Locks, Handcuffs, Houdini and AMSOIL

Locks serve many functions, most commonly to keep a door from being opened... or a vault. There are many kinds of locks. Padlocks, mortise locks, deadbolt locks, window locks, combination locks and a variety of electronic systems which have evolved in our modern technological era.

One of the great magicians of all time built a reputation around his knowledge of locks and the inner mechanisms by which they operate. His name was Harry Houdini, a master escape artist.

He was born Ehrich Weiss in Budapest, Hungary in 1874, coming of age in the last years of the 19th century. It was a period in history when circuses and vaudeville flourished. There were no televisions, radios or other means of distraction available today.

He initially became a master of illusions, especially devoted to sleight of hand and card tricks, dubbing himself the "King of Cards." Eventually his repertoire grew to include all manner of puzzles and whatever seemed to bring the most gasps. As an escape artist he learned practically everything there was to know about locks, ropes, chains and handcuffs. He didn't stop there, designing new escapes that would put his life at risk, including the famous milk can escape.

Even though there was usually a trick to it, people enjoyed the work of master magicians like Houdini. Handcuff escapes, though, had their basis in understanding mechanics and science. There was no real hocus pocus here.

So it is with the magic of AMSOIL synthetic motor oil. There was no hocus pocus when AMSOIL appeared on the scene in 1972 with its 25,000 mile oil/one year oil change interval. There was no trickery involved. It was science, an understanding of chemistry that produced the first synthetic motor oil. Synthetic oils had been in use for more than two decades in jet engines because of their high and low temperature performance capabilities. It took a determined fighter pilot many years to achieve the goal of applying jet engine technology to the internal combustion engine.

The benefits of AMSOIL synthetic oils involve no illusions. It is fundamentally advanced chemistry and applied science. We don't really have to know how  magicians like Houdini do their magic. It's nice to simply enjoy the show... or the benefits of unlocking the performance capabilities of your vehicle's engine.

AMSOIL SEMA Feature of the Week: Scott Hubbard’s Mazda3 I-Sport Sedan

Scott Hubbard knew his 2010 Mazda3 I-Sport would be his first project vehicle as soon as he laid eyes on it in 2009. After purchasing his own at the end of that year, Scott set out to create a unique second-gen Mazda3 unlike any other on the car show scene. He succeeded, and now boasts ownership of a tricked-out Mazda3 sedan with modifications not seen on any other of its kind. Testaments to his hard work are the best-of awards he holds from Hot Import Nights Fontana, MazFest and Extreme Autofest San Diego 2013.

The list of mods is extensive, but one that immediately catches the eye is the Vertical Doors Inc. kit installed on the vehicle. To this day, it is still the only second-gen sedan in the country with this particular modification. The tuner scene is rampant with builders constantly on the grind trying to create the next big thing, and Scott has found a way of standing out among them.

Scott’s Mazda3 is now headed to SEMA for the first time, slated for a feature vehicle spot for the SteelCraft Company. In keeping up with his commitment to performance and style, AMSOIL is installed throughout. We caught up with Scott as he prepared the finishing touches before SEMA kicks off at the end of this month, and here is what he had to say.

AMSOIL: What drew you to this make/model for SEMA? What has you ‘jazzed’ about this particular build?

Scott Hubbard: I had always wanted a Mazda for my next car. I decided to go out one day and test drive some with my mom and wound up buying a 2010 Mazda3 I-Sport Sedan that same day, I had no intentions of mod’ing the car when I bought it. It wasn't until I started working for Vertical Doors Inc/ShopSFM, that I started mod’ing it. There weren't a whole lot of sedans being heavily modified, so there wasn't much to reference from. But seeing that no one had really touched the platform I decided to put my own spin on a car you typically wouldn't see at Shows. I'm jazzed about my build because nobody has a sedan quite like mine, and it’s so unique that if you saw it on the road you would instantly know that's the Mazda Project Car.

How many times have you been to SEMA?
SH: I have been to SEMA once before as a spectator, but this year will be the first time I have shown the Mazda Project car at SEMA. Going as a spectator and just seeing the event is what gave me the drive to do everything I could to get it into the event this year.

