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The 4 Best Trunk Organizers with Coolers

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Keeping your trunk organized in your vehicle is a continuous task. But, it can be made much easier with an organizer!

There are a plethora of options in this category, but how many of them double as coolers? 

Having the option to keep your beverages cold while keeping your trunk organized is great. Which is why we found some great products for you to look at.

Here are the 4 best trunk organizers with coolers:

1. Tuff Viking Convertible Large SUV Trunk Organizer Built-in Leakproof Cooler Bag

If price is of no concern, the Tuff Viking organizer is our top pick. A well-made product that doesn’t have that cheap feel!

Canvas fabric with stitched straps and buckles make us confident that if Viking’s were actually still around, they might use this. 

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This is a modular design. It has three separate areas for storage, with dividers if you need more separation. Say you only need one compartment and the cooler bag. In that situation, you take the included buckles and collapse one side. 

After you do that, you now have one cooler compartment and one storage compartment. Because of its collapsible design, you can fold this neatly away when not in use. You could potentially use this instead of plastic for grocery if you love the earth and all that stuff!

The built-in included cooler bag is of decent quality and it zips up to keep moisture retained on a bumpy ride. Overall we think this is a great value for a long-term buy. But there are a few more affordable options we go over below. 

This has up to 80 lbs of load capacity. 

2. X-cosrack Car Trunk Organizer Storage with Insulation Cooler Bags

The X-Cosrack is another collapsible option with four separate compartments. And yes, it includes a cooler. 

The sides are made of a breathable mesh fabric. There are carrying straps and it holds a decent amount of items. 

About 93 liters of volume total, or about 6 to 8 regular sized grocery bags. The inserts will keep it sturdy when you’re loading it up. 

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The cooler bag is detachable from the main unit, but it’s not a long term solution. This company gives a conservative estimate which we really appreciate, of keeping things cool only for about an hour. 

In reality, the cooler bag is a great way to keep things cool for that amount of time. But, it’s not a heavy duty alternative to a dedicated cooler. It can hold more weight than you would think at first glance, up to 66 lbs!

3. LUXJA Collapsible Car Trunk Organizer with Extra Cooler Bag

Luxja has a nicely designed cooler bag included with their organizer, if you love purple that is. 

Unlike other options, you can’t “attach” the cooler bag to the organizer which might be a knock for some.

But, if you’re looking to save space then LUXJA is one of the most compact options available. It’s an extremely light setup as well, at under 3 lbs. 

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The cooler bag is on the smaller size. It’s pretty much a replica of your standard lunch box. So if you’re looking for something to keep a decent amount of groceries cold, this may not be for you. 

We like it for the color and compactness of the unit, but there are areas to improve!

4. COZYSWAN Car Trunk Organizer Multi 4 Compartments Storage Basket and Cooler & Warmer Set

COZYSWAN has the bargain value trunk organizer for vehicle owners. This storage unit is a steal!

Either side of the 4 compartments are insulated to keep your items cold on the way home. 

It is a fold down option as well and it comes in two colors. Besides the regular black, you can go for blue. 

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This is a compact option at under three pounds, and for the price point it really has no competitors. The other options we’ve gone over here are all a bit more expensive(at least at the time of this review). 

So, when you’re looking for a great value this is hard to beat!

FAQS

Are these built in cooler bags just as good as a real cooler?

The truth is that they are not! These are not meant to be a primary cooler or to replace a dedicated cooler. A canvas design with a stitched in water resistant space just can’t compete with a hard shell cooler. Many of which use thick insulation.

These are great in a pinch, to take some cold drinks to a soccer game or to keep your lunch cool for a few hours. As long as you keep practical about it, they’re great. 

What other ways can I use the cooler bag?

If you’ve ever brought groceries home in the summer, you know the feeling of your car turning into a hot oven before you make it back. 

If you’ve bought a cool drink in the store, or something susceptible to temperatures, then these bags are great! Many customers find themselves using it to keep drinks cold, or medicines from the pharmacy at an appropriate temperature during their ride home. 

If you find a more creative use for yours, let us know. 

Will these help me keep organized?

We know this is a straight forward answer, but to reiterate yes they will. It can be so easy to get bent out of shape when you are getting bombarded with papers and “things” during the work week that keeping organized is a chore. 

This will save you from groaning while you reach in your back seat to grab something. Some people label each compartment for different tasks in their life. But, that’s highly dependent on your occupation. 

These organizers can become a tool chest for office types if you so wish. 

Conclusion

We hope this guide helped you make up your mind on buying a trunk organizer with the added bonus of a cooler. If it did and you pick one of these options, let us know in the comments how it worked out. We always love to hear from our readers. 

Our top choices were for the higher end of the price range the Viking organizer, and for the lower end the COZYSWAN organizer. They’re both great values in their own right! Found something better? Let us know and happy shopping. 

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

The 4 Best Side Mount Toolboxes for your Truck

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Keeping all your tools safe and secure while easily accessible is a possibility. 

What it requires is a tool box, and if you’re looking for a side mounted version then we’ve handpicked you several options. 

These vary in style and price, but they’re some of the most highly regarded available.

