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. 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. 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. • Protect gears from shock loading and tire shake • Resist sling-off from G-forces and high speeds • Cling to gears in high pinion style differentials and at steep angles • Promote cooler operating temperatures • Protect against rust and corrosion • Extend gear and bearing life Applications and Service Life AMSOIL Severe Gear Synthetic SAE 190 and Synthetic SAE 250 Gear Lubricants are excellent for severe differential applications, including off-road truck racing, rock racing, rock crawling, tractor pulling, funny car racing and dragster racing. Other severe duty applications include heavy duty trucks and equipment where increased lubricant film is necessary. These oils are recommended for use in hypoid gear differentials and other applications requiring a high viscosity, API GL-5 gear lube. Where limited slip performance is required, use AMSOIL Slip- Lock® limited slip additive. Change Severe Gear SAE 190 and SAE 250 Gear Lubes as conditions dictate. Where extended drain intervals are desired, monitor by oilanalysis.

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. When conventional lubricants get cold, they tend to thicken and sacrifice wear protection, while synthetic motor oils maintain their viscosities in cold temperatures. 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.

Rinker Wins ChampBoat Season Finale

Team AMSOIL powerboat racer and two-time defending ChampBoat Series champion Terry Rinker provided a thrilling end to the 2007 ChampBoat Series season on November 3-4 in Savannah, Ga. After earning his first pole position of the season, Rinker knew he needed a win in the feature race to have a shot at his third straight championship. Rinker got off to a quick start for the early lead, and despite being pushed hard by Shaun Torrente and Chris Fairchild, he held his ground to take his 17th career win. Teammate Randy Rinker also had a successful day, finishing fourth. Although Tim Seebold's third place finish was enough to secure him the championship, Rinker finished the season a strong third whilethe victory moves him into third on the all-time ChampBoat wins list. Savannah Final Results 1) Terry Rinker 2) Chris Fairchild 3) Tim Seebold 4) Randy Rinker 5) Michael Schubert 6) Lynn Simburger 7) Jeff Shepherd 8) Brian Venton 9) Ned Mihajlovic 10) Chuck Unkle See "Updates" for the 2007 ChampBoat television schedule.

Aftermarket Continues Growing

According to the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the value of the light vehicle aftermarket is expected to surpass $200 billion within the next few years. After reaching $185.2 billion in 2006, the market is expected to approach $193 billion by the end of 2007. As in years past, vehicles over 10 years old made up the largest percentage of dollars spent, equating to $80.8 billion in 2006. The segment of vehicles six years old and older is expected to continue growing at a steady pace, while vehicles five years old and newer are projected to peak this year before declining to below $45 billion in 2010.

LaRocco Returns For One More Win

Team AMSOIL supercross legend Mike LaRocco wins 2007 U.S. Open race of champions, while Team AMSOIL teammates Jake Weimer and Dan Reardon shine in the main event. Retired Team AMSOIL supercross star and 2002 U.S. Open of Supercross champion Mike LaRocco was invited to compete in a special race of champions at the 2007 U.S. Open of Supercross. LaRocco was up for the challenge and pitted his Honda CR 250 against fellow U.S. Open champions Jeff Emig and Damon Huffman on the weekend of October 12-13 in Las Vegas. LaRocco did not disappoint the capacity crowd at the MGM Grand Arena, showing off the speed and riding skills that made him a top contender and crowd favorite for 19 years of professional motocross and supercross racing. To the delight of the crowd, LaRocco won both races and stood atop the podium for one more time in his brilliant career. In the main event, Team AMSOIL racer Jake Weimer was joined by new teammate Dan Reardon for a shot at the top prize of the weekend. After Reardon and Weimer finished seventh and tenth respectively on Friday night, Weimer stole the show on Saturday by grabbing the holeshot and taking the win, with teammate Reardon finishing fourth. Overall, Weimer and Reardon finished fourth and seventh respectively. U.S. Open Race of Champions FinalResults 1) Mike LaRocco 2) Jeff Emig 3) Damon Huffman U.S. Open Final Results 1) Grant Langston 2) Chad Reed 3) Josh Demuth 4) Jake Weimer 5) Mike Alessi 6) Andrew Short 7) Dan Reardon 8) Justin Brayton 9) Tim Ferry 10) Michael Byrne

European Oil for European Vehicles

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula surpasses the requirements of the most stringent European motor oil specifications.

