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Team Hybrid's Sean Sheppard Shows Off His Customized 2010 Nissan Maxima

9 Dec 2013

Sean Sheppard's 2010 Nissan Maxima received 1st place at the K&N 1st annual car show in Victoria Gardens

When it comes to brand loyalty, Sean Sheppard stays true to Nissan and he does not plan on changing brands anytime soon. Sean started custom building cars in 1990 when he bought a Nissan Sentra and installed a set of Dayton wire wheels, along with a suspension lowering kit. Because he loved that car so much, he felt why take a chance with a different auto manufacturer, and decided he would continue to stay with Nissan. Over the last 13 years he has purchased 1998, 2007, and 2008 Nissan Maxima models, succeeded by his current 2010 Maxima. Sean says he has gained a lot experience from his builds, however a lot of his knowledge about the Nissan Maxima came from his membership with the online car forum Maxima.org.

Sean Sheppard's 2010 Nissan Maxima

When Sean first started customizing cars he lived in Atlanta, Georgia where the custom car scene, in his eyes, was nothing compared to that of the car craze that was out west in California. Sean decided that if he wanted to be a serious part of the custom automotive scene, he had to move to California. Once Sean moved west, he became quite a bit more involved with the Maxima.org community, and soon had new friends that were more than willing to help him with his builds.

Since purchasing his 2010 Nissan Maxima, Sean has added various exterior custom products to his car including Lorenzo wheels with purple lug nuts, an E&G Classics grille, and a coil over kit. In addition, he has also added a number of performance products including a K&N air intake system, big brake kit, cat back exhaust, lightweight engine pulley system, a front lip kit, and a rear diffuser. Besides the cosmetic and performance modifications he has also added a race line strut bar, halo headlights, and a set of custom LED taillights. But even with all of these modifications, Sean stated that his build will never be completely finished. He mentioned a new set of Savini wheels he already had on order that he couldn’t wait to show off.

Sean Sheppard showing off his win for his 2010 Nissan Maxima

Explaining where his inspirations for this car came from he said, "The inspiration for my ride is a beautiful woman, Marlene Celina. She is my greatest love to date, and my soul mate. Cars and women have a lot of the same characteristics when you really sit down and think about it. I love a woman with nice curves, and beautiful cars always have nice flowing curves. That's why I love the 7th generation Maxima; I just get caught up in how beautiful its curves are."

Sean Sheppard's 2010 Nissan Maxima with a K&N air intake system installed

When asked what he does to get his car ready for a show Sean answered, "To make sure my Nissan Maxima is ready, I use high-quality car care products on my ride the night before the show. Once we get to the show, my son and I give the car a once over to make sure we get all of the dust and dirt off from the drive to the car show. I want to ensure that anyone that is looking at my car will at least say it's clean, if nothing else."

The side profile of Sean Sheppard's 2010 Nissan Maxima demands attention

As far as shows and magazine features go, Sean told us, "My car hasn't been featured in any magazines yet. The K&N 1st Annual Car Show was my first win, and my second car show, so I feel pretty good about what I'm doing. My first car show was the Extreme Autofest in Anaheim, California. I didn't place or anything, but in a way I still won because that is the place where I became a member of Team Hybrid. The only thing I can say about Team Hybrid is that it is one of the best things to ever happen to me as a person. They really treat their members well, and I love being a part of their team. I have been into cars for most of my adult life, about twenty years, so for me to get a spot on this team validates me as car guy."

When asked why he chose a K&N 69 Series Typhoon Air Intake, Sean told us, "The reason I went with K&N’s products instead of any other brand is that when it comes to air and intake, I want to go with a brand that only works with intakes, not any other aftermarket stuff. Because I think that getting air to your car is so important, I chose K&N products over everyone else. This is my first experience with a K&N intake system, and I have to say that I love it."

It is easy to see that Sean has taken a great amount of pride in his build. When he was at the K&N Open House in Victoria Gardens, the car was immaculate and deserving of his win at the event. K&N is looking forward to seeing more of this car. From the looks of the way Sean is going, this car is on its way to receiving many more awards.

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More Victories For Menzies At Crandon International Racway

5 Dec 2013

Bryce Menzies recently earned his sixth Pro-2 win of the season at Crandon International Raceway

Fans were recently stacked in the Crandon International Raceway's stands like Cordwood. The morning had started gloomy, as rain pelted the track. But as the day progressed the sun popped out, and the precipitation that puddled on the track soaked into the ground. It was perfect conditions for a Traxxas Torc event, and there was standing room only when the waving of the green flag deemed the event underway.

