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Jeff Beck
Cruiser Newbie
Posted: May 30, 2008, 11:48 AM
Post #1 of 17
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Hi everybody. Though PT's are not noted for their mileage, we bought one because our minivan was only getting 13-16 mpg and we needed better mileage. There may have been some other choices, but the PT had better mileage than we were getting and we have always wanted a PT. I am looking at ways to maximize the mileage.
I was looking at some Spark plugs called Pulse Plug's (Link Below) $25ea. I am curious if anyone has used these and if they noticed any improvements. Or if someone wants to suggest other plugs.
I have read Plug wires help too, I haven’t had a chance to look yet, any suggestions?
I was also looking a K&N air cleaner to help the engine breath a little easier, I see K&N are quite proud of their product...$268.99
So If I spend:
$268.99 Air Cleaner
$100.00 Spark Plugs
$100.?? wires
$468.99 Total
I'll spare you my calculations, but based on our current driving and assuming I will get 20mpg... I would need to get a 2 mpg increase for that to pay me back in 3 years.(no savings just a pay back) So I would have to question the sense of spending that much to hope for a 10% increase (sounds to optimistic to me). But I have nothing real world to base any of my guesses on. So... Does anyone have some real world experience that would help me put some better numbers on mileage gain?
Thanks for you help,
Jeff Beck
Pulse Plugs:
http://www.pulstarplug.com/howtobuy.cfm?s=vmm&ye ar=2006&make=CHRYSLER&model=PT+CRUISER%7C&engine=1432083
K&N Air Cleaner:
http://www.autozone.com/selectedZi p,33813/initialAction,partProductDetail/initialpartType,01867/initialR,APP1246072/shopping/selectZip.htm
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Posts: 4 | From: Lakeland, FL
| Registered: May 29, 2008, 1:38 PM
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no30fan
Cruiser Expert
Posted: May 30, 2008, 12:04 PM
Post #2 of 17
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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Hi and welcome to the PT world. In my opinion I think another 2mpg is possible. If you shop around you can get the items on your list at a way better price.
Wires: Crane or Magnacor $68.00
Plugs: NGK 20.00
K&N : Drop in 35.00
Cold air intake 150.00
But most important is proper air in your tires and being light on the pedal. There is nothing aerodynamic about the PT. I have an 06 and I was getting 20mpg and after 10k miles I am now getting 24mpg on my trips. I would consider the engine breaking in point.
So good luck
Mike
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Posts: 163 | From: N/A
| Registered: Apr 7, 2006, 11:47 AM
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garyerrol
Cruiser Expert
Posted: May 30, 2008, 12:22 PM
Post #3 of 17
(1134 views)
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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I brought my '01 for similar reasons. Our '02 Caravan was getting the same millage as your van. But also, I wanted to save the van back so that we'd have it for years to come. The PT has become my daily ride and now the van hasn't probably been driven 300 miles since last November. I used to put about 12,000 miles on it a year. I'm getting about 20 mpg combined city/highway driving with a slightly heavy foot at times and probably around 24 mpg all highway at moderate speeds with no hills.
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New owner 2001 Limited Edition. Shale Green Metallic. Factory stock except Voxx 16X7 wheels, Pirelli P3000 P205/55R16 tires, Tyco backup lights, 2006 tailight lenses, shorty antenna.
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Posts: 113 | From: Indianapolis, IN
| Registered: Dec 4, 2007, 11:50 AM
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anoldhippy
Cruiser Expert
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: May 30, 2008, 1:21 PM
Post #4 of 17
(1124 views)
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Re: [garyerrol] PT Mileage
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I have an '05 5speed and get 23 avg. Since I'm pretty sure Chrysler will never make a hybrid PT Cruiser, I will stick with Blanche until I get my little scooter for daily work drives.
