The Original Synthetic Motor Oil

Latest News and Information in the World of Lubrication

Reprinted from The Direct Line & The Action News

April through June 2008

Past issues of Auto Technology & Lubrication News

Quick Jump to Date:

Briefly

SEMA Study Indicates Increase in Used Vehicle Owners

According to the SEMA Automotive Lifestyles Study, a survey of automotive enthusiast magazine subscribers conducted last fall, 67 percent of respondents purchased their vehicles used, an increase of 21 percentage points over 2005. The survey indicated that these used vehicle owners spent 14 percent more on specialty equipment over the last year than new vehicle owners. Products offering increased performance were especially popular, with performance air filters (45%) and performance lubricants (39%) listed among the top purchases of used vehicle owners.

Isuzu to Stop Selling Passenger Vehicles in North America

Isuzu passenger vehicle sales have been declining in the U.S. since 1999, and the company has announced its decision to stop selling new passenger vehicles in North America effective January 31, 2009. However, it will continue to sell parts and service, honor warranties and roadside assistance programs and maintain its owner-relations call center. The company expects most of its dealers will continue as service-only dealers. The parts operation of Isuzu Motors America offers parts and accessories for light vehicles, as well as the company's industrial/marine diesel engines and commercial vehicles. "Because our parts and service operations also support our commercial vehicle enterprise and our industrial diesel engine enterprise, we'll still be around," said Chip Letzgus, Corporate Communications and Training, Isuzu Motors America Inc.

UTV Sales Remain Strong

Utility models are outselling sport models, but sport models are expected to see the strongest growth.

Utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), or side-by-sides, have emerged as a bright spot in the powersports market. Larger and more robust than traditional ATVs, UTVs typically seat two adults and often include a cargo box or a dump box. Although ATVs and UTVs are different in design and price, the demand ratio between utility and sport/recreational models has shaken out quite similar in each market. Utility models comprise about two-thirds of sales in both the ATV and UTV markets, while sport/recreational models make up the other third.

A Powersports Business survey indicates that 57 percent of dealers see more demand for utility UTVs, which are designed to haul heavy loads, while 29 percent see more demand for sport UTVs, which lack the cargo capacity, but can go much faster.

"If you look at the core of the market, what makes it up and what makes the market really successful, it's really that utility segment," said Matt Homan, Polaris Industries side-by-side general manager. "We believe the utility side of the market is for sure the biggest segment right now and it will probably remain the biggest segment for awhile."

Although the smaller of the two segments, sport UTV models are expected to experience stronger sales percentage growth than utility models in the coming years. In fact, the dealers who reported seeing more demand for sport models also reported better year-over- year UTV sales than dealers who reported seeing more demand for utility models.

Formula 4-Stroke® Power Sports Synthetic Motor Oil AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Power Sports Synthetic Motor Oil (AFF) provides superior protection and performance in utility and sport/recreational UTVs and ATVs. Its broad viscosity range and wax-free formulation make it excellent for use in both hot and cold temperature extremes. As an SAE 40 weight motor oil, AMSOIL AFF provides outstanding protection for hot operating engines, while its 0W rating and -60°F pour point ensure easy cranking, excellent cold weather starting and quick post-startup protection.

CUV Sales Gain Momentum

High gasoline prices have had a direct impact on vehicle sales as people seek more fuel efficient vehicles. In fact, according to SEMA market research, pickup truck sales fell 17 percent over the first four months of 2008 compared to the same time period in 2007, while SUV sales fell 27 percent.

Featuring many of the same capabilities as pickups and SUVs, but offering improved fuel economy and handling, crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) are gaining momentum as popular replacements for trucks and SUVs, with sales up 5 percent compared to last year.

The chart shows the top-selling CUV models through April 2008, as well as the percent sales change compared to the same time period in 2007.

