European-based CTEK Sweden AB has announced it has established its U.S.headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, as the company prepares to introduceits battery chargers to the American marketplace. CTEK Power, Inc.specializes in the design and development of "the smartest batterychargers in the world" for all types of lead-acid batteries. Founded in1997, CTEK has established a reputation for innovation and productexcellence. CTEK is now the market leader in battery chargers throughoutEurope, including several original equipment partnerships.
Through years of advanced research in battery electronics andelectrochemistry, CTEK has developed a full line of battery chargerswith superior technology designed for both consumer and professional useto prolong 12V and 24V battery life.
As the world's smartest battery chargers, CTEK products utilize switchmode technology with foolproof cycle modes for battery recovery andmaintenance to ensure maximum battery life and performance. CTEKpatented protection technology guards against sparks, short circuit, andreverse polarity to eliminate fear or worry about charging a battery.With a sleek, sealed design, CTEK battery chargers are compact,lightweight and weatherproof, and approved for outdoor use. The premierline of CTEK battery chargers is available from specialty retailersthroughout the United States. Info: CTEK, (330) 963-0981; www.ctek.com; e-mail: usinfo@ctek.com
P.A.Grinnell, manufacturers of Koolmat Insulation, is now manufacturinga 25,000-degree side exhaust shield to stop burns due to the Corvette'sside exhaust. The company is offering a two-shield program. The firstshield is a polished stainless outer cover that looks appealing and willnot tarnish. A second shield sits inside the polished stainless shieldto stop heat from penetrating the outside shield area and will stopburns to legs. The inside shield, called Heatmaster, is made of a25,000-degree NASA/BOEING insulation sandwiched between two inconelpieces, a high-grade textured aerospace panel, and is sealed withgrommets for easy installation. The Heatmaster inside-shield takes thehit instead of the polished cover. The same shield material has beensupplied to the Nextel Cup teams for their exhaust for the past sixyears. Info: Savitske Classic & Custom, (610) 346-8805; Koolmat, (877)566-5369; www.koolmat.com.
Mickey Thompson's legendary race tire technology now comes to the streetwith their all-new ET Street Radial. Built using the latest in high-techradial construction techniques and years of drag racing experience incompound development, this D.O.T. approved, street-legal drag radialwill get your car down the track in record time and drive you home withan excellent ride. Many sizes are available, from a P235/60R15 to aP275/40R17, for Corvette applications.
The ET Street Radial features a soft drag tire compound for superiortraction, radial construction for reduced rolling resistance, and alow-void, directional tread pattern for maximum dry traction. All ETStreet Radials use a polyester ply, steel-belted design for strength anddurability. Info: Mickey Thompson, (800) 222-9092; www.mickeythompsontires.com
Corvette America now offers new dash components that give your C5interior a custom look without the expense of carbon fiber, aluminum, orcarved wood materials. The technology of Water Transfer Painting makesit possible to "print" finely detailed patterns on new, originalinterior pieces so you know they'll fit just like factory parts. Thefull line of matching interior components for '97-'04 Corvettes includesgauge bezels, center consoles, center console bezels, lower dash pads,instrument panel bezel grilles, door latch bezels, and all four dash airduct outlets. All are available in four patterns: teak, woodgrain,brushed aluminum, and carbon fiber. Info: Corvette America, (800)458-3475; www.corvetteamerica.com
K40 Electronics has just introduced CALIBRE', the world's firstBluetooth-enabled, wireless remote radar and laser protection systemthat easily integrates into any vehicle to safeguard driving records andnew vehicle warranties. Bluetooth is a standard developed by aconsortium of leading electronics manufacturers that allows electronicdevices to connect and communicate with each other without wires,cables, or any user input. Approximately 17 vehicle manufacturerspresently offer Bluetooth as a factory installed feature, and it isestimated that 22 million vehicles will come equipped with Bluetooth by2008.
