The annual AAPEX/SEMA show in Las Vegas is the home of the high-tech, high drama and just plain fun automotive part or accessory. Our editors scoured the cavernous halls and below present a collection of interesting, practical, and sometimes whimsical products.
Headrest monitor is a perfect match
The VizuaLogic PerfectMatch headrest monitor system eliminates cutting and hand-fitting of aftermarket audio/video systems. Installation requires replacing the factory headrest with the PerfectMatch unit, which is built with 100% color match and OEM fabric and leather.
VisuaLogic
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Internet catalog offers multiple tools
go.delphi.com is the location of the Delphi Product & Service Solutions global catalog, which provides quick and easy Internet catalog search capability, plus service information, and related documents. Godelphi.com also allows you to quickly create your own company web site.
Delphi Product & Service Solutions
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Tire survey done in 60 seconds
Snapshot fleet tire survey software and tire inspection tools dramatically reduce the time and labor costs associated with fleet tire inspections. Data collection time per wheel position is generally less than 60 seconds. Snapshot increases dealer credibility, as well as providing detailed, accurate information for fleet customers. Snapshot includes a hand-held data collection unit, digital tread measurement tool and a digital air pressure gauge.
International Marketing Inc.
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Affordable “black box” monitors vehicle performance
CarChip allows users to simply plug the unit into the OBDII connector and automatically record an enormous amount and variety of critical data while they drive. Carchip can be used by employers monitoring drivers or fathers monitoring teens.
Davis Instrument Corp.
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Easy, laser pulley alignment
Gates new DriveAlign laser alignment tool quickly identifies both parallel offset and angular pulley misalignment, two common problems that reduce belt and pulley service life. The lightweight battery operated unit is compatible with all serpentine drives and includes laser enhancing eyeglasses for easier viewing.
The Gates Rubber Company
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New accessory creates rally look
The Auto Ventshade Company has developed three new styles of scoop air intake vent that create the look of a rally WRX, or an “SS” style hood. Roof Scoops are Available in small and large sizes, while hood scoops ship in single or dual sets in medium or large sizes. All can be easily colour matched to factory or custom pant finishes.
Auto Ventshade Company
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Load your pickup with ease
Swift Lift is a pickup-mounted crane that lets one person load or unload objects weighing up to 300 kg. The crane can be operated manually, or an electric/hydraulic unit is available. When not in use, it resembles a roll bar.
Swift Lift
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Intake System
The Typhoon Intake System by K & N dramatically reduces intake restriction as it smooths and straightens air flow. The system boosts performance using the highest quality components available, for a complete custom look.
K & N Filters
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Off road tire goes super size
Goodyear has launched the biggest ever consumer radial tire, the 40-inch Wrangler MT/R in 40X13.50R17LT sizing. Sidewalls use Goodyear’s patented Durawall technology with silica compounding and three polyester plies for excellent cut, tear and puncture resistance. The Wrangler MT/R is available in 21 sizes.
Goodyear
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Carbon Fiber Wing
Wings West has introduced the all-new 3D Carbon 01 Wing, for Honda Civic, Dodge Neon, and other makes. The carbon fiber wing improves high speed stability and looks great.
Wings West
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Aftermarket sport suspension has three modes
Bridgestone/Firestone Vehicle Systems new Praxis aftermarket suspension system uses dual rate air springs and Intelliride control systems to allow the driver to select touring, sport or track modes from the cockpit. Sport and track settings adjust spring rates and lower the vehicle by 25 and 50 millimeters respectively.
Bridgestone/Firestone
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Intake air chiller boosts power
The Cry-O2-Air Charge Freezer from Design Engineering Inc. utilizes cryogenic technology to freeze the air charge by passing the air over a CO2 charged aerodynamic bulb located in the air intake stream. Dyno testing has shown up to a 35% drop in air charge temperature for a denser cylinder air charge and more horsepower.
Design Engineering Inc.
