baLooTisme

Adjusting Your Full Size Pick Up Truck

2009-01-14T14:58:00.000-08:00

Do you have a full size pick up truck and want to make it safer and worth a little more? With full size pick up trucks this is a very easy thing to do because of the endless options, … although we’re only going to talk about a few of them.

If you live in a snow & ice climate, are you one of the many people that throws sand bags in the bed of your truck for extra weight and traction? This is a effective way of doing extra weight, no doubt about it. However, some have argued it looks unsightly in the bed of the truck and they may take away from the hauling capacity of the bed. This is true, you really can’t haul a arm chair or garbage cans if the floor of the bed has sand bags all over it.

Consider this option. Install a metal truck box in the bed of your truck under the rear window. These are boxes that rest on the sides of the truck bed and go across the width of the bed under the rear window. They come in different colors such as aluminum, white or black. Most of them are lockable. These boxes, even though you don’t haul tools, have another great purpose. Load them up with sand bags. Once you slam the lid of the box, look at the truck with the tailgate down. You would never know the truck is loaded down with sand bags just by looking at it. You also have plenty of open floor space on the bed of your truck for hauling other things. Plus, you still have the sand bags, but with a far better cosmetic appearance to the truck. This is not only a good idea for the family use pick up truck, …but pick up trucks that plow snow can also benefit from this cosmetic way of carrying sand bags.

Does your truck have a factory style one piece rear window? Make a beneficial change here too. Replace it with a tinted window that can open for fresh air. A tinted or screen printed rear window can help keep the hot sun off the heads and shoulders of people riding inside. This makes the truck more comfortable and reduces the chance of sunlight fading out the top of the seats. Installing a tinted window that opens gives a unbelievable cross draft for fresh air.

Brush guards and grill guards are more than a decoration. They help protect your vehicle from ‘a more costly collision repair’ than if it didn’t have one at all. Lets say two trucks of the same type get in identical accidents. One truck has a guard, the other doesn’t. They both had the front ends hit.

The truck with the guard has a damaged brush guard, some minor damage to lights, hood and grill. The truck without the brush guard has all the same damage as the other truck, … plus radiator, shroud, fan, transmission lines, and maybe the battery. In most cases this truck won’t be driven away and may need a tow truck. When buying one of these guards, make sure you buy a good one.

Now that the front of the truck is protected with a functional accessory, the same can be done with the back of the truck simply by installing a full size class three receiver hitch if one isn’t already present. These are some of the toughest trailer hitches made and are very heavy. The hitch will serve its towing purpose as well as provide protection. The protection comes in the way these hitches really beef up the rear frame area of the truck because they can take one heck of a impact in a rear end collision. It’s for this reason the rear frame tines of your truck are less likely to suffer unfixable damage in a rear end collision.

Toughen up your automatic transmission. Add a transmission cooler. Start using a product I absolutely swear by. Start running ‘Lucas’ transmission additive in your transmission fluid. Normally I’m not a big fan of fluid additives. This product is a exception to this, … not only do I use it, but I encourage others to use it and ‘feel’ the difference in how tight your vehicle feels when you drive it. This product also extends the life and health of your transmission fluid and drastically reduces transmission aging. A awesome product for fleet vehicles, work trucks and plow trucks. You can also use it in cars. I’ve been running ‘Lucas’ in my last eight vehicles as preventative maintenance. Absolutely good stuff.

===============

Reporter Joseph Toth

Washington Micro Bank BBS

I was raised in Wisconsin as a hard working individual. As a teenager I worked on a farm until I became a adult. I have never worked less than two jobs at a time until I turned 44.

I don’t, … (and never have) smoke, drink, drug or gamble. In 2005 I successfully gave up caffeine entirely and haven’t had any since.

My hobbies are automobiles, electronics, driving and photography.

I have many friends, and I am well known in the tri-village area I live in.

My adult careers that stayed with me long term are ‘commercial driver’ and ‘loss prevention agent’.

===========

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How to Perform a Service Check

2009-01-05T19:05:00.000-08:00

Author: Robert

Performing regular maintenance on your car is very important to ensure the longevity and economy of your vehicle. However, most people don't know how or what they need to check in order to make sure the car stays in tip-top shape. Although you could go to a dealer or service shop for regular maintenance, there is no reason to spend the money if you can learn how to check things on your own. Therefore, I've assembled a guide to teach you how to look and what to look for when you perform a car service check.

The first thing you need to look at is the exterior of the vehicle, both around and underneath. If you see cracked or peeling tires, then obviously you need to replace them, but it is also important to check for leaks. A good sign of a leak of any type will be a small amount of liquid underneath the car. If you see black, then it is probably oil, if it is green than you most likely have a leak in your cooling system.

You also want to check the fluid levels under the hood to make sure they are all at proper levels. Check the engine oil (usually very easy to find), coolant levels, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission or transaxle fluid, and window washer fluid. All of these are important to top off as required to prevent your car from breaking down. Also, when you check your oil, if you see that it is very dark black, then you probably need to change it. Keeping your motor oil fresh is one of the easiest ways to keep a car's engine in top shape.

Once you've checked fluids, you need to look at the hoses, wiring, and sparkplugs. Check to make sure that everything is tight, that the insulation is intact, and that there are no cracks or holes in any of the wires or tubes. A vacuum leak, electrical short or loose sparkplug can all sideline your car, so take the time to look through every part of the engine compartment.

Once you've been under the hood, you have finished most of the car service check. Still, as a final check make sure that your lights, front and back, right and left, all work and that your break and emergency lights work as well. Test your horn, wipe off your lights, and make sure your wipers are still good to go. Once you've done all of these things, then you've done 90% more than most vehicle owners will do and as a result your car will run smooth and you'll know when something is wrong.

When it comes time to do a large repair, such as something inside the engine or underneath the body, or check something you don't understand, then I agree that you should take it in to get serviced, but there is no reason why you can't do the little things on your own and save a ton of cash in the process.

I Knew It! provides a large database of information -- from how to paint a car to how to sell your car. Visit How To Perform A Service Check.

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The Essential Guide to Adjusting Your Car Headrest

2008-12-21T22:58:00.000-08:00

Why Should I Worry About Adjusting My Headrest?

Whiplash is a common injury sustained when a car is shunted from behind, often when it is stationary at a junction. The vehicle behind impacts with the car in front. Whilst the trunk of the body is connected to the car as it is pressed against the seat, the head and neck are normally not touching the seat. As the car and body move forward with the impact, the head and neck stay in the same position as they have not yet felt the force of the impact. If the headrest is in the wrong position, whilst the rest of the body and trunk is moving forward the neck now gets thrown over the back of the chair and headrest and "whip-lash" snapped back up and forwards.

Now the neck is moving forwards, the seatbelt has done its work and is now bringing the body back into the seat. Unfortunately, this means that there is a second snapping period, when the body has gone right back into the seat and the neck now whips forward into its over extended state, snapping back when it hits the chest..

That is twice now that your poor neck has been damaged, so I hope that you are now convinced it is worth taking just a few minutes to adjust your headrest correctly before each and every journey (when moving between vehicles).

It is this over extension and over flexion that stretches the neck muscles way beyond their normal comfort zone causing them to sustain often long term and permanent damage. Sleepless nights of discomfort are often guaranteed!

So How Should You Correctly Adjust Your Headrest?

Most car headrests are set too low, and can actually cause increased whiplash pain as the neck will snap back over them in the event of a rear end collision.

The Rule Of Thumb!

The rule of thumb is that the top of the headrest should be level with your eyes. If you position your headrest with the top of the eyes you will have a good chance that if you are hit from behind, you will limit the impact of the whiplash injury. Maybe the months of sleepless nights will only be a few days. Pain well saved!

Featured Links:

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Nicholas Jervis is a personal injury solicitor (non-practising) and a director of 1stClaims.co.uk, a claims company which connects innocent personal injury and medical negligence victims with expert personal injury and medical negligence solicitors at no cost to the individual. Read more about Conditional Fee Agreements

How to Clean Your ABS Wheel Sensor

2008-10-19T05:08:00.000-07:00

Does your ABS light come on consistently and you do not know what is wrong! Well, when you check your code, you may see that it says that your front wheel sensor is damaged. However, that is not always the case. A lot of times, your ABS wheel sensor is just fine; they just need to be cleaned. Of course, if you take it to a shop, they are going to tell you that you need a new one. So we are going to go over how you can clean your own ABS wheel sensor in your Toyota and save yourself a lot of money. After you clean it, if you are still having the problem, you will need a new one. However, most people have noted that nine times out of ten, this does indeed fix their problem.

First of all, before you get started, you are going to want to make sure you have everything that you need to perform the job. The only things that you are really going to need are a ratchet, jack, wheel lock and, of course, a rag or paper towel to clean it off with. After you have all of this stuff, you can feel free to get started. This should only take you an hour or two to do yourself......

Getting Started On Your Wheel Sensor

First, you have to choose which side you want to get started on. You can choose either the passenger side or the driver side; it does not really matter. However, whichever side you do choose, that is the side that you, of course, need to jack up first. Before you jack up the car, you need to turn the steering wheel to the opposite side that you are working on. For example, if you are working on the driver side, then you are going to want to turn the wheel to the passenger side. Also, when you get it jacked up. You should use a jack stand, not just the jack. You never know how long you will need to have this car jacked up, so you will want the jack stand.

