The Accessory Dream Guide - Issue 3

Fall 2017 Accessory Dream the guide

Raven Events SEE WHAT OUR TEAM HAS BEEN UP TO Featured Vehicles FROM OUR FANS & FOLLOWERS Kid Co-Pilots FEATURING THE CUTEST TODDLERS AND KIDS

Magazine for Truck & Jeep Enthusiasts

FOR ALL YOUR GRAPHIC NEEDS... WE MAKE IT EASY!

Fleet & Company Vehicle Wraps | Window Tint | Custom Wraps & Stripes | Vinyl Cut & Spot Decals Window & Wall Graphics | Paint Protection Film | Banners & Signs | Digital Printing | Design

VISIT US AT RAVENGRAPHICS.CA TO GET STARTED! 433-58 Ave SE, Calgary, AB | P: 403-243-8261 | info@ravengraphics.ca

ACCESSORIES

INSPECTIONS

EXHAUST

BRAKES

SUSPENSION

See what we can do for your vehicle Visit us at installshop.nsor.com

WHEELS & TIRES

ACCESSORIES

GRAPHICS

MAINTENANCE

SPRAY ON LINERS

See what we can do for your vehicle Visit us at installshop.raventruck.com

CONTRIBUTORS

S

Editor/Layout: Lina Tran

ince 1977 we have been building Dream Rides across Western Canada. Our passion for trucks and jeeps is demonstrated in the great work our entire team does each day. If you need a vehicle for work we have years of experience with work trucks. If you want a vehicle for play our team of experts can help you customize your ride. We are happy to provide great products that help make your vehicle a little better. Growing from a single location to a network of many has only been made possible because of our staff, our vendor partners and most importantly our customers across Western Canada. In this issue of the accessory dream guide you will find some inspiring stories from families that have established great events out of tragedy. Our involvement with these events is part of our commitment to support the communities we work and play in. You will see great rides that will inspire you to dream about what is possible with your vehicle. You will find articles and information on many of the great brands we carry in our stores and warehouses in BC and Alberta. In our last issue our customers and readers shared pictures of furry co-pilots like @wilder_huskies and @socrateessamoyed which inspired us to do another co-pilot page. This is co-pilot page is a little different because it shows our passion for community. We are proud to share our kid co-pilot pictures and the amazing photos of families enjoying their dream ride while vacationing, riding the trails or camping. We love these little co-pilots and hope one day they will be inspired to build great vehicles and do great things. We encourage you to visit us online or drop by one of our stores. You can also join our new “Truck Enthusiasts” Facebook Group which is built for truck owners to show off their ride and get advice. Thank-you for building great vehicles that inspire us and for letting our team be a part of your journey.

Graphic Designer: Desiree Billey

Editorial Writer: Steve Hagopian

Editorial Writer: Barb J. Green B.A (Hons.), M.A.

Cover Photo: Extang

PARTICIPATING MANUFACTURERS

AMP AVS Brightsource Curt Mfg Daystar Extang Fia Firestone Husky Liners

JW Speaker Leer Lund International PIAA Poison Spyder Roll N Lock Truxedo Truck Hardware Undercover

Richard Balan President

Website raventruck.com nsor.com

Install Shop installshop.raventruck.com installshop.nsor.com

Email info@raventruck.com info@nsor.com

18 ALBERTA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE VagabondExpedition 4 WHEEL DRIVE ASSOCIATI N OF BC Show and Shine

54

The Accessory Dream Guide is available for pick-up free of charge from any Raven Truck Accessories and North Shore Off-Road Centre stores

4 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

CONTENTS

30 TRAIL RIDE & BBQ with 410 Expedition

50

KID CO-PILOTS

FEATURES AND ARTICLES

FEATURED VEHICLES

20 30 36 46 50 54 56 64 66

11 28 29 34 35 42 44 48 49 58 60

RAVEN GMC SIERRA BUILD 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 4WD

JAMES SHIER 2011 Toyota Tundra

TRAIL RIDE AND BBQ Calgary and Area Event with 410 Expedition

MIKE ISAAC 2013 Ram 1500 Sport

SHOUT OUT Featuring Our Fans and Followers

CHAD BO AND LEAH DODD 2015 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport

RECEIVER HITCHES AND WIRING Learn How to Pick the Right Hitch for You KID CO-PILOTS Featuring the Cutest Kids and Toddlers

HOWARD BABIUK 2011 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited Rubicon

MATTHEW HEDDERSON 2012 Toyota Tundra 5.7L CrewMax 4x4

4 WHEEL DRIVE ASSOCIATION OF BC See Photos from the Show and Shine

CHRIS TSARDOULIAS 2015 Jeep Wrangler

RAVEN AND NSOR SWAG Branded Gear

BRANDON THOMAS 1984 Toyota 4Runner

TRUCK ENTHUSIASTS Learn about our new Facebook Group

CORY BOEHM 2009 Ford F350 Lariat

ROOF RACKS AND CARGO BOXES Carry More Gear

DAVID GIESBRECHT 2012 GMC Sierra 1500

DAVY GREENLEES 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon

GET FEATURED: Use hashtag #raventruckaccessories and #northshoreoffroad on Instagram for a chance to be featured in our next issue #DreamGuideForDreamRides

COLIN HUDAK 1991 Jeep Cherokee XJ

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 5

NEXT GENERATION HARD FOLDING COVER

■ NEW jaw-grip clamps ■ OEM matte finish ■ Dent resistant panels ■ Cooler to the touch ■ Snap-on seals ■ All-weather protection

|

EXTANG.COM

8 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

FEATURED VEHICLES

Welcome to Featured Vehicles in our Accessory Dream Guide, where we show our appreciation for individuals who are building their “Dream Ride”.

