Category: News

Small Business Week Salutes Big Dreams

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by John M. Arnaud

 

National Small Business Week starts next week (May 4–8), and Performance Corner wants to make sure our local retailers get all the credit they deserve.

Since the early 60s, Small Business Week has recognized this nation’s independent businesses, which generate two out of every three new jobs in this country and help to power our economy from coast to coast. Beyond the numbers, however, small businesses represent a core American truth: the prosperity available to those willing to follow their passions through hard work and determination.

Though Small Business Week is a time to soak in the kudos, it’s also a terrific opportunity to engage your customers and promote your business throughout your local area. Here are some ways you can do just that:

  • Participate in any activities sponsored by your local Chamber of Commerce.
  • Talk up Small Business Week and the importance of supporting local businesses with your customers via social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.).
  • Extend special discounts or promotions to your customers to thank them for their support.
  • Announce and host an open house in your store to celebrate the occasion. (Email is a great way to communicate a last-minute event!)
  • Partner with a local performance or automotive club to share your expertise on a particular subject or host a workshop. For example, you might demonstrate how to perform an installation or talk about exciting new products.

Performance Corner would like to congratulate all of our entrepreneurs who have demonstrated the courage, grit, and determination required to pursue their dreams and help us grow the industry we all love.

Aftermarket junkies: Head in to your local accessories retailer next week to share your support and appreciation. Or find one using our dealer locator.

Aftermarket retailers: If you would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

CURT’s TruTrack™ Hitch Is One Heavy Hitter

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by John M. Arnaud

The weight-distribution trunnion hitch just got served. CURT Manufacturing, a leading producer of towing products, today announced its new TruTrack™ hitch (17500), which offers advanced design features that deliver the smoothest, safest ride on the market.

CURT TruTrack Hitch
CURT TruTrack Hitch

The TruTrack resists trailer sway in a couple of different ways. First, whereas most traditional weight-distribution hitches use regular spring bars to connect to the trailer frame, the TruTrack features a pair of trunnion-style spring bars and heavy-duty, adjustable support brackets, which are set at fixed positions by the user and hold the spring bars in place, both vertically and laterally.

Second, the TruTrack uses an integrated spring/cam system instead of standard pins and bolts. This CURT innovation builds up pressure to actively stop sway and then relaxes to make smooth turns. Hardened components achieve longer life, while a hex castle nut enables easy adjustment and fits most industry-standard couplers.

Another big benefit of the TruTrack system is the installation: instead of relying on a pile of washers and pins, this CURT weight-distribution hitch uses a pair of interlocking nuts and preset holes that offer specific angles and on-the-fly adjustment—no more tilt-angle guesswork or disassembling the hitch head.

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to check out the newest addition to CURT’s towing lineup. Or find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are an aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

MSD Completes Mallory Merger

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mallory-msd-merger

One good M deserves another.

Following the January 2015 acquisition of ACCEL Performance Group (maker of Mallory Ignition, Mr. Gasket, Hays, QuickTime, and others) by MSD Performance, the MSDP Group completed the planned merger of the Mallory and MSD lines to create the top ignition company in the automotive aftermarket.

As of March 31, the Mallory product line will no longer be produced; all Mallory products will be manufactured exclusively under the MSD brand. MSD will, however, continue to produce and service Mallory distributor replacement parts such as points, rotors, caps, and more than one hundred other items. In addition, MSD will continue repairing Mallory products and honoring all original Mallory warranties. Retailers, installers, and customers should direct Mallory warranty inquiries to MSD’s toll-free number: (800) 246-0270.

Mallory and MSD together bring more than a century of ignition innovation and expertise. The MSDP Group remains committed to leveraging the two brands’ combined resources to keep igniting their loyal customers.

Your Performance Corner retailer will be happy to help you find your favorite ignition part. Find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

Welcome the Omix-ADA Family to Performance Corner!

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When the road gets rough, Performance Corner gets tougher.

On behalf of all our manufacturers, retailers, installers, and distributors, Performance Corner extends a warm welcome to Jeep accessories standout Omix-ADA and two of its divisions, Alloy USA and Rugged Ridge.