Briefly

Increased Synthetic Demand

According to a new study by consulting firm Kline and Co., synthetic and semi-synthetic lubricants comprised an estimated 9.7 percent of global lubricant demand in 2007, and demand is projected to continue rising for at least the next decade. Global synthetic lubricant demand is expected to increase by 7 percent annually until 2017, while semi-synthetic demand is expected to increase 4 percent annually until 2017. George Morvey, Kline project manager of energy, reports that synthetics and semi-synthetics represent around 15 percent of total consumer engine oil in the United States. While decreased emissions and improved fuel economy are two of the main drivers fueling the increased demand, OEM recommendations and extended warranties that require use of synthetics are expected to be among the top drivers in the future.

System Cleanliness

Scott Robertson, performance engineering team leader with Transfield Services, reports that because it is difficult to pinpoint sources of contamination in dirty industrial environments, it is important to ensure high localized cleanliness around reservoirs, system components and pipelines to ease the identification of any leaks, spills and abnormal system conditions. "The first step in identifying a system fault is often to observe and register the abnormalities," says Robertson. "Maintaining a simple clean site policy makes this practical. The perception of a clean site can also lead to greater pride and ownership of systems onsite. Aim for best practice, commit to improvement and drive solutions to completion."

Scooter Sales on the Rise

As fuel prices continue to increase, fuel efficient scooter models are flying out dealership doors.

The ever-increasing price of fuel has been a hardship for many motorists, with many seeking relief by driving less, slowing their driving speeds, car pooling and purchasing fuel efficient vehicles. Car dealers have had difficulty keeping fuel efficient hybrid models in stock and many have been forced to keep waiting lists of customers anxious to get their hands on one.

The scooter and motorcycle markets have also seen an influx of interest from customers hoping to stretch their fuel dollars, and dealers across the nation are reporting increased early season sales, especially for models that receive between 75 and 120 miles per gallon. In fact, dealers report that the vast majority of customers mention the high price of gasoline as their primary motivator for scooter shopping, and they have also seen an increased number of new customers in their businesses, people who would normally have little interest in purchasing a scooter or motorcycle.

Mike Mount, spokesman for the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) trade group, believes the increasing cost of gasoline is definitely the main factor driving up scooter sales. According to MIC figures, sales of name-brand Honda, Yamaha, Vespa and Suzuki scooters were up 24 percent in the first quarter of the year, despite cool weather in much of the nation. With summer underway, it can be assumed sales numbers will remain healthy for the entire season.

In addition to increased scooter sales, the Motorcycle Industry Council reports sales of fuel efficient small and medium-sized motorcycles were up 7.5 percent in the first quarter. Sales of larger motorcycle models, on the other hand, were down. However, strong sales of accessories, apparel and parts for large motorcycles indicate that people are making use of their motorcycles to save on fuel costs, and the industry is confident new bike sales will increase over the summer riding season.

AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke® Synthetic Scooter Oil (ASO) and Synthetic Motorcycle Oils (MCV and MCF) are ideal for customers concerned about fuel costs, offering added fuel efficiency and maximum protection and performance for scooter and motorcycle applications.

Formula 4-Stroke Synthetic Scooter Oil AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Synthetic Scooter Oil (ASO) is formulated specifically to meet the special needs of today's high-tech air- and water-cooled four-stroke motorized scooters, offering unsurpassed wear protection and friction reduction for longer equipment life, cooler operating temperatures and maximum fuel economy.

Its 10W-40 viscosity ensures consistent viscosity protection and provides additional protection for transmissions and gear boxes, while its friction modifier-free formulation ensures wet clutch compatibility and smooth clutch operation. A special anti-corrosion additive package provides long-term protection during periods of inactivity and storage.

Synthetic Motorcycle Oils AMSOIL Synthetic Motorcycle Oils are formulated with premium synthetic base stocks and high performance additive technology that provide superior protection, performance and fuel economy in motorcycle applications.

AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (MCV) is recommended for Harley-Davidson, Buell, KTM, Ducati, BMW, Aprilia and Triumph motorcycles calling for a 15W-50 or 20W- 50 viscosity, providing superior protection in engines, transmissions and primary chaincases.

AMSOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (MCF) is recommended for Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, Victory, BMW, Husqvarna and KTM motorcycles calling for a 10W-40 or 20W- 40 viscosity, providing superior protection in engines and transmissions.

