Power, convenience, managing cargo: Whatever you're looking for, the hottest truck products can be found at the Specialty Equipment Market Association trade show.
Power, convenience, managing cargo: Whatever you're looking for, the 2005 Specialty Equipment Market Association trade show, held annually in Las Vegas, had something to meet your needs. Here are the best truck and SUV products introduced there.
Trailer SecurityThe Bully CouplerLock makes it a snap to secure a trailer to a tow vehicle. The trailer coupler is easy to install and features a built-in coupler lock. Pilot Automotive, 768 S. Turnbull Canyon Road, City Of Industry, CA 91745, 626/937-6988; www.couplerlock.com.
Air It UpThe Voltair 12-volt air compressor provides 150 psi to air up tires, air mattresses, and soccer balls--and can even power air wrenches and air jacks. The one-horsepower motor has a 75-percent duty cycle--it can run for 45 minutes out of an hour. Voltair, 1109 Road B, Henderson, NE 68371, 402/723-4985; www.12-voltair.com.
Spark 'Em UpMSD's bolt-on Multiple Spark Coil Kit for GM LS-1 and LS-6 engines features high-output coil packs that produce three times the spark energy of stock coils. Plus, they deliver multiple sparks to each cylinder to help keep the engine clean at idle. MSD Ignition, 1490 Henry Brennan, El Paso, TX 79936, 915/857-5200; www.msdignition.com.
Step Right UpWysco's Retractable Electric Truck Step for Chevy and Ford trucks supports 400 pounds and includes an obstacle-sensing safety feature. The big step is made from billet aluminum with nonskid tread. Wysco, 13121 Spring St., Baldwin Park, CA 91706, 800/731-9972; www.wysco.com.
Keep Stuff On-BoardTarpeez, a durable, weatherproof soft tarp, uses large clips that attach it to the truck's stake holes and bungee cords to secure it over loads. Tarpeez, 2847 E. Dartmouth St., Mesa, AZ 85213, 877/827-7339; www.tarpeez.com.
Easy AccessWant to get gear out of your toolbox without climbing into the bed? The top of the Pro-Slide crossover box slides to the right or left, so you can get items out of the upper compartment and can reach what's stored underneath. Taylor Wings, 3720 Omec Circle, Rancho Cordova, CA 95742, 800/634-7757; www.taylorwings.com.