Motor oil and motor oil specifications are quite different between the United States and Europe. Due to government corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) requirements, U.S. motor oil specifications place more importance on fuel economy. European specifications place more emphasis on engine protection due to the longer recommended oil drain intervals in Europe. Differences between American and European vehicle designs also affect the requirements placed on motor oils. European vehicles tend to be equipped with smaller engines with higher power densities, while American vehicles are larger and have larger displacement engines.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) has one current motor oil specification for gasoline engines and another for diesel engines, while the European ACEA system has multiple light duty oil specifications for gasoline and diesel engines. Individual automotive manufacturers select one of the specifications and usually add their own stringent requirements. When an oil is approved by a specific manufacturer, it is simply added to the manufacturer's approved list.

Due to the high motor oil quality standards, both motor oil prices and recommended drain intervals are substantially higher in Europe than in the U.S. Typical oil drain intervals are between 10,000 and 18,000+ miles and an oil change can cost hundreds of dollars. Since each manufacturer has its own specific motor oil requirements, most consumers bring their vehicles to the dealer for oil changes.

Using conventional American motor oils in European vehicles will usually not fulfill that vehicle's requirements. Therefore, offering motor oils that fulfill European OEM specifications gives retail outlets and quick lubes a distinct advantage over their competition, allowing them to reach a new segment of customers and increase sales.

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula
AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula (AFL) is specially formulated for the lubrication needs of most modern European gasoline and diesel cars and light trucks. Formulated with advanced synthetic base stocks, premium additives and a 5W-40 viscosity rating, Synthetic European Car Formula is the preferred oil for nearly all European automobiles. It is one of the only oils in North America to be recommended for the latest specifications of all three major European automakers – Volkswagen (Audi), BMW and Mercedes-Benz, as well as the latest North American API specification.

AMSOIL Synthetic 5W-40 European Car Formula is formulated to surpass the most demanding European specifications. It is recommended for European and North American gasoline or diesel vehicles requiring any of the following worldwide specifications:

• API SM/CF
• ACEA C3-04
• ACEA A3/B3-04
• ACEA A3/B4-04
• ACEA C3
• BMW LL-04
• Mercedes Benz 229.31, 229.51
• Porsche
• Saab
• Volvo
• Volkswagen 502.00, 505.00, 505.01
• DaimlerChrysler MS-10725

Hybrid Scooters on the Way

Piaggio SpA recently announced plans to launch a gas-electric hybrid scooter model in congested cities. "The hybrid can represent a very important reply to the problems of traffic, safety and pollution," said Piaggio SpA Chairman Roberto Colaninno. "The hybrid generates synergies from the two motors, using electronic systems." Equipped with a 125cc gas engine, the planned model is based on the Piaggio three-wheeled MP3 scooter and is expected to receive 169 mpg. A lithium battery is used to power the electric motor, and it can be recharged either at the owner's home or through the gas engine when it is running. According to officials, lithium batteries are lighter than conventional lead batteries and can be recharged several thousand times.