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Namaste
Karen
...when I look in the mirror, I like what I see, just a few more lines looking back at me... I'm not old, I'm just older...bonjovi
"Blanche's Midlife Facelift"
2005 5-Speed
Custom Black/White PT Cruiser LugNut Gearshift
Limo Black Window Tint
"Peace" 3rd Brake Lite Mask
Custom Painted Dash Kit
2.5 " White Walls
Baby Moons
"PT Cruiser" Tire Valve Stem Covers
Retro 40's Fender Kit
Chrome Door Handle Cuffs
Chrome Port Holes
Chrome Beltline
Chrome Bumper Inserts & License Plate Insert
Chrome Taillight Surrounds
Chrome Headlight Surrounds
Chrome Mulffer Cap
Chrome Muffler Tail Pipe
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Posts: 324 | From: 241 mi from the happiest place on earth-Disneyland
| Registered: Sep 16, 2005, 2:53 PM
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mean green
Cruiser Addict
Posted: May 30, 2008, 3:08 PM
Post #5 of 17
(1115 views)
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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Quote:
Hi everybody. Though PT's are not noted for their mileage, we bought one because our minivan was only getting 13-16 mpg and we needed better mileage. There may have been some other choices, but the PT had better mileage than we were getting and we have always wanted a PT. I am looking at ways to maximize the mileage.
I was looking at some Spark plugs called Pulse Plug's (Link Below) $25ea. I am curious if anyone has used these and if they noticed any improvements. Or if someone wants to suggest other plugs.
I have read Plug wires help too, I haven’t had a chance to look yet, any suggestions?
I was also looking a K&N air cleaner to help the engine breath a little easier, I see K&N are quite proud of their product...$268.99
So If I spend:
$268.99 Air Cleaner
$100.00 Spark Plugs
$100.?? wires
$468.99 Total
I'll spare you my calculations, but based on our current driving and assuming I will get 20mpg... I would need to get a 2 mpg increase for that to pay me back in 3 years.(no savings just a pay back) So I would have to question the sense of spending that much to hope for a 10% increase (sounds to optimistic to me). But I have nothing real world to base any of my guesses on. So... Does anyone have some real world experience that would help me put some better numbers on mileage gain?
Thanks for you help,
Jeff Beck
Pulse Plugs:
http://www.pulstarplug.com/howtobuy.cfm?s=vmm&ye ar=2006&make=CHRYSLER&model=PT+CRUISER%7C&engine=1432083
K&N Air Cleaner:
http://www.autozone.com/selectedZi p,33813/initialAction,partProductDetail/initialpartType,01867/initialR,APP1246072/shopping/selectZip.htm
Ouch! As was said get a K&N drop in filter. It works just fine. You don't need the Pulse plugs. Totally overpriced and not needed. I don't know what kind of PT you have so for a non turbo PT platinum plugs work just fine. For a turbo PT the stock Copper Plus plugs work great. I'm using the stock Copper Plus plugs in my 336 hp Neon SRT-4 (same engine/turbo as the PT). All four plugs cost me a total of $5.85 at NAPA. The car is a beast.  For wires the popular ones are Magnecor, MDS and Crane. They are around $60. It's good that you asked because we just saved you a lot of money. 
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2005 Stone White SRT4
2004 Graphite Auto
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Posts: 842 | From: Oregon
| Registered: Feb 19, 2002, 12:00 AM
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rcktpwrd
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Jun 2, 2008, 4:58 AM
Post #6 of 17
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Re: [mean green] PT Mileage
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another thing that should help improve mileage a bit is changing over to synthetic oil
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Joel
2001 Patriot Blue Touring Edition 5 speed
1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass S [RCKTPWRD]
Click here to see--->My Cars!
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Posts: 763 | From: Raleigh, NC
| Registered: Jun 17, 2001, 12:00 AM
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Jeff Beck
Cruiser Newbie
Posted: Jun 2, 2008, 5:29 AM
Post #7 of 17
(1066 views)
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Re: [rcktpwrd] PT Mileage
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Thanks everone for the reply's. I will definitly skip the expesive K&N System and get their drop in filter. I'll be skipping the Pulse Plug's too. ($25 for 1 spark plug did sound a little outragous to me). I have been a fan of 100% synthetic oil for many years now for other reasons and did not even know it boosts miliage..good to know!
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Posts: 4 | From: Lakeland, FL
| Registered: May 29, 2008, 1:38 PM
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stu in wichita
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Jun 2, 2008, 7:52 AM
Post #8 of 17
(1058 views)
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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Hey, Jeff. Good work on doing the math first - everyone should be so objective.
Before you go looking for "mileage in a box," keep this in mind. Most people buy aftermarket stuff based on manufacturer's and user's claims, not actual comparative data. Auto magazines have tested fuel-saving devices for decades and very seldom find a product that actually works as claimed. Sure, there are tons of testimonials from people who "feel" like it works and are happy with what they bought. But think about it - if you're replacing worn out parts with new ones, of course the new parts work better - whether they're OEM replacements or hyped-up aftermarket gimmicks.