At Raven Truck Accessories and North Shore Off-Road, we love a great build! No matter the year, make or model, every build is special. If you put the time, resources and effort into building your dream vehicle, then you deserve to be featured. In this issue, you will see a few of our favorite Dream Rides from the past few months. SHARE YOUR RIDE WITH PRIDE! If you also live this dream of making your ride into your ideal mod, why not share it with us and all the other enthusiasts out there? Show us your vehicle by posting photos on our Facebook pages or tag @raventruckaccessories or @northshoreoffroad on Instagram for your chance to be featured in our next issue of The Accessory Dream Guide. #DreamGuideForDreamRides

28

2013 RAM 1500 SPORT

42 44 48 49 58 60

Featured Vehicles in this Issue

CHRIS TSARDOULIAS 2015 Jeep Wrangler

11 28 29 34 35

BRANDON THOMAS 1984 Toyota 4Runner

JAMES SHIER 2011 Toyota Tundra

CORY BOEHM 2009 Ford F350 Lariat

MIKE ISAAC 2013 Ram 1500 Sport

DAVID GIESBRECHT 2012 GMC Sierra 1500

CHAD BO AND LEAH DODD 2015 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport

DAVY GREENLEES 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon

HOWARD BABIUK 2011 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited Rubicon

COLIN HUDAK 1991 Jeep Cherokee XJ

MATTHEW HEDDERSON 2012 Toyota Tundra 5.7L CrewMax 4x4

29

48

60

CHAD BO 2015 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport

CORY BOEHM 2009 Ford F350 Lariat

COLIN HUDAK 1991 Jeep Cherokee XJ

10 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 2011 Toyota Tundra Owner: James Shier Location: Hinton, Alberta Instagram: @hellboy_tundra

HELLBOY Modifications & Accessories: - Bulletproof Suspension 10”-12” Lift with Coilovers Out Front - Atlas Leafs and Reservoir Shocks Out Back - Bulletproof Traction Bars - 20x12 Fuel Triton Wheels - 37x13.50R20 Toyo Open Country M/T Tires - Color Matched Bushwacker Pocket Style Flares - Bulletproof Bumpers 14” Mud Flaps - Custom Built Projector Headlights from Plain An Simple - Bak Flip Box Tonneau Cover - AVS In-Channel Ventvisors - Red Recon Antenna - Color Matched Grill with Mesh Insert - Husky Liners Floor Mats - Under Rear Seat Storage Boxes

The Hinton Hellboy is a 2011 Toyota Tundra with attitude and it shows: “It’s a big red beast with white eyes.” says James Shier. “As a child I had dream rides. A lifted truck, a sports car and a Jeep. Now I have the lifted Tundra and a 2014 Challenger RT. Next ride will be a Jeep, LOL.” The “next adventure will be finding some trails around Hinton. I would also like to take Hellboy down to Texas to take in some of the big car shows and meet up with some old friends.”

James life is also a family affair: “I have always had a passion for modified vehicles. While my wife and I were living in Texas, we had our first lifted truck and started going to truck meets. We found that we both enjoyed it and started attending car shows all over the state. It was something we could do together that we enjoyed and [we’d] meet all kinds of like- minded people.” Hellboy’s 12” Lift is James favourite accessory.“The lift turns heads and the kids love it.” Bulletproof Suspension offer high-quality products with great technical support. It is 100% bolt on so no welding or cutting.” The next accessory he would like to add is a Bumper from Bulletproof Bumpers. They are a company out of Red Deer and I like to support local companies when I can. “We have been all over Alberta with Hellboy. We regularly travel from Hinton to Lethbridge and the Crowsnest Pass”. Although James feels Hellboy is still a “pavement princess” he has plans to find some trails around Hinton to explore. As you can see from the photos, Hellboy now enjoys the off-road life!

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 11

HEADLIGHT CONVERSION KITS Best HID & LED Vehicle Specific Conversion Kits

Featuring the brightest LED solution on the market. Kit includes higher profile custom BrightSource dust cap to ensure protection from dust and moisture. Ford F150 15-17 Vehicle Specific Kit #73615L and #73615H

Dodge Ram Jeep Chevrolet GMC Toyota Nissan Ford plus applications for Mini-vans, domestic and import car models

Vehicle Specific Technology Other manufacturers kits can cause flickering and install issues. BrightSource developed the exclusive Opticoupler and other solutions to solve Daytime Running Light issues.

Opticoupler

Switching DRL from high beam to low beam - much better in-city driving experience for you and other drivers Keeps headlight on in Dodge/Chrysler vehicles when turn signal operating, much safer for drivers and pedestrians Neutralizes Polarity issues, simpli�es installation Completely eliminates �ickering and light out dash warnings Works with auto function switch

Designed and Manufactured in Canada

Focused on Performance

www.brightsource.ca

LED HID

North America-wide Street Legal LED Performance Lighting SAE CUBE LIGHTS SAE DOUBLE ROW NEW

SAE Cube Light Kit #75001F - Beam Pattern: Flood/Fog #75001 - Beam Pattern: Spot/Driving Powered by 25w Philips LEDs Includes harness/switch Flush Mount option available 3 Year Warranty

SAE 20” Double Row Kit #76220 - Driving Light Pattern Powered by 100w Osram LEDs Includes harness/switch 3 Year Warranty

NEW

#791082F

City Series value priced Curved LED Light Bars 22” - 52”

LED Work Lamps

#791482F

Focused on Performance

www.brightsource.ca

MUDFLAP KITS

N Avai e!

ACCESSORIES

N Avai e!

GCR42F-9

GCR42R-9

• Custom Mudflap Kits • Bar Filler

• Bumper Insert • Sensor Guard

14 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

HOOD LETTERS HOOD LETTERS

TAILGATE LETTERS

TAILGATE LETTERS

TAILGATE INSERT

TAILGATE INSERT

GRILLE INSERTS

GRILLE INSERTS

NERFBOARDS

NERFBOARDS

BAR FILLER

LICENSED MUDFLAPS

BAR FILLER

LICENSED MUDFLAPS

*no drill bracket systems available *no drill bracket systems available

PILLAR POST INSERT

PILLAR POST INSERT

Go to HuskyLiners.com to avoid unwanted stains and damage.

