Trail-Gear Inc. now offers a hydraulic-assist steering upgrade for Toyota vehicles. It is called the "Rock-Assault" ram steering-assist kit. It works on all solid-axle-equipped Toyota pickups and 4Runners. The kit features a 6x1.5-inch-stroke hydraulic ram with high-quality inner and outer seals for a long leak-free service life. This specially designed ram features a 3/4-inch rod that is 50 percent stronger than other 1/2-inch rods on the market today. Easy-to-install 1/4-inch-thick steel brackets make mounting this kit a breeze. All hardware is specially designed to fit the Toyota axle equipped with crossover high steering. Each kit includes, ram, hoses, brackets, and mounting hardware. Tapped steering boxes and fittings are also available separately. Info: 559/252-4950, www.trail-gear.com.
This cool-air intake system for '06-and-newer Duramax-equipped GM vehicles is said to increase intake airflow by up to 32.7 percent and is also said to stop 99.44 percent of particulate matter. We like the fact that all S&B filters are end-user-customizable with S&B's interactive Web site. S&B claims each of its intake kits are designed to increase horsepower by 5 to 10 percent, depending on the application. Info: 800/358-2639, www.sbfilters.com.
T-Max Winch announces its new wireless Outback Series winch, now available in 9,000- and 10,000-pound sizes. This new series also utilizes the ZST technology that eliminates the need for any solenoids. No solenoids equals much better reliability by removing old-style electromechanical moving parts. This enables these winches to be submerged for longer periods while maintaining water resistance. The control handle is an ergonomic "joystick" style. It also may be controlled by wire as well. This all comes at a bargain price of about $100 over the standard series price at retail. Info: 574/266-1444, www.t-maxwinches.com.
Developed to work with the unibody structure of the new '05 Grand Cherokee, this new bumper promises to spread loads evenly across the platform under both winching and impact conditions. The design does not interfere with the vehicle crush rate or sensitive airbag deployment systems. Although, built to accommodate Warn low-mount model winches from 8,000 to 9,500 pounds, ARB also designed the bumper so a license-plate bracket can be fitted over the roller fairlead opening if a winch is not wanted. This bumper also incorporates tow points, Hi-Lift jacking points, and combination parking and indicator-light provisions. To add to the practicality and individual styling, this bumper will accommodate a range of auxiliary lights and two CB antennas. Finished in a durable satin black powdercoat, an ARB Bull Bar offers all of the style and protection a new WK could hope for. Info: 425/264-1391, www.arbusa.com.
Manik just released these new taillight protectors for the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Made from 3/4-inch tubing, these guards will prevent the vulnerable plastic taillights from falling apart during encounters with trail obstacles. They are available in polished stainless steel or black textured powdercoat. They are super easy to install and are said to be vibration-free. Info: 323/869-2299, www.manik.com.
The folks in charge of Warn Industries are well known for innovative products that actually hold up to abuse on the trail. The winch shown here is the result of three years worth of R&D and marketing research. It is called the Warn Powerplant. We believe this winch compressor duo is going to make all other 9,000- to 12,000-pound winches on the market seem obsolete. The Powerplant combines Warn's legendary high-performance winch with a high-output electric compressor. When we say high output, we mean, "Wow, this thing kicks butt!" The recipe is a sure winner, as owners will not have to source a separate air compressor, mount a separate tank, or run separate electrical circuits to get the benefits of compressed air on the trail or job site. We had an opportunity recently to test a Powerplant unit for ourselves. Let's just say it's at the top of our Christmas list. The Powerplant is available in either 9,000- or 12,000-pound configurations. Stay tuned to Four Wheeler for more in-depth coverage. Info: 800/910-1122, www.warn.com.