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  • Joe Bacal Captures Second with Marathon Drive in Baja 1000

    Cancer Survivor Goes the Distance Solo in Punishing Race

    ENSENADA, Mexico, November 23, 2009 – After taking an “out of nowhere” victory at the Baja 500 earlier this season, cancer survivor and off-road rookie sensation Joe Bacal nearly stole the show again with an epic 27-hour drive in the Cancer Treatment Centers of America JTGrey Lexus LX 570 to finish runner-up in the 42nd running of the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 last Friday and Saturday.

    “It’s tough to narrowly miss the big prize, but just crossing the finish line in the biggest off-road race—and doing it after battling cancer—is a victory, both professionally and personally,” said Bacal. “Even after driving straight through the night, I felt good at the finish. I was dialed in and so was my Lexus—this was fun!”

    Bacal and navigator Gerald “Smitty” King stormed out of Ensenada at 11:59 Friday morning in the LX 570 and quickly settled into a comfortably quick pace, making good time early on. “King Shocks’ new suspension setup made the LX fast and easy to control,” observed Bacal. But the infamous Baja 1000 lived up to its reputation. Many competitors noted that it was one of the toughest in memory, with dust and visibility a near constant challenge that made passing a precarious process at best. “There were a number of times that I came up to pass slower cars and had to wait a long time because the dust was so heavy and going off course (to pass) was very risky.”

    Driving through the dark desert night without the dust presents its own set of visibility problems but Bacal credits the banks of KC HiLiTES on his Lexus for helping him through. “The big KCs really light up the desert,” he noted.

    Aside from scheduled stops for fuel, there were few other surprises as Bacal used his considerable off-road skills to keep the big Lexus out of trouble for most of the race. As in his previous races, the BF Goodrich tires never failed, but Bacal did have one mechanical issue that required two stops to finally sort as the pounding desert landscape took its toll. Another unscheduled stop to free the rig after getting stuck briefly and Bacal and King never looked back, arriving back in Ensenada in just over 27 hours.

    Their extraordinary effort was only the third race for Bacal and his Cancer Treatment Centers of America-sponsored team, but his consistently high finishes also earned him a remarkable second place in SCORE International’s driver points for the Stock Full class. “I think we surprised a lot of people with our racing program this year,” noted Bacal. “My team, sponsors and family also made huge contributions. Another special mention goes to Long Beach Racers for their excellent race support.”

    NBC Sports will provide delayed coverage of this year’s Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, currently scheduled to air on December 19 at 2:00 p.m. ET.

    For more information and updates on Joe Bacal, visit www.controlamidchaos.com.

    Bacal and the JTGrey team acknowledge the following companies for their outstanding products, services and support:

    • Cancer Treatment Centers of America (sponsor)
    • Lexus (LX 570)
    • BF Goodrich (tires)
    • Toyota Racing Development (wheels, performance parts)
    • King Shocks (suspension components)
    • KC HiLiTES (lighting)
    • Long Beach Racers (race support)
    • Head First Design (graphics and marketing support)
    • Old Man Emu (off road accessories)
    • Débaufré Swiss Watches
    • Sparco (seats, safety equipment)
    • Mechanix Wear
    • Chet Huffman Motorsports (expertise)
    • Geiser Brothers Racing (vehicle build and prep)
    • Powertank (CO2)
    • Zeal Optics (sunglasses)
    • IonEarth (global race positioning)

    About JTGrey:

    JTGrey Performance Driving, LLC was created in 2007 by Joe and Teresa Bacal to provide expert high-performance driving services (on and off-road) to the auto industry and related companies such as parts suppliers, print advertising and marketing agencies and the commercial and feature film industries, among others. The company is based in Phoenix, Arizona.

    JTGrey Racing was created by Joe and Teresa Bacal in 2008 to support Joe’s off-road racing efforts and is also based in Phoenix.

