A puzzling experience

When it’s cold and/or rainy outside, or you’re just plain bored, a jigsaw puzzle is a great alternative to watching TV or playing video games.

And to satisfy your inner gearhead, Serious Puzzles offers an extensive lineup of automotivethemed tests of determination (and your patience).

Included in the mix is a 1,000-piece licence-plate puzzle that includes both current and older tags representing all 50 U.S. states.

Serious Puzzles also carries a variety of classic vehicle and citythemed puzzle tableaux, many of which have been previously created as poster art.

Prices range from US $12-$21, depending on the subject matter and whether they are of the 500or 1,000-piece variety.

Check out the selection at www.seriouspuzzles.com/sjigscar strucks.asp.

So, you have a fast car?

Pssst, are looking for a really fast ride? Perhaps one that could go maybe 1,000 or perhaps even 1,500 km/h?

Well, if you have deep pockets or some serious financial backing, you could be the proud owner of the Sonic Arrow. This jet-powered machine belonged to adventure-seeker Steve Fossett, who was killed in a plane crash back in 2007.

Since then, the Sonic Arrow and its related support equipment, tools, spare parts, transporter, etc. has been stored away, but now the entire project is being put up for sale.

The 4,000-kilogram, 15-metrelong “car” comes with a General Electric J79 turbojet engine with afterburner and water injection that puts out 18,400 pounds (8,300 kilograms) of thrust.

There’s no set asking price, but the seller states, “over US $4 million is invested in this project”.

Full details at project100.com (scroll down the “news archive” to find it).

Get your very own Bodyguard

Many people who work on cars for a hobby or for a living, place their trust in jack stands, cinder blocks or other items that prop up their vehicles while they work beneath them.

The Bodyguard from Creepex has a built-in protective framework that has been designed to provide an extra measure of safety and comfort.

In fact, the company claims that the Bodyguard can support up to 13,600 kilograms. As well, the product’s design means you won’t have to lift your vehicle any higher than you normally would when using a regular creeper.

Each unit includes three heavyduty 15-centimetre locking casters and an ergonomic four-position backrest with lumbar support. The Bodyguard sells for US $500 and is available in a variety of colours directly from the manufacturer at www.creepex.com.

Cap reflects sun’s rays

Keeping your car’s interior cool is important during the summer months (or year-round in sunbelt regions) while it’s just as important to keep the ice and snow off your windows during the winter.

You can block 100 per cent of the sun’s rays with the Cool Cap from Reflectionite. Its products are designed to fit a wide variety of vehicles, including sedans, sports cars, sport utility vehicles, minivans and pickup trucks.

Because the product securely attaches on the outside, the company claims that the Cool Cap’s reflective material will significantly reduce interior heat.

Prices range from US $120$140, plus an additional $10 for a set of optional soft hooks.

Get the full story and place your order at itscoolinhere.com.