autolife

The 4 Best Tailgate Light Bars for Trucks

January 17, 2020 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

Your immense braking power can be multiplied with the injection of a quality tailgate light bar to your truck.

But, the marketplace is flooded with everyone trying to get a piece of that pie.

So we boiled it down to the overall value, quality, and customer satisfaction of the pickings.

Something to note. The big issue for LED bars is that a lot of them are cheaply made, make SURE to double check recent reviews in this category.

Let’s take a look at the 4 Best Tailgate Lightbars for Trucks:

1. OPT7 60" Redline Triple LED Tailgate Light Bar w/Sequential RED Turn Signal

Starting off with a behemoth in the category.

This 60″ Triple LED is a best seller, that has left of wake of enthusiasts in it’s path.

It’s not the cheapest option, but they did make attempts to improve build quality with the shell. So many companies are producing light bars that you gotta watch out for where they cut corners.

The longevity of products can come into question. OPT7 has done a good job of addressing this with a 2-year warranty. Most products use a plastic casing, but they’ve used aluminum to help this tolerate heat a bit better.

The one we linked to is the 60″ version, but they also come in 48″. You can choose from red or amber. The great thing about light bars is they’re usually a no drill install. This is no different, the adhesive is rated up to 25lbs.

This particular model has 1200 LEDS in total. They say you can just plug it into your trailer adapter, but lots of people have issues with that. Most recommend hardwiring this for your vehicle.

2. Nilight TR-04 Truck Tailgate Bar 60" Triple Row 504 LED Strip

The Nilight tailgate light bar is one of the most affordable products in it’s class when it comes to the 60″ version.

It is a plug in play like most competitors into your trailer adapter.

This uses an adhesive to stick to your truck. This one bar has 3 different output colors: red, amber, and white. Depending on the function, a different color is used. There’s a 2-year warranty for your peace of mind.

This has 504 LEDs total, and that’s seemingly standard for options in this price range. There HAVE been some quality control issues with this and many other of these light bars. For this one in particular customers have reported issues at car washes.

If you’re trying to save money, you may want to attempt reinforcing the electrical plug to make sure it is waterproof for reals.

3. MICTUNING 60 inches Triple 504 LEDs Tailgate Strip Light Waterproof

Mictuning has a 60 inch light bar that has surprise surprise, 504 LEDS.

That’s the exact same amount as Nilight! They may come from a larger manufacturer and be re-branded.

Whatever the case, Mictuning seems to have slightly better reviews as of now. It is in the lower(but affordable) end of the price range for this category, just like our number two option.

It’s a plug and play connector.

4. 60" TRIPLE 1200 LED Tailgate Light Bar Sequential Amber Turn Signal

SyneticUSA has a 1200 LED adhesive tail light for your intense signaling needs.

It is in the mid-range of this category and a bit cheaper than similar options, like our similar 1200+ LED choice for #1.

This also comes with a 2-year warranty. It has an aluminum body and is rated as waterproof using the IP67 standard.

This has a “strobe break light” function. When you first hit your brakes, it’ll flash a few times before you come to a stop. Which we think is pretty neat.

Some customers have had an issue with the sticky tape. If your tailgate has any curvature, then this might not be for you. The aluminum casing protects it, but also makes it less than ideal for a tailgate with curves.

FAQS and Tips

When purchasing any product with potential QA issues, go to the most recent reviews on Amazon for tail lights.

So, unfortunately we figured out an issue with reviews. A lot of them can be boosted pretty easily. The only way to get around this is to do your due diligence, like we attempted to do.

Try your best to discern “real reviews” from the fake ones. It’s not always easy.

How do I attach my Tailgate Light Bar?

Nearly all options are adhesives that you’re just going to stick straight onto your tailgate.

If you’re going to order an aluminum casing, make sure your tailgate is flat without curvature.

Why are there quality control issues with light bars?

A lot of reasons. There is incredible demand for these firstly. Secondly, most bars are flexible and made of plastics. That means they’re susceptible to the elements.

The trade off comes in it being so easy to attach to your truck. If you can stick something on with some glue, it might not be the best for the long term.

But, we don’t want to be all doom and gloom. While there are issues for some customers with their light bars, lots of people have good experiences. I’m sure you’ve seen these frequently while driving around your city, so they work for a lot of folks.

Conclusion

Hopefully, we helped you make an informed decision in this category. This is one of the most competitive markets out there so be sure to read the reviews carefully.

If there are a bunch of 5-star reviews, with names that make you question the integrity of the reviewer, it might be worth doing a little more digging.

If you end up purchasing one of these, let us know how it worked out! Happy.. light hunting.