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Tighter cargo restaint
The Bednet cargo restraint system is made of 2 in. polyester webbing and uses its own patented Quick-Tite buckles to tighten down most loads. Custom fit Bednets are available for most pick-up trucks, and come with their own carry case. Also available is the Utility Cargo Net, which comes in three sizes: medium for short beds and compact trucks; large for full-size long bed pick-ups and Jumbo for extra large loads.
Bednet
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New, cool brand of car
Scion, an all new line of cars from Toyota, aims to offer buyers every opportunity to personalize their vehicle, and plans to create an inviting and interactive dealership setting. Scion is working to develop partnerships with suppliers to permit personalization. Initially, two Scion models will be available, the bbX concept shown at SEMA and another to be launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January.
Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.
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Cooling fans for many applications
Siemens VDO has introduced a new line of cooling fan assemblies with extensive coverage for both import and domestic vehicle applications. The new line includes radiator and condenser fan assemblies. Now that Siemens VDO offers cooling fan assemblies and individual HVAC blower, radiator, condenser fan and axle shift motors, technicians have the option of replacing the entire fan or just the motor.
Siemens VDO Automotive
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Fender Covers
The Super Cushion Fender Mat Plus fender cover protects a vehicle’s finish during maintenance. The non-slip surface holds tools and parts in place, while the cover’s large size fully covers the top and sides of the fender.
American Non-Slip Products
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Yokohama unveils long-wearing tire
New advances in tread compound and design enable Yokohama’s Avid H4S/V4S tire to deliver exceptional handling and all-season traction in a longer wearing tire. The computer simulated tread pattern provides more even tread wear, extending the life of the tire.
Yokohama Tire Corp
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Diesel cat-back systems for more power
The MBRP Performance Exhaust 4″ diesel turbo-back exhaust system for the 1999-2002 Ford F-250, F-350 and Excursion, 1994-2002 Dodge Cummins and the 2001-2003 GMC Duramax delivers more power and quicker response on acceleration. The kit bolts on easily and comes complete with everything needed for installation: 4″ mandrel-bent, heavy-gauge tubing for maximum flow, a fully welded high-flow muffler and a mirror-polished stainless steel tip (optional with the aluminized system).
MBRP Inc.
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Automatic hood lock
Lokar Motorsports new adjustable level, self-locking hood prop automatically locks when the hood is opened and features multiple height levels. A quick release allows full extension of the hood. Stainless steel and construction prevents corrosion and deterioration.
Lokar Motorsports
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Cool Flow Turbine
Aeroturbine’s cool flow system is based on jet engine and thermal dynamic technology, using a special technology that literally pulls the air out of the engine, to dramatically increase horsepower, torque and mileage.
Aeroturbine
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Electronic Tool Cart
Waterloo Industries’ XTS (Xtreme Tool Storage) unit features a fully electronic locking system for increased security and convenience, provides over 21,000 cubic inches of storage space, and uses the same solid steel frame as the company’s other tool carts.
Waterloo Industries
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Faster, Easier Alignments
The 811 Plus by Hun
ter is a premium alignment system that combines Hunter’s award-winning WinAlign Alignment Software with advanced computer hardware to increase productivity and profitability.
Hunter Engineering
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Wheel Straightener
The Wheelsaver is small enough to fit into a standard size tool box, and straightens all OEM wheels in minutes, without air or electricity and just as efficiently as straighteners that cost and weigh much more.
Wheel Saver Systems
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Replacement Rotors
Brembo North America has significantly expanded its line of replacement rotors for passenger cars, light trucks, and SUVs to more than 1100, including many of the newest and most popular models.
Brembo North America
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New Battery Technology
The Delphi Freedom AGM battery’s unique design stops the movement of free liquid in the battery, creating a leakproof and spillproof container that can be mounted almost anywhere in the vehicle and withstand higher underhood operating conditions.