FLOOR PROTECTION

PREMIUM PROTECTION AND STYLE. Perfectlymatches the contours of your vehiclewith indestructible strength and a soft, comfortable cushion.

MUD FLAPS

BETTER CLEARANCE FOR YOUR MONSTER. The o set mounting bracket positions the flap back to add clearance to protect the world from your huge tires.

WHEEL WELL GUARDS

BETTER CLEARANCE FOR YOUR MONSTER. Husky Liners® Wheel Well Guards cover, protect and boost the appearance of your truck's rear wheel wells.

GEARBOX®

STASH YOUR STUFF. The GearBox® is perfect for storing loose cargo—keeping your vehicle looking clean and organized.

RAVEN

THE RAVEN 2016 GMC SIERRA 1500 CREW CAB 4WD

Looks and durability: aren’t those the two qualities everybody wants in a pickup? This 2016 Sierra 1500 is not only unique, it is also exceptionally well-protected. Every single accessory on this big black beauty sports the trendy new matte finish: there is not a single glint of chrome. This gives the entire ride a seamless appearance of subtle strength and power. This Dream Ride showcases Gardit Spray-On Truck Liners. The Bushwacker Pocket fender flares, truck box, rockers, hood and front and rear bumpers are all Gardit-sprayed for full, durable coverage. Available at Raven Grande Prairie, Gardit is an upgrade from all previous spray protectants. Its high polyuria content provides more flexibility, subtle shine and increased tensile strength per square inch, all of which make it ideal for commercial and off-road vehicles as well as daily drivers on winter roads. Gardit is available in any colour to match or even contrast your truck’s finish. After dark, the matte add-ons combine with the black exterior to transform this pickup into a stealth powerhouse slicing through the night. In this case, thoughtfully selected lighting options are even more important for visibility and impactful appearance. The Rigid Industries Dually lights on the front and Putco Blade LED Tailgate Light Bar light up the darkness of a northern night while tastefully illuminating the truck’s stylish surfaces. It’s a showroom on wheels. After all, if you are considering an accessory purchase, it is always preferable to examine it on a truck rather than viewing it online or in a catalogue. By selecting each accessory for how it will complement overall appearance and performance, the Raven Team has transformed this from a show truck into a Dream Ride.

20 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

GMC SIERRA

Modifications & Accessories: - Husky Liners Floor Liners Front and Rear - Bushwacker Pocket Fender Flares - Retrax One MX Tonneau Cover - AVS Matte Ventvisors - AMI Black Antenna - AMP Research Powerstep XL Running Boards - Tint Package - 4” BDS Suspension Lift with Fox Shock Upgrades - Bulletproof Black Kickback Flaps - Go Rhino Sport Bar 2.0 - T-Rex Zroadz Grille - T-Rex Hood Light Brackets with Rigid Industries Duallys - Putco Blade LED Tailgate Light Bar - Pro Comp Rims - Mickey Thompson Tires - Gardit Spray Fender Flares - Gardit Spray Box Liner - Gardit Spray Rockers - Gardit Spray Hood - Gardit Spray Front & Rear Bumpers

Visit our Install Shop to see more of our work installshop.raventruck.com

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 21

22 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

WHY RIDE-RITE ™ ? SEE WHY THE ORIGINAL IS STILL THE BEST

QUALITY. RELIABILITY. DEPENDABILITY. Firestone invented the first Airide ™ Air Spring in 1938, and after 76 years, we remain the #1 Air Spring provider for a reason. Our Ride-Rite ™ Air Springs are built on the same heavy duty technology used on buses, semis and railcars. With our rigorous testing and quality standards, you can rely on our products’ performance.

Open chamber design allows for maximum stroke

Steel bead plate connected via rolled crimp design for durability

Four layers of commercial vehicle grade rubber cords

Steel Girdle Hoop for added strength

Heavy-duty OEM certified, corrosion resistant steel bead plates that are made in the USA

No internal jounce bumper allows for rubber on rubber contact for improving ride quality

riderite.com

WHEN IT COMES TIME TO CHOOSE, CHOOSE THE BEST.

24 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

NEW DODGE RAM 1500 AIR SPRING KITS WITH 1-HOUR, NO DRILL, NO CUTTING INSTALL BETTER Coil Assist Springs

• all new simplified kit with thicker bellow • supports up to 500-1000 lbs. per set* • 70 psi • made for working in temperatures -40 o C to 82 o C • limited lifetime limited warranty included

NEW UPGRADE KIT 4185

BEST Air Helper Springs • uses the same technology as the big rigs

NEW KIT KIT 2595

with comfortable ride technology • supports up to 3000 lbs. per set* • 100 psi • fits into factory spring mounts without cutting the welded

factory jounce bumpers • limited lifetime limited warranty included

* Do not exceed the vehicle’s recommended Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 25

RIDGELANDER

UNDERCOVER FLEX

• Aircraft grade aluminum construction • Textured powder-coat finish • Integrated T-slot track system for cargo management • Easy to take off and put back on • Built-in perimeter track system • Includes four rhino rack quick mount legs and two vortex bars

• Hard-folding tonneau cover • Three secure riding positions • Built-in prop rods • Slam latches • Full bed access • Weather resistant • Rubber seals and drain tubes • Panels are lighter, stronger, and more dent resistant than aluminum

NIGHTHAWK LIGHT BROW

SWING CASE

• Dramatically changes the attitude of your factory Jeep® grille • Factory painted • Over 10 colors available • Available unpainted for custom colors • Easy installation