Why do you think SEMA has become such a destination for vehicle builders like yourself?
SH: When I think of SEMA I think of it as the Hall of Fame of show cars. It is not only a chance to show off all the hard work put into cars by their builders, but also a great way to get free parts in the process.

Any special features to this vehicle unique to you? What is it about this vehicle that makes it ‘you’?

SH: I want to say the most unique features to the project car would be the prototype Vertical Doors Inc. Kit, the HEXIS Satin Metallic Blue/Matte Black two toned vinyl wrap and the Oracle angel eyes. These three mods are what make the car truly unique and express my personality. My goal was to make a car that stood out from the crowd, and I feel these three mods helped accomplish that.

What made you choose AMSOIL for your engine?
SH: I chose AMSOIL because when I think engine fluid I have always viewed AMSOIL as being one of the top of the line products you could use on your vehicle. I was interested in being a part of the AMSOIL experience and repping you guys at SEMA!

Any favorite AMSOIL product? 
SH: Of course AMSOIL synthetic motor oil, and the P.i. Performance Improver.

If you could choose any vehicle in the world to customize and make your own, what would it be and why?
SH: I have always loved the 1993 RX-7 FD and am planning on buying the next generation Mazda RX-7 whenever it finally comes out. When I think imports I think RX-7. While I am still a huge fan of the Nissan GTR, I am a Mazda Enthusiast at heart and would feel at home driving around in a RX-7 FD or Future generation RX-7.

Lastly, do you have a favorite quote or motto that describes you?  
SH: If you can dream it you can do it!

AMSOIL under the hood: 
Synthetic 5W-20 Signature Series Motor Oil
Absolute Efficiency Oil Filter
Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Signature Series ATF
Antifreeze and Engine Coolant
DOMINATOR Coolant Boost
Synthetic DOT-3 Brake Fluid
P.i. Performance Improver

Team Hybrid: Making It Happen

Every serious import owner is on a never-ending mission to pull out all the stops in creating the best ride that eclipses any other on the scene. Team Hybrid is no exception, and in fact sets the standard for today’s performance automotive enthusiast. They have been steadily generating buzz by landing some high-profile magazine covers, most recently in the January/December issue of Performance Auto & Sound and PASMAG Overdrive. PAS Magazine features two magazines in one with a cover for both, and Team Hybrid made another mark in the history books by landing both covers for the second time. No other team has accomplished this, which goes to show how revered Team Hybrid is by the respect it receives both in print and on the street. AMSOIL is installed in some of their vehicles currently making headlines, including this one from owner Charleston Penesa.

Currently featured on the cover of the latest PASMAG Overdrive, Penesa’s 2006 Mitsubishi EVO IX engine modifications include a Buschur Racing 3076R turbo kit, 1000cc injectors, HKS Super Suction intake system and much more. In keeping up with these high-performance standards they use AMSOIL Series 600 Brake Fluid, AMSOIL Synthetic High Performance 10W-30 Motor Oil and AMSOIL Ea Oil Filter.

AMSOIL covered this feature in the Promotions blog back in July when it was up and coming, and has since followed Penesa and Team Hybrid as they continue pushing the envelope in the import circuit. Founder James Lin received one more testament to their team’s viability at the 2010 SEMA show, learning Team Hybrid was confirmed to be the most published team in Performance Auto & Sound Magazine history. As one of the top three best-selling enthusiast titles in the US and the number one title in Canada, this is no small accomplishment.

AMSOIL is pleased to lend support to such a talented team of enthusiasts. Team Hybrid has the ability to generate buzz and awareness for not only their rides and organization, but the companies that sponsor them. Look for the AMSOIL logo placement on the cover of PASMAG Overdrive and watch for future updates. As they make their mark across the import circuit, Team Hybrid is rising fast and showing no signs of stopping.

2009 Diesel Power Challenge Hits News Stands Everywhere

Back in May, Diesel Power Magazine orchestrated another successful Diesel Power Challenge with AMSOIL on board for the third year as a major sponsor. With each year steadily getting better, Diesel Power Magazine called the 2009 challenge the ‘best event yet’ with competitors showing no signs of slowing or stopping.

