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#683596 Fri Mar 31 2017 08:24 AM
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I have a couple Pennzoil "Sound your Z" signs and was wondering if anyone knew where the 'Z' in the phrase came from. I am just trying to learn why a horn was called a 'Z', as I was not around when my signs were made.

I tried a google search on old gas and came up empty. Was it slang (from earlier times before the signs) because those a-ooga horns that sort of had a buzz to them?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nsc-dl_CXI0

Or am I way off? Just wondering where the slang for the 'Z' was derived from if anyone knows.

Thanks,
Steve

Last edited by Speedracer; Fri Mar 31 2017 08:27 AM.

-Steve B. (WTB: 48" Flying A button, 48" black/org Phillips 66, White Star, and Chevrolet Signs. Also looking for a Wayne 866. Send a PM. Thanks.)
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pennZoil
Just a guess. So many companies used Penn (Pennsylvania) and of course they used "oil", Pennzoil added the "Z" in the middle.
It's all about the Z man! Sound you Z!!


Steve Coppens
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Really want a Sunoco National pump ad glass!!
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Guessing here but I think the "Z" would stand for penn"Z"oil.

He beat me too it...../\

Last edited by cormy; Fri Mar 31 2017 09:37 AM.
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Looking for Tide Water/ Tide Water-Associated/ Tidewater items
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An old guy once told me it meant honk your horn. Not saying he's right..... just saw the above post... never mind lol

Last edited by ironheadtom; Fri Mar 31 2017 09:50 AM.
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There were many companies with oil, most produced from Pennsylvania oil in refineries. With so many brands the campaign was to ensure people knew to ask for PennZoil brand by sounding out the Z and saying Pennzoil to their serviceman, thus ensuring they would get Pennzoil and not some other brand. This would also solidify the brand in the mind of the consumer because they'd remember Z and Pennzoil as a brand.




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Cool. Thanks for all of the responses and taking the time to post pictures everyone. Someone once told me it was for a horn too. But the above ads and knowledge from you guys sure clears it up.

Case closed. LOL.

Thanks again,
Steve

Last edited by Speedracer; Fri Mar 31 2017 04:53 PM.

-Steve B. (WTB: 48" Flying A button, 48" black/org Phillips 66, White Star, and Chevrolet Signs. Also looking for a Wayne 866. Send a PM. Thanks.)

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