Western Star Trucks Inc. is offering a limited-edition retro 2009 Western Star 4900.

The Limited Edition 67 – representing the year Western Star was introduced to the North American market – will be equipped with a specially-built Detroit Diesel DD15^TM engine and commemorative trim. Western Star will manufacture just 100 of these trucks this year.

The Limited Edition 67′s 560 hp DD15 engine features 1,967 lb-ft. of torque – the most powerful Detroit Diesel engine available – and was built solely for this Western Star truck. This unique engine features the greatest torque response in the industry, and drivers will experience an increase in pulling power with the ability to stay in gear longer, in addition to the enjoying the DD15′s quiet ride and best-in-class fuel efficiency.

“We are very excited to honor Western Star’s heritage with this one-of-a-kind limited edition truck,” said Rich Shearing, senior manager of product strategy for Western Star. “Coupled with the most powerful DD15 engine to-date, the Limited Edition 67 will allow Western Star customers to experience the same ruggedness and durability expected of the 4900 with more power and improved performance.”

In addition to the DD15, the Limited Edition 67 will feature customized leather seats embroidered with the limited edition logo, special badging and a personalized owner’s kit. The ultimate in style and comfort, drivers will also enjoy all the creature comforts found in the 4900 series. The limited edition truck will be available to order in any 4900 series model in April 2009.

For more information, and to find a local dealer, visit www.WesternStar.com or call 866-850-STAR (7827).

PRO TIPS Q&A: UNIBILT CONVERSION

Peterbilt Unibilt cab supsnesion a popular upgrade for older customized Petes.

I would like to convert a 1990 Peterbilt 379 into a Unibilt. I see 359′s at shows that have been done. Do I have to reinforce the cab and sleeper or just bolt the brackets in.—Ryan Judd

I have a ’93 379 Pete and was wondering if there is a kit to make it Unibilt. I know anything can be done just wondering what all modifications it would take. — Justin Herrington via Internet

A common question among our Custom Rigs’ readers. So we went to a couple of the experts for their advice. Here’s what they ahd to say:

“The simplest way to get the Unibilt effect is to get the vin number from a Unibilt then go to a local Pete dealer and use the vin number to order a cab and sleeper “walk-thru” panel and boot to fit that particular truck. You will also need hucks to install the new panels.

Then get a cab mate for your truck cab and sleeper. With parts in-hand, install the rear cab panel and boot along with the cab mate’s air-ride system. This will give you the Unibilt feel but with a much smoother ride. If want Unibilt all the way, then you’ll need to get a rear cross member off a unibilt—or fab something up for the additional rear sleeper and cab support.

In addition, Peterbilt (www.peterbilt.com/uploaded/resources/Peterbilt_Essentials-Module3-Sleepers.pdf ) used heavier frame braces going from the frame up the  cowl / “A” pillars to the roof and added heavier stringers in both cab top and sleeper roof to help distribute the load of the Unibilt design more evenly across the frame.” 
– Adam Martin, Owner Colorado Custom Chrome; (970)284-6552

***********************

“You will have to do much more than ‘just bolt the brackets in’, to make it a unitized cab/sleeper assy-like the ones you see on the 1994 and newer Peterbilts.

The Unibilt cabs have additional structure and reinforcements in the cab & sleeper corners, there is a steel bar that runs completely across the top of the sleeper opening to provide extra rigidity and strength and Unibilt cabs have a steel windshield mask on the cab, rather than the aluminum mask like they used 1988-1993.

All of this is part of the structural integrity package that allows the cab & bunk to be bolted together with no ‘under cab/under bunk’ support, other than the air bags and suspension under the rear of the sleeper.

I suggest 2 options: Just install the large unibilt opening between the cab & sleeper and leave the cab/bunk mounted solid to the frame. This is fairly quick, easy and not too costly. The ability to slide the driver’s seat back and gaining the larger opening really ‘changes’ the cab interior. It will seem like an entirely different truck to you.

The other option is to install the large unibilt opening, install the unibilt bracketry with some extra interior structural support in the corners of the cab & sleeper, and lastly run a ‘junior I beam’ (approx 3 ½” tall, can be alum or steel) from the front cab mounts, completely under the cab & bunk to the rear sleeper air suspension which you will have to somewhat modify.

