September-October - Motor State Distributing

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PERFORMANCE REPORT
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Some Things That Need To Happen... and Soon!
Made In America...For Real by John McLellan
The speed equipment industry is an excellent starting
point for a movement to restore American industry. At a
time when the average U.S. adult
spends nearly a thousand dollars
every month on imported products,
and there is a $500 billion annual
U.S. trade deficit it might be prudent
to give this suggestion some serious
consideration. The total value of imported items in this country topped
$2.74 trillion in 2013.
To see what can be done to promote the purchase of more Made
in U.S.A. products, we’d suggest
watching a fascinating video produced by the Million American Jobs
Project. This production explains
where all the jobs have gone and,
more importantly, what can be done
to bring them back to this country.
The video makes the valid point that
just a small change in consumer
buying habits can create millions of
new American jobs. It strongly
suggests that each person who
watches the video can make a difference by just telling two people
It’s been a slow process, but more
and more companies are joining the movement to offer
products made in America. New Balance, for example, a
maker of athletic shoes, a traditionally offshore product,
is offering “Made In America” running shoes which can be
custom made in the exact color schemes of every NCAA,
NFL, MLB and NBA team. The long forgotten rallying cry,
“Buy American!” can once again become viable, but it has
to start with one or more companies biting the bullet and
bring their manufacturing back on shore.
s)NFORMATIONAND6IEWPOINTSs
Some Things That Need To Happen .....1, 2
s-OTOR3TATE.EWSs
Upcoming Shows SEMA,PRI,AETC ..........2
GASOLINE, DIESEL OR, UGH, ETHANOL?
At some point in the not-too-distant future, news commentators and, eventually, historians will be reporting on
and discussing one of the largest boondoggles in the
history of the U.S. They will be chronicling the rapid,
unjustified rise in the price of oil and oil
derivatives, how that rise brought the
world economy to its knees, how every
single politician quietly pocketed his
campaign donations from oil interests
while looking the other way, and how a
relatively low value farm crop became
a source of a second-rate gasoline
substitute. They will bemoan the fact
that ethanol from corn was harmful to
cars and the environment, how so much
of the annual crop production had was
overtaken by corn that prices of other
grain products, more nutritional ones at
that, skyrocketed. In addition, high corn
prices raised the price of beef to the
point that most families could not afford it anymore. We can only hope that
someone stands up and says, “Whoa!
Let’s get back to sensibility right now!”
ON THE SUBJECT OF MOTOR OIL
Zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP),
the primary means for adding zinc and
phosphorous to motor oil for promoting anti-wear characteristics, has become both an enigma and a marketing tool.
Enigmatic in the sense that, while important, the additive
has been responsible for patently misleading and confusing jargon penned by everyone from SAE to the oil companies themselves. Despite a general lack of sincere feeling on
the part of some oil mavens for how important it is, ZDDP
has still found its way into every ad for the now specialized
motor oils that still contain the stuff. “It’s important, but
we don’t really know how much
(Continued on page 2)
s!LLSTAR3HOWCASEs
INSIDE INFORMATION
New Allstar Products .................................3
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Motor State Challenge Recap ...................6,8
s#HARLIE*OBBERs
Junior Dragster / Senior Melt Down ................7
The Motor State Performance ReportPZJVTWPSLKHUKW\ISPZOLKIPTVU[OS`I`[OL4V[VY:[H[L+PZ[YPI\[PUN(K]LY[PZPUN+LWHY[TLU[:[HɈ!
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INFORMATION & VIEWPOINTS
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to put in, nor do we especially care to admit that there
may not be enough in our blends. Let’s call the amount
‘adequate’ and let it go at that.”
ZDDP was once a vital ingredient in every motor oil
for preventing damage to flat tappet cams and lifters. Its
content was systematically reduced, and finally eliminated altogether, when it was shown that the chemical mix
was damaging catalytic converters. The automakers uniformly issued a “so what” reaction, because after 1985
flat tappets were as forgotten, and just about as hard
to find, as Jimmy Hoffa. No harm, no foul. The reaction
was 180 degrees opposite in the high performance and
racing camps. Since most hot rod and race car engines
were still dependent upon flat tappet cams and lifters,
the lack of a proven anti-wear additive became critical.