CALIBRE's Datadyne' processors deliver a significant increase insensitivity and consistency to all police radar frequencies. And likeits highly acclaimed predecessor, the K40 Undetectable, CALIBRE remainsthe only remote radar system with a patented front and rear receiverdesign. Individual Bluetooth enabled receivers are strategically hiddenbehind the front grill and rear bumper for the fastest possible reactionto and warning of radar signals. When a valid signal is received, theverbal warning mode plays through an audio quality speaker to clearlyinform drivers of the exact police radar direction and band being used.
With its wireless network, CALIBRE eliminates dangling cords andobstructed windshield vision for a factory installed appearance. Theonly visible system components are brilliant blue light points mountedin the instrument panel to indicate radar threat direction. Thanks toits independent Bluetooth network, CALIBRE is the only installed radarsystem that doesn't require risky hole drilling through the firewall andtedious cable routing through confined spaces. As a result, CALIBRE notonly protects drivers from speeding tickets, but it also protects avehicle's complex electronic system and warranty.
To offer consumers the same warranty coverage provided by vehiclemanufacturers, K40 will pay for any and all CALIBRE repairs orreplacement for three years from purchase date. K40 also offers aperformance guarantee with CALIBRE that is unmatched in the radardetector industry. If a CALIBRE owner receives any radar speedingtickets during the first year of ownership, K40 will pay the cost ofeach fine.
Drivers seeking protection from deadly accurate police laser guns canadd the optional Bluetooth enabled Laser Defuser. This test provenanti-laser component seamlessly integrates with CALIBRE to maintain avehicle's integrity and warranty.
Whether drivers are seeking a front only remote system or the 360-degreeprotection of the only front and rear remote radar system available,CALIBRE is available in four models to meet every driving need.Suggested retail installed prices range from $899.95 for the CALIBRESL-P Single Remote Radar to $1,699.95 for the CALIBRE DL Dual RemoteRadar. The LD5500 BT Laser Defuser retails for $318.95. Info: K40, (800)323-6768; www.k40.com
SLP Performance Parts now has available an all-new stainless steel,cat-back PowerFlo exhaust system for the '05-'06 C6 Corvette. It wasdeveloped and dyno-tested by their engineers to create the mosthorsepower possible with no droning inside the cabin. It features fourcast-aluminum tips and a hand-polished PowerFlo muffler for thatmusclecar rumble. The system also features 304 stainless steelconstruction, a limited lifetime warranty, is 50-state emission legal,and all necessary hardware and instructions are included. Systeminstallation is easy since the factory hangers are utilized. For provenperformance, up to 10 extra horsepower and that powerful musclecarsound, this exhaust system could be the answer. Info: SLP PerformanceParts, (732) 349-2109; www.slponline.com
The just-released ZEX Race EFI Nitrous System now incorporates severalnitrous technology breakthroughs, making it the perfect choice forserious race applications. One such patent-worthy advancement is ZEX'sFuel Shear technology, which injects the enrichment fuel directly intothe center of the nitrous plume yielding total and even fuelatomization.
As with every ZEX nitrous system, the new Race EFI System includes thetuning and safety feature that has revolutionized the nitrous industry:Active Fuel Control. Fuel enrichment is automatically adjusted inaccordance with bottle pressure, so tune-ups stay dead-on despite bottlepressure fluctuation. In addition, the Race EFI Nitrous System alsoutilizes a patented electronic TPS switch for perfect system activationat wide-open throttle. Tunable from 100 to 250 hp, the new ZEX Race EFINitrous System is compatible with any fuel-injected engine. Info: ZEX,(888) 817-1008; www.zex.com
Protecting and safely transporting your carefully assembled engine canpresent a challenge. Powerhouse Products has answered the call withthree new heavy-duty engine storage stands. Manufactured of durable,heavy-gauge steel and powdercoated for great looks, these new standscould be the solution to all your engine storage needs.
These new stands come in three engine-specific sizes to fit both thesmall- and big-block Chevrolet, as well as the Ford small-block andChrysler small-block engines. Each stand features easy-to-attachadjustable mounting arms to ensure the engine remains upright in thecradle. These high quality, finely crafted steel stands make movingengines around the shop easy, unlike other flimsy engine cradles whichoften collapse when moved. Info: Powerhouse Products, (800) 872-7223;www.powerhouseproducts.com.
