2024 Buyers Guides - �㽶��Ƶֱ�� is the Tuner's Source for Modified Car Culture since 1999

Some of Our Favorite New Products from SEMA 2024

2024-11-08T15:26:03+00:00

The SEMA show is revered around the world for it's incredible builds and fun cars, but we can't forget about the wide array of new and innovative products introduced at the show each year. Between custom prototypes on the show floor, to the massive display of consumer-ready products in SEMA's New Product Showcase, there is no shortage of interesting and exciting innovations in the automotive world here. At SEMA 2024, we sent our contributor team into the New Product Showcase to hand-pick some of our favorite new products. We also discussed these products on our 2nd live podcast of SEMA 2024.

Project Kics Cross Wrench

Is this the biggest flex to have in a shop? Honestly, maybe. It's a cross wrench specifically designed for Mackin Industries/RAYS/GramLights/Etc lug nuts, with the style to match. Is it a necessary addition to the tool collection? Not at all. Do we want one for the garage. Absolutely.

ROADTEK GarageMax 3T Long Reach Electric Floor Jack

You read that correctly - electric floor jack. This product from ROADTEK promises to turn the hassle of lifting a car, engine, transmission, differential, or anything else into a one-button process, saving time and alleviating some of the effort compared to traditional jacks. It looks fairly low profile as well, so some lowered cars will appreciate this. I think we mostly love this for the ability to lift heavier drivetrain components into place with the push of a button, leaving a hand free to stabilize and guide the part in. Swapping a differential on the garage floor might get slightly less painful with this one. Global Media Award certainly deserved.

Speedway Motors Inc. SoloSwap 2JZ Mock-Up Engine Swap Dummy Long Block

Gone are the days of using a heavy old engine block for mock-up purposes. Speedway Motors Inc's SoloSwap series offers perfectly measured dummy blocks made of 12-gauge steel - stronger than the foam or plastic alternatives often hand-made in the shop, and light enough to be fitted into an engine bay without the use of an engine jack or brute strength risking your fingers. What stands out as an even better part of this line of products is the factory mounting points also included. Intake, exhaust, oil pan, etc - all of these things can be mocked up on the dummy blocks properly. An added bonus is the modular nature of this dummy block allows it to be stored and shipped flat when disassembled. With a few engine models on display, and more on the way, this is an easy pick for a favorite new product of SEMA 2024.

Speedway Motors Inc. SoloSwap T-56 Mock-Up Transmission Kit, Magnum Housing

Following up their ingenuity on the SoloSwap engine blocks, Speedway Motors also introduced SoloSwap transmission kits. The T-56 mock-up transmission, like the engine blocks before it, can be stored and shipped flat, and it made from the same 12-gauge steel. It can be bolted up to a real bellhousing, or the mock-up bellhousing for test fitting purposes. No more lifting heavy transmissions just to see if it fits!

DEWALT Auto Retractable Ratchet Straps

File this one under "Why didn't we think of that?" - this is a genius idea from DEWALT. Is it a neccessity? Not really. But will it be incredibly appreciated on days you have to ratchet strap something in awful weather? You bet. It's a simple idea, but one we appreciate the thought of. We can't wait to use one of these to secure something and exclaim "This sucker isn't going anywhere." At the price point, the dollars-per-genius ratio is hard to beat.

Tmat Truck Bed Organization Kit

If you've ever transported a loose toolbox, car parts, a jack/jack stands, or anything else in the bed of your truck on a sketchy road, you'll probably appreciate this one as much as we did. Tmat's Truck Bed Organization kit is a modular system that transforms your truck, van, or SUV trunk space into a versatile cargo space that can snugly hold anything you imagine. It's a simple addition that can do a lot for cargo organization and safe transport.

Elcometer SagolaSPRAY

One of the most future-forward thinking products we saw at SEMA 2024 - the SagolaSPRAY. Is that a VR headset? You bet. This product gives DIYers, painter trainees, and students the opportunity to sharpen their spray-painting skills without wasting materials, going through labor-intensive prep, or dealing with a mess afterwards. The idea is to bridge the gap between the classroom and the spray booth with virtual learning and visual guides.

Eddie Motorsports Slimline Billet Jacks

Is your slammed car too low for even low-profile jacks? Eddie Motorsports has the solution - even LOWER jacks. This Slimline Billet Jacks are built tough and as low as possible for those too-low-for-low-profile jacks. Available in two sizes and weight capacities, with an included carrying strap which we thought was a nice touch.