A Personal Touch to a Premium Product

New Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil offers the ultimate in wear protection and fuel efficiency. From the time he introduced the first can of AMZOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil in 1972, AMSOIL President and CEO Al Amatuzio has taken great pride in the superior protection and performance provided by AMSOIL products. Now, in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the AMSOIL MLM business plan, 35 years of Dealer opportunity and 35 years of technical leadership, AMSOIL is updating its premiere motor oil with a new, personal image. New Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (SSO) replaces Series 2000 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (TSO) and offers even greater performance. Supplemented with a proprietary ashless anti-wear system for improved heat and viscosity control and boasting a 10 percent increase in TBN (see graph), new Signature Series 0W-30 sets the standard for protection and performance. Personally endorsed by AMSOIL founder and President Al Amatuzio, each bottle bears his signature and describes how he developed the first API qualified synthetic motor oil and launched the synthetic motor oil industry. Product Description AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is the industry benchmark in lubrication technology. Engineered with the world's finest synthetic base oils and high performance additives, AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 is designed for those who demand the absolute best in motor oil performance. The exclusive extended drain formulation delivers superior engine protection and maximum fuel economy. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 is a premium grade synthetic motor oil that exceeds the requirements of modern, high-performance engines and older engines. It replaces other 0W-30, 5W-30 and 10W-30 motor oils and consistently outperforms competitive conventional and synthetic motor oils. Extends Drain Intervals AMSOIL Signature 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil lasts much longer in service than conventional oils. Its unique synthetic formulation and long drain additive system resist oxidation and neutralize the acids that shorten the service life of other oils. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 delivers the best possible engine protection, cleanliness and performance over extended drain intervals, reducing vehicle maintenance and waste oil disposal costs. Maximizes Fuel Efficiency The lightweight molecular structure of AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil reduces energy loss from the "drag" common to high viscosity oils. It is fortified with additives that enhance its friction-reducing properties to help further improve fuel efficiency. Reduces Wear AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil contains specialized anti-wear technology. Its durable, high temperature film strength effectively separates metal surfaces to reduce wear even under the most grueling conditions. Tests prove that AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 provides better protection against wear than other motor oils (see graph). AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 helps engines last longer. Resists Heat, Reduces Oil Consumption and Emissions AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is thermally stable with a strong resistance to high temperature volatility (burn-off). It is heavily fortified with detergent and dispersant additives designed to prevent sludge deposits and keep engines clean. Low volatility and clean operation reduce oil consumption and emissions. Provides Outstanding Cold Flow Properties Unlike conventional oils, AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 contains no wax. Its exceptional -60°F cold flow properties ease starting and reduce bearing wear. 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 Service Life AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil is recommended for extended drain intervals in unmodified, mechanically sound, gasoline-fueled vehicles as follows: • Normal Service -- Up to 35,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first. • Severe Service -- Up to 17,500 miles or one year, whichever comes first. • Replace AMSOIL Ea Oil Filter at the time of oil change up to 25,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first (other brands at standard OEM intervals). • In all non-gasoline fueled vehicle applications, extend the oil change interval according to oil analysis or follow the OEM drain interval. AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil will be available October 1. It replaces Series 2000 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, which will remain available while supplies last. Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Data Bulletin The new Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Data Bulletin, highlighting the features and benefits of Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, is available for purchase.

Customers Choosing Fuel Efficiency

Customers are trading their SUVs for more fuel efficient crossover vehicles. According to the Power Information Network (PIN) division of J.D. Power and Associates, demand for sport utility vehicles (SUVs) has decreased dramatically in recent years, with many customers switching to more fuel efficient crossover utility vehicles (CUVs). Share of the total new vehicle market for the midsize non-premium utility segment, once among the most dominant segments in the industry, has dropped 43 percent since May 1997, while sales volume for the midsize SUV segment has dropped 18 percent since early 2006. The percentage of midsize utility owners trading their vehicles for another of the same type is also on the decline, from 29 percent in May 2004 to 17 percent in May 2007. Owners of these vehicles are increasingly switching to more fuel efficient vehicles. In fact, the percentage of owners trading for a midsize crossover vehicle more than doubled between May 2004 and May 2007, while the percentage trading for a compact crossover increased from 6 percent to 11 percent and the percentage trading for a compact conventional car climbed from 8 percent to 13 percent in the same time period. "We can see the decline in this segment by looking at specific models like the Ford Explorer, which was the third-most-popular model in 1995, 1996 and 1998 in the United States," said Tom Libby, PIN senior director of industry analysis. "But now, the Explorer ranks 46th through the first five months of this year and there are no midsize utility models among the top 20 most popular vehicles in the country." Vehicle manufacturers have taken notice of the decreased demand for midsize utility vehicles. While the number of models in the segment peaked at 22 in 2003, 2004 and 2005, only 16 models are present in the segment this year. "Clearly, consumers are responding to changing economic forces – from rising energy costs to growing concerns about the environment," said Jeff Schuster, J.D. Power and Associates executive director of automotive intelligence. "Manufacturers are responding by dramatically increasing the number of new products in the CUV segment to provide substitutes for midsize SUV models. This shift is far from over and will fundamentally change the mix of vehicles on the road in the years ahead."

