attribute this impression to a domed ceiling and good headroom in the unit (6 ft. 6 in. clear). Even the roof-mounted air conditioner doesn’t intrude into the headspace very much. The bunk in this camper is

Price as tested: . ................................................... $30,357.00

Test unit supplied courtesy of Camp-Out RV, Stratford, ON

So let’s deal with the obvious first. Space in a truck camper is always going to be at a premium. To maximize it, weight has to be kept down. In the case of this Palomino, it uses its nose to boldly announce how it does that – Real-Lite. A brand name and a message. The 1802 has a fully aluminum welded frame covered by laminated walls and a Super Flex membrane roof. It also uses frameless windows to save weight. Meanwhile, inside, the design is functional and clean – as is the floorplan. The galley is the focal point on the left. The counter shares space with the built-in two burner stove and the sink (with cover) and the high-neck faucet. The six-cubic-foot refrigerator is built into the adjacent cabinet. Cupboards (open and closed) and closets take up all the space above, below and beside the galley. You could easily reach anything you needed while standing at this counter – handy and organized.

accessed by stepping up onto a wide carpeted step that would be easy to find, even in the dark – whether going up or down.

Opposite is the dining/sitting area. It’s an L-shaped couch of sorts. The table is easily removed from the fixed floor position when not in use, or lowered to make up the second bed in the camper. This space also has cupboards built-in above the window. With windows on either side, the interior is nice and bright.

The toilet is behind a hard door in the right hand rear corner. It’s surprisingly roomy. In fact, the 1802 provides space for everything you’ll need and in a layout that does not feel cramped. The only obvious omission is the shower (in this unit). Its outside, behind a utility door.

54 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

wheelbases and cargo bed lengths. I mention this because with truck campers, what truck you have really makes a big difference in what you can buy. So, to start with, if you already own a pickup, you need to know two things. One - The cargo bed length (with tailgate up). Two - The registered payload. This weight is found on a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door jamb. Note: payload is the weight of everything supported by the truck. That includes people and cargo – not just what’s in the bed. Beware the manufacturing advertising hype that starts with *Maximum Payload is... * Very few trucks, of any brand, can carry Max Payload. Why? Because Max Payload is always found on the lightest (curb weight) version of a truck model. So, a two-door, regular cab, 2WD will always carry the most weight. But stats show that less than 5 percent of buyers would choose a truck like this. One of the features on my tester was a powered four-post lift system. So, while truck campers don’t come off that often, I really liked how easy it was to use this powered one. It came with a remote control that lifted at once or let you actuate each leg individually. As opposed to hand cranking, I’d recommend it. I mentioned, earlier in the story, that one of the advantages of a truck camper is rough-country access. For this, 4WD is a must. However I want to point out that this truck, in addition to the normal two-speed transfer case, also had an electronically locking rear differential. The day of my test, the ground was very wet and muddy and as the weight of the camper settled on its back, the truck sank, alarmingly. However being able to lock both the rear wheels while in 4WD HI really made a difference, traction-wise. Just a thought if you’re mulling over ticking that box on the order form, regardless of the brand. As most truck owners know, pickups come with a variety of cabs,

If you have (or are looking to buy) a Crew Cab 4WD truck, the extra weight of that steel and added components is subtracted from the Max Payload figure – and that can be as much as 600-800 pounds. Always check the doorjamb – it tells the truth. As for towed weight – the camper doesn’t really impact the tow limit of the truck. With only one caution. The tongue weight of your trailer (around 10 percent of the trailer weight) is transferred to the truck and as such should be factored in to the payload total. One last note. Some truck campers, depending on size and design, require the tailgate to be removed. Not so with this Palomino; it utilizes the length of the tailgate as part of its support platform. Past that, I realized as I was walking around it, the integrated step that Ford offers in the tailgate can still be pulled out and makes for an excellent step up into the unit. This of course wasn’t a design intention – just a happy accident. Good to know if you happen to own one of Henry’s trucks with this feature.

