one great company

n e w sA F T E R M A R K E T

ww

w.m

ah

lec

levi

te.c

om

M a g a z i n e f o r t r a d e , w o r k s h o p a n d e n g i n e r e p a i r

O v e r v i e w

INAUGURAL

ISSUEwith the birth of MAHLe Clevite inc., we promised our customers that nothing about the great parts and service they received would change. we lied. Presenting the inaugural issue of the MAHLE Aftermarket news – a publication which provides updates and insight from behind-the-scenes of MAHLe Clevite inc. This issue features an interview with Arnd Franz; Director and General Manager MAHLe Aftermarket as well as a first-issue feature titled “who is MAHLe”. regular features are “Highlights” featuring new stories fresh at press time; “Featured Products” detailing

exciting items in the MAHLe Clevite Group; along with “On Location” and “Customer Portrait” offering a profile of MAHLe Clevite in the field along with a look inside one of many great MAHLe Clevite customers. So yes, something has changed in the level of service provided by MAHLe Clevite – changed for the better. Grab some coffee, sit back and hopefully you will enjoy the MAHLE Aftermarket news as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. After all, we have already started putting together the first issue for 2008 – due right around the corner.

prsrt stdu.s. postage

PaidToledo, oh

PermiT no. 333

2 Editorial executive Interview with arnd Franz

4 highlights

What‘s happening at MaHLe Clevite

5 Who is mahlE? History and what drives MaHLe

6 motorsports MaHLe CLevite News from the tracks

8 fEaturEd products exciting MaHLe Clevite products in the marketplace

10 filtErs - thE purE truth

Fitting tips for oil filter replacement

12 training Helping to increase the bottom line

13 EvEnts exhibitions in Vegas and orlando

14 customEr portrait epWI in the spotlight

15 on location profiling the MaHLe Clevite Master distribution Center

16 ecapabilitiEs technology making life easier

mahle cleviTe inc.

one greaT comPanyTwo greaT names

More on page 2

2n e w sA F T E R M A R K E T

ediTorial

mahle aftermarket news took the opportunity to sit down with arnd Franz; director and general manager mahle aftermarket, to discuss the birth of mahle clevite – and how this affects the mahle aftermar-ket plans in north america for the years to come.

MAHLE Aftermarket news: In mid-March, MaHLe completed its acquisi-tion of dana’s engine Hard parts division, including Clevite and perfect Circle, strong brands with a long history in the u.s. What are MaHLe’s plans for the division going forward? Where do you see MaHLe Clevite headed in the future?

Arnd Franz: MaHLe Clevite Inc. will serve as the cornerstone of the MaHLe aftermarket organization in North america. In fact, shortly after the formation of MaHLe Clevite, the MaHLe group also completed the acquisition of the piston ring and cylinder liner business from Condumex in Mexico – with a full range in these products for the Mexican market.

the combination and collaboration of these operations under one umbrella, MaHLe Clevite Inc., and the leverage of each of their strengths combined with an excellent distribution system will translate many opportunities for our customers for the future.

MAHLE Aftermarket news: How much synergy is there between the com-panies? With the former dana business and the MaHLe aftermarket compa-nies making some of the same engine parts already, how will MaHLe address product overlap?

Arnd Franz: even though all these companies have been active in the af-termarket for engine components, there is very little product overlap. perfect Circle® piston rings, Clevite® engine bearings, and Victor reinz® gaskets are three very solid and universally recognized brands that will continue to grow with the support of an engine focused organization like MaHLe. add to these the MaHLe original brand and MaHLe’s global capabilities as the leading engine system and component manufacturer, and you have quite a package to offer customers.

the engine products already existing in the MaHLe range and those of MaHLe Clevite complement each other perfectly. MaHLe Clevite’s extensive aftermarket distribution and reputation in the united states and Canada also offers a smooth means to swiftly move MaHLe pistons, filters and other products into more widespread aftermarket distribution in an established and highly regarded distribution network.

MAHLE Aftermarket news: MaHLe Clevite will continue to market the same engine products Clevite traditionally has – engine bearings, piston rings, cylinder liners, gaskets and other engine parts. Is this correct? What about in Mexico?

Arnd Franz: two of the valuable assets MaHLe acquired in the purchase are the Clevite and perfect Circle brands. MaHLe will continue to build the product ranges for piston rings and engine bearings using our global produc-tion facilities. MaHLe Clevite will continue its supremacy in the development of engine bearing technology and manufacturing, as well as its legacy of piston ring innovation.

the MaHLe aftermarket organization will utilize all its global strengths to up-grade our product offerings through our newly acquired sales and distribution organization in Mexico – including the product range available from MaHLe Clevite in the u.s. our Mexican aftermarket business will be a core strategic part of our North american activities and we have a strong commitment to this market from all levels of our organization.

mahle cleviTeexPands Presence For mahle grouP in domesTic

aFTermarkeT

Arnd Franz,Director and General Manager for the MAHLE Aftermarket Group


ediTorial

MAHLE Aftermarket news: You touched a bit on Victor reinz. We are interested to know about MaHLe aftermarket’s future in the gasket business.

Arnd Franz: MaHLe’s core capability is the combustion engine. therefore, gaskets are a natural fit to our aftermarket range. From the beginning of our relationship with Victor reinz, we view the distribution of these products as a long term commitment for MaHLe.

therefore, MaHLe has entered into a long-term exclusive licensing and dis-tribution agreement for Victor reinz gasket products in the u.s. and Canada using the MaHLe Clevite distribution system and sales organization - the same network Victor reinz customers have always used. We look forward to a suc-cessful collaboration and future growth with Victor reinz as a natural fit with the other MaHLe aftermarket products. MAHLE Aftermarket news: In June, MaHLe also purchased the air intake module and air filtration business segment of siemens Vdo automotive. this acquisition, along with the engine parts business acquisition, significantly adds to MaHLe’s presence in North america. What made this the right time to grow the company’s North american footprint?

