Ford F-150 RaptorTrax is Ken Block's ultimate snowmobile

 

Even when Ken Block isn't starring in the latest Gymkhana video or tearing up Global RallyCross courses, he's finding new ways to redefine "awesome" as it applies to motorsports. For evidence of this, look no further than Block's latest Monster-badged creation, the Ford F-150 RaptorTrax.

Billed as the "world's fastest snowcat," the RaptorTrax started life as a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, and then a set of Mattracks were put in place where the truck's bead-locked wheels and meaty rubber once resided. The goal was to create a truck that made it easier – and presumably more fun – for Block and his buddies to hit the slopes on their snowboards. Aside from the obvious track upgrades, this truck also received a Whipple supercharger, full roll cage, Recaro seats, an in-bed snowboard rack, a roof basket and a rear-mounted winch – you know, just in case something or someone actually manages to get this truck stuck.

The RaptorTrax will be on display later this week at the Winter X Games in Apsen, CO, but we'll have to wait until next winter for a full Block-worthy video of the truck. A full press release from Hoonigan Racing Division is posted below, and a high-res image can be found by clicking above.

By Jeffrey N. Ross
Courtesy of http://www.autoblog.com/2014/01/21/ford-f-150-raptortrax-ken-block/

Beat the Heat with Summer Car Care

Summer is great time road trips and travelling. However, the heat can take a toll on your vehicle. If it breaks down while you’re on the road, you’ll either need to depend on roadside assistance or fend for yourself. Avoid such situations by following these summer maintenance tips:

Fluid Maintenance – the summer heat can really throw your car’s fluid systems for a loop. The higher temperatures can cause the fluid to expand and put greater stress on hoses and similar components. Your two main concerns will be coolant and oil. In the summer heat, your car will depend on coolant more than ever – so it’s important to inspect for leaks and make sure the levels are topped off. It’s also a good idea to change your oil and oil filter to help your car run smoothly. If you drive an older model car, you should ask your mechanic if you should switch to a thicker oil blend – which will offer better engine protection and will flow smoothly in the increased heat. This isn’t normally an issue for new car models or those using full synthetic blends.

Tire Check – tires are also affected by summer because the heat can increase the tire pressure by causing the air to expand. Maintaining the right tire pressure for your vehicle model is important. Too little tire pressure increases the chance of a blowout and the wear and tear the tire accumulates. Too much tire pressure reduces vehicle handling and traction. Both lower your vehicle’s MPG. Refer to your owner’s manual to make sure you are driving with the correct tire pressure (don’t forget to check your spare tire as well). If you are using winter tires, switch back to summer tires for optimal performance.

A/C Tune Up – While not important for keeping your vehicle running, A/C is important for keeping you comfortable. And summertime is when it will get the most use. There are many parts that can malfunction and lower your A/C output, including the condenser, compressor, valves, vents, and temperature sensors. You’ll want to make sure the entire system gets a professional inspection to avoid any problems through the summer.

Wiper Replacement – Depending on where you live, summer might be your region’s rainy season. The decreased visibility while driving in the rain can increase the risk of accident. But, a fresh pair of wiper blades can mitigate this. If it’s been many years since you changed your wiper blades, you’ll definitely notice a difference during your first downpour.

Courtesy of http://blog.poliseek.com/2012/08/24/beat-the-heat-with-summer-car-care/

Is Your Car Ready for Summer Holiday Travel?

With the Memorial Day Holiday weekend upon us and the summer vacation season fast approaching, a thorough inspection of your vehicle will give you peace of mind and help make your road journey safer, says the Car Care Council.

“If you are planning a road trip this summer, it’s important to remember that you shouldn’t just put gas in your car and go. A pre-trip vehicle check can determine how road-ready your vehicle is so you can take steps to have any problems fixed before heading out for vacation,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

Before you hit the road, the Car Care Council recommends conducting a vehicle inspection to help avoid the inconvenience and potential safety hazards of breaking down miles away from home.

• Schedule a tune-up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.
• Check the brake system and make sure the battery connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.        
• Check filters and fluids, including engine oil, antifreeze/coolant, windshield washer and power steering, brake and transmission fluids. Dirty air filters can waste gas and cause the engine to lose power.        
• Check the hoses and belts and replace if they become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Underinflated tires reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy and uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.        
• Check that the gas cap is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Courtesy of http://www.carcare.org/2013/05/is-your-car-ready-for-summer-holiday-travel/

Happy Birthday Bob Marley!!

Happy Birthday Bob Marley!!

Toys For Tots - Tenvoorde Ford | St. Cloud, MN Toy Drive

The Holiday Season is now upon us.  It’s a time for hot chocolate, warm fires, spending time with loved ones and is a season for giving.  By giving a toy to those who are less fortunate you are helping bring joy and excitement to a child on Christmas morning.  In the spirit of giving Tenvoorde Ford and Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center have teamed up with Toys for Tots and Catholic Charities to organize a Toys for Tots campaign.

We will be collecting new, unwrapped toys from our co-workers and from our community.  Each year there is an increasing amount of children in need which makes it even more important to donate to Toys for Tots.  This is why we are reaching out to all our co-workers and to the community to donate toys.  If you do not have time to shop for a toy a cash donation will also be accepted to purchase toys. 

Our collection point will be set up on our show floor.  Stop in from time to time and check out our progress.  Please encourage your co-workers, neighbors, church groups, family and friends to donate.  We will accept all the donations we can get.  Let’s see how special we can make this Holiday Season for someone less fortunate than ourselves.

With every toy donation Tenvoorde Ford and Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center will offer a $10.00 credit on your Owner Advantage Rewards (OAR) account.  It’s our way of saying thank you for your generosity.  The credit can be used toward future vehicle maintenance and repairs.  Toy donations will be accepted now through December 21^st. 

Tenvoorde Ford, Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center, Catholic Charities and Toys for Tots would like to thank you in advance for all of your efforts and donations.  We wish you and your family a safe and happy Holiday Season! 

Visit our website HERE for more information and directions