OMIX-ADA
OMIX-ADA

Headquartered in Suwanee, Georgia, Omix-ADA, Alloy USA, and Rugged Ridge bring a wealth of market expertise and a rock-solid reputation to the Performance Corner brand. Ready to meet our newest partners? Here are some fast facts:

Omix-ADA

  • More than 20 years in the Jeep accessories business
  • More than 12,000 active SKUs for 1941-and-up Jeeps
  • Products include OE replacements, hard parts, axles, body tubs, and more
  • 5-year limited product warranty
  • Omix-ADA supports a variety of charitable organizations, including the American Diabetes Association, the Boy Scouts of America, the Breast Cancer Research Association, Children’s Heathcare of Atlanta, and SEMA Cares
Alloy USA
Alloy USA

Alloy USA

  • Focuses on heavy-duty drivetrains
  • Chromoly and performance axles for Jeeps, trucks, and muscle cars
  • Ring and pinion sets and ball-joint kits for Jeep
  • Other products include SYE kits, differential cable lock kits, axle tube seals, U-joints, wheel spacers, and slotted brake rotors
  • 10-year limited warranty on axles; 5-year limited warranty on everything else
Rugged Ridge
Rugged Ridge

Rugged Ridge

  • Innovative accessories for Jeeps (1976 and up), trucks, and SUVs
  • Heavy support for JK Wranglers
  • Product highlights include modular bumper systems, snorkel and flare kits, and all-terrain floor liners
  • Floor liners are covered by a limited lifetime warranty; everything else gets 5-year coverage
  • Sponsors the Trail Access Program, which provides monetary grants intended to preserve natural spaces and maintain recreational access to the outdoors

Omix-ADA embodies what being a Performance Corner partner is all about: first-rate products, years of industry experience, and generosity of spirit. Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to support our newest manufacturers. Or find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket accessory retailer or installer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

T-Rex X Metal- Series

Welcome T-REX Grilles to Performance Corner!

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Performance Corner has added a new member to its industry-best lineup, and these guys define “leading from the front.”

T-Rex Tourch Series
T-Rex Torch Series

T-REX Grilles is a Corona, California–based manufacturer of truck grilles on the cutting edge of looks and performance. With several grille lines to choose from, including Billet Series, X-Metal Series, and the exciting LED-integrated Torch Series, T-REX Grilles has an application for every taste. In addition to its wide-ranging catalog of premium grilles, T-REX Grilles produces vents, hood scoops, and a variety of related accessories to top off your truck.

The company stands behind its products, boasting a knowledgeable sales and service staff; CAD-enhanced design and engineering; precision manufacturing techniques; rigorous testing protocols; and several endurance-tested finishes, including powder-coated, electro-polished, and chrome-plated.

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to check out what T-REX Grilles has to offer—we think you’ll be as impressed as we are. Or find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are an aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Total Truck Centers network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

Pack It In, Lock It Up: New Dee Zee Tool Box Delivers

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If you’re weighing tool box options for your pickup, Dee Zee has a feature-packed proposition you won’t be able to pass up.

Well known for manufacturing a wide variety of truck accessories, including bed rails, running boards, bed mats, grille guards, mud flaps, and more, Dee Zee also produces a lineup of tough, good-looking tool boxes. With its new Padlock Tool Box, Dee Zee is offering a veritable fortress for your truck bed.

DeeZee Toolbox
DeeZee Toolbox

Made from a single sheet of aluminum with full seam welds, the Padlock Tool Box features 20% thicker aluminum—you’ll see and feel the difference immediately.

Inside, a patented security mechanism nests a padlock into the side of the box, making it impossible to reach the shackle with bolt cutters. You can choose your own 1” shackle lock or even use your own truck key with a BOLT Padlock. This sophisticated mechanism learns the pattern of your truck’s ignition key—which now opens your tool box! (Padlocks sold separately.)

How does this make this box more secure? By requiring 2.5 times more pry force to open the lid compared to standard tool box latches. The patented slide surrounds heavy-duty striker bolts to keep the lid closed with a single moving part. The lid strikers are integrated into the lid to avoid weakened weld points. No more parts wearing out—and most importantly, no more intruders into your tool box, including rain.

 

Other Features

  • Internal bends add superior body strength.
  • Automotive-grade rubber bulb seal resists the elements.
  • Dampened gas shocks hold the lid open 90 degrees.
  • Full-length hidden hinge.
  • Double V-pan lid stiffener creates strength and rigidity.
  • Customizable metal tool tray keeps smaller items organized.
  • Available in Deep and Wide models for extra storage space.
  • Made in the USA.
  • Backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to check out Dee Zee’s new Padlock Tool Box in person and see the difference. Or find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

Flex-a-lite Offers $50 Fan Rebate

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If you’ve been thinking about adding a Diesel Fan or Radiator/Fan combination product* from Flex-a-lite to your truck, now’s the time.

