4x4Wire

Axle side play is one of the leading causes of poor handing and stability in trucks, particularly while carrying a heavy load or while pulling a trailer. Lateral forces generated by cornering or side winds cause the leaf springs to deflect, creating a “tail wagging the dog” sensation.

The SuperSteer TracBar clamps to the rear axle housing on the passenger side, and bolts to theframe on the driver’s side, positively locating the rear axle. The result isvastly improved handling and stability. Designed to fit ’04-’08 Dodge Heavy Duty trucks, this SuperSteer Trac Bar bolts in place with no drilling or welding required. The kit includes powder-coated steel components,high-strength hardware and instructions. SuperSteer, (888) 898 3281; www.supersteersuperstop.com.

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SuperSteer, a division of Henderson’s Line-Up, specializes in suspension, steering and brake components that solve common handling issues in trucks, vans, SUVs and motorhomes. Based in Grants Pass, Oregon, SuperSteer products are direct result of the ongoing research and development at Henderson’s Line-Up—the recognized authority in vehicle dynamics since 1961.

Toyota Offer a Peek at 2009

We get lots of requests for information about upcoming vehicles, and mostly what we can say is this: "Sorry, we don’t discuss future products."

But this is one of those rare moments in time when we can tell you a few things about what’s coming for 2009. That’s because the product release date looms, thus secrecy soon won’t be an issue. So here goes:

Standard for Tundra in select regions  is the capacity to use E85 Flex Fuel on 4x4 models powered by Toyota’s 5.7L V8 engine.

Challenges face OEMs and parts manufacturers in automotive powertrain and chassis engineering.

Louisville, KY (Vocus/PRWEB ) September 10, 2008 -- Trends emerging now in the automotive industry have the potential to bring significant change to several areas of automotive engineering, says James D. Eddy, Automotive Industry Manager of Zeon Chemicals L.P. in Louisville, Kentucky.

“From the resurgence of past technologies like turbocharging to increasing electrification of vehicles, we can expect these trends to affect the vehicles of the future and the elastomers used to produce them,” Eddy explains. Here are a few of the rising trends Eddy expects to become of increased importance.

1. The renaissance of turbocharging

Rising fuel costs will lead to a preference for technologies that allow more power to be produced by smaller engines, including a resurgence of technologies used in the past such as turbocharging. Currently widely used in Europe with diesel engines, turbocharging will appear in North American gasoline engines now being developed for introduction beginning in 2010.

New site aims to clarify misconceptions about the company

DETROIT - GM announced today the launch of a new Web site designed to make a distinction between the facts and rumors surrounding the company.

The site, GMFactsandFiction.com, utilizes a conversational and direct style to help clarify many misconceptions people may have about GM. Facts and Fiction is intended to be a resource for anyone looking for more information on recent news and announcements about the company.

GMFactsandFiction.com is organized by sections containing a myth and GM's response to each one. Visitors can also e-mail information they hear about GM and request that the issue be addressed on the site.

The site can be accessed via www.gmfactsandfiction.com, or on the GM FastLane Blog (http://fastlane.gmblogs.com).

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 77 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 266,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 35 countries. In 2007, nearly 9.37 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Sep 1, 2008  -  The 2009 Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited remains the only four-door convertible on the market. With room for five adult passengers, it features the most cargo space ever offered in a Wrangler, plus class-leading off-road capability and everyday practicality.
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has won over customers who always wanted a Jeep Wrangler, but also needed more space and versatility. By adding 20.6 inches to the standard Jeep Wrangler’s 95.4-inch wheelbase, the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited’s wheelbase equals 116 inches, which allows for a larger rear seat and significantly more occupant and cargo room.

Unlike the four-wheel-drive-only configuration of the standard Jeep Wrangler, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited also is available in two-wheel drive. All Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models use the same tough body-on-frame construction, full-framed or half doors, exposed hinges, fold-down windshield and innovative removable convertible tops as their Wrangler siblings.

In addition, 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models add refinement to the mix with standard Hill Start Assist (HSA) that prevents rollback on a graded surfaces. Trailer Sway Control (TSC) also is available to monitor vehicle movement relative to the intended path and activates the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) if the trailer begins to sway outside set parameters.

ENGINEERING

While its legendary off-road capability is a given, the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited also boasts another feature that appeals to a growing number of customers: a spacious interior that takes comfort and convenience to new lengths.

Interior space in the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited equals 102.9 cu. ft., providing room for five adult passengers and delivering more cargo storage and seating configurations than any previous Wrangler.

Capability has always been the core attribute of the Jeep Wrangler, starting with the basics. While improving its legendary 4x4 Jeep capability, the 2009 Jeep Wrangler benefits from a frame that is 100 percent stiffer than its predecessor and a body structure that is 50 percent stiffer.

Suspension is a refined five-link coil setup with tuned shock absorbers. This setup works with a Dana 30 front axle and next-generation heavy-duty Dana 44 rear axle. The 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon model uses front and rear Dana 44 axles. The 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon model also offers an electronic-disconnecting front stabilizer bar, called the Active Sway Bar System, which delivers additional wheel travel for challenging terrain.

With high ground clearance combined with short front and rear overhangs, the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is able to conquer incredibly challenging off-road obstacles, especially severe inclines. Off-road aficionados recognize the key numbers: for the Rubicon model, an approach angle of 44.4 degrees, breakover angle of 20.8 degrees and departure angle of 40.5 degrees. Underbody protection is provided by three skid plates – protecting the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan.

The powerplant for the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a 3.8-liter V-6 engine producing 202 horsepower (151 kW) and 237 lb.-ft. (321 N•m) of torque, backed by a standard six-speed manual gearbox (not available on Wrangler Unlimited two-wheel-drive models) or an available four-speed automatic transmission.

2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited X and Sahara models are equipped with the second-generation Command-Trac® NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. An optional Trac-Lok® limited-slip rear differential provides extra torque and grip during slippery, low-traction situations, such as driving over sand, gravel, snow or ice.

The 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon model is equipped with an Off-Road Rock-Trac® NV241 two-speed transfer case with a 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio, as well as electric front- and rear-axle lockers, an electronic sway bar disconnect and 32-inch BF Goodrich off-road tires.

On-road ride balance in the 2009 Jeep Wrangler lineup is refined, with minimal body lean when cornering and braking. Suspension geometry provides precise ride-and-handling characteristics, while lower suspension spring rates provide a softer, more comfortable on-road ride. An Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability in severe driving maneuvers on any type of surface, is standard on the 2009 Jeep Wrangler. The ESP system features three modes – “full on,” “full off” and “partial on.”