After you turn the wheel and get everything all set up, you will notice that you should be able to locate the ABS wheel sensor very easily. It should be located directly mounted to the knuckle. To take this off, you are going to have to remove the two bolts that are holding them in place. In most Toyota cars, they are 10mm bolts. However, some of them can change from time to time. Overall, there will be about four bolts you have to take out. To do this, just follow the ABS sensor around so that you can remove all of the bolts. When you get the sensor off, you will notice that it is all covered in dirt. Take your rag or paper towel, and start whipping it off. As you do, you will notice that the very middle of it has a sliver strip that you could not see before. A lot of times, dirt blocks this and can cause problems, as you found out. After cleaning it, simply reverse the steps you did to reinstall it. Also, be sure to check both of the front ABS sensors. The one on both sides of the car!

Still Having Problems

Most of the time the procedure discussed above will fix any problem that you are having with your ABS sensor. If you have cleaned both of the front sensors and there are still problems, then you do have a damaged ABS sensor. At this point, you need to get new ones and replace them. If you want, you will be able to install them the same way you cleaned the other ones. However, instead of cleaning the old ones and putting them back on, you can simply put on the new ones. Overall, this is a one day job that can save you a ton of money. Most people do not notice how much money that they can save by doing this themselves until they actually do it!

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Mantius Cazaubon is a successful author and publisher of Toyota Parts Buyers Guide, A resource which includes information on Discount Auto Parts and DIY Auto Repair

Bumper Repair is Easy!

2008-10-19T05:04:00.000-07:00

Why are you putting off auto body repairs on your vehicle? You really don't have to since auto body repairs can be affordable and time efficient. One repair that is easily completed on your vehicle is bumper repair. Bumper repair is an easy repair and will not cost you too much out of your wallet. Many car owners don't realize that bumpers can even be repaired; they think that damaged bumper must be replaced. However, that is not true and bumper repair is easy!

If your vehicle bumper is damaged, you really need to get it repaired. First of all, I am sure that it doesn't look to great on your vehicle. It will be hurting the appearance of your vehicle and also decreasing the resale value of your vehicle at the same time. Also your bumpers job is to protect your vehicle from damage and you and your passengers from injury. If your bumper is damaged it is weak and will most likely not be able to do its job as well.

The reason many car owners don't know that bumper repair can be completed is because bumper could not always be repaired. Bumpers used to be made of metal which is not easy to repair. However bumpers are now covered with a plastic material in hopes that if there is any minor damage to the bumper it can be easily repaired. This saves car owners a lot of money versus getting bumpers replaced.

There are a lot of bumper damages because many people feel it is ok to love tap your vehicle while parking. Most accidents in occur in parking lots or parking garages, which leads to the rear and front bumper being affected the most. This is usually minor damage that can be repaired.

So, if you need bumper repair you can get it completed at most auto reconditioning shops. Auto reconditioning shops usually offer a variety of services to get your vehicle looking great. You will want to check around before choosing which auto body shop is best for your vehicle and your wallet. Most repairs can be completed in a short time, which means you will not need to get a rental car, which therefore means you will save more money. Some shops will also offer mobile repair for bumper repair. They will come to you wherever you need them to whether it is work, home, the gym or anywhere else which can really save you some time! Which is a value thing to all of us.

You should also know that getting your bumper repaired can help you do your part in taking care of your environment. By getting your bumper repaired you are saving waste from going to the landfills and polluting our environment. It is all part of the go green act!

So stop putting of bumper repair for your vehicle. Bumper repair is affordable, fast and will get your vehicle looking good. Find an auto reconditioning shop to complete bumper repair on your vehicle; bumper repair is easy!

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If your car is in need of auto reconditioning start looking for a qualified professional to handle your concerns. Look for an auto body professional to take care of your ride from bumper repairs to fixing the major auto body repairs

Feel Like Royalty, Rent and Drive a Bentley in Las Vegas

2008-09-17T07:28:00.000-07:00

The lure of Las Vegas is universal. Movie actors and actresses, big time business tycoons, and even royalty are drawn to the city's promise of fun and excitement. There, they can opt to spend fortuneson gaming tables, the most beautiful suites, or the most exciting shows. But most of us only go to Vegas with just enough money for a couple of nights of fun and relaxation. We don't spend money equivalent to our mortgage payments on a night at the Strip. So what should we do to make our vacation at the Sin City a memorable and exciting one?.

Aside from choosing the right hotel, going to the best shows, or spending money at the casinos, the Las Vegas experience also includes driving around the city and drinking in the sights in the car of your choice. There's no problem in this, being that Vegas is a big city that offers limitless options when it comes to renting a car. You can choose an exotic car, a luxury car, a sports car ,or a classic car to rent for you and your companions. However, if you really want to make your experience memorable, then drive a car that royalty drive and feel like a royalty yourself. Drive a Bentley.

Bentley Motors Limited is a company that manufactures luxury vehicles, most of those have become classic cars over the years. Most Bentley cars have figured prominently in media, such as in James Bond novels and even the famous The Avengers television shows.

But Bentley's highest honor comes with the fact that it is a Royal Warrant Holder given by the British Royal Family. This means that Bentley exclusively supplies the Royal Family's cars and that Bentley has the right to advertise this information. In fact, as recently as 2002, Bentley was commissioned to build Queen Elizabeth II's state car, or the car she uses for official purposes, which is called the Bentley State Limousine.

What better way to cruise Las Vegas but in a car that has the stamp of royalty in it? There are hundreds of rental car companies in Las Vegas that would provide you with a number of options when it comes to Bentley cars, may it be classic, exotic, luxury or sports. The fact that the Bentley company has the approval of one of the most powerful royal families in the world is a testament to the company's excellent craftsmanship when it comes to producing elegant, dependable cars.

So when in Las Vegas, make sure to drop by car rental companies. Look at their selection of classic, exotic, luxury, or sports cars. If your taste veers towards the more sophisticated, a car that would give you the feeling of refinement and taste while cruising down Vegas' streets, then the choice is obvious. A Bentley is the car for you.

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Las Vegas Exotic Car Rentals : From 1928 to 2008 we have the LARGEST selection of Exotic, Classic and Luxury Rental Cars on the Strip! From Auburns to Packards, Voyager Classics Car Rentals has the largest selection of classics available for rent anywhere in Las Vegas.

Mahindra Pickup - USA Debut For 2009 Planned

2008-09-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) yet, the Indian automaker, you aren't alone. Founded in 1945, the company's main market is India but the automaker does export some of its vehicles to western Europe, Russia, South Africa, and Malaysia. However, the company now has its eye on the lucrative US market, with plans to ship its cutting edge Mahindra Scorpio pickup truck to America beginning in 2009.

Will the company follow through on its plans and how will consumers react to an Indian made truck? That remains to be seen, but the seeds have already been planted. Please read on for more information about this interesting car company.

Mahindra sees a big hole in the small truck segment, one that the company intends to fill. Sure, the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and the Chevy Colorado are among the many small trucks available for sale in the US, but Mahindra has something in mind that no other truck offers: at least one version of its Mahindra Appalachian pick up will be a diesel-electric hybrid, an unusual, but potentially highly beneficial truck that the company believes will be warmly received.

Sporting a 2.2L diesel, the standard Appalachian should deliver 30-35 mpg, which is much higher than the class leading 26 mpg for the base Ranger, but the hybrid model would likely top 40 mpg for a truck expected to cost under $25,000.

At present, Mahindra still needs to make sure that that the Appalachian passes stringent US emissions and safety requirements before the truck can go on sale. In addition, a dealer network has to be set up something that could delay the truck's debut unless the company turns to its existing Mahindra Tractor dealerships to sell the truck, a network already in place across the US. In that case, Mahindra would have a ready made pool of dealers available who are already selling Mahindra products to the same customers who the company thinks would purchase the Appalachian: farmers.

We don't yet know much about the Appalachian other than to say it could be a real game changer for the pick up truck market. Though diesel fuel is about seventy-five cents higher than regular gasoline, it is about 30% more fuel efficient. Choose a hybrid and that difference will boost fuel economy by at least 50%, something many American farmers would likely embrace.

Quality is one concern that could scuttle the Mahindra, but the good money is on Mahindra to get that right before the truck's debut.

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Matthew C. Keegan is the owner of a successful writing and marketing business based in North Carolina, USA. He manages several websites and is a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport, a retailer of quality GMC Sonoma body kits and GMC Sonoma headlights.

5 Steps to Buying a Big Rig

2008-09-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

When you decide to buy a truck there are some simple steps you can take to be sure you get the best bang for your buck. If you go into a truck purchase blindly, you are likely to pay too much and get much less than you hoped for.

1. Shop Around.

Truck dealers can only advertise in their own region. A truck dealership in Ohio is not allowed to advertise in California. But dealerships are allowed to sell trucks to customers in other regions if the customer contacts them. As you travel, grab some truck papers from different regions of the country and consider contacting dealers that are far from you. If you already know what make of truck you want, call around to dealers around the country.

2. Compare Apples to Apples.

If you are going to be ordering a new truck, ask for a price quote along with the specifications- this will be about 10 pages long. Compare the spec sheets from different dealers line for line. You may find that a salesman who gives you a lower price quote also skimped out on some of the options without mentioning that to you. If you find that a salesman's quote has inferior specs, tell them which ones you want changed and have them resend the specs and quote. ALWAYS read through the specs line by line- don't trust anything verbal. You may have to pay a chunk of change to receive the faxes from all these dealers, but at least you'll know you're comparing prices, not options.

