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Falken Tire Corporation's 2009 Jeep Rubicon Unlimited Wows Attendees at SEMA

20 Nov 2012

Falken had a quite impressive display at the SEMA 2012

Although the 2012 SEMA was nine months down the road, the Falken Tire Corporation was aware that the project in front of them would prove time consuming. That in mind, they embarked upon the first steps of a process that would eventually transform a stock, 2009 Jeep Rubicon Unlimited into a piece of custom work that would leave auto enthusiasts' mouths watering.

This was not the company's first rodeo, as they had been showcasing their work at SEMA events for many years. They were aware that it would be rewarding at the project's end, but the work and preparation involved could prove pain-staking.

Contracting David Chappelle, with Chappelle Kustoms, of El Cajon, California, to make the build, Falken Tire Corporation had a vision of what the finished product should be. In fact, the rig was designed "to serve as an extreme rock crawler to prove the capability of the Falken WildPeak A/T Tires."

Choosing a Jeep Rubicon with parts availability and marketing opportunities in mind, Falken opted to power the four-wheel-drive with a 3.8 liter, V6 engine. The electronic fuel injected fuel system was equipped with a K&N intake system, and a Dynomax exhaust allowed for an adequate flow of air at the combustion process' end.

SEMA 2012 - The Falken Jeep has all the right modificaitons one could hope for when it comes to functionality

An OE Rubicon, automatic transmission was bolted to the bell-housing and a Rubicon 4:1 transfer case would lend to an ability to conquer all terrains. The Dynatrac Pro Series 60 High-Pinion Front Axel would be asked to drive the front axels with a 5:38 gear ratio, while the rear-end sported a Dynatrac Pro Series 60 High-Pinion Semi-Float rear axel, sharing the same gear ratio as the front differential.

A suspension capable of withstanding the rigors of maneuvering rugged and demanding obstacle courses is an essential element of the sport. With that said, Falken Tire Corporation had no intentions of doing anything less than depending upon top-notched equipment.

They used Long Travel with King Coilovers (double Bypass) for the front suspension and opted for Cantilever Long Travel with King Coilovers (Double Bypass) on the back. They also utilized Billet long arms for additional suspension.

The vehicle is managed with PSC Hydro Assist Steering, The steering assembly consists of a High Steer Kit Dana 60, sporting a Ram skid plate and a Ram Mount Custom tie-rod and custom drag-link.

SEMA is all about displaying your product to draw a crowd and this Wrangler meets the task

ASFIR 4X4 skid plates, and Chappelle Kustom Sliders were attached underneath to avoid any bumps and bruises as the rig is maneuvered over a plethora of boulders and other obstacles.

SEMA 2012 - This hardcore Jeep sports a K&N intake system which is designed to increase the vehicle's horsepower

A Warn 10,000 winch connected to a 1/4-pounder bumper and stinger was considered more than adequate to assist in muscling the Jeep through the most rugged of terrain. In the event of a roll-over the driver would find comfort in knowing that they were secured in a MasterCraft Baja RS seat with a MasterCraft four-point harness system.

The mechanical components of any high-performance rig is obviously of utmost importance, but in the world of building demos and show vehicles, esthetics also rank high on the list. Confident their Jeep Rubicon Unlimited was physically sound and ready for the sport, they also focused on the components that would be noticed by the spectators.

They opted to paint the custom truck body, sporting a service tool box, a custom military Desert Tan color. The Truck-like Co. LED headlights, and sPOD AUX Switchboard PIAA Rock Lights added to the looks and performance of the vehicle's exterior.

SEMA 2012 - Tires are a crucial part of any vehicle and Falken has you covered when it comes to offroad use

Those checking out the interior of the Jeep will be impressed upon seeing a Cobra CB radio and a Lowrance GPS on board, both powered by the Optima Yellow Top battery that lurks under the hood. And those knowing the importance of keeping one's valuables under key will appreciate the lock boxes manufactured by Tuffy Security Accessories.

Of course, wheels and tires would be the focal point, as Falken Tire Corporation was responsible for the execution of this impressive build. That being said, they went with 18"X9.5" Raceline RT Monster, forged aluminum Beadlock wheels and chose Falken WildPeak A/T 37"X13.5"OR18" tires, not only to accentuate the vehicle, but tackle any course separating them from success.

