SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Car-Care 101

Evolving Trends and Modern Technology Keep Product Manufacturers on Their Toes

Car care encompasses a wide range of surfaces, from paint to wheels and tires. Each offers several material options, such as clear coat vs. matte and chrome vs. aluminum. There are literally hundreds of products specifically designed for each type of surface. To choose the best product for the job, it’s crucial that consumers and professional detailers know the makeup and condition of the surface they’re working on. Big bucks have been spent customizing the vehicles, so products to enhance and maintain their appearance must function without causing damage. To help ease the burden and keep your customers coming back, experts recommend that retailers educate them and stay on top of evolving trends.

New Matte Finishes Create New Challenges

More finish options are available today than ever before, said Ron Fausnight, research and development manager for Houston-based ITW Global Brands—the parent company of several brands that include Rain X and Black Magic. The base coat/clear coat, which was new 20 to 30 years ago, has become the traditional finish. Conversely, consumers with a lower-gloss, matte-type paint should understand that waxing transforms it into a high-gloss finish. A good-quality car wash will work on any finish, but avoid the low-gloss paint areas when waxing and use a detailer to touch it up, Fausnight suggested.

According to Robert Dipede, global business development sales and marketing manager for Los Angeles-based Shining Monkey, wraps and matte-finish paints are all the rage. Plasti dip—a spray-on rubber coating that changes the color of the car—is another surface covering that people are using. But there are few products on the market specifically formulated to clean matte-finish paint, matte vinyls and even printed vinyls.

The matte-finish trend has made a comeback from the old rat-rod days of the ’50s and ’60s, but it has spread to luxury vehicles this time, as inspired by Ken Block’s ’06 Mercedes-Benz CLS, according to Dipede. “It makes the car look more stealth,” he said. “People customize their cars to make them different. That’s part of what the whole matte look is about.”

The look also creates new opportunities for customizers, and new problems for detailers.

“We’ve developed products that help maintain, clean and protect all of those surfaces without causing the matte finish to look shiny or change color,” Dipede said. “It makes the surface look original by leaving an invisible barrier without adding shine. You can’t see the protective barrier, but you can feel it with your hand.”

Over the past 20 years or so, the car-care market has seen a general decline, partially because paint technology has improved drastically, according to Michael Pennington, director of training and consumer relations for Irvine, California-based Meguiar’s. Base-coat/clear-coat technology has slowed the aging process, which is why cars don’t need to be waxed as frequently. However, the market has flourished among enthusiasts.

“Car guys wax their cars on a monthly basis because they want to, not because they have to,” Pennington said. “They have an emotional connection; they take pride in their cars and they want to pamper them all the time because they consider their cars as extensions of themselves. The perception is, ‘I take care of my car; therefore, I take care of myself.’ A small percentage of the market is made up of enthusiasts, but they buy a tremendous amount of products.”

Overall longevity, durability, clearness, increased color options and shine have made paints look more vibrant. Despite their longevity, clear coats tend to scratch easily, but they don’t grind out and oxidize, unlike the early lacquers and enamels. Swirls, scratches and towel marks are now the number-one complaint. Because clear coats are sensitive to abrasion, yesterday’s products don’t necessarily work on today’s finishes, so enthusiasts must always choose products tailored to their finishes.

“We have a variety of products on the shelf designed for the finishes of the ’30s, ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, and we still make them,” Pennington said. “They might work on a new finish, but we have ones that are designed specifically for modern finishes. The abrasives are different and the formulations are different because they’re designed for scratch-sensitive clears.”

As for mattes, Meguiar’s carries products that work but are not specific to the finish, according to RJ de Vera, associate director of public relations and event marketing for Meguiar’s. “People want miracle solutions for matte that just don’t exist,” he said. “Once you get a big scratch on matte, you can’t do anything about it because you change the sheen of the actual clear coat when you use a compound and an abrasive to polish it out. You can get rid of the scratch, but then you’ll have a shiny spot.”

Keeping Up With Modern Finishes

To keep pace with these changes, Shining Monkey anticipates market trends by developing products three to five years out. The problem here, according to Dipede, is getting newly developed products to retail, because retailers tend to react slower to trends.

“We develop products that are growing with the trend, and retailers take a long time to react and get the products to the shelf because they’re so new,” Dipede said. “For example, we have a matte and vinyl cleaner we’re trying to launch in a few of the larger national chains. The retailers are hesitant because they don’t know how popular matte cars have become. They are out there, and there are no products on the market for them, so the problem is getting retailers to listen to what’s happening.”

Limit Confusion

There are hundreds of pre-waxes, cleaners, glazes, polishes and rubbing compounds on the shelf that all say the same thing, and it’s confusing to the consumer, according to Dipede.

“We try to explain to the average guy—because he doesn’t know the difference between a wax, a polish or a glaze—the different uses and how to apply them,” he said. “In our packaging, we tell consumers they don’t need to do three steps on their cars. If they want to, great, but they don’t have to, especially with modern finishes. As long as you have a good maintenance program, you’re using a good soap and you’re not going through no-touch car washes too often, the paint will last 15–20 years without looking weathered or torn.”

Andy Marocco, owner of Route 66 Speed Shop, suggested that manufacturers keep it simple. The company recently developed Rat Wax, which Marocco says is the first product on the market specifically designed to clean and protect rods and custom cars with flat, matte and satin paints.

“Consumers are inundated with decisions,” he said. “They don’t want several different products. They want one product that they can use on everything, including windows, seats and chrome. The key to connecting with consumers is to get out and talk to them and understand what they need. The market tells you where you should be, so it’s important to respond quickly to new trends.”

Right Tool, Right Technique

“When you go to the doctor, he evaluates you and writes a prescription,” Pennington said. “It’s your responsibility to read the directions and follow them. What happens if you just start popping pills randomly? They don’t do the job, or you may die. Think of all the different brands of car care as medicine. If you don’t know what’s wrong with your vehicle, there’s no way you can choose the right products, and if you don’t follow the directions, you’re not going to get good results. The best way to get good results is to understand what you’re working on and where you want to go.”

When choosing the right product for paint, there are five steps consumers should follow: wash, clean, polish, protect and maintain. Every car needs to be washed frequently using quality microfiber towels and clean mitts, because if they don’t remove the dirt, it’s going to bond and get etched into the finish. According to Pennington, the majority of Americans use dishwashing liquid, and it works, but it strips the wax protection off. He compares it to using an all-purpose cleaner on your hands all the time. To stay ahead of the game, use a pH-balanced, non-detergent car wash designed for automotive finishes.

People often wash and wax their cars and consider it detailing, but Pennington believes they’re missing the boat. Surface prep, or cleaning, removes bonded contaminants and defects, including scratches, swirls, stains and fallout that washing can’t remove. Not everybody does this, even though it can easily be performed using a drill-activated dual-action polisher system with specialized microfiber pads.

“This is what makes a car look really good,” he said. “Think of it as exfoliating your skin. A lot of companies make compounds or clay products. Whether the surface is rough and you want to make it as smooth as glass, or you want to get rid of swirl marks, that’s where this is done.”

Polishing creates gloss and is an optional step, comparable to putting lotion on your skin. The next step is protection, similar to applying sunscreen, which slows down the effects of Mother Nature. The disconnect is that most people don’t know how to protect their vehicles, according to Pennington.

“They see swirls, so they wash and wax, which leaves them with protected swirls,” he said. “If you put sunscreen over grease and grime on your hands, you get protected grease and grime. Not to mention that the wax doesn’t work as well and it doesn’t wipe on or off as easily. If you’re evaluating your car for the first time, you need to wash, clay, compound, wax and maintain your car.”

Three to four months later, it’s time to reevaluate. The vehicle’s finish shouldn’t be rough and have swirls, so a wash and wax would be all that’s necessary.

“So you know how to care for your car now,” Pennington said. “You’ve used the right tools and you haven’t put scratches back into it. It’s like cleaning your house once per year or vacuuming every weekend. If it already looks good, you never need to do a deep clean.”

Matte care is slightly different, but always be critical with washing and drying, wax and protection, Pennington suggested. Don’t use cleaners (compounds and clay) or polish, because they are designed to take out swirls and scratches by leveling a little bit of paint. Never use an abrasive, and do all the work by hand. For protection, a non-
abrasive spray wax works best. For maintenance, quick detailers can be used.

