PASMAG - Tuning Essentials Special Edition - Trucks Vol.7 by PASMAG - Performance Auto & Sound

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METRA ELECTRONICS

NORTH HALL

BOOTH 11639

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FeatruckS REMember the ure

titan T H E W O R L D ’ S FA S T E S T N I S S A N T I TA N I S A D U A L- P U R P O S E R A C E R

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Big Show

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T H E S’ SE MNAE VTERRU C K T H AT T O V E G A S BEEN

six fo'

L A N E WA K E L A N D ’ S S TA N C E D P O W E R S T R O K E

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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6.5” Coaxial Set 6.5” Component Set 8” Amplified Subwoofer 4 CH CANDY Amplifier OFC Installation Kit

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TOPICS NEW TRUCK PRODUCTS

test reports 40 D S 1 8 N X L 4 0 0 . 4 D A M P L I F I E R 42 F O C A L F D P S P O R T A M P L I F I E R

Extras 64 66

DEALER DIRECTORY SPOT THE DIFFERENCES

SEMA 2P 0 1 7 RE VIEW

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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ISSUE PREVIEW

Lifted, Leveled, and Low W

e’re back! Thanks for picking up PASMAG’s second truck issue of the 2017 calendar year. If you’re reading this issue, we have reason to believe that big wheels, chrome accents, bright lights, and loud exhausts are some of your favorite things. Luckily for you, we’ve got a healthy dose of those things crammed into these pages. As you make your way through our 7th Trucks edition, you’ll be met with some of the coolest content the wild world of trucks has to offer. Starting with our trending section, we’re bringing you a handful of SEMA truck previews to keep your eyes and ears on the lookout for at the big show. Additionally, we’ve got a closer look at some cool projects from both manufacturers and individuals with a vision. After checking out the hottest news in the industry, you’ll be able to turn your attention to the latest and greatest products offered by the brands you know and love. Nine pages stuffed full of more than 50 products for your truck will help you choose your next modification, so eep a pen, notepad, or smartphone ready to take notes. Once you’ve seen the coolest products available, we’ll take a look at some examples of just how far you can take things with the right parts and some elbow grease with our feature trucks. First up, you’ll be taking a ride in the world’s fastest Nissan Titan, which is built for drags, trucks pulling, and everything in between. The Titan’s owner, Walter Cheney, walks us through what it takes to break the record as a small town mechanic with a dream.

From there you’ll be taking a look at Lane Wakeland’s “SlowLowStancedSixFo” F-250 (spoiler alert: there’s nothing “slow” about it), and Travis Poirier’s Dodge Ram show truck that looks like it’s ready for SEMA. Of course, as usual, we’ll wrap things up with a dealer directory full of reputable shops and dealers worth visiting, and we’ll close the book with everyone’s favorite PAStime, our Spot The Differences game. As always, thank you for picking up the issue. Whatever the type of trucking you’re into, I can promise we’ve got something for you in here. Get reading!

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PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 PERFORMANCE SPECIAL // 5TH EDITION

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tr. TRENDING

HOT

HOT NEW

TRUCKS

TRUCK

TOPICS

PRODUCTS

#17

#24

HOT TRUCKS TOPICS GET THE FULL PICTURE

instagram.com/PASMAG

THE BALLER HAULER COMING TO SEMA 2017 If you haven’t seen the in-progress shot of the duo rendered here float-

SEMA 2P R 0E V I1E W7

ing around online, let us bring you up to speed. The 1993 Isuzu NPR transporter truck and AE86 coupe you see here are part of a project started by Miles Shinneman, friend of our buddy Phil Blottie with the super cool Datsun 510 hot-rod featured in our Oct/Nov Frankenstein issue. These two vehicles of his are all business, built for purpose, but There’s more to this truck and

will also play a role as showpieces

here gives us an idea of just how far

electric cutouts lend some

at SEMA 2017.

this pair will be taken. The match-

pleasant noises to the whole en-

drift car combo than we can fit i

ing livery is a nice touch.

semble. The wheelbase has also

the space allotted, so you’ll have to

been widened by 20 inches, and

see it for yourself at SEMA. We’ll be

When the article about Shinneman’s “Baller Hauler” went

The monster Isuzu has had a

viral in August, the photos showed

6.0L LQ4 V8 engine swapped in,

custom sway bars are mounted

on the show floor for the duration

off a t ansport truck and AE86 that

mated to a 4L80E transmission

in the front and rear to keep the

of the show, so expect some foot-

were fresh out of the body shop,

capable of towing all sorts of

truck sturdy at all times. Our

age and images of the final p oduct

complete with exposed raw metal,

cargo smoothly. The combina-

friend Phil Blottie provided the

as soon as we find it t the LVCC.

rust, and stitched body work wait-

tion has plenty of power on tap,

bags on all four corners for ride

Given its size, we imagine it won’t

ing to be completed. The render

and long tube headers featuring

height demands.

be hard to spot.

VACCAR X WD-40

SEMA 2P R 0E V I1E W7

ECOBOOST BRONCO

Bronco builds have been coming out of the woodwork since the announcement of the moniker’s upcoming return to the Ford lineup. WD-40 and Aaron Vaccar of The Vaccar Co. are teaming up for a badass resto-mod project intended to blend old and new. The project, dubbed the “Boosted Bronco”, will debut at SEMA 2017 in the WD-40 booth, and will eventually be auctioned off in 2018 o benefit SEMA ares, an in-house charitable effort which will send proceeds to Childhelp and the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. To bring it up to speed with modern day automotive engi-

neering, the Boosted Bronco will be powered by a 3.5L EcoBoost engine. “The WD-40/SEMA Cares Boosted Bronco allows us to pay tribute to traditional hot-rodding standards of execution and finish with a first-of-its-kind vehicle,” says Aaron Vaccar. “The EcoBoost drivetrain will give the cult classic a modern spin, turbocharged power, and efficie

y for the future.” The

project has garnered attention from multiple sponsors who jumped on board, including AIRAID, AMSOIL, AutoMeter, B&M, BASF, Blood & Grease, Detroit Steel Wheel, Diode Dynamics, Flowmaster, General Tire, Grip Royal, Mishimoto, POR-15, The Club, VMS Racing, and XS Power.

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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TAKE YOUR TRUCK BEYOND FACTORY

Restyle your Silverado or Sierra* with a 10” touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth®, a CD/DVD player, and optional satellite radio. Add touchscreen control of your motorized tonneau cover, light bar, or other accessories. Gain more viewing angles with multi-view camera systems. Complete your experience with an 11-speaker Alpine-engineered sound system for your truck**.

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* ‘14-‘17 models. ** ’14-’17 GM Crew Cab models. Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is solely responsible for the design and marketing of Alpine Restyle products. Alpine and Alpine Restyle are registered trademarks of Alpine Electronics, Inc. Chevrolet, Silverado, GMC, and Sierra are registered trademark of General Motors Corporation. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. © 2017 Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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#ALPINEUSA @ALPINEUSA

www.alpine-usa.com

2017-10-10 11:13 AM

HOT TRUCKS TOPICS

TJIN EDITION X CT EDITION

2018 FORD F-150 SEMA 2P R E0V I E1 W7

tr. Neil Tjin is a guy who never stops.

the SEMA show,” Tjin tells us. “Our

He’s been building vehicles for lon-

2018 Ford F-150 will be outfi ted

ger than some of our readers have

with custom Air Lift suspension

been able to drive, and it seems

done by the fine olks at Unique

that each one gets more and more

Fabrication, and will be rocking

exciting. Having partnered with

custom 24-inch Rotiform wheels,

numerous brands across the indus-

Falken Tires, and massive Baer

try spectrum, he has gained

brakes.” He also lets us in on some

a reputation for himself that allows

of the design we can expect from

him to take on big-money builds for

the F-150, citing a black and orange

corporate sponsors – the latest of

Katzkin interior and a custom beige

which, we just got word of.

Axalta paint job that we can’t wait

“The 2018 Tjin Edition x CT

to see in person. It’s not all just for looks, either.

Edition Ford F-150 is a follow up to the 2012 Ford F-150 that we built for Ford and

Being an all-out Ford build, it only makes sense that Roush Performance is on board, supplying a massive supercharger to boost the F-150’s power. Optima Battery and Kicker Audio are also partners, ensuring this truck will sound good even with the engine off. Keep an eye (or an ear) out for the Tjin Edition x CT Edition Ford F-150 in the Ford Booth at SEMA 2017. THE LATEST TRENDS, FULL THROTTLE

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M2-MOTORING’S 2014 TOYOTA TACOMATANK SEMA 2P R 0E V I1E W7 Mike Ma at M2-Motoring is no stranger to SEMA-built vehicles, so it didn’t really surprise us when we heard he was putting together a list of builds for SEMA. Among his SEMA 2017 vehicle roster is a plan for a 2014 Toyota Tacoma that we took immediate interest in. Built as an off-road and overland adventure vehicle, this Tacoma will be used heavily

of their newest products, including a radar detector, a dash cam for trail

for outdoor trips in the Southern

recording, and a mighty jump pack as an emergency power starter. With

Nevada desert.

big name projected partners like Black Rhino wheels, Falken Tire, Rhino

Set to be a feature booth

Rack USA, ARB USA, Raptor USA, and several others, we can expect this

vehicle for Whistler Group, the

build to check all the boxes as far as SEMA trucks go. Keep an eye out for

2014 Tacoma will show off ome

this one at the Whistler Group booth.