With the project behind them, they were satisfied with the final result - a showy rig that was equally capable of performing. When asked why they chose a K&N intake system, Falken Tire Corporation, Off Road supervisor, Nestor Cabrera said, "Because it works. We first started using K&N products way back when Ken Johnson and Norm McDonald were making handle bars."

SEMA 2012 - The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic offroad machine that demands to get out on the trails

When asked if the 2009 Jeep Rubicon had earned any recognition, Cabrera shared that photos had been taken for Recoil magazine and the custom 4X4 will be featured in Falken Tire commercials. In closing, off road supervisor said, "We will put a lot of miles on the JK, attending off road events all over the country." That in mind, keep an eye out for this 2009 Jeep Rubicon Unlimited at a town near you.

Other Jeeps at SEMA included AEV Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK, Rebeca Olavarrieta's 2011 Jeep Wrangler, the Project Rescue Rubicon 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, BDS Suspension Modified Jeep TJ and the award winning Jeep Wrangler JK Hemi with 4WD.

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

In Spite Of A Busy Schedule, Sprint Car Racer Shane Stewart Finds Time To Give Back

20 Nov 2012

Shane Steward is gearing up for his annual string of races in Australia

Shane Stewart and his crew recently arrived in Little Rock, Arkansas, all set to compete in the 25th annual ASCS Short Track Nationals at I-30 Speedway. The driver was no stranger to this particular venue, as he had battled Sammy Swindle for the championship during the same event one year prior.

After heavy rains lent to the calling of the event on the opening night, Stewart and his competitors returned the following day. Starting in the ninth spot during his first qualifying run, he was the fifth driver to cross the finish line. Lining up in the fifth position in his second qualifying run of the night, the driver immediately began working his way to the front of the pack. By the final lap, he had the lead and took the checkered flag.

With the win under his belt, the driver went into the feature with anticipation of taking up where he had left off, but not so. When the mud had stopped flying, Shane Stewart had ended the race in seventh place.

Returning on the final night, Stewart lined up for the championship race, against a field of drivers, each and every one sharing the same incentives. Not only did they consider a victory advantageous to their overall points at the season's end, but $15,000.00 awaited the first driver to muscle his way 25 laps to the finish line and the much anticipated checkered flag. But this simply wasn't the driver's night to earn a victory.

"The track got real slow tonight, but actually started taking a little bit of rubber toward the end of the race," recalled Stewart. "It was really hard to pass. Of course, the guys who were good tonight were able to get up toward the front. We were just missing a little bit. I'm not sure why, but we just couldn't get it going."

Although Shane Stewart couldn't get his ducks in a row during the championship race, this was no indication of this season's success. In fact, it was just a slight bump in the road for a driver who year-in and year-out has managed to rouse the fans throughout the United States and in Australia.

"You know, we've had a pretty good season," recalled Stewart. We had a good Knoxville Nationals again. We won the 360 class race and ended up sixth in the 410. We always run real good there, and are aways excited to get back there. We've had a pretty good summer. I can't complain."

With the Short Track Nationals behind him, Stewart had no time to thrive on the past, as he had a busy schedule waiting in the days to come. The driver was geared up and ready to race at Charlotte the following weekend which would end his run in the states for the season.

Although Shane Stewart logs a multitude of miles traveling from venue to venue throughout our summer months, he is preparing for the longest journey of the year, as he will be headed to Australia in early December. This is not the drivers first stint down under and he is eager for what is apt to transpire in the months to come.

"I love it," he explained. I've got a lot of good friends down there, and I drive for a great team. It's warm there of course, and that helps," he said jokingly. "There's a lot of good racing in Australia, and I really enjoy it."

Regardless of which side of the globe Shane Stewart is racing on, one thing is for certain, success depends a great deal upon proper maintenance. That in mind, the driver is a strong advocate of proper filtration of the air feeding into his intake as well as the oil flowing through his block. In turn, he is a fan and user of K&N products.

