The Mercury News

Aftermarke­t action

-

Keep your vehicle moving

Sometimes the car or truck you’re working on has to be moved around the garage or shop while one (or more) of its wheels is missing. Maybe it’s being repaired, painted or a tire is being mounted. Or maybe you have a project vehicle with no wheels at all. This is when the Guniwheel comes in handy. The manufactur­er states the product is compatible with most four- and fivebolt lug patterns found on sedans, light-duty trucks and utility vehicles. In addition, the Guniwheel’s narrow width and hard rubber (airless) compound makes it easier to push the vehicle to the desired spot. The Guniwheel is also an ideal substitute for avoiding flat-spotting your regular tires during long-term storage. Prices start at $230 each from www. guniwheel.com.

System overrides backup cam

Backing up your trailer can be difficult, even if you have the proper outside mirrors (and especially if you don’t). A Trailer Rear Vision Kit from Brandmotio­n can make the process much easier. It comes with a backup camera that attaches to the rear of the trailer, plus a wiring harness that extends to the hitch. When connected, the camera view shows up on the tow vehicle’s built-in screen. When disconnect­ed, the screen returns to normal use. The Rear Vision Kit can be specified for most current GM, Ford and FCA trucks and utility vehicles. Purchase for $500 at www.brandmotio­n.com.

Easy roof storage

Here’s a simple and inexpensiv­e way to carry your canoe, kayak, surfboard, snowboard or various other gear The inflatable HandiRack roof rack system (SKU #MPG452) from Malone Auto Racks consists of two 38-inch-long by 9.5-inch-wide nylon bladders that you inflate in mere minutes using the supplied air pump. The bladders are then secured to the inside of your vehicle’s doors. Once filled to the correct pressure, each HandiRack can support up to 180 pounds. Load straps and a handy tote bag are also included, as is a one-year warranty. The system retails for $110 and can be purchased at www.maloneauto­racks.com.

Real works of auto art

Of all the automotive objects d’art available for sale, some of the more unique pieces to be found anywhere are created by California-based Richard Pietruska. His cast-resin and chrome pieces are nothing short of stunning and would make a welcome addition to any car lover’s space. For example, Pietruska’s art-deco-style 1929 Mercedes-Benz SSK (pictured) recalls the bygone era when the cars really were works of art. Some of his other works include a Ferrari

F1, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W25 Avus, 1955 D-Type Jaguar and 1930s-era Auto Union Streamline­r. Prices range from $4,000 to $6,000. You can view Pietruska’s collection plus those of other automotive artists at www.carart. us.

 ??  ??
 ??  ??
 ??  ??
 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States