Ford Oil Leak

According to Ford Motor Company, some 2002 4.6L two-valve Mustangs may leak oil from the top of the engine. Ford advises inspection of the PCV valve. The leak can usually be attributed to off-kilter stack-up tolerances between the valve and hose, and the problem can be resolved by installing an ordinary worm-type clamp onto the hose.

Extend Gearbox and Lubricant Life

When the oil within a gearbox is changed, five percent or more of the old oil is often left inside. When the oil is not drained immediately after shutdown, sludge and contaminants have a chance to accumulate and remain with the residual oil in the bottom of the sump, becoming resuspended when the gearbox is refilled with lubricant and put back into service. In order to keep contaminants out of fresh oil, Noria Corporation suggests the following steps:

1) Drain the oil within 15 minutes of shutting down and pre-filter the fresh oil.

2) Filter the oil periodically with a portable filtration cart while the machine is running. Have the oil analyzed periodically to determine if it requires changing.

3) Employ full-time filtration.

Gearbox oil drain intervals can usually be extended dramatically after incorporating filtration and oil analysis, not only reducing both lubricant and labor expenses, but extending the life of the gearbox.

Semi-Fluid 00 Synthetic EP Grease

AMSOIL Semi-Fluid 00 Synthetic EP Grease (GSF) is ideal for leaky or difficult-to-service gearboxes in industrial and fleet applications, providing superior protection and performance in shockloading applications that rupture the oil film of conventional greases.

Toyota Sells One Millionth Hybrid

Toyota recently announced the sale of its one millionth hybrid vehicle. Of the one million vehicles sold worldwide, more than half have been sold in the United States. "The cost benefit of hybrids is becoming more apparent with climbing gas prices," says Toyota Motor Sales executive vice president Jim Lentz. "We anticipate combined sales of Toyota and Lexus hybrids of a quarter million units in the U.S. during calendar year 2007." Masatami Takimoto, Toyota Powertrain Development executive vice president, expects hybrids to become the standard drivetrain and account for 100 percent of Toyota vehicles by 2020. According to a recent National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) study, hybrid vehicles have saved close to 215 million gallons of fuel in the U.S. since 1999. In addition to the fuel economy benefits, hybrid owners cite significantly reduced tailpipe emissions and reduced dependence on foreign oil as reasons for buying their hybrids.

Hot Running Twin Cam 96 Engines

Harley-Davidson has recently acknowledged that its Twin Cam 96 engine tends to operate at higher temperatures. In particular, owners of 2007 Ultra Classic Electra Glide motorcycles have noticed an excessive level of heat radiating from the engine. This model has fairing lowers that obstruct some of the cooling air that would usually cool the rider's legs at slower speeds. In addition, the Twin Cam 96 engine operates at higher temperatures than the Twin Cam 88 engine because it has almost 10 percent more displacement and because it is calibrated to run a leaner fuel mixture to meet exhaust emissions standards, often elevating engine heat at slow riding speeds when little air is flowing around the bike.

AMSOIL Sponsors American Hot Rod Tulsarama Program

Legendary hot rod builder Boyd Coddington will use AMSOIL lubricants and filters exclusively in his mission to revive a buried 1957 Plymouth Belvedere.

