Boyd Coddington passed away February 27, 2008. He will be missed dearly by custom car fans all over the world. His show American Hot Rod was watched by millions worldwide.
In this reprint from the January 2008 issue of the AMSOIL Action News Boyd talks about the show and plans to set a new world record at the Bonneville Salt Flats. There is an interview with his wife Jo about future plans and favorite cars.
Hopefully his wife Jo can continue his work and dreams.
Rest in peace Boyd.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Gear Oil Market Heating Up
Gear oil has been a hot topic around the industry lately. Vehicle manufacturers, field testers and lubricant manufacturers all are weighing in on the evolution of differentials and its effect on gear oil performance and design. With the recent release of the AMSOIL A Study of Automotive Gear Lubes white paper, the spike in awareness regarding the need for superior gear oil performance could not have come at a better time for AMSOIL.
Raising Awareness
Most consumers are unaware of how important differential maintenance has become. It is the gear lubricant's job to lubricate, cool and protect geared systems. It must also carry damaging wear debris away from contact zones and muffle the sound of gear operation. These tasks have become increasingly difficult with the demands placed on modern differentials, especially in pickups and SUVs. Consumers want more towing capacity, more torque, longer drain intervals and maximum fuel economy.
Most consumers are unaware of how important differential maintenance has become. It is the gear lubricant's job to lubricate, cool and protect geared systems. It must also carry damaging wear debris away from contact zones and muffle the sound of gear operation. These tasks have become increasingly difficult with the demands placed on modern differentials, especially in pickups and SUVs. Consumers want more towing capacity, more torque, longer drain intervals and maximum fuel economy.
In addition, most vehicles operate under severe service as defined by vehicle manufacturers, but the majority of vehicle owners are unaware of this. Severe service applications include towing, hauling, plowing, off-road use, frequent stop-and-go driving, steep-hill driving and temperature extremes. How prevalent is severe service operation? A September 2007 Lubes 'N' Greases article entitled "Torque & Spark" notes that more than 90 percent of Ford Super Duty pickups are used for towing. That means that more than 90 percent of Super Dutys operate in severe service and require superior gear lubrication.
Gaining Momentum
In recent years, studies have revealed that most differential wear occurs during the break-in period. Because differentials are not equipped with filters, break-in metals are suspended in the oil, causing increased wear as the particles mesh between the gears. Severe service operation causes additional stress to the differential during the break-in period and can cause premature differential damage or failure. This revelation, along with the marked increase in the ratio of horsepower to differential size, helped to bring differential maintenance to the forefront. Changing the gear lube after the break-in period (about 3,000 miles) is a low-cost maintenance investment that provides a significant payoff, including greatly reduced wear, extended differential gear and bearing life and protection for expensive vehicle investments. In fact, many auto manufacturers now recommend an initial drain interval of between 500 and 3,000 miles. Most consumers are unaware of this recommendation.
In recent years, studies have revealed that most differential wear occurs during the break-in period. Because differentials are not equipped with filters, break-in metals are suspended in the oil, causing increased wear as the particles mesh between the gears. Severe service operation causes additional stress to the differential during the break-in period and can cause premature differential damage or failure. This revelation, along with the marked increase in the ratio of horsepower to differential size, helped to bring differential maintenance to the forefront. Changing the gear lube after the break-in period (about 3,000 miles) is a low-cost maintenance investment that provides a significant payoff, including greatly reduced wear, extended differential gear and bearing life and protection for expensive vehicle investments. In fact, many auto manufacturers now recommend an initial drain interval of between 500 and 3,000 miles. Most consumers are unaware of this recommendation.
Severe Service Remains a Big Challenge
Harold Chambers, a lubrication technology specialist with Ford Transmission & Driveline Engineering, is quoted in Lubes 'N' Greases as saying, "One of the biggest challenges for our vehicles is towing. We also need to run quietly for the life of the vehicle. We want to optimize the power density – that is, get the maximum torque capability with the least fatigue life in the smallest space possible."
Harold Chambers, a lubrication technology specialist with Ford Transmission & Driveline Engineering, is quoted in Lubes 'N' Greases as saying, "One of the biggest challenges for our vehicles is towing. We also need to run quietly for the life of the vehicle. We want to optimize the power density – that is, get the maximum torque capability with the least fatigue life in the smallest space possible."