Bryce Menzies earned a third-place spot on the podium in the Pro-2 class the day prior, while his teammate Ricky Johnson had finished second in the pro-4. Their success had already set the stage for what they anticipated as another action packed outing on the final day of racing.

Coming out of turn one in the third position, Bryce Menzies quickly began to devise a strategy to work himself in front of the two drivers separating him from the lead. In fact, he managed to pass the two drivers in front of him by the fourth lap. Not willing to settle for anything less than a victory, Bryce Menzies never let up and refused to look back.

Crossing the finish line, Menzies had earned his sixth win of the season, and had put himself in an ideal situation. Now leading the second place driver in the points race by 41 points, very little separated him from his third consecutive championship title in the TORC pro-2 class. All he had to do was start the final race of the season at Primm, Nevada and finish ahead of two other racers, and he would be declared the victor.

When the race at Crandon was behind him, Bryce Menzies had a 41 point lead in the points race as the season's end neared

After a superlative performance by Bryce Menzies, Ricky Johnson eagerly lined up to race in the Pro-4 class. The battle was heated from early on, as Johnson, Johnny Greaves and Rob MacCachran dazzled the crowd as they raced neck to neck, changing positions throughout the bout.

But the Menzies team member fell out of contention for the lead when his power steering pump went on the blink. Although Menzies managed to stay in the race, the malfunction had a definite effect on the outcome, as he finished seventh place.

As mechanical issues deemed Ricky Johnson's Pro-4 rig done for the day, he gladly accepted when fellow racer and Menzies Motorsports' close friend, Jesse Jones, suggested he drive his brand new Pro-2 truck in the Cup race.

Coming out of the first turn, Menzies Motorsports was well represented, as Bryce was situated in third place and Johnson was in seventh. Bryce eventually worked his way toward the front of the pack and was on the verge of passing CJ Greaves for the lead. However, luck simply wasn't on his side, as a flat tire detoured his run for the win.

Although Menzies would have preferred a victory in the Cup and Johnson would have savored the opportunity to complete his battle in the Pro-4 without mechanical malfunctions, Team Menzies left the event in contention for two more championships as the season neared its end.

Menzies Motorsports record speaks for itself, and they have proven a force to be reckoned with throughout the years. Of course great drivers and a well-tuned team are essential components of consistent success. However, they are also confident that a stringent maintenance program has proven its worth as well. Maintenance is very important to being successful in any type of racing," ensured Menzies Motorsports Director of Team Logistics, Dane Roney.

That in mind, the team strives to keep the internal components of their engines running contaminant free. They are strong advocates of using K&N products for their filtering needs. "We use K&N in-line filters, as well as their air and oil filters," explained Roney. "We love them!"

When asked to key to continued success in the Traxxas Torc Series, he continued, "Staying prepared and not loosing focus." When asked what fans can expect from Menzies Motorsports in the future, Roney's answer was short and to the point, "More Championships."

Related K&N News Article about the Crandon International Raceway Track: Bradley Morris Wins TORC World Championship Race and Sets Crandon International Raceway Track Record

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Carl Renezeder Supports Breast Cancer Awareness During Final Race of Season

5 Dec 2013

Even though Carl Renezeder failed to take the top podium spot during his final race of the season at Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park, his overall numbers during 2013 speak volumes of the success he and his team experienced

Racing is no different from any other sport in the sense that fans notoriously focus on one driver and pull for them throughout the entire season. A few people purposely choose the underdog. But the drivers who are setting the world on fire have the luxury of knowing their name is a household word in the the homes of those avid followers.

Carl Renezeder's record speaks for itself, and in turn, he is one of such drivers who has earned recognition for an amazing run of success throughout his career. In fact, 2013 has proven spectacular for Carl Renezeder, as he had already cinched the Pro-4 championship in the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing series with one event left to go, deeming him the winner of this particular division for nine consecutive seasons.

Renezeder obviously has a winning mindset. And although the series championship was already in the bag prior to rolling into the Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park, one would suspect that Renezeder was focused on winning the final race of the season. Prize money was on the line, as was the coveted trophy that would go to the winner of the Lucas Oil Challenge Cup Race.