Arnd Franz: MaHLe has been manufacturing in North america since the 1970s and we have continuously expanded our activities since then. especially over the past ten years or so, a number of initiatives have helped us to gain market share in the light vehicle and also the heavy duty oe business for engine components and systems as well as components for the engine periphery.

the recent acquisition of siemens Vdo’s air filtration business has made us a leading global supplier for air management systems to the automotive industry and substantially strengthens our North american business in this segment. this acquisition does not have a direct impact on our aftermarket business, but it is further contributing to our reputation as a leading technology supplier to the North american domestic industry.

MAHLE Aftermarket news: How do you anticipate these acquisitions af-fecting MaHLe’s market share and brand awareness in u.s., where in the past the company has been perceived as mainly an european supplier?

Arnd Franz: MaHLe is one of the most global suppliers in the automotive world with a very diverse customer base including all major vehicle and engine manufacturers for both light vehicles and heavy duty in all regions worldwide.

We will make the necessary investments to make clear to our North american aftermarket customers, demonstrating the benefits they will have working with us to gain a competitive advantage with our oe quality products.

dana’s engine hard parts business has been on the MaHLe radar for years due to the core competencies of both companies and it is an important completion of our global aftermarket line. We felt the product mix of this business lined up logically with ours, so their stronger focus on other areas provided us the opportunity to move forward with the acquisition and strengthen our position in the North american market for engine components.

MAHLE Aftermarket news: Where do you see the engine parts business heading in the next five to ten years?

Arnd Franz: Internal combustion engines have a pretty good future. Yes, there will be changes – new innovations, improved operating efficiencies and a broader variety of powertrain technologies in the us - including diesel engines for light vehicles. these will require even better products from suppliers like MaHLe.

MAHLE Aftermarket news: Will MaHLe Clevite continue the Clevite indus-try involvement with not only programs like the engine Builder showdown and the Machinist of the Year, but also things like the engine Builder Club as well as its general support of industry technicians?

Arnd Franz: Beginning with the first two programs, those are best answered by saying that the Final round of the 2007 MaHLe engine Builder showdown on May 23rd at the NasCar technical Institute in Mooresville, NC broke previ-ous records in terms of attendance and television viewers. this was the 8th year of competition, and it represented the biggest and most exciting field of NasCar engine Builders ever. as for the MaHLe Machinist of the Year pro-gram, there are no plans to change anything beyond 2007.

MaHLe Clevite is also committed to less publicized industry activities. We sup-port all major industry organizations and initiatives including aaIa, ase Certifi-cation, pIes and aCes standards and a host of other activities often forgotten in the industry.


highlighTs

MicHAEL TATE NAMEd GENERAL MANAGERMichael tate has been named to lead MaHLe Clevite in the position of general Manager. Michael brings 26 years of aftermarket experience to MaHLe Clevite, most recent-ly of spX service solutions.

Before spX, Michael held positions at noteworthy organi-zations like parker automotive, dorman products, along with temro Industries. Michael served in a variety of po-sitions in each company, but was clearly destined for a leadership role. Michael’s experience in an array of sales management positions makes him uniquely suited for the general Manager position at MaHLe Clevite.

“Michael’s vast knowledge of the automotive aftermarket industry, along with his foundation in customer service as-sures his and our future success,” said arnd Franz, direc-

tor and general Manager MaHLe aftermarket. “everyone at MaHLe Clevite will benefit from Michael’s professionalism and enthusiasm, thus making him the premier choice to lead MaHLe Clevite for years to come.“

Michael has a style known for affecting both change and growth for those around him, though many challenges in today’s engine parts aftermarket are present – Michael has the confidence required to steer a path through the obstacles.

Michael is the father of two adult sons, Michael’s fiancé and third son are in the process of relocating to ann arbor, Michigan where Michael will serve at the MaHLe Clevite headquarters.

PERFEcT ciRcLE LoGo GETs REdEsiGNthe tradition of perfect Circle® piston

rings dates back well over 100 years and is marked by a reputation for excel-lence and quality everywhere they were used. throughout the years the iden-tity of perfect Circle transformed many times as different owners along with different corporate objectives changed. the one thing that stayed constant through all of the changing was the reputation founded in quality.

Beginning in a garage in 1894, perfect Circle piston rings would go on to find success under hoods in both street cars and race cars throughout the world. perfect Circle was a mainstay in the Winner’s Circle at Indianapolis, as well as in Victory Lane’s throughout NasCar. perfect Circle has even achieved re-markable success on drag strips everywhere throughout North america.

every step of the way, the perfect Circle look was nearly as distinct as the quality of piston rings. From the old compass and ellipse, to the checkered flags synonymous with racing dominance, to the diagonal logo made famous by dana Corporation – as perfect Circle evolved with the industry so did the logo.

throughout the 1980’s, as a division of dana Corporation, perfect Circle grew into a brand encompassing more than just piston rings, but also a full line of engine parts. after dana purchased Clevite, perfect Circle remained a piston ring company with the same great engineers dedicated to quality and cus-tomer service.

today, perfect Circle is a MaHLe Clevite brand, and the dedication continues. Cutting edge technology is the trait that sets perfect Circle apart from the competition. the foundation in technology is the driving force behind the new perfect Circle logo. this brand new identity will be on display at all MaHLe Clevite trade show booths, it will become an integral part of the MaHLe Clevite advertising strategy, and it will serve as the indicator for identifying the best piston rings in the industry.

sAME GREAT wEbsiTE, diFFERENT LooKengine builders throughout the world have always used www.engineparts.com as the one-stop for all information relating to the premier engine parts under the hood. the same first-rate information published online is now available at www.mahleclevite.com.

MaHLe Clevite takes pride in being on the cutting edge of electronic capabilities both in cataloging and on the web, and mahleclevite.com showcases this commitment. Featured products include Clevite® engine bearings, MaHLe original® pistons, Victor reinz® gaskets, MaHLe Filter® filters, and perfect Circle® piston rings. In addition to showcasing MaHLe Clevite’s product groups, the MaHLe Clevite web site offers a vast library of technical information on engine bearings, pistons, gaskets, filters and piston rings. the reference material includes graphs, charts and illustrations.

the site also promotes improved communications and the timely sharing of information between engine builders, technicians and enthusiasts and the au-tomotive engine building community at large by offering many great resources including:

n Motorhead Heaven - offering product, technical and educational support for building performance engines; also featured are monthly columns writ-ten by popular NHra race car drivers, Hillary Will and J.r. todd

n gearhead gab - providing a forum for engine builders, machinists, service technicians and enthusiasts to discuss industry issues, exchange informa-tion and swap parts

n ask MaHLe Clevite - offering the opportunity to communicate with MaHLe Clevite’s team of expert engineers for advice on how to solve engine prob-lems and improve engine performance.

