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How to Remove stuck Oil Filter Safely & Easily

Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

Removing an oil filter is an essential part of routine vehicle maintenance. Doing it correctly prevents oil leaks, engine damage, and unnecessary mess. If you prefer professional assistance, scheduling an oil change Houston, TX service ensures the filter is removed and replaced properly, helping you avoid complications and keep your engine running smoothly.

Oil Filter Removal Tool

Having the correct tools before starting makes the job easier and safer. Proper equipment prevents stripped threads, crushed filters, and excessive oil spills. If you’re unsure about the tools required, searching for auto repair near me can connect you with professionals who have the right equipment to handle the job efficiently.

Basic tools are required to remove an oil filter efficiently. These tools ensure better grip and help protect surrounding engine components.

  • Oil filter wrench
  • Drain pan
  • Socket wrench set
  • Clean rags
  • Safety gloves

Using the right tools reduces the risk of injury and damage.

Best Oil Filter Wrench Options

Choosing the correct oil filter wrench improves control and removal efficiency. Different vehicles may require specific wrench styles depending on space and filter size.

  • Cap-style wrench for tight access
  • Strap wrench for adjustable grip
  • Chain wrench for stubborn filters
  • Pliers-style wrench for extra leverage

Selecting the proper wrench prevents crushing or slipping during removal.

Removing a Stuck Oil Filter

Oil filters can sometimes become stuck due to overtightening or heat expansion, making removal tricky. Using excessive force can damage engine components and create costly repairs. Safe techniques help remove stubborn filters without causing harm. For step-by-step guidance on removing stuck filters, click here to schedule professional service at Eric’s Car Care, where expert technicians ensure your engine stays protected and runs smoothly.

Using a Wrench for Better Grip

A high-quality oil filter wrench provides extra leverage for filters that are difficult to turn by hand. Apply steady, even pressure rather than sudden force, which can crush or slip the filter. Controlled movement helps maintain grip and reduces the risk of damaging the filter housing or engine components. This method is usually sufficient for moderately tight filters and is a safe first approach.

Penetrating Oil Method

Applying penetrating oil around the gasket area can loosen a stuck filter by reducing friction and softening hardened residues. Let the oil sit for several minutes to allow it to work effectively before attempting removal again. This method is particularly useful for filters that have been exposed to high heat or have not been changed for a long period. It ensures the seal breaks safely without excessive force.

Safe Removal of Damaged Filters

If the filter becomes crushed, stripped, or severely stuck, specialized tools like filter pliers or strap wrenches may be required. In extreme cases, careful manual leverage can be applied, but this should be a last resort to avoid engine damage. If the filter still cannot be removed safely, seeking professional assistance is highly recommended. Proper handling prevents costly repairs and ensures the engine remains protected.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes helps protect your engine and ensures a smooth, successful oil change. Small errors during the process can result in leaks, damaged components, or costly repairs. Paying close attention to each step improves safety and long-term engine performance.

  • Allow the engine to cool before starting to prevent burns and unexpected oil spills.
  • Use steady, controlled pressure when removing the old filter to avoid damage.
  • Install the new filter carefully to protect threads and sealing surfaces.
  • Lightly coat the new gasket with oil to create a proper seal.
  • Inspect the area after completion to confirm there are no leaks.

Takeaway

  • Gather the correct oil filter removal tools
  • Always let the engine cool before starting
  • Drain the engine oil completely first
  • Remove the old gasket from the filter
  • Clean the mounting surface thoroughly
  • Use proper methods for stuck filters
  • Avoid overtightening the new filter
  • Inspect for leaks after installation

How EV Fleet Charging Technology Evolved to Eliminate Installation and Grid Upgrade Headaches

For most of the last decade, the biggest obstacle to fleet electrification wasn’t the vehicles. It was the wall behind them.

Fleet operators ready to electrify quickly discovered that plugging in a yard full of electric trucks wasn’t as simple as installing a few chargers. It meant utility coordination, transformer upgrades, switchgear, new service entrances, civil works, and permitting timelines that could stretch 12 to 24 months — sometimes longer. Capital costs ballooned into the hundreds of thousands per depot. Projects stalled. Electrification deadlines slipped.

But that picture is changing fast. A new generation of EV fleet charging technology is making it possible to deploy high-speed charging in weeks instead of years — without touching the grid. Here’s how the technology evolved, and what it means for fleet operators today.

The Old Model: Build the Grid Up to Match the Charger

Traditional DC fast charging is power-hungry by design. A single 200 kW charger pulls roughly the same instantaneous load as a small office building. Multiply that across a depot of ten, twenty, or fifty chargers, and suddenly you’re not installing equipment — you’re rebuilding the local electrical grid.

That’s why traditional depot buildouts involved so many moving parts. Every charger needed a power cabinet. Every cluster of chargers needed switchgear. Every site needed a transformer upgrade. And every transformer upgrade needed utility approval, which depended on local capacity, queue position, and a parade of other variables outside the fleet operator’s control.

The result: long timelines, unpredictable costs, and a hard ceiling on how fast any fleet could electrify.

The Breakthrough: Battery-Integrated Charging

The shift began when engineers asked a deceptively simple question: what if the charger had its own energy reservoir?