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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FRONT RUNNER. ROCKFORD FOSGATE LEADS THE CHARGE IN DELIVERING THE POWER YOU NEED, ALL IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND. THE BEST AND LOUDEST PRODUCTS WE MAKE. WELCOME TO THE FAMILY. VISIT US AT SEMA: BOOTH #11839 Sedans, droptops, coupes, suvs and trucks. Liied or lowered. Rockford FosgateÂ® designs purpose built audio for any ride.

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HOT TRUCKS TOPICS

THE FORD LIGHTNING

tr.

IS BACK…

SORT OF

It’s been well over a decade since the Lightning moniker decorated Ford’s pickup truck lineup, and die-hard Lightning fans have been waiting anxiously for a manufacturer that’s remained silent about any possible return. Thankfully for that niche market, an innovative dealership has stepped up to the plate. Pioneer Ford, a dealership based in the heart of NASCAR country in Bremen, Georgia, has started offering the closest thing we’ll get to an OEM 650 horsepower, and the song it bellows

badges, and a suspension setup that lowers

comes through some cool side-exit exhaust

the truck signifi antly. At a reasonable $49,661

platform formula, the dealership takes

pipes, true to the original. The power plant

MSRP, it’s a pretty good deal considering your

a regular cab, short bed F-150, and replaces

will be exclusively mated to a 6-speed

Ford Lightning tribute will be backed by a 3

the factory engine with a 5.0-liter V8 mated

automatic transmission.

year/36,000 mile warranty. If you’re ready to

Lightning revival for a while. Following suit with the Lightning’s original

to a Roush supercharger for extra jam. All in, the heart transplant is good for more than

Other features provided by Pioneer Ford include custom 22-inch wheels, Lightning

bring the Lightning back to your town, check out Pioneer Ford’s website to spec yours out.

THE REZVANI TANK IS A DELIGHTFULLY INSANE PSEUDOMILITARY SUV

Rezvani, the independent Californiabased carmaker, has released

a body-on-frame design and on-

get interesting. In addition to the

demand four-wheel-drive. As far

expected Leather Package, Tow

as we can tell, it shares the same

package, and Convenience Pack-

body-on-frame design as the Jeep

age, there are two other options

Wrangler JK, as the two platforms

that stand out: FLIR Thermal Night

share a number of similarities, but

Vision and Ballistic Armor. That’s

the two vehicles are quite differ-

right, you can have your Rezvani

ent outside of that.

Tank outfi ted with Kevlar armor,

The Rezvani Tank will be pow-

bulletproof glass, run-flat tires and

images and details about their

ered by a 6.4L Hemi V8, producing

protected floors. It’s a vehicle for

latest creation, the TANK. Toted

500 horsepower and 430 lb-ft

the weekend warlord. Expect to

as an “XUV” (Xtreme Utility Ve-

of torque. The list of options on

see the Rezvani Tank for sale start-

hicle), the Rezvani Tank features

the vehicle is where things really

ing at approximately $178,000.

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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HALOGEN BULB REPLACEMENT BRIGHTER THAN HALOGEN SMALLER FOOTPRINT FOR VERSATILE APPLICATION FITMENT EXCELLENT FOCAL PATTERN 6 PCBBS FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY COOLING

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HOT TRUCKS TOPICS

BAJA BADASS

tr.

SDHQ’S TURBO-DIESEL OFF-ROAD BRONCO BUILD

SDHQ Off oad in Gilbert, Arizona, is

To get the Bronco South

As is the case when faced with

a shop known for their quality selec-

America ready, SDHQ equipped it

this obstacle, you’ve got to make

tion of parts and badass truck builds

with King off-road racing shocks

it yourself, so SDHQ fabbed-up

that exit their bay doors. When we

for long travel performance, a roll

some custom brackets and used

were tipped off th t they were

cage for safety, a 50-gallon fuel

an electric assist master cylinder

building an OG Ford Bronco, we

cell for juice, and a Banks Power

to give the Bronco some extra

were stoked to hear what they’d

630T 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel

clamping force.

done to make it more capable, and

mated to a 6L90 transmission and

we were right to be excited.

Atlas 2 transfer case for proven

progress that is being dialed in, as

capability and get up and go. That

well as having its interior reworked

should do the trick.

to have some other bits of comfort

Sitting in their shop is a shining example of a Bronco that, at fi st glance, looks like there’s almost

According to Ketchner, retrofi -

The Bronco is still a work in

join the MasterCraft Baja RS safety

nothing done except for

ting the front Wilwood six-piston

seats inside, but soon it will be

a lift, wheels, and tires. If you stick

brake calipers was a challenge,

making its maiden voyage down

your head under the wheel wells,

simply because no one really

south, resulting in what we can only

through the window, or under the

makes a retrofit kit or the Bronco.

hope will be some viral videos.

hood, you’ll soon realize you’re super, super wrong. “I've always loved these Broncos because of how capable they are - even stock,” says Kevin Ketchner, SDHQ’s Shop Foreman. “We were just trying to make this as capable, reliable, and comfortable as possible. The original purpose was to improve the suspension, overall durability, stopping power and comfort of the Bronco. After we had done some of the basic work on it, the next step was to make this capable of going to South America for a month and survive.” Can we just bask in the fact that a customer approached and offroad shop to build them a Bronco to travel to South America for shenanigans for a second?

FILL 'ER UP

PASMAG.com

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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tr. HOT NEW

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PRODUCTS 02

04 05 01.

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Air Lift Performance

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I207-WRA Mech-less 7-inch A/V System for 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler

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CONSTRUCTION: Forged SIZE (IN.): 24 WIDTH (IN.): 12, 14 BOLT PATTERN: 5-lug, 6-lug, 8-lug FINISH: Custom

AIRLIFTPERFORMANCE.COM Demonstrating the quality and performance that Air Lift Performance air suspensions are known for, the Dominator Series boasts a 600 PSI capacity. The series includes the Dominator 2500 with a height range of 5.5-inch to 7.5-inch, and 7.7-inch usable stroke, and the Dominator 2600 with a 6-9-inch height range and a 9.7-inch usable stroke, which enables larger vehicles to not only get the slammed look they expect, but to also easily tuck the tire for their desired stance.

$1,200 | ALPINE-USA.COM The i207-WRA is a mech-less AM/FM receiver with 7-inch screen for the ‘07-‘17 Jeep Wrangler. It comes with a Wrangler-fi ted dash bezel. Maps, calls, music and messages are accessed through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Select Wrangler controls are retained via the iDatalink Maestro module. Touch-screen control of Jeep accessories and control of multiple cameras is available through add-on modules.

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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BDS Suspension

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CATEGORY: All-Terrain WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 15-20 WIDTH (mm): 215-325 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 13-15/32

CATEGORY: Off-Road WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 15-20 WIDTH (mm): 215-325 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 18-20/32

CONTRUCTION: Cast SIZE (IN.): 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (IN.): 9.5, 12 BOLT PATTERN: 5x127, 5x150, 6x135, 6x139.7, 8x165.1, 8x170, 8x180 FINISH: Desert Sand, Gun Black

Cadence Soundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new high performance enclosures are designed to deliver a deep and powerful bass experience and high output. The new QUBE12VP slot ported enclosure combines high power handling and small enclosure requirements, making a compact bass system that is capable of impressive output with minimal to moderate amplifi ation. Recommended power handling is 250-500 watts.

Designed for trucks already equipped with the 4.5 or 6.5inch high clearance systems, this kit eliminates the factory torsion bar setup and converts over to FOX 2.5 factory series coilovers with the remote DSC adjustment. The kit also includes FOX chromoly upper control arm, BDS fully boxed, internally gusseted lower control arms, bolt-in upper coilover mounts and weld-in support gussets.

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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HOT NEW

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PRODUCTS

12 13

14 15 11.

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CrimeStopper

DS18

EchoMaster

SV-6830.FD for 2004-2014 Ford F-Series

SV-9156 OEM Style Rear View Mirror Monitor

DS18 SQ 4 Package

TH3 Train Horn Combo

$299.95 | CRIMESTOPPER.COM

$399.99 | DS18.COM

General motors Towing assist blind spot system

$269.95 | CRIMESTOPPER.COM

$749.99 | DS18.COM

The CrimeStopper SV-6830. FD is a replacement tailgate handle with a built-in camera for the 2004-2014 Ford F-series pick-up trucks. This is designed to replace the OEM handle while keeping the OEM functions and adding a much needed camera. The camera offers 170-degree viewing angle as well as selectable ON or OFF parking assist lines.

The CrimeStopper SV-9156 is an OEM style replacement rear view mirror with a 4.3-inch LCD display. The mirror was specifi ally designed to replace the OEM mirror while keeping that OEM look and feel and adding a video monitor. The mirror has dual standard RCA inputs, and offers auto-switching on a reverse input. Back light screen allows it to be hidden when not in use. Comes with full function remote.

Sound quality has been DS18â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest goal, so they have designed a new SQ-series package that includes a set of 6.5-inch components, a set of 6.5-inch coaxials, an 8-inch amplifie subwoofer, a Candy 4-channel amplifie , and a complete set of installation wires. Everything you need to wire up a powerful system.

Train horns are already pretty loud, so imagine how loud they can get when DS18 gets their hands on them - as loud as 125 dB to be exact! The hornsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stainless steel chrome finish adds bright touch to your vehicle with no rusting, making them ideal for exterior use in almost any weather condition. In addition, the trumpets are mounted next to each other for easy installation just about anywhere.