Visit www.mahleclevite.com today to see first-hand the capabilities of this cutting edge tool.

Michael Tate, General Manager, MAHLE Clevite Inc.

The laTesT news aTMAHLE cLEviTE iNc.

who is mahle

Technological leadership has been part of mahle history from the be-ginning. The company went from a small test workshop to a technol-ogy leader with a global outlook. with 110 production plants on four continents, mahle, as a systems supplier, today ranks amongst the 30 leading companies in the automotive supply industry. To make good things even better, this philosophy of mahle’s founders has brought us ahead is still valid today.

the success story began in 1920 with the perseverance and dedication of ernst and Hermann Mahle. the brothers, while met with adversity, developed of the light-alloy piston during a time when the competition preferred the heavy gray cast iron piston for internal combustion engines. Not only did they suc-ceed with the light-alloy piston, but they also developed oil and air filters to keep the pistons free of dirt & dust and extend service life. trials and tribula-tions followed; however, the passion for success proved stronger and brought MaHLe to where it is today.

the Mahle family was all about searching for options and solutions to make products better and more efficient. they didn’t just stop there; they were head-strong in making life better for their employees and the communities in which they live. this social responsibility still remains a basic value of the MaHLe group. as a global automotive supplier, MaHLe has a responsibility that ex-tends far beyond the group itself. the aim is to create value and to ensure that we preserve and enhance long-term benefit for people, cultures, and the environment.

In 1964, the Company founders Hermann and ernst Mahle transferred owner-ship of the group to the non-profit MaHLe Foundation, which has held and administered almost all company shares since then. the MaHLe Foundation serves charitable causes — by supporting healthcare, youth welfare, schooling, general adult and vocational education, and organic farming. In North america, MaHLe supports the united Way organization, both in an organizational sense and with donations. In addition, every year, many MaHLe employees set aside a portion of their income for social causes and launch a number of campaigns to raise donations for charitable organizations. these are just a few examples of a wealth of activities undertaken by MaHLe. By doing so, the group sets trends worldwide and acts as a “friendly neighbor” by sharing in the responsi-bility for the local community.

MaHLe has been a pioneer when it comes to technological innovations for the combustion engine – and still is today. around 2,300 engineers currently

mahle.a look From The beginning aT

How iT ALL sTARTEd:

MAHLE‘s Founders, Hermann and Ernst Mahle.

work in the r&d centers of the group: in stuttgart/germany, Northampton/uK, detroit (Farmington Hills and Novi), são paulo, tokyo and shanghai. the development centers function as competence centers and work together on new global undertakings. MaHLe strives to continually offer our customers worldwide new solutions for increasingly difficult problems in respect to fuel consumption and exhaust gas emission reductions as well as extended engine lives.

MaHLe’s current quality strategy is based on optimum production facilities as well as the “total Quality Management” system introduced at the begin-ning of the nineties. this philosophy entails flexibility, conscientiousness and responsibility on the part of each individual employee, in each development and production phase, in all projects with suppliers, customers and partners. the guideline: “optimum fulfillment of customer expectations” and the motto: “together we can become even better” are an apt complement to the guiding principle of ernst Mahle.

MaHLe products guarantee precision, durability and smooth running. there-fore, you get engine parts that make an engine work as if it was new at a price that makes it profitable. this is what you get from us…and the service to match.



caTegory

6n e w sn e w sn e w sn e w sA F T E R M A R K E T

caTegorymoTorsPorTs

2008 ANd bEyoNd…the Clevite name has led the pack in engine bearing innovation for decades; it has also been a mainstay on virtually every single NasCar vehicle competing around the country every weekend. this will continue through the remainder of 2007, however a new era begins in daytona next February.

the MaHLe acquisition of Clevite, and subsequent formation of MaHLe Clevite Inc. provide new opportunities in terms of Motorsports. the MaHLe name conjures an image of greatness in every form of Motorsports globally. Whether

it is Formula 1, Le Mans, rally Car, or here in North america with NasCar and NHra – MaHLe equals success.

With that, the classic Clevite decal appearing in NasCar, transitions in 2008 to a MaHLe decal. Nothing has changed regarding products or our sponsor-ship in either NasCar or NHra – the reality is that this is an opportunity to introduce the North american Motorsports crowd to the MaHLe name – and this legacy on all tracks. so although the name on the decal changes, the real-ity is that it is the same great organization with even more credibility behind it.

new idenTiTyall american sPorT

same greaT ParTs


7

caTegory

n e w sA F T E R M A R K E T

MAHLE ENGiNE buiLdER oF THE yEAR AwARdMaHLe Clevite began presenting the engine Builder of the Year award in 1984. the award, similar to the NasCar® NeXteL® Cup points race, has been won by many of the greatest names in engine innovation throughout NasCar his-tory. Men like Charlie siegars, doug Yates, and perhaps the biggest innovator of all; the late randy dorton claim a significant number of engine Builder of the Year titles between them.

2007 is a new year and the environment of engine building in NasCar is a new world. gone are the days where one person maintained sole responsibility for the engine in an individual car. Charlie siegars and rick Wetzel made a name building engines for Jeff gordon, just like eddie Lanier did in building for dale earnhardt. today’s NasCar is a world of both technology and efficiency. today, NasCar engine shops each employ 100 or more people working on engines for a handful of cars. these shops handle teardown, cleaning and inspection, as well as the assembly of the new motors.