We have used the sleeper suspension out of an International or KW when doing jobs like this. It works better for this application than the ‘outboard’ Peterbilt type, and it is all hidden under the bunk! This is a costly, time-consuming upgrade that requires a good amount of fabrication. But, the truck will ‘ride like a dream when you’re  done!” – Bryan “BOSSMAN” Martin, Chrome Shop Mafia

NAST 2008 CHAMPION CROWNED

Bobby Lindamood (center), owner of Lindamood Demolition in Irving, Texas, holds $5,000 check, which is part of winning the coveted 2008 NAST Truck-Lite Trophy. He is flanked by son Jake (right) and the winning rig's driver Brad Johnson (left).

While some 70,000 people came to the Mid-America Truck Show to see custom rigs and the latest in trucking industry innovations, four owner-operators came there with their custom working-class combos to see which one would be named the grand champion of the National Association Of Show Trucks 2008 series and driving away with the coveted Truck-Lite Trophy.

The 2008 NAST season points race literally came down to judges checking tool boxes for cleanliness and how each rig looked at night when their lights were ablaze.

When the judges tallied their points Jeremy Hassevoort with Rabbit River Transport out of Holland, Michigan, locked down the Second Place with his immaculate ‘86 Peterbilt 359 pulling a reefer. Second also added a tidy $3,000 to his bank account.

But it was Irving, Texas, trucker Bobby Lindamood who took home the Truck-Lite Trophy and the $5,000 check to go with it thanks to his ‘07 Peterbilt 379 pulling a round bottom dump trailer. This makes the second year in a row that a Texas truck takes home the gold.

“We’ve been showing for the last five years,” says Lindamood whose company, Lindamood Demolition, hauls heavy equipment and demolition debris around the Dallas area with their fleet of Peterbilts. “Winning like this gives you a little more drive to keep going. It makes you realize people really take an interest in our rigs and what we do.”

Brad Johnson, who drives the winning rig for the Lindamoods says their winning Peterbilt combo is not treated any differently from the other rigs. “It hauls equipment, rolls into demolition sites, and gets just as filthy as the next truck.”

The difference is before it heads to a truck beauty show it is pulled out of service for 1-2 weeks of white-glove detailing.

“When it gets down to the best of the best,” says son Jake Lindamood who is also an Overdrive Pride & Polish judge, “winning is all about attention to detail. And we’re all about details.”

The official start of 2009 N.A.S.T Trophy Series kicks off with the 6th Annual Great Lakes Truck Show May 29,30,31, 2009 at Cabela’s in Dundee, Michigan. For more information log on to www.nastshowtrucks.org or www.customrigsmag.com and click “Events.”

Mid-America truck beauty show a shinning success with surprise winners

The economy may be looking bleak and truckers down in the dumps, but one wouldn’t have sensed it by the look of the custom rigs and smiles on the faces of everyone attending Overdrive’s annual Pride & Polish Truck Beauty Championship and Big Rig Build-Off at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, KY, March 19-21.

An estimated 70,000 trucking enthusiasts entered the convention grounds while 72 custom rigs glistened on the parking lot under mostly sunny Kentucky skies during the event. Custom rig owners competed for a laundry list of Pride & Polish hardware including the coveted “Best of Show” titles in both Working Bobtail and Working Combo.

The top two winners surprised many truck beauty show attendees, but not judges. Homer Schultz III’s 1993 Blue Peterbilt 379 Tow Truck carried away Best of Show Working Bobtail while Canadian Marcel Pontbriand’s 1989 Midnight Blue Muralled Peterbilt 379 and 1992 48 ft Stoughton Van, “Little Train,” captured Best of Show Working Combo.

This year also saw a new tribute handed out called the “Take Pride In Your Ride” plaque in memory of Jacob R. Eilen, and young owner-operator and avid truck beauty show competitor who died in an accident late last year.

The engraved ovel-shaped mirror plaque was presented to Todd & Beth Roccopriore out of Portland, CT, whose close friend, Charlie Shefcyk, died just three days before MATS.

“Uncle Charlie” was the driving force behind the building of “Chopped 93,” the couple’s immaculate Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer. Todd Roccopriore says Shefcyk last words were to promise him they’d make the Louisville Pride & Polish. Shefcyk’s last request was honored in winning fashion.