$819.99 | ECHOMASTER.COM General Motors blind spot avoidance systems. Each kit includes perfect-fit mir or/camera caps, full integration into the factory screen and driver behavior, and custom GUI for manual camera activation. Utilizing six screen modes, smart technology enables camera activation based on driver behavior, using left and right turn signals and placing the truck in reverse. These systems alternatively allow for manual activation by the driver as well.

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Fullriver Battery

Heise LED

iBeam Vehicle Safety Systems

Full Throttle FT1100-31

High Output LED Light Cubes

RGB Accent Light Kit w/ Smartphone Remote Control

LED Replacement Headlight Kits

Tailgate Handle Back Up Camera

$309.99 | FULLRIVERBATTERY.COM

HEISELED.COM

IBEAMUSA.COM

High speeds, off-road torture, on-board accessories, bouncing hydraulics and booming systems are no problem for the Full Throttle Series AGM batteries. Built with Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) technology, over the partition welds, higher compression rates and brass terminal connections; Full Throttle Series batteries are designed to provide consistent, extreme power on demand!

If you want the brightest and most durable LED light cubes, this is your solution. These rugged, high output light cubes from Heise use OSRAM LED lights. They are torture tested and engineered with a virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lens. Ideal for any vehicle, marine, or power sports application. Available in various colors with white or black housing.

These small but powerful auxiliary accent lighting pods are ideal for custom lighting in even the most rugged vehicles. Users can change RGB color options with the swipe of their fin er through a free mobile app. Torture tested with a virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lens and IP68 rated. Uses three 3-watt CREE LED lights. Available in 4 or 8 pack kits with control box in a white or black housing.

Replace weak OEM headlights with bright, low current consuming LED bulbs! The new design is easier to install with a compact, radial heat-sink that fits be ter in tight locations and doesn’t move around. Now even brighter with 6,000 lumens, 25 watts per bulb, and aviation level VII aluminum body. Most sizes allow for bulb rotation and color temperature change with supplied film Available in 20 popular sizes.

Add an unobtrusive, rear-view backup camera that matches your vehicle’s OEM tailgate handle. A 150-degree viewing angle with 0.5 LUX night vision and optional parking lines offer added visibility for drivers to see what’s behind them. A half-inch CMOS camera provides a sharp, clear picture during the day or night. Available for select Ford, Ram, GMC and Chevrolet models. 26-foot harness included.

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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17_PASmag-HIDEAWAY-GEMSEN-blue.pdf

9/7/17

3:49 PM

An intense result

CMY

The Hideaway™ compact powered subwoofer delivers surprising low-frequency output from a remarkably small enclosure. Hideaway Powered Subwoofer See it at the SEMA Show, booth #11861.

See it at www.kicker.com, or visit your nearest Authorized KICKER Dealer. KICKER is distributed in Canada by Gem-Sen. www.gemsen.com

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JL Audio

Kicker

Stealthbox Subwoofer for 2015+ Chevrolet Colorado/ GMC Canyon

Stealthbox Subwoofer for 2014+ Chevrolet Silverado/ GMC Sierra

Stealthbox Subwoofer for 2015+ Chevrolet Tahoe/ Suburban and GMC Yukon

CompRT Thin-Mount Loaded Sub Enclosure

VSS Upgrade Audio Kits for 2006+ GM, Ford, Ram Tucks and Jeeps

$849.99 | JLAUDIO.COM

$599.99 | JLAUDIO.COM

Contains one 10TW3-D4 subwoofer in a sealed enclosure, capable of 400-watt power handling and wired for 2-ohm mono. Installs under the rear bench seat and does not affect folding or reclining of the seat. Requires removal of under-seat storage tray.

Contains one 10TW1-2 subwoofer in a sealed enclosure, capable of 300-watt power handling and wired for 2-ohm mono. Stealthbox installs inside the forward-most portion of front center console, without affecting storage space or cup holders. Replaces the OEM subwoofer system, if vehicle is so equipped.

$279.95 | KICKER.COM Amazing Reflex subwoofer technology gives CompRT loaded enclosures the ability to create deeper, smoother bass in an incredibly thin box. The 12-inch sub is only seven inches deep, and the CompRT’s box is comprised of strong MDF and can handle serious power. It’s finished off with st dy internal bracing and thick black carpet. The thin-profi e CompRT Enclosure is ideal for placing behind a truck seat.

FROM $699.95 | KICKER.COM KICKER Vehicle-Specific So utions (VSS) deliver the thrill and musical accuracy of high-performance audio, specifi ally made for your own make and model of truck in a single all-inclusive kit. After installation, your cargo space remains intact. No cutting or drilling – it mounts to factory locations with an original factory look. An enclosed 10-inch powered subwoofer and multichannel amplifier pushing our factory speakers are made into upgrades for Jeep, Ram, GM and Ford pickup trucks.

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Lund

Mamba Offroad Wheels

McGard

Memphis Audio

MTX

M22

SplineDrive Wheel Installation Kit

VIV60C SixFive Series Speakers

MAMBAWHEELS.COM

FROM $127 | SHOP.MCGARD.COM

$629.95 | MEMPHISCARAUDIO.COM

ThunderForm Subwoofer Enclosure for 2007-2015 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab

CONSTRUCTION: Cast SIZE (IN.): 16, 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (IN.): 8, 9, 10 BOLT PATTERN: 5x4.50, 5x127, 5x139.7, 5x150, 6x135, 6x139.7, 8x165.1, 8x170, 8x180 FINISH: Matte Black w/ BallCut Accents and Drill Holes

A no-compromise design, engineered to ďŹ t small diameter recesses in tuner-style wheels for cars, trucks, and SUVs. SplineDrive lug nuts offer a closed end design, maximum gripping power, more stud engagement, and a greater seating surface than socket style lug nuts. In addition, they are 30% lighter. The chrome plating on all McGard lug nuts is guaranteed for life not to rust, chip or peel. Most sizes available in bright chrome, black, gold, or anodized aluminum trim in red or blue.

SixFive Series speakers are the most impressive speakers ever produced by Memphis Audio. These speakers offer exceptional acoustic accuracy even at high power to produce a rich, full musical experience unrivaled by anything in their class. These speakers feature a cast aluminum basket, a dual-layer ultra stiff but ightweight composite fiber one, biampable passive crossover aluminum housed silk tweeter, and an extremely versatile crossover.

LED Bull Bar FROM $449.99 | REALTRUCK.COM Lund's Bull Bar with built-in 20-inch LED lights looks great and helps light up your drive, on or off the oad. Mounting light bars can be hard to fi ure out at times, but this LED bull bar is designed right into the tubing of the 3.5-inch thick steel. The 20-inch LED bar has a 54-watt flood beam pattern, putting out over 3K lumens.

000

$549.95 | MTX.COM Vehicle specific hunderForm enclosures from MTX are designed to utilize space in vehicles that would otherwise go unused. Fitted with a 10-inch Terminator subwoofer and an integrated high efficie y amplifie , this complete package fits e ortlessly into 2007-2015 Chevrolet Silverado crew cab models.

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32.

33.

34.

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MTX

Nitto Tire

ThunderForm Subwoofer Enclosure for 2002-2016 Dodge Ram Quad & Crew Cab

ThunderForm Subwoofer Enclosure for 2004-2014 Ford F-150

Exo Grappler

Ridge Grappler

Terra Grappler G2

NITTOTIRES.COM

$699.95 | MTX.COM

Vehicle specific hunderForm enclosures from MTX are designed to utilize space in vehicles that would otherwise go unused. Loaded with 10-inch subwoofers and an integrated high efficie y amplifie , this complete package fits e ortlessly into 2002-2016 Dodge Ram quad and crew cabs.

Vehicle specific hunderForm enclosures from MTX are designed to utilize space in vehicles that would otherwise go unused. This model includes a built in amplifier and d al 12-inch Terminator series subwoofers for an unbeatable listening experience with a stealthy factory look. Fits regular cab Ford F-150 models.

CATEGORY: All-Terrain, All-Weather WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (MM): 235 - 305 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 19/32

CATEGORY: Mud-Terrain WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 17, 18, 20, 22 WIDTH (MM): 265 - 305 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 18/32

CATEGORY: All-Terrain WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 17, 18, 20, 22 WIDTH (MM): 235 - 325 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 17/32

31.

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36.

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Oracle Lighting

PIAA

Race Sport Lighting

ReadyLift

Ford F-150/Raptor Mirrors

Vector Series Grille for 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler JK

$399.95 | ORACLELIGHTS.COM

$895.95 | ORACLELIGHTS.COM

Oracle high-powered LED mirrors feature a set of LED light bars integrated into factorystyle side mirrors. Designed for late model Ford Raptor and F-150 trucks, these LED mirrors feature a total of 24 Cree LEDs, giving the driver a total of 48W of LED power (approximately 4,080 lumens). Each unit has a 45-degree beam angle to optimize the driver's peripheral visibility. Installation is easy because these utilize the factory vehicle mirror mounts.

The Oracle Lighting Vector series grille for the Jeep Wrangler JK is the first fu l-featured replacement grille with integrated LED light emitters for low beam, high beam, DRL, and turn signal functionality. The Vector Series grille features an impressive 5,600 combined lumens low beam with advanced optics for precision lighting that illuminates the road without blinding oncoming traffi The simple wiring connection is plug and play thanks to the included harness adapter.

Si-Tech Silicone Wiper Blades $26.99 | PIAA.COM Now with even more fitment for GMC, BMW, and many more, the PIAA Si-Tech flat wiper blade’s frameless design delivers all-season performance thanks to PIAA’s patented silicone infused rubber blades. The key to the Si-Tech’s performance is the frameless design that creates more pressure points across the entire length of the blade for streak-free wiping. Moreover, the design eliminates snow and ice.

