June 15-16, 2012  Hatfield, Pa.

Performance Years/Pypes Exhaust Open House in conjunction with the GTOAA East Coast Regionals

Three shows in one... Pontiac show, Muscle Car & Truck show, and Mustang show.
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
See the website for details http://performanceyears.com/openhouse.asp

Iconic industry leader HOT ROD will roll out new offerings throughout the year... debuting with a brand-new web site live now.

Hot Rod is re-launching its entire brand across all media channels including print, online, video, and social media platforms beginning immediately and continuing throughout the Fall. This re-launch is just the first part of creating HOT ROD's new identity and emphasizes its focus on multimedia content delivery with brand extensions that include HOTROD.com, a mobile version of HOTROD.com, the "HOT ROD Then & Now" App for iPad, HOT ROD Live Radio, and HOT ROD TV, the oldest automotive show on the air and the one that started the genre, on Speed.

Founded in 1948, HOT ROD is the largest and oldest performance car magazine and is out to redefine the industry by doing things bigger, better, faster, louder. As HOT ROD builds up to its 65th anniversary in 2013, the editorial staff is pushing the envelope to reinvigorate readers.

HOT ROD's parent company, Source Interlink Media (SIM), has made a significant investment in all of the HOT ROD products, most notably with the revitalized print magazine that will launch with the September 2012 issue on sale July 10. The magazine will feature a 50% increase in editorial pages and an all-new design, both of which support a complete reinvention of the content.

"Our mission is to consider what we used to do-in fact, what every car magazine used to do-and to ask ourselves how we can make it bigger, better, faster, louder. Wilder ideas, more emotional presentations, pure entertainment," said HOT ROD Editor-in-Chief David Freiburger. "At least a few times per issue, I want the reader to think, 'I can't believe they did that!'"

The first step in HOT ROD's re-launch initiative is an all-new version of its web site, HOTROD.com. The web site sets the tone for the change in the magazine's former print-centered design into one focused on providing daily news and making it easier for readers to join in the conversation. The new site also helps visitors quickly find articles and discover new content at each visit.

New sections of the site feature original video content from HOT ROD editors as well as videos curated from around the Internet by the editorial staff (Videos.HotRod.com, powered by Magnify.net). The first video (http://youtu.be/kr1YMRlRdx4) is already posted: Freiburger drove the 2012 Chevy Camaro ZL1 with Lingenfelter Performance modifications in the car's first test to exceed 200 mph.

Featured content from sister publication HOT ROD Deluxe is also now available on HOTROD.com . HOT ROD Deluxe is the magazine that specializes in historic photos of hot rodding in the '50s and '60s.

HOT ROD is also focused on social media, approaching 100,000 Facebook fans and maintaining a vibrant presence on YouTube, Pinterest, Twitter and Google+. Updates from and access to these portals are now integrated throughout the web site, along with a new Disqus-powered commenting engine for easier fan involvement and near real-time conversations that can continue on social networks.

The re-launched HOTROD.com also includes:

*A new, dynamic navigation scheme that allows users access to the latest content from anywhere within the site.

*Simplified backend interface so that editors may push content items live more quickly.

*New contributor sections for each HOT ROD editor, so users may quickly find stories from their favorite authors.

*Easier access to information about HOT ROD events.

*Improved homepage promotion of key content.

*Improved photo galleries with easy access to high-resolution photos.

  In the August issue of High Performance Pontiac, which is on newsstands May 15, you can read and see how easy it is to have OnStar FMV installed into your 1981-or-newer Pontiac, and subscribe to the safety, security, and convenience that OnStar delivers to over 100 million vehicles on the road today.

In our story, we printed OnStar FMV has an $299 MSRP, and look for the best deal on OnStar among the retail chains and online sellers that carry the product. Well, we've done that for you, too. Now, through June 16, OnStar FMV is only $99 with installation included.

OnStar FMV offers the key features and services that have made OnStar’s “blue button” an icon, including Automatic Crash Response, Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Hands-Free Calling. Equipping a vehicle with comparative aftermarket products would cost more than $1,000.

Read the full story in the August 2012 issue of High Performance Pontiac.

 High Performance Pontiac fans:

 We're considering starting a Pontiac window sticker collection, similar to our Readers Rides section online.

What do you think? Do you want to see a Pontiac window-sticker collection online at highperformancepontiac.com?

Send us an email or post a comment to this blog!

 For the first time as an "official" Blue-Ray American release, Smokey and the Bandit will drop on June 5 to DVD retailers.

 The front cover doesn't mention Jackie Gleason and Sally Field as co-stars, and Sally's not even shown with Burt! What happened?