Battery-integrated DC fast chargers flip the old model on its head. Instead of pulling massive power from the grid the moment a vehicle plugs in, these systems store energy in an onboard battery during off-peak hours — slowly, gently, on whatever circuits already exist at the site. When a vehicle arrives, the charger dispatches power from its internal battery at high speed, even though the grid connection behind it is comparatively small.

The numbers tell the story. Modern battery-integrated systems can deliver 200 kW to a vehicle while drawing as little as 5 to 66 kW from the grid. That’s a workload most existing depot electrical services can already handle — no transformer upgrade, no switchgear, no utility queue.

What This Eliminates from the Project Plan

The downstream effects on a deployment timeline are dramatic. With battery-integrated EV fleet charging solutions, fleet operators can skip:

  • Utility coordination delays — no service upgrade application, no waiting for capacity studies
  • Transformer upgrades — the existing service is sufficient
  • Switchgear and power cabinets — integrated into a single all-in-one unit
  • Major civil works — compact footprints (around 43″ × 40″) fit existing yard space
  • Multi-vendor project management — one system replaces a stack of separate components

Deployments that would have taken 12 to 24 months can now go live in 4 to 6 weeks. Capital costs that ranged from $150,000 to $500,000 per site drop substantially when grid infrastructure comes off the bill of materials.

The Demand Charge Bonus

There’s a second benefit that fleet CFOs care about just as much as deployment speed. Traditional DC fast chargers create massive demand spikes whenever multiple vehicles plug in at once — and utilities charge dearly for those spikes. Demand charges routinely account for 30 to 70 percent of a fleet’s monthly electricity bill.

Battery-integrated systems flatten those spikes by design. Because the charger draws low, steady power from the grid and uses its onboard battery for high-speed dispatch, the utility never sees a peak demand event. Charging at 200 kW becomes economically equivalent to charging at 60 kW — without sacrificing speed.

Smarter, Not Just Faster

The hardware revolution is paired with a software one. Modern fleet charging platforms are OCPP-compliant out of the box, integrating with the telematics and fleet management tools operators already use. Energy management software automatically schedules charging during off-peak utility windows. Remote monitoring catches issues before they cause downtime. Analytics dashboards consolidate every charger across every depot into a single view.

Together, these technologies turn what used to be a construction project into something closer to a software deployment — fast, flexible, and centrally managed.

The Bottom Line for Fleet Operators

The single biggest risk in any fleet electrification plan used to be the grid. Today, it doesn’t have to be. Battery-integrated charging technology has effectively decoupled depot electrification from utility timelines, transforming a 24-month construction project into a 6-week installation.

For fleets racing to meet sustainability goals, regulatory deadlines, or simple operational economics, that’s not an incremental improvement. It’s the difference between electrifying now and electrifying someday.

How AI Tools Are Transforming Website Creation and Online Security

The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence has changed how businesses create websites, launch campaigns, and manage online security. From automated design systems to advanced analytics, AI now powers tools that help companies save time and improve performance. Two of the fastest-growing innovations are the AI Landing Page Builder and the AI IP Checker, both of which are becoming essential for digital marketers, entrepreneurs, and businesses of all sizes.

Whether you are launching a startup, running an online store, or promoting a service, using AI-driven platforms can significantly improve efficiency and online visibility. In this article, we will explore how AI is reshaping website creation and IP monitoring while highlighting why modern businesses should adopt these technologies.

The Rise of AI in Website Development

Traditional website development often required coding knowledge, expensive developers, and long production cycles. Today, AI-powered solutions have simplified the entire process. Businesses can now generate attractive, responsive, and high-converting websites within minutes.

An AI Landing Page Builder uses machine learning algorithms to automate design layouts, generate content suggestions, optimize call-to-action placement, and improve user experience. These platforms analyze user behavior and industry trends to create pages that convert visitors into customers.

One platform gaining attention in this space is landing-page.io, which provides advanced AI-driven landing page solutions for businesses looking to improve online conversions quickly and efficiently.

Why Businesses Need an AI Landing Page Builder

Landing pages are one of the most important tools in digital marketing. They are specifically designed to encourage visitors to take action, whether that means signing up for a newsletter, purchasing a product, or booking a consultation.

A modern Free AI Landing Page Tool offers several advantages over traditional design methods:

1. Faster Website Creation

AI-powered systems can generate professional page layouts instantly. Instead of spending weeks building pages manually, users can launch campaigns in hours.

2. Improved Conversion Rates

AI tools analyze visitor engagement patterns and automatically optimize page elements such as headlines, colors, and button placements to maximize conversions.

3. Mobile Optimization

Today’s users browse primarily on smartphones. AI website builders ensure every landing page is fully responsive and optimized for all screen sizes.

4. SEO-Friendly Structure

The Best AI Website Builder platforms generate SEO-friendly code structures, helping websites rank higher in search engines and attract organic traffic.

5. Cost Efficiency

Hiring web developers and designers can be expensive. AI tools reduce operational costs while maintaining professional design quality.

Because of these benefits, many startups and online businesses are now turning to AI solutions instead of traditional website development agencies.

AI and the Future of Digital Marketing

Artificial intelligence is not only changing web design but also revolutionizing marketing strategies. AI can analyze user behavior, personalize experiences, and predict customer intent with remarkable accuracy.