• Lightweight, high impact ABS plastic • Custom fitted for your truck

• Extremely versatile • Convenient storage

• Weather tight • Lift-off removal • Swings out • lockable

• Strong and durable • Comes standard with

replacement weather strip

26 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

THE ULTIMATE TRUCK BED SOLUTION

THE NEW ULTRA FLEX COMES STANDARD WITH

• PREMIUM MATTE FINISH • CARPETED UNDER PANEL • SADDLEBAG STORAGE • UNIVERSAL TAILGATE OPERATION WITH DUAL ACTION SEAL • LUMINOUS BED LIGHTING • HIGH GRADE ALUMINUM PANELS

UNDERCOVERINFO.COM

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 2013 Ram 1500 Sport Owner: Mike Isaac

Location: Edmonton, Alberta Instagram: @chazz7eighty

Modifications & Accessories: - Fibertech Performance Ram Air Hood - Custom Toxic Off-Road 20 x 12 51 Wheels - 6” Zone Lift w/Bilstien 5100 Adjustable Struts 2” - RideRite Firestone Coil Replacement Air Suspension w/F3 Wireless Air Management System - Wilco Spare Tire Gate - Addictive Desert Designs Front and Rear Stealth Series Bumpers - 38x15.5R20 Toyo Open Country M/T - Speed Demons Black Ops Series Cubes and 40” Black Ops Light Bar - Essk Customs RGB Rock Lighting - Mopar Stage 2 Intake - Custom Painted Headlights with Halos / HID’s - ECD Galaxy Wrapped Interior - Truxedo Under Rail LED Box Lighting - Royal Hooks Hitch Hook - Black Powder Coated Exhaust Tips - Armourguard Spray in Bed Liner - Flowmaster Exhaust - Tinted windshield with Double Tinted Brow - Gloss Black Wrapped Roof - Gloss Black Painted Mirrors - Custom K2Fab Kicker Braces - Custom K2Fab Lower Rear 4Link Bars - Mopar Stainless Steel Pedal Set - Custom CNC’d Bike Rack Mounts Inside Box

Although Edmontonian Mike Isaac laughed when he said that his Dream Ride could be called the “Money Pit”, he is clearly invested in taking this 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 from plain stock to utterly unique. He began with a Daystar leveling kit and some Good Year Duratracs. His favourite accessory is the matching set of Stealth Addictive Desert Designs bumpers.

“It gives the truck that in your face aggressive look - making it unique.” Mike calls the Fibertech Performance Ram Air Hood “easily the most complimented piece on my truck. These guys have unreal customer service and make a top notch product!” He goes on: “The truck really took off and started to feel like my Dream Ride when I put the suspension lift in it. That is when it started to look different than any other truck on the road. It was getting plenty more attention and I knew then I was going in the right direction to building my dream truck.” The next piece Mike plans to add is a “custom one of a kind chase rack for the bed of the truck from a local fabricating company called (K2Fab)“.

Mike also has advice about the first acces- sory to add to any stock vehicle: “lifted or lowered you cannot go wrong with a throaty exhaust system!”

Like Mike, his truck is a multi-tasker: “I drive my dream ride on almost a daily basis, it attends car shows, group meets and also hauls my family and dogs around.” His favourite off road site is “the Brule Dunes. We encountered some very tight trails in thick forest and tons of sand. It was all kinds of terrain packed into one trip from Mud ,Sand, Dunes, Water, Rock , Hill Climbs etc. It is the ultimate place to off-road in my opinion.” Mike is thankful for the support he has received. “I know its not easy dealing with a truck addict ha ha and thank-you to all the companies on board so far. Stay tuned for what is to come”. We can’t wait to see more from this build!

28 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 2015 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport Owner: Chad Bo & Leah Dodd Location: Prince George, BC Instagram: @cstbo

LOLA

Modifications & Accessories: - 3” BDS Suspension Lift - Curt Mfg 4 Flat Trailer Harness - Smittybilt 9.5K Winch with Steel Cable - Smittybilt Xrc Gen I Rear Bumper - Smittybilt Xrc Gen II Front Bumper - Smittybilt License Plate Holder - Smittybilt Black D-Rings - Smittybilt Limb Risers - Husky Liners Front Xact Contour Floor Liner - MBRP Off Camber Fabrication Roof Rack - Tepui Kukenam Xl Ruggedized Sky Orange Roof Top Tent - Brightsource 3” Cubes - Brightsource 22” E-Code Light Bar - Rigid Industries Side Shooter LED Cubes - Rigid Industries A-Pillar Mount - ICI Light Locks - Rugged Ridge Pillar Pod for Switches - ProComp 5034 17X9 Wheels - ProComp Black Lug Nut Kit - 315/70R17 Cooper STT Pro Tires

Chad Bo and Leah Dodd call their 2015 Jeep Wrangler JKU Sport Lola. Lola’s favourite thing to eat is gas and according to their upcoming plans, she’ll be guzzling plenty of it: “We have just completed our ride to a point we are set to travel. We have several larger trips in the works”. Lola’s first long drive will be “down the Oregon coast” and given that Chad’s favourite accessory so far is his Tepui Tent, it looks like he and his girlfriend Leah will be camping all the way. Since they bought this Jeep stock and began by upgrading the stereo, they haven’t stopped purchasing accessories in their hometown of Prince George. For their next add-on, Chad writes: “We are looking at fender flare options.” Lola only started to feel like a Dream Ride when they added the lift and tires. Although they are not particularly loyal to any one brand, they did insist on the Tepui brand for a roof top

tent and believe that recovery gear is essential for any off-road adventure.

Chad says that he and his girlfriend Leah have a lot in common and that they “kind of fell into the Jeep world”. They are members of the Prince George Jeep Club and they love exploring the local back roads in Beautiful B.C. While they “try to attend local Jeep events, we often camp on our own” which is just fine by Chad as his fondest memories of his Dream Ride involve “just spending time together”.

Chad is a gifted photographer who captures natures’ beautiful scenery during their travels. You can see more of Chad’s work on his Instagram page @cstbo. On there he states: “The act of discovering who we are will force us to accept that we can go further than we think.” A great motto for this adventurous duo who are like 2 peas in a pod.

