Product News

Cords Keep Gear Secure

Mini-Shockles are cords from six inches to two feet long that can be used to secure gear to an RV ladder or roof, stabilize awnings, hold trailer doors open, and perform lots of other tasks on camping trips. They are made of industrial-strength shock cord with strong tubular nylon webbing. Each end has an anodized marine-grade carabiner fastener.

The manufacturer says Mini-Shockles, which were developed for marine use, have many advantages over flimsy bungee cords, including durability and strength. They are load-tested to 600 pounds and stretch to twice their static length. They come in four colors at prices ranging from $8.45 to $9.95. For information, contact Simple Brilliant, P. O. Box 856, Hood River, OR 97031. Phone (888) 557-6464 or see www.shockles.com.

Strike-Hold Cleans and Lubricates

Developed two years ago for the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, Strike-Hold is a cleaner, lubricant and protectant that can be used on metals to maintain tools, weapons, machinery, vehicles and equipment. It is designed to remove rust, carbon and corrosion and leave behind a film to repel dust, dirt and moisture and protect against rust. It also can be used to remove rusty bolts and perform other chores that require lubrication. The user sprays the product on and then wipes the excess off with a dry rag.

Strike-Hold is a product of MPH System Specialties, 300 Seaboard Avenue, Suite B, Venice, FL 34285. For information, call (866) 331-0572 or see www.strike-hold.com.

Disposable Wipes Keep Grills Clean

Grate Chef Grill Wipes are designed to both clean nonstick grill grates and oil them for cooking. The disposable wipes consist of a non-flammable material loaded with cooking oil.

Users are directed to preheat the grill, use a grill brush to remove large debris, and then use the wipe in combination with the brush to strip away remaining residue and leave a sheen of oil. Cooking on a clean, well-oiled grill will leave distinct, delineated grill marks on meat and vegetables. Grill Wipes are a product of Grate Chef, P. O. Box 1504, Dacula, GA 30019. They are available at stores nationwide, including Home Depot, Lowe’s and Linens ‘n Things. For information, call (877) 900-8415 or see www.gratechef.com.

Sensors Monitor Tire Pressure

SmarTire has expanded its line of tire monitors to include motorhomes and trailers as well as towed vehicles. A wheel-mounted sensor/transmitter gauges tire pressure and temperature and conveys the information via radio frequencies to a receiver located near the driver. The monitor provides information on tire pressure, temperature and status. A bright warning light and audible alarm warn the driver of tire problems, including low pressure or high temperature.

For information about SmarTire monitors, contact SmarTire Systems, Suite 150, 13151 Vanier Place, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada V6V 2J1. Phone (604) 276-9884 or see www.smartire.com.

System Combines Cell, Landline Phones

A new system introduced by RCA enables cell phone users to make and receive cellular phone calls on their landline at home. The RCA Cell Phone Docking System has been developed by Atlinks, a subsidiary of Thomson, which owns the RCA brand.

The device is useful for people who want to use their cell phone minutes to make long-distance calls through their home phone system. Users can plug a landline wire into the docking system. To identify whether the call is coming in on the home telephone or the cell, the handset features different ring tones. The docking system also functions as a recharge cradle for the cell phone. With the device, two phones can be in use at the same time, with one person on the landline and another on the cell phone. Suggested retail price of the system is $149.99. For information, see www.rca.com