For example, an AI landing page platform can automatically:

  • Adjust headlines based on visitor demographics
  • Recommend optimized keywords
  • Create personalized content
  • Improve page loading speed
  • Test multiple page variations simultaneously

These features help marketers increase conversions while minimizing manual effort.

Additionally, businesses using AI-powered tools can scale their marketing campaigns much faster. Instead of creating separate pages manually, AI can generate multiple landing pages tailored for different audiences and advertising campaigns.

Understanding the Importance of AI IP Checker Tools

While AI website builders improve customer engagement, online security remains equally important. Cybersecurity threats, fraudulent traffic, and suspicious activity can negatively impact businesses.

This is where an AI IP Checker becomes valuable.

An AI-powered IP checker helps users identify, analyze, and monitor IP addresses in real time. Businesses use these tools to detect suspicious traffic, prevent fraud, and improve network security.

A useful platform in this category is myipchecker.ai, which allows users to quickly monitor and analyze IP-related information using AI-enhanced technology.

Why You Should Check IP Address Online

Many businesses underestimate the importance of IP monitoring until they encounter security issues. The ability to Check IP Address Online can help companies detect malicious visitors, identify unusual traffic patterns, and secure sensitive information.

Some major benefits include:

1. Fraud Prevention

Online stores and digital businesses often face fake traffic, bots, and suspicious login attempts. AI-powered IP tools can identify risky IP addresses instantly.

2. Better Website Analytics

Filtering suspicious or fake traffic helps businesses obtain more accurate analytics and marketing insights.

3. Enhanced Security

AI systems can recognize unusual activity patterns and alert users about potential threats before damage occurs.

4. Improved User Verification

Companies can validate user locations and detect unauthorized access attempts.

5. Smarter Network Management

Businesses can monitor traffic sources and optimize server performance using AI-based IP analysis tools.

These features make AI IP checkers essential for companies operating in today’s digital environment.

Combining AI Landing Page Builders with AI IP Checkers

The real power of AI comes when businesses combine multiple intelligent tools into a single workflow. Using an AI Landing Page Builder together with an AI IP Checker creates a more secure and efficient digital marketing strategy.

For example:

  • AI landing pages attract and convert visitors
  • AI IP monitoring protects websites from harmful traffic
  • Businesses gain better analytics accuracy
  • Campaign performance improves through cleaner data
  • Customer experiences become safer and more personalized

This combination helps businesses increase revenue while reducing security risks.

Choosing the Best AI Website Builder

When selecting the Best AI Website Builder, businesses should consider several factors:

Ease of Use

A good platform should allow users to build pages quickly without coding experience.

AI Features

Look for advanced automation features such as content generation, SEO optimization, and conversion analysis.

Speed and Performance

Fast-loading pages improve user experience and search engine rankings.

Security Integration

Modern website builders should support secure hosting and compatibility with IP monitoring tools.

Scalability

The platform should grow alongside your business needs.

Businesses that choose the right AI-powered tools gain a significant competitive advantage in today’s online marketplace.

The Future of AI in Online Business

Artificial intelligence will continue reshaping how businesses operate online. In the coming years, AI tools will become even more advanced, offering deeper personalization, predictive analytics, and automated optimization.

Future AI platforms may eventually:

  • Build complete marketing funnels automatically
  • Generate personalized user journeys in real time
  • Predict customer behavior with greater accuracy
  • Prevent cyber threats before they happen
  • Automate nearly all aspects of website management

Companies that adopt AI early will likely outperform competitors that rely on outdated systems and manual workflows.

Conclusion

Artificial intelligence is transforming both website development and online security. Businesses no longer need extensive technical knowledge to create professional websites or monitor online threats effectively.

Using an AI Landing Page Builder allows companies to launch optimized pages quickly, improve conversion rates, and reduce development costs. Meanwhile, an AI IP Checker helps organizations monitor traffic, detect fraud, and improve cybersecurity.

What Is Speedway Racing? A Beginner’s Guide

Speedway racing is one of the most intense and unique forms of motorcycle motorsport in the world. Known for its close competition, short races, and dramatic sliding corners, speedway delivers action that is easy to follow but deeply skilled once you understand what is happening on track. For beginners, the sport can look chaotic at first glance, yet it follows clear rules and traditions that make it exciting and accessible. This guide explains what speedway racing is, how it works, and why it has remained popular for generations.

The Origins of Speedway Racing

Speedway racing began in the early twentieth century as a simple form of motorcycle competition. Riders raced on oval tracks, usually dirt or shale, with the goal of finishing first rather than setting the fastest lap time. The sport quickly gained attention because it was easy to organize and thrilling for spectators. Unlike long-circuit racing, speedway races were short and intense, making them ideal for live audiences.

Over time, racing developed a strong presence in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Poland, Sweden, and of course, in the United States. Although it remains more popular in certain regions, speedway has built a loyal global following due to its distinctive style and raw competitive nature.

How Speedway Racing Works

Speedway races take place on oval tracks that are typically around three hundred meters in length. Each race, known as a heat, usually features four riders competing over four laps. The races are short, often lasting less than a minute, but they demand total focus and precise control from the riders.

