Category: News

Paramount Automotive Celebrates at Forest Fest

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About an hour outside downtown Los Angeles, the 210 splits off of Highway 330. Hang a right onto Highway 18 for another 15 miles and you come to Snow Valley Mountain Resort: the annual rendezvous for the Inland Empire 4 Wheelrs’ Big Bear Forest Fest.

RegistrationAfter signing in, Paramount met with old friends, sponsors, and fellow Southern California locals Team ReadyLIFT to break off from the main group and take a new trail (to Paramount anyway): route 2N13, also known as Holcomb Creek.

For those new to Forest Fest, there are two major days of trail runs. Friday’s trail runs tend to be more technical, with full rescue equipment (especially axel lockers) mandatory. Boasting triple the options of the previous day, Saturday offers more recreational runs for folks with Jeeps a little more comfortable on the streets.

But the event didn’t stop at trails. A trade show allowed Paramount to see old friends and MagnaFlowsponsor Magnaflow, and a family-friendly camp-out party let everyone enjoy the rugged beauty of the area.

The start of 2N13 had Paramount wondering if they’d really get to put their new Stinger bumper with grille guard (51-0389) through its paces, aside from pitting the protective powdercoat against the wet.

They shouldn’t have worried. Twenty minutes in, the Paramount Jeep rounded a corner and came upon Hanna Rocks. From then on the trail was a nice mix of straightaways, boulders, and scenery. Things quickly got bumpy enough that Paramount’s 51-0323 Rock Sliders more than earned their place by handling multiple scrapes and even a few good teeth-rattling knocks sure to continue the office debate of “blame the driver or the spotter?”

Creek

The total run time was perfect for a day trip—about 4 hours not counting scenery and photo stops—and the trail let out in the town of Fawnskin, California. A paltry 5 minutes from downtown Big Bear, Fawnskin features plenty of eating options, from local favorites like Get The Burger to more exotic fair like Himalayan-themed cuisine.

Rock Crawl

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Rugged Ridge: Eclipse Hardtop Sun Shade for 2007+ Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU

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The Eclipse Sunshade for 2007–2016 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited from Rugged Ridge provides the open-air feeling you want along with extra protection from harsh sunlight. Made from reinforced mesh, this half sun shade installs between the front portion of your JK’s sport bar and windshield to protect either front or rear passengers separately. By using mesh material with built-in elastic straps, this sunshade eliminates the need for the header channel required by similar products.

An all-in-one package, Rugged Ridge’s Eclipse sun shade goes on easily without modification to your vehicle. By retaining access to the Jeep top clamps, drivers can keep the shade in place while preserving hard top functionality.

Available in red (13579.40), black (13579.10), and with an American flag graphic (13579.20).

Features

  • Open-air feeling with the benefit of sunlight screening.
  • Reinforced mesh material.
  • Requires no header channel.
  • No-modification installation.
  • Maintains access to Jeep top clamps.
  • Backed by Omix-ADA limited warranty.
Rugged Ridge: Eclipse Hardtop Sun Shade for 2007+ Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU
Rugged Ridge: Eclipse Hardtop Sun Shade for 2007+ Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Air Lift: LoadLifter 5000 Kits for 2013+ Ram ProMaster Commercial Vans

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The LoadLifter line from Air Lift just got a few new applications, this time for 2013–2016 Ram ProMaster commercial vans! Air Lift’s heaviest-rated air spring kit*, the LoadLifter 5000, fits easily between your vehicle’s frame and axle. Just add air for heavy loads to ensure greater stability, then deflate when riding empty.

This product is available in two part numbers: 57233 for LoadLifter 5000 and 88233 for LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate, which includes an internal jounce bumper that absorbs additional shock and allows the springs to be safely operated at 0 air pressure.

*Never exceed your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)!