Carl Renezeder painted his truck pink prior to the final race of the season in an effort to support Breast Cancer Awareness

But Carl Renezeder likely considered this event even bigger. In preparation for the race, he painted his rig pink, and was eager to promote a cause that affects a staggering number of people on an annual basis. Renezeder and his team would do their part to promote breast cancer awareness.

"Painting the truck was very personal for our team," explained Renezeder. One of our own was diagnosed recently, and is just starting the process of treatment. She has become one of the family during these past couple of years, and this was a way to support her and remind others that early detection is a must.

"I'm not sure it made the race more important to us," shared Carl Renezeder, Instead, it gave us better perspective It only took a quick glance at the truck to remember that there are thousands of people out there fighting a much bigger fight than an off-road race."

Having tested a couple of weeks prior to the event, Renezeder and his team rolled into Lake Elsinore, California with confidence the trucks were dialed in and ready for competition. With a good run would also come a good chance that they could take over the points lead in the Pro-2 class as well.

The fans weren't disappointed when the pro-2 race was deemed underway as Renezeder and two fellow drivers went to battle for the top spot on the podium. Taking the truck into the final turn, with three laps to go, Renezeder had the second place position in his sights. However, mechanical failures ruined his plans, as his brake pedal suddenly went to the floor, sending him to the pits for the remainder of the race.

During the Pro-4 race, fans were likely not surprised upon seeing Renezeder once again near the front of the pack and battling for the win. The competition was fierce till the very end, but he was situated in second place at the waving of the checkered flag.

"It was pretty close!" recalled Renezeder. I drove hard into the last corner of the last lap, but couldn't get the pass on Eric Barron to stick. He drove a great race," he continued." I needed another lap."

Although the final event of the season didn't go as Carl Renezeder and his team had hoped for, their overall success was definitely worth celebrating. "I think the season, as a whole, was memorable," recalled Carl Renezeder. Winning so many Pro-4 races in a row was pretty special."

Now that 2013 is in the books, Carl Renezeder and his crew will be preparing for the next season. When asked the key to future success, he said, "We have to constantly be innovative on these trucks. And with the amazing support from our sponsors, we're able to stay ahead of the curve."

Experience has taught Carl Renezeder that one's engine must run at optimal performance in an array of conditions to ensure consistent success. That in mind, he depends upon K&N products to keep the internal components of his engines running contaminant free.

"K&N is the leader of it's industry, and the quality and strength of its product absolutely contributes to our success," ensured Renezeder. "We've been using their air and oil filters in all of our race trucks, haulers and team vehicles for over 10 years. We know we can rely on K&N products, and that builds confidence."

In retrospect, Carl Renezeder said, "The 2013 season was exhilarating, exhausting, fulfilling, frustrating, thrilling and maddening - everything we've come to expect in short course off-road racing." in reference to 2014 he continued, "Fans can expect the same thing they've always expected from me - the desire to win more championships."

Related K&N News Articles about Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park: K&N's Bradley Morris Caps Off a Rocky Weekend with Two Sunday Podiums at Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park; Bradley Morris Serves Notice at Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park with Four Round 3 & 4 LOORRS Trophies; Jeremy McGrath Talks with K&N about Winning at the Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park and Supercross vs. Pro 2 Racing; K&N Sponsored 9-year-old Wins Trophy at Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park

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2008-2011 Cadillac CTS Gain Horsepower with K&N Air Intake System

3 Dec 2013

K&N Air Intake under the hood of Cadillac CTS

The Cadillac CTS replaced the Catera in 2003 and brought a new sporty styling and life to the Cadillac brand while still holding true to the luxury lineage. This new midsized sedan developed over the years to become a strong contender in the segment and even reached into the luxury performance sedan arena with the CTS-V model. This blend of performance and styling is one that sets the CTS apart, and now owners of 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011 Cadillac CTS 3.6 liter V6 models can increase both with the K&N 69-4528TS Typhoon performance air intake system.

K&N Air Intake System for Cadillac CTS

The 69-4528TS air intake makes use of a mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube to help minimize restriction and streamline airflow into the engine. It’s powder coated in a durable silver finish to provide a sharp look for miles to come. The system also incorporates a heat shield that shrouds the RC-5107 air filter and incoming air from radiant heat under the hood. The filter utilizes K&N’s oiled cotton gauze filter media for excellent flow rates without sacrificing air filtration or engine protection and it’s washable and reusable so it never needs to be replaced. The filter can even go for up to 100,000 miles between cleanings depending on driving conditions.

