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Tucson, Arizona October 28, 2002                                   

WALBRO ENGINE MANAGEMENT OPENS MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN THAILAND TO MEET INCREASED CUSTOMER DEMAND

Walbro Engine Management has announced the opening of a manufacturing facility in Chonburi Province, Thailand. The facility is being built in response to increasing demand for Walbro products for the hand-held and industrial power equipment markets.

"This new manufacturing facility will sharpen our competitive edge and will help us better serve our customers in Japan and Europe," Andrew V. Masterman, President, Walbro Engine Management.

"Thailand has a favorable labor environment and one of the most diligent labor forces in Southeast Asia," Masterman notes. "In addition, it has an established infrastructure, with land sea and air transportation. Finally, there is a large base of excellent manufacturers in the area near Bangkok available for outsourcing."

The new Thailand facility will be operated by Walbro's Japanese subsidiary, Walbro Japan. Mr. Yukio Goto, Director, Operations, Walbro Japan, will be responsible for the facility. Mr. Sadanori Shizukuishi will be the on-site plant manager.

Walbro Engine Management, a unit of TI Automotive, is the world's largest manufacturer of small engine carburetors for hand-held power equipment and a major manufacturer of small engine ignition systems, fuel injection components and other products for outdoor power equipment, marine and recreational products. Walbro Engine Management has facilities in the United States, Mexico, Italy, Japan, Thailand and China. More information is available at www.walbro.com.

For more information, please contact:

Ann M. Guernsey
Walbro Engine Management
(520) 877-3000