Points are awarded based on finishing positions, and these points contribute to individual or team scores depending on the competition format. Because the races are so short, every start and corner matters. There is very little time to recover from a mistake, which adds to the sport’s pressure and excitement.

Speedway Bikes and Their Unique Design

One of the most striking aspects of speedway racing is the motorcycles themselves. Speedway bikes are unlike standard road bikes or even other racing motorcycles. They have a single gear and no brakes, which often surprises new fans. Riders control speed by adjusting the throttle and using body position to slow the bike through corners.

The lack of brakes encourages aggressive yet controlled riding, as riders enter turns at high speed and slide the rear wheel sideways to maintain momentum. This sliding technique is central to speedway racing and is one of the main reasons the sport looks so dramatic. The bikes are lightweight and powerful, designed purely for speedway competition rather than everyday use.

The Importance of Starts and Technique

In speedway racing, the start is often the most important moment of the race, with riders lining up behind a starting tape, and when it lifts, they accelerate as hard as possible into the first corner. A good start can give a rider a crucial advantage, while a poor start can make it difficult to recover.

The cornering technique is equally important, as riders must balance speed and positioning while sliding through turns alongside their opponents. Small adjustments in body weight and throttle control can make the difference between winning and finishing last. This combination of skill and bravery is what sets top riders apart from beginners.

Team Speedway and Individual Competition

Racing can be contested in both team and individual formats, which provides more opportunities for potential riders. In team speedway, clubs compete against each other over a series of heats, with riders scoring points for their team. Team tactics play an important role, as riders may work together to block opponents or protect a teammate’s position.

Individual speedway events focus solely on personal performance; riders accumulate points across multiple heats to qualify for finals or determine overall standings. Both formats offer excitement, but team speedway often adds an extra layer of drama due to local rivalries and fan support.

Safety and Risk in Speedway Racing

Speedway racing is a high-risk sport, and safety is always a top concern for both riders and race promoters. Riders wear protective gear, including helmets, racing suits, gloves, and boots, to reduce the risk of injury. Tracks are carefully maintained to provide a consistent grip and minimize hazards, and medical teams are present at events.

Despite these measures, crashes do happen due to the close racing and high speeds involved. What makes speedway remarkable is the resilience of its riders, who often return to competition quickly after falls. The physical and mental toughness required is a key part of the sport’s identity.

Getting Started as a New Speedway Fan

For beginners, the best way to understand speedway racing is to watch a live event or follow a full meeting from start to finish. Over time, patterns emerge in how riders approach starts, choose racing lines, and adapt to track conditions. Learning the basics makes each race more enjoyable and allows fans to appreciate the skill involved. If being outside in the first, doesn’t sound like something you would want to do, there are so many other types of entertainment from nj online casino, to shopping malls.

Speedway racing may look wild at first, but beneath the sliding bikes and flying dirt is a sport built on precision and courage. Once you understand how it works, it becomes easy to see why racing has remained a favorite among motorsport fans worldwide.

250 Years of America, One Powerful Weekend: The Bigger Story Behind the Coca-Cola 600

A showstopping display of patriotism takes center stage at the Coca-Cola 600, where powerful military tributes and heartfelt celebrations bring added meaning to every lap of the race. (CMS photo)
  • The Coca-Cola 600 returns to Charlotte this Memorial Day weekend, celebrating America’s 250th birthday with a powerful mix of patriotism and high-octane racing all weekend long
  • Fans can purchase Coca-Cola 600 weekend tickets online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 12 and under get in for just $10 on Sunday

CONCORD, N.C. (May 11, 2026) – As the Coca-Cola 600 roars to life at Charlotte Motor Speedway this Memorial Day weekend, there’s no better place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than at one of NASCAR’s most patriotic venues. Known for its powerful military tributes and heartfelt honors, the Coca-Cola 600 delivers a race-day experience unlike any other in motorsports.

From Coca-Cola Racing Family drivers visiting military bases through the Mission 600 initiative to the emotional pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, the Coca-Cola 600 represents far more than just racing. The weekend serves as a tribute to the service members, families and fallen heroes whose sacrifices have shaped America’s story for 250 years, while also delivering one of NASCAR’s most anticipated events of the season.

Ahead of Sunday’s race, NASCAR Cup Series drivers reflected on what makes the Coca-Cola 600 weekend so meaningful — from their experiences participating in Mission 600 visits to the powerful atmosphere surrounding one of the sport’s most emotional traditions.

Austin Dillon, No. 3, 2017 Coca-Cola 600 Winner

“I think that, with America celebrating its 250th year, the Coke 600 has to land at some of the most patriotic moments for our country. It’s so cool to see all the military branches represented at that race. It’s America.”

“It’s really cool. You know, I mean, we’ve got to do some very cool Mission 600 trips and have been able to be a part of all types of different branches of the military. Every one of them, I come away just thankful for the military men and women we have in this country. They allow us to do what we love to do on the weekends, and that moment that we get to share with them and kind of celebrate them at the Coke 600 is awesome.”

Kyle Larson, No. 5, 2021 Coca-Cola 600 Winner

“The Coca-Cola 600 and NASCAR, they always do a great job of honoring the military and I would assume they’re going to go above and beyond this year with it being the 250th birthday for America. It’s always great, we always love having family members of a fallen hero with us at the racetrack and it definitely makes you want to win even more, that way you can celebrate with them.”