June/JULY 2018 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE 55

TECH: NEW PRODUCTS

GEARING UP

New M1A2 Heavy-Duty Modular Truck Bumper from Smittybilt

Smittybilt’s all-new M1A2 Heavy-Duty Modular Truck Bumper has been engineered for both strength and weight savings, and the lower panels can be removed for better approach angles and tire

Westin Automotive’s New Contour LED DRL Bull Bar Westin Automotive’s New Contour LED DRL Bull Bar comes equipped with an inset 30-in. combo beam single row LED light bar that includes exclusive DRL (daytime running lights) with 5W Cree LED lights for great visibility. The lights feature an integrated two-stage LED combo light beam function with Stage 1 performing daytime running, while Stage 2 provides full-powered LED lighting. The adjustable centre bar allows you to direct the light beam slightly up or down. The bull bar itself is made of 3.5-in. steel tube and contours to your vehicle’s front end. For more information please go to www.westinautomotive.com

Anzo Introduces New Tail Lights for the 2017-18 Ford Super Duty Anzo USA’s new Tail Lights for the 2017-18 Ford F250 Super Duty offer a plug-and-play installation with no drilling required. They are the first aftermarket DOTcompliant lights for the new Super Duty and are 100-percent street legal. The lights offer superior high-power SMD LED reverse and brake function and are manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specs. They provide your truck with a customized look and are able to continue operation in both extreme hot or cold temperatures. For more information please go to www.anzousa.com 56 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

clearance. The 21-in. LED centre light bar can be installed above your bumper to provide lighting in dark situations, and the modular design allows you to take out the winch and plate without having to remove the entire bumper. The bumper utilizes a 1/8-in. steel frame which makes it stronger yet lighter, with less flex than traditional bumpers. The bumpers are available for Ford, GM, Ram, Toyota and Nissan applications. For more information please go to www.smittybilt.com

All-New Bilstein B8 8112 ZoneControl CR Shocks for Toyota Tacoma Bilstein’s new B8 8112 ZoneControl CR shocks feature unrivaled damping performance, which is achieved through three compression zones and two rebound zones, all of which are controlled by three fully independent position-sensitive, internal pistons. The shocks are designed for each vehicle application and come with a frame-mounted, anodized aluminum reservoir mount included. They are manufactured using aerospace quality materials and are available for the 2005-2017 Toyota Tacoma. For more information please go to https://us.bilstein. com/en/

TECH: NEW PRODUCTS Go Industries Releases Baja Bumper II for Ford F-150 Raptor Go Industriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Baja Bumper for the Ford F-150 Raptor is laser-cut, formed and welded together for a one piece conforming design with Âź-in. brackets that are frame mounted, so it does not require any cutting or drilling. The bumper allows visibility for the OEM camera and features cut-outs for 3-in. cube lights which are not included. The bumper is available in two different finishes including UA Coating or Powder Coat, and is available for the 2017-18 Ford F-150 Raptor. For more information please go to www.goindustries.com

UWS Truck-Side Tool Box with Low Profile UWS truck-side tool boxes provide unbeatable storage and security for items in the bed of a truck. Each box features a corrosion-resistant aluminum construction, a highly secure stainless steel locking system and a patented rigid core lid - all to keep equipment and valuables safe, well-organized and easily accessible whenever needed. New to the UWS line is a low-profile option of truck side tool boxes. They feature a low-profile lid that is built lower than the standard lid and provides a better view out the rear cab window and additional clearance for other items in the truck bed, if needed. The boxes are available in 36- and 48-in. lengths and in three finish options. For more information please go to www.uwsta.com

58 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

That was EZ.