Delphi
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Automotive Scanner
The AutoXray EZ-Link II is the first diagnostic tool to be compliant with the new Controller Area Network protocol, which allows for more capability and flexibility in managing on-board systems.
AutoXray
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HID-Look Halogen Lamps
SilverStar High Performance Halogen Lamps illuminate with a crisp, white light that creates a high end appearance and provides clearer visibility, for the ultimate halogen upgrade without committing to HID.
Osram Sylvania
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OE-Quality Clutch Kits
Valeo’s new “best in class” clutch kits feature exactly the same production lines and quality standards as the company’s OE units, and contain all the necessary components to do a complete clutch replacement service.
Valeo
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User friendly diagnostics
The SKF IRIS automotive diagnostic system has been designed for use by ordinary technicians with little or no experience with PCs or diagnostic tools. A built-in self-tutorial training course provides a quick, easy understanding of the program — no higher education or special training is required.
IRIS is PC Windows based, making it simple to navigate between modules with the click of the mouse. IRIS runs on a standard PC running Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP. IRIS can also run with a Palm terminal.
SKF Automotive Division
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High Performance Instruments
Siemens VDO Automotive’s Xtreme line of performance gauges is designed for sport compacts, performance rides, and professional motorsports. A full line of gauges and choice of two diameters is available.
Siemens VDO
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Quiet, Comfortable Brakes
Honeywell Friction materials has introduced Bendix CT-3 brake pads, featuring a unique formulation that combines ceramic technology with organic friction to virtually eliminate noise and greatly reduce dusting.
Honeywell Friction (Bendix)
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Premium Large Size Muffler
The Arvin “Big Body” muffler is specially designed for SUVs and light trucks, and delivers power and OE premium sound, with a larger size that allows appropriately sized tuning tubes to provide free flow and power.
ArvinMeritor
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Shocks for Light Trucks and SUVs
MaxControl Monotube Shock Absorbers for light trucks and SUVs provide the ride of a sports car instead of a sport utility, with high pressure nitrogen gas and floating piston technology for superior performance and handling.
ArvinMeritor
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Premium Loaded Calipers
Wagner ThermoQuiet advanced ready to install loaded brake calipers with one-piece ThermoQuiet brake pads increase bay productivity by eliminating the need for disassembly or parts replacement.
Federal-Mogul
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Split-spoke design for luxury trucks, SUVs
A new 26-in. Icon wheel has been added to the Epic Precision Alloys line-up from American Racing Equipment. The split-spoke design combines a deep lip with spokes extended to the rim to create an elongated look. The 26-inch Icon wheel is suitable for luxury trucks and SUVs.
American Racing Equipment
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Performance Motor Oil
Royal Purple’s new Max Gear blended synthetic oil features Synslide additive technology to produce an exceptionally tough, ultra slippery and non-corrosive lubricating film, to improve performance and extend ring and pinion life.
Royal Purple
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Mini Cooper Suspension Upgrade
The H-Sport division of Hotchkis Performance has come up with a complete suspension package for one of the current hot products on the market: the new Mini Cooper from BMW. The suspension package includes sport coil springs, tubular sway bars, camber plates, and rear camber links, and dramatically improves overall handling.
Hotchkis Performance
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Retractable Worklight Reel
Ferret Instruments’ durable WorkLite now features an optional retractable reel with a rugged metal mechanism and ABS plastic housing, to making cord winding easy and improve safety.
Ferret Instruments
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Fingerless Mechanic’s Glove
For procedures that require more control, Snap-On’s fingerless mechanic’s glove features pull tabs for easier removal, gel padding at key points to lessen impact and reduce vibration, and Neoprene knuckle panels for flexibility.
Snap-On
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Leak Detection Dye Remover
Tracer Products’ water-based, odorless and safe Tracerline Glo-Away dye remover completely removes traces of old dye after tests, eliminating the chance of a false leak indication in subsequent tests.
Tracer Products
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