What do you say oil companies? Time to print actual
ZDDP (not ZDP as one oil company expert refers to it)
parts per million on your labels? Hopefully the level
will be above 1,500 ppm, the recognized level that will
prevent damage!
(cont. from page 1)
levels of racing need to get serious about determining
the reasons for declines in attendance and racer participation. Right off the bat, it occurs that ticket prices
are unrealistically steep considering that the economy
has been in jeopardy for several years. When faced with
shelling out a hundred bucks to get Pa, Ma and the requisite 3.0 kids into the gate, many families choose to stay
home, or go to the local drive-in movie where everyone
pays “carload” prices. If that same family could all get in
for fifty bucks, we bet they would spend the remainder,
or most of it, on hot dogs, drinks, etc. At the upper level,
NASCAR is feeling the pinch just like small, local tracks.
When part of the stands has to be covered with a tarp to
make the emptiness less visible on TV, it is time to reevaluate admission policies.
SUMMARY
These only scratch the surface; there are several more
concerns regarding the future and the health of the high
performance aftermarket. Be aware of what is going on
around you.
WHERE ARE THE RACE FANS?
Race track promoters and sanctioning groups at all
MOTOR STATE NEWS
Upcoming Shows
SEMA Show .............. November 4-7 Las Vegas, ...............................Booth # 25027
PRI ........................... December 11-13 Indianapolis, Indiana .........Booth # 2525
25th Annual AETC .... December 9-10 Indianapolis, Indiana
Motor State customers attending conference
get a $50.00 discount on registration,
code MSAETC14 , www.aetconline.com
PRI
SEMA
accepts:
MOTOR STATE PERFORMANCE REPORT
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Allstar Race Suits
Style, comfort and affordability! 1-piece double layer Allstar Performance race suit is box
quilted with many popular features including side pockets, an adjustable belt, elastic wrist
cuffs, hidden ankle cuffs, color matching elastic back panel, adjustable neck strap and a sturdy
waist length zipper. A black nylon bag is included. Nomex suits are available in black, red or
blue and are SFI 3.2A/5 certified.
Wheelie Bar Wheels
Billet 6061-T6 aluminum wheel is molded with a durable polyurethane
tire that will not dent or give like a rubber tire. 4" O.D. wheel is 1-1/2"
wide at axle and has a 3/8" through hole. Sold each.
5/8" Bent Tie Rod Tubes
Bent tie rod tube or adjusting sleeve is commonly used on modifieds and stock
cars to provide additional clearance on the right front tie rod link. Bent design
tube helps prevent the chassis from hitting steering when the suspension rolls over onto the right front. Typically
used with factory style inner tie rod end and a rod end style outer. Tube is constructed of .160" wall tubing with 5/8"18LH threads on the straight end and 5/8"-18RH threads on the curved end.
Suspension Tube Set Up Tool ALL10676
Slide rule device quickly measures and duplicates suspension
or steering tube distances with 1/2", 5/8" and 3/4" rod ends. Setup tool has an engraved scale with 1/16" increments for durability and accuracy.
Rod End Centering Kit ALL10672
Compact inserts are placed into rod ends of suspension, steering or other tube assemblies
to quickly measure and adjust on the workbench or other flat surface with any standard tape
measure. Inserts can be used on assemblies with 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8" and 3/4" rod ends.
Shock Eye Socket ALL64255
The ideal tool for shock rebuilders or anyone that disassembles shocks on a regular basis! Unique
socket safely removes and installs the shock rod end without risk of damage to the spherical ball.
Steel socket contacts the outer housing of 1/2" rod ends up to .640" wide and has a 1/2" drive for
ratchet or impact use.