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 29

Rain or Shine is the term we used when promoting the June 10 th Trail Ride and BBQ hosted by Raven Truck Accessories in Calgary, with help from the 410 Expedition Team. “Shine” being the preferred outcome, we were hit with a torrential downpour of rain for much of the day. With our expectations of a well-attended event dwindling, but the mud in the Waiparous Off-Road area increasing, we were pleasantly surprised to have 30+ vehicles and over 50 people attend!! A great time of exploring the Waiparous area was had by all… from those trying to climb steep (and muddy) terrain in Jeeps, Tacoma’s and other rigs, to other groups getting out and exploring the flat land area by the river. Thank you to all of our sponsors for the great prizes that many of the attendees received. We can’t wait to get our next event organized. “Rain or Shine”.

S

Calgary, AB TRAIL RIDE & BBQ

30 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

ADVENTURE GEAR of your campsite and not use it, when you can make it a part of your camping experience! While Roof Top Tents seem to be getting a lot of attention these days, not everyone has the budget or specialized rack system for a $1,500 - $3,000 tent. Rightline Gear has some innovative and affordable tent systems that make your vehicle part of the camping (and sleeping) experience.

specific and universal fitting storage bags for your Car, Jeep, Truck, or SUV.

The “Adventure Gear” product category is rapidly growing with exciting new products that cross the boundaries of traditional Truck and Jeep accessories and Camping gear.

Rightline Gear is one of the brands carried by Raven Truck Accessories and North Shore Off-road ensuring you are using your vehicle as effectively as possible when spending an overnight on the trail or at the campground. Why park your Truck, Jeep or SUV off to the side

Getting all of your gear to the campsite is also made easy by Rightline with Jeep

Join us on Facebook or Instagram and ask our sales experts about Rightline Gear products. Get prepared before you explore the outdoors!

Written by Raven Managing Partner Steve Hagopian

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 31

SOFT ROLL-UP, HINGED COVER COMBINATION TRUCK BED COVER • All the same features of a Lo Pro, plus it flips back from the front • Dual front latching system-rolls from the back or flips from the front • Automatic tension control-keeps the cover looking great at all times

SOFT ROLL-UP TRUCK BED COVER • Low-profile roll-up cover • Installs in just minutes with a pre-assembled, quick attach cover system • Free-floating hook and loop system • Automatic tension control • Easy trigger latch

LOW PROFILE DESIGN

2 IS BETTER THAN 1

SOFT ROLL-UP TRUCK BED COVER • Rolls up completely for access to entire bed and the ability to haul cargo • Hook and loop system allows for continuous contact, always easy to fasten • Pre-set tension control system and straight bows keep a smooth, flat look when closed

HARD ROLL-UP TRUCK BED COVER • The security of a hard rolling and flexibility of a soft rolling tonneau • Signature low-profile look • Opens from both sides of the truck • Supports 400 lbs

ROLL-UP UTILITY WITH A HARD COVER

QUALITY ROLL-UP AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

32 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

e Titanium is the ultimate combination of hard and soft in a truck bed cover, resulting in a stylish, low-profile, roll-up cover with

superior strength and toughness. ROLL-UP UTILITYWITH A HARD COVER ATTITUDE

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 2011 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited Rubicon Owner: Howard Babiuk

Location: Edmonton, Alberta Instagram: @edmontonsparky

Modifications & Accessories: - Custom 3 Link Long Arm Suspension with Fox Coilover Shocks - Air Bumps - PSC Hydraulic Steering Assist - Dynatrac Prorock 60 Front Axle - Dynatrac Prorock 80 Rear Axle - ARB Air Lockers - 40” Goodyear MTR Kevlar Tires - Trailready Bead Lock Rims - 6.2L LS with a 6L80 GM 6 Speed Automatic Transmission

Edmontonion Howard Babiuk’s 2011 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited Rubicon is best described in his own words: “Your dream ride is what you make of it. Mine is always evolving and I can’t see parting with it anytime soon.” After he bought his Jeep stock, he followed the advice he gives to those who ask which accessories to add first: “If you are buying a 4x4 to get out on the trails, the first thing I always recommend is a winch and quality recovery

gear.” Howard doesn’t have a single favourite brand, he has several: ”I believe in quality equipment that won’t let you down. Poison Spyder, Warn, Rigid Industries, Rhino Rack, Tepui, ARB are all at the top of my list. ”His favourite accessories are: “Of course, the latest ones. I love the ease of the roof top tent from Tepui and the Foxwing awning. Pop open the tent and it’s set up and ready to go.”

Howards’s Jeep is built to enjoy the outdoors. “We love to hang out with anyone who has a passion for the hobby, but we generally go out with a small core group of friends. It’s easier to get out and explore with a small group.“ ”Every year we take it down to Moab, Utah for Easter Jeep

- Atlas 2 speed Transfer Case - Poison Spyder Fender Flares - Poison Spyder Rock Rails - Poison Spyder Bumpers - 12,000 Warn Winch with Synthetic Line - Factor 55 Thimble

Safari and we spend the rest of our time exploring the Rocky Mountains.

We love finding the old trails into abandoned mining sites, getting a glimpse into the past.” Camping in the mountains can be risky: “Camping out 7,000 feet up a mountain when an early winter storm hit with 100 k/hr + wind gusts. That was the end of our summer ground tent.“ His plans are those of

- Roll cage and Seats - PRP 5 Point Harnesses

- ARB On-board Twin Air Compressor - Ram Mounts for iPad and iPhone - Pioneer Platform Rhino Rack, - Tepui Kukenam Roof Top Tent - C/W Annex - Rhino Rack Foxwing Awning - JW Speaker Headlights

a true outdoor adventurer: “We will be on the trails by Invermere this weekend, but looking forward to Easter Jeep Safari in the spring. We are hoping to hit the Rubicon Trail in California sometime in the next year or so.“

- Rigid Industries D2 LED Lights - Rigid Industries Single Row LED Light Bar - Poison Spyder Light Mounts

