KB(TM) Performance Pistons and PowerFLEX(TM) Rings Announce Agreement to Pair

CARSON CITY, Nev., July 8 -- Two of the leading names in engine products -- Keith Black(TM) and PowerFLEX(TM) -- are teaming to rev up performance for racing enthusiasts.

Beginning this month, retailers and distributors will be able to select from numerous packages that include both KB Performance Pistons and PowerFLEX Precision Racing Rings. Both are leading brands used by racing enthusiasts and performance specialists to increase engine performance.

The announcement was made today by Carson City, Nev.-based United Engine and Machine Company (UEM), which sells KB Performance Pistons, and Mich.-based Hastings Manufacturing Company, which makes PowerFLEX Rings.

"This partnership should be a great one for retailers and distributors that serve the performance market," said Jeffrey Guenther, vice president of Hastings. "Customers will be able to buy both products from a single source, which will give them greater convenience when ordering and will get the products to them more quickly."

The agreement, targeted to the performance market, builds on an established long-term relationship the two companies have serving the engine aftermarket. KB Performance Pistons supplies its motorcycle pistons with Hastings piston ring sets.

"This partnership is a natural," said Scott Sulprizio, vice president of Keith Black. "Both companies have been making automotive engine parts for more than 80 years, and we know how to meet the demands of today's high-output racing engines. Hastings is recognized the world over for exceptional piston- ring quality and performance, and KB Performance is well known as a leader in the performance market. By putting the two brands together, we're going to charge things up."

For more information about ordering KB Pistons and PowerFLEX Rings, contact KB-United Engine and Machine toll-free at 1-800-PERFORM or online at www.kb-silvolite.com .

About Hastings Manufacturing

Hastings Manufacturing Co. (AMEX:HMF) serves the automotive parts market with a complete line of internal engine products including piston rings sold under the HASTINGS(R) brand name; pistons sold under the Zollner(R) brand; and gaskets, import pistons, engine bearings and a variety of other engine components sold under the ACL(R) brand. Hastings also markets engine additives sold under the CASITE(TM) brand through The Casite Company, a joint venture that markets both directly and through independent representatives. Canadian distribution of all products is handled through a wholly owned subsidiary, Hastings, Inc. located in Barrie, Ontario. During 1999, Hastings began to distribute and administer products for other U.S.-based suppliers in the Canadian market. These products complement the current piston ring offerings as to both distribution channels and customer base.

About United Engine and Machine Company

United Engine and Machine Company is a piston manufacturer with more than 80 years of experience in the automotive industry. UEM uses its experience and technology to supply top-quality pistons for both stock and performance applications. The Company currently produces three distinct piston lines: Silv-O-Lite original equipment replacement pistons, KB Performance Pistons for automotive and motorcycle applications, and Claimer Performance Pistons for budget racers.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The statements contained in this news release include certain predictions and projections that may be considered forward-looking statements under securities laws. These statements involve a number of important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including but not limited to economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors affecting the Company's operations, markets, products, services and prices.