24" Aluminum Carb Linkage Kit With Hollow Threaded Rod
ALL54158
Linkage kit includes a 24" linkage with 1/4" rod ends for smooth operation and a return
spring kit for 2300 2BBL and 4150 4BBL Holley style carburetors. Return spring kit
includes correct stepped bushings, mounting hardware and heavy and light rate
return springs. Hollow threaded rod is easily formed to fit many applications and requires tapping with a 1/4"-28 tap if shortened.
1978-88 GM Pitman Arms
Replacement Pitman arms
for GM G-Body intermediate
metric (Monte Carlo) chassis.
accepts:
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3
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
HEI Rev Limiter
MSD8727CT
Circle Track RPM Control offers full digital operation
to racing applications using an HEI distributor. Unit
provides smooth, accurate rev limiting within a 1/4 of
a percent, while eliminating the need for plug-in RPM
modules. RPM limit is set with convenient rotary dials and displayed on a bright LED
display. Durable, epoxy-filled unit is engineered to endure the rigors of extreme racing
conditions and installs easily with included plug-in wiring and connectors.
Wheel Well Guards
Easy to install, Wheel Well Guards are manufactured from
durable, HDPE material and are designed to cover, protect
and enhance the exposed underbody of rear wheel wells.
Covered by a lifetime guarantee. Sold in pairs.
Inline Electric Water Pump
Next generation, remote mount electric water
pump is 7" long x 4-1/2" wide and features a 10,000
hour rating, ensuring an extended life. Draws only
8 amps and weighs just 4 lbs. High efficiency, computer controlled brushless motor provides superior
reliability. Offered with 1-1/4" or 1-3/4" inlet/outlet.
Professional Driving Suits
Professional level, double layer driving suit utilizes an all-new
design for unsurpassed comfort. Knitted elastic inserts and
bellows offer improved freedom of movement. External, fire resistant fiber offers superior protection, while the soft inner fabric
aids driver comfort. One-piece suit, which meets stringent FIA
and SFI 3-2A/5 specifications, is offered in black/white only.
We carry a large selection of OMP products...See the Motor State Sale Flyer or call for details
Metal Series Front Bumper
For 2007-14 Jeep Wrangler JK
MIC9000002040418
Direct replacement, modular design
front bumper includes 3/4" D-ring mounts
and accepts choice of flush-end, stubby
or full length end caps, lower or Stinger bumper guards and
a winch plate, if desired. Stubby and full length end caps
include built-in rock light ports. USA-made bumper is easy to
install and may be re-configured as desired.
accepts:
MOTOR STATE PERFORMANCE REPORT
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Diesel MPG-MAX
The only methanol-water injection system currently available that has been proven to increase
fuel economy, empty or while towing. System uses
an advanced, injection management controller that
provides a small, steady spray of methanol/water across the entire power curve that increases
combustion efficiency, resulting in an 1-3 MPG increase. Offered for most popular diesel-powered pickups, system will not adversely affect the particulate matter filter or leave a “signature”
on vehicle, preventing the warranty from being compromised.
We carry a large selection of Snow Performance products...See the Motor State Sale Flyer or call for details
Hi-Five Cab Roof Lights
Increase visibility with Hi-Five Cab
Roof Lights. Light kits meet SAE
specifications and are sold complete
with outside clearance lights, wiring
harness, quick wire connectors and
necessary hardware. Choose from
LED or incandescent lighting.
PCP20-220
PCP20-247S
PCP20-236
Gear & Chain Clear Grease
ERPP018
High quality, soluble grease is designed to form a protective
barrier against moisture and extreme temperatures. Lubricant
is recommended for all types of chains and gears, helps reduce
wear and prevents rust from forming on exposed surfaces.
Sold in a 13 oz. aerosol can.
Low Profile Double Row LED Bars
Double row LED Bars incorporate Osram 3 watt
LED chips for superior, reliable lighting. Light bars
are manufactured using powder coated, 6063 extruded aluminum housings with oversized heat sinks for cooler operation, while a Gore pressure equalizing vent prevents
condensation build-up. Light bars provide instant on/off operation and have a lifespan
of 50,000+ hours. Sold complete with ready wiring harness, switch an din line fuse.