Coverage of the event includes two lengthy stories appearing in the August and September issues of Diesel Power. The August issue provided overviews of the competitors, with all the details surrounding each of their modified machines. The September feature, more than forty pages worth, is titled Diesel Death Match, featuring 14 diesel guzzling, fire-snorting monsters producing enough horsepower and torque to make a diesel lover swoon. The setups ranged from mild to wild in this competition, which in the end produced one winner.

To quickly recap, the Diesel Power Challenge pits 15 trucks against one another in a series of tests designed to reveal the nation’s ultimate street-legal diesel powered vehicle. Readers of Diesel Power Magazine vote and decide on the final roster of competitors, but only one emerges with the title. In a three-day period, these diesels are put through trials and tribulations designed to dismantle the trucks not fit to be crowned all while a film crew is on hand to capture each moment, whether they fail, prevail or both.

Overall Robert Evans of Reno, NV took home the glory, but the others didn’t make it easy for him and it was close right up to the end. Each year brings out the drive, determination, and the desire to win within every competitor. With a fierce passion to build a truck that has the wherewithal to defeat each phase of this challenge, builders arrive ready to prove themselves. AMSOIL is always pleased to be on board providing lubricants that can withstand these rigorous conditions and help conquer the course.

This year’s event will be aired on Four Wheeler Television on the Outdoor Channel sometime in the fourth quarter. And be sure to subscribe to Diesel Power Magazine so you can have your say in who will be at next year’s challenge by voting online in Spring 2010. Only time will tell if Robert Evans can defend his title next year, or if the torch will be passed to the next worthy diesel-powered champion.

It’s impossible to leave this subject without mentioning the two new premium API CJ-4 diesel oils AMSOIL introduced this spring. For diesel empowerment, choose AMSOIL.

Sturgis Heating Up, AMSOIL Cooling it Down

Four wheels move the body. Two wheels move the soul. ~Author Unknown

Each year, the world famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally draws thousands of dedicated motorcycle riders to the Black Hills in Sturgis, SD. For the second year in a row, AMSOIL is on board as the Official Oil Sponsor of Sturgis and currently has a staff out west bringing AMSOIL to attention. On Monday, the official starting day of the rally, temperatures reached 94 degrees... of course, that wasn’t an issue for those with AMSOIL installed in their bikes. For those who don’t, let’s just hope they still have a bike that runs by the time they leave after a week of these same high temperatures.

Staff updates are bringing good news with spectators stopping the crew every time they walk down the street. Questions are as varied as the AMSOIL product line. Many are sharing testimonials about their own experiences, who don’t know what their bikes are missing out on display a general curiosity. AMSOIL even has its own oil change facility set up in downtown Sturgis, so those who have not yet reaped the benefits can join the movement right there at the rally. For those of us who aren’t lucky enough to be in the action this year, updates are being provided regularly by the AMSOIL team. Just click here to stay current with the latest AMSOIL happenings in Sturgis.

Diesel Power Challenge: Live From Bowling Green

Day one from Bowling Green is complete. The Diesel Power Challenge has been putting fifteen contenders to the test here. The first test was whether the weather would break after two weeks of rain. A few of the teams were still doing work on their trucks late last night, in the drizzle.

The first day consisted of three events. Two were held at Beech Bend Raceway Park. The day began with prepping the track, removing the last vestiges of moisture so tires could get a grip. This delay gave us ample time to visit with many if not most of the teams to see what kinds of strategies they were planning, what modifications they’d made, etc. Some were looking for speed, some were hooked up for power.

Once the strip was prepared, the trucks could make as many passes as they liked in an effort to choose their best score for fastest time. It was quite dramatic when the fellow with the fastest truck decided to take another pass just because it was an empty track awaiting him. Boom. Was he going to be out for the count? Or could repairs be made in time for the next event, pulling a ten thousand pount caterpillar a quarter mile.

Several trucks had unfortunate experiences in round one, but most bounced back with fast work and quick thinking.

The third portion of the day was the dyno competition, hosted by TS Performance. You can be sure these monsters were pulling down some huge numbers.

One reason this event is such a popular feature in the magazine is that it an opportunity for diesel enthusiasts to get an inside look at what their peers and competitors are doing in terms of performance modifications. In addition to the modifications, readers can also learn about the thinking behind these performance related decisions.