Evaluating the finish and choosing the right product is just as important for wheel care. If you choose the wrong wheel cleaner, you can damage a set of wheels. Understand what you bought, the surfaces you’re working on and, more importantly, the types of brakes and suspension components you have, Pennington suggested. When you spray a wheel cleaner, it goes all the way through and hits all the components. For example, if you have chrome wheels with high-performance brakes, you would not use a chrome wheel cleaner because it’s aggressive. You would choose an aluminum wheel cleaner or the weakest and safest product from a pH-balance perspective. Whether you’re a detailer or a consumer, take the safest, least-aggressive method.

Developing Eco-Friendly Solutions

Read the rest of "Car-Care 101" in the July 2013 issue of SEMA News.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at the Show by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List. Builders continuously look for the key pieces and products to add visual spice to their builds. The list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the pros that create trendsetting vehicles that capture the imaginations of media and buyers from around the world.

This type of product-placement opportunity is so valuable that manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at greatly reduced rates. The intention of the list is to make builders aware of potential products available. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2013 SEMA Show.

To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form.

The latest additions to the list will be included each week in SEMA eNews, when available. The list is open to exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show only and is intended to build awareness for SEMA Show exhibitors and their products.

For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org or call 909-978-6713.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

Magnuson Superchargers: Complete supercharger kits for most late-model domestic vehicles and resto-mod applications, including LSx, late-model HEMI, and Ford 4.6/5.0 engines. Contact: Matt Hately, matt.hately@magnusonproducts.com; 805-642-8833. Website: www.magnusonproducts.com.

Exterior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

T-REX Grilles: T-REX Grilles offers a wide range of aftermarket grille styles—traditional Billet Grille Series, aggressive X-Metal Grille Series, performance-based Torch Series Grilles, luxurious Upper Class Grille Series and motorsports-inspired Sport Series Grille Series—all which provide the perfect solution for every style and taste. Thousand of applications available for trucks/SUVs/Jeeps/Autos,  including the new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra/Toyota Tundra. After more than 16 years of cutting-edge design, development, fit and finish, the first stop for grilles is T-REX Grilles. Contact: Sponsorship Coordinator, info@trexbillet.com; 951-270-5388. Website: www.trexbillet.com.    

Interior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ harness bar available in four different colors. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

Eibach Springs Inc.: Pro-Kit springs, Sportline springs. Contact: Ryan Hoegner, rhoegner@eibach.com; 951-256-8300. Website: www.eibach.com.

Timbren Industries Inc.: Suspension Enhancement System kit for Truck, Van, SUV or Jeep. Allows vehicle to haul or tow heavy loads without the vehicle sagging or squatting. Available also for off-road use to absorb bounce and shock. Takes the place of the factory bump-stop. Simple bolt in installation. Contact: Andrew Hodgson, ahodgson@timbren.com; 905-444-9004. Website: www.timbren.com.

Other Products/Services

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: We specialize in feature and booth vehicle outfitting. Are you in need of show/race/off-road vehicles to represent you at the 2013 SEMA Show? We have you covered. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.   

Previous Submissions

Engine/Underhood Components

AEM Induction Systems: Cold air intake systems, intercooler systems (limited application), OE replacement air filters, exhaust systems (limited application), strut tower brace, modular tube bends, couplers, brackets, MAF pads. Contact: George Hsieh, georgeh@aemintakes.com; 951-826-4094. Website: www.aemintaks.com.

AIRAID Filter Co.: Cold air intake systems, premium air filters, and PowerAid throttle body spacers for most popular domestic and import cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Trent McGee, trent@airaid.com; 602-652-9732. Website: www.airaid.com.

Auburn Gear: Auburn Gear offers its HP Series limited-slip differential, Pro-Series limited-slip differential, Race Series, and Ected MAX Locker, which is a selectable limited-slip to full locker. Contact: Justin Smith, Jrsmith@auburngear.com; 260-920-1359.

Diamond Eye Performance: Performance diesel exhaust and accessories for Ford, Dodge and Chevy/GM, and performance gas exhaust for Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 Eco-Boost. Contact: Tom Terjeson, tomt@diamondeyemfg.com; 800-635-9950. Website: www.diamondeyeperformance.com.

Doug Thorley Headers: American-made performance exhaust headers, mid-pipes and exhaust systems. Premium-quality products available for classic cars and trucks, LS motor swaps and late-model cars and trucks. Contact: Troy Mastell tmastell@dougthorleyheaders.com; 951-273-3609. Website: www.dougthorleyheaders.com.

Eastwood Co.: Underhood paints, engine paints, battery maintainers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane motor and transmission mounts, shifter bushings. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

K&N Engineering Inc.: High-flow intake systems, OE replacement air filters, high-performance oil filters for most vehicles and powersports applications. Contact: Lucio Tapia, luciot@knfilters.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4350. Website: www.knfilters.com.

KRC Power Steering: Adjustable Assist Power Steering Pumps designed for racing & performance, front drive pulley kits and power steering pump and alternator mounting brackets. Contact: Roger Mealey, roger@krcpower.com; 770-422-5135. Website: www.krcpower.com.

Magnaflow: Performance exhaust systems, mufflers, tips, exhaust pipes, hot rod kits, glasspack, custom builder kits, diesel exhaust and catalytic converters. Contact: Kirsten Wright, kwright@magnaflow.com; 949-858-5900. Website: www.magnaflow.com.

ODYSSEY Battery by EnerSys: High-performance batteries. Contact: April Lowther, april.lowther@enersys.com; 610-208-1729.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Intakes, snorkels and exhaust systems for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Performance Distributors (D.U.I.): High-performance and racing ignition systems; alternators and batteries. Contact: Steve Davis, PerfDist@aol.com; 901-396-5782.

Perma-Cool Products: Cooling components: fans, oil & transmission coolers, oil filter mounts and adapters etc. Contact: Kevin Doyle, kevind@perma-cool.com; 909-391-3000. Website: www.perma-cool.com.

ProCharger: Intercooled ProCharger supercharger systems. Contact: Cary Pangrac, cary.pangrac@procharger.com; 913-338-2886. Website: www.procharger.com.

Pypes Performance Exhaust: Performance exhaust systems, cat-back, diesel stack tips and accessories. Contact: Mike Zimmerman, mikez@pypesexhaust.com; 215-350-1969. Website: www.pypesexhaust.com. 

Radium Engineering: Fuel system surge tanks, PCV catch cans, misc. unique fittings, fuel pumps. Contact: Aaron Suchy, aaron@radiumauto.com; 503-317-8322. Website: www.radiumauto.com. 

Reikken: High-performance power cells, batteries and chargers. Contact: Patrick Szeman, pszman@yahoo.com; 260-348-7003.

SCT Performance: Complete line of Ford and GM vehicle performance programmers. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Spectre Performance: High-performance air intake systems and air filters for musclecars and hot rods, as well as the most popular late-model domestic cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Mike Morrow, mikem@spectreperformance.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4038. Website: www.spectreperformance.com.   

Standard Motor Products: Components offered: High performance/racing spark plug wire sets; also offering battery cables. We supply wire sets to three major NASCAR engine builders. Contact: Brad Hopper, bhopper@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500, ext. 7168. Website: www.BlueStreakwire.com.

VP Racing Fuels: Official Fuel of the NHRA and 60 other sanctioned bodies of racing around the globe is looking for opportunities with key builders this year. We will REQUIRE dyno testing showing performance gains before and after for consideration for sponsorship. Products options will be our new VP101 - Street Legal Performance Unleaded, VP Vintage - Leaded Storage Fuel for Muscle Cars and Vintage vehicles, MS109 - Racing Performance Unleaded, VPC9 - Unleaded Storage Fuel, C85 - Ethanol Based Racing Fuel, and Leaded Racing Fuels - VPC16, VPQ16, VPC12, VP110, etc. Product info and tech sheets available online. Contact: Brian Fox, brian@foxmarketing.net; 717-577-6449. Website: www.vpracingfuels.com.

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

AnzoUSA: Projector headlights, LED taillights, LED light bars, LED pod lights, off-road HID lights. Contact: Shaun Callaway, shaun@anzousa.com; 909-590-8618. Website: www.anzousa.com.

A.R.E. Accessories LLC: A.R.E. truck caps and hard tonneau covers. Each cap is custom built and painted to meet the customer’s specifications. A.R.E. matches the vehicle identification number, paint code and uses a state-of-the-art factory painting system. There are more than a dozen types of truck caps and tonneau covers, as well as commercial units for fleets, that match every lifestyle and truck need. Contact: Shari Arfons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.4are.com.