X4 Power Flash Programmer
The X4 Power Flash Programmer is
pre-loaded with dyno-proven tunes that
increases the horsepower and torque of
popular, late model domestic cars and trucks. Programming a vehicle using the
X4 is as easy as 1-2-3; simply plug the connector into the vehicle’s OBDII port, select the pre-loaded tune file using the easy to use menu and within minutes, it’s
ready to go. The X4, which features a large, full color backlit LCD display, includes
the ability to view data including EGT and air/fuel ratio, adjust for performance
bolt-ons, read/clear trouble codes and perform high speed data logging/monitoring. Built-in Wifi provides easy updates. Sold complete with USB interface
cable and LiveLink Datalogging software.
accepts:
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MOTOR STATE EVENT
Challenge Was A Big Success!
Judging by the great time everyone was having, the Motor
State Challenge was a big success! The weather couldn't have
been better.
A big Thank You to all of the participants, employees and
friends that helped make the 6th Annual Event one of the
best!
A nice group of cars and drivers showed up on Thursday.
After the drivers' meeting, the group cruised through the
countryside, ending up at Riverfront Park in Niles, MI. There
was a Car Show, Cookout, and Concert-in-the-Park Thursday
evening! Friday had a great turnout at GingerMan Raceway
Road Course in South Haven, for a full day of track action! Saturday an Autocross event was held at The Tire Rack in South
Bend, IN. Awards were given out after the Autocross.
Vintage Class Champ Bill Utley
Late Model Class Champ Todd Rumpke
Mfg. Vintage Class Champ
Bret Voelkel
Mfg. Late Model Class Champ
Ryan Matthews
2014 Motor State Challenge Results
Congratulations to All!
Vintage Class
Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational Invite and
Spirit of the Event Winner
Champion: Billy Utley - 1972 Chevrolet Nova
2nd Place: Larry Woo - 1968 Chevrolet Camaro
3rd Place: Randy Johnson - 1973 Chevrolet Camaro
Late Model Class
Champion: Todd Rumpke - 2006 Chevrolet Corvette
2nd Place: Zack Rogers - 1994 Ford Mustang
3rd Place: James Fehring - 2000 Pontiac Trans Am
Manufacturers Vintage Class
Champion: Bret Voelkel (Ridetech)
2nd Place: Mark Stielow (Detroit Speed)
3rd Place: Kyle Tucker (Detroit Speed)
Michael Werner - 2008 Mercedes CLK63 BS
Michael will now be headed to the USCA event at Michigan
International Speedway to secure his spot in this year's Optima
Search for the Ultimate Street Car Invitational in Las Vegas, Nevada November 8-9.
Additional Motor State Challenge Awards
Todd Gartshore Memorial Award: Scott Romszewicz
#87 - 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
People's Choice Award: Curt Shoemaker Chevy C10 Pickup
Long Distance Award: Grant Reierson
#13 - 1966 Chevrolet Chevy II
Manufacturers Late Model Class
Fastest Lap Awards
Champion: Ryan Matthews (Detroit Speed)
2nd Place: John Fehring (Hoosier Performance
Engineering)
GingerMan Vintage: Billy Utley - 1:43.97
GingerMan Late Model: Todd Rumpke - 1:39.58
GingerMan Mfg. Vintage: Mark Stielow - 1:43.36 (Detroit Speed)
1966 Mustang
GingerMan Mfg. Late Model: Ryan Matthews - 1:40.22 (Detroit
Speed) 2012 Camaro
Autocross Vintage: Larry Woo - 40.818
Autocross Late Model: Todd Rumpke - 40.823
Autocross Mfg. Vintage: Kyle Tucker - 39.960
(Detroit Speed) 1966 Mustang
Autocross Mfg. Late Model: John Fehring - 40.283
(Hoosier Performance Engineering) 2000 Trans Am
More Motor State Challenge photos on page 8
6
MOTOR STATE PERFORMANCE REPORT
CHARLIE JOBBER
by John McLellan
Junior Dragster / Senior Meltdown
The last time I attended the races at the local drag
strip, I had an awakening. I’ll share that with you in a bit.