  • Cancer Survivor Joe Bacal to Drive Full Distance in Off-Road Racing’s Ultimate Test: The Baja 1000

    New Developments Position Team to Capture Off-Road’s Top Prize

    PHOENIX, November 16, 2009 – It’s said that preparation can make all the difference in challenging endeavors, and Joe Bacal and his JTGrey Racing Team have taken the idea straight to heart for the 42nd running of the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000—the toughest and most prestigious off-road race in the U.S.—set to start this Friday morning.

    Sponsored by Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Bacal began his rookie off-road racing season in June of this year with a remarkable victory in the Baja 500. He followed with a solid second-place finish at the Primm 300 in the new-to-racing Lexus LX 570 that, much like Hodgkin’s Lymphoma survivor Bacal, has proven durable and unrelenting. But Bacal knew there was more potential in the Stock Full-class Lexus to make it quicker and easier to drive in rough terrain, so the team spent useful time between races testing and developing various components with their eye on conquering Baja.

    “The Lexus has been tough as nails but we knew it had more to give,” said Bacal. “The new setup has transformed the performance and now I can’t wait to put it to the test.”

    Bacal also wanted an experienced Baja co-pilot at his side and so hired expert navigator Gerald (Smitty) King to guide him on the notorious race course. King is a veteran in the ultra-quick trophy trucks and is often requested by top desert racers.

    Physical and mental preparation is also critical for the grueling desert contest which, like previous events, Bacal plans to drive without relief; King will do the same. “Taking control is something I know well from my cancer experience,” noted Bacal. “You have to take charge and surround yourself with a great team to give yourself the best chance to win.”

    By virtue of his Baja 500 victory and Primm 300 podium, Bacal heads into the Baja 1000 second in points in SCORE’s Stock Full class with a legitimate shot at winning the 2009 championship. Bacal has also earned a “Rookie of the Year” nomination on SCORE’s “2009 Off-Roadsman of the Year” ballot.

    This year’s Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 will start at 6:30 a.m. EST on Friday, November 20 from Ensenada. NBC Sports will cover the event, currently scheduled to air on December 19 at 2:00 p.m. ET.

    For more information and updates on Joe Bacal, visit www.controlamidchaos.com.

    Bacal and the JTGrey team acknowledge the following companies for their outstanding products, services and support:

    • Cancer Treatment Centers of America
    • Lexus (LX 570)
    • BF Goodrich (tires)
    • Toyota Racing Development (wheels, performance parts)
    • King Shocks (suspension components)
    • KC HiLiTES (lighting)
    • Old Man Emu (off road accessories)
    • Débaufré Swiss Watches
    • Sparco (seats, safety equipment)
    • Mechanix Wear
    • Chet Huffman Motorsports (expertise)
    • Geiser Brothers Racing (vehicle build and prep)
    • Powertank (nitrogen)

    # # #

    About JTGrey:

    JTGrey Performance Driving, LLC was created in 2007 by Joe and Teresa Bacal to provide expert high-performance driving services (on and off-road) to the auto industry and related companies such as parts suppliers, print advertising and marketing agencies and the commercial and feature film industries, among others. The company is based in Phoenix, Arizona.

    JTGrey Racing was created by Joe and Teresa Bacal in 2008 to support Joe’s off-road racing efforts and is also based in Phoenix.

  • PSC is Official Steering of 2010 Griffin King of the Hammers

    JOHNSON VALLEY, CA, OCTOBER 23, 2009: Performance Steering Components, more commonly known as PSC Motorsports, and Hammerking Productions, Inc. are excited about announcing PSC as the Official Steering of the 2010 Griffin King of the Hammers. “PSC has always been a strong supporter of this race, and we are proud to have them as the Official Steering company,” said Jeff Knoll of Hammerking Productions.

    “This is the ultimate product development lab and proving ground. With the Ultra 4 vehicle rules basically leaving car design wide open, it has bread innovation. There is no pre-determined car design that dominates, which has fabricators scrambling to build what they vision as the perfect car,” said PSC owner Tom Allen. “It has definitely created what we refer to as “the better mousetrap syndrome.”’ Tom has been producing quality steering components for racing and offroad for over 26 years and PSC is now in its ninth year of business.