PROFORM's New 14,000 Lb Wireless Vehicle Scales

2024-07-17T20:03:49+00:00

There's a new must-have tool for professionals, motorsports enthusists, and race teams on the market. PROFORM introduces its 14,000 lb. Vehicle Scale System, an advanced solution for precise vehicle chassis setup. Moving beyond traditional methods, this wireless scale system integrates seamlessly with a chassis pull-down rig, allowing you to simulate real track conditions by adjusting the vehicle's suspension to the desired heights. This ensures that your vehicle's suspension setup at the garage mirrors what it will experience on the track.

Features:
• Seamless Replication: Replicate the chassis position conditions experienced on the track using the actual suspension compression data directly from the vehicle as captured by a laser Chassis Height Measuring System (CHMS), eliminating guesswork.

• Intuitive LCD Display New Feature!: Get real-time feedback for precise adjustments with a sounding alert signal when you get close to weight or percent targets for each individual pad. Say goodbye to guesswork and dial in your suspension settings just right.

• Durable & Portable: The system comes complete with a sturdy, well-designed, foam-lined hard case. It is robust enough to protect your investment and fully portable, with roller wheels and a telescoping handle for convenient mobility and storage.

• Comprehensive System that Caters to You: Enhance your chassis setup with front/back, side- to-side, and cross-weight data, all displayed on a backlit LCD screen that reads in both pound and kilogram units. A free downloadable PC program for further analysis can be found on ProformParts.com

For more information, visit ProformParts.com

Our Favorite Prime Day Deals for Enthusiasts

2024-07-15T18:29:49+00:00

Amazon's Prime Day 2024 is here (July 16-17), and with it comes a wide variety of deals and savings opportunities for just about everyone. Luckily for us - and for you - Amazon dedicates an entire section of Prime Day to the automotive sector. We had our team take a look through some of the Prime Day deals to pick out some products that we know you'll appreciate. If you're in the market, it's unlikely you'll find a cheaper and easier chance to get something you need for your garage or your car shipped directly to your door.

M-AUTO Foldable Z Creeper 2-in-1 Creeper & Seat

The perfect 2-in-1 creeper and rolling seat for the garage. This 2-in-1 creeper and seat boasts a weight capacity of 330 lbs, and is available in three sizes: 36-inches, 40-inches, and 48-inches.

24% Off for Prime Day

Greenworks 40V Cordless Tire Inflator

The cordless tire inflator is one of our favorite inventions of the 21st century, and this 40V version from Greenworks is an incredible deal. Capable of up to 160 PSI, this inflator can either run off a rechargable battery pack or via the power of a standard 12V vehicle power outlet. Available as an entire kit, or just the tool.

38% Off for Prime Day

GOOACC GRC-33 240-Piece Retainers, Clips, Rivets, Fasteners Kit

Tired of losing - or worse, breaking - those old clips, retainers, fasteners, and plastic rivets? So are we, so as soon as we saw this one we added it to our cart. With a 240-piece assorted set of retainers, clips, rivets, and fasteners, along with five different removal tools, badly fitting parts are a thing of the past.

22% Off for Prime Day

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Power Tool Combo Kit

A cordless drill and impact driver are two must-have tools for any garage, and if you don't have these - or if you need to replace them - this might be the best opportunity of the year. DEWALT has one of the best Prime Day deals, with 42% off this kit containing one of each with a pair of batteries and a battery charger, all conveniently in a high quality tool bag.

42% Off for Prime Day

Nilight Digital Tire Inflator + Pressure Gauge

A digital pressure gauge is always helpful when you're checking - or reinflating - your tires. Instead of swapping back and forth between a pressure gauge and the inflator itself, we highly recommend a 2-in-1 solution like this one from Nilight. Simple to use, and reliable, it comes with everything you need including a replacement set of valve stem caps if you require them.

11% Off for Prime Day

Craftsman Socket Set - 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch Drive

If you don't already have a socket set, we don't know how you've been getting anything done in the garage, but if you are in need, Craftsman's Prime Day deal has you covered. This socket set comes with two wrenches - a 1/4-inch and a 3/4-inch drive, and a mix of SAE and Metric sockets.

47% Off for Prime Day

Meguiar's Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer

Meguiar’s Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer quickly and easily brings new life to all exterior plastic, vinyl & trim such as bumpers, large moldings, door handles and rear view mirror housings. Simply spray it on and let it dry! Utilizing break-thru UV clear coat technology, Meguiar’s Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer Aerosol will shine and protect even after 100 washes.

35% Off for Prime Day

3M Chrome and Metal Polish

Chrome, stainless steel, and other autmotive metals are prone to surface staining and imperfections due to corrosion, rust, tarnishing, and more. This 3M product makes removal and cleaning of those metal surfaces easier than ever.

20% Off for Prime Day

No Excuses: Stop Leaving Your Valve Stems Uncapped

2024-05-29T21:08:17+00:00

Maintaining your vehicle goes beyond regular oil changes, brake jobs, and tire rotations; it also involves paying attention to often overlooked details, such as keeping your tire valve stems capped. These small, seemingly insignificant caps actually play a crucial role in ensuring peak performance and lifespan of your tires.

