Ready To Head Up A Cleanup?
In the 35 to 40 years that I've subscribed to magazines of one sort or another, I've never been inspired to write into the editor. However, the letter in the October 2010 issue from Jacob Sanders about him and his dad picking up old tires in the desert really struck a chord with me. I'd appreciate you forwarding this letter to him:
Dear Jacob,
Kudos and many huzzahs to you and your dad. Your efforts to clean up the desert are commendable, but sadly a losing battle since there are way too many uncaring slobs out there. And it's not just tires-refrigerators, boats, propane bottles, household trash, cars, etc. Here are a few ideas that will better prepare you with more help for cleaning up other's junk next time.
Contact-or better yet-join an OHV club and organize a cleanup in your area. When your group partners with land-managing agencies (BLM, Forestry Service, Fish & Game) they will often make arrangements with trash disposal companies to provide roll-off at little or no cost.
Does your county have a trash cop? Check with your county and city offices and get them involved, too.
Put notices in your local newspaper and on local TV and radio stations inviting the public to participate. A promise of free food (burgers, 'dogs, and chili) after the work is done will always bring folks out to help.
The Bullhead 4 Wheelers has done a couple of these cleanups and has recorded as much as 14 tons of trash picked up in a single day. Typically there will be separate dumpsters for metal, old tires, and general trash. You'll find that motorized folks will show up in droves if the event is adequately advertised for a well-known OHV area. You might even have a few token greenies show up to help, as well.
Phil Strittmatter
Golden Valley, Arizona
Colorado Suspensions
I was reading in your latest magazine and really liked all the Chevy articles, especially the almost twin Silverados that were prerunner-styled. I do have one question for you, though, and it concerns my truck. I own a 2008 Chevy Colorado 2WD that I am running 31x10.50 on 15-inch wheels. Is there anything out there for this truck, like levelers, lifts, long-travel kits, or anything custom whatsoever?! Thanks, and keep up the good work.
Rusty
Moore, OK
Rusty- you're not the only one out there looking for Colorado/Canyon parts. We've gotten lots of inquiries about these. Unfortunately, the aftermarket didn't take to these trucks as well as some would have liked, but there are some companies out there making suspension parts for your Colorado.
For leveling kits, I'd have to assume that most leveling kit companies have something simple for a Colorado/Canyon.
For lift kits, try Tuff Country (www.tuffcountry.com) or Skyjacker (www.skyjacker.com)
If you're looking for increased suspension travel, I'd check out CST's kit (www.cstsuspension.com) or Brenthel's kit (www.bajakits.com).
Featuring Your Truck In The Mag
This is my current ride, The Sleeper. It has a 12-point 'cage front to rear, a 3.4L engine swap, long-travel suspension with 33-inch tires, and it still fits two dirt bikes or a snowmobile in the bed. There is way too much to list. I wanted it to appear stock, so no flashy paint or fiberglass. Maybe we can feature it in the mag sometime.
D. Ose
Thanks for writing in, D. Ose, and showing a good example of how to get in the mag. If anyone wants to see their truck in the magazine, and possibly used as a feature, all you have to do is email an image of the vehicle, along with a short description of it, to jerrod.jones@off-roadweb.com or jordan.may@off-roadweb.com.
Editor's Note: If you want to say or ask something, email Unloaded at jerrod.jones@off-roadweb.com or write to:
Unloaded, Off-Road Magazine,
1733 Alton Parkway,
Ste. 100, Irvine, CA 92606
Remember, we're giving away swag every month to the author of our favorite letter. Be sure to include your address, so we know where to send your goods. And because we lost our copyeditor, please know that we are not going to be copyediting your letter if you are going to be hating on us, so you better check it over well before sending it our way! Thanks!