Bandit fans will enjoy the movie in full 1080p HD video, and the following extras:• Loaded Up and Truckin': Making Smokey and the Bandit
• Snowman, What's Your 20? - The Smokey and the Bandit CB Tutorial
• 100 Years of Universal: The '70s
• 100 Years of Universal: The Lot
• My Scenes
• pocket BLU App

 The NHRA’s Full Throttle Drag Racing Series will visit 20 different tracks throughout the course of the 2012 season at locations spanning the continental United States.  Although the race distance for the Pro Stock category remains the same quarter mile at each stop, any other similarities are few and far between, with every facility having its own distinctive characteristics. 

For example, Royal Purple Raceway, site of this weekend’s NHRA Spring Nationals in Baytown, Tex., is quite popular with the Pro Stock contingent due to atmospheric conditions that are particularly friendly to the carbureted, 1,400-horsepower “factory hot rods”.  As the primary engine builder and driver of one of the powerful Summit Racing Pontiacs, a visit to the former Houston Raceway Park therefore appeals to Jason Line on two levels, which he hopes to combine into a winning performance.

“It’s fun racing in Houston, because there’s always the potential to go really fast,” said Line.  “Royal Purple Raceway is a good air track, and the fact that it’s a high barometer is actually a naturally aspirated engine’s dream come true.  Although it’s been good the last two years, there are some concerns about the racing surface this year, which is something we’ll have to deal with when we get there, and in any case, it will be the same for everyone. 

“Fortunately, we know our Summit Racing Pontiac is a really good hot rod – in fact, it is now the quickest and fastest in Pro Stock history (note: Line reset the NHRA top speed record at 213.91 mph two weeks ago in Charlotte, NC, and set the elapsed time mark at 6.477 seconds last fall in Reading, PA) and we hope to put it to good use this weekend.”

However, in order for Line to score his second win at the Lone Star State speed plant (and second of 2012), both he and his KB Racing crew will need to translate the competitive excellence shown in qualifying into round wins on Sunday.  In this season’s first five races, he has been the No. 1 qualifier three times and started second in the other two races, accumulating a wealth of the bonus points awarded after each qualifying session.  Although he has been a solid performer on race day and sits second in the championship standings he enters the weekend determined to add to his solitary victory.

“Our Summit Racing Pontiac has been phenomenal in qualifying but, with one exception, we have yet to turn that into race wins,” said Line.  “I can’t explain why that is, or exactly how we’re going to fix it, but I’m confident we will.  We obviously have the tools and the right people to get it done, so it’s just a matter of putting all the pieces of the puzzle together. 

“A winning effort starts with everyone on the team doing their jobs on all three days, making sure to avoid any mental mistakes.  If we do that, I’m pretty certain we will end up with a favorable outcome.  These conditions should work in our favor, and this is a track where we have historically done well.  I am extremely motivated to get back to the winners’ circle, and the way I see it, there’s no time like the present to do it.”

Jason Line & the Summit Racing Pontiac crew

By the Numbers – Royal Purple Raceway edition:

1 – Jason wins at Royal Purple Raceway coming into this weekend, which came in 2007.

2 – No. 1 qualifiers by Jason at RPR, most recently in 2009.

3 – Final round appearances by Line in Baytown (in 2004, 2005 & 2007)

3.25 – Average starting position for Jason in his previous 8 RPR starts.

7 – Top Five starts by Line in his 8 prior races in Baytown.

13 – Elimination round wins by Jason in his previous eight starts at RPR, versus 6 losses for a .684 win percentage. 

Event Schedule:

            Friday, April 27:                    Two qualifying sessions at 2:30 & 5:00 p.m.

            Saturday, April 28:               Two qualifying sessions at 11:30 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.

            Sunday, April 29:                 Final eliminations starting with Top Fuel at 11:00 a.m.

Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):

            Qualifying:                Saturday, April 28 –                         5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

            Eliminations:             Sunday, April 29 –               7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

(All times Eastern)   

  Throughout the course of his illustrious Pro Stock career, Summit Racing driver Greg Anderson has won an NHRA national event an average of every 3.78 starts.  In a somewhat ironic twist, the four-time champion has a similar record at Royal Purple Raceway, site of this weekend’s NHRA Spring Nationals, with his two wins spaced four years apart.  Having last visited the Texas quarter-mile winner’s circle in 2008, he is therefore looking forward to this year’s edition as he hopes to continue the trend and score his third win, which, factoring in his record in this season’s first five races, is a distinct possibility.

