News | Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

Nevada Pro-Hobbyist Inoperable Vehicle Bill Signed Into Law

Thu, 06/06/2013 - 07:13

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval has signed into law SEMA-amended legislation that originally threatened to add abandoned, unregistered, inoperable or junk motor vehicles to the list of items that constitute a public nuisance. Under existing law, counties and cities may remove a public nuisance at the property owner’s expense if, after notice, the property owner does not remove the nuisance. Under the SEMA-drafted amendment, abandoned, inoperable or junk vehicles stored on private property would only require screening from public view in counties having populations of 700,000 or more people. Unregistered vehicles could not be declared a nuisance under the SEMA amendment.

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Florida Bill to Eliminate Ethanol Requirement Signed Into Law

Thu, 06/06/2013 - 07:09

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Heeding the call of angry consumers increasingly wary of the corrosive effects of ethanol-blended gasoline, Florida Governor Rick Scott signed into law legislation to repeal the requirement that all gasoline offered for sale in the state contain a percentage of ethanol. Under previous law, the Florida Renewable Fuels Standard required that all gasoline sold or offered for sale by a terminal supplier, importer, blender or wholesaler in Florida contain 9%–10% ethanol, or other alternative fuel, by volume.

Ethanol increases water formation, which can then corrode metals, plastics and rubber, especially over a period of time when the vehicle is not used. Current high-performance specialty parts along with pre-model-year ’01 cars and parts may be most susceptible to corrosion.

The life span of vehicles and equipment can be dramatically reduced with the wrong fuel and owners are often confronted with breakdowns. While the ethanol mandate did not apply to fuel used in collector vehicles, off-road vehicles, motorcycles or small engines, there has been an inability to obtain unblended gasoline for engines that may be damaged by ethanol.

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Florida Bill to Eliminate Ethanol Requirement Signed Into Law

Thu, 06/06/2013 - 07:09

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Product and Catalog Showcase

Sat, 06/01/2013 - 13:07

SEMA News—June 2013

Product and Catalog Showcase

Atech Motorsports Get all of your high-performance, race, truck, off-road, street-rod, circle track, restoration, marine and replacement part needs fulfilled at Atech Motorsports. Atech is constantly adding new lines and parts to its huge in-stock inventory—all at the lowest prices and all backed by a Beat-a-Price guarantee, fast shipping, expert advice and the best customer service in the industry. Call Atech Motorsports at 800-517-1040 or go online at AtechMotorsports.com today and get the parts you need! Prices you want! Service you deserve! Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. ET 800-517-1040 http://www.atechmotorsports.com/ Fax: 330-630-5365 1234 Southeast Ave. Tallmadge, OH 44278		Bushwacker Incorporating innovative style with a higher standard of performance, the highly awarded Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 inspired Bushwacker Inc. to develop all-new WK2 Pocket Style Fender Flares. With .50-in. of tire coverage, custom designed pockets and matching style lines, Bushwacker Pocket Style Fender Flares add subtle aggressiveness to the overall vehicle. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, WK2 Fender Flares are made with exclusive Dura-Flex 2000 material to protect against fading and cracking. Give your WK2 that limited-edition look with Bushwacker Pocket Style Fender Flares. Contact: Randy Peterson Regional Sales Manager 503-283-4335 or 800-234-8920 customercare@bushwacker.com http://www.bushwacker.com/

Big Country Truck Accessories An exclusive brand to the AAM family of warehouse, Big Country has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Their new 2013 catalog is filled with their latest and greatest sidesteps, grille guards, bull bars and exhaust tips including the revolutionary Widesider Sidestep Program. Get more information and view the digital catalog at http://www.bigcountryauto.com/.		CORSA Performance Exhausts CORSA Performance Exhausts has released a new, four-color 40-page catalog featuring all product applications for CORSA Performance Exhaust Systems, dB Performance Exhaust Systems, as well as the company’s new air intake line. With an in-depth description of each CORSA exhaust system available, the product catalog features easily readable and organized charts that specify each year, make and model system that’s available. The catalog is available for download at: www.corsaperformance.com/catalog or by contacting 800-486-0999.