Likewise, today’s MaHLe engine Builder of the Year award – although pre-sented at the end of season banquet in New York to one employee – has tran-sitioned into an award for the entire team. this year’s award is anybody’s race, and promises to come down to an exciting conclusion in Homestead during the championship weekend. Hendrick Motorsports and Joe gibbs racing certainly appear to be the favorites at this point; however it is way too soon to count out a team like richard Childress racing or roush Fenway racing.

teams are awarded points based on qualifying, laps led, and eventual finish-ing position at select races throughout the season. stay tuned to publications like NasCar scene for weekly updates on front-runners for the 2007 MaHLe engine Builder of the Year.

GRowiNG NAscAR RELATioNsHiPMaHLe Clevite announces continued support of NasCar teams, and par-ticularly engine builders, throughout every series. MaHLe Clevite, a long time supporter of NeXteL Cup racing, will now show support in the Busch series as well as Craftsman truck series – but most importantly at the “grass roots” level of NasCar racing across the country.

Following the first season of sponsorship of the NasCar Canadian tire series, MaHLe Clevite proves that it values the commitment to excellence made un-der the hoods of local short track racers by developing a sponsorship program to reward these “weekend warriors” of racing. MaHLe Clevite reached a deal with NasCar to continue its support of the Whelan all american Weekly se-ries, as well as each of the NasCar grand National divisions regionally.

the Clevite brand, and its relationship with NasCar date back to the incep-tion of NasCar in 1948. red Byron used Clevite engine bearings to become the first NasCar Champion – just like Jimmie Johnson did in 2007, and every single NasCar Champion in between.

Clevite solidified both the relationship with NasCar and its engine builders by introducing the MaHLe engine Builder of the Year award – an annual prize of $77,000 presented at the NeXteL Cup Banquet to the engine builder most

prolific in accruing points based on qualifying, laps led, and eventual finishing position at selected races throughout the NasCar NeXteL Cup season.

In 1998, Clevite engine bearings became the only engine bearings to wear the NasCar performance trademark, followed by perfect Circle and Victor reinz for both piston rings and gaskets in 2005. MaHLe original engine parts and valve train components joined the NasCar performance family in 2007 – thus paving the way for the support of racing in every race sanctioned by NasCar.

the MaHLe engine Builder showdown, entering its eighth year of competition, continues to be the only place that engine builders can compete under the spotlight doing what they do best – building race motors. this timed competi-tion pits two teams of two NasCar engine builders in a head-to-head contest to build and run a NasCar motor in the least amount of time. 2007 champi-ons dennis Borem and darrell Hoffman of pro Motor engineering set a record time of sixteen and a half minutes en route to the title.

Nothing exemplifies the great american spirit better than NasCar racing, and MaHLe Clevite is there for every lap.

THE GRAss RooTs coNNEcTioN

MaHLe Clevite is known as an integral suppli-er to the big names in racing, as evidenced by our recent, and wildly successful MaHLe en-gine Builder showdown for NasCar teams. We also support motorsports at the grass-roots level, and other levels in between.

take dick Miller racing, in Hernando Ms, for instance. While dick’s professional back-ground was in the computer services busi-ness, his passion for performance dates to the late 1960’s when he first started drag rac-ing oldsmobiles. He still owns a 1970 Cutlass W-31 that he purchased new. His list of other race vehicles has included a 1970 442, a 1974 omega and his 1991 tube chassis Cut-

lass which runs both NHra and IHra in the super Comp and Quick rod fields with elapsed times in the 8.5 second and reaching speeds over 159 miles per hour. He is a former national record holder.

moTorsPorTs

His hobby led him to establish dick Miller racing Inc. specializing in all kinds of go-fast parts specifically for oldsmobile racers. dick relies on Clevite® en-gine bearings and perfect Circle® piston rings in virtually all of his engines, and knows they’ll stand up to the rigors of drag racing and protect his reputation for powerful and durable engines.

dick sponsors the annual dick Miller racing oldsmobile powered Nationals at summit Motorsports park in Norwalk oH, and this year MaHLe Clevite sup-ported dick and his event with a contribution of door prizes that allowed every participant to leave with something more than just fond memories of a great local drag racing event.

dick’s reputation has even led Hot rod magazine to contract with him to build a 500 cubic inch Cadillac engine for a special project car they’re working on, and dick specified parts he knew he could count on – Clevite® engine bear-ings, perfect Circle® piston rings, and Victor reinz® gaskets. Watch for this build in an upcoming issue of Hot rod.

dick Miller: grass-roots racer, small businessman, all-around good guy, and MaHLe Clevite customer. We’re proud to help keep his phones ringing.


FeaTured ProducTs

oil Pan bedPlaTeThe GS33431 oil pan bedplate is the first and only aftermarket bedplate for the Cadillac Northstar. This bedplate is one of the most popular aftermarket offerings in the victor reinz® gasket product group. Features high-temperature silicone rubber sealing beads in a rigid aluminum carrier. Available for: 1995-2003 4.6L Cadillac Northstar, and the 1993-2006 4.0L DOHC Oldsmobile.

cP-20™ PisTon ring seTsCP-20 piston ring sets are specially designed to be the easiest-to-install rings available. Period. All rings are pre-lapped to seat immediately, virtually eliminating break-in time. The ring tension is application-optimized through computer modeling for minimum friction and maximum performance. in addition, the CP-20 piston ring sets use specially formulated and applied coatings to extend engine life for each specific application. CP-20 piston ring sets offer the performance advantages you need, along with the quality you expect from the industry leader.

Part No. 40564CP Moly 4.00” bore OE

replacement set

gm 4.8l and 5.3l v8 vorTecThese applications have reduced compression height to allow for ma-chining the block. They feature coated skirts to reduce wear and quiet engine noise. These pistons are available for: Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Savana, and Yukon vehicles.