“Although we naturally wish we had won in Houston more often than we have in the past, we certainly don’t want to upset the racing gods and break our cycle there this year,” joked Anderson.  “After all, this Summit Racing team has had a great start to the season, winning twice, including at the last race in Charlotte, and going to four final rounds, so there’s no reason we can’t keep it going this weekend.
 
“So far this year, we’ve struggled a bit in qualifying, but managed to turn things around by Sunday and have had a great car in eliminations.  I’ve also been able to dodge a lot of the land mines and gone rounds, so we’re definitely doing a good job of points racing.  But, as the adage says, you’re only as good as your last race, and once we roll through the gates at Royal Purple Raceway, it’s a totally new ball game, and we have to be at our best from the very start.”
 
Located in the Houston suburb of Baytown, Royal Purple Raceway (formerly known as Houston Raceway Park), has been a fixture on the Full Throttle Drag Racing circuit since 1988, with its sea-level altitude offering the potential for record-setting performances, particularly for the normally-aspirated Pro Stock category.  Although there are some concerns about how the weather may have adversely affected the racing surface over the last year, Anderson and crew are looking forward to taking advantage of the horsepower-rich conditions.
 
“We always have great atmospheric conditions in Houston, and our Summit Racing Pontiacs usually run fast there,” said Anderson.  “From what I hear, we may have a couple extra challenges this year with the race track getting a little bumpier, which will be a good test for the crew chiefs and the crew guys – after all, that’s why we have shock absorbers on these cars, and have put a lot of effort into our shock packages over the last few years.
 
“We’ve made tremendous progress as far as being able to handle a rough racetrack, so we look forward to trying to tame it, keeping the power to the ground.  If you can keep the tire on the ground, you’re going to run fast.  We look forward to racing on any track where we can run low elapsed times and big speeds, and Houston is one of them.  It’s one of the big barometer tracks where if the circumstances are right, you can set records, making it a fun race.
 
“We always seem to get a good turnout in Houston, with the fans packing the stands, and it’s a Pro Stock crowd.  It’s definitely a Pro Stock type track, and, as well as our Summit Racing Pontiacs have been running this year, we look forward to getting there seeing what we can do to improve upon our last race and get that third Spring Nationals trophy.  It’s going to be tough with everyone gunning for us, but I think we’re up to it.”
 
Greg Anderson & the Summit Racing Pontiac crew
By the Numbers – Royal Purple Raceway edition:
 
2 – Wins by Anderson at Royal Purple Raceway coming into this weekend, most recently in 2008.
 
4.67 – Average starting position for Greg in his previous 12 starts in Baytown.
 
7 – Top Three starts by Anderson in his 12 prior races at the Houston quarter-mile.
 
15 – Elimination round wins by Greg in his previous 12 starts at RPR, versus 10 losses for a .600 win percentage.
 
26 – Times Anderson has posted consecutive victories in his career coming into this weekend, most recently at the 2011 Brainerd and Indianapolis races.
 Event Schedule:
            Friday, April 27:                    Two qualifying sessions at 2:30 & 5:00 p.m.
            Saturday, April 28:               Two qualifying sessions at 11:30 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
            Sunday, April 29:                 Final eliminations starting with Top Fuel at 11:00 a.m.
 
Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):
            Qualifying:                Saturday, April 28 –                         5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
            Eliminations:             Sunday, April 29 –               7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
(All times Eastern)   

NHRA announced in February that Uni-Select USA and its Auto-Plus network of automotive retail stores have acquired the naming rights to the NHRA owned and operated facility in Gainesville, Forida.

Besides holding naming rights to Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, the company also serves as title-rights sponsor of the Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway in Reading, Pa., and is the official auto parts store of Atlanta Dragway, also an NHRA owned and operated facility, and Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.
              
The naming rights sponsorship affords Auto-Plus with significant signage at the historic facility
              
Uni-Select is a leader in the distribution of automotive replacement parts, equipment, tools and accessories and, through Uni-Select USA, Inc., the company also provides services to customers in the United States where it is the seventh largest distributor.  The Uni-Select NetworkTM   includes more than 2,500 independent jobbers and services 3,500 points of sale in North America.  Uni-Select is headquartered in Montreal.

  Celebrate Elvis' love for collecting cars at the Third Annual Elvis Presley Car Show at Graceland. The special two-day event will feature an impressive display of classic cars for car lovers to see and enjoy for free! Hundreds of classic automobiles from car clubs will be on display at Elvis Presley’s Graceland.