The 4 Best Tail Lights for Jeep JK

January 8, 2020 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

I’ve noticed brake checking is an unofficial sport in my state.

But what about, checking out those sweet brake lights you got?

Swapping out your stock tail lights is a simple mod that can improve the look of your Jeep. So, we got you the quick easy defluffed rundown of the 4 Best Tail Lights for your Jeep JK:

1. J.W. Speaker 0347531 Model 279 J

Fits: Jeep JK 2007-2017

With perhaps some of the most uninspiring product photos we’ve seen, come one of the most highly rated products in the category.

Yes, they will cost you a pretty penny, or about 26 Chipotle burritos currently. But, you get what you pay for.

This is an extremely solid housing made for Jeep owners. Specifically targeted at those who offroad, who may need something a bit more sturdy than the day to day driver. This is an American company that’s been around since 1935.

They manufacture and assemble all their parts right here stateside. During installation you may have to fiddle around with them about to get the fit just right, but that’s the main gripe these have.

In terms of longevity of their bulbs, they’re doing well. If you want to see how they look like on a Jeep, this video will show you. The guy is a bit salesy(a lot), but at least you can see them installed.

2. Smoked LED Tail Lights Brake Reverse Light

Fits: Jeep JK 2007-2017

Now on the other end of the price spectrum, let’s look at one of the best selling products that is a bit easier on your wallet.

These smoked tail lights from Sunpie have left a wake of satisfied Jeepers.

Installation is a breeze and they will be significantly brighter than stock. Here is the installation video, it should take you about 20 minutes total for both. But don’t hold us to it!

If you’re budget conscious, it is really difficult to get a better value than this pair.

3. Xprite Led Tail Lights Smoke Lens Red LED Rear Brake Light w/Turn Signal & Back Up Taillight Assembly

Fits: Jeep JK 2007-2018

Xprite LED tail lights offer an interesting design with a 3 tiered set up.

There are a lot of the regular dotted LED signals, but we thought this was interesting and it gives you a different look.

They’re in the mid-range for pricing in the category, at least currently. The LEDs are rated to last you over 50,000 hours. If your Jeep lasts that much drive time, you’re either the worlds best mechanic or you should be playing the lottery.

Similar to the tail lights from Sunpie, this is a plug and play installation. So, plan for about 20 minutes of install time. If you’re not a fan of the red LEDs, they also come in white and it’s a bit cheaper.

They’re rated as weatherproof, the designation being IP67. You can get mud on these and be fine. A knock on this product is the lens isn’t made of the hardest plastic. Some customers have reported it being susceptible to scratches.

For most people that won’t be a problem, but if you’re going to potentially be rubbing against branches off-road you might end up with some grooves. That can definitely be off-putting.

4. LED Tail Lights with Smoke Lens

Xsprite has another tail light option with a different, interesting look.

This is on the higher end of the price scale for tail lights. We linked to the smoked lens, but they also have a clear and red option if you’re smoked out.

Their model featured here has 2 color options. When you reverse they change to white LEDs and for everything else you’ll be throwing up red signs.

Something to note about these is that they’re pretty bulky. Much more so than stock. The housing and build quality is good, but the screws that hold it together will rust over time due to moisture.

FAQS

What is a smoked lens and why do all these car manufactures keep mentioning it?

In almost every review here, you can see the mention of a smoked lens. It’s a cool way of saying slightly tinted.

Maybe you’ve been driving and someone with HID headllights and you thought they had their brights on. It’s something that I think most of us can agree is extremely annoying.

With smoked headlights, your LEDs will still shine brightly, but they help dissipate it. You’re not going to blind anyone and they kinda look cool. Of course HID technology is constructed of different stuff altogether though.

It’s interesting to read up on if you’re feeling like taking a dive into the depths of wikipedia.

Why do prices seem to vary so much with tail lights?

The simple answer to this tends to be build quality. It really depends how long you plan to own a vehicle and how you’ll use it.

For some examples of what I mean is, some manufacturers will use glue to hold pieces or wires together to cut costs instead of a more resistant substance like silicone(more expensive).

Glue isn’t going to hold up to heat over time and you’ll eventually have problems. Another example is the plastic that’s used.

Plastic is a hugely dynamic material and one kind can be made more resistant than others due to the quality. Some pieces scratch easily, some don’t. Tail lights are of course mostly cosmetic, but I definitely recommend reading additional reviews if you’re looking at a price point that seems too good to be true.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you’ll be screaming off into the distance with your well-lit Jeep and when you have to make a turn, your glorious tail lights will scream “custom and fabulous” to the other drivers on the road.

Really though, if you pick up one of these options let us know how it turned out for you. Good luck on your quest!