Briefly

FuelMax Provides Refunds

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has determined that the marketers of FuelMax, a magnetic "fuel saving" system, made deceptive claims about the product's ability to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Although FuelMax marketers denied the charges, they paid $4.2 million to settle with the FTC and are banned from further manufacture, advertising and sale of the product. Consumers who purchased the product have until June 18, 2008 to request a refund by completing and mailing the appropriate claim form, available for download at www.fuelmaxlitigation.com or by calling 1-800-356-4638.

Aftermarket Additives

According to the "Basic Handbook of Lubrication," most equipment and lubricant manufacturers do not approve of aftermarket lubricant additives or stay silent about their use. Equipment manufacturers are concerned about potential equipment damage, while lubricant manufacturers are concerned about negative effects on their formulations. However, in order to reduce additive package costs and boost profits, some manufacturers produce lubricants of marginal quality, leaving the door open to market their own aftermarket lubricant additives. "It is this apparently contradictory stance that has consumers confused, and most simply decide for themselves or take the advice of their trusted mechanics or suppliers." Because AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are formulated with premium synthetic base stocks and additives that provide maximum protection and performance, use of aftermarket additives are not recommended with AMSOIL products.

The Severe Operating Conditions of Marine Engines

Proper maintenance and lubrication are the keys to extending marine engine life.

According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the boating market is growing at a healthy pace. In fact, the 18 million boats on the water in 2006 reflected a 13 percent increase since 1989, while the $39.5 billion in sales represented a 6 percent growth over 2005.

Marine engines operate under more stressful conditions and experience much higher loads than automotive engines. A typical engine in a pleasure boat spends around 10 percent of its time idling, 60 percent of its time running at cruising speed (around 4,000 rpm) and 10 to 30 percent of its time running at wide open throttle (around 5,500 to 6,500 rpm). A performance boat, on the other hand, may spend 95 percent of its time operating at wide open throttle, reaching up to 8,000 rpm.

Because stern drives usually feature 1:1 gear ratios, the engines must pull much harder than automotive engines, causing them to have shorter life spans. Operating conditions are also different, with marine engines making use of surrounding water for coolant. In order to fight corrosion in the cooling system, all the fittings have to be manufactured of corrosion-resistant materials.

Proper maintenance is crucial to extending engine life, and a well-maintained marine gasoline engine will usually operate for around 1,500 hours before requiring an overhaul. "The typical gasoline marine engine will run fine for the first 1,000 hours," reports the NMMA. "It is at this juncture that the engine starts to exhibit small problems. If these small problems aren't addressed, they can turn into major problems, which may make the last 500 hours of life difficult to reach.

"Diesel engines are built to finer tolerances than are gasoline engines. They will accept much more abuse and often deliver, if well maintained, 8,000 hours of hard work before needing a major overhaul."

According to the NMMA, the color of marine engine exhaust smoke can indicate potential problems. When the engine is operating properly, the exhaust smoke should be clear. Any color change should be taken as a warning sign.

Black smoke is often caused by engine overload, a restricted air supply or a faulty fuel injector in the case of a diesel engine, causing improperly burned fuel particles to blow out the exhaust.

Blue smoke appears when the engine oil combusts, often as the result of worn piston rings, valve guides or oil seals. The oil can come from an overfilled air filter in a diesel engine or excess oil in the crankcase.

White smoke is caused by water vapor from dirty fuel, a water leak into the cylinder, atomized (but unburned) fuel or air in the fuel.

The NMMA advises boaters to check the level and condition of their motor oil at least once a day and preferably before each start. When checking oil levels, boaters may sometimes discover that the level increased, often an indication of water in the oil sump. This could result in a cracked cylinder head, a broken piston or both when turning the engine over. The mixture of oil and water will often have a "milky" appearance.

A low oil level is often the result of an oil leak that could lead to engine seizure. Check the bilge for oil residue. The oil pans of marine engines sitting low in the bilge come into consistent contact with water, which can slowly corrode and cause pinhole leaks in the pan.

AMSOIL offers premium synthetic motor oils for both gasoline and diesel marine applications, keeping engines operating in top condition and extending equipment life.