Register your car to be on display! The registration fee for the car show is $35.00 per car if you register by May 15, 2012. After May 15, registration will be $45 and can only be done on-site at the car show. All those registering prior to May 15 will have their car show packets mailed or emailed to them. Registration fee includes the ability to exhibit car during both days of the show, two admissions into the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, two commemorative show badges and an exhibitor welcome kit.


CAR SHOW HOURS
Friday, June 1, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday, June 2, 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM

ON-SITE REGISTRATION TIMES
Friday, June 1 from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, June 2 from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM

JUDGING & AWARDS
Judging: Saturday, June 2, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Awards Ceremony & Announcements: Saturday, June 2, 1:00 PM
There will be trophies awarded including “choice” classifications and other categories for cars, trucks, and motorcycles including but not limited to model specific awards as well as classifications for production year, foreign and domestic models, trailer and non-trailer vehicles, uniqueness, preservation, restoration, color choice (including our special “Best Pink Car” award in honor of Elvis’ Pink Cadillac) and car club awards to name a few. All category winners will receive a trophy and top prize winners will receive their a photo of their car in front of Graceland. The Elvis Presley Car Show will be held on a gated lot with 24-hour security.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
All exhibitors for the show have the opportunity to get their photo taken of themselves in their car in front of Graceland mansion. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that is available as part of your registration for only $25. Photos will be taken on Friday, June 1, between 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

 The following announcement comes from Inline Tube:

Inline Tube, a leader in manufacturing concourse restoration parts, is proud to announce that their '69 GTO Judge Convertible won the ISCA Best Restored Champion 2012.

 The car was restored with parts from Inline Tube was debuted and participated in the ISCA series for the 2012 season, competing with other outstanding restored vehicles around the country. The Judge won Best Restored at the cities attended and earned a spot at the finals this past weekend in Omaha, Nebraska, where it was awarded Best Restored Champion. To see videos of the Judge and our next project a 1970 Cutlass 442 convertible 4 speed. We thank the ISCA for the recognition and excellent series. If you want to restore the way the best do, Contact Inline Tube at (800)385-9452 or visit their website @ www.inlinetube.com.

Summit Racing driver Jason Line has accomplished almost everything a drag racer could at spectacular zMAX Dragway in Concord, N.C., site of this weekend’s 4-Wide Nationals.  He has been the No. 1 qualifier three times and advanced to the final round on two occasions (including at the inaugural four-wide race two years ago).  He has set a track record at the KB Racing team’s home track with his 6.510-second pass in qualifying for the fall race here last September.  However, the one entry missing from his zMAX resume is that of a national event win, something he looks to correct this weekend.

 
“I’ve come close to winning at zMAX Dragway in the past, but have yet to leave with the trophy,” stated Line.  “I was the runner-up at the inaugural 4-Wide Nationals, and came up three-thousandths red in the final of last September’s race.  Although that first win has so far eluded me, the way this Summit Racing team sees it, there’s no time like the present to get that taken care of.

“We couldn’t ask for a finer place to be our home track.  It is one of the nicest facilities on the entire circuit for both the racers and the fans, with Marcus Smith and his staff doing a tremendous job of running it.  Besides, it’s a short drive from our shop in Mooresville, we get to sleep in our own beds, and my family gets to come out and watch me race, which only makes it better.

“The racing surface can be a little tricky, particularly at the starting line, and since we will only have one shot at each lane in qualifying due to the four-wide format you want to make sure to make a good run in each session to get tuning data because you don’t know what lane you’ll be racing in on Sunday.  It’s a challenging race for sure, but an extremely satisfying one if you win.”

A key factor in Line’s pursuit of his first win at the zMAX Dragway and second of the 2012 season will undoubtedly be his Summit Racing Pontiac, which has helped him to consistently be among the top performers in the highly competitive Pro Stock category.  The two-time champion has been particularly effective in qualifying, where his two pole positions pace the “factory hot rods”, and he has already garnered more than one full round of competition’s worth of bonus points, helping him to stay second in the championship standings behind teammate Greg Anderson.  

“I would say my current Summit Racing Pontiac is the best car I have ever had in my Pro Stock career,” stated Line.  “As I have said before, even when we don’t make a particularly great run, it is still fast.  That not only gives you a tremendous amount of confidence as a driver, but also a little extra pressure as you want to take full advantage of it.

“Of course, at this race, you have to take the four-wide format into account, as it is completely different from what we are used to.  However, having had the experience of racing in this event the last two years, it should be a little easier this time around, especially after making our four runs in qualifying.