Big Country Truck Accessories “Big Country brings big changes to grille guards with the Dakar Pro!” The new Dakar Pro features the same great look as the original Dakar Bull Bars but the new Pro series use a revolutionary new bracket system that is separate from the bar itself. This also allows our jobbers to stock as many bars as they want and then keep the popular, model and make specific bolt-on brackets in stock and order others as needed. Thus being able to fulfill their customer’s needs while stocking less inventory. Our new bracket system also offers greater strength and less vibration than the competitors. http://www.bigcountryauto.com/		Design Engineering Inc. DEI Pipe Wrap & Locking Tie Kit DEI’s Pipe Wrap & Locking Tie Kit includes one roll of wrap (2" x 25') and four 8" stainless steel locking ties. Designed for multiple uses for all applications, the kit provides a secure fit for sections of exhaust, crossover and tailpipe, turbo downpipes, or motorcycle pipe. Ties will fit pipe up to 2" in diameter or can be joined for larger sizes. Available in three colors: black (#010119), tan (#010122) or titanium (#010123). http://www.designengineering.com/

Design Engineering Inc. DEI Introduces Titanium Pipe Shield with Evolutionary LR Fiber Technology DEI’s new Titanium Pipe Shield with LR fiber technology protects heat-sensitive components, such as hoses, lines and electrical wiring. Mylar-backed glass fiber shields begin to fail at 900°F. DEI’s insulator shield—with its unique standoff rivet-based clamp design—provides protection up to 1,350°F. The shield is easy to install near transmissions, brake lines, floor boards, body panels, diesel exhaust stacks, motorcycle pipes, exhaust pipe after the collector or near gas tanks. www.designengineering.com 800-264-9472		Design Engineering Inc. Boom Mat 2013 Product Catalog Keep your interior cool and quiet the Boom Mat way! Boom Mat’s 2013 catalog has solutions for every thermal and acoustic control issue featuring products used by the pros. Specialty products include Boom Mat Damping material, Heavy Duty Damping Material, Under Carpet (UC) and UC Lite, Leather Look Sound Barrier, Moldable Noise Barrier, Under Hood Acoustic Lining and Floor and Tunnel Shield II. Product pages include complete product descriptions and numbers, color options, technical results, and a handy reference guide to help find out what to use and where. www.designengineering.com

Dick Cepek The new Trail Country from Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels is a true all-terrain tire available in both LT and SUV sizes. Proven Dick Cepek design elements combine with modern technology and a five-rib tread pattern that allows the Trail Country to tackle tough off-road terrains while providing superior on-road performance, handling and wear. The Trail Country is available in 26 popular sizes and is M+S rated. www.dickcepek.com/tires.php		Design Engineering Inc. Boom Mat Spray-On—Eliminates Squeaks, Rattles and Vibration Boom Mat’s Spray-On is an aerosol spray that provides an easy and quick way to reduce road noise and vibration, add a layer of thermal protection or as an undercoating to protect against damage from rust, rocks, gravel and other debris. This black rubberized polymer compound dries to a textured finish without chips or cracks in 20 minutes and is highly rust resistant, ideal for use on the undercarriage. One can of 18 oz. Spray-On covers approximately 20 square feet and can be used on non-coated surfaces, then covered with a topcoat of paint. Suggested uses include trunk interiors, fenderwells, body panels, rear quarters and the inside of door panels for thermal protection up to 300°F. VOC compliant in all 50 states. www.boommat.com www.designengineering.com

DU-HA Inc. DU-HA TOTE Portable storage for SUVs and pickup trucks. Designed to securely hold gear for contractors, sportsmen, soccer moms and more. Includes organizers/gun racks for organizing belongings and storing up to 4 rifles or shotguns with scopes and includes utility trays for holding smaller items like hardware, ammo and more. Sealed lid helps keep out moisture and dust. Lockable latches help protect your belongings from theft. Constructed from heavy-duty polyethylene. Lifetime warranty. DU-HA Inc. 866-306-3842 www.du-ha.com/tote.html www.du-ha.com/tote.html		DuraSafe Coupler Connect plus Protect The Coupler Connect plus Protect system is two problem-solving products in one. Not only does it eliminate the hassles of trying to hook up a trailer, but it also keeps the trailer securely connected to the tow vehicle. The Coupler Connect plus Protect system includes one mounting bracket and two complimentary accessories—a guide for connecting and a guard for protecting. Easily connect your trailer and have the peace of mind it is properly and securely protected. Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call 866-544-5615 or e-mail info@durasafelocks.com for details.

Go Rhino! “New Dominator D4 sidebars hit the street, hard!” Go Rhino! Products is proud to introduce the new 4-in. Oval Dominator D4 Dual-Step Sidesteps. These sidesteps are specifically designed for each application and permit ultimate access for any lifted or taller pickup with larger wheels and tires. These bolt-on sidesteps do not require drilling, and all mounting brackets and hardware are included. The black race-style step pads can be removed for cleaning and color matching to your vehicle. Dominator D4s are available in a black powdercoat finish with a 5-year warranty or polished stainless finish with a limited lifetime warranty. www.gorhino.com		GEMA Gema is a pioneer in powdercoating equipment technology, offering customers the confidence and expertise that comes with being the industry’s global leader. Gema equipment is durable, flexible and engineered to last, providing increased performance, greater efficiency and a better return on investment. Product offerings include manual and automatic spray guns and booths, fast color-change equipment, cartridge and cyclone recovery systems, gun movers, control systems and other ancillary equipment. Visit www.gemapowdercoating.com or call 800-628-0601 for more information.

