Prospect Database
My wife and I do a lot of trade shows, car shows, swap meets, etc. Recently, I talked to a gentleman about setting up a commercial account for his business (about 35 trucks). We talked for about an hour, and he was very interested. He was ready to sign up, but received an emergency call regarding his business and had to leave. I gave him my info and said I would call him Monday. My problem is, sometime after he left and before I called, he went online somewhere other than my website and got hooked up with someone else. By Monday, he was a protected account. This has happened to us before; we sow the seed, but someone else reaps the harvest.

What we as Dealers need is a database where we can enter the prospect’s info, and it is protected for at least 45 days, much like a T-1 lead. If something like this existed, we would have done this at the end of the day, when we registered the Preferred Customers and Dealers we signed up that day.

Thank you,
Dale C Green

Amsoil:
Leads are not considered protected, although AMSOIL will not refer other Dealers to previously assigned T-1 leads. They are free to contact and work with other Dealers, and do not gain protected status until they purchase products or register as Dealers, Preferred Customers or accounts. This is not likely to change in the future. In fact, when prospects are really interested in AMSOIL products or marketing programs it’s not unusual for them to contact multiple Dealers to validate recommendations, prices, services and program options to determine who they like best. While this particular situation didn’t work out in your favor, you should not be discouraged. Many customers you have met at public events may have initially learned about AMSOIL products from other Dealers, retail accounts, sponsored racers or satisfied customers. They likely had the opportunity to work with other Dealers, but they chose you. All Dealers win and lose some prospects. The key to success isn’t protection, but offering a higher level of professional service so customers want to work with you compared to the other available options.

Retail Catalog
I have a little problem with the updating of the Retail Catalog (G100); when a new catalog comes about, I order some, then the next thing I know they are obsolete. this is not financially advantageous, and it would be nice if there was a way of returning the obsolete catalogs to obtain a discount on the new catalogs. Mind you that the price of the catalogs is not out of line, but any cost savings is cost savings.

Robert F McGlynn Jr.

Amsoil:
AMSOIL would not be able to offer this service while maintaining current catalog prices. Keep in mind that new catalogs are released every April and October and are available individually and in packages of 100 and 300. Our best advice is to plan accordingly. In addition, unless product prices change, older catalogs are generally still usable.

Mixing Guidelines
I recently acquired a new customer who asked a question I couldn’t answer. He is now using Premium Protection 10W- 40 Synthetic Motor Oil (AMO) in an older vehicle and Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (ASL) in a newer car. I told him how if he ever topped off either engine with a conventional oil, the oil and filter should be changed ASAP. That prompted him to ask what would happen if he ever topped off either engine with the wrong viscosity AMSOIL synthetic motor oil. (He is like me – getting old and forgetful.) Anyway, logic told me there would only be a slight oil viscosity change; that he’d still be using the best oil and filter available. But I only told him I’d look into the situation.

Respectfully
Steve Hart

Amsoil:
There is no need to worry about a single random mistake topping off (less than one quart) either vehicle with the wrong viscosity oil. There is no need to change the oil and filter, and you do not have to worry about affecting the drain interval. Premium Protection 10W-40 contains an additive (ZDDP) at a level above the maximum allowed by the current API SN motor oil specification. Over extended periods of time, excessive amounts of phosphorus (a component of ZDDP) can reduce the effectiveness of the catalyst surface in the catalytic converter (found in newer vehicles), making it less effective. However, this process happens over a long period and there is no need to worry about a one-time mistake of topping off with the wrong oil. If you top off with a conventional motor oil, you cannot extend the drain interval per AMSOIL recommendations. Instead, change both the oil and filter at the manufacturers’ recommended change intervals.

European Vehicle Brochure/Retail Account Incentives
There are a lot of European cars out there, but customers are hard to approach as they do not know that AMSOIL offers three lubricants for their needs. It would be nice to have a tri-fold brochure (100 packs) on just the European cars to help with these potential customers.

On another note, did you ever consider having a one-time banner/sales literature giveaway for new motorcycle/boat retail accounts, similar to what is offered to car garages on a minimum of five cases ordered.

Cheers,
Bruce Low

Amsoil:
Thank you for your suggestions.

A new European vehicles handout is now available in the AMSOIL Print Center (click the Print Center icon in the Dealer Zone). An increasing number of Dealers have suggested replicating the current banner kit program for the motorcycle market, and we have been discussing the best way to approach this. The idea of developing a program for the marine market is in the research and discussion phase as well.

