Are Hybrid Trucks Worth The Money?
A number of truck manufacturers have come out with or made plans to make hybrid trucks.
These trucks operate similarly to hybrid cars. They’re typically more expensive than similar trucks that have standard gasoline engines. However, hybrid trucks get better gas mileage.
So are hybrid trucks worth the money? We’ll let you decide. Here is comparison of two 2012 GMC trucks.
GMC Sierra Hybrid vs. GMC Sierra 1500
| GMC Sierra Hybrid | GMC Sierra 1500 SLE | |
| Price | $40,010 | $34,135 |
| Gas Mileage | 20 City / 23 Highway | 15 City / 22 Highway |
| Payload | 1050 lbs | 1,646 lbs |
This is just one comparison.
In general, both of these trucks matched up pretty equally in terms of seating capacity, height, length and cargo volume. You can see the full comparison here.
However, there were some differences.
As you can see, the Sierra hybrid got much better city gas mileage than the regular gas engine GMC Sierra. However, both get similar gas mileage on the highway.
You’ll also notice there is a price difference between the two.
Finally, there was a difference in payload capacity of approximately 600 pounds.
So which truck is right for you? It all depends on your budget as well as your typical daily commute.
To find the right truck, we recommend taking both out for a test drive. Also consider talking with family and friends.
By doing this, you’ll be able to purchase the right truck so you can load it up with truck bed slides and other accessories made from a quality truck cap manufacturer.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2012/01/the-best-nascar-racetracks-for-tailgating/The Best NASCAR Racetracks for Tailgating
If you love NASCAR and tailgating, you’ll want to attend these NASCAR races.
1. Daytona – There’s no bigger race than the Daytona 500. It’s NASCAR’s biggest stage. There’s no bigger event. When you’re not tailgating, there’s a great IMAX theatre nearby for the kids.
2. Talladega – You’ll have a lot of fun at the Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. The weather is usually great and some of the best NASCAR fans travel to this event. You’ll want to plan ahead because tons of people gear up for this tailgate.
3. Pocono – This is one of the more popular Northern racetracks for having fun. If you live in the East or the Great Lake States, this is a fun place to tailgate. When you’re not tailgating, go to the pit area to get autographs.
4. Indianapolis – This list wouldn’t be complete without the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It’s arguably the most historic racetrack in America. It’s a great place to visit. The speedway is located on the west side of the city.
5. Bristol – Bristol Motor Speedway is a lot of fun because it’s in the mountains. Remember to bring boots because the speedway is in the heart of the mountains and there are steep inclines. It’s a very scenic racetrack.
These are our five favorite NASCAR racetracks for tailgating. Be sure to get all of your truck tailgating accessories before the race. Plenty of tonneau cover manufacturers like ATC Truck Covers can outfit your truck with the right accessories.
What is your favorite NASCAR racetrack? Leave your comments below.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2012/01/the-top-trucks-for-2012/The Top Trucks For 2012
If you’re looking to buy a brand, new truck in 2012, there are lots of great options.
Here are a few of our favorites.
Chevy Silverado
The Chevy Silverado has been known for its power and reliability. That’s no different with the 2012 edition. The new Silverado starts at $21,945. Chevy has included a Silverado Hybrid that can get 20/23 MPG, while still supplying 332 horsepower. The Silverado is a quiet ride that doesn’t sacrifice on power.
Ford F-150
The 2012 Ford F-150 starts at $22,990 and features great new, redesigned V-6 and V-8 engines. The F-150 has been the best-selling full-size pickup for more than 30 years. There are several model options for 2012 include the, King Ranch, SVT Raptor, Platinum and Harley-Davidson. The F-150 gives you a towing capacity of up to 11,300 pounds.
Ram 1500
The 2012 Ram 1500 is available with a 5.7L HEMI V8 that gets 20 MPG highway. It offers 10,450 pounds in maximum towing capacity and comes in three cab sizes with three bed sizes. The 2012 edition features a brand new six-speed transmission that will make it easier to hold a gear a longer. Ram 1500 starts at $21,475.
Toyota Tundra
The 2012 Toyota Tundra starts at $27,115 and features a large, spacious cab and excellent towing ability. The Tundra has lots of great optional accessories including Bluetooth capabilities, iPod input, navigation system and more.
No matter what truck you choose, be sure to outfit it with quality accessories from the best truck cap manufacturer. You’ll enhance the look of your truck as well as its value.