Gen 3 LED Headlight Conversion Kits $299.99 | RACESPORTINC.COM The boldest and brightest yet, Race Sport Lighting’s Gen 3 LED headlight kit is 15% brighter than our previous version, and 3 times brighter than halogen. The 100% copper core to aluminum heat sink integrates with a sealed dual ball bearing pancake fan to better dissipate heat and fit behind n w vehicle seal caps. Gen 3 kits feature water-tight IP67 rated drivers with dual-lock BNC connectors.

8-Inch Lift Kit for 2007-2017 Toyota Tundra $2,399.95 | READYLIFT.COM This lift kit from ReadyLift is made in the USA, and provides 8 inches of lift for both 2WD and 4WD Tundra models from 2007-2017. Includes 2 Bilstein shocks and a skid plate, making it a true all-in-one kit. With this lift kit installed, the increased ride height allows for up to 37-inch tires.

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RTX Off Road

Soundstream

Toyo Tires

Spine

VRN-65HXB Head Unit

Open Country A/T II Extreme

Open Country C/T

Open Country M/T

RTXWHEELS.COM

$329.99 | SOUNDSTREAM.COM

TOYOTIRES.COM

CONSTRUCTION: Cast SIZE (IN.): 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (IN.): Custom BOLT PATTERN: Custom FINISH: Black and Milled w/ Machined Bolts

The VRN-65HXB is a fullyloaded double-DIN source unit which comes equipped with a 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen. Also included with this unit are DVD, CD/MP3, AM/FM receiver, Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, and the unit is SiriusXM tuner ready.

CATEGORY: All-Terrain WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 16, 17, 18, 20, 22 WIDTH (MM): 295 - 325 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 17/32

CATEGORY: All-Terrain, All-Weather WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 16, 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (MM): 235 - 285 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 19/32

CATEGORY: Mud-Terrain WHEEL DIAMETER (IN.): 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24 WIDTH (MM): 235 - 315 TREAD DEPTH (IN.): 21/32

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Ultra Motorsports

Winjet

226 Machine

LED Tail Lights for 2016-2017 Toyota Tacoma

Worx Alloy

203 Hunter

2016-2017 Nissan Titan Fog Lights

ULTRAWHEEL.COM

WINJETINC.COM

WORXWHEELS.COM

CONSTRUCTION: Cast SIZE (IN.): 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (IN.): 9, 10 BOLT PATTERN: 5x127, 5x139.7, 5x150, 6x135, 6x139.7, 8x165.1, 8x170, 8x180 FINISH: Gloss Black w/ Milled Accents, Satin Black

CONSTRUCTION: Cast SIZE (IN.): 16-18, 20 WIDTH (IN.): 8-9 BOLT PATTERN: 5x139.7, 5x150, 6x135, 6x139.7, 8x165.1, 8x170, 8x180 FINISH: Gloss Black w/ Diamond Cut Face, Satin Black

These direct OEM replacement fog lights on the 2016-2017 Nissan Titan utilize a clear lens over a black and chrome housing, resulting in a stylish fog light replacement that is easy to install. With H11 12V 55W bulbs, these bulbs improve both safety and style, offering superior visibility in foggy conditions.

Modernize the look of your 20162017 Toyota Tacomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rear end with the newest LED tail lights from Winjet. These LED tail lights are SAE/DOT compliant, and made of high quality ABS plastic. Available in gloss black with clear lenses, black with smoked lenses, and red.

CONSTRUCTION: Cast SIZE (IN.): 17, 18, 20 WIDTH (IN.): 9, 12 BOLT PATTERN: 5x4.50, 5x127, 5x139.7, 5x150, 6x135, 6x139.7, 8x165.1, 8x170, 8x180 FINISH: Chrome Plated, Satin Black w/ Diamond Cut Accents

811 Conquest

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TEST REPORTS

BY GAR RY SPR I N G GAY

DS18 NXL400.4D

Amplifie Review

A promising element-proof amplifier from the new kid on the block.

TECH DATA The following power measurements were obtained as follows: (100 HZ @ 1.0% THD+N - Battery voltages shown, +/0.1 V)

Manufacturer's Rated Power

Actual Measured Power @ 1.0% THD+N @ 12.6 V Battery

Actual Measured Power @ 1.0% THD+N @ 14.4 V Battery

100 x 4 @ 4 Ω

82 x 4 @ 4 Ω

113 x 4 @ 4 Ω

150 x 4 @ 2 Ω

135 x 4 @ 2 Ω

182 x 4 @ 2 Ω

300 x 2 @ 4 Ω

272 x 2 @ 4 Ω

365 x 2 @ 4 Ω

or those of you who don’t get out much, DS18 is an up and coming brand of quality car audio products, as well as pro DJ equipment. These folks listen to and understand their customers, and as a result, produce product that is fresh, innovative, and trend-setting. You can think of them as the new kid on the block that makes the old-school brands just a little uneasy. And if that’s not enough, their motto is simple, “We Like It Loud.” For a change of pace, we thought it would be interesting to check out one of their newest marine/powersport-oriented amplifier o erings. To that end, they kindly sent us a new four-channel model from their Hydro Series: the NXL400.4D.

F “LOW- AND HIGHPASS CROSSOVERS ARE ADJUSTABLE FROM 40 HZ, ALL THE WAY UP TO 4 KHZ, USING A NORMAL POT.”

MEASURED PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS

FEATURES The NXL400.4D is designed for dependable, good sounding audio performance in the toughest conditions. With a water and dust resistance rating of IPX65, you can be assured that the NXL400.4D isn’t going to be affected by the usual conditions found in a boat or UTV. Not only is the unit completely sealed externally, it also has a conformal coated PCB to further prevent any moisture related failures. Rated at 100 and 150 wattsper-channel into four and two ohms, respectively, the amp’s physical size falls into what I would consider the compact category, measuring only about 9.75 x 5 x 1.5 inches. The fit and

finish of the NXL400.4D is ery good, with a smooth, two-tone red and black heatsink. The result is a unique cosmetic that manages to look classy and more expensive than it is. All of the connections and controls are well marked and easy to read. Speaking of controls, the NXL400.4D is equipped with easyto-use top-mounted controls, sealed tightly under a screwed-inplace plexiglass panel. Low- and high-pass crossovers are adjustable from 40 Hz, all the way up to 4 kHz, using a normal pot. All crossover slopes are fi ed at -12 dB/Oct. Other features include a 2/4-channel input summing switch, and a single two-color LED informs of power-on or protec-

PASMAG DECEMBER // JANUARY 2018

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For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

ds18.com

Sheffield abs copy of The Usual Suspects and then a couple of big band tracks from Count Basie and Tommy Dorsey on a DMP recording. The DS18 amplifier did indee have an abundance of power, but the really cool thing was the amplifie ’s ability to reproduce the dynamics in these difficult tra s. Large orchestras have the ability to reach very high SPL levels, so for a stereo system to have a lifelike sound, it needs to be able to reproduce these rapid shifts in overall sound level. If the amp has limited power, it will clip before the full volume of the recording is reached. This is one of those amplifie s that allow you distinguish an Ovation guitar from a Takamine or an Avalon, and I could have listened to it all day.

tion events. The connections are all pigtail-style, due to the molded rubber grommets that ensure the inside of the amp stays dry. Power connections are quality eight-gauge copper wire, and speaker wires use conventional car audio color identification. Ther are three pairs of RCA pigtails on the opposite end of the amp, for front and rear inputs, plus a pair of convenient full range outputs. Taking the bottom off the amp inside I found a nicely laid out PCB with a good amount of capacitance onboard and TO-220 MOSFETs. The amp uses high quality devices throughout. The board was clean, with no kluges or afterthoughts.

PERFORMANCE/BENCH MEASUREMENTS At some point, however, I had to get back to the task at hand, which is informing you about how the NXL400.4D performed on the deadly accurate and unforgiving Cogent Audio Labs test bench. In terms of power delivery, the DS18 amp easily exceeded its published figures at t o or four ohms. Signal-to-noise performance is average, but this amp was never intended for a dead quiet listening environment. Crosstalk performance was better than most sources can deliver, and thanks to the wide gain range capability, the amplifier is comple ely compatible with virtually any source unit or preamp. Power efficien is about average for a good Class-D design, and the amp showed no signs of thermal problems.

LISTENING After re-assembling the amp, I moved into my listening room, and connected it into my reference system. I chose a configuratio that had one pair of channels driving a four-ohm 12-inch subwoofer in a vented enclosure. The other pair of channels were configured i full range to my component speakers. In a quiet listening room like mine, I’m able to hear subtleties in products that may be missed in a typical car environment. After snooping around inside it, I expected the amp to sound good, and I wasn’t disappointed as the NXL400.4D proved to be quite a musical amplifie . The amp’s sonics are pleasing and uncolored overall. It reproduces music with excellent transparency and leaves virtually no sonic signature of its own. Bass response is exceedingly well-controlled, while the highest registers come through silky smooth and full of detail. I did notice just the slightest hint of an audible noise floo , but in a vehicle of any kind it would be completely masked by even lowlevel ambient noise. Tracks with a lot of horns and acoustic strings were remarkably uncolored, and sounded very natural. I was in the mood for some uptempo well-played tunes with wide dynamic range and a very wide frequency range, so I broke out my

@ds18_sound

@ds18sound

DS18 Sound

Signal to Noise Ratio referenced to 2V output. (CEA-2006A) (1 watt @ 4 ohms)

-77.5 dBA

Signal to Noise Ratio referenced to full output.