3. Prioritize

If you are shopping for a used truck, it's unlikely that you will be able to find two trucks that are exactly alike. You won't be able to compare apples to apples like you would if you were buying a new truck. Make a list of the specifications that are most important to you. What make and model are you looking for? How old and roughly how many miles? What engine do you want? What transmission? What rears? Once you nail down those requirements, you may have to compromise on some of the options. Power windows, gauge packages, color. Most options can be changed if they are not to your liking. The things that matter most are the things that are permanent, but you will want to consider the less important options once you have narrowed it down to a few trucks.

4. Get a loan from your own bank.

If you have the dealership set up financing, they are likely to add "points" to your interest rate. There is nothing unethical about this- you are, after all, using their resources to secure financing and they should be compensated for the work their employees do. But you need to decide if you are willing to pay the difference over the life of the loan. The bank may give you a 10% interest rate, but the dealer sets it up for 12% and will pocket the difference with each payment you make. Generally, the dealer will not disclose this information. However, you need to be aware that you may be able to secure a lower interest rate on your own. Consider- a difference of 3% will save you hundreds of dollars each month. It's worth it to do the extra legwork on your own.

5. Make sure you can afford the truck.

There are a lot of owner-operator contracts out there. There are many more mediocre owner-operator contracts than there are lucrative ones. Before you take on the risks involved with owning a truck, make sure you have a contract that can pay for it. Will you be pouring every dime you make back into the truck? Calculate the costs of fuel and maintenance and taxes. If you are a company driver, spend a few months putting your records on paper. Look at the bottom line- what will you have left after all your expenses? If you are not yet a driver, you will want to spend a couple of years driving a truck as a company driver before you decide to buy a truck on your own. Don't buy the lie that owner-operators with rates twice as high as company drivers are making twice as much. They may not even be making the same amount once you figure in all the expenses.

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CoopsAreOpen.com is the only comprehensive online resource for over 1100 truck weigh stations and scales as well as state DOT weight regulations and policies. Knowledge of the varying policies and the ability to manage or avoid most weigh stations can save truckers thousands of dollars in ticket fines. For further information, contact Suzanne at information@coopsareopen.com or view Truck Weigh Station, Scales and State DOT Information at http://www.CoopsAreOpen.com

Your Choice in Transmissions Could Save You Gasoline

2008-08-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Are you in the market for a new car? Are you thinking that a certain tiny four seat subcompact will deliver to you the best fuel economy? Think again - some of today's cars are using advanced technologies which are helping larger, heavier cars achieve better fuel economy numbers than their smaller competitors.

Yes, you'll pay more for the larger models, but your pain at the pump will, in some cases, be slightly less than that tiny lightweight you have your eye on. The difference? It is all in the gears - transmission gears, that is. Let's take a look at a pair of models from different manufacturers to find what sets these cars apart besides their size......

Kia Spectra vs. Chevrolet Malibu

Chevrolet Malibu Picture

Kia Spectra Picture

For the record, the Kia Spectra is made in South Korea by the Hyundai Kia Automotive Group and is imported to the US while the Chevrolet Malibu is built in America. The Spectra is a compact car, the Malibu is classified as a midsize; both have enough seat belts to carry five passengers.

Base engine for the Spectra is a 2.0L I4 paired with a five-speed manual transmission while a four-speed automatic transmission is offered optionally. The standard engine for the Malibu is a 2.4L I4 that is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Though the Spectra gets 24 mpg city and the Malibu 22 mpg city, the Malibu has a highway edge of 33-32. Interestingly, the standard manual transmission engine combination results in 30 mpg on the highway for the Spectra.

Extra Gears, Better Fuel Economy

What makes the difference between the two models? The two extra gears in the Malibu is what does it. Earlier models had a four speed manual which delivered 30 mpg, but with the six-speed now included, Chevrolet drivers can get ten percent better fuel economy than before.

Having extra gears means the transmission can operate at lower ratios which means that less fuel is used. For people who do a lot of highway driving, the Malibu wins out in fuel economy, besides being a larger, roomier car for long trips. This doesn't mean that the Spectra isn't a capable car, but it does contradict a certain maxim - smaller cars are always more fuel efficient. Instead, the maxim should be that cars with the newest technologies, particular those with modern transmissions of at least six gears could be the most fuel efficient vehicles available.

Technology You'll Pay For

Most certainly the Spectra and the Malibu are designed for different drivers so my comparison does not include price or prestige, but it does indicate that car shoppers should look very closely at what they are getting: the bigger car could offer the best combination of ride and fuel economy for you and your family - you just have to ask yourself if you are willing to pay for these enhancements.

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Copyright 2008-2012 - Matthew C. Keegan is the owner of a successful writing and marketing business based in North Carolina, USA. He manages several websites and is a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport, a quality retailer of aftermarket automotive parts including automotive body kits.

Your Choice in Transmissions Could Save You Gasoline

Beginner's Guide to Car Audio Installation - DIY

2008-08-10T04:59:00.000-07:00

Speaker Positioning

Speaker installation is very critical for performance. Whether you spent $1000 or $10,000 on a set of speakers, if they are not properly installed, they would not sound as they should. Even though it may seem that the best position for most speakers are in the stock housing's that came with the car e.g. on the door panel near your feet, this is just not so. You would see why such positions are still used however along with alternative solutions such as center channels for 5.1 Dolby, LCD screen, in-dash DVD players. There are many factors that need to be considered in placing the speakers in the correct position.

Distance

The first thing to consider is distance. If the left speaker is only a couple feet away from your ears, while the right speaker is several feet away from you, then the sound will arrive at different times giving you poor sound. Since the left speaker is closer, it sounds louder. The best solution is to figure out a location where the difference between the distance of the right speaker to your ears and left speaker (also known as path length difference), are minimal. This is where kick panels become the preferred location......

Multiple Speaker Placement

If you have a system with two or more speakers per side, you need to try out different locations to obtain the best possible sound in your car. If you have a 2-way system with a tweeter and sub per side. The subs are mounted in the stock location at the bottom of the door. The tweeters are mounted high up on the front corner of the door panel. From the driver's seat, you can see that there are 4 speakers all aimed towards different orientations and all at a different distance to your ears. This interaction of sound waves at different frequencies arriving at your ears at different times seldom sounds good. The best thing to do is to position the woofer and tweeter on each side as close as possible to each other. This is also why kick panels are used so much these days. Professional installers do use some tricks such as inverting the tweeters' polarity when mounted for example on top of the dash while the woofers are low. Achieving good sound with unconventional mounting schemes is very, very hard and is only achieved after plenty of time has been spent trying different configurations.

Aiming

Our ears can distinguish the direction of sound more easily at higher frequencies. This means that aiming the mids, and most importantly, tweeters towards your ears play a critical role in sound imaging. Midbases are not so critical, but should be also aimed towards the listener's ears if possible. To figure out the best aiming angle involves many hours -even days- of work. To start, try to aim the speakers towards the center of the car. Play around with different angles until you obtain the best sounding position. Subwoofers should be mounted up front for best sound. Since this is not possible in most cars, mounting subs in the back is not such a bad thing, since most people can't distinguish where bass comes from. If you have good midbases going down to 60 Hz or less and subs picking up the signal below 60 Hz, then the bass will seem to come from the front.

Enclosures

Subwoofers need a properly designed enclosure to give top performance. Midbases and mids also do sound much better if they are installed in enclosures. The best sounding and easier to build enclosure type for midbases and mids is sealed.

Mounting Speakers

If you are using speakers that fit into the stock location, make sure there are no spaces or holes. Sometimes building a wood or fiberglass baffle helps reduce holes and gives you much better sound. Always be careful when using power tools around speakers. Holes in speakers usually are not covered by the warranty. For unconventional speaker locations, sometimes metal has to be cut. If you have the resources, plasma cutters and pneumatics tools work great. For most of us that do not have these tools, a pair of metal snips (left and right cut) will do the job.

Take your time to plan your system and don't just buy brand and product for the sake of popularity. Sometimes the simplest system is the most effective.

Photo: 1,

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Beginner's Guide to Car Audio Installation - DIY

Basics of Car Audio

2008-08-10T04:40:00.000-07:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: What is car audio? Car audio is how we describe the sound system fitted in an car.

A regular car audio system refers to a manufacturer installed system. A custom car installation can involve anything from the upgrade of the radio to a total custom fit-out. Events are held where people compete for the loudest or most innovative systems.

The most common pieces of equipment are the radio/tape player/CD player/DVD Player called a Head unit, or a head deck. These components are likely to be upgraded with an after market product. Head unit technology has developed to include CD players with MP3, Ogg, WMA, AAC, and USB, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support. Car audio systems can have line-in jacks and other equipment features like tape adaptors, and video touch screen that controlling; navigation, dvd movies, mp3 players, back up cameras, and other accessories......

Most modern cars have a CD player/ CD recorder, and and optional CD changer, which holds several CD's. Now the manufactures are offering DVD players and LCD screens. LCD screens are located and integrated into things that slide out and folds up, or the instrument panel and the DVD head unit. The screen might show video output for a navigation system, 3G cell phone or parking cameras.