Here are the other winners who took home P&P hardware:

SPECIAL AWARDS

BEST OF SHOW WORKING BOBTAIL

Homer Schultz III, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Tow Truck

BEST OF SHOW WORKING COMBO

Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 48ft Stoughton Van, “Little Train”

BEST LIMITED MILEAGE BOBTAIL

Cory of Joplin Peterbilt for owner Dale Blevins, 1942 Autocar, “Big Bad John”

BEST LIMITED MILEAGE COMBO

Paul Stanchio, 2009 Peterbilt 388 and 2009 Cottrell Car Carrier, “Hot Wheels”

PEOPLES CHOICE

Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 48ft Stoughton Van, “Little Train”

ROADWORKS BEST USE OF CHROME

Todd and Beth Roccopriore, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer, “Chopped 93”

TRUK RODZ BEST THEME

Jeremy Graves, 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2008 Mississippi Tank , “Bucket List”

CLASS WINNERS

WORKING BOBTAIL 2001 & Older

First:Bud Westhafer, 1995 Kenworth W-900, “El Patron”

Second: David Wood, 1998 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood, “Silver Streak”

Third: Darwin Bratcher, 2001 Freightliner Columbia

WORKING BOBTAIL 2004 & Newer

First: Dallas McCord, 2007 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood, “Orange Appeal”

Second: Matthew McCord, 2007 Peterbilt Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood 379

Third: Jeremiah Wolfe, 2007 Peterbilt 379, “Let’s Boogie”

BOBTAIL NEW TRUCK UNDER 75,000 MILES

First (“NEW VENTURE AWARD”): Marty Marcum, 2009 Peterbilt 389

Second: Scott Ruwe, 2009 Peterbilt 386

Third: Dick Fisher, 2009 Kenworth T-800 Dump Truck

BOBTAIL SPECIALIZED

First: Homer Schultz III, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Tow Truck

Second: Brad Sweet, 2007 Peterbilt 378 Wrecker, “Dreammaster”

Third: Nathaniel Mason, 1997 Peterbilt 378 Tanker Truck, “Million Dollar Baby”

COMPANY BOBTAIL

First: Vince Hogan, Schneider National, 2008 Freightliner Cascadia

Second: Barry Kasdorf, Jade Transport, 2008 Peterbilt 389

Third: David Brewster, Smith Transport, 2007 Peterbilt 379, “379 The Legend’

FIRST SHOW BOBTAIL

First (“RISING STAR AWARD”): William Benjamin, 1998 Peterbilt 379

Second: Jim Langton, 2006 Kenworth T-2000, “Let Freedom Ring”

Third: Rebecca Jo Marlin, 1987 Peterbilt 359, “Tara II”

ANTIQUE BOBTAIL

First (“GRAND ANTIQUE AWARD”): Todd Cox, 1975 Dodge 950 Big Horn

Second: Robert Downey, 1953 Peterbilt 350

Third: David Ratliff, 1970 Peterbilt 359

FIRST SHOW COMBO

First: Justin Steed, Henderson Heavy Haul, 2004 Kenworth W900L and 2009 IST Wind Blade

Second: Philip J Mairer, 2007 Kenworth W900L and 2009 East Trailer

Third: Shannon Cain, 1999 Kenworth W900L and 1995 Wilson DW Hopper

WORKING COMBO 2005 & OLDER

First: Todd & Beth Roccopriore, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer, “Chopped 93”

Second: Phillip Clayton, 2005 Peterbilt 379 and 2007 Great Dane Super Seal, “Nitro Express”

Third: Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 Stoughton Dry Van, “Little Train”

WORKING COMBO 2007 & NEWER

First: Kevin Pascavis, 2009 Peterbilt 389 and 2007 Mac trailer, “Rollin for Jake”

Second: Cliff King, 2007 Peterbilt 386 and 2006 Wabash Dry Van

Third: Josh Lyle, 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2008 Mac Flatbed

INTERIOR, CAB ONLY

First: Todd and Beth Roccopriore, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer, “Chopped 93”

Second: Scott Ruwe, 2009 Peterbilt 386

Third: Josh Lyle, 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2008 Mac Flatbed

INTERIOR, OEM SLEEPER

First: Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 Stoughton Dry Van, “Little Train”

Second: Homer Schultz III, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Tow Truck

Third: Kevin Pascavis, 2009 Peterbilt 389 and 2007 Mac trailer, “Rollin for Jake”

INTERIOR, CUSTOM AFTERMARKET SLEEPER

First: Jonathan Kimball, 2005 Peterbilt 379

Second: Cliff King, 2007 Peterbilt 386 and Wabash Dry Van

Third: Bill Gibson, 1997 Peterbilt 379 and 2006 Transcraft Eagle

MOBIL DELVAC ENGINE CLASS

First: Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 Stoughton Dry Van, “Little Train”

Second: Homer Schultz III, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Tow Truck

Third: Todd and Beth Roccopriore, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer, “Chopped 93”

BOBTAIL CUSTOM PAINT & GRAPHICS OR MURAL

First: Dallas McCord, 2007 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood, “Orange Appeal”

