Unlike an oil change, this maintenance does not come with a convenient sticker on the windshield.  

What Signs Should I Look For?

When a muffler needs to be replaced, you might not necessarily see anything wrong with it, but you will most likely hear something wrong. If you are among the majority of individuals that drive every day, you have probably become familiar with how your vehicle normally sounds. Be on the lookout for any strange or rattling noises, or if your vehicle suddenly seems louder than normal.

Another sign of muffler failure is physical damage or weakness. When mufflers are affected by excessive corrosion or punctures, they can be harmful to the driver and the passengers. The purpose of a muffler is to direct the exhaust of out the vehicle, but a hole in the muffler can cause the exhaust gases to seep inside the car.

This is especially dangerous because toxic gas can cause headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, nausea, and even be lethal in high enough doses. In addition to harming your passengers, a damaged muffler can affect your vehicle’s emissions, which leads to pollution of the atmosphere.

As you check your mufflers physical appearance, it is also important to check for water leakage. Mufflers are designed to have a small hole, or “weep hole”, that drains water from the lower end. While this hole is supposed to be there, other holes are not.

If your muffler is leaking water from several holes, it may escalate into more serious problems throughout the rest of the exhaust system. The holes will cause the exhaust system to condense, meaning the moisture from the vehicle will have no way of moving outside; too much moisture inside can cause instant muffler failure.  

The final sign you should be observant of is if your gas mileage has drastically decreased. When a muffler is in tip-top condition it helps with gas efficiency, but a damaged muffler can cause fuel injectors to malfunction. These malfunctions result in extra fuel being sent to the engine, which causes your vehicle to burn rich or stall out from lack of oxygen.

If you have inspected your vehicle’s muffler and noticed any of these signs, or heard any unusual sounds, it seems like a replacement is in your future. If you are not quite sure if your vehicle needs a new muffler, come out to Trick Trucks for a second opinion. 

Trick Trucks Has the Answers to All Your Vehicle Care Questions

If you want to upgrade your vehicle, then come to see us at Trick Trucks. We are happy to make sure your truck is in great condition and is looking fresh all year round. We have over forty years of experience, so there is nothing we haven’t seen.

Give us a call at 1-866-60-TRICK or visit us online. Follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and YouTube to keep up with our newest projects and to gain inspiration for your next one!

The post How Do I Know When to Replace My Muffler? appeared first on Trick Trucks.

Just about everything has a camera these days, but many people often overlook the need to keep one in their truck. With all the acts of unbelievable stupidity on the road, why wouldn’t you want to keep a visual record? A dash cam is exactly what its name implies: a camera for your dashboard. Here’s a few reasons why you should consider adding one to your truck.

Be Prepared in an Accident

Car accidents are some of the worst experiences to deal with. Avoid the nonsense and headaches involved in traffic disputes by having a dash cam. A dash cam gives you the facts and makes your case airtight for police. While an insurance discount is not yet offered in the U.S., owning a dash camera can indirectly affect your premium and keep vehicle insurance rates down. The footage a dash cam can provide can turn out to be invaluable in many situations. With a dash cam you can catch insurance fraudsters and people trying to cheat the system, for example.

Catch Damages and Vandalism

Parking lots and garages are some of the most overlooked spots when it comes to vehicle damage. All too often people pull out and tap or scratch your car in the process. Worse yet, your vehicle could be vandalized when it’s left unattended in a public space. The best part about dash cams is that they are typically battery operated, and will continue recording even when the car is parked. With a dash cam you finally have a means to deal with hit and run sideswipes. Even if you can’t hold the culprit accountable, footage of how the damage was done to your vehicle is useful for your insurance company.

Documenting a Road Trip

Dash cams aren’t just useful for sorting out traffic disputes and scuffles. They are also excellent for documenting a summer road trip. You always end up finding something weird or exciting on a road adventure, and a dash cam is the best way to preserve that memory even when you haven’t planned for it. While dash cams are primarily used for safety and legal protection, you might be surprised to find what kind of footage you can capture while on the road. One dash cam owner in Russia caught a spectacular meteor shower display, for example.

Get Your On-board Camera at Trick Trucks

Interested in getting an on-board camera for your truck? Trick Trucks is here to help. With over forty years of experience servicing trucks, we have the expertise and equipment you need. Contact Trick Trucks online or by calling 1-866-60-TRICK. To find out more about our services and trucks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube. 1

The post Why You Should Consider a Dash Cam for Your Truck appeared first on Trick Trucks.

