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Automotive product reviews

For more product reviews, please see our main product review page.

NEWS (Please note: New Products appear after the News)

PiSAT's New K Light

Great in an emergency on the road or for looking under the hood, this light -- usable as a flashlight or lantern -- retails for $49.95 and available at web site www.pisatsolar.com and select retail stores, this light functions as a lantern or flashlight, has a removable cap, 1:1 charging (one hour of light for one hour of charge. It is highly water resistant, has 120 Lumens and two power settings - low and high. Packaged in a safe, durable case with handles that rotate 360 degrees, locking every 30 degrees for 12 different positions. It comes with 16 bright white LEDs (100,000 hours of light), is rechargeable, has 7.2 volt, 1.6 Ahr, a•NiMH battery said to last more than 3000 charges, with a lifespan of ten years (full daily use), and lifetime (recreational and/or emergency use) Furthermore, the 1.5 watt solar panel is unbreakable, lightweight at approximately 22 ounces, and is compliant with regulations for restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS compliant).

About the company: PiSAT Solar, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was founded by four individuals who share a common passion for improving the quality of life for the world's most challenging environments. They believe in renewable energy and the K light, small and rugged, is the company's first commercially available product - and is one of the only solar-powered light emitting diode (LED) lanterns available in the world today. The light is perfect not only for use in and out of cars, but for outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, boating and as an emergency light and is designed to be used either as a flashlight or lantern.

For more information go to web site www.pisatsolar.com or e-mail info@pisatsolar.com .

Old Cars Weekly launches online data resource: Old Cars Report

The trusted automotive team at Krause Publications has launched Old Cars Report (www.oldcarsweekly.com/report), a searchable online database that connects classic car owners with comprehensive pricing and data on their favorite American vehicles.

With a foundation of facts on 5,000+ makes and 15,000 models, Old Cars Report makes available the massive databases that have been accumulated over the past four decades by the publishers of Old Cars Weekly and Old Cars Price Guide. Current market pricing, market trends, historic values, recent auction prices realized, historic data on your make and model car, condition rating scales, photos — Old Cars Report has got it all on a scale that has never been attempted before.

“Old Cars Report opens its massive pricing database to a worldwide online audience and allows hobbyists to search and obtain customized information on their vehicle or collection,” said Old Cars Report publisher Jeff Pozorski. “This database comprises the content from Krause Publications’ out-of-print Standard Catalogs of American Cars covering 1805-1999.”

To get started, visit oldcarsweekly.com and click on the Old Cars Report. Select the make, model and year of the car you want to learn more about. If you aren’t sure of one of those categories, we offer a Guided Search to help you find it. When the Report is compiled, you can either purchase it for $5.99 or sign up to subscribe to an unlimited number of Reports through a monthly or yearly package.

Reports include:
®≠   Historical information and factory-correct photos on U.S. production cars
®≠   Defining characteristics of the car, key changes for that model year and identifying features
®≠   An explanation of the I.D. numbers for that car, production information, engine lists, chassis features, full factory option lists, with original prices (if available)
®≠   Historical footnotes
®≠   Recent auction prices for that model car, dating back 10 years..
®≠   Current market pricing in six condition categories, from No. 1 show car to No. 6 parts car.
®≠   Exclusive pricing trends that allow Report recipients to track values for the past decade.

To check out the new service, visit www.oldcarsweekly.com/report.

About Old Cars Report
OLD CARS REPORT, powered by Old Cars Weekly, is a comprehensive online database providing users with data, history and pricing on their favorite make and model through individual Reports. The information clearing house provides current market pricing, market trends, historic values, recent auction hammer prices, historic data on your classic make and model car, condition rating scales, photos, and current classified listings.

About Krause Publications
KRAUSE PUBLICATIONS, a division of F+W Media, Inc., is the premier book and magazine publisher specializing in antiques & collectibles, firearms and weapons, outdoors, automotive, and sports collectibles categories. F+W Media produces more than 500 new books a year, maintains a backlist of more than 2,500 titles, publishes more than 35 magazines, owns and operates dozens of informational and subscription-based Web sites, and operates a growing number of successful consumer shows annually. Visit www.fwmedia.com.