Chase Elliot, No. 9, Hendrick Motorsports

“The (Coca-Cola) 600 and what Coca-Cola does there always has been represented, in my view, of just NASCAR in general and how they hype it up and, having, service members at the race and involving them in a lot of pre-race activities, like all those things, I think have always been done with a lot of class and makes us as drivers really proud to be a part of a weekend like that. Big year, 250 years, which is pretty cool, so between that and then going to San Diego, I think both will be pretty special from that front.”

“I think very similar to a lot of the interaction that we have before the race. I got to visit a unit in Wilmington and (they were) great people, and they were excited to ask me a lot of questions and I was excited to ask them a lot of questions too and see things from a different perspective. So all around, I thought it was a lot of fun, and I’m excited to get back to it.”

Denny Hamlin, No. 11, 2022 Coca-Cola Winner

“I think what you’ll see, not only if you’re there in person or watching on TV is that much of it is we’re there to put on a show, for the fans and certainly we’re out there playing a game, but we definitely spend a lot of time, paying our respects to Memorial Day weekend and what it’s about, and it’s ultimately the families that have paid that ultimate sacrifice, and for us, for 250 years now, this is a big year where certainly our military is going to get a lot of recognition for everything that they’ve done to create this great country that we live in.”

Joey Logano, No. 22, Team Penske

“I think Memorial Day weekend, the 250th anniversary of America, nobody does it better than the Coke 600 and Charlotte Motor Speedway when it comes to saluting our military, thanking our soldiers that fight for us. It is one of the most incredible experiences. It’s kind of bone-chilling to see it all. I’m sure this year will be even more, considering the anniversary. Definitely a really special and touching weekend.”

“Mission 600 is a really special experience. I think how lucky I am to get to see some of the stuff that most people don’t get to see. We say all the right things a lot of times, as just people saying, ‘hey, man, thanks for the military, thank you, guys for fighting for us,” but when you see it a little bit more up close and personal, it changes your perspective even more. Not that I’ve seen them fight, but I have seen them prepare and the training that goes into it and how tough that is. Just training is really, really hard for these guys. So, really special to get to see that, and, I don’t take that for granted that I get to do that. It’s really neat.”

GET IN ON THE FUN:

Fans can take part in the patriotic fun all weekend long with special activations from various military service branches set up as part of Speed Street. Ahead of the Coca-Cola 600, fans will be treated to an array of military salutes from a flyover and aerial demonstrations to enlistment ceremonies and a moving State of Freedom address. Show up early to be sure not to miss a minute of the biggest Memorial Day weekend tribute in sports.

TICKETS:

Fans can purchase Coca-Cola 600 weekend tickets online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 12 and under get in Sunday for just $10.

MORE INFO:

Fans can connect with Charlotte Motor Speedway and get the latest news by following on X and Instagram, or becoming a Facebook fan. Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Charlotte Motor Speedway mobile app.

Dystany Spurlock Eyes Historic NASCAR Truck Series Start at Dover Motor Speedway

The No. 69 Foxxtecca Ford team heads to the “Monster Mile” determined to keep building momentum in Spurlock’s groundbreaking 2026 season.

DOVER, Del. — Dystany Spurlock is ready to get back to work. 

Moving on from a frustrating weekend at Watkins Glen, Spurlock has entered the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series ECOSAVE 200 at Dover Motor Speedway on Friday, where she’s set to pilot the No. 69 Foxxtecca Ford for MBM Motorsports and Garage 66.

The 200-lap event at the famed “Monster Mile” represents a historic opportunity for Spurlock as she attempts to become the first Black woman to compete in one of NASCAR’s three national touring series.

Last weekend at Watkins Glen International, Spurlock and her team narrowly missed the cut when NASCAR’s qualifying procedure favored owner points over outright speed. She was one of two drivers shut out of the field, ending her Truck Series debut bid despite making steady progress on track and improving her times with every lap.     

But in racing, setbacks come with the territory. What matters is how you respond. And Spurlock has no intention of backing down. Instead, she’ll bring the same determination and relentless drive that have carried her through the ranks into one of NASCAR’s most demanding venues. 

“I’m looking forward to driving the truck on an intermediate oval,” Spurlock said, “and taking what I learned in Kansas and applying it to Friday’s race.”

Dover presents a completely different challenge from Watkins Glen’s road course. Known for its 24-degree banking, all-concrete surface, and tight, high-speed racing, the track is considered a true test of both physical and mental toughness. 

For Spurlock, though, it’s all part of the mission. Each race weekend is another chance to learn, gain experience, and refine her racecraft as she and the team continue grinding toward the ultimate goal of competing at NASCAR’s highest levels.

Primary sponsor Foxxtecca remains firmly behind Spurlock, supporting her efforts both on and off the racetrack.

“Kellie and I are excited to get Dystany back out there to continue her development,” said Chris Harris, co-founder of Foxxtecca along with partner Kellie Crawford. “Good days and bad days are all part of the process.

“Also, Dover is where we helped Lavar Scott make his NASCAR pro debut last season,” he added, “so the Monster Mile might be where Foxxtecca’s magic happens.”       