Formula 4-Stroke Marine Synthetic Motor Oils (WCT/WCF)
Formulated specifically for use in 4- stroke gasoline-fueled engines used in marine applications. Offer unsurpassed wear protection, viscosity stability, low volatility and excellent low temperature fluidity. Certified to meet NMMA FC-W performance specifications. Meet "Warranty Certified" status of engine manufacturers.

hp Injector Synthetic 2-Cycle Oil (HPI)
Precise synthetic formulation exceeds the lubrication demands of modern two-cycle engines. Premium synthetic base oils and MAX-DOSE additive system provide superior performance in direct fuel injected (DFI), electronic fuel injected (EFI) and carbureted outboard motors, as well as other recreational two-cycle equipment.

Synthetic 15W-40 Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Motor Oil (AME)
High 12 TBN controls acids from combustion blowby and EGR, while high levels of detergency and dispersancy additives control soot thickening, oxidation and wear. Resists bore polishing, deposit formation and ring sticking and provides clean engine performance. Extended drain capabilities reduce downtime and motor oil expenses.

Team AMSOIL Wraps Up Successful Supercross Season, Sets Sights on Outdoor Nationals

The final two events of the 2008 AMA Supercross season were held April 26 in Seattle and May 3 in Las Vegas, wrapping up an exciting and successful season for Team AMSOIL. Rookie rider Trey Canard had already secured the Eastern Lites championship in St. Louis on April 19, and supercross class star Kevin Windham needed to make up 13 points in the final two events to win the national supercross title.

In Seattle, Windham quickly took the lead for the first two laps before being forced to stop and remove a tuff block cover from his rear wheel. Remounting in fifth place, Windham started picking off riders one by one, retaking the lead on the 18th lap and securing his fourth win of the season. The win pulled Windham to within 10 points of points leader Chad Reed, who finished in second. Team AMSOIL racer Josh Grant, participating in his first supercross class race, finished in sixth.

The season championship came down to the final event in Las Vegas, and Windham needed a win and a little luck to overtake Reed's 10 point lead in the standings. Although he gave Reed a tough fight to the finish, Windham settled for a second place podium finish and a strong second place finish in the overall points standings. For the season, Windham earned an impressive 12 podium finishes, including four wins.

Team AMSOIL now sets its sights on the upcoming AMA Outdoor Nationals, which kick off May 25 in San Bernardino. Look for Windham and teammates Trey Canard, Josh Grant, Dan Reardon and Jake Weimer all season on the Speed Channel as they race for a championship. AMSOIL is the Exclusive Official Oil of the AMA Outdoor Nationals.

Briefly

Two Oils Fail ILMA Testing

According to the Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association (ILMA), random testing of its members' motor oils revealed that two of 19 samples did not meet performance claims. Testing was performed by ILMA's third-party testing company, which collected the 19 motor oil samples in seven states. The failure rate is similar to findings by the American Petroleum Institute Aftermarket Audit Program, which historically sees failure rates of between 8 and 11 percent in test groups.

Grease Tip

According to the "Handbook of Lubrication and Tribology," a grease gun equipped with a pressure gauge provides precision when greasing motor bearings. "In fact, if the technician is consistent with the rate volume, the back pressure on the bearing can be recorded and trended. It is a tell-tale sign that the bearing may be building up a mass of caked-up thickener and may be due for cleaning."

Drain Plug Tip

While quick-connect couplings can keep gearbox drain plugs clean during oil changes, Barry Williams of Predictive Maintenance Services suggests cleaning and drying drain plugs and placing them in zip-lock bags. "Label the bag with a magic marker," he says. "If the gearbox case is ferrous, stick the bag on the case near the filling point. If the case it not ferrous, tie the bag with a strap or similar fastener near the fill point to remind you to put it in before filling the gearbox with oil. This will keep the drain plug clean, prevent it from getting lost and remind you to replace it before filling with fresh oil."

Major Improvements to AMSOIL By-Pass Mounts

Superior oil flow, easier installation and extra hose are among the improvements to the BMK line.