Intro-Tech Automotive This newest racing-inspired bar Furniture can further complete your man cave, entertainment and coffee shop area and helps you shift your automotive ambition into higher levels! Intro-Tech Automotive introduces height-adjustable bar stools and glass-top bar tables—finished off with Intro-Tech’s recognized and patented tire embossed armrests, billet aluminum shift knobs, ABS coil over springs, three-spoke classic steering wheels; all with a LIFETIME WARRANTY. www.intro-techautomotive.com 866-319-8500		Go Rhino! Go Rhino’s new 2013 catalog has a look and feel that most will not recognize or associate with the brand—it is aggressive and bold. 2013 looks to be an exciting year for Go Rhino! and their high-quality line of sidesteps, front-end guards, bed bars and other truck accessories. Check out the D4 line of sidesteps and the rest of the gear at www.gorhino.com.

Kicker SoundGate Factory-System Audio Upgrades The evolution of remarkable sound in your vehicle. Factory mounting locations and little modifications? KICKER delivers it—big-bass subwoofers in a small space and high-efficiency amplifiers with DSP. Created for your specific make and model of vehicle; No cutting, mounting directly to factory locations; Retains nearly all cargo space; Leaves the original factory look; Computer-optimized, 32-bit digital signal processing. See if it fits your vehicle at www.kicker.com/soundgate. Scan for Jessica and John’s take.		McGard McGard has been protecting the world’s finest wheels and tires from theft since 1964. Our wheel locks provide the highest level of protection against costly wheel and tire theft. Our lug nuts are built to last a lifetime. They are guaranteed not to rust, chip or peel. Our consistent high quality ensures the greatest value for our customer and is evident in every McGard product on the market today. Visit us at shop.mcgard.com or call 800-669-6887. www.shop.mcgard.com

McGard The New Tailgate Lock from McGard Designed for people who use their truck bed. The McGard Tailgate Lock offers easy installation for around-the-clock tailgate theft protection requiring no modifications to truck or tailgate. No keys or handle covers are required to lock and unlock; once installed onto the hinge, it never needs to be removed to open or close the tailgate. One part number fits most current full-size and some small and mid-size trucks. Contact McGard for more info 800-669-6887 or shop online at shop.mcgard.com. www.shop.mcgard.com		Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels now offers Mickey Metal Series wheels, specially designed for today’s tough off-roaders, trailers and toy haulers. These affordable, heavy-duty steel wheels feature a tough black powdercoat, embossed center cap and the Mickey Thompson name stamped directly into the wheel face. Available in popular 15-, 16- and 17-in. sizes, the Mickey Metal Series wheels are offered in several options including the MT-28 (original eight-hole wheel) and the MT-88 (the 10-hole “D-window” wheel). www.mickeythompsontires.com/metal

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels Mickey Thompson’s new ultra-high performance (UHP) Street Comp integrates Mickey Thompson’s legendary tire technology in a street tire for today’s late-model musclecars and more. Available in 18 popular sizes, the Street Comp offers a UTQG 300 AA A treadwear rating and a unique tread design for the ultimate performance and handling on the street. The Street Comp is a 2012 SEMA Show New Product Showcase Runner-Up Award winner. www.mickeythompsontires.com/street.php		Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels The new all-terrain Baja ATZP3 from Mickey Thompson with PowerPly three-ply sidewalls was developed to create a next-generation, all-terrain tire. The Baja ATZP3 combines unique design elements, tire technology and engineering to deliver excellent off-road traction, a quieter ride and superior durability for today’s light trucks and 4x4s. From tread and tread lug design, to wide lateral grooves, stone ejector ribs and specially designed shoulders and sidewalls, the Baja ATZP3 gives new meaning to the all-terrain tire designation. The Baja ATZP3 is a 2012 SEMA Global Media Award winner. www.mickeythompsontires.com/truck.php