Second: Matthew McCord, 2007 Peterbilt Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood 379 Extended Hood

Third: Bud Westhafer, 1995 Kenworth W-900, “El Patron”

COMBO CUSTOM PAINT & GRAPHICS OR MURAL

First: Todd and Beth Roccopriore, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer, “Chopped 93”

Second: Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 Stoughton Dry Van, “Little Train”

Third: Bill Gibson, 1997 Peterbilt 379 and 2006 Transcraft Eagle

BOBTAIL LIGHTS

First: Homer Schultz III, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Tow Truck

Second: Edward Black, 1987 Peterbilt 359

Third: Carl Ragland, 2007 Peterbilt 379

COMBO LIGHTS

First: Marcel Pontbriand, 1989 Peterbilt 379 and 1992 Stoughton Dry Van, “Little Train”

Second: Todd and Beth Roccopriore, 1993 Peterbilt 379 Extended Hood and 2009 Mac Dump Trailer, “Chopped 93”

Third: Bill Gibson, 1997 Peterbilt 379 and 2006 Transcraft Eagle

LIMITED MILEAGE BOBTAIL

Second: Glen S. Page, 2007 Peterbilt 379 Legacy #871, “Purpose Driven”

Third: Isaac Aguilar, 1992 Peterbilt 379, “Still Deliriouz”

Fourth: Colin Stuart, 1984 Peterbilt 359, “Working Class”

Fifth: Jason Carello, 2008 International Lone Star

LIMITED MILEAGE COMBO

Second: Vinnie Diorio, 2005 Peterbilt 379 and 2008 Mac Trailer, “Picture Me Rollin”

Third: Ronald Baird, 2000 Peterbilt 379 and 2000 Heil Tank, “Hoffman’s Hotrod”

MOBIL DELVAC BEST LIMITED MILEAGE TRUCK ENGINE

Bobtail: Isaac Aguilar, 1992 Peterbilt 379, “Still Deliriouz”

Combo: Jeremy Graves, 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2008 Mississippi Tank , “Bucket List”

PRIDE & POLISH BEST LIMITED MILEAGE INTERIOR

Bobtail: Isaac Aguilar, 1992 Peterbilt 379, “Still Deliriouz”

Combo: Vinnie Diorio, 2005 Peterbilt 379 and 2008 Mac Trailer, “Picture Me Rollin”

PRIDE & POLISH BEST LIMITED MILEAGE PAINT

Bobtail: Jason Carello, 2008International Lone Star

Combo: Paul Stanchio, 2009 Peterbilt 388 and 2009 Cottrell Car Carrier, “Hot Wheels”

PRIDE & POLISH BEST LIMITED MILEAGE LIGHTS

Bobtail: Isaac Aguilar, 1992 Peterbilt 379, “Still Deliriouz”

Combo: Paul Stanchio, 2009 Peterbilt 388 and 2009 Cottrell Car Carrier, “Hot Wheels”

2009 MID-AMERICA BIG-RIG BUILD-OFF

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER: Outlaw Customs, 2000 Peterbilt 379, “Vigilante”.

INDUSTRY’S CHOICE WINNER: S&J Truck Sales, 1981 Peterbilt 359, “Big Red”.

Thanks to all the show truck competitors and sponsors: 10-4 Magazine; 75 Chrome Shop; Custom Rigs Magazine; Dynaflex Exhaust Technologies; Firestone; Howes Lubricator Products; Truk Rodz by Jones Performance; Mercer Transportation; Mobil Delvac; OOIDA; Overdrive Magazine; Overdrive Radio Network; PPG; Roadworks Manufacturing; Rockwood Products; Valley Chrome/Wingmaster; and WTI Fenders.

PRO TIPS / March 2009

Have a question for the custom rig builders out there or a tip or trick to share with CR readers? Send it to us and we’ll slip it into Pro Tips: crtechtips@rrpub.com. Also, go to our web site, www.customrigsmag.com, to take advantage of special links we’ve added to these Q&As and others posted there. – The Editor

HIGH-TEMP PAINTS

I want to paint and detail my Cummins. What type of paint works best to withstand the high heat, as well as things such as salt spray, oil and diesel fuel likely to find its way onto the block from time to time? – Seth Dalton, New Haven, Connecticut

