The actual size of the magazine is dependent on the number of pages of advertising we generate each month. Diesel Power has more pages of advertising, so naturally, it's thicker than ours. Then again, what's really more important-quantity or quality?
We've also tested the same truck in greater detail, and recently. Granted, it wasn't the Moparized version, but we put two versions of the new Ram 2500-a 6.7L diesel and a Hemi Power Wagon-through a rigorous week's worth of on- and off-road testing during our 2010 Pickup Truck of the Year test (Mar. '10). What's more, the Power Wagon won our competition. That's the main reason why we didn't devote more pages to the Mopar-kitted model this time around.
Stuffage Without Signals?
After reading "Stuffage Without Sacrifice" (May '10), I felt the need to contact you. The fenders on my '98 Jeep Wrangler are starting to rust a bit, and I like the looks of the flatfender Jeeps. I was interested and hopeful that I would find an answer to the following question. What's the best fix for replacing the turn signals? Your article did not cover this.
Hal Jensen
Quincy, MI
Robin Stover replies: We believe the best looking solution to the tube fender's missing turn signal is a pair of easy-mount round signal lamps that attach below the factory headlights on the TJ grille. One particular version we like, from Jeep Speed Shop (707/338-3154, www.jeepspeedshop.com), features 10 bright amber LEDs housed in a 31/4-inch billet aluminum housing with either protective clear or tinted diffuser lens. These units are sold in pairs for $190 (at time of print). Hope this helps.
Wants More Toyotas in the Magazine
Hey, I really like reading your magazine, but I think you should feature more Toyota trucks in your features and projects. The Tundra and Tacoma have a huge fan base, and you may earn many more loyal readers if you would feature these great trucks more often.
Will Anderson
San Antonio, TX
We couldn't agree more. And in the coming months, you will be seeing two new Toyota projects debuting in these pages: a 2010 4Runner and an FJ Cruiser. Both are based off the same platform as the Tacoma pickup, and we'll be building each of these vehicles for completely different purposes with different parts and products. So stick around awhile-we think you'll enjoy what we've got in the works.
New Carolina ORV Park
Just wanted to let you guys know of a (somewhat new) off-road park on the East Coast: Carolina Backwoods. They cater to every kind of rig from ATVs to Jeepers, to mud trucks too. Larry, the proprietor, has put together some 15 miles of mud and rock, and has plans for more in the future. The park is located in Ash, North Carolina, on Little Ash River Road, about 10 minutes from North Myrtle Beach in sunny South Carolina. He also offers cabins for folks who like to wheel into the evening, and if that's not enough, there are ponds on hand as well as a swimming hole (clothing preferred). Also, one of the greater things about the place is No Alcohol Allowed-he will run you off and call police. Their website is www.carolinabackwoods.com.
Jeremy Johnson
Willow Spring, NC
Thanks for the tip! We're always appreciative of folks like you who keep us-and your fellow readers-apprised of new wheeling spots around the country. So for those of you in the North Myrtle Beach area, get out and support your local ORV park.
In Search of Trenz Truck Grillez
I was wondering if you have any information relating to the company called RI Trenz. I purchased a wonderful ABS plastic mesh grille from them and would like to check on a matching bumper grille, or at least try to talk them into producing one if they do not. However, I cannot find any information on contact or even an address. Can you help?
Tim Adams
Petal, MS
Trenz Manufacturing was acquired by Lund International in a 2004 bankruptcy acquisition. If there are any original Trenz grille designs still around, Lund should have 'em. Give 'em a shout at 888/588-6049, www.lundinternational.com.