Features

  • Provides up to 5,000 lb. of load-leveling capacity.
  • Eliminates squat, trailer sway, rough rides, and bottoming out.
  • Improved braking, steering, and headlight aim and more even tire wear.
  • Air pressure is adjustable via air line tubing from 5 to 100 psi.
  • Quick, no-drill installation in 2 hours or less.
Air Lift: LoadLifter 5000 Kits for 2013+ Ram ProMaster Commercial Vans
Air Lift: LoadLifter 5000 Kits for 2013+ Ram ProMaster Commercial Vans

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

CURT (16400): Custom 5th Wheel Bracket Kit for 2012+ Sierra/Silverado 1500

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You expect your 5th wheel trailer hitch to be able to tow your RV, flatbed, or other trailer you own, but it won’t get far without the proper installation equipment. Engineered just for your 2012–2016 Sierra/Silverado 1500, these custom 5th wheel brackets from CURT complement the power of your 5th wheel trailer hitch.

The 16400 bracket contours to the frame of your truck and comes with predrilled holes to make installation quick and easy. In fact, its custom nature means it can go on up to half as fast! This bracket kit features a durable black powdercoat and is designed to be used along with CURT 5th wheel base rails #16104 or #16204.

Note: Includes mounting hardware, but base rails are sold separately.

Features

  • Fits 2012-and-up Sierra/Silverado 1500 trucks.
  • Works with CURT base rails #16104 or #16204.
  • Cuts installation time in half by eliminating the need for drilling.
  • Does not require universal brackets or hardware.
  • Protected by a rust-resistant liquid Bonderite coating.
  • Made in the USA.
CURT (16400): Custom 5th Wheel Bracket Kit for 2012+ Sierra/Silverado 1500
CURT (16400): Custom 5th Wheel Bracket Kit for 2012+ Sierra/Silverado 1500

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

In the Garage with Total Truck Centers: Putco Nite-Lux LED Kit

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Come inside the Total Truck garage as we take you through the installation of some of today’s hottest truck accessories. In this episode, we upgrade the foglights on a 2015 Ford F-150 with the Nite-Lux LED Kit.

Parts used in this video:

Putco Nite-Lux LED Kit (270010)

Want to check out more about Putco? http://totaltruckcenters.com/manufacturer/putco

 

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Extang (62445): EnCore Tonneau Cover for ’14-’16 Sierra/Silverado 1500

Extang (62445): EnCore Tonneau Cover for ’14-’16 Sierra/Silverado 1500

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With its all-new OEM matte finish, the 62445 EnCore tonneau cover for 2014–2016 Sierra/Silverado 1500 from Extang possesses a high-end, straight-from-the-factory look. The finish matches the plastic grain of the bed rail caps, creating a complementary, cohesive relationship between the truck and the truck bed cover.

The EnCore is a low-profile, hard-panel tri-fold that offers easy access from both the front and the rear of your pickup. It’s also self-positioning and self-latching for ease of installation and added security, respectively. Engineered rear latches lock the cover at the tailgate, while supplemental tethers secure it to the side rails. The wide-opening front panel provides glorious front bed access, and can be locked with your ignition key via one-key lock technology courtesy of BOLT.

TPO-covered polypropylene is a superior alternative to standard aluminum panels, as they resist dents and scratches, are cooler to the touch on hot days, and won’t suffer sunlight fading. Extang’s newest incarnation of EnCore also features an all-new flex-hinge system that’s ultra strong and water resistant.

Features

  • Low-profile, hard-panel, tri-fold tonneau.
  • Polypropylene core with a thermoplastic olefin skin.
  • Resists scratches, dents, and fading.
  • OEM matte finish to match bed rail grain.
  • Self-positioning and self-latching.
  • BOLT one-key locking technology.
  • Three-year warranty against defective materials or workmanship on rails, aluminum components, clamps, bows, and hardware.
Extang (62445): EnCore Tonneau Cover for ’14-’16 Sierra/Silverado 1500
Extang (62445): EnCore Tonneau Cover for ’14-’16 Sierra/Silverado 1500

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Fastway: Flash E Series Ball Mount

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The Flash E Series ball mount from Fastway offers not only lightning-quick adjustments but also stunning good looks. Each Flash ball mount is precision-machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, making it stronger and longer lasting than other aluminum ball mounts, and its hand-polished, mirror finish easily outshines the competition.