In terms of the engine block, Seth, all paint over time is going to wear off. The only thing you can really do to avoid the paint peeling is to constantly keep it clean. For parts that can be pulled off the block, powder coating works well, as it can handle temperatures up to 400 degrees. For the turbo, headers, and other exhaust components, ceramic coating is the best option. For the most intense heat a black ceramic coating on the inside and out can handle temperatures up to 2,000 degrees. Having a nicely painted engine can really add to a truck’s appearance. – Andy Gobel, Outlaw Customs; (303) 952-8109

WARP-FREE WELDS

There appears to be a lot of sheet-metal fab work requiring welding. What’s your secret to keeping the thin metal from warping, especially when working larger areas such as door skins or cab backs? – Melvin Little, Charlotte, North Carolina

We seldom have a need to weld on the skins on trucks, Melvin. If the instance arises we use a TIG welder, place wet towels around the area being welded to keep it cool and minimize warping, and weld in short bursts rather than lay a continuous bead to further minimize heat buildup. – Bryan Martin, Chrome Shop Mafia/4 State Trucks; (417) 624-2900

HEADLIGHT LOW DOWN

I saw a 379 Pete [“Kwitcherbitchin,” March ’08] with the headlights mounted in the bumper. How were the holes laid out, cut, and the lights mounted? The low-mount headlights look like they’d be great in fog and rain driving instead of mounting fog/driving lights. —Ed Smith, Eugene, Oregon

Ed, what we do in our shop is, once the customer decides on what style headlights they want mounted in the bumper, to make a paper template of the lights. Then we position each template on the bumper face and trace the outline. We then use a plasma cutter and follow the pattern, smooth up any rough edges with a small grinder, drill the mounting holes from the chrome side of the bumper and bolt ’em in. Now a word of caution: There are federal laws regarding how low headlights can be mounted. We understand there must be a minimum of 24 inches from headlight center to pavement. – Bryan Martin, Chrome Shop Mafia/4 State Trucks

Ed, there are a number of ways to put lights in the bumper, but none are easy! The least expensive way is to go to your local salvage yard and look for headlight guts that hold the headlights in the headlight assembly. Next you have to fabricate brackets to hold the headlight guts to your truck’s frame. After the headlights are mounted to the frame, measure out where they fall in relation to the bumper and transfer those precise measurements to the bumper. The openings in the bumper will then need to be cut out and the openings finished out. If you need help call; we would love to give you a hand. —Adam Martin, Colorado Custom Chrome; (970) 284-6552

SMOOTH AS GLASS

On many of today’s show trucks, even the working class rigs, the paint and finish looks like liquid glass. What is the trick to getting the casting marks and welds so smooth—especially on items like spring hanger brackets and driveshaft flanges/U-joints? The few sanders and small grinders I have in my toolbox just can’t do that kind of finish work. – Henry Ruggerio, Caldwell, New Jersey

Henry, it does take a small assortment of special sanders and grinders to achieve this look. To get the welds slick on steel, a glaze must be used to smooth out any imperfections and pinholes. At that point you can sand it smooth, or even build it up in places and sand it down to give the piece contours. Stick to a good body filler when doing bodywork or other sheet metal applications. – Jon Gill, Outlaw Customs

HOT-ROD PAINT

I’d like to repaint my old truck to give it the satin/primer hot-rod look. Does PPG make a paint in either automotive or heavy duty applications to give that effect? If so, what are my color choices? – Derek Szalai, Oakland, California

Derek, we teach that the best solution is to apply PPG’s Delfleet FDGH low gloss topcoats. FDGH is a high-solids, ultra-durable finish that exhibits very high mar resistance. This is contrary to most other low-gloss finishes in the marketplace. A typical low-gloss coating scuffs and scratches quite easily. With FDGH low-gloss, any color in the Delfleet line can be created. If multiple colors are being used on a vehicle, another option would be to use a low-gloss clear coat over Delfleet basecoat colors. The rig could be painted using either Delfleet FBCH or FBCS basecoat and then clear-coated with a Delfleet urethane clear with low-gloss binder added. Semi-gloss or eggshell gloss levels can be achieved by going this route. For color or technical questions, a call to your local PPG distributor or to PPG’s Customer Service Center, (800) 647-6050, will get you on your way. – Lynn Engmark, PPG Training, Fleet Coatings Specialist

SUICIDE SHORTCUT

Suicide doors are really sick and I’d like to try my hand changing over my ’89 Peterbilt’s stock doors to suicides. I’m on a very limited budget (my first truck), so what’s the best route? —Francisco Estrada, Dallas, Texas