“All things considered, I believe we should have a pretty good weekend.  I think our team has a pretty good handle on the race track, and there is little doubt we’ll once again have a great car.  As long as we all do our jobs the way we should, my zMAX Dragway resume should be complete by Sunday night.”

Jason Line & the Summit Racing Pontiac crew
By the Numbers – zMAX Dragway edition:

2 - Final round appearances made by Line at zMAX Dragway heading into this weekend, most recently at last year’s fall race.

3 – No. 1 qualifying performances by Jason at zMAX Dragway, which have come in the last three races held there.

6 – Tracks on the 2012 Full Throttle Drag Racing Series schedule where Line has yet to win (out of a total of 20), including zMAX Dragway.

6.510 – Current zMAX Dragway Pro Stock track elapsed time record, set by Line in September 2011.

7 – Elimination round wins scored by Line in his previous six zMAX starts versus 6 losses for a .538 round win percentage.

Event Schedule:
            Friday, April 13:                       Two qualifying sessions at 1:30 & 4:30 p.m.
            Saturday, April 14:                  Two qualifying sessions at 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
            Sunday, April 15:                    Final eliminations starting with Top Fuel at 12:00 noon

Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):
            Qualifying:                   Saturday, April 14 –                5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
            Eliminations:                Sunday, April 15 –                  7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
(All times Eastern)   

Take a look at these classic, we mean modern Pontiacs. A Trans Am, another Trans Am, a GTO Judge, another Trans Am, and a Firebird Trans Am convertible.

 This isn't Photoshop work, but an actual photograph of five traffic-stopping Pontiacs doing some testing at an undisclosed location east of Tallahassee, Florida.

All five cars are manufactured by Trans Am Depot.

GM, you've been outdone.

 We received this information about an upcoming Pontiac show in the Chicago area:

We're having our annual full size Pontiac gathering out at TriPower Automotive in Libertyville IL. Mark your calendars in pen folks as our FULL SIZE PONTIAC CHI-TOWN SHINDIG is happenin' on May 5th, 2012.

If you've been there before you know we bring out crazy-cool, nasty, rare and most importantly daily driven and enjoyed full size Ponchos every May for our annual dust-off. Everything from primered drivers to Swiss Cheese Cats come out to play so don't be shy. 
We'll have some snacks, some beverages and hopefully more perfect weather to kick off our cruising season. It don't cost a dime either!

We'll get started around 10am or so and run until our wives tell us to pack it in! No admission fees, no trophies, no vendors and no attitudes. 
Drive your big ol' Pontiac tank to TriPower Automotive, 
1800 West Peterson Road in Libertyville IL On May 5th and enjoy!

FROM SEMA

Legislation (H.B. 5405) to increase the age requirement for vehicles eligible for registration as “antique, rare or special-interest motor vehicles” was approved by the Connecticut Joint Committee on Planning and Development by a narrow 10–9 vote.

Under the bill, vehicles seeking registration as antique, rare or special-interest motor vehicles would be required to be at least 30 years old. Currently, vehicles 20 years old or older are eligible for this status and special license plates. 

For the purpose of property taxes, the bill also increases the maximum assessment of these vehicles from $500 to $2,000. The bill will now be sent to the Connecticut House of Representatives for a vote by all members.   

More information about this bill is available. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

April 6, 2012, is the deadline to apply for an automotive scholarship through the 2012 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF), which offers students preparing for careers in the automotive industry an opportunity to receive between $1,000–$4,000 to help pay for school.

  The scholarship application requires college transcripts and letters of recommendation and is now available at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Since the fund's inception in 1984, it has awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships to more than 600 students engaged in studies leading to careers in the automotive aftermarket or related fields.

“Paying for a high-quality education is a challenge for many people, particularly in today’s tough economy,” said Jamie Eriksen, SEMA education director. “SEMA is pleased to play a part in helping students prepare for careers in our industry. The specialty-equipment industry is innovative, dynamic and holds many opportunities for the next generation.”

Unlike financial aid and student loans, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship is a one-time award that does not have to be paid back. Awards are granted to eligible applicants based on academic achievements, work experience, community involvement, essay content and recommendations. Students may re-apply each year, provided that they still meet the eligibility criteria.

A loan forgiveness award is also available to recent graduates who are working for SEMA-member companies and paying off existing student loans. Details and applications for both the scholarship and the loan-forgiveness awards are available at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Winners will be notified in the summer of 2012. Scholarship payments are sent directly to the student’s college, university, trade or vocational school to help offset the cost of tuition. Loan-forgiveness payments are sent directly to the financial institutions.

To review eligibility requirements or to access the application, visit www.sema.org/scholarships or contact Juliet Marshall at julietm@sema.org, 909-978-6655.