Speakers are located in doors and rear shelves of a cars. High-end stereo systems often have speakers mounted in kick panels, to accommodate larger drivers and better controller placement. Before stereo radio was introduced, the most common speaker location was in the middle of the dashboard. High-end systems will have Component Speakers that have balanced tweeter, mid-range, and woofer settings. They are available in two speaker and three speaker combinations, and include an audio crossover to limit frequency ranges that the speakers must handle. This allows each cone to produce optimal frequency for maximum sound quality and volume. In addition subwoofers are provided for bass and sub bass, the lower the frequency the less the ear picks it up, but the vibration is more pronounced. Sub bass is omni-directional, meaning that the ear can't figure out where the sound is coming from.

Amplifiers

Amplifiers make power to drive the speakers. The amplifier is a very important component of a speaker system. It makes sure that the total power handling capacity of the speakers is adhered to. Amplifiers commonly come in two,four or six channels. Subwoofer amplifiers are mostly Mono Amplifiers. It is common that multiple channels are marked for the exclusive use in allowing for more than one channel to be used.

Capacitors

Capacitors are used to store energy for the amplifier. Capacitors are useful because they can reduce voltage loss to other components in a car. Large capacitors sometimes offset headlight and/or interior light dimming because of too little amp draw from the alternator. A capacitor is only good for an audio system trying to get too many amps from the electrical system. A capacitor doesn't provide more power, it just stores it. The alternator must have more than 20% amp power than the entire vehicle and sound system combined for a capacitor to be of benefit. About 0.5 farad of capacitance is needed for every 500 watts of power. A capacitor does not affect sound in any way. It is strictly for power conditioning.

Photo: 1

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Basics of Car Audio

The Secrets To Protecting Yourself After You Have A Car Accident

2008-08-03T05:21:00.000-07:00

No one plans to have an accident. But, you can be prepared if one should happen.

1. Before you have an accident, keep an emergency kit in your glove compartment. Drivers should carry a cell phone,as well as a pen and paper for taking notes, a disposable camera to take photos of the vehicles at the scene, and a card with information about medical allergies or conditions that may require special attention if there are serious injuries. A set of cones, warning triangles or emergency flares should be kept in the trunk.

2. If you have an accident: Stop. Do not drive away from the scene! You can be charged with "hit and run" even if the accident wasn't your fault if it involves a pedestrian, a moving car, or even a parked car or someone's property......

3. Move vehicles to safety. Make every effort to prevent further accidents. You may be liable for damages to approaching vehicles unless they are properly warned. Do not move your car too far. Make sure to turn on hazard lights and set out cones, flares or warning triangles, if possible. If your car can't be driven, have the emergency responders call a tow truck. Get the name, address and telephone number of the towing company and, if you can, find out where it is taking your car.

4. Move people to safety. Check for injuries. Everyone who can walk should move to safety.

5. Call for help. As soon as you can get to a telephone, call 911. Explain the situation and give the exact location of the accident, so that help can arrive quickly. Be sure to mention whether you need an ambulance or a fire engine. Don't hang up until the operator tells you it is okay to.

6. Cooperate with the authorities. In New York State if you are involved in a vehicle accident causing injury to person or property, you are required to stop and give your name, address, and show your driver's license and insurance identification card to the person who is injured or whose property is damaged, or to a police officer. If such information isn't available at the scene of the accident, it must be given to the nearest police station or judicial officer as soon as possible. Be sure to cooperate with the police officer investigating the case. But,stick to the facts. For instance, if you were driving 30 miles an hour, say so. Do not say, "I wasn't speeding."

7. Tell the police the truth. Follow police instructions carefully. Note the officer's name and precinct number, command, or barracks. Ask how you can get a copy of the police accident report.

8. But don't admit fault. Do not volunteer any information about who was to blame for the accident. You may think you are in the wrong and then learn that the other driver is as much or more to blame than you are. You should first talk to your insurance agent, your lawyer, or both. Anything you say to the police or the other driver can be used against you later. Do not agree to pay for damages or sign any paper except a traffic ticket until you check with your insurance company or lawyer.

9. Document what happened. Make a note of the details of the accident, including date and time, road conditions, weather conditions and speed of all other cars involved. It also is a good idea to draw a diagram of the accident showing the position and direction of the cars justprior to and after the accident: make a written description of each car, including year, make, model and color and the exact location of the collision and how it happened.

10. Take photographs. Use your camera to document the damage to all the vehicles. (Use a cell phone's camera if you have nothing else.) Keep in mind that you want your photos to show the overall context of the accident. Take your own photographs even if the police take photographs or you believe that your mechanic or insurance company will take them.

Photograph:
(a) any broken parts, inside or outside the vehicle such as dashboard, windshield, seat, broken glass or lenses, bumper that fell off, etc.;
(b) vehicle license plates;
(c) skid marks;
(d) street signs; and,
(e) injuries to persons involved in the accident.

Take the photos from different angles and positions. Take more photographs than you think you'll need. ALWAYS HAVE SOMEONE WATCH FOR TRAFFIC.

11. Exchange information. Exchange the following information after the accident: name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver license number and license plate number for the driver and the owner of each vehicle. If the driver's name is different from the name of the insured, take down the name and address for each individual. If possible, obtain the names of the insurance companies and the policy numbers covering the other autos in the accident. In New York State, it's the law to carry an insurance policy information card in every vehicle. These cards can be your source for such information.

12. Get witness information. If there are witnesses, try to get their names, addresses and telephone numbers; they may be able to help you if the other drivers dispute your version of what happened. Request that they talk to the police before leaving. If they refuse to identify themselves, jot down the license plate numbers of their automobiles. Do not discuss the accident with the witnesses. Do not give their names to anyone but the police, your attorney or your insurance company.

13. Report to your insurance company. Remember to call your insurance company or insurance broker immediately after the accident. Don't forget to send written notice to your insurance company as soon as possible. The notice should include the time, place and circumstances of the accident. If you fail to notify your insurance company of the accident in writing within a reasonable time, this could be grounds for the company's denying any obligation to protect your interests in the event a claim is made against you. Also, make sure your report contains the names of all injured persons and drivers and the names of all available witnesses.

14. Report to Albany. The law requires that the operator of a vehicle involved in an accident in New York State in which a person is killed or injured or one in which damage to the property of any person, in a written report with the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles within 10 days. If the operator is unable to make such a report, another participant must make it. Remember to keep copies for your records. This report form, known as an MV-104, may be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles or its website (over the Internet). Often, your insurance company, insurance broker or attorney can send you the form.

15. Call an attorney. Consult an attorney who is experienced in accident cases if you or a loved one is hurt. Ask lots of questions.

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For more information about New York car accidents and personal injury request Gary Rosenberg's FREE book: Warning! Things That Can Destroy Your CarAccident Case (And the Insurance Companies Already Know These Things), at http://www.GreatLegalBooks.com . For more information and FREE reports, visit my website, http://www.GaryRosenberg-Law.com.

The Secrets To Protecting Yourself After You Have A Car Accident

Edge On Motorcycling- The BMW HP2 Sport

2008-08-03T05:09:00.000-07:00

The BMW HP2 Sport is the latest iteration of the Bavarian Motor Company's foray into producing performance driven motorcycles. The quiet, staid, and lets just admit it boring motorcycles that came out of BMW in years past is history.

The HP line is BMW's new high performance, cutting edge line up. It's the motorcycle equivalent of their M line of performance cars.

The HP2 Sport is the third motorcycle in the HP line following the releases of the HP2 Enduro and the HP2 Megamoto......

The HP-2 Sport is based on the R1200S but is out and out designed for sports riders who are looking for a machine that has performance as well as endurance.

The HP2 Sport keeps some of the concepts that BMW motorcycles have become known for such as the BMW Motorrad Telelever front suspension and the EVO Paralever rear suspension. Other components have been newly developed or highly modified for use in the motorcycle.

The HP-2 Sport is powered by a twin Boxer motor that has a capacity of 1170 cc. The engine's cylinder heads were completely redesigned which allows the engine to rev as high as 9500 rpm. The engine has a 101 mm bore and a 73 mm stroke and produces a maximum of 130 hp at 8,750 rpm and 85 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm.

The bike has a close ratio six speed gear box, with first and second gear having higher ratios. This puts the gear increments closer to each other and results in less of a rev drop when progressing up through the gears.

The bike also has a gear shift assistant which allows the rider to shift gears without using the clutch. It works by sensing when the gear lever is activated. If it senses gear lever activation without the use of the clutch, it electronically reduces power to the engine which puts the engine in a low load state and makes it possible to shift without the clutch. If the rider uses the clutch, the system becomes inactive.

The riding position of the HP-2 sport can be described as relaxed. BMW has extensive experience with endurance racing and knows that for racers to be fast over a long period staying power is more important than a full racer's tuck.

The dashboard was developed by 2D Systems, which also provides analytic recording systems to Moto GP racing.

The dashboard has two modes and is switched by two controls on the left handlebar. In road mode, typical information such as speed, rpm, time, and distance are displayed. In race mode data such as top speed, circuit times, number of gearshifts and rpm is shown.

The HP2 Sport will push BMW further into the world of performance motorcycling.

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Edge On Motorcycling- The BMW HP2 Sport

21 Classic Pontiacs

2008-08-01T04:06:00.000-07:00

So, you think you know your cars now, do you? Well, consider this to be a test of your knowledge of Pontiac history. 21 Pontiacs are featured here: some are current models while others are truly classic in every sense of the word, dating back to the early 1960s.

6000 - Full sized [or almost] front wheel drive sedan of the 1980s.