A West Coast film crew is on hand to capture footage for the Diesel Power Challenge program that will air later this year on the Four Wheeler TV show. Molly Brown from our AMSOIL Technical Department, who played an instrumental role on the team that developed the new AMSOIL Synthetic Diesel Oils, has been helping to draw out stories and insights from the builders in a show no diesel enthusiast will want to miss.

Photo Caption: (L to R) DPC competitor Scott Whisenhunt, Molly Brown, film producer Ryan Nonaca, Diesel Power magazine editor David Kennedy, and AMSOIL Dealer Robert Riley.

French Pastries Are Sweet, AMSOIL Sweeter Still

Jorge Ferrin’s 2002 Subaru WRX is a eye-catcher. So much so that it has now been featured overseas in the April issue of the French auto mag ADDX.

Ferrin’s WRX had already been featured in a half dozen magazines and even a few films. Every facet of the car has undergone modifications and reveals unique features. “I felt I needed to take the car to a whole new level,” Ferrin said when describing his work.

The enginge is an EJ20 2.0L H4 with the following additions: EVOIII-16G turbo; Perrin fuel rails, front mount intercooler, big MAF intake, up pipe, down pipe, turbo inlet hose, oil catch can and radiator hoses; Mishimoto radiator; Beatrush radiator shroud; CryO2 intercooler sprayer; Deatchwerks 650cc injectors; Walbro 255lph pump; carbon-Ti exhaust; oil cap, radiator cap; Kartboy pitch mount and battery tie down; UR pulley set; plasma direct coils; turbo timer; carbon fiber engine covers; polished intake manifold, valve covers and alternator; Reese Tuning (297WHP). AMSOIL synthetic lubes and coolant make the power system complete.

“AMSOIL (synthetic oil) complements the performance of my car while protecting it,” Ferrin said.

The car’s interior, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, wheels and sound system all conspire to leave observers dazed and drooling. Nice work, Jorge. We can't wait to see where your car will show up next!

Dream Cars Get Dreamier With AMSOIL

You can hardly turn around without running into a car show these days it seems. This week both Houston TX and Harrisburg PA are hosting auto shows. Some very hot AMSOIL lubricated vehicles can be found at each.

But first it only seems right to highlight John Pangilinan’s Scion, which had a featured location at the king of car shows in Detroit a couple weeks back. The cobalt blue Scion first appeared at SEMA in November and was also spotted at the L.A. Auto Show later. It's one beautiful car that is catching a lot of eyeballs.

In Houston you'll see some pretty snappy AMSOIL lubed cars including this Twin Turbo Lexus IS-F put together by Fox Marketing and Artisan Performance. This subtle, yet aggressive, golden gem includes several muscular bodywork lines. The Nissan booth features another miniature miracle tuned by Artisan and Fox, a white 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe. And according to an informal survey of passing eyeballs, it's even more exciting than the new GT-R. Maybe because it's dressed for the occasion, and lubed with AMSOIL.

In Harrisburg, Paul Caparello’s ’68 Camaro is a power mad example of emotional exuberance. The current version of the car is 1800 horsepower. The previous alcohol injected version threw off 3500 horses. Both expressions of the Camaro were lubricated throughout with AMSOIL synthetics.

To the left here is a Jeep Wrangler TJ and in the CarDomain.com booth (below) a sweet Ford Focus.
Tomorrow will be a big day in Harrisburg where they will be announcing the winner of the “Xtreme Ride Revamp” contest, in which some lucky person will drive home with the 2009 Honda Fit we mentioned yesterday. In the hands of Brian Fox of Fox Marketing and his team, the revamped ride went from stock to cream-of-the-crop in just over eight weeks. The Pennsylvania Auto & Boat Show, Faulkner Honda and HOT 92 FM teamed with the local car builder to create “somebody’s dream car”…but just whose dream car it will be remains to be seen.

CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE

Hottest Tuner of All Time?

“Excellence is doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
~ John W. Gardner

The 10th anniversary edition of Import Tuner magazine features one super-jammin’ Integra with the headline, “Why This Integra Is The Best Tuned Car EVER.” It’s certainly got the look, and the feel, and the power. And it’s lubricated with AMSOIL.... which means this gold Integra is golden inside and out.

