To Oil or Not to Oil: (That’s Not Really the Question)

By John M. Arnaud

Over the years, the air-filter experts at K&N have proven (in their in-house filtration test lab, no less) that the secret to increasing airflow to your engine without sacrificing protection lies in their exclusive air filter oil. This oil, which permeates a filter’s cotton fibers, grabs dust and other microscopic contaminants and keeps them from entering your system. Non-oiled paper filters don’t even come close.

So the question isn’t whether you should be using an oiled filter (you should); instead, you should be asking “How much should I use?” and “How do I apply it?” The answers to those questions depend on which delivery system you use: squeeze bottle or aerosol applicator. Read on for the scoop from K&N:

Squeeze Bottle

Apply the air filter oil evenly along the crown of each pleat, then allow the oil to wick for 20 minutes before touching up any light areas on either side of the filter.

K&N Squeeze Oil
K&N Squeeze Oil

Aerosol Bottle

Spray the oil evenly along the crown of each pleat, holding the spray nozzle about 3” away from the filter. Allow the oil to wick for 20 minutes, then touch up any light areas on either side of the filter.

K&N Aerosol Oil
K&N Aerosol Oil

Most K&N air filters are oiled at the factory, so reoiling shouldn’t be necessary until it’s time to clean your filter, usually at 50,000 or 100,000 miles, depending on your application. K&N’s Recharger kits contain everything you need to freshen up your filter, including filter cleaner and your choice of oil dispenser.

Head on over to your local Parts Pro retailer to pick up a K&N Recharger kit, or find a local affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Parts Pro network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Parts Pro affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Parts Pro Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Small Business Week Salutes Big Dreams

by John M. Arnaud

 

National Small Business Week starts next week (May 4–8), and Parts Pro wants to make sure our local retailers get all the credit they deserve.

Since the early 60s, Small Business Week has recognized this nation’s independent businesses, which generate two out of every three new jobs in this country and help to power our economy from coast to coast. Beyond the numbers, however, small businesses represent a core American truth: the prosperity available to those willing to follow their passions through hard work and determination.

Though Small Business Week is a time to soak in the kudos, it’s also a terrific opportunity to engage your customers and promote your business throughout your local area. Here are some ways you can do just that:

  • Participate in any activities sponsored by your local Chamber of Commerce.
  • Talk up Small Business Week and the importance of supporting local businesses with your customers via social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.).
  • Extend special discounts or promotions to your customers to thank them for their support.
  • Announce and host an open house in your store to celebrate the occasion. (Email is a great way to communicate a last-minute event!)
  • Partner with a local performance or automotive club to share your expertise on a particular subject or host a workshop. For example, you might demonstrate how to perform an installation or talk about exciting new products.

Parts Pro would like to congratulate all of our entrepreneurs who have demonstrated the courage, grit, and determination required to pursue their dreams and help us grow the industry we all love.

Performance junkies: Head in to your local automotive accessories retailer next week to share your support and appreciation. Or find one using our dealer locator.

Performance retailers: If you would like to become part of the nationwide Parts Pro network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Parts Pro affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Parts Pro Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

Hooker Headers’ Blackheart Exhaust Systems Hit the Street

by John M. Arnaud

Attention 2015 Ford Mustang GT owners: it’s time to get your growl on!

Hooker Headers has announced its Blackheart catback and axleback exhaust systems for GTs equipped with the 5.0L Coyote V8. These exhaust systems, which are available both with and without mufflers, offer the aggressive sound and dyno gains you need to leave your mark on the street.

Hooker Headers Blackheart Exhaust
Hooker Headers Blackheart Exhaust

Fabricated from 18-gauge 304 stainless steel, these Blackheart exhaust systems are primed for strength and long life. A straight-through muffler design and 3” diameter exhaust free up your flow for unobstructed performance. Exclusive tube geometry allows maximum ground clearance, and a design that uses existing mounting points facilitates a headache-free installation.

Hookers’ Blackheart exhaust systems look as good as they sound, with 4” dual-wall, polished stainless steel tips laser-etched for that final layer of detail.

The Blackheart benefits from Hooker Headers’ limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser, which guarantees the product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product on the original car on which it is installed.

Head on over to your local Parts Pro retailer to grab one for yourself, or find a local store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket accessory retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Parts Pro network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Parts Pro affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Parts Pro Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.

MSD Completes Mallory Merger

mallory-msd-merger

One good M deserves another.

Following the January 2015 acquisition of ACCEL Performance Group (maker of Mallory Ignition, Mr. Gasket, Hays, QuickTime, and others) by MSD Performance, the MSDP Group completed the planned merger of the Mallory and MSD lines to create the top ignition company in the automotive aftermarket.

As of March 31, the Mallory product line will no longer be produced; all Mallory products will be manufactured exclusively under the MSD brand. MSD will, however, continue to produce and service Mallory distributor replacement parts such as points, rotors, caps, and more than one hundred other items. In addition, MSD will continue repairing Mallory products and honoring all original Mallory warranties. Retailers, installers, and customers should direct Mallory warranty inquiries to MSD’s toll-free number: (800) 246-0270.

Mallory and MSD together bring more than a century of ignition innovation and expertise. The MSDP Group remains committed to leveraging the two brands’ combined resources to keep igniting their loyal customers.

Your Parts Pro retailer will be happy to help you find your favorite ignition part. Find your closest affiliated store using our dealer locator.

If you are a performance aftermarket retailer who would like to become part of the nationwide Parts Pro network, please join us today!

Ready to buy? Need help with the install? To find your nearest Parts Pro affiliate, see our Store Locator. Or join the conversation at the Parts Pro Facebook page!

Though this is not a paid review, this content has been produced by The AAM Group in support of manufacturers with whom it has a business relationship.