The best-looking pin-style ball mount you can buy, the E Series features adjustable heights and dual hitch balls, making trailer change-overs a breeze. And with its 1,000-lb. max tongue weight and 10,000-lb. max trailer weight, Fastway’s E Series is up for a wide variety of towing adventures.

Features

  • Fast and easy adjustments save you time and effort.
  • Polished aluminum lets you tow in style.
  • Precision machined for strength and durability.
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum provides outstanding corrosion resistance and performance.
  • 1,000 lb. max tongue wt. / 10,000 lb. max trailer wt.
  • Limited one-year warranty.
Fastway: Flash E Series Ball Mount
Fastway: Flash E Series Ball Mount

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Westin Automotive (59-9525-12JKB5): Snyper Marksman Bull Bar / Front Bumper for JK

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The one-piece Snyper Marksman (59-9525-12JKB5; textured black finish) from Westin Automotive is two rough and rugged products in one: a full-width off-road winch bumper with welded bull bar for Jeep Wrangler JK. Constructed from 7-gauge steel and predrilled for winches up to 10.25” tall with 8–12K capacities, the Snyper Marksman boasts an aggressive, chiseled design that looks and performs like a champ.

This product includes four openings for flush-mount LED auxiliary lights, 1” thick shackle mounts, and a laser-cut Snyper logo, and is backed by Westin’s 1-year warranty on finish and limited lifetime warranty on workmanship.

Features

  • Front winch bumper with welded bull bar for Jeep Wrangler JK.
  • One-piece, 7-gauge steel construction with laser-cut Snyper logo.
  • Accommodates most medium-frame 8,000–12,000 lb. winches up to 10-1/4” tall.
  • Predrilled for winch and fairlead mounting.
  • Fits most (4) flush-mount auxiliary lights.
  • Includes 1” thick HD shackle mounts.
  • Mounting brackets mount directly to frame.
  • Textured black finish.
  • Limited lifetime warranty on workmanship; 1-year warranty on finish.
Westin Automotive (59-9525-12JKB5): Snyper Marksman Bull Bar / Front Bumper for JK
Westin Automotive (59-9525-12JKB5): Snyper Marksman Bull Bar / Front Bumper for JK

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Race Sport (RS-4L-3X316W): 3 × 3 Cube 16-Watt LED Light

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With combination Spot and Flood optics, this 3” LED light cube from Race Sport provides versatile illumination on a variety of applications, from winch bars and off-road vehicles to tow trucks and more!

The RS-4L-3X316W features 50,000-hour, 16W, high-power LEDs that emit 6,500K color. Even better, this product comes with a free amber cover option. Built to last, this light is backed by Race Sport’s 1-year limited warranty.

Features

  • 3” × 3” durable cube housing.
  • 6,500-Kelvin color with free amber cover.
  • 50,000-hour, 16-watt LEDs.
  • Hybrid Spot/Flood beam pattern.
  • One-year limited warranty.
Race Sport (RS-4L-3X316W): 3 × 3 Cube 16-Watt LED Light
Race Sport (RS-4L-3X316W): 3 × 3 Cube 16-Watt LED Light

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

In the Garage with Total Truck Centers: Putco Silver-Lux LED Kit and SwitchBack LED DayLiner

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Come inside the Total Truck garage as we take you through the installation of some of today’s hottest truck accessories. In this episode, we improve the overall visability of a 2015 Ford F-250 by installing the Silver-Lux LED Kit and SwitchBack LED DayLiner.

Parts used in this video:

Putco Silver-Lux LED Kit (280H13)

Putco SwitchBack LED DayLiner (290160T)

Want to check out more about Putco? http://totaltruckcenters.com/manufacturer/putco

 

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Total Truck Centers affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Total Truck Centers Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.