Aztec - Ugly is as ugly does. This crossover vehicle ashamed the Pontiac fleet for two years during the early 00s.

Bonneville - Full sized Pontiac sedan excitement retired in 2005 after more than 40 years of service. Part of GM's massive restructuring and retiring of top model names.

Catalina - This model hearkens back to the mid 60s when two door hard tops ruled the day. Discontinued during the late 70s during GM's "down sizing" shell game days.

Fiero - Mid-engine sport two-seater built for Pontiac during the go-go 80s. GM reached into their parts bin and took out Chevette and other components to create this little roadster......

Firebird - It goes without saying that this "pony" car is sorely missed. The good news is that it may be back by the time the 2009 model year rolls around.

Firefly - Twin to the Geo Metro, the Firefly was Pontiac's 3 cylinder captive import of the late eighties to mid nineties.

G6 - Current compact model in Pontiac's arsenal available in rakish coupe or sporty sedan.

Grand Am - With its 1973 debut, the Grand Am quickly became the division's mid-range performance car. Retired in 2005 with a host of other Pontiac model names.

Grand Prix - Hidden tail lights and a concave rear window marked the Grand Prix's 1963 debut. The car has survived GM's model name shake out and today's car is a mid-sized, front wheel drive sports sedan.

GTO - Introduced in 1967, the GTO was a true coupe turned sports car. Eliminated in the 1970s, the GTO is back thanks to GM's Australian division, Holden. Rear wheel drive and a big V8 too.

LeMans - Originally a Tempest model, the LeMans became its own model once the Tempest name was retired in the 1970s. Retired in the mid 1990s after a cheap Korean car was allowed to carry its name. Sheesh!

Montana - A minivan for Pontiac, if not for the ages.

Parisienne - During the 1980s Pontiac needed a version of the Chevrolet Caprice. This full sized, rear wheel drive sedan filled the bill.

Phoenix - Part of GM's "X cars" of compact import fighting vehicles introduced during 1979 as a 1980 model.

Sunbird - Nothing but a rebadged Chevy Cavalier.

Sunfire - Compact coupe retired in 2005 as part of, you guessed, GM's model restructuring.

Sunrunner - Nothing but a rebadged Geo/Chevy Tracker.

Tempest - From the early sixties until the early seventies, the term "muscle car" befit this hot coupe. Especially nice as a convertible!

Trans Sport - Hideous looking minivan that debuted in the early 1990s. Mercifully replaced years later by the Montana.

Vibe - A currently produced compact five door sport wagon; cousin to the Toyota Matrix.

So, there you have it. At least another half dozen models were left out from this time period plus many models that dated back to the division's founding as part of the Oakland Automobile Company in 1926. Pontiac excitement...have you caught it yet?

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21 Classic Pontiacs

Does Your 2007 Harley Davidson Run Hot? - Here's the Cure

2008-07-17T06:19:00.000-07:00

How to Cure a hot running 2007 Harley Davidson?

That question must have been asked 10k times or more since the 2007 model line of Harley Davidsons were introduced. The mystery of the hot running 2007 models grew to almost a cult like issue on the Harley boards and Harley forums around the internet. Owners who didn't realize they had a hot running Harley Davidson suddenly agonized over the "problem" and demanded answers.

Being the owner of a 2007 FXSTB Nightrain I was obviously interested in the answer to the question. My bike didn't seem to run all that hot....I wondered aloud if some of these guys realized their motorcycles were air cooled and that they WILL run hot. I also questioned how many were first time riders and simply didn't realize that a hot engine 6 inches from your legs is going to produce heat. I am sure a number of new owners or riders succumbed to the phenomenon of the hot running 2007. They jumped on the bandwagon as so many people often do, but then I am positive of others that actually did experience a hot running Harley Davidson motorcycle......

Friends of mine that I am positive know what they are talking about were experiencing the hot running 2007 issue so it wasn't that the issue was non existent, I just think it might have been blown out of proportion. I decided to get to the bottom of the issue and see what I could find out about the problem. After a few days of digging around and talking to people in the know, I think it was clear what was the culprit.

Lean and Mean

After a lot of discussion and research it turns out that the new 96 cu inch Harley Davidson engine had to be tuned extremely lean in order to get it to meet government emissions requirements. The stock factory tune was set very lean by design, and as you know, a lean engine will run much hotter than a well tuned or even rich engine. Different riders reacted differently to the hot running condition as some didn't even notice and others it was enough of a problem that they wanted to trade their motorcycles in for a different year.

I also noticed a trend that it seemed to be the bagger crowd complaining the most vocally and the most frequently. I don't know if it is because the bagger crowd tends to be older and more demanding or if the models were more susceptible to the hot running condition. I think probably a little bit of both actually. If you take a look at the front end of some of the bagger models, the fairings restrict air flow across the engine dramatically compared to the more open models. So regardless of this issue, the lean condition seemed to be the culprit.

The Fix

The fix is rather simple.

Most riders that I was in contact with reported that a Stage 1 upgrade resolved the issue. A decent set of pipes combined with either a Stage 1 download or a fuel control system like a Power Commander or something similar cured the lean condition. They not only reported a much better running motorcycle but a much cooler running motorcycle. The addition of the pipes likely made for a much better looking and sounding motorcycle as well.

The Stage 1 kit will bring your motorcycle back down to a more normal heat range, at least normal for an air cooled Harley Davidson. The reflash will make for a richer mixture which will lower the operating temperature and make your Harley Davidson a much more enjoyable machine to ride.

Photo Credit: 1

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Does Your 2007 Harley Davidson Run Hot? - Here's the Cure

What Should You Look Out For When Getting Teen Auto Insurance?

2008-07-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

There are many things you should think about when you are purchasing teen auto insurance. Many things you should think about are paying annually, the type of car your teen is driving, adding a named driver, and more.

Finding cheap auto insurance can be difficult. So your teenager finally got their driver’s license and you now need to find them good insurance. There is a Pass Plus exam that is offered right now. The Pass Plus is an intensive driver’s training course that is aimed at teens and new drivers becoming better drivers. When a teenager passes this exam you will automatically receive a 35% discount on your auto insurance. This is a big deal because teenagers are very expensive to put on your insurance......

The car your teenager drives will make a big difference to what your premiums are for them also. You can find the lists on the Internet which cars are the most expensive to insure and which cars are the cheapest to insure. If the car is not on the highest stolen list then it will be cheaper to insure for your teen. The theory is that the cheaper the car is then the cheaper the teen auto insurance will be.

Although you are looking for cheap auto insurance you also need to realize you must have the appropriate coverage for your child. Statistics show that teenagers have more accidents than adults because they have less experience driving. This is a proven fact. If your child is in an accident you should be sure that your insurance will cover the damages your teen may have done to the other vehicle. You don’t want to have an insurance claim that you cannot afford to pay and your insurance didn’t cover. Be sure of all of the coverage you have opted for your child. Don’t be looking for only the cheapest because this might put you in a bad position.

If you have a teenage daughter then you are in a little bit of luck. It is proven that girls and women get in less accidents then teenage boys and men. Because of this statistic, females are cheaper to insure. However, just because of the gender doesn’t mean that the insurance will remain at a low rate.

Maintaining a low auto insurance rate for your teenager also means that they are driving without being pulled over for traffic violations. The first ticket is usually a freebie and your teenager will be sent to defensive driving school. That is of course if the violation is something simple like speeding. Your rates will begin to drop every six months as your child drives without any tickets on their license. If your teenager begins to get tickets and pulled over then your insurance rates will begin to increase and you may not be able to afford to insure them.

When you are looking for cheap auto insurance for your teenager you need to think about many things. Consider the type of car your teenager will be driving and be sure your teenager is driving responsibly not getting pulled over.

Photo Credit: 1, 2

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Kian Chew is a car insurance expert and owner of Car Insurance Hot Zone. Car Insurance Hot Zone helps those who wish to lower their car insurance cost for life by using a few basic rules and some strategies which few people know. You can instantly view the secrets by visiting http://www.CarInsuranceHotZone.com

What Should You Look Out For When Getting Teen Auto Insurance?

Wood Gas - The Future Biomass-Derived Fuel

2008-07-14T09:51:00.001-07:00

Let's assume, that you own a farm. You produce grain and have a lot of straw. You'd like to make your energy on site from the biomass you have available. You might plant your fields with rapeseed or canola and produce biodiesel. But you'd need to get methanol and lye first, since both of them can't be made there! And you can use your biodiesel only in compression ignition (diesel) engines. And what if you have an old genset powered by spark-ignition (gasoline / petrol) engine? I think I might have a solution for you...

You'll make use of a technology that's more than 200 years old. It's greatest development took place during World War II in 1940s in Europe. At that time most of petroleum-derived fuels were used by military and there was no fuel left for civilians. So they made their own fuel, the wood gas from wood or charcoal. In some countries 95% of civilian transport (trucks, buses, even fishermen's boats) were fueled with this gas......

What is this wood gas?

From chemical point of view it's a mixture of combustible carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4), dilluted with some water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2). This gas can be easily used for almost every internal combustion engine. Well... except for the most modern ones, they'd require to have their electronics to be modified.

How wood gas is made?

When you heat wood it is pyrolysed, i.e. all the tars vaporize. When you add some oxygen, the carbon bound within the wood cells is burnt to carbon dioxide. The vapors burn too. When those burnt gasses pass through a layer of very hot char, they are reduced to carbon monoxide and hydrogen. A small amount of methane is also produced. When the gas is cooled and cleaned of any tars and particles, it can be used in internal combustion engine, boiler or any other device!