Chambers also lists fuel economy and heat generation as major obstacles, both adversely affected by severe service.
"Overall, because of higher durability and towing needs, we're seeing more wear and distress issues with gear sets," said Chambers.
AMSOIL Answers the Call
Today's driveline challenges depend upon gear lubricants to supply solutions. As clearly demonstrated in the gear lube white paper, A Study of Automotive Gear Lubes, AMSOIL answers the call with Severe Gear® Synthetic EP Gear Lubes. When pitted against 13 of the industry's most popular gear lubes, AMSOIL Severe Gear came out on top, performing well in every category. AMSOIL Severe Gear proved robust enough to maintain its viscosity when subjected to temperature changes. It was durable enough to retain viscosity during use, even during severe service. It proved superior in resisting oxidation, protecting against wear, resisting foaming and providing protection under extreme pressures. AMSOIL Severe Gear ranked first or second in 13 out of 16 tests and never ranked below fourth, the only gear lube to test so well. The high ranking of AMSOIL Severe Gear clearly points to a well-balanced formulation capable of delivering effective, long-lasting lubrication protection to all differential components. Most notable is the superior performance of AMSOIL Severe Gear in the critical areas of extreme-pressure protection and viscosity and oxidation stability.
Today's driveline challenges depend upon gear lubricants to supply solutions. As clearly demonstrated in the gear lube white paper, A Study of Automotive Gear Lubes, AMSOIL answers the call with Severe Gear® Synthetic EP Gear Lubes. When pitted against 13 of the industry's most popular gear lubes, AMSOIL Severe Gear came out on top, performing well in every category. AMSOIL Severe Gear proved robust enough to maintain its viscosity when subjected to temperature changes. It was durable enough to retain viscosity during use, even during severe service. It proved superior in resisting oxidation, protecting against wear, resisting foaming and providing protection under extreme pressures. AMSOIL Severe Gear ranked first or second in 13 out of 16 tests and never ranked below fourth, the only gear lube to test so well. The high ranking of AMSOIL Severe Gear clearly points to a well-balanced formulation capable of delivering effective, long-lasting lubrication protection to all differential components. Most notable is the superior performance of AMSOIL Severe Gear in the critical areas of extreme-pressure protection and viscosity and oxidation stability.
The Extra Mile
To further verify the findings reported in A Study of Automotive Gear Lubes, additional testing was performed on AMSOIL Severe Gear. The L-37 Axle Rig Test evaluates load-carrying, wear protection and extreme-pressure properties of gear lubricants. Already considered a rigorous test, the severity of the test was increased to challenge Severe Gear to the absolute limits in gear lube performance. Following a gear conditioning phase, the test is normally conducted for 24 grueling hours at 80 wheel rpm, 1740 lbfft torque per wheel with an axle sump temperature maintained at a constant 275°F (135°C). To further challenge the integrity of AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic 75W-90, the test severity was increased byadding 20 percent greater load. Under these test conditions, Severe Gear was tested at 2088 lbf-ft per wheel for a total combined load of 4176 lbf-ft. This is equivalent to a Chevy pickup with a Duramax 6.6 liter engine and Allison transmission pulling a loaded trailer uphill at full throttle in second gear for 24 straight hours. AMSOIL Severe Gear passed all the requirements, even under 20 percent greater load.
To further verify the findings reported in A Study of Automotive Gear Lubes, additional testing was performed on AMSOIL Severe Gear. The L-37 Axle Rig Test evaluates load-carrying, wear protection and extreme-pressure properties of gear lubricants. Already considered a rigorous test, the severity of the test was increased to challenge Severe Gear to the absolute limits in gear lube performance. Following a gear conditioning phase, the test is normally conducted for 24 grueling hours at 80 wheel rpm, 1740 lbfft torque per wheel with an axle sump temperature maintained at a constant 275°F (135°C). To further challenge the integrity of AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic 75W-90, the test severity was increased byadding 20 percent greater load. Under these test conditions, Severe Gear was tested at 2088 lbf-ft per wheel for a total combined load of 4176 lbf-ft. This is equivalent to a Chevy pickup with a Duramax 6.6 liter engine and Allison transmission pulling a loaded trailer uphill at full throttle in second gear for 24 straight hours. AMSOIL Severe Gear passed all the requirements, even under 20 percent greater load.
