AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON OCTOBER 4, 2002
                                                     REGISTRATION NO. 333-
================================================================================
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                            ---------------------
                                   FORM S-4
                         REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
                            ---------------------
                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
            (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

                                                                
               DELAWARE                          3452                       38-2687639
 (State or other jurisdiction of     (Primary Standard Industrial        (I.R.S. Employer
  incorporation or organization)      Classification Code Number)     Identification Number)

                             ---------------------
                       39400 WOODWARD AVENUE, SUITE 130
                       BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MICHIGAN 48304
                                 (248) 631-5400
              (Address, including ZIP Code, and telephone number,
       including area code, of registrant's principal executive offices)
                             ---------------------
                      See Table of Additional Registrants
                            ---------------------
                           R. JEFFREY POLLOCK, ESQ.
                                GENERAL COUNSEL
                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                       39400 WOODWARD AVENUE, SUITE 130
                       BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MICHIGAN 48304
                                (248) 631-5400
(Name, address, including ZIP Code, and telephone number, including area code,
                             of agent for service)
                                with a copy to:

                          JONATHAN A. SCHAFFZIN, ESQ.
                            LUIS R. PENALVER, ESQ.
                            CAHILL GORDON & REINDEL
                                80 PINE STREET
                           NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10005
                                (212) 701-3000
                             ---------------------
     APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: AS SOON
AS PRACTICABLE AFTER THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT BECOMES EFFECTIVE.

     If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in
connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with
General Instruction G, check the following box.  [ ]

     If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 426(b) under the Securities Act, check the following and list
the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering.  [ ]

     If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering.  [ ]
                             ---------------------
                        CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


=================================================================================================================================
             TITLE OF EACH CLASS                                         PROPOSED         PROPOSED MAXIMUM         AMOUNT OF
             OF SECURITIES TO BE                     AMOUNT TO            MAXIMUM        AGGREGATE OFFERING       REGISTRATION
                  REGISTERED                       BE REGISTERED      PRICE PER UNIT          PRICE (1)             FEE (2)
                                                                                                   
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012.....    $352,773,000        99.214%             $350,000,000           $ 32,455.12
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guarantees of 9 7/8% Senior Subordinated
 Notes due 2012 .............................             (3)            (3)                      (3)                   (3)
=================================================================================================================================

(1)   Estimated solely for the purpose of computing the registration fee in
      accordance with Rule 457(f)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933, as
      amended (the "Securities Act").

(2)   Calculated pursuant to Rule 457(f)(2) under the Securities Act.

(3)   Pursuant to Rule 457(n), no registration fee is required with respect to
      the Guarantees.
                             ---------------------
     THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT
SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE
ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a), MAY
DETERMINE.
================================================================================



                            ADDITIONAL REGISTRANTS






                                          STATE OR OTHER      PRIMARY STANDARD
                                          JURISDICTION OF        INDUSTRIAL
     EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS         INCORPORATION OR      CLASSIFICATION      I.R.S. EMPLOYER
       SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER            ORGANIZATION         CODE NUMBER       IDENTIFICATION NO.
- -------------------------------------   ------------------   -----------------   -------------------
                                                                        
Arrow Engine Company                         Delaware              3510              38-2260420
Beaumont Bolt & Gasket, Inc.                   Texas               3452              74-1981259
Commonwealth Disposition LLC                 Delaware              9995                 NONE
Compac Corporation                           Delaware              2891              38-2773373
Consumer Products, Inc.                      Wisconsin             9995              39-6066719
Cuyam Corporation                              Ohio                3452              34-1433931
Di-Rite Company                                Ohio                9995              34-1295359
Draw-Tite, Inc.                              Delaware              3714              38-2935446
Entegra Fastener Corporation                 Delaware              3452              36-2753621
Fulton Performance Products, Inc.            Delaware              3714              39-1154901
Hitch'N Post, Inc.                          Delaware              3714              38-2935447
Industrial Bolt & Gasket, Inc.               Louisiana             3452              72-1212632
K.S. Disposition, Inc.                       Michigan              9995              38-3212114
Keo Cutters, Inc.                            Michigan              3541              38-3212119
Lake Erie Screw Corporation                    Ohio                3452              34-0660861
Lamons Metal Gasket Co.                      Delaware              3452              38-2337967
Louisiana Hose & Rubber Co.                  Louisiana             3050              72-0830993
Monogram Aerospace Fasteners, Inc.           Delaware              3728              95-4339614
Netcong Investments, Inc.                   New Jersey             9995              38-2388048
NI Foreign Military Sales Corp.              Delaware              3490              33-0151428
NI Industries, Inc.                          Delaware              3490              03-0452932
NI West, Inc.                               California             3490              95-1054621
Norris Cylinder Company                      Delaware              3412              33-0333261
Norris Environmental Services, Inc.         California             7380              33-0660922
Norris Industries, Inc.                     California             3412              33-0074968
Plastic Form, Inc.                           Delaware              3080              35-1964350
Reese Products, Inc.                          Indiana              3714              35-1789435
Reska Spline Products, Inc.                  Michigan              3541              38-3212121
Richards Micro-Tool, Inc.                    Delaware              3541              38-2641296
Rieke Corporation                             Indiana              3050              31-0934085
Rieke of Indiana, Inc.                        Indiana              9995              90-0044258
Rieke of Mexico, Inc.                        Delaware              3050              38-2251192
Rieke Leasing Co., Incorporated              Delaware              9995              38-2751413
TriMas Company LLC                           Delaware              9995                 NONE
TriMas Fasteners, Inc.                       Delaware              3452              38-3007015
TriMas Services Corp.                        Delaware              7380              38-2840227




[SIDEBAR]
THE INFORMATION IN THIS PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE
CHANGED. WE MAY NOT CONSUMMATE THE EXCHANGE OFFER UNTIL THE REGISTRATION
STATEMENT FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IS EFFECTIVE. THIS
PROSPECTUS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND IT IS NOT SOLICITING AN
OFFER TO BUY THESE SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT
PERMITTED.
[END SIDEBAR]



                             SUBJECT TO COMPLETION


                  PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS DATED OCTOBER 4, 2002


PROSPECTUS


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
        OFFER TO EXCHANGE ITS 9 7/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE 2012,
   WHICH HAVE BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED,
        FOR ANY AND ALL OF ITS 9 7/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE 2012.

                            ---------------------
                            TERMS OF EXCHANGE OFFER

 o     Expires 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on         , 2002 unless
       extended.


 o     Subject to certain customary conditions which may be waived by us.


 o     All outstanding 9 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012 that are
       validly tendered and not withdrawn will be exchanged.


 o     Tenders of outstanding notes may be withdrawn any time prior to the
       expiration of this exchange offer.


 o     The exchange of the outstanding notes will not be a taxable exchange for
       U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 o     We will not receive any cash proceeds from the exchange offer.


 o     The terms of the notes to be issued in exchange for the outstanding
       notes are substantially identical to the outstanding notes, except for
       certain transfer restrictions and registration rights relating to the
       outstanding notes.


 o     Any outstanding notes not validly tendered will remain subject to
       existing transfer restrictions.

     SEE "RISK FACTORS," BEGINNING ON PAGE 14, FOR A DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN
FACTORS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY HOLDERS BEFORE TENDERING THEIR OUTSTANDING
NOTES IN THE EXCHANGE OFFER.

     There has not previously been any public market for the exchange notes
that will be issued in the exchange offer. We do not intend to list the
exchange notes on any national stock exchange or on the Nasdaq National Market.
There can be no assurance that an active market for such exchange notes will
develop.

     Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the
adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is
a criminal offense.



                            ---------------------



                THE DATE OF THIS PROSPECTUS IS         , 2002.



                               TABLE OF CONTENTS






                                                                                          PAGE
                                                                                         -----
                                                                                      
Where you can find more information ..................................................      1
Forward-looking and other statements .................................................      1
Prospectus summary ...................................................................      3
Risk factors .........................................................................     14
Use of proceeds ......................................................................     23
Capitalization .......................................................................     24
Unaudited pro forma financial information ............................................     25
Selected historical financial data ...................................................     31
Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations      33
Business .............................................................................     42
Management ...........................................................................     54
Principal stockholders ...............................................................     61
Certain relationships and related party transactions .................................     63
The exchange offer ...................................................................     66
Description of credit facility .......................................................     74
Description of notes .................................................................     76
Certain united states federal income tax considerations ..............................    114
Plan of distribution .................................................................    117
Legal matters ........................................................................    117
Experts ..............................................................................    117
Index to financial statements ........................................................    F-1


                      WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

     Upon effectiveness of the registration statement of which this prospectus
is a part, we become subject to and will commence filing annual, quarterly and
special reports and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any
document that we file with the SEC at the SEC's public reference room at 450
Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for
further information on the public reference rooms. These SEC filings are also
available to you free of charge at the SEC's web site at http://www.sec.gov.


                      FORWARD-LOOKING AND OTHER STATEMENTS

     This prospectus contains "forward-looking" statements, as that term is
defined by the federal securities laws, about our financial condition, results
of operations and business. You can find many of these statements by looking
for words such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate"
and similar words used in this prospectus.

     These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions,
risks and uncertainties. Because the statements are subject to risks and
uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or
implied by the forward-looking statements. We caution readers not to place
undue reliance on the statements, which speak only as of the date of this
prospectus.

     The cautionary statements set forth above should be considered in
connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that
we or persons acting on our behalf may issue. We do not undertake any
obligation to review or confirm analysts' expectations or estimates or to
release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect
events or circumstances after the date of this prospectus or to reflect the
occurrence of unanticipated events.

     Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to vary materially
from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements included in this
prospectus include general economic conditions in the markets in which we
operate and industry-based factors such as:


                                       1


    o technological developments that could competitively disadvantage us;

    o our dependence on key individuals and relationships;

    o labor costs and strikes at our customers or at our facilities;

    o exposure to product liability and warranty claims;

    o increases in our raw material and energy costs;

    o compliance with environmental and other regulations; and

    o competition within our industries.

     In addition, factors more specific to us could cause actual results to
vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements
included in this prospectus such as substantial leverage, limitations imposed
by our debt instruments, our ability to identify attractive and other strategic
acquisition opportunities, our ability to successfully separate from Metaldyne
Corporation and to successfully integrate acquired businesses including actions
we have identified as providing cost-saving opportunities.


     We disclose important factors that could cause our actual results to
differ materially from our expectations under "Risk Factors," "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and
elsewhere in this prospectus. These cautionary statements qualify all
forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf.
When we indicate that an event, condition or circumstance could or would have
an adverse effect on us, we mean to include effects upon our business,
financial and other conditions, results of operations and ability to make
payments on the notes.


     We were acquired by Metaldyne (formerly Mascotech, Inc.) in January 1998
and Metaldyne did not report our results as a separate segment for 1998. As
such, certain statements in this prospectus that concern us for periods which
include 1998 are based upon our review of internal records and our best
estimates of certain data.


                                       2


                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

     This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this
prospectus. This summary does not contain all of the information you should
consider before investing in the notes. You should read this entire prospectus
carefully, including "Risk Factors" and our financial statements and the notes
to those financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. Unless the
context otherwise requires, all information in this prospectus which refers to
(i) the "Issuer" refers only to TriMas Corporation and (ii) the "Company" or
"we" or "our" refer to the Issuer and its subsidiaries. For purposes of this
prospectus, when we describe information on a pro forma basis, we are giving
effect only to those adjustments set forth under "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information."


                                  THE COMPANY

     We are a manufacturer of highly engineered products serving niche markets
in a diverse range of commercial, industrial and consumer applications. While
serving diverse markets, most of our businesses share important
characteristics, including leading market shares, strong brand names,
established distribution networks, high operating margins, and relatively low
capital investment requirements. We estimate that approximately 70% of our 2001
net sales were in U.S. markets in which we enjoy the number one or number two
market position within the respective product category. In addition, we
believe that in many of our businesses, we are one of only two or three
manufacturers.

     On June 6, 2002, an investor group led by Heartland Industrial Partners,
L.P. acquired 66% of our fully diluted common equity. Metaldyne Corporation,
our former parent, owns the remaining 34% of our fully diluted common equity.
As of September 30, 2002, Heartland owned approximately 55% of our fully
diluted common equity. We operated as an independent public company from 1989
through 1997. During such period, our sales increased through acquisitions and
organic growth from $221 million to $668 million and we experienced average
EBITDA margins in excess of 20% and average capital expenditure levels of less
than 5% of net sales. In 1998, we were acquired by Metaldyne and in
November 2000 Metaldyne was acquired by an investor group led by Heartland. In
early 2001, we hired a new senior management team to increase our operating
efficiency and develop a focused growth strategy. We believe that as an
independent company, we will be better able to capitalize on our core
manufacturing strengths and our significant cash flow generation capacity to
exploit growth opportunities.

     Our businesses are organized into three operating groups: Transportation
Accessories, Rieke Packaging Systems and Industrial Specialties.

    o TRANSPORTATION ACCESSORIES GROUP. This group is a leading designer and
      manufacturer of a wide range of accessory products used to outfit light
      trucks, SUV's, recreational vehicles, passenger cars, and trailers of all
      types including towing and hitch systems, trailer components, electrical
      products, brake and rack systems, and additional towing and trailering
      components. We benefit from strong brand names, including Draw-Tite,
      Reese, Fulton, Wesbar, Hayman-Reese and ROLA, that have broad customer
      recognition and are often perceived as the quality leader in their
      respective market categories. We believe we have the most extensive
      product lines in the industry. Our products are distributed through an
      established national network of independent installers as well as several
      retail outlets such as Wal-Mart, Lowe's, Pep Boys, AutoZone and West
      Marine. Our products are also distributed by both automotive and trailer
      original equipment manufacturers, or OEMs. In 2001, our Transportation
      Accessories group generated net sales of approximately $265 million and
      segment EBITDA of approximately $43 million.

    o RIEKE PACKAGING SYSTEMS GROUP. This group is a leading specialty
      manufacturer of engineered closures and dispensing systems for steel and
      plastic industrial and consumer packaging applications. Our brand names
      include Rieke, TOV, Englass and Stolz. We believe


                                       3


      that our Rieke Packaging Systems group has significant market share in
      many of its key product lines as a result of proprietary engineering and
      manufacturing technology, patent protected systems and strong customer
      relationships. We have over 25 patented or patent application pending
      systems or technologies. Approximately 50% of this group's 2001 net sales
      relate to value-added products based upon patented processes or
      technology. We believe this group has significant growth opportunities in
      the consumer products and pharmaceutical markets through the introduction
      of its industrial design technology to a range of consumer applications.
      Our customers include BASF, Chevron, Coca-Cola, Colgate, Dow Chemical,
      Pepsi, Proctor & Gamble, Sherwin Williams, Valvoline and Zeneca. In 2001,
      our Rieke Packaging Systems group generated net sales of approximately
      $105 million and segment EBITDA of approximately $34 million.

    o INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES GROUP. This group manufactures a diverse range of
      industrial products, such as cylinders, flame-retardant facings and
      jacketings, specialty tape products, industrial gaskets and precision
      tools, specialty fasteners and other products for use primarily in the
      automotive, aerospace, construction, commercial, energy and defense
      markets. Our companies and brands include Monogram Aerospace Fasteners,
      Entegra Fasteners, Lake Erie Screw, Compac Corporation, Norris Cylinders,
      Arrow Engine, Keo Cutters, Richard's Micro Tool and Precision
      Performance. This group supplies highly engineered and customer-specific
      products, provides value-added design and other services and serves small
      markets supplied by a limited number of companies. Our customers in this
      group include Air Liquide, Airgas, Anderson Windows, BOC, Boeing,
      Caterpillar, Dana, Delta Faucets, Exxon Mobil, Grainger, Honeywell, John
      Deere, Knauf and Shell. In 2001, our Industrial Specialties group
      generated net sales of approximately $363 million and segment EBITDA of
      approximately $55 million.


OPERATING AND GROWTH STRATEGY

     We will seek to enhance our cash flow and return on assets through the
following operating and growth strategies:

    o Capitalize on New Product Development Opportunities. Many of our
      businesses have a long history of successfully developing innovative
      products without the need for significant incremental capital investment.
      We work closely with our customers to identify new product opportunities.
      Once developed, new products benefit from our significant existing brand
      awareness and successful distribution networks. Examples of important new
      product extensions and innovations include towing accessories designed to
      carry increased weight and reduce load movement at high speeds,
      technically advanced cost-efficient caps, closures and dispensing
      systems, and unique one-sided aerospace fasteners for use on new,
      lightweight composite aircraft materials. We believe we have significant
      opportunities for future product development in many of our businesses.
      These opportunities include foaming dispensers and vented closure systems
      that preserve package integrity and allow beverage containers to resist
      shipping damage. Our management team has implemented systematic project
      selection and investment criteria and intends to make greater use of
      outside design, marketing and product development resources in order to
      foster innovation in high growth product categories.

    o Pursue Strategic Niche Acquisitions. We have a successful history of
      completing acquisitions having made over 25 since 1986. We believe we
      have significant opportunities for strategic acquisitions that will
      supplement existing product lines, add new distribution channels,
      increase production capacity, provide new cost-effective technologies,
      expand our geographic coverage or enable us to absorb overhead costs more
      efficiently. Our principal focus will be on product line extension and
      service enhancements for key customers. We believe that there are many
      relatively small (less than $100 million in sales), privately owned
      companies with limited product lines that lack the capital to grow their
      business independently or consolidate their respective markets and that
      these companies are likely to be attractive acquisition candidates.


                                       4


    o Continue to Aggressively Pursue Cost Savings Initiatives. In 2001, our
      new management team began the implementation of a detailed plan to
      reorganize us into three business groups and eliminate duplicative costs
      through a 9% headcount reduction, the consolidation of manufacturing and
      distribution facilities and the development of a comprehensive set of
      benefit programs to replace 20 different legacy plans. Our net cash
      investment to implement this program is expected to be $21.4 million, of
      which approximately $6.5 million has been incurred through June 30, 2002.
      We expect this program to result in annual cost savings of approximately
      $29 million by the second quarter of 2004. We have already implemented
      cost savings actions that we expect to result in approximately $16
      million in annual cost savings, or nearly 55%, of our total annual cost
      savings program goal. We believe that, as we implement our acquisition
      strategy, we will have additional opportunities to consolidate plants,
      distribution centers and sales forces and better absorb fixed costs.

    o Continue to Emphasize Strong Free Cash Flow. We have grown by making
      selective acquisitions using disciplined acquisition criteria that focus
      on high margin businesses in niche markets with relatively low capital
      requirements. We have maintained consistently high EBITDA margins in
      excess of 20% on average over the period of 1989 through 2001. Our
      capital expenditures averaged approximately 4.4% of net sales from 1990
      through 2001. As a result, we generated cumulative cash flow, or EBITDA
      minus capital expenditures, plus/minus changes in net working capital, of
      approximately $1.0 billion from 1990 through 2001.

    o Capitalize on Cyclical Recoveries. Several of our businesses sell into
      industrial markets that experienced cyclical volume declines during 2001
      as a result of general economic conditions as well as a sharp liquidation
      of industrial inventories. In response, management has aggressively
      pursued cost savings opportunities and projects and has reduced our
      operating costs. As a result, our EBITDA margins increased by
      approximately 1.3%, or a 7.0% improvement, for the first six months of
      2002 as compared with the first six months of 2001, despite lower sales.
      While the timing of a recovery in cyclical markets is uncertain, we
      believe that we are well positioned to experience further margin
      improvement if volume increases given our lower cost structure.
      Construction equipment, recreational vehicle and light and heavy duty
      truck sales, towing and trailering accessories, defense, aerospace and
      agricultural machinery are among the cyclical industries that we serve.

    o Leverage Economies of Scale and Utilize World Class Operating
      Practices. By increasing our scale, we will have opportunities to improve
      supply base management, internal sourcing of materials and selective
      out-sourcing of support functions, such as risk management, logistics and
      freight management. For example, management is introducing sophisticated
      supplier ranking systems, preferred vendor volume-for-price reduction
      programs and other strategies for reducing materials costs to the
      Transportation Accessories group's annual spending on materials which is
      spread among nearly 1,600 suppliers. In addition, the Transportation
      Accessories group has established a sales force to serve as "one-face" to
      its retail channel and to deliver a cohesive sales program and category
      management that represents the full portfolio of the Transportation
      Accessories group products.


RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

     On June 6, 2002, Metaldyne and Heartland consummated a stock purchase
agreement under which Heartland and other investors invested approximately $265
million in us and acquired approximately 66% of our fully diluted common stock.
As a result of the investment and other transactions described below, Metaldyne
received $840 million in the form of cash, retirement of debt we owed to
Metaldyne or owed by us under the Metaldyne credit agreement and the repurchase
of the balance of receivables we originated and sold under the Metaldyne
receivables facility. Metaldyne retained shares of our common stock valued at
$120 million. In addition, Metaldyne received a warrant to purchase 750,000
additional shares of our common stock valued at $15 million. The


                                       5


common stock and warrants are valued based upon the cash equity investment made
by Heartland and the other investors. Heartland and Metaldyne presently own
approximately 55% and 34% of our fully diluted common stock, respectively.

     To effect the transactions contemplated by the stock purchase agreement,
we entered into a senior credit facility consisting of a $150 million revolving
credit facility and a $260 million term loan facility and a $125 million
receivables facility, issued the original notes and raised $265 million in cash
through the issuance of common stock. We used borrowings under our credit
facility and proceeds from the original notes offering to repay borrowings made
by our subsidiaries under the Metaldyne credit agreement in November 2000, to
repay certain debt that our subsidiaries owed to Metaldyne and its other
subsidiaries and to repurchase receivables balances we originated and sold
under the Metaldyne receivables facility. Prior to the closing of the
transactions contemplated by the stock purchase agreement, we declared and paid
a cash dividend equal to the difference between the $840 million and the
aggregate amount of such debt repayment and receivables repurchase. We also
issued the warrant as a dividend. We were released from all of our obligations
under the Metaldyne credit agreement in connection with the transactions. See
the information under the headings "Description of Credit Facility" and
"Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions." We refer to the June 6,
2002 common equity issuance to Heartland and the related financings as the
"transactions."


                                       6


                         SUMMARY OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER


The Exchange Offer..........   We are offering to exchange $1,000 principal
                               amount of our 9 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes
                               due 2012, which have been registered under the
                               Securities Act, for $1,000 principal amount of
                               our outstanding 9 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes
                               due 2012, which were issued in a private offering
                               on June 6, 2002. As of the date of this
                               prospectus, there are $352,773,000 principal
                               amount at maturity of outstanding notes. We will
                               issue exchange notes promptly after the
                               expiration of the exchange offer.


Registration Rights.........   You are entitled to exchange your outstanding
                               notes for freely tradeable exchange notes with
                               substantially identical terms. The exchange offer
                               is intended to satisfy your exchange rights.
                               After the exchange offer is complete, you will no
                               longer be entitled to any exchange or
                               registration rights with respect to your
                               outstanding notes. Accordingly, if you do not
                               exchange your outstanding notes, you will not be
                               able to reoffer, resell or otherwise dispose of
                               your outstanding notes unless you comply with the
                               registration and prospectus delivery requirements
                               of the Securities Act, or there is an exemption
                               available.


Resales.....................   We believe that the exchange notes issued in
                               the exchange offer may be offered for resale,
                               resold or otherwise transferred by you without
                               compliance with the registration and prospectus
                               delivery requirements of the Securities Act,
                               provided that:

                               o  you are acquiring the exchange notes in the
                                  ordinary course of your business;

                               o  you are not participating, do not intend to
                                  participate and have no arrangement or
                                  understanding with any person to
                                  participate in a distribution of the exchange
                                  notes; and

                                o you are not an "affiliate" of ours.

                               If you do not meet the above criteria you will
                               have to comply with the registration and
                               prospectus delivery requirements of the
                               Securities Act in connection with any reoffer,
                               resale or other disposition of your exchange
                               notes.

                               Each broker or dealer that receives exchange
                               notes for its own account in exchange for
                               outstanding notes that were acquired as a result
                               of market-making or other trading activities
                               must acknowledge that it will deliver this
                               prospectus in connection with any sale of
                               exchange notes.


Expiration Date.............   9:00 a.m., New York City time, on   , unless we
                               extend the expiration date.


                                       7


Conditions to the
 Exchange Offer..............  The exchange offer is subject to certain
                               customary conditions, which may be waived by us.
                               The exchange offer is not conditioned upon any
                               minimum principal amount of outstanding notes
                               being tendered.


Procedures for Tendering
 Outstanding Notes..........   If you wish to tender outstanding notes, you
                               must complete, sign and date the letter of
                               transmittal, or a facsimile of it, in accordance
                               with its instructions and transmit the letter of
                               transmittal, together with your notes to be
                               exchanged and any other required documentation,
                               to The Bank of New York, who is the exchange
                               agent, at the address set forth in the letter of
                               transmittal to arrive by 9:00 a.m., New York City
                               time, on the expiration date. See "The Exchange
                               Offer-- Procedures for Tendering Outstanding
                               Notes." By executing the letter of transmittal,
                               you will represent to us that you are acquiring
                               the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your
                               business, that you are not participating, do not
                               intend to participate and have no arrangement or
                               understanding with any person to participate in
                               the distribution of exchange notes, and that you
                               are not an "affiliate" of ours. See "The
                               Exchange Offer--Procedures for Tendering
                               Outstanding Notes."


Special Procedures for
Beneficial Holders..........   If you are the beneficial holder of outstanding
                               notes that are registered in the name of your
                               broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or
                               other nominee, and you wish to tender in the
                               exchange offer, you should contact the person in
                               whose name your outstanding notes are registered
                               promptly and instruct such person to tender on
                               your behalf. See "The Exchange Offer--Outstanding
                               Notes."


Guaranteed Delivery
 Procedures..................  If you wish to tender your outstanding notes and
                               you cannot deliver such notes, the letter of
                               transmittal or any other required documents to
                               the exchange agent before the expiration date,
                               you may tender your outstanding notes according
                               to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth
                               in "The Exchange Offer--Guaranteed Delivery
                               Procedures."


Withdrawal Rights...........   Tenders may be withdrawn at any time before
                               9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the expiration
                               date.


Acceptance of Outstanding
 Notes and Delivery of
 Exchange Notes..............  Subject to certain conditions, we will accept for
                               exchange any and all outstanding notes which are
                               properly tendered in the exchange offer before
                               9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the expiration
                               date. The exchange notes will be delivered
                               promptly after the expiration date. See "The
                               Exchange Offer--Terms of the Exchange Offer."


                                       8


Certain Federal Income Tax
 Considerations.............   The exchange of outstanding notes for exchange
                               notes will not be a taxable event for federal
                               income tax purposes. You will not recognize any
                               taxable gain or loss as a result of exchanging
                               outstanding notes for exchange notes, and you
                               will have the same tax basis and holding period
                               in the exchange notes as you had in the
                               outstanding notes immediately before the
                               exchange. See "Certain Federal Income Tax
                               Considerations."


Use of Proceeds.............   We will not receive any proceeds from the
                               issuance of the exchange notes


Exchange Agent..............                         is serving as exchange
                               agent in connection with the exchange offer. The
                               address, telephone number and facsimile number of
                               the exchange agent are set forth in "The Exchange
                               Offer--Exchange Agent."


                                       9


                         SUMMARY OF THE EXCHANGE NOTES

     The summary below describes the principal terms of the exchange notes. The
form and terms of the exchange notes are substantially identical to the form
and term of the original notes, except that we will register the exchange notes
under the Securities Act, and therefore, the exchange notes will not bear
legends restricting their transfer. Certain of the terms and conditions
described below are subject to important limitations and exceptions. The
"Description of Notes" section of this prospectus contains a more detailed
description of the terms and conditions of the exchange notes.


Issuer......................   TriMas Corporation.


Securities Offered..........   $352,773,000 in aggregate principal amount of
                               9 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012.


Maturity....................   June 15, 2012.


Interest....................   9 7/8% per annum, payable semi-annually in
                               arrears on June 15 and December 15, commencing
                               December 15, 2002.


Guarantees..................   All payments on the exchange notes, including
                               principal and interest, will be jointly and
                               severally guaranteed on a senior subordinated
                               unsecured basis by each of our existing and
                               future domestic restricted subsidiaries that is a
                               guarantor or direct borrower under our credit
                               facility.


Ranking.....................   The exchange notes and the guarantees will
                               rank:

                               o   junior to all of our and the guarantors'
                                   existing and future senior indebtedness and
                                   secured indebtedness, including any
                                   borrowings under our credit facility;

                               o   equally with any of our and the guarantors'
                                   future unsecured senior subordinated
                                   indebtedness, including trade payables;

                               o   senior to any of our and the guarantors'
                                  future indebtedness that is expressly
                                   subordinated in right of payment to the
                                   notes; and

                               o   effectively junior to all of the liabilities
                                   of our subsidiaries that have not guaranteed
                                   the notes.

                               At June 30, 2002, the exchange notes and the
                               guarantees would have ranked junior to:

                                o   approximately $260.0 million of senior
                                    indebtedness; and

                                o   other liabilities, including trade payables
                                    but excluding intercompany obligations, of
                                    our non-guarantor subsidiaries.



Optional Redemption.........   We may redeem the exchange notes, in whole or
                               in part, on or after June 15, 2007, at the
                               redemption prices set forth in this prospectus
                               plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the
                               date of redemption. In addition, at any time on
                               or prior to June 15, 2005, we may redeem up to
                               35% of the exchange


                                       10


                               notes at 109.875% of principal amount, plus
                               accrued and unpaid interest, with the net
                               proceeds of certain equity issuances, provided
                               at least 65% of the original aggregate principal
                               amount of the exchange notes remains outstanding
                               immediately after such redemption.


Change of Control...........   Upon the occurrence of a change of control, we
                               will be required to make an offer to purchase
                               each holder's exchange notes at a price equal to
                               101% of the principal amount, plus accrued and
                               unpaid interest, if any, to the date of purchase.


Restrictive Covenants.......   The exchange notes will be issued under an
                               indenture with The Bank of New York, as trustee.
                               The indenture governing the notes will limit the
                               ability of the Issuer and its restricted
                               subsidiaries to, among other things:

                               o   incur or guarantee additional indebtedness;

                               o   pay dividends or make other distributions or
                                   repurchase or redeem our stock;

                               o   make investments;

                               o   sell assets;

                               o   create liens;

                               o   enter into agreements restricting our
                                   restricted subsidiaries' ability to pay
                                   dividends;

                               o   enter into transactions with affiliates; and

                               o   consolidate, merge or sell all or
                                   substantially all of our assets.

                               These covenants are subject to important
                               exceptions and qualifications, which are
                               described under the heading "Description of
                               Exchange Notes" in this prospectus.

                             ---------------------
     TriMas Corporation is a Delaware corporation. Our principal executive
offices are located at 39400 Woodward Avenue, Suite 130, Bloomfield Hills,
Michigan 48304. Our telephone number is (248) 631-5400.


                                       11


                       SUMMARY HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA

     The following table sets forth our summary historical financial data for
the five years ended December 31, 2001 and the six months ended June 30, 2001
and 2002. The financial data for the fiscal years ended December 31, 1999, 2000
and 2001 have been derived from our audited combined financial statements and
notes to those financial statements included in this prospectus, which have
been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants. The
financial data for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 was derived from our
audited consolidated financial statements not included in this prospectus. The
financial data for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998 was derived from our
unaudited combined financial statements not included in this prospectus.


     The selected information for the six months ended June 30, 2001 and 2002
have been derived from our unaudited interim combined/consolidated financial
statements and the notes to those financial statements which, in the opinion of
management, include all adjustments, which are normal and recurring in nature,
necessary for the fair presentation of that data for such periods.


     In reviewing the following information, it should be noted that there is
significant non-comparability across historic periods. On June 6, 2002,
Metaldyne issued approximately 66% of our fully diluted common equity to an
investor group led by Heartland. We did not establish a new basis of accounting
as a result of this common equity issuance, due to the continuing contractual
control by Heartland. Our combined financial information for the periods prior
to June 6, 2002 includes allocations and estimates of direct and indirect
Metaldyne corporate administrative costs attributable to us, which are deemed
by management to be reasonable but are not necessarily reflective of those
costs to us on an ongoing basis. Prior to June 6, 2002, we were owned by
Metaldyne. On November 28, 2000, Metaldyne was acquired by an investor group
led by Heartland. The pre-acquisition basis of accounting for periods prior to
November 28, 2000 are reflected on the historical basis of accounting and all
periods subsequent to November 28, 2000 are reflected on a purchase accounting
basis and are therefore not comparable. In January 1998, we were acquired by
Metaldyne and established a new basis of accounting as a result of this
acquisition. Prior to January 1998, we operated as an independent public
company.






                                                 PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                               ---------------------------------------------------------
                                    YEAR           YEAR
                                    ENDED          ENDED       YEAR ENDED
                                DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,    1/1/2000-
                                    1997          1998(1)         1999       11/27/2000
                               -------------- -------------- -------------- ------------
                                                    (in thousands)
                                                                
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales ....................    $667,910       $707,180       $773,100      $739,590
Cost of sales ................     447,940        475,550        519,610       514,570
                                  --------       --------       --------      --------
Gross profit .................     219,970        231,630        253,490       225,020
Selling, general and
 administrative ..............     106,270        122,370        134,560       130,490
                                  --------       --------       --------      --------
Operating profit .............     113,700        109,260        118,930        94,530
Net income (loss)(2) .........      66,370         41,650         35,300        21,280
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
Depreciation and amortization     $ 25,680       $ 31,780       $ 38,520      $ 38,400
Capital expenditures .........      28,560         39,200         42,320        19,540
Cash flow from (used by)
 operations ..................      83,820         77,170         55,980       113,430
EBITDA(3) ....................     139,380        141,040        158,060       133,700




                                              POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                               -----------------------------------------------------
                                                             SIX MONTHS   SIX MONTHS
                                               YEAR ENDED       ENDED       ENDED
                                 11/28/2000   DECEMBER 31,    JUNE 30,     JUNE 30,
                                -12/31/2000       2001          2001         2002
                               ------------- -------------- ------------ -----------
                                                  (in thousands)
                                                             
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales ....................   $ 50,640      $ 732,440      $396,040    $ 392,230
Cost of sales ................     36,490        537,410       286,160      273,930
                                 --------      ---------      --------    ---------
Gross profit .................     14,150        195,030       109,880      118,300
Selling, general and
 administrative ..............     13,200        127,350        66,880       66,210
                                 --------      ---------      --------    ---------
Operating profit .............        950         67,680        43,000       52,090
Net income (loss)(2) .........     (4,150)       (11,320)       (1,140)     (26,730)
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
Depreciation and amortization    $  4,540      $  53,780      $ 26,880    $  21,930
Capital expenditures .........      3,260         18,690        10,430       13,590
Cash flow from (used by)
 operations ..................     18,710         75,980        28,990      (57,910)
EBITDA(3) ....................      5,490        124,660        71,480       75,740


                                       12





                                            AS OF
                                        JUNE 30, 2002
                                       --------------
                                    
SELECTED BALANCE SHEET DATA:
 Cash and cash equivalents .........     $   13,220
 Working capital ...................        124,340
 Total assets ......................      1,337,630
 Total debt ........................        610,020
 Shareholders' equity ..............        393,060


- ----------
(1)   Metaldyne acquired us in January 1998. Financial results for the 21 days
      prior to Metaldyne's acquisition have not been included because the
      results were determined on a different accounting basis. Results of
      operations for the first 21 days of January were as follows: sales --
      $35.9 million; operating profit -- $4.9 million.

(2)   Effective January 1, 2002, we adopted SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other
      Intangible Assets," and discontinued amortization of goodwill. See Note 3
      to the audited combined financial statements and unaudited interim
      financial statements, respectively, for the effect on net income (loss)
      of excluding amortization expense related to goodwill that will no longer
      be amortized. We completed the transitional test for impairment of
      goodwill in the second quarter of 2002, which resulted in a non-cash
      after-tax charge of $36.6 million related to our industrial fasteners
      business.

(3)   EBITDA-related information is defined as operating profit before
      depreciation and amortization and legacy restricted stock award expense.
      EBITDA-related information is presented in the manner as defined herein
      because we believe it is a widely accepted financial indicator of a
      company's ability to service and/or incur indebtedness. However,
      EBITDA-related information should not be considered as an alternative to
      net income as a measure of operating results or to cash flows as a
      measure of liquidity in accordance with generally accepted accounting
      principles. Because EBITDA-related information is not calculated
      identically by all companies, the presentation in this prospectus is not
      likely to be comparable to those disclosed by other companies.


                                       13


                                  RISK FACTORS

     You should carefully consider each of the risks described below, together
with all of the other information contained in this prospectus, before deciding
to invest in the notes.


RISKS RELATED TO OUR BUSINESS

OUR BUSINESSES DEPEND UPON GENERAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND WE SERVE SOME
CUSTOMERS IN HIGHLY CYCLICAL INDUSTRIES.

     Our financial performance depends, in large part, on conditions in the
markets that we serve, and on the U.S. and global economies generally. Some of
the industries that we serve are highly cyclical, such as the automotive,
construction, industrial equipment, energy, aerospace and electrical equipment
industries. We have experienced a downturn and reduction in sales and margins
as a result of recent recessionary conditions. While we have undertaken a
consolidation and cost reduction program to mitigate the effect of these
conditions, we may be unsuccessful in doing so and such actions may be
insufficient. The present uncertain economic environment may result in
significant quarter-to-quarter variability in our performance. Furthermore, we
note that sales by our Transportation Accessories group are generally stronger
in the first and second quarters, as distributors and retailers acquire product
for the spring selling season. Any sustained weakness in demand or continued
downturn or uncertainty in the economy generally would have a material adverse
effect on us.

OUR PRODUCTS ARE TYPICALLY HIGHLY-ENGINEERED OR CUSTOMER-DRIVEN AND, AS SUCH,
WE ARE SUBJECT TO RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CHANGING TECHNOLOGY AND MANUFACTURING
TECHNIQUES, WHICH COULD PLACE US AT A COMPETITIVE DISADVANTAGE.

     We believe that our customers rigorously evaluate their suppliers on the
basis of product quality, price competitiveness, technical expertise and
development capability, new product innovation, reliability and timeliness of
delivery, product design capability, manufacturing expertise, operational
flexibility, customer service and overall management. Our success will depend
on our ability to continue to meet our customers' changing specifications with
respect to these criteria. We must remain committed to product research and
development, advanced manufacturing techniques and service to remain
competitive. We cannot assure you that we will be able to address technological
advances or introduce new products that may be necessary to remain competitive
within our businesses. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that we can adequately
protect any of our own technological developments to produce a sustainable
competitive advantage.

WE MAY BE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY ATTRACTIVE ACQUISITION CANDIDATES, SUCCESSFULLY
INTEGRATE OUR ACQUIRED OPERATIONS OR REALIZE THE INTENDED BENEFITS OF OUR
ACQUISITIONS.

     One of our growth strategies is to pursue selective strategic acquisition
opportunities. We intend to continually evaluate potential acquisitions, some
of which could be material, and engage in discussions with acquisition
candidates. There can be no assurance that suitable acquisition candidates will
be identified and acquired in the future, that the financing for any such
acquisitions will be available on satisfactory terms or that we will be able to
accomplish our strategic objectives as a result of any such acquisition. Nor
can we assure you that our acquisition strategies will be successfully received
by customers or achieve their intended benefits. Often acquisitions are
undertaken to improve the operating results of either or both of the acquiror
and the acquired company and we cannot assure you that we will be successful in
this regard. We will encounter various risks in acquiring other companies,
including the possible inability to integrate an acquired business into our
operations, diversion of management's attention and unanticipated problems or
liabilities, some or all of which could materially and adversely affect us.

WE DEPEND ON THE SERVICES OF KEY INDIVIDUALS AND RELATIONSHIPS, THE LOSS OF
WHICH WOULD MATERIALLY HARM US.

     Our success will depend, in part, on the efforts of our executive officers
and other key employees. Some of our senior management was recently hired to
pursue our new strategies and business objectives. Despite their business
experience, our businesses will present new challenges for them and


                                       14


we cannot assure you of their success. Our future success will also depend on,
among other factors, our ability to attract and retain other qualified
personnel. The loss of the services of any of our key employees or the failure
to attract or retain employees could have a material adverse effect on us. In
addition, our largest stockholder, Heartland, provides us with valuable
strategic, operational and financial support, the loss of which could
materially adversely affect us.

WE WILL RELY UPON METALDYNE FOR IMPORTANT TRANSITION SERVICES AND WE MAY
ENCOUNTER CERTAIN DIFFICULTIES IN SEPARATING FROM METALDYNE.

     We may encounter certain challenges and difficulties in separating from
Metaldyne. We entered into a corporate services agreement with Metaldyne for
valuable services, including human resources support, risk management,
management information systems, treasury and audit services, and other critical
administrative and management functions and services. The agreement expires in
June 2003. Upon the expiration of the agreement or if Metaldyne is unable to
provide these services for any reason, we will need to replace the services. We
do not know whether we will be able to replace or contract for these services
on similar or more favorable economic terms and what cost may be incurred in
the transition to another situation. In addition, Metaldyne is a party to many
ordinary course contracts from which we have derived benefits in the past.
Metaldyne and we have agreed to provide one another with the benefits of these
contracts to the extent practicable. In general, these contracts can be
replaced, but we may encounter costs or additional expense in doing so. Of
particular note, we benefit from certain volume purchase agreements with
suppliers of steel, other materials and energy by aggregating our purchases
with Metaldyne. As of June 6, 2002, Metaldyne owns approximately 34% of our
fully diluted common stock and Heartland appointed a majority of the Metaldyne
board of directors. Accordingly, should Metaldyne materially reduce its equity
interest in us or Heartland cease to control Metaldyne, it may impact the
continuity and quality of the services we are provided and our ability to
realize continued joint purchasing benefits.

WE MAY BE SUBJECT TO WORK STOPPAGES AT OUR FACILITIES OR OUR CUSTOMERS MAY BE
SUBJECTED TO WORK STOPPAGES, WHICH COULD SERIOUSLY IMPACT THE PROFITABILITY OF
OUR BUSINESS.

     As of December 31, 2001, approximately 13.4% of our work force was
unionized. If our unionized workers were to engage in a strike, work stoppage
or other slowdown in the future, we could experience a significant disruption
of our operations, which could have a material adverse effect on us. In
addition, if a greater percentage of our work force becomes unionized, our
business and financial results could be materially adversely affected. Many of
our direct or indirect customers have unionized work forces. Strikes, work
stoppages or slowdowns experienced by these customers or their suppliers could
result in slowdowns or closures of assembly plants where our products are
included. In addition, organizations responsible for shipping our customers'
products may be impacted by occasional strikes staged by the Teamsters Union.
Any interruption in the delivery of our customers' products could reduce demand
for our products and could have a material adverse effect on us.

WE MAY INCUR MATERIAL LOSSES AND COSTS AS A RESULT OF PRODUCT LIABILITY AND
WARRANTY CLAIMS THAT MAY BE BROUGHT AGAINST US.

     We face an inherent business risk of exposure to product liability claims
in the event that the use of our current and formerly manufactured or sold
products results, or is alleged to result, in bodily injury and/or property
damage. We cannot assure you that we will not experience any material product
liability losses in the future or that we will not incur significant costs to
defend such claims. We cannot assure you that our product liability insurance
coverage will be adequate for any liabilities that may ultimately be incurred
or that it will continue to be available on terms acceptable to us. In
addition, if any of our products are or are alleged to be defective, we may be
required to participate in a government-required or manufacturer-instituted
recall involving such products. Our Transportation Accessories business has
historically experienced product liability claims as to towing products in the
ordinary course of business. A successful claim brought against us in excess of
our available insurance coverage or a requirement to participate in a product
recall may have a materially adverse effect on our business. In the ordinary
course of our business, contractual disputes over warranties can also arise. In
addition, we are party to lawsuits related to asbestos contained in gaskets


                                       15


formerly manufactured by one of our Industrial Specialties group subsidiaries.
We cannot assure you that these or other liabilities or claims will not
increase or otherwise have a material adverse effect upon us. See
"Business--Legal Proceedings" for a discussion of these lawsuits.

OUR BUSINESS MAY BE MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS
AND LIABILITIES UNDER ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS.

     We are subject to federal, state, local and foreign environmental, and
health and safety, laws and regulations that:

    o affect ongoing operations and may increase capital costs and operating
      expenses in order to maintain compliance with such requirements; and

    o impose liability relating to contamination at our facilities, and at
      other locations such as former facilities, facilities where we have sent
      wastes for treatment or disposal, and other properties to which we (or a
      company or business for which we are responsible) are linked. Such
      liability may include, for example, investigation and clean-up of the
      contamination, personal injury and property damage caused by the
      contamination, and damages to natural resources. Some of these
      liabilities may be imposed without regard to fault, and may also be joint
      and several (which can result in a liable party being held responsible
      for the entire obligation, even where other parties are also liable).

     We are legally or contractually responsible or alleged to be responsible
for the investigation and remediation of contamination at various sites, and
for personal injury or property damages, if any, associated with such
contamination. Our subsidiaries have been named as potentially responsible
parties under the Federal Superfund law or similar state laws in several sites
requiring cleanup related to disposal of wastes we generated. These laws
generally impose liability for costs to investigate and remediate contamination
without regard to fault and under certain circumstances liability may be joint
and several resulting in one responsible party being held responsible for the
entire obligation. Liability may also include damages to natural resources.
Certain of our subsidiaries have entered into consent decrees relating to two
sites in California along with the many other co-defendants in these matters.
We have incurred substantial expenses for all these sites over a number of
years, a portion of which has been covered by insurance. In addition to the
foregoing, our businesses have incurred and likely will continue to incur
expenses to investigate and clean up existing and former company-owned or
leased property. Additional sites may be identified at which we are a
potentially responsible party under the federal Superfund law or similar state
laws.

INCREASES IN OUR RAW MATERIAL OR ENERGY COSTS OR THE LOSS OF A SUBSTANTIAL
NUMBER OF OUR SUPPLIERS COULD AFFECT OUR FINANCIAL HEALTH.

     Generally, our raw materials requirements are obtainable from various
sources and in the desired quantities. While we currently maintain alternative
sources for raw materials, our businesses are subject to the risk of price
fluctuations and periodic delays in the delivery of certain raw materials,
component parts and specialty fasteners. Under supply contracts for steel of
varying terms, Metaldyne has established the prices at which we will jointly
purchase certain of our steel requirements. We, either alone or with Metaldyne,
may not be able to renegotiate future prices under those contracts at prices
favorable to us, depending on industry conditions. In addition, a failure by
our suppliers to continue to supply us with certain raw materials or component
parts on commercially reasonable terms, or at all, would have a material
adverse effect on us. Our energy costs are a substantial element of our cost
structure. To the extent there are energy supply disruptions or material
fluctuations in energy costs, our margins could be materially adversely
impacted.

WE MAY EXPERIENCE INCREASED COMPETITION AND INCREASED COSTS DUE TO COMPLIANCE
WITH THE FASTENER QUALITY ACT.

     The Fastener Quality Act of 1990 regulates the manufacture, importation
and distribution of certain high-grade industrial fasteners in the United
States. The Fastener Act, which was amended in June 1999, requires some
testing, certification, quality control and recordkeeping by the


                                       16


manufacturers, importers and distributors of such fasteners. As a result, lower
barriers to entry, particularly for foreign firms, created additional
competitive pressures from new market participants. We may therefore lose
customers and could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, we, along
with other fastener suppliers, are required to maintain records and product
tracking systems. We have tracking and traceability systems, which, to date,
have not materially increased expenses. However, there can be no assurance that
future regulations will not result in materially increased costs for us.

A GROWING PORTION OF OUR SALES MAY BE DERIVED FROM INTERNATIONAL SOURCES, WHICH
EXPOSES US TO CERTAIN RISKS.

     Approximately 11% of our net sales for the fiscal year ended December 31,
2001 was derived from sales by our subsidiaries located outside of the United
States and we may significantly expand our international operations through
acquisitions. Sales outside of the United States, particularly sales to
emerging markets, are subject to other various risks which are not present in
sales within U.S. markets, including governmental embargoes or foreign trade
restrictions such as antidumping duties, changes in U.S. and foreign
governmental regulations, tariffs and other trade barriers, the potential for
nationalization of enterprises, foreign exchange risk and other political,
economic and social instability. In addition, there are tax inefficiencies in
repatriating cash flow from non-U.S. subsidiaries. To the extent such
repatriation is necessary for us to meet our debt service or other obligations,
this will adversely affect us.

WE ARE CONTROLLED BY HEARTLAND, WHOSE INTERESTS IN OUR BUSINESS MAY BE
DIFFERENT THAN YOURS.

     Heartland and its affiliates own a majority of our common stock and are
able to control our affairs. Our entire board has been, directly or indirectly,
designated by Heartland and a majority of the board is associated with
Heartland. In addition, Heartland controls Metaldyne, which owns approximately
34% of our fully diluted common stock. As described elsewhere and in another
risk factor, we will have material ongoing relationships with both Heartland
and Metaldyne. You should consider that the interests of Heartland and
Metaldyne will likely differ from yours in material respects. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Party Transactions."


RISKS RELATED TO THE EXCHANGE NOTES

WE HAVE SUBSTANTIAL DEBT AND INTEREST PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS THAT MAY RESTRICT
OUR FUTURE OPERATIONS AND IMPAIR OUR ABILITY TO MEET OUR OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE
EXCHANGE NOTES.

     We have indebtedness that is substantial in relation to our stockholders'
equity. As of June 30, 2002, we had approximately $610 million of outstanding
debt and approximately $393.1 million of shareholders' equity. The degree to
which we are leveraged will have important consequences, including the
following:

    o our ability to obtain additional financing in the future for working
      capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, business development efforts
      or general corporate purposes may be impaired;

    o a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations will be dedicated
      to the payment of interest and principal on our indebtedness, thereby
      reducing the funds available to us for other purposes, including our
      obligations to pay rent in respect of our significant operating leases;

    o our operations are restricted by our debt instruments, which contain
      material financial and operating covenants, and those restrictions will
      limit, among other things, our ability to borrow money in the future for
      working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, rent expense or
      other purposes;

    o indebtedness under our credit facility and the financing cost associated
      with our accounts receivable facility are at variable rates of interest,
      which makes us vulnerable to increases in interest rates;


                                       17


    o our leverage may place us at a competitive disadvantage as compared with
      our less leveraged competitors;

    o our substantial degree of leverage will make us more vulnerable in the
      event of a downturn in general economic conditions or in any of our
      businesses; and

    o our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business
      and the industry in which we operate may be limited.

     We expect to incur significant additional debt in pursuit of our
acquisition strategies and our debt instruments may permit us to do so. Our
ability to service our debt and other obligations will depend on our future
operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions
and financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our
control. Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow, and future
financings may not be available to provide sufficient net proceeds, to meet
these obligations or to successfully execute our business strategies. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations--Liquidity and Capital Resources."

RESTRICTIONS IN OUR CREDIT FACILITY AND UNDER THE INDENTURE GOVERNING THE
EXCHANGE NOTES LIMIT OUR ABILITY TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS.

     Our credit facility and the indenture governing the exchange notes contain
covenants that restrict our ability to:

    o pay dividends or redeem or repurchase capital stock;

    o incur additional indebtedness and grant liens;

    o make acquisitions and joint venture investments;

    o sell assets; and

    o make capital expenditures.

     Our credit facility also requires us to comply with financial covenants
relating to, among other things, interest coverage and leverage. In addition,
our accounts receivable facility contains covenants similar to those in our
credit facility and include requirements regarding the purchase and sale of
receivables. We cannot assure you, however, that we will be able to satisfy
these covenants in the future or that we will be able to pursue our new
business strategies within the constraints of these covenants. If we cannot
comply with these covenants, we will be in default and unable to access
required liquidity from our revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities
and unable to make payments in respect of the notes. In addition, our accounts
receivable facility contains concentration limits with respect to the
percentage of receivables we can sell from any particular customer. The
concentration limits are based on the credit ratings of each particular
customer. We may implement credit hedging strategies to offset this risk.
However, if one or more of our customers were to have its credit ratings
downgraded, then the amount of receivables of such customer that we could sell
may decrease and our business could be materially adversely affected.

     Our ability to comply with our covenants may be affected by events beyond
our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions.
The breach of our covenants could result in an event of default under our
credit facility or under the indenture governing the exchange notes, which
could cause an event of default under our accounts receivable facility and our
equipment lease financing. Such breach would permit the lenders to declare all
amounts borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued
interest, and the commitments of the lenders to make further extensions of
credit under our credit facility could be terminated. In addition, such breach
may cause a termination of our accounts receivable facility and of our various
sale-leaseback facilities. If we were unable to secure a waiver from our
lenders or repay our credit facility indebtedness, our secured lenders could
proceed against their collateral and our lessors could prevent us from using
our valuable facilities and equipment that are under lease. We do not presently
expect that alternative sources of financing will be available to us under
these circumstances or available on attractive terms.


                                       18


YOUR RIGHT TO RECEIVE PAYMENT ON THE EXCHANGE NOTES IS JUNIOR TO THE RIGHT OF
THE HOLDERS OF ALL OF OUR EXISTING SENIOR INDEBTEDNESS AND POSSIBLY TO ALL OF
OUR FUTURE BORROWINGS.

     The exchange notes are general unsecured obligations, junior in right of
payment to all of our existing senior indebtedness, including indebtedness
under our credit facility, and all of our future borrowings, except any future
indebtedness that expressly provides that it ranks equally with, or is
subordinated in right of payment to, the notes. As a result, upon any
distribution to our creditors in a bankruptcy, liquidation, reorganization or
similar proceeding relating to us or our property, the holders of our senior
indebtedness will be entitled to be paid in full in cash before any payment may
be made with respect to the notes. In addition, all payments on the exchange
notes will be blocked in the event of a payment default on senior indebtedness
and may be blocked for up to 179 of 360 consecutive days in the event of
certain non-payment defaults on designated senior indebtedness.

     In the event that we are declared bankrupt, become insolvent or are
liquidated, reorganized or involved in a similar proceeding, holders of the
exchange notes will participate with trade creditors and all other holders of
our subordinated indebtedness in the assets remaining after we have paid all of
the senior indebtedness. The indenture governing the exchange notes requires
that amounts otherwise payable to holders of the exchange notes in a bankruptcy
or similar proceeding be paid to holders of any remaining senior indebtedness
instead. In any of these cases, our assets may be insufficient to pay all of
our creditors, and holders of the exchange notes are likely to receive less,
proportionally, if any, than holders of our senior indebtedness, including the
lenders under our credit facility. We may be permitted to incur substantial
additional indebtedness, including senior indebtedness, in the future, under
the terms of the indenture governing the exchange notes.

YOUR RIGHT TO ENFORCE REMEDIES IS LIMITED BY THE RIGHTS OF SECURED CREDITORS,
AND CLAIMS OF HOLDERS OF EXCHANGE NOTES WILL EFFECTIVELY RANK JUNIOR TO CLAIMS
OF SECURED CREDITORS AND CLAIMS OF CREDITORS OF OUR FOREIGN SUBSIDIARIES.

     In addition to being subordinated to our senior indebtedness, the exchange
notes are not secured by any of our assets. Our obligations under our credit
facility are secured by substantially all of our owned assets and those of our
subsidiary guarantors and a pledge of the capital stock of each guarantor and
65% of the capital stock of our first tier foreign subsidiaries. If we become
insolvent or are liquidated, or if payment under our credit facility is
accelerated, the lenders under our credit facility would be entitled to
exercise the remedies available to a secured lender under applicable law.
Therefore, our bank lenders or other secured creditors have a claim on our
assets before holders of the exchange notes.

     In addition, only our domestic subsidiaries that also guarantee our
obligations or are borrowers under the credit facility guarantee the exchange
notes. This includes all of our domestic subsidiaries other than our
receivables subsidiary. However, we have significant non-U.S. assets and
operations. For the year ended December 31, 2001, our non-guarantor
subsidiaries had net sales of approximately $91.7 million and net assets of
approximately $107.0 million.

WE MAY BE PREVENTED FROM FINANCING, OR MAY BE UNABLE TO RAISE FUNDS NECESSARY
TO FINANCE, THE CHANGE OF CONTROL OFFER REQUIRED BY THE INDENTURE GOVERNING THE
EXCHANGE NOTES.

     Upon certain change of control events, each holder of outstanding exchange
notes may require us to purchase all or a portion of our exchange notes at a
purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and
unpaid interest, if any, to the date of purchase. Our ability to purchase the
exchange notes upon a change of control event may be prohibited by the terms of
our credit facility or future credit facilities. Future agreements may contain
a similar provision. Certain change of control events will constitute events of
default under our credit facility and termination events under our accounts
receivable facility and, absent a consent or waiver, we would be required to
repay all amounts owed by us under our credit facility and wind down our
accounts receivable facility. We cannot assure you that we would be able to
repay amounts outstanding under our credit facility or replace our accounts
receivable facility. Any requirement to offer to purchase any outstanding
exchange notes may result in us having to generate cash from new borrowings or
asset sales, and


                                       19


having to refinance other debt or obtain necessary consents under our other
debt agreements to repurchase the exchange notes, which we may not be able to
do. In such case, our failure to purchase exchange notes following a change of
control would constitute an event of default under the indenture governing the
exchange notes which would, in turn, constitute a default under our credit
facility. In addition, even if we were able to refinance such debt, such
financing may be on terms unfavorable to us.