The 4 Best Grab Handles for Jeeps

December 22, 2019 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

Do you have a deep void inside you?

You feel like you need a friend, something to hold on to during this bumpy ride we call life?

Well, I can’t help you there but I can give you recommendations for grab handles for your Jeep!

Let’s take a look at some of the best grab handles for Jeeps on the market:

1. Voodonala Front & Rear Roll Bar Grab Handles Kit

Fits: 2007-2019 Jeep JKs

On the pricier end of the spectrum we have this kit by Voodonala.

It includes all the hardware you need to keep all hands on deck in a 4 door Jeep.

This will fit into your OEM holes on your vehicle for ease of install. But, not all installation instructions are the same and that is the common knock on these.

To install the rears, you simply remove the factory bolts and use the included ones from Voodonala(easy). But, to install the front is a bit more work. You’re going to need to

2. Moveland 4 x Grip Handle Jeep Wrangler Handles

Fits: 1987-2019 Jeep Wranglers

A low cost, easy to install alternative to mounted options is usually anything involving straps. These grips by Moveland are a great demonstration of that.

These are the most pleasantly reviewed in that category.

As you can see from the preview, you get 4 included well-made handles. They use a strapping system to get a perfect fit and a good old piece of plastic for the handle.

They’re a little chunky and that’s what we like about them. They come in two color options, black(pictured) and a red.

3. Carperipher Aluminum Alloy Front Grab Handles

Fits: 2007-2019 Jeep Wrangler JKs 2 Door and Unlimited 4 Door(Sport, Sahara, Freedom & Rubicon)

Carperipher offers a sturdy option without having to worry about a troublesome installation.

These are a pair of heavy duty handles with a metal form covered wtih a rubber grip.

Unlike some other options we’ve seen, these are purely bolt on. All mounting hardware is included and they fit standard OEM mounts in your Jeep.

The only thing you need to be sure of is that you install the handle that is made for the left, in the left mounts. And the handle that is made for the right, in the right.

You would think these would be interchangeable but that’s not the case because of threading on the hardware.

Note: There are cheaper versions of this design, and more expensive versions.

4. Badass Moto Gear Jeep Grab Handles for Roll Bar

Fits: Any Jeep or Vehicle with roll bars

The name of the brand of these Moto Gear handles stands out, but that’s not why we picked them.

They actually make a good, affordable product with happy customers.

In addition to that, they offer a 5-year warranty on their product. These will fit any vehicle with a roll bar as it is a strap system. Even with the great reviews(overall) and warranty, there have been stories of customers having these break on them.

It’s really hard to go wrong with a mounted option, but if you prefer the give that these can provide, they’re also a good choice.

Conclusion

There are only two types of hanldes here and it comes down to preference. If you prefer mounted options, you’re going to pay a bit more and installation is going to be a bit more tedious.

But, if you prefer a strap to have a bit of give while you hang on, then there are plenty of those choices as well.

We gave you two from each category, the choice is yours! If you bought one of these products and are happy with it, let us know in the comments.

Monster Trucks are Awesome

November 15, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

There, I said it. Monster trucks are freaking awesome. Who would have thought that jacking up a vehicle to absurd proportions and giving it gigantic tires could be so awesome?

Well whoever that first person was, I salute you. But, like a whale confined to a pool.. it almost feels wrong that monster trucks are used for shows in little arenas. They deserve to be out in the WILD. Showcasing their illustrious beauty and dirt moving tires to the world.

So I decided to make a list of the ways a monster truck should be used. Let’s take a look.

Morning Traffic: Have you ever been sitting in the morning rush with horns and irritated drivers hating their lives? Me too, I’ve been one of those people and it isn’t fun. But, if I had a monster truck I could just drive over them. Hopefully they wouldn’t die but this isn’t an exercise in kindness after all. The joy might be in the crunch of commuters being left in my dust.
Taking a girl on a date: Yeah, stretch limos are nice for prom but we’re grown ups here. I want to pick up a girl in a monster truck and judge her on the amount of time it takes to climb in. No footstools for you miss. Maybe I could have a stop watch and it’d be a chart I could keep? The better.. the more potential? Still gotta iron the details out.
A police chase: Okay hypothetical right, but if a cop pulled me over for driving on city streets in my monster truck I think it’d be pretty great to take off. Maybe I could fill up the tires with some slime too, or have the air pressure low enough that spike strips wont worry me. All rubber tires? I don’t know, but it’d be awesome. Except they’d shoot me, they do that a lot.
Uber driver: I would love to pick someone up in one of these. Maybe out in the country so it wasn’t hyper illegal. Actually, uber eats might even be better. You could pull up to someone who lives on the second story without getting out of the monster truck. It would definitely save time.
Four wheeling: Oh yeah how’s your 3 inch lift kit? Mine is several feet, you squirt! Let’s ignore the fact that a monster truck would tip, it’s all about the pissing contest for this one.
Putting lifted trucks to shame: Piggybacking off our previous point, the guys that lift their street legal trucks as high as they can go deserve to be shamed too. There’s always a bigger fish to fry – and that could be me in my monster truck!
Handicap Parking Space Vigilante: Alright get this, I wait for someone who doesn’t have the right to park in a disabled space and then.. I crush their car while they’re inside shopping or whatever. We’ve all seen these people that take handicap spaces and some street justice could do the trick.
Skipping drive thru lines: Just like cutting through traffic, I could get a handheld extender pole to couple with my truck and snatch the order when the cashier is handing the food to the driver. It would have to require a lot of precision and timing, but it could be done.