I'm not familiar with those plugs, but they sound like snake oil to me. As far as wires go, your original equipment ones are probably shot. Any good aftermarket wire will do (I like MSD products).
Regarding air filters, regardless of what the manufacturer or others say, you won't get measurably better mileage from a K&N than a good quality new standard paper element, since it flows only marginally better. It may last longer though, since it holds more dirt before it becomes restricted. But to compare a fresh K&N to that clogged element you just tossed in the trash isn't an honest comparison. The fact is, frequent replacement of standard elements accomplishes the same thing. You can decide if the money and time involved make it a good choice for you.
The best bet is to keep the car well tuned, period. Good wires, fresh plugs, clean filters, right viscosity oil (synthetic is great), tires inflated to spec (not over), good front end alignment, and keep the unnecessary "junk in the trunk" to a minimum. Most importantly, driving style makes more difference than anything.
I consistently get 27-28 on the highway and 20+ around town in my 2003 GT. Not great, but not bad. Everything's at factory spec and I get the factory-claimed mileage. Coincidence? Maybe.
Enjoy your PT.
-Stu
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Posts: 196 | From: Wichita, KS USA
| Registered: Aug 8, 2000, 12:00 AM
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Pat67
Cruiser Fan
Posted: Jun 2, 2008, 1:51 PM
Post #9 of 17
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Re: [stu in wichita] PT Mileage
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Hi...
I had asked my dealer's chief mechanic about the synthetic oil; he said it was very costly and made little difference. Since it would have made him more money per oil change, I found that interesting. BUT I am willing to listen to others who have had it make a big difference in mileage. Patty 2007 Touring
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Posts: 21 | From: New Jersey
| Registered: Nov 15, 2007, 4:11 PM
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Bluephrog
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Jun 2, 2008, 5:05 PM
Post #10 of 17
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Re: [Pat67] PT Mileage
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Patty,
Synthetic oil is much different compared to Dino oil. A few of things that really stand out, synthetic oil can handle a lot more heat (very good if you have a turbo) and will not breakdown. It will flow at subzero temperatures where dino oil is as thick as molasses. Synthetic oil has very little or no sludge keeping your engine much cleaner. It can hold more contaminates than dino oil, so it will go longer between oil changes. Mobil 1 and AMSOIL both have oils that can go 25,000 miles between oil changes. Unfortunately you can't take advantage of it with the auto manufacturers demanding 3,000 mile changes to keep your warranty intact and make more money servicing your car. GM has run a Corvette (with Mobil 1) pedal to the medal for 100,000 miles with NO appreciable wear. There are people on this forum and others that can show you what happens when dino oil "cokes" in a hot turbo destroying the bearings.
If you want your engine (and turbo) to last longer, stay cleaner, start better when it is really cold, not breakdown when it is really hot and get better gas mileage, Synthetic Oil is the only way to go.
Some manufacturers, particularly in Europe, require synthetic oil in their highly refined engines. There has got to be a reason.
.
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Posts: 677 | From: Vermont
| Registered: May 24, 2003, 5:25 PM
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Pat67
Cruiser Fan
Posted: Jun 2, 2008, 5:14 PM
Post #11 of 17
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Re: [Bluephrog] PT Mileage
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Thanks..I don't think I have a turbo, but most of what you say sounds good. I'll request it next time around for sure....much appreciated. Patty
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Posts: 21 | From: New Jersey
| Registered: Nov 15, 2007, 4:11 PM
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Cruiser RN
Cruiser Veteran
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Jun 3, 2008, 5:06 PM
Post #12 of 17
(995 views)
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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 decent wires +plugs,a K-N filer or cold air intake,full synthetic 5w-30 oil will do wonders for your mileage.I put in a cold air intake with all of the above and got my city mpg 23-25 and my highway mpg 28-30.I also keep tire pressure constant and do continual matainance on my 2001.All the best.........Mike
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Mike Casabianca
His: 2001 Black LE with Auto Transmission, BullDog Signs Flames, WeatherTec wind deflectors, cargo area mat, PT trash can, PT valve stem caps and Dart's coldair intake, chrome tail and headlight bezels, chrome bumper inserts, chrome license plate pillow, chrome fender trim, 1940's retro chrome on front and back fenders, door spears, chrome hatch door trim, chrome gas door, brushed chrome door sills, billet door pins, custom "BlueHaze" dash mat, MRK Group lugnut covers, dome light trim, etc. and the chrome goes on......