On June 15, 1957, the city of Tulsa, Okla. buried a new gold and white 1957 Plymouth Belvedere Sport Coupe in a time capsule in downtown Tulsa as part of Golden Jubilee Week, a celebration of Oklahoma's 50th year of statehood. Before the car was buried, citizens were asked to guess the population of Tulsa in the year 2007 with the promise that whoever turned out to be closest would be awarded the car at Oklahoma's Centennial celebration in 2007. The entries were sealed and buried with the car inside the vault.

Boyd Coddington

On June 15, 2007, the car will be unearthed and transferred to the Tulsa Convention Center as part of Oklahoma's Centennial celebration. On hand will be legendary hot rod builder Boyd Coddington, host of the hit TLC TV series American Hot Rod. Coddington and his crew will be responsible for getting the Belvedere running after spending 50 years buried in the underground vault. The process will be filmed for an episode of American Hot Rod, which will air numerous times on TLC.

AMSOIL is an official sponsor of this historic event. AMSOIL lubricants and filters will be used by Coddington and his crew as they work to get the Belvedere running, with AMSOIL product placement and banners visible throughout the program. Watch the Action News, Direct Line and www.amsoil.com for air dates of this exciting and historic program.

The hit TLC TV series American Hot Rod draws over one million viewers each week, where they watch Coddington and his crew design and build cuttingedge hot rods. Host Boyd Coddington has won the prestigious "America's Most Beautiful Roadster" Award a record seven times and the Daimler-Chrysler Design Excellence Award twice. He's enshrined in the SEMA Hall of Fame, the Grand National Roadster Show Hall of Fame, the National Rod & Custom Museum Hall of Fame, the Route 66 Wall of Fame, the Street Rod Marketing Alliance Hall of Fame, and he was voted "Man of the Year" in 1988 by Hot Rod Magazine.

Buell to Introduce Off-Road Motorcycles

Within the next two years, Buell Motorcycle Co. plans to introduce offroad motorcycles designed for closedcourse competition. “Harley-Davidson and Buell are highly committed to broadening the range of products we offer and reaching out to new groups of customers,” said Buell President and Chief Operating Officer Jon Flickinger. “We’re always looking at new market opportunities, but this one is particularly exciting.”

Scooter Popularity on the Rise

A wide variety of consumers are drawn to the performance, efficiency and affordability of modern scooters.

Offering a combination of performance, efficiency and affordability, motorized scooters have quickly become one of the fastest growing segments in the transportation industry. Suzuki saw scooter sales increase 30 percent in 2006, despite spending the bulk of its national advertising budget on sports bikes, ATVs and other products.

Today’s scooter market offers enough variety to catch the attention of a wide range of customers. In fact, two of the largest groups of scooter owners are commuters and leisure riders.

While the stereotypical image of a scooter rider features a young college student cruising to class, today’s scooter market offers enough variety to catch the attention of a wide range of customers. In fact, two of the largest groups of scooter owners are commuters and leisure riders.

“An emerging group is those who use scooters as a way of commuting,” says Paolo Timoni, president and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas. “That group is about 50 percent of the market in our case and growing.”

The Suzuki Burgman line, featuring scooter models ranging from 400 to 650cc, offers a high performance option in the scooter market. According to Glenn Hansen, communications manager at American Suzuki Motor Corp., Suzuki’s typical scooter customers are older, experienced motorcycle riders who still enjoy riding, but have tired of moving their big, heavy motorcycles around.

Schwinn Motor Sports groups its scooter customers into three categories: college students, urban professionals and retirees. “The marketing focus comes down to scooter demographics, which are all over the place,” says Mo Moorman, Schwinn director of corporate communications and new business marketing.

Because many potential scooter buyers have questions about licensing, maintenance, parking and other scooter-related issues, Piaggio encourages its dealers to host education sessions with small groups of potential buyers. According to Piaggio research, these sessions double the chances a potential customer will purchase a scooter.

"People tend to associate scooters with motorcycles, and most people are a little afraid," says Timoni. "Education classes and demo rides are very effective initiatives."