-98.0 dBA

THD+N at rated 4 ohm power

0.57%

CEA-2006A rated 4 ohm Power (minimum power per channel developed over the entire intended audio bandwidth for 1 minute)

108 watts @ 20 Hz

Maximum Efficiency at full 4 ohm power per ch.

83.0%

Maximum Efficiency at full 2 ohm power per ch.

78.3%

Idle Current

0.8 A

Input Sensitivity

263 mV- 5.6 V

Maximum Current @ full power, lowest rated impedance

64.6 A

Frequency Response (-3 dB)

12 Hz – >40 kHz

High Pass Crossover

40 Hz – 4 kHz -12 dB/Oct

Low Pass Crossover

40 Hz – 4 kHz -12 dB/Oct

Subsonic Filter

None

Bass EQ boost

None

CONCLUSION The DS18 NXL400.4D is a worthy competitor to many of the old-school brands. After hearing this amp, there is no question in my mind that the new kid on the block can build a good sounding amplifier, and with the sealed design and rugged construction, it’s likely to provide many years of trouble-free listening pleasure.

4 0HM POWER vs THD+N @ 1khz 14.4V Bait Cogent Audio Labs

2 0HM POWER vs THD+N @ 1khz 14.4V Bait Cogent Audio Labs

4 OHM POWER vs THD+N @ 1kHz 14.4V Batt

0.5

2 OHM POWER vs THD+N @ 1kHz 14.4V Batt

% 0.2

0.2

0.1

0.05

0.02

0.01

100113

200

500

4 OHM POWER vs THD+N

1kHz

14.4V Batt

100

182200

500

W DS18 NXL400.4D

DS18 NXL400.4D

2 OHM POWER vs THD+N

1kHz

14.4V Batt

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2018 PASMAG

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TEST REPORTS

A small yet powerful amplifier for motorcycles and powersports.

BY GAR RY SPR I N G GAY

FOCAL FDP SPORT

TECH DATA The following power measurements were obtained as follows: (100 HZ @ 1.0% THD+N - Battery voltages shown, +/0.1 V)

“THE FDP SPORT IS A VERY COMPACT DESIGN, CONSIDERING THE INCREDIBLE POWER IT IS CAPABLE OF.”

Amplifie Review

MEASURED PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS Manufacturer's Rated Power

Actual Measured Power @ 1.0% THD+N @ 12.6 V Battery

Actual Measured Power @ 1.0% THD+N @ 14.4 V Battery

175 x 4 @ 4 Ω

132 x 4 @ 4 Ω

177 x 4 @ 4 Ω

500 x 2 @ 4 Ω

531 x 2 @ 4 Ω

712 x 2 @ 4 Ω

250 x 4 @ 2 Ω

265 x 4 @ 2 Ω

356 x 4 @ 2 Ω

s one of the world’s premier audio companies, Focal isn’t accustomed to taking a backseat to anyone, and they hold true to form with their newest offering in the hotly contested motorcycle and powersports amplifier segment. The ne Focal FDP SPORT four-channel amplifier claims o be the most powerful motorcycle or powersports amplifier on the mar et, rated at an incredible 250 watts per channel into two ohms or 175 watts per channel at four ohms, the FDP SPORT is defini ely in the running for that title.

FEATURES The FDP SPORT is a very compact design, considering the incredible power it is capable of. Designed in California and measuring only 1.625 x 8.25 x 5 inches, it easily mounts in the traditional “above the radio” position in a Harley touring bike. It even comes with custom Harley-style plug and play connectors to make installation a snap. Should you choose to use it on something other than a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it also comes with regular RCA style input connectors. Power connections are made via an eight-pin

high-current Molex connector that is fed by fi e-foot-long OFC fine strand eight-gauge cables. Each pair of channels has a gain control, and the front channels are equipped with an adjustable highpass crossover that can be set to any frequency between 10 Hz and 150 Hz. The rear channels can be configured in either high-pass o low-pass modes, and all of the channels can also be set to full range. Crossover slopes can be set to either fi st or second order, and a bridging switch ensures a summed mono signal is available for the bridged channels. The amp

PASMAG DECEMBER // JANUARY 2018

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For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

focal.com

can be used with either two or four channels of input simply by selecting the preferred mode with the supplied switch. As you would suspect, an amplifier as small as this migh suffer from short thermal times, but thanks to the dual rail power supply, the amplifier on’t shut off if it ge s too hot; it will simply reduce the power slightly until it cools down, and then resume normal operation. The result of this clever trickery is no interruption to your music!

LISTENING When it came time to sit down and listen to the new Focal amp, I connected it so the front channels drove my reference speakers, and the rear channels were bridged to a four-ohm subwoofer system. The front channel crossover was left full range, and the sub was crossed over at 90 Hz. Then, with the gains adjusted and a fist full of m favorite CDs, I sat down for what I anticipated would be an enjoyable listening session. Whenever I’m evaluating anything, I make notes as I listen, so I thought I’d share a few things I jotted down while listening to the FDP SPORT: “Excellent! Lots of power and surprising transparency.” “This is a very musical amp.” “Very quiet between passages. Not even a hint of hiss or Class D hash.” If you get the impression the little Focal amp impressed me, you’d be right. I’m sort of known around here as the “anti-Class-D guy.” Maybe I’m crusty and old fashioned, but I just haven’t heard too many full range Class D amps that I would consider as viable replacements for a good Class AB design, but this one came close. This new little amp from Focal surprised me. It sounds excellent in every way. I listened to it for at least three solid hours, and try as I might, it never showed me anything that I didn’t like. It proves it can drive a system with serious authority, and the quality of the sound is brilliant. Without signal applied, the amplifier is ery quiet

and has a zero-audible noise floo . Stereo separation is also excellent, and the FDP SPORT did a very good job of creating a solid stereo image with a strong “phantom center,” if occasionally lacking a bit of the sense of space and movement that I have observed in some recordings. I noticed this most when listening to large, complex orchestral performances, or when playing pure acoustic recordings done in a large, open space. To be fair, none of that matters on a motorcycle! What I’m talking about missing is the kind of detail that’s seldom even possible to hear, even in a typical car system. Later on during my session, I cranked up the gain on the woofer and pushed the amp really hard for about 15 minutes. I noted that the heatsink did get pretty hot, but the amp showed no audible sign of stress or reduction of power.

PERFORMANCE/BENCH MEASUREMENTS The next morning I put the amp on my test bench and checked out the measured performance specs. As you’d expect from Focal, the amplifier easily mee s or exceeds all of its published specs, and the testing simply reinforced my high praise of it from the day before. To prevent distortion, the FDP SPORT incorporates a clip limiting circuit that prevents the amplifier from being verdriven. Having said all that, I should also add just a couple of cautionary comments for anyone installing this amp on a motorcycle. First, there are very few speakers that can handle the actual real power this amp develops. If you hooked this amp to a factory motorcycle speaker, it probably wouldn’t last two hours. This is a serious amp, and it deserves serious loudspeakers. Secondly, serious power output also means serious current demands. At full power, there are very few motorcycles (probably none) with a charging system that will keep up to the potential demand of this amp. Now, it’s unlikely that anyone would be running this thing wide open for any length of time, but just understand that the capability of sucking the bikes charging system dry is there if you’re not careful with the volume. If you like it loud, keep an eye on the voltmeter.

@focalofficial

@focal.corporate

FocalAmerica

Signal to Noise Ratio referenced to 2V output. (CEA-2006A) (1 watt @ 4 ohms)

-80.9 dBA

Signal to Noise Ratio referenced to full output.

-103.4 dBA

THD+N at rated 4 ohm power

0.71%

Maximum Efficiency at full 4 ohm power per ch.

77.1%

Maximum Efficiency at full 2 ohm power per ch.

68.3%

Idle Current

0.8A

Input Sensitivity

330 mV- 17 V

Maximum Current @ full power, lowest rated impedance

>80.0 A

Frequency Response (-3 dB)

25 Hz – 40 kHz

High Pass Crossover

10 Hz – 150 Hz -6 db/Oct or -12 dB/Oct

Low Pass Crossover

45 Hz – 150 Hz -6 db/Oct or -12 dB/Oct

Subsonic Filter

None

Bass EQ boost

None

CONCLUSION If you are looking for a serious amplifier for your motorcycle, or even your car for that matter, this Focal amplifier should be high on your list of products to audition. It sounds great, makes incredible power for the footprint, and is small enough to be installed almost anywhere. Just make sure you have the current to feed it and the speakers to handle it.

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2018 PASMAG

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REMember the

Story by Adam Gordon Photography by Shawn Michener

titan T H E W O R L D ’ S FA S T E S T N I S S A N T I TA N I S A D U A L- P U R P O S E R A C E R

When you think about truck pulls or drag racing trucks, what kind of images come to mind? Nine times out of 10, thoughts of domestic diesels and boosted gassers are representative of both worlds. Every now and then, however, someone chooses to break the mold and stray on to the road less travelled. Thankfully for us, one of those people is Walter Cheney, and we’ve managed to track him down to talk about his 2010 Nissan Titan Pro-4X.

nspired by his brothers, who spent a lot of time racing in his younger years, Cheney was swept into the world of fast trucks before he even had a truck of his own. “I started at a very young age truck pulling and drag racing (18 years old) and never stopped,” he tells us. “I have built several truck pulling trucks, several drag cars, and even a show-winning Honda Civic hatch.” As you can see, he’s got quite the well-rounded pedigree, but trucks have always been the main focus

for him and his family. It all started when his brother purchased the fi st Nissan Titan in their area back in 2004. They immediately noticed how much potential the platform had to be something great, so they decided it would become a race truck over time. Of course, back then, the Titan was a brand new platform, so it wasn’t easy to find par s right away. “You just can’t open a magazine or pop open a web page and order race parts for these trucks,” he says. “Yes, it’s getting easier now, but back in 2004 when we started, it was unheard of.”