Top-notch design and construction is only half the story. The other half is told on the dyno. The 69-4528TS air intake produced an estimated 12.3 horsepower at 6508rpm and 12.5 pound-feet of torque at 5265rpm to the wheels.

Dyno Chart for K&N Cadillac CTS Air Intake 69-4528TS

The 69-4528TS Typhoon air intake system is easy to install and maintains all necessary factory connections. It’s backed by K&N’s Million Mile Limited Warranty and is built to last for miles and miles to come.

Cadillac rebranded themselves with the CTS. They brought a new vehicle to the market that introduced a sporty edge to a line that was long-perceived to be nothing but couches on wheels. This blend of performance and styling in the CTS is perfectly matched by the K&N 69-4528TS air intake system and you can find a dealer and get one at KNFilters.com!

Owners of the following Cadillac models can have a guaranteed horsepower increase from the K&N 69-4528TS Typhoon air intake system:
2011 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6
2010 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6
2009 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6
2008 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6

For all K&N Cadillac CTS air intakes visit the Air Intakes for Cadillac CTS page on KNFilters.com.

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More Horsepower for 2003 - 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 with K&N Blackhawk Air Intake

3 Dec 2013

K&N Air Intake under the hood of Dodge Ran 2500 & 3500 Pickups

K&N Air Intake under the hood of Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 Pickups

The Blackhawk Induction™ air intake 71-1532 was designed for 2003 through 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 Pickup models with a 5.9 liter diesel engine. This air intake is blacked out to look great under your hood and provides a killer engine sound. Included in the Blackhawk air intake 71-1532 is a black intake tube, a black vehicle specific heat shield, a black air filter as well as other hardware needed for installation. Installation is simple, on average taking no more than 90 minutes to complete. The Blackhawk air intake is also covered under the K&N Million Mile Limited Warranty.

K&N Air Intake System for Dodge Ran 2500 & 3500 Pickups

K&N Air Intake System for Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 Pickups

This Blackhawk air intake system replaces your restrictive factory air box and air filter, therefore allowing your engine to breathe easier and produce more power. It is designed with a durable, black powder coated metal intake tube and includes a hand welded K&N engraved plaque. Each intake tube is designed to smooth and straighten air flow and increase vehicle performance. The intake tube is also designed to work with your factory air inlet temperature sensor.

Dyno Chart for K&N Dodge Ran 2500 & 3500 Pickups Air Intake 71-1532

Dyno Chart for K&N Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 Pickups Air Intake 71-1532

Also included in the Blackhawk 71-1532 is a high-flow oil-free, Dryflow® air filter (RU-5171HBK). This synthetic media air filter is black in color and requires no oil. The air filter's large surface area protects your engine by providing excellent filtration. It is also washable and reusable, so you'll never need to purchase another air filter for your Blackhawk air intake again. It can easily be cleaned with K&N Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner (99-0624) and may last up to 100,000 miles before servicing is needed, depending on driving conditions. Air filter wraps are available for this air filter to extend the cleaning period in dusty conditions. A foam air filter wrap (25-5166) and Drycharger® (RC-5166DK) air filter wrap are sold separately for additional engine protection.

Blackhawk air intake systems are designed for select gas trucks, diesel trucks and muscle cars only and are guaranteed to provide additional horsepower and acceleration. Testing of Blackhawk air intake part 71-1532 showed an estimated 8 horsepower gain at 2,400rpm as well an additional 14 foot-pounds of torque at 2,000rpm on a stock 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 with 5.9 liter engine.

Owners of the following 5.9 liter Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 Pickup models can enjoy the added power and torque they'll receive from K&N's Blackhawk air intake 71-1532:
2007 DODGE RAM 3500 PICKUP 5.9L
2007 DODGE RAM 2500 PICKUP 5.9L
2006 DODGE RAM 3500 PICKUP 5.9L
2006 DODGE RAM 2500 PICKUP 5.9L
2005 DODGE RAM 3500 PICKUP 5.9L
2005 DODGE RAM 2500 PICKUP 5.9L
2004 DODGE RAM 3500 PICKUP 5.9L
2004 DODGE RAM 2500 PICKUP 5.9L
2003 DODGE RAM 3500 PICKUP 5.9L
2003 DODGE RAM 2500 PICKUP 5.9L

For all K&N Dodge Ram 3500 Pickups air intakes visit the Air Intakes for Dodge Ram 3500 Pickups page on KNFilters.com.

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