AMSOIL has remained a leader in the lubricants industry by continually researching new and emerging technologies and reformulating its products to incorporate those technologies. AMSOIL filtration products are no exception. Following months of research, the new AMSOIL by-pass systems ensure maximum protection without sacrificing oil pressure. They provide better oil flow, a modernized appearance and come with larger hoses and fittings. The new kits provide improved sealing and feature spin-on adapters that are easier to install. Made especially with high-quality AMSOIL Ea Filters in mind, the new by-pass kits provide unbeatable ultrafine filtration protection.

Improved Oil Flow
The new BMK kits are designed for optimum oil flow. The hoses have increased from a 13/32" inside diameter to a 1/2" inside diameter, and fittings are larger and more durable. The larger hoses and fittings allow oil to flow through the system more easily for better efficiency and longevity.

Upgrades to the By-Pass Mounts
The new mounts have a powder-coated finish that lasts longer and resists chemical corrosion. They also have raised machined surfaces for better gasket and o-ring sealing to further protect against leakage. In addition, the new mounts feature HNBR gaskets and Viton o-rings. These top-of-the-line synthetic rubber materials are characterized by their high strength and property retention after exposure to heat, oil and chemicals. Commonly found in premium automotive, industrial and other performance-demanding applications, HNBR gaskets and Viton o-rings provide superior, reliable sealing.

The new BMK mounts are made from an injection-molded A380-grade aluminum alloy with polymeric vacuum impregnation, eliminating cracking and possible leakage. This high-strength design has been proven in industrial applications. The new mounts feature improved engineering to the internal design, resulting in maximum oil cooling. In addition, in the Dual Remote System, oil flows into the full-flow filter first, then into the bypass filter, further reducing pressure drop.

Superior Durability
The new AMSOIL BMK By-Pass Filtration Mounts have been thoroughly tested for durability. The fittings were torque-tested to 90 lbs., providing strength and sealing similar to lugnuts used to keep tires on vehicles. The filter-mount threads were subjected to similar tests of durability, with the full-flow mount withstanding 1.75 turns of the filter past where the gasket meets the metal, and the by-pass mount withstanding 2.75 turns past where the gasket meets the metal (This is not the recommended installation procedure. Proper installation instructions are included with the mounts.).

Universal
The new BMK kits use the same bracket and mount footprints as the old kits, allowing customers who currently have one of the original BMK mounts to upgrade to the new version without tapping new holes.

Old Vs. New
AMSOIL Technical Services Director Dan Peterson said the time for improvement was evident. "Fresh ideas, new concepts and considerable research led by Director of Aftermarket Products Karl Dedolph and Filtration and Aftermarket Technical Product Manager Richard Holappa resulted in improvements to our bypass filtration products," said Peterson. "The new kits provide improved performance, increased longevity and easier installation. The design of the original billet mounts restricted our ability to improve the performance of the overall system. These improvements will help AMSOIL Dealers be even more successful in marketing and selling products in this quickly-emerging area."

Peterson cited improved oil flow, extra hose and superior fittings as areas of improvement. "Oil flow has been improved throughout the entire system, ensuring the precise amount of lubricant is flowing through the by-pass system while simultaneously keeping the engine protected," he said. "Larger ports, increased hose diameter and larger fittings were implemented to increase flow, ensuring full compatibility with all OEM oil pressure sensor systems." In addition, four more feet of hose is included with the kits, ensuring most installations can be completed without ordering more hose to finish the job.

New Part Numbers
The new by-pass kits have different part numbers than the previous versions.

Trial Run
AMSOIL ******Regency Platinum Direct Jobber Dave Mann and Direct Jobber Roger Spanske installed an AMSOIL BMK26 By-Pass Filtration System on Spanske's Ford F350 7.3L Power Stroke diesel pickup. "We did not encounter any problems and the installation time from start to finish was four hours," said Mann. "Overall I feel the new design is very well engineered, especially the engine adapter, which will provide a much more robust design and eliminate any sealing and strength issues." View additional photos and read more about Mann and Spanske's installation at The AMSOIL By-Pass Filter Installations Page.