In spite of a bust schedule, Alongside NASCAR driver, Jeff Gordon, Shane Stewart finds time to support, Kick-It. A non-profit organization dedicated to funding the research to help fight childhood cancer

"I've used K&N filters for the past ten years," he explained. "They're awesome. You can't beat their air filters. The filters also hold up well under our environments. Of course, K&N oil filters are also spectacular. We always put their cleaner on our air filters and it always gets the dirt out. Anytime you send an engine back to the builder, they always say it's clean inside, and at the end of the day, that's all you can ask for."

Although racing is of utmost importance and extremely time consuming, Shane Stewart still manages to find time to give back to his fellow man. "We've got a sponsorship with Jeff Gordon, the Children's "Kick-it" Foundation, the driver shared. "It's designed to raise money to fund research to help fight childhood cancer. It's a great opportunity and a great organization. It's great to have Jeff Gordon involved. Sprint cars are kind of where he cut his teeth, and he has a lot of sprint car fans who follow him in NASCAR. It's really a good opportunity to have the Kick-It organization and Jeff Gordon involved."

In closing Shane Stewart said, "Hopefully, I can run up front at Charlotte, and end the season on a strong note. I was a little disappointed in our performance tonight," he continued. "I try to race hard every time I'm at the track, and try to put on a good show for the fans. I can't do what I do without their support and the support from great sponsors like K&N, and I can't thank them enough."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Jason Johnson Rolls Into I-30 Speedway With Points Lead

20 Nov 2012

Jason Johnson recently won his heat and qualified at the top of the field, at the ASCS Short Track Nationals, at Little Rock, Arkansas. (Photo by Corbet Deary)

Jason Johnson and his crew recently rolled into the I-30 Speedway, near Little Rock, Arkansas, prepared to battle in the 25th annual ASCS Short Track Nationals. Leading in the points race, he was eager to get the three-day event underway.

In spite of the fact that Johnson was scheduled to run on Thursday night, Mother Nature refused to alter her plans. As ominous clouds hovered low in the sky, heavy rains deluged the track. Prior to his first appearance, the call was made to postpone the races until the following day.

Jason Johnson and a field of competitors returned on Friday, with a hunger for the waving a green flag. Although the recent precipitation had left the track wet, one clear sky whipped up with more than forty drivers and a stadium full of fans was the perfect recipe for an action packed evening at the I-30 Speedway.

After winning his heat, Johnson, started fourth in the qualifying round. Taking up where he left off, the driver dominated the field, earning a fourth place starting position in the feature. Again, Johnson had no intentions of doing anything less than taking the checkered flag. That said, he embarked upon an exciting ride, leaving the spectators wound up and eagerly awaiting the final night, when he slipped around Paul McMahan in the twenty-third of the twenty-five lap race. Once taking the lead, Johnson never looked back, and took the checkered flag, assuring a spot in the championship race and a shot at the $15,000.00 awaiting the victor.

As the cold and suspense-filled night air inched over the stadium with darkness, the closing night had arrived. The Short Track Nationals championship race was only hours away. That in mind, after running in the Dash for Cash, Jason Johnson and his crew were zeroed in on one thing and one thing only; they were primed for the final and most important race of the event.

Starting in the top four, the driver found himself in a heated battle as soon as the championship race was deemed underway. The competition was obviously tough, but that was no indication that Jason Johnson would settle for anything less than a win.

As the race progressed the intensity of competition did also, and Johnson remained amongst the front of the pack. But in the blink of an eye things went awry for the driver when the right rear tire went flat.

Although mot winning the ASCS Short Track Nationals Championship race, Jason Johnson Still hold the season points lead. (Photo by Corbet Deary)

"The track was a little different tonight," recalled Johnson at the event's end. "We had a little more track to race with last night, due to the recent rain. We just didn't get the car balanced well enough tonight. My crew has been doing a great job, but unfortunately, you're occasionally going to miss the set-up a little bit. We weren't doing bad though," continued Johnson. "We were running in fourth."

Referring to his flat, Johnson continued, "But when you knock a tire down, it's hard to get over that. Going into turn one, the tire went down. All you can do at that point is call for a yellow and put another tire back on it."