Oracle Lighting The 2013 ORACLE Lighting Catalog features the most comprehensive collection of solid-state LED automotive aftermarket lighting products and accessories in the industry. Applications are available for a wide range of vehicles and generations, from old school musclecars to late-model trucks, this catalog has it all. ORACLE Lighting Technologies has been in the automotive aftermarket for over a decade and boasts a product line of over 5,000 SKUs. To request a catalog, call ORACLE Lighting toll-free at 800-407-5776 or visit www.oraclelights.com		ProRYDE Suspension Systems LIFT IT. LEVEL IT. TUNE IT. Our SEMA-Award-winning products are the NEW generation of LIFT & LEVELING products. Every ProRYDE kit is ADJUSTABLE, so you get exactly the ride height result you want, every time. Dial-in your perfect ride height! ProRYDE…EXACTLY THE WAY YOU WANT IT. 888-813-RYDE (7933) www.proryde.com

Steamericas Steamericas is proud to present the latest model of the Optima Steamer Series, the “DS-S.” Thanks to the success of the Optima Steamer DMF model and abundant customer feedback, the company sought to introduce an upgraded version of the Optima Steamer. The Optima Steamer DS-S includes an over-10-gallon-capacity water tank, direct-water hook-up option, dual hose connection and much more underneath an industrial stainless steel frame. Steamericas 310-327-8900 www.steamericas.com		Stainless Steel Brakes Corp. Tri-Power Quick Change Rear Brake Kit Part number(s) A193-5,6,7 and 8 (varies by application) Three-piston rear brake kits complete our line of performance upgrade kits for ¾ and 1-ton Ford trucks for stock wheel sizes (or larger). If you are hauling, towing, going off-road, pulling competitively or racing, we have the total braking package you need. These new rear kits combined with our front kits provide shorter stopping distance, better clamping force, longer service life and better braking. Single or dual wheel kits available. 800-448-7722 www.ssbrakes.com

Steele Rubber Products Totally re-engineered door seals for ’68–’69 Chevy Camaros and Pontiac Firebirds. Guaranteed to fit. Correct length of perimeter weatherstrip. Proper molded ends with brass cores. Original thickness and density of rubber. Exact location of pins for easy install. Fits perfect and performs great. American made for American classic muscle. First Generation Camaro/ Firebird Door Seals 800-544-8665 www.camarodoorseals.com PN: 82-0007-72		Stampede Products Cutting-edge style and uncompromising quality backs every part we produce. Our full range of applications includes Hood Protectors, Side Window Deflectors and our value line of Fender Flares and Bedrail Caps. Add more style and personality to your rig with ultra-durable Chrome, Smoke or specialty patterned applications. From Camo to Chrome, all Stampede products are skillfully engineered and designed, and supported by excellent Customer Care, which means you receive the best quality for your investment. Contact: Tim Henggeler Regional Sales Manager 563-259-9189 or 800-858-5634 customercare@stampedeproducts.com www.stampedeproducts.com

Swisstrax Swisstrax modular interlocking flooring offers a practical and modern alternative to concrete and epoxy floors. Combining strength and versatility, Swisstrax tiles can weather most conditions. Choose from 19 colors and six styles, including Rubbertrax, made from recycled rubber tires, and LED Light Mats. Showrooms, garages, displays, exhibits, indoor and outdoor events, and more, Swisstrax tiles ensure that you will have a stunning floor for any setting. Visit us at www.Swisstrax.com or call us at 866-748-7940. www.swisstrax.com		Technostalgia Technostalgia’s plug-and-play LED taillights for the ’10–’13 Camaro include a dark red, RS-style lens and come loaded with features the OEM lights didn’t. The most notable includes a sequential turn signal, rapidfire brake lights which flash when the brake pedal is pressed to grab attention, afterburner taillights meant to resemble a jet engine, and a “show-off” mode that will strobe the lights while at an automotive event. Technostalgia Inc. 866-258-5670 www.cool-leds.com

Trick Flow Specialties Trick Flow Specialties provides premium-quality, high-performance engine products capable of delivering maximum power at affordable prices. Stock the best-designed, best-performing engine components available and increase your profits—you owe it to your business to see the difference Trick Flow’s advanced engineering, R&D and manufacturing make. Call Trick Flow Specialties at 888-841-6556 or go online at TrickFlow.com today and see what Ultimate Bolt-On Performance! is all about. Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 pm ET www.TrickFlow.com Phone: 330-630-1555 or toll free 888-841-6556 Fax: 330-633-2504		Product and Catalog Showcase Interested in placing an ad in the SEMA News Product and Catalog Showcase? For questions regarding advertising: Brian Paik 909-978-6677 brianp@sema.org Monica Terlouw 909-978-6695 monicat@sema.org For questions regarding ad specs: Advertising Coordinator David Block 909-978-6648 davidb@sema.org For more pricing information or to download a copy of the current SEMA News rate card, visit www.semanews.com

Function Fused With Performance, Comfort and Drivability

The hot-rod market has always been predicated on performance. It’s where the niche—and the entire specialty-equipment industry, really—found its genesis. The listings of hot-rod components and systems unveiled at the most recent SEMA Show and now found on these pages continue in that vein, though there is also an increasing emphasis on making rods not only hot, but also comfortable and drivable.