FEDERAL AND STATE STATUTES ALLOW COURTS, UNDER SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, TO VOID
GUARANTEES AND REQUIRE HOLDERS OF EXCHANGE NOTES TO RETURN PAYMENTS RECEIVED
FROM GUARANTORS.

     Creditors of any business are protected by fraudulent conveyance laws
which differ among various jurisdictions, and these laws may apply to the
issuance of the guarantees by our subsidiaries. A guarantee may be voided by a
court, or subordinated to the claims of other creditors, if

    o that guarantee was incurred by a subsidiary with actual intent to
      hinder, delay or defraud any present or future creditor of the
      subsidiary, or

    o that subsidiary did not receive fair consideration, or reasonably
      equivalent value, for issuing its guarantee, and the subsidiary

      -- was insolvent or was rendered insolvent by reason of issuing the
         guarantee,

      -- was engaged or about to engage in a business or transaction for which
         the remaining assets of the subsidiary constituted unreasonably small
         capital, or

      -- intended to incur, or believed that it would incur, debts beyond its
         ability to pay as they matured.

     We cannot be certain as to the standard that a court would use to
determine whether the guarantor subsidiaries were solvent upon issuance of the
guarantee or, regardless of the actual standard applied by the court, that the
issuance of the guarantee of the exchange notes would not be voided. If a
guarantee of a subsidiary was voided as a fraudulent conveyance or held
unenforceable for any other reason, holders of the exchange notes would be
solely our creditors and creditors of our other subsidiaries that have
guaranteed the exchange notes. The notes then would be effectively subordinated
to all obligations of that subsidiary. Since we are a holding company, if all
guarantees were voided, that would result in the holder of exchange notes
having claims that would not be paid prior to substantially all of the other
debt and liabilities of the consolidated group of entities. To the extent that
the claims of the holders of the exchange notes against any subsidiary were
subordinated in favor of other creditors of such subsidiary, such other
creditors would be entitled to be paid in full before any payment could be made
on the notes. If one or more of the guarantees are voided or subordinated, we
cannot assure you that after providing for all prior claims, there would be
sufficient assets remaining to satisfy the claims of holders of the exchange
notes.

     In addition, the dividend paid to Metaldyne in connection with the
transactions is itself subject to challenge as a fraudulent conveyance if it
were determined that we were insolvent. Based upon financial and other
information, we believe that the exchange notes and the guarantees are being
incurred for proper purposes and in good faith and that we are and each
subsidiary is solvent and will continue to be solvent after this offering is
completed, will have sufficient capital for carrying on its business after such
issuance and will be able to pay its debts as they mature. We cannot assure
you, however, that a court reviewing these matters would agree with us. A legal
challenge to a guarantee on fraudulent conveyance grounds may focus on the
benefits, if any, realized by the subsidiary as a result of our issuance of the
exchange notes.

YOU CANNOT BE SURE AN ACTIVE TRADING MARKET FOR THE EXCHANGE NOTES WILL
DEVELOP.

     There has previously been only a limited secondary market, and no public
market, for the original notes. The exchange notes are an exchange issue of
securities, have no established trading market, and may not be widely
distributed. We do not intend to list the exchange notes on any national
securities exchange or the Nasdaq stock market or to seek the admission thereof
to trading


                                       20


on any automated quotation system. No assurance can be given that an active
public or other market will develop for the exchange notes or as to the
liquidity of or the trading market for the exchange notes. If a trading market
does not develop or is not maintained, holders of the exchange notes may
experience difficulty in reselling the exchange notes or may be unable to sell
them at all. If a market for the exchange notes develops, any such market may
be discontinued at any time. If a public trading market develops for the
exchange notes, future trading prices of the exchange notes will depend on many
factors, including, among other things, prevailing interest rates, our results
of operations and the market for similar securities, and the price at which the
holders of exchange notes will be able to sell such exchange notes is not
assured and the exchange notes could trade at a premium or discount to their
purchase price or face value. Depending on prevailing interest rates, the
market for similar securities and other factors, including our financial
condition, the exchange notes may trade at a discount from their principal
amount.


YOUR ORIGINAL NOTES WILL BE SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER AND THE TRADING
MARKET FOR YOUR ORIGINAL NOTES MAY BE LIMITED IF YOU DO NOT TENDER.


     We did not register the original notes, nor do we intend to do so
following the exchange offer. Original notes that are not tendered will
therefore continue to be subject to the existing transfer restrictions and may
be transferred only in limited circumstances under the securities laws. If you
do not exchange your original notes, you will lose your right to have your
original notes registered under the federal securities laws. As a result, if
you hold original notes after the exchange offer, you may be unable to sell
your original notes.


IF YOU DO NOT PROPERLY TENDER YOUR ORIGINAL NOTES, WE MAY NOT ACCEPT YOUR
ORIGINAL NOTES AND THE TRADING MARKET FOR THEM MAY BE LIMITED.


     We will issue new notes under this exchange offer only after a timely
receipt of your original notes, a properly completed and duly executed Letter
of Transmittal and all other required documents. Therefore, if you want to
tender your original notes, please allow sufficient time to ensure timely
delivery. If we do not receive your original notes, Letter of Transmittal and
other required documents by the expiration date of the exchange offer, we will
not accept your original notes for exchange. We are under no duty to give
notification of defects or irregularities with respect to the tenders of
original notes for exchange. If there are defects or irregularities with
respect to your tender of original notes, we will not accept your original
notes for exchange.


YOU MAY PARTICIPATE IN THE EXCHANGE OFFER ONLY IF YOU MEET THE FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS.


     Based on interpretations by the Commission staff, as set forth in
no-action letters the Commission issued to third parties, we believe that you
may offer for resale, resell and otherwise transfer the exchange notes without
compliance with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the
Securities Act, subject to certain limitations. These limitations include the
following:


    o you are not our "affiliate" within the meaning of Rule 405 under the
      Securities Act;


    o you acquire your exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business;
      and


    o you have no arrangement with any person to participate in the
      distribution of such exchange notes.


     However, we have not submitted a no-action letter to the Commission
regarding this exchange offer and we cannot assure you that the Commission
would make a similar determination with respect to the exchange offer as in
such other circumstances. If you are our affiliate, engage in or intend to
engage in or have any arrangement or understanding with respect to a
distribution of the exchange notes that you or any person will acquire pursuant
to the exchange offer, you may not rely on the applicable interpretations of
the staff of the Commission; you must also comply with the registration and
prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any
resale transaction.


                                       21


RESALES OF THE EXCHANGE NOTES MAY BE SUBJECT TO FURTHER RESTRICTIONS IN SOME
JURISDICTIONS.


     Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account
pursuant to the exchange offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a
prospectus meeting the requirements under the Securities Act in connection with
any resale of such exchange notes. We have agreed to use our best efforts to
make this prospectus available to any participating broker-dealer for use in
connection with any such resale. See "Plan of Distribution" below. However to
comply with the securities laws of certain jurisdictions, if applicable, you
may not offer or sell the exchange notes unless someone has registered or
qualified them for sale in such jurisdictions or an exemption from registration
or qualification is available.


                                       22


                                USE OF PROCEEDS


     We will receive no cash proceeds from the exchange offer. We intend the
exchange offer to satisfy some of our obligations under the registration rights
agreements for the notes. We will issue exchange notes in exchange for original
notes in the same principal amount, and for the same terms and form as the
original notes, except that there will be no registration rights or liquidated
damages relating to the exchange notes. The original notes that holders
surrender in exchange for the exchange notes will be retired and canceled and
cannot be reissued. Accordingly, we will not incur any new debt by issuing the
exchange notes.


                                       23


                                 CAPITALIZATION

     The following table sets forth our unaudited cash and cash equivalents and
capitalization as of June 30, 2002. You should read this table in conjunction
with our unaudited consolidated financial statements as of June 30, 2002 and
notes to those financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus.






                                                  AS OF JUNE 30, 2002
                                                 --------------------
                                                    (in thousands)
                                              
Cash and cash equivalents ....................        $   13,220
                                                      ==========
Long-term debt (including current maturities):
 Senior credit facility(1) ...................           260,000
 Outstanding Notes(2) ........................           350,020
   Total long-term debt ......................           610,020
Total shareholders' equity ...................           393,060
                                                      ----------
 Total capitalization ........................        $1,003,080
                                                      ==========


- ----------
(1)   Our credit facility is comprised of a $150 million five and one-half year
      revolving credit facility and a $260 million seven and one-half year term
      loan. We utilized approximately $23.5 million of letter of credit
      capacity under our revolving credit facility to support certain lease
      obligations and our ordinary course needs. In addition, our three-year
      receivables facility provides us with up to $125 million of availability.
      Our credit facility also includes an uncommitted additional $200 million
      term loan facility that we may utilize upon receipt of commitments from
      existing or new lenders for permitted acquisitions. See "Description of
      Credit Facility" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
      Condition and Results of Operations--Liquidity and Capital Resources."

(2)   $352.8 million face value of the outstanding notes, net of unamortized
      discount.


                                       24


                   UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION


     The following unaudited pro forma condensed statements of operations have
been derived from our audited and unaudited historical financial statements
included elsewhere in this prospectus, adjusted to give pro forma effect to the
transactions.


     The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of operations for the
year ended December 31, 2001 and unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated
statement of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2002 give pro forma
effect to the transactions as if they had occurred on January 1, 2001.


     The unaudited pro forma condensed statements of operations referred to
above are presented for informational purposes only and do not purport to
represent what our results of operations or financial position would actually
have been had the transactions occurred at such time or to project our results
of operations for any future period or date.


     The pro forma adjustments are based upon available information and various
assumptions that we believe are reasonable. The pro forma adjustments and
certain assumptions are described in the accompanying notes. Other information
included under this heading has been presented to provide additional analysis.


     The unaudited pro forma condensed statements of operations should be read
in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" and our historical financial statements
and the related notes to such financial statements included elsewhere in this
prospectus.


                                       25


      UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                    FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                                                 PRO FORMA
                                                            COMPANY           PRO FORMA         TRANSACTION
                                                          HISTORICAL         ADJUSTMENTS           BASIS
                                                         ------------   --------------------   ------------
                                                                                      
Net sales ............................................    $  392,230        $      --           $  392,230
Cost of sales ........................................      (273,930)            (570)(1)         (274,500)
                                                          ----------        ---------           ----------
 Gross profit ........................................       118,300             (570)             117,730
Selling, general and administrative expenses .........       (66,210)          (2,120)(2)          (68,330)
                                                          ----------        ---------           ----------
 Operating profit ....................................        52,090           (2,690)              49,400
Other income (expense), net ..........................
 Interest expense ....................................       (33,100)           8,310 (1,3)        (24,790)
 Other, net ..........................................        (3,640)           1,210 (4)           (2,430)
                                                          ----------        ---------           ----------
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect of
 change in accounting principle ......................        15,350            6,830               22,180
Income taxes .........................................         5,450            2,600 (5)            8,050
                                                          ----------        ---------           ----------
 Income before cumulative effect of change in
   accounting principle(a) ...........................    $    9,900        $   4,230           $   14,130
                                                          ----------        =========           ==========
Cumulative effect on prior years of change in
 recognition and measurement of goodwill
 impairment ..........................................       (36,630)
                                                          ----------
   Net loss ..........................................    $  (26,730)
                                                          ==========


- ----------
(a)        The cumulative effect of change in accounting principle is excluded
           from the pro forma presentation.
























            See notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information.

                                       26


        UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                     FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                                              PRO FORMA
                                                            COMPANY         PRO FORMA        TRANSACTION
                                                          HISTORICAL       ADJUSTMENTS          BASIS
                                                         ------------   -----------------   ------------
                                                                                   
Net sales ............................................    $  732,440       $      --         $  732,440
Cost of sales ........................................      (537,410)             --           (537,410)
                                                          ----------       ---------         ----------
 Gross profit ........................................       195,030              --            195,030
Selling, general and administrative expenses .........      (127,350)         (4,900)(2)       (132,250)
                                                          ----------       ---------         ----------
 Operating profit ....................................        67,680          (4,900)            62,780
Other income (expense), net ..........................
 Interest expense ....................................       (73,130)         23,020 (3)        (50,110)
 Other, net ..........................................        (4,000)          1,170 (4)         (2,830)
                                                          ----------       ---------         ----------
Income before income taxes ...........................        (9,450)         19,290              9,840
Income taxes .........................................         1,870           7,330 (5)          9,200
                                                          ----------       ---------         ----------
 Net income (loss) ...................................       (11,320)      $  11,960         $      640
                                                          ==========       =========         ==========


            See notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information.

                                       27


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION

              NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION

     The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for
the six months ended June 30, 2002 and the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed
Combined Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2001 include
adjustments necessary to reflect the estimated effect of the transactions that
occurred on June 6, 2002 as if they had occurred on January 1, 2001.


                             PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS

1. As a result of the transactions, Metaldyne no longer provides a guarantee on
  certain TriMas leases. The existence of the guarantee required that the
  leases be accounted for as capitalized leases in periods prior to June 6,
  2002. As a result of the guarantee release, these leases are now accounted
  for as operating leases. This adjustment reflects the recording of $0.9
  million of rent expense offset by a reduction of $0.3 million of capitalized
  lease asset amortization expense for the six months ended June 30, 2002. An
  additional add-back of $0.9 million related to interest expense on the
  capitalized lease obligation for the six months ended June 30, 2002 is
  included in adjustment 3 below as a result of eliminating this interest
  expense.

2. Pro forma adjustment to reflect ongoing corporate operating costs and
  related party contractual arrangements with Heartland and Metaldyne.
  Subsequent to June 6, 2002, certain stand-alone operating costs and related
  party contract costs have been recorded by the Company. The pro forma
  adjustment for the six months ended June 30, 2002 is incremental to such
  costs recorded after June 6, 2002.




                                                                SIX MONTHS ENDED      YEAR ENDED
                                                                    JUNE 30,         DECEMBER 31,
                                                                      2002               2001
                                                               ------------------   -------------
                                                                         (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                              
     Corporate office costs (a) ............................        $  2,450          $  5,700
     Heartland advisory fee (b) ............................           1,720             4,000
     Corporate Services agreement (c) ......................           1,210             2,500
                                                                    --------          --------
        Total Corporate operating costs ....................           5,380            12,200
     Less: historical Metaldyne management fee (d) .........          (3,260)           (7,300)
                                                                    --------          --------
     Pro forma adjustment ..................................        $  2,120          $  4,900
                                                                    ========          ========


- ----------
(a)        Represents the Company's estimate of stand-alone corporate operating
           costs. Historically, such costs were allocated to TriMas via the
           Metaldyne management fee. These pro forma costs are premised upon
           certain assumptions necessary to operate on a stand-alone basis.
           While the Company believes their pro forma assumptions are
           reasonable, there can be no assurance that future operating costs
           will approximate the amounts of such adjustments.

(b)        In connection with the transactions, TriMas entered into an advisory
           services agreement with Heartland at an annual fee of $4.0 million.

(c)        Under the terms of a Corporate Services agreement, TriMas agreed to
           pay Metaldyne an annual fee of $2.5 million for human resources,
           information systems, treasury services, audit, internal audit, tax,
           legal and other general corporate services. To the extent TriMas
           directly incurs costs related to items covered by the agreement, the
           $2.5 million fee will be reduced accordingly.

(d)        Adjustment to eliminate the historical 1% management fee paid to
           Metaldyne for corporate support and administrative services.
           Metaldyne continued to charge this fee to TriMas through June 6,
           2002 at which point the Company began to incur the costs summarized
           in items (a), (b), and (c) above.


                                       28


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION

       NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION -- (CONTINUED)

3. Pro forma adjustment to reflect interest expense related to borrowings under
  the Company's bank credit agreement and as a result of issuance of the
  outstanding notes. The pro forma adjustment for the six months ended June
  30, 2002, is incremental to such costs recorded after June 6, 2002.
  adjustment for the six months ended June 30, 2002 is incremental to such
  costs recorded after June 6, 2002.






                                                       SIX MONTHS ENDED      YEAR ENDED
                                                           JUNE 30,         DECEMBER 31,
                                                             2002               2001
                                                      ------------------   -------------
                                                                (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                     
     Interest on new revolver (a) .................        $     --          $      --
     Interest on new term loan (b) ................           5,920             11,830
     Interest on outstanding notes ................          17,420             34,840
     Amortization of debt issue costs (c) .........           1,370              3,270
     Accretion on outstanding notes (d) ...........              80                170
                                                           --------          ---------
       Pro forma interest expense .................          24,790             50,110
     Less:
       historical interest expense (e) ............          33,100             73,130
                                                           --------          ---------
       Pro forma adjustment .......................        $ (8,310)         $ (23,020)
                                                           ========          =========


- ----------
(a)        The interest on the revolving credit facility is variable based on
           LIBOR plus 2.00% - 2.75%, depending on our leverage ratio. As of
           June 30, 2002 our interest rate was 4.55% or LIBOR plus 2.75%. We
           have not utilized the revolver as of June 30, 2002 for operating
           purposes.

(b)        The interest rate on the term loan facility is variable based on
           LIBOR plus 2.50% - 2.75%, depending on the Company's leverage ratio.
           As of June 30, 2002, the Company's rate was LIBOR plus 2.75%, and
           such interest rate was 4.55% as of that date.

           A 0.125% increase or decrease in the assumed interest rate for the
           term loan would change pro forma interest expense by $0.16 and
           $0.32 million for the six months ended June 30, 2002 and the year
           ended December 31, 2001, respectively.

(c)        Debt issue costs are amortized using the interest method over the
           term of the corresponding agreements ranging from 7.5 to 10 years.

(d)        Represents accretion of discount on the original notes offered
           hereby to their face value of $352.8 million.

(e)        Historical interest expense represents interest charged by
           Metaldyne, at a rate which approximated 8.5%.


                                       29


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION

       NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION -- (CONTINUED)

4. Adjustment to Other, net is comprised of the following:






                                             SIX MONTHS ENDED      YEAR ENDED
                                                 JUNE 30,         DECEMBER 31,
                                                   2002               2001
                                            ------------------   -------------
                                                      (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                           
       Commitment fees (a) ..............        $  1,090          $  2,430
       Elimination of accounts receivable
        financing costs (b) .............          (2,300)           (3,600)
                                                 --------          --------
       Pro forma adjustment .............        $ (1,210)         $ (1,170)
                                                 ========          ========


- ----------
(a)        Consists of commitment fees on the Company's new revolving credit
           and accounts receivable securitization facilities, as well as
           estimated annual fees for outstanding letters of credit.

(b)        Adjustment to eliminate financing costs related to the prior
           accounts receivable securitization facility of $2.3 million and $3.6
           million for the six months ended June 30, 2002 and the year ended
           December 31, 2001, respectively. The Company does not currently
           forecast the need to draw on their new accounts receivable
           securitization facility.

5. To reflect the estimated tax effect of the above adjustments, as applicable,
  at an estimated effective tax rate of 38%.


                                       30


                       SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA

     The following table sets forth our summary historical financial data for
the five years ended December 31, 2001 and the six months ended June 30, 2001
and 2002. The financial data for the fiscal years ended December 31, 1999, 2000
and 2001 have been derived from our audited combined financial statements and
notes to those financial statements included in this prospectus, which have
been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants. The
financial data for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 have been derived
from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this
prospectus. The financial data for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998 have
been derived from our unaudited combined financial statements not included in
this prospectus.

     The selected information for the six months ended June 30, 2001 and 2002
have been derived from our unaudited interim combined/consolidated financial
statements and the notes to those financial statements which, in the opinion of
management, include all adjustments, which are normal and recurring in nature,
necessary for the fair presentation of that data for such periods.

     In reviewing the following information, it should be noted that there is
significant non-comparability across historic periods. On June 6, 2002,
Metaldyne issued approximately 66% of our fully diluted common equity to an
investor group led by Heartland. We did not establish a new basis of accounting
as a result of this common equity issuance, due to the continuing contractual
control by Heartland. Our combined financial information for the periods prior
to June 6, 2002 includes allocations and estimates of direct and indirect
Metaldyne corporate administrative costs attributable to us, which are deemed
by management to be reasonable but are not necessarily reflective of those
costs to us on an ongoing basis. Prior to June 6, 2002, we were owned by
Metaldyne. On November 28, 2000, Metaldyne was acquired by an investor group
led by Heartland. The pre-acquisition basis of accounting for periods prior to
November 28, 2000 are reflected on the historical basis of accounting and all
periods subsequent to November 28, 2000 are reflected on a purchase accounting
basis and are therefore not comparable. In January 1998, we were acquired by
Metaldyne and established a new basis of accounting as a result of this
acquisition. Prior to January 1998, we operated as an independent public
company.




                                                      PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                   -----------------------------------------------------------
                                     YEAR ENDED     YEAR ENDED     YEAR ENDED
                                    DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 31,     1/1/2000-
                                        1997          1998(4)         1999        11/27/2000
                                   -------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
                                                         (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                    
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales ........................   $ 667,910      $  707,180     $  773,100     $  739,590
Cost of sales ....................     447,940         475,550        519,610        514,570
                                     ---------      ----------     ----------     ----------
Gross profit .....................     219,970         231,630        253,490        225,020
Selling, general and
 administrative ..................     106,270         122,370        134,560        130,490
                                     ---------      ----------     ----------     ----------
Operating profit .................     113,700         109,260        118,930         94,530
Net income (loss)(2) .............      66,370          41,650         35,300         21,280
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
Depreciation and amortization.....   $  25,680      $   31,780     $   38,520     $   38,400
Capital expenditures .............      28,560          39,200         42,320         19,540
Cash flow from (used by)
 operations ......................      83,820          77,170         55,980        113,430
EBITDA(1) ........................     139,380         141,040        158,060        133,700
Ratio of earnings to fixed
 charges(3) ......................        17.7x            1.8x           2.1x           1.7x
SELECTED BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Total assets .....................   $ 714,910      $1,239,740     $1,247,160     $1,192,810
Total debt .......................      45,970         541,150        520,560        461,300




                                                      POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                   ------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    SIX MONTHS     SIX MONTHS
                                                     YEAR ENDED        ENDED          ENDED
                                     11/28/2000-    DECEMBER 31,     JUNE 30,       JUNE 30,
                                      12/31/2000        2001           2001           2002
                                   --------------- -------------- -------------- --------------
                                                          (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                     
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales ........................    $  50,640      $  732,440     $  396,040     $  392,230
Cost of sales ....................       36,490         537,410        286,160        273,930
                                      ---------      ----------     ----------     ----------
Gross profit .....................       14,150         195,030        109,880        118,300
Selling, general and
 administrative ..................       13,200         127,350         66,880         66,210
                                      ---------      ----------     ----------     ----------
Operating profit .................          950          67,680         43,000         52,090
Net income (loss)(2) .............       (4,150)        (11,320)        (1,140)       (26,730)
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
Depreciation and amortization.....    $   4,540      $   53,780     $   26,880     $   21,930
Capital expenditures .............        3,260          18,690         10,430         13,590
Cash flow from (used by)
 operations ......................       18,710          75,980         28,990        (57,910)
EBITDA(1) ........................        5,490         124,660         71,480         75,740
Ratio of earnings to fixed
 charges(3) ......................        (0.02)x           0.9x           1.1x           1.4x
SELECTED BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Total assets .....................   $1,358,120      $1,265,740     $1,332,090     $1,337,630
Total debt .......................      472,920         440,760        460,170        610,020


- ----------
(1)   EBITDA-related information is defined as operating profit before
      depreciation and amortization and legacy restricted stock award expense.
      EBITDA-related information is presented in the manner as


                                       31


      defined herein because we believe it is a widely accepted financial
      indicator of a company's ability to service and/or incur indebtedness.
      However, EBITDA-related information should not be considered as an
      alternative to net income as a measure of operating results or to cash
      flows as a measure of liquidity in accordance with generally accepted
      accounting principles. Because EBITDA-related information is not
      calculated identically by all companies, the presentation in this
      prospectus is not likely to be comparable to those disclosed by other
      companies.

(2)   Effective January 1, 2002, we adopted SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other
      Intangible Assets," and discontinued amortization of goodwill. See Note 3
      to the audited combined financial statements and unaudited interim
      financial statements, respectively, for the effect on net income (loss)
      of excluding amortization expense related to goodwill that will no longer
      be amortized. We completed the transitional test for impairment of
      goodwill in the second quarter of 2002, which resulted in a non-cash,
      after-tax charge of $36.6 million related to our industrial fasteners
      business.

(3)   For purposes of calculating the ratio of earnings to fixed charges,
      earnings represents income or loss from continuing operations before
      income taxes, plus fixed charges, plus amortization of capitalized
      interest, less capitalized interest. Fixed charges include interest
      expense (including amortization of deferred financing costs), capitalized
      interest, and the portion of operating rental expense which management
      believes is representative of the interest component of rent expense
      (assumed to be 33%). For the period ended December 31, 2000 and year
      ended December 31, 2001, additional earnings of $5.3 million and $9.6
      million, respectively, would have been required to make the ratio 1.0x.

(4)   Metaldyne acquired us in January 1998. Financial results for the 21 days
      prior to Metaldyne's acquisition have not been included as the results
      were determined on a different accounting basis. Results of operations
      for the first 21 days of January were as follows: sales -- $35.9 million;
      operating profit -- $4.9 million.


                                       32


                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


INTRODUCTION

     We are an industrial manufacturer of highly engineered products serving
niche markets in a diverse range of commercial, industrial and consumer
applications. We have three operating groups or segments: Transportation
Accessories, Rieke Packaging Systems and Industrial Specialties.


RECENT COST SAVINGS INITIATIVES

     In 2001, under new senior management we initiated a detailed consolidation
and cost savings program to address the legacy of inefficiencies that resulted
from our historical acquisitions and the inability to fully integrate and
synthesize the businesses in order to maximize efficiency. The plan involves a
number of major projects and other smaller initiatives to eliminate duplicative
and excess manufacturing and distribution facilities, sales forces, and back
office and other support functions. We expect to realize approximately $29
million in annual savings from these efforts by the second quarter of 2004. To
date, we have completed projects with expected full annual run rate savings of
approximately $15.8 million. The total net cash cost of our program is expected
to be $21.4 million, of which approximately $6.5 million was spent by the end
of the second quarter of 2002. All of these figures are net of discontinued
property sold or to be sold. The key elements of the plan are summarized below:


General:

 o a 9% headcount reduction in aggregate across all groups as various
   overlapping networks of distribution, sales, back office and other
   functions are consolidated and certain plants are closed and consolidated
   into other facilities; and

 o for our numerous retirement plans and incentive compensation and service
   award plans that were the legacy of many acquisitions, we are developing a
   comprehensive plan with an outside consultant to harmonize the programs,
   eliminate excess overhead and remove inequities between the programs;

Transportation Accessories Group:

 o in 2001, we consolidated an acquired trailer products manufacturing plant
   into an existing high performance facility, and reduced the towing products
   regional warehouse service center footprint from eleven to five facilities
   by closing or selling six related properties. In 2002, our electrical
   products manufacturing facility in Indiana will be closed and consolidated
   into an existing low cost plant in Mexico. In addition, two duplicate,
   sub-scale manufacturing facilities, each with its own separate master
   distribution warehouse, will be closed and consolidated into a single
   existing third facility, with one master warehouse on the same property;

Industrial Specialties Group:

 o we have adopted a multi-step plan for our industrial fasteners product line
   to consolidate five sub-scale manufacturing plants into three plants, one
   of which will benefit from a $1.5 million capital expenditure program to
   modernize it and improve operating efficiency, and

 o we are centralizing manufacturing of some gasket products within a single
   facility and rationalizing the back office general and administrative
   support within our branch service centers; and

 o we are consolidating two facilities which manufacture pressure-sensitive
   tape and insulation products into a single facility and engaging in a
   capital expenditure program to modernize and provide expansion room for
   certain projected product growth.


SEGMENT INFORMATION

     The following table summarizes historical financial information of our
three operating segments. For purposes of comparing the 2000 period to other
periods in the table and the following discussions


                                       33


of our results, we have combined the long period of 2000 (approximately 11
months) in which we were on a pre-acquisition basis of accounting with the
short period of 2000 (approximately one month) in which we were on a
post-acquisition basis of accounting. In comparing 2001 against 2000 (whether
or not on this combined basis), the periods are not comparable due to the
effects of the November 2000 acquisition of Metaldyne by Heartland.

     In addition to net income and other financial measures, we use EBITDA as
an indicator of our operating performance and as a measure of our cash
generating capabilities. We define EBITDA as operating profit plus
depreciation, amortization and legacy restricted stock award expense; or
contractual obligation from November 2000 acquisition, which will runoff
completely by 2003.

     EBITDA does not represent and should not be considered as an alternative
to net income, operating income, net cash provided by operating activities or
any other measure for determining operating performance or liquidity that is
calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Further, EBITDA, as we calculate it, is not likely to be comparable to
calculations of similarly titled measures by other companies.






                                                                              SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                             YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,              JUNE 30,
NET SALES:                             ----------------------------------- -----------------------
                                           1999        2000        2001        2001        2002
                                       ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
                                                             (in thousands)
                                                                        
Transportation Accessories Group .....  $265,100    $280,950    $264,680    $151,660    $163,230
Rieke Packaging Systems Group ........   114,090     108,150     105,250      52,570      54,680
Industrial Specialties Group .........   393,910     401,130     362,510     191,810     174,320
                                        --------    --------    --------    --------    --------
Total ................................  $773,100    $790,230    $732,440    $396,040    $392,230
                                        ========    ========    ========    ========    ========





                                                                                                 SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                    JUNE 30,
EBITDA:                                          ------------------------------------------   -----------------------
                                                     1999           2000           2001          2001         2002
                                                 ------------   ------------   ------------   ----------   ----------
                                                                            (in thousands)
                                                                                            
Transportation Accessories Group (1) .........     $ 48,470       $ 46,250       $ 42,820      $ 27,460     $ 33,520
Rieke Packaging Systems Group (1) ............       39,390         35,750         33,930        17,010       19,620
Industrial Specialties Group (1) .............       77,760         64,550         55,080        31,370       26,550
Metaldyne management fee and other corporate
 expenses ....................................       (7,560)        (7,360)        (7,170)       (4,360)      (3,950)
                                                   --------       --------       --------      --------     --------
Total ........................................     $158,060       $139,190       $124,660      $ 71,480     $ 75,740
                                                   ========       ========       ========      ========     ========


(1) Amounts are before general corporate expense.






                                                                                   SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,              JUNE 30,
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES:                        ---------------------------------   ---------------------
                                                1999        2000        2001        2001        2002
                                             ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                                                                  (in thousands)
                                                                              
Transportation Accessories Group .........    $ 9,190     $ 9,470     $ 5,350     $ 2,850     $ 2,740
Rieke Packaging Systems Group ............      8,520       6,640       3,730       1,590       5,870
Industrial Specialties Group .............     24,610       6,690       9,610       5,990       4,980
                                              -------     -------     -------     -------     -------
Total ....................................    $42,320     $22,800     $18,690     $10,430     $13,590
                                              =======     =======     =======     =======     =======


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


 SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 COMPARED WITH SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2001

     Net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2002 decreased by
approximately 1% from the six months ended June 30, 2001. However, net sales
for the Transportation Accessories and Rieke Packaging Systems groups increased
by 7.6% and 4.0%, respectively. The increases were due to greater demand for
these groups' products primarily in North America. These increases were offset
by a 9.1%


                                       34


decline in sales for the Industrial Specialties Group. The reduction in sales
in the Industrial Specialties Group was due to continued reduced demand for our
industrial fastener products and reduced demand for our specialty gasket and
engine products provided to the energy sector. We also experienced weaker
demand for some of our other industrial products because some of our customers
retained excess inventories in lieu of making new purchases from us. Net sales
for the six months ended June 30, 2002 are not indicative of full year sales
because the Transportation Accessories group are more seasonal in nature with
nearly 58% of anticipated 2002 full year sales occurring in the first six
months.

     EBITDA margins approximated 19.3% and 18.0% for the six months ended June
30, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Our cost reduction activities contributed
approximately $2.1 million to EBITDA and lower material costs contributed an
additional $2.7 million to EBITDA. This improvement was partially offset by $.5
million of lost contribution from the net decrease in sales. The Transportation
Accessories group EBITDA increased $6.1 million for the six months ended June
30, 2002 compared to the same period for 2001. This increase resulted from $4.4
million in increased sales, $1.1 million from lower material costs and an
additional $.6 million due to cost reduction activities. The Rieke Packaging
Systems group EBITDA increased $2.6 million, principally due to a $1.1 million
contribution improvement due to increased sales and $1.5 million due to cost
reduction activities. The Industrial Specialties group EBITDA decreased $4.8
million, principally due to a $6.0 million contribution reduction resulting
from decreased sales, which was partially offset by lower material costs of
$1.6 million.

     Selling, general and administrative costs were approximately $66.2 million,
or 16.9% as a percentage of sales, for the six months ended June 30, 2002 as
compared with $66.9 million, or 16.9% as a percentage of sales, for the six
month ended June 30, 2001. The decrease was due primarily to the elimination of
$6.8 million in goodwill amortization, offset by a $6.2 million increase in
operating expenses.

     Interest expense was $33.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2002
as compared with $36.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2001. The
decrease was due primarily to a reduction in interest resulting from a lower
debt balance with Metaldyne in 2002.

     Other income (expense), net for the six months ended June 30, 2002 was
expense of $36.7 million compared with expense of $40.9 million for the six
months ended June 30, 2001. The reduction of $4.2 million is primarily due to a
$3.8 million interest expense reduction.

     Net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2002 was $26.7 million as
compared to a net loss of $1.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2001.
The results for the six months ended June 30, 2002 include a charge of $36.6
million for the cumulative effect on prior years of a change in recognition and
measurement of goodwill impairment. The net income before cumulative effect of
change in recognition and measurement of goodwill impairment was $9.9 million
for the six months ended June 30, 2002 as compared to a net loss of $1.1
million for the six months ended June 30, 2001. The improvement is principally
due to the impact of our cost reduction activities, lower material costs, lower
interest expense and the elimination of $6.8 million of goodwill amortization
resulting from the adoption of SFAS No. 142.


 YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001 COMPARED WITH YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000
 (COMBINED)

     Net sales decreased by approximately 7.3% in 2001 from 2000. In
particular, net sales for the Transportation Accessories, Rieke Packaging
Systems and Industrial Specialties groups decreased by approximately 5.8%, 2.7%
and 9.6%, respectively, in 2001 as compared with 2000. The declines were driven
by a slowdown in general industrial production throughout 2001, particularly
late in the year. Certain of our businesses also experienced volume declines
due to sales of excess inventory in the supply chain in lieu of purchases from
us. The Industrial Specialties business experienced a


                                       35


disproportionate decline relative to our other businesses due primarily to
lower specialty fastener product sales as we phased out certain products
manufactured and production inefficiencies caused by a plant closure. Both the
Industrial Specialties and Transportation Accessories groups were particularly
affected by reduced demand for products with applications in the marine, heavy
truck, recreation vehicle, and off-road markets, which were adversely impacted
segments of the transportation industry. We did experience improvements in
certain businesses which offset the negative impact of the economy, such as
increased sales of specialty gaskets and related products.

     EBITDA margins approximated 17.0% and 17.6% for the years ended December
31, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Margins were negatively impacted by the sales
declines and the difficulty of fully absorbing our fixed costs as volumes
declined.

     The Transportation Accessories segment recorded EBITDA of $42.8 million in
2001 versus $46.3 million in 2000. Apart from the impact of lower volumes, this
decrease is partially attributable to operating inefficiencies related to
variable costs not changing in relation to the decline in sales volume. The
Rieke Packaging Systems group's EBITDA decreased from $35.8 million in 2000 to
$33.9 million in 2001, driven primarily by lower volumes. The Industrial
Specialties group's EBITDA declined from $64.6 million in 2000 to $55.1 million
in 2001 primarily due to reduced sales and a specialty fasteners plant closure.


     Selling, general and administrative costs as a percentage of sales were
17.4% for 2001 as compared with 18.2% for 2000. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were approximately $127.4 million in 2001 as compared
with approximately $143.7 million in 2000. The reduction of costs is primarily
due to a $13.5 million decrease in our administrative headcount and
discretionary spending due to the decrease in sales, and the decrease in good
will amortization resulting from accounting basis change at November 28, 2000.
These cost reductions were partially offset by an increase of $2.4 million of
legacy stock award expense.


     Interest expense for 2001 was approximately $73.1 million as compared with
$60.4 million in 2000. This increase in interest expense is principally the
result of an increase in the rate charged on advances from Metaldyne. This rate
was 8.5% at December 31, 2000.


     Other income (expense), net in 2001 was expense of $77.1 million as
compared with expense of $58.5 million in 2000. This increase primarily reflects
a $12.7 million increase in interest expense in 2001, but also reflects in 2000
the favorable impact of receipt of insurance proceeds of $3.8 million due to a
property claim.

     Net loss in 2001 was $11.3 million as compared with a net income of $17.1
million in 2000. This decline to a net loss position was primarily attributable
to those factors mentioned above.


 YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000 COMPARED WITH YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
 (COMBINED)

     Net sales increased by approximately 2.2% in 2000 from 1999. Sales in 2000
increased 0.3% after excluding the impact of an acquisition completed in early
2000. In particular, sales for the Industrial Specialties and the
Transportation Accessories groups increased by approximately 2% and 6%,
respectively, compared to 1999. Excluding the effect of acquisitions, the
Transportation Accessories group's sales would have approximated 1999 levels.
The increase in Industrial Specialties group sales was primarily driven by
improved sales of specialty gaskets and related products, partially offset by a
decline in industrial fastener products. The decline in industrial fastener
products came as a result of the phase out of certain products and reduced
demand for fastener applications for heavy duty truck, agricultural,
distribution and off-road markets. Sales for the Rieke Packaging System group
decreased by approximately 5.2% versus 1999, driven primarily by a slowdown in
general industrial production beginning in late 2000.

     EBITDA margins, were approximately 17.6% and 20.4% for 2000 and 1999,
respectively. Margins were negatively impacted by sales declines for certain
products and start-up costs related to the launch of new products and new
manufacturing facilities.


                                       36


     The Rieke Packaging Systems group's EBITDA decreased from $39.4 million in
1999 to $35.8 million in 2000 driven primarily by decreased sales in higher
margin products. The Industrial Specialties group's EBITDA declined from $77.8
million in 1999 to $64.6 million in 2000, primarily due to reduced sales and
the impact of a flood at our specialty insulation business. The Transportation
Accessories group's EBITDA declined from $48.5 million in 1999 to $46.3 million
in 2000. This decrease is primarily explained by incremental cash fixed costs
that more than offset the increase in sales.

     Selling, general and administrative costs as a percentage of sales were
18.2% for 2000 as compared with 17.4% for 1999. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were approximately $143.7 million in 2000 as compared
with approximately $134.6 million in 1999. The percentage increase is
principally the result of increases in our administrative headcount and
discretionary spending.


     Interest expense for 2000 was approximately $60.4 million as compared with
$55.4 million in 1999. The increase in interest expense is the result of a
higher average level of debt with Metaldyne and an increase in the rate charged
on advances by Metaldyne. This rate was 6.4% at December 31, 2000 and and 5.85%
at December 31, 1999.

     Other income (expense), net in 2000 was an expense of $58.5 million as
compared with an expense of $53.9 million in 1999. The increase of $4.6 million
is due primarily to the $5.0 million increase in interest expense.


     Net income in 2000 was $17.1 million as compared with $35.3 million in
1999. Operating performance in 2000 was negatively impacted by those factors
referred to above as well as by costs and expenses related to the launch of
certain new products.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

     Cash used for operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2002
was approximately $58.0 million as compared with cash provided by operating
activities of approximately $29.0 million for the same period in 2001. The
primary reason for the difference was due to the repurchase of $74.5 million of
receivables as the result of exiting Metaldyne's accounts receivable
securitization facility, and an $8.5 million payment to Metaldyne to fund
contractual liabilities. Inventories decreased from 2001 as a result of our
continued emphasis on inventory management, the impact of facility
consolidations and the utilization of "just-in-time" and other inventory
management techniques. Capital expenditures were approximately $13.6 million
for the six months ended June 30, 2002 as compared with $10.4 million for the
same period in 2001.

     Cash provided by operating activities in 2001 was approximately $76.0
million as compared with approximately $132.1 million for 2000. Metaldyne's
accounts receivable securitization facility, initiated in 2000, is the primary
reason for the decrease in operating cash flow in 2001 relative to the full
year 2000. The remaining decrease in operating cash flow is explained by the
generally depressed operating environment in 2001 as compared with 2000.
Inventories decreased from 2000 as a result of our continued emphasis on
inventory management, the impact of facility consolidation and the utilization
of "just-in-time" and other inventory management techniques. Capital
expenditures were approximately $18.7 million in 2001 as compared with $22.8
million in 2000. The slight decline in capital expenditures was principally due
to a reduction in investment given the general economic conditions.

     As a result of the transactions, we are highly leveraged and are required
to dedicate significant portions of cash flow to debt service, leases and other
obligations. In addition to normal capital expenditures, as we expand our
business, we may have to incur other significant expenditures to prepare for
and manufacture these products. We may incur material amounts of additional
debt and further burden cash flow in pursuit of our internal growth and
acquisition strategies.

     Our credit facility includes a $150 million revolving credit facility and
a $260 million term loan facility. Up to $100 million of our revolving credit
facility is available to be used and kept outstanding


                                       37


for one or more permitted acquisitions. The credit facility also provides for
an uncommitted $200 million incremental term loan facility for one or more
permitted acquisitions. Our revolving credit balances will fluctuate daily
based upon our working capital and other ordinary course needs. Availability
under our revolving credit facility depends upon, among other things,
compliance with the financial covenants in our credit facility. Our other
important source of liquidity is our $125 million accounts receivable financing
arrangement, under which we have the ability to sell eligible accounts
receivable to a third-party multi-seller receivables funding company. We are
not presently utilizing the receivables facility. We estimate that as of June
30, 2002 net proceeds available to us under our receivables facility would have
been approximately $67 million.

     Our amortization requirements of the term loan are: $625,000 due at the
end of each fiscal quarter beginning with the fourth quarter of 2002 through
June 30, 2009; $118,125,000 due on September 30, 2009, and; $125,000,000 due on
December 31, 2009 in the final year of the seven and one-half year life of the
term loan. If we secure commitments for and utilize our $200 million of
incremental term loan capacity, it will likely mature after the term loan and
be similarly back-ended in its amortization, although we cannot be certain.

     We have other cash commitments related to leases. We have engaged in a
number of sale-leaseback transactions. In January 2002, we entered into lease
transactions with respect to nine real properties for gross proceeds of
approximately $20.9 million, which were used to repay advances from Metaldyne.
Metaldyne guaranteed all of the leases which resulted in the leases being
accounted for as capital leases. We are also in the process of adding one
additional property to the package of leases. In connection with the
transactions, Metaldyne was released from its guarantee and letters of credit
with a face amount of approximately $13.3 million were subsequently issued
under our credit facility with respect to our obligations under these leasing
transactions. As a result of the removal of the Metaldyne guarantee, we now
account for these lease transactions as operating leases and we eliminated the
capitalized lease obligation and related capitalized lease assets previously
recorded. Annualized rent expense related to these lease transactions is
approximately $2.5 million. We expect to utilize leasing as a financing
strategy in the future to both meet capital expenditure needs and to reduce
debt levels.

     In addition to the foregoing contractual commitments, we have also agreed
to assume certain obligations resulting from the November 2000 acquisition of
Metaldyne by Heartland. At that time, Metaldyne made restricted stock grants to
employees with terms that allow eligible employees to elect to receive cash at
stipulated amounts in lieu of shares as the restricted stock grants vest. We
have agreed to be responsible for the cash costs of those elections to the
extent they relate to our current and former employees or allocable to current
and former Metaldyne corporate level employees in accordance with the
agreement. Under these arrangements, the approximate stipulated dollar value of
the shares for which we are responsible have vested or will vest as follows:
$1.4 million on January 14, 2002, $7.9 million on January 14, 2003 and $8.4
million on January 14, 2004.

     To the extent that cash elections are not made, the employees will be
entitled to retain their shares in Metaldyne, but we may decide at any time to
work with Metaldyne to replace all or a portion of the restricted stock grants
and related obligations at Metaldyne with new restricted stock grants and
similar obligations.

     In connection with the transactions, we entered into an agreement to sell,
on an ongoing basis, the trade accounts receivable of certain business
operations to a wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote, special purpose subsidiary, or
TSPC, Inc. TSPC, subject to certain conditions, may from time to time sell an
undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool of domestic receivables, up
to approximately $125 million, to a third party multi-seller receivables
funding company, or conduit. Under the terms of the agreement, new receivables
will be added to the pool as collections reduce previously sold receivables.

     The facility will be subject to customary termination events, including,
but not limited to, breach of representations on warranties, the existence of
any event that materially adversely effects the collectibility of receivables
or performance by a seller and certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency.


                                       38


The proceeds of sale are less than the face amount of accounts receivable sold
by an amount that approximates the purchaser's financing costs. The agreement
will expire on June 6, 2005. If we are unable to renew or replace this
facility, it could materially adversely affect our liquidity.

     We are exposed to market risk associated with fluctuations in interest
rates and, to a lessor extent, foreign exchange rates. We may enter into
interest rate protection agreements to hedge a portion of our interest rate
risk to the term loan borrowings under our credit facility. We may also utilize
foreign exchange instruments to mitigate our foreign exchange risk.

     We believe that our liquidity and capital resources including anticipated
cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet debt service, capital
expenditure and other short-term and long-term obligations and needs, but we
are subject to unforeseeable events and the risk that we are not successful in
implementing our business strategies. We may extend the average maturities of
debt through the issuance of long-term debt securities to the extent market
conditions permit us to increase our financial flexibility and ability to
pursue our business strategies.

     Cash Obligations. Under various agreements, we will be obligated to make
future cash payments in fixed amounts. These include payments under our
long-term debt agreements, rent payments required under lease agreements and
severance obligations related to our cost savings plans. The following table
summarizes our expected fixed cash obligations over various future periods. The
table does not include amounts that we may pay shortly to adjust for our
allocable share of certain compensation or benefit plan obligations.






                                                              PAYMENTS DUE BY PERIODS
                                          ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   (IN MILLIONS)
                                                         LESS THAN       1-3         4-5         AFTER
CONTRACTUAL CASH OBLIGATIONS                 TOTAL        ONE YEAR      YEARS       YEARS       5 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------   -----------   -----------   ---------   ---------   -----------
                                                                               
Long-term debt ........................    $  612.8       $  1.9       $  7.5      $  5.0      $  598.4
Lease obligations .....................        61.8          6.1         14.4         7.1          34.2
Restricted stock obligations ..........        19.8         11.4          8.4          --            --
Severance .............................        14.1          8.0          6.1          --            --
                                           --------       ------       ------      ------      --------
Total contractual obligations .........    $  708.5       $ 27.4       $ 36.4      $ 12.1      $  632.6
                                           ========       ======       ======      ======      ========


     We are contingently liable for stand-by letters of credit totaling $23.5
million issued on our behalf by financial institutions under our revolving
credit facility. These letters of credit are used for a variety of purposes,
including certain operating leases and meeting various states' requirements in
order to self-insure workers' compensation claims, including incurred but not
reported claims.


CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

     The following discussion of accounting policies is intended to supplement
the accounting policies presented in Note 3 to our 2001 financial statements.
The expenses and accrued liabilities or allowances related to certain of these
policies are based on our best estimates at the time of original entry in our
accounting records. Adjustments are recorded when actual experience differs
from the expected experience underlying the estimates. We make frequent
comparisons of actual versus expected experience to mitigate the likelihood of
material adjustments.

     Accounting Basis for Transactions. Prior to June 6, 2002, we were owned by
Metaldyne. On November 28, 2000, Metaldyne was acquired by an investor group
led by Heartland. The pre-acquisition basis of accounting for periods prior to
November 28, 2000 are reflected on the historical basis of accounting and all
periods subsequent to November 28, 2000 are reflected on a purchase accounting
basis and are therefore not comparable. On June 6, 2002, Metaldyne issued
approximately 66% of our fully diluted common stock to an investor group led by
Heartland. As a result of the transactions, we did not establish a new basis of
accounting as Heartland is our and Metaldyne's controlling shareholder and the
transactions were accounted for as a reorganization of


                                       39


entities under common control. Our combined financial information includes
allocations and estimates of direct and indirect Metaldyne corporate
administrative costs attributable to us, which are deemed by management to be
reasonable but are not necessarily reflective of those costs to us on an
ongoing basis.

     Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements. In June 2001, the Financial
Accounting Standards Board approved Statements of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 141, "Business Combinations" ("SFAS 141") and No. 142, "Goodwill
and Other Intangible Assets" ("SFAS 142"), which are effective for us on July
1, 2001 and January 1, 2002, respectively. SFAS 141 requires that the purchase
method of accounting be used for all business combinations initiated after June
30, 2001. SFAS 142, eliminates amortization of goodwill, including goodwill
recorded in past business combinations and certain other intangible assets, but
requires at least annual testing for impairment by comparison of estimated fair
value to carrying value. In addition, goodwill recorded as a result of business
combinations completed during the six-month period ended December 31, 2001 will
not be amortized.

     Under SFAS No. 142, we estimate fair value of goodwill at a reporting unit
level using the present value of expected future cash flows and other valuation
measures. The factors considered by management in performing this assessment
include current operating results, business prospects, market trends, potential
product obsolescence, competitor activities and other economic factors. We
completed the transitional impairment test required under SFAS No. 142 for each
of our reporting units in the second quarter of 2002, which resulted in a
non-cash, after tax charge of $36.6 million related to our industrial fasteners
business within the Industrial Specialties group. We recognized this impairment
charge as of January 1, 2002, as a cumulative effect of change in accounting
principle. We will test for impairment of goodwill at least annually and
significant variations in expected future cash flows could result in additional
impairment of recorded goodwill.

     The Financial Accounting Standards Board approved the issuance of SFAS No.
143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations" in June 2001, which is
effective January 1, 2003. SFAS No. 143 requires that an existing legal
obligation associated with the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset be
recognized as a liability when incurred and the amount of the liability be
initially measured at fair value. We are currently reviewing the provisions of
SFAS No. 143 and assessing the impact of adoption.

     On January 1, 2002, we adopted SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the
Impairment or Disposal of Long Lived Assets." Under SFAS No. 144, a single
accounting method was established for long-lived assets to be disposed. SFAS
No. 144 requires us to recognize an impairment loss only if the carrying amount
of a long-lived asset is not recoverable from its undiscounted cash flows and
the loss is the difference between the carrying amount and fair value. The
adoption of SFAS No. 144 did not have any impact on our financial position or
results of operations.

     In July 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board approved the
issuance of SFAS 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal
Activities." The provisions of SFAS No. 146 are to be applied prospectively to
exit or disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002. SFAS No. 146
requires us to recognize costs associated with exit or disposal activities when
they are incurred rather than at the date of a commitment to an exit or
disposal plan.

     Receivables. Receivables are presented net of allowances for doubtful
accounts. We monitor our exposure for credit losses and maintain adequate
allowances for doubtful accounts. We do not believe that significant credit
risk exists. Trade accounts receivable of substantially all domestic business
operations may be sold, on an ongoing basis, to TSPC, Inc., a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company.

     Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization are computed
principally using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of
the assets. Annual depreciation/ amortization rates are as follows: buildings
and land improvements, 2 1/2% to 10%: machinery and equipment, 6 2/3% to
33 1/3%, and: identified intangible including customer relationships,
trademarks/trade names and technology, 2 1/2% to 20%.


                                       40


     Pension and Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions. Annual net
periodic expense and benefit liabilities under our defined benefit plans are
determined on an actuarial basis. Assumptions used in the actuarial
calculations have a significant impact on plan obligations and expense. Each
September, we review the actual experience compared to the more significant
assumptions used and make adjustments to the assumptions, if warranted. The
healthcare trend rates are reviewed with the actuaries based upon the results
of their review of claims experience. Discount rates are based upon an expected
benefit payments duration analysis and the equivalent average yield rate for
high-quality fixed-income investments. Pension benefits are funded through
deposits with trustees and the expected long-term rate of return on fund assets
is based upon actual historical returns modified for known changes in the
market and any expected change in investment policy. Postretirement benefits
are not funded and our policy is to pay these benefits as they become due.


     Certain accounting guidance, including the guidance applicable to
pensions, does not require immediate recognition of the effects of a deviation
between actual and assumed experience or the revision of an estimate. This
approach allows the favorable and unfavorable effects that fall within an
acceptable range to be netted. Although this netting occurs outside the basic
financial statements, the net amount is disclosed as an unrecognized gain or
loss in the notes to our financial statements.


     Other Loss Reserves. We have numerous other loss exposures, such as
environmental claims, product liability, litigation, recoverability of deferred
income tax benefits, and accounts receivable. Establishing loss reserves for
these matters requires the use of estimates and judgment in regard to risk
exposure and ultimate liability. We estimate losses under the programs using
consistent and appropriate methods; however, changes to our assumptions could
materially affect our recorded liabilities for loss. Where available, we
utilize published credit ratings for our debtors to assist us in determining
the amount of required reserves.




                                       41


                                    BUSINESS

     We are a manufacturer of highly engineered products serving niche markets
in a diverse range of commercial, industrial and consumer applications. While
serving diverse markets, most of our businesses share important
characteristics, including leading market shares, strong brand names,
established distribution networks, high operating margins and relatively low
capital investment requirements. We estimate that approximately 70% of our 2001
net sales were in U.S. markets in which we enjoy the number one or number two
market position within our respective product categories. In addition, we
believe that in many of our businesses, we are one of only two or three
manufacturers.

     The principal products of our business segments are summarized below:






 TRANSPORTATION ACCESSORIES GROUP        RIEKE PACKAGING SYSTEMS GROUP           INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES GROUP
- ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
                                                                      
5th wheel hitches                  Bottle closures and dispensers           Blind bolt fasteners
Accessories for marine vehicles    Drum closures and dispensers             Center drills and cutters
ATV and motorcycle lifts           Pail closures and dispensers             Countersinks
Ballmounts                         Plastic industrial container closures    End mills
Brake Controllers                  Plastic industrial dispensing products   Ferrous specialty alloy fasteners
Couplers                           Specialty pumps                          Fiberglass facings
Dual Port System hitches and       Specialty sprayers                       Flame-retardant facings and
 accessories                       Specialty installation tooling            jacketing
Hitch accessories                  Steel industrial container closures      High pressure gas cylinders
Hitch mounted accessories          Rings and levers                         Cylinders for acetylene
Jacks                                                                       Heat treating finishing services
Lifting, leveling and adjusting                                             Insulation tape
 products                                                                   Master gears, gages and punches
Portable toilets                                                            Metallic industrial gaskets
Roof racks                                                                  Nonferrous specialty alloy fasteners
Sway controls                                                               Nonmetallic industrial gaskets
Towing electrical accessories                                               One piece aerospace fasteners
Towing brake controllers                                                    Precision cutting tools
Trailer brakes                                                              Pressure-sensitive specialty tape
Trailer lighting products                                                    products
Vehicle hitches and receivers                                               Ring joint gaskets
Weight distribution hitches                                                 Self-threading specialty fasteners
Winches                                                                     Specialized metallurgical and
Wiring harnesses                                                             finishing services
Work tables                                                                 Specialized screws
                                                                            Specialty engine and service parts
                                                                            Vapor barrier facings and jacketing
                                                                            Large diameter cartridge casings


TRANSPORTATION ACCESSORIES GROUP

     Our Transportation Accessories group offers a wide range of products that
are used to "outfit and accessorize" light trucks, SUV's, recreational
vehicles, passenger cars, and trailers of all types, and operates as three
business units: (i) Towing Products, which includes Reese and Draw-Tite branded
products; (ii) Trailer Products, which includes Fulton and Wesbar branded
products; and (iii) TriMas Pty, Ltd., an Australian-based business, which
includes ROLA roof rack products and Hayman-Reese branded products, as well as
QTB Automotive, a supplier of towing products and towing accessories to
automotive OEMs in Australia. We are a leader in the design, manufacture and
distribution of towing systems products for light trucks, SUV's, passenger
cars, recreational vehicle, as well as trailer OEM and trailer aftermarket
customers. We believe that our product lines and brand names are the most
recognized and extensive in the transportation accessories industry, enabling
us to provide custom-designed products for virtually every towing and
trailering need. Our main products categories include:

    o towing and hitch equipment, such as ballmounts and draw bars, hitch
      receivers, 5th wheel hitches and weight distribution components;


                                       42


    o electrical accessories, such as trailer lighting products and wiring
      harnesses;

    o brakes and related brake components for both towing vehicles and
      trailers;

    o trailer components, such as winches, jacks, couplers, fenders and ramps;
      and

    o other accessories, such as bike racks, cargo carriers, hood protection,
      light and receiver tube covers and marine locks.