BASF-The Chemical Co.: BASF R-M Oynx HD Waterborne, Carizzma Candy and Flat, Glasurit, BASF FOOSE Colors, or LIMCO Jet Black single stage available for import, domestic, street rod, pro touring, trucks or European applications. BASF will provide primer, color and clear for selected project vehicles. Contact: Brian Fox, brian.fox@basfpaintnews.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.basfrefinish.com, www.basfpaintnews.com, www.carizzmacolors.com.

BOLT Locks: BOLT locks feature Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology, which permanently programs the lock to a vehicle’s ignition key. When owners insert their ignition key into the BOLT Lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key. They are available for owners of Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles and deliver added security and convenience. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Convert-A-Ball Distributing: Cushioned ball mounts, interchangeable ball sets, fifth wheel to gooseneck adapters, cushioned towing accessories, including six-way multi-hitches, Pintle hitches, adjustable hitches, weight distribution hitches, swivel hitches and clevis hitches. Contact: Dennis Cheatham, info@convert-a-ball.net; 308-254-7115. Website: www.convert-a-ball.net.

Diversi-Tech (DT): Adjustable aluminum ball mounts, various sizes available from 4" to 10" drops, hand polished aluminum for mirror finish. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@progressmfg.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.diversi-tech.net.

Eastwood Co.: Paints: primers, base coat/clearcoat, single stage urethane paints, paint guns and all paint accessories used in painting projects. Glass polishing, headlight restoration, fender rollers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors, and side steps. Contact: Bryan Speer, info@egrusa.com; 909-923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fusion Bumpers: Premium steel bumpers for fullsize Dodge, Ford and GM trucks. Contact: Johnny Ramirez, johnny.fusionbumpers@gmail.com; 877-208-0525. Website: www.fusionbumpers.com.

Go Rhino Products/Big Country: Dominator D4 sidesteps, OE Xtreme sidesteps, Rhino Charger bull bars, winch guards, Wrangler guards. Contact: Mike DeFord, mike@gorhino.com; 714-257-7392.

KC HiLiTES Inc.: Auxiliary lighting products. Contact: Ron Pryczynski, ron@kchilites.com; 928-635-2607. Website: www.kchilites.com.

Masterbuilt: Cargo carrier; motorcycle carrier. Contact: Danny East, deast@masterbuilt.com; 706-2566-3909. Website: www.masterbuilt.com.

MPC Group: Engineered three-piece, or performance light-weight one-piece, forged wheels. Contact: Masato Tsuchiya, Masato@mpcforged.com; 714-998-8462.

N-FAB: Nerf steps, rock rails, full replacement front bumpers, pre-runners, light bars, light brackets, rear runners and tire carriers. Contact: Doug Parks, doug@n-fab.com; 281-880-6322. Website: www.n-fab.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Bumpers, fender flares, hood catches, trim pieces, soft tops, skid plates and more for Jeep. Fender flares for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

ORACLE Lighting: ORACLE Lighting SMD Headlight Halo Kits for Ford Raptor F150, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, and 2013 Dodge Charger. Professional installation service also available to confirmed display vehicles. Contact: Jonathan Barber, jonathan@oraclelights.com; 800-407-5776. Website: www.oraclelights.com.

Paramount Off-Road: Jeep/truck – Complete line of off-road front and rear bumpers, including fenders, rocker guards and sliders for Jeep JK/TJ. LED light bars and accessory lighting is available with vehicle-specific and universal mounting brackets. Lights include square, round and 50” combos. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Restyling: Truck/SUV/Jeep/car and the new 2014 Silverado/Sierra/Tundra – Offering the latest in restyling and trim with a complete line of studded, billet and esh grilles with matching door/tailgate handles, and mirror covers in chrome or carbon fiber finish for most models through 2014. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Workforce: Truck/SUV – Universal contractor racks and hitch-mounted accessories that include bed extenders, baskets and bike carriers for fullsize and compact trucks and SUVs. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

PIAA Corp. USA: Offroad lights, light bulbs and wiper blades. Contact: Justin MacLauchlan, justinm@piaa-usa.com; 503-489-6666.
Website: www.piaa.com.

Retrax Truck Bed Covers: Complete line of retractable pickup bed covers. Contact: Andy Nephew, anephew@retrax.com; 701-746-5596. Website: www.retrax.com.

Ranch Hand Truck Accessories: Front bumper replacements (traditional, bullnose, winch-ready), grille guards, back bumpers, running steps, steps, crossbox, headache rack systems for Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Ram, Toyota and certain products available for Jeep. Contact: Cherise Ratliff, cratliff@ranchhand.com; 361-594-4608. Website: www.ranchhand.com.

Rigid Industries: LED light bars, LED pod lighting, LED off-road lights, marine lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Bed Liners, rocker panel protection, under coating, wheel well protection and full body sprays. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Spyder Auto: L.E.D. taillights, CCFL projection headlights, light bar headlights. Contact: Mikey Lee, mikey@spyderauto.com; 626-934-8884. Website: www.spyderauto.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: DIY TPMS with valve-cap external sensors/driving video recorder. Contact: Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Surco Products Inc.: Roof & Hitch Mounted Basket Racks. All racks have custom adapters to adapt to any factory rack. We also can provide roof rails for any bare roof application. Contact: Osnat Surkin, osnatsurkin@surcoinc.com; 310-323-2520. Website: www.surcoinc.com.

TOFF Sprayed-on Bedliners: Sprayed-on bedliner. Contact: Jason Hamilton, jhamilton@toffliners.com; 214-716-1990. Website: www.toffliners.com.

TrailReady TR Products: Heavy-duty replacement front and rear bumpers, guards and winch mounts. Contact: Dorian Hartfield, dorian@truckaccessoriesnw.com; 888-910-2999. Website: www.trailready.com.

Truck Accessories Group – Leer, Century, Pace Edwards, Raider: Pace Edwards Retractable tonneau cover. Leer fiberglass caps and tonneaus. Contact: Patricia Stewart, pstewart@truckgroup.com; 916-771-0196. Website: www.pace-edwards.com, www.leer.com. 

Westin Automotive Products: Nerf bars and running boards, grille guards and bull bars, light bars, winches (limited), winch mount trays, winch mount grille guards, wind deflectors and bug shields. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.

Whistler: Tire-pressure monitoring system. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

BEDSLIDE/Takit Inc.: BEDSLIDE is simply a better way to access your truck bed by turning it into an easy-access drawer. The BEDSLIDE rolls all of your cargo out to you—saving time, effort and back pain. Available for SEMA project pickups, vans, SUVs and Jeeps. Contact: Jake Plappert, jake@takit.com; 239-340-9608. Website: www.bedslide.com.

Eastwood Co.: Sound deadening material, interior dye, paints, trim restoration solutions and much more. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Edge Products Inc./Superchips: Full line of tuning and monitoring products for '96–up vehicles. Contact: Jim McGinn, jmcginn@powerteq.com; 770-846-0327. Website: www.powerteq.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Floor liners, interior trim, seats, grab handles and more for Jeep. Floor liners for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Retro Manufacturing LLC: Radios, seatbelts, antennas, kick panels, power antennas, and speakers. Contact: Michael Robbins, mrobbins@retrosoundusa.com; 909-364-1372. Website: www.retrosoundusa.com.

ScanGauge-Linear Logic LLC: ScanGauge2, ScanGaugeE or ScanGaugeD. More than just a OBDII scan tool, the ScanGauge product line provides real-time feedback about driving style, more than 15 standard digital gauges, built-in trip computers, performance features and much more. Contact: Joey Snyder, joey.snyder@linear-logic.com; 480-656-4089. Website: www.ScanGauge.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Interior heat and sound control, interior non-slip, easy to clean liners. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: TPMS with professional internal sensors/parking assist system/car alarm/motorcycle alarm. Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Firewall insulator panels, AcoustiShield thermal acoustic automotive insulation kits (pre-cut, ready to install), molded truck headliner kits. See website for availability. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Rigid Industries: Interior accent lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Takata Racing: 50-state legal two-inch or three-inch four-point harness, or cam-lock equipped four-point or six-point SFI FIA HANS harnesses for import, off-road, domestic, American muscle, European or race car applications. NEW Racing seat line include Street Pro LE, Race LE, or Drift LE. Takata shoulder comfort pads available in two-inch or three-inch for all enthusiasts. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Vizualogic: Vizualogic's new Android SmartLogic headrest/tablet system: Kit would include "2" Perfect Match Replacement or Active Headrests. (We match the color, grain, and stitch of the factory headrest) with IR headphone option, "2" 7" five point capacitive touch screen tablets with Wi-Fi capabilities, front-facing camera, wireless FM modulator. Vehicle must be opened and attended to throughout the duration of the 2013 SEMA Show. System could also be used as an in-dash or console mount. Please submit complete build list, including renderings and/or pictures to walt@vizualogic.com. Contact: Walt Detlefsen, walt@vizualogic.com; 951-272-1996.