Severe Service Requires Severe Gear
Without a doubt, AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lubricants provide superior, worry-free protection, even in severe service. For a complete look at indisputable proof, read A Study of Automotive Gear Lubricants.
Without a doubt, AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lubricants provide superior, worry-free protection, even in severe service. For a complete look at indisputable proof, read A Study of Automotive Gear Lubricants.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Replacing Cabin Air Filters
The purpose of a cabin air filter is to filter contaminants from the incoming air, protecting the occupants, the interior and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of the vehicle. To maintain their effectiveness, cabin air filters should be changed every year.
The first step to replacing a vehicle's cabin air filter is finding it. The vehicle's owners manual can be consulted to find its exact location. In most Ford models, it can be found under the hood in the cowl area. In most Chrysler models, it can be found under the dash. In GM models, it could be under the hood, under the dash or behind the glove box. In Toyota, Lexus, Nissan and most Honda models, it is behind the glove box.
Some disassembly may be necessary to replace a filter mounted under the cowl at the base of the windshield. It may require removing a plastic cowl cover. Before removing the old filter, be sure to prevent any contaminants from falling into the HVAC inlet duct by cleaning the area surrounding the filter. If the filter is located behind the glove box, the glove box may have to be removed before replacing the filter. On some vehicles, cabin air filters can be reached from under the dash and pulled out of a slot in the HVAC unit.
Many installation instructions for WIX cabin air filters are available on the AMSOIL corporate website: www.amsoil.com/products/oil_airfilters/cabin_air.pdf (Opens in a new window)
AMSOIL carries the entire line of WIX high-efficiency cabin air filters for passenger cars and light trucks, offering excellent addon sales opportunities for AMSOIL Dealers. WIX cabin air filters feature a multi-layer design that traps microscopic airborne particles, while an activated carbon layer effectively absorbs gases and odors.
|
Severe Gear® Goes Racing
New Severe Gear Synthetic SAE 190 and SAE 250 Gear Lubricants round out the Severe Gear lineup. Two new premium high viscosity gear lubricants have been added to the Severe Gear lineup. New Severe Gear Synthetic SAE 190 (SRN) and SAE 250 (SRT) Gear Lubricants are recommended for off-road truck racing, rock racing, rock crawling, tractor pulling, funny car racing and dragster racing applications that require heavier viscosity gear lubricants.
Off-road truck racing applications encounter high speeds, heavy loads, shock loading and centrifugal sling-off. Drag racing vehicles, including funny cars and dragsters with high 3,000 to 8,000 horsepower engines, launch so quickly from the starting line that the gear lube flows away from the front of the differential, starving the pinion gear and bearings of essential lubrication protection. Because rock crawling and rock racing vehicles must maneuver over rocks and obstacles with little ground clearance, racers often incorporate differentials designed with the pinion on top instead of the bottom, causing pinion gears and bearings to operate with little lubrication protection. In addition, rock crawling and rock racing vehicles often operate in precarious positions, including sideways and upside down, causing lubricants to flow away from gears and bearings and leaving them to operate with no lubrication at all. AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic SAE 190 and Synthetic SAE 250 Gear Lubricants are premium grade, extreme pressure gear lubes. They are formulated with shear stable, heavy synthetic base oils for "high film strength" and extra heavy treatments of additives. Their synthetic formulations provide improved flow over conventional oils, reducing viscous drag and power loss. Severe Gear SAE 190 and SAE 250 Gear Lubes provide a barrier cushion between metal surfaces that absorbs impact. AMSOIL proprietary extreme pressure additives form an iron-sulfide barrier coating on gear surfaces for the ultimate line of defense against wear, pitting and scoring.
AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic SAE 190 and SAE 250 Gear Lubricants are specifically engineered for high horsepower, high torque conditions where centrifugal gear lube sling-off is encountered. These tenacious formulations cling to gears and bearings for the best possible protection during shock loading, high G-forces and where pinion gears are installed at steep angles. Custom Severe Gear Synthetic Gear Lubricants provide exceptional reliability and extended gear life.
Applications and Service Life |
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Reliable Cold Weather ATV Operation
Cold temperature preventive maintenance ensures ATVs run at peak performance throughout the winter riding season. While motorcycle, scooter, boat and jet ski owners in northern climates have packed away their equipment until spring, ATVs provide owners with year-round recreational and work opportunities. However, ATVs operated in cold winter climates require special attention to ensure reliable operation throughout the season.