Although the final race of the Short Track Nationals didn't go as Jason Johnson and his crew had hoped for, he was still the points leader at the nights end. With only three more races before the 2012 season is deemed complete, the driver is confident that he can still be the victor after the concluding race of the year.

"Things have been going good, and if we have two good solid weekends, we should be in good shape. We just need to keep doing what we're doing, check over everything to ensure we don't have any failures and have no DNF's," explained the driver. "That's what it all boils down to. We need to make good finishes. The guys are making good calls, so as long as we stay consistent and stay strong, we'll do just fine."

With a possible ASCS points championship on the line, Jason Johnson and his crew will be diligent in keeping their car at its optimal performance. In turn, they'll be depending upon K&N products to keep the internal components of their engine contaminant free.

Jason Johnson and his crew are anticipating success during the final three races of the 2012 season. (photo by Corbet Deary)

"K&N filters have been a key ingredient to making our motors perform at their best," ensured Jason Johnson. "It's obvious when we send our motors back and they are very impressed with how clean our engines are. That's a testimony of how well our filtering systems are performing - not only in the air department, but in the oil filter department also. We swap our oil filters out every other race, and it keeps our engines running night in and night out."

In the world of racing; skill, maintenance and a great crew are all essential components of success. Johnson is also acutely aware of the importance of his fans. When asked the key to pleasing his fans, the driver said, "I just think it's good racing to treat people the way you want to be treated. Treat everyone with respect and be accessible to your fans. I think it's very important to sign autographs and take time to talk with the kids. These people who come out to watch us are the one's who allow us to do what we're doing." In closing, he said, "It's great to have the support that we have, and we definitely enjoy spending time with our fans."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Jared Mees Earns A Victory at Hagerstown in the 31st Annual Hub City Classic

20 Nov 2012

AMA 31st Annual Hub City Classic racer Jared Mees

Jared Mees and his crew recently embarked upon an exciting and rewarding race at the Hagerstown Speedway, at Hagerstown Maryland. Rolling into the AMA 31st Annual Hub City Classic, Mees knew he had his work cut out for him, as several prominent riders were scheduled to partake in the event. Racing in the GNC Expert class, Mees was not intimidated by the stiff competition. In fact, he made a statement right off of the bat by leading the pace in the qualifying round.

"My confidence level was great,” recalled the rider. "Hagerstown is a track where I excel and I was looking forward to winning this race, as it is a race that my family and friends attend every year. I have raced there since I turned pro. It's a great place.”

With an impressive qualifying time behind him, Mees focused on his heat. Once again the rider attacked the track with vigor, in turn dominating his competition. Earning the pole position in the feature race, Mees was prepared for a fierce battle.

Prior to the waving of the green flag, Mees was already aware of the rider who would likely prove his stiffest competition. Jake Johnson had finished the Dash For Cash in first place earlier on the event, and was suspect of giving Mees a run for his money. Family and friends were in the stands though, and he had no intentions of letting them down.

Jared Mees wasted no time taking the lead when the race was deemed underway. In fact, he quickly distanced himself from the field of eighteen. While Mees had his sights on the finish line, a fierce battle was taking place behind him. Although Johnson was the clear-cut second place driver, Jeffery Carver Jr. Johnny Lewis and Sammy Halbert were all three biding for the last spot on the podium.

Although the impressive match of skills and determination was taking place behind him, the lead rider was focused on one thing and one thing only - the finish line. Upon completing lap twenty, and taking the checkered flag, Jared Mees had not only earned his first victory of the season, but had took the top podium spot during one of his "dream races to win”.

"This place has been on my radar to win,” explained Mees. "I am glad that I got my first win of the season here. It felt good for my family to finally see me win one.”

Referring to his victory over Johnson, he continued, "We both grew up in the same area, so Hagerstown is our home track. Keeping the wheels on line and rolling through the corner better was the key to my victory.”

For a rider to experience success, their bike must obviously be in tip-top running condition. That in mind, Mees considers his team of utmost importance. "We have been together since 2009,” he explained. Since the bikes were so good going into the race we didn't have to change one thing all day.”