The feature story, which begins on page 70, highlights why Chris Rios’ turbocharged Acura Integra DC2 is a perfect pick to represent the past ten years of the Import Tuner scene. According to Ric Faderoga the Acura Integra is to tuners as Muhammed Ali is to boxing. Besides being reliable, sporty and affordable, it’s “filled with an infinite amount of tuning potential.”

Rios, who grew up watching his dad and uncle building cars in Boston, bought this ’94 Integra DC2 the minute it came into production. “It was love at first sight.”

The car is featured on the cover of this month’s Import Tuner (Congrats, Chris!) with full details within about the features that make this ride special. Attention to detail is what puts top tuners in the driver’s seat... and gets them on the covers of top mags. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are certainly a contributing variable not to be overlooked when you have an investment like this one to protect.

Or as Perry Paxton so aptly put it, "Excellence is in the details. Give attention to the details and excellence will come."

CLICK ON PHOTO TO ENLARGE

Sacramento Gears Up To Welcome 7th Annual NSRA Golden State Nationals

Another spectacular show headed by the NSRA is coming to Sacramento, CA for the 7th Annual Golden State Nationals event. Those in sunny California during the weekend of October 3, 4 and 5th should make it to this exciting event held at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds. Nearly the entire venue will be utilized, including the buildings to house manufacturer and dealer displays. An event no true vintage automotive enthusiast should miss, there is fun for the entire family with a model car contest, Tether Car demonstrations, NSRA safety inspections, and the National Street Rod Association Super Prize program. As always, for the ladies there is the Women’s World area with arts and crafts.

As a special feature exclusive to the Sacramento Golden State Nationals, there will be an appearance by the Munster Koach. Featured in the popular TV show The Munsters, it was built in 1964 by George Barris Kustoms and has since been restored by Advanced Restorations of Sacramento. Come see a piece of Hollywood history not to be missed. Get up close and personal with some of the most beautifully restored vintage automobiles ever to gather in one place.

What: Golden State Nationals
Where: Cal Expo Fairgrounds, Sacramento
When: October 3, 4, 5
Hours: Friday 8:30-5:00 PM
Saturday 8:30-5:00 PM

Sunday 8:30-2:00 PM
Cost: Adult: $14
Child 6-12: $5
Under 6: Free

AMSOIL is an official product sponsor of the NSRA.

Fourth Annual Engine Challenge: Pictures From Memphis

Well, the week a lot of folks have been waiting for is now complete. Eight engines were put to the test at Comp Cams in Memphis for the AMSOIL Mopar Muscle Engine Challenge.

Randy Bolig, editor of Mopar Muscle magazine, sent us daily notes and a few choice photos from each of the dyno sessions this week. Having worked with Randy these past two years, it is hard to imagine anyone with more passion for this kind of thing... except maybe our eight contenders for this year’s prize.

The teams come from all points of the compass. They are seriously consumed with making engines perform to their utmost. For sure it has to be a privilege to be among the chosen few who make it to this final destination, the Comp Cams test facility.

Each 440-based spec engine was run on the same Rockett Brand 93-octane fuel while at the dyno, lubricated with AMSOIL premium synthetic motor oil.

Here are the notes Randy sent me from a typical pull. We’ll release our winner’s name as soon as we’re permitted.

Chenoweth
MANIFOLD VACUUM 4.1
First three qualifiers with timing at 35 degrees jets are XX;
680.1/553.9;
678.2/551.3;
676.5/554.9

Made first three qualifiers back-to-back with no changes

After third qualifier, checked lash—found a couple rockers with excessive lash.

Fourth Qualifier; 682.8/550.9
After fourth qualifier; added2-inch Plastic Super Sucker spacer.

First scored; 686.1/553.5
Made second scored pull immediately following first; 684.4/553.7
After second pull, changed from 1050 carb to 1150

Third scored pull; 686.2/556.7
After third pull, changed timing to 38
Fourth pull netted 698.5/561.0
Fifth pull was identical

Seventh pull 695.8/567.3

JMS Racing... In search of the perfect setup.