What is your favorite truck of 2012? Leave your comments below.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2012/01/signs-it%e2%80%99s-time-for-a-new-truck-cap-or-truck-lid/Signs It’s Time For A New Truck Cap Or Truck Lid
Most quality truck lids and truck caps should last the life of your truck.
However, there are times where they may need to be replaced. Here are a few signs that you may need a new truck cover.
- Cracking – If your truck cap or lid is showing signs of structural cracking it may be time for a new one. But before you go out and buy a new one, check the warranty. If the truck cover is fairly new, it may be covered by the warranty.
- Color Fading – Depending on the quality of the truck cap or tonneau cover, the paint may have faded over time. To protect against this, make sure you get a cap or lid with quality PPG brand paints. Also be sure to properly clean your cap or lid.
- Damaged or Worn Parts – If the latch is worn, you may have to get a replacement lid. But before you do, check to see if the manufacturer has replacement parts.
- Leakage – If your truck cap or tonneau is no longer water tight, it’s probably time to get a new one, unless you want soggy cargo.
If you’re looking for a solid truck topper or truck bed slides that will last the life of your truck, visit ATC Truck Covers. We have lots of durable truck covers at great prices.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2011/12/how-to-save-lots-of-money-on-gas/How To Save Lots Of Money On Gas
Skyrocketing gas prices are the worst for truck owners.
However if you want to save money, you should follow these tips below:
- Embrace Technology – There are tons of websites and smartphone apps that will allow you to find the lowest gas prices near you. One of the most popular is the GasBuddy.com. This website and mobile app will help you find the best gas prices.
- Keep Up on Maintenance – To ensure you’re getting the best gas mileage possible, keep up on routine maintenance. Doing simple things such as checking the tire pressure can improve gas mileage by 3.3 percent.
- Drive the Speed Limit – Driving a little slower on the highway can save you money at the pump. Every 5 mph that you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.28 per gallon for gas. Whenever possible, try to use cruise control on the highway.
- Tonneau Covers – It has been shown that fiberglass truck lids can help improve fuel efficiency by as much as 10 percent. It all has to do with wind resistance and aerodynamics.
Following these tips will help you save money on gas. For more great truck maintenance tips, read other postings on the ATC Truck Covers Blog.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2011/12/why-soft-cover-tonneaus-are-a-waste-of-money-2/
Why Soft Cover Tonneaus Are a Waste of Money
If you own a truck, you may be considering between a fiberglass truck lid or a soft tonneau cover.
When it comes to your truck, you’ll want to avoid the soft tonneau cover for several important reasons. Here are some of the top reasons soft cover tonneaus are a waste of money.
- Security – Soft tonneau covers don’t provide much protection. Thieves can easily cut these soft vinyl covers apart and steal your cargo. They’re also prone to water leakage if not installed properly.
- Durability – Many of these soft covers do not last as long as you own the truck. They require constant maintenance and upkeep. With a hard tonneau cover, all you have to do is wash it.
- Value – While soft covers are affordable, they add little value to your truck. A fiberglass tonneau cover adds extra re-sale value to your truck.
- Customization – Soft tonneau covers typically come in black vinyl. That’s it. With a hard tonneau cover, you can get it painted to match the color of your truck. You also can get different tonneau cover accessories.
These are just a few reasons that you should get a hard tonneau cover over a soft one. Be sure consult with family and friends before you make a decision.
We’d love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on hard vs. soft tonneau covers?
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2011/12/the-top-5-truck-care-products/The Top 5 Truck Care Products
Whether your truck is brand new or has more than 100,000 miles on it, you probably want it to look great.
Below are five of the top truck care products that will keep your truck looking great.
- Metal Polish – If your truck has a lot of chrome and metal accents, consider using a metal polish. Using a good metal polish can shine and protect your truck from the elements.
- Power Washer – If your truck gets dirty a lot, consider getting a power washer. If you decide to get a power washer, be sure to buy one with the right PSI. For washing a truck, you shouldn’t need any more than 1,300 to 1,800 PSI. You can learn more in this power washer guide.
- Grease Remover – For those greasy parts of your truck, consider getting some quality grease remover. When buying grease remover, look for an acid-free grease remover that gently cleans road film and grease.
- Tire Shine – For that showroom look, you need a good tire shine. Look for a tire shine that is non-silicone based. Tire shines with silicone can actually deteriorate vinyl and rubber and should be avoided on all surfaces of your truck.
- Heavy Duty Vacuum – Finally, you’ll want to have a good vacuum to keep the interior of your truck clean. Before purchasing a vacuum, be sure to read online reviews. You can get some good vacuum buying advice at Autos.com.