Westin Automotive Products: Floor mats and cargo mats, tool boxes and headache racks. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.   

Wet Okole Hawaii: Seat covers – Wet Okole manufactures custom-fit, waterproof Neoprene seat covers for most of today's vehicles. More than 40 colors and several styles to choose from. Standard, Solid, Piping, RealTree Camos. Contact: Steven Grew, steven.grew@wetokole.com; 714-434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.

Whistler: High-performance laser radar detectors; power inverters. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Power wire (0, 2, 4, and 8 gauge), batteries and chargers, along with with billet battery hold-downs. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

BDS Suspension: Complete suspension lifts kits for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@bds-suspension.com, 517-279-2135, ext.135. Website: www.bds-suspension.com.

Eastwood Co.: Chassis paint, rust removal, blasting, powder coating, brake flaring tools, brake kits, hand and brake tools. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane control-arm bushings, sway bar and end-link bushings, leaf-spring and shock-eyelet bushings, cab and body mounts, bump stops and master kits for most popular car and truck applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Firestone Industrial Products: Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs kits and components, R4Tech suspension system, air accessory kits and component (air compressors, air tanks, gauges, etc). Contact: Todd Green, greentodd@fsip.com; 317-818-8661. Website: www.fsip.com.

JKS Manufacturing: Suspension solutions and accessories for late model Jeep vehicles. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 517-278-7144, ext. 135. Website: www.jksmfg.com.

KW Automotive North America Inc.: Suspension-lowering components for trucks and SUVs, including spindles, complete kits, shock absorbers, anti-sway bars, etc. Contact: George Ciordas, george.ciordas@kwautomotive.com; 559-875-0222. Website: www.belltech.com.

Maxtrac Suspension: Lift, level, and lowering kits for trucks and SUVs. Contact: Bob Sager, bob@maxtracsuspension.com; 714-630-0363. Website: www.maxtracsuspension.com.

MGP Caliper Covers: Standard, licensed and custom caliper covers. Custom paint and engraving options are also available for select candidates. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Lift kits, brake kits and drivetrain products for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

QA1: Shocks, struts, coil-over kits, control arms, k-members, sway bars, strut tower braces, torque arms, rod ends, ball joints and many other suspension components for a variety of applications. Contact: Kaitlyn Nelson, knelson@qa1.net; 952-985-5675. Website: www.QA1.net.

Zone Offroad Products: Suspension lifts, body lifts, and accessories for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 888-998-9663, ext. 2135. Website: www.zoneoffroad.com.

Wheels & Tires

Atturo Tire: Atturo Tires - AZ800, Trail Blade M/T and A/T. Contact: Michael Mathis, mmathis@atturo.com; 847-265-6146. Website: www.Atturo.com.

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Other Products/Services

BOLT Locks: 1) The Padlock 2.0 is a chrome plated 5/16-inch hardened steel, spring loaded shackle lock inside a crush-resistant body shell. A stronger double ball bearing locking mechanism, it is the perfect lock for commercial and industrial applications. The automotive grade stainless steel lock keeps out weather and debris, ensuring a longer usage life. 2) The Receiver Lock is an auto-return spring and automatically locks when the key is removed. The solid stainless steel pin is durable and keeps out elements and debris. The six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping, guaranteeing your gear will be kept safe on your vehicle. 3) The Cable Lock is a six foot 1/4-inch coiled cable with a 1/16-inch black vinyl coating. The flexible cable is able to pin and loop over many items for added handiness and to keep items protected from picking and bumping. 4) BOLT also has Trailer Spare Tire Locks which fits the steel rim wheel to a studded mount. The locks are made with an electronic nickel plated carbon steel pin or shaft assembly for strength and durability. 5) The Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit features a solid zinc core and an automotive-grade cylinder with patented six-plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. A stainless steel lock shutter keeps out grime and wetness. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Energy Suspension: Universal and custom polyurethane applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fuel Tool: Larger gasoline tank and transfer system that would allow the user to access gasoline from the vehicle's gas tank and transfer it out into any gas-powered equipment, eliminating the need for gas cans. Excellent for trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, vans, etc. Contact: Mike McAvey, mikemcavey@fueltool.com; 201-956-2350. Website: www.fueltool.com.

Hornblasters Inc.: Loudest train horn kits ever made. On board air systems, air horns, and air suspension kits. Contact: Rigo, Rigo@HornBlasters.com; 813-783-8058, ext. 305. Website: www.HornBlasters.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Underhood cover with insulation. Special vehicle-theme molding available. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: High-build polyurethane and polyurea coatings.. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

SCT Performance: Custom-tuning assistance for project vehicles with unusual engine- and/or power-adder combinations. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Takata Racing: New Takata tow straps for race cars or show vehicles. Available in green and black, with Takata logo embroidered. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Wavetrac Differentials: Wavetrac differential. Contact: Dana Clark, info@wavetrac.net; 949-362-8700. Website: www.wavetrac.net.

Whistler: Diagnostic inspection camera. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Starting batteries, power wire, billet hold-downs, and chargers. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at the Show by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List. Builders continuously look for the key pieces and products to add visual spice to their builds. The list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the pros that create trendsetting vehicles that capture the imaginations of media and buyers from around the world.

This type of product-placement opportunity is so valuable that manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at greatly reduced rates. The intention of the list is to make builders aware of potential products available. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2013 SEMA Show.

To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form.

The latest additions to the list will be included each week in SEMA eNews, when available. The list is open to exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show only and is intended to build awareness for SEMA Show exhibitors and their products.

For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org or call 909-978-6713.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

Magnuson Superchargers: Complete supercharger kits for most late-model domestic vehicles and resto-mod applications, including LSx, late-model HEMI, and Ford 4.6/5.0 engines. Contact: Matt Hately, matt.hately@magnusonproducts.com; 805-642-8833. Website: www.magnusonproducts.com.

Exterior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

T-REX Grilles: T-REX Grilles offers a wide range of aftermarket grille styles—traditional Billet Grille Series, aggressive X-Metal Grille Series, performance-based Torch Series Grilles, luxurious Upper Class Grille Series and motorsports-inspired Sport Series Grille Series—all which provide the perfect solution for every style and taste. Thousand of applications available for trucks/SUVs/Jeeps/Autos,  including the new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra/Toyota Tundra. After more than 16 years of cutting-edge design, development, fit and finish, the first stop for grilles is T-REX Grilles. Contact: Sponsorship Coordinator, info@trexbillet.com; 951-270-5388. Website: www.trexbillet.com.    

Interior Components/Accessories

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ harness bar available in four different colors. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

Eibach Springs Inc.: Pro-Kit springs, Sportline springs. Contact: Ryan Hoegner, rhoegner@eibach.com; 951-256-8300. Website: www.eibach.com.

Timbren Industries Inc.: Suspension Enhancement System kit for Truck, Van, SUV or Jeep. Allows vehicle to haul or tow heavy loads without the vehicle sagging or squatting. Available also for off-road use to absorb bounce and shock. Takes the place of the factory bump-stop. Simple bolt in installation. Contact: Andrew Hodgson, ahodgson@timbren.com; 905-444-9004. Website: www.timbren.com.

Other Products/Services

CargoGlide: CargoGlide slide-out bed slides for trucks, vans, SUVs and work trucks. Quality engineered product with four models, offering 100% extension; three models with 70% extension, steel or aluminum. Contact: David McInturf, davidm@cargoglide.com; 877-525-9535. Website: www.cargoglide.com.

742 Marketing: We specialize in feature and booth vehicle outfitting. Are you in need of show/race/off-road vehicles to represent you at the 2013 SEMA Show? We have you covered. Contact: Jeff Maldonado, info@seven42.com; 323-490-9440. Website: www.742marketing.com.   

Previous Submissions

Engine/Underhood Components

AEM Induction Systems: Cold air intake systems, intercooler systems (limited application), OE replacement air filters, exhaust systems (limited application), strut tower brace, modular tube bends, couplers, brackets, MAF pads. Contact: George Hsieh, georgeh@aemintakes.com; 951-826-4094. Website: www.aemintaks.com.

AIRAID Filter Co.: Cold air intake systems, premium air filters, and PowerAid throttle body spacers for most popular domestic and import cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Trent McGee, trent@airaid.com; 602-652-9732. Website: www.airaid.com.