“YOU JUST CAN’T OPEN A MAGAZINE OR POP OPEN A WEB PAGE AND ORDER RACE PARTS FOR THESE TRUCKS...” 44

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“I HAVE BUILT SEVERAL TRUCK PULLING TRUCKS, SEVERAL DRAG CARS, AND EVEN A SHOWWINNING HONDA CIVIC HATCH.”

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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TYPE M21

GLOSS BLACK w/ MACHINED FACE 17x9 | 18x9 | 20x9 20x10 1.800.645.3878 | MambaWheels.com

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TYPE M21

MATTE BLACK w/ BRONZE FACE 17x9 | 18x9 | 20x9 20x10 @mambawheels

TYPE M22

MATTE BLACK w/ BALL-CUT ACCENTS 16x8 | 17x9 | 18x9 18x10 | 20x9 @mambaoffroadwheels

2017-10-03 11:01 AM 10/3/17 9:26 AM

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REMember the

titan T H E W O R L D ’ S FA S T E S T N I S S A N T I TA N I S A D U A L- P U R P O S E R A C E R

That lack of aftermarket support only motivated Cheney and his brother. Thanks to their hard work with research and development, the brothers have managed to make products for the platform and help other Titan owners. With a list of sponsors longer than most grocery lists, as well as their own expertise, the build was well underway by the time Cheney acquired the 2010 Nissan Titan Pro-4X you see here. With UpRev on board as a tuner, they were going to go all out this time around. Taking Nissan’s VK56 engine to the next level required a smorgasbord of parts from all over the industry. Venom Racing, R2C Performance, JWT, Stillen, and others have removed any factory restrictions from the VK, bumping the power up to a respectful estimated 600 whp and 700 lb-ft of torque after UpRev’s tuning. Singing the VK’s signature song out the rear is a Magnafl w race exhaust, connected to the engine by way of Cajun B-Pipes’ down-pipe, as well as JBA ceramic-coated long-tube headers. PRG jumped on board

the project as well, providing engine mounts, transmission mounts, and drop shackles which have all withstood abuse over time, keeping the build assembly solid. When you’re making the kind of power that this Titan is with solid mounts throughout, you’ll need a drivetrain that can handle all sorts of abuse from the high-revving, hightorque output. Luckily for Cheney, Level 10 Transmission had just the thing: a “Bulletproof Build” transmission, complete with a 3,400 RPM stall for hard launches. The Level 10 transmission sends power from a Venom transfer case, down an aluminum driveshaft with solid joints, to a Drivetrain America True Trac rear differential mounted to custom upgraded axles that have withstood torture-testing.

LEVEL 10 TRANSMISSION HAD JUST THE THING: A “BULLETPROOF BUILD” TRANSMISSION, COMPLETE WITH A 3,400 RPM STALL FOR HARD LAUNCHES.

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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CHENEY’S TITAN HOLDS THE WORLD RECORD FOR FASTEST TITAN, BOASTING A STUNNING QUARTER-MILE TIME OF 11.7 SECONDS AT 115 MPH (185 KM/H).

REMember the

titan T H E W O R L D ’ S FA S T E S T N I S S A N T I TA N I S A D U A L- P U R P O S E R A C E R

The bulletproof transmission and drivetrain setup transfer their rotating power to a set of 20-inch Anthem wheels, the style of which change up every so often depending on the event, wrapped in Nitto 420 tires measuring in at 305-mm wide. Suspension is handled by Radflo shoc s, with Eibach custom springs up front and custom interchangeable Dever rear springs, which are swapped out depending on the type of racing the truck is staging for. PRG’s drop shackles come into play for leveling, and a Hellwig rear sway bar keeps the truck rigid.

If this entire setup sounds remarkably impressive, that’s because it is. The combination of custom engineering, a badass drivetrain, and carefully chosen suspension components have landed this Titan Pro-4X a prestigious title. As of the time of writing, Cheney’s Titan holds the world record for fastest Titan, boasting a stunning quarter-mile time of 11.7 seconds at 115 mph (185 km/h). To give those numbers some context, the 2013 Porsche 911 GT3 does the quarter-mile in 12.05 seconds at 113 mph (182 km/h). This truck is no joke.

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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ESSENTIALS 2010 Nissan Titan Pro-4X OWNER > Walter Cheney LOCATION > Port Henry, NY BUILT BY > Venom Racing ENGINE > Nissan VK56 5.6L V8 HORSEPOWER > 600 whp TORQUE > 700 lb-ft CLUB AFFILIATION > Level 7 Truck Club

ENGINE

Race port heads + JWT CS2 race camshafts + Venom 102 intake manifold + Nick Williams 102 throttle body + The_fan_man dual e-fans + Stillen 3-core radiator + Nitrous Express S.A.F.E. system + ADD1 oil catch can + R2C Performance (cold air system, filter, pre-filter) + Stinger Performance silicone hoses + Venom Racing (power steering reservoir, coolant reservoir) + Walbro 255 fuel pump + UpRev tune + NGK spark plugs + Jacob Warren grounding kit + PMAS mass airflow sensor + PreCool silicone hoses

EXHAUST Cajun B-Pipes custom 3-inch (down-pipe, Y-pipe) + Magnaflow (3-inch stainless race exhaust, exhaust tips) + JBA ceramic-coated long-tube headers

DRIVETRAIN Level 10 Transmission Bulletproof Build transmission w/ 3400 RPM stall + Custom valve body + PML deep trans pan + Custom upgraded axles + Aluminum driveshaft w/ solid joints + Drivetrain America (True Trac rear differential, ARB air-locker front differential) + PRG (solid trans mount, solid motor mounts, braided lines) + Venom Performance transfer case upgrade + Mag-Hytec rear differential cover

WHEELS/BRAKES/TIRES

Anthem Wheels – 20x12 -44 (f/r) + Nitto 420 tires – 305/50/20 (f/r) + R1 Concepts (E-series rotors, ceramic pads) + PRG braided lines

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION

Radflo (shocks, coilovers) + Eibach custom front springs + Dever custom interchangeable rear springs + Hellwig (rear sway bar, rear air bags) + PRG (custom aluminum mounts, bushings, drop shackles) + Custom (front control arms, 2-inch drop spindles)

EXTERIOR

Custom BVC Racing vinyl wrap + Stillen roll pan + Venom ram air mod grille + Dual function ram air hood + CFT Performance LED headlight bulbs + Volant LED taillights + EGR (fender flares, rain guards)

REMember the

titan T H E W O R L D ’ S FA S T E S T N I S S A N T I TA N I S A D U A L- P U R P O S E R A C E R

The feats achieved by this truck wouldn’t have been possible without the support of some stellar sponsors. “Support was key,” says Cheney, thanking his sponsors. “We could not afford a failure, so we went with top quality and supporting backers, like Huttig Nissan of Plattsburgh, New York. We also needed our tuning to be the best possible. This was an easy choice with UpRev. Randy, Omar, and Dustin are the best in the tuning business, period. PRG was our chassis line choice. Greg at PRG has supplied us with components like engine mounts, drop shackles, and much more.” Since the project began, Cheney has gained the support of over 40 sponsors, alleviating some of the challenges of managing this dual-purpose racing truck as a small-town mechanic. The build started off as a way or Cheney to express himself, as well as an outlet where he could go fast legally, while also kicking ass in competition. These days, the story of the build is dedicated to Cheney’s mother, who passed away due to cancer in 2014. Since then, Venom has been Cheney’s personal tool to promote cancer treatment awareness. In its time touring over the last seven years, the Venom truck has won over two dozen truck pulling championships, the Best Truck award at several shows, and claimed the world record for fastest Titan. With the help of sponsors big and small, as well as some strong family ties, Cheney’s truck has climbed to the peak of street-driven Nissan Titans.

“WE COULD NOT AFFORD A FAILURE, SO WE WENT WITH TOP QUALITY AND SUPPORTING BACKERS, LIKE HUTTIG NISSAN OF PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK. WE ALSO NEEDED OUR TUNING TO BE THE BEST POSSIBLE. THIS WAS AN EASY CHOICE WITH UPREV.

INTERIOR

White sphere shift knob + Innovate AFR gauge + Beard Racing (seats, harnesses) + Peachtree Paracord grab handles + WeatherTech floor mats + Interior Venom-theme vinyl wrap

MOBILE ELECTRONICS

Odyssey battery relocated to rear + JS.Alternators 320 amplifier + Custom marine-grade distribution + Rockford Fosgate subwoofer

SPONSORS Huttig Nissan, Dirty Hooker Diesel, Magnaflow, CFT Performance, Evanscoolant, Rouse Tire, Motorsport-Tech, R2C Performance, Espodiesel Performance, PRG Products, Level 10 Transmission, UpRev, Odyssey Battery, Koldkutter, BVC Racing, Beard Seats, Hellwig Products, Quintin Brothers Racing, Pulling Products, Open Wide Performance, PMASMAF, EGRusa, R1Concepts, Drivetrain America, Black Bear Performance, JS Alternators, Higher Power Performance, Chemical Guys, Plattsburgh Spring, MagHytec, Rocks Trailer Sales, Zachary Miracle Photography, Mike's Auto Parts, JC Customs CNC, Peachtree Paracord, North Country Auto Glass, NAPA, Gregory's Line Marking, Jim's Body Shop, Leonard Bus, Port Henry Service Center, Superior Energy, Stinger Performance

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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Story by Micky Slinger Photography by Nate Rolen

One of the coolest things you can experience as an enthusiast is looking back to see how far you’ve come and how much you’ve learned. Depending on how you work, it could be looking back on the same build through various stages, or even various projects that have lead you to the one you have now – both of which reflect the evolution of your taste in building and modifying.

