Truck & SUV Gear, April 2003 edition

Owners of light and medium dualie trucks have had a difficult time finding a bed that allows for a fifth wheel and provides adequate storage. The wait is over with the introduction of All American Truck Beds' latest design. Using rust-free fiberglass, this design transforms a standard truck bed into storage central, as well as allowing full towing capabilities. Retail prices start at $8780.
All American Truck Beds
574/262-8865.
www.allamericantruckbeds.com 163 0304 Gear 1 Z   |   163 0304 Gear 1 Z Nowadays, bumpers on pickup trucks seem likely to buckle at the slightest provocation. But when you install the new Road Armor Extreme Duty bumpers, you'll fear nothing. The bumpers use 1/4-inch integrated gusseted sub frames with a 3/16-inch steel skin and can be finished to match your paint. Winch-incorporating models are also available. Retail prices start at $1350.
TrailReady
425/353-6776.
www.trailready.com 163 0304 Gear 2 Z   |   163 0304 Gear 2 Z If you have a PowerStroke, Cummins, or Duramax diesel, ATS Diesel Performance introduces its new TripleLok torque converter, designed with a three-disc clutch pack to handle three times the torque of competing torque converters. The billet-steel cover eliminates warping, common with stock stamped covers, and allows the lockup feature to be maintained during downshifts. Prices start at $1370
ATS Diesel Performance
303/431-7973.
www.atsdiesel.com 163 0304 Gear 3 Z   |   163 0304 Gear 3 Z Many CJ, YJ, and TJ Jeep Wrangler owners remove the doors before plunging into the great outdoors. But what to do with these doors? Lean them against the wall in the garage, where maybe they'll fall over? The Door Caddy will safely keep them in one piece. Made of steel, the Caddy mounts in minutes and holds both doors at once, out of harm's way. $89.95;
Sanderson Racing Technologies
770/945-6539.
www.doorcaddy.com 163 0304 Gear 4 Z   |   163 0304 Gear 4 Z When serious power is needed, many turn to the Dodge Cummins 24-valve diesel engine. But there are always situations when more is better. The Torque Dog Plus '03 is a plug-in module that can increase horsepower by advancing fuel timing and altering fuel delivery. It's programmed to switch three separate ways: stock, 40 horsepower, and 80 horsepower. $595;
Bully Dog Technologies
866/285-5936.
www.bullydog.com 163 0304 Gear 5 Z   |   163 0304 Gear 5 Z While most pickup trucks and their owners lead a life of hard work, there are times when kicking back and casting a rod at the local fishing hole can reduce stress, as well as put dinner on the table. The new Tailgate Seat is ideal for fishing, camping, ball games, or anywhere outdoor comfort is needed. It's made of tough plastic and includes four fishing-pole holders, two drinkholders, and a fishing-lure tray. In black or gray for $89.95.
Thermovac Plastics Inc.
620/431-3270.
www.chanuteks.com/thermovac 163 0304 Gear 6 Z   |   163 0304 Gear 6 Z