Better Roads

December 2013

Better Roads Digital Magazine

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SHOPTALK Better Business with Mobil Delvac™ By Steve Temple Improving air flow a sure way to improve a work truck's efficiency A good supply of fresh, cool, clean air is a primary function of how an engine performs, be it gas or diesel. That's why aftermarket air-intake systems are so prevalent and a primary topic of discussion among a lot of work truck owners we encounter. Performance enthusiasts are quick to add a "cold-air" intake to their vehicles. Business owners, not so much. But it's an upgrade that shouldn't be passed over lightly. Whether you run gasoline or diesel trucks in your business, they both can benefit from more air into the engine. Of course, it must be properly filtered, as dirty air will do more harm than good, since airborne grit will clog passages, increase engine wear, and impede combustion. Vehicle manufacturers don't deliberately make a restrictive intake system, but they do have to balance out supplying sufficient air with various competing concerns, such as Kits that leave the filter exposed to the engine compartment do little to improve either hp or efficiency. cost, emissions standards and decibel levels (the intake can be a significant source of engine noise). Aftermarket companies take advantage of this compromise by offering custom intakes that optimize airflow and increase the engine's efficiency (slight gains in horsepower and mpg) at the expense of a small increase in cab/interior noise when the vehicle is under heavier throttle. CHOOSE FILTERS WISELY Not all aftermarket air intake systems are created equal, of course. Some flow more air than others, and some are designed to get more external air for a cooler air/fuel charge. Some performance filters, if they are the reusable type, require maintenance since they have to be cleaned and sprayed with a filtering oil. Some filters are guaranteed for a million miles. If you run your truck in particularly dusty conditions, cleaning or changing your truck's air filter more often than the recommended service interval is clearly a wise move to ensure engine longevity. And with a reusable type of filter, you might actually save money over frequent replacements of the paper type. (One filter manufacturer says its units can still meet filtration specs even after 100 treatments, and should be cleaned and sprayed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles of normal street use.) Whichever type of filter and intake you ©2013 Exxon Mobil Corporation. Mobil and Mobil Delvac are trademarks or registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. Using quality equipment keeps your business running better, longer You know that establishing an online presence, generating customer referrals, and maintaining your website with up-to-date customer reviews and before/after photos can all improve your business. But one of the most important parts of your business can often get overlooked – your equipment. "While owning quality equipment is essential, regular equipment maintenance is just as important," says Bruce Smith, editor, ProPickup. "Be sure to inspect all equipment and tools before heading to a job site, because you absolutely don't want break downs in the middle of a job." Finally, be sure to use high quality products such as Mobil Delvac™ lubricants to help extend your equipment life. Check back next issue for other helpful tips. For more information on how using Mobil Delvac™ heavy-duty diesel engine oil can help your business, call 1-800-MOBIL-25 or visit mobildelvac.com. ADVERTISEMENT Text INFO to 205-289-3781 or visit www.ppmrequest.com propickupmag.com PROPICKUP 11

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