[Zeke]

That "invention" predates my joining here and I never saw the thread in spite of 2 posts occurring after my join date. Seems no one ever produced these even though a couple of people offered to buy the item.

But, this illustrates my thesis perfectly. Here is a product that most anyone can make with a pair of pliers. How would you go about convincing folks to buy your product instead? Well, that's the marketing side of things. All the elements of a good marketing program are mentioned in Sam's thread by Clark Griswald (now known as Chuck Moreland of Elephant racing). Create a need and provide a solution.

Maybe not all elements, there could be more.

Consider the comments about flaking metal. Your better mouse trap is made from non flaking stainless steel. Marketing advantage no. 1. Not everyone has access to SS wire.

In the packaging, provide the tether Early_S_Man (RIP Warren) mentions to keep track of both the oil fill cap and dipstick. Marketing advantage no. 2.

Make the items with perfect curves for a clean professional look. Marketing advantage no. 3.

Assert that other foriegn objects will be prevented from falling into the oil tank (Chuck's sink strainer is better for this). Marketing advantage no. 4.

Remember, all of your advertising text is able to be copyrighted. Others can make the same claims, but they have to word it differently.

Get a clever name and logo and trademark those. You can use a pending symbol. Copyright is automatic, but you should file formally. I think "Cool Collar" is a perfect example of a great name (regardless of what you think of the product). There have been a lot of CC type products sold and a lot of money made. You remember "Split Fire" spark plugs?

Products such as Chuck's can be piggybacked to others as a premium for purchasing a minimum amount of more expensive product such as oil and filters. Think incentive whenever marketing. IOW, think about how you can hook up with a bigger item or trend to promote your widget.