The grille of a car has a purpose and is not just for the sake of looks. It guards the engine compartment, this includes the radiator, from dirt, rocks, and other such debris which are common on the road. The Other grilles protect the lights, bottom of the engine, the brakes, and air filter. A grille is generally a durable metallic or plastic device that simultaneously protects a car’s important parts while still allowing air to pass through. Not only is a grille functional, but can be used to get a certain look or express your personality. When looking for the perfect grille for your car, keep these things in mind.  

There Are Different Types of Car Grilles  

The two types of grilles are the mesh and billet grille. The mesh grille is known for being stylish and luxurious and the billet grille is known for its strength and sporty look. Most billet grilles are made of thick strips of metal or plastic which are placed horizontally and parallel to one another. It is seen on both trucks and fast cars and competently blocks debris from the road while letting air pass through unobstructed. Mesh grilles are comprised of thin strips of metal or plastic interwoven into a variety of patterns. It offers versatility and is used on everything from family cars to heavy duty trucks. Custom grilles are also an option for the true car lover.

How To Choose The Right Car Grill For Your Needs

It is important to know the make, model, and model year of your car in order to know what kind of grille is needed. When purchasing a grille, it is important to note that used grilles are available and can save you a decent amount of money, however, it is wise to purchase a used grille with a one or two year warranty. If replacing a grille, make certain that the new one will fit on your vehicle without having to drill more holes. Many people also consider protective pieces for their grilles. These include both grille guards and car bras.

Get In Touch With Trick Trucks Today

Whatever accessories you need, Trick Trucks has you covered. If you need more information, please contact us today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here. We also invite you to explore our many Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here. Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

The post What to Look for in a Replacement Grille? appeared first on Trick Trucks.

Too many people wish they were carrying a certain item in their vehicle after they needed it. Now, it’s true that some people can go overboard when it comes to keep items in the trunk of their vehicle. That’s why Trick Trucks wanted to share with our readers the essential items everyone should always have on hand.

Items for Vehicle Emergencies

Before planning for yourself, start out by focusing on everything that your car will need in case of an emergency. It’s great if you have a spare tire ready to go, but do you have a tire jack and a tire iron? A spare tire is pretty much uselessly without those tools. You should also have a tire inflator and tire sealer on hand. Sometimes, you may just need to plug a leak before you can get your vehicle to the auto shop. We’ve all seen someone in a parking lot with a dead battery, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t have a set of jumper cables in their cars. You can’t always rely on that a Good Samaritan will come along and loan you their jumper cables, so you have to make sure that you have a set of your own.

Personal Items for Vehicle Emergencies

Sometimes, you may have an emergency that isn’t directly related to your vehicle. Maybe you get stuck in a remote location, or maybe you or a passenger sustains an injury while you’re driving. It’s not fun to think about those scenarios, but you always have to be prepared no matter what. Some items you definitely want to start keeping in your vehicle are:
• First aid kits
• Flashlights
• Matches
• Protein bars
• Water bottles
• Seat belt cutters and window breakers
• Flares
• Maps
Again, hopefully, you will never have to use these items. But if you do, you will thank yourself for stocking them in your vehicle.
Stocking Items for Convenience in Vehicles

Not every item you stock in your car has to be for emergencies. Sometimes, it’s just nice to have things for convenience. Have you ever approached a toll and started to panic, realizing you didn’t have any cash to pay? Well, one way to avoid that situation is to keep a roll of quarters in your vehicle. Another tip to make driving easier is to keep recycled shopping bags to use for trash in your car. Trash can quickly clutter up any vehicle, but placing everything in a bag is an easy way to avoid a huge mess. Also, it never hurts to have a pen or pencil and a notepad you can write on. You never know when you may need it!

Interested in the Top Accessories for Your Vehicle? Contact Trick Trucks Today

Whatever accessories you need, Trick Trucks has you covered. If you need more information, please contact us today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here. We also invite you to explore our many Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here. Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
Source: https://lifehacker.com/30-essential-things-you-should-keep-in-your-car-1263514115

The post Top Things You Should Carry in Your Vehicles appeared first on Trick Trucks.

You see them on trucks and SUV, but do you truly know what grill guards do for your vehicles? Let’s take a look at these guards and what they can offer your truck!

What are Grill Guards?