     We believe that opportunities for internal growth in the Transportation
Accessories group include increasing sales to mass merchants and specialty
retail chains, new product offerings in the trailer brake systems and lighting
categories, and increased volume in its newest patented product offering, Dual
Port System hitches, and its related accessories.

    o Mass merchants (Wal-Mart), home centers (Lowe's and Home Depot), and
      specialty auto retailers (Pep Boys, AutoZone and CSK Auto) are now
      requiring suppliers to provide complete category management, demographic
      analysis and for product offerings that enhance the individual retailer's
      "gross margin per square foot." Mass merchants are also consolidating
      categories to drive out costs and more broadly leverage existing
      relationships. We believe we are well positioned to take advantage of
      these trends, and we are implementing a supply-chain and category
      management strategy to increase these customers' switching costs.

    o Trailer brakes represent a new product category that we believe will
      allow us to utilize our existing supply relationships with OEM trailer
      manufacturers to seek a greater share of their trailer component
      purchases. We have introduced a new line of brake actuators which, when
      bundled with our existing brake product lineup, enable us to offer
      greater content per trailer to the trailer OEMs. We are also broadening
      our traditional focus on Wesbar-branded waterproof trailer lighting to
      include a full line of non-waterproof lights designed to capture a
      greater share of the cargo and utility trailer market.

    o Our recently introduced Dual Port System is an innovative and
      patent-protected category of towing hitches designed to add greater
      stability and carry more weight than traditional rear-of-vehicle
      applications. Applications include bike carriers, cargo trays and
      enclosed cargo carriers. We believe that our Dual Port System and related
      accessory volume represent a significant growth opportunity over the next
      several years.

     The transportation accessories market is comprised of a large and highly
fragmented supplier base. We believe that we offer a substantially broader
range of products than our competitors. Through selective acquisitions, product
line extensions and use of our extensive distribution channels, we believe we
have an opportunity to become the broadest service and product line supplier to
OEMs, installers, retailers and the aftermarket. The nature of this product
breadth, coupled with our channel strength, will enable us to develop
relationships with our customers that facilitate better inventory management
through the entire supply chain and thereby enhance our operating results.


 Marketing, Customers and Distribution

     We have over 70 professionals within our Transportation Accessories group
employed in sales, marketing, and product management activities across all
customer channels. We have over 30 strategic market representatives, with
focused sales and account management accountability with specific customer
relationships. We employ a dedicated sales force in each of the primary
channels including retail, national account/OEM, installer/distributor, trailer
OEM, and trailer aftermarket/distributor.

     The Transportation Accessories group's products are distributed through a
variety of channels. The towing products group principally distributes through
three channels. Draw-Tite products are distributed through a network of 60
distributors and over 4000 independent installer shops, 450 of which carry
Draw-Tite products on an exclusive or preferred basis. Our Reese towing
products, comprised principally of heavy-duty hitches, electrical and
brake-controller products, are distributed through recreational vehicle
distributors, the retail channel, as well as through Reese installers who sell
to the heavy-duty professional towing segment. We have a strong presence in the
retail channel


                                       43


with mass merchants, such as Wal-Mart, Lowe's, and Home Depot, as well as
specialty auto retailers, such as Pep Boys, AutoZone and CSK Auto. We believe
that we are the largest supplier to mass retailers within our industry and that
our relationships with these customers provide us with a significant
competitive advantage and position us for future growth. In addition, we
believe we are also the largest supplier of heavy-duty hitches and a range of
accessories to the distributor and independent installer channels.
Approximately 55% of our towing and other non-trailer products are sold through
our installer and distributor channel. Traditional recreational vehicle
distributors account for approximately 25% of our sales. Our fastest growing
segment, mass retailers, accounts for approximately 16% of our sales, with the
remainder of our business in other retail and OEM distribution.

     Our Fulton and Wesbar-branded trailer and related accessory products are
sold directly to major trailer OEMs, recreational vehicle distributors, as well
as mass retailers. In general, the trailer OEM industry is highly fragmented
and specialized, and is generally a low value-added assembly industry. We rely
upon strong historical relationships, significant brand heritage, and our broad
product offering, to bolster our trailer and accessory products sales through
the OEM channel and in various aftermarket segments. End-users include owners
of personal watercraft, large commercial-industrial trailer users, as well as
horse and stock trailering customers. We believe that the breadth of our
customer penetration, coupled with the recognition of our strong brands,
provides a natural barrier to entry and allows us to build a scalable platform
for bundling of various applications and product extensions in all channels.


 Manufacturing

     As part of an integration and consolidation plan being executed in the
second half of 2002, towing products' manufacturing and warehousing processes
have been consolidated into a single, approximately 350,000 square-foot,
efficient-flow manufacturing and warehouse center in Goshen, Indiana. The
previous locations in Canton, Michigan and Elkhart, Indiana are expected to be
closed in the fourth quarter of 2002. The trailer products group performs all
metal-fabrication and converting manufacturing at its Mosinee, Wisconsin
facility. Electrical products manufacturing for both the towing and trailer
products groups is performed at a single facility in Reynosa, Mexico.

     The nature of the industry requires the towing products unit to
manufacture in small batches, and in significant variety as a result of the
need to maintain after-market inventory and maintenance of designs for 10-15
years on nearly every light vehicle for which there is likely to be a towing
application. In this "job shop" environment, we seek to maintain a lean, "quick
change" manufacturing culture and system. Our plants are highly vertically
integrated to receive raw materials and convert them to finished products
through three major steps: stamping and related methods of forming, cutting,
punching, boring and prepping; welding and assembly of components; and
cleaning, coating, painting and inspection of finished products. We also
maintain vacuum forming and blow forming processes for plastic accessories, an
in-house wire harness design and manufacturing capability, one of the
industry's largest research and development facilities for both testing and
design, and a "hub and spoke" distribution system with capability to meet
24-hour delivery needs for our customers.

     The trailer products group's 190,000 square-foot Mosinee, Wisconsin
facility contains a wide range of manufacturing, distribution and research and
development capabilities. Major processes at this facility include metal
stamping (up to 800 ton press capacity), a steel tube mill, thread rolling and
riveting, high-volume welding and assembly, significant in-house mechanical and
electrical engineering capabilities and in-house tool, die and equipment
maintenance capabilities. We believe these capabilities provide us with
strategic cost advantages relative to our competition. In 2001, the trailer
products unit implemented the first phase of its cost savings plan,
consolidating Wesbar's West Bend, Wisconsin trailer components' selling and
administrative functions and all production activities into the Mosinee
facility. The second phase of this cost savings plan is the consolidation in
2002 of the remaining production of our Wesbar electrical trailer products,
previously in Peru, Indiana, into our Reynosa, Mexico facility.


                                       44


     We also have a towing products business in Australia, consisting of three
business units, manufacturing marketing and distributing ROLA roof racks,
Hayman-Reese towing products for the aftermarket, as well as OEM towing
products through our QTB Automotive unit.

     The Transportation Accessories group conducts extensive testing of its
products in an effort to assure high quality, and reliable, safe product
performance. Engineering, product design and fatigue testing are performed
utilizing computer-aided design and finite element analysis. In addition,
on-road performance research is conducted on hitches with instrumentation
equipped trailers and towing vehicles. Extensive product testing programs are
intended to improve product safety and reliability, and to reduce manufacturing
costs.


 Competition

     We believe that the Transportation Accessories group is the largest North
American manufacturer and distributor of towing systems and trailer products.
The competitive environment for towing and trailer products is highly
fragmented and is characterized by numerous smaller suppliers, even the
strongest and largest of which tend to focus in narrow product categories. For
instance, across the various products only a few competitors of ours maintain a
significant or number-one market share in more than one specific product area.
By comparison, we compete on the basis of the broad range of our products, the
strength of our brands and distribution channels, as well as quality and
price-value. Our most significant competitors in towing products include Valley
(AAS), Hidden-Hitch, Putnam, Curt and Sure-Pull. Trailer Products' competitors
include Dutton-Lainson, Hammerblow, Peterson, Atwood and Shelby, each of whom
compete within only one or a few categories of Trailer Products' broad product
portfolio.


RIEKE PACKAGING SYSTEMS GROUP

     Our Rieke Packaging Systems group is a market leader in the design and
manufacture of steel and plastic closure caps, drum enclosures, rings and
levers and dispensing systems, such as pumps and specialty sprayers. We
manufacture high performance, value-added products designed to enhance the
ability of a customer to store, ship, process and dispense various products in
the industrial, agricultural, consumer and pharmaceutical markets. Our
companies, such as Rieke, TOV, Englass and Stolz, are well recognized in their
markets.

    o Rieke designs and manufactures traditional industrial closure and
      dispensing products in North America, where we believe it has significant
      market shares for many of its key products, such as steel drum
      enclosures, plastic drum closures and plastic pail dispensers and plugs;

    o Englass, located in the United Kingdom, focuses on pharmaceutical and
      personal care closures and dispensers and possesses product and
      engineering knowledge that is applicable in the dynamic consumer
      dispensing market in North America and in multiple other markets;

    o Stolz is a European and NAFTA leader in plastic enclosures for sub-20
      litre sized containers used in automotive and chemical applications; and

    o TOV, located in Italy, specializes in the lever and ring closures that
      are used in the European industrial market.

     In general, we have focused on profitable niche markets rather than
commodity products, such as generic bottle caps, due to the higher associated
margins. We believe that our experience with these more engineered products
provides us numerous opportunities to extend our products portfolio into new
markets, particularly within consumer markets in North America. In the North
American consumer market, there is an emphasis on unique packaging forms and
stylized containers and dispensers on which we have begun to focus our research
and development capabilities. Examples of higher margin, niche consumer
products that we have begun to distribute are finger operated patented
non-aerosol foamers for hair and body care, patented closures for orange juice,
patented twin airless dispensers and milk dispensers with Tetra Pak cartons. In
addition, we are currently manufacturing


                                       45


medical devices to mix water and detergent for dialysis machines, plastic
dispensers that are National Sanitation Foundation-approved for food
applications to replace previously approved stainless steel pumps and a pump
for highly viscous products. Rieke has also patented a consumer paint container
with a closure system that eliminates paint spoilage due to exposure to air. We
have received a positive response from several major paint manufacturers and
are currently beginning the manufacture of this product. Rieke has focused on
the large volume opportunities available in the chemical consumer packaging
market by developing lower cost, high performance dispensing systems which are
applicable to a variety of pharmaceutical products as well as personal care
items, household and industrial chemicals, automotive fluids and cleaners and
food products. All of these new products represent improved functionality and
style relative to existing products in the marketplace and will provide Rieke
with additional growth opportunities in new markets with new customers.


 Marketing, Customers and Distribution

     The Rieke Packaging Systems group's customers represent a variety of
industries, including container manufacturers and independent distributors. We
engage in significant direct marketing to manufacturers of chemical, paint,
petroleum and consumer products and because of this approach, a significant
portion of Rieke's products are specified by end-users who also use Rieke's
specialty tooling equipment to install the products. Installation in customer
drum and pail plants of unique Rieke-designed insertion equipment and tools
which may be used only on Rieke manufactured closures and dispensers allows us
to generate a high degree of customer loyalty while maintaining appropriate
product pricing. We believe that our high level of customer recognition is due
to our emphasis on product development, product quality and performance
characteristics and its customer service standards. We have also been
successful in creating significant bundling opportunities for a variety of its
items by providing the broadest scope of products to customers. To this end, we
provide attractive pricing to the customer in exchange for developing a
preferred supplier status with respect to all associated products for a number
of years.

     We employed a direct sales force of approximately 20 persons. Our primary
customers include Coca-Cola, Dow Chemical, BASF, Chevron, Sherwin Williams,
Pepsi, Proctor & Gamble, Valvoline, Colgate, Bayer/Monsanto, Zeneca and major
container manufacturers around the world. We recently signed contracts to sell
products to Glaxo, Jergens and Tetra Pak, beginning in 2003. We maintain a
customer service center that provides technical support for the various systems
and tooling supplied by us as well as other technical assistance to customers
to reduce overall production costs. We also provide extensive in-house design
and development technical staff to provide a solution to customer requirements
for closures and dispensing. We have also begun to cross-market successful
European products, such as market rings and levers, to the North American
market utilizing our direct sales force. We also cross-sell the Stolz and
Englass products throughout the NAFTA and South American markets.


 Manufacturing

     Our Rieke Packaging Systems group maintains its global headquarters and
manufacturing and technology center in Auburn, Indiana and has manufacturing
operations in Canada, Mexico, England, Germany and Italy with contract
manufacturing in Asia. We also maintain distribution facilities in South
America and the Far East to serve our global customer base. Industrial
container closures and specialty dispensing and packaging products are
manufactured using metal forming and plastic injection molding technologies,
supplemented by automated assembly and material handling systems. Facilities in
all locations have technologically advanced injection molding machines as well
as automated, high-speed assembly equipment for multiple component products.
Consolidation actions are underway in Europe to concentrate (i) all plastic
molding throughout Europe into our Neunkirchen, Germany facility; (ii) all
metal forming capabilities into our Valmadrera, Italy facility; and (iii) our
assembly and "clean room" capabilities into our Leicester, England facility. In
North America, both metal forming and injection molding operations will be
located in Auburn, Michigan. Our Mexico City, Mexico facility will focus solely
on lower volume injection molding where multiple, labor-intensive components
will be assembled.


                                       46


     We believe that research and development are an essential component of our
manufacturing capabilities. For more than 75 years, Rieke's product development
programs have provided innovative and proprietary product solutions, such as
ViseGrip (Registered Trademark) steel flange and plug closure, the
Poly-ViseGrip (Registered Trademark) plastic closure, the all plastic,
environmentally safe, self-venting FlexSpout (Registered Trademark) flexible
pouring spout and the ViseGrip (Registered Trademark) drum closure. We have
over 25 patented or patent application pending systems of technologies.
Approximately 50% of this group's 2001 net sales relate to value-added products
based upon patented processes or technology.

     A critical component of our growth, and maintenance of our market
position, depends upon the successful and cost-effective implementation of new
products and technologies, such as the shift from aerosol dispensing to foamer
technologies and the continuing shift of materials to plastics. We have a core
competence in the design, engineering and marketing of small, plastic,
injection molded dispensers and closures for industrial packaging. We intend to
employ this competence in pursuing opportunities within the consumer packaging
market in a manner similar to our Englass branding strategy in Europe. In
addition, we believe that there will be a shift from steel drum enclosures due
to a shift to plastics.


 Competition

     We believe that Rieke is the largest manufacturer in North America of
steel and plastic industrial container closures and dispensing products.
Primary competitors in the industrial closure market include American Flange
(division of Greif Brothers), Technocraft (India), and Bericap (Germany).
Dispensing products is a highly fragmented market with few large suppliers with
the exception of Rieke, Calmar, Indesco and Seaquist (Aptar Group). Rieke's
regional, niche market competitors include Airspray and Taplast.

     INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES GROUP

     Our Industrial Specialties group designs and manufactures a range of
industrial products for use in niche markets within the industrial automotive,
aerospace, construction, commercial, energy and defense markets. Such products
include precision tools, fasteners, gaskets, cylinders, steel munitions casings
and shells, pressure sensitive tape and vapor barrier facings, and specialized
oil and gas field engines. In general, our products are highly engineered and
customer-specific items that are sold into niche markets with few suppliers.
These products are manufactured under a number of names, including Monogram
Aerospace Fasteners, Entegra Fasteners, Lake Erie Screw, Compac Corporation,
Norris Cylinders, Arrow Engine, Keo Cutters, Richard's Micro Tool and Precision
Performance and, where useful, we seek to maintain the names for customer brand
recognition. These products include:

    o Industrial fasteners comprised of large diameter bolts, customized
      specialty bolts and small diameter specialty screws used in a variety of
      industrial applications such as automotive and furniture and fixtures;

    o Specialty aerospace fasteners, comprised of permanent blind bolt and
      temporary fasteners used in aircraft construction and other aerospace
      applications;

    o Metallic and non-metallic industrial gaskets and complementary fasteners
      for refining, petrochemical and other industrial applications principally
      in North America;

    o Flame-retardant facings and jacketings used in connection with
      fiberglass insulation as temperature and vapor barriers and
      pressure-sensitive specialty tape products used for insulation;

    o Precision cutting tools, such as center drills, carbide end mills and
      precision spline gauges;

    o Specialty engines, chemical pumps and engine replacement parts serving
      principally the oil and natural gas extraction market;

    o Large diameter cartridge casings provided to the U.S. and foreign defense
      markets; and


                                       47


    o Most categories of industrial gas cylinders used by global industrial
      gas and chemical companies.

     We manufacture standard and custom-designed ferrous, nonferrous and
special alloy fasteners and highly engineered specialty fasteners for both
domestic and international general industrial and aerospace industries. We
specialize in manufacturing fasteners and other cold formed products, generally
in sizes 1/4" to 11/4" and also manufacture both ferrous and nonferrous
standard and specialty-designed small diameter fasteners, generally in sizes
5/8" and smaller. Our design and engineering capabilities enable us to
formulate fastener product programs to meet demanding metallurgical and
performance specifications for a wide variety of customers. We also provide
commercial heat treating and specialized metallurgical and finishing services
(e.g., plating) for fastener products used in various markets.

     We are also a leader in the development of blind bolt fastener technology
for the aerospace industry. Our Visu-Lok (Registered Trademark), Visu-Lok II
(Registered Trademark) and Radial Lok (Registered Trademark) blind bolts
which allow sections of aircraft to be joined together when access is provided
to only one side of the airframe, are lighter in weight, easier to install and
provide certain cost efficiencies over conventional two-sided fastening
devices.

     Our fastener products are sold to distributors and manufacturers in the
agricultural, light and heavy duty truck, construction, fabricated metal
product and commercial and industrial maintenance markets. Additional markets
for our products include building products, heating and air conditioning, lawn
and garden, recreational, and furniture and fixtures.

     We also manufacture flame-retardant facings and jacketings and insulation
tapes used in conjunction with fiberglass insulation as vapor barriers. These
products are principally used for commercial and industrial construction
applications, and are sold to all major manufacturers of fiberglass insulation.
Our product line also includes pressure-sensitive specialty tape products that
are marketed to insulation manufacturers as well as to numerous other customers.
Pressure-sensitive products for the insulation industry are utilized for sealing
pipe jacketing, ducts and fiberglass wrappings to increase the efficiency and
cost effectiveness of heating and cooling installations. Combined with facing
and jacketing products, pressure-sensitive specialty tapes enable us to offer
customers the only complete systems approach to insulation installation. With
important product positions in several specialty tape markets, we are pursuing
further opportunities to expand our presence in the industry such as the
introduction of an asphalt coater utilized in residential insulation
applications. Utilizing existing pressure-sensitive adhesive technologies, we
continue to develop new product programs to expand our pressure-sensitive
product positions into sub-segments of existing markets, including the
electronics and transportation industries.

     We are also one of only three North American suppliers of a complete line
of large and intermediate size, high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for
the transportation, storage and dispensing of compressed gases. Our large
high-pressure seamless compressed gas cylinders are used principally for
shipping, storing and dispensing oxygen, nitrogen, argon, helium and other
gases for industrial and health-care markets. In addition, we offer a complete
line of low-pressure welded cylinders used to contain and dispense acetylene
gas for the welding and cutting industries. We market cylinders primarily to
major industrial gas producers and distributors, welding equipment distributors
and equipment manufacturers. Cylinder products are sold through internal sales
personnel who operate in distinct geographic sales regions.

     We also manufacture and distribute metallic and nonmetallic industrial
gaskets and complementary fasteners for refining, petrochemical and other
industrial applications principally in the United States and Canada. Gaskets
and complementary fasteners are supplied both for original installations and
replacement and maintenance. Gasket sales are made directly from the factory to
major customers, through thirteen company-owned distribution facilities in
major regional markets, or through a large network of independent distributors.


     The Industrial Specialties group also produces a variety of specialty
precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills, reamers, master
gears, gages and punches, specialty engines and service parts and specialty
ordnance components. Principal markets served by these products include the
automotive, aerospace, appliance, electronics, energy and defense industries.


                                       48


 Marketing, Customers and Distribution

     The customers of our Industrial Specialties group are within numerous
industries, primarily automotive, aerospace, construction, commercial and
defense. Given the niche nature of many of our products, our Industrial
Specialties group relies upon a combination of direct sales forces and
established networks of independent distributors with familiarity of the end
users. In each of the markets this group serves, its companies brand names are
synonymous with product applications. The narrow end user base of many of these
products makes it possible for this group to respond to customer-specific
engineered applications and provide a high degree of customer service. This
group serves both OEM and aftermarket customers in a wide variety of end markets
including -- energy, petrochemical, oil and gas, automotive, electrical,
agricultural, heavy duty truck, medical, aerospace, industrial and defense.


 Manufacturing

     Our Industrial Specialties group employs various manufacturing process
including annealing, CNC machining and stamping, fluting, forging, threading,
coating, cold heading and forming, heat treating and plating, laminating and
splitting, and deep-draw stamping that requires high tonnage presses. We are in
the process of restructuring this group to shed excess capacity and eliminate
sub-scale facilities that carry duplicative cost structures. We have merged
fastener and bolt manufacturing capacity and consolidated down stream processing
functions including heat-treating and plating at our Frankfort, Indiana
operations. We will also use the Frankfort facility as the "pick and pack"
shipping, distribution and warehouse location effectively eliminating these
functions elsewhere. All production will be funneled through the Frankfort
facility for final operations thereby significantly reducing the amount of
duplicative resources within the group. Executive management, sales and support
functions such as human resources, accounting, information technology and
purchasing will also be consolidated into one organization.

     We are also in the process of restructuring our gasket products
manufacturing by moving a significantly higher share of manufacturing to our
newly built, technologically-advanced gasket manufacturing facility in Houston,
Texas and eliminating duplicative infrastructure activities that can now be
consolidated into this headquarters. Currently, we operate 13 disparate gasket
manufacturing operations throughout the country. Under this consolidation, we
will generate significant savings from the rationalization of inefficient
operations and the shift to centralized manufacturing using current information
technology systems and third-party logistics vendors to provide parts
just-in-time to customers.


 Competition

     This group's primary competitors include Fontana, Nucor and Infasco in
industrial fasteners; TAF (Textron) and Fairchild Fasteners (Alcoa) in
aerospace fasteners; Garlock (EnPro) and Flexitallic in gaskets; Texsteam,
Williams Pumps and Continental Engine Line in engines; Harsco and Worthington
in cylinders; 3M and Adco in pressure sensitive tapes; Johns Manville in
asphalt coating and laminating vapor barriers; and Lavalin and Chamberlain in
shell casings. This group's units supply highly engineered and non-commodity,
customer specific products and most have large shares of small markets supplied
by a limited number of competitors. In a significant number of areas,
value-added design, finishing, warehousing, packaging, distribution and
after-sales service have generated strong customer loyalty and supplement
low-cost, know-how based manufacturing skills in each businesses overall
competitive advantage equation.


MATERIALS AND SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS

     We are sensitive to price movements in our raw materials supply base. Our
largest raw materials purchases are for steel, polyethylene and other resins
and energy. Metaldyne entered into several purchasing arrangements for its and
our steel and energy requirements that we previously benefited from as a
Metaldyne subsidiary. We and Metaldyne have agreed to cooperate to provide each
other with the benefits of these agreements in the future, but there can be no
assurance that these benefits


                                       49


will continue to be available to us. Raw materials and other supplies used in
our operations are normally available from a variety of competing suppliers.
Steel is purchased primarily from steel mills with pricing guarantees in the
six-to twelve-month time frame. Polyethelene is generally a commodity resin
with multiple suppliers capable of providing product. For most polyethylene
purchases, will negotiate the effective date of any upward pricing (usually 60
days). Our electricity requirements are managed on a regional basis utilizing
competition where deregulation is prevalent.


EMPLOYEES AND LABOR RELATIONS

     As of December 31, 2001, we employed approximately 4,000 people, of which
approximately 13% were unionized. At such date, approximately 18% of our
employees were located outside the U.S. Employee relations have generally been
satisfactory. We cannot predict the impact of any further unionization of our
workplace.


SEASONALITY; BACKLOG

     Sales of towing and trailer products within our Transportation Accessories
group are generally stronger in the first and second quarters, as trailer OEMs,
distributors and retailers acquire product for the spring selling season. No
other operating segment experiences significant seasonal fluctuation in its
business. We do not consider backlog orders to be a material factor in our
business.


ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

     Our operations are subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and
regulations pertaining to pollution and protection of the environment, health
and safety, governing among other things, emissions to air, discharge to waters
and the generation, handling, storage, treatment and disposal of waste and
other materials, and remediation of contaminated sites. Some of our
subsidiaries have been named as potentially responsible parties under the
Federal Superfund law or similar state laws at several sites requiring clean up
based on disposal of wastes they generated. These laws generally impose
liability for costs to investigate and remediate contamination without regard
to fault and under certain circumstances liability may be joint and several
resulting in one responsible party being held responsible for the entire
obligation. Liability may also include damages to natural resources. We have
entered into consent decrees relating to two sites in California along with the
many other co-defendants in these matters. We have incurred substantial
expenses for all these sites over a number of years, a portion of which has
been covered by insurance. See "--Legal Proceedings" below. In addition to the
foregoing, our businesses have incurred and likely will continue to incur
expenses to investigate and clean up existing and former company-owned or
leased property, including those properties made the subject of sale-leaseback
transactions in the past 18 months for which we have provided environmental
indemnities to the lessor.

     We believe that our business, operations and facilities are being operated
in compliance in all material respects with applicable environmental and health
and safety laws and regulations, many of which provide for substantial fines
and criminal sanctions for violations. Based on information presently known to
us and accrued environmental reserves, we do not expect environmental costs or
contingencies to have a material adverse effect on us. The operation of
manufacturing plants entails risks in these areas, however, and there can be no
assurance that we will not incur material costs or liabilities in the future
that could adversely effect us. Potentially material expenditures could be
required in the future. For example, we may be required to comply with evolving
environmental and health and safety laws, regulations or requirements that may
be adopted or imposed in the future or to address newly discovered information
or conditions that require a response.


PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS

     We hold a number of U.S. and foreign patents, patent applications,
licenses and trademarks, particularly within our Rieke Packaging Systems group.
We have, and will continue to dedicate, technical resources toward the further
development of our products and processes in order to


                                       50


maintain our competitive position in the transportation, industrial and
commercial markets that we serve. We continue to invest in the design,
development and testing of proprietary technologies that we believe will set
our products apart from those of our competitors. We consider our patents,
patent applications, licenses, trademarks and trade names to be valuable, but
do not believe that there is any reasonable likelihood of a loss of such rights
that would have a material adverse effect on us.


INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS


     Approximately 11% of our net sales for the fiscal year ended December 31,
2001 were derived from sales by our subsidiaries located outside of the U.S.,
and we may significantly expand our international operations through
acquisitions. We operate manufacturing facilities in Australia, Canada,
England, Germany, Italy, Mexico and the United Kingdom. Within Australia, we
operate three facilities that manufacture and distribute hitches, towing
accessories and roof rack systems with approximately 230 employees. Our
Canadian operations, with approximately 115 employees, include the production
and distribution of towing products through the Transportation Accessories
group, distribution of closures and dispensing products through Rieke's
Canadian operations, and the manufacturing and distribution of gaskets produced
in three gasket facilities. Rieke Packaging Systems has approximately 400
employees. Within the United Kingdom, Englass produces specialty sprayers,
pumps and related products in one facility. TOV, a manufacturer of specialty
steel industrial container closures, operates in one location in Italy. In
Germany, Stolz has one facility that manufactures a wide variety of closures
for industrial packaging markets. In Mexico, we conduct contract manufacturing
of towing products including related electrical products and accessories.
Additionally, Rieke's Mexico City operations produces steel and plastic drum
closures and dispensing products in one factory.


PROPERTIES


     Our principal manufacturing facilities range in size from approximately
10,000 square feet to approximately 420,000 square feet. Except as set forth in
the table below, all of our manufacturing facilities are owned. The leases for
our manufacturing facilities have initial terms that expire from 2002 through
2022 and are all renewable, at our option, for various terms, provided that we
are not in default thereunder. Substantially all of our owned U.S. real
properties are subject to liens under our credit facility. Our executive
offices are located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan under a lease assumed by us
from Heartland under a term that expires in January 2007. See "Certain
Transactions and Related Party Transactions." Our buildings, machinery and
equipment have been generally well maintained, are in good operating condition
and are adequate for current production requirements. We may enter into leases
for equipment in lieu of making capital expenditures to acquire such equipment
or to reduce debt.


     The following list sets forth the location of our principal owned and
leased manufacturing facilities and identifies the principal operating segment
utilizing such facilities. We have identified the operating segments for which
we conduct business at these facilities as follows: (1) Transportation
Accessories Group, (2) Industrial Specialties Group and (3) Rieke Packaging
Systems. Multiple footnotes to the same location denote separate facilities or
multiple activities in that location.


                                       51





                           
   UNITED STATES
   California .............   Vernon(2), Riverbank(2)** and Commerce(2)
   Illinois ...............   Wood Dale(2)*
   Indiana ................   Auburn(3), Elkhart(1), Frankfort(2), Goshen(1)*, and Peru(1)*
   Louisiana ..............   Baton Rouge(3)
   Massachusetts ..........   Plymouth(2)*
   Michigan ...............   Canton(1) and Warren(2)*
   New Jersey .............   Edison(2)* and Netcong(2)
   Ohio ...................   Lakewood(2)
   Oklahoma ...............   Tulsa(2)
   Texas ..................   Houston(2)* and Longview(2)
   Wisconsin ..............   Mosinee(1)*
   FOREIGN
   Canada .................   Fort Erie(2)*, Oakville(1), and Sarnia(2)(3)*
   Mexico .................   Mexico City(3)
   Australia ..............   Victoria(1), Wakerley(1)* and Rhodes(1)*
   Germany ................   Neunkirchen(3)
   Italy ..................   Valmadrera(3)
   United Kingdom .........   Leicester(3)


- ----------
*     Represents a leased facility. All of such leases are operating leases.

**    Owned by U.S. Government, operated by TriMas under a facility maintenance
      contract.

     We have entered into a number of sale-leaseback transactions with respect
to approximately nine real properties in the United States and Canada. Pursuant
to the terms of each sale-leaseback transaction, we transferred title of the
real property locations to a purchaser and, in turn, entered into separate
leases with the purchaser having a 20-year basic lease term plus two separate
10-year renewal options. The renewal option must be exercised with respect to
all, and not less than all, of the property locations. Rental payments are due
monthly. All of the foregoing leases are accounted for as operating leases.


LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

     A civil suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Central
District of California in April 1983 by the United States of America and the
State of California under the Federal Superfund law against over 30 defendants,
including a subsidiary of ours, for alleged release into the environment of
hazardous substances disposed of at the Stringfellow Disposal Site in
California. The plaintiffs have requested, among other things, that the
defendants clean up the contamination at that site. A consent decree has been
entered into by the plaintiffs and the defendants, including us, providing that
the consenting parties perform partial remediation at the site. The State has
agreed to take over clean-up of the site, as well as responsibility for
governmental entities' past response costs. Additionally, we and approximately
60 other entities including the State are defendants in a toxic tort suit
brought in the Superior Court of the State of California in May 1998 by various
persons residing in the area of the site and seeking damages for alleged
personal injuries claimed to arise from exposure to contaminants from the site.
The case is still in the discovery stage but we believe there are good defenses
to the claims against us. Another civil suit was filed in the United States
District Court for the Central District of California in December 1988 by the
United States of America and the State against more than 180 defendants,
including us, for alleged release into the environment of hazardous substances
disposed of at the Operating Industries, Inc. site in California. This site
served for many years as a depository for municipal and industrial waste. The
plaintiffs have requested, among other things, that the defendants clean up the
contamination at that site. Consent decrees have been entered into by the


                                       52


plaintiffs and a group of the defendants, including us, providing that the
consenting parties perform certain remedial work at the site and reimburse the
plaintiffs for certain past costs incurred by the plaintiffs at the site. While
based upon our present knowledge and subject to future legal and factual
developments, we do not believe that any of these litigations will have a
material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of
operations or cash flow, there can be no assurance that future legal and
factual developments will not result in materially adverse expenditures.

     As of September 30, 2002, we were a party to approximately 560 pending
cases involving an aggregate of approximately 10,075 claimants alleging
personal injury from exposure to asbestos containing materials formerly used in
gaskets (both encapsulated and otherwise) manufactured or distributed by
certain of our subsidiaries for use in the petrochemical refining and
exploration industries. We manufactured three types of gaskets and we ceased
the use of asbestos in our U.S. products at various dates in the 1980's and
1990's. In addition, we acquired various companies to distribute our products
that had distributed gaskets of other manufacturers prior to acquisition. We
believe that many of our pending cases relate to locations at which none of our
gaskets were distributed or used. Approximately 563 cases involving
approximately 3,309 claimants have been either dismissed for lack of product
identification or otherwise or been settled or made subject to agreements to
settle. Total settlement costs (exclusive of defense costs) for all such cases,
some of which were filed over 12 years ago, have been approximately
$1.3 million. We do not have significant primary insurance to cover our
settlement and defense costs. We believe that there may be excess insurance
policies of former owners available to us that we are in the process of
reconstructing, but we cannot assure you of their availability. Based upon our
experience to date and other available information, we do not believe that these
cases will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results
of operation. However, we cannot assure you that we will not be subjected to
significant additional claims in the future or that the cost of settling cases
in which product identification can be made will not increase or that we will
not be subjected to further claims in respect of the former activities of our
acquired gasket distributors.


     We are subject to other claims and litigation in the ordinary course of
our business, but do not believe that any such claim or litigation will have a
material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.


                                       53


                                   MANAGEMENT


DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

     The following table sets forth certain information regarding our directors
and executive officers.






NAME                               AGE                           POSITION
- -------------------------------   -----   -----------------------------------------------------
                                    
Samuel Valenti III ............   56      Chairman of the Board of Directors
Gary M. Banks .................    51     Director
Charles E. Becker .............    54     Director
Timothy D. Leuliette ..........    52     Director
W. Gerald McConnell ...........    38     Director
David A. Stockman .............    55     Director
Daniel P. Tredwell ............    43     Director
Grant H. Beard ................    41     President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Todd R. Peters ................    39     Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Lynn Brooks ...................    49     President, Rieke Packaging Systems
Scott Hazlett .................    46     President, Transportation Accessories


     Metaldyne has the right to appoint an additional director, who has not yet
been identified.

     Samuel Valenti III. Mr. Valenti was elected as Chairman of our board of
directors in connection with the transactions and is a Senior Managing Director
of Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P. He has been a director of Masco Capital
Corporation since 1988. Mr. Valenti was formerly Vice President-- Investments
of Masco Corporation from May 1977 to October 1998. Mr. Valenti is a director
of Collins & Aikman Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.

     Gary M. Banks. Mr. Banks was elected as one of our directors in connection
with the transactions and is a Senior Managing Director of Heartland. He has
served as a Director of Documentum, Inc. since March 1999 and served as Vice
President and Chief Information Officer of Sithe Energies, an electricity
generation trading company in New York, from October 1999 to May 2000. From
August 1998 to July 1999, he was Vice President and Chief Information Officer
for Xerox Corporation, a manufacturing company. From June 1992 to July 1998,
Mr. Banks served as Director MIS for the agricultural division of Monsanto
Inc., a life sciences company. Before joining Monsanto, he spent 15 years with
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, a pharmaceutical company. Mr. Banks is also a
director of Metaldyne.

     Charles E. Becker. Mr. Becker was elected as a director in connection with
the transactions. For over 25 years, through 1998, Mr. Becker was the CEO and
co-owner of Becker Group, Inc., a global automotive interiors components
supplier. Becker Group, Inc. was sold to Johnson Controls, Inc. in 1998. In
January 1999, Mr. Becker re-acquired 10 North American plastic molding and
tooling operations from Johnson Controls which subsequently became Becker
Group, LLC. Mr. Becker is also the owner and chairman of Becker Ventures, LLC,
which was established in 1998 to invest in a variety of business ventures,
including the manufacturing, real estate and service industries. Mr. Becker is
a director of Metaldyne and Collins & Aikman Corporation.

     Timothy D. Leuliette. Mr. Leuliette was elected as one of our directors in
connection with the transactions and currently serves as Metaldyne's Chairman,
President and Chief Executive Officer. He is the former Vice Chairman of
Detroit Diesel Corp. and has spent 27 years in management of manufacturing and
services businesses and in the investment of private capital. Mr. Leuliette
joined the Penske Corporation as President & Chief Operating Officer in 1996 to
address operational and strategic issues. From 1991 to 1996, Mr. Leuliette
served as President & Chief Executive Officer of ITT Automotive. He also serves
on a number of corporate and charitable boards, including serving as a Chairman
of The Federal Reserve of Chicago, Detroit Branch. Mr. Leuliette is a Senior
Managing Director and one of the co-founders of Heartland Industrial Partners,
L.P. Mr. Leuliette is also a director of Collins & Aikman Corporation.


                                       54


     W. Gerald McConnell. Mr. McConnell was elected as a director in connection
with the transactions. Mr. McConnell is a Senior Managing Director of Heartland
Industrial Partners. Mr. McConnell was formerly a managing director at Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown (formerly Bankers Trust Co.), a banking firm, from 1997 until
1999. From 1991 until 1999, Mr. McConnell specialized in leveraged finance and
financial sponsor coverage at Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown. Mr. McConnell is also
a director of Collins & Aikman Corporation and Springs Industries, Inc.

     David A. Stockman. Mr. Stockman was elected as one of our directors in
connection with the transactions. He is a Senior Managing Director and the
founder of Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., a buyout firm, established in
1999, focused on industrial buyouts and buildups. Prior to founding Heartland,
he was a senior managing director of The Blackstone Group L.P. and had been
with Blackstone since 1988. Mr. Stockman is a director of Collins & Aikman
Corporation, Metaldyne Corporation and Springs Industries, Inc.

     Daniel P. Tredwell. Mr. Tredwell was elected as one of our directors in
connection with the transactions. Mr. Tredwell is a Senior Managing Director
and one of the co-founders of Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P. He has more
than a decade of leveraged financing experience. Mr. Tredwell served as a
Managing Director at Chase Securities Inc. and had been with Chase Securities
since 1985. Mr. Tredwell is a director of Collins & Aikman Corporation,
Metaldyne Corporation and Springs Industries, Inc.

     Grant H. Beard. Mr. Beard was appointed as our President and Chief
Executive Officer in March 2001 and was appointed as a director in connection
with the transactions. From August 2000 to March 2001, Mr. Beard was president,
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of HealthMedia, Inc. From January 1996 to
August 2000, he was President of the Preferred Technical Group of Dana
Corporation, a manufacturer of tubular fluid routing products sold to vehicle
manufacturers. He has also served as Vice President of Sales, Marketing and
Corporate Development for Echlin, Inc., before the acquisition of Echlin by
Dana in late 1998. Mr. Beard has experience at two private equity/merchant
banking groups, Anderson Group and Oxford Investment Group, where he was
actively involved in corporate development, strategy and operations management.

     Todd R. Peters. Mr. Peters was appointed as our Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer in connection with the transactions. From March
2001 to June 2002, Mr. Peters was our Vice President of Finance. From July,
1998 to March 2001, Mr. Peters held various senior financial and operational
roles at Dana Corporation. He also served as the Vice President of Finance for
Echlin Inc.'s Fluid Systems group from December 1994 to July 1998. Mr. Peters
is a Certified Public Accountant and has held various roles at
PricewaterhouseCoopers serving multi-national, industrial manufacturing
clients, both public and private.

     Lynn Brooks. Mr. Brooks has been President of the Rieke Packaging Systems
Group since July, 1996. He joined Rieke in May, 1978. Prior to his current
position, his responsibilities at Rieke included Assistant Controller,
Corporate Controller, and Vice President-General Manager of Rieke. Before
joining Metaldyne, he served with Ernst & Young in the Toledo, Ohio and Fort
Wayne, Indiana offices.

     Scott Hazlett. Mr. Hazlett joined us in August, 2001, prior to which he
was president of an internet based strategic sourcing start-up company that was
wound-up pursuant to an assignment of assets for the benefit of its creditors.
Mr. Hazlett previously held senior management positions from 1995 to 2000 with
Case Corporation and CNH Global (Case-New Holland), a global manufacturer of
agricultural and construction equipment, including Senior Vice-President,
Global Aftersales for CNH, where he was accountable for the post-merger
world-wide agricultural customer support and parts businesses;
Vice-President-General Manager, of Case's North American aftermarket parts
business, and General Manager, North American retail operations. Prior to
joining Case Corporation in 1995, Mr. Hazlett held plant management and
multi-plant business unit general management assignments in the paper industry
with James River Corporation. He held command and staff positions in the U.S.
military from 1981-1990, serving in Europe, and on the staff and faculty at the
United States Military Academy at West Point.


                                       55


     Committees of the Board of Directors. We presently have executive, audit
and compensation committees. We expect our audit committee to include at least
two independent directors.


 Executive Committee


     We have elected to be governed by the provisions of Section 141(c)(2) of
the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, or DGCL, and have
established our executive committee under these provisions. Our executive
committee has all the powers and authority of our board of directors in the
management of our business and affairs, except in respect of:


    o approving or adopting, or recommending to stockholders, any action or
      matter expressly required by the DGCL to be submitted to stockholders for
      approval, and


    o adopting, amending or repealing any of our by-laws.


We call the types of actions described in the previous two bullets "full board
matters." Our executive committee has the power and authority to submit
recommendations to the board of directors with respect to all matters requiring
action by the full board of directors prior to the board of directors taking
any action.


     The executive committee is comprised of Messrs. Stockman, Tredwell, Beard
and Valenti.


     Audit Committee. The audit committee reviews our various accounting,
financial reporting and internal control functions, makes recommendations to
the Board of Directors for the selection of independent public accountants and
reviews our compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In addition,
the committee monitors the independence of our independent accountants. Messrs.
Tredwell, McConnell and Leuliette are the members of the audit committee. Mr.
Tredwell is the audit committee chairman.


     Compensation Committee. The compensation committee is responsible for
developing and maintaining our compensation strategies and policies. The
compensation committee is responsible for monitoring and administering our
compensation and employee benefit plans and reviewing among other things base
salary levels, incentive awards and bonus awards for officers and key
executives. Messrs. Stockman (chairman), Leuliette and Valenti are members of
the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee has a Retirement-Plan
Administrative Sub-Committee composed of Messrs. Beard, Peters, Dwayne Newcom
our Vice President--Human Resources and Ms. Janice McAdams. This sub-committee
is principally responsible for developing, maintaining and administering our
retirement plans.


     Director Compensation. Outside directors who are not affiliated with
Heartland receive cash compensation of $50,000 per year (other than the
Chairman of the Board, if any, who may receive more) for their service as
members of the Board of Directors and they are reimbursed for reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with their attendance at meetings
of the board of directors and committee meetings. In addition, outside
directors not affiliated with Heartland are eligible to receive awards under
our planned 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.


     Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation. No member of
the compensation committee is an employee of ours.


                                       56


DIRECTOR AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION


 Summary Compensation

     The following table summarizes the annual and long-term compensation at
Metaldyne of those persons who, on such basis, would have been our five most
highly paid executive officers for 2001. All of the individuals in the table
are referred to collectively as the "named executive officers."






                                                             ANNUAL COMPENSATION (1)           SECURITIES
                                                       ------------------------------------    UNDERLYING        ALL OTHER
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION                             YEAR       SALARY         BONUS        OPTIONS (2)     COMPENSATION
- ----------------------------------------------------   ------   -----------   -------------   ------------   ----------------
                                                                                              
Grant H. Beard,
 President (4) .....................................   2001      $454,462      $  226,305       153,075                --
Todd R. Peters,
 Executive Vice President and
 Chief Financial Officer (5) .......................   2001      $223,277      $  120,868        45,922                --
Lynn Brooks,
 President, Rieke Packaging Systems (6) ............   2001      $291,200      $   94,600        45,922
Scott Hazlett,
 President, Transportation Accessories (7) .........   2001      $ 90,300      $   43,600        45,922           140,331(3)
David Woodley,
 President, Industrial Specialties (8) .............   2001      $ 71,250      $  120,000        45,922            21,962(3)
Lee Gardner, President (9) .........................   2001      $345,000      $4,800,609            --            39,810


- ----------
(1)   Officers may receive certain perquisites and personal benefits, the
      dollar amounts of which are below current Commission thresholds for
      reporting requirements. Bonuses are paid in the year subsequent to which
      they are earned.

(2)   Represents options to purchase Metaldyne common stock granted under the
      Metaldyne 2001 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan during 2001. See the
      discussion of these options below under the heading "Management--Option
      Grants in Last Fiscal Year." Mr. Woodley forfeited all of his options to
      purchase shares of Metaldyne common stock when he resigned in June 2002.

(3)   Represents moving expenses.

(4)   Mr. Beard became our President in March 2001, prior to which he held no
      position with Metaldyne or any of its subsidiaries. Mr. Beard's salary in
      2001 on an annualized basis was $564,000. Mr. Beard's salary in 2002 on an
      annualized basis is $750,000.

(5)   Mr. Peters became Vice President--Finance in March 2001, prior to which
      he held no position with Metaldyne or any of its subsidiaries. Mr.
      Peters' salary in 2001 on an annualized basis was $290,800. Mr. Peters'
      salary in 2002 on an annualized basis is $340,000.

(6)   As of December 31, 2001, Mr. Brooks had approximately 47,800 restricted
      share awards that vest in equal installments in January 2002, 2003 and
      2004. The aggregate value of these (using the $16.90 per share
      cash price paid in the Heartland acquisition of Metaldyne) unvested
      restricted shares was approximately $807,820.

(7)   Mr. Hazlett became President, Transportation Accessories in September
      2001. Mr. Hazlett's salary in 2001 on an annualized basis was $250,000.

(8)   Mr. Woodley stepped down as our President, Industrial Specialties in June
      2002. Mr. Woodley became our President, Industrial Specialties in
      October, 2001. His salary in 2001 on an annualized basis was $285,000.

(9)   Mr. Gardner stepped down as our president in March 2001 and was employed
      by us in an executive capacity until June 2001. Upon his resignation, Mr.
      Gardner received a one time $4,513,109 payment pursuant to his change of
      control agreement triggered by Heartland's acquisition of Metaldyne. Mr.
      Gardner's other compensation represents payment in respect of vacation
      days accrued but not taken. As of December 31, 2001, Mr. Gardner had
      approximately


                                       57


    118,500 restricted share awards that vest in equal installments in January
    2002, 2003 and 2004. The aggregate value of these (using the $16.90
    per share cash price paid in Heartland acquisition of Metaldyne) unvested
    restricted shares was approximately $2,002,650.


OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR

     Certain of our executive officers received options to purchase Metaldyne
common stock in 2001 as a portion of their compensation as Metaldyne employees.
Each vested option will be converted into options to purchase TriMas common
stock and the unvested options were canceled. In addition, appropriate
adjustments will be made to the Metaldyne options when they are converted into
TriMas options. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party
Transactions--Stock Purchase Agreement-- Employee Matters." The table below
shows the option grants in 2001.






                                                 PERCENT
                               NUMBER OF        OF TOTAL
                               SECURITIES     OPTIONS/SARS
                               UNDERLYING      GRANTED TO      EXERCISE OF
                                OPTIONS       EMPLOYEES IN     BASE PRICE     EXPIRATION       GRANT DATE
NAME                          GRANTED (1)      FISCAL YEAR      PER SHARE        DATE        PRESENT VALUE*
- --------------------------   -------------   --------------   ------------   ------------   ---------------
                                                                             
Grant H. Beard ...........     153,075             5.3%         $ 16.90        3/8/2011           N.M.
Todd R. Peters ...........      45,922             1.6%         $ 16.90        4/1/2011           N.M.
Lynn Brooks ..............      45,922             1.6%         $ 16.90        3/8/2011           N.M.
Scott Hazlett ............      45,922             1.6%         $ 16.90        9/1/2011           N.M.
David Woodley(2) .........      45,922             1.6%         $ 16.90       10/1/2011           N.M.


- ----------
*     The present value of the options as of their grant date is not presented
      as it is not meaningful in the context of Metaldyne's common stock being
      privately held.

(1)   Each option to purchase shares of Metaldyne common stock will be canceled
      and replaced with options to purchase our common stock under the 2002
      TriMas Corporation Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan.

(2)   Mr. Woodley stepped down as our President, Industrial Specialties in June
      2002.


OPTION EXERCISES AND YEAR-END OPTION VALUE

     No options were exercised in 2001 by any of the named executive officers.


PENSION PLANS

     The executive officers participate in pension plans maintained by us for
certain of its salaried employees. The following table shows estimated annual
retirement benefits payable for life at age 65 for various levels of
compensation and service under these plans.






                                                YEARS OF SERVICE (2)
                     --------------------------------------------------------------------------
 REMUNERATION (1)        5           10           15           20           25           30
- ------------------   ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
                                                                   
$100,000 .........    $ 5,645     $11,290      $ 16,935     $ 22,580     $ 28,225     $ 33,870
 200,000 .........     11,290      22,580        33,870       45,161       56,451       67,741
 300,000 .........     16,935      33,870        50,806       67,741       84,676      101,611
 400,000 .........     22,580      45,161        67,741       90,321      112,902      135,482
 500,000 .........     28,225      56,451        84,676      112,902      141,127      169,352
 600,000 .........     33,870      67,741       101,611      135,482      169,352      203,223
 700,000 .........     39,516      79,031       118,547      158,062      197,578      237,093
 800,000 .........     45,160      90,321       135,482      180,643      225,803      270,964


- ----------

                                       58


(1)   For purposes of determining benefits payable, remuneration benefits
      payable, remuneration in general is equal to the average of the highest
      five consecutive January 1 annual base salary rates paid by us prior to
      retirement.

(2)   Vesting occurs after five full years of employment. The benefit amounts
      set forth in the table above have been converted from the plans'
      calculated five-year certain and life benefit and are not subject to
      reduction for social security benefits or for other offsets, except to
      the extent that pension or equivalent benefits are payable under a Masco
      Corporation plan. The table does not depict Code limitations on
      tax-qualified plans because one of our plans is a non-qualified plan
      established to restore for certain salaried employees (including certain
      of the named executive officers) benefits that are not otherwise limited
      by the Code. Approximate years of credited service for the named
      executive officers are: Mr. Beard -1; Mr. Brooks -23 and Mr. Gardner -14
      and Mr. Peters -1. In connection with the transactions, the liability
      under this plan was retained by Metaldyne. We will establish defined
      contribution plans effective January 1, 2003.

      Under the Metaldyne Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, certain of our
      officers and other key executives may receive retirement benefits in
      addition to those provided under our other retirement plans. Each
      participant is to receive annually upon retirement on or after age 65,
      an amount which, when combined with benefits from our other retirement
      plans (and, for most participants, any retirement benefits payable by
      reason of employment by prior employers) equals up to 60 percent of the
      average of the participant's highest three years' cash compensation
      received form us (base salary and regular year-end cash bonus or
      equivalent estimates where cash compensation has been reduced by
      agreement with us). A disability benefit is payable to a participant who
      has been employed at least two years and becomes disabled. Participants
      who terminate with more than five years' service before age 65 become
      entitled to receive a benefit adjusted by an age-and-service vesting
      schedule that provides for no more than 50 percent vesting upon
      attainment of age 50 and 100 percent vesting no earlier than age 60,
      with provision for an additional 20 points of vesting (not to exceed 100
      percent in total) should termination by us without cause occur prior to
      age 65. Such vested benefit is not payable until age 65 and is subject
      to offset for amounts earned from prior or future employers. A surviving
      spouse will receive reduced benefits upon the participant's death. A
      participant and his (or her) surviving spouse may also receive
      supplemental medical benefits. The plan is unfunded, except that
      accelerated payment on a present value basis is mandatory following a
      change in control.

     In connection with the transactions, as of June 6, 2002 the Metaldyne
pension plans were curtailed with respect to our employees. Service and salary
will continue to accrue for our employees for benefit purposes until December
31, 2002. In its place, we will be implementing a defined contribution profit
sharing plan, including a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan for key
officers.


2002 LONG TERM EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

     We have an equity incentive plan, referred to as the 2002 Long Term Equity
Incentive Plan, for our employees, directors and consultants. It is intended to
provide incentives to attract, retain and motivate employees, consultants and
directors in order to achieve our long-term growth and profitability
objectives. The plan provides for the grant to eligible employees, consultants
and directors of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares,
restricted share units payable in shares of common stock or cash, performance
shares, performance units, dividend equivalents and other stock-based awards.
The plan is administered by the compensation committee of the board of
directors, which will have the authority to select persons to whom awards will
be granted, the types of awards to be granted and the terms and conditions of
the individual awards. Stock options granted under the plan vest over a period
of years and are not exercisable prior to certain liquidity events specified in
applicable awards agreements. Our employees who have Metaldyne vested options
will receive TriMas options, subject to adjustments, in substitution for those
options.


EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS

     We expect to enter into employment agreements with certain of our senior
management, including Mr. Beard. We expect Mr. Beard's employment contract to
be comparable to his Metaldyne


                                       59


contract. We also expect to enter into employment and change of control
agreements with Messrs. Peters, Brooks, and Hazlett. Each contract will state
that the employee shall devote his full business time and efforts to the
performance of his duties and responsibilities. Each agreement will provide for
a specified annual fixed salary and bonus expressed as a percentage of annual
salary based on our financial performance.

     Mr. Beard's agreement is expected to terminate on December 31, 2003 and be
automatically renewable for successive one-year terms.


     Each employment agreement is expected to provide the executive with
certain benefits, including participation in the planned 2002 Long Term Equity
Incentive Plan. Each agreement is expected to provide that we may, without
cause, and the employee may, for good reason, terminate the agreement such that
the employee would receive two years continued base salary, a bonus equal to
two times his target bonus opportunity for a 12 month period, pro rated bonus
for the year termination occurs and continued benefits for up to 24 months.
Each agreement is expected to further provide that we may, for cause, and the
executive may voluntarily, without good reason, terminate the agreement without
any severance payments. Cause is expected to be defined in each agreement as
the employee being convicted or entering a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to
a felony or the employee's willful or sustained insubordinate or negligent
conduct in the performance of his duties. Further, each agreement is expected
to provide that within ten days of a qualified termination following a change
of control, each executive, other than Mr. Beard, would receive two and
one-half times his base salary and a bonus equal to two and one-half times the
target bonus opportunity for such fiscal year in addition to a two and one-half
year continuation of benefits. Mr. Beard would receive three times his base
salary and a bonus equal to three times the target bonus opportunity for such
fiscal year in addition to a three year continuation of benefits. Lastly, each
employment agreement is expected to stipulate that the executive shall refrain
from competing with us for a period of two years from the date of termination.


                                       60


                             PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

     The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial
ownership of our common stock as of September 30, 2002 by:

    o each person known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our common
      stock;

    o each of our directors;

    o each of our current executive officers; and

    o all of our directors and executive officers as a group.

     The percentages of common stock beneficially owned are reported on the
basis of regulations of the Commission governing the determination of
beneficial ownership of securities. Under the rules of the Commission, a person
is deemed to be a beneficial owner of a security if that person has or shares
voting power, which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting of the
security, or investment power, which includes the power to dispose of or to
direct the disposition of the security. Except as indicated in the footnotes to
this table, we believe, each beneficial owner named in the table below will
have sole voting and sole investment power with respect to all shares
beneficially owned by them. There will be significant agreements relating to
voting and transfers of common stock in the Shareholders Agreement described
under "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."






                                                                  SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED
                                                                  -------------------------
                                                                                  PERCENT
NAME AND BENEFICIAL OWNER                                            NUMBER       OF CLASS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------   ------------   ---------
                                                                           
Heartland Industrial Associates, L.L.C.(1)(2) .................   11,000,000         55%
 55 Railroad Avenue
 Greenwich, Connecticut 06830
Metaldyne Corporation(3) ......................................   6,750,000          34%
 47603 Halyard Drive
 Plymouth, Michigan 48170
Masco Capital Corporation .....................................   1,250,000           6%
 21001 Van Born Road
 Taylor, Michigan 48180
Gary Banks(2) .................................................          --
Charles E. Becker .............................................          --
Grant H. Beard(4) .............................................          --
Lynn Brooks(4) ................................................
Scott Hazlett(4) ..............................................
Tim Leuliette(2) ..............................................          --
W. Gerald McConnell(2) ........................................          --
Todd R. Peters (4) ............................................
David A. Stockman(2) ..........................................          --
Daniel P. Tredwell(2) .........................................          --
Samuel Valenti III(2) .........................................          --
All executive officers and directors as a group(3)(5) .........          --


- ----------
(1)   The shares of common stock will be beneficially owned indirectly by
      Heartland Industrial Associates, L.L.C. as the general partner of each of
      the limited partnerships which hold shares of common stock directly.
      These partnerships hold common stock as follows: 10,074,007 shares are
      held by TriMas Investment Fund I, L.L.C.; 675,000 shares are held by HIP
      Side-by-Side Partners, L.P.; and 250,995 shares are held by TriMas
      Investment Fund II, L.L.C. In addition, by reason of the Shareholders
      Agreement summarized under "Related Party Transactions," Heartland


                                       61


      Industrial Associates, L.L.C. may be deemed to share beneficial
      ownership of shares of common stock held by other stockholders party to
      the Shareholders Agreement. Such beneficial ownership is hereby
      disclaimed.