Part no. 599161 and 599171.

chrysler hemi bearingsClevite took the lead in 2006, by being the first aftermarket bearing manufacture to introduce premium TriMetal™ engine bearings for the 5.7L and the 6.1L Chrysler HeMi engines. These bearings are offered for both stock and high performance applications.

lx722 air FilTerThe MAHLe LX722 air filter has a height of 43.00 mm and the diameter of 180.00 mm by 238.00 mm. The LX722 is an application for many popular General Motors vehicles. The list includes: Buick regal 3.1L, Buick rendez-vous 3.6L, Cadillac Deville 4.6L, Chevrolet Lumina 3.4L, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 3.1L, Pontiac Trans Sport 3.4L, and Saturn relay 3.5L.

wavesToPPer™victor reinz® has added wavestopper™ technology to the aftermarket in the Ford 4.6L and 5.4L MLS head gasket. Multiple, individual, concentric waves stamped from spring steel provide a flexible combustion seal, required when engines reach extremes of both temperature and combustion conditions. The “flexible seal” can compensate for the range of motion caused by cyl-inder head “lift-off”, thermal expansion and contraction that occur as the engine runs and maintains a constant seal. (Grommets not included.)


FeaTured ProducTs

chrysler 5.7l hemi v8 PisTonsMAHLe Original’s 5.7L HeMi pistons feature hard-anodized ring grooves to prevent micro-welding in the top ring groove and protect against erosion. The skirts of these HeMi pistons are coated with MAHLe’s proprietary GrAFAL® skirt coating. This coating reduces friction and protects against cold start scuffing and provides skirt impact cushioning, which reduces noise.

Part no. 513901WR-STD

graFal® skirT coaTingMade for friction reduction and resistance to scuffing, GrAFAL® is a graphite impregnated resin developed by MAHLe and applied to the piston skirt during manufacturing. By providing the skirt with a friction reducing protective layer, improvements are realized under adverse operating conditions, such as: break-in, temporary overloading, inadequate lubrication and oil dilution after frequent cold starts.

cb-663PThis year, the CB-663P connecting rod bearing is celebrating its 40th anniversary as the most popular Clevite® engine bearing. This in demand bearing has coverage in all of the following Chevrolet v8 engines: the 262, 265, 267, 294, 302, 305, 307, 325, 327, 346, 350, 365, and 400 engines ranging from 1967-2007. Available in: BiMetal™, TriMetal™, TriArmor™, and high performance.

maniFold insTallaTion seTsCertain MiS sets (including all five listed) feature Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadi-ene rubber sealing beads, fully encapsulated coolant ports, hydrolysis resis-tant carriers, steel load limiters, and rTv diversion channels. These sets con-tain all the parts needed to remove and replace the intake. Available for: GM 4.3L vortec® v6, GM 5.0L & 5.7L vortec® v8, GM 3.1L v6, and GM 3.4L v6

heavy duTy head gaskeTsSome Heavy Duty head gaskets are prone to failure due to coolant leeks develop-ing in the corners of the gasket. MAHLe Clevite introduced the new 54126 to the victor reinz gasket product group to solve this problem. This gasket applies to the Cummins 6 cylinder C Series engines.

deTroiT diesel injecTor kiTMAHLe Clevite introduced the Detroit Diesel 60 Series fuel injector kit, victor reinz part number GS33448, fitting the 12.7L and 11.1L engines. Customer demand prompted the creation of this injector kit. The injector tip pushes the popu-larity of this kit, backed by the support of engine rebuilders.

YOu CAN FiND DeTAiLeD iNFOrMATiON ABOuT THe eNTire MAHLe CLeviTe FAMiLY OF PrODuCTS AT THe FOLLOwiNG weB SiTe: www.mahlecleviTe.com

MIS16166, MIS16167, MIS16168, MIS16259, MIS17892.

Sets for other popular engines coming soon.


caTegory


FilTers – The Pure TruTh

welllubricated

garages and workshoPs live From wear and Tear – and ThereFore also From FilTer change. a classic wearing ParT is The oil FilTer, and accordingly iT has a large share in service and ParT sales.

if one considers the tendencies in the original equipment sector it becomes clear: in addition to a trend towards increased type variety for replacement filters – due to new engine designs and restricted space in the engine compartment – a distinct increase in service intervals can be noticed. Filter service life spans of 15,000 miles and more are now common for many new vehicles and some manufacturers are even quoting 30,000 miles – driving patterns and the quality of engine oil taken into account. however, a longer service life does not necessarily mean less sales revenue. This is because the longer the replacement interval, the more important the quality of the oil filter.

Metal filter housing and Eco oil filter cartdige as lid/filter unit.


caTegory


FilTers – The Pure TruTh

TodAy iN THE sERiEs, ToMoRRow iN THE woRK-sHoP: THE cELLuLosE-FREE FiLTER MEdiuMIncreased service life makes also higher demands on the filter media in oil filters, particularly as the new engine generations with direct injection increase the problem of oil aging. With the use of new fully synthetic high performance oils, replacement intervals of up to 30,000 miles are reached – with a trend to even longer intervals. However, due to the new general condi-tions, conventional filter raw materials are becoming less suit-able, especially as the excessive nitration of the oils leads to embrittlement of the filter media. the response from MaHLe: a fully synthetic two-layer fleece made of polyester, consist-ing of a support and a filtration layer. this makes it possible to achieve highest filtration performance with best stability – and at the same time block forming in the pleats can be avoided. Compared with cellulose fibers, the aging stability of the new oil filter medium is seven times higher – and it offers the same or even lower pressure drop at significantly increased dirt pick-up capacity. the new cellulose free filter media are, for instance, available for Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the aftermarket.

TiPs FRoM THE FiLTER ExPERTFor the current requirement in service and repair, MaHLe Filter offers a comprehensive well maintained filter range in uncompro-mising original equipment quality. However, not only the quality of the filter is essential. the quality of fitting and maintenance is as important. as simple as it may sound – also a high quality oil filter can only work properly when it has been fitted correctly be-forehand. therefore, we have some helpful tips for you – straight from the practice of the MaHLe filter experts.

sPiN-oN oiL FiLTER Mix uP?a spin-on oil filter consists of housing and filter element, which are inseparably connected and must therefore be changed as a unit. However, the problem is that many filters look identical but have completely different insides depending on the engine. For example, they may be with or without anti-drain valve or have different connection threads. they also can differ in the oil pres-sure of the bypass valve, filter media, the fineness of the filter or the permissible operational overpressure.