Octane Boost, Vehicle Graphics

A letter in the December 2012 Amsoil Magazine brought up a great question about Motorcycle Octane Boost. However, your answer creates some confusion as to application of the product. When you say it is for use in motorcycles, but Dominator® Octane Boost is the recommendation for the other off-road applications, are you recommending Motorcycle Octane Boost only for street-driven motorcycles or for all motorcycles? Should we be recommending Dominator® for use in off-road motorcycles? Also, an ATV/quad is nothing but a motorcycle with more wheels using the same engines, and out here in the west, are used for the same type of hard off-road riding. The UTV’s also have big motorcycle engines and at least 50% of them out here are being run in the sand dunes right next to the bikes, quads and sand buggies. I think this calls for a better explanation of application of the product.

I, too, have been blocked out of the co-op program for vehicle graphics. My truck is a 2002 Ford F-350 7.3L diesel in excellent condition with 125,000 miles. I purchased it one year before joining Amsoil as a Dealer, when I retired from my job as a firefighter. I purchased it expecting it would probably be the last new vehicle I would be able to afford in my lifetime. Now, because it is 10 years old, I cannot receive assistance from Amsoil for the graphics advertising package.

John Crandall

Amsoil: When it comes to octane boost, it is important to look at where the equipment is used. Octane boost technology is heavily regulated for anything considered “on-road,” placing limits on the amount of actual “boost” the equipment receives. Amsoil Motorcycle Octane Boost is formulated to meet this criteria; it is recommended for both on and off-road four-stroke powersports engines. Amsoil Dominator® Octane Boost is formulated with more active chemistry for two- and four-stroke vehicles used off-road or for racing.

We understand many older vehicles are in good condition, but an age limitation for vehicle graphics co-op assistance Amsoil received a positive return for its advertising investment. We still encourage you to take advantage of the Vehicle Graphics Program. Even without co-op support, the options available to Dealers through this program are less expensive than comparable graphics available elsewhere.

Interceptor® Case Studies

I appreciate the recent research studies Amsoil has published regarding the use of Interceptor® in Ski-Doo® Rotax® E-TEC® engines. Although there isn’t much opportunity to sell to snowmobile customers in Texas, one of my retail accounts sells a lot of Interceptor® to its Sea-Doo® customers. I have tried to research the engine differences between Ski-Doo and Sea-Doo, but have not been able to determine if they use the same engines or not. Would the information published in the 3,469- Mile Case Study in Rotax E-TEC Engine (G3038) and A Study of Interceptor® Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil for Ski-Doo Rotax E-TEC Engines (G3039) be appropriate to discuss with Sea-Doo customers and other powersports accounts, or do they not use the same engines and/or not have the same operating challenges?

Gale Binder

Amsoil: Both studies are specific to the Ski-Doo E-TEC engine. The two-stroke engines used in Sea-Doo personal watercraft are different. Interceptor® and HP Marine™ Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil are recommended for this application; use of HP Marine is supported by the Marine E-TEC Field Study (G2968), providing a valuable sales tool in this market.

Data Bulletins

In the January 2013 issue of Amsoil Magazine, there was a good article on reading product data bulletins. Last month, I also read a discussion on an online forum regarding the pros and cons of using synthetic lubricants. The general feeling is that today’s oils are much better than those of days gone by, and if we just follow the longer drain interval guidelines of most new vehicles, we will be protected from premature engine failure. I know there are plenty of good reasons for using Amsoil synthetic motor oil, but I think the most compelling is the fact that it withstands degradation from extended use better than other conventional or synthetic oils. My question, in light of the article, is what product test data best supports that claim?

Bruce Black

Amsoil: While the TBN and high-temperature/ high-shear viscosity results included on product data bulletins tell part of the story on oil longevity, much of it cannot be easily demonstrated with typical product data bulletins. Amsoil conducts and publishes detailed laboratory and field testing of its lubricants to demonstrate Amsoil performance over extended drain intervals. More are currently in development.

January Amsoil Magazine Feedback

I’m very pleased that Amsoil started the new year off with two great articles related to my beliefs. Dan Peterson did a great job of being irritated like me when standing in line to pay for some goods. You read or overhear men in the same line going off about how “this additive will fix that problem for good.” I do on occasion present my Dealer card and offer some advice if I think they might be receptive to it. The other was the always great Zig Ziglar story by Rob Stenberg; he presented the story with true love for the man who we all at Amsoil will be looking to see when we get to the top! Thank you for making the year’s first issue a pleasure to read.

Jon F. Daly

Amsoil: Thank you for your feedback, Jon.