Flex A Lite Fan
Flex A Lite Fan

You can mail away for a $50 rebate if you purchase a Flex-a-lite Diesel Fan or Radiator/Fan combo between February 1 and March 31, 2015. (This offer is good for consumers only; distributors and dealers are not eligible.)

We’ve included a PDF version of the form and all details here, but here’s the scoop:

  • Purchase an eligible Diesel Fan or Radiator/Fan product between February 1 and March 31, 2015.
  • Complete the rebate form and submit it along with a clear copy of the original receipt and the original UPC symbol from the product packaging.
  • Get your rebate check within 6–8 weeks—that’s it!

*Eligible Part Numbers: 262, 264, 272, 274, 275, 284, 59074, 59274, and 59275

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to grab your eligible Flex-a-lite fan and get cranking on your rebate. Or find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

Get Into Gear with Centerforce’s New Diesel Twin Clutch Assembly

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Yet again, Centerforce has come through in the clutch—and this time, Dodge Ram gets to feel the love. The next level in high-performance, multi-disc clutch systems, Centerforce recently introduced a Diesel Twin Clutch Assembly (04026651) for 2005.5–2013 Dodge Ram 2500, 3500 5.9L, and 6.7L six-cylinder Cummins Turbo Diesel.

Centerforce Twin Clutch Assembly
Centerforce Twin Clutch Assembly

The new Centerforce Diesel Twin Clutch Assembly has been developed for truck owners pushing power levels up to 1,700 ft-lbs. Drivers will enjoy the smooth engagement and quiet operation this unique clutch set offers, thanks to Centerforce’s patent-pending anti-rattle design, which quiets traditional floater noise.

The twin discs offer superior strength while dampening the drive train against the vibration and pulses characteristic of diesel engines. All components arrive match balanced and ready for installation using ARP fasteners. Some highlights:

  • Light pedal effort
  • High clamp load ball-bearing pressure plate
  • New centrifugal weight system
  • Dual-stage dampened disc
  • Slotted floater and heavy-duty pilot bearing
  • Pre-bled hydraulic master and slave cylinders
  • Easy setup: no adjustment required!

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to pick up the new Diesel Twin Clutch Assembly Combo Pack, or find a local affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are an automotive aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

K&N Corvette C7 Cold Air

K&N Gives Corvette C7 a Blast of Fresh, Cold Air

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The 2014-2015 Chevy Corvette is a pretty remarkable machine fresh out of the factory: a 460-horsepower engine, capable of getting you up to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, still manages to get you a respectable-for-the-pop 29 highway miles per gallon. Despite those impressive specs, K&N has managed to help you get even more out of it.

K&N Air Filter
K&N Air Filter

With its cold air intake for the new 6.2L Corvette, K&N guarantees more horsepower and torque by replacing the restrictive factory air filter box and accordion hose with a free-flowing, high-density polyethylene air intake tube that minimizes restriction and increases airflow to the engine.

Dyno tests showed 12.51 more horses on average at 4,998 RPM and an extra 16.63 lb-ft of torque at 4,004 RPM. Merge it, pass it, punch it: you’ll enjoy a boost across your Vette’s entire RPM range.

The 63-3081 is married to one of K&N’s high-flow carbon-fiber air filters, which is washable and reusable and capable of going as far as 100K miles between cleanings (depending on driving conditions).

Also Features:

  • Quick installation time of 90 minutes or less with standard hand tools
  • Maintains all factory connections and does not require additional modifications
  • K&N’s Million Mile Limited Warranty

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to pick up K&N’s new cold air intake for the Corvette C7 yourself, or find a local affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are an automotive aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.

New 7” HALO Series Headlights Brighten Race Sport’s Catalog

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Aftermarket lighting rock star Race Sport announced a new addition to its projector-style, sealed-beam lineup: 7”, 80-watt LED conversion light kits with HALO rings in two colors: orange/white and blue/white:

Racesport Halo Blue
Racesport Halo Blue

These plug-and-play HALO lights are compatible with most 7” applications. Kits include a pair of lights, each with four 10-watt LED bulbs set in recessed focus opticals. Race Sport pulled no punches with these sealed-beam conversion kits, which come with H4 connectors and include the following features:

  • Distinctive white HALO ring turns orange or blue (depending on kit) when signaling
  • Projector LEDs are capable of both low and high beam settings
  • Long life expectancy
  • 1-year warranty
Racesport Halo Orange
Racesport Halo Orange

Stop into your local Performance Corner retailer to check out Race Sport’s new HALO headlights for yourself, or find a local affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are an automotive aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Performance Corner network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Performance Corner® affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Performance Corner® Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of suppliers with whom it has a business relationship.