34 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 2012 Toyota Tundra 5.7L CrewMax 4x4 Owner: Matthew Hedderson Location: Spruce Grove, AB Instagram: @tundramax

TUNDRAMAX

Modifications & Accessories: - Revtek 2.5/1.25 Leveling Kit with Diff Drop Kit - APM Automotive Fiberglass Ram Air Hood with Functional Intake - 20x9 BMF Novakane Rims - 305/55 r20 Goodyear DuraTracs - Color Matched Bushwacker Fender Flares - Tri-fold Tonneau Cover - Retrofitted Headlights - LED Tail Lights - Custom Hydrodipped Interior - Black Custom Mesh Grille

In some ways Matthew Hedderson’s Dream Ride is more about the future than the past. His fondest memory of his 2012 Tundra is significant: “The day I took my baby boy home

from the hospital” in it. However, his plans tell the tale: “I plan to keep this truck for a very long time as I plan to change and build it with my son as he grows up.” Hedderson is building a Dream Ride Dynasty! His motto is “stock is boring” and we couldn’t agree more. Although he recommends that other drivers start with rims and tires, he didn’t buy his truck stock so he began differently: “The first thing I installed was a grille because I wanted to eliminate the chrome on the front and start colour matching black and white for my build.” He demonstrates his tech skills while describing his favourite accessory: “Headlights that I retrofitted with morimoto H1 6.0 projectors, gatlin gun shrouds, morimoto 35 watt 6000 k HIDs, RGB halos, RGB demon eyes, etched lens, klearz clear reflectors & TruLux black series switchbacks with custom black and white marble hydrodipping.”

- AMP Power Steps - TRD Dual Exhaust - Gatorback Mud Flaps - Katzkin Leather - Weathertech Floor Mats - 50” LED Light Bar - 20” LED Light Bar - BudBuilt Skid Plates - Anzo Tailgate Light Bar - Tinted Windows

The headlights became a real draw. They “really seemed to attract the most attention. People would compliment me about them and wanted pictures and info. I did the retrofit myself so that felt good to be recognized. A lot of people ask me to build them the exact set for their truck.” What he wants to add next is always changing. Right now, it’s a Magnuson Supercharger or “maybe even a 4”- 6” lift”. He also plans to “get more hydrodipping done on the inside and on his tail lights.” Matthew uses his Tundra for everything. Road trips, camping, off-roading, charity events and car/truck shows around the Edmonton area. Follow Matthew on Instagram for more photos of this beauty @tundramax.

- Hornblasters Conductor’s Special - Flush Mount Cubes Mounted in Rear bumper - Wrapped ram air scoop - Line-X Spray In-Box Liner and Undercoating - Toyota Window Ventvisors

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 35

OUR FA

Shout-out to our Fans and Followers who have built their Dream Vehicle. Thanks for showing us your ride! #raventruckaccessories and #northshoreoffroad for a chance to be featured in our next shout-out feature

#DreamGuideForDreamRides

Instagram @raventruckaccessories

Instagram @northshoreoffroad

2000 Ford F150 Flareside XLT Owner: Bill Armstrong Fort McMurray, Alberta Instagram: @fordfanforlife2000

1985 Jeep CJ-7 Owner: Derek Lippmann Langley, BC Instagram: @lippmann9302

2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Owner: Morgan Kopala Airdrie, Alberta Instagram: @_kopala

2016 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited Owner: Robbie Christie Prince George, BC Instagram: @robbb210

2016 Ram 1500 Sport Owner: Ron Davis Calgary, Alberta Instagram: @diffduck

36 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

N RIDES

Shout Out

2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Owner: Tessa Kopnitsky Calgary, Alberta Instagram: @operation_snowflake

2015 Jeep JKU Wrangler Sport Owner: Kathy Klunder Grande Prairie, Alberta Instagram: @mommabear01110

1973 FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser Owner: Jason Lutterman Sorrento, BC Shuswap Overland Adventures

2012 Ram 1500 Quad Cab Owner: Devin Adamache Midale, Saskatchewan Instagram: @megatronnnnnnnnnnnnn

2008 Ford F-150 FX4 Owner: Alisha Leedholm Calgary, Alberta Instagram: @squishylishy

2016 Chevy Colorado Trailboss Edition Owner: Jaymi Perez Bradenton, Florida Instagram: @projecttrailboss

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 37

38 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE

better. brighter. badass.

dual burn ™ headlights. new front turn signals. carbon fiber bezels. plug & Play fog lights.

Learn More At Www. jwspeaker.com/ J2SERIES

#JWSPEAKER

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 2015 Jeep Wrangler Owner: Chris Tsardoulias Location: Surrey, BC Instagram: @canadavapestoo

ZOMBICON

Chris Tsardoulias loves zombies and he loves his 2015 Jeep Wrangler, which, he calls “a Sahara becoming more than a Rubicon”. That’s why he calls it Zombicon. This Surrey, BC resident “grew up on dirt bikes since he was 5 years old” and “liked anything with a motor.” His Jeep “came with a base model lift and tires that will be upgraded to 6.5” coil overs from 4.5” and 38’s from 35’s” which proves the point that a true Dream Ride is never really finished, just always getting better.