(2)   As described in footnote 1 above, shares beneficially owned by Heartland
      Industrial Associates, L.L.C. Mr. Stockman is the Managing Member of
      Heartland Industrial Associates, L.L.C., but disclaims beneficial
      ownership of such shares. Messrs. Banks, Leuliette, McConnell, Tredwell
      and Valenti are also members of Heartland Industrial Associates, L.L.C.
      and also disclaim beneficial ownership of the shares. The business
      address for each such person is 55 Railroad Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830.

(3)   Includes a presently exercisable warrant to purchase common stock.

(4)   Does not include expected option grants under our anticipated equity
      incentive plans. Such options are subject to vesting provisions and would
      not be immediately exercisable. Vested options will be exercisable
      following an initial public offering of our common shares and under
      certain circumstances, such as a change of control, vesting of options
      and exercisability may accelerate.


                                       62


              CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT

     On June 6, 2002, Metaldyne and Heartland consummated a stock purchase
agreement under which Heartland and other investors invested approximately $265
million in us to acquire approximately 66% of our fully diluted common stock.
As a result of the investment and other transactions described below, Metaldyne
received $840 million in the form of cash, retirement of debt we owed to
Metaldyne or owed by us under the Metaldyne credit agreement and the repurchase
of the balance of receivables we originated and sold under the Metaldyne
receivables facility. Metaldyne retained shares of our common stock valued at
$120 million. In addition, Metaldyne received a warrant to purchase additional
shares of our common stock valued at $15 million. The common stock and warrants
are valued based upon the cash equity investment being made by Heartland and
the other investors. Heartland and Metaldyne presently own approximately 55%
and 34% of our fully diluted common stock, respectively.

     EMPLOYEE MATTERS

     Pursuant to the stock purchase agreement, each outstanding option to
purchase Metaldyne common stock which has not vested, and which are held by
TriMas employees was canceled on the closing date. Each option held by certain
present and former employees which vested on or prior to the closing date will
be replaced by options to purchase our common stock, with appropriate
adjustments.

     Pursuant to the stock purchase agreement, we agreed to promptly reimburse
Metaldyne upon its written demand for (i) cash actually paid in redemption of
certain restricted shares of Metaldyne held by certain employees under
restricted stock awards, and (ii) 42.01% of the amount of cash actually paid to
certain other employees by Metaldyne in redemption of restricted stock awards
held by such employees. We also have certain other obligations to reimburse
Metaldyne for the allocated portion of its current and former employee related
benefit plan responsibilities.

     INDEMNIFICATION

     Subject to certain limited exceptions, Metaldyne, on the one hand, and we,
on the other hand, retained the liabilities associated with our respective
businesses. Accordingly, we will indemnify and hold harmless Metaldyne from all
liabilities associated with us and our subsidiaries and their respective
operations and assets, whenever conducted, and Metaldyne will indemnify and
hold Heartland and us harmless from all liabilities associated with Metaldyne
and its subsidiaries (excluding us and our subsidiaries) and their respective
operations and assets, whenever conducted. In addition, we agreed with
Metaldyne to indemnify one another for their allocated share (57.99% in the
case of Metaldyne and 42.01% in our case) of liabilities not readily associated
with either business, or otherwise addressed including certain costs related to
the November 2000 acquisition. There are also indemnification provisions
relating to certain other matters intended to effectuate other provisions of
the agreement. These indemnification provisions survive indefinitely and are
subject to a $50,000 deductible.


SHAREHOLDERS AGREEMENT

     Heartland, Metaldyne and other investors are parties to a shareholders
agreement regarding their ownership of our common stock. References to
Heartland refer to all of its affiliated entities collectively, unless
otherwise noted. The following description of certain terms relating to the
voting or disposition of shares is subject to change as the terms are subject
to negotiation and additional parties may be added should other persons
participate in the equity financing for the transactions. The agreement
contains other covenants for the benefit of the shareholders parties thereto.

     Election of Directors. The shareholders agreement provides that the
parties will vote their shares of common stock in order to cause (1) the
election to the board of directors of such number of directors as shall
constitute a majority of the board of directors as designated by Heartland; and
(2) the election to the board of directors of up to two directors designated by
Metaldyne.


                                       63


     Transfers of Common Stock. Prior to the date we have consummated a
qualifying public equity offering, the shareholders agreement restricts
transfers of common stock except for certain transfers, including (1) to a
permitted transferee of a stockholder, (2) pursuant to the "right of first
offer" provision discussed below, (3) pursuant to the "tag-along" provision
discussed below, (4) pursuant to the "drag-along" provision discussed below and
(5) pursuant to an effective registration statement or pursuant to Rule 144
under the Securities Act.


     Right of First Offer. The shareholders agreement provides that, prior to a
qualifying public equity offering, no stockholder party to the agreement may
transfer any of its shares other than to a permitted transferee of such
stockholder or pursuant to the "tag-along" and "drag-along" provisions unless
such stockholder shall offer such shares to us. If we decline to purchase the
shares, then Heartland shall have the right to purchase such shares. Any shares
not purchased by us or Heartland can be sold by such stockholder party to the
agreement at a price not less than 90% of the price offered to us or Heartland.



     Tag-Along Rights. The shareholders agreement grants the stockholders party
to the agreement, subject to certain exceptions, in connection with a proposed
transfer of common stock by Heartland or its affiliates, the right to require
the proposed transferee to purchase a proportionate percentage of the shares
owned by the other stockholders at the same price and upon the same economic
terms as are being offered to Heartland. These rights terminate upon a
qualifying public equity offering.


     Drag-Along Rights. The shareholders agreement will provide that when
Heartland and its affiliates enter into a transaction resulting in a
substantial change of control of us, Heartland has the right to require the
other stockholders to sell a proportionate percentage of shares of common stock
in such transaction as Heartland is selling and to otherwise vote in favor of
the transactions effecting such substantial change of control. These rights
terminate upon a qualifying public equity offering.


     Registration Rights. The shareholders agreement will provide the
stockholders party to the agreement with unlimited "piggy-back" rights each
time we file a registration statement except for registrations relating to (1)
shares underlying management options and (2) an initial public offering
consisting of primary shares. In addition, following a qualifying public equity
offering, Heartland and Metaldyne have the ability to demand the registration
of their shares, subject to various hold back, priority and other agreements.
The shareholders agreement grants three demand registrations to Metaldyne and
an unlimited number of demands to Heartland.


ADVISORY AGREEMENT


     We and Heartland are parties to an Advisory Agreement pursuant to which
Heartland is engaged to provide consulting services to us with respect to
financial and operational matters. Heartland is entitled to receive a fee for
such services equal to $4 million per annum, payable quarterly. In addition to
providing ongoing consulting services, Heartland has also agreed to assist in
acquisitions, divestitures and financings, for which Heartland will receive a
fee equal to one percent of the value of such transaction. Heartland received a
fee of $9.75 million in connection with the transactions. The Advisory
Agreement also provides that Heartland will be reimbursed for its reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses.


CORPORATE SERVICES AGREEMENT


     We and Metaldyne are party to a services agreement pursuant to which
Metaldyne will provide us use of its management information systems, legal,
tax, accounting, human resources and other support services in return for
payment of an annual fee of $2.5 million for the services, payable in equal
quarterly installments of $625,000 for the term of the agreement, less any
amounts equal to the cost of any of the services that are assumed directly by
us. This term of the agreement is one year and it is subject to annual renewal
at the parties mutual election.


                                       64


ASSIGNMENT OF LEASE AGREEMENT


     We and Heartland entered into an assignment of lease agreement for our
headquarters in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan for the remainder of the term. The
lease will expire on January 31, 2007 at which time we have the option to
extend the lease for one five year period. Pursuant to the terms of the
assignment, we will be responsible for payment of all rent for the premises
equaling approximately $23,400 per month for the first year, increasing to
approximately $25,100 per month for the remainder of the term. In addition, we
will be required to pay all applicable taxes, utilities and other maintenance
expenses and will be required to obtain general liability and fire insurance
for the premises.


                                       65


                               THE EXCHANGE OFFER


PURPOSE AND EFFECT OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER

     Exchange Offer Registration Statement. We issued the original notes on
June 6, 2002. The initial purchasers have advised us that they subsequently
resold the outstanding notes to "qualified institutional buyers" in reliance on
Rule 144A under the Securities Act and to certain persons in offshore
transactions in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act. As a
condition to the offering of the outstanding notes, we entered into a
registration rights agreement dated June 6, 2002, pursuant to which we agreed,
for the benefit of all holders of the outstanding notes, at our own expense to
use our reasonable best efforts:

   (1)   to file the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part
         with the Commission;

   (2)   to cause the registration statement to be declared effective under
         the Securities Act and promptly thereafter commence the exchange
         offer;

   (3)   to keep the registration statement effective until the closing of the
         exchange offer; and

   (4)   to issue, on or prior to 60 days after the date on which the exchange
         offer registration statement was declared effective by the Commission,
         exchange notes in exchange for all outstanding notes tendered prior
         thereto.

     Further, we agreed to keep the exchange offer open for acceptance for not
less than the minimum period required under applicable Federal and state
securities laws. For each outstanding note validly tendered pursuant to the
exchange offer and not withdrawn, the holder of the outstanding note will
receive an exchange note having a principal amount equal to that of the
tendered outstanding note. Interest on each exchange note will accrue from the
last date on which interest was paid on the tendered outstanding note in
exchange therefor or, if no interest was paid on such outstanding note, from
the issue date.

     Transferability. We issued the outstanding notes on June 6, 2002 in a
transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and
applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the outstanding notes may not be
offered or sold in the United States unless registered or pursuant to an
applicable exemption under the Securities Act and applicable state securities
laws. Based on no-action letters issued by the staff of the Commission with
respect to similar transactions, we believe that the exchange notes issued
pursuant to the exchange offer in exchange for outstanding notes may be offered
for resale, resold and otherwise transferred by holders of notes who are not
our affiliates without further compliance with the registration and prospectus
delivery requirements of the Securities Act, provided that:

   (1)   any exchange notes to be received by the holder were acquired in the
         ordinary course of the holder's business;

   (2)   at the time of the commencement of the exchange offer the holder has
         no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in the
         distribution (within the meaning of the Securities Act) of the
         exchange notes in violation of the provisions of the Securities Act;

   (3)   the holder is not an "affiliate" of the Company or any guarantor, as
         defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act; and

   (4)   if the holder is a broker-dealer that will receive exchange notes for
         its own account in exchange for the outstanding notes that were
         acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities,
         then such holder will deliver a prospectus in connection with any
         resale of the exchange notes.

     However, we have not sought a no-action letter with respect to the
exchange offer and we cannot assure you that the staff of the Commission would
make a similar determination with respect to the exchange offer. Any holder who
tenders his outstanding notes in the exchange offer with any intention of
participating in a distribution of exchange notes (1) cannot rely on the
interpretation by the staff of


                                       66


the Commission, (2) will not be able to validly tender outstanding notes in the
exchange offer and (3) must comply with the registration and prospectus
delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any secondary
resale transactions.

     The letter of transmittal accompanying this prospectus states that by so
acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be
deemed to admit that it is acting in the capacity of an "underwriter" within
the meaning of Section 2(11) of the Securities Act. This prospectus, as it may
be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in
connection with resales of exchange notes received in exchange for outstanding
notes where the outstanding notes were acquired by such broker-dealer as a
result of market-making activities or other trading activities. Pursuant to the
registration rights agreement, we agreed to make this prospectus available to
any such broker-dealer for use in connection with any such resale.


TERMS OF THE EXCHANGE OFFER

     Upon satisfaction or waiver of all of the conditions of the exchange
offer, we will accept any and all outstanding notes properly tendered and not
withdrawn prior to the expiration date and will issue the exchange notes
promptly after acceptance of the outstanding notes. See "--Conditions to the
Exchange Offer" and "Procedures for Tendering Outstanding Notes." We will issue
$1,000 principal amount of exchange notes in exchange for each $1,000 principal
amount of outstanding notes accepted in the exchange offer. As of the date of
this prospectus, $352,773,000 aggregate principal amount of the notes are
outstanding. Holders may tender some or all of their outstanding notes pursuant
to the exchange offer. However, outstanding notes may be tendered only in
integral multiples of $1,000.

     The exchange notes are identical to the outstanding notes except for the
elimination of certain transfer restrictions, registration rights, restrictions
on holding notes in certificated form and liquidated damages provisions. The
exchange notes will evidence the same debt as the outstanding notes and will be
issued pursuant to, and entitled to the benefits of, the indenture pursuant to
which the outstanding notes were issued and will be deemed one issue of notes,
together with the outstanding notes.

     This prospectus, together with the letter of transmittal, is being sent to
all registered holders and to others believed to have beneficial interests in
the outstanding notes. Holders of outstanding notes do not have any appraisal
or dissenters' rights under the indenture in connection with the exchange
offer. We intend to conduct the exchange offer in accordance with the
applicable requirements of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act and the rules
and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder.

     For purposes of the exchange offer, we will be deemed to have accepted
validly tendered outstanding notes when, and as if, we have given oral or
written notice thereof to the exchange agent. The exchange agent will act as
our agent for the purpose of distributing the exchange notes from us to the
tendering holders. If we do not accept any tendered outstanding notes because
of an invalid tender, the occurrence of certain other events set forth in this
prospectus or otherwise, we will return the unaccepted outstanding notes,
without expense, to the tendering holder thereof as promptly as practicable
after the expiration date.

     Holders who tender private notes in the exchange offer will not be
required to pay brokerage commissions or fees or, except as set forth below
under "--Transfer Taxes," transfer taxes with respect to the exchange of
outstanding notes pursuant to the exchange offer. We will pay all charges and
expenses, other than certain applicable taxes, in connection with the exchange
offer. See "--Fees and Expenses."


EXPIRATION DATE; EXTENSIONS; AMENDMENTS

     The term "expiration date" shall mean 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on
    , unless we, in our sole discretion, extend the exchange offer, in which
case the term "expiration date" shall mean the latest date and time to which
the exchange offer is extended. In order to extend the exchange offer, we will
notify the exchange agent by oral or written notice and each registered holder
by means of


                                       67


press release or other public announcement of any extension, in each case,
prior to 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the expiration date. We reserve the
right, in our sole discretion, (1) to delay accepting any outstanding notes,
(2) to extend the exchange offer, (3) to terminate the exchange offer if the
conditions set forth below under "--Conditions" shall not have been satisfied,
or (4) to amend the terms of the exchange offer in any manner. We will notify
the exchange agent of any delay, extension, termination or amendment by oral or
written notice. We will additionally notify each registered holder of any
amendment. We will give to the exchange agent written confirmation of any oral
notice.


EXCHANGE DATE

     As soon as practicable after the close of the exchange offer we will
accept for exchange all outstanding notes properly tendered and not validly
withdrawn prior to 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the expiration date in
accordance with the terms of this prospectus and the letters of transmittal.


CONDITIONS TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER

     Notwithstanding any other provisions of the exchange offer, and subject to
our obligations under the registration rights agreement, we shall not be
required to accept any outstanding notes for exchange or issue exchange notes
in exchange for any outstanding notes and may terminate or amend the exchange
offer if, at any time before the acceptance of such exchange notes for
exchange, any of the following events shall occur:

   (1)   any injunction, order or decree shall have been issued by any court
         or any governmental agency that would prohibit, prevent or otherwise
         materially impair our ability to proceed with the exchange offer;

   (2)   any change, or any development involving a prospective change, in our
         business or financial affairs or any of our subsidiaries has occurred
         which, in our sole judgment, might materially impair our ability to
         proceed with the exchange offer or materially impair the contemplated
         benefits of the exchange offer to us;

   (3)   any law, statute, rule or regulation is proposed, adopted or enacted
         which, in our sole judgment, might materially impair our ability to
         proceed with the exchange offer or materially impair the contemplated
         benefits of the exchange offer to us;

   (4)   any governmental approval has not been obtained, which approval we
         shall, in our sole discretion, deem necessary for the consummation of
         the exchange offer as contemplated hereby; or

   (5)   the exchange offer will violate any applicable law or any applicable
         interpretation of the staff of the Commission.

     The foregoing conditions are for our sole benefit and may be asserted by
us regardless of the circumstances giving rise to any such condition or may be
waived by us in whole or in part at any time and from time to time in our sole
discretion. Our failure at any time to exercise any of the foregoing rights
shall not be deemed a waiver of any such right and such right shall be deemed
an ongoing right which may be asserted at any time and from time to time.

     In addition, we will not accept for exchange any outstanding notes
tendered, and no exchange notes will be issued in exchange for any such
outstanding notes if at such time any stop order shall be threatened by the
Commission or be in effect with respect to the registration statement of which
this prospectus is a part or the qualification of the indenture under the Trust
Indenture Act of 1939, as amended.

     The exchange offer is not conditioned on any minimum aggregate principal
amount of outstanding notes being tendered for exchange.


                                       68


CONSEQUENCES OF FAILURE TO EXCHANGE

     Any outstanding notes not tendered pursuant to the exchange offer will
remain outstanding and continue to accrue interest. The outstanding notes will
remain "restricted securities" within the meaning of the Securities Act.
Accordingly, prior to the date that is one year after the later of the issue
date and the last date on which we or any of our affiliates was the owner of
the outstanding notes, the outstanding notes may be resold only (1) inside the
United States to a person whom the seller reasonably believes is a qualified
institutional buyer (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act) in a
transaction meeting the requirements of Rule 144A, (2) outside the United
States in an offshore transaction in accordance with Rule 904 under the
Securities Act, (3) pursuant to an exemption from registration under the
Securities Act provided by Rule 144 thereunder (if available) or (4) pursuant
to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, in each of
cases (1) through (4) in accordance with any applicable securities laws of any
state of the United States. As a result, the liquidity of the market for
non-tendered outstanding notes could be adversely affected upon completion of
the exchange offer. The foregoing restrictions on resale will no longer apply
after the first anniversary of the issue date of the outstanding note or the
purchase of the outstanding notes from us or an affiliate.


FEES AND EXPENSES

     We will not make any payments to brokers, dealers or others soliciting
acceptances of the exchange offer. The principal solicitation is being made by
mail; however, additional solicitations may be made in person or by telephone
by our officers and employees.

     Expenses incurred in connection with the exchange offer will be paid by
us. Such expenses include, among others, the fees and expenses of the trustee
and the exchange agent, accounting and legal fees, printing costs and other
miscellaneous fees and expenses.


ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

     We will not recognize any gain or loss for accounting purposes upon the
consummation of the exchange offer. We will amortize the expenses of the
exchange offer as additional interest expense over the term of the exchange
notes.


PROCEDURES FOR TENDERING OUTSTANDING NOTES

     The tender of outstanding notes pursuant to any of the procedures set
forth in this prospectus and in the letter of transmittal will constitute a
binding agreement between the tendering holder and us in accordance with the
terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this prospectus and in the
letter of transmittal. The tender of outstanding notes will constitute an
agreement to deliver good and marketable title to all tendered outstanding
notes prior to the expiration date free and clear of all liens, charges,
claims, encumbrances, interests and restrictions of any kind.

     Except as provided in "--Guaranteed Delivery Procedures," unless the
outstanding notes being tendered are deposited by you with the exchange agent
prior to the expiration date and are accompanied by a properly completed and
duly executed letter of transmittal, we may, at our option, reject the tender.
Issuance of exchange notes will be made only against deposit of tendered
outstanding notes and delivery of all other required documents. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, DTC participants tendering through its Automated Tender Offer
Program ("ATOP") will be deemed to have made valid delivery where the exchange
agent receives an agent's message prior to the expiration date.

     Accordingly, to properly tender outstanding notes, the following
procedures must be followed:

     Notes held through a Custodian. Each beneficial owner holding outstanding
notes through a DTC participant must instruct the DTC participant to cause its
outstanding notes to be tendered in accordance with the procedures set forth in
this prospectus.


                                       69


     Notes held through DTC. Pursuant to an authorization given by DTC to the
DTC participants, each DTC participant holding outstanding notes through DTC
must (1) electronically transmit its acceptance through ATOP, and DTC will then
edit and verify the acceptance, execute a book-entry delivery to the exchange
agent's account at DTC and send an agent's message to the exchange agent for
its acceptance, or (2) comply with the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth
below and in a notice of guaranteed delivery. See "--Guaranteed Delivery
Procedures--Notes held through DTC."

     The exchange agent will (promptly after the date of this prospectus)
establish accounts at DTC for purposes of the exchange offer with respect to
outstanding notes held through DTC. Any financial institution that is a DTC
participant may make book-entry delivery of interests in outstanding notes into
the exchange agent's account through ATOP. However, although delivery of
interests in the outstanding notes may be effected through book-entry transfer
into the exchange agent's account through ATOP, an agent's message in
connection with such book-entry transfer, and any other required documents,
must be, in any case, transmitted to and received by the exchange agent at its
address set forth under "--Exchange Agent," or the guaranteed delivery
procedures set forth below must be complied with, in each case, prior to the
expiration date. Delivery of documents to DTC does not constitute delivery to
the exchange agent. The confirmation of a book-entry transfer into the exchange
agent's account at DTC as described above is referred to herein as a
"Book-Entry Confirmation."

     The term "agent's message" means a message transmitted by DTC to, and
received by, the exchange agent and forming a part of the book-entry
confirmation, which states that DTC has received an express acknowledgment from
each DTC participant tendering through ATOP that such DTC participants have
received a letter of transmittal and agree to be bound by the terms of the
letter of transmittal and that we may enforce such agreement against such DTC
participants.

     Cede & Co., as the holder of the global note, will tender a portion of the
global note equal to the aggregate principal amount due at the stated maturity
for which instructions to tender are given by DTC participants.

     By tendering, each holder and each DTC participant will represent to us
that, among other things, (1) it is not our affiliate, (2) it is not a
broker-dealer tendering outstanding notes acquired directly from us for its own
account, (3) it is acquiring the exchange notes in its ordinary course of
business and (4) it is not engaged in, and does not intend to engage in, and
has no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in, a
distribution of the exchange notes.

     We will not accept any alternative, conditional, irregular or contingent
tenders (unless waived by us). By executing a letter of transmittal or
transmitting an acceptance through ATOP, as the case may be, each tendering
holder waives any right to receive any notice of the acceptance for purchase of
its outstanding notes.

     We will resolve all questions as to the validity, form, eligibility
(including time of receipt) and acceptance of tendered outstanding notes, and
such determination will be final and binding. We reserve the absolute right to
reject any or all tenders that are not in proper form or the acceptance of
which may, in the opinion of our counsel, be unlawful. We also reserve the
absolute right to waive any condition to the exchange offer and any
irregularities or conditions of tender as to particular outstanding notes. Our
interpretation of the terms and conditions of the exchange offer (including the
instructions in the letter of transmittal) will be final and binding. Unless
waived, any irregularities in connection with tenders must be cured within such
time as we shall determine. We, along with the exchange agent, shall be under
no duty to give notification of defects in such tenders and shall not incur
liabilities for failure to give such notification. Tenders of outstanding notes
will not be deemed to have been made until such irregularities have been cured
or waived. Any outstanding notes received by the exchange agent that are not
properly tendered and as to which the irregularities have not been cured or
waived will be returned by the exchange agent to the tendering holder, unless
otherwise provided in the letter of transmittal, as soon as practicable
following the expiration date.

     LETTERS OF TRANSMITTAL AND OUTSTANDING NOTES MUST BE SENT ONLY
TO THE EXCHANGE AGENT. DO NOT SEND LETTERS OF TRANSMITTAL OR OUTSTANDING NOTES
TO US OR DTC.


                                       70


     The method of delivery of outstanding notes, letters of transmittal, any
required signature guaranties and all other required documents, including
delivery through DTC and any acceptance through ATOP, is at the election and
risk of the persons tendering and delivering acceptances or letters of
transmittal and, except as otherwise provided in the applicable letter of
transmittal, delivery will be deemed made only when actually received by the
exchange agent. If delivery is by mail, it is suggested that the holder use
properly insured, registered mail with return receipt requested, and that the
mailing be made sufficiently in advance of the expiration date to permit
delivery to the exchange agent prior to the expiration date.


GUARANTEED DELIVERY PROCEDURES

     Notes held through DTC. DTC participants holding outstanding notes through
DTC who wish to cause their outstanding notes to be tendered, but who cannot
transmit their acceptances through ATOP prior to the expiration date, may cause
a tender to be effected if:

     (1) guaranteed delivery is made by or through a firm or other entity
identified in Rule 17Ad-15 under the Exchange Act, including:

    o a bank;

    o a broker, dealer, municipal securities dealer, municipal securities
      broker, government securities dealer or government securities broker;

    o a credit union;

    o a national securities exchange, registered securities association or
      clearing agency; or

    o a savings institution that is a participant in a Securities Transfer
      Association recognized program;

     (2) prior to the expiration date, the exchange agent receives from any of
the above institutions a properly completed and duly executed notice of
guaranteed delivery (by mail, hand delivery, facsimile transmission or
overnight courier) substantially in the form provided with this prospectus; and


     (3) book-entry confirmation and an agent's message in connection therewith
are received by the exchange agent within three NYSE trading days after the
date of the execution of the notice of guaranteed delivery.

     Notes held by Holders. Holders who wish to tender their outstanding notes
but (1) whose outstanding notes are not immediately available and will not be
available for tendering prior to the expiration date, or (2) who cannot deliver
their outstanding notes, the letter of transmittal, or any other required
documents to the exchange agent prior to the expiration date, may effect a
tender if:

    o the tender is made by or through any of the above-listed institutions;

    o prior to the expiration date, the exchange agent receives from any
      above-listed institution a properly completed and duly executed notice of
      guaranteed delivery, whether by mail, hand delivery, facsimile
      transmission or overnight courier, substantially in the form provided
      with this prospectus; and

    o a properly completed and executed letter of transmittal, as well as the
      certificate(s) representing all tendered outstanding notes in proper form
      for transfer, and all other documents required by the letter of
      transmittal, are received by the exchange agent within three NYSE trading
      days after the date of the execution of the notice of guaranteed
      delivery.


WITHDRAWAL RIGHTS

     You may withdraw tenders of outstanding notes, or any portion of your
outstanding notes, in integral multiples of $1,000 principal amount due at the
stated maturity, at any time prior to 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the
expiration date. Any outstanding notes properly withdrawn will be deemed to be
not validly tendered for purposes of the exchange offer.


                                       71


     Notes held through DTC. DTC participants holding outstanding notes who
have transmitted their acceptances through ATOP may, prior to 9:00 a.m., New
York City time, on the expiration date, withdraw the instruction given thereby
by delivering to the exchange agent, at its address set forth under "--Exchange
Agent," a written, telegraphic or facsimile notice of withdrawal of such
instruction. Such notice of withdrawal must contain the name and number of the
DTC participant, the principal amount due at the stated maturity of outstanding
notes to which such withdrawal relates and the signature of the DTC
participant. Receipt of such written notice of withdrawal by the exchange agent
effectuates a withdrawal.


     Notes held by Holders. Holders may withdraw their tender of outstanding
notes, prior to 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the expiration date, by
delivering to the exchange agent, at its address set forth under "--Exchange
Agent," a written, telegraphic or facsimile notice of withdrawal. Any such
notice of withdrawal must (1) specify the name of the person who tendered the
outstanding notes to be withdrawn, (2) contain a description of the outstanding
notes to be withdrawn and identify the certificate number or numbers shown on
the particular certificates evidencing such outstanding notes and the aggregate
principal amount due at the stated maturity represented by such outstanding
notes and (3) be signed by the holder of such outstanding notes in the same
manner as the original signature on the letter of transmittal by which such
outstanding notes were tendered (including any required signature guaranties),
or be accompanied by (x) documents of transfer in a form acceptable to us, in
our sole discretion, and (y) a properly completed irrevocable proxy that
authorized such person to effect such revocation on behalf of such holder. If
the outstanding notes to be withdrawn have been delivered or otherwise
identified to the exchange agent, a signed notice of withdrawal is effective
immediately upon written, telegraphic or facsimile notice of withdrawal even if
physical release is not yet effected.


     All signatures on a notice of withdrawal must be guaranteed by a
recognized participant in the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program, the
New York Stock Exchange Medallion Signature Program or the Stock Exchange
Medallion Program; provided, however, that signatures on the notice of
withdrawal need not be guaranteed if the outstanding notes being withdrawn are
held for the account of any of the institutions listed above under
"--Guaranteed Delivery Procedures."


     A withdrawal of an instruction or a withdrawal of a tender must be
executed by a DTC participant or a holder of outstanding notes, as the case may
be, in the same manner as the person's name appears on its transmission through
ATOP or letter of transmittal, as the case may be, to which such withdrawal
relates. If a notice of withdrawal is signed by a trustee, partner, executor,
administrator, guardian, attorney-in-fact, agent, officer of a corporation or
other person acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, such person must
so indicate when signing and must submit with the revocation appropriate
evidence of authority to execute the notice of withdrawal. A DTC participant or
a holder may withdraw an instruction or a tender, as the case may be, only if
such withdrawal complies with the provisions of this prospectus.


     A withdrawal of a tender of outstanding notes by a DTC participant or a
holder, as the case may be, may be rescinded only by a new transmission of an
acceptance through ATOP or execution and delivery of a new letter of
transmittal, as the case may be, in accordance with the procedures described
herein.


                                       72


EXCHANGE AGENT


                          has been appointed as exchange agent for the exchange
offer. Questions, requests for assistance and requests for additional copies of
this prospectus or of the letter of transmittal should be directed to the
exchange agent addressed as follows:


                       By Registered or Certified Mail:






                        By Hand Delivery to 4:30 p.m.:






 By Overnight Courier and by Hand Delivery After 4:30 p.m. of Expiration Date:






                           Facsimile:
                           Telephone:
                          Attention: Customer Service




TRANSFER TAXES


     Holders of outstanding notes who tender their outstanding notes for
exchange notes will not be obligated to pay any transfer taxes in connection
therewith, except that holders who instruct us to register exchange notes in
the name of, or request that outstanding notes not tendered or not accepted in
the exchange offer be returned to, a person other than the registered tendering
holder will be responsible for the payment of any applicable transfer tax
thereon.


                                       73


                         DESCRIPTION OF CREDIT FACILITY

GENERAL

     In connection with the transactions, TriMas Company LLC, a direct wholly
owned subsidiary of ours, entered into a credit facility with JPMorgan Chase
Bank, as administrative agent and collateral agent, CSFB Cayman Islands Branch,
as syndication agent, Comerica Bank, National City Bank and Wachovia National
Association, as documentation agents.

     The credit facility consists of a senior revolving credit facility and a
senior term loan facility. The revolving credit facility is comprised of loans
in a total principal amount of up to $150 million. The term loan facility is
comprised of loans in a total principal amount of $260 million. The revolving
credit facility is available for general corporate purposes, including up to
$100 million for one or more permitted acquisitions.

     The revolving credit facility has a five and one-half year maturity and
the term loan facility has a seven and one-half year maturity. Our credit
facility also provides for an uncommitted $200 million incremental term loan
facility for one or more permitted acquisitions.

     The obligations under the credit facility are secured and unconditionally
and irrevocably guaranteed jointly and severally by the Issuer and each of the
borrower's existing and subsequently acquired or organized domestic
subsidiaries, other than TSPC, Inc., our receivables subsidiary, pursuant to
the terms of a separate guarantee agreement. Although no foreign subsidiaries
are currently borrowers under the credit facility, such entities may borrow
under the facility in the future.

SECURITY INTERESTS

     Our borrowings under the credit facility are secured by a first priority
perfected security interest in:

    o our capital stock and all of the capital stock held by us or any
      domestic subsidiary of ours and of each existing and subsequently
      acquired or organized subsidiary of ours (which pledge, in the case of
      any foreign subsidiary, shall be limited to 65% of the capital stock of
      such foreign subsidiary to the extent the pledge of any greater
      percentage would result in adverse tax consequences to us); and

    o all of our tangible and intangible assets and of each existing or
      subsequently acquired or organized domestic subsidiaries, other than
      TSPC, Inc., with certain exceptions as set forth in the credit facility.

INTEREST RATES AND FEES

     Borrowings under the credit facility bear interest, at our option, at
either:

    o a base rate used by JPMorgan Chase Bank, plus an applicable margin; or

    o a eurocurrency rate on deposits for one, two, three or nine-month
      periods (or nine or twelve-month periods if, at the time of the
      borrowing, all lenders agree to make such a duration available), plus the
      applicable margin.

     The applicable margin on loans under the revolving credit facility to be
subject to change depending on a leverage ratio.

     We will also pay the lenders a commitment fee on the unused commitments
under the credit facility, which may vary based upon utilization of the
revolving credit facility payable quarterly in arrears. The commitment fee is
expected to be subject to reduction depending on the leverage ratio.

MANDATORY AND OPTIONAL REPAYMENT

     Subject to exceptions for reinvestment of proceeds and other exceptions
and materiality thresholds, we are required to prepay outstanding loans under
the credit facility with excess cash flow, the net proceeds of certain asset
dispositions, casualty and condemnation recovery events and incurrences of
certain debt.


                                       74


     We may voluntarily prepay loans or reduce commitments under the credit
facility, in whole or in part, subject to minimum prepayments. If we prepay
eurodollar rate loans, we will be required to reimburse lenders for their
breakage and redeployment costs.


COVENANTS


     The credit facility contains negative and affirmative covenants and
requirements affecting us and our subsidiaries. The credit facility contains
the following negative covenants and restrictions, among others: restrictions
on debt, liens, mergers, investments, loans, advances, guarantee obligations,
acquisitions, asset dispositions, sale-leaseback transactions, hedging
agreements, dividends and other restricted junior payments, stock repurchases,
transactions with affiliates, restrictive agreements and amendments to charter,
by-laws and other material documents. The credit facility also requires us and
our subsidiaries to meet certain financial covenants and ratios computed
quarterly, particularly a leverage ratio, an interest expense ratio and a
capital expenditures covenant.


     The credit facility contains the following affirmative covenants, among
others: mandatory reporting of financial and other information to the
administrative agent, notice to the administrative agent upon the occurrence of
certain events of default and other events, written notice of change of any
information affecting the identity of the record owner or the location of
collateral, preservation of existence and intellectual property, payment of
obligations, maintenance of properties and insurance, notice of casualty and
condemnation, access to properties and books by the lenders, compliance with
laws, use of proceeds and letters of credit, additional subsidiaries and
interest rate protection agreements.


EVENTS OF DEFAULT


     The credit facility specifies certain customary events of default,
including, among others, non-payment of principal, interest or fees, violation
of covenants, cross-defaults and cross-accelerations, inaccuracy of
representations and warranties in any material respect, bankruptcy and
insolvency events, change of control, failure to maintain security interests,
specified ERISA events, one or more judgments for the payment of money in an
aggregate amount in excess of specified amounts, the guarantees shall cease to
be in full force and effect or the subordination provisions of any of our
subordinated debt are found to be invalid.


                                       75


                              DESCRIPTION OF NOTES

     You can find the definitions of certain terms used in this description
under the subheading "Certain Definitions." In this description, the word
"TriMas" refers only to TriMas Corporation and not to any of its subsidiaries.

     TriMas issued the notes under an indenture among itself, the Guarantors
and The Bank of New York, as trustee, in a private transaction that was not
subject to the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The terms of
the notes include those stated in the indenture and those made part of the
indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended.

     The following description is a summary of the material provisions of the
indenture and the registration rights agreement. It does not restate those
agreements in their entirety. We urge you to read the indenture and the
registration rights agreement because they, and not this description, define
your rights as holders of the notes. Copies of the indenture and the
registration rights agreement will be available as set forth below under
"--Additional Information." Certain defined terms used in this description but
not defined below under "--Certain Definitions" have the meanings assigned to
them in the indenture.

     The registered Holder of a note will be treated as the owner of it for all
purposes. Only registered Holders will have rights under the indenture.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE NOTES AND THE GUARANTEES

     THE NOTES

     The notes:

    o are general unsecured obligations of TriMas;

    o are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future Senior
      Debt of TriMas, including under the Credit Agreement;

    o are pari passu in right of payment with all existing and future
      unsecured senior subordinated Indebtedness of TriMas; and

    o are unconditionally guaranteed by the Guarantors.

     THE GUARANTEES

     The notes are guaranteed by all of TriMas' Domestic Subsidiaries that
guarantee TriMas' Obligations under or are direct borrowers under the Credit
Agreement.

     Each guarantee of the notes:

    o is a general unsecured obligation of the Guarantor;

    o is subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future Senior
      Debt of that Guarantor;

    o is pari passu in right of payment with all existing and future senior
      subordinated Indebtedness of that Guarantor; and

    o is senior in right of payment with all existing and future Indebtedness
      of that Guarantor that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to
      the notes.

     TriMas and the Guarantors have total Senior Debt of approximately $260
million. As indicated above and as discussed in detail below under the caption
"--Subordination," payments on the notes and under these guarantees will be
subordinated to the payment of Senior Debt. The indenture will permit us and
the Guarantors to incur additional Senior Debt.

     Not all of our subsidiaries guarantee the notes. In the event of a
bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization of any of these Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries, the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries will pay the holders of their debt
and their trade creditors before they will be able to distribute any of their
assets to us. Disregarding our receivables subsidiary, the Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries generated (other


                                       76


than our receivables subsidiary) approximately 11% of our consolidated net
sales for the year ended December 31, 2001. See "Risk Factors--Your right to
receive payment on the notes is junior to the right of the holders of all of
our existing senior indebtedness and possibly to all of our future borrowings."


     As of the date of the indenture, all of our Domestic Subsidiaries (other
than our receivables subsidiary) are "Restricted Subsidiaries." However, under
the circumstances described below under the subheading "--Certain
Covenants--Designation of Restricted and Unrestricted Subsidiaries," we will be
permitted to designate certain of our subsidiaries as "Unrestricted
Subsidiaries." Our Unrestricted Subsidiaries will not be subject to many of the
restrictive covenants in the indenture. Our Unrestricted Subsidiaries will not
guarantee the notes.


PRINCIPAL, MATURITY AND INTEREST

     TriMas issued $352,773,000 in aggregate principal amount of notes in the
offering. The indenture provides that TriMas may issue additional notes
thereunder from time to time after this offering. Any offering of additional
notes is subject to the covenant described below under the caption "--Certain
Covenants--Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock." The
notes and any additional notes subsequently issued under the indenture may be
treated as a single class for all purposes under the indenture, including,
without limitation, waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase.
TriMas will issue notes in denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples of
$1,000. The notes will mature on June 15, 2012.

     Interest on the notes will accrue at the rate of 9 7/8% per annum and will
be payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15, commencing on
December 15, 2002. TriMas will make each interest payment to the Holders of
record on the immediately preceding June 1 and December 1.

     Interest on the notes will accrue from the date of original issuance or,
if interest has already been paid, from the date it was most recently paid.
Interest will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve
30-day months.


METHODS OF RECEIVING PAYMENTS ON THE NOTES

     All payments on notes will be made at the office or agency of the paying
agent and registrar within the City and State of New York unless TriMas elects
to make interest payments by check mailed to the Holders at their address set
forth in the register of Holders. If a Holder has given wire transfer
instructions to TriMas, TriMas will pay all principal, interest and premium and
Liquidated Damages, if any, on that Holder's notes in accordance with those
instructions.


PAYING AGENT AND REGISTRAR FOR THE NOTES

     The trustee will initially act as paying agent and registrar. TriMas may
change the paying agent or registrar without prior notice to the Holders of the
notes, and TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries may act as paying agent or
registrar.


TRANSFER AND EXCHANGE

     A Holder may transfer or exchange notes in accordance with the indenture.
The registrar and the trustee may require a Holder, among other things, to
furnish appropriate endorsements and transfer documents in connection with a
transfer of notes. Holders will be required to pay all taxes due on transfer.
TriMas is not required to transfer or exchange any note selected for
redemption. Also, TriMas is not required to transfer or exchange any note for a
period of 15 days before a selection of notes to be redeemed.


SUBSIDIARY GUARANTEES

     The notes are guaranteed by each of TriMas' current and future Domestic
Subsidiaries that are guarantors or borrowers in respect of the Credit
Agreement. These Subsidiary Guarantees are joint


                                       77


and several obligations of the Guarantors. Each Subsidiary Guarantee is
subordinated to the prior payment in full of all Senior Debt of that Guarantor.
The obligations of each Guarantor under its Subsidiary Guarantee are limited as
necessary to prevent that Subsidiary Guarantee from constituting a fraudulent
conveyance under applicable law. See "Risk Factors--Federal and state statutes
allow courts, under specific circumstances, to void guarantees and require
noteholders to return payments received from guarantors."

     A Guarantor may not sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all
of its assets to, or consolidate with or merge with or into (whether or not
such Guarantor is the surviving Person), another Person, other than TriMas or
another Guarantor, unless:

   (1)   immediately after giving effect to that transaction, no Default or
         Event of Default exists; and

   (2)   except when a release of a Subsidiary Guarantee is obtained under the
         provisions below, if, immediately after giving effect to such
         transaction, the Person acquiring the property in any such sale or
         disposition or the Person formed by or surviving any such
         consolidation or merger is a Domestic Subsidiary, such Person assumes
         all the obligations of that Guarantor under the indenture, its
         Subsidiary Guarantee and the registration rights agreement pursuant to
         a supplemental indenture satisfactory to the trustee.

     Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Subsidiary Guarantee of a Guarantor
will be released:

   (1)   in connection with any sale or other disposition of all or
         substantially all of the assets of that Guarantor (including by way of
         merger or consolidation) to a Person that is not (either before or
         after giving effect to such transaction) a Restricted Subsidiary of
         TriMas, if the sale or other disposition is not in violation with the
         applicable provisions of the indenture;

   (2)   in connection with any sale or other disposition of all or a majority
         of the Capital Stock of a Guarantor to a Person that is not TriMas or
         a Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas, if the sale is not in violation
         with the applicable provisions of the indenture; or

   (3)   if TriMas designates any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor as
         an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with the applicable
         provisions of the indenture.

     See "--Repurchase at the Option of Holders--Asset Sales."


SUBORDINATION

     The payment of principal, interest and premium and Liquidated Damages, if
any, on the notes will be subordinated to the prior payment in full of all
Senior Debt of TriMas, including Senior Debt incurred after the date of the
indenture.

     The holders of Senior Debt will be entitled to receive payment in full of
all Obligations due in respect of Senior Debt (including interest after the
commencement of any bankruptcy proceeding at the rate specified in the
applicable Senior Debt) before the Holders of notes will be entitled to receive
any payment with respect to the notes (except that Holders of notes may receive
and retain Permitted Junior Securities and payments made from the trust
described under "--Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance"), in the event of
any distribution to creditors of TriMas:

   (1)   in a liquidation or dissolution of TriMas;

   (2)   in a bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, receivership or similar
         proceeding relating to TriMas or its property;

   (3)   in an assignment for the benefit of creditors; or

   (4)   in any marshaling of TriMas' assets and liabilities.

     TriMas also may not make any payment in respect of the notes (except in
Permitted Junior Securities or from the trust described under "--Legal
Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance") if:


                                       78


   (1)   a payment default on Designated Senior Debt occurs and is continuing;
         or

   (2)   any other default occurs and is continuing on any series of
         Designated Senior Debt that permits holders of that series of
         Designated Senior Debt to accelerate its maturity and the trustee
         receives a notice of such default (a "Payment Blockage Notice") from
         TriMas or the holders of any Designated Senior Debt.

     Payments on the notes may and will be resumed:

   (1)   in the case of a payment default, upon the date on which such default
         is cured or waived; and

   (2)   in the case of a nonpayment default, upon the earlier of the date on
         which such nonpayment default is cured or waived or 179 days after the
         date on which the applicable Payment Blockage Notice is received,
         unless the maturity of any Designated Senior Debt has been
         accelerated.

     No new Payment Blockage Notice may be delivered unless and until:

   (1)   360 days have elapsed since the delivery of the immediately prior
         Payment Blockage Notice; and

   (2)   all scheduled payments of principal, interest and premium and
         Liquidated Damages, if any, on the notes that have come due have been
         paid in full in cash.

     No nonpayment default that existed or was continuing on the date of
delivery of any Payment Blockage Notice to the trustee will be, or be made, the
basis for a subsequent Payment Blockage Notice unless such default has been
cured or waived for a period of not less than 90 days.

     If the trustee or any Holder of the notes receives a payment in respect of
the notes (except in Permitted Junior Securities or from the trust described
under "--Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance") when:

   (1)   the payment is prohibited by these subordination provisions; and

   (2)   the trustee or the Holder has actual knowledge that the payment is
         prohibited;

the trustee or the Holder, as the case may be, will hold the payment in trust
for the benefit of the holders of Senior Debt. Upon the proper written request
of the holders of Senior Debt, the trustee or the Holder, as the case may be,
will deliver the amounts in trust to the holders of Senior Debt or their proper
representative.

     TriMas must promptly notify holders of Senior Debt if payment of the notes
is accelerated because of an Event of Default.

     As a result of the subordination provisions described above, in the event
of a bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization of TriMas, Holders of notes may
recover less ratably than creditors of TriMas who are holders of Senior Debt.
See "Risk Factors--Your right to receive payment on the notes is junior to the
right of the holders of all of our existing indebtedness and possibly to all of
our future borrowings."


OPTIONAL REDEMPTION

     At any time prior to June 15, 2005, TriMas may on any one or more
occasions redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of notes issued
under the indenture at a redemption price of 109.875% of the principal amount,
plus accrued and unpaid interest and Liquidated Damages, if any, to the
redemption date, with the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings;
provided that:

   (1)   at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of notes issued under
         the indenture remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of
         such redemption (excluding notes held by TriMas and its Subsidiaries);
         and

   (2)   the redemption occurs within 120 days of the date of the closing of
         such Equity Offering.


                                       79


     Except pursuant to the preceding paragraph, the notes will not be
redeemable at TriMas' option prior to June 15, 2007.

     After June 15, 2007, TriMas may redeem all or a part of the notes upon not
less than 30 nor more than 60 days' notice, at the redemption prices (expressed
as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid
interest and Liquidated Damages, if any, on the notes redeemed, to the
applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period
beginning on June 15 of the years indicated below:






YEAR                                 PERCENTAGE
- --------------------------------   -------------
                                
  2007 .........................   104.938%
  2008 .........................   103.292%
  2009 .........................   101.646%
  2010 and thereafter ..........   100.000%


MANDATORY REDEMPTION

     TriMas is not required to make mandatory redemption or sinking fund
payments with respect to the notes.


REPURCHASE AT THE OPTION OF HOLDERS

     CHANGE OF CONTROL

     If a Change of Control occurs, each Holder of notes will have the right to
require TriMas to repurchase all or any part (equal to $1,000 or an integral
multiple of $1,000) of that Holder's notes pursuant to a Change of Control
Offer on the terms set forth in the indenture. In the Change of Control Offer,
TriMas will offer a Change of Control Payment in cash equal to 101% of the
aggregate principal amount of notes repurchased plus accrued and unpaid
interest and Liquidated Damages, if any, on the notes repurchased, to the date
of purchase. Within 15 days following any Change of Control, TriMas will mail a
notice to each Holder describing the transaction or transactions that
constitute the Change of Control and offering to repurchase notes on the Change
of Control Payment Date specified in the notice, which date will be no earlier
than 30 days and no later than 60 days from the date such notice is mailed,
pursuant to the procedures required by the indenture and described in such
notice. TriMas will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the
Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the
extent those laws and regulations are applicable in connection with the
repurchase of the notes as a result of a Change of Control. To the extent that
the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the Change
of Control provisions of the indenture, TriMas will comply with the applicable
securities laws and regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its
obligations under the Change of Control provisions of the indenture by virtue
of such conflict.

     On the Change of Control Payment Date, TriMas will, to the extent lawful:

   (1)   accept for payment all notes or portions of notes properly tendered
         pursuant to the Change of Control Offer;

   (2)   deposit with the paying agent an amount equal to the Change of
         Control Payment in respect of all notes or portions of notes properly
         tendered; and

   (3)   deliver or cause to be delivered to the trustee the notes properly
         accepted together with an officers' certificate stating the aggregate
         principal amount of notes or portions of notes being purchased by
         TriMas.

     The paying agent will promptly mail to each Holder of notes properly
tendered the Change of Control Payment for such notes, and the trustee will
promptly authenticate and mail (or cause to be transferred by book entry) to
each Holder a new note equal in principal amount to any unpurchased portion of
the notes surrendered, if any; provided that each new note will be in a
principal amount of $1,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000.


                                       80


     Prior to complying with any of the provisions of this "Change of Control"
covenant, but in any event within 90 days following a Change of Control, TriMas
will either repay all outstanding Senior Debt or obtain the requisite consents,
if any, under all agreements governing outstanding Senior Debt to permit the
repurchase of notes required by this covenant. TriMas will publicly announce
the results of the Change of Control Offer on or as soon as practicable after
the Change of Control Payment Date.

     The provisions described above that require TriMas to make a Change of
Control Offer following a Change of Control will be applicable whether or not
any other provisions of the indenture are applicable. Except as described above
with respect to a Change of Control, the indenture does not contain provisions
that permit the Holders of the notes to require that TriMas repurchase or
redeem the notes in the event of a takeover, recapitalization or similar
transaction.

     TriMas will not be required to make a Change of Control Offer upon a
Change of Control if a third party makes the Change of Control Offer in the
manner, at the times and otherwise in compliance with the requirements set
forth in the indenture applicable to a Change of Control Offer made by TriMas
and purchases all notes properly tendered and not withdrawn under the Change of
Control Offer. Alternatively, TriMas may assign all or part of its obligations
to purchase all notes validly tendered and not properly withdrawn under a
Change of Control Offer to a third party. In the event of such an assignment,
TriMas shall be released from its obligations to purchase the notes as to which
the assignment relates subject to the third party purchasing such notes. A
Change of Control Offer may be made in advance of a Change of Control, and
conditioned upon such Change of Control if a definitive agreement is in place
for the Change of Control at the time of making of the Change of Control Offer.
Notes repurchased by TriMas pursuant to a Change of Control Offer will have the
status of notes issued but not outstanding or will be retired and canceled, at
the option of TriMas. Notes purchased by a third party upon assignment will
have the status of note issued and outstanding.

     The Credit Agreement will provide that certain change of control events
with respect to TriMas would constitute an event of default thereunder. In the
event that at the time of such Change of Control the terms of the Credit
Agreement restrict or prohibit the repurchase of notes pursuant to this
covenant, then prior to the mailing of the Change of Control Offer but in any
event within 30 days following any Change of Control, TriMas would need to (i)
repay in full all Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement or (ii) obtain the
requisite consent under the Credit Facilities to permit the repurchase of the
notes as provided for in this covenant.

     Future Indebtedness of TriMas and the Restricted Subsidiaries may contain
prohibitions of certain events that would constitute a Change of Control or
require such Indebtedness to be repurchased upon a Change of Control. A Change
of Control would also constitute a termination event in respect of our
receivables facility. Moreover, the exercise by the Holders of notes of their
right to require TriMas to repurchase the notes could cause a default under
such Indebtedness, even if the Change of Control itself does not, due to the
financial effect of such repurchase. Finally, TriMas' ability to pay cash to
the Holders of notes upon a repurchase may be limited by TriMas' then existing
financial resources. There can be no assurance that sufficient funds will be
available when necessary to make any required repurchases. See "Risk
Factors--We may be prevented from financing, or may be unable to raise funds
necessary to finance, the change of control offer required by the indenture."

     The definition of Change of Control includes a phrase relating to the
direct or indirect sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of
"all or substantially all" of the properties or assets of TriMas and its
Subsidiaries taken as a whole. Although there is a limited body of case law
interpreting the phrase "substantially all," there is no precise established
definition of the phrase under applicable law. Accordingly, the ability of a
Holder of notes to require TriMas to repurchase its notes as a result of a
sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of less than all of the
assets of TriMas and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole to another Person or
group may be uncertain.

ASSET SALES

     TriMas will not, and will not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries
to, consummate an Asset Sale unless:


                                       81


   (1)   TriMas (or the Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be) receives
         consideration at the time of the Asset Sale at least equal to the fair
         market value of the assets or Equity Interests issued or sold or
         otherwise disposed of;

   (2)   the fair market value is determined by TriMas' Board of Directors and
         evidenced by a resolution of the Board of Directors set forth in an
         officers' certificate delivered to the trustee; and

   (3)   either (a) at least 75% of the consideration received in the Asset
         Sale by TriMas or such Restricted Subsidiary is in the form of cash or
         (b) the aggregate non-cash consideration for all Asset Sales not
         meeting the criteria set forth in the preceding clause (a) does not
         exceed a fair market value in excess of $20.0 million. For purposes of
         this provision, each of the following will be deemed to be cash:

       (a)        any liabilities, as shown on TriMas' or such Restricted
                  Subsidiary's most recent consolidated balance sheet, of
                  TriMas or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than contingent
                  liabilities and liabilities that are by their terms
                  subordinated to the notes or any Subsidiary Guarantee) that
                  are assumed by the transferee of any such assets pursuant to
                  a customary novation agreement that releases TriMas or such
                  Restricted Subsidiary from further liability; and

       (b)        any securities, notes or other obligations received by TriMas
                  or any such Restricted Subsidiary from such transferee to the
                  extent within 60 days, subject to ordinary settlement
                  periods, they are converted by TriMas or such Restricted
                  Subsidiary into cash.

     Within 365 days after the receipt of any Net Proceeds from an Asset Sale,
TriMas may apply those Net Proceeds at its option:

   (1)   to permanently repay Indebtedness (other than Indebtedness that is by
         its terms subordinated to, or pari passu with, the notes or any
         Subsidiary Guarantee) of TriMas or any Restricted Subsidiary,
         including any Obligations under a Credit Facility and, if the
         Indebtedness repaid is revolving credit Indebtedness, to
         correspondingly reduce commitments with respect thereto or to reduce
         receivables advances and reduce commitments in respect of a
         Receivables Facility;

   (2)   to acquire assets of, or a majority of the Voting Stock of, any
         person owning assets used or usable in a business of TriMas and the
         Restricted Subsidiaries; or

   (3)   to make a capital expenditure.

     Pending the final application of any Net Proceeds, TriMas may temporarily
reduce revolving credit borrowings or otherwise invest or use the Net Proceeds
in any manner that is not prohibited by the indenture.

     Any Net Proceeds from Asset Sales that are not applied or invested as
provided in the preceding paragraph will constitute "Excess Proceeds." When the
aggregate amount of Excess Proceeds exceeds $25.0 million, TriMas will make an
Asset Sale Offer to all Holders of notes and all holders of other Indebtedness
that is pari passu with the notes containing provisions similar to those set
forth in the indenture with respect to offers to purchase or redeem with the
proceeds of sales of assets to purchase the maximum principal amount of notes
and such other pari passu Indebtedness that may be purchased out of the Excess
Proceeds. The offer price in any Asset Sale Offer will be equal to 100% of
principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest and Liquidated Damages, if
any, to the date of purchase, and will be payable in cash. If any Excess
Proceeds remain after consummation of an Asset Sale Offer, TriMas may use those
Excess Proceeds for any purpose not otherwise prohibited by the indenture. If
the aggregate principal amount of notes and other pari passu Indebtedness
tendered into such Asset Sale Offer exceeds the amount of Excess Proceeds, the
trustee will select the notes and such other pari passu Indebtedness to be
purchased on a pro rata basis. Upon completion of each Asset Sale Offer, the
amount of Excess Proceeds will be reset at zero.


                                       82


     TriMas will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange
Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the extent
those laws and regulations are applicable in connection with each repurchase of
notes pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer. To the extent that the provisions of any
securities laws or regulations conflict with the Asset Sale provisions of the
indenture, TriMas will comply with the applicable securities laws and
regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its obligations under the
Asset Sale provisions of the indenture by virtue of such conflict.

     The agreements governing TriMas' outstanding Senior Debt currently
prohibit TriMas from purchasing any notes, and also provides that certain
change of control or asset sale events with respect to TriMas would constitute
a default under these agreements. Any future credit agreements or other
agreements relating to Senior Debt to which TriMas becomes a party may contain
similar restrictions and provisions. In the event a Change of Control or Asset
Sale occurs at a time when TriMas is prohibited from purchasing notes, TriMas
could seek the consent of its senior lenders to the purchase of notes or could
attempt to refinance the borrowings that contain such prohibition. If TriMas
does not obtain such a consent or repay such borrowings, TriMas will remain
prohibited from purchasing notes. In such case, TriMas' failure to purchase
tendered notes would constitute an Event of Default under the indenture which
would, in turn, constitute a default under such Senior Debt. In such
circumstances, the subordination provisions in the indenture would likely
restrict payments to the Holders of notes.


SELECTION AND NOTICE

     If less than all of the notes are to be redeemed at any time, the trustee
will select notes for redemption as follows:

   (1)   if the notes are listed on any national securities exchange, in
         compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities
         exchange on which the notes are listed; or

   (2)   if the notes are not listed on any national securities exchange, on a
         pro rata basis, by lot or by such method as the trustee deems fair and
         appropriate.

     No notes of $1,000 or less can be redeemed in part. Notices of redemption
will be mailed by first class mail at least 30 but not more than 60 days before
the redemption date to each Holder of notes to be redeemed at its registered
address, except that redemption notices may be mailed more than 60 days prior
to a redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of
the notes or a satisfaction and discharge of the indenture. Notices of
redemption may not be conditional.