Report From Sturgis

The 2008 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has now come and gone, but what an event it was. Being “Official Oil of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally” gave AMSOIL a lot of additional visibility this year. Enthusiasm for AMSOIL products continues to bust through the roof. The traffic in the corporate booth was great as many new leads and customers will be linked to the AMSOIL Dealer network.

The weather was hot in the beginning of the rally but pleasant overall with temperatures in the high 80s and low humidity for most of the rally. Many rally attendees stopped by the AMSOIL booth to sign up for a chance to win a free case of oil and filters for their bikes. This generated a great deal of interest and a reason for people to stop by. We also displayed an HDT Diesel motorcycle, drag bike and hill climb bike in the AMSOIL booth. All of these bikes stopped people in their tracks and provided more reasons to visit.

For the second year, AMSOIL sponsored the “Rumble in the Hills” hill climb and once again it was a huge success. Hundreds of spectators watched as riders climbed straight up the hill. AMSOIL also provided a free case of oil to the winner of the AMSOIL “King of the Hill” shootout. This shootout involved the top five riders from the two day event. They each raced the hill an additional two times to be crowned the AMSOIL “King of the Hill.” One never knows where you’ll see an AMSOIL banner in the media or on YouTube, especially with MTV and the Discovery Channel on hand taping these races.

Many times, AMSOIL staff walking in downtown Sturgis with their AMSOIL shirts proudly displayed were stopped by people saying things like, “AMSOIL, great stuff! “AMSOIL, I run it in all my toys!” “AMSOIL is the only oil I use.” Moments like these are especially gratifying.

AMSOIL looks forward to the 2009 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and to promoting AMSOIL even more. It’s just one more reason AMSOIL motorcycle oil sales continue to soar. Now, it’s on to Daytona as the “Official Oil of Daytona Bike Week.” See you there!

One of the highlights of the year for Four Wheeler Magazine's editors and publishers is the annual Four Wheeler Top Truck Challenge. Vehicles and drivers from all across North America descend upon the outback of Hollister, California, for the most grueling competition on four wheels. A dozen reader selected teams make their appearance here and it is a wonder of devastation for many.

AMSOIL is pleased to sponsor events like this that put equipment to the test. It’s where our products excel.

The November issue of Four Wheeler magazine, with full coverage from Hollister, is now on news stands everywhere fine four wheeling mags can be found. Here’s the cover shot. Enjoy the contents and the competition. When you go on the ride of your life, be sure to protect your engine and other moving parts with AMSOIL engine oils, filters, tranny fluid and gear lubes. We don’t, however, have anything that will keep your sheet metal from being stripped, yet.

Blown Outa Proportion

Paul Sykora's pet passion has been making the rounds. In July the ’37 Ford Coupe, which won a 2007 Hot Wheels Design Award, was displayed at the GoodGuys Nationals in Columbus. Paulie put together a nice sign listing all his sponsors with a full color AMSOIL logo prominent. We like that kind of appreciation.

From there, the Coupe was transported to the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville KY, a highlight among the 10711 cars there. To many, the coupe was the hit of the show. Among the photos here we see a camera crew interviewing Sykora for their video and Street Scene magazine.

Sykora's email to AMSOIL, describing the photos he sent us, included this comment: "The last one doesn’t need a caption. It's me and Chip Foose standing next to the car, which he liked by the way." We're sure he did.

If you wish to see this work of art and engineering in person, the car is scheduled to be in Florida the rest of the year. You will find it at the Daytona Dream Cruise in Oct, the NSRA Nationals in Tampa (also October), and the Turkey Rod Run in Daytona in Nov.

Another Way Cool Cover

Nice to see this very sharp AMSOIL lubricated 2005 Subaru WRX STI made the August cover of Max Power UK. The AMSOIL brand is gaining visibility around the globe.

At a recent SEMA Show, the author of this blog rode to the airport in a taxi with a former racer from Belgium who used to fly to London to get his AMSOIL products. the stories are varied, but contain a common theme. The products are great and greatly desired.

Stephen Ng built this 400 plus horsepower Flat Red STI for the SEMA Show last year. It was located in the Seibon booth and now has graced two covers for us here at AMSOIL. He runs AMSOIL 20w-50 Synthetic Oil, Ea Oil Filter, DOT4 Brake Fluid and Antifreeze.

