Abstract: A rack extension device for use with an existing rack and pinion steering system and a suspension lift system. The rack extension device includes a second rack disposed beneath the original rack and adapted to receive the tie rods of the rack and pinion steering system so that the tie rods maintain their original geometry when the original rack is elevated. The present invention also includes a method for adapting a rack and pinion steering system having an original rack and tie rods for use with a suspension lift system. The method includes the steps of providing a second rack adapted to receive the tie rods, and mounting the second rack below the original rack so that the tie rods maintain their original geometry when the original rack is elevated by the suspension lift system.

Abstract: A winterfront of the present invention is adapted to fit over the radiator grill of a vehicle in order to restrict the flow of cold air through the radiator during cold weather. The winterfront is comprised of a molded ABS plastic cover which fits over the grill of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the winterfront includes a plurality of transverse ribs with apertures formed therebetween for providing the appearance of a radiator grill. In another embodiment, the winterfront has one large aperture formed in the middle portion of the winterfront. The winterfront is adapted to clip onto the radiator grill so that no drilling into the grill or vehicle is required.

Abstract: A bed rail cover for mounting to and protecting a vehicle bed rail. The bed rail cover is comprised of an integrally formed elongated rail cover having a top wall and two opposing side walls that are shaped to substantially conform to the exterior of the bed rail, and a fastening means for securing the rail cover to the bed rail about a stake hole pocket in the bed rail. In a preferred embodiment, a fastening clip having opposing wings is inserted through the rail cover and into a stake hole pocket, the wings being yieldably biased against the stake hole pocket to secure the rail cover in place. The fastening clip allows the rail cover to expand and contract in a longitudinal direction to prevent cracking and bulging of the rail cover.

Abstract: A vehicular body extension that includes an elongated running board and a flap seal disposed between the running board and a vehicle. The flap seal extends from and is hinged with the running board such that the flap seal is biased against the vehicle when installed.The invention also includes a method of installing the vehicular body extension to a mounting surface of a vehicle wherein the flap seal is aligned with and biased against the mounting surface.

Abstract: A windshield visor for mounting to the front portion of a vehicle cab, the visor having an integrally formed visor body with a plurality of recessed portions in its top surface. A plurality of caps are provided to substantially cover each of the recessed portions and form a cavity therebetween for housing a light fixture. The visor body attaches to the vehicle cab about the recessed portions, thereby allowing the caps to seal and protect both the mounting mechanism and optional light fixtures.

Abstract: A windshield visor which has a visor frame, a plurality of running lights formed on the visor frame, a translucent insert which fits within the visor frame, bonding member positioned between the translucent insert and the visor frame, and which preferably has the translucent visor insert in conforming relationship to the visor frame structure, and fitting wholly over all fastening means. In a preferred embodiment, the visor frame is a multicomponent, hollow monocoque frame.

Abstract: A windshield visor which has a visor frame, a translucent insert which fits within the visor frame, bonding member positioned between the translucent insert and the visor frame, and which preferably has the translucent visor insert in conforming relationship to the visor frame structure, and fitting wholly over all fastening means. In a preferred embodiment, the visor frame is a multicomponent, hollow monocoque frame.

Abstract: A rear air deflector is provided for vans, trucks, and sport utility vehicles having cargo doors which open side to side, and windows in the cargo doors. The deflector includes a pair of mirror image shield portions having outer ends which are secured to the window frame of the cargo doors with a bracket extending around the edge of the window. The inner ends of each shield portion are secured to the window frame with a stantion having a bracket extending over the top edge of the window for securement into the window frame. In an alternative embodiment, a unitary shield for use on vehicles having a swing-up rear door utilizes a single stantion pressfit with adhesive to the door window at the midpoint of the deflector, and mounting brackets at each end which wrap around the edge of the window for securement into the window frame.

Abstract: A rear air deflector is provided for vans, trucks, and sport utility vehicles having cargo doors which open side to side, and windows in the cargo doors. The deflector includes a pair of mirror image shield portions having outer ends which are secured to the window frame of the cargo doors with a bracket extending around the edge of the window. The inner ends of each shield portion are secured to the window frame with a stantion having a bracket extending over the top edge of the window for securement into the window frame. In an alternative embodiment, a unitary shield for use on vehicles having a swing-up rear door utilizes a single stantion pressfit with adhesive to the door window at the midpoint of the deflector, and mounting brackets at each end which wrap around the edge of the window for securement into the window frame.

Abstract: A fastener device is provided for mounting an air current deflector shield to the stiffener panel of the hood of a vehicle without making any holes in the hood. The device includes a substantially flat base member with a post extending downwardly therefrom. Double-stick adhesive tape adheres the base member to the hood. The posts are adapted to extend through corresponding apertures in the shield, and a securement clip engages the post so as to sandwich the shield between the base member and clip of the fastener device and prevent removal of the shield from the post. The clip can be removed from the post using the tip of a tool, such as a screwdriver.