Based in Detroit, Foxxtecca is an experiential media and events company operating at the intersection of mobility, culture, and technology. It connects the automotive industry with new and diverse audiences through storytelling, education, and live experiences. Foxxtecca is also producing the docuseries Driven by Dystany: The Road to NASCAR, which takes viewers behind the scenes of Spurlock’s groundbreaking 2026 season.

With Dover—and history—on the horizon, the team’s focus is clear: keep learning, keep improving, and keep pushing forward.

The 2026 ECOSAVE 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Dover Motor Speedway is scheduled for Friday, May 15, at 5 p.m. ET. The race will air live on FS1 and stream via FuboTV. It will also be available on the Motor Racing Network (MRN) and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

ABOUT FOXXTECCA

Foxxtecca is a Detroit-based experiential events and media company operating at the intersection of mobility, culture, and technology. Co-founded by Chris Harris and Kellie Crawford, Foxxtecca amplifies underrepresented voices in the mobility and technology industries through motorsports, education, and culturally driven experiences.

Qualifying Procedure Expanded for 110th Indianapolis 500

Additional Round on Sunday To Set Top 12 Round, Add Another Layer of Intense Competition in Quest for Pole Position

INDIANAPOLIS (Monday, May 11, 2026) – What is widely regarded as the most powerful and pressure-filled four laps in motorsports have become even more challenging and ultimately more rewarding for the driver and team that claim pole position for the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge.

INDYCAR has announced an update to the PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying with Day One scheduled for Saturday, May 16 and Day Two Sunday, May 17. Both will set the field for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” on Sunday, May 24 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

It begins with Day One of qualifying from 11 a.m.-5:50 p.m. ET, which will determine positions 16-33 for the “500.” The fastest nine cars from Day One also will be locked into the Top 12 qualifying session on Day Two earning the opportunity to advance to the Firestone Fast Six and a spot to compete for the coveted NTT P1 Award and start from pole position on Race Day.

Cars ranked 10-15 on Day One will advance to the Final 15 round on Day Two and will have the opportunity to compete for the three spots remaining to fill the Top 12 round. Starting in reverse order of qualifying speeds based on Day One (15, 14, 13, 12, 11 and 10), each of the six cars will have one attempt to post a traditional four-lap qualifying time starting at 4 p.m. The fastest three will advance to the Top 12 qualifying round.

At approximately 5 p.m., Top 12 Qualifying will begin with the three advancing cars from Final 15 – slowest to fastest – followed by the cars, from ninth to first, that advanced to the round based on speeds from Day One. Like in previous years, the fastest six will advance to the Firestone Fast Six to determine positions one through six and compete for the NTT P1 Award for pole. Those finishing seventh through 12th will fill out starting positions seven through 12 according to their time and speed.

In the Firestone Fast Six at approximately 6:35 p.m., each entrant is again given one attempt and will qualify in reverse order based on their Top 12 qualifying results. The fastest driver earns pole position and the accompanying $100,000 prize, while the remaining five drivers complete the first two rows of the starting grid.

“Next to Race Day, Indianapolis 500 qualifying weekend is a can’t-miss moment on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and Indianapolis Motor Speedway calendar,” INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles said. “As the past few seasons have proven, INDYCAR has an incredibly deep and world-class field filled with current and rising stars. This expanded format, which includes all rounds on FOX, will shine a massive spotlight on the remarkable skill it takes to start toward the front of our sport’s biggest event.

“Winning pole position for the ‘500’ carries with it one of the most prestigious honors in all of motorsports, and we know our fans – whether spending the day with us at the track or watching on FOX – will look forward to celebrating this year’s pole winner.”

2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship points will be awarded for those who advance to the Top 12 qualifying session. The Indy 500 pole winner will receive 12 points, the second fastest will receive 11, and points awarded will decrease by one-point increments down to the 12th fastest (one point).

PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying Schedule (All times ET, subject to change):

Saturday, May 16

8:30-9:30 a.m. Pre-Qualifying Practice: FS2, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

11 a.m.-5:50 p.m. NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying (Determining positions 16-33): 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on FS2, 2-4 p.m. on FS1, 4-6 p.m. on FOX; INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

Sunday, May 17

1-2 p.m. Final 15 Practice (Positions 10-15 from Day One): FS2, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

2-3 p.m. Top 12 Practice (Positions 1-9 from Day One): FS2, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

4 p.m. Indianapolis 500 Final 15 Qualifying (Positions 13-15 determined, fastest three advance to Top 12): FOX, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

Fans will be able to salute the advancing teams during a cool-down period, which will include laps behind the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Pace Car. Traveling at 100 mph, the laps will allow air to flow through the air ducts to help cool the engines before the dramatic next round.
5 p.m.* Top 12 Qualifying (Positions 7-12 determined, fastest six advance to Firestone Fast Six): FOX, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

Fans will be able to salute the advancing teams during a cool-down period, which will include laps behind the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Pace Car. Traveling at 100 mph, the laps will allow air to flow through the air ducts to help cool the engines before the dramatic next round.
6:35 p.m.* Firestone Fast Six: FOX, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

7 p.m.* NTT P1 Award Presentation: FOX, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls

*Times are approximate

A practice session for the Indianapolis 500 field is scheduled for 1-3 p.m. Monday, May 18, with live coverage on FS1.