FiTTiNG TiPs FoR sPiN-oN oiL FiLTERsidentification: when the correct spin-on oil filter has been es-tablished – for instance, by using the cross-reference list offered by MaHLe as supplement in the current filter catalogs – it is time to fit the filter correctly. lubrication: to reduce distortions when tightening the filter, the sealing should be lubricated with engine oil before fitting. grease is not recommended as it is prone to melting and flow off and can therefore lead to leakage. It is espe-cially important to assure that the sealing remains undamaged – otherwise it can be destroyed due to the loads during tighten-ing (see picture). Finger-tight: in general, oil filters are tightened by hand without the aid of any tools. there are exceptions for a few types, which have to be tightened to a specified torque. please review the fitting instructions of the vehicle manufactur-ers in such cases.

cLEvER soLuTioN: THE Eco oiL FiLTER ModuLEMany car manufacturers use eco oil filter modules as original equipment in their vehicles. this up-to-date and eco-friendly solution consists of two parts: firstly the filter housing made from metal, which remains with the vehicle during its entire life time and can take on auxiliary function such as carrier for other units – and secondly, the filter element, which consists of paper and environment-friendly plastics that can be incinerated. the element is exchanged during regular service and incinerated in waste incinerators with heat gain. What remains is a small pile of ash. For this system, MaHLe has been awarded the first prize from the BdI (Confederation of german Industry) in 1996.

FiTTiNG TiPs FoR oiL FiLTER cARTRidGEsself-draining: in order to direct the oil located in the filter cartridge into the oil pan (and not onto the workshop floor) a hole opens in the housing lid when the filter is unscrewed. this allows the oil in the housing to drain in direction oil pan. non-contact: to make it unnecessary to touch the oily filter cartridge during dismantling, it is either clipped to the lid or is fixed to an internal support frame connected to the lid. memory effect: before dismantling, it is recommended to observe the fitting position of the filter in order to place the new cartridge accordingly. clear the ring: before final assembly of the lid/filter unit, the old sealing ring must be replaced with the enclosed new ring. to place the sealing without damage into the intended groove, cover the lid thread with a sleeve or sticky tape and then slip over the sealing ring by hand. safe fit: after positioning, check the exact fit of the seal and then spread some engine oil over it. this will prevent twisting or damage to the seal when the lid is screwed on. The right torque: first screw on the lid by hand and then use a torque wrench to tighten it. details about the torque are cast-in on the lid or are available from the fitting instructions of the vehicle manufacturers.

Important oil filter quality characteristics: MICRO-STAR® filter paper (1), bypass valve (2) and anti-drain valve (3).

Engine damage due to A damaged seal: as the damage acts similar to a predeter-mined breaking point, the seal was torn at 45 degrees and partly squeezed out of the sealing groove when the filter was tighte-ned. The result: immediate oil pressure loss – and subsequently engine damage.

Structure of a spin-on oil filter.

3

1

2

Housing

spring

Bypass valve

Internal support frame

Filter element made of special paper

anti-drain valveclean side

anti-drain valvedirty side

Cover plate seal


Training

imProving yourboTTom line ...

The secreTs To success

the MaHLe Clevite training and education activities consist of programs designed to provide technical information and general knowledge on core product groups and increase product sales to end-users.

training can be customized and adapted for any circumstance. the MaHLe Clevite training staff averages nearly thirty years in the engine parts business – given enough preparation, they can customize a special program or training event for any customer. Information on the entire offering from the training department is available through any MaHLe Clevite sales manager – or by visiting www.mahleclevite.com. two examples of MaHLe Clevite Inc.’s training program include:

1. TEcHNicAL iNFoRMATioN ANd GENERAL PRoducT KNowL-EdGE. the primary vehicle for providing product knowledge and technical information is the MaHLe Clevite online eLearning site. separate courses on Clevite® engine bearings, perfect Circle® piston rings, Victor reinz® gaskets and MaHLe original® pistons (due in late 2007) are available to anyone worldwide through the internet. the courses are self-paced and divided into chapters covering subjects such as: how to use a catalog, product nomenclature, product features and benefits and how to install the product. upon completion of all the chapters with a passing score on the post-test for a given course, a certificate can be printed with the participant’s name. MaHLe Clevite’s eLearning programs can be found online via www.mahleclevite.com.

In addition to MaHLe Clevite eLearning, another support function to enhance customer access to tech information and product knowledge is through MaHLe Clevite’s online support. the team provides information and answers to questions about products, applications and recommended use typically within 24 hours or less.

2. iNcREAsE PRoducT sALEs To ENd usERs.John Konecny, one of MaHLe Clevite’s trainers, dedicates about 70% of his time working directly with MaHLe Clevite customers - more specifically, the customer’s outside sales people. John typically spends a week working a territory with the outside sales representative, making a combined tech education/sales call covering the MaHLe Clevite product groups. a majority of these calls are by appointment and last an average of two hours. Most direct customers have multiple lines in any given product. For example, they may carry Clevite engine bearings, aCL engine bearings, CLeMeX brand bearings and a private label line too. John’s goal is to explain the benefits of the MaHLe Clevite brands to the end-user customer so that they will request our brand when placing an order.

John Konecny, Technical Trainer hosting an engine training class.


caTegoryevenTs

The three biggest tradeshows in the industry - sema, aaPex and Pri are rapidly approaching. Traditionally mahle clevite only exhibited at sema and Pri. as a new addition to the mahle family, mahle clevite inc. is exhibiting at both aaPex and sema shows this fall as well as Pri in orlando, Florida this december.

ocTobER 30-NovEMbER 2LAs vEGAs coNvENTioN cENTER, LAs vEGAs, NvbooTH #21037the specialty equipment Manufacturer’s association (seMa) show, the pre-mier performance show for the Western portion of the united states, showcas-es the performance side of the aftermarket. every conceivable performance accessory from spinning rims, to neon, including mobile audio and visual elec-tronics will be displayed. MaHLe Clevite teams up with MaHLe Motorsports to showcase all of MaHLe’s performance capabilities for the NaFta region.