Jared Mees and his tram are strong advocates of proper maintenance. They depend upon K&N products to keep the internal components of their engines running contaminant free while still allowing an adequate air and oil flow to handle the rigors of the sport.

"Maintenance is very important,” Mees explained. "I've been using K&N oil and air filters since my career started. They are the best out there.”

Although Jared Mees savored his recent victory at Hagerstown Speedway, he was also aware that the season was a far cry from over. That in mind, he put the race behind him and focused on the remainder of 2012. When asked the key to success throughout his succession of upcoming events, the rider answered, "We have to experience consistent finishes. Our fans can expect us to be on top at the end.”

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Sprint Car Driver, Brandon Hahn, Savors His Rookie Season

20 Nov 2012

Sprint car driver, Brandon Hahn, is a third-generation driver and is eager to follow in his family's footsteps

Some folks are born into situations that will have a huge impact on their lives, and eighteen-year old, Brandon Hahn is the epitome of that exact scenario. From the time Hahn was born, he was around a family of racing enthusiasts. In fact, not only did his grandfather, Emmit Hahn, and his father, Steve, race, but his uncle Tom was also a driver. It would be safe to say that he was engulfed in the sport early, if for no other reason than by affiliation.

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native followed in his family's footsteps and in fact, embarked upon his rookie season as a sprint car driver in 2012. The driver competed in his first sprint car race at Lawton Speedway, and has never looked back. Throughout 2012 the driver has already competed in thirty-six races, the most recent being the ASCS Short Track Nationals, held at the I-30 Speedway in Little Rock, Arkansas.

When asked if he was satisfied with his success as a rookie, the driver said, "Better than I expected. I flipped in my second race, which was discouraging, but from there, things seemed to improve."

Hahn continued, " Winning a Lucas Oil ASCS, presented by MAVTV heat race against Wayne Johnson at the Salina Highbanks Speedway, in Salina, Oklahoma, and getting a top ten at the same track was probably the highlight of my year." Recalling the race, he said, "I was passed by Wayne Johnson on the final lap, and passed him back coming to the checkered flag."

Eighteen-year-old, Brandon Hahn, has experienced thirty-six races during his rookie year, the most recent being the ASCS Short Track Nationals, at I-30 Speedway in Little Rock, Arkansas

One would suspect that as a rookie there is a world of uncertainties out there, and rightfully so. When asked if the more experienced drivers were supportive, Hahn eagerly shared examples, "There were three things that happened at the same track; the Salina Highbanks Speedway. First it was Jason Johnson giving me a hard time about not running the top after he had instructed me to. Second was Dustin Morgan staying on me the whole night about what I did right and wrong. Third was Danny Lasoski, because he took the time to teach me about how the car reacts in dirty air and what to do in order to avoid it."

Regardless of one's occupation, for them to improve in their skill they must first come to grips that they have short comings and secondly, they must be willing to do what is takes to fix what's wrong. With an acute understanding of this, and an eagerness to become a powerhouse in the sport, Brandon Hahn was quick to admit that he lacked patience.

On the other hand, one must also recognize their strong points and use that to their advantage. Again, the young driver has put thought into that aspect of the game as well. When asked his strong point, the driver explained, "I am not afraid to get on the gas and go. In my rookie season, everything is an improvement. The key to success is being able to race almost every weekend and guidance from people like my father and Jimmy Jones has been a great help. For the future - just getting more seat time."

Brandon Hahn, from Tulsa, Oklahoma, is enjoying his rookie year as a sprint car driver

Brandon Hahn obviously has an awareness of the importance of the people around him, and in turn understands the essential role played by his team. "They're very important, because without them, I wouldn't be at the track."

The driver is also mindful of the importance of maintenance. That said, he depends upon K&N products to keep the internal components of his engine running contaminant free. "We use the K&N air box, oil filters and air filter on the rig," he explained. "They are ‘top shelf'."

Referring to his passion for sprint car racing, Hahn continued, "I enjoy the speed, and the fact that I am trying to control something that is seemingly out of control. I plan to run the ASCS National Tour," explained the driver. When asked what fans can expect from Brandon Hahn in the future, his answer was short and to the point, "I'll be coming to a racetrack near you."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

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