What do you need to produce your own wood gas?

You'd need a device that's called gasifier. It consists of fuel hopper, gasifying chamber and a set of filters. It's very easy to build, the people during WWII made it out of old water heaters and stuff like that.

Is wood gas safe?

Well, if you don't inhale it, you'll be OK. Carbon monoxide is very toxic and poisonous, so caution is required when using wood gas. From the engine point of view, if it's clean, it's safe. The tars might condense inside the engine, for example on valves, which might cause the engine to fail. The particles would probably destroy the contact surfaces on pistons and cylinders. If the gas is too hot the engine will not work (hot gas is diluted and has small energy content per unit volume), but it will not harm it.

Any drawbacks?

One that's worth mentioning. Petrol engines will suffer 1/3 power loss -- the wood gas does have small heating value. Diesel engines will not suffer such power loss, since they work on stratified mixtures and because of that you can introduce more wood gas to recover the power loss. You'd need to leave some small amount of diesel to be injected to the cylinders to ignite the wood gas.

Interested?

One liter of petrol / gasoline can be replaced with 2.5 - 4 kg (5.5 - 9 lbs) of wood. How cool is that!

Photo Credit: 1

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Krzysztof Lis is MSc of mechanical engineering, graduated on october 2007, and lives in Poland. For 5 years he owns a site on biofuels (especially biodiesel and wood gas) and other alternative energy sources. He started translating this site to english http://alternative-car-fuels.com.

Wood Gas - The Future Biomass-Derived Fuel

Get Paid To Drive Your Car

2008-07-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

You may have heard rumors that it's possible to get paid to drive your car, or in some cases, get a car to use for free. While participation is limited and luck is needed along with living in the right place for a particular campaign, it is possible to get paid to have your car (or a car given to you) turned into a moving advertisement. If you drive 800 miles or more a month along heavily populated routes in your normal driving habits, you may want to check out the companies that offer car wraps.

The concept is fairly simple. Advertising space on billboards along busy roads and highways is limited and in some places not allowed at all. It's possible, however, to reach many of those people another way. Companies advertise on the outside of cars to reach those same people. The problem is that purchasing an entire fleet of cars for an advertising campaign can be overly expensive, so a solution was developed......

Instead of purchasing their own cars, companies will sometimes "rent" space on individual private citizen's cars. In return for letting a company "wrap" your car with their advertisement, they will pay you a monthly fee. The fees can be as high as $400 a month for a full car wrap and lesser amounts for a partial car wrap or a window wrap.

Another option that some of these companies offer in place of car wraps is giving you a free car with advertisements already on it. You usually don't get paid in this deal or get to choose the type of car provided, but you do receive free use of the car for the period of the campaign. Your only costs are gas and insurance meaning that you are getting transportation at a fraction of the cost of owning your own car. There are some rare cases when you can get paid when receiving a free car. Some companies will pay you to drive the free cars along certain, specified routes each day.

So what is the catch? The main one is there are far more drivers wanting the positions than advertising campaigns available. If you don't drive a lot of miles or live in a highly populated area (large college campuses seem to be an ideal location) where the advertisement will be seen by a population the advertisers crave, your chances of being chosen are slim. Most companies require you to drive a minimum of 800 miles a month. Not driving enough miles can negate the contract and most companies utilize global positioning systems (GPS) in your car to track the miles and places you go each month.

Most programs require you to be 18 years of age, have a clean driving record and your own auto insurance. Traffic violations will in most cases prohibit you from being considered. Contracts vary in length and amount paid depending on the type of advertising in the campaign involved. Most companies don't let you pick the advertiser, but will let you bow out if the advertiser goes against your moral values (cigarettes, alcohol and sex).

With the concept there are a growing number of websites that don't actually offer the service of car wrapping, but claim to be a data base for advertisers to find people willing to advertise on their cars. Many offer free sign up, but then encourage you to purchase a "premium package" that is supposed to move your name higher up on the list. The fact is that you are very unlikely to be picked from these services so it isn't worth the time (and definitely not the money) signing up with them.

While the chances of being picked are slim, they are better than playing the lottery. If you meet the requirements and live in an area you believe would be desirable to advertisers, it could be worth the 15 to 30 minutes it takes to fill out the online forms. If you are lucky and do get picked, you will significantly reduce your driving expenses with little effort on your part.

Photo Credit: http://trafficz.com

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Author: Jeffrey Strain has published hundreds of money saving articles. You can read more about auto wraps at http://www.paidtodriveautowrap.com

Get Paid To Drive Your Car

About Your Vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

2008-07-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

As you very well may know, your vehicle is identified by a unique number found on your automobile's dash, windshield, and various other parts. But have you ever given thought as to what these numbers are actually used for? Just what purpose does this number serve? In fact, your car's VIN is used in several very important ways.

What is a VIN?

Every vehicle that is manufactured is given a unique identifying number, referred to as a Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN. This series of 17 alpha-numeric characters is basically your car's automotive fingerprint. It is what distinguishes your particular automobile from all the others, and provides a form of identification that is used throughout the lifetime of your auto, from the factory to the scrap yard......

The VIN is used to track everything related to that automobile, including insurance coverage, warranty claims, thefts, recalls, and registrations. Without the VIN, there would be no effective way to track all of this information.

History of the VIN

The roots of this coding and tracking system can be traced back to the mid 1950's. It is then that Detroit automobile manufacturers began stamping and casting identification numbers into cars and their independent parts. This practice began in an effort to accurately describe vehicles as they began to be produced on a large scale.

In the early 1980's the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration effectively required all automobile manufacturers to provide a 17 digit identification number for every auto produced. This resulted in the modern 17 character VIN in which we are familiar with today, giving every individual vehicle a unique "fingerprint".

VIN Meaning

The VIN on your vehicle is not just a random set of characters, nor are VINs simply sequential. Rather, each individual digit of the VIN has a specific purpose. For example, the first character of the VIN identifies which country the car was manufactured in. If the means of transportation were produced in the United States, the first digit would be a 1 or 4. Japanese cars' VINs begin with a J, Korea with a K, Germany with a G, and so on.

The second character of the VIN identifies the manufacturer. As with the manufacturing country, each manufacturer has a specific character symbolizing it. Chevrolet uses a 1, Chrysler-C, Ford-F, General Motors-G, and Pontiac is identified by a 2 or 5, etc.

The third digit refers to the vehicle type or manufacturing division, and digits 4-8 are known as the Vehicle Descriptor Section, or VDS. This section describes individual attributes of the auto, such as body style, engine type, model, etc.

Each of the 17 VIN characters describes yet another aspect of the automobile it is found on. It is these codes that provide the vehicle identification number, giving your car, truck, motorcycle, or moped its own unique fingerprint.

Photo Credit: http://www.windowsticker.us

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Author: Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent of Heat Reward. The auto theft prevention program provides help to eliminate auto theft throughout Virginia. For more information on their Auto Theft Prevention please visit their website.

About Your Vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

BMW 1 Series Coupe-Convertible Review

2008-07-09T05:13:00.000-07:00

We're on the Road in the 2008 BMW 1 Series

The GOOD: The stellar driving experience you've come to know and love behind the wheel of a BMW continues in this latest outing - an entry level sports coupe (or convertible) that starts under 30k! Yep, we said BMW and Less than $30,000 to get in to a new one that drives every bit like BMW, solid!

The BAD: You wouldn't expect legroom in the back for adults in this vehicle, and you won't find it. Forget about cargo space as well, but that's not what this vehicle is about. What it is about: style and performance, where you'll find it excelling!

Overall: If you're looking for a vehicle that excels in it's own identity, you'd be hard pressed to find one that's more adept at being itself than this new 'entry level' sports coupe (or convertible) from BMW.

We GO on the Road in the 2008 BMW 1 Series......

You got peanut butter in my chocolate, you got chocolate in my peanut butter - two great things, that go great together. The same is true of 'entry level' and 'BMW'. Who would have thought you'd ever see them together, but alas, the words fit solidly as does this stellar performing sports coupe (or convertible) from BMW engineers in Germany.

It's back to the future for the 1 Series, which is built on BMW's classic 2002 coupe. BMW's latest entry in the market attracts second glances, and some nods as drivers in other BMW's and other cars drive by and check out the new lines. A nice new pronounced shoulder line in the 1 series! The styling is unique whether you opt for the coupe or convertible, while still holding true (overall) to BMW's classic styling. The shoulder line runs parallel to the road from the hood to the trunk lid and it makes the car look like it could ride up onto a boat dock! Very nice lines!

Other highlights (some optional) include: stellar powertrain options, Boston Leather seating engineered to stay cooler, the adaptive tail lamps, the quick opening (and closing) convertible (at speeds of up to 25 mph); a connected driving experience you'd expect; and a deep growl from the powertrain (the devils bees) that are unleased at 1400 rpm all the way up, Driving excitement is very much a part of this new 1-Series from BMW. If you like the convertible, you'll probably like the cool moonlight black soft top, which is interwoven with shiny metallic fibers and gives off a shimmery silver light. For those more reserved, of course the top is also available in taupe or black.

Whether you opt for the coupe or convertible; you'll choose from two transmission and powertrain options. The 128i offers BMW's 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline six-cylinder engine with 200-lb feet of torque. The 128i features Valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum / magnesium cylinder block construction-core elements of BMW's EfficientDynamics.