First and foremost, uncapped valve stems expose your tires to external elements that can lead to premature damage and wear. Dust, dirt, and moisture can easily infiltrate the valve stem, damaging the valve core, causing corrosio,n and hindering the proper functioning of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Corroded valve stems can lead to slow leaks, making it challenging to maintain the recommended tire pressure. This not only compromises your vehicle's fuel efficiency but also jeopardizes your safety on the road. In extreme cases, it could lead to sudden tire failure. By simply keeping valve stems capped, you create a barrier that helps protect the valve core, ensuring the consistent performance of your tires and enhancing overall safety.

The humble valve stem cap may be easy to overlook, but its role in safeguarding your tires and maintaining optimal performance should not be underestimated. By taking the simple step of keeping tire valve stems capped, you protect your tires from external elements, prevent corrosion, and ensure the longevity of your vehicle's tire pressure monitoring system. It's a small action that can have a significant impact on both your vehicle's safety and your overall driving experience, and with a ton of affordable options available, there is no reason not to get a set if you're missing them. We'll always prefer options from reputable brands like Dress Up Bolts, but we also found a wide variety of incredibly affordable valve stem caps. We'll post some below.

Basic Replacements

If you're just looking to cap those valve stems you lost the caps to, this might be your best bet for the smallest budget. Available in black, white, blue, green, and yellow - just in case you want to take the extra step.

Shop here: https://amzn.to/3VnlOsu

Anodized Alloy

One step further, and around the same price as your basic replacements, these anodized alloy caps have a plastic internal lining to be gentle on your valve stem threads while ensuring a solid and snug seal. Each one is available in a variety of anodized finishes.

Shop here: https://amzn.to/3VwkDqN

As you can tell, the anodized valve stem caps come in a variety of styles and colors.

Shop here: https://amzn.to/4aBtUC0

Anodized Alloy w/ N2 (Nitrogen) Logo

These versions of the anozied alloy valve stem caps feature the N2 logo etched on the top of the cap, signifying that the tires are filled with Nitrogen. If you have nitrogen filled tires, and want to make sure you - or your mechanics - don't forget it while working on the car, these are your best bet at a good price. Available in a wide variety of anodized finishes.

Shop here: https://amzn.to/3KnAAsU

Dress Up Bolts Titanium Valve Stem Caps

Of course, if you're looking for the highest of quality valve stem caps, our friends at Dress Up Bolts have you covered with their awesome titnaium ones. Dress Up Bolts' gear valve stem caps are universally designed to replace the cheap plastic caps with unique eye catching design. The valve stem caps are made from GR5 titanium metal and colored using PVD process for a vibrant and durable finish, available in several colors.

DressUpBolts.com

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The 5 Best Automotive Products on Amazon This Month

2024-04-15T21:30:11+00:00

Spring has sprung, and for many enthusiasts who had to sit through the wet and freezing winter months, it's time to clear the dust out of the garage, engage in some spring cleaning, and get those routine maintenance checks underway. This is among one of the busiest times of the year for car enthusiasts. Be it pulling a vehicle out from winter storage, or finally being warm enough to tolerate the garage and driveway workspaces for longer periods of time, the events, shows, and cruise nights are just around the corner. With that in mind, we wanted to take a look at what's trending on Amazon in the automotive market so you can re-up on some essentials, or add a new tool to your vehicular arsenal.

Chemical Guys MIC499 Big Mofo Chenille Microfiber Premium Scratch-Free Wash Mitts

Currently the #1 trending automotive product on Amazon, and for good reason. This is our favorite style of plush microfiber wash mitt, in a big size for a price that's hard to beat! Available in single or 2-packs, and six different colors, this is an easy buy for anyone pulling their dusty vehicle from storage.

Buy the Chemical Guys wash mitt here!

Seven Sparta Upgraded Car Cup Holder Expander Adapter with Offset Adjustable Base

Go ahead and file this one under "Ideas we wish we came up with," because this is among our favorite inventions. For enthusiasts that have a big Yeti Rambler, Hydroflask, or other extra-large water bottle, you're probably familiar with the problem this is solving - especially in a compact car. Sometimes the factory cup holders don't fit the massive containers, so Seven Sparta built an adapter! It secures tightly into the car's cup holders, and fits up to 46oz Yeti products with a 4-inch wide opening. Available as a single or 2-pack, and two different colors.

Buy the Seven Sparta Upgrade Cup Holder here!

PULIDIKI Car Cleaning Gel

Have you ever wondered how professional detailers get that hard-to-reach dust and grime out of tight nooks and corners? Chances are they're using a "cleaning gel" slime-like product after an interior clean. Designed to be pushed into small cracks and crevices to remove dust and dirty that microfibers aren't getting. For such a cheap price, it's obvious why this product is trending.