 There is a brief shot in the opening of the 1974 version of this movie that shows a New York City street. What is driving toward the camera amongst the cars?

A light green T41 (GTO style nose) equipped station wagon! It's very brief but cool just the same.

 A movie called House of the Rising Sun has an '86 2+2 in it.

I saw it the other day on one of the movie stations. It's mob and cop movie that seems to be making the rounds right now. It would appear that the director liked the car because it got a fair amount of camera time near the middle of the movie. Later a worn Third-Gen Firebird gets a few short scenes as well. The movie is not for the kiddies, but may be entertaining for grown ups, and hey there are two Pontiacs in it.

 High Performance Pontiac readers, if you're filling up your tank with E10 (very few gas stations sell pure gasoline any more), be on the safe side.

 Many companies now offer an ethanol-treatment that you pour in at every fill-up. At a retail price of $10 or less, they can help protect your Pontiac's fuel system and engine against the horrors of E10 fuel.

Remember, E10 is not recommended for any American vehicles prior to the 1986 model year.

 High Performance Pontiac is sending the call out to all car shows which will predominantly feature Pontiacs in 2012.

 If you haven't specifically contacted us about your car show, we probably don't know about it.

Please, send a copy of your car show flyer as a .pdf attachment to christopher.phillip@sorc.com along with your contact telephone number for more details.

Thanks for the HPP staff.

As people across the country are keeping their vehicles several years longer, knowing how to choose quality filters and maintain vehicles properly is more important than ever to improving an engine's performance and lifespan.

And now there's a new website - NAPAFilters.com - that offers expert filtration help for people with all types of vehicles, equipment, and machinery. It's loaded with "all you need to know" about what quality filters can do for your vehicle, which filters are the right filters to choose for your car, detailed tips for filter maintenance, and much more.
 
NAPA Filters is recognized worldwide for its filtration expertise and is the world's largest distributor of light and heavy-duty filters for the automotive aftermarket.
 
"We wanted to create a one-stop resource for help when it comes to filters for your passenger car," said Paul Kortman, brand and category marketing manager for NAPA Filters.
 
"We know filters and want to share our expertise," Kortman said. "Our research showed that we had an opportunity to simplify the process of selecting, changing and buying the best filter for just about any engine application," he added. "The new NAPAFilters.com is designed to help vehicle owners save time and energy, and also share advice on how proper filter maintenance can help their engines perform efficiently and last longer."
 
The website has sections devoted to different types of customers, vehicle types and filter needs. For example, the "do it yourself" (DIY) section features:
    •    a "find your filter" search tool for the full range of NAPA filters: oil, air, cabin air, and fuel, for passenger cars
    •    in-garage videos that feature step-by-step instructions on what you need to know about changing oil, air, and cabin air filters
    •    details about NAPA Filters' family of filters - Silver, Gold and Platinum branded products - and information that helps consumers determine the best filter choices based on their vehicle, oil type and driving conditions

For the "do it for me" driver, who's looking for assistance with vehicle and filter maintenance, there's guidance on good, better and best filter choices, a filter look up tool, plus a NAPA AUTO PARTS store and NAPA AutoCare center locator tool.
 
Started in 1966 NAPA Filters was the first branded product under the NAPA name. NAPA is the world's largest distributor of light and heavy duty filters in the automotive aftermarket, serving domestic and import vehicles sold in the U.S., as well as heavy equipment and industrial hydraulic applications.NAPA Filters are sold exclusively through NAPA AUTO PARTS stores. For more information visit www.NAPAFilters.com.

If you enjoy a good challenge, here is one from High Performance Pontiac Magazine. In conjunction with the Dallas Area Pontiac Association, HPP will host a Pavement Pounders Shootout at the American Southern Nationals on Sunday, June 10th 2012 at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas.

The Shootout is for both early and late-model modified Pontiacs that can achieve 11.99 or better ET’s. If your Pontiac meets the E.T. requirement, can pass NHRA tech, and has not been in an HPP shootout before, please complete an application at www.highperformancepontiac.com. Click on “Shootout Application,” download the forms, type in your information, and email them to tom.demauro@sorc.com along with a digital photo of your Pontiac. Please type “American Southern Nationals Shootout” into the subject area of the email. We look forward to lots of tire smoke in the burnout box and low ETs at the traps.
 
