Aftermarket action
Avoid hitch pain
Just about everyone who has a trailer hitch installed on their vehicle has screamed in agony after accidentally striking their shin or kneecap on the ball or receiver. A simple remedy involves the installation of the ShinShield. This protective device is made from a special polymer compound that the manufacturer claims will remain soft from –40 degrees to 150 degrees. ShinShield installs between the ball and most standard 2.5-inch (class 5) receivers that are rated for up to 17,500 pounds of gross trailer weight and 1,700 pounds of tongue weight. ShinShield sells for $20, or $25 if you want one that displays your favorite sport team’s logo. Order at www.hitchsolutions.net. Making tracks, for walls
If you or someone you know is a big race fan, he or she probably has a favorite track or two. The Linear Edge produces visual representations of various racing venues used in Formula One and NASCAR plus Moto GP and World Superbike tracks. Each one is made with Baltic birch over a laminated plywood base, then precision cut to a specific design. These works or art make interesting conversation pieces and would look really cool when hung on a wall in a den or garage using the special Velcro mounting strips that are supplied. Prices range from $160$220, depending on the size (half and full sizes available). See the full range at www.linearedge.com. Find keys, even in the dark
The Smead Stick-N-Find location tracker will help anyone who frequently misplaces their car keys. The product consists of a buttonsized Bluetooth-enabled device with a sticky back that attaches to virtually anything. The radar screen-style app that you download to your smart phone will track your key’s whereabouts up to 100 feet away. You can also use the app to make the Stick-NFind buzz and flash its built-in light to help you locate your keys in the dark. It will also alert you through the app’s virtual leash feature if your keys begin to move beyond a designated range. The product uses a standard watch battery that’s good for about a year. A Stick-N-Find two-pack sells for $50 (other packs are also available) and are available at www.amazon.com. How much do you like Shelby?
Retrobuilt Motors makes officially licensed, re-bodied late-model (2005’14) Mustang coupes and convertibles that appear surprisingly similar to the 1969 Shelby GT500 models. All of the body panels, including the “shaker” hood, are made of fiberglass, to which Retrobuilt adds authentic-looking metal bumpers and rear window louvers plus original-style mirrors, side marker lights, wheels and decals. Lastly, the grille is finished using stainless steel trim. Buyers can add the optional racing package that includes a supercharger, lowered ride height and bigger brakes. Prices begin in the low-$30,000 range, not including the donor car of your choosing. Get the full story at www.retrobuilt.com.