For more great truck care tips, be sure to become a fan of the ATC Truck Covers Facebook Page. You’ll find great truck care tips and more on truck caps and other truck cover products.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2011/12/ice-road-truckers%e2%80%99-guide-to-winter-driving/
Ice Road Truckers’ Guide To Winter Driving
If you’ve ever seen the television show Ice Road Truckers on the History Channel, you know those truck drivers know how to navigate a semi in some pretty tough winter weather.
While the show is highly entertaining, you can also learn some winter driving skills that you can use when driving your pickup truck.
Here are some of the things you should pay attention to:
- Take It Easy on Steep Slopes and Winding Roads – You can lose control of your truck very easily on steep inclines. Take your time. Don’t be blinded by your truck’s four-wheel drive.
- Watch Out for Wind Gusts – If you live in an area with strong winter winds, be on the look out for strong wind gusts. This is especially important if you’re towing any cargo in a trailer. To be safe, drive a little under the speed limit when towing cargo in terrible winter conditions.
- Know When to Pull Over – You’re not on the clock when you’re driving your truck. If the weather is bad and visibility is poor, know when to pull over. It’s not worth getting injured because of the weather.
- Check Over Your Truck – If it’s snowing outside, take a few seconds to make sure everything on your truck is in good working shape. Check the tire pressure as well as the windshield washer fluid.
- Be Prepared for the Worse – Those drivers on Ice Road Truckers are always prepared. You should also be prepared for the worse. Keep a roadside emergency kit in your truck. Have blankets, jumper cables, possibly even a small shovel.
If you follow these tips, you’ll have a safe winter. For more great tips, be sure to read other postings on the ATC Truck Covers Blog where you’ll learn about truck cap accessories, truck tailgating systems and other cool information.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2011/12/alternatives-to-that-new-car-smell-for-your-truck/
Alternatives To That New Car Smell For Your Truck
Many people love that “new car smell.” But did you know that it can actually be hazardous to your health?
That new car smell is actually made of volatile organic compounds. Thankfully all auto manufacturers keep the compounds at non-harmful levels.
If you’re looking to freshen up your truck, here are some safe air fresheners for your vehicle.
- Hanging Air Fresheners – These are the kind of air fresheners that you can hang from your truck’s rearview mirror. They come in all shapes, sizes and scents. These are a very affordable option.
- Jar Air Fresheners – These air fresheners typically sit in a cup holder or on the baseboard of your truck. They come in all different scents. These typically last longer due to the size of the air freshener.
- Vent Air Fresheners – These types of air fresheners snap on to the air vents in your truck. Your truck’s heating/cooling system helps to circulate the air freshener. These are becoming a popular option.
- Spray Air Fresheners – These are great if you’re looking for an air freshener that doesn’t have a lingering smell. With spray air fresheners, you apply them after cleaning your truck or if there is a foul smell in your truck.
Using any of these types of air fresheners will keep your truck smelling great! For more great truck care tips, read the ATC Truck Covers Blog and join the discussion on the ATC Truck Covers Facebook Page. ATC Truck Covers is a leading truck cap manufacturer that makes fiberglass tonneau covers and other accessories.
http://www.atctruckcovers.com/blog/2011/12/the-top-anti-theft-devices-for-trucks/
The Top Anti-Theft Devices For Trucks
Every 24 seconds, a vehicle is stolen in the United States. That’s according to the Insurance Information Institute. A lot of these thefts are trucks.
If you want to protect your truck, always lock your doors and park in safe, well-lighted areas.
As an added precaution, you may want to consider these anti-theft devices. They can help to keep your truck safer.
- Truck Alarms – There are lots of available truck alarm options. When searching for a truck alarm, look for one with protective wiring that will be difficult to uninstall.Good truck alarms camouflage the wiring connections, so they’re difficult to disable.
- Steeling Wheel Lock – People keep buying these devices because they work. This is an affordable anti-theft device that will help deter thieves from breaking into your truck.
- Transmitters –Tracking devices are an advanced way to protect your truck. LoJack is a popular tracking system. With these devices, a transmitter is installed on your truck. Police can then use the transmitter to locate your truck if it’s stolen.
- VIN Etching – Your Truck’s vehicle identification number (VIN) is permanently etched in various locations such as on the windows and various parts. This makes it difficult for a thief to sell parts or quickly move the vehicle.
All of these anti-theft devices for trucks are great options. They’ll help protect your truck as well as any accessories such as mud guards, fiberglass truck lids and truck toppers.