The 135i ups the anti with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six cylinder, that produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. According to BMW the 135i coupe jumps from 0 - 62mph in 5.3 seconds. Believe! Worth noting for the speed racers among you, top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph - good luck finding a safe strip of land to test that. We should provide a legal disclaimer here: We would not encourage anyone to drive at such a speed (if you're going to anyway, can we catch a ride?).

A six speed manual transmission comes standard, while the six-speed automatic with manual shift control is a worthy upgrade. Paddle shifting can be a nice change of pace on your next weekend retreat in the mountains.

It's difficult to find a vehicle to compare side by side with this rear-wheel drive coupe (or convertible). The 1 Series may have a limited audience waiting to take advantage of this entry level two door BMW, but those that accept the keys will enjoy stellar sharp handling, an agile responsive sports car that will have you once again - 1/w the road. It's easy to enjoy the driving experience behind the wheel of BMW's 1 series and though we searched for shortcomings, other than limited space (a hurdle when you're building a small car!), we found nothing that made this car less BMW. Though it's ture, you can buy a 1 series for less than 30k (to start), by the time you equip it, you easily find yourself in the mid to high 30s, a range that might have you looking to the 3 series, but keep your eye on the 1, it does not disappoint!

SAFETY

The 2008 BMW 1 Series comes with a full compliment of standard safety features, like: four standard airbags (multi-stage); antilock disc brakes (with brake drying and standby feature); seats that are 'crash optimized' with specially padded headrests and backrests; dynamic traction control and stability control (which can be disabled); the convertible features two pop up rollover bars (which deploy in a fraction of a second from behind the rear headrests); Additional rollover protection is offered by the stability of the A pillar and windshield frame.

Driving Impressions

We kept expecting to find something that made this 1 series, less of a BMW. Maybe handling, fit and finish, we looked and listened then looked again, for anything which makes this entry level BMW, less of a BMW than it's older siblings. Get in this 1 Series and you'll find it to be every inch BMW, from the razor sharp handling that puts you in touch with the road, to the fit and finish, this Series will no doubt carve out it's place in this new niche segment.

Standard equipment on the 128i includes: 17-inch alloys; automatic headlights; sunroof (coupe); rain-sensing wipers; a tilt-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel and 10-speaker stereo with CD player and an aux audio input jack; cruise control; leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, and the 128i convertible adds the power-operated soft top (up or down in 22 seconds, totally automatic) and an upgraded climate control system.

Standard equipment on the 135i includes: a more powerful engine, a sport tuned suspension, xenon adaptive headlights; 18-inch wheels.

Options for the 1 Series convertible include the Moonlight Black soft top, which has shiny metallic fibers (looks metallic in the sun or moon light); optional leather upholstery features BMW's exclusive sun-reflective pigments which can lower the surface temperature by 20-degrees.

The Way You Feel inside

When you get into a BMW, you immediately notice the build quality. The rule: The vehicle is solid. The 1 series is no exception. Though the 1 Series is a four seater, the rear seats are not good for adults, except on the occasional short ride. That said, we wouldn't look to this vehicle for rear space. Eyes in the Front (cabin) where driver and passenger are greeted with heated seats, his and her climate control; a unique, large storage bag that extends into the passenger compartment (from the trunk) and can accommodate two snow boards or a golf bag without soiling the interior upholstery (pretty cool); front engine, rear wheel drive delivers stellar traction and great control, but of course limits seating. The iDrive system remains a challenge for most to learn and use. There's a great deal to enjoy inside this new 1 series BMW, Coupe or Convertible!

By The Numbers

2008 1 Series Coupe - 3.0-liter I6 Manual/Auto - RWD

128i $28,600

135i (turbo) $34,900

2008 1 Series Convertible - 3.0-liter I6 Manual/Auto - RWD

128i $33,100

135i (turbo) $39,100.

Photo Credit: 1

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Author: Brian LeBow, is the original author of this new car review. More information about LeBow Media, LLC is online at http://www.LeBowMedia.com and our automotive review site is online at http://www.GoontheRoad.com

BMW 1 Series Coupe-Convertible Review

Importance of Electric Car Parts in Hybrid car

2008-07-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

Electric cars are getting commonplace day by day thanks to the fact that they have become very efficient to run and very cheap to maintain but just like any other vehicle, electric cars also suffer the wear and tear of time and the electric car parts need to be replaced and repaired. This means that people are on regular hunt for electric car parts needed for repair and replacement work. Most of the electric car manufacturers and electric car kit makers also sell high quality electric car parts which are easily available now in markets because of increasing demands and improving supply streams.

Electric car parts are generally of two types firstly those which are meant for electric conversion kits and secondly those meant for factory made electric car models. In fact battery is one of the most sought after electric car part. Both types of products are easily available provided you look for them in the right places. Generally the quality is very good but if someone sells you electric car parts like battery at prices too good to be true, it’s the best option to stay clear of these products as they may either be totally substandard or their quality must be subject to suspicion......

The electric car parts for factory made electric cars are generally available from the original equipment manufacturers. These products go through a number of hard quality checks and also certified by many quality assurance companies. If brought from an authorized dealer, the genuineness of the electric car part is almost every time guaranteed. These kinds of electric car parts may be made using proprietary technology and may not be available in open market from other manufacturers, thus if the original equipment manufacturer stops making the product, these kinds of electric car parts may be very hard to find.

The other kind of electric car parts are those meant for vehicles using an electric car kit. Unlike the electric car parts meant for factory made cars, these kind of electric car parts are generally available from a bunch of makers unless its a specific part of the car kit itself in which case this kind of a part may only be available from the car's electric kit maker. Being available in the open market from a number of manufacturers, these kind of electric car parts are generally easy to find but you must exercise caution and discretion while spending your money because the quality of the product is not something worth taking any risk.

It must be kept in mind that with proper market research and consultation of experts any one can buy an electric car part, what needs to be kept under consideration is that the quality of the product should not be compromised for a lower price and the buyer should always make every effort to make an informed decision.

Photo: http://www.inhabitat.com

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Author: Author is automobile engineer. Visit hybrid car information to get latest information on gas and electric hybrid car

Importance of Electric Car Parts in Hybrid car

Truck Performance 101 - A Beginner's Guide

2008-06-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

Today, the aftermarket gives truck owners more performance options than ever before. However, all the new truck performance products and gizmos can be a little hard to sort through. What you need for your specific truck's performance will depend on what type of truck you have and what you use it for.

What is performance? Basically, it is the word used to describe speed, fuel consumption rate and towing ability. Performance is primarily measured in terms of horsepower (HP) and Torque.

Horsepower, or HP, is by definition, the power of an engine in comparison to horses. For example, a truck with 100 horsepower is as fast as 100 horses all rolled into one. Horsepower is often indicative of a truck’s top speed. Horsepower does not necessarily mean that a truck is fast from a standing start (see torque) but instead it is often indicative of the speed attainable by a particular truck. This being said other factors such as weight and grade will impact the final speed achieved. In more scientific terms, HP is the common measurement when rating an engine's power. One horsepower equals 500 ft-lbs. per second, which is basically the power needed to lift 550 pounds one foot off the ground in exactly one second or the power needed to lift 33,000 pounds one foot off the ground in exactly one minute......

Torque refers to a truck’s ability to generate pick up. Torque is one of the most important factors at the beginning of any non-rolling start. It is the ability of the truck to send power to the wheels and turn them - moving the entire truck forward. The dictionary defines it as: “The moment of a force; the measure of a force's tendency to produce torsion and rotation about an axis…”. The most important thing to remember is that torque is what gets the truck rolling and is very important in towing.

The basics of performance, of course, center on your engine. Think of your engine as basically a big air pump. It breathes air in through the air intake and breathes it out through the exhaust. The easier your engine can breathe the more performance it will deliver. The stock engine you received from the factory comes with OEM air induction and exhaust. Modifying these two areas is relatively easy and can deliver significant increases in both HP and torque. One other primary factor affecting your performance is the engines computer. The stock OEM computer your truck came with is set to a “safe mode” to protect the truck against virtually any driver error…e.g., redlining. Although these settings are meant to protect the truck, they can impede performance significantly. Tweaking your truck’s computer can significantly increase HP and torque while still providing safety to the engine. We’ll look at each of these three performance enhancements below.

Air Intake

The air intake primarily consists of your vehicle’s air filter. Stock air filters are made of pleated paper. The problem with pleated paper is it often tends to become clogged which greatly reduces the airflow. Fragments of paper are ingested or sucked into the intake system creating a hole for gritty contaminants to enter the engine. In addition, these filters have to be replaced often to maintain a basic level of performance. Aftermarket filters are made of cotton gauze or engineered foam. These filters, made by companies like K&N, Airaid, Green Filter and True Flow significantly increase the flow of air through the filter. In addition, these filters defend against dirt at twice the rate or more than their paper counterparts and most come with a lifetime warranty…that’s one filter for the life of your vehicle. Installation of these filters is super easy…just replace your existing factory air filter.

The second factor effecting air intake is the temperature of the air coming into the engine. You’ve probably noticed that your truck runs better on cold days. That is because the air is denser and denser air allows more combustion when mixed with fuel and ignited. Stronger combustion means more power to move your piston in the cylinder. Aftermarket companies…many of the same mentioned above…have developed systems called “Cold Air Intakes”, that move the point of air intake from the top of your engine, which is normally very hot, to a point outside the engine. The result is that the air being sucked into your engine is much cooler than it would be using the normal air filter location. Cold air intakes require a little more handyman skills that just replacing a filter. However, they can be installed easily by anyone that has basic tools.