    PSC will be bringing a complete mobile steering shop with them and plenty of parts to Hammertown, USA in February. “We will have a complete staff that will do whatever it takes to get your vehicle turning,” explains Allen.

    PSC is also announcing the “Jokers Wild Last Chance Qualifier” opportunity to LCQ participants. Racers that did not obtain a starting position through LCQ will be given the opportunity to be entered into a drawing for the last starting position. The drawing will take place after the LCQ races are completed on Wednesday February 10th 2010. A container will be filled with playing cards plus one Joker. Total number of cards will equal the total number of entrants. Drivers will each draw one card, and the driver with the Joker will be awarded the final starting position. This position must be used by the drawing winner. If this team is unable to compete, an additional drawing may be held. To qualify for the PSC Jokers Wild Last Chance Qualifier, pre-registration is required. In addition, PSC product must be used on the race car and the car must display three PSC 4.5”x12” contingency decals – one on the roof, and one on each side of the car.

    For More Information on PSC Motorsports go to: www.pscmotorsports.com

  • Rough Country 97-06 Jeep TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kits

    Dyersburg, TN – Long arm performance is now available at an affordable price and it’s no surprise that Rough Country is the company to do it. The new 97-06 Jeep TJ long arm upgrade kit is available for TJ’s already lifted 4 to 6 inches. This kit delivers great features such as high clearance Y-link front design, high clearance four link design in the rear, rebuildable x-flex joints, and heavy duty quarter-inch steel control arm mounts. As always, all Rough Country kits include their 100% satisfaction guarantee and “If you have a problem, we will fix it” warranty.

    For more information about the new 97-06 Jeep TJ Long Arm Upgrade Kit, please contact Rough Country Suspension Products at http://www.roughcountry.com or call 800-222-7023 today! You may also contact Rough Country to find an authorized dealer near you, or visit the “Dealer Locator” link at http://www.roughcountry.com.

    About Rough Country:

    Formed in early 1970’s, Rough Country Suspension Products was one of the founders of the off-road industry and today is one of the fastest growing manufacturers and marketers of lifted suspension packages and off-road accessories for both 2wd and 4wd trucks and SUVs. Rough Country Suspension Products is owned by Heckethorn Products. Heckethorn Products has a storied history in the automotive aftermarket that includes inventing the first steering stabilizer for military Jeeps in the 1950s. As a complete supplier, Rough Country Suspension Products offers retailers, jobbers, and consumers an opportunity to purchase products the market is demanding.


  • AMSOIL Features Six New Products at SEMA 2009

    One of the highlights of the SEMA Show is the New Product Showcase featuring the latest innovations in performance, function and style. Because of the ever growing number of new products, the Showcase has outgrown its space and will be moved to a new location in the South Hall where the displays will be less cramped.

    For participating companies there is an array of awards up for grabs in a variety of award categories. Last year, AMSOIL took home one of ten 2008 SEMA Global Media Awards for an Injen/AMSOIL Intake System. Here is a quick overview of the six new products to be featured in this year’s Showcase.

    AMSOIL Synthetic Low-Viscosity Fuel Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid

    Formulated with the highest-quality components to exceed even the most stringent industry standards, AMSOIL introduced ATL in June. Today’s transmissions are smaller and smoother-shifting, with longer fluid life and heavier load capabilities than traditional transmission fluids are able to meet. Extended gear life, reduced leaks, rust control and anti-shudder additives are just some of the benefits of this fully fortified new product.

    AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 Premium API CJ-4 Diesel Oil

    Diesel owners of 2007 and newer engines now have the option of increased fuel economy and extended drain intervals, as well as overall better performance with AMSOIL 5W-40 Premium Synthetic Diesel Oil. Introduced in April of 2009, AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Oil has the wherewithal to endure the demands of modern diesel engines. It provides extraordinary lubrication for diesel engines found in fleet, commercial and personal vehicles while improving fuel economy.