The truth of it is I just want a monster truck. A 12 ft tall, 12 ft wide thing of beauty. They’ve been used to help people in floods.. that could be my angle. Flood preparation. Let me know how you’d use a monster truck!

The 4 Best Tire Deflators

November 15, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

Getting tire deflators speeds up the process of getting your tires to the best PSI for riding trails and offroading. Prices vary and so does quality of brands.

If you pick up some automatic tire deflators you can have a set PSI you like your tires at and just screw them in. Then walk away – they’ll stop when they get to the right pressure. It’s a simple process that takes a bit of pressure off you(bad pun).

Let’s take a look at the best tire deflators available:

1. ARB ARB505 E-Z Deflator, Orange

ARB’s EZ deflator is a simple solution for offroaders. This kit has an adjustable brass hardware gauge and includes a carrying bag. It’s one of the most popular options and for good reason, ARB is a well-known brand and their products just work.

You won’t pay too much either. If you want a simple setup and don’t mind it taking a bit more time than an automatic deflator. But, when we say “a bit more time” it isn’t much, maybe 3 or 4 minutes max.This is a great choice and value overall.

2. Staun Automatic Tire Deflators (Standard Duty 6-30 PSI)

The Staun Automatic Tire Deflators are well.. automatic. That’s the point! You can adjust these to the PSI of your choosing, then just set and forget. They have 3 different models covering PSIs between 1 all the way up to 55.

So, if you’d like your tires to be anywhere in that range and want an automatic option, you can get that with these. They’re made in Australia from solid brass. You’ll pay more for these than a typical tire deflator kit.

But, the big benefit is you get four solid pieces and you don’t have to rely on any hosing or valves. While other kits with more parts could wear down over time, you won’t have the same issues here. They’re a great brand and value.

Quick Tip If you plan on buying an automatic deflator, take them off after they reach the set psi you want. That's because when you're driving over obstacles the increased pressure could cause more air to get out than you would like.

3. Boulder Tools All New Heavy Duty Rapid Tire Deflator Kit with Valve Caps, Valve Cores & 4-in-1 Tire Valve Tool

Boulder Tools has a very affordable tire deflator kit. If you are looking to save money and you’re not too keen on automatic deflators, this will do it. It does have a very solid construction, but it also has a lot of parts.

For simplicity sake, it might not be the best but they have a solid reputation and top it off with a 1 year warranty. It comes in a handy carrying case with plenty of extra parts. The tire pressure gauge is a handy way to keep track of your progress.

4. BILLET4X4 TRAILHEAD Tire Deflators

Do you guys think Billet wants you to know their products are made in America? We do, and suddenly we’re feeling very patriotic. Their automatic tire deflators can get you from 1 to 55 psi. The deflator kit includes a pressure gauge and a nice pouch in addition to the hardware.

Calibrating these can be a bit of a pain. You’ve got to set it, and check it that it deflated to the PSI you wanted. For each one of these this process requires a bit of work with a real tire. An air pump will be handy so you can keep refilling until you get it just right.

How do tire deflators help?

When you’re driving around every day on paved roads, it helps to have your tires pumped up to the recommended PSI. It saves you gas, and it’s easier on your car. Once you decide to go offroad and start dealing with uneven surfaces, deflating your tires gives them a bit more slack to sink into something.

For an example, let’s imagine you’re trying to drive over a large branch. Your tires are pumped up though, and when you can’t make it – they start to spin. As your tires rub against the branch there is no give, and they do not conform to the shape of the object they’re trying to move past.

In the same example, let’s imagine you have properly deflated tires. You approach the branch and instead of your tires spinning against the object – the slack provided by less air allows your tire to “grip” the form it needs to overcome.

As you can see this is a huge advantage when it comes to offroading.