Live coverage of the 110th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge starts at 10 a.m. Sunday, May 24 on FOX, FOX Deportes and FOX One, with audio coverage available on INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls on SiriusXM channel 218 and the INDYCAR App powered by NTT DATA.

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. inks multi-year contract extension with Hyak Motorsports

Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. has inked a multi-year contract extension to continue to drive the No. 47 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry in the NASCAR Cup Series division for the foreseeable future and beyond the 2026 season.

The news comes as Stenhouse, the 2023 Daytona 500 champion from Olive Branch, Mississippi, is currently campaigning in his 14th consecutive season in the Cup Series division and seventh with Hyak Motorsports. He is currently in 27th place in the 2026 driver’s standings. and has recorded a runner-up result in this year’s 68th running of the Daytona 500, two top-10 results with an average finish of 22.5 through 12 scheduled events.

“I’m thrilled to finally get this contract extension done,” Stenhouse said. “It’s something we’ve been working on for a while, and I’m really thankful to everyone at Hyak Motorsports, especially Gordon [Smith, owner of Hyak Motorsports]. His vision for this race team and the passion he brings to it every single day is special. A lot of people may not know Gordon that well yet, but he truly cares about motorsports, NASCAR, and this No. 47 team, and that shows in everything he does.”

Stenhouse joined Hyak Motorsports, formerly known as JTG-Daugherty Racing, at the start of the 2020 Cup season. His first start with the organization was the 62nd running of the Daytona 500, in which he won the pole position and finished in 20th place.

Through 228 starts with Hyak (including the first 12 events of the 2026 season), Stenhouse has won twice: the 2023 Daytona 500 and the 2024 YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. He has also recorded 12 top-five results, 31 top-10 results, 261 laps led and one Playoff appearance, which was during the 2023 season as he settled in 16th place in the standings.

In November 2024, Hyak Motorsports rebranded to its current name from JTG-Daugherty Racing. In addition, Gordon Smith, who joined the organization as a principal owner in late 2023, became a majority owner of Hyak from former owners Tad and Jodi Geschickter, both of whom have left the organization since. Brad Daugherty, Mark Hughes and Ernie Cope complete the ownership stake of Hyak.

Under the Hyak brand name, Stenhouse has registered two top-five results and five top-10 results through 48 starts. After finishing in 30th place in the 2025 standings, both Stenhouse and Hyak strive to gain momentum that would enable them to contend for victories and be in contention to make the Chase later in the 2026 season.

“Along with Gordon, Brad [Daugherty], Mark [Hughes], Ernie [Cope], and everyone at Hyak Motorsports, I feel like we’re continuing to improve week after week,” Stenhouse added. “It’s never easy being a single-car team, but the experience we’re gaining and the notebook we’re building is helping us get better and better.

“More than anything, this team feels like one big family. On and off the racetrack, we’re building something that has me really excited about the future of Hyak Motorsports and what we can accomplish together moving forward.”

“Ricky has been a huge part of what we’re building at Hyak Motorsports, and we’re proud to continue this partnership for years to come,” Gordon Smith added. “He brings experience, leadership, and a competitive mindset every weekend, and we believe there’s still a lot ahead for this team with Ricky in the No. 47.”

With his future set, Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season continues with the NASCAR All-Star Race at Dover Motor Speedway in Dover, Delaware. The event is scheduled for next Sunday, May 17, at 1 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN Radio, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.

Driving to the Hamptons: Routes, Timing, and the Quieter Towns Worth a Detour

The drive to the Hamptons is its own subject. Friday afternoon traffic out of Manhattan is well-documented and well-cursed, and the difference between a relaxed arrival and a four-hour ordeal often comes down to timing rather than route.

For travelers planning a first or second visit, a few tactical choices about when to leave, which roads to take, and where to stop along the way change the entire feel of the weekend.

The Two Realistic Routes

The southern route runs through the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and exits onto either Sunrise Highway (Route 27) or the smaller Montauk Highway. This is the dominant route on weekends because it is the most direct approach to the South Fork.

The northern route runs through Northern State and Sunrise to the same destinations but spends less time in central Long Island traffic. It is slightly longer in total distance but often shorter in actual travel time on Friday afternoons.

For travelers driving on Saturday morning or weekday off-peak hours, the southern route is the simplest. For Friday departures during peak weeks, the northern routing usually wins.

When to Leave

Friday morning, before 11 AM, is the cleanest departure window from Manhattan. Friday afternoons between 2 PM and 7 PM are the slowest, with the worst stretches between 3 PM and 5 PM.

Saturday early-morning departures, before 9 AM, are also light. Sunday returns mirror the Friday pattern in reverse: late mornings and early afternoons are the worst, while leaving the South Fork before 9 AM or after 8 PM tends to be the smoothest.

Travelers reserving Hamptons rental homes for an extended weekend usually save themselves the most time by adjusting departure hours rather than scheme on routes.

Towns Along the Way Worth a Stop

Once you cross past Manorville, the small towns of central Long Island open up. Riverhead is the obvious crossover point between the North Fork and South Fork. It is a useful lunch stop with a working downtown.

The Pine Barrens, between Manorville and the South Fork, are an underrated detour. State park trails cut through scrub pine forest with little foot traffic. A thirty-minute walk between hours of driving resets the day in a meaningful way.