Your engine's greatest enemy this winter may be the fuel inside it.Fortunately, Gold Eagle STA-BIL fuel stabilizer can protect your engineby keeping good gas from going bad. STA-BIL fuel stabilizer is an idealchoice for collector car enthusiasts who drive their prized automobilesinfrequently and store them in the fall.
STA-BIL is an additive designed to protect fresh fuel from oxidationduring storage or infrequent equipment use. When fuel reacts with oxygenin the air, it can quickly form gum and varnish deposits. In less than60 days these deposits can clog fuel lines, injectors, and fuel filters,which can cause startup problems, sluggish performance, and reducedengine life. STA-BIL eliminates these problems by keeping fuel fresh forup to 12 months and preventing gum and varnish build-up that can chokefuel lines, especially during months of storage. STA-BIL also acts as awater remover to prevent corrosion and rust caused by accumulatedcondensation in the fuel system. Contact: Gold Eagle, Chicago, IL; (800)621-1251; www.goldeagle.com.
For engine tuners who are serious about performance, ZEX has two newspark plugs that are custom tailored for your V-8 performance engine.
You've heard the hype about platinum and iridium. While these materialsare durable, there's a performance trade-off due to their highelectrical and thermal resistance. ZEX Igniter Core technology uses acopper electrode surrounded by a durable nickel shell to conductelectricity and heat over five times better than platinum and threetimes better than iridium. The result is more horsepower-producing sparkenergy and greater detonation resistance than either platinum oriridium. As an added benefit, groundbreaking Clean Fire technology usesthe spark from three additional ground straps to super-clean the centerelectrode and burn off excess carbon, ensuring maximum ignition powerand superior resistance to fouling.
For engines with bolt-on performance parts and computer tuning up to 400hp, the Power Tune plug is ideal. For those engines with nitrous,blowers, or turbos, the Power Racer plug will maximize performance inengines up to 700 hp. Contact: ZEX, Memphis, TN; (888) 817-1008; www.zex.com
Vintage Air Now Stocks KoolMat
Rick Love, vice president of Vintage Air in Texas, recently announcedthat Vintage Air will include KoolMat insulation in its heat and soundcontrol product line. The 30-inch wide KoolMat will be a main course forthe floor/firewall/tunnel, kick panels, and transmission areas. Thematerial is installed prior to the air conditioning system and acts as ablanket to block hot air and absorb heat. It is .070-inch thick andflexible, so it will follow all contours of the floor.
KoolMat consists of a closed-cell fiberglass material that is cured to asilicone top layer. The bottom layer of white fiberglass withstands heatup to 12,000 degrees and, combined with the silicone, acts like aone-piece blanket and prevents heat from transferring into interiorareas, trapping it low in the frame areas. The materials are fusedtogether at a temperature of 10,000 degrees, enabling it to far outlastover 4,500-degree glued materials, which break down when exhausttemperatures reach their peak.
KoolMat resists weather, mildew, and abrasions, and lowers sound by 23decibels. KoolMat can be cut and trimmed for a perfect fit, but becomesa one-piece shield when seams are sealed with silicone on the top layer.Contact: Vintage Air; (800) TO-COOL-U 862-6658; www.vintageair.com; orKoolMat, Mooresville, NC; (877) 566-5369; www.koolmat.com"
"For the first time, there is a DOT compliant High Intensity Discharge(HID) projection headlight assembly kit for the '97-'04 C5 Corvette, andas Corvette enthusiasts ourselves, Vette-HID is proud to bring it to theCorvette community," states Vette-HID President Brian Stange.
Developing an HID system for the Corvette has been an engineeringchallenge and required talents from all across the globe in a three-yearR&D effort to perfect the system. As the last hidden headlight car, theC5 packaging creates a unique set of circumstances--the limited size ofthe headlight assembly bucket and the operation of the pop-up headlightshad to be addressed.
