Better Roads Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/85927
Applications & Innovations FRONT AXLES Pay close attention to the boots and tie-rod ends of GM 4x4s; torn CV boots need to be replaced to keep sand and salt from getting into the joints. This is the time to replace the OE outer tie-rod ends of 4x4 diesels with heavy-duty replace- ments like those offered by Cognito Motorsports. It's also a good time to check gear oil and replace it if there's any hint of water in the lube. WARNING LIGHTS Safety and visibility go hand in hand. It's never too late to add a few more high-intensity LED fl ashers to the truck. A couple of the super mini-LEDs mounted on the headache rack or the front and rear fenders can dramatically improve visibility without a big expense. Whelen and Buyer's Products are just a few manufacturers that offer the min LEDs. ENGINE OIL Winter prep should include switching to "zero-weight" en- gine oils. These synthetics, such as those from Royal Purple, Mobil Delvac and Pennzoil, provide the lubrication needed when hot, yet keep the engine components protected at cold startup. They can also improve fuel economy. DISC BRAKES Stopping power is not only dependent on good tires, it's how well the brakes work. When water, ice and snow are key ele- ments on the road or jobsite, rotors with slots provide better cleaning and drying performance than smooth OEM versions. Higher quality pads also benefi t work pickups. Stainless Steel Brakes Corp (SSBC), Disc Brakes of Australia (DBA) and EBC Brakes have special pickup disc brake upgrade packages with rotors and pads. HID HEADLIGHTS Good night vision is dependent on the quality of headlights. Replacing stock OE halogen bulbs with HID Xenons can dramatically improve pickup headlight performance without affecting oncoming traffi c (when properly adjusted.) PIAA, Phillips and Oracle Lighting Products offer good kits. Choose an HID kit in the 6,000K range for optimum results. Editor's Note: This story was especially written for Better Roads by Bruce Smith, editor of our sister publication ProPickup magazine. 36 August 2012 Better Roads Write 147 on Reader Service Card or visit www.betterroads.com/info.