Owners traveling long distances at high speeds may wish to contact their ATV dealers regarding jetting requirements. Because cold air is denser than warm air and has higher oxygen content, a richer fuel mixture is required to prevent piston damage. In addition, check into whether gasoline antifreeze is recommended for the ATV and ensure the air filter is clean. If the ATV is equipped with a heated carburetor, have a dealer inspect its operation. When conventional lubricants get cold, they tend to thicken and sacrifice wear protection, while synthetic motor oils maintain their viscosities in cold temperatures. "Synthetic oils do not need to be confined to the engine and transmission," says Randy Hall of MX Performance. "Differentials will also benefit from the characteristics of synthetic gear oils especially in the cold weather." Grease the steering and suspension linkage to remove dirt and water contaminants, and inspect driveline and CV boots to avoid problems with freezing water. Drum brake seals should also be inspected to be sure they are in place, ensuring drums don't fill with water and freeze. Brake fluid can also become contaminated with water and freeze in cold weather. If the brake fluid has not been changed in the last five years, it may be time to change it. Because a cold engine requires more electrical energy to turn over, and because a battery's chemical action slows in cold weather, winter is an especially trying time for an ATV's electrical system. Using the winch as a lift for a plow system taxes the electrical system even further. If an ATV's battery is between 3-5 years old, have it checked or replaced. It is also a good idea to check the charging system. Ensure the battery terminals are clean and tight, and make sure the battery's electrolyte level is at the proper height.  In liquid-cooled machines, it is important to ensure the concentration of antifreeze is at the correct level. Temperature protection should be lower than the lowest temperature the operator expects to ride in during the season. Check the condition of the hoses and radiator as well. Finally, before hitting the trails, always make sure the ATV has had a chance to warm up. If riding on roads where salt is used, protect the undercarriage and metal components with a rust inhibitor.  Formula 4-Stroke® Power Sports Synthetic Motor Oil The broad 0W-40 viscosity rating of AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke® Power Sports Synthetic Motor Oil (AFF) provides the ultimate extreme temperature protection for ATV engines and transmissions, ensuring easy cranking, excellent cold weather starting and quick post-startup protection in the coldest winter climates.  Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant (ANT) provides maximum antifreeze and cooling protection in the most extreme temperatures and operating conditions. Heavy Duty Metal Protector AMSOIL Heavy Duty Metal Protector (AMH) is excellent as an undercoating, protecting metal surfaces exposed to the damaging effects of salt, moisture or chemical corrosion. |
The Increased Popularity of Flex Fuel Vehicles
 About six million flex fuel vehicles (FFVs) are currently on U.S. roads. Capable of running on either gasoline or E85, ablend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, FFVs have been receiving considerable attention in recent years. The benefits of E85 include its renewability, its ability to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and its ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The drawbacks are reduced fuel efficiency compared to gasoline and lack of E85 pumps across the nation. Less than 1 percent of the nation's gas stations offer E85. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that 90 to 95 percent of all ethanol produced in the U.S. is made from corn. However, the future holds the possibility of using the cellulose from agricultural wastes, known as cellulosic ethanol. Cellulosic ethanol would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 70 percent, while also delivering four to 10 times the energy provided by ethanol produced from corn. Nearly 70 vehicle models from 1999 to 2007 have the capability of running on E85, including models from DaimlerChrysler, Ford, General Motors, Isuzu, Mazda, Mercedes, Mercury and Nissan. Flex Fuel Vehicles are usually labeled as such on the fuel cap area. AMSOIL synthetic motor oils provide unsurpassed protection, performance and fuel efficiency in flex fuel vehicles and conventional vehicles. |
HDT USA Land Speed Records Become Official
 Prior to Bonneville Speed Week 2007 last September, Hayes Diversified Technologies (HDT USA) President and CEO Fred Hayes had driven his company's diesel-powered motorcycles to an impressive eight world and four national motorcycle land speed records. Coming into Speed Week, the AMSOIL-sponsored HDT USA team was looking to add to its collection of official land speed records. They did just that, setting two new national and international records. Those records are now official and certified by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA). Byron Schmidt set a new record in the 750 MPS D class of 103.321 miles per hour, breaking the old record of 101.617 mph, while Hayes set a new record of 110.432 mph in the 750 MPS DB class, shattering the old record of 105.147 mph. |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)