For further information on the Pontiac Southern Nationals (June 9) and American Southern Nationals log on to www.DAPA.org

The Pontiac Southern Nationals 2012 – An Annual Event With A New Twist

In past years, the Pontiac Southern Nationals (PSN) was a two-day all-Pontiac event hosted by the Dallas Area Pontiac Association (DAPA). This year it will be two events rolled into a single action-packed weekend.

On Saturday June 9, 2012, the PSN will feature an all-Pontiac car show at the Plaza alongside the Renaissance Dallas Richardson Hotel in Richardson, Texas, in the greater Dallas area. On Sunday June 10, DAPA will launch the American Southern Nationals (ASN), open to all American cars, at the Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas. The ASN will include 1/4-mile drag racing, an HPP Pavement Pounders Shootout, and a car show on the track grounds. Come on out and join us to see how well our Pontiacs can compete against other American brands.
 
You will find details on both the PSN and ASN events and registration options on the DAPA website at www.DAPA.org

 
 Throughout the course of the season, competitors in the NHRA’s Full Throttle Drag Racing Series will invariably arrive at a track and/or location which holds additional significance for the driver and team, providing extra motivation and pressure to perform.  For example, at this weekend’s SummitRacing.com Nationals in Las Vegas, Nev., Greg Anderson and the Summit Racing team will be racing in their sponsor’s race held in their team owner Ken Black’s hometown.  Although some might dread this unique challenge, Anderson is confident his crew is up to the task, pointing to a history of solid performances under similar conditions.

“Historically, this Summit Racing team has performed at its best with their backs against the wall,” said Anderson.  “I don’t have an exact reason why that is the case, and it’s not that we necessarily welcome the extra pressure, but I do believe it may make us pay a little extra attention to every detail in order to avoid the mistakes that can cost you a race.  It all comes down to a desire to do well in front of those people who mean so much to this team.

“When you have your sponsors in the house, who come to only a few races a year, a strong performance can make a lasting impression with long-term rewards.   When the stakes are that high, you need to come through, and fortunately, this KB Racing team has delivered more often than not, and we hope to do so again this weekend.”

A quick look at Anderson’s record at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway proves his point.  In 20 starts on the Nevada quarter-mile, he has posted seven wins (three in the spring event) in nine final round appearances, which leads all professional competitors.  However, as he explains, this success did not come without a concerted effort by the entire team.

“We did not run well in our first few races on The Strip, and it hurt to not perform in front of Ken and his family,” recalled Anderson.  “As a result, we spent a lot of time testing there over the next eight years to make sure we did not have a bad event there.  In fact, we have probably tested there as much as we have at our local track because the stakes are higher.  Fortunately, that extra preparation paid off, and it is a practice we continue today, because we want to make sure and put a successful product on the race track.”

Despite the added pressures, the four-time champion and current NHRA Pro Stock championship points leader remains optimistic about his chances for the weekend.  Having started the season with three consecutive final round finishes, he looks to continue his success at this most important event.

“The easiest way to explain how I feel about this weekend is that I plan on putting some money down on all three of our Summit Racing Pontiacs,” said Anderson.  “There are certainly no sure things, but we are confident and come into this race with great running race cars and tremendous momentum, having gone to three finals, with the team winning twice.  On top of that, we’re going to a track that we like, so even though I can’t look into a crystal ball and predict a winner for this weekend, I know where I’m going to put my money at the casino and hope for the best.”

Finally, beyond the simple competitive aspect, Anderson also looks forward to the NHRA’s twin trips to the Entertainment Capital of the World because of the effort put forth by the track to promote their races.  For example, on Thursday night, both Summit Racing drivers, as well as Genuine Hotrod Hardware Pontiac pilot Ronnie Humphrey, will be among a large contingent of NHRA stars taking part in an autograph session as part of the FanFest held on the Strip in front of the New York New York hotel and casino, a popular event which annually draws a tremendous crowd.

“As is typical of the Bruton Smith-owned tracks, the Las Vegas races are among the best promoted events of the year,” said Anderson.  “Whether we’re in Bristol, Charlotte, Las Vegas or Sonoma they will have everything from autograph sessions to charity golf, bowling and poker tournaments all designed to make it a better experience for the fans, which is a win-win situation.  We appreciate the effort, and therefore look forward to racing there because it makes for a better event all around.”

Greg Anderson & the Summit Racing Pontiac crew
By the Numbers – The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway edition:

4.9 – Average starting position for Greg in his previous starts in Las Vegas.

5 – No. 1 qualifiers by Greg in his previous 20 starts on The Strip, most recently at this event in 2006.

7 – Wins by Anderson at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in nine final round appearances, which is the most by any professional competitor.

43 – Elimination round wins by Greg in his previous 20 starts at LVMS, versus 13 losses for a 76.8 win percentage.