Modifications & Accessories: - 4.5” Zone Off-road Lift - Smittybilt XRC Stinger Bumper - Smittybilt XRC Rock Sliders - 10,000 lb Warn Winch - Bushwhacker Flat Fender Flares - AFE Cold Air Intake - ARB Differential Cover - ARB Air Lockers - ARB Compressor - 20” LED Light - 4 Pods with a switch System - 20” Fuel Off-road Rims - 35” Hankook M/T Tires - Husky Liners Floor Mats - Fire Extinguisher Holder - Back Up Camera - Apple Stereo Custom Speakers and Amps - Compositor and Two 15” Subs - Custom NSOR T-Shirt Seat Covers

The first things that Chris had installed on Zombicon were “ARB Air Lockers and a Warn Winch so if I’m ever deep in water I can hopefully get myself out instead of hydro locking the motor again.” Clearly, he learns from experience and he recommends the same first mods for all off-roaders. Chris’ favourite accessory on his Jeep so far is his “$10,000 stereo with 2 15” subs”. He even states that the stereo is “why I got a 4 door” in the first place. Nomatterwherehe’sgoing, youcanhear Zombicon. Next, he plans to add “Dana 44 front axle with matching Air locker/gears”. This off-roader has joined the 4WDBC “because they actually do a lot for the world, cleaning up parks and doing fund raisers!” Chris loves to take Zombicon away from the city and he camps year-round in BC, with his favourite spot so far being: “top of east Harrison to the hot tubs.” His next road trip will be to “Idaho/Utah for sand dunes plus there are100 places to stop on the way.”

Driving is Chris’ true passion. He’s been driving a 5/7 ton truck for 6 years and is currently trying to get his class 1. He also has his motorcycle license. At just 24, he is a true enthusiast. His love for driving and vehicles led him to build his dream Jeep and Zombicon is only going to get bigger and badder.

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BUMPER TO BUMPER Poison Spyder has your JK covered.

BFH™ II FRONT BUMPERS

BRAWLER LITE™ FRONT BUMPER

BRAWLER™MID FRONT BUMPER

BRAWLER™ FULLWIDTH FRONT BUMPERS

B U M P E R S | A R M O R | F E N D E R S | R O C K E R S | C A G E S

P o i s o n S p y d e r . c o m

FEATURED VEHICLE

Year/Make/Model: 1984 Toyota 4Runner Owner: Brandon Thomas Location: Cochrane, Alberta Instagram: @showyourrideforbrandon

This Dream Ride is not like the others. It is a memorial for Brandon Thomas of Cochrane. Tragically, the life of this auto enthusiast and prodigy was taken at the young age of 17 by a drunk driver. Since that sad day of December 6, 2012, Brandon’s family and friends have done what he never got the chance to: they have accessorized his 1984 Toyota 4Runner just the way he wanted it. Since 2014, they have held an event called “Show Your Ride for Brandon” in Calgary as a way to honour his memory. This is the story of Brandon and his love of Dream Rides as told by his mother, Kim. “I believe Brandon was born with this passion. From the time he could crawl, he was forever playing with things on wheels. He had thousands of little Hot Wheels and if one was missing he knew it and would ask me where it was. As he got older, he could identify a vehicle on the road

just from the shape of the headlights. His sister taught him to ride a tricycle and from there he was very seldom on anything without wheels. He had many accidents. For example, he ripped out his front teeth while on his bike and he got a broken nose while riding his scooter. He rode his trike, bike, scooter, and then finally his passion for motorized vehicles began at age 6. Our neighbour, a backyard mechanic, was always in his garage working on vehicles and I would watch Brandon ride his bike around the cul-de-sac, stopping to talk to him from the sidewalk. Then, as the days went by, I would watch and Brandon would creep up onto the driveway and then finally into the garage, actually helping and learning the tools and how a vehicle worked. He also had a passion for fixing vehicles. From the time he was little he knew he was going to be a mechanic.

At age 13, he got a summer job in a small engine repair shop and he was never without a job after that. He worked all summer to have enough money to buy his first vehicle, a Toyota 4 Runner and he loved it. In no time, he was such a skilled driver that he could wheelie it and drive on two wheels, but not without the leaf springs breaking, which he quickly replaced. That 4Runner is parked in our driveway today. His next purchase was a BMW which he bought from a friend, then promptly traded in for a Jeep. He had a love/hate relationship with his Jeep: he loved to drive it and 4x4 with it and hated it when it broke down, which was all the time. I think that was mostly Brandon’s fault. I remember him taking the top off the Jeep, sitting in the driver’s seat with his long curly hair and crooked smile and waving as he drove away, off on another adventure. By age 14, he was changing rear ends and transmissions with his friends on our driveway. At age 16, he sold his Jeep and purchased his second dream vehicle, a world rally blue Subaru Imprezza WRX STI, which he owned for 4 months before he was killed in it.“ Both of the vehicles Brandon loved were bought already somewhat accessorized. “I think accessories are very personal and individual, I know Brandon thought so too; it depends what you are looking for from your ride and where you are going with it. There are so many amazing accessories to choose from that an owner has so many options for the desired effect. Regarding his own favourite add-ons, on his Toyota, his lift and big mud tires were what he liked best and on his car, he loved it all. Of all of the accessories his family and friends have added since he died, my favourite is a light bar which was made especially for him by Hanning LED. The Don’t Drink and Drive message is right on the light bar. Brandon was part of the Calgary Toyota 4x4 group as well as a couple of others. He loved going to car meets and Barlow at the time, although it has changed a lot since he has been gone. I do know that had Brandon had the chance to grow older, he would have been involved in many more. He LOVED the vehicle scene and the people in it. He would come home so happy and excited from these meets

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Show Your Ride for Brandon Event in Calgray, Alberta

and events. I never understood what was so special about them, but I would listen and smile and encourage his love and passion. Now, since Brandon has been killed, I understand his love for the car/truck world and the amazing people in it.

After Brandon was killed while driving his Imprezza in 2012, I barely functioned. In June of 2014, a lady called me whom I had never met, and said we should start a car show for Brandon, and Show Your Ride for Brandon (SYRFB) was born. Our 2014 event was planned in just over a month and was funded by Kayla, Brandon’s sister, and I and hosted by a few wonderful friends. That year, we had 152 vehicles and about 300 people. We were overwhelmed by the support from those who came to be with us. Our next event blew us all away. We started adding features such as a dyno and a sponsor banner, food trucks and prizes and more trophies. We added a planning committee and started asking sponsors to support us. The excitement and support was overwhelming and shocking, but heartwarming and heartbreaking too.