Auburn Gear: Auburn Gear offers its HP Series limited-slip differential, Pro-Series limited-slip differential, Race Series, and Ected MAX Locker, which is a selectable limited-slip to full locker. Contact: Justin Smith, Jrsmith@auburngear.com; 260-920-1359.

Diamond Eye Performance: Performance diesel exhaust and accessories for Ford, Dodge and Chevy/GM, and performance gas exhaust for Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 Eco-Boost. Contact: Tom Terjeson, tomt@diamondeyemfg.com; 800-635-9950. Website: www.diamondeyeperformance.com.

Doug Thorley Headers: American-made performance exhaust headers, mid-pipes and exhaust systems. Premium-quality products available for classic cars and trucks, LS motor swaps and late-model cars and trucks. Contact: Troy Mastell tmastell@dougthorleyheaders.com; 951-273-3609. Website: www.dougthorleyheaders.com.

Eastwood Co.: Underhood paints, engine paints, battery maintainers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane motor and transmission mounts, shifter bushings. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

K&N Engineering Inc.: High-flow intake systems, OE replacement air filters, high-performance oil filters for most vehicles and powersports applications. Contact: Lucio Tapia, luciot@knfilters.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4350. Website: www.knfilters.com.

KRC Power Steering: Adjustable Assist Power Steering Pumps designed for racing & performance, front drive pulley kits and power steering pump and alternator mounting brackets. Contact: Roger Mealey, roger@krcpower.com; 770-422-5135. Website: www.krcpower.com.

Magnaflow: Performance exhaust systems, mufflers, tips, exhaust pipes, hot rod kits, glasspack, custom builder kits, diesel exhaust and catalytic converters. Contact: Kirsten Wright, kwright@magnaflow.com; 949-858-5900. Website: www.magnaflow.com.

ODYSSEY Battery by EnerSys: High-performance batteries. Contact: April Lowther, april.lowther@enersys.com; 610-208-1729.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Intakes, snorkels and exhaust systems for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Performance Distributors (D.U.I.): High-performance and racing ignition systems; alternators and batteries. Contact: Steve Davis, PerfDist@aol.com; 901-396-5782.

Perma-Cool Products: Cooling components: fans, oil & transmission coolers, oil filter mounts and adapters etc. Contact: Kevin Doyle, kevind@perma-cool.com; 909-391-3000. Website: www.perma-cool.com.

ProCharger: Intercooled ProCharger supercharger systems. Contact: Cary Pangrac, cary.pangrac@procharger.com; 913-338-2886. Website: www.procharger.com.

Pypes Performance Exhaust: Performance exhaust systems, cat-back, diesel stack tips and accessories. Contact: Mike Zimmerman, mikez@pypesexhaust.com; 215-350-1969. Website: www.pypesexhaust.com. 

Radium Engineering: Fuel system surge tanks, PCV catch cans, misc. unique fittings, fuel pumps. Contact: Aaron Suchy, aaron@radiumauto.com; 503-317-8322. Website: www.radiumauto.com. 

Reikken: High-performance power cells, batteries and chargers. Contact: Patrick Szeman, pszman@yahoo.com; 260-348-7003.

SCT Performance: Complete line of Ford and GM vehicle performance programmers. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Spectre Performance: High-performance air intake systems and air filters for musclecars and hot rods, as well as the most popular late-model domestic cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Mike Morrow, mikem@spectreperformance.com; 951-826-4000, ext. 4038. Website: www.spectreperformance.com.   

Standard Motor Products: Components offered: High performance/racing spark plug wire sets; also offering battery cables. We supply wire sets to three major NASCAR engine builders. Contact: Brad Hopper, bhopper@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500, ext. 7168. Website: www.BlueStreakwire.com.

VP Racing Fuels: Official Fuel of the NHRA and 60 other sanctioned bodies of racing around the globe is looking for opportunities with key builders this year. We will REQUIRE dyno testing showing performance gains before and after for consideration for sponsorship. Products options will be our new VP101 - Street Legal Performance Unleaded, VP Vintage - Leaded Storage Fuel for Muscle Cars and Vintage vehicles, MS109 - Racing Performance Unleaded, VPC9 - Unleaded Storage Fuel, C85 - Ethanol Based Racing Fuel, and Leaded Racing Fuels - VPC16, VPQ16, VPC12, VP110, etc. Product info and tech sheets available online. Contact: Brian Fox, brian@foxmarketing.net; 717-577-6449. Website: www.vpracingfuels.com.

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

AnzoUSA: Projector headlights, LED taillights, LED light bars, LED pod lights, off-road HID lights. Contact: Shaun Callaway, shaun@anzousa.com; 909-590-8618. Website: www.anzousa.com.

A.R.E. Accessories LLC: A.R.E. truck caps and hard tonneau covers. Each cap is custom built and painted to meet the customer’s specifications. A.R.E. matches the vehicle identification number, paint code and uses a state-of-the-art factory painting system. There are more than a dozen types of truck caps and tonneau covers, as well as commercial units for fleets, that match every lifestyle and truck need. Contact: Shari Arfons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.4are.com.

BASF-The Chemical Co.: BASF R-M Oynx HD Waterborne, Carizzma Candy and Flat, Glasurit, BASF FOOSE Colors, or LIMCO Jet Black single stage available for import, domestic, street rod, pro touring, trucks or European applications. BASF will provide primer, color and clear for selected project vehicles. Contact: Brian Fox, brian.fox@basfpaintnews.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.basfrefinish.com, www.basfpaintnews.com, www.carizzmacolors.com.

BOLT Locks: BOLT locks feature Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology, which permanently programs the lock to a vehicle’s ignition key. When owners insert their ignition key into the BOLT Lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key. They are available for owners of Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles and deliver added security and convenience. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Convert-A-Ball Distributing: Cushioned ball mounts, interchangeable ball sets, fifth wheel to gooseneck adapters, cushioned towing accessories, including six-way multi-hitches, Pintle hitches, adjustable hitches, weight distribution hitches, swivel hitches and clevis hitches. Contact: Dennis Cheatham, info@convert-a-ball.net; 308-254-7115. Website: www.convert-a-ball.net.

Diversi-Tech (DT): Adjustable aluminum ball mounts, various sizes available from 4" to 10" drops, hand polished aluminum for mirror finish. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@progressmfg.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.diversi-tech.net.

Eastwood Co.: Paints: primers, base coat/clearcoat, single stage urethane paints, paint guns and all paint accessories used in painting projects. Glass polishing, headlight restoration, fender rollers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors, and side steps. Contact: Bryan Speer, info@egrusa.com; 909-923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fusion Bumpers: Premium steel bumpers for fullsize Dodge, Ford and GM trucks. Contact: Johnny Ramirez, johnny.fusionbumpers@gmail.com; 877-208-0525. Website: www.fusionbumpers.com.

Go Rhino Products/Big Country: Dominator D4 sidesteps, OE Xtreme sidesteps, Rhino Charger bull bars, winch guards, Wrangler guards. Contact: Mike DeFord, mike@gorhino.com; 714-257-7392.

KC HiLiTES Inc.: Auxiliary lighting products. Contact: Ron Pryczynski, ron@kchilites.com; 928-635-2607. Website: www.kchilites.com.

Masterbuilt: Cargo carrier; motorcycle carrier. Contact: Danny East, deast@masterbuilt.com; 706-2566-3909. Website: www.masterbuilt.com.

MPC Group: Engineered three-piece, or performance light-weight one-piece, forged wheels. Contact: Masato Tsuchiya, Masato@mpcforged.com; 714-998-8462.

N-FAB: Nerf steps, rock rails, full replacement front bumpers, pre-runners, light bars, light brackets, rear runners and tire carriers. Contact: Doug Parks, doug@n-fab.com; 281-880-6322. Website: www.n-fab.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Bumpers, fender flares, hood catches, trim pieces, soft tops, skid plates and more for Jeep. Fender flares for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

ORACLE Lighting: ORACLE Lighting SMD Headlight Halo Kits for Ford Raptor F150, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, and 2013 Dodge Charger. Professional installation service also available to confirmed display vehicles. Contact: Jonathan Barber, jonathan@oraclelights.com; 800-407-5776. Website: www.oraclelights.com.