sHow HiGHLiGHTs:the seMa show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. It draws the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products to one place – the Las Vegas Convention Center. as part of the aaIW, the seMa show attracts more than 100,000 industry leaders from over 100 countries for unlimited profit opportunities in the automotive, truck and suV, marine and rV markets. seMa show 2006 drew over 50,000 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 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the seMa show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, spe-cial events, networking opportunities and more.

ocTobER 30-NovEMbER 1sANds ExPo cENTER, LAs vEGAs, Nv booTH #3279the aapeX show, an event for traditional warehouse distributors and suppliers to meet annually, provides a forum for the traditional aftermarket to interact. unlike other shows, there is a heavy emphasis placed on international trade. together with the automotive Warehouse distributors association (aWda), the show serves as a cornerstone of Industry Week. the MaHLe Clevite display

Fall isshow season ...

aTTend These Three shows – see mahle cleviTe

represents our newly formed alliance with our global MaHLe family, showcas-ing our full engine components line, including heavy duty.

sHow HiGHLiGHTs:aapeX is held during the automotive aftermarket Industry Week (aaIW) in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is reserved for automotive industry professionals. No other trade event or trade show offers as many qualified buyers and distributors from all segments of the automotive aftermarket. More than 115,000 professionals from every corner of the global automotive aftermarket community attended Industry Week 2006 - more than 51,000 of them were buyers with purchas-ing power. More than 2,000 exhibitors displayed their products at aapeX, the automotive aftermarket event of the Year!

dEcEMbER 6-8oRANGE couNTy coNvENTioN cENTER oRLANdo, FLoRidA booTH – #1101the performance racing Industry (prI) show, similar to seMa, focuses more on speed and less on flash. prI is the premier performance racing show for the eastern united states. Like seMa, MaHLe Clevite will highlight all perfor-mance parts alongside MaHLe Motorsports.

sHow HiGHLiGHTs:taking up 1,000,000 square feet, 1,450 companies display the latest advanc-es in racing products and race engineering. engine parts, suspension compo-nents, data acquisition, safety gear, new metal alloys and coatings, machining equipment, race electronics...it’s all part of the world’s largest racing trade show.

arriving from 45 countries, 45,000 buyers scour the displays to source the new technology that will win races next year. It’s all hardcore racing. No fuzzy dice. No neon windshield wipers. the prI trade show is so big; nobody can afford to miss a single day.

pre-qualified attendees enjoy complimentary admission, but they must prove they own, manage or are employed by a racing business. Buyers for tens of thousands of racing retail stores, warehouse distribution centers, professional race engine builders, racecar production companies, are making 2008 inven-tory decisions in each exhibit. they represent the all-important distribution pipeline for racing products. In the us alone, there are more than 400,000 rac-ers, the vast majority of whom are at the grassroots level, purchasing products from their local race store or race engine builder.

thousands of professional race teams, from NasCar teams to NHra top Fuel, aLMs to grand am, Japan to the uK, send buyers to ensure they are up-to-date on today’s racing technologies.


caTegorycusTomer PorTraiT

wHo is ENGiNE ANd PERFoRMANcE wAREHousE iNc.?engine and performance Warehouse Inc. (epWI) is a customer driven market-ing organization which functions as a full-service distributor of engine compo-nents and related accessories - plus data processing, business management training and marketing support to Custom engine rebuilders (Cer), automo-tive machine shops and legitimate aftermarket jobbers who either rebuild or supply those who rebuild passenger car, light truck, medium and heavy duty truck and agricultural engines as a major part of their business operation. the mission is to perform these services with continuously improving excellence, creating profits with integrity, so that their customer never needs to go any-where else to buy what they sell.

THE sToRy bEHiNd EPwi 1972 was a milestone year for engine and performance Warehouse Incorpo-rated’s president paul Van Woensel. that year, he established Heads by paul, a small cylinder head specialist shop located in englewood, south of denver. realizing that there was room for growth in 1977, Heads by paul expanded into a full service machine shop. the potential was in englewood, but the pos-sibilities were endless in denver. In 1983, paul and his shop made the move to denver, where he established the company everyone knows today as epWI.

Currently epWI boasts twelve regional facilities throughout the western and central parts of the united states. epWI serves their customer base by main-taining 220,000 square feet of total facility space. sixty customer service indi-viduals emphasize an important part of epWI’s mission statement; “With each purchase our customers make a choice to do business with us.”

MAHLE cLEviTE iNc. ANd EPwiepWI has been a valuable customer to MaHLe Clevite throughout the years. MaHLe Clevite takes pride in all of the partnerships established with every customer. that is why this sustained, long-lasting relationship with each other helps reach both organization’s individual goals as a team.

paul Van Woensel views the partnership in these words: “Clevite & perfect Cir-cle have been key brands at engine & performance Warehouse for decades. epWI stocked Clevite engine bearings years ago when they were branded and marketed as Michigan engine bearings. “Clevite and perfect Circle have been key product suppliers to epWI for de-cades, and we’ve always had a strong relationship. Clevite® bearings and perfect Circle® piston rings are key components in our epWI engine kits. these products are part of our core product offerings that are stocked in every one of our twelve warehouses.” In addition to the Clevite and perfect Circle brands epWI also stocks Victor reinz® gaskets and MaHLe original® pistons.

“of course we were concerned when dana filed Chapter 11,” Van Woensel continued, “We are very pleased that these brands are now part of MaHLe. their combined global strength and understanding of the u.s. market will pro-vide significant support for these brands in the future. We’re looking forward to our continued partnership with MaHLe Clevite, and the products, support and brand strength that they’ll provide in the engine parts aftermarket.”

MaHLe Clevite would like to thank epWI for their continued support of many of our product lines. We look forward to a very long and successful partnership for years to come.

“We’re looking forward to our continued

“These products are part of our core product offering stocked in every one of our twelve ware-houses.”