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 hightech air- and water-cooled four-stroke motorized scooters, offering unsurpassed wear protection and friction reduction for longer equipment life and cooler operating temperatures. 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.

Ford Increases Recommended Oil Change Intervals

Ford Motor Company recently extended its recommended motor oil change interval from 5,000 to 7,500 miles under normal service conditions. The change applies to select 2007 models and all 2008 models. According to Ford fuels and lubricants engineering supervisor Pete Misangyi, Ford based its decision on the improved quality of engine oils and engines. “Severe duty was also upped to 5,000,” said Misangyi. “So that one went up from 3,000 as part of the same change.” Last year, Ford increased its recommended oil change interval for diesel engines operating under normal service from 7,500 to 10,000 miles.

Formula 4-Stroke® 10W-40 Synthetic Scooter Oil and 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil

With the introduction of new AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke® Synthetic Scooter Oil (ASO), many have asked if this product is the same as AMSOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (MCF). The answer is no, the two products are not the same. That answer, however, leads to other questions. For example, what is different between the two? Can they be interchanged? Why are two different oils needed anyway?

Though there are a great deal of similarities between scooter and motorcycle applications, there are also many differences. Some of those differences lie in the area of performance, while others are more market driven, such as cost and general consumer perception. In order to provide AMSOIL customers with the best possible product for any given application, all such factors must be considered. In this case, the end result is a separate product for scooter applications with another directed toward their motorcycle brethren.

From the standpoint of performance, the demands and requirements scooters place on engine oil are similar to those found in motorcycle applications, but differences do exist between the two in the level or degree of stress each application places on the oil. For example, the operating speeds of scooters tend to max out around 5-7,000 rpms. Café style motorcycles, on the other hand, can easily redline in the 12-14,000 rpm range. Also, though the state-of-tune of scooters is significantly higher than in the past, it pales in comparison to the horsepower per cc of displacement realized by today’s high powered motorcycles. Needless to say, in order to meet these differences most effectively, some differences in product formulation are required. That is not to say something has been left out of AMSOIL ASO. The formulation of this product, however, has been optimized to more closely match not only the performance levels demanded by scooters, but all other factors important to the application and market as well.

Another difference is in the area of longevity. Both ASO and MCF last longer in service than their competitive counterparts, but to what extent do the two vary? As mentioned, both products are built on a robust platform, a platform capable of providing exceptional durability by itself. MCF Motorcycle Oil is then fortified, however, to offer even greater life expectancy. That is the reason for the difference in the service intervals recommended for the two products. ASO is recommended to be changed at OEM maintenance intervals, and MCF is recommended for change intervals up to twice OEM maintenance intervals.

With these differences in performance requirements comes differences in manufacturing costs. This is important. While everyone wants maximum performance from the oil they use, scooter owners tend to be more concerned about price than their motorcycle counterparts. These differences in manufacturing costs allow AMSOIL to offer ASO at a lower price, making it extremely competitive in a cost conscious market.

Can the two products be interchanged? Yes, to some degree they can. MCF is more than suitable for use in scooter applications, but for the most part it may be considered overkill. It is unlikely that a scooter application will ever present the level of severity for which MCF was designed to handle. Hence, the issue of cost efficiency enters in. Keep in mind, however, that there is a contingent of owners with tricked out scooters looking for maximum performance regardless of cost. For that group, MCF is well worth consideration. On the other hand, ASO will perform satisfactorily in motorcycle applications. In fact, the level of performance and protection offered by ASO exceeds that found in conventional motorcycle oils. ASO, however, was not designed to offer the higher degree of safety margin AMSOIL believes is required by many high performance motorcycle applications. Also, from the standpoint of consumer perception, it is unlikely that an owner of a $20,000 crotch rocket would be inclined to use an oil that is directed toward scooter applications.

ASO may be the little brother of MCF, but don’t sell it short. This little brother is a real scrapper and more than capable of meeting even the most severe needs found in scooter applications. It is the perfect combination of performance and cost effectiveness.