As in previous years, we’ve interspersed the product listings with commentaries from industry professionals who are in touch with the marketplace. We asked them to focus on overall trends as well as specific vehicle types, and their responses reveal a melding of the traditional and the innovative.

View more than 150 HotRod Products and expert testimonials debuted at the 2011 SEMA Show.

Ablaze Grilles Inc. Special-Edition Mesh Grille for Fifth-Generation Camaros 951-549-1555 www.ablazegrilles.com PN: 120-0-51-2-CM A premium line of grilles made up of three components: a .25-in.-thick structural frame, an inner frame and a formed stainless-steel mesh. The standard special-edition grille comes in a gloss-black powdercoat. The grille displayed has the color-matched option. User can color match the inner frame, outer and/or mesh to the vehicle’s paint job.		Wheel Vintiques Mopar Road Wheel 559-251-6957 www.wheelvintiques.com PN: 84 Series Wheel Vintiques introduces the Mopar Road Wheel. A Magnum 500 wheel with a black powdercoated outer. Made in steel in the U.S.A. Available in 14- and 15-in. sizes.

DuPont Custom Finishes Basecoat Candy Colors 800-GetDuPont www.refinish.dupont.com PN: Basecoat Candy Formula DuPont Custom Finishes basecoat candy CFX colors provide the same vibrant color and dimension of a candy with the ease of application and color match of a two-stage basecoat.		Vintage Air Inc. ProLine Tridant Louver 800-862-6658 www.vintageair.com PN: 499124 Vintage Air, the inventors of performance.

DuPont Custom Finishes IntelliMist Spray Booth Humidification System 800-GetDuPont www.refinish.dupont.com PN: IntelliMist System The IntelliMist spray booth humidifier improves shop productivity, makes it easier to use waterborne and solvent paints. Automatically controls the spray booth during the spray cycle at the optimum level for humidity and provides an extremely productive spray booth climate.		Gear Vendors Overdrives Muncie/Saginaw Three-Speed Overdrive Kit 800-999-9555 www.gearvendors.com PN: 3D0FMS3 Bolt-on Gear Vendors overdrive kit for popular three-speed Muncie and Saginaw cars and trucks. Great ratios to provide performance of six gears and overdrive for 25% better fuel economy and less engine wear.

Winner—Best New Street Rod/Custom Car ProductVintage Air Inc. ProLine Penta Louver 800-862-6658 www.vintageair.com PN: 499120/499124 Vintage Air, the inventors of performance.		Vintage Air Inc. ProLine Spyder Louver 800-862-6658 www.vintageair.com PN: 499122/499124 Vintage Air, the inventors of performance.

Vintage Air Inc. ’55–’59 Chevy Pickup Gen IV SureFit Heat/Cool/Defrost System 800-862-6658 www.vintageair.com PN: 941155 Fully electronic bolt-in climate control system featuring new state-of-the-art, fly-by-wire slide control panel. Separate coils with a temperature-blend door for instant just-right comfort.		MSD Performance MSD Atomic LS, EFI for LS Engines 915-857-5200 www.msdperformance.com MSD’s Atomic LS is a breakthrough EFI system for LS. Integrated fuelrails and ECU with patent-pending Wiredless technology, eliminates the wiring harness. System self-tunes and auto senses reluctor wheels. Supports sequential fuel/spark, variable valve timing, superchargers, single/dual e-throttle and customizable with popular injectors, cams, etc.

Bed Wood and Parts EZ Flip D-Ring Light-Load Securing Mechanism for Classic Trucks 877-206-9663 www.bedwoodandparts.com PN: 955/956 EZ Flip D-ring light-load securing mechanism for classic trucks. Available in two mounting options: inline strip mount and surface mount. Sold in pairs.		GT Performance Mustang GT Steering Wheel 818-847-9611 www.gtperformanceproducts.com PN: 35-5457 On March 9, 1964, the first Mustang rolled off the assembly line. Inspired by the GT version, GT Performance offers its GT-inspired design. Patterned after the original, including four-hole spokes, 18 rivets and a billet Mustang GT horn button.