CAR SEATS FOR CHILDREN

Britax Child Safety Inc. Offers Limited Edition Mossy Oak® Car Seat

Britax Child Safety Inc. is proud to offer a special limited edition convertible child seat featuring Mossy Oak Break-Up®.

The Britax Marathon™ is the number one selling Britax convertible child seat and is ideal for parents seeking premium comfort and a higher, forward-facing harnessed weight capacity (up to 65 pounds). The Marathon starts with the premium cover made from Microfibres® fabric that is washable and the ultimate in soft, plush comfort.

Unique features include the tangle-free, five-point harness with four harness heights for a snug and secure fit. Premium push-button LATCH connectors and convenient harness adjuster make it easy to ensure a quick, simple and tight installation.

The Marathon features the patented Versa-Tether® energy managing top tether, which anchors the child seat to the vehicle, reducing movement in the event of impact or a sudden stop.  The Marathon is fully lined with expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam that gently cushions and distributes energy away from the child.

The Britax Marathon fits children rear facing from five to 33 pounds and children forward facing from at least one year old and 20 pounds, up to 65 pounds and is approved for aircraft use.

The Marathon featuring Mossy Oak Break-Up® is sold through select independent retailers nationwide. To find a retailer near you, log on to www.BritaxUSA.com and find out how you can own the Mossy Oak Break-Up limited edition car seat.

Note: Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 213 is a set of strict standards to which child restraint systems must adhere. To read more about the regulations, please visit www.nhtsa.gov.

Britax Child Safety Inc. produces official licensed products of Mossy Oak/Haas Outdoors Inc. Haas Outdoors Inc., headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions and Mossy Oak Properties.

CLEANING PRODUCTS

Detail Magic, A New Line of Automotive Cleaners That Protect and Clean and Are Good for the Environment

For Life Products (<www.ForLifeProducts.com) has announced Detail Magic, a revolutionary line of Earth-friendly automobile care and cleaning products that were created to protect, clean and restore automobiles to their original showroom shine – all without wasting water or putting harmful chemicals into storm drains which creates polluted run-off that has been proven harmful to the environment. The line includes eight new products that will be available exclusively at The Home Depot’s new Automotive Section.  The entire line offers “best-in-class” performance without any of the harsh or harmful agents normally found in cleaning products,

To circumvent the staggering amount of water waste which occurs during a typical car wash (average is 50-gallons of water per home car wash), Detail Magic Waterless Wash & Wax Protectant was designed to create a beautiful shine without the use of water. Priced at $17.97, Detail Magic Waterless Wash & Wax Protectant has three main components that work to clean a vehicle without scratching. The formula also includes Camauba wax which creates a barrier to protect a vehicle from acid rain, water marks, bird droppings and oxidation, while also filling in swirl marks and minor scratches.

The Detail Magic Waterless Wash and Protectant works on all automotive finishes, including clear coats, exotic paint jobs, lacquer, aluminum, chrome, stainless steel, brass, acrylic, fiberglass, gel coat and Plexiglas, and is perfect for colder climates or urban areas where getting a hose wash isn’t easy or the norm.

Additional products in the Detail Magic line:

Detail Magic All Natural Carpet & Upholstery Spot & Stain Remover
Using the revolutionary bio-enzymatic formula, this product is designed to instantly remove stains from carpet, upholstery and fabrics. Excellent for oil/grease, grass stains, food stains, make-up, flavored juices, pet stains and more. "Keeps on cleaning long after you're done!" and is priced at $5.97.

Detail Magic Anti-Fog Window Cleaner
Great for colder or humid climates, this product cleans and improves visibility instantly. Works on windows, windshields, mirrors, and eye/sun glasses and is priced at $7.97. It's a brand new revolutionary formula designed to clean all glass and leave a residue free anti-fog protection without streaking.