Competitively Priced
AMSOIL by-pass filtration systems are available for hundreds of dollars less than competitive systems. A check of pricing on bypass systems from Filtration Solutions, Gulf Coast and Spinner II Centrifuge shows a price range of between $450 and $689. The AMSOIL BMK25 for Cummins diesels is available for a suggested retail price of $309 and only $237 at Dealer/Preferred Customer pricing. That is a savings of $141 to $452 to go along with the advanced filtration protection provided only by AMSOIL Ea Filters.

Spin-On Adapters
BMK23 kits require the purchase of Ea Oil and Ea By-Pass Filters along with the proper spin-on adapter listed below (Call Technical Services at 715-399-8324 for application information). BMK25, BMK26 and BMK27 kits include an EaO26, EaBP100 and the appropriate spin-on adapter kit. They feature Viton orings to provide a long-lasting chemically-resistant seal that won't leak. The spin-on adapters are much easier to install and fit more easily into confined spaces. They provide improved durability to withstand harsh environments, resulting in longer life.

• Higher Quality • Better Sealing • Improved Oil Flow • Superior Durability • Easier Installation • Longer Life

One Free Oil Analysis
Each BMK kit includes a postage pre-paid card for one free used oil analysis from OIL ANALYZERS INC. This provides customers with a glimpse inside their engines, encourages used oil analysis and promotes OIL ANALYZERS.

Now Available
The redesigned AMSOIL by-pass filtration kits are now available. AMSOIL also offers a plexiglass display mount (G2410) that is perfect for trade shows and other sales events. AMSOIL will continue to support the BMK11, BMK12, BMK13, BMK15, BMK16 and BMK17 kits for five years, but no longer offers them for sale. AMSOIL will continue to provide the BMK14 and BMK18 kits.

Trey Canard Wins Eastern Lites Championship

Kevin Windham Earns Win in Supercross Class

Eastern Lites Final Standings 1) Trey Canard 147 2) Ryan Villopoto 137 3) Nico Izzi 99 4) Branden Jesseman 94 5) Josh Grant 91 6) Tyler Bowers 86 7) Ryan Morais 84 8) Ryan Sipes 84 9) Martin Davalos 73 10) Billy Payne 71 11) Matt Goerke 62 12) Kyle Chisholm 58 13) Ben Coisy 53 14) Kyle Partridge 49 15) T Sewell 46 16) J Albertson 33 17) Matt Boni 30 18) J Moss 28 19) Ricky Renner 21 20) Justin Sipes 20

Trey Canard: 2008 Eastern Lites Supercross Champion

Team AMSOIL rookie supercross racer Trey Canard entered the final round of the 2008 Eastern Lites series in St. Louis with a slim three point lead over Ryan Villopoto in the points standings and knew he had to finish in front of the defending champion if he wanted to claim the championship.

Branden Jesseman earned the hole shot in the final, with Canard, teammate Josh Grant and Villopoto close behind in second, third and fourth. Canard passed Jesseman on lap five for the lead, but Villopoto wasn't about to give up his title without a fight, passing Jesseman to set up a winner-take-all battle with Canard for the next few laps. The two racers came together briefly before the big finish line jump, but it was Canard who cruised to the victory and the Eastern Lites championship. Grant earned a third place podium finish and finished fifth in the overall points standings.

"I'm speechless," said Canard after his win. "When I started racing professionally I never thought a championship would come, especially so soon."

In the supercross class, Team AMSOIL racer Kevin Windham completed the sweep by earning his third win of the season, inching his way to within 13 points of Chad Reed in the overall points standings with two rounds remaining.

Briefly

Increased Efficiency with MEHF Hydraulic Fluids

Research performed by RohMax demonstrates that use of Maximum Efficiency Hydraulic Fluids (MEHF) yields significant efficiency improvement over use of conventional hydraulic fluids. Analysis of hydraulic fluid behavior in a pump circuit showed use of the higher viscosity, shear stable hydraulic fluids could increase output without increasing fuel consumption. Mathematical models, lab scale testing and full-scale equipment trials demonstrated efficiency improvement of more than 18 percent with MEHF fluids compared to conventional grades, translating into an 18 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and an 18 percent reduction in CO2 emissions. AMSOIL Synthetic Anti- Wear Hydraulic Oils are Maximum Efficiency Hydraulic Fluids, effectively increasing hydraulic system efficiency and lowering costs.