For travelers willing to add a small detour, Sag Harbor sits between East Hampton and the bays. The whaling-era waterfront and a slower main street make it a useful alternative to the busier Hampton villages on a Saturday afternoon.

Hampton Towns at a Glance

Westhampton Beach is the closest of the Hampton villages and tends to feel more residential. Quogue and Remsenburg are even quieter and lean local. Southampton is the historic anchor, with a denser walkable downtown.

Bridgehampton, Water Mill, and Wainscott sit in the middle. They are quieter than Southampton and East Hampton, with a heavier presence of farm stands, vineyards, and back-road bike rides.

East Hampton and Amagansett carry the loudest weekend energy. Montauk, at the far eastern tip, has its own personality: surf culture, lighthouse, fishing boats, and a slower main street than its reputation suggests.

Coffee at one of the smaller roasters, a farm stand for tomatoes or corn, and a thirty-minute walk on a side beach all hold up under any traffic conditions because they do not require a precise schedule. Restaurants are the variable to manage carefully; booking dinner at the destination, before leaving Manhattan, takes the late-arrival pressure off the driver.

Returning Without Losing Sunday

The cleanest Sunday return is a pre-9 AM departure. The next-cleanest is a late-evening departure after 8 PM, which trades dinner-out for an unhurried drive.

If neither of those is realistic, planning the bulk of Sunday around the home base, leaving by 4 PM, and accepting that the drive will be slow is the third option. Eating dinner along the way at a town like Riverhead works well in that scenario.

Cell coverage along the LIE and Sunrise Highway is reliable. Gas is easy to find west of Riverhead and gets sparser east of Bridgehampton. Filling up earlier rather than later avoids a small hassle on Sunday departures.

The roads east of Wainscott, especially the back roads connecting the small farm communities, are narrow and dark at night. Daylight driving on those stretches is significantly easier.

Nine Past Winners, Five Series Champs Starting ‘500’ Preparation

Indianapolis 500 Open Test

INDIANAPOLIS (Monday, May 11, 2026) – Practice for the 110th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge starts Tuesday, May 12 with a field consisting of nine past winners of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and five NTT INDYCAR SERIES champions.

There are 33 entries for this year’s edition of the “500.” Practice is scheduled to start at noon ET Tuesday with PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying on May 16-17. All track activity on the historic 2.5-mile oval leads into Race Day, Sunday, May 24.

Alex Palou earned the first oval race victory of his career in the 2025 Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, completing a sweep of the Month of May after winning the Sonsio Grand Prix on the IMS road course.

Chip Ganassi Racing driver Palou went on to win his fourth NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship and third in a row in 2025, becoming the first driver since Dario Franchitti in 2010 to win “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and the series title in the same season.

Other past winners aiming for a spot in the race this year include four-time winner Helio Castroneves (2001, 2002, 2009, 2021), two-time winners Takuma Sato (2017, 2020) and Josef Newgarden (2023, 2024), and single winners Scott Dixon (2008), Ryan Hunter-Reay (2014), Alexander Rossi (2016), Will Power (2018) and Marcus Ericsson (2022). The record for winners in one field is 10, set in 1992.

Castroneves earned a spot with A.J. Foyt, Al Unser and Rick Mears in the most prestigious club in motorsports – four-time winners of the Indianapolis 500 – with his emotional victory in 2021, for Meyer Shank Racing. A record-breaking fifth would put Castroneves alone at the top with the most victories. Additionally, Castroneves is 51 years old, and a victory would make him the oldest winner in “500” history, a record held by Unser, who won the 1987 edition just five days shy of his 48th birthday.

The field includes five past INDYCAR SERIES champions: Dixon, Hunter-Reay, Newgarden, Palou and Power.

Katherine Legge is the sole female driver in the field, competing in the event for the first time since 2024.

Four drivers are competing for Rookie of the Year honors in 2026: Jacob Abel, Caio Collet, Dennis Hauger and Mick Schumacher.

Live Race Day coverage begins on FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX One and INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls at 10 a.m. (ET), with the green flag set for 12:45 p.m.

2026 ENTRY BREAKDOWN:

Winners (9): Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon, Marcus Ericsson, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Josef Newgarden, Alex Palou, Will Power, Alexander Rossi, Takuma Sato

Rookies (4): Jacob Abel, Caio Collet, Dennis Hauger, Mick Schumacher

U.S. drivers (12): Jacob Abel, Ed Carpenter, Conor Daly, Santino Ferrucci, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Kyle Kirkwood, David Malukas, Josef Newgarden, Graham Rahal, Sting Ray Robb, Alexander Rossi, Nolan Siegel

International drivers (21, from 14 countries): Marcus Armstrong, Helio Castroneves, Caio Collet, Scott Dixon, Marcus Ericsson, Louis Foster, Romain Grosjean, Jack Harvey, Dennis Hauger, Katherine Legge, Christian Lundgaard, Scott McLaughlin, Pato O’Ward, Alex Palou, Will Power, Christian Rasmussen, Felix Rosenqvist, Takuma Sato, Mick Schumacher, Kyffin Simpson, Rinus VeeKay

Engines (33): Chevrolet 18, Honda 15 (all cars use Dallara chassis and Firestone tires)