Ng learned how to do modifications by reading tuner zines. In 2005 when Stephen purchased his new ride, he knew there would be bright future for him and his new found pride and joy. The first modification he made was adding the M-Sports Widebody kit. Stephen chose a bold custom flat red paint, accented by a Seibon carbon fiber hood, doors, roof and trunk. Stephen and his STI got lots of recognition at the Seibon booth at the Sema Show in Vegas.

Under the hood, Stephen installed a Zerosports air intake, Tanabe full turbo back exhaust stem, Mishimoto radiator, hose kit and fans to complement the already sleek design of the engine bay. With each additional modification this car was destined to be a legend in the tuner scene.

No tuner build is complete without AMSOIL synthetic lubricants and performance products. Nice piece of work, Mr. Ng.... and best to you in all your future builds.

35th Anniversary Convention Just Around Corner

The planning begins more than a year in advance. Committees are formed, responsibilities delegated. Themes are proposed. Discarded themes slip away and a single theme emerges that encompasses the company vision, its history and its future. This year's theme: A Winning Formula.

AMSOIL, The First in Synthetics, officially came to be in July 1972. After a ten year quest, Lt. Col. A. J. Amatuzio brought to market the first synthetic motor oil to satisfy API certification standards. Today, the company offers a broad product line and a grass roots presence in the marketplace that has changed the way people think about changing oil.

That first can of AMZOIL Super Premium 100% Synthetic Motor Oil stated the extended oil change interval benefit that has made the company famous: "25,000 Miles or One-Year"... and the rest is history.

In a few days the company will celebrate its 35th anniversary. Nearly a thousand Dealers and friends will gather here in the Twin Ports and share in the extravaganza. New products will be introduced. New programs will be presented. And a renewed energy will be generated.

The best is yet to come.

The Special Equipment Manufacturers Association is one of the largest associations in the world. Its annual convention is one of the largest events in Vegas. This auto aftermarket industry is actually comprised of numerous smaller niche markets, each centered on various vehicle types.

It is exciting to see that AMSOIL has developed visibility within each niche through high profile sponsorships. The June issue of SEMA News includes an article that offers an overview of the eight categories that comprise the industry. This is a brief summary of those niches and at least one way AMSOIL is involved with each.

Light Truck

The light truck market refers to street use vehicles from SUVs to pickups. AMSOIL has been strong in this market for many years. 2008 is our second year as sponsor of the Diesel Power Challenge. Despite the drop in new truck sales due to gas prices, we see continued opportunity because of the millions of trucks on the road today and the fuel economy benefits of AMSOIL synthetic lubricants and filters.

Racing
Racing is a major segment of the industry as well. Many products are tested on the track and service motorists on the street. But racing is also a market in itself. Racers have been using AMSOIL for decades, but since the nineties the company has stepped up, sponsoring numerous drivers and series, from grass roots on up. Check out the AMSOIL Racing Blog if you’re a race fan and stay current with AMSOIL racing.

Off-Road

The off-road market includes everything from appearance to performance. The Four Wheeler Top Truck Challenge (which took place this week in Hollister, CA) is one way AMSOIL is present to this hard core group.

Street Performance

The street performance niche includes products used to change the appearance, performance, and/or handling of light vehicles (other than light trucks) for street use. Mopar Muscle Challenge and dedicated advertising in enthusiast magazines has given AMSOIL increased visibility here.

Compact Performance

According to the article, “When SEMA first started studying the compact-performance market it 1996, it was all about four-cylinder-powered Japanese-made cars. Back then, the dominant vehicle was the Honda Civic. Enthusiasts involved with this niche were typically 18 to 25 years old.” Also known as the tuner market, these kinds are wired and hooked up. They’re also prepared to spend money to do whatever it takes to get their machine in gear.

Street Rod & Custom

The street-rod & custom market include all products used in the construction, maintenance and operation of hot rods and customs. Last year AMSOIL sponsored legendary builder Boyd Coddington, and began a relationship with this scene through the NSRA. In 2008 the company has become a sponsor of the Street Rodder Road Tour, which will soon make a stop here at our headquarters in Superior, WI.