Let’s take a look at the 4 Best Side Mount Toolboxes for your Truck:

1. UWS TBSM36 Side Mount Truck Box

Dimensions: Length 36 inches, Width 11.25 inches, Height 11 inches

UWS’s side mount truck box is one of the pricier options available. But, in some cases a higher price point is justified.

That rings true for this product overall with some small caveats that we’ll get to below. 

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This includes support legs and it’s own locking mechanism. A drawback is it lacks mounting hardware. Which is pretty standard for tool boxes in this category. 

They’ve made this with contractors in mind, so you’ll have to attach it yourself to your truck bed. There are also complaints of some purchasers receiving a product with dents.

With that out of the way, the heavy users are fond of this device. It has struts to keep it open, and will swing out to 90 degrees. You’ll be able to hang this off the side of your truck for easy access. 

If you’re a fan of diamond plated design, then you’ll like the look. Overall, it’s a good value. You will need to drill into your truck bed to secure this.

Total weight is about 20 lbs. They weld this together to give you a solid unit. Proudly made in the USA. The included leg supports will be needed to mount this properly. 

2. Better Built 79011019 Side Mount Tool Box

Dimensions: Length 48 inches, Width 11.25 inches, Height 11 inches

Here we feature another diamond plated steel option toolbox. 

This Better Built box is a more affordable choice compared to the UWS box.

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It uses piston assist to keep it open and doesn’t fully make 90 degrees, but close enough. You can open this with one hand. The lock and key are included, although some have had issues with missing a spare key. 

The visible black gasket is a weather seal to keep your valuables free of moisture. The outside of the box is welded together. This is also a little bit heavier than UWS at 25 lbs. The chrome handles are a nice touch.  

3. Lund 79748 48-Inch Aluminum Side Mount Box

Dimensions: Length 48 inches, Width 8 inches, Height 12 inches

The black coated design of this Lund box gives it a different look than most products.

It’ll match darker paint colors better. One thing to note is that currently the product description on this product is incorrect. 

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It says it’s 60 inches, when in fact it’s only 48. The dimensions we’ve listed above are the correct ones. With that out of the way, one of the best things about this is that they offer a lifetime warranty on workmanship. 

If you’re a contractor worried about the welds or quality of something you’re purchasing, you’ll know how important this is. Something that is going to stand the test of time bodes well for use, and if you ever want to sell it. 

Most side mount toolboxes don’t include mounting hardware, this does include the angle brackets but you’ll need to get your own bolts. 

 

4. Dee Zee DZ8748 Red Label Side Mount Tool Box

Dimensions: Length 48 inches, Width 12.75 inches, Height 11 inches

Dee Zee has thrown their hat in the ring with this diamond plated tool box. 

Like its competitors, this uses a piston assist to help you when you’re rifling through your tools. 

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The average weight in this category for this size is usually about 20-25 lbs. This box is heavier than nearly all of its competition in this price range at 30 lbs. When something is made of mostly metal, it being a bit heavier is a good sign. 

Dee Zee products are made in the USA. 

FAQS

Where else can I mount a toolbox for my truck?

Outside of the truck bed, there is another option. That is mounting it on the underside. There are several tool boxes made to hang underneath your truck.

Also, if you’re pulling a trailer there are tongue mounted tool box options that might suit your needs. 

Will these tool boxes hold up to rust? 

They’re all made with the elements in mind because they use aluminum. If they were prone to rust, their reviews would tank quicker than my favorite basketball team. 

Rust occurs in steel and iron. At worst, aluminum can stain. 

Conclusion

We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision on a side-mounted option for your truck. Remember, there are other ways to store your tools and a very popular one is an underbody lock box if you’d rather free up your usable space. 

When it comes to price and overall value, it’s pretty hard to beat Dee Zee’s toolbox. But, the choice is yours.

Whatever you pick, be sure to let us know how it worked out for you and for everyone else in the same situation. Good luck on your search!

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

The 4 Best Tail Lights for Jeep JK

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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!

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

The 4 Best Grab Handles for Jeeps

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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. 

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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.

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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 pliable molded 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. 

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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. 

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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. 

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

Monster Trucks are Awesome

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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.

  1. 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. 
  2. 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. 
  3. 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.
  4. 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. 
  5. 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. 
  6. 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!
  7. 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. 
  8. 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!

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

The 4 Best Tire Deflators

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Getting tire deflators speeds up the process of getting your tires to the best PSI for riding trails and offroading.

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.

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You won’t break the bank 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.

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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. These are on the higher end of the price bracket than most competitors. 

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 for a compact solution that will last a long time.

The product we’ve linked to here covers the 6-30 PSI range, make sure to select the range that suits you best on the product page. 

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.

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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. 

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Calibrating these can be a bit of a pain, but really it’ll just take a few extra minutes. 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 Billet 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. Good luck on your search. 

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

The 4 Best Wheel Cleaners for Brake Dust

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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. 

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.

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It’s a 32 oz bottle, as far as price goes it’s on par with other brands.  

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 by themselves 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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

ATVs or UTVs – Which is better?

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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. 
 

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

Why aren’t there more roundabouts in America?

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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.

 

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.

The 4 Best Bed Extenders for Ford F150s

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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!

Conor

I'm the owner of Beast Auto. I live in Phoenix, Arizona. I love anything automotive related, and taking road trips all across my beautiful state.