Designed by ACA, a world-renowned Canadian automotive lighting firm, theunits incorporate German optics, polycarbonate lenses, OEM-qualityprecision-crafted headlamp and projection assemblies, and custom wiringharnesses developed exclusively for the C5. Final assembly of thecomponents is performed at facilities in California and at Vette-HID,Texas.
Performance is truly outstanding. The stock headlights on the C5 havelong been an area of concern for drivers, with the low beams deliveringonly 1000 lumens and the high beams just 1700 lumens. The Vette-HIDsystem is rated at 3200 lumens for the low beams and 2500 for the highbeams. Plus, thanks to a special 'C5 circuit' designed into the wiringharness by Vette-HID, the low beams remain on with the highs for addedillumination.
The Vette-HID system meets all current DOT standards specified in theFederal Motor Vehicle (and Canadian Motor Vehicle) Safety StandardFMVSS108, which covers automotive lighting.
The system comes in kit form and is "Plug and Play" with no wirecutting, soldering, or crimping required. The kit comes complete withall necessary components for the installation, including right and leftheadlamp assemblies, the full right and left side wiring harnesses, allmounting hardware, bulbs, Philips ballasts, and even double-sidedfoamtape for easier mounting of the ballasts.
These premium lights come with a 3-year limited warranty from themanufacturer. Contact: Vette-HID; www.vette-hid.com
Maxton Manufacturing is now offering the Corvette Spinner Adapters tomate various Corvette spinners to aftermarket wheels. Give your wheelsan original Corvette look that ties them to your car's lineage. The kitsalso include mounting hardware, tools, and easy four-step instructionswith photos. Contact: Brad Maxton/Maxton Manufacturing; (715) 579-6928; http://stores.ebay.com/Maxton-Mfg
Precisely machined to incorporate a tapered and high-flowing throttlebore, the new FAST 4-barrel throttle bodies offer improved performanceby increasing the airflow rate entering the engine. Bored and machinedfrom 6061-T6 billet aluminum for consistent quality, excellentappearance, and light weight, the FAST 4-barrel throttle body deliverssmooth throttle operation throughout the engine's rpm range.Technologically advanced, the throttle bodies feature inward-openingblades to eliminate part-throttle directional influence to airflow. Theresult: higher airflow and more power. The FAST throttle bodies weredesigned so that all critical dimensions, such as height, bore spacing,and linkage attachment are identical to 4150- and 4500-stylecarburetors. FAST 4-barrel throttle bodies are available in the 4150(1,300 cfm) and 4500 (2,000 cfm) configurations. Info: Fuel Air SparkTechnology, (901) 260- 3278; www.fuelairspark.com.
Classic Chevy 5-Speed has just released their new Ultimate Fit Vette kitfor C2 and C3 Corvettes. This kit allows Corvette owners to swap out theoriginal manual or automatic transmission for a new Tremec five-speedoverdrive without having to cut or modify the floorboard, console, orcar. A special mounting bracket adapts the Tremec transmission to thestock crossmember, and a custom slip yoke with removable caps allows thedriveshaft to be installed or serviced without removing the gear box.Each kit includes everything needed for installation, including athorough instruction guide and a free DVD showing all the steps. Info:Classic Chevy 5-Speed; (760) 230-2045; www.classicchevy5speed.com.
Darton International proudly introduces an innovative, purpose-builtdry-sleeve kit for the new GM LS-2 block, designed for bores up to 4.125inches. These sleeves incorporate Darton's new seal-tight technology,are made from its famous high-strength Ductile Iron, and are designedspecifically for the new LS-2. The Darton Sleeve Kit incorporatesdimensional features to maximize fitment and installation ease. Thisdesign also promotes an oil-sealing feature to prevent contaminationbetween the sleeve and the cylinder wall. In addition, Darton hassimplified installation and created a technical brochure for properblock machining. Info: Darton International; (800) 713-2786;www.dartonsleeves.com.