It happened between elimination rounds, when it was
time for the junior dragsters to strut their stuff. Buzzing
and snarling they came out of the depths of the staging
lanes like a squadron of steroid fed buzzing lawn mowers. After what seemed like at least a hundred pairings
had been run,
I witnessed
a “scene”
between
two junior
dragster mavens as their
ace drivers
sweltered in
the confines
of their little
cars.
The scene
unfolded
when one
balding, white
haired chap,
a grandpa to
one of the
pint-sized racers, and obviously very impressed with
himself, decided to challenge the bandanna wearing,
shaggy-haired daddy of the little gal in the pink dragster
in the other lane. Snapping at each other with voices
raised about something the officials need to worry
about, they were turning what was a reaction and acceleration contest between two adolescents, and overseen by two adults, into an unpleasant adult activity,
overseen by two innocent adolescents. Youth oriented
entertainment had been solidly kicked out of bounds,
and in its place was a contest between two large adult
egos controlled by small minds. It seems that in some
cases junior drag racing has taken on that same mentality that has tarnished little league baseball for so many
years. Some parents and guardians overlook the real
value of youthful competition, choosing to see winning
as the one and only objective, and usually seeking it at
all costs.
Now, for my idea. The basics of this idea did not originate in my feeble mind. Rather, they have been adapted
from those of a benevolent, intelligent cub scout master
I knew many years ago. When faced with the dilemma of
his troop’s Pine Wood Derby being overrun with dadbuilt, wooden race cars, he instituted a separate Pine
Wood event for dads only. Dads then competed with
dads and sons competed with each other and everybody built their own cars. Why can’t junior dragster par-
ents, grandparents, guardians, whoever, do the same? I
say, let’s start a Senior Dragster class and give the kids a
break. Age divisions could be 35-45, 46-55, and so on.
I think, for starters, that a standard senior dragster
platform should be agreed upon right up front. My suggestion would be the famous Hoveround. These electric
scooters come in a variety of weight capacities, with
“middle
of the
road”
versions
available for
around
$1650.00,
or about
one
third the
price of
a mega
junior
dragster
engine.
With
some
modifications to keep the sanctioning body happy...you know,
things like a roll cage, fire system, Snell rated helmet and
SFI approved safety suit a senior dragster could hit the
staging lane at about three grand, or about a fifth of the
cost of a junior dragster.
There are many solid benefits to campaigning a senior
dragster. A trailer is not necessary. Most Hoveround dealers also sell trailer hitch-mounted lifts which can carry a
scooter easily. They’re somewhat pricey at two thousand
or so, but still less than a tenth of what a junior “stacker”
trailer costs. Since they run on battery power, they are
“green” and much kinder to the environment. Of course,
I fully expect that sooner or later some over the hill
speed demon will want to “soup up” his senior dragster
for more speed and lower e.t.’s. Others will soon follow,
but that is OK because amps are a heck of a lot cheaper
than horsepower. The biggest plus? The company that
builds these claims that 9 out of 10 Hoveround users
get their machines for little or nothing. This is because
Medicare or private insurance picks up all or most of the
cost. How can you beat that? You will never see a doctor
prescribing a junior dragster...for anything.
There you have it. I think the Senior Dragster concept
is an idea whose time has come. What are we waiting
for?
We ain’t getting any younger!
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7
MOTOR STATE EVENT
-OTOR3TATE#HALLANGE
2014 Motor State Challenge Event Photo Recap
FRIDAY
THURSDAY
(cont. from page 6)
SATURDAY
Date For Next Motor State Challenge, July 23-25, 2015
CAT108.5
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