Grill guards are both a cosmetic accessory for your vehicle as well as a functional accessory. Grill guards protect your headlights and the front of your vehicle. They stop brush, rocks, and even other vehicles from damaging your property. While these accessories are functional, they are typically installed for their aesthetic appeal.

They’ve Got Style

Grill guards come in three basic styles that vary in the amount of protection they offer the front of your vehicle. Full grill guards protect the front of your vehicle including the headlights. Bars over the lights prevent breakage. This style is popular for people who need off-road protection for their vehicle. These guards consist of two vertical structural supports attached to a tubing frame. Narrow bars are also added over the headlights for protection. Center grill guards are nearly the same as a full grill guard but do not provide protection for the headlights. The final grill guard is the bull bar. The final type of grill guard is the bull bar. These grills are also referred to as the nudge bar or sport bar as they are the more subtle approach to protecting your vehicle. Bull bars were designed for serious off-road driving. They are made to protect your vehicle from steep climbs and cause the vehicle to bounce up so the front tires can get up a slope.

Finishing Touches

Any of these grill guards can be finished one of three ways: polished stainless steel, chrome plated, and black powder coat. Powder coating is the least expensive option but it is more likely to be damaged or scratched. Once damaged, powder coating cannot be repainted. Another option is the stainless steel. Stainless steel is the most rugged finish but is also the most expensive. They are stronger than other guards and can be repaired is scratched.

Grill guards can help to protect your vehicle while in low impact accidents and while driving off-road. Let Trick Trucks help to protect your vehicle today! For more information on having your grill guard professionally installed, call Trick Trucks today!

Trick Trucks

If you want to know more about our custom van shelving installations or our other services, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! We have been working with trucks and their drivers since 1974, and we have all of the answers and accessories you need. We also invite you to explore our other Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here.

The post Grill Guard Guide appeared first on Trick Trucks.

Whether you are a handyman looking for a place to store your tools or a mechanic looking for extra space, there is one tool box that will always be there when you need it: a truck bed tool box! But with many different kinds on the market, how do you choose the best one for you? Let’s take a look at these unsung heroes of tool users everywhere!

Mounting Styles

There are several different kinds of tools boxes that are mounted differently. Mounting styles refer to how and where the boxes are attached to your truck. The first mounting style is the crossover that sits behind the cab and rests on the bed’s side rails. It does not extend to the floor, allowing you to maintain some floor space under it. This is a standard and simply designed box that is often low-cost. The next style is the chest box that sits behind the cab on the floor of the bed and doesn’t extend past the truck bed. This bed does limit the available floor space of your bed but doesn’t obstruct your view. A side box is attached to the side rails and fits on either side of the rail. This style allows two boxes to fit in the back of your truck and takes up very little space. It can be reached when standing next to the truck and doesn’t extend to the floor. A sliding mounted box sits on a sliding rail system for easy access. A hitch box attaches to the trailer hitch. A tailgate mounted box attaches to the tailgate and swings down with it for easy access and doesn’t take up space.

Features

Truck bed tool boxes are usually made out of aluminum. This material is known for being light, durable, and non-corrosive. However, there are some boxes made out of stainless steel and hard plastics. Stainless steel is also known for being non-corrosive and strong, but they are heavier and can be expensive. Tool boxes typically come in a neutral or metallic color. Powder coatings can also be applied to boxes, giving it extra protection from corrosion. Many truck bed tool boxes have either single, double, or gull-wing lids that are divided but hinged inside the box. Another thing to think about when considering your tool box is the installation. Consider whether a box can be installed without drilling bolt holes, how secure the box locks, and whether the lid opening is pneumatic or manual. Many boxes have shelves, dividers, and trays inside to hold your tools. But some boxes are open for customization.

When choosing a truck bed tool box, consider the job it will be doing. Think about the size of the objects that will be stored in the truck as well as the size and type of cargo that will be carried in the remainder of the bed. Choosing the right truck bed tool box for your lifestyle should be given careful thought and consideration. Talk to your local technician at Trick Trucks for more information on the best tool box for your truck!

Trick Trucks

If you want to know more about our custom van shelving installations or our other services, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! We have been working with trucks and their drivers since 1974, and we have all of the answers and accessories you need. We also invite you to explore our other Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here.

The post Types of Truck Bed Tool Boxes appeared first on Trick Trucks.

