AP Auto and Keltner Distribution Introduce Pro Gauge Private Label Filter Program

GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – Atlantic Pacific Automotive LLC (AP Auto) and Keltner Distribution have introduced their new Pro Gauge filter program. This new private label program includes a line of oil, air and cabin air filters with more than 95 percent coverage for aftermarket part numbers.

“We put a strong emphasis on helping the traditional auto parts customer with dynamic customer support programs and informative packaging so they can better merchandise at the store level,” said Don Youngblood, president. “For example, there are eight filter cross-references on both the display carton and the actual filter canister. This makes it easy for a mechanic or DIY customer to recognize and install the correct filter.”

Youngblood said it was essential for AP Auto and Keltner to offer the market a program that was not “just another import filter program.” The company worked closely with premier filter manufacturers around the world to develop the program and all engineering, customer support and technical support for Pro Gauge are based in the U.S. All suppliers manufacture the filters in ISO/TS 16949 certified factories. “Our Pro Gauge filters are designed and manufactured to perform as good as or better than more expensive filters produced domestically or in Latin America,” explained Youngblood.

Pro Gauge spin-on oil filters feature correctly treated media, heat-treated tension springs, a steel double-fluted center core, metal end caps and more. All Pro Gauge filters are built to meet or exceed OEM specifications.

Because AP Auto and Keltner are so confident in the quality of Pro Gauge filters, they offer customers a unique demonstration program. AP Auto and Keltner will cut open both a Pro Gauge filter and the filter brand of the customer’s choosing. They will then send both filters to the customer so they can compare the quality difference between the two products. “We believe Pro Gauge will win that battle,” said Youngblood.

DYK Automotive Inc. is the holding company for three automotive aftermarket companies, each operating independently as wholly owned subsidiaries including: AP Automotive (AP Auto), Superior Automotive, and Keltner Enterprises.

For more information on Pro Gauge filters and its demonstration program, visit: www.apauto.com or call Keltner Distribution at 800-666-3311.

Despite a tough commercial tire market in 2023 due to overstock and the effects of a rubber-banding supply chain, some tire manufacturers are expressing a cautious optimism for stabilization and gradual recovery through the rest of 2024 and into 2025.

"The economy is not showing signs that it’s going to slow down, but I don’t think the situation’s going to improve dramatically by the end of this year. It’s more likely next year," said Pierluigi Cumo, Vice President of B2B products, at Michelin North America. "We can see the light because the beginning of 2023 was very bad. I think now we’ve found the bottom, and I don’t think we’re going to get much further from the bottom in 2024."