RideTech Monotube Struts 812-482-2932 www.ridetech.com RideTech monotube Camaro and Mustang struts bring performance-proven racing technology to the street with modular mountings, adjustable valving and direct bolt-in fitment.		Wheel Vintiques 15x4 OE Chrysler Wheel 800-505-4900 www.Tubelite.com PN: 63-541202 Wheel Vintiques offers its OE Chrysler wheels in front runner size 15x4. A hard-to-find application. Made in the U.S.A. and available in satin black finish.

RideTech Smooth Body Shocks 812-482-2932 www.ridetech.com RideTech RQ series monotube shocks feature a 1.5-in. body diameter and ride-quality tuned valving to allow a simple performance upgrade for all hot rods.		Wheel Vintiques GT Rallye Wheel (Four-Lug) 559-251-6957 www.wheelvintiques.com PN: 53-460404 Four-lug bolt pattern. Ford-style GT Rallye wheel. Available in 14- and 15-in. sizes. Steel construction with chrome finish.

The musclecar and street-rod crowds continue to gravitate toward products that make their cars perform as well as or better than a new one. Brakes, suspension, air conditioning and EFI are all hot items. The musclecar group has a firm grasp on the difference between price and value, and they aren’t opposed to spending money on the better parts. Custom and lead-sled hot rodders are starting to pay a lot more attention to using quality parts under the car as well as in all the normal, visible places. You’re now seeing sleds with full chassis, big brakes and professional suspension systems under them. Getting parts is starting to be a challenge. Most retail customers do not understand the challenges of inventory and delivery, so managing those issues is crucial. The proliferation of information (and misinformation) on the Internet has made that job even more important. Still, the business that is here now is more stable and more profitable than it was five to 10 years ago. Customers are better informed; parts are better designed and manufactured; and marketing and promotion are more efficient than ever. It’s a good time to be in the hot-rod market. —Bret Voelkel President, RideTech		Younger guys and gals are taking the time to study traditional hot rods and are building period-correct cars that are safe and can be driven. We have seen this with our line of Lakester pedals and some of our more traditional-looking shifter levers. We are also finding new colors and textures used everywhere in street rods and musclecars, especially with interior options such as gauges, pedals, window and door handles, air conditioning vents and custom consoles. The materials and paints used inside some of these cars will blow you away. There was a day when a street rod just had to have some power and look cool, but comfort, power and drivability are all trends now. A mix of modern technology with traditional bodies and parts has started to come back, such as computer-controlled transmissions and engines that improve performance, fuel economy and longevity. We shouldn’t fear technology. Electronic injection, drive-by-wire and computer-controlled transmissions are going to be the rule. The shops that embrace these things are going to be that much further ahead. Retailers should also reach out to markets they didn’t think they had anything for. There is a good chance that they may find a diamond in the rough! —Brian Downard Vice President of Sales and Marketing Lokar Inc.

Wheel Vintiques 17-in. Steel Artillery Wheel 559-251-6957 www.wheelvintiques.com PN: 17 Series Wheel Vintiques offers the Artillery wheel in a 17-in. diameter. Made in all steel in the U.S.A. Available in various bolt patterns and finishes; a perfect application for a custom, street rod or classic truck.		Flaming River Industries Inc. ’69–’74 Nova Power Rack-and-Pinion Cradle With Key Column 440-826-4488 www.flamingriver.com PN: FR368PW A direct bolt-in steering system that utilizes a power rack-and-pinion engineered for Novas. The power rack-and-pinion provides a quick steering ratio with full turning radius, installs easily (within hours) using the existing chassis hole locations and is available with or without steering column. Made in the U.S.A.

Flaming River Industries Inc. Banjo 1 Steering Wheel 440-826-4488 www.flamingriver.com PN: FR20128BJ Banjo-style steering wheel designed to fit seamlessly with a Flaming River tilt column. The hand-stitched Italian leather steering wheel is 15 in. in diameter and includes a horn button. Available in black, light gray and light tan.		Flaming River Industries Inc. Tilt Key Column Direct Tilt Series 440-826-4488 www.flamingriver.com PN: FR30009 These street machine tilt columns are designed to fit the original dash mount and even accept the original rag joint flange or factory steering shaft. The classic applications use Flaming River’s 2-in.-diameter column to match the existing mounting holes and can be built with 1-in. DD, 3/4–36 in. or 1-in.–48 shaft for a custom fit. Made in the U.S.A.