Conclusion

Automatic tire deflators are neat, but they do cost quite a bit more than single piece kits. The ARB tire deflator kit is our favorite when we considered overall value.

A quick note about automatic deflators is that you don’t necessarily need 4 of them. By the time you put all four on your first tire might already be deflated. They can be bought individually and we’ve seen some offroaders suggest that they only needed two. It’ll be more affordable to buy a couple instead of a set.

Let us know if you pick up something from this list and how it worked out for you, we love feedback from our readers!

The 4 Best Wheel Cleaners for Brake Dust

November 13, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

Keeping your wheels looking clean is a small detail that’s a finishing touch on car care. But, there’s one culprit for many car owners and auto-detailers. That is brake dust. The natural by-product of using a resource that withers away with use. Brake pads and especially metallic pads are going to leave behind a significant amount of residue.

So what’s the best way to clean brake dust? Well, we took a look at the options on the market. The good thing is they’re affordable and the top brands all do a good job. With some more specialized.

Here are the 4 best wheel cleaners for brake dust:

1. DipYourCar Brake Dust Pro

DipYourCar has a strong wheel cleaner that is made to fight the buildup of brake dust. This is a spray and set type of application. You spray it on your wheels, when the time is right for you to wash it off it’ll change colors to a dark red.

It’s a 32 oz bottle, as far as price goes it’s on par with other brands. But, since you’re buying a larger bottle it will seem like it costs more. It’s pretty neat how it changes colors, like some other brands of wheel cleaner. We’re bad with time and numbers so yeah, neat feature.

They recommend using a power washer to clean it off, but a hose should work just fine. Just don’t flood the wheel with water, if you have a high pressure nozzle that would work much better.

If you’re sensitive to smell you’re going to be in for a surprise! This.. does not smell good. Maybe you can test your nostrils. It’s recommended you use a wheel brush to compliment this. Chemicals do work but they need a little bit of help sometimes depending on how bad the brake dust is. This is a PH neutral product, you don’t have to worry about it staining.

2. Adam's Deep Wheel Cleaner

Adam’s Deep Wheel Cleaner is one of the best selling brands for car owners with a vendetta against brake dust. It has the same color changing properties as DipYourCar after application. You spray it on, let it sit, and when it changes color you know to spray it off.

It’s a made in the USA product, which they’re very rightfully proud of. People love this stuff and it’s probably the best selling cleaner in the category. This is another PH neutral product that still kicks butt despite its lack of acidity.

Brake cleaners just tend to smell because of their chemical composition, and this one is no different so be prepared. It has a satisfaction guarantee, if you’re not happy then you get a refund.

But, nearly all their customers are happy. A product that’s affordable and just works. We love it. Just remember it’s targeted specifically for brake dust. If you want an all-around cleaner, there are formulations that are better suited. Eagle One’s All Wheel and Tire Cleaner would be a good option.

3. Eagle One All Wheel and Tire Cleaner

Eagle One has made a well-regarded all around wheel cleaner for a great price. The 64oz option is cheaper than some 16oz brake dust cleaner brands. This product works by foaming. It’s not made specifically to remove brake dust, instead, it targets all the general crud on your wheels.

So if you want an all around solution this is it. You’ll have to put in a little more elbow grease than you would with a formulation specific for dust. Your wheels will look great though, and you get a lot of this product for cheap.

If you pair this with a scrubbing tool you have a nice one two punch to keep your wheels clean.

4. TriNova Wheel Cleaner

TriNova Wheel Cleaner is another all-around option for keeping your wheels free of dirt and grime. It’s a degreaser that’s PH balanced so no worries about stains. Just like Adam’s cleaner, this product is made right here in the USA.

There aren’t any fancy color changing formulas going on here like in some competitors workings. But, it’s the same application process. Spray this on, let it sit. You’ll know it working when you see the dirt starting to slide down your wheels.

We love that they’re cheap and that it’ll work on all types of wheels.It may be only a few dollars cheaper than the others but it’s enough to buy a burger. They have a good reputation and back their product with a satisfaction guarantee.

How can I prevent brake dust?

There are two main culprits. The first is, you’re probably using semi-metallic brake pads if you have a lot of brake dust. These pads perform well and they’re common in heavier vehicles. But, they leave a lot of residue.

So if it’s really bothering you, look into buying ceramic brake pads and using those instead. Metal pads chip away every time you brake, whereas ceramics make much less dust.

The second option is, upgrading your current brake pads to a better brand. It may be no fault of yours, but a higher quality brake pad isn’t going to chip as less. If you’ve bought the car used or you just don’t like your stock pads – it might be time for an upgrade.