Hers: 2003 Patriot Blue Woody with Automatic Transmission, Bulldog Signs Eeyore, Cargo area mat, WeatherTec wind deflectors, PT valve stem caps, PT trash can, "BlueHaze" custom dash mat, and chrome tailpipe extension, "Old School" wood shifter knob, wood and chrome door pins, MRK Group interior knob and switch covers, door surrounds, and dome light trim, chrome door surround trim, white eeyore window decals, smoothie hub cap, wood eeyore plaques ....and the Wood goes on
http://community.webshots.com/user/mdcvmvc
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Posts: 2296 | From: Yonkers, New York
| Registered: Aug 21, 2002, 12:00 AM
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silvereagle
Cruiser Addict
Posted: Jun 4, 2008, 6:34 PM
Post #13 of 17
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Re: [Cruiser RN] PT Mileage
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When I'm in BJ's I usually get a six pack of synthetic oil 5w/30 then I take it to my local chrysler dealer and they change my oil and they replace the filter for around $20.00 A couple of days ago I had my oil changed in my Dodge Ram HEmi powered. They used 5w/20. I never had this before.
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big jim
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Posts: 956 | From: New Castle ,Del, USA
| Registered: Aug 6, 2002, 12:00 AM
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sent1
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Jun 6, 2008, 6:47 AM
Post #14 of 17
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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Skip the whole cold air intake thing and just get the drop-in filter that goes right into the existing box for less than $40.
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DC1 #1610--5-speed. Its got some stuff.
'03 Inferno Red--Its getting some stuff too!
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Posts: 424 | From: Salem, Oregon
| Registered: Apr 14, 2007, 8:56 AM
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Walter P
Cruiser Fan
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Jun 13, 2008, 7:21 PM
Post #15 of 17
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Re: [Cruiser RN] PT Mileage
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That's good mileage, Mike, especially for an automatic. I'll bet you have a soft touch on the gas pedal
I now have 6000 miles on mine, and on a recent trip I got a little bit over 31 mpg for a stretch, averaged about 30 for the journey. From my experience, albeit only 6000 miles, speed can really make a difference - on a 75 mph run on a rural Interstate for about 20 miles the mileage dropped to 24-25.
Update - upon arrival tonight at Seal Cove, Maine I registered 31.5 MPG, two people on board, back seat and trunk full of vacation supplies
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2008 PT Cruiser Conv 5-sp
(This post was edited by Walter P on Jun 15, 2008, 7:09 PM)
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Posts: 30 | From: Southington, CT
| Registered: Jan 21, 2008, 5:43 AM
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PTPenguin
Cruiser Expert
Posted: Jun 16, 2008, 3:30 PM
Post #16 of 17
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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With $4 a gallon gas, the only thing I was able to do to get a couple mpg out of it was to keep it under 80mph. That's about 3000 rpm on the 5 speed. Anything over 3000 rpm and you're sucking the gas down...
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2005 Bright Silver Convertible, 5 speed with 8 ball knob, chrome door spears, chrome gas cap door, chrome antenna bezel, chrome grill kit, chrome rear bumper pillows, chrome bumper trim, stainless antenna with flames, stainless door panel trim, chrome smoothies with baby moons, 2" wide "gangster" white walls, chrome tail light trim, K&N air filter element in a modified airbox and an oogah horn. Hmmm, what have I forgotten???
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Posts: 231 | From: Sin City
| Registered: Mar 24, 2006, 5:06 PM
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pjdaoust
Cruiser Expert
PT Cruiser Club Member
Posted: Aug 15, 2008, 11:47 AM
Post #17 of 17
(209 views)
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Re: [Jeff Beck] PT Mileage
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Quote:
Hi everybody. Though PT's are not noted for their mileage, we bought one because our minivan was only getting 13-16 mpg
You are correct all these "mileage" improvments parts do not pay for themselves in gas savings over the life of the part.
Do youself a favor, dirve the car reasonably and see if you don't get better fuel mileage without spending any money, just a little more time to get where you are going.
My experience with my Cruiser, shich is a 5 speed, is that in the first 14,000 miles I had the car I got an average of 29 mpg with a low of 25 and a high of 32. And all I did was to drive reasonably.
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Paul J. Daoust
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Posts: 118 | From: Garner, NC
| Registered: Apr 7, 2005, 4:33 AM
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