    AMSOIL Synthetic Premium API CJ-4 15W-40 Diesel Oil

    Also introduced in the spring of 2009, AMSOIL 15W40 Premium Synthetic Diesel Oil brings another option for the 2007 and newer diesel engines. With its ability to withstand the stress of heat, soot and acids, this oil delivers unparalleled protection for today’s diesel market. Its low-sulfated ash formulation provides excellent performance in low-emission diesel engines, while controlling soot thickening and wear. Shear stability, reduced oil consumption and lower volatility help reduce emissions.

    AMSOIL Diesel Recovery Emergency Fuel Treatment

    Introduced in January, AMSOIL Diesel Recovery is a product every diesel owner should have on hand. This fuel additive is cheap insurance and provides peace of mind in the event of gelled diesel fuel and/or frozen fuel filters while getting diesel owners back on the road quickly. Diesel Recovery quickly dissolves the wax crystals that form when diesel fuel passes its cloud point. It liquefies gelled fuel and thaws frozen fuel filters, making it a must for the glove box of any diesel owner living or travelling in cold climates. Now available in larger container sizes.

    AMSOIL Synthetic Polymeric Heavy Duty Off-Road Grease

    Announced in October and designed to accommodate the tough demands of off-road applications, AMSOIL Synthetic Polymeric Off-Road Grease provides performance benefits specific to this market. Combining an over-based calcium-sulfonate complex thickener and polymeric technology, it provides maximum wear protection to meet Caterpillar’s requirements for pin and bushing applications. The tough new grease resists pound-out and extends service intervals with superior protection resulting in reduced lubricant, labor and equipment replacement costs.

    AMSOIL Injen Intake for 2007 ½ to 2009 Chevy Silverado 2500/3500 Duramax Diesel V8, 6.6L

    Last year’s AMSOIL/Injen submission to the SEMA New Product Showcase earned a Global Media Award, and this year AMSOIL is bringing back a new model for Best New Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product. 2007 ½-2009 Chevy Silverado owners with a 2500 or 3500 Duramax Diesel V8 6.6L now have the option of installing a more direct route for air intake systems. With the ability to improve gas mileage and increase performance, AMSOIL/Injen Intake systems have revolutionary Variable Induction Technology. The VI Technology process is a multi-power air induction system that fills the plenum with cool air, giving added power on demand. AMSOIL Ea filter technology offers long filter life while providing superior protection and maximum efficiency.

    Follow AMSOIL at SEMA via the AMSOIL Events blog, http://amsoilupdate.blogspot.com/

  • Klune-V “Extreme Underdrive”

    An “Extreme Underdrive” is an underdrive gearbox that bolts in place between the transmission and transfer case. We call it “Extreme,” because the underdrive multiplies your existing gear reduction by 2.7 times (“Goliath” model) or 4 times (“David” model), rather than a usual underdrive/splitter ratio of 1.2 times, or so. With a Klune-V installed. instead of simple high and low range, you get up to four complete transfer ranges:

    1. Both boxes in Hi;
    2. Klune in Hi, Tcase in Lo;
    3. Klune in Lo, Tcase in High;
    4. Both boxes in low.

    Gives your vehicle “tractor gears” It is intended for extreme four-wheel-drive applications, rather than towing or gear splitting in a big truck. It works equally well with both manual and automatic transmissions.

    Applications available for:

    • Jeeps, all, incl Wrangler, CJ, JK, Rubicon, Cherokee, Commander, J-Truck, etc
    • Ford Early Bronco
    • Ford Full Size (31 spline) Bronco and pickups
    • Chevy 4WD
    • Dodge 4WD, Gas, Cummins, whatever
    • Toyota Land Cruiser with 4sp, or with GM or Ford V8

    We have also seen Electric vehicle apps, 2WD apps, Industrial apps.

    More info, instruction manuals, articles, applications data, pictures, etc: http://www.high-impact.net/transmission_and_gear/extreme_underdrive_brochure.htm

    High Impact Wheels / Transmission & Gear
    Toll Free 888-898-4331
    www.high-impact.net