Conclusion

Some people go as far as waxing their wheels to prevent brake dust sticking to the rims. But really, a regular clean is going to do just as well. Even low-dust pads are going to produce dust. It’s the nature of a consumable(brake pad) resource. When it degrades you’re left to clean up the little pieces.

We recommend getting a wheel brush as well, to get off the bits of dust that aren’t budging. You can get a nice wheel brush for cheap. Mothers Wheel Brush is always a safe bet. For owners dealing with a lot of brake dust we recommend Adam’s Wheel Cleaner and for the people looking for an all-around cleaner, we recommend Eagle One.

If you purchase one of these, let us know how it went and if you gave it a thumbs up or down. We would love to hear. Have fun cleaning.

ATVs or UTVs – Which is better?

November 12, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

It can be a tough choice deciding what will fit your riding style between ATVs and UTVs. We have some pros and cons for you to help you make an informed decision.

Pros for ATVs:

They cost less. A typical ATV is going to run you in the general direction of a 1/3rd less than a UTV.
Better traction and suspension on average if it’s a 4×4.
They’re faster. Less overall weight and components makes for a better ratio.
Can get into tighter spots. If you’re going trail riding with lots of trees and obstructions you’re going to need to factor in the width of your UTV to see if it can even get where you want it to go.
It’s easier to haul. For a UTV you’re going to need a toy hauler or some way to get it where you need to go. ATVs can fit in your truck. Just get an ATV ramp and you’re set.

Pros for UTVs:

Safer. A roof and a roll bar over your head is going to offer much more protection than an ATV would.
A smoother ride overall. You’re going to be more comfortable. They aren’t going to get all the places an ATV would but if you just want to take a friend or loved one along on a trail ride, they’re the best option.
Bring your girlfriend or buddy along. With UTVs, the best part is having some company right beside you. Offroading is an enjoyable experience of course, and it’s something lovely to be able to share that with someone.
Upgrades! ATVs have lots of upgrades as well, but adding comfortable seats and backrests along with some speakers is pretty easy to do in a UTV. You’ll have an easier time mounting lights and other peripherals as well.

Why aren’t there more roundabouts in America?

November 12, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

If you’ve traveled to other countries or even in some parts across the USA you’ll probably have seen roundabouts used in your lifetime. I know here in Arizona I’ve seen them about three times on highways way out of the way of the city. But, when they’re used properly and everyone knows the rules they really can speed traffic up.

There’s also the benefit of them using no electricity, no streetlights, and an improved flow of traffic. So why the heck don’t we use roundabouts more in the States? The simple answer is that roundabouts aren’t always the best solution because it depends on the amount of traffic overall. They’re great for intersections that have about the same volume and fairly low amounts of traffic.

So the two main reasons I found that we don’t use them more often are:

They aren’t good for intersections with an uneven distribution of traffic. This is where traffic lights shine. They can be timed to get a gauge of the regular flow. Some directions are going to need longer lights to accommodate that.
For many places they would work well, lights are already installed.
Since we aren’t used to them in the states it’s easier for communities to install lights.

They’re a great way to slow traffic down as well. You won’t have the same amount of fatalities from accidents you would when it comes to a stoplight. You can’t really speed 50 mph through a roundabout, but you can get up to maybe 25 mph.

The verdict is they’re awesome – in certain situations. In many countries, they work very well. The Netherlands uses them all over with good results.

If you’d like to read more about roundabouts, wikipedia has a great article(as usual).

How to use a roundabout?

This is something I didn’t know how to do until very recently, but there’s no harm into owning up to something. Learning is fun. The state of Michigan released a video on their use after installing several. It’s pretty good you can watch it below.

The 4 Best Bed Extenders for Ford F150s

November 8, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

If you’re hauling a lot of cargo and have started to find your space slim, a bed extender can be the solution to your problem. It’s also nice just being able to leave the gate open when you need to grab something out of the back of your truck.

Getting a bed extender can be a game changer for anyone who uses kayaks, ladders, or any awkward shapes you need to haul.

When it comes to choices, there isn’t a lot of competition in the marketplace.

There are two main players, ford OEM and AMP Research. But, both brands have a lot of happy customers so there isn’t much room for competitors to come in. There is one bed extender that doubles as a ramp for dirt bikes. With that said, we looked at the available options and picked out the winners.

Here are the 4 best bed extenders for f150s:

AMP Research Black Truck Bed Extender

The AMP Research truck bed extender has a nice powder coat finish and is made in the USA. We’ve already talked about how they pretty much own the market for truck extenders, but it isn’t because they have a monopoly.