Paramount Off-Road: Jeep/truck – Complete line of off-road front and rear bumpers, including fenders, rocker guards and sliders for Jeep JK/TJ. LED light bars and accessory lighting is available with vehicle-specific and universal mounting brackets. Lights include square, round and 50” combos. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Restyling: Truck/SUV/Jeep/car and the new 2014 Silverado/Sierra/Tundra – Offering the latest in restyling and trim with a complete line of studded, billet and esh grilles with matching door/tailgate handles, and mirror covers in chrome or carbon fiber finish for most models through 2014. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

Paramount Workforce: Truck/SUV – Universal contractor racks and hitch-mounted accessories that include bed extenders, baskets and bike carriers for fullsize and compact trucks and SUVs. Contact: Victor Casillas, victorc@paramount-automotive.com. Website: www.paramount-automotive.com.

PIAA Corp. USA: Offroad lights, light bulbs and wiper blades. Contact: Justin MacLauchlan, justinm@piaa-usa.com; 503-489-6666.
Website: www.piaa.com.

Retrax Truck Bed Covers: Complete line of retractable pickup bed covers. Contact: Andy Nephew, anephew@retrax.com; 701-746-5596. Website: www.retrax.com.

Ranch Hand Truck Accessories: Front bumper replacements (traditional, bullnose, winch-ready), grille guards, back bumpers, running steps, steps, crossbox, headache rack systems for Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Ram, Toyota and certain products available for Jeep. Contact: Cherise Ratliff, cratliff@ranchhand.com; 361-594-4608. Website: www.ranchhand.com.

Rigid Industries: LED light bars, LED pod lighting, LED off-road lights, marine lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Bed Liners, rocker panel protection, under coating, wheel well protection and full body sprays. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Spyder Auto: L.E.D. taillights, CCFL projection headlights, light bar headlights. Contact: Mikey Lee, mikey@spyderauto.com; 626-934-8884. Website: www.spyderauto.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: DIY TPMS with valve-cap external sensors/driving video recorder. Contact: Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Surco Products Inc.: Roof & Hitch Mounted Basket Racks. All racks have custom adapters to adapt to any factory rack. We also can provide roof rails for any bare roof application. Contact: Osnat Surkin, osnatsurkin@surcoinc.com; 310-323-2520. Website: www.surcoinc.com.

TOFF Sprayed-on Bedliners: Sprayed-on bedliner. Contact: Jason Hamilton, jhamilton@toffliners.com; 214-716-1990. Website: www.toffliners.com.

TrailReady TR Products: Heavy-duty replacement front and rear bumpers, guards and winch mounts. Contact: Dorian Hartfield, dorian@truckaccessoriesnw.com; 888-910-2999. Website: www.trailready.com.

Truck Accessories Group – Leer, Century, Pace Edwards, Raider: Pace Edwards Retractable tonneau cover. Leer fiberglass caps and tonneaus. Contact: Patricia Stewart, pstewart@truckgroup.com; 916-771-0196. Website: www.pace-edwards.com, www.leer.com. 

Westin Automotive Products: Nerf bars and running boards, grille guards and bull bars, light bars, winches (limited), winch mount trays, winch mount grille guards, wind deflectors and bug shields. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.

Whistler: Tire-pressure monitoring system. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

BEDSLIDE/Takit Inc.: BEDSLIDE is simply a better way to access your truck bed by turning it into an easy-access drawer. The BEDSLIDE rolls all of your cargo out to you—saving time, effort and back pain. Available for SEMA project pickups, vans, SUVs and Jeeps. Contact: Jake Plappert, jake@takit.com; 239-340-9608. Website: www.bedslide.com.

Eastwood Co.: Sound deadening material, interior dye, paints, trim restoration solutions and much more. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Edge Products Inc./Superchips: Full line of tuning and monitoring products for '96–up vehicles. Contact: Jim McGinn, jmcginn@powerteq.com; 770-846-0327. Website: www.powerteq.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Floor liners, interior trim, seats, grab handles and more for Jeep. Floor liners for trucks. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

Retro Manufacturing LLC: Radios, seatbelts, antennas, kick panels, power antennas, and speakers. Contact: Michael Robbins, mrobbins@retrosoundusa.com; 909-364-1372. Website: www.retrosoundusa.com.

ScanGauge-Linear Logic LLC: ScanGauge2, ScanGaugeE or ScanGaugeD. More than just a OBDII scan tool, the ScanGauge product line provides real-time feedback about driving style, more than 15 standard digital gauges, built-in trip computers, performance features and much more. Contact: Joey Snyder, joey.snyder@linear-logic.com; 480-656-4089. Website: www.ScanGauge.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Interior heat and sound control, interior non-slip, easy to clean liners. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Steelmate Co. Ltd.: TPMS with professional internal sensors/parking assist system/car alarm/motorcycle alarm. Jane Lo, jane.lo@steel-mate.com.hk; 852-9651-4006. Website: www.steel-mate.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Firewall insulator panels, AcoustiShield thermal acoustic automotive insulation kits (pre-cut, ready to install), molded truck headliner kits. See website for availability. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Rigid Industries: Interior accent lighting. Contact: Taylor Anderson, Sponsorship@rigidindustries.com; 480-655-0100. Website: www.rigidindustries.com.

Takata Racing: 50-state legal two-inch or three-inch four-point harness, or cam-lock equipped four-point or six-point SFI FIA HANS harnesses for import, off-road, domestic, American muscle, European or race car applications. NEW Racing seat line include Street Pro LE, Race LE, or Drift LE. Takata shoulder comfort pads available in two-inch or three-inch for all enthusiasts. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Vizualogic: Vizualogic's new Android SmartLogic headrest/tablet system: Kit would include "2" Perfect Match Replacement or Active Headrests. (We match the color, grain, and stitch of the factory headrest) with IR headphone option, "2" 7" five point capacitive touch screen tablets with Wi-Fi capabilities, front-facing camera, wireless FM modulator. Vehicle must be opened and attended to throughout the duration of the 2013 SEMA Show. System could also be used as an in-dash or console mount. Please submit complete build list, including renderings and/or pictures to walt@vizualogic.com. Contact: Walt Detlefsen, walt@vizualogic.com; 951-272-1996.

Westin Automotive Products: Floor mats and cargo mats, tool boxes and headache racks. Contact: Julie De Anda, JDeAnda@westinautomotive.com; 626-960-6762 ext. 450. Website: www.westinautomotive.com.   

Wet Okole Hawaii: Seat covers – Wet Okole manufactures custom-fit, waterproof Neoprene seat covers for most of today's vehicles. More than 40 colors and several styles to choose from. Standard, Solid, Piping, RealTree Camos. Contact: Steven Grew, steven.grew@wetokole.com; 714-434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.

Whistler: High-performance laser radar detectors; power inverters. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Power wire (0, 2, 4, and 8 gauge), batteries and chargers, along with with billet battery hold-downs. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

BDS Suspension: Complete suspension lifts kits for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@bds-suspension.com, 517-279-2135, ext.135. Website: www.bds-suspension.com.

Eastwood Co.: Chassis paint, rust removal, blasting, powder coating, brake flaring tools, brake kits, hand and brake tools. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Energy Suspension: Hyper-Flex polyurethane control-arm bushings, sway bar and end-link bushings, leaf-spring and shock-eyelet bushings, cab and body mounts, bump stops and master kits for most popular car and truck applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Firestone Industrial Products: Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs kits and components, R4Tech suspension system, air accessory kits and component (air compressors, air tanks, gauges, etc). Contact: Todd Green, greentodd@fsip.com; 317-818-8661. Website: www.fsip.com.

JKS Manufacturing: Suspension solutions and accessories for late model Jeep vehicles. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 517-278-7144, ext. 135. Website: www.jksmfg.com.

KW Automotive North America Inc.: Suspension-lowering components for trucks and SUVs, including spindles, complete kits, shock absorbers, anti-sway bars, etc. Contact: George Ciordas, george.ciordas@kwautomotive.com; 559-875-0222. Website: www.belltech.com.

Maxtrac Suspension: Lift, level, and lowering kits for trucks and SUVs. Contact: Bob Sager, bob@maxtracsuspension.com; 714-630-0363. Website: www.maxtracsuspension.com.

MGP Caliper Covers: Standard, licensed and custom caliper covers. Custom paint and engraving options are also available for select candidates. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge: Lift kits, brake kits and drivetrain products for Jeep. Contact: Henk van Dongen, hvandongen@omix-ada.com; 770-614-6101. Website: www.Omix-ADA.com.

QA1: Shocks, struts, coil-over kits, control arms, k-members, sway bars, strut tower braces, torque arms, rod ends, ball joints and many other suspension components for a variety of applications. Contact: Kaitlyn Nelson, knelson@qa1.net; 952-985-5675. Website: www.QA1.net.

