Engine Performance
What is it: Snow Performance MPG Max
Why it's Cool: The MPG Max kit from Snow Performance adds up to 3 mpg to any diesel pickup by simply injecting a mixture of water and methanol (windshield washer fluid) into the combustion chamber. The system is controlled by boost pressure and exhaust gas temperature, so a built-in gauge is included in the control unit. Extra power is just one bonus of this setup. Water methanol is also known to remove harmful carbon deposits on intake runners and around valves and valve seats and from the tops of pistons.
Where to get it: 866/365-2762, www.snowperformance.net
What is it: Bully Dog PMT for Diesel Pickups
Why it's Cool: The PMT is four products in one. It serves as a downloader with three preset performance settings including Tow, Performance, and Extreme modes. It also serves as a monitor, allowing the driver to watch the vehicle's performance and operating conditions. The PMT serves as a versatile tuning device, allowing adjustment settings of drivetrain, transmission, and vehicle safety parameters. An additional feature of the PMT is the ability to scan, read, and erase diagnostic trouble codes.
Where to get it: 866/285-5936, www.bullydog.com
Winching
What is it: Warn Industries Power Plant
Why it's Cool: The Power Plant winch combines the proven performance of a Warn 9,000- or 12,000-pound winch with a built-in air compressor that will easily fill tires and run an impact gun for up to 30 minutes.
Where to get it: 800/910-1122, www.warn.com
What is it: ARB Snatch Block 9000
Why it's Cool: This new snatch block features a computer-optimized two-piece polymer pulley design for increased functionality and safety during a vehicle recovery. Smart features like rounded safety edges protect hands during recovery situations. Thanks to innovative design, the working load encountered during winching has a positive effect on the unit. High-strength, low-density materials contribute to a total weight reduction of nearly 50 percent over other comparably rated snatch blocks.
Where to get it: 425/264-1391, www.arbusa.com
What is it: Smittybilt XRC-8 Winch
Why it's Cool: This 8,000-pound winch won't break the bank. Value pricing doesn't mean it has to stop working on the second trip out. This winch packs a punch and keeps on pulling thanks to a 5.5hp series-wound motor and a 172.8:1 planetary gear ratio. Included are 92 feet of galvanized 5/16-inch steel cable, safety hook, and roller fairlead.
Where to get it: 888/717-5797, www.smittybilt.com
What is it: Mac's Custom Tie Downs Recovery Straps
Why it's Cool: These tow straps are the official recovery strap of the '08 Top Truck Challenge. This means that the potent TTC recovery crew depended on their durability to remove a variety of competition rigs from extreme situations. Rated from 14,000 to 57,000 pounds, these straps are made from the highest-quality strap material available today. Each undergoes strict quality control to ensure specific working load limits, and each is made by hand in Sagle, Idaho. Trust our experience, these straps are a must-have for any trail machine.
Where to get it: 800/666-1586, www.macscustomtiedowns.com
Chemicals
What is it: Royal Purple Engine Break-in Oil
Why it's Cool: This oil is specifically formulated to aid in breaking in brand-new engines. The lubricant combines highly refined mineral oil, preferred for engine break-in, with advanced additives containing high levels of zinc and phosphorus to optimize protection in flat-tappet and roller engines.
Where to get it: 888/382-6300, www.royalpurple.com
What is it: Evans Waterless Coolant
Why it's Cool: Evans Waterless Coolants are a waterless chemical blend that results in more efficient cooling due to a higher boiling point, which reduces the occurrence of boilover, cavitation, and detonation. Not only does this stuff not boil over, but it also will not freeze. At extreme cold temperatures, it contracts and becomes extremely thick, just the opposite of waterbased coolants. Electrolysis and corrosion are also completely eliminated by this product.
Where to get it: 888/990-2665, www.evanscooling.com
Interior
What is it: Grant Revolution Steering Wheel
Why it's Cool: Now you can enjoy the look and feel of an aftermarket steering wheel without losing the function of your vehicle's airbag. The new wheels retain all factory steering-wheel switches, and multiple designs are available to match your own custom look. Currently these steering wheels are available for all '03-'08 GM pickups and SUVs.
Where to get it: 818/247-2910, www.grantproducts.com
What is it: Mastercraft Baja RS Suspension Seat
Why it's Cool: Mastercraft rewrote the rules when they created the Baja RS suspension seat. Essentially this seat provides comfort found in other suspension seats, along with one added bonus-it reclines to give the user a preferred angle adjustment of the back portion of the seat.
Where to get it: 800/565-4042, www.mastercraftseats.com