Buy the PULIDIKI Cleaning Gel here!

ROCGORLD R7 Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor

Portable tire inflators are one of our absolute favorite products, so it's no surprise to see one on the list - and at a great price point! No more searching for the closest gas station on the road, or unloading a plug-in compressor by your nearest outlet, the ROCGORLD R7 is an all-in-one battery powered compressor and tire inflator. Compact and east to store in its own carrying case, this should be a must-have for any emergency roadside kit.

Buy the ROCGORLD R7 Tire Inflator here!

Fanttik Slim V8 Mate Cordless Car Vacuum

We actually bought this one the moment we saw it, because it's absolutely perfect. Fanttik's Slim V8 Mate cordless car vacuum is an instant-add to our vehicle kits alongside spare tools, microfibers, and detailing products. With a flexible extended hose, pet hair brush, and a variety of attachments, you can't go wrong with this portable vacuum. We never have to worry about small messes in the car! Available in Black, Blue, and Gray, all at a great price.

Buy the Fanttik Cordless Car Vacuum here!

Improving Horsepower and Throttle Response Without Engine Mods

2024-03-08T20:35:29+00:00

Whether you've just purchased a new vehicle, or you've got something that's still OEM-fresh, there are ways to make considerable gains in your vehicle's power and throttle response without diving too deep into bolted on modifications or extensive engine work. The term "chip tune" has been thrown around for decades, and garnered some skepticism after a number of snake-oil products diluted the market. This left a lot of enthusiasts looking for reputable brands with proven results. Enter Racechip USA.

Have you ever wondered why cars with near identical engine specs can have different power outputs? It's all about the software. From the factory, the ECU and engine management electronics determine the tune. RaceChip's tuning tech taps into your engine's hidden potential, giving you a performance boost without breaking the bank. Whether your ride is already powerful or not, RaceChip unlocks its full potential, delivering an exhilarating driving experience tailored just for you. There are even options for EVs!

There are a variety of simple-to-install products from RaceChip that offer increased performance or adjustability.

Performance Increase with RaceChip GTS Black, GTS, RS, and S

The RaceChip GTS, RS, and S chips are a plug and play solution for unlocking the extra horsepower your engine has to offer. They can be installed without any special knowledge or tools in about 10-15 minutes, and can also be controlled via smartphone app. Testing has resulted in up to 30% gains in power and torque depending on the application. View more here.

Throttle Optimization and Adjustment with the RaceChip XLR5

Simply put, the RaceChip XLR5 is a throttle optimization tool. This innovative throttle tuning system doesn't directly affect your engine's power output, but rather gives you access to that power more immediately and directly. Choose from 7 different stages of throttle response from the controller, or via smartphone app. View more here.

EV Optimization with the RaceChip RX

The RaceChip RX is the solution EV drivers have been looking for. Similar to the XLR5, the RX can set your EV's responsiveness for a variety of configurations. Whether you're chasing sportier performance with improved response, or more range and fewer stops via Eco mode, there's customization to be made for any EV. View more here.

Be sure to check out the website and their easy-to-use vehicle selection menu to see which options are avaialble for your specific vehicle! You can find all you need at RaceChip.us

The Best Way to Eliminate License Plate Rattle is Under $10

2024-01-18T15:57:18+00:00

Every once in a while, a product comes across our feeds that makes us ask: "Why didn't we think of that?" This one is among the most recent eureka moments we wish we came up with first. Whether you have a cammed engine that chugs along the whole car, or you're an audio aficionado with a bumping system, you've probably experienced the phenomenon of a shaking license plate rattling against your car, or against its plastic frame. If you haven't, try standing outside your car and listening when the car - or subwoofer - is turned on.

It's a sound so frequently associated with thumping subwoofers that we can practically hear it when we imagine the sound of a bass-heavy ride. The vibrations of the license plate cause it to rattle loudly against the car or license plate frame, making for an awful racket that takes away from your lumpy idle or your precisely tuned audio system. We've seen some amusing hacks to prevent this phenomenon over the years - from duct tape behind the license plate to cardboard or cork "gaskets" on the plate frames. Both of these options can still ruin the paint beneath them, and are often temporary solutions, as they wear out in the elements. Enter the smartest idea we've seen in ages: the silicone license plate frame.

Aujen Silicone License Plate Frames

HOTOR Silicone License Plate Frames - 2 Pack

Rightcar Solutions Silicone License Plate Frames

https://amzn.to/3V5VeEy

MotorFi 2 Pack Silicone License Plate Frames

Editor's Note: We may earn commission from sales through Amazon affiliate links.