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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hile he may have gotten into the diesel game a little later, Lane Wakeland has always been a truck guy, through and through. Before the gorgeous F-250 featured here, his foray into the truck world was a single-cab ’98 Sierra 2500 4x4. He got the truck for a steal, as it was retired from its job at an electricity company, and it came with the utility bed and roof-mounted spotlight to prove it. That look didn’t last long though, and Wakeland and his father soon tore into it to give

it a new lease on life. “My dad and I pulled the bed off, put a regular long bed on its frame, had the truck painted, new wheels, two JL W3V3 subwoofers behind the seat with a JL 1000/1 amplifier unde the seat,” Wakeland recalls, fondly. “I never had a single issue with that truck.” Despite not having an issue, the Sierra was soon sold and a Silverado Z71 took its place, giving Wakeland some insight into the world of lifted trucks, with a four-inch lift, 15x10-inch wheels, performance tune, and LED underbody lighting. A 2002 Cummins-

equipped Ram would come after that, which Wakeland pretty much threw the parts catalogue at for over two years. That’s where he fell in love with diesels. Not one to have a project for too long, Wakeland had sold the Dodge and was looking for his next canvas, and, for a while, he considered not going with another truck. “I figured I d wait awhile before I got back into another truck, save some money, race motocross for a bit,” he lists, laughing. “Then one night at work I was on Autotrader and stumbled across the truck I now call ‘SlowLowStancedSixFo.’”

“ONE NIGHT AT WORK I WAS ON AUTOTRADER AND STUMBLED ACROSS THE TRUCK I NOW CALL ‘SLOWLOWSTANCEDSIXFO.” TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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“FORD DIESELS CAN MAKE FOR A FAST TRUCK WITH MINIMAL MODIFICATIONS, WHICH SOUNDED GREAT, UNTIL HE LEARNED THAT THEY CAN ALSO POWER-STROKE THEIR PISTONS IN HALF...”

six fo'

L A N E WA K E L A N D ’ S S TA N C E D P O W E R S T R O K E

The truck was a 2008 Ford F-250, and the “SixFo” refers to its 6.4-liter Powerstroke diesel V8. Since getting into the diesel scene, Wakeland had heard that Ford diesels can make for a fast truck with minimal modifications, whic sounded great, until he learned that they can also power-stroke their pistons in half, and cracking pistons doesn’t sound fun for anyone. This truck was different though. “The motor was built by the previous owner, a Powerstroke tech at Ford, due to the number two piston cracking,” says Wakeland. “Since the one problem that these trucks are notorious for was fi ed, I decided to check it out, and after a 30-minute test drive, the truck was coming home with me!” Since then, the Ford has been host to a vast number of mods. Wakeland bought the 6.4 to make it go fast, so a Borg Warner S369SXE single turbo swap wasn’t far behind, as well as a No-Limit Fab air intake, Elite Diesel Z-Max Jr. ported manifold, and a three-way valve job. Though he likes to joke that

the F-250 is “low and slow,” only the height bit is true. He’s recently added a ZEX dry 150-shot nitrous system to the truck, which bumps numbers from the Super Duty to around 800 horsepower and 1,300 lb-ft of torque. We’d say it’s low and good to go. Unfortunately, with the piston problem being taken care of, it didn’t make everything on the engine bulletproof and Wakeland has been through a few turbo pedestals since taking ownership. However, the last time he pulled the fender wells and top of the engine out, he replaced the pedestals with Smeding’s offerings, and has been golden for over 25,000 miles. Taking up the exhale end of the turbo is a set of heat-wrapped manifolds from a 6.0-liter Powerstroke, Beech Performance cermanic-coated up-pipes, and a FloPro four-inch turbo-back exhaust system. To handle all that extra power, the transmission has been beefed up as well, with a built 5R110 competition trans and 2,400-stall triple-disc torque converter from SunCoast diesel. When it came down to the suspension, Wakeland had already had his time with lifted trucks and wanted to TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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“THE WHOLE TRUCK HAS BEEN COLOR-MATCHED TO BE AS BLACKED-OUT AS POSSIBLE, AND THE WHOLE BUILD IS TIED TOGETHER BY A CROSS BADGE FROM KAHL KREATIONS ON THE FRONT GRILLE THAT READS, “BUILT ON FAITH.”

L A N E WA K E L A N D ’ S S TA N C E D P O W E R S T R O K E

do something a little different. “I’ve tried to do my own thing,” he says. “Low and decently quick is different, and in today’s ‘scene,’ different is few and far between.” Providing the drop he was after are a set of Rancho shocks and some lowering springs, allowing for two inches of down-to-earthness over top of Wakeland’s favorite part of the build: his American Force Stackz wheels. The 22x12 wheels were a part of American Force’s Faceplate Series, which allow the raised aluminum faceplate covering the center of the wheel to be swapped out for a different

look. Wakeland believes that there were only two sets made of the faceplate he has before they were discontinued. That, plus the purple they’re currently dressed in make them a winning addition on this truck. Since the F-250 is entered in quite a few shows, it’s had a bit of a wow-factor added. Atlas Lighting wheel well lights and Swamp Donkey wheel rings illuminate the American Force wheels, while back-lit fender vents and a full LED replacement of just about every bulb on the Ford make for a completely different look when the sun goes down. The whole truck has been

color-matched to be as blacked-out as possible, and the whole build is tied together by a cross badge from Kahl Kreations on the front grille that reads, “Built On Faith.” “I’m not a hugely spiritual person, but I am a firm belie er in the man upstairs,” Wakeland explains of the emblem. “In order to build anything, you need a good foundation. Faith in the Lord is that foundation for me.” Inside, Wakeland looks over two displays that give him information on his truck. The Edge CTS2 digital monitor lets him know what’s going on with the Powerstoke and how happy she is, while a Soundstream head unit shows just how loud he’s bumping his tunes. Signal from the TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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head unit feeds to a Kicker ZX 1000x1 amplifie , which then powers a 12-inch Memphis shallow-mount woofer in a custom enclosure. Just enough to make the neighbors mad – either that or the bellow that must come out of the Smeding exhaust tip. An interesting fact about this “show truck” is that it really isn’t all that pampered. In fact, Wakeland usually does some pretty long hauls in it. He used to be from Kerville, Texas, before he took the Air Force gig in Florida, and he drives home a few times a year to see the family, as well as do the odd tow job to help a friend out. “With over 220,000 miles on the clock, it’s fun competing with trucks that have 27 miles on them, knowing they were trailered for four hours, while I drove six,” Wakeland proudly says. “My truck is very well road tested and proven.” Wakeland must like this truck because he has no plans to sell it and start another – not yet, anyway. This truck is a culmination of everything he’s learned from owning and building his previous ones, and he seems happy with how far he’s come. For now, he intends to keep adding to it, driving it on the daily, and taking it to shows to connect with other owners and see if he can bring home some hardware. If not, he can always flick on the ligh s under the truck and rock a 1,300-lb-ft burnout on his way out.

“IT’S FUN COMPETING WITH TRUCKS THAT HAVE 27 MILES ON THEM, KNOWING THEY WERE TRAILERED FOR FOUR HOURS, WHILE I DROVE SIX.” ESSENTIALS 2008 Ford F-250 OWNER > Lane Wakeland LOCATION > Crestview, FL ENGINE > Ford Powerstroke 6.4L V8 HORSEPOWER > 800 (est.) TORQUE > 1300 lb-ft (est.) CLUB AFFILIATION > LoneStarTruckClub

ENGINE

Three-way valve job + Decked heads + Borg Warner S369SXE single turbocharger swap + Smeding Diesel turbo pedestal + Mishimoto intercooler boots + FloPro piping + TurboSmart BOV w/ TPS controller + Zex 150 shot dry nitrous kit + No-Limit Fab air intake w/ specialized filter + Elite Diesel (Z-Max Jr ported intake manifold, pistons) + Maryland Performance Diesel fuel bowl delete + AirDog II 4G water-fuel separator + ARP head studs

EXHAUST FloPro (4-inch turbo-back exhaust, down-pipe, resonator) + Sal’s Muffler custom tailpipes + 6.0 Powerstroke heat-wrapped manifolds + Beech Performance ceramic-coated up-pipes + Smeding Diesel exhaust tips

DRIVETRAIN SunCoast Diesel (built 5R110 competition transmission, custom front pump assembly, clutch, flexplate, input shaft, intermediate shaft, low/reverse hub, planet assembly, 2,400-stall triple disc torque converter) + Mag-Hytex deep trans pan

WHEELS/TIRES American Force Stackz Face Plate series wheels – 22x12 -40 (f/r) + Nitto 420 tires – 305/40/22 (f/r) + Shifted Industries 2-inch wheel spacers

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION

Rancho shocks + Two-inch lowering coil springs + Rear block delete + Pro-Comp traction bars + Kahl Kreations frame mounts

EXTERIOR

Atlas Lighting wheel-well lighting + Swamp Donkey wheel ring lights + Color-matched (front bumper, rear bumper, front grille, headlight housings) + Tinted headlight and taillight lenses + Kahl Kreations custom “Built On Faith” cross badge + LED (back-lit fender vents, headlight bulbs, fog lights, switchback blinkers, Recon cab lights, mirror lights)

INTERIOR

Edge CTS2 digital monitor + WeatherTech floor mats

MOBILE ELECTRONICS

Soundstream head unit + Kicker ZX 1000x1 amplifier + Memphis shallow-mount 12-inch subwoofer + Custom subwoofer enclosure

SPONSORS SunCoast Diesel Transmissions, Smeding Diesel, Shifted Industries, Zephyr Polishes

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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One of the best parts of hunting down feature vehicles and getting them in the pages of PASMAG is receiving a filled-out questionnaire from the owner. Their responses tell their story and let us know why they built their vehicles the way they did – after all, everyone has some type of build plan in mind. Although, things can get a little same-y sometimes.