     If any note is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption that
relates to that note will state the portion of the principal amount of that
note that is to be redeemed. A new note in principal amount equal to the
unredeemed portion of the original note will be issued in the name of the
Holder of notes upon cancellation of the original note. Notes called for
redemption become due on the date fixed for redemption. On and after the
redemption date, interest ceases to accrue on notes or portions of them called
for redemption.


CERTAIN COVENANTS

     RESTRICTED PAYMENTS

     TriMas will not, and will not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries
to, directly or indirectly:

   (1)   declare or pay any dividend or make any other payment or distribution
         on account of TriMas' Equity Interests (including, without limitation,
         any payment in connection with any merger or consolidation involving
         TriMas or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) or to the direct or
         indirect holders of TriMas' Equity Interests in their capacity as such
         (other than dividends or distributions payable in Equity Interests
         (other than Disqualified Stock) of TriMas or to TriMas or a Restricted
         Subsidiary of TriMas);

   (2)   purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire or retire for value (including,
         without limitation, in connection with any merger or consolidation
         involving TriMas) any Equity Interests of TriMas;


                                       83


   (3)   purchase, redeem, defease or otherwise acquire or retire for value
         any Indebtedness that is subordinated to the notes or the Subsidiary
         Guarantees, except a purchase, redemption, defeasance or other
         acquisition or retirement for value in anticipation of satisfying a
         sinking fund obligation, principal installment or final maturity, in
         each case due within one year of the date of such acquisition or
         retirement; or


   (4)   make any Restricted Investment (all such payments and other actions
         set forth in these clauses (1) through (4) above being collectively
         referred to as "Restricted Payments"),


     unless, at the time of and after giving effect to such Restricted Payment:



   (1)   no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or
         would occur as a consequence of such Restricted Payment; and


   (2)   TriMas would, after giving pro forma effect thereto as if such
         Restricted Payment had been made at the beginning of the applicable
         four-quarter period, have been permitted to incur at least $1.00 of
         additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio
         test set forth in the first paragraph of the covenant described below
         under the caption "--Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of
         Preferred Stock;" and


   (3)   such Restricted Payment, together with the aggregate amount of all
         other Restricted Payments made by TriMas and the Restricted
         Subsidiaries after the date of the indenture (excluding Restricted
         Payments permitted by clauses (2), (3), (4), (8), (9) and, to the
         extent reducing Consolidated Net Income, (10) of the next succeeding
         paragraph), is less than the sum, without duplication, of:


       (a)        50% of the Consolidated Net Income of TriMas for the period
                  (taken as one accounting period) from June 30, 2002 to the
                  end of TriMas' most recently ended fiscal quarter for which
                  internal financial statements are available at the time of
                  such Restricted Payment (or, if such Consolidated Net Income
                  for such period is a deficit, less 100% of such deficit),
                  plus


       (b)        100% of the aggregate net proceeds received by TriMas since
                  the date of the indenture, including the fair market value of
                  property other than cash (determined in good faith by the
                  Board of Directors), as a contribution to its common equity
                  capital or from the issue or sale of Equity Interests of
                  TriMas (other than Disqualified Stock) or from the issue or
                  sale of convertible or exchangeable Disqualified Stock or
                  convertible or exchangeable debt securities of TriMas that
                  have been converted into or exchanged for such Equity
                  Interests (other than Equity Interests (or Disqualified Stock
                  or debt securities) sold to a Subsidiary of TriMas),
                  provided, that (1) any such net proceeds received, directly
                  or indirectly, by TriMas from an employee stock ownership
                  plan financed by loans from TriMas or a Subsidiary of TriMas
                  shall be included only to the extent such loans have been
                  repaid with cash on or prior to the date of determination and
                  (2) any net proceeds received in a form other than cash
                  (other than on conversion or in exchange for a security
                  issued for cash to the extent of the cash received) from a
                  person that is an Affiliate of TriMas prior to such receipt
                  shall be excluded from this clause (3)(b); plus


       (c)        the amount by which Indebtedness of TriMas or any Restricted
                  Subsidiary is reduced on TriMas' balance sheet upon the
                  conversion or exchange (other than by a Restricted
                  Subsidiary) subsequent to the date of the indenture of any
                  Indebtedness of TriMas or any Restricted Subsidiary into
                  Capital Stock (other than Redeemable Stock) of TriMas (less
                  the amount of any cash or other property (other than such
                  Capital Stock) distributed by TriMas or any Restricted
                  Subsidiary upon such conversion or exchange); plus


                                       84


       (d)        to the extent that any Restricted Investment that was made
                  after the date of the indenture is sold for cash or otherwise
                  liquidated or repaid for cash, the lesser of (i) the cash
                  return of capital with respect to such Restricted Investment
                  (less the cost of disposition, if any) and (ii) the initial
                  amount of such Restricted Investment; plus

       (e)        to the extent that any Unrestricted Subsidiary of TriMas is
                  redesignated as a Restricted Subsidiary after the date of the
                  indenture, the lesser of (i) the fair market value of TriMas'
                  Investment in such Subsidiary as of the date of such
                  redesignation or (ii) such fair market value as of the date
                  on which such Subsidiary was originally designated as an
                  Unrestricted Subsidiary.

     So long as no Default has occurred and is continuing or would be caused
thereby (except as to clauses (1) through (4), (6) and (9) below), the
preceding provisions will not prohibit:

   (1)   the payment of any dividend within 60 days after the date of
         declaration of the dividend, if at the date of declaration the
         dividend payment would have complied with the provisions of the
         indenture;

   (2)   the redemption, repurchase, retirement, defeasance or other
         acquisition of any subordinated Indebtedness of TriMas or any
         Guarantor or of any Equity Interests of TriMas in exchange for, or out
         of the net cash proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other
         than to a Restricted Subsidiary) of, Equity Interests (other than
         Disqualified Stock) of TriMas or a substantially concurrent capital
         contribution to TriMas; provided that the amount of any such net cash
         proceeds that are utilized for any such redemption, repurchase,
         retirement, defeasance or other acquisition will be excluded from
         clause (3)(b) of the preceding paragraph;

   (3)   the defeasance, redemption, repurchase or other acquisition of
         subordinated Indebtedness of TriMas or any Guarantor in exchange for,
         or with the net cash proceeds from, an incurrence of Permitted
         Refinancing Indebtedness or other Indebtedness Incurred under the
         first paragraph of the covenant "Incurrence of Indebtedness and
         Issuance of Preferred Stock";

   (4)   the defeasance, redemption, repurchase or other acquisition of
         subordinated Indebtedness from Net Proceeds to the extent not
         prohibited under "--Asset Sales," provided, that such purchase or
         redemption shall be excluded from the calculation of the amount
         available for Restricted Payments pursuant to the preceding paragraph;


   (5)   the defeasance, redemption, repurchase or other acquisition of
         subordinated Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of TriMas or any
         Guarantor following a Change of Control after TriMas shall have
         complied with the provisions under "--Change of Control," including
         payment of the applicable Change of Control Payment;

   (6)   the repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for
         value of any Equity Interests of TriMas held by any member of TriMas'
         (or any of its Subsidiaries') management pursuant to any management
         equity subscription agreement, stock option agreement or other equity
         incentive agreement or plan; provided that the aggregate price paid
         for all such repurchased, redeemed, acquired or retired Equity
         Interests may not exceed $5.0 million in any twelve-month period plus
         any unutilized portion of such amount in any prior fiscal year;

   (7)   any Investment made by the exchange for, or out of the proceeds of, a
         capital contribution in respect of or the substantially concurrent
         sale of, Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of TriMas to
         the extent the net cash proceeds thereof are received by TriMas,
         provided, that the amount of such capital contribution or proceeds
         used to make such Investment shall be excluded from the calculation of
         the amount available for Restricted Payments pursuant to the preceding
         paragraph;

   (8)   other Restricted Payments in an aggregate amount not to exceed $20.0
         million;

   (9)   payments required or contemplated by the terms of the Stock Purchase
         Agreement and related documentation as in effect on the closing date
         of the Transactions, including in respect of restricted stock awards
         of TriMas or any direct or indirect payment of TriMas; and


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   (10)  the payment of dividends on Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock of
         Restricted Subsidiaries subject to and permitted by the covenant
         "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock."

     The amount of all Restricted Payments (other than cash) will be the fair
market value on the date of the Restricted Payment of the asset(s) or
securities proposed to be transferred or issued by TriMas or such Restricted
Subsidiary, as the case may be, pursuant to the Restricted Payment. The fair
market value of any assets or securities that are required to be valued by this
covenant will be determined by the Board of Directors acting in good faith
whose resolution with respect thereto will be conclusive.


INCURRENCE OF INDEBTEDNESS AND ISSUANCE OF PREFERRED STOCK

     TriMas will not, and will not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries
to, directly or indirectly, create, incur, issue, assume, guarantee or
otherwise become directly or indirectly liable, contingently or otherwise, with
respect to (collectively, "incur") any Indebtedness (including Acquired Debt),
and TriMas will not issue any Disqualified Stock and will not permit any
Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor to issue any shares of preferred
stock; provided, however, that TriMas may incur Indebtedness (including
Acquired Debt) or issue Disqualified Stock, and the Restricted Subsidiaries may
incur Indebtedness or Restricted Subsidiaries that are not a Guarantor may
issue preferred stock, if the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for TriMas' most
recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which financial statements are
available immediately preceding the date on which such additional Indebtedness
is incurred or such Disqualified Stock or preferred stock is issued would have
been at least 2.0 to 1.0 prior to June 15, 2005 and at least 2.25 to 1.0
thereafter, determined on a pro forma basis (including a pro forma application
of the net proceeds therefrom), as if the additional Indebtedness had been
incurred or the preferred stock or Disqualified Stock had been issued, as the
case may be, at the beginning of such four-quarter period.

     The first paragraph of this covenant will not prohibit the incurrence of
any of the following items of Indebtedness (collectively, "Permitted Debt"):

   (1)   (a)      the incurrence by TriMas and any Restricted Subsidiary of
                  Indebtedness and letters of credit under the revolving
                  facility component of the Credit Facilities in an aggregate
                  principal amount at any one time outstanding under this clause
                  (1)(a) (with letters of credit being deemed to have a
                  principal amount equal to the maximum potential liability of
                  TriMas and its Subsidiaries thereunder) not to exceed $150.0
                  million less the aggregate amount of all Net Proceeds of Asset
                  Sales applied by TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries
                  to repay any Indebtedness under the Credit Facilities and to
                  effect a corresponding commitment reduction thereunder
                  pursuant to the covenant described above under the caption
                  "--Repurchase at the Option of Holders--Asset Sales"; and

         (b)      the incurrence by TriMas and any Restricted Subsidiary of
                  Indebtedness under the term loan components of the Credit
                  Facilities in an aggregate principal amount at any one time
                  outstanding under this clause (1)(b) not to exceed $260.0
                  million less the aggregate amount of all repayments, optional
                  or mandatory, of the principal of any term Indebtedness under
                  a Credit Facility that have been made by TriMas or any of the
                  Restricted Subsidiaries since the date of the indenture other
                  than any repayment relating to any amendment, restatement,
                  modification, renewal, refunding, replacement or refinancing
                  of the principal of any term Indebtedness under such Credit
                  Facility; and

         (c)      the incurrence of Indebtedness of TriMas or any Restricted
                  Subsidiary under one or more receivables financing facilities
                  pursuant to which TriMas or any Restricted Subsidiary pledges
                  or otherwise borrows against its Receivables in an aggregate
                  principal amount which, when taken together with all other
                  Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to this clause (c) and then
                  outstanding, does not exceed 85% of the consolidated book
                  value of the Receivables of TriMas and the Restricted
                  Subsidiaries


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           (to the extent such Receivables or any other Receivables of TriMas
           or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, are not then
           being financed pursuant to a Qualified Receivables Transaction or as
           a basis for Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to clause (10) of this
           paragraph);

   (2)   the incurrence by TriMas and the Restricted Subsidiaries of the
         Existing Indebtedness;

   (3)   the incurrence by TriMas and the Guarantors of Indebtedness
         represented by the notes and the related Subsidiary Guarantees to be
         issued on the date of the indenture and the exchange notes and the
         related Subsidiary Guarantees to be issued pursuant to the
         registration rights agreement;

   (4)   the incurrence by TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries of Indebtedness
         represented by Capital Lease Obligations, mortgage financings or
         purchase money obligations, in each case, incurred for the purpose of
         financing all or any part of the purchase price or cost of
         construction or improvement of property, plant or equipment used in
         the business of TriMas or such Restricted Subsidiary ("Capital
         Spending") and incurred no later than 270 days after the date of such
         acquisition or the date of completion of such construction or
         improvement, provided, that the principal amount of any Indebtedness
         incurred pursuant to this clause (4) (other than Permitted Refinancing
         Indebtedness) at any time during a single fiscal year shall not exceed
         30% of the total Capital Spending of TriMas and the Restricted
         Subsidiaries made during the period of the most recently completed
         four consecutive fiscal quarters prior to the date of such incurrence;


   (5)   the incurrence by TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of
         Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in exchange for, or the net
         proceeds of which are used to refund, refinance or replace
         Indebtedness (other than intercompany Indebtedness) that was permitted
         by the indenture to be incurred under the first paragraph of this
         covenant or clauses (2), (3), (4), (5), (8), (9) or (15) of this
         paragraph;

   (6)   the incurrence by TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of
         intercompany Indebtedness between or among TriMas and any of the
         Restricted Subsidiaries; provided, however, that:

       (a)        if TriMas or any Guarantor is the obligor on such
                  Indebtedness, such Indebtedness must be (i) unsecured and
                  (ii) if the obligee is neither TriMas nor a Guarantor,
                  expressly subordinated to the prior payment in full in cash
                  of all Obligations with respect to the notes (in the case of
                  TriMas) (or the Subsidiary Guarantee, in the case of a
                  Guarantor); and

       (b)        (i) any subsequent issuance or transfer of Equity Interests
                  that results in any such Indebtedness being held by a Person
                  other than TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas and
                  (ii) any sale or other transfer of any such Indebtedness to a
                  Person that is not either TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary
                  of TriMas will be deemed, in each case, to constitute an
                  incurrence of such Indebtedness by TriMas or such Restricted
                  Subsidiary, as the case may be, that was not permitted by
                  this clause (6);

   (7)   the incurrence by TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of
         Hedging Obligations that are incurred for the purpose of hedging (i)
         interest rate risk or the impact of interest rate fluctuations on
         TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries and (ii) in the case of
         currency or commodity protection agreements, against currency exchange
         rate or commodity price fluctuations in the ordinary course of TriMas
         and the Restricted Subsidiaries' respective businesses and, in the
         case of both (i) and (ii), not for purposes of speculation;

   (8)   the guarantee by TriMas or any of the Guarantors of Indebtedness of
         TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary that was permitted to be incurred by
         another provision of this covenant;


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   (9)   the accrual of interest, the accretion or amortization of original
         issue discount, the payment of interest on any Indebtedness in the
         form of additional Indebtedness with the same terms, and the payment
         of dividends on Disqualified Stock in the form of additional shares of
         similar Disqualified Stock will not be deemed to be an incurrence of
         Indebtedness or an issuance of Disqualified Stock for purposes of this
         covenant; provided, in each such case, that the amount thereof is
         included in Fixed Charges of TriMas as accrued;

   (10)  Indebtedness of Foreign Subsidiaries incurred for working capital
         purposes if, at the time of incurrence of such Indebtedness, and after
         giving effect thereto, the aggregate principal amount of all
         Indebtedness of the Foreign Subsidiaries incurred pursuant to this
         clause (10) and then outstanding does not exceed the amount equal to
         the sum of (x) 80% of the consolidated book value of the accounts
         receivable of the Foreign Subsidiaries and (y) 60% of the consolidated
         book value of the inventories of the Foreign Subsidiaries;

   (11)  Indebtedness incurred in respect of (a) workers' compensation claims,
         self-insurance obligations, bankers' acceptances, performance, surety
         and similar bonds and completion guarantees provided by TriMas or a
         Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business, (b) in
         respect of performance bonds or similar obligations of TriMas or any
         of the Restricted Subsidiaries for or in connection with pledges,
         deposits or payments made or given in the ordinary course of business
         and not for money borrowed in connection with or to secure statutory,
         regulatory or similar obligations, including obligations under health,
         safety or environmental obligations, and (c) arising from guarantees
         to suppliers, lessors, licensees, contractors, franchises or customers
         of obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business and not for
         money borrowed;

   (12)  Indebtedness arising from agreements of TriMas or a Restricted
         Subsidiary providing for indemnification, adjustment of purchase price
         or similar obligations, in each case, incurred or assumed in
         connection with the disposition of any business, assets or Capital
         Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary, provided, that the maximum aggregate
         liability in respect of all such Indebtedness shall at no time exceed
         the gross proceeds actually received by TriMas and the Restricted
         Subsidiaries in connection with such disposition;

   (13)  Indebtedness arising from the honoring by a bank or other financial
         institution of a check, draft or similar instrument (except in the
         case of daylight overdrafts) drawn against insufficient funds in the
         ordinary course of business, provided, however, that such Indebtedness
         is extinguished within five Business Days of incurrence;

   (14)  the incurrence by a Receivables Subsidiary of Indebtedness in a
         Qualified Receivables Transaction that is without recourse to TriMas
         or to any other Subsidiary of TriMas or their assets (other than such
         Receivables Subsidiary and its assets and, as to TriMas or any
         Subsidiary of TriMas, other than pursuant to representations,
         warranties, covenants and indemnities customary for such transactions)
         and is not guaranteed by any such Person;

   (15)  the issuance and sale of preferred stock (a) by a Foreign Subsidiary
         in lieu of the issuance of non-voting common stock if (i) the laws of
         the jurisdiction of incorporation of such Subsidiary precludes the
         issuance of non-voting common stock and (ii) the preferential rights
         afforded to the holders of such preferred stock are limited to those
         customarily provided for in such jurisdiction in respect of the
         issuance of non-voting stock, (b) by a Restricted Subsidiary which is
         a joint venture with a third party which is not an Affiliate of the
         Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, and (c) by a Restricted Subsidiary
         pursuant to obligations with respect to the issuance or sale of
         Preferred Stock which exist at the time such Person becomes a
         Restricted Subsidiary and which were not created in connection with or
         in contemplation of such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary; and

   (16)  the incurrence by TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of
         additional Indebtedness in an aggregate principal amount (or accreted
         value, as applicable) at any time outstanding, including all Permitted
         Refinancing Indebtedness, incurred to refund, refinance or replace any
         Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (16), not to exceed
         $35.0 million.


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     For purposes of determining compliance with this "Incurrence of
Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" covenant, in the event that an
item of proposed Indebtedness meets the criteria of more than one of the
categories of Permitted Debt described in clauses (1) through (16) above, or is
entitled to be incurred pursuant to the first paragraph of this covenant,
TriMas will be permitted to classify such item of Indebtedness on the date of
its incurrence, or later reclassify all or a portion of such item of
Indebtedness, in any manner that complies with this covenant. Indebtedness
under Credit Facilities outstanding on the date on which notes are first issued
and authenticated under the indenture will be deemed to have been incurred on
such date in reliance on the exception provided by clauses (1) and (2) of the
definition of Permitted Debt.

     For purposes of determining compliance with any U.S. dollar-denominated
restriction on the incurrence of Indebtedness, the U.S. dollar-equivalent
principal amount of Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency shall be
calculated based on the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date
such Indebtedness was incurred, in the case of term Indebtedness, or first
committed, in the case of revolving credit Indebtedness; provided, that if such
Indebtedness is incurred to Refinance other Indebtedness denominated in a
foreign currency, and such Refinancing would cause the applicable U.S.
dollar-denominated restriction to be exceeded if calculated at the relevant
currency exchange rate in effect on the date of such Refinancing, such U.S.
dollar-denominated restriction shall be deemed not to have been exceeded so
long as the principal amount of such Refinancing Indebtedness does not exceed
the principal amount of such Indebtedness being Refinanced. Notwithstanding any
other provision of this covenant, the maximum amount of Indebtedness that
TriMas may incur pursuant to this covenant shall not be deemed to be exceeded
solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies. The
principal amount of any Indebtedness incurred to Refinance other Indebtedness,
if incurred in a different currency from the Indebtedness being Refinanced,
shall be calculated based on the currency exchange rate applicable to the
currencies in which such Refinancing Indebtedness is denominated that is in
effect on the date of such Refinancing.

     ANTI-LAYERING

     TriMas will not incur, create, issue, assume, guarantee or otherwise
become liable for any Indebtedness that is subordinate or junior in right of
payment to any Senior Debt of TriMas and senior in any respect in right of
payment to the notes. No Guarantor will incur, create, issue, assume, guarantee
or otherwise become liable for any Indebtedness that is subordinate or junior
in right of payment to the Senior Debt of such Guarantor and senior in any
respect in right of payment to such Guarantor's Subsidiary Guarantee.

     LIENS

     TriMas will not and will not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to,
directly or indirectly, create, incur, assume or otherwise cause or suffer to
exist or become effective any Lien of any kind securing Indebtedness (other
than Permitted Liens) upon any of their property or assets, now owned or
hereafter acquired to secure any Indebtedness without making, or causing such
Subsidiary to make, effective provision for securing the notes or, in respect
of Liens on any Guarantor's property or assets, any Guarantee of such
Guarantor, (x) equally and ratably with such Indebtedness as to such property
or assets for so long as such Indebtedness will be so secured or (y) in the
event such Indebtedness is subordinated Indebtedness, prior to such
Indebtedness as to such property or assets for so long as such Indebtedness
will be so secured.

     DIVIDEND AND OTHER PAYMENT RESTRICTIONS AFFECTING SUBSIDIARIES

     TriMas will not, and will not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries
to, directly or indirectly, create or permit to exist or become effective any
consensual encumbrance or restriction on the ability of any Restricted
Subsidiary to:

   (1)   pay dividends or make any other distributions on its Capital Stock to
         TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries, or with respect to any
         other interest or participation in, or measured by, its profits, or
         pay any indebtedness owed to TriMas or any of the Restricted
         Subsidiaries;


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   (2)   make loans or advances to TriMas or any of the Restricted
         Subsidiaries; or

   (3)   transfer any of its properties or assets to TriMas or any of the
         Restricted Subsidiaries.

     However, the preceding restrictions will not apply to encumbrances or
restrictions existing under or by reason of:

   (1)   agreements governing Existing Indebtedness and Credit Facilities as
         in effect on the date of the indenture and any amendments,
         modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements,
         refundings, replacements or refinancings of those agreements, provided
         that the amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases,
         supplements, refundings, replacement or refinancings are no more
         restrictive, taken as a whole, with respect to such dividend and other
         payment restrictions than those contained in those agreements on the
         date of the indenture;

   (2)   the indenture, the notes and the Subsidiary Guarantees;

   (3)   applicable law;

   (4)   customary non-assignment provisions in leases entered into in the
         ordinary course of business and consistent with past practices;

   (5)   purchase money obligations for property acquired in the ordinary
         course of business that impose restrictions on that property of the
         nature described in clause (3) of the preceding paragraph;

   (6)   any agreement for the sale or other disposition of a Restricted
         Subsidiary that restricts distributions by that Restricted Subsidiary
         pending its sale or other disposition;

   (7)   Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness, provided that the restrictions
         contained in the agreements governing such Permitted Refinancing
         Indebtedness are no more restrictive, taken as a whole, than those
         contained in the agreements governing the Indebtedness being
         Refinanced;

   (8)   Liens securing Indebtedness otherwise permitted to be incurred under
         the provisions of the covenant described above under the caption
         "--Liens" that limit the right of the debtor to dispose of the assets
         subject to such Liens;

   (9)   provisions with respect to the disposition or distribution of assets
         or property in joint venture agreements, assets sale agreements, stock
         sale agreements and other similar agreements entered into in the
         ordinary course of business;

   (10)  any agreement relating to any Indebtedness or Liens incurred by a
         Person (other than a Subsidiary of TriMas that is a Subsidiary of
         TriMas on the date of the indenture or any Subsidiary carrying on any
         of the businesses of any such Subsidiary) prior to the date on which
         such Person became a Subsidiary of TriMas and outstanding on such date
         and not incurred in anticipation of becoming a Subsidiary and not
         incurred to provide all or any portion of the funds utilized to
         consummate such acquisition, which encumbrance or restriction is not
         applicable to any Person, or the properties or assets of any Person,
         other than the Person so acquired;

   (11)  any encumbrance or restriction with respect to a Foreign Subsidiary
         pursuant to an agreement relating to Indebtedness which is permitted
         under the "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock"
         covenant or Liens incurred by such Foreign Subsidiary;

   (12)  Indebtedness or other contractual requirements of a Receivables
         Subsidiary in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction,
         provided that such restrictions apply only to such Receivables
         Subsidiary; and

   (13)  restrictions on cash or other deposits or net worth imposed by
         customers under contracts entered into in the ordinary course of
         business.


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     MERGER, CONSOLIDATION OR SALE OF ASSETS

     TriMas may not, directly or indirectly: (1) consolidate or merge with or
into another Person (whether or not TriMas is the surviving corporation); or
(2) sell, assign, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially
all of the properties or assets of TriMas and the Restricted Subsidiaries taken
as a whole, in one or more related transactions, to another Person; unless:

   (1)   either: (a) TriMas is the surviving corporation; or (b) the Person
         formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than
         TriMas) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or
         other disposition has been made is a corporation organized or existing
         under the laws of the United States, any state of the United States or
         the District of Columbia;

   (2)   the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger
         (if other than TriMas) or the Person to which such sale, assignment,
         transfer, conveyance or other disposition has been made assumes all
         the obligations of TriMas under the notes, the indenture and the
         registration rights agreement pursuant to agreements reasonably
         satisfactory to the trustee;

   (3)   immediately after such transaction, no Default or Event of Default
         exists; and

   (4)   TriMas or the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or
         merger (if other than TriMas), or to which such sale, assignment,
         transfer, conveyance or other disposition has been made will, on the
         date of such transaction after giving pro forma effect thereto and any
         related financing transactions as if the same had occurred at the
         beginning of the applicable four-quarter period, be permitted to incur
         at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge
         Coverage Ratio test set forth in the first paragraph of the covenant
         described above under the caption "--Incurrence of Indebtedness and
         Issuance of Preferred Stock."

     In addition, TriMas may not, directly or indirectly, lease all or
substantially all of its properties or assets, in one or more related
transactions, to any other Person. This "Merger, Consolidation or Sale of
Assets" covenant will not apply to a sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or
other disposition of assets between or among TriMas and any of the Guarantors.

     Notwithstanding anything in the indenture:

   (a)        a Restricted Subsidiary may consolidate with, merge into or
              convey, lease, sell, assign, transfer or otherwise dispose of all
              or part of its properties and assets to TriMas or a Restricted
              Subsidiary; and

   (b)        TriMas may merge with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the
              purpose of reincorporating TriMas in another jurisdiction in the
              United States to realize tax or other benefits.

     TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES

     TriMas will not, and will not permit any of the Restricted Subsidiaries
to, make any payment to, or sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any
of its properties or assets to, or purchase any property or assets from, or
enter into or make or amend any transaction, contract, agreement,
understanding, loan, advance or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, any
Affiliate (each, an "Affiliate Transaction"), unless:

   (1)   the Affiliate Transaction is on terms that are not materially less
         favorable, taken as a whole, to TriMas or the relevant Restricted
         Subsidiary than those that would have been obtained at the time in a
         comparable transaction by TriMas or such Restricted Subsidiary with an
         unaffiliated Person; and

   (2)   TriMas delivers to the trustee:

       (a)  except when the opinion referred to in the following clause
            (b) is delivered, with respect to any Affiliate Transaction
            or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving
            aggregate consideration in excess of $5.0 million, a
            resolution of the Board of Directors


                                 91


            set forth in an officers' certificate certifying that such
            Affiliate Transaction complies with this covenant and that
            such Affiliate Transaction has been approved by a majority
            of the disinterested members of the Board of Directors; and

       (b)  with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of
            related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate
            consideration in excess of $25.0 million, an opinion as to
            the fairness to TriMas of such Affiliate Transaction from a
            financial point of view issued by an accounting, appraisal or
            investment banking firm of national standing.

     The following items will not be deemed to be Affiliate Transactions and,
therefore, will not be subject to the provisions of the prior paragraph:

   (1)   loans or advances to employees, indemnification agreements with and
         the payment of fees and indemnities to directors, officers and
         full-time employees of TriMas and the Restricted Subsidiaries and
         employment, non-competition or confidentiality agreements entered into
         with any such person in the ordinary course of business;

   (2)   any issuance of securities, or other payments, awards or grants in
         cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of,
         employment, compensation or indemnification arrangements, stock
         options and stock ownership plans in the ordinary course of business
         to or with officers, directors or employees of TriMas and the
         Restricted Subsidiaries, or approved by the Board of Directors;

   (3)   transactions between or among TriMas and/or the Restricted
         Subsidiaries;

   (4)   transactions with a Person that is an Affiliate of TriMas solely
         because TriMas owns an Equity Interest in, or controls, such Person;

   (5)   transactions pursuant to agreements existing on the date of the
         indenture, including, without limitation, the Stock Purchase
         Agreement, the Shareholders Agreement, the Corporate Services
         Agreement and the Sublease Agreement, and, in each case, any amendment
         or supplement thereto that, taken in its entirety, is no less
         favorable to TriMas than such agreement as in effect on the date of
         the indenture;

   (6)   sales of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of TriMas
         to Affiliates of TriMas or the receipt of capital contributions by
         TriMas;

   (7)   payment of certain fees under the Advisory Agreement;

   (8)   transactions (in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction)
         between or among TriMas and/or its Restricted Subsidiaries or
         transactions between a Receivables Subsidiary and any Person in which
         the Receivables Subsidiary has an Investment;

   (9)   any management, service, purchase, lease, supply or similar agreement
         entered into in the ordinary course of TriMas' business between TriMas
         or any Restricted Subsidiary and any Unrestricted Subsidiary or any
         Affiliate, so long as TriMas determines in good faith (which
         determination shall be conclusive) that any such agreement is on terms
         no less favorable to TriMas or such Restricted Subsidiary than those
         that could be obtained in a comparable arm's-length transaction with
         an entity that is not an Affiliate; and

   (10)  Restricted Payments and Permitted Investments that are permitted by
         the provisions of the indenture described above under the caption
         "--Restricted Payments."

     ADDITIONAL SUBSIDIARY GUARANTEES

     After the Issue Date, TriMas will cause each Restricted Subsidiary, other
than a Subsidiary which is a Subsidiary Guarantor, that becomes a guarantor or
other obligor with respect to the obligations of TriMas or a Domestic
Restricted Subsidiary under the Credit Agreement to execute and deliver to the
trustee a Guarantee pursuant to which such Guarantor will unconditionally
Guarantee, on a joint and several basis, the full and prompt payment of the
principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the notes on a senior
subordinated basis.


                                       92


     DESIGNATION OF RESTRICTED AND UNRESTRICTED SUBSIDIARIES

     The Board of Directors may designate any Restricted Subsidiary to be an
Unrestricted Subsidiary if that designation would not cause a Default. If a
Restricted Subsidiary is designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, the
aggregate fair market value of all outstanding Investments owned by TriMas and
the Restricted Subsidiaries in the Subsidiary properly designated will be
deemed to be an Investment made as of the time of the designation and will
reduce the amount available for Restricted Payments under the first paragraph
of the covenant described above under the caption "--Restricted Payments" or
Permitted Investments, as determined by TriMas. That designation will only be
permitted if the Investment would be permitted at that time and if the
Restricted Subsidiary otherwise meets the definition of an Unrestricted
Subsidiary. The Board of Directors may redesignate any Unrestricted Subsidiary
to be a Restricted Subsidiary if the redesignation would not cause a Default.


REPORTS

     Whether or not required by the rules and regulations of the SEC, so long
as any notes are outstanding, TriMas will furnish to the Holders of notes,
within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and regulations:

   (1)   all quarterly and annual financial information that would be required
         to be contained in a filing with the Commission on Forms 10-Q and 10-K
         if TriMas were required to file such Forms, including a "Management's
         Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
         Operations" and, with respect to the annual information only, a report
         on the annual financial statements by TriMas' certified independent
         accountants; and

   (2)   all current reports that would be required to be filed with the SEC
         on Form 8-K if TriMas were required to file such reports.

     In addition, whether or not required by the SEC, TriMas will file a copy
of all of the information and reports referred to in clauses (1) and (2) above
with the Commission for public availability within the time periods specified
in the SEC's rules and regulations (unless the SEC will not accept such a
filing) and make such information available to securities analysts and
prospective investors upon request. In addition, TriMas and the Guarantors have
agreed that, for so long as any notes remain outstanding, they will furnish to
the Holders and to securities analysts and prospective investors, upon their
request, the information required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4)
under the Securities Act.


EVENTS OF DEFAULT AND REMEDIES

     Each of the following is an Event of Default:

   (1)   default for 30 days in the payment when due of interest on, or
         Liquidated Damages with respect to, the notes whether or not
         prohibited by the subordination provisions of the indenture;

   (2)   default in payment when due of the principal of, or premium, if any,
         on the notes whether or not prohibited by the subordination provisions
         of the indenture;

   (3)   failure by TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries to comply with the
         provisions described under the captions "--Repurchase at the Option of
         Holders--Change of Control," or "--Certain Covenants--Merger,
         Consolidation or Sale of Assets" after written notice to TriMas by the
         Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount
         of the outstanding Notes;

   (4)   failure by TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries to comply with any of
         the other agreements in the indenture continued for 60 days after
         written notice to TriMas by the Trustee or the holders of at least 25%
         in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes;


                                       93


   (5)   default under any mortgage, indenture or instrument under which there
         may be issued or by which there may be secured or evidenced any
         Indebtedness for money borrowed by TriMas or any of the Restricted
         Subsidiaries (or the payment of which is guaranteed by TriMas or any
         of the Restricted Subsidiaries) whether such Indebtedness or guarantee
         now exists, or is created after the date of the indenture, if that
         default:

       (a)        is caused by a failure to pay principal of such Indebtedness
                  at the final maturity thereof (a "Payment Default"); or

       (b)        results in the acceleration of such Indebtedness prior to its
                  express maturity,

   and, in each case, the principal amount of any such Indebtedness, together
   with the principal amount of any other such Indebtedness under which there
   has been a Payment Default or the maturity of which has been so
   accelerated, aggregates $20.0 million or more;

   (6)   failure by TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to pay final
         judgments aggregating in excess of $20.0 million (net of any insurance
         proceeds available to pay such judgment), which judgments are not
         paid, discharged or stayed for a period of 60 days;

   (7)   except as permitted by the indenture, any Subsidiary Guarantee shall
         be held in any judicial proceeding to be unenforceable or invalid or
         shall cease for any reason to be in full force and effect or any
         Guarantor, or any Person acting on behalf of any Guarantor, shall deny
         or disaffirm its obligations under its Subsidiary Guarantee; and

   (8)   certain events of bankruptcy or insolvency described in the indenture
         with respect to TriMas or any of the Significant Subsidiaries thereof.


In the case of an Event of Default arising from certain events of bankruptcy or
insolvency, with respect to TriMas, all outstanding notes will become due and
payable immediately without further action or notice. If any other Event of
Default occurs and is continuing, the trustee or the Holders of at least 25% in
principal amount of the then outstanding notes may declare all the notes to be
due and payable immediately by giving notice in writing to us and the trustee
specifying the respective Event of Default (the "Acceleration Notice") or if
there are any amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement, it shall become
immediately due and payable upon the first to occur of an acceleration under
the Credit Agreement or five business days after receipt by us and the
administrative agent under the Credit Agreement of such Acceleration Notice
(but only if such Event of Default is then continuing).

     Holders of the notes may not enforce the indenture or the notes except as
provided in the indenture. Subject to certain limitations, Holders of a
majority in principal amount of the then outstanding notes may direct the
trustee in its exercise of any trust or power. The trustee may withhold from
Holders of the notes notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default if it
determines that withholding notes is in their interest, except a Default or
Event of Default relating to the payment of principal or interest or Liquidated
Damages.

     The Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the notes then
outstanding by notice to the trustee may on behalf of the Holders of all of the
notes waive any existing Default or Event of Default and its consequences under
the indenture except a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of
interest or Liquidated Damages on, or the principal of, the notes.

     In the event of a declaration of acceleration of the notes because an
Event of Default described in clause (5) under "Events of Default" has occurred
and is continuing, the declaration of acceleration of the notes shall be
automatically annulled if the event of default or payment default triggering
such Event of Default pursuant to clause (5) shall be remedied or cured by
TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary or waived by the holders of the relevant
Indebtedness within 60 days after the declaration of acceleration with respect
thereto and if (a) the annulment of the acceleration of the notes would not
conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction and
(b) all existing Events of Default, except nonpayment of principal, premium or
interest on the notes that became due solely because of the acceleration of the
notes, have been cured or waived.


                                       94


     TriMas is required to deliver to the trustee annually a statement
regarding compliance with the indenture. Upon becoming aware of any Default or
Event of Default, TriMas is required to deliver to the trustee a statement
specifying such Default or Event of Default.


NO PERSONAL LIABILITY OF DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES AND STOCKHOLDERS

     No director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of TriMas or
any Guarantor, as such, will have any liability for any obligations of TriMas
or the Guarantors under the notes, the indenture, the Subsidiary Guarantees, or
for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or
their creation. Each Holder of notes by accepting a note waives and releases
all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for
issuance of the notes. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities
under the federal securities laws.


LEGAL DEFEASANCE AND COVENANT DEFEASANCE

     TriMas may, at its option and at any time, elect to have all of its
obligations discharged with respect to the outstanding notes and all
obligations of the Guarantors discharged with respect to their Subsidiary
Guarantees ("Legal Defeasance") except for:

   (1)   the rights of Holders of outstanding notes to receive payments in
         respect of the principal of, or interest or premium and Liquidated
         Damages, if any, on such notes when such payments are due from the
         trust referred to below;

   (2)   TriMas' obligations with respect to the notes concerning issuing
         temporary notes, registration of notes, mutilated, destroyed, lost or
         stolen notes and the maintenance of an office or agency for payment
         and money for security payments held in trust;

   (3)   the rights, powers, trusts, duties and immunities of the trustee, and
         TriMas' and the Guarantor's obligations in connection therewith; and

   (4)   the Legal Defeasance provisions of the indenture.

     In addition, TriMas may, at its option and at any time, elect to have the
obligations of TriMas and the Guarantors released with respect to certain
covenants that are described in the indenture ("Covenant Defeasance") and
thereafter any omission to comply with those covenants will not constitute a
Default or Event of Default with respect to the notes. In the event Covenant
Defeasance occurs, certain events (not including non-payment, bankruptcy,
receivership, rehabilitation and insolvency events) described under "--Events
of Default and Remedies" will no longer constitute an Event of Default with
respect to the notes.

     In order to exercise either Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance:

   (1)   TriMas must irrevocably deposit with the trustee, in trust, for the
         benefit of the Holders of the notes, cash in U.S. dollars,
         non-callable Government Securities, or a combination of cash in U.S.
         dollars and non-callable Government Securities, in amounts as will be
         sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of
         independent public accountants, to pay the principal of, or interest
         and premium and Liquidated Damages, if any, on the outstanding notes
         on the stated maturity or on the applicable redemption date, as the
         case may be, and TriMas must specify whether the notes are being
         defeased to maturity or to a particular redemption date;

   (2)   in the case of Legal Defeasance, TriMas has delivered to the trustee
         an opinion of counsel reasonably acceptable to the trustee confirming
         that (a) TriMas has received from, or there has been published by, the
         Internal Revenue Service a ruling or (b) since the date of the
         indenture, there has been a change in the applicable federal income
         tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such
         opinion of counsel will confirm that, the Holders of the outstanding
         notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax
         purposes as a result of such Legal Defeasance and will be subject to
         federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the
         same times as would have been the case if such Legal Defeasance had
         not occurred;


                                       95


   (3)   in the case of Covenant Defeasance, TriMas has delivered to the
         trustee an opinion of counsel reasonably acceptable to the trustee
         confirming that the Holders of the outstanding notes will not
         recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a
         result of such Covenant Defeasance and will be subject to federal
         income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same
         times as would have been the case if such Covenant Defeasance had not
         occurred;

   (4)   no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing on the
         date of such deposit (other than a Default or Event of Default
         resulting from the borrowing of funds to be applied to such deposit);

   (5)   such Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance will not result in a
         breach or violation of, or constitute a default under any material
         agreement or instrument (other than the indenture) to which TriMas or
         any of its Subsidiaries is a party or by which TriMas or any of its
         Subsidiaries is bound;

   (6)   TriMas must deliver to the trustee an officers' certificate stating
         that the deposit was not made by TriMas with the intent of preferring
         the Holders of notes over the other creditors of TriMas with the
         intent of defeating, hindering, delaying or defrauding creditors of
         TriMas or others; and

   (7)   TriMas must deliver to the trustee an officers' certificate and an
         opinion of counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent
         relating to the Legal Defeasance or the Covenant Defeasance have been
         complied with.

     In the event that TriMas exercises its legal defeasance option or covenant
defeasance option, each of the Guarantors will be released from all of its
obligations with respect to its guarantee. TriMas may exercise its legal
defeasance option notwithstanding its prior exercise of the covenant defeasance
option.

AMENDMENT, SUPPLEMENT AND WAIVER

     Except as provided in the next two succeeding paragraphs, the indenture or
the notes may be amended or supplemented with the consent of the Holders of at
least a majority in principal amount of the notes then outstanding (including,
without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a purchase of, or
tender offer or exchange offer for, notes), and any existing default or
compliance with any provision of the indenture or the notes may be waived with
the consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then
outstanding notes (including, without limitation, consents obtained in
connection with a purchase of, or tender offer or exchange offer for, notes).

     Without the consent of each Holder affected, an amendment or waiver may
not (with respect to any notes held by a non-consenting Holder):

   (1)   reduce the principal amount of notes whose Holders must consent to an
         amendment, supplement or waiver;

   (2)   reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity of any note or
         alter the provisions with respect to the redemption of the notes
         (other than provisions relating to the covenants described above under
         the caption "--Repurchase at the Option of Holders");

   (3)   reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest on any
         note;

   (4)   waive a Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of,
         or interest or premium, or Liquidated Damages, if any, on the notes
         (except a rescission of acceleration of the notes by the Holders of at
         least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the notes and a
         waiver of the payment default that resulted from such acceleration);

   (5)   make any note payable in money other than that stated in the notes;

   (6)   make any change in the provisions of the indenture relating to
         waivers of past Defaults or the rights of Holders of notes to receive
         payments of principal of, or interest or premium or Liquidated
         Damages, if any, on the notes;


                                       96


   (7)   waive a redemption payment with respect to any note (other than a
         payment required by one of the covenants described above under the
         caption "--Repurchase at the Option of Holders"); or

   (8)   make any change in the preceding amendment and waiver provisions.

     In addition, any amendment to, or waiver of, the provisions of the
indenture relating to subordination that adversely affects the rights of the
Holders of the notes will require the consent of the Holders of at least 75% in
aggregate principal amount of notes then outstanding.

     Notwithstanding the preceding, without the consent of any Holder of notes,
TriMas, the Guarantors and the trustee may amend or supplement the indenture or
the notes:

   (1)   to cure any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency;

   (2)   to provide for uncertificated notes in addition to or in place of
         certificated notes;

   (3)   to provide for the assumption of TriMas' obligations to Holders of
         notes in the case of a merger or consolidation or sale of all or
         substantially all of TriMas' assets;

   (4)   to make any change that would provide any additional rights or
         benefits to the Holders of notes or that does not adversely affect the
         legal rights under the indenture of any such Holder; or

   (5)   to comply with requirements of the Commission in order to effect or
         maintain the qualification of the indenture under the Trust Indenture
         Act.


SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE

     The indenture will be discharged and will cease to be of further effect as
to all notes issued thereunder, when:

   (1)   either:

       (a)        all notes that have been authenticated, except lost, stolen
                  or destroyed notes that have been replaced or paid and notes
                  for whose payment money has been deposited in trust and
                  thereafter repaid to TriMas, have been delivered to the
                  trustee for cancellation; or

       (b)        all notes that have not been delivered to the trustee for
                  cancellation have become due and payable by reason of the
                  mailing of a notice of redemption or otherwise or will become
                  due and payable within one year and TriMas or any Guarantor
                  has irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the
                  trustee as trust funds in trust solely for the benefit of the
                  Holders, cash in U.S. dollars, non-callable Government
                  Securities, or a combination of cash in U.S. dollars and
                  non-callable Government Securities, in amounts as will be
                  sufficient without consideration of any reinvestment of
                  interest, to pay and discharge the entire indebtedness on the
                  notes not delivered to the trustee for cancellation for
                  principal, premium and Liquidated Damages, if any, and
                  accrued interest to the date of maturity or redemption;

   (2)   no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing on the
         date of the deposit or will occur as a result of the deposit and the
         deposit will not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a
         default under, any other instrument to which TriMas or any Guarantor
         is a party or by which TriMas or any Guarantor is bound;

   (3)   TriMas or any Guarantor has paid or caused to be paid all sums
         payable by it under the indenture; and

   (4)   TriMas has delivered irrevocable instructions to the trustee under
         the indenture to apply the deposited money toward the payment of the
         notes at maturity or a redemption date, as the case may be.


                                       97


     In addition, TriMas must deliver an officers' certificate and an opinion
of counsel to the trustee stating that all conditions precedent to satisfaction
and discharge have been satisfied.


CONCERNING THE TRUSTEE


     If the trustee becomes a creditor of TriMas or any Guarantor, the
indenture limits its right to obtain payment of claims in certain cases, or to
realize on certain property received in respect of any such claim as security
or otherwise. The trustee will be permitted to engage in other transactions;
however, if it acquires any conflicting interest it must eliminate such
conflict within 90 days, apply to the Commission for permission to continue or
resign.


     The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding
notes will have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting
any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the trustee, subject to
certain exceptions. The indenture provides that in case an Event of Default
occurs and is continuing, the trustee will be required, in the exercise of its
power, to use the degree of care of a prudent man in the conduct of his own
affairs. Subject to such provisions, the trustee will be under no obligation to
exercise any of its rights or powers under the indenture at the request of any
Holder of notes, unless such Holder has offered to the trustee security and
indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense.


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


     Anyone who receives this prospectus may obtain a copy of the indenture and
registration rights agreement without charge by writing to TriMas Corporation,
39400 Woodward Avenue, Suite 130, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, 48304, Attention:
Investor Relations.


CERTAIN DEFINITIONS


     Set forth below are certain defined terms used in the indenture. Reference
is made to the indenture for a full disclosure of all such terms, as well as
any other capitalized terms used herein for which no definition is provided.


     "Acquired Debt" means, with respect to any specified Person:


   (1)   Indebtedness of any other Person existing at the time such other
         Person is merged with or into or became a Subsidiary of such specified
         Person, whether or not such Indebtedness is incurred in connection
         with, or in contemplation of, such other Person merging with or into,
         or becoming a Subsidiary of, such specified Person; and


   (2)   Indebtedness secured by a Lien encumbering any asset acquired by such
         specified Person.


     "Advisory Agreement" means that certain advisory agreement between TriMas
and Heartland, dated on or before the date of the indenture, or any amendment
or supplement thereto that, taken in its entirety, is no less favorable to
TriMas than such agreement as in effect on the date of the indenture.


     "Affiliate" of any specified Person means any other Person directly or
indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common
control with such specified Person. For purposes of this definition, "control,"
as used with respect to any Person, means the possession, directly or
indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or
policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by
agreement or otherwise. For purposes of this definition, the terms
"controlling," "controlled by" and "under common control with" have correlative
meanings. No Person (other than TriMas or any Subsidiary of TriMas) in whom a
Receivables Subsidiary makes an Investment in connection with a Qualified
Receivables Transaction will be deemed to be an Affiliate of TriMas or any of
its Subsidiaries solely by reason of such Investment.


                                       98


   "Asset Sale" means:

   (1)   the sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition of any assets or
         rights, other than dispositions in the ordinary course of business;
         provided that the sale, conveyance or other disposition of all or
         substantially all of the assets of TriMas and the Restricted
         Subsidiaries taken as a whole will be governed by the provisions of
         the indenture described above under the caption "--Repurchase at the
         Option of Holders--Change of Control" and/or the provisions described
         above under the caption "--Certain Covenants--Merger, Consolidation or
         Sale of Assets" and not by the provisions of the Asset Sale covenant;
         and

   (2)   the issuance of Equity Interests in any of the Restricted
         Subsidiaries or the sale of Equity Interests in any of the Restricted
         Subsidiaries.

     Notwithstanding the preceding, none of the following items will be deemed
to be an Asset Sale:

   (1)   any single transaction or series of related transactions that
         involves assets having a fair market value of less than $2.5 million;

   (2)   a transfer of assets between or among TriMas and the Restricted
         Subsidiaries;

   (3)   an issuance of Equity Interests by a Subsidiary to TriMas or to
         another Restricted Subsidiary or any issuance of directors' qualifying
         shares;

   (4)   the sale or other disposition of cash or Cash Equivalents;

   (5)   sales of accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified
         in the definition of "Qualified Receivables Transaction" to a
         Receivables Subsidiary;

   (6)   the surrender or waiver of contract rights or the settlement, release
         or surrender of contract, tort or other claims of any kind;

   (7)   the grant in the ordinary course of business of licenses of patents,
         trademarks and similar intellectual property;

   (8)   a disposition of obsolete or worn out equipment or equipment that is
         no longer useful in the conduct of the business of TriMas and the
         Restricted Subsidiaries and that is disposed of in each case in the
         ordinary course of business;

   (9)   a Restricted Payment or Permitted Investment that is permitted by the
         covenant described above under the caption "--Certain
         Covenants--Restricted Payments"; and

   (10)  any issuance or sale of Equity Interests of any Unrestricted
         Subsidiary.

     "Beneficial Owner" has the meaning assigned to such term in Rule 13d-3 and
Rule 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, except that in calculating the beneficial
ownership of any particular "person" (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3)
of the Exchange Act), such "person" will be deemed to have beneficial ownership
of all securities that such "person" has the right to acquire by conversion or
exercise of other securities, whether such right is currently exercisable or is
exercisable only upon the occurrence of a subsequent condition. The terms
"Beneficially Owns" and "Beneficially Owned" have a corresponding meaning.

     "Board of Directors" means:

   (1)   with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of the
         corporation;

   (2)   with respect to a partnership, the board of directors of the general
         partner of the partnership; and

   (3)   with respect to any other Person, the board or committee of such
         Person serving a similar function.

     "Capital Lease Obligation" means, at the time any determination is to be
made, the amount of the liability in respect of a capital lease that would at
that time be required to be capitalized on a balance sheet in accordance with
GAAP.


                                       99


   "Capital Stock" means:

   (1)   in the case of a corporation, corporate stock;

   (2)   in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares,
         interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however
         designated) of corporate stock;

   (3)   in the case of a partnership or limited liability company,
         partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and

   (4)   any other interest or participation that confers on a Person the
         right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or
         distributions of assets of, the issuing Person.

     "Cash Equivalents" means:

   (1)   cash;

   (2)   securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the
         United States, British or European Union government or any agency or
         instrumentality of the United States, British or European Union
         government (provided that the full faith and credit of the United
         States, British or European Union is pledged in support of those
         securities) having maturities of not more than six months from the
         date of acquisition;

   (3)   certificates of deposit and eurodollar time deposits with maturities
         of six months or less from the date of acquisition, bankers'
         acceptances with maturities not exceeding six months and overnight
         bank deposits, in each case, with any lender party to the Credit
         Agreement or with any domestic, British or European Union commercial
         bank having capital and surplus in excess of $150.0 million;

   (4)   repurchase obligations with a term of not more than 30 days for
         underlying securities of the types described in clauses (2) and (3)
         above entered into with any financial institution meeting the
         qualifications specified in clause (3) above;

   (5)   commercial paper with a maturity of 365 days or less from the date of
         acquisition issued by a corporation organized under the laws of any
         state of the United States of America or the District of Columbia or
         any foreign country recognized by the United States of America whose
         debt rating, at the time as of which such investment is made, is at
         least "A-1" by Standard & Poor's Corporation or at least "P-1" by
         Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or rated at least an equivalent rating
         category of another nationally recognized securities rating agency;

   (6)   any security, maturing not more than 365 days after the date of
         acquisition, backed by standby or direct pay letters of credit issued
         by a bank meeting the qualifications described in clause (3) above;

   (7)   any security, maturing not more than 365 days after the date of
         acquisition, issued or fully guaranteed by any state, commonwealth, or
         territory of the United States of America, or by any political
         subdivision thereof, and rated at least "A" by Standard & Poor's
         Corporation or at least "A" by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
         rated at least an equivalent rating category of another nationally
         recognized securities rating agency; and

   (8)   money market funds at least 95% of the assets of which constitute
         Cash Equivalents of the kinds described in clauses (1) through (7) of
         this definition.

     "Change of Control" means the occurrence of any of the following:

   (1)   the direct or indirect sale, transfer, conveyance or other
         disposition (other than by way of merger or consolidation), in one or
         a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the
         properties or assets of TriMas and the Restricted Subsidiaries, taken
         as a whole, to any "person" (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3)
         of the Exchange Act) other than a Principal;


                                      100


   (2)   the adoption of a plan relating to the liquidation or dissolution of
         TriMas;

   (3)   the consummation of any transaction (including, without limitation,
         any merger or consolidation) the result of which is that any "person"
         (as defined above), other than the Principals or a Permitted Group,
         becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of more than 50%
         of the Voting Stock of TriMas, measured by voting power rather than
         number of shares; or

   (4)   the first day on which a majority of the members of the Board of
         Directors of TriMas are not Continuing Directors.

     "Consolidated Assets" of any Person as of any date of determination means
the total assets of such Person as reflected on the most recently prepared
balance sheet of such Person, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance
with GAAP.

     "Consolidated Cash Flow" means, with respect to any specified Person for
any period, the Consolidated Net Income of such Person for such period plus:

   (1)   an amount equal to any extraordinary loss plus any net loss realized
         by such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in connection
         with an Asset Sale, to the extent such losses were deducted in
         computing such Consolidated Net Income; plus

   (2)   provision for taxes based on income or profits of such Person and its
         Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, to the extent that such
         provision for taxes was deducted in computing such Consolidated Net
         Income; plus

   (3)   consolidated interest expense of such Person and its Restricted
         Subsidiaries for such period, whether paid or accrued and whether or
         not capitalized (including, without limitation, amortization of debt
         issuance costs and original issue discount, non-cash interest
         payments, the interest component of any deferred payment obligations,
         the interest component of all payments associated with Capital Lease
         Obligations, commissions, discounts and other fees and charges
         incurred in respect of letter of credit or bankers' acceptance
         financings, and net of the effect of all payments made or received
         pursuant to Hedging Obligations), to the extent that any such expense
         was deducted in computing such Consolidated Net Income; plus

   (4)   the loss on Qualified Receivables Transactions; plus

   (5)   dividends on preferred stock or accretion of discount on preferred
         stock to the extent reducing Consolidated Net Income; plus

   (6)   depreciation, amortization (including amortization of goodwill and
         other intangibles but excluding amortization of prepaid cash expenses
         that were paid in a prior period) and other non-cash items (excluding
         any such non-cash expense to the extent that it represents an accrual
         of or reserve for cash expenses in any future period or amortization
         of a prepaid cash expense that was paid in a prior period) of such
         Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period to the extent
         that such depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items were
         deducted in computing such Consolidated Net Income; minus

   (7)   non-cash items increasing such Consolidated Net Income for such
         period, other than the accrual of revenue in the ordinary course of
         business; plus

   (8)   non-cash gains or losses resulting from fluctuations in currency
         exchange rates will be excluded; plus

   (9)   the disposition of any securities or the extinguishment of any
         Indebtedness will be excluded;

in each case, on a consolidated basis and determined in accordance with GAAP;
provided, however, that the provision for taxes based on the income or profits
of, the consolidated depreciation and amortization expense and such items of
expense or income attributable to, a Restricted Subsidiary


                                      101


shall be added to or subtracted from Consolidated Net Income to compute Fixed
Charge Coverage Ratio only to the extent (and in the same proportion) that the
net income of such Restricted Subsidiary was included in calculating
Consolidated Net Income.

     "Consolidated Net Income" means, with respect to any specified Person for
any period, the aggregate of the Net Income of such Person and its Restricted
Subsidiaries for such period, on a consolidated basis, determined in accordance
with GAAP; provided that:

   (1)   the Net Income of any Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary or
         that is accounted for by the equity method of accounting will be
         included only to the extent of the amount of dividends or
         distributions paid in cash to the specified Person or a Restricted
         Subsidiary of the Person;

   (2)   the Net Income of any Restricted Subsidiary will be excluded to the
         extent that the declaration or payment of dividends or similar
         distributions by that Restricted Subsidiary of that Net Income is not
         at the date of determination permitted without any prior governmental
         approval (that has not been obtained) or, directly or indirectly, by
         operation of the terms of its charter or any agreement, instrument,
         judgment, decree, order, statute, rule or governmental regulation
         applicable to that Restricted Subsidiary or its stockholders;

   (3)   the Net Income of any Person acquired in a pooling of interests
         transaction for any period prior to the date of such acquisition will
         be excluded; and

   (4)   the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles will be
         excluded.