Pictured left to right. Greg Witherwax (Customer Service Manager), Paul Van Woensel (President), Dusty Dodge (Director of Marketing), Dave Van Woensel (Webmaster & VP), Greg Dunlap (Operations Manager), Veryl Berry (General Manager)

partnership with MAHLE Clevite...”


caTegory


on locaTion

sPRiNG oF 2007 MARKEd THE biRTH oF MAHLE cLEviTE iNc.following MaHLe’s acquisition of the engine hard parts business from dana Corporation. that event meant a pretty big change in the Memphis suburb of olive Branch, Mississippi. New signs went atop the Master distribution Center denoting the shift; however the quality inside remained constant. the olive Branch facility sits comfortably on 17 acres in the northern part of the state, nestled just minutes outside of the Memphis International airport. Major nearby highways include Interstates 45, 55, and u.s. Highway 78 (soon to be I-22). olive Branch boasts some impressive statistics. the building itself is 308,724 square feet in size (about 5.9 acres). the climate-controlled warehouse takes up a huge percentage of that space, covering a 262,104 square feet area, with the mezzanines, offices, and lab weighing down a massive 42,620 square feet. the complex is 33 feet tall, with the inside clearance at 30 feet. It sports seven dock bay doors for shipping; and an additional seven for receiving. In addition to the already mentioned 14 bay doors, there are three more – one ramp door each for receiving, packaging, and shipping. the warehouse racks are 16 and 20 feet tall, while the aisle width for bulk goods is seven feet, and 10 feet for finished goods, respectively. truly, it is a beast of a facility that MaHLe Clevite takes enormous pride in. But of course, the size of the thing isn’t the whole story.

olive Branch is the major distribution hub in the MaHLe Clevite network, but clearly functions as so much more. this facility receives, packages, assembles, warehouses, and distributes the full line of MaHLe Clevite products (MaHLe original® pistons, MaHLe Filter® filters, Clevite® engine bearings, perfect Circle® piston rings and Victor reinz® gaskets). In fact, the facility flawlessly incorporated the distribution of MaHLe products previously performed by MaHLe’s Morristown, tennessee location. on top of all of that; however, olive Branch plays a central role in the support of the company as a whole. Customer service, returns processing, information technology, accounting and service engineering all call the MaHLe Clevite olive Branch facility home – thus proving that while ann arbor may be the MaHLe Clevite Inc. Headquarters, olive Branch is the nerve center of MaHLe Clevite’s operation.

MaHLe Clevite’s investment in the olive Branch facility is a considerable one, and has already paid off in a big way. the shear immensity of the complex helps one to understand the importance MaHLe Clevite places on it.

THE MAsTER disTRibuTioN cENTERMAHLE cLEviTE NERvE cENTER

oLivE bRANcH

MAHLE Clevite Service Engineering Lab.

MAHLE Clevite Receiving Area.

MAHLE Aftermarket news inagural issue

EdiTiNG MAHLe Aftermarket newsMAHLe Clevite inc.1350 eisenhower PlaceAnn Arbor, Michigan 48108www.mahleclevite.com

REsPoNsibLE FoR THE coNTENTs: Jesse JonesEdiToRs: Melissa Kirk, Ted Hughes, Tonia Kaczmarek, Dave Murray

ExTERNAL EdiToRs: Birgit Albrecht, Andrea Arnold, Susanne GerhardPRiNTiNG ANd disTRibuTioN: Hecks Direct Mail & Printing, Toledo, Ohio

All rights reserved. reprinting and publication of any kind, including in electronic media, in full or in parts, only with prior expressed written consent from MAHLe Clevite inc. For further information and additional copies, please contact your MAHLe Clevite sales representative.

iMP

riN

T


ecaPabiliTies

“we have put a lot of effort into making it easy for our customers to gather information.”

such are the words of Jonathan Larsen, one of the chief architects of MaHLe Clevite’s growing collection of electronic capabilities. “other companies just don’t go to the extent that we do.”

MaHLe Clevite’s flagship website, www.mahleclevite.com (formerly known as www.engineparts.com), is the gateway to some of the most impressive online features in the aftermarket. people can ask questions, find out the closest place to buy parts, and see price sheets, guides, and interchanges. they can even download some of MaHLe Clevite’s most popular catalogs, as well as gain knowledge from utilizing MaHLe Clevite’s eLearning program (more details covering the eLearning program on pg. 12).

“From www.mahleclevite.com, a customer can get to both the light vehicle and heavy duty engine kit electronic tools. these interactive online catalogs

provide the ability to research and select the right engine kit for a specific appli-cation – then when the desired kit has been selected, the user can go directly to the MaHLe Clevite online ordering system: www.mahlecleviteorder.com,” says Larsen.

Customers are provided several options at www.mahlecleviteorder.com. the site enables customers to view their invoices, check the status of orders, track their orders, check the MaHLe Clevite inventory, and display images of the parts they are searching for. after customers finish perusing, they can pruchase the parts they need. as an added feature, this website also utilizes multiple shopping carts in case the customer wants to place different orders at different times.

But all that is just scratching the surface. For example, you can join a commu-nity of fellow motorheads in our online forum at gearhead gab and customers from worldwide can check out our images, logos and other graphics through the Customer trade area on www.mahleclevite.com.

Not all of the eCapabilities are Web-based. the ePartsFinder™ is a handy parts reference tool that features the equivalent of an 8-inch stack of MaHLe Clevite catalogs. supplied on a Cd-roM, users load the eCatalog on their computer’s hard drive for fast reference whenever needed. the searchable parts software program is easy to use and allows the user to quickly identify and match MaHLe Clevite aftermarket part numbers to the year, make and model number of their vehicle. MaHLe Clevite’s epartsFinder also provides reference photos for virtually all engine parts.

the other thing making epartsFinder great is that it is electronically update-able. When the epartsFinder is installed on the hard drive of a computer that is connected to the Internet, it automatically downloads data and photos of new and revised parts from the MaHLe Clevite Web site – providing updates took months before due to the capabilities associated with printing catalogs and new number announcements. such automatic updates typically occur bi-weekly.

Basically, if you have a computer, and are interested in the premium goods that the engine parts aftermarket has to offer, MaHLe Clevite wants you to know there’s no better time to be a “web-head“.

THE ENGiNE buiLdERs’ PREMiERoNLiNE REsouRcE

one great company

Documents