Detail Magic Chrome Polish & Re-Plater
Specially formulated to clean and protect chrome surfaces, Detail Magic’s Chrome Polish & Re-Plater is designed for use on chrome wheels, automobile bumpers, trim, and motorcycle pipes and fixtures. Priced at $9.97, this product removes oxidation, re-plates chrome onto chrome plated surfaces and puts a protective coating to prevent further oxidation and prevents dirt and grime from adhering to surfaces.

Detail Magic Leather & Vinyl Cleaner
Give a new car look and feel to any car by using this product that safely cleans your leather and vinyl instantly. Excellent for all leather surfaces and is priced at $5.97.

Detail Magic Lens Renewer Kit (Detail Magic Lens Polish / Detail Magic Lens Protectant) - Twofer.
This two-step system, instantly removes hazing, UV damage, pitting and scratches from headlights, taillights, turn signals, and any reflective lens on an automobile. Priced at $14.97, this product will restore all lenses on one automobile, SUV or pick-up truck.

Detail Magic Leather & Vinyl Conditioner & Protectant
Priced at just $7.97, this product moisturizes and softens with one use. It also prevents cracking and restores a rich appearance. Its purpose is to re-hydrate and soften your leather and vinyl surfaces. Use this product on any leather and vinyl surfaces to make any car look new again.

Detail Magic Rich Leather Fragrance Spray
Say goodbye to any other fragrance refresher and have a car smell as good as a brand new Rolls Royce for the small price of $9.97 – this Detail Magic Rich Leather Fragrance Spray will leave users feeling as if they are always driving a new car.

Additional information on Detail Magic products is available by calling 1-877-959-1234. For online shoppers, the entire Detail Magic line can be found at www.detailmagic.com or direct from the For Life Products website,www.ForLifeProducts.com.

About For Life Products
For Life Products, (www.forlifeproducts.com), is an innovative company offering an assortment of merchandise made of high quality material, sold at more affordable prices. Started by entrepreneur Joe McDonnell, For Life Products is the manufacturer of the Rejuvenate line and other well-known household products.

Purosol Upgraded Microfiber Cloths for Efficient Cleaning

If you want to use safe products for cleaning the inside of your car, PUROSOL (www.PUROSOL.com ) has an upgraded microfiber cloth to efficiently supplement its product line of advanced, enzyme-based green cleaning products. 

The new cloth represents months of research and field testing and utilizes a new ultra-fine microfiber thread representing the next generation of refined microfiber fabric technology.  The cloth composition and weave is designed to deliver the proper absorbency and softness to insure proper delivery of the PUROSOL solution without harming the surface being cleaned.   The new cloth has a silk-like feel and can withstand repeated washings without the need for replacement.  Fabric softeners are not recommended when washing the cloth.  The new cloth is 6" x 6" and comes in a clear reusable vinyl envelop.  For larger cleaning application or commercial use, the Origin Labs also offers its large 12" x 16" commercial microfiber suede cloth. 

"Using an improper or unclean cloth to clean can cause as much damage and using the wrong solution," said Origin Laboratories, LLC vice president Steven D'Antoni.  "One of the most common mistakes is to use a cloth that was previously used with a solvent based cleaning agent or a fabric not designed for cleaning.  Extensive research and field testing was undertaken for our new cloth to insure it complemented our unique product formula."

The small PUROSOL microfiber cloth is sold separately from their environmentally safe cleaning solution and priced at $6.50 and the large cloth is sold for $9.95.  The small cloth is available on the company's web site www.PUROSOL.com or at leading retailers throughout the country.  The large microfiber cloth can be ordered by request at customerservice@PUROSOL.com. 

Unlike ordinary off-the-shelf cleaners, which are made up primarily of alcohol, ammonia, harsh solvents and colored dye, the PUROSOL line of products is completely organic and environmentally safe.  This advanced cleaner is non-toxic, hypo-allergenic, contains no CFCs, no detergents and no solvents of any kind (including alcohol, ammonia and chlorine) which can subtly eat away at porous electronic screens and strip away the crucial anti-glare coatings of today's high-priced glasses lenses.

As part of its unique formula, PUROSOL neutralizes the molecular charges on the lens surface, which normally attracts dust and dirt particles, thereby extending the life of the cleaning.  While this effect diminishes over time, the particles which do come to rest on the lens can be easily repelled by blowing or wiping (without the solution) following a recent cleaning.  Without having to clean as frequently, the surface remains protected longer and the life of the product (and solution) is extended.