Vehicle seating has become very complicated these days with folding rearseats, integrated seat belts, side impact airbags, and more. For thosewho haul potentially messy cargo (e.g., kids, pets, workers, tools, andmore), quick and easy seat protection is important. That's why FitriteCar Seat Covers developed the SeatKeeper, an easy-on/easy-off,non-sliding seat cover.
With three styles for bucket seats, the commercial grade, non-skidbacking keeps the cover from sliding on leather. In addition, thePVC-coated fabric will stand up to tough situations and is cooler to siton than sun-heated leather or vinyl. Info: Seat Cover Specialties; (800)600-SEAT/7328; www.seatcoverspecialties.com.
The new C6 Corvette is here and Wilwood Engineering has the brakes tostop it. Wilwood has applied the same race-proven technology thatCorvette enthusiasts have enjoyed in the C4 and C5 Superlite Big Brakekits to deliver superior stopping power and show-winning style for thenew C6. Superlite six-piston front Big Brake kits and matched Superlitefour-piston rear Big Brake kits, with choices for 13 or 14-inch rotorsand red or black calipers, will add big performance and personalizedstyle to your Corvette. Info: Wilwood Engineering; (805) 388-1188;www.wilwood.com.
Barry Grant's latest SixShooter is dedicated to the Chevy big-block.Suiting oval and rectangular port configurations, it is comprised ofthree Demon 250-cfm two-barrel carburetors with associated throttlelinkage and fuel inlets; an elegant Triple-D intake manifold with aneat-looking water neck housing; and a distinctive Rush air cleanerarrangement.
Because of positioning, the big-block SixShooter provides an evenlydistributed and finely atomized charge to the cylinders. On dynamometertests, the SixShooter delivered 494 hp and 540-lb-ft torque comparedwith the Speed Demon 850 which produced 455 hp and 518-lb-ft torque.It's also easy to adjust with three screws, two for idle-mixture and onefor idle-speed. Since it cruises on its center carburetor, theSixShooter is surprisingly fuel-efficient. Info: Barry Grant; (706)864-8544; www.barrygrant.com.
MagnaFlow Performance Exhaust now offers Corvette owners a completebolt-on stainless-steel exhaust system for the new '05 C6, improving itspower, sound, and looks. This true dual Cat-back exhaust system comescomplete with a MagnaFlow Tru-X crossover pipe, 2.5-inch mandrel-benttubing, polished dual mufflers, and polished double dual slash cut4-inch tips with a rolled edge. On the dyno, this system shows a maximumpower increase of 18hp and 19.5-lb-ft of torque, made possible byreduced backpressure due to MagnaFlow's straight through muffler designand the vacuum effect of the Tru-X crossover. This additional power,combined with a ten-pound weight reduction over the factory system,provides the C6 with a significant performance boost, which makes itselfknown through MagnaFlow's signature smooth, deep tone. Unlike thefactory system, MagnaFlow tucks the mufflers out of sight, allowing onlythe highly polished double dual 4-inch tips to be seen at the back ofthe car. Manufactured in the U.S. to ISO9001 quality standards,MagnaFlow's stainless steel exhaust products have a lifetime warranty.Info: MagnaFlow Performance Exhaust; (800) 824-8664; www.magnaflow.com.
Update the front end of your new C6 Corvette with Zip Products newstainless-steel front-bumper grill screen. This screen installs behindthe factory grill or the factory grill can be completely removed formore of a custom look. The screen installs by removing the lower panelsand the grill retainers; then the screen slides into location and isheld in position using the existing retainers. The kit takes about onehour to install and includes instructions. Info: Zip Products Inc.;(800) 962-9632; www.zip-products.com.
When production of Johnson-style flat tappet lifters ceased severalyears ago, it stunned the performance industry. Their departure caused ahuge problem obtaining flat tappets, eliminating what many enginebuilders considered the highest quality and most versatile tappetsavailable. COMP Cams proudly announces the return of Johnson-style flattappets for Chevrolet small-block and big-block applications, amongothers.