Zone Offroad Products: Suspension lifts, body lifts, and accessories for trucks and Jeeps. Contact: Kent Wyatt, kwyatt@truck-master.com; 888-998-9663, ext. 2135. Website: www.zoneoffroad.com.

Wheels & Tires

Atturo Tire: Atturo Tires - AZ800, Trail Blade M/T and A/T. Contact: Michael Mathis, mmathis@atturo.com; 847-265-6146. Website: www.Atturo.com.

American Force Wheels: Dually wheels in 65 designs for all-terrain, mud-terrain, low-profile and big rig use and appearance. These wheels are custom manufactured in the USA from 6061 forged aluminum and high-quality materials. Sizes include 19” Direct Bolt-On, 19.5” Direct Bolt-On, 20”, 22”, 22.5”, 24”, 24.5” and 26” and are available in a 5-, 6-, 8- or 10-lug fitment. Super single wheels are available in a variety of applications and design configurations. Contact: Deyan Font, deyan@americanforcewheels.com; 786-345-6301. Website: www.americanforcewheels.com.

Vossen: 19–23 -inch luxury/sport concave wheels. We offer our class-leading CV wheels and our new one-piece, lightweight forged Vossen Precision Series. Contact: Mike Forsythe, mike@vossenwheels.com; 305-463-7778. Website: www.vossenwheels.com.

Other Products/Services

BOLT Locks: 1) The Padlock 2.0 is a chrome plated 5/16-inch hardened steel, spring loaded shackle lock inside a crush-resistant body shell. A stronger double ball bearing locking mechanism, it is the perfect lock for commercial and industrial applications. The automotive grade stainless steel lock keeps out weather and debris, ensuring a longer usage life. 2) The Receiver Lock is an auto-return spring and automatically locks when the key is removed. The solid stainless steel pin is durable and keeps out elements and debris. The six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping, guaranteeing your gear will be kept safe on your vehicle. 3) The Cable Lock is a six foot 1/4-inch coiled cable with a 1/16-inch black vinyl coating. The flexible cable is able to pin and loop over many items for added handiness and to keep items protected from picking and bumping. 4) BOLT also has Trailer Spare Tire Locks which fits the steel rim wheel to a studded mount. The locks are made with an electronic nickel plated carbon steel pin or shaft assembly for strength and durability. 5) The Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit features a solid zinc core and an automotive-grade cylinder with patented six-plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. A stainless steel lock shutter keeps out grime and wetness. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

Energy Suspension: Universal and custom polyurethane applications. Contact: Michael Santa Cruz, msantacruz@energysuspension.com; 949-361-3935, ext. 235. Website: www.energysuspension.com.

Fastway Trailer Products: Trailer accessories, Flip automatic tongue jack foot, weight distributing hitch with built in sway control (No- Chains), Zip coiled breakaway cable a trailer breakaway cable that won't drag. Tandem axle wheel chock. Contact: Trevor Millar, tmillar@fastwaytrailer.com; 877-523-9103. Website: www.fastwaytrailer.com.

Fuel Tool: Larger gasoline tank and transfer system that would allow the user to access gasoline from the vehicle's gas tank and transfer it out into any gas-powered equipment, eliminating the need for gas cans. Excellent for trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, vans, etc. Contact: Mike McAvey, mikemcavey@fueltool.com; 201-956-2350. Website: www.fueltool.com.

Hornblasters Inc.: Loudest train horn kits ever made. On board air systems, air horns, and air suspension kits. Contact: Rigo, Rigo@HornBlasters.com; 813-783-8058, ext. 305. Website: www.HornBlasters.com.

Quiet Ride Solutions: Underhood cover with insulation. Special vehicle-theme molding available. Contact: Timothy Cox, timcox@quietride.com; 209-321-1454. Website: www.quietride.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: High-build polyurethane and polyurea coatings.. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

SCT Performance: Custom-tuning assistance for project vehicles with unusual engine- and/or power-adder combinations. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

Takata Racing: New Takata tow straps for race cars or show vehicles. Available in green and black, with Takata logo embroidered. Contact: Brian Fox, fox@takataracing.com; 717-577-6449. Website: www.takataracing.com, www.schrothracing.com.

Wavetrac Differentials: Wavetrac differential. Contact: Dana Clark, info@wavetrac.net; 949-362-8700. Website: www.wavetrac.net.

Whistler: Diagnostic inspection camera. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

XS Power Batteries: Starting batteries, power wire, billet hold-downs, and chargers. Contact: Nathan Way, nathan@xspowerbatteries.com; 888-497-7693. Website: www.4xspower.com.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Insuring Specialty Vehicles

How to Cover the Basics and More

Build vehicles are valuable commodities, so whether your business keeps them on display at the shop or takes them on the road to tout your brand, you’ll want to have them properly insured. Yet, adequately covering them can be complicated.

“There can be a lot of crossover and confusion when it comes to coverages,” said Adam Baillie, division manager for HT&R Performance, a section of Hayward Tilton & Rolapp Insurance Associates that focuses primarily on the automotive and motorcycle aftermarkets. “The insurance industry has a lot of terms that we use that are sometimes misunderstood by the general public.”

Covering the Basics

“When it comes to SEMA members, we’ve found the majority [that we cover] are installer shops—the retail guys who deal directly with the public, selling products that are provided by SEMA manufacturers and sometimes also installing them,” Baillie said. “So you have two sides to the business. You have the selling of the product, and then you have the installation. We’re finding that, obviously, due to the Internet, the selling side is probably quite a bit more popular than the installation side. So from an exposure standpoint, the majority of SEMA members are going to have insurance through a business owner’s policy (BOP). That’s designed to be a one-stop, include-all insurance policy usually provided by a big-name insurance company.”

Typically, a BOP can include any or all of the following coverages:

• General liability
• Product liability
• Property insurance
• Commercial automotive insurance

“That probably meets the needs of 90% of the installer members,” Baillie pointed out, adding that BOPs are usually provided by a local regional broker.

Within that BOP, however, the way a vehicle is registered will greatly affect policy particulars.

“When it comes to insuring a vehicle, the majority of the time you’re going to insure it one of two ways,” explained Baillie. “If it’s a non-owned vehicle, you’re going to insure it with garage-keeper’s coverage, which is designed to insure vehicles that are in your care, custody and control. Autos owned by the business are going to be insured under a business or commercial auto policy.”

“The thing with liability insurance is it breaks down into all these specific sections,” added Bob Leggio, principal at Motorsports Insurances Services, which also specializes in coverage for the specialty-equipment industry. Like Baillie, he advises carefully weighing all the factors about how a vehicle is owned and used to fine-tune policies.

“If you’ve got your own cars and they’re used to promote your business, they could be added to your garage-keeper’s liability policy,” Leggio said. “But there are benefits and negatives to that. The obvious negative is that if they’re personal cars owned by you and not necessarily by your business, you may be better off insuring them as individual collector cars that happen to be garaged at your business. The reason for that is the specialty-car policies are more geared toward the correct valuation of the vehicle as well as the adjusting process. More often than not, you’ll have adjustors who are very familiar with your specific car.”

Note that the operative words here are “specialty-car policies.” You normally wouldn’t want to cover a project or collectible vehicle under the typical personal auto policy, said Franco Ganino, vice president of Alliant Insurance Services, another agency catering to the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“I have seen some circumstances where an individual registers a vehicle in their own personal name and they’re calling personal line carriers like State Farm and Allstate and insuring it like it’s their everyday car,” said Ganino. “However, they need to make sure that carrier recognizes the fact that the vehicle has an increased valuation so they don’t just do a replacement cost. Say a $50,000 vehicle has $50,000 put into it and it gets damaged or stolen in the process. The insurance company is going to see it as a stock car, and they’ll be out of pocket for that variance.”

Protecting Dollar Vehicles

All the foregoing is fine if a vehicle is an “ordinary” project car or collectible of a business owner, retailer-installer or manufacturing company. But what if it’s a so-called “dollar car”—a build vehicle purchased through a contracted discount from an OEM to showcase product at trade and consumer events? Here, things can become much more complicated.

“In most cases, what we’re seeing is that these contracts require the business owner or the recipient of the vehicle or even the professional restyler working on the vehicle to carry general liability coverage, and the OEM likes to be named as an additional-named insured,” said Ganino. “Becoming a co-named on the policy allows the OEM to be protected should something happen with the build where they feel they can get pulled into some level of lawsuit as a result of them giving the vehicle to the recipient.”

Some OEMs go even further than that.