 PUROSOL Optical is available at fine retailers. PUROSOL can also be purchased by visiting www.PUROSOL.com .

ELECTRONICS

Black Box Stereo Offers Digital Music On the Move

A new, two-piece stereo makes listening to downloaded music while on a motorcycle or ATV possible. Compatible with modern technology, the state-of-the-art JBL MBB3 Black Box from Prospec Electronics was designed to play digital audio files.

Able to be used with headsets and helmet headphones, the innovative system features iPod, USB 2.0 and aux-in connections. Offering a built-in hard drive, the portable media edition Black Box provides 1GB of storage—the equivalent of up to 20 CDs worth of songs.

Designed for harsh weather conditions, the resilient Black Box features rust-proof, splash-resistant housing. Measuring just 8-1/8"W x 6-9/16"H x 1-5/8"D, including brackets, the compact unit can be mounted in a more secure location separate from its corresponding faceplate. This protects further against water damage.

The versatile JBL MBB3 provides a subwoofer output. A 4 channel x 45 watt stereo, it functions as an AM/FM receiver with European tuning and CD changer control. It is also Sirius Satellite Radio ready.

A convenient chrome JBL MC19-CH faceplate supplies simple control of the unit, as well as any attached electronic devices. An easy-to-read screen has a unique, two-line display.

With little depth, the sleek JBL MC19-CH measures only 6.73"W x 3.97"H and easily mounts where traditional stereos can't. Underwater submersible, the chrome commander/remote has full control features. A silver JBL MC19 or classic JBL REM45 faceplate is also intended to operate the Black Box.

Suggested retail price of the JBL MBB3 Black Box from Prospec Electronics is $299.95. The chrome JBL MC19-CH faceplate costs $149.95, the silver MC19 is $129.95 and the REM45 retails for $119.95. The JBL MBB319 package includes both the MBB3 and MC19 and retails for $349.95. Sirius Satellite Radio and a CD changer are available options.

For more information contact Prospec Electronics, 3325 Hwy. 17 N., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466. www.prospecelectronics.com.

FUEL FILTERS

Water, dirt and other debris are unavoidable in stored fuel.  They can cause engine damage and compromise efficiency.  The Mr. Funnel Fuel Filter separates these harmful contaminants from fuel in order to keep engines operating properly.  This one-of-a-kind fuel filter is now easy to buy through Amazon.com, one of the world's leading e-commerce web sites.

Allowing only clean fuel to exit the funnel, the Mr. Funnel Fuel Filter improves performance and protects engines, fuel injectors and tanks.  Fast-flowing, the funnel filters gas, diesel, 2-cycle mixed gas, kerosene and heating oil. Crafted from industrial-strength polypropylene, the funnel is lightweight and portable.  Easy to use, it's self-cleaning and requires no maintenance or replacement parts.  As safe as it is effective, the funnel is conductive.  Its built-in, specially-coated filter is crafted from non-stick stainless steel.

The Mr. Funnel Fuel Filter comes in four models.  For transferring less than 5 gallons, the F1 and F3 are perfect, while the F8 is best for jobs over 5 gallons.  Employing dual filters, the F15 can be used at a fuel pump.

The Mr. Funnel Fuel Filter is available at Amazon.com and retails from $14 to $59.95.

For more information contact Mr. Funnel, 3119 SW 42nd Ave., Palm City, FL  34990.  sales@mrfunnel.com;  www.mrfunnel.com.

Garage Flooring

trafficMASTER™ Garage Flooring Can Outfit Any Garage Within Hours!