Show

VER BEEN TO VEGAS T H E S E M A T R U C K T H AT ’ S N E

Story by Micky Slinger Photography by Kyle St. Peter (Shifting Gears Media)

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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ven though I love those type of stories, we get a lot of tales that start with a show vehicle that becomes a purpose-built machine for the track or trails. That’s why Travis Poirier’s questionnaire stuck out to me a little. He went in the reverse direction. Having already owned a dedicated fun-haver in his 2004 Dodge Ram, which was converted from a low-slung, big-wheeled show truck to an off-road raider, when he bought his 2008 Ram 2500 Mega Cab, he expected to just go off th beaten path right away and pick up where he left off with his las

Ram. On his fi st outing, he had a change of heart. “I wanted to build an off-road rig that could fit the whole amily, but on the fi st adventure out I did too much damage to want to go off-roading with it again,” Poirier explains. “At that point is when I decided to start to turn it into a daily driven weekend show rig. I realized it was too nice to take off-roading.” Before anyone starts sneering and snarling, Poirier is no stranger to off-road capable vehicles and using them for their purpose. Previous to the Ram he took out on the dirt, he also owned a ’94 Jeep Wrangler, which, when he was done with

it, he says was “too fast for its own good,” as well as Subaru Impreza STI that he used in SCCA competition. He deserves to have something nice, okay? Poirier lists SEMA as one of his greatest influences whe turning his Ram into a daily driven show truck, which we’d have to say is very apparent, since it would fit in pe fectly with the lifted crowds of trucks that line the outdoor portions of the big show in Vegas. With 14 inches of lift, powdercoated suspension components, and lighting galore, we’re surprised it wasn’t built exactly for SEMA. Providing that extra 14 inches of suspension travel is

“I WANTED TO BUILD AN OFF-ROAD RIG THAT COULD FIT THE WHOLE FAMILY, BUT ON THE FIRST ADVENTURE OUT I DID TOO MUCH DAMAGE TO WANT TO GO OFFROADING WITH IT AGAIN...”

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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ure Featruck

a full set of FOA’s 2.5 coilovers paired with Viper Coils dual rate springs, rated at 350 and 450 pounds. Of course, Rams can’t traditionally run coilover suspension all the way around, and that’s because of those pesky leaf springs hanging out in the rear. They have their place and all, but not when you want to run coils, so Poirier tossed them and started masterminding a custom four-link setup – something that Top Gun Customz was able to put into motion, as well as the rest of the lift kit. “I found Top Gun Customz online, and they didn’t have your run of the mill lift system for the Dodge Ram,” Poirier explains. “It was different and I wanted to stand out, so I chose to work with them. Since then, a lot of other companies have followed their designs.” Top Gun Customz is responsible for the custom four-link setup, front adjustable traction

bar, long arm kit, and a dual steering stabilizer and steering upgrade kit, which have all been done up in layers of either black or orange powdercoat. Supporting all of this work and rolling the Ram along are some AAM axles with 4.10 gearing, as well as a front driveshaft and highangle double CV shafts from Full Throttle. It’s all accounted for. Jutting out from the bodywork is a set of Bushwacker flares that are necessa y to run the larger and wider Anthem Offroad A711 Defender wheels in 20x12 sizing. The 12-wides are wrapped in capable 41.5x13.5 Pitbull Rocker off-road tires, and just behind the spinning faces are SSBC’s Tri-Power three-piston brake upgrades with slotted rotors in the front. Fusion Bumpers is another company that Poirier is happy to be involved with. In 2012, their products blew up at SEMA, and as someone who keeps a close

eye on trends that come out of the show, Poirier jumped on board with the company to run their front and rear bumpers, adding an extra bit of Baja flar to his Ram. Further accenting this feel are some large, bumper-mounted KC Hilites HID fog lights, an N-Fab grille and N-Durastep side steps, and a plethora of underbody lighting options from LED Concepts - from wheel rings, to demon eyes, and 12-piece rock lighting. Topping the Ram’s bed is an A.R.E. Z Series cap, which may seem like standard fare, until it expands into private sleeping

quarters with the press of a button. Poirier went ahead and got himself a Topper EZ Lift tent system, which electronically lifts the cap up via a set of linear actuators and folds out a tent, all powered from the Ram’s 12-volt system. Perfect for camping or multi-day truck shows. The Mega Cab even sounds as mean as it looks, with a Magnafl w single-exit three-inch exhaust system that’s further bolstered by American Racing Headers’ header system and high-fl w cats. The truck has a pretty good bellow on it for sure. For some more go and reliability,

PASMAG TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION

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Big Show

VER BEEN TO VEGAS T H E S E M A T R U C K T H AT ’ S N E

ESSENTIALS 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 Mega Cab OWNER > Travis Poirier LOCATION > Fairfax, VT ENGINE > Chrysler HEMI 5.7L V8 HORSEPOWER > 400 hp TORQUE > 425 lb-ft

ENGINE

S&B cold air intake + Moe’s Performance 87-mm throttle body + Diablo Sport Trinity tuner + Snow Performance water meth injection kit

EXHAUST MagnaFlow 3-inch single-exit cat-back exhaust + American Racing Headers (headers, high-flow cats) + Stage 8 locking header bolts

Poirier also installed a Moe’s Performance 87-mm throttle body and an S&B intake under the hood, plus a Diablo Sport Trinity tuner and Snow Performance water meth kit. When I say Poirier installed the parts, I mean it. He installed every bit himself, which can be a bit of a challenge for a truck that’s your daily driver. Having built a few cars and trucks in his day, Poirier knew what to expect and planned accordingly – not that it made much of a difference. “One thing I’ve learned during this build is things take time and nothing ever goes as planned,” he recalls, painfully. “The biggest issue with this build was that it was my daily, so when I started

this build, I did my research, talked to my sponsors, and lined everything up to go as smoothly as possible. Unfortunately, I came to find out that no everything that’s supposed to fi together always goes together, so I had a lot of down time with no driving anyway.” Persevering through the frustrations, Poirier brought his visions to life and built a successful show truck that rakes in awards and has made him many friends in the industry. Though it’s never been to the big show, the influence is palpable, an the fact that it gets driven on the daily actually puts it above some of the rolling sculptures that line the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“ONE THING I’VE LEARNED DURING THIS BUILD IS THINGS TAKE TIME AND NOTHING EVER GOES AS PLANNED...”

DRIVETRAIN

Skyjacker transfer case indexing ring + AAM axles w/ 4.10 gearing + Full Throttle (front driveshaft, high angle double CV shaft)

WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES Anthem Offroad A711 Defender wheels – 20x12 -44 (f/r) + Pitbull Rocker tires – 41.5x13.5 R20 (f/r) + SSBC (Tri-Power 3-piston brake calipers (f), 14-inch slotted brake rotors (f/r))

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION

FOA 2.5 14-inch travel coilovers + Viper Coils 350/450-lb dual rate springs + Top Gun Customz (front adjustable traction bar, dual steering stabilizer, long arm kit, custom 4-link suspension, steering upgrade kit) + Ruff Stuff Specialties stabilizer brackets

EXTERIOR

Bushwacker fender flares + Fusion bumpers (f/r) + N-Fab (grille, N-Durastep side steps) + A.R.E Z Series cap + Topper EZ Lift tent system + Dodge SRT10 hood + ANZO (U-bar headlights, taillights) + KC Hilites (8-inch 35-watt HIDs, reverse lights) + LED Concepts (RGB wheel rings, demon eyes, RGB strip lighting, 12-piece rock lighting) + Hornblasters (six-horn Shocker setup, 12-gallon air tank) + BedRug bed liner

INTERIOR

Katzkin leather interior + Custom hydrodipped interior panels

MOBILE ELECTRONICS Odyssey Extreme PC1750 batteries (2)

SPONSORS Top Gun Customz, Magnaflow, Odyssey Battery, Fusion Bumpers, N-Fab, KC HiLiTES, Bushwacker, Anthem Wheels, Katzkin Leather, S&B Filters, MagHytec, American Racing Headers, Snow Performance, Bedrug, Hornblasters, Ruff Stuff Specialties, ANZO USA, A.R.E., Topper EZ Lift, 802 Diesel Performance

TUNING ESSENTIALS // 2017 TRUCKS // 7TH EDITION PASMAG

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Spot

Photography by Jonathan Gauthier

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