Our 2015 event saw over 600 vehicles and about 6000 people. Our 2016 event saw slightly fewer vehicles as it was extremely cold that day. Nevertheless, we had 536 vehicles and about 5000 people, again with amazing support from everyone. We were over- whelmed with gratitude for everyone’s involvement and encouragement. It takes every single person involved to make this event the huge success that it is, and every individual and company is important to us. Without every single aspect of this event, it wouldn’t be the huge success that it is. We are filled with gratitude for each and everyone involved, for all the support, commitment and love for Brandon, for our family and for this important message and cause embodied by Show Your Ride for Brandon. SYRFB has many purposes. Brandon had love and passion for every single ride, he had no favoritism and no bad words to say about someone else’s ride; he appreciated them all. One of Brandon’s friends told me that when he thought of Brandon the word Unity came to mind because he brought so many groups and people together. This is the unity we strive for in SYRFB. This event honours Brandon, his passion in life and his values, his acceptance of others no matter how big the differences between them. You didn’t have to be like Brandon to be liked by Brandon, he accepted everyone for who they were. This is one of the things we strive for, to bring everyone together to share a common love no matter what your ride is. Brandon was also extremely kind and giving, he was always there to lend a hand, a shoulder, a wrench or a few bucks (then he would come home and ask me for money!) This is why we chose SAIT and the students in the Mechanics Program as recipients for the scholarship. This is also why we chose Cochrane High School & the SYRFB Victims Fund. We chose MADD Canada because I know Brandon would never wish another life to be taken or another family to exist as we do now. Brandon dreamed of becoming a mechanic and opening his own performance shop. He was going to name his shop Cross Piston Performance, which is why we have the cross piston logo. Kayla and Brandon also share a tattoo on their backs between their shoulder blades in the form of crossed pistons. There are so many aspects to this event that mirror Brandon and the person that he was and still is. It raises awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and how it effects victims, families and communities. The ripple effect is huge. It also brings awareness to what may happen if you choose to drive impaired, and to what to do if you suspect you see an impaired driver and the reason to make that call to the police. It reminds us to stop a friend from getting behind the wheel while impaired or to think first if you are considering it yourself. I like to believe we are making an impact with this event and helping to spread the message and save others from death or a lifetime sentence of grief and pain. To everyone who makes the effort to be with us or support our event, not only do you give me, Kayla and Brandon the overwhelming gift of your love, but you all give us the gift of keeping a part of Brandon here, alive within all of your hearts and minds, and that is the greatest gift of all. You all are our heroes because without all of you, this event would not continue to grow and succeed. Thank you to each and every one of you.”

THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE 45

RECEIVER HITCHES AND WIRING

• Tongue capacity should also be consid- ered when mounting a hitch accessory such as a bike rack. For example: a Thule T2 Pro XT bike rack can carry up to 4 bikes and weigh approx 70lbs. Add 4 bikes @ 35lbs each, and the total weight being put on the tongue of the hitch climbs to over 200lbs.

tached to the hitch on your vehicle.

46 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE • The Tongue Capacity refers to how much weight you can put on the hitch itself, and is typically easily calculated as 10% of the trailer weight. A 5,000lb trailer typically has a tongue weight of 500lbs. TOWING & TONGUE WEIGHT CAPACITY • Receiver hitches are classed by weight rating, from Class 1 through Class 5, with the most popular being a Class 3. • The Towing Capacity refers to the weight of the trailer being towed. Example: a trailer with a total loaded weight of 5,000lbs, requires a hitch and towing vehicle designed for a minimum of 5,000lbs. Receiver hitches, also known as Trailer or Bumper pull hitches are the most common type of hitch installed on Cars, Trucks, SUV’s, Jeeps, & Minivans. Receiver hitches aren’t just for towing! They also give you the flexibility to mount a bike rack, off-road spare tire mount, storage boxes, extended rack mounts and more. Raven Truck Accessories and North Shore Off-Road store locations are equipped to provide you with professional installation for all of your hitch needs, ensuring you get on the road safely and securely. Check out the some of the common hitch related terms that will help you select the hitch setup that will work best for your needs:

• The experts at Raven and North Shore Off- road will help you select the Hitch Ball and Mount that best matches your trailer to your vehicle. HITCH WIRING If you plan on towing, you will need to ensure the vehicle is equipped with the necessary wiring to connect to your trailer. • The two most common types of trailer wiring are “4-Way Flat” or “7-way Round”. • 4-way Flat wiring is most common for lightweight trailers without electric brakes (Taillights / Right Turn Signal / Left Signal / Ground). • 7-way Round wiring is most com- mon for trailers with electric brakes. (Taillights / Right Turn Signal / Left Signal / Ground /Axillary Back-up / Electric Brakes / 12volt power). • If your vehicle is already equipped with 7-way wiring, but the trailer is equipped with a 4-way flat plug, we can supply you with an adapter that easily plugs into the 7-way wiring hole. Contact your nearest Raven Truck Accessories or North Shore Off-road store, and start enjoying the benefits of adding a hitch and hitch accessories before your next trip.

RECEIVER HOLE DIAMETER

The receiver hole open- ing can range in size from 1.25”, 2”, or 2.5”. • The most common size opening is 2” (Class 3 hitch).

• Class 1 and 2 hitches typically have a 1.25” hole opening. If you are mounting a bike rack to your hitch, we recommend installing a hitch with a 2” hole opening whenever possible. For example, many mid-size SUV’s and minivans can be fitted with a Class 1, 2 or 3 hitch…. we recommend installing the Class 3 with a 2” hole opening. This will provide a more stable platform for adding bike racks and other hitch mounted accessories.

HITCH BALL AND MOUNT

If your hitch is being used for towing a trailer, you will need a Hitch Ball and Mount.

• Always match a hitch ball with a weight rating equal to or greater than the maximum capacity of the hitch. • The height (or “drop”) of the mount must ensure that the trailer is level when at-

Written by Raven Managing Partner Steve Hagopian