In the end, however, the OEM will be most interested in two items of coverage. The first, as mentioned above, is general liability. The OEM wants to know that it is protected against possible injuries to people in and out of a vehicle—even if it will only be driven to and from a trailer to a show or to and from a trailer into a place of business.

“The second item is the physical damage side of the equation,” said Ganino. “If the vehicle is not going to be used on the road or registered through DMV records, the business has to secure an inland marine policy to insure the vehicle no matter where it is.”

That includes loaning the vehicle out to subcontractors.

What’s It Worth?

Which brings us to the tricky factor of determining a specialty vehicle’s value. According to Baillie, it’s vitally important that the policyholder understand the three different ways insurance companies pay out.

SEMA News—July 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Insuring Specialty Vehicles

How to Cover the Basics and More

Build vehicles are valuable commodities, so whether your business keeps them on display at the shop or takes them on the road to tout your brand, you’ll want to have them properly insured. Yet, adequately covering them can be complicated.

“There can be a lot of crossover and confusion when it comes to coverages,” said Adam Baillie, division manager for HT&R Performance, a section of Hayward Tilton & Rolapp Insurance Associates that focuses primarily on the automotive and motorcycle aftermarkets. “The insurance industry has a lot of terms that we use that are sometimes misunderstood by the general public.”

Covering the Basics

“When it comes to SEMA members, we’ve found the majority [that we cover] are installer shops—the retail guys who deal directly with the public, selling products that are provided by SEMA manufacturers and sometimes also installing them,” Baillie said. “So you have two sides to the business. You have the selling of the product, and then you have the installation. We’re finding that, obviously, due to the Internet, the selling side is probably quite a bit more popular than the installation side. So from an exposure standpoint, the majority of SEMA members are going to have insurance through a business owner’s policy (BOP). That’s designed to be a one-stop, include-all insurance policy usually provided by a big-name insurance company.”

Typically, a BOP can include any or all of the following coverages:

• General liability
• Product liability
• Property insurance
• Commercial automotive insurance

“That probably meets the needs of 90% of the installer members,” Baillie pointed out, adding that BOPs are usually provided by a local regional broker.

Within that BOP, however, the way a vehicle is registered will greatly affect policy particulars.

“When it comes to insuring a vehicle, the majority of the time you’re going to insure it one of two ways,” explained Baillie. “If it’s a non-owned vehicle, you’re going to insure it with garage-keeper’s coverage, which is designed to insure vehicles that are in your care, custody and control. Autos owned by the business are going to be insured under a business or commercial auto policy.”

“The thing with liability insurance is it breaks down into all these specific sections,” added Bob Leggio, principal at Motorsports Insurances Services, which also specializes in coverage for the specialty-equipment industry. Like Baillie, he advises carefully weighing all the factors about how a vehicle is owned and used to fine-tune policies.

“If you’ve got your own cars and they’re used to promote your business, they could be added to your garage-keeper’s liability policy,” Leggio said. “But there are benefits and negatives to that. The obvious negative is that if they’re personal cars owned by you and not necessarily by your business, you may be better off insuring them as individual collector cars that happen to be garaged at your business. The reason for that is the specialty-car policies are more geared toward the correct valuation of the vehicle as well as the adjusting process. More often than not, you’ll have adjustors who are very familiar with your specific car.”

Note that the operative words here are “specialty-car policies.” You normally wouldn’t want to cover a project or collectible vehicle under the typical personal auto policy, said Franco Ganino, vice president of Alliant Insurance Services, another agency catering to the automotive specialty-equipment market.

“I have seen some circumstances where an individual registers a vehicle in their own personal name and they’re calling personal line carriers like State Farm and Allstate and insuring it like it’s their everyday car,” said Ganino. “However, they need to make sure that carrier recognizes the fact that the vehicle has an increased valuation so they don’t just do a replacement cost. Say a $50,000 vehicle has $50,000 put into it and it gets damaged or stolen in the process. The insurance company is going to see it as a stock car, and they’ll be out of pocket for that variance.”

Protecting Dollar Vehicles

All the foregoing is fine if a vehicle is an “ordinary” project car or collectible of a business owner, retailer-installer or manufacturing company. But what if it’s a so-called “dollar car”—a build vehicle purchased through a contracted discount from an OEM to showcase product at trade and consumer events? Here, things can become much more complicated.

“In most cases, what we’re seeing is that these contracts require the business owner or the recipient of the vehicle or even the professional restyler working on the vehicle to carry general liability coverage, and the OEM likes to be named as an additional-named insured,” said Ganino. “Becoming a co-named on the policy allows the OEM to be protected should something happen with the build where they feel they can get pulled into some level of lawsuit as a result of them giving the vehicle to the recipient.”

Some OEMs go even further than that.

In the end, however, the OEM will be most interested in two items of coverage. The first, as mentioned above, is general liability. The OEM wants to know that it is protected against possible injuries to people in and out of a vehicle—even if it will only be driven to and from a trailer to a show or to and from a trailer into a place of business.

“The second item is the physical damage side of the equation,” said Ganino. “If the vehicle is not going to be used on the road or registered through DMV records, the business has to secure an inland marine policy to insure the vehicle no matter where it is.”

That includes loaning the vehicle out to subcontractors.

What’s It Worth?

Which brings us to the tricky factor of determining a specialty vehicle’s value. According to Baillie, it’s vitally important that the policyholder understand the three different ways insurance companies pay out.

By SEMA Editors

	John Menzler of COMP Performance Group gets ready to launch the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races at last year's event in Pomona.

How would you like to race your car at Pomona for only $95? No, it won't be on historic NHRA Raceway's quarter-mile; however, it will be on SEMA Cares' Pinewood Drag Races track where your generous donation will support various charities, including two that help children. Who knows, you just might just make the record books as the winner of this year's special event! Wally Parks, the founder of the NHRA and a very charitable man himself, will be watching the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races from above with a smile on his face knowing the specialty-equipment market he loved so much continues to support people in need.

Held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors, takes place Friday, July 26, 2013, at 12:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. There is no better location for SEMA Pinewood Drag Races than Pomona—home of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and Auto Club Raceway.

Sponsoring a SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Race car is easy and rewarding. Help a child or person in need today.

By SEMA Editors

	John Menzler of COMP Performance Group gets ready to launch the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races at last year's event in Pomona.

How would you like to race your car at Pomona for only $95? No, it won't be on historic NHRA Raceway's quarter-mile; however, it will be on SEMA Cares' Pinewood Drag Races track where your generous donation will support various charities, including two that help children. Who knows, you just might just make the record books as the winner of this year's special event! Wally Parks, the founder of the NHRA and a very charitable man himself, will be watching the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races from above with a smile on his face knowing the specialty-equipment market he loved so much continues to support people in need.

Held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors, takes place Friday, July 26, 2013, at 12:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. There is no better location for SEMA Pinewood Drag Races than Pomona—home of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and Auto Club Raceway.

Sponsoring a SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Race car is easy and rewarding. Help a child or person in need today.

By SEMA Editors

	John Menzler of COMP Performance Group gets ready to launch the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races at last year's event in Pomona.

How would you like to race your car at Pomona for only $95? No, it won't be on historic NHRA Raceway's quarter-mile; however, it will be on SEMA Cares' Pinewood Drag Races track where your generous donation will support various charities, including two that help children. Who knows, you just might just make the record books as the winner of this year's special event! Wally Parks, the founder of the NHRA and a very charitable man himself, will be watching the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races from above with a smile on his face knowing the specialty-equipment market he loved so much continues to support people in need.

Held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors, takes place Friday, July 26, 2013, at 12:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. There is no better location for SEMA Pinewood Drag Races than Pomona—home of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and Auto Club Raceway.

Sponsoring a SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Race car is easy and rewarding. Help a child or person in need today.

By SEMA Editors

	John Menzler of COMP Performance Group gets ready to launch the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races at last year's event in Pomona.

How would you like to race your car at Pomona for only $95? No, it won't be on historic NHRA Raceway's quarter-mile; however, it will be on SEMA Cares' Pinewood Drag Races track where your generous donation will support various charities, including two that help children. Who knows, you just might just make the record books as the winner of this year's special event! Wally Parks, the founder of the NHRA and a very charitable man himself, will be watching the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races from above with a smile on his face knowing the specialty-equipment market he loved so much continues to support people in need.

Held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors, takes place Friday, July 26, 2013, at 12:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. There is no better location for SEMA Pinewood Drag Races than Pomona—home of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and Auto Club Raceway.

Sponsoring a SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Race car is easy and rewarding. Help a child or person in need today.