They just consistently put out a great product and this one is a good example. It comes with a 3-year warranty. The U shape design folds back to keep in your truck bed when not in use. So you’re able to close your latch.

It doubles as a nice little secure cargo space when your latch is up as well. Preventing certain items from sliding all over the place(like dog food). You can get it in black or silver, but we’re a little partial to black. It matches our soul or something.

We find it refreshing to see an American company doing well and making quality parts. The install will take a little bit, you can see an overview of the process in the video below. The process is going to be similar for all models.

Bed extender Bracket

If you do not want to drill, you can buy a separate bed extender bracket kit from AMP. It’ll fit 2004-2018 F150 models.

ReadyRamp Bed Extender and Dirt Bike/Motorcycle Ramp

The ReadyRamp is a functional option for truck owners who have a dirt bike or motorcycle under 600lbs. Even if you don’t plan on using it for those things, having a ramp for heavy objects is a big plus.

There isn’t anything like it available, and that’s pretty neat. The have a patented 3-piece design that is made with a metal construction. It’s cheaper than some of the plastic competitors on the market that only function as an extender.

Value-wise, for anyone who owns a dirt bike this is a winner. And it’s strong enough to be used in heavy-duty applications when it comes to regular hauling. You won’t have to drill with this, it mounts to the included hardware on your truck and includes all the brackets.

ReadyRamp will find all standard Ford F150 models from 1986-2018. If you’d like to check out their sizing – they have a handy website here.

X-Treme Gate for F150

The X-Treme gate truck bed extender took a different style approach compared to the usual curved extenders we see. What makes this different is it has a fold-out design. You attach it to your truck beds gate and fold it out when you need it. When you don’t need it you can fold it away.

It adds up to 10 square feet, but it has a big drawback. It’s an entirely plastic system and there are a lot of moving parts. For anyone who wants to haul heavy things or even just something that could clank with force – this gate won’t inspire confidence.

What it’s great for is being concealed if you don’t like the idea of a permanent metal extender attached to your truck bed. If you need something light duty and want to have the option to fold it away, then we could see the appeal. Made for 2009 models and up.

Genuine Ford Bed Extender

Ford has a line of OEM bed extenders for their trucks. They’re pretty neat in that there’s a latch in the middle that you can undo, and the sides will fold in. Making it so you’re able to stow these when not in use.

The installation will take some work, you’ll have to make a few cuts to make room for the pins in your bed liner. Like with all fold-able options, it’s a double-edged sword. This is a heavier duty alternative compared to the Extreme Gate, but it’s still not going to compare with the strength of AMP.

Plastic just can’t handle repeated use as a metal alloy could. Yet nearly all customers are happy with it so they must be doing something right. As for price, this is the most expensive option of the bunch. Which you would expect out of an OEM model. We think it’s a good choice if you need the space, the plastic is thick and it’s pretty darn secure.

How does a truck bed extender work?

Bed extenders increase your cargo space by .. extending when you pull out your latch. There are two main styles. The first is a static extender – a metal piece that isn’t going to fold. You attach it to your liner and flip it out when you need it.

The second option is a pull-out design. Ford OEM and the Extreme Gate use variations of this. The fold-able setup latches together when you need it and is easy to break down and stow when you don’t.

Final Thoughts

For us, the AMP Research bed extender is our favorite option. There is a reason they have so many models and are so popular. They offer a good warranty, the product looks good, and it’s one of the best values out there.

Have a dirt bike or motorcycle under 600lbs? Well – you should probably just get the ReadyRamp. The metal construction, price, and utility of their design make it one of the best options for anyone hauling dirt bikes.

Fords OEM model is as heavy-duty composite plastic. But, it’s still plastic. If you want something that is going to last you a long time we recommend AMP or the ReadyRamp. Plus, AMP has a bracket option to save you from drilling into your bed liner which we thought was pretty cool.

If you choose one of these extenders let us know how the install went, we’d love to hear!

Offroading is Manly Meditation

November 5, 2018 by Beast Auto Leave a Comment

The other day I was thinking about the post regarding what gets people into offroading. Lots of the reasons involved teamwork, sight seeing, and having fun through challenges. Then it hit me that beyond that – people have hobbies as a sort of meditation.

Through repetition and the journey of improving ourselves, we get better. On a recent plane ride there was a movie called Ramen Heads. These guys dedicated their lives from teenagers to being the best Ramen makers in Japan.

The craft, excellence, and routine they put into it blew me away. For them, it wasn’t so much of an occupation as it was an identity! Have you seen someone working, with their soul withering away?

I have, it used to be me. So when you see people engulfed in their art, even if it’s making Ramen, it really makes you wonder.

What drives those kind of passions?