     "Continuing Directors" means, as of any date of determination, any member
of the Board of Directors of TriMas who:

   (1)   was a member of such Board of Directors on the date of the indenture;
         or

   (2)   was nominated for election or elected to such Board of Directors with
         the approval of a majority of the Continuing Directors who were
         members of such Board at the time of such nomination or election or
         designated as a Director under the Shareholders Agreement.

     "Corporate Services Agreement" means that certain corporate services
agreement by and between TriMas and Metaldyne Corporation pursuant to which
Metaldyne Corporation and its subsidiaries will provide management information
systems, legal, tax, accounting, human resources and other support services to
TriMas.

     "Credit Agreement" means that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of June
6, 2002, by and among TriMas, certain of its subsidiaries and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent and collateral agent, Credit Suisse
First Boston Corporation, as syndication agent, Comerica Bank, as documentation
agent, National City Bank, as documentation agent, Wachovia National
Association, as documentation agent, and the other lenders party thereto, as
amended, modified, renewed, refunded, replaced or refinanced from time to time.


     "Credit Facilities" means, one or more debt facilities (including, without
limitation, the Credit Agreement) or commercial paper facilities, in each case
with banks or other institutional lenders providing for revolving credit loans,
term loans, receivables financing (including through the sale of receivables to
such lenders or to special purpose entities formed to borrow from such lenders
against such receivables) or letters of credit, in each case, as amended,
restated, modified, renewed, refunded, replaced or refinanced in whole or in
part from time to time.

     "Default" means any event that is, or with the passage of time or the
giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.

     "Designated Senior Debt" means:

   (1)   any Indebtedness outstanding under the Credit Facilities and all
         Hedging Obligations with respect thereto; and


                                      102


   (2)   after payment in full of all Obligations under the Credit Facilities,
         any other Senior Debt permitted under the indenture the principal
         amount of which is $25.0 million or more and that has been designated
         by TriMas as "Designated Senior Debt."

     "Disqualified Stock" means any Capital Stock that, by its terms (or by the
terms of any security into which it is convertible, or for which it is
exchangeable, in each case at the option of the holder of the Capital Stock),
or upon the happening of any event, matures or is mandatorily redeemable,
pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, or redeemable at the option
of the holder of the Capital Stock, in whole or in part, on or prior to the
date on which the notes mature. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any
Capital Stock that would constitute Disqualified Stock solely because the
holders of the Capital Stock have the right to require TriMas to repurchase
such Capital Stock upon the occurrence of a change of control or an asset sale
will not constitute Disqualified Stock if the terms of such Capital Stock
provide that TriMas may not repurchase or redeem any such Capital Stock
pursuant to such provisions unless such repurchase or redemption complies with
the covenant described above under the caption "--Certain Covenants--Restricted
Payments."

     "Domestic Subsidiary" means any Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas that was
formed under the laws of the United States or any state of the United States or
the District of Columbia or that guarantees or otherwise provides direct credit
support for any Indebtedness of TriMas.

     "Equity Interests" means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other
rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is
convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).

     "Equity Offering" means a primary sale of Capital Stock of TriMas or, to
the extent the net cash proceeds thereof are paid to TriMas as a capital
contribution, Capital Stock for cash to a Person or Persons other than a
Subsidiary of TriMas.

     "Existing Indebtedness" means the Indebtedness of TriMas and its
Subsidiaries (other than Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement) in existence
on the date of the indenture, until such amounts are repaid.

     "Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio" means with respect to any specified Person
for any period, the ratio of the Consolidated Cash Flow of such Person and its
Restricted Subsidiaries for such period to the Fixed Charges of such Person and
its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period. In the event that the specified
Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries incurs, repays, repurchases,
redeems, defeases or otherwise retires any Indebtedness (other than ordinary
working capital borrowings) or issues, repurchases or redeems preferred stock
subsequent to the commencement of the period for which the Fixed Charge
Coverage Ratio is being calculated and on or prior to the date on which the
event for which the calculation of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is made (the
"Calculation Date"), then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio will be calculated
giving pro forma effect to such incurrence, repayment, repurchase, redemption,
defeasance or other retirement of Indebtedness, or such issuance, repurchase or
redemption of preferred stock, and the use of the proceeds therefrom as if the
same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter reference
period.

     In addition, for purposes of calculating the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio:

   (1)   acquisitions of a business or operations that have been made by the
         specified Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, including
         through mergers or consolidations and including any related financing
         transactions, during the four-quarter reference period or subsequent
         to such reference period and on or prior to the Calculation Date will
         be given pro forma effect as if they had occurred on the first day of
         the four-quarter reference period and Consolidated Cash Flow for such
         reference period will be calculated on a pro forma basis determined in
         good faith by a responsible financial or accounting officer of TriMas
         (and such calculations may include such pro forma adjustments for
         non-recurring items that TriMas considers reasonable in order to
         reflect the ongoing impact of any such transaction on TriMas' results
         of operations), but without giving effect to clause (3) of the proviso
         set forth in the definition of Consolidated Net Income;


                                      103


   (2)   the Consolidated Cash Flow attributable to discontinued operations,
         as determined in accordance with GAAP, and operations or businesses
         disposed of prior to the Calculation Date, will be excluded; and

   (3)   the Fixed Charges attributable to discontinued operations, as
         determined in accordance with GAAP, and operations or businesses
         disposed of prior to the Calculation Date, will be excluded, but only
         to the extent that the obligations giving rise to such Fixed Charges
         will not be obligations of the specified Person or any of its
         Restricted Subsidiaries following the Calculation Date.

     "Fixed Charges" means, with respect to any specified Person for any
period, the sum, without duplication, of:

   (1)   the consolidated interest expense of such Person and its Restricted
         Subsidiaries for such period, whether paid or accrued, including,
         without limitation, amortization of debt issuance costs and original
         issue discount, non-cash interest payments, the interest component of
         any deferred payment obligations, the interest component of all
         payments associated with Capital Lease Obligations, commissions,
         discounts and other fees and charges incurred in respect of letter of
         credit or bankers' acceptance financings, and net of the effect of all
         payments made or received pursuant to Hedging Obligations, to the
         extent deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income; provided,
         however, that with respect to any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a
         Wholly-Owned Subsidiary, if the Consolidated Cash Flow of such
         Restricted Subsidiary for such period is greater than or equal to such
         consolidated interest expense of such Restricted Subsidiary for such
         period, then such Person shall only include the consolidated interest
         expense of such Restricted Subsidiary to the extent of the equity
         ownership of such Person in such Restricted Subsidiary (calculated in
         accordance with Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act); plus

   (2)   the consolidated interest of such Person and its Restricted
         Subsidiaries that was capitalized during such period, to the extent
         deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income; plus

   (3)   any interest expense on Indebtedness of another Person that is
         Guaranteed by such Person or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries or
         secured by a Lien on assets of such Person or one of its Restricted
         Subsidiaries, whether or not such Guarantee or Lien is called upon;
         plus

   (4)   the loss on Qualified Receivables Transactions; plus

   (5)   all dividends, whether paid in cash, assets or securities on any
         series of preferred stock of TriMas or any Restricted Subsidiary,
         other than dividends on Equity Interests payable solely in Equity
         Interests of TriMas or a Guarantor (other than Disqualified Stock) or
         to TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary;

excluding, to the extent included in such consolidated interest expense, any of
the foregoing items of any Person acquired by TriMas or a Subsidiary of TriMas
in a pooling-of-interests transaction for any period prior to the date of such
transaction.

     "Foreign Subsidiary" means a Restricted Subsidiary that is organized under
the laws of any country other than the United States and substantially all the
assets of which are located outside the United States.

     "GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles set forth in the
opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of
the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such
other entity as have been approved by a significant segment of the accounting
profession, which are in effect from time to time.

     "Guarantee" means a guarantee other than by endorsement of negotiable
instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business, direct or
indirect, in any manner including, without limitation, by way of a pledge of
assets or through letters of credit or reimbursement agreements in respect
thereof, of all or any part of any Indebtedness.


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   "Guarantors" means each of:

   (1)   the Domestic Subsidiaries of TriMas as of the date of the indenture,
         other than the Receivables Subsidiary; and

   (2)   any other subsidiary that executes a Subsidiary Guarantee in
         accordance with the provisions of the indenture;

and their respective successors and assigns.

     "Heartland" means Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership, and its successors.

     "Hedging Obligations" means, with respect to any specified Person, the
obligations of such Person under:

   (1)   interest rate swap agreements, interest rate cap agreements and
         interest rate collar agreements; and

   (2)   other agreements or arrangements designed to protect such Person
         against fluctuations in interest rates, commodity prices or currency
         risks incurred in the ordinary course of business.

     "Indebtedness" means, with respect to any specified Person, any
indebtedness of such Person, whether or not contingent:

   (1)   in respect of borrowed money;

   (2)   evidenced by bonds, notes, debentures or similar instruments or
         letters of credit (or reimbursement agreements in respect thereof);

   (3)   in respect of banker's acceptances;

   (4)   representing Capital Lease Obligations;

   (5)   representing the balance deferred and unpaid of the purchase price of
         any property, except any such balance that constitutes an accrued
         expense or trade payable or non-competition or trade name licensing
         arrangements on customary terms entered into in connection with an
         acquisition; or

   (6)   representing any Hedging Obligations,

if and to the extent any of the preceding items (other than letters of credit
and Hedging Obligations) would appear as a liability upon a balance sheet of
the specified Person prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, the term
"Indebtedness" includes all Indebtedness of others secured by a Lien on any
asset of the specified Person (whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by
the specified Person) and, to the extent not otherwise included, the Guarantee
by the specified Person of any Indebtedness of any other Person.

     The amount of any Indebtedness outstanding as of any date will be:

   (1)   the accreted value of the Indebtedness, in the case of any
         Indebtedness issued with original issue discount; and

   (2)   the principal amount of the Indebtedness, together with any interest
         on the Indebtedness that is more than 30 days past due, in the case of
         any other Indebtedness.

     "Investments" means, with respect to any Person, all direct or indirect
investments by such Person in other Persons (including Affiliates) in the forms
of loans (including Guarantees or other obligations), advances or capital
contributions (excluding commission, travel and similar advances to officers
and employees made in the ordinary course of business), purchases or other
acquisitions for consideration of Indebtedness, Equity Interests or other
securities, together with all items that are or would be classified as
investments on a balance sheet prepared in accordance with GAAP. If TriMas


                                      105


or any Subsidiary of TriMas sells or otherwise disposes of any Equity Interests
of any direct or indirect Subsidiary of TriMas such that, after giving effect
to any such sale or disposition, such Person is no longer a Subsidiary of
TriMas, TriMas will be deemed to have made an Investment on the date of any
such sale or disposition equal to the fair market value of TriMas' Investments
in such Subsidiary that were not sold or disposed of in an amount determined as
provided in the final paragraph of the covenant described above under the
caption "--Certain Covenants--Restricted Payments." The acquisition by TriMas
or any Subsidiary of TriMas of a Person that holds an Investment in a third
Person will be deemed to be an Investment by TriMas or such Subsidiary in such
third Person in an amount equal to the fair market value of the Investments
held by the acquired Person in such third Person in an amount determined as
provided in the final paragraph of the covenant described above under the
caption "--Certain Covenants--Restricted Payments."

     "Lien" means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge,
charge, security interest or encumbrance of any kind in respect of such asset,
whether or not filed, recorded or otherwise perfected under applicable law,
including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in
the nature thereof, any option or other agreement to sell or give a security
interest in and, except in connection with any Qualified Receivables
Transaction, any filing of or agreement to give any financing statement under
the Uniform Commercial Code (or equivalent statutes) of any jurisdiction.

     "Net Income" means, with respect to any specified Person, the net income
(loss) of such Person, determined in accordance with GAAP and before any
reduction in respect of preferred stock dividends, excluding, however:

   (1)   any gain or loss, together with any related provision for taxes on
         such gain or loss, realized in connection with: (a) any Asset Sale; or
         (b) the disposition of any securities by such Person or any of its
         Restricted Subsidiaries or the extinguishment of any Indebtedness of
         such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; and

   (2)   any extraordinary gain or loss, together with any related provision
         for taxes on such extraordinary gain or loss.

     "Net Proceeds" means the aggregate cash proceeds received by TriMas or any
of its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of any Asset Sale (including, without
limitation, any cash received upon the sale or other disposition of any
non-cash consideration received in any Asset Sale), net of the direct costs
relating to such Asset Sale, including, without limitation, legal, accounting
and investment banking fees, and sales commissions, and any relocation expenses
incurred as a result of the Asset Sale, taxes paid or payable as a result of
the Asset Sale, in each case, after taking into account any available tax
credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements, and amounts required to
be applied to the repayment of Indebtedness, other than Indebtedness under a
Credit Facility, secured by a Lien on the asset or assets that were the subject
of such Asset Sale and any reserve for adjustment in respect of the sale price
of such asset or assets established in accordance with GAAP.

     "Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries" means TSPC, Inc. and any other Receivables
Subsidiary, each non-Domestic Subsidiary and Domestic Subsidiary not required
to provide Guarantees under the Credit Agreement.

     "Non-Recourse Debt" means Indebtedness:

   (1)   as to which neither TriMas nor any of the Restricted Subsidiaries (a)
         provides credit support of any kind (including any undertaking,
         agreement or instrument that would constitute Indebtedness), (b) is
         directly or indirectly liable as a guarantor or otherwise, or (c)
         constitutes the lender;

   (2)   no default with respect to which (including any rights that the
         holders of the Indebtedness may have to take enforcement action
         against an Unrestricted Subsidiary) would permit upon notice, lapse of
         time or both any holder of any other Indebtedness (other than the
         notes) of TriMas or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries to declare a
         default on such other Indebtedness or cause the payment of the
         Indebtedness to be accelerated or payable prior to its stated
         maturity; and


                                      106


   (3)   as to which the lenders have been notified in writing that they will
         not have any recourse to the stock or assets of TriMas or any of the
         Restricted Subsidiaries.

     "Obligations" means any principal, interest, penalties, fees,
indemnifications, reimbursements, damages and other liabilities payable under
the documentation governing any Indebtedness.

     "Permitted Acquired Investment" means any Investment by any Person (the
"Subject Person") in another Person made prior to the time:

   (1)   the Subject Person became a Restricted Subsidiary,

   (2)   the Subject Person merged into or consolidated with a Restricted
         Subsidiary, or

   (3)   another Restricted Subsidiary merged into or was consolidated with
         the Subject Person (in a transaction in which the Subject Person
         became a Restricted Subsidiary),

provided that such Investment was not made in anticipation of any such
transaction and was outstanding prior to such transaction; provided, further,
that the book value of such Investments (excluding all Permitted Investments
(other than those referred to in clause (14) of the definition thereof)) does
not exceed 5% of the Consolidated Assets of the Subject Person immediately
prior to the Subject Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary.

     "Permitted Group" means any group of investors that is deemed to be a
"person" (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act) at any
time prior to an underwritten initial public offering of common stock of
TriMas, by virtue of the Stockholders Agreement, as the same may be amended,
modified or supplemented from time to time, provided that no single Person
(other than the Principals) Beneficially Owns (together with its Affiliates)
more of the Voting Stock of TriMas that is Beneficially Owned by such group of
investors than is then collectively Beneficially Owned by the Principals in the
aggregate.

     "Permitted Investments" means:

   (1)   any Investment in TriMas or in a Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas;

   (2)   any Investment in Cash Equivalents;

   (3)   any Investment by TriMas or any Subsidiary of TriMas in a Person, if
         as a result of such Investment:


       (a)        such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas; or


       (b)        such Person is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or
                  into, or transfers or conveys substantially all of its assets
                  to, or is liquidated into, TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary
                  of TriMas;


   (4)   any Investment made as a result of the receipt of non-cash
         consideration from an Asset Sale that was made pursuant to and in
         compliance with the covenant described above under the caption
         "--Repurchase at the Option of Holders--Asset Sales";


   (5)   any acquisition of assets to the extent in exchange for the issuance
         of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of TriMas;


   (6)   any Investments received in compromise of obligations of such persons
         incurred in the ordinary course of trade creditors or customers that
         were incurred in the ordinary course of business, including pursuant
         to any plan of reorganization or similar arrangement upon the
         bankruptcy or insolvency of any trade creditor or customer;


   (7)   Hedging Obligations;


   (8)   lease, utility and other similar deposits in the ordinary course of
         business;


   (9)   Investments existing on the date of the indenture;


                                      107


   (10)  loans or advances to employees for purposes of purchasing Capital
         Stock of TriMas in an aggregate amount outstanding at any one time not
         to exceed $5.0 million and other loans and advances to employees of
         TriMas and its Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business and on
         terms consistent with practices in effect prior to the date of the
         indenture, including travel, moving and other like advances;

   (11)  loans or advances to vendors or contractors of TriMas in the ordinary
         course of business and consistent with past practices;

   (12)  Investments in Unrestricted Subsidiaries, partnerships or joint
         ventures involving TriMas or its Restricted Subsidiaries, if the
         amount of such Investment (after taking into account the amount of all
         other Investments made pursuant to this clause (12), less any return
         of capital realized or any repayment of principal received on such
         Permitted Investments, or any release or other cancellation of any
         Guarantee constituting such Permitted Investment, which has not at
         such time been reinvested in Permitted Investments made pursuant to
         this clause (12) does not exceed 2.5% of TriMas' Consolidated Assets);


   (13)  the acquisition by a Receivables Subsidiary in connection with a
         Qualified Receivables Transaction of Equity Interests of a trust or
         other Person established by such Receivables Subsidiary to effect such
         Qualified Receivables Transaction; and any other Investment by TriMas
         or a Subsidiary of TriMas in a Receivables Subsidiary or any
         Investment by a Receivables Subsidiary in any other Person in
         connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction; and

   (14)  Permitted Acquired Investments.

     "Permitted Junior Securities" means:

   (1)   Equity Interests in TriMas or any Guarantor; or

   (2)   debt securities that are subordinated to all Senior Debt and any debt
         securities issued in exchange for Senior Debt to substantially the
         same extent as, or to a greater extent than, the notes and the
         Subsidiary Guarantees are subordinated to Senior Debt under the
         indenture.

     "Permitted Liens" means:

   (1)   Liens to secure Senior Debt of TriMas and any Guarantor or to secure
         Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor,
         including, without limitation, Indebtedness and other Obligations
         under Credit Facilities;

   (2)   Liens in favor of TriMas or the Guarantors;

   (3)   Liens on property of a Person existing at the time such Person is
         merged with or into or consolidated with TriMas or any Subsidiary of
         TriMas; provided that such Liens were in existence prior to the
         contemplation of such merger or consolidation and do not extend to any
         assets other than those of the Person merged into or consolidated with
         TriMas or the Subsidiary;

   (4)   Liens on property existing at the time of acquisition of the property
         by TriMas or any Subsidiary of TriMas, provided that such Liens were
         in existence prior to the contemplation of such acquisition;

   (5)   Liens to secure the performance of statutory obligations, surety or
         appeal bonds, performance bonds or other obligations of a like nature
         incurred in the ordinary course of business;

   (6)   Liens to secure Indebtedness (including Capital Lease Obligations)
         permitted by clause (4) of the second paragraph of the covenant
         entitled "--Certain Covenants--Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance
         of Preferred Stock" covering only the assets acquired with such
         Indebtedness;


                                      108


   (7)   Liens existing on the date of the indenture;

   (8)   Liens for taxes, assessments or governmental charges or claims that
         are not yet delinquent or that are being contested in good faith by
         appropriate proceedings promptly instituted and diligently concluded,
         provided that any reserve or other appropriate provision as is
         required in conformity with GAAP has been made therefor;

   (9)   Liens on assets of TriMas or a Receivables Subsidiary incurred in
         connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction;

   (10)  Liens replacing any of the items set forth in clauses (1), (3), (4)
         and (7) above, provided, that (A) the principal amount of the
         Indebtedness secured by such Liens shall not be increased (except with
         respect to premiums or other payments paid in connection with a
         concurrent Refinancing of such Indebtedness and the expenses incurred
         in connection therewith), (B) the principal amount of the Indebtedness
         secured by such Liens, determined as of the date of incurrence, has a
         Weighted Average Life to Maturity at least equal to the remaining
         Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness being Refinanced
         or repaid, (C) the maturity of the Indebtedness secured by such Liens
         is not earlier than that of the Indebtedness to be Refinanced, (D)
         such Liens have the same or a lower ranking and priority as the Liens
         being replaced, and (E) such Liens shall be limited to the property or
         assets encumbered by the Lien so replaced;

   (11)  Liens encumbering cash proceeds (or securities purchased therewith)
         from Indebtedness permitted to be incurred pursuant to the "Incurrence
         of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" covenant which are
         set aside at the time of such incurrence in order to secure an escrow
         arrangement pursuant to which such cash proceeds (or securities
         purchased therewith) are contemplated to ultimately be released to
         TriMas or a Restricted Subsidiary or returned to the lenders of such
         Indebtedness, provided, that such Liens are automatically released
         concurrently with the release of such cash proceeds (or securities
         purchased therewith) from such escrow arrangement;

   (12)  Liens (including extensions, renewals and replacements thereof) upon
         property or assets created for the purpose of securing Indebtedness
         incurred to finance or Refinance the cost (including the cost of
         construction) of such property or assets, provided, that (A) the
         principal amount of the Indebtedness secured by such Lien does not
         exceed 100% of the cost of such property or assets, (B) such Lien does
         not extend to or cover any property or assets other than the property
         or assets being financed or Refinanced by such Indebtedness and any
         improvements thereon, and (C) the incurrence of such Indebtedness is
         permitted by the "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred
         Stock" covenant;

   (13)  Liens securing Indebtedness of Foreign Subsidiaries permitted to be
         incurred under the "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of
         Preferred Stock" covenant;

   (14)  Liens (other than Liens securing subordinated Indebtedness) which,
         when the Indebtedness relating to those Liens is added to all other
         then outstanding Indebtedness of TriMas and its Restricted
         Subsidiaries secured by Liens and not listed in clauses (1) through
         (13) above or (15) through (26) below, does not exceed 5% of the
         Consolidated Assets of TriMas;

   (15)  Liens incurred or deposits made in the ordinary course of business in
         connection with workers' compensation, unemployment insurance and
         other types of social security or similar obligations, including any
         Lien securing letters of credit issued in the ordinary course of
         business consistent with past practice in connection therewith, or to
         secure the performance of tenders, statutory obligations, surety and
         appeal bonds, bids, leases, government contracts, performance and
         return-of-money bonds and other similar obligations (exclusive of
         obligations for the payment of borrowed money);

   (16)  judgment Liens not accompanied by an Event of Default of the type
         described in clause (6) under "Events of Default" arising from such
         judgment;


                                      109


   (17)  easements, rights-of-way, zoning restrictions, minor defects or
         irregularities in title and other similar charges or encumbrances in
         respect of real property not interfering in any material respect with
         the ordinary conduct of business of TriMas or any of its Restricted
         Subsidiaries;

   (18)  any interest or title of a lessor under any lease, whether or not
         characterized as capital or operating; provided, that such Liens do
         not extend to any property or assets which is not leased property
         subject to such lease;

   (19)  Liens upon specific items of inventory or other goods and proceeds of
         any Person securing such Person's obligations in respect of bankers'
         acceptances issued or created for the account of such Person to
         facilitate the purchase, shipment or storage of such inventory or
         other goods;

   (20)  Liens securing reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of
         credit which encumber documents and other property relating to such
         letters of credit and products and proceeds thereof;

   (21)  Liens encumbering deposits made to secure obligations arising from
         statutory, regulatory, contractual, or warranty requirements of TriMas
         or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries, including rights of offset and
         set-off;

   (22)  leases or subleases granted to others not interfering in any material
         respect with the business of TriMas or the Restricted Subsidiaries;

   (23)  Liens securing Hedging Obligations;

   (24)  Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities arising as a matter
         of law to secure payment of custom duties in connection with
         importation of goods;

   (25)  Liens encumbering initial deposits and margin deposits, and other
         Liens incurred in the ordinary course of business and that are within
         the general parameters customary in the industry; and

   (26)  Liens arising from filing Uniform Commercial Code financing
         statements regarding leases.

     "Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness" means any Indebtedness of TriMas or
any of its Restricted Subsidiaries issued in exchange for, or the net proceeds
of which are used to extend, refinance, renew, replace, defease or refund other
Indebtedness of TriMas or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than
intercompany Indebtedness); provided that:

   (1)   the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable) of such
         Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness does not exceed the principal
         amount (or accreted value, if applicable) of the Indebtedness
         extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, defeased or refunded (plus
         all accrued interest on the Indebtedness and the amount of all
         expenses and premiums incurred in connection therewith);

   (2)   such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness has a final maturity date
         later than the final maturity date of, and has a Weighted Average Life
         to Maturity equal to or greater than the Weighted Average Life to
         Maturity of, the Indebtedness being extended, refinanced, renewed,
         replaced, defeased or refunded;

   (3)   if the Indebtedness being extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced,
         defeased or refunded is subordinated in right of payment to the notes,
         such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness has a final maturity date
         later than the final maturity date of, and is subordinated in right of
         payment to, the notes on terms at least as favorable to the Holders of
         notes as those contained in the documentation governing the
         Indebtedness being extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, defeased
         or refunded; and

   (4)   such Indebtedness is incurred either by TriMas, a Guarantor or by the
         Restricted Subsidiary who is the obligor on the Indebtedness being
         extended, refinanced, renewed, replaced, defeased or refunded.


                                      110


     "Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture,
association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, limited
liability company or government or other entity.

     "Principals" means Heartland and any of its Affiliates.

     "Qualified Receivables Transaction" means any transaction or series of
transactions entered into by TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries pursuant to
which TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries sells, conveys or otherwise transfers
to (i) a Receivables Subsidiary (in the case of a transfer by TriMas or any of
its Subsidiaries) and (ii) any other Person (in the case of a transfer by a
Receivables Subsidiary), or grants a security interest in, any accounts
receivable (whether now existing or arising in the future) of TriMas or any of
its Subsidiaries, and any assets related thereto including, without limitation,
all collateral securing such accounts receivable, all contracts and all
guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable,
proceeds of such accounts receivable and other assets which are customarily
transferred or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted
in connection with asset securitization transactions involving accounts
receivable.

     "Receivables" means receivables, chattel paper, instruments, documents or
intangibles evidencing or relating to the right to payment of money.
"Receivables" shall include the indebtedness and payment obligations of any
Person to TriMas or a Subsidiary arising from a sale of merchandise or services
by TriMas or such Subsidiary in the ordinary course of its business, including
any right to payment for goods sold or for services rendered, and including the
right to payment of any interest, finance charges, returned check or late
charges and other obligations of such Person with respect thereto. Receivables
shall also include (a) all of TriMas' or such Subsidiary's interest in the
merchandise (including returned merchandise), if any, relating to the sale
which gave rise to such Receivable, (b) all other security interests or Liens
and property subject thereto from time to time purporting to secure payment of
such Receivable, whether pursuant to the contract related to such Receivable or
otherwise, together with all financing statements signed by an Obligor
describing any collateral securing such Receivable, and (c) all guarantees,
insurance, letters of credit and other agreements or arrangements of whatever
character from time to time supporting or securing payment of such Receivable
whether pursuant to the contract related to such Receivable or otherwise.

     "Receivables Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of TriMas which engages in no
activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable
and which is designated by the Board of Directors of TriMas (as provided below)
as a Receivables Subsidiary (a) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other
Obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by TriMas or
any Subsidiary of TriMas (excluding guarantees of Obligations (other than the
principal of, and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to representations,
warranties, covenants and indemnities entered into in the ordinary course of
business in connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction), (ii) is
recourse to or obligates TriMas or any Subsidiary of TriMas in any way other
than pursuant to representations, warranties, covenants and indemnities entered
into in the ordinary course of business in connection with a Qualified
Receivables Transaction or (iii) subjects any property or asset of TriMas or
any Subsidiary of TriMas (other than accounts receivable and related assets as
provided in the definition of "Qualified Receivables Transaction"), directly or
indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than
pursuant to representations, warranties, covenants, limited repurchase
obligations and indemnities entered into in the ordinary course of business in
connection with a Qualified Receivables Transaction, (b) with which neither
TriMas nor any Subsidiary of TriMas has any material contract, agreement,
arrangement or understanding other than on terms no less favorable to TriMas or
such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons who
are not Affiliates of TriMas, other than fees payable in the ordinary course of
business in connection with servicing accounts receivable and (c) with which
neither TriMas nor any Subsidiary of TriMas has any obligation to maintain or
preserve such Subsidiary's financial condition or cause such Subsidiary to
achieve certain levels of operating results. Any such designation by the Board
of Directors of TriMas will be evidenced to the Trustee by filing with the
Trustee a certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors (which
resolution shall be conclusive) of TriMas giving effect to such designation and
an Officers' Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the
foregoing conditions.


                                      111


     "Refinance" means, with respect to any Indebtedness, a renewal, extension,
refinancing, replacement, amendment, restatement or refunding of such
Indebtedness, and shall include any successive Refinancing of any of the
foregoing.

     "Restricted Investment" means an Investment other than a Permitted
Investment.

     "Restricted Subsidiary" of a Person means any Subsidiary of the referent
Person that is not an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

     "Senior Debt" means:

   (1)   all Indebtedness of TriMas or any Guarantor outstanding under Credit
         Facilities and all Hedging Obligations with respect thereto;

   (2)   any other Indebtedness of TriMas or any Guarantor permitted to be
         incurred under the terms of the indenture, unless the instrument under
         which such Indebtedness is incurred expressly provides that it is on a
         parity with or subordinated in right of payment to the notes or any
         Subsidiary Guarantee; and

   (3)   all Obligations with respect to the items listed in the preceding
         clauses (1) and (2).

     Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the preceding, Senior Debt
will not include:

   (1)   any liability for federal, state, local or other taxes owed or owing
         by TriMas;

   (2)   any intercompany Indebtedness of TriMas or any of its Subsidiaries to
         TriMas or any of its Affiliates;

   (3)   any trade payables; or

   (4)   the portion of any Indebtedness that is incurred in violation of the
         indenture; provided that such Indebtedness shall be deemed not to have
         been incurred in violation of the indenture for purposes of this
         clause (4) if such Indebtedness consists of Indebtedness under any
         Credit Facility and holders of such Indebtedness or their agent or
         representative (i) had no actual knowledge at the time of the
         incurrence that the incurrence of such Indebtedness violated the
         indenture and (ii) shall have received an officers' certificate to the
         effect that the incurrence of such Indebtedness does not violate the
         provisions of the indenture.

     "Shareholders Agreement" means certain shareholders agreement by and among
Heartland, Metaldyne Company LLC and other investors party thereto relating to
their ownership in TriMas.

     "Significant Subsidiary" means any Subsidiary that would be a "significant
subsidiary" as defined in Article 1, Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X, promulgated
pursuant to the Securities Act, as such Regulation is in effect on the date
hereof.

     "Stated Maturity" means, with respect to any installment of interest or
principal on any series of Indebtedness, the date on which the payment of
interest or principal was scheduled to be paid in the original documentation
governing such Indebtedness, and will not include any contingent obligations to
repay, redeem or repurchase any such interest or principal prior to the date
originally scheduled for the payment thereof.

     "Stock Purchase Agreement" means that certain stock purchase agreement,
dated on or about May 15, 2002, by and among TriMas, Metaldyne Corporation and
Heartland under which Heartland and other investors will acquire a majority of
the common stock of TriMas.

     "Sublease Agreement" means that certain lease by and between TriMas and
Valenti Capital, L.L.C. relating to TriMas' headquarters in Bloomfield Hills,
Michigan.

     "Subsidiary" means, with respect to any specified Person:

   (1)   any corporation, association or other business entity of which more
         than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock entitled
         (without regard to the occurrence of any


                                      112


         contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or
         trustees of the corporation, association or other business entity is
         at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by that
         Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person (or a
         combination thereof); and


   (2)   any partnership (a) the sole general partner or the managing general
         partner of which is such Person or a Subsidiary of such Person or (b)
         the only general partners of which are that Person or one or more
         Subsidiaries of that Person (or any combination thereof).


     "Transactions" means, collectively, the transactions pursuant to the Stock
Purchase Agreement and the related financings.


     "Unrestricted Subsidiary" means any Subsidiary of TriMas that is
designated by the Board of Directors as an Unrestricted Subsidiary pursuant to
a Board Resolution, but only to the extent that such Subsidiary is not party to
any agreement, contract, arrangement or understanding with TriMas or any
Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas unless the terms of all such agreements,
contracts, arrangements or understandings are no less favorable to TriMas or
such Restricted Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from
Persons who are not Affiliates of TriMas.


     Any designation of a Subsidiary of TriMas as an Unrestricted Subsidiary
will be evidenced to the trustee by filing with the trustee a certified copy of
the Board Resolution giving effect to such designation and an officers'
certificate certifying that such designation complied with the preceding
conditions and was permitted by the covenant described above under the caption
"--Certain Covenants--Restricted Payments." If, at any time, any Unrestricted
Subsidiary would fail to meet the preceding requirements as an Unrestricted
Subsidiary, it will thereafter cease to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary for
purposes of the indenture and any Indebtedness of such Subsidiary will be
deemed to be incurred by a Restricted Subsidiary of TriMas as of such date and,
if such Indebtedness is not permitted to be incurred as of such date under the
covenant described under the caption "--Certain Covenants--Incurrence of
Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock," TriMas will be in default of
such covenant. The Board of Directors of TriMas may at any time designate any
Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary; provided that such
designation will be deemed to be an incurrence of Indebtedness by a Restricted
Subsidiary of TriMas of any outstanding Indebtedness of such Unrestricted
Subsidiary and such designation will only be permitted if (1) such Indebtedness
is permitted under the covenant described under the caption "--Certain
Covenants--Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock,"
calculated on a pro forma basis as if such designation had occurred at the
beginning of the four-quarter reference period; and (2) no Default or Event of
Default would be in existence following such designation.


     "Voting Stock" of any Person as of any date means the Capital Stock of
such Person that is at the time entitled to vote in the election of the Board
of Directors of such Person.


     "Weighted Average Life to Maturity" means, when applied to any
Indebtedness at any date, the number of years obtained by dividing:


   (1)   the sum of the products obtained by multiplying (a) the amount of
         each then remaining installment, sinking fund, serial maturity or
         other required payments of principal, including payment at final
         maturity, in respect of the Indebtedness, by (b) the number of years
         (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth) that will elapse between such
         date and the making of such payment; by


   (2)   the then outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness.


     "Wholly-Owned Subsidiary" of any specified Person means a Subsidiary of
such Person all of the outstanding Capital Stock or other ownership interests
of which (other than directors' qualifying shares) will at the time be owned by
such Person or by one or more Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries of such Person and one
or more Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries of such Person.


                                      113


            CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS

     The following summary describes the material U.S. federal income tax
consequences of beneficial ownership and disposition associated with the
exchange of outstanding notes for exchange notes and the acquisition, of the
exchange notes. Except where otherwise noted, it deals only with purchasers of
notes who purchase their notes in the original offering at the offering price
and who hold the notes as capital assets. This summary does not deal with
special classes of holders such as dealers in securities, partnerships or other
pass-through entities, financial institutions, life insurance companies, certain
expatriates, persons holding the notes as part of a straddle or hedging or
conversion transaction or persons whose functional currency is not the U.S.
dollar. Moreover, this summary is based upon the provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and regulations, rulings and
judicial decisions thereunder as now in effect, and such authorities may be
repealed, revoked or modified (possibly on a retroactive basis) so as to result
in federal income tax consequences different from those discussed below.

     As used herein, a "U.S. holder" is a beneficial owner of the notes that
for U.S. federal income tax purposes is:

    o a citizen or resident of the U.S.,

    o a corporation (or an entity treated as a corporation) which is organized
      under the laws of the U.S. or any political subdivision thereof,

    o an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax
      without regard to its source, or

    o a trust if a court within the U.S. is able to exercise primary
      supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S.
      persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the
      trust, or if the trust has made a valid election to be treated as a
      United States person.

     A Non-U.S. holder is a beneficial owner that is for U.S. federal income
tax purposes either a nonresident alien or a corporation, estate or trust that
is not a U.S. holder.

     If a partnership holds the notes, the tax treatment of a partner will
generally depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the
partnership. If you are a partner of a partnership holding the notes, you
should consult your tax advisors.


EXCHANGE OF NOTES

     The exchange of notes for exchange notes pursuant to this exchange offer
will not constitute a taxable event for U.S. federal income tax purposes to
U.S. holders. Consequently, no gain or loss will be recognized by a U.S. holder
upon receipt of an exchange note. The holding period and tax basis of an
exchange note will be the same as the holding period and tax basis, immediately
before the exchange, of the note so exchanged.


U.S. HOLDERS

     The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal tax consequences
that will apply to you if you are a U.S. holder of the notes. Material
consequences to Non-U.S. holders of the notes are described under "Non-U.S.
Holders" below.


PAYMENTS OF INTEREST

     Payments of stated interest and additional interest, if any, on a note
will generally be taxable to a U.S. holder as ordinary income at the time it is
paid or accrued, depending on the U.S. holder's method of accounting for tax
purposes.

     We intend to take the position that a repurchase at the option of holders
if a change of control occurs is remote and do not intend to treat the
possibility of a repurchase at the option of holders at a


                                      114


price in excess of the aggregate principal amount, plus accrued interest as
affecting the yield and maturity of the notes. However, the IRS may take a
different position which could affect both the timing of a U.S. holder's
recognition of income and the availability of our deduction with respect to
such additional amounts.


SALE, EXCHANGE AND RETIREMENT OF NOTES

     Upon a sale, exchange (other than an exchange of notes for exchange notes)
or retirement of a note, a U.S. holder generally will recognize gain or loss
equal to the difference between the amount received upon the sale, exchange or
retirement (less any amount attributable to accrued interest which will be
taxable as ordinary income, if not previously taken into income) and the
holder's tax basis in the note at that time.

     Gain or loss realized on the sale, exchange or retirement of a note will
be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if at the
time of sale, exchange or retirement the note has been held for more than one
year. Under current law, long-term capital gains of certain non-corporate
holders are generally taxed at lower rates than items of ordinary income. The
use of capital losses is subject to limitations.


NON-U.S. HOLDERS

     The following is a summary of the material U.S. federal tax consequences
that will apply to you if you are a Non-U.S. holder of the notes. This summary
does not present a detailed description of the U.S. federal tax consequences to
you in light of your particular circumstances. In addition, it does not deal
with Non-U.S. holders subject to special treatment under U.S. federal tax laws
(including if you are a controlled foreign corporation, a passive foreign
investment company, a foreign personal holding company, a corporation that
accumulates earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax, or, in certain
circumstances, a United States expatriate).

     Under present U.S. federal income tax law and subject to the discussion of
information reporting and backup withholding below, payments of interest on the
notes to or on behalf of any Non-U.S. holder who is not engaged in a trade or
business within the U.S. with which interest on the notes is effectively
connected will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax,
provided that:

    o such beneficial owner does not actually or constructively own ten
      percent or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of our
      voting stock within the meaning of the Code and applicable U.S. Treasury
      regulations,

    o such beneficial owner is not a controlled foreign corporation for U.S.
      federal income tax purposes (generally, a foreign corporation controlled
      by U.S. shareholders) that is related to us through stock ownership, and

    o certain certification requirements are met.

     A Non-U.S. holder will not be exempt from U.S. withholding tax, however,
if the withholding agent or intermediary knows or has reason to know the
Non-U.S. holder should not be exempt. If a Non-U.S. holder does not qualify for
the foregoing exemption, interest payments to the Non-U.S. holder generally
will be subject to a 30% withholding tax (unless reduced or eliminated by an
applicable treaty and certain certification requirements are met).

     Any capital gain realized upon a sale, exchange or retirement of a note by
or on behalf of a Non-U.S. holder ordinarily will not be subject to a U.S.
federal withholding or income tax unless (i) such gain is effectively connected
with a U.S. trade or business of the holder or (ii) in the case of an
individual, such beneficial owner is present in the U.S. for 183 days or more
during the taxable year of the sale, exchange or retirement and certain other
requirements are met. As noted above, an exchange of a note for an exchange
note pursuant to the exchange offer will not constitute a taxable exchange.

     If interest and other payments received by a Non-U.S. holder with respect
to the notes (including proceeds from the disposition of the notes) are
effectively connected with the conduct by the


                                      115


Non-U.S. holder of a trade or business within the U.S. (or the Non-U.S. holder
is otherwise subject to U.S. federal income taxation on a net basis with
respect to such holder's ownership of the notes), such Non-U.S. holder will
generally not be subject to withholding tax (provided certain certification
requirements are met), but instead will generally be subject to the rules
described above for a U.S. holder (subject to any modification provided under
an applicable income tax treaty). Such Non-U.S. holder may also be subject to
the "branch profits tax" if such Non-U.S. holder is a corporation.


INFORMATION REPORTING AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING


     In general, information reporting will apply to payments of principal,
premium, if any, and interest on a note and the proceeds of the sale of a note
with respect to U.S. holders. Backup withholding at a rate of 30% (subject to
periodic reductions through 2006) will apply to such payments if a U.S. holder
fails to provide a taxpayer identification number to certify that such U.S.
holder is not subject to backup withholding, or otherwise to comply with the
applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules. Certain U.S. holders
(including, among others, corporations) are not subject to the backup
withholding and reporting requirements.


     We must report annually to the IRS and to each Non-U.S. holder on Form
1042-S the amount of interest paid on a note, regardless of whether withholding
was required, and any tax withheld with respect to the interest. Under the
provisions of an income tax treaty and other applicable agreements, copies of
these information returns may be made available to the tax authorities of the
country in which the Non-U.S. holder resides.


     Backup withholding generally will not apply to payments made by us or our
paying agent to a Non-U.S. holder of a note who provides the requisite
certification (on an IRS Form W-8BEN or other applicable form) or otherwise
establishes that it qualifies for an exemption from backup withholding.
Payments of the proceeds of a disposition of the notes by or through a U.S.
office of a broker generally will be subject to backup withholding and
information reporting unless the Non-U.S. holder certifies that it is a
Non-U.S. holder under penalties of perjury or otherwise establishes that it
qualifies for an exemption. Payments of principal or premium, if any, or the
proceeds of a disposition of the notes by or through a foreign office of a U.S.
broker or foreign broker with certain relationships to the United States
generally will be subject to information reporting, but not backup withholding,
unless such broker has documentary evidence in its records that the holder is a
Non-U.S. holder and certain other conditions are met, or the exemption is
otherwise established.


     Backup withholding is not an additional tax; any amounts withheld under
the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a refund or a credit against
such holder's U.S. federal income tax liability provided the required
information is furnished to the IRS.


     THE FOREGOING SUMMARY DOES NOT DISCUSS ALL ASPECTS OF U.S. FEDERAL INCOME
TAXATION THAT MAY BE RELEVANT TO A PARTICULAR HOLDER IN LIGHT OF ITS PARTICULAR
CIRCUMSTANCES AND TAX SITUATION. A HOLDER SHOULD CONSULT SUCH HOLDER'S TAX
ADVISOR AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES TO SUCH HOLDER OF THE OWNERSHIP
AND DISPOSITION OF THE NOTES, INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF STATE,
LOCAL, FOREIGN, AND OTHER TAX LAWS OR SUBSEQUENT VERSIONS THEREOF.


                                      116


                              PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

     Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account
pursuant to the exchange offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a
prospectus in connection with any resale of such exchange notes. This
prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used
by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of exchange notes received in
exchange for outstanding notes where such outstanding notes were acquired by
such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading
activities. We have agreed that for a period of 30 days after effectiveness of
the exchange offer registration statement, we will make this prospectus, as
amended or supplemented, available to any broker-dealer for use in connection
with any such resale.

     We will not receive any proceeds from any sale of exchange notes by
broker-dealers. Exchange notes received by broker-dealers for their own account
pursuant to the exchange offer may be sold from time to time in one or more
transactions in the over-the-counter market, in negotiated transactions,
through the writing of options on the exchange notes or a combination of such
methods of resale, at market prices prevailing at the time of resale, at prices
related to such prevailing market prices or at negotiated prices. Any such
resale may be made directly to purchasers or to or through brokers or dealers
who may receive compensation in the form of commissions or concessions from any
such broker-dealer and/or the purchasers of any such exchange notes. Any
broker-dealer that resells exchange notes that were received by it for its own
account pursuant to the exchange offer and any broker or dealer that
participates in a distribution of such exchange notes may be deemed to be an
"underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act and any profit of any
such resale of exchange notes and any commissions or concessions received by
any such persons may be deemed to be underwriting compensation under the
Securities Act. The letter of transmittal states that, by acknowledging that it
will deliver and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed
to admit that it is an "underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act.
By acceptance of the exchange offer, each broker-dealer that receives exchange
notes pursuant to the exchange offer hereby agrees to notify us prior to using
this prospectus in connection with the sale or transfer of exchange notes, and
acknowledges and agrees that, upon receipt of notice from us of the happening
of any event which makes any statement in this prospectus untrue in any
material respect or which requires the making of any changes in this prospectus
in order to make the statements herein not misleading (which notice we agree to
deliver promptly to such broker-dealer), such broker-dealer will suspend use of
this prospectus until we have amended or supplemented the prospectus to correct
such misstatement or omission and have furnished copies of the amended or
supplemented prospectus to such broker-dealer.

     For a period of 30 days after effectiveness of the exchange offer
registration statement, we will promptly upon request send additional copies of
this prospectus and any amendment or supplement thereto to any broker-dealer
that requests such documents in the letter of transmittal. We have agreed to
pay all expenses incident to the exchange offer (including the expenses of any
one special counsel for the Holders of the Notes) other than commissions or
concessions of any broker or dealers and will indemnify the Holders of the
Notes participating in the exchange offer (including any broker-dealers)
against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.


                                 LEGAL MATTERS

     Certain legal matters with respect to the validity of the notes will be
passed upon for us by Cahill Gordon & Reindel, New York, New York.


                                    EXPERTS

     The combined financial statements of TriMas Corporation as of December 31,
2001 and 2000 and for the year ended December 31, 2001, the period from
November 28, 2000 to December 31, 2000, the period from January 1, 2000 to
November 27, 2000 and the year ended December 31, 1999 included in this
prospectus and the financial statement schedule in the Registration Statement
have been so included in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants given on the authority of said firm as experts in
auditing and accounting.


                                      117


                         INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION






                                                                                          PAGE NO.
                                                                                         ---------
                                                                                      
AUDITED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
    Report of Independent Accountants ................................................   F-2
    Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 .........................   F-3
    Combined Statements of Operations for the Periods Ended December 31, 2001,
      December 31, 2000, November 27, 2000 and December 31, 1999 .....................   F-4
    Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the Periods Ended December 31, 2001,
      December 31, 2000, November 27, 2000 and December 31, 1999 .....................   F-5
    Combined Statements of Changes in Metaldyne Corporation Net Investment and
      Advances for Periods Ended December 31, 2001, December 31, 2000,
      November 27, 2000 and December 31, 1999 ........................................   F-6
    Notes to Combined Financial Statements ...........................................   F-7
UNAUDITED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
    Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2002 and December 31, 2001 ..........................   F-32
    Statement of Operations for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002 and 2001 ..........   F-33
    Statement of Cash Flows for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002 and 2001 ..........   F-34
    Statement of Shareholders' Equity and Metaldyne Corporation Net Investment and
      Advances for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2002. ...............................   F-35
    Notes to Financial Statements ....................................................   F-36




                                      F-1


                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


     To the Board of Directors of TriMas Corporation:


     In our opinion, the combined balance sheets and the related statements of
operations, of cash flows, and of Metaldyne Corporation net investment and
advances appearing in the accompanying financial statements as
`Post-acquisition Basis' present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of certain subsidiaries and divisions of subsidiaries of
Metaldyne Corporation which constitute TriMas Corporation at December 31, 2001
and 2000, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the year
ended December 31, 2001 and the period from November 28, 2000 to December 31,
2000, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement
schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 21(a)(1) as `Post-acquisition
Basis' presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth
therein when read in conjunction with the related combined financial
statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the
responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on
our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with
auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about
whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit
includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.


     In our opinion, the combined statements of operations, of cash flows, and
of Metaldyne Corporation net investment and advances appearing in the
accompanying financial statements as `Pre-acquisition Basis' present fairly, in
all material respects, the results of operations and cash flows of certain
subsidiaries and divisions of subsidiaries of Metaldyne Corporation which
constitute TriMas Corporation for the period from January 1, 2000 to November
27, 2000 and the year ended December 31, 1999, in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in
our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing
under Item 21(a)(1) as `Pre-acquisition Basis' presents fairly, in all material
respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the
related combined financial statements. These financial statements and financial
statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management; our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and
financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits of
these statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in
the United States of America, which require that we plan and perform the audit
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free
of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements,
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.


     As more fully described in Note 2 to the combined financial statements,
effective November 28, 2000, the Company reflected a new basis of accounting
for their assets and liabilities. As a result, the combined financial
statements for the periods subsequent to November 27, 2000 reflect the
post-acquisition basis of accounting and are not comparable to the combined
financial statements prepared on a pre-acquisition basis.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Detroit, Michigan.
April 30, 2002, except for Note 19, as to which the date is June 6, 2002.

                                      F-2


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                            COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
                          DECEMBER 31, 2001 AND 2000

                                 (IN THOUSANDS)


                                    ASSETS




                                                                      2001            2000
                                                                 -------------   -------------
                                                                           
Current assets:
 Cash and cash equivalents ...................................    $    3,780      $    7,060
 Receivables .................................................        34,240          58,970
 Inventories .................................................        96,810         112,060
 Deferred income taxes .......................................        10,870          19,310
 Prepaid expenses and other assets ...........................         6,170           4,810
                                                                  ----------      ----------
 Total current assets ........................................       151,870         202,210
Property and equipment, net ..................................       254,380         269,340
Excess of cost over net assets of acquired companies .........       541,870         554,730
Intangibles and other assets .................................       317,620         331,840
                                                                  ----------      ----------
 Total assets ................................................    $1,265,740      $1,358,120
                                                                  ==========      ==========


                     LIABILITIES AND METALDYNE CORPORATION
                          NET INVESTMENT AND ADVANCES


                                                                        
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable .........................................    $   47,000      $   47,680
 Accrued liabilities ......................................        56,190          63,190
 Current maturities, long-term debt .......................        28,900          40,350
                                                               ----------      ----------
 Total current liabilities ................................       132,090         151,220
Long-term debt ............................................       411,860         432,570
Deferred income taxes .....................................       169,780         169,410
Other long-term liabilities ...............................        31,010          38,120
                                                               ----------      ----------
 Total liabilities ........................................    $  744,740      $  791,320
Metaldyne Corporation net investment and advances .........       521,000         566,800
                                                               ----------      ----------
 Total liabilities and Metaldyne Corporation net investment
   and advances ...........................................    $1,265,740      $1,358,120
                                                               ==========      ==========


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
                                  statements.

                                      F-3


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION

                       COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                                 (IN THOUSANDS)




                                          POST-ACQUISITION BASIS            PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                      -------------------------------   ------------------------------
                                                        NOVEMBER 28,      JANUARY 1,
                                        YEAR-ENDED         2000 -           2000 -         YEAR-ENDED
                                       DECEMBER 31,     DECEMBER 31,     NOVEMBER 27,     DECEMBER 31,
                                           2001             2000             2000             1999
                                      --------------   --------------   --------------   -------------
                                                                             
Net sales .........................     $  732,440       $  50,640        $  739,590      $  773,100
Cost of sales .....................       (537,410)        (36,490)         (514,570)       (519,610)
                                        ----------       ---------        ----------      ----------
 Gross profit .....................        195,030          14,150           225,020         253,490
Selling, general and administrative
 expenses .........................       (127,350)        (13,200)         (130,490)       (134,560)
                                        ----------       ---------        ----------      ----------
 Operating profit .................         67,680             950            94,530         118,930
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense .................        (73,130)         (5,000)          (55,390)        (55,380)
 Other, net .......................         (4,000)         (1,200)            3,050           1,450
                                        ----------       ---------        ----------      ----------
 Income (loss) before income
   taxes (credit) .................         (9,450)         (5,250)           42,190          65,000
Income taxes (credit) .............          1,870          (1,100)           20,910          29,700
                                        ----------       ---------        ----------      ----------
 Net income (loss) ................     $  (11,320)      $  (4,150)       $   21,280      $   35,300
                                        ==========       =========        ==========      ==========


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
                                  statements.

                                      F-4


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION

                       COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                                (IN THOUSANDS)




                                                           POST-ACQUISITION BASIS                   PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                  ----------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
                                                       YEAR-ENDED      NOVEMBER 28, 2000--   JANUARY 1, 2000--      YEAR-ENDED
                                                   DECEMBER 31, 2001    DECEMBER 31, 2000    NOVEMBER 27, 2000   DECEMBER 31, 1999
                                                  ------------------- --------------------- ------------------- ------------------
                                                                                                    

OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net income (loss) .............................. $(11,320)                 $  (4,150)      $21,280             $35,300
 Adjustments to reconcile net income
   (loss) to net cash provided by (used
   for) operating activities:
 Depreciation and amortization ..................   53,780                      4,540        38,400              38,520
 Deferred income taxes ..........................    8,810                      2,750           820               1,340
 Proceeds from Accounts Receivable
   Securitization ...............................    4,570                     12,700        42,500                  --
 (Increase) decrease in receivables .............   20,160                       (810)      (11,040)             (1,390)
 (Increase) decrease in inventories .............   15,250                     (2,740)        9,710              (5,220)
 (Increase) decrease in prepaid
   expenses and other current assets ............   (1,360)                       280         1,710               4,060
 Increase (decrease) in accounts
   payable and accrued liabilities ..............   (7,680)                     7,720         5,750             (11,620)
 Other, net .....................................   (6,230)                    (1,580)        4,300              (5,010)
                                                  --------                  ---------       -------             -------
 Net cash provided by operating
   activities. ..................................   75,980                     18,710       113,430              55,980
                                                  ========                  =========       =======             =======
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Increase in debt ...............................      ---                     11,600           ---                 ---
 Payment of debt ................................  (32,160)                       ---       (59,260)            (20,600)
 Increase (decrease) in Metaldyne
   Corporation net investment and
   advances. ....................................  (34,480)                   (28,390)      (23,540)              1,190
                                                  --------                  ---------       -------             -------
 Net cash used for financing activities .........  (66,640)                   (16,790)      (82,800)            (19,410)
                                                  --------                  ---------       -------             -------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Acquisition of a business, net of cash
   acquired .....................................      ---                        ---       (21,130)             (4,070)
 Capital expenditures ...........................  (18,690)                    (3,260)      (19,540)            (42,320)
 Proceeds from notes receivable .................      ---                        ---         1,550               2,120
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets .............    6,780                      1,990         1,000               2,680
 Other, net .....................................     (710)                       (30)        1,510              (3,280)
                                                  --------                  ---------       -------             -------
 Net cash used for investing activities .........  (12,620)                    (1,300)      (36,610)            (44,870)
                                                  --------                  ---------       -------             -------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
 Increase (decrease) for the period .............   (3,280)                       620        (5,980)             (8,300)
 At beginning of period .........................    7,060                      6,440        12,420              20,720
                                                  --------                  ---------       -------             -------
 At end of period ............................... $  3,780                  $   7,060       $ 6,440             $12,420
                                                  ========                  =========       =======             =======


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
                                  statements.

                                      F-5


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION

            COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN METALDYNE CORPORATION
                          NET INVESTMENT AND ADVANCES

                     FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001,
            FOR THE PERIOD NOVEMBER 28, 2000 -- DECEMBER 31, 2000,
            FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2000 -- NOVEMBER 27, 2000, AND
                        THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999

                                (IN THOUSANDS)




                                                                                                  TOTAL
                                                                                                METALDYNE
                                                                                 OTHER       CORPORATION NET
                                                        NET INVESTMENT AND   COMPREHENSIVE   INVESTMENT AND
                                                             ADVANCES            INCOME         ADVANCES
                                                       -------------------- --------------- ----------------
                                                                                   
Balances, January 1, 1999 ............................      $ 588,820          $  (6,330)      $ 582,490
                                                                                               ---------
 Comprehensive income:
   Net income ........................................         35,300                             35,300
   Foreign currency translation ......................                               170             170
   Minimum pension liability (net of tax, $(160)).....                              (280)           (280)
                                                                                               ---------
      Total comprehensive income .....................                                            35,190
 Net change in investment and advances ...............          1,300                              1,300
                                                            ---------          ---------       ---------
Balances, December 31, 1999 ..........................        625,420             (6,440)        618,980
                                                                                               ---------
 Comprehensive income:
   Net income ........................................         21,280                             21,280
   Foreign currency translation ......................                            (6,520)         (6,520)
   Minimum pension liability (net of tax, $(420)).....                              (710)           (710)
                                                                                               ---------
      Total comprehensive income .....................                                            14,050
 Net change in investment and advances ...............        (16,310)                           (16,310)
                                                            ---------          ---------       ---------
Balances, November 27, 2000 ..........................      $ 630,390          $ (13,670)      $ 616,720
                                                            =========          =========       =========
Balances, November 28, 2000 ..........................      $ 599,340          $      --       $ 599,340
                                                                                               ---------
 Comprehensive income:
   Net loss ..........................................         (4,150)                            (4,150)
   Foreign currency translation ......................                             3,330           3,330
   Minimum pension liability (net of tax, $(70))......                              (110)           (110)
                                                                                               ---------
      Total comprehensive income .....................                                              (930)
 Net change in investment and advances ...............        (31,610)                           (31,610)
Balances, December 31, 2000 ..........................        563,580              3,220         566,800
                                                                                               ---------
 Comprehensive income:
   Net loss ..........................................        (11,320)                           (11,320)
   Foreign currency translation ......................                            (4,720)         (4,720)
   Minimum pension liability (net of tax, $110).......                               180             180
                                                                                               ---------
      Total comprehensive income .....................                                           (15,860)
   Net change in investment and advances .............        (29,940)                           (29,940)
                                                            ---------          ---------       ---------
Balances, December 31, 2001 ..........................      $ 522,320          $  (1,320)      $ 521,000
                                                            =========          =========       =========


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
                                  statements.

