Jeep News & Rumors
* Jp Magazine prediction: The new Wrangler JK will be facing recalls right out of the box. Not big stuff, but we're hearing that engineers didn't have enough time to debug before launch.
* It doesn't look like Camp Jeep is over. Yet, there is a petition going around to save it.
* A new line of modular V-6s is coming from DaimlerChrysler and Mercedes-Benz. The two will come together to build mills that can be used across every single nameplate, replacing the variety you see now. Expect them in a couple years.
* Coming to a Wrangler near you: A hard drive. Specifically, the MyGIG 20-gig system for storing navigation info, photos, and ripped music/audio. MyGIG also includes satellite radio and CD/DVD.
* Two million and counting: That's the number of passenger vehicles sold on eBay Motors to date. The milestone was hit by an '05 Liberty.
* Around 150,000 '00 and '02 Grand Cherokees with the 4.0L are being recalled on account of cooling-fan blades that could break (the fan module will be replaced). Meanwhile, about 112,000 '03-'04 Grands are getting the notice for a new seat heater; some existing ones have overheated and a few fires were reported. Not to be ignored, the Liberty is having issues with steering. A voluntary recall of nearly 833,000 '02-'06 models is happening because of potential excessive wear and looseness of the lower ball joint in the front suspension.
Industry News
* By the time you read this Warn industries will offer its new PowerPlant recovery winch that will feature an air compressor built into the unit.
* MSD has been granted a permanent federal injunction against Procomp Electronics, which MSD has said manufactured an ignition system similar in appearance to its own 6AL Ignition Control.
* "Dream TJ Lift Kit" was first teased in the December '05 issue as Editor Cappa's idea of the perfect suspension kit. It ended up as a project Rough Country actually wanted to do. Now they may not want to, actually. Rumor is that it's dead, but we haven't heard anything official from Rough Country. Call the company and demand they build it!
8-Lug Diesel Truck Hits the Newsstands
Right on the heals of the Primedia Custom Truck Group's recent launch, Diesel Power, comes the brand-new 8-Lug Diesel Truck aimed exclusively at the 31/44- and 1-ton truck owner who wants to further refine the truck's exterior and interior appearance. In the premier issue and all issues that will soon follow, the editors of 8-Lug Diesel Truck will take the average consumer through the most basic of modifications to the most advanced for improving their suspension, power, functionality, and towing all with the premise of being the premier source of knowledge for Chevy, Dodger, and Ford diesel truck owners. Each issue will deal with some elements related to suspension modifications through lifting or lowering. In addition, all future issues will highlight the latest and greatest in the wheel industry for the given suspension application.
The premier issue highlights the newest 5-inch lift kit designed exclusively for Ford Super Duty trucks that will clear 37-inch tall tires. Dodge truck owners will rejoice at the exciting buildup of the exclusive Cummins engine platform that includes refinements to the exhaust, turbo, and transmission. And for the Chevy Bow Tie crowd, who can't live without improved brakes? There is a great story to drastically alter your stopping distances. All of these stories are designed to be easily read and understood for the most do-it-yourselfer to the most prolific professional.
Be sure to check out the premier issue when it hits your local newsstands on October 9th, 2006 or call 800/777-5182 to subscribe.