Control Bearing Contamination

According to a survey cited in "Industry Practices for Electric Motor Bearing Lubrication," the top two methods used to control contamination of bearings when regreasing are leaving a small amount of grease on the fitting to wipe away later and use of a plastic grease cap. "Many said that no practices were applied to control contamination. Those who selected 'other' had similar responses: The grease fitting and grease gun are wiped before regreasing. However, these options do not keep contamination from getting to the bearing from other entry points."

A Look at the Truck Market

Consumers are holding onto their trucks longer, and aftermarket part sales are increasing.

The slumping economy and high gas prices have slowed sales of new pickup trucks, with Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) research indicating that enthusiasts are holding onto their trucks longer, while builders and contractors are deferring purchases of new trucks until the housing market rebounds. However, sales of aftermarket truck parts and accessories, including lift kits, turbochargers, exhaust systems, suspensions and larger wheels and tires, are on the upswing.

Aftermarket sales reflect the increased popularity of trucks over the past decade, with pickup parts representing over half of all aftermarket parts sold. More than 80 percent of truck owners eventually modify their vehicles to some degree. "Our industry shifted when pickups started outselling cars," says Peter MacGillivray, VP, communications and events for SEMA. "The aftermarket followed suit and companies that sold parts started to sell more SUV- and pickup-related styling and functional accessories. That has pretty much stayed true for the past 10 years."

The volatility of gas prices may eventually encourage truck owners to consider purchasing more fuel efficient vehicles. "However, as of now, the impact hasn't hit the enthusiast market we represent where their vehicle is at the center of their lifestyle, so they'll compromise on other things rather than the part of their life they enjoy the most," says MacGillivray.

Although hybrid and alternative fuel engine options have garnered much of the media attention for their fuel economy benefits, MacGillivray believes diesels represent the biggest opportunity for the aftermarket. Last year, diesel truck owners spent 17 percent more on specialty equipment than non-diesel truck owners, and SEMA projects U.S. demand for diesel engines and aftermarket parts will increase 3.8 percent a year through 2011.

Chris Mann, Toyota accessory sales manager, believes diesel trucks will continue growing in popularity because they are easily modified and more fuel efficient than gasoline- fueled trucks. "It seems to be the trend at least in market perception that diesels will have the perfect compromise of performance and economy," he says.

Truck owners are a diverse lot who can be categorized into a number of different groups, including those who buy and drive trucks as a means of self expression and those who depend on trucks for their livelihood. Although high gas prices may chase some of the self expression customers to different vehicle segments, those who depend on trucks for their livelihood don't have that option.

"Pickup truck sales will rebound in the future because they are unique in that most people who own them are at least what we call 'occasional use imperative,' meaning there isn't a substitute vehicle; they need a pickup truck," says Mann. "So while the construction industry may go up and down with the economy, when business picks up, there's no alternative vehicle, so the truck business will rebound along with it."

Dealerships are increasingly offering vehicle modification work themselves, and it's an increasingly popular option for customers due to the convenience, ease of billing and assurance of quality. "People want to personalize their vehicle to meet their needs; it's form and function, customize and personalize," says Rob Richard, Mopar marketing and sales director. "People may love a stock truck; they like the way it looks, they know it's going to be functional, they know it's going to meet their basic transportation needs, now the question they ask is what can you offer me to help me look different than the guy who's just buying the base truck?"

AMSOIL synthetic motor oils and diesel oils provide second-tonone protection and performance for both newer and older trucks, extending equipment life and increasing fuel economy.

Briefly

CIWMB Encourages Longer Drain Intervals

While most motor oil companies continue to push 3,000-mile oil drain intervals, vehicle manufacturers usually recommend longer intervals. In fact, Ford recommends drain intervals of 7,500 miles in its model year 2007 and newer vehicles, while oil monitoring systems in many newer vehicles allow motorists to extend drain intervals up to 12,000 miles. A recent study by the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) revealed that 73 percent of California drivers change oil more frequently than their vehicle's manufacturer recommends. The group launched the 3000milemyth.org website to encourage residents to reduce used oil volume by following the longer drain recommendations of vehicle manufacturers. "Used motor oil poses a great risk to the environment," said CIWMB Chair Margo Reid Brown. "With better made cars and the rise of synthetic oils, the 3,000-mile standard is not always recommended."

