In order to keep mini-truck enthusiasts up to date on the myriad things happening in our sport from month to month on an inside angle, we present Inside Out. This forum is directly aimed at keeping our readers informed about items pertaining to the aftermarket as well as providing a vital link to what's happening at World Mini Truckin' Headquarters. This way, you'll know a little more of what's happening in our sport from an angle seldom seen.
Tire Wars Over?Ford Motor Company has reached an agreement with the state Attorney Generals representing each of the 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands related to the Bridgestone/Firestone tire recall of August 2000. Ford has been working with the states to resolve lingering concerns from the tire recall while taking actions to enhance consumer awareness of safety information and safe driving practices.
As a result of the agreement, Ford will lead the industry with new consumer information initiatives and funding for consumer education by the states with respect to all SUVs, not just those built by Ford. The agreement marks the end to all government investigations relating to the tire recall in the United States. In February 2002, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration closed its investigation of the Ford Explorer, concluding that that Explorer handles like comparable SUVs before, during, and after a tread separation.
Department of CorrectionsIn our Dec. '02 issue, we mistakenly stated in the coverage for the NOPI Southeastern Mini Truckin' Nationals held on June 28-30, 2002 that the two events held in Pigeon Forge during that weekend in previous years had merged into one event. This, we later found out, is untrue. Sandy Thacker runs the other show, previously held further down the main drag in Pigeon Forge. Her show was held in Pigeon Forge July 12-14. We offer our apologies for any confusion this mistake may have generated.
SSR One-offs?The first 25 SSRs produced will be coming in early 2003 as the Signature Series. These vehicles will be identical in appearance and have certain features not found on any other '03 model year SSR, such as ultraviolet paint, unique badging, and a special interior. These SSRs will also be used in a variety of high-profile activities around the country leading up to and following the start of regular production. Ultimately, all of the Signature Series SSRs (with the exception of VIN number 1) will be offered for sale through public or GM dealer auctions during 2003. To see where and when SSR Signature Series models will be next, go to www.chevrolet.com and sign up for SSR e-mail.
www.browsinaround.com.orgwww.showpimps.com A cool new Web site for the master pimpster in all of us.
www.gogettrucked.com/newwheels A brand-new Aussie mini-truck site from halfway around the world!
wwww.jpkustoms.com James Coorey's shop in Ohio now has an online home.
www.streetcource.com Still one of this editor's favorite custom vehicle sites!
Mini Truckin's Site of the Month:www.scc-media.com View the trailer for the first movie ever about our lifestyle with plenty of draggin'! Coming soon to a Wal-Mart near you.