Millennium Modular offers a new garage flooring option for car enthusiasts and homeowners - trafficMASTER™ Garage and Drain Tiles. For the first time in the flooring market, modular garage flooring is available for in-store purchase sold exclusively at The Home Depot®.

trafficMASTER™ Garage and Drain Tiles deliver the performance of commercial grade flooring at a great value. The availability of two designs garage (solid) and drain (open grates for flow-through), along with a variety of colors: silver, charcoal, red, blue, yellow, white and black provides consumers with endless options when it comes to personalizing their garage floor.

trafficMASTER™ Garage and Drain Tiles are easy to install using a simple overlap and tap process. No adhesives and minimal floor preparation are needed. These durable tiles are made from high impact polypropylene and can support up to 10,000 lbs with a 10 year residential guarantee. These 12" X 12" tiles retail for $2.49 per square foot. Now transforming the garage floor is a do-it-yourself project that takes as little as two hours and can be used immediately, unlike epoxy floor coatings.

Garage Tiles by trafficMASTER™ are the perfect solution to transforming your undressed floor to enhance your car, retail showroom, auto dealership, workshop or patio.

For more information, call 866-380-6481 or visit www.tmflooring.com

GAUGES & COMPASSES

Accutire Pressure Gauge

The Accutire Pressure Gauge is perfect for any year or make car, for it provides superior accuracy; has an easy-to-read digital display; an ergonomic grip handle; and its lithium battery is guaranteed for life.

To order, call L.L. Bean, Freeport, Maine, at 800-809-7057.

L.L. Bean's Digital Compass

Can’t tell where you are by the sun’s position? Neither can I, and that’s why L.L. Bean’s Deluxe Digital Vehicle Compass is so handy. It mounts on the dashboard and features large, easy-to-read display; has a trip timer displaying the hours, minutes and seconds; automatically avoids the car’s magnetic field; displays the outside air temperature; and automatically turns off and preserves battery power.

To order, call L.L. Bean, Freeport, Maine, at 800-809-7057.

HITCHES

Beckson Marine's Hitch-Safe Trailer Hitch & Ball Protective Trailer Hitch Cover Helps Prevent Injury

Exposed trailer hitches can cause a myriad of harm, from torn clothes to bruised and cut legs. These injuries are easily avoided with Beckson Marine's Hitch-Safe™ Trailer Hitch & Ball Safety Covers. Molded of soft, PVC plastic, they fit over the bar and ball to shield drivers and passengers from the protruding hitch.

Available in two styles, the black safety covers are UV-resistant. The convenient HH-TRB model protects 2" rounded hitch bars, while the HH-TSB is made for 2-5/8" squared bars. Both versions can be used with 1-7/8" and 2" trailer balls.

Beckson's Hitch-Safe Trailer Hitch & Ball Safety Covers have a suggested retail price of $14.95.  Beckson Marine also manufactures an array of high-quality pumps, ventilators, deck plates, ports, hatches and equipment holders.

Contact Beckson Marine, 165 Holland Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06605. sales@beckson.com; www.beckson.com.

Universal Tow Hitch Aids in Ice Fishing

Clam Corps Universal Tow Hitch is popular with owners of flip-over shelters, such as the Fish Trap. Once the heavy-duty spring loaded hitch is mounted to the sled, it attaches to the flipper/pin receiver on your snowmobile or ATV. Receivers are available through snowmobile and ATV dealers.

The Universal Tow Hitch, item #8241, is available at auto and sporting supply dealers for $59.99.

MAPS

MYTOPO.COM Releases A New Product -- A navigation-Ready TopophotoTM Map

Landowners and outdoor enthusiasts who have for years relied on the United States Geological Survey (USGS) topographic map series now have a new option. MyTopo.com, an innovator in the mapping industry, has created a TopoPhotoTM map, which combines information from the reliable USGS topographic map with a recent color aerial photograph, creating a navigation-ready hybrid map.

"The TopophotoTM maps take the best available topographic data and aerial photographs and combines them to create a more updated map, which we think will replace or at least be a useful supplement to the aging USGS topo maps we have relied upon for years," said Toohill. The maps are available now to order via the company’s online ordering system, and, like the company’s other maps, can be centered any place in the US, printed on large sheets of waterproof or glossy paper, personalized with a name and title, and shipped to the customer’s doorstep within 24-48 hours.