Prevent Further Damage from Pump Failure

According to Rodger Shaffer, senior manufacturing engineer at Timken Latrobe Steel, a pump failure on circulating and hydraulic systems can lead to more damage elsewhere in the system. "Consider using oil strainers or filters upstream of all equipment components to prevent pump failure debris from damaging these machines," says Shaffer. "This is also important for kidney-loop systems with expensive heaters and oil/water separators."

Team AMSOIL Racer Ross Martin Wins Pro Open Championship

Ross Martin and D.J. Eckstrom finish second and third respectively in the Pro Super Stock class.

The final two rounds of the 2007-2008 WPSA Snocross season were held on the weekend of March 14-16 in Lake Geneva, Wis. Team AMSOIL/Judnick Motorsports snocross racer Ross Martin entered the weekend with slim leads in both the Pro Super Stock and Pro Open overall points standings and had his sights set on winning a championship or two. Team AMSOIL/Scheuring Speed Sports racer D.J. Eckstrom came into the weekend just four points behind Martin in the Pro Super Stock class and also had hopes of earning a championship.

After an impressive Pro Open win in the first round, Martin entered Sunday's final round with a seven point lead in the points standings. Although he fell in the first turn, he quickly recovered for a fifth place finish that was enough to secure the championship. Team AMSOIL/Scheuring Speed Sports riders D.J. Eckstrom and Shaun Crapo finished sixth and eighth respectively in the final Pro Open points standings.

In the Pro Super Stock class, Martin earned a second place podium finish in the final round, while Eckstrom finished fourth. Although both riders were surpassed by Tucker Hibbert for the championship, Martin's second place overall finish and Eckstrom's third place overall finish placed two AMSOIL riders in the top three of the final Pro Super Stock final standings. Crapo finished seventh overall and was named the WPSA Most Improved Rider. Martin, by virtue of his Pro Open championship and second place Pro Super Stock finish, was named the WPSA Pro Rider of the Year.

AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Meets Honda/Acura HTO-06 Specification

The Honda/Acura HTO-06 motor oil specification was developed to ensure adequate protection for turbocharged engines, with testing for the specification designed to simulate the severe operating conditions under which turbocharged engines operate. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil meets the requirements of Honda/Acura HTO- 06, providing superior protection and performance for turbocharged engines.

• Exclusive extended drain formulation
• Superior protection against friction and wear
• Maximum fuel economy
• Extends equipment life
• Resists high temperature volatility
• Prevents sludge deposits and keeps engines clean
• Outstanding protection in cold temperatures

Applications
AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is recommended for use in gasoline engines, diesel engines (API CF, ACEA B5) and other applications requiring SAE 0W-30, 5W-30 or 10W-30 with the following worldwide specifications:

• API SM/CF, SL, SJ …
• ILSAC GF-4, 3 …
• ACEA A5/B5-04
• GM 4718M, 6094M
• Ford WSS-M2C929-A
• Daimler Chrysler MS-6395N
• VW 503.00
• Honda/Acura HTO-06

AMSOIL a Top-Seller in the Mobile Lube Market

Usually operated out of a van or trailer, mobile lubes offer many of the same services as quick lubes, while providing customers with the convenience of on-site oil changes. According to a 2007 National Oil & Lube News survey, 74 percent of mobile lube operators offer synthetic oil. AMSOIL Dealers have achieved significant penetration in the mobile lube market. According to the survey, AMSOIL is the second best-selling synthetic motor oil brand in the mobile lube market.

The following are the top services offered by mobile lubes in addition to oil changes:

AMSOIL offers premium XL Synthetic Motor Oils, Ea Oil and Air Filters, Synthetic ATF and Gear Lubes, Brake Fluids, Propylene Glycol Antifreeze & Engine Coolant, P.i. Performance Improver and Trico Wiper Blades for the mobile lube market.

New Ea Air Filters

The following filters have been added to the Ea Air Filters line. For pricing information, go to the Filtration Products Index.