Restyling

Restyling is a big part of the industry also. Turning the common car into eye candy is a full time pre-occupation for many enthusiasts. AMSOIL partnered with Mothers car care products to help motorists transform ordinary vehicles into cherries.

Restoration Market

The restoration scene involves the products and services used in returning vehicles, particularly classics, to their original manufactured condition. Some of these products are refurbished original parts; others are salvaged parts; some are reproductions. The end result is a vehicle with moving parts that need lubrication... That’s the AMSOIL contribution.

The “Other” Market

Products that do not neatly fit into one of the other seven niches are lumped into “Other”. The products found in this niche are typically electronics or high tech in nature-things such as radar detectors, custom sound systems, multimedia systems and intelligent transportation systems. Much more could be said, but we’ll leave that for another day.

Sneak Peak

This coming Saturday, April 26, the Street Rodder Road Tour will begin the first leg of its journey beginning at its birthplace at the new Roadster Shop facilities in Mundelein, Illinois. Assembled by the team at the Roadster Shop, the American Speed Company's Speed '33 all steel body will rest on a Roadster Shop chassis and be powered by the new Ford Racing Boss 302 450 HP motor, lubricated with AMSOIL synthetic motor oils and protected with Ea filters.

Street Rodder Editor Brian Brennan gave the AMSOIL blog team a sneak peak of the PPG Road Tour Roadster as it neared completion just before this weekend's launch. As in year's past, the car is a beauty. It'll be a shockin' rockin' fun ride for tour guide Jerry Dixey.

Visit the AMSOIL website for more information on AMSOIL Synthetic Lubricants.

AMSOIL Presence at PRI

One of the biggest events in racing is the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Orlando. Held each year in the early part of December, the PRI Show is "the place" to see what's new in the racing and performance market. Power, speed, accesories and lots of industry buzz -- this show has it all. The convention hall has more than a million square feet of show floor. The PRI Show bills itself as the largest racing trade show in the world.

Here are just a few of the AMSOIL related events and presentations taking place.

Boyd's Bonneville Car Headed Toward Orlando

The AMSOIL/Coddington Roadster will be on display at the PRI Show next week. Word has it that the car has been loaded into a trailer and is already heading east. On Thursday, Boyd is slated to make a ninety minute presentation on the building of the Bonneville racer and their atempt at a land speed record. The seminar will feature Boyd and Jo Coddington and Harvey St. Mary, their engine builder.

2007 AMSOIL Mopar Muscle Challenge Winner To Be Announced At 1:00 pm on Thursday, December 6, Mopar Muscle magazine will be announcing the 2007 Winner, and presenting the details for the ’08 AMSOIL Mopar Muscle Challenge in the Press Conference area in the rear corner of the main floor.

Paul Sykora's Smokin' Coupe Again On Display

The ’37 Ford Coupe that won a 2007 Hot Wheels Design Award for car with Attitude at last month's SEMA Show in Las Vegas will be ogled throughout the show as it caresses eyeballs in the American Racing Booth. Hailing from Orlando, Sykora undoubtedly enjoys being in his own back yard. It's one beautiful machine and Sykora knows what's needed on the inside to protect this 2300 horse powerhouse.

For sure, this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as excitement goes. There will be a lot to see and a lot to share. And maybe we'll see you there.

SEMA 2007 Just Around the Corner

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) bills itself as the premier automotive specialty products trade association in the world and its annual show in Las Vegas each year is "the place to be" if you are in any way associated with this industry. The SEMA Show draws the industry's brightest minds and hottest products to one place, the Las Vegas Convention Center. Last year the SEMA Show attracted more than 100,000 industry leaders from over 100 countries for its unlimited profit opportunities in the automotive, truck and SUV, marine and RV markets. This year, SEMA Show 2007 anticipates a continuation of this trend, expecting to draw domestic and international buyers through two million square feet of exhibits. The displays are segmented into 11 sections, and a New Products Showcase features more than 1,400 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

This is the 41st Anniversary of the SEMA Show, promising to consume more Las Vegas real estate than ever. In the next few weeks we'll be making a few announcements here on the blog, and starting October 29th hope to share some of the sites and sounds of SEMA 2007, live from Las Vegas.

In the meantime, here are a few images from last year's show, knowing that the best is yet to come.