Yes, the Chrysler Crossover SUV’s, like the Pacifica pictured to the left, may be bold and understated (note our sarcasm), but outselling Ford light trucks in Canada? What are Canadians thinking? The Canadian light truck category, which include SUV’s, pickup trucks, and minivans, had Chrysler at the top of the stack in June 2011. They also lead the year-to-date totals as well.
SOCAL SAYS: Just like Barry Bonds home-run record, this should have a big asterisk next to it. The category includes minivans and SUV’s, which make it a little skewed. But still, Canada is the frozen tundra where lifted trucks should thrive. Would you rather drive a big Ford F150 through the snow or a Chrysler Crossover? We are pleading with all Canadians to stop buying small SUV’s and start buying lifted trucks. Please!!!!!!!!
It’s nice to see that eleven years after the Prius was released, truck manufacturers are now focused on hybrid trucks. Ford is planning to release a plug-in hybrid F-Series in 2013 along with GM. This is on the heels of Obama completing negotiations with car-makers where average fuel economy will increase to 54.5 MPG by 2025. Obama said, “This agreement on fuel standards represents the single most important step we’ve ever taken to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.”
SOCAL SAYS: It’s about time we saw this. We are not huge of government regulations or hybrid cars, but at least give people the choice. Most lifted truck owners hate paying a lot for gas, but it’s their only choice if they want to drive one. In a few years, we may see trucks that get 30+ MPG, which would be a great thing for the lifted truck community and the environment. We’re not buying the “decrease our dependence on foreign oil” line, but we do like the idea of spending less money in gas.
King Shock’s new bolt-on, OEM performance kit for the Ford Raptor delivers increased wheel travel, damping force and overall performance when compared to the stock suspension. King’s engineers have spent countless hours tuning the shock valving to enhance off-road performance without compromising the Raptor’s on-road manners.
The front monotube, 3″ diameter coilover with King’s Wide Range Compression Adjuster has over twice the piston surface area to provide greater damping control and 20 precise clicks of compression adjustment to fine tune the ride for any type of terrain. The nitrogen charged remote reservoirs help to cool the shock fluid and prevent shock fading when you need performance the most.
In the rear, the kit comes with a race proven 3-inch diameter, triple bypass shock with nitrogen charged, “Piggyback” remote reservoir. The bypass tubes adjust both compression and rebound damping to provide total control throughout the travel range.
Like all King shocks, they are made in the USA to strict precision tolerances using the finest billet materials available and are serviceable with simple hand tools. When the time comes, you can rebuild your King shocks to factory fresh condition for many more years of reliable service. Go to www.kingshocks.com for more information.
SOCAL SAYS: It’s true that when you ride on King shocks, there really is a difference. They make high quality products. This kit is a little small for what we like to see and the Raptor is just okay compared to the full-sized Fords. But, if you want a small truck that performs and not a huge kit, this could be perfect for you. King is known for durability and control, so you can’t go wrong with them.
It looks like Ford is recalling about 27,000 trucks due to a potential switch issue that may tailights, brake lights, and turn signals to function improperly. The recall impacts F250-550 and Excursions from 2002-2007. It also applies to Rangers from 2002-2011. Look for your notice from Ford around mid-August 2011 if your truck is in the recall.
SOCAL SAYS: This seems is a minor issue if you drive during the day, never brake, and avoid using a turn signal. So for all you senior citizens who drive lifted trucks, ignore this article. If your lifted Ford fits these years and models, check your mail boxes in a few weeks to see if you get notified. You can expect your Chevy owner friend to now point out why Chevy is superior to Ford, but don’t worry, Chevy will have a recall and then you can get him back. Be patient.
Today, Brian Godfrey gave up his post at the Marketing Director at King Shock Technology. Brian explained, “I had an extraordinary journey during time here at King and with the help of my media partners, suppliers, friends, and supporters we have accomplished great things together.”
He did a great job of communicating new products and information on King Off-Road procuts. It will be interesting to see where he turns up next. Mike Ingalsbee and Mike Leighton will be taking over his responsibilities until a replacement is named.
The Super Bowl, World Series, Stanley Cup, March Madness, X-Games, Wimbledon, The Masters…and SEMA. What do all of these events have in common? Each event is the pinnacle of their industry and the “don’t want to miss” occasion of the year. For those of you who are unfamiliar with SEMA, it is the largest car and truck show of the year. It’s held in Las Vegas, Nevada and is a great experience in many ways. The 2010 SEMA show was no different.
SEMA kicked off November 1, 2010 and lasted several days. Over 100,000 industry professionals were present and each represented their products, which ranged from suspension lifts to spray in bed-liners and everything in between. According to the organization, “The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in
LAMBO DOORS = INNOVATION
the world (PLEASE NOTE: THE SHOW IS NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC). It draws the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products to one place, the Las Vegas Convention Center. The displays are segmented into 12 sections, and a New Products Showcase featured nearly 1,500 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.”
SoCalTrucks.com has been fortunate enough to attend the past couple of SEMA shows as Press and Media. We have seen and talked to many of the professionals in the industry and have got to experience some of the new products coming out first hand. There is no shortage of insane trucks on display and we had our cameras in full force snapping as many pictures as possible. We were blown away by the magnitude of the event this year. We were more excited to see so many big trucks, SUV’s, and Jeeps. One of the highlights of the show was the K & N Hummer with tank tracks instead of wheels and tires.
IMAGINE THIS IN YOUR OFFICE PARKING LOT
The lifted truck industry is continuing to grow. Companies are spending lots of money and resources to provide the lifted truck enthusiast with many options and innovative products to keep their trucks, jeeps, and SUV’s original and multi-functional. SEMA will once again leave it’s mark on Las Vegas in November of 2011. You may not win Super Bowl or World Series tickets, but you do have a chance to be apart of SEMA next year. Don’t miss out!
Here are some highlights from this year’s event:
Highlight #1 of 8 – this beast is ready for the desert
Highlight #2 of 8 – We always love to see Cognito trucks at SEMA.
Why? Their classy, creative, and the guys love to talk lifted trucks.
Temecula, CA – Two of Predator Motor Corporation’s X18 Intimidator cars raced in the Libya Rally 2010 this past week. The X18 driven by Wesley de Saedeleer and his team, took first place in its class and 2nd overall out of 176 cars that entered the rally. The rally was 1,700 miles over 6 days.
The 2nd red X18 that was entered, driven by Daniel De Schepper and his team, took 2nd place in its class and 5th overall.
Temecula, CA – Two of Predator Motor Corporation’s X18 Intimidator cars raced in the Libya Rally 2010 this past week. The X18 driven by Wesley de Saedeleer and his team, took first place in its class and 2nd overall out of 176 cars that entered the rally. The rally was 1,700 miles over 6 days.