What can convince someone to get up every day and do the same thing they’ve been doing for 20 years. Well, it’s the same thing that makes people offroad the same trails over and over again. It’s the process in the moment just as much as it’s the journey.

Too often do I find myself getting caught up in the day to day sludge of things, or worried about what’s coming next – but when I take a moment to appreciate the process that’s when I realize there’s my reward. It’s not so much the hill you made it over as it is the moment you were in the midst of struggling the most to get over that hill. That’s your pay, that moment.

If any of you have weight-lifted or participated in a strenuous activity you’ll know that there is a point when you could lift or do something – but it’s close. In fact it’s so close that the only thing making the difference is in your head. What’s holding you back is a mental block and on some days you’ll have it and some days you won’t.

Is every hobby a form of meditation? I think we need to expand the definition – according to the internet it’s “the act of meditating”. But meditating is just another hobby. It’s a hobby where you do nothing and while I’m not hating on it, I just think it’s funny that people don’t realize there’s so many things that bring stress relief and joy to our lives.

If you’re not harming your family or yourself and you’re engaging in an activity that’s fun then it seems to me that’s a form of meditation as well. Getting better and refining ourselves is a part of being human.

I guess I just felt inspired to get this off my chest, enjoy your 4 wheeling and manly meditations(or womanly).

Why Offroading is important

Really, this heading should say “Why every hobby is important” but – have you met someone who doesn’t have a “thing”. Those people that are going to work and going home every day. If you know that person, introduce them to your meditation. I’m guessing that it is something outdoors if you’re reading this, and that’s the perfect cure.

Not everyone has a friend with a nice jacked up ride – let’s help each other meditate 🙂

List of Manly Meditations

With all of that said, I thought it’d be fun to put together a list of “manly meditations” for you guys with some popular hobbies that might interest ya’ll. It’s stuff I want to try eventually. Finding time for the outdoors isn’t always accessible depending on where you live. I think I’ll keep adding to this list so if you have any input let me know.

Woodworking – being able to work with your hands has to feel absolutely amazing. For me, this is on my list and maybe for you too. I remember growing up watching “This Old House” all the contractors finding solutions to every problem caught my interest. Which later grew seeing youtubers and people online being so creative. I mean it’s just wood right? But that’s what makes a hobby transformative, people find their groove and carve it. If you want to see some crazy stuff there’s a guy called DiResta on youtube that is a pro at his craft.

RC Offroading – So you might not be able to go to your favorite getaway, but maybe you could get into RC offroading and kits. For about 300 bucks you can buy a nice beginners option with working 4×4 parts. There is a whole community of these guys dedicated just to building and upgrading their offroad rc vehicles. You can find them over at reddit.com/r/crawling

Smoking– No not that kind of smoking, the kind with the food. This is a hobby that will pay you dividends and your mouth will be thankful for it. I’ve only written two sentences and my mouth is salivating thinking about a smoked brisket. It’s pretty much a science if I understand it right.

There are different rubs, temperatures, intervals, types of smokers, types of wood chips, and a whole freaking myriad of subtleties that they don’t agree on. I love the passion for this hobby and it seems like there’s almost as much enjoyment in the details as there is in the food.

Side Hustle– This is probably the top of my list, because money is the only thing keeping a roof over my head. Finding a way to bring value to peoples lives and make money is a pretty large part of being human. I haven’t found something worth going after yet – or maybe I’m a scardey cat. That would take a post in itself, though!

Some things I’ve seen people do for beer money included answering surveys, writing an ebook, reselling on amazon, or something called “retail arbitrage”. Where you go to a store, buy something that’s selling for more on Amazon and pocket the difference. All of those are time intensive, but some people seem to do pretty well with them.

Piano – It always seemed like such a beautiful instrument, when I see someone playing the piano I’ve got to stop and soak it in. The melody and feelings that notes can convey always captivated me. How can an instrument playing a certain tone make me feel fear or happiness? Part of that intrigue is almost as much of the reason that I want to learn someday.

Writing – This is in progress for me. Writing got a hold of me when I first read a Harry Potter book. Being able to feel the characters and see what they were doing through words seemed so powerful. The passion was something you could feel – improving my writing is something I strive to do everyday and my current hobby.

Well I hope you’ve liked my list of things I think could be meditations. If you agree or have any thoughts of your own, or hobbies to add – leave a comment!

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AMP Research Black Truck Bed Extender

Bed extender Bracket

ReadyRamp Bed Extender and Dirt Bike/Motorcycle Ramp

X-Treme Gate for F150

Genuine Ford Bed Extender

How does a truck bed extender work?

Final Thoughts

Conor

Why Offroading is important

List of Manly Meditations

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