EZ Liner Bedliner and Industrial Strength Coating

1. Prep 2. Mix 3. Apply, it’s EZ! The toughest bedliner available to protect your hard earned investment. EZ Liner remains WLYTHULU[S` ÅL_PISL VɈLYPUN [OL ILZ[ HKOLZPVU HUK K\YHIPSP[` VM HU` HM[LY THYRL[ HU[P ZRPK JVH[PUN ,A 3PULY ^VU»[ MHKL HUK ZLHSZ V\[ TVPZ[\YL YLZPZ[Z OLH]` PTWHJ[Z HUK YLK\JLZ YVHK UVPZL (SZV NYLH[ MVY [YHPSLY 9= HUK ÄM[O ^OLLS ^H[LYWYVVÄUN (]HPSHISL PU H JVU]LUPLU[ HLYVZVS MVY [V\JO \WZ HUK YLWHPYZ HZ ^LSS HZ [OL WYV[LJ[PVU VM ZTHSSLY Z\YMHJL HYLHZ

AVAILABLE AT

dominionsureseal.com | 1-800-265-0790

TECH: NEW PRODUCTS

Steelcraft’s All-New Fortis Heavy-Duty Bumper The latest addition to Steelcraft’s growing Heavy-Duty Line is the all-new Fortis Front Bumper Replacements. The bumpers are the perfect complement to the popular HD Line with a sleek and closefitting design that will not interrupt lines and flow of your truck. The Fortis bumpers features a fully-welded, one-piece construction crafted from 6ga steel and engineered for strength and durability. The bumpers are fully ready for 20-in. light bars, two pairs of 3-in. cube lights, and recovery shackles which allow you to customize the bumper the way you want to best suit the look of your truck. The bumpers are available for Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Ram, Toyota and Nissan applications. For more information please go to www.steelcraftautomotive.com

All-New Trax Rail System for Retrax Tonneau Covers Coming Soon Retrax has recently introduced the all-new Trax Rail System that allows for unique and personal customization above your tonneau cover. The new system allows you to optimize cargo capacity with the cover open or closed, which provides the ultimate versatility in cargo management. The Trax Rail System will work with most T-slot accessories from Rhino Rack, Yakima, Thule and many more. The Trax Rails are textured, scratch resistant, powder-coat finished, and will be available on the RetraxONE MX, RetraxPRO MX, PowertraxONE MX and PowertraxPRO MX. For more information please go to www.retrax.com

Leer Model 100XQ Canopy Leer’s Model 100XQ is made with styled body lines and details that are inspired by the truck model it is made for. It features an insulated roof and dark glass tint along with a recessed LED third

brake light. The frameless curved glass rear door is easy to use and comes with a Leer twist handle lock with a hinged weather cover. The canopy features fibreglass base rails and side windows with twist-out vents and screens so that you can get some air flowing through your covered truck bed. The Model 100XQ is available for GM, Ford, Ram, Honda, Nissan and Toyota applications. For more information please go to www.leer.com 60 Trucks Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2018

STUCK TRUCKS Going by our usual standards, it is quite surprising to see this truck stuck in that.

Will this even be salvagable?

What business did this truck have going down this road?

Since they’re in there, they might as well attach the winch to it.

This must’ve been a nice tour of these mud pits before it got stuck...

This must’ve been some party for Pepsi to deliver right to the beach.

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 JUNE/JULY 2018

GAS & DIESEL TUNER Bully Dog’s BDX hand-held performance tuner gives you the edge you need, whether you’re tackling tough terrain or pulling a heavy payload.

PERFORMANCE Street-tested, dyno-proven tunes that add more horsepower, torque and OEM Driveability.* *Pre-loaded tunes not available on all vehicles

MONITORING/GAUGES Monitor and display critical vehicle data using the on-screen virtual gauges.

DIAGNOSTIC TOOL Reads and clears DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes)

CUSTOM TUNING SUPPORT Stores up to 20 custom tunes created by your local Custom Tuning Dealer. Direct-to-device updates delivered via WiFi.* **Pre-loaded and custom tunes not available on all vehicles.

SHOP ONLINE AT

www.bullydog.com A full list of vehicle applications available at bullydog.com. All vehicle make/model names and vehicle manufacturer names and related marks are trademarks of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with Derive Systems, LLC (“Derive”). These trademarks of other manufacturers are used solely to identify the vehicles of those manufacturers with which Derive’s products may be used. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA ON POLLUTION CONTROLLED VEHICLES.