Warm Temperature Benefits

It is understandable that much of the Amsoil advertising and marketing emphasis is placed on cold-weather benefits since so much of your activity is in the northern climates. However, it is very evident that most of the products offer great benefits in the warm climate stretching from Arizona to Florida, with some notation of engines running cooler because of less friction. I think it would be a great selling tool if the advertising and the brochures, etc. placed more emphasis on this aspect of the products. it just might help us move more product here in the south where 100- plus degree days are common.

Thanks for your help.

Alfred H. Elmore

Amsoil: Thank you for your feedback. It will be taken under advisement as marketing materials go through the review process. Although Amsoil places significant emphasis on the cold-temperature benefits of Amsoil products, the warm-temperature benefits are also touted. In most cases, Amsoil marketing materials promote the “extreme-temperature” benefits of Amsoil products, covering both hot and cold tem- perature extremes. A field study covering the warm-temperature benefits of Amsoil products is currently in development.

2003 Ford 6.0L Diesel Injectors

I understand that Ford has had issues with injectors in its 6.0L diesel engines from the start. I have a customer using Amsoil 15W-40 synthetic heavy Duty Diesel and marine oil (AME) who is replacing fuel injectors because some type of build-up is causing them to stick. the Ford dealers are telling customers not to use extended oil change products because they leave a residue that causes the sticking injectors. Could Amsoil provide any technical publication or personal information for dealing with the above issue?

John Vaughn

Amsoil: The 2003 Ford 6.0L is equipped with Hydraulic Electric Unit Injectors (HEUI) that operate off engine oil pressure. The oil’s ability to withstand degradation and oxidation is vital in their operation. Prior use of a lower-quality oil may have contributed to deposit build-up. Low-quality oils have a higher chance of oxidizing and forming deposits; Amsoil synthetic diesel oils are formulated with superior detergent and dispersant additives to control deposit formation and keep injectors clean.

Amsoil Synthetic Heavy Duty Diesel and Marine Oil has demonstrated exceptional performance over extended drain intervals for many years in the 2003 Ford 6.0L. Ex- tended intervals are recommended as long as the vehicle is mechanically sound and follows Amsoil guidelines for extended drain intervals.

Diesel fuel is another likely source of the injector deposits. The location of the injec- tors in the combustion chamber makes them susceptible to deposits forming on the nozzle. Amsoil Diesel Concentrate (ADF) is formulated to clean injectors and reduce the formation of deposits.

Canadian Pricing

I don’t understand why Canadian pricing is not in line with the value of the dollar. Every time I show customers the price list, the first thing out of their mouths is, “Why is u.s. pricing cheaper than Canadian pricing? Don’t they know our dollar is worth more than theirs?” it truly turns people off. Please explain.

Jon Bonswa

Amsoil: As a U.S. company, Amsoil must comply with a number of Canadian rules and regulations and labeling, inventory, transportation, exchange rate fluctuations and other costs that drive up the cost of doing business across the border. Although Amsoil makes great efforts to minimize the higher prices, these additional costs must be addressed through product pricing. Amsoil works to keep pricing as stable as possible in Canada despite these issues.

Amsoil calendar I just received 115 new 2013 Amsoil calendars for distribution. First, let me say, the graphics are great. I would have liked to see an accessory/additives page, but there are only so many pages available. But mostly, I wish to say thank you for keeping the Amsoil calendar product-oriented and not full of “girlie” pictures like some calendars. I work the Amsoil business as a family business with my wife as my executive partner and co-owner.

The only thing I would like to see changed next year is calendar size. in the past, the calendar fit nicely into a 9x12 manila envelope with room to close the metal snap. the past two years the calendar has been slightly too large. This makes sealing the envelope diffi- cult. the next envelope size is heavier and too large, such that the calendar slides around. Can this be corrected next year?

Again, great job.

Joe Davis

Amsoil: Thank you for your comments. The calendar was made slightly larger for appearance purposes and to allow more space for daily notes. It also represents a more standard calendar size. They fit nicely in 9x12 envelopes that use adhesive instead of metal clasps, including the Amsoil 9x12 Dealer Envelopes (G2608).

Super Team Transporter

For the past two years one of my retail accounts has expressed an interest in acquiring an 18-wheeler truck (toy) with an Amsoil logo to display in her store. I mentioned she could display the Amsoil insignia on any toy, but she insisted the toy come directly from Amsoil.

If at all possible, would you be able to ask the many Amsoil Dealers who receive the Amsoil Magazine if they would like to relinquish their 18-wheeler truck (toy) that was available from Amsoil at least five years ago and sell it to me?

Thanks for whatever you can do.