Unfortunately, Francisco, there aren’t any shortcuts on a do-it-yourself suicide door job. Best case – it’s still a 40-hour job or better, and that doesn’t allow any time for prep and paint once the doors are done and “mocked up.” One thing you might do is purchase a set of old used doors from a salvage yard, then spend several weekends getting them pre-modified and ready. Then when you do shut the truck down all that’s left is to modify the aluminum door “frames” in the cab. This will get you back on the road quicker, and you can always use the original doors for spare parts – or give to your buddy for his suicide door project. – Bryan Martin, Chrome Shop Mafia/4 State Trucks

Francisco, suicide doors really are not something you can get away with using any shortcuts. This is a project where there are a lot of changes that need to occur. Having to re-engineer the latch setup is a pretty difficult task. What we found to be the easiest way was to eliminate the latches and use shaved door panels and Autoloc door poppers. We make a door skin kit that includes everything to do shaved doors. If you want to give your truck a unique look without dropping a ton of money, this is probably the best option for you. – Alex Gobel, Outlaw Customs

AUTO VS. TRUCK PAINT

I want to paint my 10-year-old Kenworth with a standout paint job. But when I went to a local auto body supply house the paint sales guy said a lot of those paints aren’t designed for use on trucks. Are there any issues I should be aware of if I use one of the hot colors you see on some of the Chrysler and Dodge cars?—Russ Detwiler, Sarasota, Florida

The guy at your paint supply shop is correct, Russ: You can use automotive paints on a truck, but they are not as durable and harder to lay. The best paint that we have found is PPG Delfleet, its very durable and lays easily. That’s actually the paint our friends at First Class Services used for their 2008 Build-Off wining truck First in Class and all the trucks that go out of their shop. They actually used some automotive basecoats to get the colors we wanted, but they always stay with the Delfleet primers, sealers, and clear coats to get a good long-lasting finish. From what we have heard PPG is actually releasing some of their Vibrance custom colors in the Delfleet form. – Nic Gillan, Outlaw Customs

We often use automotive colors/paints for the basecoat of the custom rigs we paint, Russ. The clincher – you need to use a high-quality polyurethane clear coat. Automotive clear coats chip and are far less durable than the truck-type polyurethanes in the high mileage and harsh elements working rigs see every year. DuPont, Sherwin William and PPG all make “truck quality” clears. Be sure to ask your paint rep if the poly clear you select is compatible with the automotive base color you are applying. Be aware polys spray a lot different than automotive paints; their overspray is extremely unhealthy; and the dry time is slower than your typical car paint. So read up on it before you begin. – Bryan Martin, Chrome Shop Mafia/4 State Trucks

WAIT ON WAX

I’m getting my Peterbilt done up with custom paint, flames and graphics. How long should I wait before giving my rig its first wax job–and what type of wax should I use? The paint is PPG Delfleet. – Warren Spears, Mobile, Alabama

Warren, you should wait 90 days before waxing a new paint job. After that, the best way to tell when to wax again is when water quits beading up on the surface when you wash your rig. Any well-known wax product is good. But I would use one that is easy to apply and buff off or you won’t be so willing to wax up that big rig! – Paul Stoll, PPG Training, Custom Painting Specialist

HOT GRILL

HOG Enterprises new line of Hog Grills  for the Peterbilt 379 are sure to set your custom rig apart from all others. HOG uses 304 Stainless Steele stock and plates it with high-quality chrome for a durable shine and superior brilliance. Their line of grilles is very customizable and is available in four patterns. A highlight is the one-piece trim ring featuring a sharp outer edge, which sets the sunlight flying. Retail: $995-$1,200. (888) 305-8999

FASTER WRENCH

GearWrench’s new XL X-Beam Reversible Wrench not only offers the opposite ends set 90-degrees from each other, it has a reversible lever so you can alternate from loosening to tightening without flipping the wrench over.  The unique 15-degree offset provides clearance for users’ hands.  The wrench features a flex hinge on the box end allowing you to adjust the offset angle when working in tight spaces. (800) 688-8949

OUTLAW BRACKETS

Steal the show with Outlaw Customs Criminal Headlight Brackets ($375). A direct bolt-on headlight replacement for Peterbilt 379s and Jones Performance Truck Rodz hoods. A sleek design allows for a two light mounting system affording one headlight and a second light of your choice.  There are countless light options available from drive lights to fog lights to turn signals, completely customizable to your liking. (303) 952-8109

FUSION SOUND

Fusion’s CA-IP500 ($250) audio receiver features Apple iPod integration and internal docking,. Offering innovative docking and charging inside the head unit, the new receiver eliminates installation hassles and the need for cables. The new Fusion receiver mirrors the iPod user interface to ensure familiar control from the head unit. (623) -580-9000

