By Ashley Reyes
Precision Replacement Parts (PRP) has been among trusted names in the automotive glass industry since 1986. Just browse through their website and you will find an extensive selection of molded EPDM Rubber, PVC and HDPE-based plastics, and various stamped and extruded metal products for the classic and late-model industries.
In 2024, PRP earned industry recognition when their '73-'87 GM Truck Complete Vent Assembly was voted Best New Exterior Product in the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
SEMA News recently spoke with PRP Marketing Manager Derek Churchyard, who shared the story behind the vent assembly, and how other restoration parts manufacturers can benefit from displaying their products in the ARMO Hot Products Showcase at the 2025 Spring Carlisle in April.
Q: Can you tell us about what inspired the product's creation?
DC: The vent windows on the '73–'87 square-body trucks have always been some of the most challenging components to rebuild. For the past seven years, we've offered a rebuild service for these vent assemblies, and it's been incredibly popular since there were no brand-new aftermarket replacements available. We recognized the need for a high-quality, new option. However, designing and tooling these vents was particularly tricky due to the bends in the assembly. It took three years of research, development and extensive customer testing to perfect them, and we're proud to have set a new standard in the industry.
Precision Replacement Parts' vent assembly was voted Best New Exterior Product in last year's SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Q: Why did you decide to showcase the vent assembly at Spring Carlisle instead of PRP's other products?
DC: Due to the immense popularity of the square-body trucks and the significant gap in the market for these vent assemblies, we knew this product deserved as much exposure as possible. Showcasing them allowed us to highlight how we were filling a long-standing void with a high-quality solution that enthusiasts had been waiting for.
Q: What did winning the Best New Exterior Product award mean to you and your team?
DC: Winning this award was a powerful validation of the hard work, dedication and attention to detail that our team put into developing this product. It reinforced that our efforts to create a high-quality solution for square-body enthusiasts were truly making an impact in the industry.
Q: Is PRP planning to display anything in this year's Hot Products Showcase? If so, what are you bringing?
DC: Yes, this year we're showcasing the rear window original slider gasket for the square-body trucks—another product that has been missing from the market. Just like with our vent assemblies, we saw a need for a high-quality solution, especially since many enthusiasts prefer the original slider option.
Q: Why would you recommend other ARMO members participate in the 2025 Showcase?
DC: Participating in the Showcase is a fantastic opportunity for ARMO members to gain valuable exposure for their new products. It's a great way to connect with industry professionals, showcase innovation and reach a broader audience that appreciates quality restoration parts.
2025 ARMO Hot Products Showcase Product Entries Now Open
Registration is now open to ARMO members who would like to have their products included in the Hot Products Showcase at Spring Carlisle, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, April 23-25.
Program participation is free to ARMO members, and manufacturers are only responsible for shipping their products in advance with a return label or dropping off and picking up their products on-site.
During the event, Carlisle attendees will vote for their favorite products in the categories of exterior, interior, engine, accessory item, drivetrain/brakes/suspension and People's Choice. Winners will be recognized at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas in November.
Click here to start the product submission process.
For more information on the ARMO Hot Products Showcase, visit here.