Built to precision tolerances creating an extremely durable product, thenew Johnson-style lifters utilize a universal oil metering bandlocation. In addition, these lifters feature a precision-ground crown onthe lifter face to ensure proper break-in and long life. For years,Johnson-style lifters set the standard for solid flat tappets and nowthe same high-quality lifters are again available for your engine.Contact: COMP Cams; (800) 999-0853; www.compcams.com.
The new Hi Octane ZE Forged wheel is available in two or three-piecewheel designs in 17 to 22-inch sizes. Custom fitments for aggressive andstaggered deep-lip applications are also available. Hi Octane wheels canbe built to clear the biggest brake kits available. Finishes areavailable in powder coat, brushed satin, high polish, and paintedcenter. Info: ZE Forged; (866) 634-4626; www.zeforged.com.
With people making their factory stock Corvettes faster and faster,Racefab, Inc. figured it was time to try and keep all those speed freaksa little safer by introducing their unique Corvette Roll Hoops for C5Vettes. The roll hoops are fabricated with precision fixtures andapproved racing-harness mounting points, and are certified by the SportsCar Club of America. Handcrafted from DOM round tubing and TIG welded,each kit comes with its own installation guide, making it a one-man jobin the comfort of your own garage. The kit also comes with completehardware, including 3/8-inch mounting plates that allow for easy removalwhen not in competition. Info: Racefab, www.racefabinc.com;(903) 683-1599.
A Really Big Shot in The Arm
It takes one heck of a motor to require the cfm made by a HolleyDominator. As is with most speed demons, the itch to go even faster is aperpetual one. That is why Nitrous Oxide Systems (NOS) has introducedtheir new billet solenoid and Microswitch brackets designed specificallyfor the square flanges of Holleys (Models 4150 and 4500). CNc'd frombillet aluminum, anodized black, and laser engraved, the brackets aresome of the nicest pieces on the market today. made from qualitymaterials, these brackets will not twist or flex, giving consistentperformance from your nitrous system. Both parts are sold separatelythrough NOS and are available in a variety of applications. Info:Nitrous Oxide Systems, (800) HOLLEY-1; www.nosnitrous.com.
When is enough really enough? Many racers would say when the engine goesboom. some are scared to be in that neighborhood. But for those whowould like to dance the imaginary line between those two points,ProCharger has the thing for you: the new HO Intercooled ProChargerSystem for all C6 Corvettes. The ProCharger kit boasts an astounding600-plus horses out from the stock engine application with the properinstallation of their packaged kit. ProCharger advertises the coldestintake air-temperature charge with the industry's largest power gains inthe market. Their intercooler outperforms the leading brands in massairflow, and the P-1SC-1 polished supercharger comes with a standardthree-year warranty. Like all of ProCharger's kits, it is complete,including fuel injectors, computer programming, and all additionalhardware and plumbing. The first to produce a supercharger for the C5,ProCharger returns with the first for the C6. Info: ProCharger, www.procharger.com;(913) 338-2886.
Making a Corvette whip through the corners of your hometown or localneighborhood might not be too hard to accomplish, but things change whenyou're tearing through the hairpins and embankments of a racetrack.That's why LG Motorsports came out with this complete four-wheelcoilover suspension conversion for C5 and C6 Corvettes. The G2 Coil-Overkit includes customized Bilstein shocks, Hyperco springs fullyadjustable to your desired ride height, corner weights, and understeer.In addition, customized spring rates and shocks are available. ContactLG Motorsports, (972) 429-1963 or visit www.lgmotorsports.com.
If you've switched your Corvette to those run-flat tires and carry nospare, this might be some good insurance to have. Test results andinformation about the longevity of these tires is extensive, but you cannever be too prepared--just ask a local Boy Scout. Firestone offers thisportable air system, which packs quite the wallop. The kit can punchupwards of 150 psi instantly, and in testing it doubled a 15-psi 31x10.5tire's pressure in 2 minutes. The kit includes the heavy-dutycompressor, a 12-foot power cable with brass alligator clips, a 25-footcoiled air hose, a tire-inflator tool with gauge, two blower nozzles, aneedle valve tool, and a heavy-duty carrying bag. Info: (800) 888-0650or visit www.riderite.com.