SNOW INJECTION

The new Snow MPG MAX system ($950) from Snow Performance is the only Class 7/8 water/methanol injection system that increases fuel economy 3-5 percent in all load states while improving horsepower and torque, the manufacturer says. It also reduces exhaust gas temperatures more than 250- degrees under full power without affecting engine durability or reliability. Special mapping and the most sophisticated 2d digital controller available are the heart of the new system, which allows a small, steady spray of water/methanol to be injected across the entire power curve – even while in cruise.  This provides an increase in combustion efficiency and more power without injecting more fuel. (719-) 633-3811 

BRIGHT LIGHT

The new 3730 LED Light Head from Ecco provides a budget-conscious lighting option where a premium light with SAE Class II operation is required, the company says. The 3730′s compact size gives it the ability to fit confined mounting locations. Features include 14 flash patterns, all with three alternating flash modes, synchronization capability, zero maintenance and a five-year warranty. (800) 635-5900

KOUL TOOLS

Since stainless braided hose was invented, racers, mechanics, and custom truck builders have been fighting the problem of installing the hose into the socket part of the assembly. KOUL Tools assembly kits, with parts made of a high -tech composite, address those issues. Just insert the socket into the tool, and twist the hose in. No vise marks. No wearing out. Perfect first time, every time. New Pro Combo Kit ($150) fits hoses from -4 to -16.  (928) 854-6706

BARGAIN RECEIVER

A great upgrade receiver is the new JVC  KD-BT11, which  features built-in Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling and audio streaming. It is updatable for pairing with new cell phones. The unit is equipped for readiness with CD changer, HD radio, satellite radio, and is MP3/WMA compatible with front aux input. A wireless remote is included. Retail: $220. (800) 252-5722

MOTION-SENSING DOME

Grote’s sleek S100 Dome Lamp features built-in infrared motion activation, eliminating the need for installation of an independent switch, and a low profile, energy-efficient LED design. The sensor is calibrated to recognize the heat signature unique to humans, and turns on when it detects movement by a person within 15 feet.. The lamp will remain on as movement continues. (800) 628-0809

PIMP YOUR HORNS

“Go Ahead Punk … Make My Day!” Imagine this familiar voice blaring out from your truck. Or maybe as you’re sitting at a stoplight, your truck gives a ferocious growl. With the new Horntones FX-550 3-piece system ($299), the possibilities are endless. This is the first mobile audio system that supplements the sound of a vehicle’s horn function by sounding any MP3 audio clip. The company’s website includes a Virtual Player that allows users to completely configure the FX-550 online and then simply save the resulting file to a USB thumb (flash) drive. The thumb drive is then plugged into the FX-550 and the new tones are automatically loaded. (949) 429-7900

SUPER SEALER

Custom painters will love Big Sky Performa-Seal, which is a non-sanding 2K acrylic urethane sealer from ChemSpec that applies smoothly and maintains superior color and gloss retention for high-quality finishes. Performa-Seal allows for increased inter-coat adhesion while providing a uniform ground coat over repairs. All three shades of sealer may be mixed to provide the painter with a variety of gray shades. (800) 328-4892

PARKING SENSORS

Never back blind when your custom truck utilizes Auto-i Corporation’s new OEM-style T400 Parking Sensor System. The head unit features an LED digital display with top-mount or in-dash mount, meter or feet display. Kit comes complete with sensors and detachable cables — perfect for commercial truck uses. (416) 727-8699

DETAIL MAGIC

A car care industry leader, Blue Magic recently introduced five surface care products – a heavy foam upholstery cleaner, heavy foam carpet cleaner, foaming glass cleaner, dash and console restorer and upholstery stain and spot lifter. The new products join the existing Blue Magic line, which includes a top-selling carpet stain and spot lifter, leather and vinyl cleaner and leather conditioner. (888) 522-2746 

COOL QUIET

QuietRide Solutions has designed pre-cut, ready to install AcoustiShield Cool and Quiet insulation kits for certain Freightliner, International, Peterbilt and Volvo tractors. Each kit ($500-$600) includes state-of-the-art, multi-stage acoustic/heat insulation for the floor, cowl, firewall, rear cab, roof and doors. Exterior noise and radiant heat are cut dramatically. Universal AcoustiShield Insulation kits are available for all other trucks. (209) 942-4777 