There are a lot of advantages to having a bed cover for your pickup truck. Not only does it keep your truck bed from rotting from rain, but it will also keep your bed clean, debris free, and presentable. But when choosing a bed cover, which kind will you choose? Should you go classic like your grandfather’s truck or something a bit more modern? Well, let’s check out your options.

Soft Covers

There are several different types of flat covers for your truck: soft tonneau covers, roll-ups, folding, retractable, and fiberglass lids. Each of these covers has different advantages and disadvantages to them. The least expensive cover is the soft tonneau cover. Most of these covers have a frame with support bows that clamp to the truck. They do not require drilling into your bed for installation. The cover is easily snapped into place and works to protect the bed and cargo from the elements.

Roll-Up Covers

The next in line is the roll-up covers. They are easily rolled up to the front of the bed when not in use. This kind of cover also has a frame and requires no drilling. This material has a vinyl coated surface on both sides of the cover and a rear tensioning system so it can be attached in severe cold. The rear rail locks into the side framework, which offers security when the vehicle is equipped with a locking tailgate.

Folding Covers

Folding covers come in two different styles: hard and soft. The soft covers allow for easy access to the bed and for cover removal. Hard folding covers are easy to use but add security to the vehicle. This bed is good for people who routinely carry taller cargo because they are easily removed.

Retractable Covers

Retractable covers are flush against your bed and are available in a wide variety of materials. These covers provide a clean appearance as well as ease that most truck owners love. These covers lock securely and don’t require removal to access your bed.

Fiberglass Lids

Fiberglass lids are popular when an owner wants something that will blend in with their truck. The covers can be painted to match your truck, making it look like it was always a part of the vehicle. These lids are quite heavy at approximately 110 pounds but they are removable. Some models can be removed with release hardware that leaves the frame behind while others are removable by using releasing clamps and that remove the lid and framework together. When they are in place, they can be locked and prevent the tailgate from being opened. They are strong and durable for security.

Fiberglass Truck Caps

Fiberglass caps are one of the favorite truck accessories. They are molded and painted to match the vehicle’s color, giving your truck a stylish appearance. Fiberglass truck caps are designed to suit how you use your truck. They can be tailored for contractors, outdoorsy people, and general use. They are functional without sacrificing looks.

Aluminum Truck Caps

Aluminum caps are made for heavy duty applications. They are available in standard colors as well as a variety of window options. They are standard caps that will protect your truck and cargo from the elements. These caps give you added security with locking mechanisms to keep your truck and cargo safe.

For more information on these covers, caps, and lids, called your local Trick Trucks location today!

Trick Trucks

If you want to know more about our custom van shelving installations or our other services, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! We have been working with trucks and their drivers since 1974, and we have all of the answers and accessories you need. We also invite you to explore our other Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here.

The post Truck Bed Covers versus Truck Bed Caps appeared first on Trick Trucks.

When it comes to your family business, one of the most important assets you own is your work van. Your work van takes you to meetings, appointments, and contains everything you need on a day-to-day basis. But when you van is this important, shouldn’t you get your van more organized than just storing things on the floor? Well, we have just the thing to get your work van organized: a custom shelving unit. But why choose a shelving unit for your van? Let’s take a look at the benefits.

Get Organized

Your new commercial van shelving unit will help you and your employees stay organized while on the road. The tools and parts that are an intricate part of your business will be easily accessible and on display for quick access.

Save Time and Money

If your employees cannot find a part or a tool, they may reorder the part. But if your van is organized and parts are easily accessible, you can save the time and money it will take to reorder these things. When things are visible, your employees won’t waste time searching for items that are scattered. All of your tools, parts, and accessories are in one place and easily labeled so they can be found quickly.

Appearances

Once your van is organized your employees won’t have to be embarrassed to have new employees train with them or customers see inside their vehicle. Clients will love the neat rows and shelves of products. This will give your clients the knowledge that you care about your items as much as you care about your customers.

Custom Shelving

These shelves can be custom made to fit your business. Choose from shelves or drawers to contain your supplies and tools. Every business has its own specifications and systems that need to be stored in your van. But with these units, you will be able to fit all of your equipment inside the van as stay organized while out on your jobs.

Help your employees stay organized and on time with a custom van shelving unit installed by your local Trick Trucks representative!

Trick Trucks

If you want to know more about our custom van shelving installations or our other services, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! We have been working with trucks and their drivers since 1974, and we have all of the answers and accessories you need. We also invite you to explore our other Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here.