Felicity Freese

Amsoil: The Amsoil Super Team Transporter (G2216) was a 1:32 scale replica of Amsoil off-road truck racer Dan Vanden Heuvel’s transport rig. Any Dealer interested in selling one may contact letters@Amsoil.com.

2013 Dodge Ram Oil Change Recommendations

I am wondering what Amsoil will do to address the new 15,000-mile drain interval suggested with the 2013 Dodge Ram with the 6.7L Cummins engine. Since the 6.7L engine was introduced in 2007 with the DPF and regeneration system, Amsoil has dropped the 3X OEM drain interval recommendation on its Premium Synthetic Diesel Oil. With the new OEM drain interval now set for 15,000 miles on the 2013 model Cummins-equipped trucks using conventional oil, I would think Amsoil Premium Synthetic Diesel Oil could revert back to the 3X drain interval.

Thanks,
Wayne Owen

Amsoil: Amsoil supports the OEM - recommended 15,000-mile drain interval in 2013 Dodge Ram applications. Dodge redesigned the emissions strategy of its 2013 6.7L Cummins engine with the introduction of the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, an improved exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system with a larger heat exchanger and improved air induction system. The diesel particulate filter (DPF) and its regeneration strategy, however, have not changed; in-cylinder regeneration pushes fuel on the exhaust stroke. Although the reduced frequency of DPF regeneration may decrease the fuel dilution issue, Amsoil believes the risk is still there and does not recommend extended drain intervals beyond 15,000 miles without appropriate oil analysis. Amsoil OE Synthetic Diesel Oil presents an excellent lower-cost option in these applications.

The 2013 Ford diesel follows the same regeneration strategy, and extended drain intervals are not recommended without oil analysis. However, because the 2012-2013 Chevy/GMC diesel eliminates the fuel dilution issue by incorporating a ninth injector upstream of the DPF, Amsoil recommends Premium Synthetic Diesel Oil (DEO, DME) for extended drain intervals of up to three times the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) recommendation, not to exceed 50,000 miles/600 hours/one year, whichever comes first.

Website Update

I like the updates to the website while using a laptop, but since the updates I am no longer able to enter orders from my smartphone. Ninety percent of my Internet access/usage is on my mobile. One of the problems might be from how a new page is opened when clicking on a link. I also would like to see a couple more options for Buell clothing.

Kyle Schliem

Amsoil: The new Amsoil website was developed to support mobile web traffic and shopping from the most commonly used technology platforms, including iOS (Apple), Android and Windows Phone. Extensive testing with a wide variety of devices running new technologies is performed each month, and Amsoil continually works to adapt its technology. Downloading an alternate browser can often provide a temporary alternative should problems arise with your primary browser.

Amsoil encourages you to attempt ordering with your device again, and if you encounter difficulties contact webadmin@Amsoil.com with more details about your device, operating system and specific point of failure. The EZ Online Order Forms in the Dealer Zone can also be used to place orders through a mobile device.

Your suggestion for more Buell clothing will be taken under advisement.

Large Retail Accounts

I’m not pleased that you have decided to start retailing Amsoil products through Blain’s Farm & Fleet and Mills Fleet Farm. They are able to offer the product off the shelf at a lower price than what I can order it for if tax and shipping are included. I thought Amsoil was about the individual Dealer; thanks for selling out individual Dealers to your increased corporate profits. At this point I am considering allowing my Dealership to expire. I know this won’t get published in the monthly magazine as it isn’t complimentary of corporate policy. How soon will you be publishing these mass market retailers in your monthly sales leaders pages?

Jason Brownrigg

Amsoil: Mills Fleet Farm was grandfathered in as an Amsoil retail account since it was in place before the 12-store policy was adopted. It is a retail account established by an Amsoil Dealer who earns commissions on that account, and it does not receive special pricing or privileges outside of any other retail account. Mills Fleet Farm has been an account for several years, and while it occasionally discounts products for sale, the disruption and competition have been minimal. It offers a limited selection of Amsoil products, and its advertising supports the Amsoil brand and Dealers as a whole.

Amsoil recognized that large retailers could be a problem for Amsoil Dealers. In response and strictly for Amsoil Dealer protection, Amsoil instituted a 12-store policy. Since that time, Amsoil has been approached by many major retailers, including Walmart, and Amsoil has declined all offers for distribution. Amsoil remains committed to supporting the independent Dealer opportunity as demonstrated by our actions.

Blain’s Farm & Fleet stores started selling Amsoil products after the 12-store policy was revised. Blain’s stores are registered as individual accounts, place individual orders, have products delivered to individual stores, do not use centralized distribution and comply with other conditions of the 12-store policies, so they have little competitive advantage over other retail accounts or Dealers.