                                      F-6


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                    NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


1. ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

     The accompanying combined financial statements represent the combined
assets and liabilities and results of operations of certain subsidiaries and
divisions of subsidiaries of Metaldyne Corporation ("Metaldyne") which
constitute TriMas Corporation ("TriMas" or "the Company"). The financial
statements include allocations and estimates of direct and indirect Metaldyne
corporate administrative costs attributable to TriMas. The methods by which
such amounts are attributed or allocated are deemed reasonable by management.

     TriMas is principally engaged in three unique segments with diverse
products and market channels. The Transportation Accessories Group produces
vehicle hitches and receivers, sway controls, weight distribution and 5th wheel
hitches, hitch mounted accessories, roof racks, trailer couplers, winches,
jacks, trailer brakes and lights and other vehicle and trailer accessories and
components that are distributed through independent installers and retail
outlets. The Rieke Packaging Systems Group is a leading source of closures and
dispensing systems for steel and plastic industrial and consumer packaging
applications. The Industrial Specialties Group produces a wide range of large
and small diameter standard and custom-designed ferrous, nonferrous and special
alloy fasteners, highly engineered specialty fasteners for the domestic and
international aerospace industry, flame-retardant facings and jacketing and
insulation tapes used in conjunction with fiberglass insulation,
pressure-sensitive specialty tape products, high-pressure and low-pressure
cylinders for the transportation, storage and dispensing of compressed gases,
metallic and nonmetallic industrial gaskets, specialty precision tools such as
center drills, cutters, end mills, reamers, master gears, gages and punches,
specialty engines and service parts and specialty ordnance components and
weapon systems.


2. METALDYNE RECAPITALIZATION AND CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING BASIS


METALDYNE RECAPITALIZATION

     On November 28, 2000, the acquisition and recapitalization of Metaldyne by
Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P. ("Heartland") and its co-investors was
consummated in accordance with the terms of a recapitalization agreement. As a
result, each issued and outstanding share of Metaldyne's publicly traded common
stock at the time of the recapitalization was converted into the right to
receive $16.90 in cash (approximately $585 million in the aggregate) plus
additional cash amounts, if any, based upon the net proceeds from any future
disposition of the stock of an identified Metaldyne investment. In connection
with the recapitalization, Masco Corporation, Richard A. Manoogian and certain
of Metaldyne's other stockholders agreed to roll over a portion of their
investment in Metaldyne and consequently remain as stockholders. As a result of
the recapitalization, Metaldyne is controlled by Heartland and its
co-investors.


CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING BASIS

     The pre-acquisition basis financial information for the periods prior to
November 28, 2000 are reflected on the historical basis of accounting and all
periods subsequent to November 28, 2000 are reflected on a purchase accounting
basis (hereafter referred to as the "Accounting Basis Change") and are
therefore not comparable.

     For the purposes of these footnotes, the period from January 1, 2000 to
November 27, 2000 is referred to as "2000 LP" and the period from November 28,
2000 to December 31, 2000 is referred to as "2000 SP."


3. ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

     Principles of Combination. The combined financial statements include the
accounts and transactions of TriMas. Significant intercompany transactions have
been eliminated.


                                      F-7


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles requires the Company to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date
of the financial statements. Such estimates and assumptions also affect the
reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual
results may differ from such estimates and assumptions.

     Revenue Recognition. Revenues are recognized generally when products are
shipped or services are provided to customers, the sales price is fixed and
determinable and collectibility is reasonably assured.

     Cash and Cash Equivalents. The Company considers cash on hand and on
deposit and investments in all highly liquid debt instruments with initial
maturities of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents.

     Receivables. Receivables are presented net of allowances for doubtful
accounts of approximately $3.7 million and $4.9 million at December 31, 2001
and 2000, respectively. The Company monitors its exposure for credit losses and
maintains allowances for doubtful accounts. The Company does not believe that
significant credit risk exists due to its diverse customer base. Trade accounts
receivable of substantially all domestic business operations are sold, on an
ongoing basis, to MTSPC, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Metaldyne.

     Inventories. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable
value, with cost determined principally by use of the first-in, first-out
method.

     Property and Equipment, Net. Property and equipment additions, including
significant betterments, are recorded at cost. Upon retirement or disposal of
property and equipment, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from
the accounts, and any gain or loss is included in the combined statement of
operations. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense as incurred.
Depreciation is computed principally using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of the assets. Annual depreciation rates are as follows:
buildings and land improvements, 2-1/2 to 10 percent, and machinery and
equipment, 6-2/3 to 33-1/3 percent. TriMas periodically evaluates the carrying
value of long-lived assets and long-lived assets to be disposed of for
potential impairment. Projected future undiscounted cash flows, trends and
other circumstances are considered by TriMas in making such estimates and
evaluations.

     Excess of Cost Over Net Assets of Acquired Companies and Other
Intangibles. The excess of cost over net assets of acquired companies
("Goodwill") at December 31, 2001 and 2000 is related to the Accounting Basis
Change. Goodwill is amortized using the straight-line method over 40 years.
Goodwill amortization expense was $13.6 million in 2001, $1.1 million in 2000
SP, $17.7 million in 2000 LP and $18.9 million in 1999. Accumulated
amortization was $14.7 million and $1.1 million at December 31, 2001 and 2000,
respectively. Other intangibles are amortized on appropriate bases over their
estimated lives. Customer relationships are amortized over periods ranging from
six years to as long as 40 years depending on the nature of the underlying
relationships. Trademarks and trade names are amortized over a 40 year period,
while technology and other intangibles are amortized over a period between
three and thirty years. No amortization period exceeds 40 years. At each
balance sheet date, management assesses whether there has been an impairment of
goodwill and other intangibles. When the carrying value of goodwill or an
intangible asset exceeds associated expected operating cash flows, it is
considered to be impaired and is written down to fair value, which is measured
based on either discounted future cash flows or appraised values. The factors
considered by management in performing this assessment include current
operating results, business prospects, market trends, potential product
obsolescence, competitive activities and other economic factors. Based on this
assessment, there was no impairment related to goodwill or other intangibles at
December 31, 2001.


                                      F-8


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The carrying value of financial
instruments reported in the balance sheet for current assets and current
liabilities approximates fair value. Management believes the carrying value of
long-term debt approximates fair value, which was estimated by discounting
future cash flows based on a borrowing rate for similar types of debt
instruments.

     Shipping and Handling Expenses. A portion of shipping and handling
expenses are included in the selling, general and administrative category in
the combined statements of operations. Shipping and handling costs included in
selling, general and administrative accounts were approximately $12.7 million
in 2001, $1.0 million 2000 SP, $12.6 million in 2000 LP, and $12.7 million in
1999.

     Advertising and Sales Promotion Costs. Advertising and sales promotion
costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising costs were approximately $7.2
million in 2001, $0.9 million in 2000 SP, $8.2 million in 2000 LP, and $8.0
million in 1999.

     Research and Development Costs. Research and development costs are
expensed as incurred. External costs incurred were approximately $1.6 million
in 2001, $0.2 million in 2000 SP, $1.3 million in 2000 LP, and $1.4 million in
1999.

     Income Taxes. TriMas computes income taxes using the asset and liability
method, whereby deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary
differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of TriMas'
assets and liabilities. TriMas is included in the consolidated federal income
tax return of Metaldyne. Accordingly, substantially all current income tax
related liabilities are due to Metaldyne. Income tax expense is computed on a
separate return basis.

     New Accounting Pronouncements and Reclassifications. In June 2001, the
Financial Accounting Standards Board approved Statements of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 141 "Business Combinations" ("SFAS 141") and No. 142
"Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("SFAS 142") which are effective July 1,
2001 and January 1, 2002, respectively. SFAS 141 requires that the purchase
method of accounting be used for all business combinations initiated after June
30, 2001. Under SFAS 142, amortization of goodwill, including goodwill recorded
in past business combinations, will discontinue upon adoption of this standard.
In addition, goodwill recorded as a result of business combinations completed
during the six-month period ending December 31, 2001 will not be amortized. All
goodwill and intangible assets will be tested for impairment in accordance with
the provisions of SFAS 142. TriMas is currently reviewing the provisions of
SFAS 141 and 142 and assessing the impact of adoption.

     At December 31, 2001, the Company's unamortized balance of goodwill
approximated $541.9 million. The following table summarizes the effect on net
income (loss) of excluding amortization expense related to goodwill that will
no longer be amortized.






                                                               (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                 2001          2000 SP      2000 LP       1999
                                            -------------   ------------   ---------   ----------
                                                                           
Net income (loss) .......................     $ (11,320)      $ (4,150)     $21,280     $35,300
Add back: Goodwill amortization .........        13,600          1,100       17,700      18,900
                                              ---------       --------      -------     -------
Net income (loss), as adjusted ..........     $   2,280       $ (3,050)     $38,980     $54,200
                                              =========       ========      =======     =======


     In June and August 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board approved
Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143 "Accounting for Asset
Retirement Obligations" ("SFAS 143") and No. 144 "Accounting for the Impairment
or Disposal of Long Lived Assets" ("SFAS 144") which are effective January 1,
2003 and January 1, 2002, respectively, for TriMas. SFAS 143 requires that an
existing legal obligation associated with the retirement of a tangible
long-lived asset be recognized as a liability when incurred and the amount of
the liability be initially measured at fair value. Under SFAS 144, a single
accounting method was established for long-lived assets to be disposed. SFAS
144 requires TriMas to recognize an impairment loss only if the carrying amount
of a


                                      F-9


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

long-lived asset is not recoverable from its undiscounted cash flows and the
loss is measured as the difference between carrying amount and fair value.
TriMas is currently reviewing the provisions of SFAS 143 and 144 and assessing
the impact of adoption.


4. ACQUISITIONS AND RESTRUCTURINGS:

     Following the November 2000 acquisition of Metaldyne by Heartland,
Metaldyne employed a new senior management team for TriMas to reorganize and
restructure the TriMas business units and implement cost savings projects. The
new management team moved aggressively to develop and launch six major projects
and several smaller initiatives to consolidate sub-scale business units and
redundant plants and to streamline administrative costs. The following table
summarizes the purchase accounting adjustments established to reflect these
actions and subsequent related activity:






                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                       UTILIZED               RESERVE AT
                                  ORIGINAL    ---------------------------    DECEMBER 31,
                                 ADJUSTMENT       CASH         NON-CASH          2001
                                -----------   ------------   ------------   -------------
                                                                
Severance ...................     $19,070       $ (5,860)     $      --        $13,210
Asset impairment ............      15,830             --        (15,830)            --
Other closure costs .........       3,690            (80)            --          3,610
                                  -------       --------      ---------        -------
 Total ......................     $38,590       $ (5,940)     $ (15,830)       $16,820
                                  =======       ========      =========        =======


     Cash proceeds of approximately $5.2 million from the sale of redundant
facilities and equipment have been realized as a result of these projects
through December 31, 2001.

     Approximately 400 jobs will be eliminated as a result of these
restructuring actions. The related severance will be paid through 2004.

     Additional unaudited non-recurring expenses of approximately $4.5 million
and $5.1 million are expected to be incurred in 2002 and 2003, respectively, as
these projects are completed. These costs primarily relate to plant closure
costs that did not qualify for expense recognition treatment at December 31,
2001.

     During early 2000, TriMas acquired Wesbar Corporation for total
consideration, net of cash acquired, of approximately $21.1 million, including
fees and expenses and the assumption of certain liabilities. The results for
2000 include Wesbar Corporation sales and operating results from the date of
acquisition.


5. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SECURITIZATION:

     In 2000, Metaldyne entered into an agreement to sell, on an ongoing basis,
the trade accounts receivable of substantially all domestic business operations
to MTSPC, Inc. ("MTSPC") a wholly owned subsidiary of Metaldyne. MTSPC from
time to time, may sell an undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool
of receivables up to approximately $225 million to a third party multi-seller
receivables funding company. Trade accounts receivable relating to TriMas
operations are included as part of this agreement. The information that follows
represents TriMas' attributed portion of receivables sold to MTSPC. The net
proceeds of sale are less than the face amount of accounts receivable sold by
an amount that approximates the purchaser's financing costs amounting to a
total of $3.6 million in 2001, $0.3 in 2000 SP and $1.3 million in 2000 LP.
These costs are included in other expense in the combined statement of
operations. At December 31, 2001 and 2000, a total of approximately $59.8
million and $55.2 million of TriMas receivables were sold and TriMas retained a
subordinated interest of approximately $12.2 million and $6.3 million,
respectively, which is included in the combined balance sheet. The proceeds
from the sale of TriMas' accounts receivable, net for the year ended December
31, 2001 and 2000 was $4.6 and $55.2 million, respectively. Amounts related to
timing differences in the settlement of the securitization are included in
accrued liabilities.


                                      F-10


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

6. INVENTORIES:






                                   (IN THOUSANDS)
                                   AT DECEMBER 31
                               -----------------------
                                  2001         2000
                               ----------   ----------
                                      
   Finished goods ..........    $59,510      $ 61,450
   Work in process .........     13,470        16,620
   Raw material ............     23,830        33,990
                                -------      --------
                                $96,810      $112,060
                                =======      ========


7. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET:






                                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                  AT DECEMBER 31
                                              -----------------------
                                                 2001         2000
                                              ----------   ----------
                                                     
   Cost:
    Land and land improvements ............    $ 13,840     $ 15,100
    Buildings .............................      67,940       70,960
    Machinery and equipment ...............     200,750      185,440
                                               --------     --------
                                                282,530      271,500
   Less: Accumulated depreciation .........      28,150        2,160
                                               --------     --------
                                               $254,380     $269,340
                                               --------     --------


     Depreciation expense was approximately $26.0 million in 2001, $2.2 million
in 2000 SP, $20.0 million in 2000 LP, and $18.9 million in 1999.


8. INTANGIBLES AND OTHER ASSETS:






                                                     (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                     AT DECEMBER 31
                                                -------------------------
                                                    2001          2000
                                                -----------   -----------
                                                        
   Customer relationships ...................    $191,700      $199,820
   Trademarks/trade names ...................      52,930        54,350
   Technology and other intangibles .........      54,860        59,110
   Other ....................................      18,130        18,560
                                                 --------      --------
    Total ...................................    $317,620      $331,840
                                                 ========      ========


     Amortization expense was approximately $14.2 million in 2001, $1.3 million
in 2000 SP, $0.7 million in 2000 LP, and $0.7 million in 1999. Accumulated
amortization was $15.5 million and $1.3 million at December 31, 2001 and 2000,
respectively.


                                      F-11


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

9. ACCRUED LIABILITIES:






                                                                        (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                        AT DECEMBER 31
                                                                    -----------------------
                                                                       2001         2000
                                                                    ----------   ----------
                                                                           
   Insurance ....................................................    $10,670      $10,790
   Severance and other closure costs ............................     12,630       10,750
   Vacation, holiday and bonus ..................................      9,010        7,980
   Accounts receivable securitization timing settlement .........      4,370        8,000
   Other ........................................................     19,510       25,670
                                                                     -------      -------
                                                                     $56,190      $63,190
                                                                     =======      =======


10. LONG-TERM DEBT:






                                                            (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                            AT DECEMBER 31
                                                       -------------------------
                                                           2001          2000
                                                       -----------   -----------
                                                               
   Bank debt .......................................    $440,600      $460,000
   Other ...........................................         160        12,920
                                                        --------      --------
                                                         440,760       472,920
                                                        --------      --------
   Less: Current portion of long-term debt .........      28,900        40,350
                                                        --------      --------
   Long-term debt ..................................    $411,860      $432,570
                                                        ========      ========


     The bank debt is allocated to TriMas by Metaldyne and primarily represents
that portion of debt that is a joint and several obligation of Metaldyne and
certain subsidiaries of the Company. The bank debt includes limitations on the
distribution of funds by Metaldyne and the Company. These include limitations
on the ability to redeem the Metaldyne restricted stock awards if the result of
such redemption would give rise to a default under the Metaldyne credit
agreement. The Metaldyne credit facility contains other negative and
affirmative covenants and requirements affecting Metaldyne and the Company and
its subsidiaries, including restrictions on debt, liens, mergers, investments,
acquisitions and capital expenditures, asset dispositions, sale/leaseback
transactions, the ability to pay common stock dividends and transactions with
affiliates. The Metaldyne credit facility also requires it to meet certain
financial covenants and ratios to be computed quarterly commencing on December
31, 2000.

     Other debt includes borrowings by the Company's subsidiaries denominated
in foreign currencies.

     The interest rate charged by Metaldyne applicable to the bank debt
approximated eight and one-half percent at December 31, 2001, and 6.4%
at December 31, 2000. The Metaldyne credit facility is collateralized by
substantially all domestic assets of Metaldyne and TriMas (except for the
subordinated retained interest of securitized receivables) and by a portion of
the stock of foreign operations.

     The maturities of debt as at December 31, 2001 during the next five years
are as follows (in millions): 2002 -- $29; 2003 -- $69; 2004 -- $78; 2005 --
$79; and 2006 and beyond -- $186.


11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

     TriMas leases certain equipment and plant facilities under noncancellable
operating leases. Rental expense for TriMas totaled approximately $4.6 million
in 2001, $0.4 million in 2000 SP, $4.7 million in 2000 LP and $4.7 million in
1999.


                                      F-12


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     Minimum payments for operating leases having initial or remaining
noncancellable lease terms in excess of one year at December 31, 2001 are
summarized below:






                                     (IN THOUSANDS)
                                    ---------------
                                 
  Year ending December 31:
  2002 ..........................       $ 4,180
  2003 ..........................         3,170
  2004 ..........................         2,680
  2005 ..........................         2,050
  2006 ..........................         1,390
  Thereafter ....................         2,630
                                        -------
  Total .........................       $16,100
                                        =======


     A civil suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Central
District of California in April 1983 by the United States of America and the
State of California under the Federal Superfund law against over 30 defendants,
including the company, for alleged release into the environment of hazardous
substances disposed of at the Stringfellow Disposal Site in California. The
plaintiffs have requested, among other things, that the defendants clean up the
contamination at that site. A consent decree has been entered into by the
plaintiffs and the defendants, including us, providing that the consenting
parties perform partial remediation at the site. The State has agreed to take
over clean-up of the site, as well as responsibility for governmental entities'
past response costs. Additionally, we and approximately 60 other entities
including the State are defendants in a toxic tort suit brought in the Superior
Court of the State of California in May 1998 by various persons residing in the
area of the site and seeking damages for alleged personal injuries claimed to
arise from exposure to contaminants from the site. The case is still in the
discovery stage but we believe there are good defenses to the claims against
us.

     Another civil suit was filed in the United States District Court for the
Central District of California in December 1988 by the United States of America
and the State against more than 180 defendants, including us, for alleged
release into the environment of hazardous substances disposed of at the
Operating Industries, Inc. site in California. This site served for many years
as a depository for municipal and industrial waste. The plaintiffs have
requested, among other things, that the defendants clean up contamination at
that site. Consent decrees have been entered into by the plaintiffs and a group
of defendants, including us, providing that the consenting parties perform
certain remedial work at the site and reimburse the plaintiffs for certain past
costs incurred by the plaintiffs at the site.

     Additionally, at April 26, 2002, the Company is party to approximately 368
pending cases involving approximately 6,581 claimants alleging personal injury
from exposure to asbestos containing materials formerly used in gaskets (both
encapsulated and otherwise) manufactured or distributed by certain of our
subsidiaries for use in the petrochemical refining and exploration industries.
There were three types of gaskets that we manufactured and we have ceased the
use of asbestos in our products. We believe that many of our pending cases
relate to locations which none of our gaskets were distributed or used. In
addition, we acquired various companies to distribute our products that
distributed gaskets of other manufacturers prior to acquisition. Approximately
530 cases involving 2,667 claimants (which are not included in the pending
cases noted above) have been either dismissed for lack of product
identification or otherwise or been settled or made subject to agreements to
settle. Our total settlement costs for all such cases, some of which were filed
over 12 years ago, have been approximately $1.5 million. Based upon our
experience to date and other available information, we do not believe that
these cases will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or
results of operation. However, we cannot assure you that we will not be
subjected to significant additional claims in the future, that the cost of
settling cases in which product identification can be made will not increase or
that we will not be subjected to further claims with respect to the former
activities of our acquired gasket distributors.


                                      F-13


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     The Company has provided accruals based upon our present knowledge and
subject to future legal and factual developments, we do not believe that any of
these litigations will have a material adverse effect on our combined financial
position, results of operations or cash flow. However, there can be no
assurance that future legal and factual developments will not result in
materially adverse expenditures.

     The Company is subject to other claims and litigation in the ordinary
course of our business, but does not believe that any such claim or litigation
will have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of
operations.


12. RELATED PARTIES:


METALDYNE CORPORATION

     Net Investment and advances reflect the accumulation of transactions
between TriMas and Metaldyne through December 31, 2001. These transactions
include operating results, management fees and advances, as discussed below:

     TriMas was charged a management fee by Metaldyne for various corporate
support staff and administrative services. Such fees approximate one percent of
net sales and amounted to $7.3 million in 2001, $0.5 million in 2000 SP, $7.3
million in 2000 LP and $7.7 million in 1999.

     Certain of TriMas' employee benefit plans and insurance coverages are
administered by Metaldyne. These costs as well as other costs incurred on
TriMas' behalf were charged directly to TriMas.

     TriMas has guaranteed approximately $8.7 million and $40.0 million of
Metaldyne bank debt that was not attributed to TriMas at December 31, 2001 and
2000, respectively.

     TriMas was also charged interest expense at various rates on the debt
attributed to TriMas from Metaldyne and on the outstanding advance balance from
Metaldyne. These charges aggregated $73.1 million in 2001, $4.9 million in 2000
SP, $54.2 million in 2000 LP and $53.1 million in 1999. The related advances
are included in the Metaldyne net investment and advances balances in the
accompanying combined balance sheet.


13. STOCK OPTIONS AND AWARDS:

     Prior to the Metaldyne recapitalization, Metaldyne's Long Term Stock
Incentive Plan provided for the issuance of stock-based incentives. Certain of
TriMas' salaried employees are holders of restricted stock awards issued under
that plan. Under the terms of the Metaldyne recapitalization agreement, those
shares become free of restriction, or vest, in four even installments as of the
closing of the recapitalization and January of 2002, 2003, and 2004. TriMas is
charged directly by Metaldyne for related expenses. TriMas' portion of
compensation expense for the vesting of long-term stock awards was
approximately $3.2 million in 2001, $0.8 million in 2000 LP and $0.6 million in
1999.

     Holders of restricted stock may elect to receive all of the installment in
common shares of Metaldyne stock, 40% in cash and 60% in common shares of
Metaldyne stock, or 100% in cash. The number of shares or cash to be received
will increase by 6% per annum from the $16.90 per share recapitalization
consideration. TriMas is charged directly by Metaldyne for the interest
accretion on the stock awards. TriMas' portion of the interest accretion for
2001 was approximately $0.8 million.

     In 2001, subsequent to the recapitalization, a new Long Term Equity
Incentive Plan (the "Plan") was adopted, which provides for the issuance of
equity-based incentives in various forms. During 2001, Metaldyne granted stock
options for 2,855,000 shares at a price of $16.90 per share to key employees of
Metaldyne, of which 336,763 were granted to TriMas employees. These options
have a ten year


                                      F-14


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

option period and vest ratably over a three year period from the date of grant.
The ability to exercise the options is limited in the circumstances of a public
offering whereby the shares are required to be held and exercised after the
elapse of certain time periods.


     Metaldyne has elected to continue to apply the provisions of Accounting
Principles Board Opinion No. 25 and, accordingly, no stock option compensation
expense is included in the determination of net income (loss) in the combined
statement of operations. The weighted average fair value on the date of grant
of the Metaldyne options granted during 2001 was $3.80. Had stock option
compensation expense been determined pursuant to the methodology of SFAS No.
123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the pro form effect would have
reduced TriMas' 2001 earnings by approximately $0.2 million.


14. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:


     Pension and Profit-Sharing Benefits. Substantially all TriMas salaried
employees participate in Metaldyne-sponsored noncontributory profit-sharing
and/or contributory defined contribution plans, to which payments are approved
annually by Metaldyne's Board of Directors. Aggregate charges to income under
these plans were approximately $2.6 million in 2001, $0.3 million in 2000 SP,
$3.3 million 2000 LP and $3.8 million in 1999.


     In addition, TriMas salary and non-union hourly employees participate in
defined-benefit pension plans sponsored by Metaldyne. The expense for these
plans was approximately $2.4 million in 2001, $0.3 million in 2000 SP, $3.1
million in 2000 LP and $3.6 million in 1999.


     Net periodic pension cost for TriMas defined benefit pension plans,
covering foreign employees and union-hourly employees, includes the following
components:






                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                   2001       2000 SP      2000 LP         1999
                                               -----------   ---------   -----------   -----------
                                                                           
Service cost ...............................    $    540      $   50      $    600      $    740
Interest cost ..............................         980          80           900           930
Expected return on assets ..................      (1,330)       (110)       (1,180)       (1,160)
Amortization of prior-service cost .........          --          --            10            --
Amortization of net loss ...................          --          --           (10)           10
                                                --------      ------      --------      --------
Net periodic pension cost ..................    $    190      $   20      $    320      $    520
                                                ========      ======      ========      ========


     Major actuarial assumptions used (as of September 30, 2001) in accounting
for the TriMas defined benefit pension plans at December 31 are as follows:






                                                                  2001         2000         1999
                                                              -----------   ----------   ----------
                                                                                
Discount rate for obligations .............................       7.625%        7.75%        7.75%
Rate of increase in compensation levels ...................        4.00%        4.00%        5.00%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets ..........        9.00%        9.00%        9.00%




                                      F-15


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     The following provides a reconciliation of the changes in TriMas'
defined-benefit pension plan's projected benefit obligations and fair value of
assets covering foreign employees and union hourly employees for each of the
two years ended December 31, and the funded status as of December 31, 2000 and
2001:






                                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                               2001            2000
                                                                          -------------   -------------
                                                                                    
   CHANGES IN PROJECTED BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS
   Benefit obligations at January 1 ...................................     $ (13,230)      $ (14,020)
    Service costs .....................................................          (540)           (650)
    Interest costs ....................................................          (980)           (980)
    Plan amendments ...................................................          (470)            (70)
    Actuarial gain ....................................................           610           1,450
    Benefit payments ..................................................           630             480
    Change in foreign currency ........................................           160             560
                                                                            ---------       ---------
   Projected benefit obligations at December 31 .......................     $ (13,820)      $ (13,230)
                                                                            =========       =========
   CHANGES IN PLAN ASSETS
   Fair value of plan assets at January 1 .............................     $  14,920       $  14,900
    Actual return on plan assets ......................................        (1,450)           (100)
    Contributions .....................................................         1,610           1,250
    Benefit payments ..................................................          (630)           (480)
    Expenses/Other ....................................................          (200)           (650)
                                                                            ---------       ---------
   Fair value of plan assets at December 31 ...........................     $  14,250       $  14,920
                                                                            =========       =========
   FUNDED STATUS
   Plan assets greater than projected benefits at December 31 .........     $     430       $   1,690
    Unamortized prior-service cost ....................................           400              --
    Unamortized net loss (gain) .......................................         1,980            (110)
                                                                            ---------       ---------
   Net asset recognized at December 31 ................................     $   2,810       $   1,580
                                                                            =========       =========





                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                2001         2000
                                                             ----------   ----------
                                                                    
   COMPONENTS OF THE NET ASSET RECOGNIZED
   Prepaid benefit cost ..................................    $ 2,670      $ 2,470
   Accrued benefit liability .............................       (370)        (780)
   Intangible asset ......................................        440           --
   Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) .........         70         (110)
                                                              -------      -------
   Net asset recognized at December 31 ...................    $ 2,810      $ 1,580
                                                              =======      =======


     Postretirement Benefits. TriMas provides postretirement medical and life
insurance benefits, none of which are funded, for certain of its active and
retired employees. Net periodic postretirement benefit cost includes the
following components:


                                      F-16


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED




                                                                   (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                      2001     2000 SP     2000 LP       1999
                                                     ------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                                                                          
Service cost .....................................    $ 80       $10       $  120      $  150
Interest cost ....................................     310        30          320         320
Net Amortization .................................      --        --         (170)       (160)
                                                      ----       ---       ------      ------
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost .........    $390       $40       $  270      $  310
                                                      ====       ===       ======      ======


     The following provides a reconciliation of the changes in the
postretirement benefit plans' benefit obligations for each of the two years
ended December 31, 2001 and the status as of December 31, 2001 and 2000:






                                                        (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                      2001           2000
                                                  ------------   ------------
                                                           
   CHANGES IN BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS
   Benefit obligations at January 1 ...........     $ (4,140)      $ (4,750)
    Service cost ..............................          (80)          (130)
    Interest cost .............................         (310)          (350)
    Actuarial gain (loss) .....................          (30)           790
    Benefit payments ..........................          320            300
                                                    --------       --------
   Benefit obligations at December 31 .........     $ (4,240)      $ (4,140)
                                                    ========       ========
   STATUS
   Benefit obligations at December 31 .........     $ (4,240)      $ (4,140)
    Unrecognized gain .........................           30             --
                                                    --------       --------
   Net liability at December 31 ...............     $ (4,210)      $ (4,140)
                                                    ========       ========


     The discount rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement
benefit obligation was 7.63 percent in 2001 and 7.75 percent in 2000. The
assumed health care cost trend rate in 2001 was 11 percent, decreasing to an
ultimate rate in 2013 of 5 percent. If the assumed medical cost trend rates
were increased by one percent, the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligations would increase by $0.3 million and the aggregate of the service and
interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit obligations
cost would increase by $24 thousand. If the assumed medical cost trend rates
were decreased by one percent, the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligations would decrease by $0.3 million and the aggregate of the service and
interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost would
decrease by $26 thousand.


15. SEGMENT INFORMATION:

     TriMas' reportable operating segments are business units, each providing
their own unique products and services. Each operating segment is independently
managed, and requires different technology and marketing strategies and has
separate financial information evaluated regularly by the Company's chief
operating decision maker in determining resource allocation and assessing
performance. TriMas has three operating segments involving the manufacture and
sale of the following:

     TRANSPORTATION ACCESSORIES GROUP -- Vehicle hitches and receivers, sway
controls, weight distribution and 5th wheel hitches, hitch mounted accessories,
roof racks, trailer couplers, winches, jacks, trailer brakes and lights and
other vehicle and trailer accessories.

     PACKAGING SYSTEMS GROUP -- Closures and dispensing systems for steel and
plastic industrial and consumer packaging applications.


                                      F-17


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES GROUP -- Large and small diameter standard and
custom-designed ferrous, nonferrous and special alloy fasteners, highly
engineered specialty fasteners for the domestic and international aerospace
industry, flame-retardant facings and jacketing and insulation tapes used in
conjunction with fiberglass insulation, pressure-sensitive specialty tape
products, high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for the transportation,
storage and dispensing of compressed gases, metallic and nonmetallic industrial
gaskets, specialty precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills,
reamers, master gears, gages and punches, specialty engines and service parts
and specialty ordnance components and weapon systems.


     We use Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization
(EBITDA) as an indicator of operating performance and as a measure of cash
generating capabilities. EBITDA is one of the primary measures used by
management to evaluate performance. For purposes of this note, EBITDA is
defined as operating profit before depreciation, amortization and legacy stock
award expense; operating net assets is defined as total assets less current
liabilities.


     Operating net assets for 2001 and 2000 reflect the sale of TriMas'
accounts receivable through the securitization agreement with MTSPC.


Segment activity is as follows:






                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                  2001        2000 SP       2000 LP         1999
                                              -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
                                                                            
SALES
 Transportation Accessories Group .........    $ 264,680     $ 15,390      $ 265,560     $ 265,100
 Packaging Systems Group ..................      105,250        7,680        100,470       114,090
 Industrial Specialties Group .............      362,510       27,570        373,560       393,910
                                               ---------     --------      ---------     ---------
   Total ..................................    $ 732,440     $ 50,640      $ 739,590     $ 773,100
                                               =========     ========      =========     =========
EBITDA
 Transportation Accessories Group .........    $  42,820     $  1,290      $  44,960     $  48,470
 Packaging Systems ........................       33,930        2,180         33,570        39,390
 Industrial Specialties ...................       55,080        2,490         62,060        77,760
 Metaldyne management fee and
   othercorporate expenses ................       (7,170)        (470)        (6,890)       (7,560)
                                               ---------     --------      ---------     ---------
   Total EBITDA ...........................      124,660        5,490        133,700       158,060
 Depreciation & amortization ..............      (53,780)      (4,540)       (38,400)      (38,520)
 Legacy stock award expense ...............       (3,200)          --           (770)         (610)
                                               ---------     --------      ---------     ---------
 Operating profit .........................    $  67,680     $    950      $  94,530     $ 118,930
                                               =========     ========      =========     =========


                                      F-18


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

FINANCIAL SUMMARY BY SEGMENT:






                                                             (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                              DECEMBER 31,
                                              ---------------------------------------------
                                                   2001            2000            1999
                                              -------------   -------------   -------------
                                                                     
OPERATING NET ASSETS
 Transportation Accessories Group .........    $  350,300      $  381,950      $  287,340
 Packaging Systems Group ..................       277,250         272,180         248,280
 Industrial Specialties Group .............       401,710         431,300         613,250
 Corporate ................................       104,390         121,470           6,590
                                               ----------      ----------      ----------
   Total ..................................    $1,133,650      $1,206,900      $1,155,460
                                               ==========      ==========      ==========
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
 Transportation Accessories Group .........    $    5,350      $    9,470      $    9,190
 Packaging Systems Group ..................         3,730           6,640           8,520
 Industrial Specialties Group .............         9,610           6,690          24,610
                                               ----------      ----------      ----------
   Total ..................................    $   18,690      $   22,800      $   42,320
                                               ==========      ==========      ==========





                                                           (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                2001      2000 SP    2000 LP      1999
                                             ----------  ---------  ---------  ---------
                                                                   
DEPRECIATION & AMORTIZATION
 Transportation Accessories Group .........   $17,110     $1,420     $ 7,320    $ 6,590
 Packaging Systems Group ..................    11,470      1,020       4,930      4,990
 Industrial Specialties Group .............    22,600      1,880      14,560     14,820
 Corporate ................................     2,600        220      11,590     12,120
                                              -------     ------     -------    -------
   Total ..................................   $53,780     $4,540     $38,400    $38,520
                                              =======     ======     =======    =======


     The Company's export sales approximated $55.8 million, $53.9 million and
$56.4 million in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.


     The following table presents the TriMas non-United States (US) revenues
for each of the years ended December 31 and operating net assets at each year
ended December 31, attributed to each subsidiary's continent of domicile. There
was no single non-US country for which revenue and net assets were material to
the combined revenues and net assets of TriMas taken as a whole.






                                                         (IN THOUSANDS)
                                       2001                   2000                  1999
                              ---------------------- ---------------------- ---------------------
                                          OPERATING              OPERATING              OPERATING
                                             NET                    NET                    NET
                                 SALES      ASSETS      SALES      ASSETS      SALES     ASSETS
                              ---------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- ----------
                                                                     
Europe ......................  $39,000     $63,000    $38,000    $ 66,000    $44,000    $71,000
Australia ...................   22,000      23,000     23,000      27,000     23,000     14,000
Other North America .........   19,000      13,000     18,000      17,000     12,000      5,000
                               -------     -------    -------    --------    -------    -------
   Total non-US .............  $80,000     $99,000    $79,000    $110,000    $79,000    $90,000
                               =======     =======    =======    ========    =======    =======


                                      F-19


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

16. OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE), NET:






                                              (IN THOUSANDS)
                                 2001        2000 SP      2000 LP       1999
                             -----------   -----------   ---------   ---------
                                                         
Other, net:
 Interest income .........    $    380      $     60      $  650      $  900
 Other, net ..............      (4,380)       (1,260)      2,400         550
                              --------      --------      ------      ------
                              $ (4,000)     $ (1,200)     $3,050      $1,450
                              ========      ========      ======      ======


17. INCOME TAXES:






                                                        (IN THOUSANDS)
                                           2001         2000 SP     2000 LP      1999
                                      -------------  ------------  ---------  ----------
                                                                  
Income (loss) before income taxes:
 Domestic ..........................    $ (17,550)     $ (5,170)    $29,360    $51,580
 Foreign ...........................        8,100           (80)     12,830     13,420
                                        ---------      --------     -------    -------
                                        $  (9,450)     $ (5,250)    $42,190    $65,000
                                        =========      ========     =======    =======
Provision for income taxes (credit):
 Current payable (refundable):
   Federal .........................    $ (10,080)     $ (4,100)    $ 9,650    $14,710
   State and local .................          490           270         710      1,500
   Foreign .........................        2,650           (20)      4,330      5,210
 Deferred:
   Federal .........................        7,880         2,410       5,400      6,940
   Foreign .........................          930           340         820      1,340
                                        ---------      --------     -------    -------
    Income taxes (credit) ..........    $   1,870      $ (1,100)    $20,910    $29,700
                                        =========      ========     =======    =======


     The components of deferred taxes at December 31, 2001 and 2000 are as
follows:






                                                                         (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                      2001             2000
                                                                 --------------   --------------
                                                                            
Deferred tax assets:
 Inventories .................................................     $    1,800       $    2,560
 Accounts receivable .........................................          1,610            1,060
 Accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities .........            580           10,600
Deferred tax liabilities:
 Property and equipment ......................................        (52,800)         (51,460)
 Intangible assets ...........................................       (110,100)        (112,860)
                                                                   ----------       ----------
Net deferred tax liability ...................................     $ (158,910)      $ (150,100)
                                                                   ==========       ==========



                                      F-20


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

     The following is a reconciliation of tax computed at the U.S. federal
statutory rate to the provision for income taxes allocated to income (loss)
before income taxes:






                                                                        (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                         2001         2000 SP      2000 LP        1999
                                                     ------------  ------------  -----------  -----------
                                                                                  
U.S. federal statutory rate .......................          35%           35%          35%          35%
Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate ................    $ (3,310)     $ (1,830)     $14,770     $ 22,750
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit .         330           170          460          970
Higher effective foreign tax rate .................         750           350          660        1,860
Amortization in excess of tax, net ................       3,920           200        4,850        5,220
Other, net ........................................         180            10          170       (1,100)
                                                       --------      --------      -------     --------
 Income taxes .....................................    $  1,870      $ (1,100)     $20,910     $ 29,700
                                                       ========      ========      =======     ========


     Historically, the Company's operations have been included in Metaldyne's
consolidated income tax returns. The provision for income tax expense has been
calculated on a separate return basis. The deferred tax provision is determined
under the liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized
based on differences between the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities
using current enacted tax rates. The provision for income taxes is the sum of
the amount of tax paid or payable for the year as determined by applying the
provisions of enacted tax laws to the taxable income for that year and the net
change during the year in the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities.


     Liabilities for U.S. federal and state income taxes are payable to
Metaldyne. Cash taxes paid with respect to foreign jurisdictions were: $3.5
million in 2001; $4.5 million in 2000 LP, and; $5.3 million in 1999.


     A provision has not been made for U.S. or additional foreign withholding
taxes on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries of $72.1 million at
December 31, 2001, as those earnings are intended to be permanently reinvested.
Generally, such earnings become subject to U.S. tax upon the remittance of
dividends and under certain other circumstances. It is not practical to
estimate the amount of deferred tax liability on such undistributed earnings.


18. SUMMARY QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)






                                             POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                              -----------------------------------------------------
                                      FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001
                              -----------------------------------------------------
                                 FIRST         SECOND        THIRD         FOURTH
                                QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER
                              -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
                                                            
Net sales .................   $199,690      $196,350      $178,970      $157,430
Gross profit ..............     56,140       53,750        47,620        37,520
Net income (loss) .........        380       (1,520)       (3,360)       (6,820)





                                                  FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000
                              ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          POST-ACQUISITION
                                               PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS                           BASIS
                              --------------------------------------------------------   -----------------
                                                                         OCTOBER 1 --      NOVEMBER 28 -
                                 FIRST         SECOND        THIRD       NOVEMBER 27,       DECEMBER 31,
                                QUARTER       QUARTER       QUARTER          2000               2000
                              -----------   -----------   -----------   --------------   -----------------
                                                                          
Net sales .................    $218,030      $217,760      $191,220        $112,580          $ 50,640
Gross profit ..............      70,510        68,650        54,490          31,370            14,150
Net income (loss) .........       9,510         8,780         4,010          (1,020)           (4,150)




                                      F-21


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--CONTINUED

19. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS


     RECAPITALIZATION


     On June 6, 2002, the Company, Metaldyne and Heartland Industrial Partners
("Heartland") entered into a stock purchase agreement under which Heartland and
other investors invested $265 million in the Company to acquire approximately
66% of the Company's common stock on a fully diluted basis. To effect the
transactions contemplated by the stock purchase agreement, the Company also
entered into a senior credit facility consisting of a $150 million revolving
credit facility, a $260 million term loan facility, and a $125 million
receivables securitization facility, and issued senior subordinated debentures
with a face value of $352.8 million. The Company declared and paid a dividend
to Metaldyne of $840 million in the form of cash, retirement of debt owed by
TriMas to Metaldyne or attributed to TriMas under the Metaldyne credit
agreement and repurchase of TriMas originated receivables balances under the
Metaldyne receivables facility. TriMas was released from all obligations under
the Metaldyne credit agreement in connection with the common stock issuance and
related financing transactions. Under the terms of the stock purchase
agreement, Metaldyne retained shares of the Company's common stock valued at
$120 million and received a warrant to purchase 750,000 shares of common stock
at par value of $.01 per share, valued at $15 million. The common stock and
warrants are valued based upon the cash equity investment made by Heartland and
the other investors. Metaldyne currently owns 34% of the Company's common stock
on a fully diluted basis.


     SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINING FINANCIAL INFORMATION


     On June 6, 2002, the Company ("Parent") issued 9 7/8% Senior Subordinated
Notes due 2012 with a total principal face amount of $352.8 million. These
notes are guaranteed by substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries
("Guarantor Subsidiaries"). Our non-domestic subsidiaries and TSPC, Inc. have
not guaranteed the outstanding notes ("Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries"). The
Guarantor Subsidiaries have also guaranteed amounts issued and outstanding
under the Company's Credit Facility, which was also entered into on June 6,
2002.


     The accompanying supplemental guarantor condensed, combining financial
information is presented on the equity method of accounting for all periods.
Under this method, investments in subsidiaries are recorded at cost and
adjusted for the Company's share in the subsidiaries' cumulative results of
operations, capital contributions and distributions and other changes in
equity. Elimination entries relate primarily to the elimination of investments
in subsidiaries and associated intercompany balances and transactions.


                                      F-22


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                            COMBINING BALANCE SHEET
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                    POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2001
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           NON-                       COMBINED
                                                 PARENT    GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                               ---------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------
                                                                                    
                    ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash and cash equivalents ...................  $     --   $    1,940    $  1,840     $       --    $    3,780
 Receivables, trade ..........................        --       19,250      14,990             --        34,240
 Receivable, intercompany ....................        --        1,730       2,200         (3,930)           --
 Inventories .................................        --       85,720      11,090             --        96,810
 Deferred income taxes .......................        --       10,870          --             --        10,870
 Prepaid expenses and otherassets ............        --        4,810       1,360             --         6,170
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total current assets ......................        --      124,320      31,480         (3,930)      151,870
Investment in subsidiaries ...................   521,000       43,000          --       (564,000)           --
Property and equipment, net ..................        --      228,010      26,370             --       254,380
Excess of cost over net assets ofacquired
 companies ...................................        --      476,220      65,650             --       541,870
Intangibles and other assets .................                314,100       3,520                      317,620
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
 Total assets ................................  $521,000   $1,185,650    $127,020     $ (567,930)   $1,265,740
                                                ========   ==========    ========     ==========    ==========
      LIABILITIES AND METALDYNE CORP.
         NET INVESTMENT AND ADVANCES
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable -- trade ...................  $     --   $   38,100    $  8,900     $       --    $   47,000
 Accounts payable -- intercompany ............        --        2,200       1,730         (3,930)           --
 Accrued liabilities .........................        --       51,130       5,060             --        56,190
 Current maturities, long-term debt ..........        --       28,900          --             --        28,900
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total current liabilities .................        --      120,330      15,690         (3,930)      132,090
Long-term debt ...............................        --      411,860          --             --       411,860
Deferred income taxes ........................        --      166,010       3,770             --       169,780
Other long-term liabilities ..................        --       30,470         540             --        31,010
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
 Total liabilities ...........................        --      728,670      20,000         (3,930)      744,740
Metaldyne Corporation net investment
 and advances ................................   521,000      456,980     107,020       (564,000)      521,000
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
Total liabilities and Metaldyne Corporation
 net investment and advances .................  $521,000   $1,185,650    $127,020     $ (567,930)   $1,265,740
                                                ========   ==========    ========     ==========    ==========




                                      F-23


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
              NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                            COMBINING BALANCE SHEET
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                    POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2000
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           NON-                       COMBINED
                                                 PARENT    GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                               ---------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------
                                                                                    
                    ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash and cash equivalents ...................  $     --   $    1,460    $  5,600     $       --    $    7,060
 Receivables, trade ..........................        --       42,810      16,160             --        58,970
 Receivables, intercompany ...................        --        1,790         830         (2,620)           --
 Inventories .................................        --       98,320      13,740             --       112,060
 Deferred income taxes .......................        --       19,310          --             --        19,310
 Prepaid expenses and other assets ...........        --        3,750       1,060             --         4,810
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total current assets ......................        --      167,440      37,390         (2,620)      202,210
Investments in subsidiaries ..................   566,800       50,340          --       (617,140)           --
Property and equipment, net ..................        --      241,240      28,100             --       269,340
Excess of cost over net assets of acquired
 companies ...................................        --      488,720      66,010             --       554,730
Intangibles and other assets .................        --      328,900       2,940             --       331,840
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
 Total assets ................................  $566,800   $1,276,640    $134,440     $ (619,760)   $1,358,120
                                                ========   ==========    ========     ==========    ==========
      LIABILITIES AND METALDYNE CORP.
         NET INVESTMENT AND ADVANCES
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable, trade .....................  $     --   $   39,070    $  8,610     $       --    $   47,680
 Accounts payable, intercompany ..............        --          830       1,790         (2,620)           --
 Accrued liabilities .........................        --       58,430       4,760             --        63,190
 Current maturities, long-term debt ..........        --       28,600      11,750             --        40,350
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total current liabilities .................        --      126,930      26,910         (2,620)      151,220
Long-term debt ...............................        --      432,570          --             --       432,570
Deferred income taxes ........................        --      166,580       2,830             --       169,410
Other long-term liabilities ..................        --       36,930       1,190             --        38,120
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
 Total liabilities ...........................        --      763,010      30,930         (2,620)      791,320
Metaldyne Corporation net investments
 and advances ................................   566,800      513,630     103,510       (617,140)      566,800
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
Total liabilities and Metaldyne Corporation
 net investment and advances .................  $566,800   $1,276,640    $134,440     $ (619,760)   $1,358,120
                                                ========   ==========    ========     ==========    ==========




                                      F-24


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
              NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                    POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                              -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001
                                              -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                            NON-                       COMBINED
                                                 PARENT     GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                              ------------ ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------
                                                                                     
Net sales ...................................  $      --    $  658,680   $  91,730     $ (17,970)    $  732,440
Cost of sales ...............................         --      (491,030)    (64,350)       17,970       (537,410)
                                               ---------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
   Gross profit .............................         --       167,650      27,380            --        195,030
Selling, general and administrative expenses          --      (112,540)    (14,810)           --       (127,350)
                                               ---------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
 Operating profit ...........................         --        55,110      12,570            --         67,680
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense ...........................         --       (71,450)     (1,680)           --        (73,130)
 Other, net .................................         --        (4,150)        150            --         (4,000)
                                               ---------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes (credit)
 and equity in net income (loss) of
 subsidiaries ...............................         --       (20,490)     11,040            --         (9,450)
Income taxes (credit) .......................         --        (2,590)      4,460            --          1,870
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries .    (11,320)        3,590          --         7,730             --
                                               ---------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
 Net income (loss) ..........................  $ (11,320)   $  (14,310)  $   6,580     $   7,730     $  (11,320)
                                               =========    ==========   =========     =========     ==========





                                                                            POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             FOR THE PERIOD NOVEMBER 28, 2000 -- DECEMBER 31, 2000
                                                       -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    NON-                      COMBINED
                                                          PARENT    GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                                       ----------- ------------ ------------ -------------- ------------
                                                                                             
Net sales ............................................  $     --    $  45,030     $ 10,530      $ (4,920)    $  50,640
Cost of sales ........................................        --      (33,180)      (8,230)        4,920       (36,490)
                                                        --------    ---------     --------      --------     ---------
   Gross profit ......................................        --       11,850        2,300            --        14,150
Selling, general and administrative expenses .........        --      (11,650)      (1,550)           --       (13,200)
                                                        --------    ---------     --------      --------     ---------
 Operating profit ....................................        --          200          750            --           950
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense ....................................        --       (4,820)        (180)           --        (5,000)
 Other, net ..........................................        --         (110)      (1,090)           --        (1,200)
                                                        --------    ---------     --------      --------     ---------
Income (loss) before income taxes (credit)
 and equity in net income (loss) of
 subsidiaries ........................................        --       (4,730)        (520)           --        (5,250)
Income taxes (credit) ................................        --       (1,190)          90            --        (1,100)
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries ..........    (4,150)          40           --         4,110            --
                                                        --------    ---------     --------      --------     ---------
 Net income (loss) ...................................  $ (4,150)   $  (3,500)    $   (610)     $  4,110     $  (4,150)
                                                        ========    =========     ========      ========     =========



                                      F-25


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
              NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                         PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2000 -- NOVEMBER 27, 2000
                                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               NON-                       COMBINED
                                                     PARENT    GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                                   ---------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------
                                                                                        
Net sales ........................................  $    --    $  667,060   $  83,770     $ (11,240)    $  739,590
Cost of sales ....................................       --      (472,830)    (52,980)       11,240       (514,570)
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
   Gross profit ..................................       --       194,230      30,790            --        225,020
Selling, general and administrative expenses .....       --      (114,450)    (16,040)           --       (130,490)
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
 Operating profit ................................       --        79,780      14,750            --         94,530
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense ................................       --       (53,230)     (2,160)           --        (55,390)
 Other, net ......................................       --         2,830         220            --          3,050
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
Income before income taxes and equity
 in net income of subsidiaries ...................       --        29,380      12,810            --         42,190
Income taxes .....................................       --        15,600       5,310            --         20,910
Equity in net income of subsidiaries .............   21,280         4,650          --       (25,930)            --
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
 Net income ......................................  $21,280    $   18,430   $   7,500     $ (25,930)    $   21,280
                                                    =======    ==========   =========     =========     ==========





                                                                         PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
                                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               NON-                     CONSOLIDATED
                                                     PARENT    GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                                   ---------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------
                                                                                        
Net sales ........................................  $    --    $  693,340   $ 102,040     $ (22,280)    $  773,100
Cost of sales ....................................       --      (474,710)    (67,180)       22,280       (519,610)
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
   Gross profit ..................................       --       218,630      34,860            --        253,490
Selling, general and administrative expenses .....       --      (116,490)    (18,070)           --       (134,560)
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
 Operating profit ................................       --       102,140      16,790            --        118,930
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense ................................       --       (51,800)     (3,580)           --        (55,380)
 Other, net ......................................       --           570         880            --          1,450
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
Income before income taxes and equity
 in net income of subsidiaries ...................       --        50,910      14,090            --         65,000
Income taxes (credit) ............................       --        22,970       6,730            --         29,700
Equity in net income of subsidiaries .............   35,300         4,190          --       (39,490)            --
                                                    -------    ----------   ---------     ---------     ----------
 Net income ......................................  $35,300    $   32,130   $   7,360     $ (39,490)    $   35,300
                                                    =======    ==========   =========     =========     ==========


                                      F-26


                               TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, (CONTINUED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                        COMBINING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                          POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2001
                                                  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                NON-                          COMBINED
                                                   PARENT     GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                                  --------   ------------   ------------   --------------   ------------
                                                                                             
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net cash provided by operating
   activities .................................    $   --     $  63,000      $  12,980         $   --        $  75,980
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Payment of debt ..............................        --       (20,410)       (11,750)            --          (32,160)
 Decrease in Metaldyne Corporation net
   investment and advances ....................        --       (31,410)        (3,070)            --          (34,480)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for financing activities .....        --       (51,820)       (14,820)            --          (66,640)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Capital expenditures .........................        --       (15,990)        (2,700)            --          (18,690)
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets ...........        --         6,000            780             --            6,780
 Other, net ...................................        --          (710)            --             --             (710)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for investing activities .....        --       (10,700)        (1,920)            --          (12,620)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
Increase (decrease) for the period ............        --           480         (3,760)            --           (3,280)
 At beginning of period .......................        --         1,460          5,600             --            7,060
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   At end of period ...........................    $   --     $   1,940      $   1,840         $   --        $   3,780
                                                   ======     =========      =========         ======        =========



                                      F-27


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)




                                                                          POST-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          FOR THE PERIOD NOVEMBER 28, 2000 -- DECEMBER 31, 2000
                                                  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                NON-                          COMBINED
                                                   PARENT     GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                                  --------   ------------   ------------   --------------   ------------
                                                                                             
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net cash provided by (used for)
   operating activities .......................    $   --     $  21,190       $ (2,480)        $   --        $  18,710
                                                   ------     ---------       --------         ------        ---------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Increase in debt .............................        --            --         11,600             --           11,600
 Decrease in Metaldyne Corporation net
   investment and advances ....................        --       (19,470)        (8,920)            --          (28,390)
                                                   ------     ---------       --------         ------        ---------
   Net cash provided by (used for)
    financing activities ......................        --       (19,470)         2,680             --          (16,790)
                                                   ------     ---------       --------         ------        ---------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Capital expenditures .........................        --        (2,510)          (750)            --           (3,260)
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets ...........        --         1,560            430             --            1,990
 Other, net ...................................        --           (30)            --             --              (30)
                                                   ------     ---------       --------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for investing activities .....        --          (980)          (320)            --           (1,300)
                                                   ------     ---------       --------         ------        ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
Increase (decrease) for the period ............        --           740           (120)            --              620
 At beginning of period .......................        --           720          5,720             --            6,440
                                                   ------     ---------       --------         ------        ---------
   At end of period ...........................    $   --     $   1,460       $  5,600         $   --        $   7,060
                                                   ======     =========       ========         ======        =========




                                      F-28


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)




                                                                          PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                  ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2000 -- NOVEMBER 27, 2000
                                                  ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                NON-                          COMBINED
                                                   PARENT     GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS       TOTAL
                                                  --------   ------------   ------------   --------------   -----------
                                                                                             
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net cash provided by operating activities         $   --     $  93,130      $  20,300         $   --        $ 113,430
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Payment of debt ..............................        --       (26,880)       (32,380)            --          (59,260)
 Increase (decrease) in Metaldyne
   Corporation net investment and
   advances ...................................        --       (35,210)        11,670             --          (23,540)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for financing activities .....        --       (62,090)       (20,710)            --          (82,800)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash
   acquired ...................................        --       (21,130)            --             --          (21,130)
 Capital expenditures .........................        --       (14,840)        (4,700)            --          (19,540)
 Proceeds from notes receivable ...............        --         1,550             --             --            1,550
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets ...........        --           980             20             --            1,000
 Other, net ...................................        --            --          1,510             --            1,510
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for investing activities .....        --       (33,440)        (3,170)            --          (36,610)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
Decrease for the period .......................        --        (2,400)        (3,580)            --           (5,980)
 At beginning of period .......................        --         3,120          9,300             --           12,420
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   At end of period ...........................    $   --     $     720      $   5,720         $   --        $   6,440
                                                   ======     =========      =========         ======        =========



                                      F-29


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONCLUDED)

         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                          PRE-ACQUISITION BASIS
                                                  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
                                                  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                NON-                          COMBINED
                                                   PARENT     GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                                  --------   ------------   ------------   --------------   ------------
                                                                                             
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net cash provided by operating
   activities .................................    $   --     $  45,350      $  10,630         $   --        $  55,980
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Payment of debt ..............................        --        (6,830)       (13,770)            --          (20,600)
 Increase (decrease) in Metaldyne
   Corporation net investment and
   advances ...................................        --        (1,360)         2,550             --            1,190
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for financing activities .....        --        (8,190)       (11,220)            --          (19,410)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash
   acquired ...................................        --            --         (4,070)            --           (4,070)
 Capital expenditures .........................        --       (38,540)        (3,780)            --          (42,320)
 Proceeds from notes receivable ...............        --         2,120             --             --            2,120
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets ...........        --         2,400            280             --            2,680
 Other, net ...................................        --        (3,280)            --             --           (3,280)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   Net cash used for investing activities .....        --       (37,300)        (7,570)            --          (44,870)
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
Increase (decrease) for the period ............        --          (140)        (8,160)            --           (8,300)
 At beginning of period .......................        --         3,260         17,460             --           20,720
                                                   ------     ---------      ---------         ------        ---------
   At end of period ...........................    $   --     $   3,120      $   9,300         $   --        $  12,420
                                                   ======     =========      =========         ======        =========


                                      F-30


                    RESPONSIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     Management is responsible for the fairness and integrity of the Company's
financial statements. In order to meet this responsibility, management
maintains formal policies and procedures that are consistent with high
standards of accounting and administrative practices which are regularly
communicated within the organization. In addition, management maintains a
program of internal auditing within the Company to examine and evaluate the
adequacy and effectiveness of established internal controls as related to
Company policies, procedures and objectives. Management believes that it is
essential for the Company to conduct its business affairs in accordance with
the highest ethical standards, as set forth in the Company's codes of conduct.
These guidelines, translated into numerous languages, are distributed to
employees throughout the world, and reemphasized through internal programs to
assure that they are understood and followed. The accompanying report of the
Company's independent accountants states their opinion on the Company's
financial statements, based on audits conducted in accordance with generally
accepted auditing standards.