2010 – Year of Greg’s most recent win at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, when he defeated teammate Jason Line in the final.

Event Schedule:
            Friday, March 30:                   Two qualifying sessions at 2:00 & 4:30 p.m.
            Saturday, March 31:               Two qualifying sessions at 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
            Sunday, April 1:                      Final eliminations starting with Top Fuel at 11:00 a.m.

Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):
            Qualifying:                   Saturday, March 31 –             7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
            Eliminations:                Sunday, April 1 –                    7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
(All times Eastern)   

 Reigning NHRA Pro Stock champion Jason Line is fully aware of the pressures facing his Summit Racing team as they head to this weekend’s SummitRacing.com Nationals in Las Vegas, Nev.  After all, this will be the ninth time he will have raced in his sponsor’s race at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, as well as the 18th time he will have competed in his team owner Ken Black’s home town.

However, rather than focusing on any added demands, as he prepared to head west the 28-time national event winner preferred to think of the rewards for doing well in this situation, as he did at this event in 2008, when he powered from the second starting position to defeat Greg Stanfield in the final and capture his first Las Vegas Wally.

“There are so many reasons we want to do well in Las Vegas,” said Line.  “It starts with Ken and Judy Black and Kenny Jr., who do so much for us and without whom we wouldn’t have a race team.  On top of that, it’s one of the three Summit Racing Equipment races.  They are obviously a big part of our program, and there will be a lot of the top executives coming out to watch us race, so we want to reward them as well for their support.

“Finally, Las Vegas is also home for Findlay Chevrolet, who have backed us for many years.  I know Cliff and many of his staff will be coming out to the track, so we certainly want to do well for them.  This weekend is obviously one of the biggest on the schedule for us, and there’s nothing better than having them all join you in the winner’s circle on Sunday night.  I’ve done it once, and it’s a great experience, so I would like nothing more than to do it again this weekend.”

Based on his performance in the first three races, with a win in Phoenix and sitting third in the championship standings, Line will most likely be considered one of the favorites in Las Vegas.  Even so, he feels there is need for improvement as the team moves forward, looking to extract their full potential.

“Overall, I would give us a B for our performance in the first three races,” said Line.  “We’ve obviously done fairly well, but there is still plenty of room for improvement in several areas, including the driver.   Basically, we need to make more power and make better runs so we can take full advantage of what this Summit Racing Pontiac has to give us.  Right now, I’d have to say it’s a work in progress.”

Finally, since the last race in Gainesville, teams have had a little over two weeks to work on their program for the busy stretch that lies ahead.  During that time, the KB Racing team has spent long hours at the shop and the track testing new ideas, looking for ways to improve their performance.  As Line describes, it was a crucial period that could pay dividends as soon as this weekend.

“These last two weeks have been huge,” said Line.  “After all, the more time we spend at the shop, the better off we will be.  There’s only so much time during the season to work on your program and you need to take advantage of it, because you certainly can’t do any development work when you’re racing.  We know what we do now will pay off in the future, which includes this weekend in Las Vegas.

“Going into this race, there are not a lot of people with whom I would trade places.  Our Summit Racing Pontiac has been extremely fast in the first three races, and we’re confident it will be again this weekend.  We have the hot rods, so it all comes down to executing on race day, with everyone doing their jobs.  A very big win is right there in front of us, and it’s up to us to go and get it.”

Jason Line & the Summit Racing Pontiac crew
By the Numbers – The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway edition:

1 – Wins by Jason Line at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway prior to this weekend, which came at this event in 2008.

2 – No. 1 qualifying performances by Jason on The Strip, most recently at the fall race in 2006.

4 - Final round appearances made by Line at LVMS heading into this weekend, most recently at the fall race in 2010.

9 - Finishes of the semifinals or better in Line’s 17 previous starts in the Nevada desert.

25 – Elimination round wins scored by Line in his previous 17 LVMS starts versus 16 losses for a 61. round win percentage.

Event Schedule:
            Friday, March 30:                   Two qualifying sessions at 2:00 & 4:30 p.m.
            Saturday, March 31:               Two qualifying sessions at 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
            Sunday, April 1:                      Final eliminations starting with Top Fuel at 11:00 a.m.

Television Coverage (all coverage on ESPN2):
            Qualifying:                   Saturday, March 31 –             7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
            Eliminations:                Sunday, April 1 –                    7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
(All times Eastern)   

How well do you know your Pontiac history?

 What do these two non-Pontiacs have in common?

Let's see how many readers come up with the right answer.