Flaming River Industries Inc. New Shock 361 Design 440-826-4488 www.flamingriver.com PN: FRPKSH Attractive four-color design showcases features and benefits of the product. Includes styling geared toward the hot-rod industry. Sturdy packaging protects the product and clearly identifies the product as made in the U.S.A.		MBM BCK8536-1 800-231-4125 www.mbmbrakes.com PN: BCK8536-1 MBM introduces an all-new Bendix-style power disc brake booster kit that fits ’66–’69 B-body Mopars. Includes the firewall reinforcement plate, the new booster, the brake pedal swivel and a new disc/drum master cylinder.

VDO Instrumentation and Accessories Camera Systems 610-289-0488 www.vdo-gauges.com PN: A2C59519821 Flexible enough for all applications, VDO camera systems provide drivers with enhanced visibility. Rear backup cameras along with side-mount and mini cameras communicate with a display easily mounted in the cockpit. Each camera can be wired with a trigger function that makes transitioning to other views as easy as flipping a switch.		VDO Instrumentation and Accessories GPS Speed Sender 610-289-0488 www.vdo-gauges.com PN: GPS 347-786 The VDO GPS speed sender offers up to 25 times more resolution than similar GPS speed senders. No buttons/switches to activate; just hook up power and ground, and it’s ready to go. Waterproof design so it can be mounted on exterior. Backward compatible with all electronic speedometers. If bought in a kit, there’s no speedometer programming required.

Coker Tire Co. Firestone Non-Skid All-White Tires 800-251-6336 www.cokertire.com PN: 805976 Coker Tire’s line of Firestone non-skid tires has expanded to include all-white tires. All-white non-skid tires are available in 10 sizes.		VDO Instrumentation and Accessories ALAS II Fuel Sender 610-289-0488 www.vdo-gauges.com PN: ALAS2 226-946 Adjustable lever arm sender (ALAS) is said to be ideal for late-model applications. The VDO ALAS II fuel sender simplifies fuel tank installations by incorporating draw and return tubes directly into the fuel sender. Each tube can be trimmed to length (from 6 to 16 in.) and can be rotated a full 360° for optimum installation angle.

Coker Tire Co. American Classic 185/55R15 Whitewall Radial Tire 800-251-6336 www.cokertire.com PN: 530286 The American Classic 185/55R15 radial is the world’s first whitewall tire designed specifically for the new Fiat 500. Retro styling is mixed with modern performance.		Coker Tire Co. Adjustable-Spoke Model A Wire Wheel 800-251-6336 www.cokertire.com PN: 7514195 Coker Tire’s new Model A adjustable-spoke wheel offers authentic looks and a more convenient design than the old welded-spoke configuration.

Tuff Stuff Performance Accessories Ltd. Tuff Torque Gear Reduction Starter 800-331-6562 www.tuffstuffperformance.com PN: 13510A Tuff Torque starters feature high-torque gear-reduction motors in small, lightweight profiles. They have heavy-duty coils, ball-bearing construction and are available in chrome plated or gold zinc finishes.		Runner-Up—Best New Engineered New Product Detroit Speed ’64.5–’70 Mustang Aluma-Frame 704-662-3272 www.detroitspeed.com PN: 32050 All-aluminum front suspension for ’64.5–’70 Mustangs featuring DSE’s unique suspension geometry with 6 in. of suspension travel for the ultimate ride and performance.

Enthusiasts want modern horsepower levels and driving manners from traditional hot-rod vehicles. People are just as in love with hot rods as ever, but they’re not willing to give up modern conveniences to enjoy the classic car “cool factor.” Easy EFI conversions are the biggest trend in musclecars and street rods. Carburetors are great, but nobody has the time or patience to constantly tune a carb when they are lucky to even find the time to drive the car in today’s fast-paced world. Retailers must focus on making their businesses be the best they can be. They’re not going to help us grow the market into the future if they are not financially stable and in business five years from now. Many don’t make it over the long haul because the owners don’t spend enough time focusing on running an efficient and well-managed business. We also all need to do more to make sure future generations of customers are exposed to everything that makes the automotive aftermarket so special. We’re competing with other industries (video games, stick-and-ball sports, etc.) that are pretty damn savvy, so we’d better make sure we’re ready to compete for our next generation of customers. —Chris Douglas Vice President of Marketing, COMP Performance Group		As Baby Boomers begin to retire and build the cars they’ve always wanted, there is demand for the melding of performance and reliability through the adaptation of modern automotive technology. EFI conversions, overdrive transmissions, complete turnkey modern chassis swaps and iPhone integration are becoming standard in the latest hot- rod builds. The companies and segments that have international distribution and product lines adaptable to modern global platforms are experiencing tremendous growth. Young enthusiasts around the globe are buying cars for the first time. They want to personalize those cars, and that’s why high-end wheels, car-care products, synthetic oils and cold-air intake kits are flourishing. Hot-rod parts retailers will be chasing both the Boomers, who now have a few extra dollars to spend to build the car of their dreams, and the Millenials, who are the Boomers’ kids. We can connect with Boomers through traditional means—print media, car shows, aspirational builds, etc.—but the Millenials view our industry as entertainment, not transportation. We need to show them that our form of entertainment provides more long-term enjoyment than a piece of tech or a night out on the town. We have to get creative with content marketing—cool relevant social-media content, peer-to-peer reviews and more. —Dan Kahn President, Kahn Media Inc.