The maps provide the ability to see the elevation contours, roads, buildings, and geographic features labeled on a color aerial photograph taken in 2003-2006. "The TopoPhotoTM maps reveal recent changes on the landscape, including vegetation and development, but they maintain the traditional reliability of the USGS topographic maps," added Toohill.

MyTopo.com specializes in providing an easy and convenient process for outdoor enthusiasts to order large-format printed maps, including topo maps, aerial photos, and the new TopophotoTM maps. Customers use a five step process to customize their maps online; the maps are printed and shipped within 24-48 hours. The ordering process allows the customer to center their map any place in the US, chose the map’s scale, provide a title, and personalize further with the map owner’s name. The maps can be printed in several size choices and on waterproof, glossy or laminated paper. They range in price from $9.95 to $59.95, depending on map type and paper size.

The new TopophotoTM maps are available in more than 25 states, with the remaining states becoming available over the next several months. Current customers can reorder previously ordered topo or aerial photo maps in the TopophotoTM format by logging into their accounts and selecting the option to "start a new map here." The TopophotoTM maps are available in all three sizes and paper types and start at $29.95.

MyTopo.com is a private company based in Billings, MT. The company sells maps directly via web site www.mytopo.com, and also resells its maps via many popular websites including Topozone.com, MapTech.com, Cabelas.com, Remington.com, Realtree.com, the Digital Map Store and many more mapping and outdoor-related sites.

To learn more about the company, visit www.mytopo.com or call 866-587-9015.

SAFETY PRODUCTS

Coghlan's Sight-Grid Signal Mirror Can Help Save Your Life

Picture yourself with a flat tire or off the road, alone, with no one around to help. Or, you've been in an accident and can't walk or drive. No one knows exactly where you are, but with Coghlan's Sight-Grid Signal Mirror, the newest piece of adventure gear, you can send an SOS to anyone passing by in the area. Carry the Signal Mirror in your pocket or glove compartment -- it's highly reflective shatter resistant glass is encased in a shatter resistant acrylic case; it can signal up to 25 miles on a clear day; the grid mesh in center of the mirror allows the user to target the beam by framing object; it's small 2"x3" size and 1/4" width fits anywhere and, it floats in water.

Available for $12.99. To locate a retailer go to Coghlan's web site at www.coghlans.com

TRAILERS/LIGHTS

Innovative Bright LED Tail Lights Make Trailer Stand Out

Often, the key to preventing highway accidents is having trailer lights that are easily seen by other drivers.  Innovative Lighting's 250 series Slim Line LED Stop, Tail and Turn Light features a distinctive optical and lens design in a 15", 11-LED configuration for maximum visibility.

The advantages of LED technology are many. Brighter than incandescent bulbs, the 250 Slim Line can provide drivers following a trailer an extra 24' of stopping distance at 60 mph. Drawing 90% less power than incandescent bulbs, LEDs reduce the load on electrical systems. The Slim Line LED is rated for 100,000 hours, compared to 3,000 hours for an incandescent bulb, and it will last over 20 years.

Innovative Lighting's Slim Line is particularly appropriate for trailer and RV applications. With no brittle metal filaments to break, it stands up to shock and vibration. Having the electronic chip inside an epoxy substrate thoroughly protects the LEDs from the elements.

The unique design of Innovative Lighting's 250 Slim Line LED meets SAE/DOT specifications and Class A reflectance standards, minimizing the need for additional reflectors on a trailer or towed camper. Innovative Lighting has long been on the forefront of LED technology. Using sophisticated lens software, scientists collect, measure and redistribute the light energy to a calculated surface. A virtual modeling system optimizes the lens design so the light output loses the least amount of energy, assuring an accurate and reliable optical system.

The 250 series Slim Line LED Stop, Tail and Turn Light operates on 9-16 volt DC systems and draws 250 milliamps. The 15.5" L x 1.6" W x .8" D Slim Line can be mounted vertically, horizontally or at a 45˚angle.  Innovative Lighting offers a choice of red or clear lens in a sealed polycarbonate housing. It retails for $32.99.

For more information ontact Innovative Lighting, 109 Progressive Ave., Roland, IA 50236. 515-388-1011; Fax: 515-388-5549. sales@innovativelight.com.



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