                                      F-31


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                                 BALANCE SHEET
                      JUNE 30, 2002 AND DECEMBER 31, 2001
                          (UNAUDITED -- IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                                      COMBINED
                                                                   CONSOLIDATED     DECEMBER 31,
                                                                  JUNE 30, 2002         2001
                                                                 ---------------   -------------
                                                                             
Current assets:
 Cash and cash equivalents ...................................      $   13,220      $    3,780
 Receivables .................................................         126,730          34,240
 Inventories .................................................          93,670          96,810
 Deferred income taxes .......................................           8,760          10,870
 Prepaid expenses and other current assets ...................           7,810           6,170
                                                                    ----------      ----------
   Total current assets ......................................         250,190         151,870
Property and equipment, net ..................................         231,700         254,380
Excess of cost over net assets of acquired companies .........         510,490         541,870
Other intangibles ............................................         292,460         299,490
Other assets .................................................          52,790          18,130
                                                                    ----------      ----------
   Total assets ..............................................      $1,337,630      $1,265,740
                                                                    ==========      ==========
                                LIABILITIES, SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND
                             METALDYNE CORPORATION NET INVESTMENT AND ADVANCES
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable ............................................      $   55,090      $   47,000
 Accrued liabilities .........................................          60,390          56,190
 Current maturities, long-term debt ..........................           1,880          28,900
 Due to Metaldyne ............................................           8,490              --
                                                                    ----------      ----------
   Total current liabilities .................................         125,850         132,090
Long-term debt ...............................................         608,140         411,860
Deferred income taxes ........................................         169,870         169,780
Other long-term liabilities ..................................          34,250          31,010
Due to Metaldyne .............................................           6,460              --
                                                                    ----------      ----------
   Total liabilities .........................................         944,570         744,740
                                                                    ----------      ----------
Preferred stock $.01 par: Authorized 100,000,000 shares;
 Issued and outstanding: None ................................              --              --
Common stock, $.01 par: Authorized 400,000,000 shares;
 Issued and outstanding: 19,250,000 ..........................             190              --
Paid-in capital ..............................................         383,950              --
Retained earnings ............................................           2,090              --
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ................           6,830          (1,320)
Metaldyne Corporation net investment and advances ............              --         522,320
                                                                    ----------      ----------
   Total shareholders' equity and Metaldyne Corporation
    net investment and advances ..............................         393,060         521,000
                                                                    ----------      ----------
   Total liabilities, shareholders' equity and Metaldyne
    Corporation net investment and advances ..................      $1,337,630      $1,265,740
                                                                    ==========      ==========


  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-32


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                            STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 AND 2001
                          (UNAUDITED -- IN THOUSANDS)






                                                               2002             2001
                                                           CONSOLIDATED       COMBINED
                                                          --------------   -------------
                                                                     
Net sales .............................................     $  392,230      $  396,040
Cost of sales .........................................       (273,930)       (286,160)
                                                            ----------      ----------
   Gross profit .......................................        118,300         109,880
Selling, general and administrative expenses ..........        (66,210)        (66,880)
                                                            ----------      ----------
   Operating profit ...................................         52,090          43,000
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense .....................................        (33,100)        (36,940)
 Other, net ...........................................         (3,640)         (4,000)
                                                            ----------      ----------
   Other expense, net .................................        (36,740)        (40,940)
                                                            ----------      ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative effect
 of change in accounting principle ....................         15,350           2,060
Income taxes ..........................................          5,450           3,200
                                                            ----------      ----------
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of change
 in accounting principle ..............................          9,900          (1,140)
Cumulative effect of change in recognition and
 measurement of goodwill impairment ...................        (36,630)             --
                                                            ----------      ----------
 Net income (loss) ....................................     $  (26,730)     $   (1,140)
                                                            ==========      ==========


   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-33


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                            STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 AND 2001
                          (UNAUDITED -- IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                              SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                                             ----------------------------
                                                                                  2002           2001
                                                                             -------------   ------------
                                                                                       
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net income (loss) .......................................................    $  (26,730)     $  (1,140)
 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
   provided by (used for) operating activities: ..........................
 Cumulative effect of accounting change ..................................        36,630             --
 Depreciation and amortization ...........................................        21,930         26,880
 Deferred income taxes ...................................................         2,200          4,380
 Proceeds from accounts receivable securitization ........................        14,560          4,310
 Repurchase of securitized accounts receivable from Metaldyne ............       (74,540)            --
 Payment to Metaldyne to fund contractual liabilities ....................        (8,510)            --
 Increase in receivables .................................................       (32,510)        (9,820)
 Decrease in inventories .................................................         3,140         14,230
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets .................           360           (650)
 Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities .........         8,250         (8,230)
 Other, net ..............................................................        (2,690)          (970)
                                                                              ----------      ---------
   Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities ..................       (57,910)        28,990
                                                                              ----------      ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Capital expenditures ....................................................       (13,590)       (10,430)
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets ......................................                        1,930
                                                                              ----------      ---------
   Net cash used for investing activities ................................       (13,590)        (8,500)
                                                                              ----------      ---------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Net proceeds from issuance of common stock ..............................       259,730             --
 Proceeds from senior credit facility ....................................       260,000             --
 Issuance of senior subordinated debentures ..............................       350,000             --
 Debt issuance costs .....................................................       (28,310)            --
 Repayment of bank debt attributed from Metaldyne ........................      (440,760)       (12,750)
 Dividend to Metaldyne ...................................................      (338,080)            --
 Net increase (decrease) in Metaldyne Corporation net
   investment and advances ...............................................        18,360         (5,710)
                                                                              ----------      ---------
   Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities ..................        80,940        (18,460)
                                                                              ----------      ---------
Cash and cash equivalents:
 Increase for the period .................................................         9,440          2,030
 At beginning of period ..................................................         3,780          7,060
                                                                              ----------      ---------
   At end of period ......................................................    $   13,220      $   9,090
                                                                              ==========      =========


   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-34


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                     STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND
               METALDYNE CORPORATION NET INVESTMENT AND ADVANCES
                    FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002
                          (UNAUDITED -- IN THOUSANDS)






                                            METALDYNE                                         ACCUMULATED
                                               NET                                               OTHER
                                           INVESTMENT     COMMON     PAID-IN     RETAINED    COMPREHENSIVE
                                          AND ADVANCES     STOCK     CAPITAL     EARNINGS       INCOME          TOTAL
                                         --------------  --------  -----------  ----------  --------------  -------------
                                                                                          
Combined balances,
 Decemdber 31, 2001 ...................    $  522,320      $ --     $     --      $   --       $ (1,320)     $  521,000
                                                                                                             ----------
Comprehensive income (loss):
 Net income (loss) ....................       (28,820)                             2,090             --         (26,730)
 Foreign currency translation .........                                                           8,150           8,150
                                                                                                             ----------
 Total comprehensive income (loss).....                                                                         (18,580)
                                                                                                             ----------
Net proceeds from issuance of
 common stock .........................                     130      259,600                                    259,730
Dividend to Metaldyne .................      (338,080)                                                         (338,080)
Net change in Metaldyne net
 investments and advances .............       (31,010)                                                          (31,010)
Reclassification of Metaldyne net
 investment and advances balance ......      (124,410)       60      124,350                                         --
                                           ----------      ----     --------      ------       --------      ----------
Consolidated balances,
 June 30, 2002 ........................    $       --      $190     $383,950      $2,090       $  6,830      $  393,060
                                           ==========      ====     ========      ======       ========      ==========


  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-35


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                         NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

     TriMas Corporation ("TriMas" or the "Company") is a global manufacturer of
products for commercial, industrial, and consumer markets. The Company's
products include: hitches, trailer couplers, winches, jacks, and a complete
line of towing components and vehicle accessories, closures and dispensing
systems for industrial and consumer packaging applications, standard and
custom-designed ferrous, nonferrous and special alloy fasteners,
flame-retardant facings and jacketing and insulation tapes used in conjunction
with fiberglass insulation, pressure-sensitive specialty tape products,
compressed gas cylinders, industrial gaskets, specialty precision tools,
specialty engines and service parts and specialty ordnance component and weapon
systems.

     Prior to June 6, 2002, and the common stock issuance and related financing
transactions discussed in Note 2 below, the accompanying financial statements
represented the combined assets and liabilities and results of operations of
certain subsidiaries and divisions of subsidiaries of Metaldyne Corporation
("Metaldyne") which constitute TriMas. The financial statements include
allocations and estimates of direct and indirect Metaldyne corporate
administrative costs attributable to TriMas. The methods by which such amounts
are attributed or allocated are deemed reasonable by management. Subsequent to
June 6, 2002, the financial position and results of operations of the Company
and its subsidiaries are presented on a consolidated basis and the Company will
no longer file a consolidated tax return with Metaldyne.

     The financial statements presented herein are unaudited, but in the
opinion of management reflect those adjustments, consisting of only normal
recurring items, necessary for a fair presentation of such information. For
interim reporting periods, it is the Company's practice to make an estimate of
the effective tax rate expected to be applicable for the full fiscal year. The
rate so determined is used in providing for income taxes on a year-to-date
basis. Results for interim periods should not be considered indicative of
results for a full year. Reference should be made to the Company's combined
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2001. Certain amounts for
prior periods were reclassified to conform to current period presentation.


2. RECAPITALIZATION

     On June 6, 2002, the Company, Metaldyne and Heartland Industrial Partners
("Heartland") entered into a stock purchase agreement under which Heartland and
other investors invested $265 million in the Company to acquire approximately
66% of the Company's common stock on a fully diluted basis. To effect the
transactions contemplated by the stock purchase agreement, the Company also
entered into a senior credit facility consisting of a $150 million revolving
credit facility, a $260 million term loan facility, and a $125 million
receivables securitization facility, and issued senior subordinated debentures
with a face value of $352.8 million. The Company declared and paid a dividend
to Metaldyne of $840 million in the form of cash, retirement of debt owed by
TriMas to Metaldyne or attributed to TriMas under the Metaldyne credit
agreement and repurchase of TriMas originated receivables balances under the
Metaldyne receivables facility. TriMas was released from all obligations under
the Metaldyne credit agreement in connection with the common stock issuance and
related financing transactions. Under the terms of the stock purchase
agreement, Metaldyne retained shares of the Company's common stock valued at
$120 million and received a warrant to purchase 750,000 shares of common stock
at par value of $.01 per share, valued at $15 million. At June 30, 2002, this
warrant had not been exercised. The common stock and warrants are valued based
upon the cash equity investment made by Heartland and the other investors.
Metaldyne currently owns 34% of the Company's common stock on a fully diluted
basis.

     As Heartland is both the Company's and Metaldyne's controlling
shareholder, this transaction was accounted for as a reorganization of entities
under common control and, accordingly, the Company has not established a new
basis of accounting in its assets or liabilities. Additional adjustments to
paid


                                      F-36


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

in capital related to Metaldyne's investment in the Company at June 30, 2002,
may be recorded in subsequent periods to reflect finalization of certain
estimated amounts at the transaction closing date.


3. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS


     On January 1, 2002, TriMas adopted Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards (SFAS) No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets." This
Statement eliminates amortization of goodwill and certain other intangible
assets, but requires at least annual testing for impairment by comparison of
estimated fair value to carrying value. The Company estimates fair value using
the present value of expected future cash flows and other valuation measures.


     The Company completed the transitional impairment test in the second
quarter of 2002, which resulted in a non-cash, after tax charge of $36.6
million related to the Company's industrial fasteners business within the
Industrial Specialties Group. Sales, operating profits and cash flows for that
business were lower than expected beginning in the first quarter of 2001, and
experienced further deterioration during the remainder of 2001, due to the
overall economic downturn and cyclical declines in certain markets for
industrial fastner products. Based on that trend, the earnings and cash flow
forecasts for the next five years were revised resulting in the goodwill
impairment loss. Consistent with the requirements of Statement 142, as of
January 1, 2002, the Company recognized this impairment charge as part of the
cumulative effect of change in accounting principle during the six months ended
June 30, 2002.


     The gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization for the Company's
acquired intangible assets at June 30, 2002 and December 31, 2001, are
summarized below (in thousands):






                                          AS OF JUNE 30, 2002              AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2001
                                   ---------------------------------   --------------------------------
                                    GROSS CARRYING      ACCUMULATED     GROSS CARRYING     ACCUMULATED
INTANGIBLE CATEGORY                     AMOUNT         AMORTIZATION         AMOUNT         AMORTIZATION
- --------------------------------   ----------------   --------------   ----------------   -------------
                                                                              
Customer relationships .........       $200,490         $ (12,870)         $200,490         $  (8,790)
Trademark/Trade names ..........         54,390            (2,170)           54,390            (1,460)
Technology and other ...........         59,610            (6,990)           59,610            (4,750)
                                       --------         ---------          --------         ---------
                                       $314,490         $ (22,030)         $314,490         $ (15,000)
                                       ========         =========          ========         =========


     Amortization expense for intangibles approximated $7.0 million for the six
months ended June 30, 2002. Estimated amortization expense for the next five
fiscal years beginning December 31, 2002 is $13,900 annually for 2002 through
2005 and $12,100 for 2006.


     Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the six months ended June
30, 2002, are as follows (in thosands):






                                                     TRANSPORTATION     PACKAGING      INDUSTRIAL
                                                       ACCESSORIES       SYSTEMS      SPECIALTIES       TOTAL
                                                    ----------------   -----------   -------------   -----------
                                                                                         
Balance, January 1, 2002 ........................       $228,400        $158,300       $ 155,170      $ 541,870
 Impairment loss ................................             --              --         (36,630)       (36,630)
 Impact of foreign currency translation .........          1,120           4,100              30          5,250
                                                        --------        --------       ---------      ---------
Balance, June 30, 2002 ..........................       $229,520        $162,400       $ 118,570      $ 510,490
                                                        ========        ========       =========      =========




                                      F-37


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

     The following table summarizes the effect on net income of excluding
amortization expense related to goodwill that is no longer being amortized:






                                                        (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                  SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                 ----------------------------
                                                      2002           2001
                                                 -------------   ------------
                                                           
     Net income (loss), as reported ..........     $ (26,730)      $ (1,140)
     Add back: goodwill amortization .........            --          6,790
                                                   ---------       --------
     Net income (loss), as adjusted ..........     $ (26,730)      $  5,650
                                                   =========       ========


4. ACQUISITIONS AND RESTRUCTURINGS

     Following the November 2000 acquisition of Metaldyne by Heartland,
Metaldyne employed a new senior management team for TriMas to reorganize and
restructure the TriMas business units and implement cost savings projects. The
new management team developed and launched six major projects and several
smaller initiatives to consolidate sub-scale business units and redundant
plants and to streamline administrative costs.

     The following table summarizes the purchase accounting adjustments
established to reflect these actions and subsequent related activity:






                                                            (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                 OTHER
                                               SEVERANCE     CLOSURE COSTS       TOTAL
                                              -----------   ---------------   ----------
                                                                     
     Reserve at December 31, 2001 .........    $ 13,210         $3,610         $ 16,820
       Cash ...............................      (1,380)          (280)          (1,660)
       Non-cash ...........................          --             --               --
                                               --------         ------         --------
     Reserve at March 31, 2002 ............      11,830          3,330           15,160
       Cash ...............................      (1,540)           (70)          (1,610)
       Non-cash ...........................          --             --               --
                                               --------         ------         --------
     Reserve at June 30, 2002 .............    $ 10,290         $3,260         $ 13,550
                                               ========         ======         ========


     Approximately 400 jobs have been or will be eliminated as a result of
these restructuring actions. The related severance will be paid through 2004.
Additionally, estimated non-recurring expenses of approximately $4.5 million
and $5.1 million (unaudited) are expected to be incurred in 2002 and 2003
respectively, as these projects are completed. These costs primarily relate to
plant closure costs that do not qualify for expense recognition treatment at
June 30, 2002.


5. LONG-TERM DEBT

     On June 6, 2002, in connection with the issuance of common stock and
related financing transactions, the Company entered into two long-term
financing arrangements. In the first arrangement, the Company issued $352.8
million face value of 9 7/8% senior subordinated notes due 2012 ("Notes"), in a
private placement under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
The Company also entered into a credit facility ("Credit Facility") with a
group of banks consisting of a $260 million senior term loan which matures
December 31, 2009, and is payable in quarterly installments of $0.625 million
beginning December 31, 2002. The Credit Facility also includes a senior
revolving credit facility with a total principal commitment of $150 million,
including up to $100 million for one or more permitted acquisitions, which
matures December 31, 2007. The Credit Agreement allows the Company to issue
letters of credit, not to exceed $40 million in aggregate, against revolving
credit facility commitments. At June 30, 2002, the Company had letters of
credit of approximately


                                      F-38


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

$23.3 million issued and outstanding. The Company pays a commitment fee,
ranging from 0.5% -- 0.75%, with respect to unused principal commitments, net
of letters of credit issued, under the Credit Facility. The obligations under
the Credit Facility are collateralized by substantially all of the Company's
assets and unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed jointly and severally by
TriMas Corporation, the parent company, and each of the borrower's existing and
subsequently acquired or organized domestic subsidiaries, other than TSPC,
Inc., TriMas' receivables subsidiary, pursuant to the terms of a separate
guarantee agreement. Although no foreign subsidiaries are currently borrowers
under the Credit Facility, such entities may borrow under the facility in the
future.

     At December 31, 2001, the bank debt was allocated to TriMas by Metaldyne
and primarily represented that portion of debt that was a joint and several
obligation of Metaldyne and certain subsidiaries of the Company. Other debt
included borrowings by the Company's subsidiaries denominated in foreign
currencies. The interest rate charged by Metaldyne applicable to the bank debt
approximated 81/2 percent at December 31, 2001.

     The Company's long-term debt, net of the unamortized discount of $2.75
million from face value of the Notes at June 30, 2002 and long-term debt
attributed from Metaldyne at December 31, 2001, is summarized below.






                                                                 JUNE 30,     DECEMBER 31,
                                                                   2002           2001
                                                                ----------   -------------
                                                                       
     Bank debt ..............................................    $260,000       $440,600
     9 7/8% Senior subordinated debentures, due 2012 ........     350,020             --
     Other ..................................................          --            160
                                                                 --------       --------
                                                                  610,020        440,760
     Less: Current maturities, long-term debt ...............       1,880         28,900
                                                                 --------       --------
       Long-term debt .......................................    $608,140       $411,860
                                                                 ========       ========


     Borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at the Company's option
at either:

    o A base rate used by JPMorgan Chase Bank, plus an applicable margin, or;

    o A eurocurrency rate on deposits for one, two, three or six month periods
     (or nine or twelve month periods if, at the time of the borrowing, all
     lenders agree to make such a duration available), plus an applicable
     margin.

     The applicable margin on borrowings is subject to change, depending on the
Company's Leverage Ratio, as defined, and is currently 1.75% on base rate
loans, and 2.75% on eurocurrency rate loans.

     The Credit Facility contains negative and affirmative covenants and other
requirements affecting the Company and its subsidiaries, including among
others: restrictions on debt, liens, mergers, investments, loans, advances,
guarantee obligations, acquisitions, asset dispositions, sale-leaseback
transactions, hedging agreements, dividends and other restricted junior
payments, stock repurchases, transactions with affiliates, restrictive
agreements and amendments to charter, by-laws and other material documents. The
Credit Facility also requires us and our subsidiaries to meet certain financial
covenants and ratios computed quarterly, including a leverage ratio, an
interest expense ratio and a capital expenditures covenant. The Company was in
compliance with these covenants at June 30, 2002.

     The Company capitalized debt issuance costs of $13.1 million and $15.2
million associated with the Credit Facility and the Notes, respectively. These
amounts consist primarily of legal, accounting and transaction advisory fees,
and facility fees paid to the lenders. Debt issuance costs and discount on the
Notes are amortized using the interest method over the term of the Credit
Facility and Notes, respectively. Unamortized debt issuance costs of $13.0
million and $15.0 million related to the Credit Facility and Notes,
respectively, are included in Other Assets in the accompanying consolidated
balance sheet at June 30, 2002.


                                      F-39


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

6. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SECURITIZATION


     Metaldyne sells on an ongoing basis, the trade accounts receivable of
substantially all domestic business operations to MTSPC, Inc. ("MTSPC") a
wholly owned subsidiary of Metaldyne. MTSPC from time to time, may sell an
undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool of receivables up to
approximately $225 million to a third party multi-seller receivables funding
company. Prior to June 6, 2002, trade accounts receivable relating to TriMas'
operations were included as part of this agreement. The net proceeds of TriMas'
attributed portion of receivables sold to MTSPC were less than the face amount
of accounts receivable sold by an amount that approximates the purchaser's
financing costs and approximated $2.3 million during the six months ended June
30, 2002. These costs are included in other expense in the statement of
operations. The proceeds from the sale of TriMas' accounts receivable, net for
the six months ended June 30, 2002, was $14.6 million. In connection with the
common stock issuance and related financing transactions that occurred on June
6, 2002, the Company re-purchased $74.5 million of TriMas receivables from
MTSPC, net of its retained subordinated interest of approximately $39.1
million.


     As part of the related financing transactions, TriMas established a
receivables securitization facility and organized TSPC, Inc. ("TSPC"), a
wholly-owned subsidiary to sell trade accounts receivable of substantially all
domestic business operations. TSPC from time to time, may sell an undivided
fractional ownership interest in this pool of receivables up to approximately
$125.0 million to a third party multi-seller receivables funding company. At
June 30, 2002, no receivables have been sold under this arrangement.


7. INVENTORIES


     Inventories by component are as follows:






                                       (IN THOUSANDS)
                                  JUNE 30,     DECEMBER 31,
                                    2002           2001
                                 ----------   -------------
                                        
     Finished goods ..........    $55,460        $59,510
     Work in process .........     12,930         13,470
     Raw materials ...........     25,280         23,830
                                  -------        -------
                                  $93,670        $96,810
                                  =======        =======


8. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET


     Property and equipment, net reflects accumulated depreciation of $40.6
million and $28.2 million as of June 30, 2002 and December 31, 2001,
respectively.


                                      F-40


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

9. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME


     The Company's total comprehensive income consists of:






                                                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                 SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                                     JUNE 30,
                                                           ----------------------------
                                                                2002           2001
                                                           -------------   ------------
                                                                     
     Net income (loss), as reported ....................     $ (26,730)      $ (1,140)
     Foreign currency translationincome (loss) .........         8,150         (3,990)
                                                             ---------       --------
       Total comprehensive income (loss) ...............     $ (18,580)      $ (5,130)
                                                             =========       ========


10. SEGMENT INFORMATION


     TriMas' reportable operating segments are business units, each providing
their own unique products and services. Each operating segment is independently
managed, and requires different technology and marketing strategies and has
separate financial information evaluated regularly by the Company's chief
operating decision maker in determining resource allocation and assessing
performance. TriMas has three operating segments involving the manufacture and
sale of the following:


     TRANSPORTATION ACCESSORIES GROUP -- Vehicle hitches and receivers, sway
controls, weight distribution and 5th wheel hitches, hitch mounted accessories,
roof racks, trailer couplers, winches, jacks, trailer brakes and lights and
other vehicle and trailer accessories.


     PACKAGING SYSTEMS GROUP -- Closures and dispensing systems for steel and
plastic industrial and consumer packaging applications.


     INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES GROUP -- Large and small diameter standard and
custom-designed ferrous, nonferrous and special alloy fasteners, highly
engineered specialty fasteners for the domestic and international aerospace
industry, flame-retardant facings and jacketing and insulation tapes used in
conjunction with fiberglass insulation, pressure-sensitive specialty tape
products, high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for the transportation,
storage and dispensing of compressed gases, metallic and nonmetallic industrial
gaskets, specialty precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills,
reamers, master gears, gages and punches, specialty engines and service parts
and specialty ordnance components and weapon systems.


     The Company has established Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation
and Amortization ("EBITDA") as an indicator of operating performance and as a
measure of cash generating capabilities. EBITDA is one of the primary measures
used by management to evaluate performance. For purposes of this note, EBITDA
is defined as operating profit before depreciation, amortization and legacy
stock award expense.


                                      F-41


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)




                                                                       (IN THOUSANDS)
                                                                      SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                                          JUNE 30,
                                                                  -------------------------
                             SALES                                    2002          2001
                             -----                                -----------   -----------
                                                                          
Transportation Accessories Group ..............................    $ 163,230     $ 151,660
Packaging Systems Group .......................................       54,680        52,570
Industrial Specialties Group ..................................      174,320       191,810
                                                                   ---------     ---------
 Total ........................................................    $ 392,230     $ 396,040
                                                                   =========     =========
                         EBITDA
                         ------
Transportation Accessories Group ..............................    $  33,520     $  27,460
Packaging Systems Group .......................................       19,620        17,010
Industrial Specialties Group ..................................       26,550        31,370
Metaldyne management fee and other corporate expenses .........       (3,950)       (4,360)
                                                                   ---------     ---------
   Total EBITDA ...............................................       75,740        71,480
 Depreciation & amortization ..................................      (21,930)      (26,880)
 Legacy stock award expense ...................................       (1,720)       (1,600)
                                                                   ---------     ---------
   Operating profit ...........................................    $  52,090     $  43,000
                                                                   =========     =========


11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

     The Company is subject to claims and litigation in the ordinary course of
business, but does not believe that any such claim or litigation will have a
material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of
operations.

     At June 30, 2002, the Company is party to approximately 455 pending cases
involving approximately 6,371 claimants alleging personal injury from exposure
to asbestos containing materials formerly used in gaskets (both encapsulated
and otherwise) manufactured or distributed by certain of our subsidiaries for
use in the petrochemical refining and exploration industries. The Company
manufactured three types of gaskets and has ceased the use of asbestos in its
products. We believe that many of our pending cases relate to locations which
none of our gaskets were distributed or used. In addition, we acquired various
companies to distribute our products that distributed gaskets of other
manufacturers prior to acquisition. Approximately 547 cases involving 3,284
claimants (which are not included in the pending cases noted above) have been
either dismissed for lack of product identification or otherwise or been
settled or made subject to agreements to settle. Our total settlement costs for
all such cases, some of which were filed over 12 years ago, have been
approximately $1.9 million. Based upon our experience to date and other
available information, we do not believe that these cases will have a material
adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. However, we
cannot assure you that we will not be subjected to significant additional
claims in the future, that the cost of settling cases in which product
identification can be made will not increase or that we will not be subjected
to further claims with respect to the former activities of our acquired gasket
distributors.

     The Company has provided accruals based upon our present knowledge and
subject to future legal and factual developments, we do not believe that any of
these litigations will have a material adverse effect on our combined financial
position, results of operations or cash flow, there can be no assurance that
future legal and factual developments will not result in materially adverse
expenditures.

12. RELATED PARTIES

 Metaldyne Corporation

     In connection with the common stock issuance and related financing
transactions, TriMas assumed certain liabilities and obligations of Metaldyne.
These amounts approximated $23.5 million at June 6,


                                      F-42


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

2002 and a payment of $8.5 million was made prior to June 30, 2002. The
remaining assumed liabilities, which approximate $15.0 million, are payable at
various dates over the next two years and are reported as Due to Metaldyne in
the accompanying balance sheet at June 30, 2002.

     Effective June 6, 2002, the Company also entered into a corporate services
agreement with Metaldyne. Under the terms of the agreement, TriMas will pay
Metaldyne an annual services fee of $2.5 million in exchange for human
resources, information technology, treasury, audit, internal audit, tax, legal
and other general corporate services. To the extent TriMas directly incurs
costs related to items covered by the agreement, the $2.5 million fee will be
reduced accordingly.

     Net investment and advances reflected the accumulation of transactions
between TriMas and Metaldyne through June 6, 2002. These transactions included
operating results, management fees and advances, as discussed below.

   -- TriMas was charged a management fee by Metaldyne for various corporate
      support staff and administrative services. Such fees approximated one
      percent of net sales and amounted to $3.3 million and $4.0 million for
      the six months ended June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively.

   -- Certain of TriMas' employee benefit plans and insurance coverages are
      administered by Metaldyne. These costs as well as other costs incurred on
      TriMas' behalf were charged directly to TriMas.

   -- TriMas was also charged interest expense at various rates on the debt
      attributed to TriMas from Metaldyne and on the outstanding advance
      balance from Metaldyne. These charges aggregated $29.4 million and $36.9
      million for the six months ended June 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
      The related advances were included in the Metaldyne Corporation net
      investment and advances balances in the accompanying combined balance
      sheet. As a result of the Company's recapitalization completed during the
      second quarter of 2002, Metaldyne's net investment and advances balance
      at June 6, 2002, net of the cash dividend paid, was reclassified to
      paid-in-capital in the statement of shareholders' equity within the
      accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2002.

     In connection with the common stock issuance and related financing
transactions, TriMas paid Heartland transaction advisory fees of $9.8 million.
Of this amount, approximately $3.9 million related to equity transaction costs
and were netted against proceeds of the common stock issuance recorded in paid
in capital in the accompanying balance sheet. Approximately $5.9 million
related to costs incurred in connection with the Notes issuance and obtaining
the Credit Facility. These amounts were capitalized as debt issuance costs
related to these financing transactions and included in other assets in the
accompanying balance sheet. The Company also entered into an advisory services
agreement with Heartland at an annual fee of $4.0 million.


13. CAPITALIZED LEASE ARRANGEMENT

     In the first quarter 2002, as part of financing arranged by Metaldyne and
Heartland, the Company entered into sale/leaseback arrangements with a
third-party lender for certain facilities utilized by the Company. The proceeds
from these transactions were applied against the Metaldyne Corporation net
investment and advance balance. Metaldyne provided the third-party lender with
a guarantee of the Company's lease obligations. As a result, these lease
arrangements were accounted for as capitalized leases and lease obligations
approximating $19 million at March 31, 2002, were recorded in long-term debt.

     As a result of the recapitalization and related financing transactions
completed during the second quarter of 2002, Metaldyne no longer guarantees the
Company's lease obligations with the third party lender. Subsequent to June 6,
2002, the Company accounts for these lease transactions as operating leases.
During the quarter ended June 30, 2002, the Company eliminated the capitalized
lease


                                      F-43


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

obligation and related capitalized lease assets previously recorded. The lease
term continues until 2021 and requires annual lease payments of approximately
$2.5 million per year.


14. IMPACT OF NEWLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS


     In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") approved
the issuance of SFAS 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations", which
is effective January 1, 2003. SFAS 143 requires that an existing legal
obligation associated with the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset be
recognized as a liability when incurred and the amount of the liability be
initially measured at fair value. The Company is currently reviewing the
provisions of SFAS 143 and assessing the impact of adoption.


     On January 1, 2002, TriMas adopted SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." Under SFAS No. 144, a single
accounting method was established for long-lived assets to be disposed of. This
Standard requires the Company to recognize an impairment loss only if the
carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable from its undiscounted
cash flows, with the loss being the difference between the asset carrying
amount and fair value. Adoption of this Standard did not impact the Company's
financial statements.


     In July 2002, the FASB approved the issuance of SFAS 146, "Accounting for
Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities." The provisions of Statement
146 are to be applied prospectively to exit or disposal activities initiated
after December 31, 2002. The standard requires companies to recognize costs
associated with exit or disposal activities when they are incurred rather than
at the date of a commitment to an exit or disposal plan.


15. SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINING AND CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL
    INFORMATION


     On June 6, 2002, TriMas Corporation, the parent company ("Parent"), issued
9 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012 in a total principal amount of $352.8
million. These notes are guaranteed by substantially all of the Company's
domestic subsidiaries ("Guarantor Subsidiaries"). The Company's non-domestic
subsidiaries and TSPC, Inc. have not guaranteed the Notes ("Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries"). The Guarantor Subsidiaries have also guaranteed amounts
outstanding under the Company's Credit Facility.


     The accompanying supplemental guarantor condensed, combining or
consolidating financial information is presented on the equity method of
accounting for all periods presented. Under this method, investments in
subsidiaries are recorded at cost and adjusted for the Company's share in the
subsidiaries' cumulative results of operations, capital contributions and
distributions and other changes in equity. Elimination entries relate primarily
to the elimination of investments in subsidiaries and associated intercompany
balances and transactions.


     Prior to June 6, 2002, the Parent held equity investments directly in
certain of the Company's wholly-owned Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries, and equity in
these investees are included in the Parent column of the accompanying condensed
combining financial information for all periods presented. Subsequent to June
6, 2002, all investments in non-domestic subsidiaries are held directly at
TriMas Company LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of TriMas Corporation and
Guarantor Subsidiary, and at June 30 2002, equity in non-domestic subsidiary
investees is included in the Guarantor Subsidiary column of the accompanying
consolidating financial information.


                                      F-44


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


       SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                          CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                     AS OF JUNE 30, 2002 (UNAUDITED)
                                                -------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                NON-                         CONSOLIDATED
                                                  PARENT      GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                                ----------   ------------   ------------   --------------   -------------
                                                                                             
                    ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash and cash equivalents ..................    $     --    $    5,870       $  7,350       $       --      $   13,220
 Receivables, trade .........................          --       102,740         23,990               --         126,730
 Receivables, intercompany ..................          --         5,230          2,410           (7,640)             --
 Inventories ................................          --        82,400         11,270               --          93,670
 Deferred income taxes ......................          --         8,760             --               --           8,760
 Prepaid expenses and other assets ..........          --         6,810          1,000               --           7,810
                                                 --------    ----------       --------       ----------      ----------
   Total current assets .....................          --       211,810         46,020           (7,640)        250,190
Investment in subsidiaries ..................     730,640       124,380             --         (855,020)             --
Property and equipment, net .................          --       202,550         29,150               --         231,700
Excess of cost over net assets of
 acquired companies .........................          --       437,280         73,210               --         510,490
Other intangibles ...........................          --       291,470            990               --         292,460
Other assets ................................      15,030        34,430          3,330               --          52,790
                                                 --------    ----------       --------       ----------      ----------
   Total assets .............................    $745,670    $1,301,920       $152,700       $ (862,660)     $1,337,630
                                                 ========    ==========       ========       ==========      ==========
              LIABILITIES AND
          SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable, trade ....................    $     --    $   44,000       $ 11,090       $       --      $   55,090
 Accounts payable, intercompany .............          --         2,410          5,230           (7,640)             --
 Accrued liabilities ........................       2,590        49,940          7,860               --          60,390
 Current maturities, long-term debt .........          --         1,880             --               --           1,880
 Due to Metaldyne ...........................                     8,490                                           8,490
                                                             ----------                                      ----------
   Total current liabilities ................       2,590       106,720         24,180           (7,640)        125,850
Long-term debt ..............................     350,020       258,120             --               --         608,140
Deferred income taxes .......................          --       166,100          3,770               --         169,870
Other long-term liabilities .................          --        33,880            370               --          34,250
Due to Metaldyne ............................          --         6,460             --                            6,460
                                                 --------    ----------       --------       ----------      ----------
   Total liabilities ........................     352,610       571,280         28,320           (7,640)        944,570
Total shareholders' equity ..................     393,060       730,640        124,380         (855,020)        393,060
                                                 --------    ----------       --------       ----------      ----------
   Total liabilities and
    shareholders' equity ....................    $745,670    $1,301,920       $152,700       $ (862,660)     $1,337,630
                                                 ========    ==========       ========       ==========      ==========




                                      F-45


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                            COMBINING BALANCE SHEET
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                    AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2001
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           NON-                       COMBINED
                                                 PARENT    GUARANTORS   GUARANTORS   ELIMINATIONS      TOTAL
                                               ---------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------
                                                                                    
                   ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash and cash equivalents ...................  $     --   $    1,940    $  1,840     $       --    $    3,780
 Receivables, trade ..........................        --       19,250      14,990             --        34,240
 Receivables, intercompany ...................        --        1,730       2,200         (3,930)           --
 Inventories .................................        --       85,720      11,090             --        96,810
 Deferred income taxes .......................        --       10,870          --             --        10,870
 Prepaid expenses and other assets ...........        --        4,810       1,360             --         6,170
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total current assets ......................        --      124,320      31,480         (3,930)      151,870
Investment in subsidiaries ...................   521,000       43,000          --       (564,000)           --
Property and equipment, net ..................        --      228,010      26,370             --       254,380
Excess of cost over net assets of acquired
 companies ...................................        --      476,220      65,650             --       541,870
Other intangibles ............................                299,250         240                      299,490
Other assets .................................        --       14,850       3,280             --        18,130
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total assets ..............................  $521,000   $1,185,650    $127,020     $ (567,930)   $1,265,740
                                                ========   ==========    ========     ==========    ==========
          LIABILITIES AND METALDYNE
         CORPORATION NET INVESTMENT
                   AND ADVANCES
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable, trade .....................  $     --   $   38,100    $  8,900     $       --    $   47,000
 Accounts payable, intercompany ..............        --        2,200       1,730         (3,930)           --
 Accrued liabilities .........................        --       51,130       5,060             --        56,190
 Current maturities, long-term debt ..........        --       28,900          --             --        28,900
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total current liabilities .................        --      120,330      15,690         (3,930)      132,090
Long-term debt ...............................        --      411,860          --             --       411,860
Deferred income taxes ........................        --      166,010       3,770             --       169,780
Other long-term liabilities ..................        --       30,470         540             --        31,010
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
   Total liabilities .........................        --      728,670      20,000         (3,930)      744,740
Metaldyne Corporation net investment and
 advances ....................................   521,000      456,980     107,020       (564,000)      521,000
                                                --------   ----------    --------     ----------    ----------
 Total liabilities and Metaldyne
   Corporation net investment and
   advances ..................................  $521,000   $1,185,650    $127,020     $ (567,930)   $1,265,740
                                                ========   ==========    ========     ==========    ==========




                                      F-46


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


       SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                     CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                            FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 (UNAUDITED)
                                               ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  NON-                         CONSOLIDATED
                                                   PARENT       GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                               -------------   ------------   ------------   --------------   -------------
                                                                                               
Net sales ..................................     $      --      $  348,010     $  52,940        $ (8,720)      $  392,230
Cost of sales ..............................            --        (246,750)      (35,900)          8,720         (273,930)
                                                 ---------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
 Gross profit ..............................            --         101,260        17,040              --          118,300
Selling general and administrative
 expenses ..................................            --         (58,520)       (7,690)             --          (66,210)
                                                 ---------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
 Operating profit ..........................            --          42,740         9,350              --           52,090
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense ..........................        (2,580)        (30,520)           --              --          (33,100)
 Other, net ................................            --          (2,080)       (1,560)             --           (3,640)
                                                 ---------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes
 (credit), equity in net income (loss) of
 subsidiaries, and cumulative effect of
 change in accounting principle ............        (2,580)         10,140         7,790              --           15,350
Income taxes (credit) ......................          (930)          3,580         2,800              --            5,450
Equity in net income (loss) of
 subsidiaries ..............................       (25,080)          3,940            --          21,140               --
                                                 ---------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
Income (loss) before cumulative effect
 of change in accounting principle .........       (26,730)         10,500         4,990          21,140            9,900
Cumulative effect of change in
 accounting principle ......................            --         (36,630)           --              --          (36,630)
                                                 ---------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
Net income (loss) ..........................     $ (26,730)     $  (26,130)    $   4,990        $ 21,140       $  (26,730)
                                                 =========      ==========     =========        ========       ==========




                                      F-47


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                 FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2001 (UNAUDITED)
                                     --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      NON-                           COMBINED
                                        PARENT      GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                     -----------   ------------   ------------   --------------   -------------
                                                                                   
Net sales ........................    $     --      $  353,590     $  48,630        $ (6,180)      $  396,040
Cost of sales ....................          --        (258,360)      (33,980)          6,180         (286,160)
                                      --------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
 Gross profit ....................          --          95,230        14,650              --          109,880
Selling general and administrative
 expenses ........................          --         (58,520)       (8,360)             --          (66,880)
                                      --------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
 Operating profit ................          --          36,710         6,290              --           43,000
Other income (expense), net:
 Interest expense ................          --         (36,100)         (840)             --          (36,940)
 Other, net ......................          --          (3,940)          (60)             --           (4,000)
                                      --------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes
 (credit) and equity in net income
 (loss) of subsidiaries ..........          --          (3,330)        5,390              --            2,060
Income taxes (credit) ............          --             910         2,290              --            3,200
Equity in net income (loss) of
 subsidiaries ....................      (1,140)          2,020            --            (880)              --
                                      --------      ----------     ---------        --------       ----------
 Net income (loss) ...............    $ (1,140)     $   (2,220)    $   3,100        $   (880)      $   (1,140)
                                      ========      ==========     =========        ========       ==========




                                      F-48


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


       SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                     CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                                FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2002 (UNAUDITED)
                                                    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                      NON-                         CONSOLIDATED
                                                       PARENT       GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                                    ------------   ------------   ------------   --------------   -------------
                                                                                                   
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net cash provided by (used for)
   operating activities .........................    $    3,860     $  (65,420)     $  3,650           $--         $  (57,910)
                                                     ----------     ----------      --------           ---         ----------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Net proceeds from issuance of
   common stock .................................       259,730             --            --            --            259,730
 Increase in debt ...............................       350,000        260,000            --            --            610,000
 Debt issuance costs ............................       (15,160)       (13,150)           --            --            (28,310)
 Payment of debt ................................            --       (440,760)           --            --           (440,760)
 Dividend to Metaldyne Corporation ..............      (338,080)            --            --            --           (338,080)
 Intercompany transfers (to) from
   subsidiary ...................................      (260,790)       260,790            --            --                 --
 Increase in Metaldyne Corporation
   net investments and advances .................           440         13,240         4,680            --             18,360
                                                     ----------     ----------      --------           ---         ----------
 Net cash provided by (used
   for)financing activities .....................        (3,860)        80,120         4,680            --             80,940
                                                     ----------     ----------      --------           ---         ----------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Capital expenditures ...........................            --        (10,770)       (2,820)           --            (13,590)
                                                     ----------     ----------      --------           ---         ----------
 Net cash used for investing activities .........            --        (10,770)       (2,820)           --            (13,590)
                                                     ----------     ----------      --------           ---         ----------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
 Increase for the period ........................            --          3,930         5,510            --              9,440
 At beginning of period .........................            --          1,940         1,840                            3,780
                                                     ----------     ----------      --------           ---         ----------
 At end of period ...............................    $       --     $    5,870      $  7,350           $           $   13,220
                                                     ==========     ==========      ========           ===         ==========


                                      F-49


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION
                   NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONCLUDED)


         SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                       COMBINING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                (IN THOUSANDS)






                                                              FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2001 (UNAUDITED)
                                                    ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  NON-                          COMBINED
                                                     PARENT     GUARANTORS     GUARANTORS     ELIMINATIONS        TOTAL
                                                    --------   ------------   ------------   --------------   ------------
                                                                                               
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 Net cash provided by (used
   for)operating activities .....................      $--      $  34,260       $ (5,270)          $--         $  28,990
                                                       ---      ---------       --------           ---         ---------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 Payment of debt ................................       --        (12,750)            --            --           (12,750)
 Increase (decrease) in Metaldyne
   Corporation net investment and
   advances .....................................       --        (12,360)         6,650            --            (5,710)
                                                       ---      ---------       --------           ---         ---------
 Net cash provided by (used
   for)financing activities .....................       --        (25,110)         6,650            --           (18,460)
                                                       ---      ---------       --------           ---         ---------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 Capital expenditures ...........................       --         (9,250)        (1,180)           --           (10,430)
 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets .............       --          1,480            450            --             1,930
                                                       ---      ---------       --------           ---         ---------
 Net cash used for investing activities .........       --         (7,770)          (730)           --            (8,500)
                                                       ---      ---------       --------           ---         ---------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
 Increase for the period ........................       --          1,380            650            --             2,030
 At beginning of period .........................       --          1,460          5,600            --             7,060
                                                       ---      ---------       --------           ---         ---------
 At end of period ...............................      $--      $   2,840       $  6,250           $--         $   9,090
                                                       ===      =========       ========           ===         =========


                                      F-50


        , 2002                                                      CONFIDENTIAL


                              TRIMAS CORPORATION


                                 $352,773,000
                           9 7/8 SENIOR NOTES DUE 2012
                             ---------------------
                                   PROSPECTUS
                             ---------------------
     WE HAVE NOT AUTHORIZED ANY DEALER, SALESPERSON OR OTHER PERSON TO GIVE YOU
WRITTEN INFORMATION OTHER THAN THIS PROSPECTUS OR TO MAKE REPRESENTATIONS AS TO
MATTERS NOT STATED IN THIS PROSPECTUS. YOU MUST NOT RELY ON UNAUTHORIZED
INFORMATION. THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THESE SECURITIES OR OUR
SOLICITATION OF YOUR OFFER TO BUY THE SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE THAT
WOULD NOT BE PERMITTED OR LEGAL. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR
ANY SALES MADE HEREUNDER AFTER THE DATE OF THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL CREATE AN
IMPLICATION THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN OR OUR AFFAIRS HAVE NOT
CHANGED SINCE THE DATE HEREOF.


                                    PART II
                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS


ITEM 20. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS


     Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware empowers us to
indemnify, subject to the standards therein prescribed, any person in
connection with any action, suit or proceeding brought or threatened by reason
of the fact that such person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent
of TriMas or is or was serving as such with respect to another corporation or
other entity at our request. Article 11 of our certificate of incorporation
provides that each person who was or is made a party to (or is threatened to be
made a party to) or is otherwise involved in any threatened, pending or
completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative
or investigative, by reason of the fact that such person is or was one of our
directors or officers shall be indemnified and held harmless by us to the
fullest extent authorized by the General Corporation Law of Delaware against
all expenses, liability and loss (including without limitation attorneys' fees,
judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement) reasonably incurred by such
person in connection therewith. The rights conferred by Article 11 are
contractual rights and include the right to be paid by us the expenses incurred
in defending such action, suit or proceeding in advance of the final
disposition thereof.


     Article 10 of our certificate of incorporation provides that our directors
will not be personally liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages
resulting from breaches of their fiduciary duty as directors except (a) for any
breach of the duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders, (b) for acts or
omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a
knowing violation of law, (c) under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law
of Delaware, which makes directors liable for unlawful dividends or unlawful
stock repurchases or redemptions, or (d) for transactions from which a director
derives improper personal benefit.


     Our directors and officers are covered by insurance policies indemnifying
them against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the federal
securities laws (other than liability under Section 16(b) of the 1934 Act),
which might be incurred by them in such capacities.


                                      II-1


ITEM 21. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

     (A) EXHIBITS

         (1) Financial Statement Schedule

                Financial Statement Schedule of the Company appended hereto, as
                required for the year ended December 31, 2001, the period from
                November 28, 2000 to December 31, 2000, the period from January
                1, 2000 to November 27, 2000 and the year ended December 31,
                1999, consists of the following: Valuation and Qualifying
                Accounts.

         (2) Exhibits






EXHIBIT NO.   DESCRIPTION
- ------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           
        3(i)  Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
        3(ii) Bylaws of the Company.
       4.1    Indenture relating to the notes, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TriMas
              Corporation, each of the Guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York as
              trustee.
       4.2    Form of note (included in Exhibit 4.1).
       4.3    Registration Rights Agreement relating to the notes dated as of June 6, 2002 by and
              among TriMas Corporation and the parties named therein.
       5.1    Opinion of Cahill Gordon & Reindel regarding the legality of securities being registered.*
      10.1    Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of May 17, 2002 by and among Heartland Industrial
              Partners, L.P., TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.
      10.2    Shareholders Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002 by and among TriMas Corporation,
              Metaldyne Company LLC, certain Heartland entities listed therein and the other
              shareholders named therein or added as parties from time to time.
      10.3    Warrant issued to Metaldyne Corporation dated as of June 6, 2002.
      10.4    Credit Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, amount TriMas Corporation, TriMas
              Company LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent,
              CSFB Cayman Island Bank, as Syndication Agent, Comerica Bank, National City Bank
              and Wachovia Bank, National Association as Documentation Agents and J.P. Morgan
              Securities Inc. and Credit Suisse First Boston, as Arrangers.
      10.5    Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TriMas
              Corporation, the Sellers party thereto and TSPC, Inc., as Purchaser.
      10.6    Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TSPC, Inc., as
              Transferor, TriMas Corporation, individually, as Collection Agent, TriMas Company LLC,
              individually as Guarantor, the CP Conduit Purchasers, Committed Purchasers and Funding
              Agents party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank as Administrative Agent.
      10.7    Corporate Services Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, between Metaldyne Corporation
              and TriMas Corporation.
      10.8    Lease Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated as of June 21, 2002, by and among
              Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C., TriMas Company LLC and the Guarantors named
              therein.
      10.9    TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan
       12     Statement regarding computation of ratios
       21     Subsidiaries of the Registrant
      23.1    Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
      23.2    Consent of Cahill Gordon & Reindel (included in Exhibit 5.1)*
      24.1    Power of Attorney (included in the signature pages to this Registration Statement)
      25.1    Statement Regarding eligibility of Trustee on Form T-1
      99.1    Form of Letter of Transmittal
      99.2    Form of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery


- ----------
*     To be filed by amendment.


                                      II-2


ITEM 22. UNDERTAKINGS


     (a) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise,
the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and
Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed
in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in
the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of approximate jurisdiction the question of
whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the
Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.


     (b) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests
for information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant
to items 4, 10(b), 11, or 13 of this Form, within one business day of receipt
of such request, and to send the incorporating documents by first class mail or
other equally prompt means. This includes information contained in the
documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the registration statement
through the date of responding to the request.


     (c) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes to supply by means of a
post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the
company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the registration statement when it became effective.


     (d) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:


     (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a
   post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:


         (i) To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the
Securities Act.


         (ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after
       the effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most recent
       post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the
       aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth
       in the Registration Statement.


         (iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan of
       distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement or
       any material change to such information in the Registration Statement.


     (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
   Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a
   new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and
   the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the
   initial bona fide offering thereof.


     (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment
   any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
   termination of the offering.


                                      II-3


                                   SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        TRIMAS CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Chief Financial Officer and
                                                   Executive Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY

     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






          SIGNATURE                             TITLE                       DATE
- -----------------------------   ------------------------------------   --------------
                                                                 
       /s/ Grant H. Beard       President and Director (Principal      October 4, 2002
 ------------------------       Executive Officer)
           Grant H. Beard

       /s/ Todd R. Peters       Executive Vice President and Chief     October 4, 2002
 ------------------------       Financial Officer
          Todd R. Peters

        /s/ Gary M. Banks       Director                               October 4, 2002
 ------------------------
          Gary M. Banks

     /s/ Charles E. Becker      Director                               October 4, 2002
 ------------------------
        Charles E. Becker

   /s/ Timothy D. Leuliette     Director                               October 4, 2002
 --------------------------
      Timothy D. Leuliette

   /s/ W. Gerald McConnell      Director                               October 4, 2002
 -------------------------
      W. Gerald McConnell

     /s/ David A. Stockman      Director                               October 4, 2002
 -------------------------
        David A. Stockman

     /s/ Daniel P. Tredwell     Director                               October 4, 2002
 --------------------------
       Daniel P. Tredwell

     /s/ Samuel Valenti III     Director                               October 4, 2002
 --------------------------
       Samuel Valenti III



                                      S-1


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        ARROW ENGINE COMPANY


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)




                                      S-2


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        BEAUMONT BOLT & GASKET, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
    /s/ RICHARD S. OWEN      President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------      Executive Officer)
        Richard S. Owen

     /s/ LAURA PECORARO      Treasurer and Director                October 4, 2002
 -----------------------
        Laura Pecoraro



                                      S-3


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        COMMONWEALTH DISPOSITION LLC


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   --------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------      Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-4


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        COMPAC CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   --------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------      Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-5


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   --------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
         Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
        Todd R. Peters       Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-6


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        CUYAM CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-7


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        DI-RITE COMPANY


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)

       Grant H. Beard
      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-8


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        DRAW-TITE, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-9


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        ENTEGRA FASTENER CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-10


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        FULTON PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, INC.

                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-11


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        HITCH `N POST, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-12


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        INDUSTRIAL BOLT & GASKET, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
    /s/ RICHARD S. OWEN      President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
        Richard S. Owen

     /s/ LAURA PECORARO      Treasurer and Director                October 4, 2002
 -----------------------
         Laura Pecoraro



                                      S-13


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        KEO CUTTERS, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                       TITLE                    DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------   --------------
                                                       
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director          October 4, 2002
 -----------------------
         Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------
         Todd R. Peters



                                      S-14


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        K.S. DISPOSITION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-15


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        LAKE ERIE SCREW CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-16


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        LAMONS METAL GASKET CO.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
    /s/ RICHARD S. OWEN      President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
      Richard S. Owen

     /s/ LAURA PECORARO      Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Laura Pecoraro        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-17


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        LOUISIANA HOSE & RUBBER CO.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-18


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                   MONOGRAM AEROSPACE FASTENERS, INC.


                                   By:  /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                      ----------------------------------------
                                        Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                        Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
       Todd R. Peters        Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-19


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NETCONG INVESTMENTS, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
         Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
         Todd R. Peters      Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-20


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NI FOREIGN MILITARY SALES CORP.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
         Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
         Todd R. Peters      Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-21


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NI INDUSTRIES, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
         Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-22


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NI WEST, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-23


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NORRIS CYLINDER COMPANY


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-24


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NORRIS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.

                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-25


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        NORRIS INDUSTRIES, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-26


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        PLASTIC FORM, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)


                                      S-27


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        REESE PRODUCTS, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






          SIGNATURE                            TITLE                       DATE
- -----------------------------   -----------------------------------   --------------
                                                                
       /s/ Grant H. Beard       President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------        Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

   /s/ William M. Lowe, Jr.     Director                              October 4, 2002
 --------------------------
      William M. Lowe, Jr.

       /s/ Todd R. Peters       Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -------------------------      (Principal Financial Officer and
           Todd R. Peters       Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-28


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        RESKA SPLINE PRODUCTS, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-29


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        RICHARDS MICRO-TOOL, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-30


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        RIEKE CORPORATION


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-31


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        RIEKE LEASING CO., INCORPORATED


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-32


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        RIEKE OF INDIANA, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-33


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        RIEKE OF MEXICO, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-34


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        TRIMAS COMPANY LLC


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                           TITLE                        DATE
- --------------------------   -------------------------------------   --------------
                                                               
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     Manager and Chief Executive Officer     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     for SEC Purposes
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Manager and Senior Vice President       October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     for SEC Purposes
          Todd R. Peters



                                      S-35


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        TRIMAS FASTENERS, INC.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
          Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-36


                                   SIGNATURES


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, State of New
York, on the 4th day of October, 2002.


                                        TRIMAS SERVICES CORP.


                                        By: /s/ Todd R. Peters
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            Name:  Todd R. Peters
                                            Title: Vice President


                               POWER OF ATTORNEY


     Each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints
Todd R. Peters and Daniel P. Tredwell and each acting alone, his true and
lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities, to sign any or all amendments or supplements to this Registration
Statement and to file the same with all exhibits thereto and other documents in
connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting
unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and
perform each and every act and thing necessary or appropriate to be done with
this Registration Statement and any amendments or supplements hereto, as fully
to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying
and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their substitute
or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.






         SIGNATURE                          TITLE                       DATE
- --------------------------   -----------------------------------   -------------
                                                             
      /s/ Grant H. Beard     President and Director (Principal     October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     Executive Officer)
       Grant H. Beard

      /s/ Todd R. Peters     Vice President and Director           October 4, 2002
 -----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer and
          Todd R. Peters     Principal Accounting Officer)



                                      S-37