Livorsi OBD2 Gateway 847-752-2700 www.livorsi.com Livorsi’s new OBD2 gateway translates data from a GM engine controller to drive its Vantage View CAN gauges with pinpoint accuracy. Compatible with late-model stock GM controllers, ERod engines, Speartech controllers and wire harnesses. Said to be the only gauges that will show current gear without external components. Custom gauges available.		Dakota Digital PAC-2750 Electric Cooling-Fan Controller 800-332-6513 www.dakotadigital.com PN: PAC-2750 Compatible with nearly any temperature gauge and sensor and offering full control of one single- or dual-speed fan or twin cooling fans. User-settable on and off points for each fan and the option to run fans after key-off. One-plug connection to Dakota Digital instrument systems offers temperature and speed input for high-speed deactivation.

Dakota Digital GPS-50-1 GPS Speedometer/ Compass Interface 800-332-6513 www.dakotadigital.com PN: GPS-50-1 Engineered particularly with specialty vehicles in mind, GPS-50-1 offers lightning-fast startup, no bothersome external antenna and extremely accurate speed readings. Provides a high-resolution speed signal for cruise-control operation. When used with Dakota Digital instrument systems, compass and altimeter information are also available.		Dakota Digital STA-1000 OBD-II Speedometer/Tachometer Interface 800-332-6513 www.dakotadigital.com PN: STA-1000 Plugs into ECM diagnostic port to read OBD-II information.

Dakota Digital VHX-55J ’55–’86 Jeep CJ Direct-Fit Analog Instrument System 800-332-6513 www.dakotadigital.com PN: VHX-55J Blue or red LED backlit faces and needles in machined housings with carbon fiber or silver alloy faces bring the ’55–’86 Jeep CJ into the 21st century. Supplied solid-state sensors and intuitive control box simplify installation. Designed for harsh off-road environments, the system affords a wealth of information with room to grow.		SSBC Performance Brake Systems Tri-Power Quick-Change Caliper Kits for 3/4- to 1-Ton Trucks 800-448-7722 www.ssbrakes.com PN: A193-6 Heavy-duty three-piston billet aluminum quick-change caliper kits that enhance the performance braking on 3/4- and 1-ton Ford trucks. Front and rear applications available.

Dakota Digital VHX-40F ’40 Ford Direct-Fit Analog Instrument System 800-332-6513 www.dakotadigital.com PN: VHX-40F Blue or red LED backlit faces and needles with highly visible LCD message centers in a show-chromed, machined aluminum housing set this six-gauge instrument system apart from the pack. Supplied solid-state sending units connect to a user-friendly control box for unsurpassed instrumentation, all without cutting a classic dashboard.		Classic Performance Products Inc. Early Chevy Nova 400 Series Power Steering Box 714-522-2000 www.classicperform.com PN: CP50005NV The compact 400 Series box utilizes late-model steering technology for classics. This is a direct replacement for the original manual steering box and keeps perfect alignment with the OE or aftermarket column. It has a 13.6:1 ratio, 3/4-in./30 input shaft, uses inverted flare hoses and factory manual steering pitman arm. Fits ’62–’67 Novas. $379 each.

Classic Performance Products Inc. Mustang II Modular Spindle 714-522-2000 www.classicperform.com PN: CP30111 This modular-designed spindle for Mustang II suspension with easy-to-use single-plane anchor points for caliper mounts will allow an easy way to provide a host of brake options. Smooth design is ideal for coating or chroming. Forged steel like the OE design and matches all original ball joint and tie-rod mounting locations.		SSBC Performance Brake Systems Competition-Series Racing Brake Kits With Aluminum Hubs 800-448-7722 www.ssbrakes.com PN: W123-Comp Series Racing-series competition brake systems include lightweight four-piston, billet-aluminum calipers with machined stainless-steel pistons and billet-aluminum hub assembly. Made in the U.S.A. by SSBC.

View more than 150 HotRod Products and expert testimonials debuted at the 2011 SEMA Show.