The post Custom Commercial Shelving Units appeared first on Trick Trucks.

Truck bed covers are made for the people who want to keep their belongings to themselves as well as keep their truck beds looking nice. If you need a lot of storage but just can’t bring yourself to buy a car, bed covers are for you. But here at Trick Trucks, we sell and install many kinds of covers, so which one is for you?

Hard Covers

These truck bed covers offer the looks, coverage, and durability most truck owners want for their beds. The hard shell makes it hard to cut, tear, or be broken into. These covers are made to protect your belongings. The connections to the bed rails make this cover perfect for keep rain, snow, and dirt out of your bed. They are available in multiple colors and complete the look of any truck.

Soft Roll Up Covers

This retractable cover is made of heavy vinyl with aluminum frames. Perfect for keeping the elements out, the cargo can stay dry without having to put any holes into your truck. Some roll up covers open using a trigger latch, while other have a snap. Some models even close with Velcro. Owners can pick from a variety of colors and can choose from a range of budget options.

Hinged Covers

Opening like a regular car trunk, these truck beds are meant to provide easy access to cargo. This model is the most convenient as it can be removed easily for larger loads that won’t fit under it. There are also a multitude of manufacturers to choose from and also several styles. Styles include a ragtop or a hard fiberglass model. The fiberglass model can be painted to give your cover an added customization. Because of the features of this model, they range in the moderate to high price levels.

Retractable Covers

Retractable covers offer the security owners are looking for and the convenience of a soft top. They are made from heavy duty aluminum panels that provide a sleek, modern style as well as security. These covers can come with no drilling installation but instead use a clamping mechanism to reduce installation time. They come in many colors but black remains to most common. They are coated with moisture resistance and can come with a push-button opening mechanism.

These are not your grandpa’s bed covers that block the view and can’t be removed whenever you want. These bed covers are made to keep you and your belongings safe even when you aren’t around. They are like having the space of a car but the awesome ride of a truck.

Trick Trucks

If you want to know more about our bed covers or information on our services, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! We have been working with trucks and their drivers since 1974, and we have all of the answers and accessories you need. We also invite you to explore our other Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here.

The post Bed Cover Buying Guide appeared first on Trick Trucks.

As a contractor, plumber, or other home improvement professional, you are constantly hauling tools and materials from job to job. And without the right commercial vehicle accessories, this could be easier said than done, especially if you are hauling conduit. It takes up cargo space, and because of its flexibility, conduit is often difficult to deal with.

The Solution: A Conduit Carrierfrom Trick Trucks!

There are several benefits to having a Trick Truck’s conduit carrier installed on your work vehicle, including:

• Improve Functionality: A conduit carrier from Trick Trucks adds functionality to your commercial ladder rack!
• Improve your Image: It doesn’t look professional when you pull up to a customer’s house and have to scrounge through your truck bed to gather your conduit. So why not invest in a conduit carrier from Trick Trucks? Your new conduit carrier securely fastens conduit, pipes, tuning, or other objects conveniently overhead on your ladder rack.
• Maximize Storage: A conduit carrier helps you maximize your truck’s storage space.
• Protect your Expensive Materials: Conduit carriers are fully enclosed, ensuring your conduit, pipe, or tuning is well protected from the elements.
• Easy to Use: Stop struggling to haul that flexible conduit. A conduit carrier makes your job so much easier. And because it features a spring up rear door, it is now easier than ever to load and unload your conduit.
• Durability: Conduit carriers from Trick Trucks are built to last.

Are you interested in having a Conduit Carrier installed on your Work Truck or Commercial Van? Then head to Trick Trucks!

Trick Trucks has been outfitting your commercial vehicles for over 30 years.

Trick Trucks offers a full line of commercial truck and van accessories to help you better utilize your commercial vehicle. Best of all, each Trick Truck commercial truck and van product can be purchased in our showroom and can be professionally installed at any one of our convenient locations throughout Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and Delaware

If you are interested in having a Conduit Carrier or one of our many other Commercial Truck or Commercial Van Accessories installed in your vehicle, contact Trick Trucks today. We are here for you. If you have any questions, please contact Trick Trucks by calling 1-866-60 TRICKor click here today!

Each Trick Trucks location (throughout Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and Delaware) offers full service installation of all truck parts and accessories.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

The post Conduit Carriers & other Truck Accessories appeared first on Trick Trucks.