The Sure Start™ acts as an adaptor while monitoring the charge level of the vehicle battery. The Sure Start now is retailing for $19.99.

The Sure Start plugs in to the 12-volt outlet in the vehicle cigarette lighter. If the battery reaches a charge level of 11.2 volts, the Sure Start automatically turns off the in-car accessory to protect the vehicle battery from over discharge.

"More in-car electronic devices are being used every day, from portable DVD players and computers to portable navigation systems," says Andrew Wirth, WirthCo Engineering, Inc. "It's more important than ever to have a 12-volt accessory that allows you to use the things you want and need in your vehicle, while protecting the charge level of your battery."

For more information or to order, call toll-free 800-959-0879, or send email to Andrew Wirth at [email protected].

NGK offering a monster of a prize

NGK Spark Plugs offers a special promotion to those purchasing NGK spark plugs and NTK oxygen sensors for vehicles they service or work on themselves.

Twenty technicians will win a trip for two to the Monster Jam NGK Spark Plugs World Finals on March 28 and 29 in Las Vegas. Technicians can earn one entry for each NGK spark plug and 10 entries for each NTK oxygen sensor they install through Jan. 31.

Each prize package includes airfare, hotel accommodations for a three-day, two-night stay and tickets to the championship event, plus a host of other prizes. Technicians can find complete program details and sign up for the contest at www.ngkpromotions.com.

Marketing & sales tips

TIP 1 When putting the packaging together for your next product, why not look at it? Sunpro's® 3 3/8-inch Sport ST™ and Super III™ tachometers now come in see-through packaging. "Presentation is critical to the purchasing process," explains Bart Ivic, marketing manager, Sunpro. "We want customers to see the whole thing so they understand how these scaled-down versions will fit inside their vehicle."

TIP 2 There's a simple solution to solve vibrating down pipes on exhausts. MBRP recommends locating the pinch weld on the firewall. Grab a small, sturdy shop hammer and carefully flatten the pinch weld securely against the firewall. This simple step will provide adequate clearance for the new down pipe and eliminate the vibration.

References

SOURCE: DiamondBack Truck Covers

DiamondBack Truck Covers has available for technicians and DIYers high-res videos on its Web site to aid in the installation of the bed cover kit.

DiamondBack Truck Covers www.diamondbackcovers.com (800) 935-4002 [email protected]

SOURCE: MITCHELL1 Manual

Mitchell1 offers a Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Guide with information on each manufacturer's system.

Mitchell1 www.mitchell1.com

SOURCE: Inspection report

CADNA Automotive has developed a new Belt Inspection Report sales tool for automotive aftermarket technicians. This checklist, which is provided to the vehicle owner by the technician, identifies the most common symptoms of belt failure. It includes images and details of the four most common warning signs and symptoms of belt failure.

CADNA (888) 757-8556