SWITCH IT UP

Del City now offers three styles of toggle and rocker switch panels including a 6-Switch Panel with LED lights to indicate they are activated. The new switch panels are crafted to withstand marine settings yet are resilient enough to tolerate various applications. Del City offers a variety of switches, fuses, relays and wire to complement these new switch panels. (800) 654-4757

CLEVER STORAGE

Storage of small items is always a challenge, which is where Covercraft Industries PocketPods come to the rescue. With many new styles and sizes to choose from, stowing away small items is literally a snap. PocketPods can include one to three storage pockets, depending on the application, with a closure latch in each pocket lid. PocketPods are constructed from heat-formed carpet and mounted on an ABS backing. Each storage unit contains a mounting kit of automotive grade fasteners and/or 3M adhesive tape. (800) 426-8377

X-FACTOR LIGHTS

Want the coolest looking and hottest performing auxiliary lights on the road? VisionX’s weatherproof, low-profile Xmitter LED Light Bars produce more light than a 35-watt HID while drawing only 4 amps and boasting an astonishing 50,000 hour life span. Each is manufactured of die-cast aluminum ends and extruded aluminum body measuring less than 3-in. tall and 3-in. deep. They are available in lengths from 4 in. to 52 in. and come standard with flat surface mounts and rubber shock isolators. Prices start at $500. (800) 994-4460

SPLINE TIGHTNERS

Customizers will find the new GearWrench XL Splineratcheting Wrench works on a wide assortment of fasteners including spline, six-point, six-point rounded, twelve-point, square, and E-Torx. The GearWrench Surface Drive Plus feature reduces fastener rounding and delivers up to 25 percent more torque than standard wrenches. (800) 688-8949

POWER LIGHTS

If you want the brightest European-style, spot-driving, or flood lights on the planet, VisionX’s new micro-ballast HID technology in their 6500-, 5700- and 8500-series lights will do the trick. These slim, 3.4-in.- deep lights put out an amazing 5,000 lLumens compared to the 1,200- lLumens output of a standard 100-watt halogen bulb while only drawing 5.4 amps off your rig’s electrical system. Available in either powder-coated black or X- Chrome finish. (800) 994-4460. 

West Coast Chop-Top  One  Slick Creation

Nothing gets Mike Salinas’s adrenaline pumping faster than seeing a green-light flash on a Christmas tree and feeling 540 cubic-inches of blown Chevrolet, sitting inches ahead of his toes, punch him into the seat while it lifts the wheels of his 7.0 Pro nostalgia dragster skyward. The thrill of that seven-second quarter-mile, 200-mph blast is hard to beat.

It’s also hard to beat his tow vehicle: a 1997 Peterbilt 379 extended hood that reflects both the colors and style of this Gilroy, California, National Hot Rod Association Hot Rod Heritage drag racer. Salinas’ hot-rod-style hauler, dubbed Slippery Pete, is an odds-on favorite to win every time it rolls into a racetrack or a truck show, as was proven at Overdrive’s Pride & Polish competition at Truck Show Latino in Pomona, California.

Jeff Davidson of John’s Truck Repair, in nearby Cotati, entered Salinas’ Pete in the Limited Mileage Show Truck class and walked away with Best Limited Mileage Bobtail and Best Pride & Polish Limited Mileage Paint among some stiff competition.

Richly deserved, too. The paint and bodywork on the chop-top Pete are works of art, thanks to the fabrication and attention to details the JTR crew put in.

“The project started out small,” says Davidson. “We were planning on chopping the cab top, building smooth deckplates, making custom rear fenders and tailplates, and painting the truck orange and black with blue flames to match Mike’s trailer [and dragster] we’d finished six months earlier.”

“But every time we got together with him to discuss the specifics, we all had ideas on how to alter this or that on the truck. When it was decided to yank the motor and transmission to dress them up a bit, the small project instantly turned into a huge one. Eighteen months and 4,000 man-hours later, this is the result.”

So the next time you are at a nostalgia drag race and see Salinas’ #7211, or one of his four daughters racing their Jr. Dragsters, sneak a closer look at the Peterbilt hooked to their car hauler/race shop. It’s as impressive as Salinas’ burnouts. — Bruce W. Smith

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There’s a huge contest brewing here at Custom Rigs magazine. Remember the days when a jar sat on the counter filled with beans and if you guessed how many were inside you won some cool prize?

Well, we’ve got something similar in mind.

We’re giving away “Sequel”—one of the second season trucks customized by the Chrome Shop Mafia on CMT’s “Trick My Truck.”

The contest will involve counting and head-scratching. How wild is that?! Details are being worked out as you read this, so stay tuned for more details about out custom rig giveaway.