Exhaust Systems

Exhaust is the “exhale” to your engines lungs. The more twists and turns in the exhaust, the less your vehicle can breathe easily. Exhaust systems come with three primary elements…the muffler, exhaust pipes and muffler tips. The first two are the main ingredients that effect HP and torque. OEM factory exhausts are well made, but not designed to deliver maximum performance. Aftermarket systems from companies like Magnaflow, Banks and Gibson are engineered specifically for each truck and are designed to get the most out of your vehicle. In addition to more power, these systems also deliver an enviable “roar” that will let others know you have tricked out your truck. I do not recommend installing an exhaust system unless you are a true gear head and are prepared for cutting and welding. Although most muffler shops do not carry these products, they will be glad to install them for you.

Computer Chips and Programmers

Your truck’s computer is technically referred to by gear heads as the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU that controls the engine is very complicated. OEM's program them to satisfy emissions requirements, meet EPA fuel economy requirements and protect the engine against abuse. The computer does this by controlling many aspects of the vehicles performance, but primarily controls the ignition, fuel injection and spark time. As mentioned above, the OEM’s set the default value of the ECU to an “ultra-safe” mode to insure adherence to government guidelines and to protect the engine from abusive driving. Aftermarket companies like Hypertech, Edge, Unichip and Superchips manufacturer chips and programmers that will either plug into your ECU or programmers that will alter the factory settings. Chip manufacturers set the products for each specific vehicle to a default performance setting. Programmer manufacturers allow more versatility in that they allow custom modifications to compensate for other performance add-ons like cold air kits and exhaust systems. These systems are relatively easy to install by anyone that has a little mechanical knowledge.

In conclusion, you can significantly increase your HP and Speed by just making these basic changes to your truck. Some all-in-one kits can deliver up to a 40% increase in overall performance. Finally, contrary to rumor, none of these products will void the warranty of your truck. There is a federal law called the “Magnuson Moss Warranty Act” that prevents automobile manufacturers from voiding warranties from the addition of aftermarket products. These are just a few of the many performance products available from the aftermarket.

Photo: http://motortrend.com, http://www.tbyrne.com, http://www.paramount-performance.com

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Truck Performance 101 - A Beginner's Guide

Top Truck and SUV Accessories

2008-06-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

If you own a pickup truck or SUV chances are your vehicle looks quite a bit different than from the day that you bought it home from the dealership. I'm not talking about wear and tear, scratches or dings, or any other thing that may have happened to it over the course of time. Rather, I am suggesting that you have customized it to look the way you want it to look. Let's take a peek at some popular accessories on the market for pickups as well as for SUVs.

There are literally hundreds of after market parts and accessories available for trucks and SUVs. The following list is an alphabetical example [well, almost] of add-ons for your consideration:.....

Air Filter - Reusable air filters are growing in popularity as motorists see both the performance and environmental benefits of using one.

Bed Mats - Scratches and stains are a thing of the past with a properly installed bed mat on any pickup truck.

Car Bras - Also known as hood protectors, many truck and SUV owners are opting for this important accessory to keep their vehicles free from flying debris as well as to give their vehicle a custom look.

Dog Box - Even poochie needs his place. Especially a great idea for protecting your GMC Yukon from pet hair and dander.

Engine Module - Looking for more power? An engine module will allow your truck or SUV to obtain higher horsepower and acceleration.

Fender Flares - Going for a custom look? If so, fender flares are the way to go and they offer additional coverage for the fender area too.

Grille Guard - Especially helpful if you have to round up cattle or want to offer extra special protection to your front end.

Hitch - Great for towing!

Intake Tube - More air for your engine, means more power.

Jumper Cables - You never know...

Knock Sensor - Not really an accessory, but listed because I needed a "K" to complete the example.

Liquid Tank - When you just have to keep it all cool...

Mud Flaps - A cool as well as useful accessory to keep your wheels looking great.

Nerf Bars - Tubular free form bumpers beat out stock bumpers every time.

Overhead Storage - Hey, you have to store your firearms somewhere, don't you?

Performance Chip - A great way to crank out more horsepower and thrust.

Q - Not much use for this letter, is there?

Running Boards - Sometimes you need something more than a pole vault to enter your 4 x 4.

Seat Covers - Custom fitted seat covers can protect your seats from rips, tears, and stains.

Tailgate Door - Remove the door and go with the net. Keeps everything in its place.

Umbrella - You'll need one to get from your truck to your home.

Vent Visor - Keeps the water from drenching you while exiting your GMC Suburban.

Winch - You just never know when you'll get stuck...

X+Y+Z - Okay, close enough. They don't name hurricanes with these letters, so why should accessories be any different?

If you were to fully accessorize your truck or SUV with all of these parts you would pay thousands of dollars for the privilege. Your vehicle would also look overdone too! Of course, it would be better for you to be selective and choose those accessories that mean the most to you. Shop an online wholesaler of automobile parts and accessories for the best prices too.

Photo: http://autoaccessories4less.com

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Top Truck and SUV Accessories

Buy a Cheap Smart Car and Make a Smart Purchase

2008-06-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Smart cars are fast becoming more popular over the last 12 months. Originally considered a novelty, the smart car is on the rise as a modern fuel efficient and cheap motoring alternative.

Cheap smart cars are now an excellent way to avoid the high cost of motoring.

You may already be familiar with smart cars. A tiny four wheeled vehicle no more than about half the length of a normal car. The smart car has a distinctive shape and look and you may well have seen them in the street.

If not you'll recognize a smart car when you do see it. The most distinctive feature of the car, apart from the fact that the smart car is extremely short, is the steep windshield sloping down to the front of the car, with the front bumper, if you could call it that, right in front of the front wheels......

The original intention of the smart car was to be of use as a vehicle that avoided the parking headaches of larger cars by reason of the fact that it was so short it could park in parking spots so small that not much other than a motorcycle could park there. Not only that but it was also so small that it could park nose or tail in to the kerb without the other end of the car poking out into the traffic and causing a traffic hazard.

It was intended that two smart cars could park in a space which would normally be taken by one regular car, or even 3 smart cars could park in the space occupied by a large vehicle.

The smart car was the result of a joint venture between Daimler Benz the car manufacturer and Swatch the Swiss watch manufacturer. The smart cars were manufactured in a purpose built factory in France which as established in 1994 and so have been around for some time. It is said that almost 1 million smart cars have been sold in over 25 countries.

In early 2008 smart cars became available in the US, and people started to realize that a cheap smart car was a smart motoring purchase.

Smart cars are cheap compared to average vehicles, and have many advantages over many vehicles as well. And of course they also have disadvantages. They take only 2 people, and are extremely small so it isn't practical to spend a day shopping and expect to put your new television in the back of the car.

That being said there are some good reasons to buy a cheap smart car, particularly for city dwellers. As said they are cheap to buy and cheap to operate. They have a gasoline motor but because of the small size and weight of the car don't eat as much fuel as just about any other car. They are easy to park and easy to house even in the smallest garage. They have achieved surprisingly good results in safety crash tests.

For the canny buyer there are good reasons to buy a cheap smart car. There are small numbers of used smart cars on the market and a second hand smart car is a good way to maximise your savings from a purchase of a smart car. There are a number of places where you can pick up a bargain on a used smart car online if you know where to look.

So if the price of gas is becoming an issue for you and you'd like to keep driving but at a much reduced cost then consider a cheap smart car. It's a smart purchase and may well keep you on the road when others can no longer afford gas.

Photo Credit: http://boston.com

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Buy a Cheap Smart Car and Make a Smart Purchase

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Extended Review

2008-06-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

Handling and Performance

When wanting power, the delivery of the power in a Highlander hybrid is pretty fast, near instantaneous, and the actual performance level of the vehicle is pretty close to being the best of any SUV on the market, regardless of hybrid or conventional engines. The power train in the Highlander is much closer to the Lexus RX 400h's, and the V6 engine has been modified to assist air conditioning and power steering, as well as being dual-cam. Both of the engines, electric and gas-powered together, give a combined horsepower of 167, as well as giving 247 lb-ft torque.

As for the gasoline engine itself, it is 3.3-liter V6, which is found in another one of Toyota's luxury vehicles, the RX 330. This particular engine is fantastic, being able to produce a horsepower of up to 268, and when it is given support by the two electric motors, it's only more impressive. As for the electric motor in front with the gasoline engine, the two together are definitely able to handle any driving conditions. The rear electrical motors are only used in the event that the front wheels may begin to lose traction or helping the acceleration achieve full-throttle.......

As for the gasoline engine, it has the same feature as many hybrids to simply turn off whenever the Hybrid is decelerating or stopping, so that the electric motor can take over.

The hybrid can reach 60 mph in about 8 seconds, and that is certainly considerably faster than a conventional Highlander. Not to forget, though, the Highlander only has to consume around the same amount of gas as a compact sedan.

As for the handling, the vehicle is tight and composed. With the 300 lbs of extra weight added by the electric motor in back, the Highlander settles on the ground much better than others. Other than that, the strut suspension, of the MacPherson variety, is along the front stabilizer bars and wit rear, making the vehicle much easier to put on rough roads.

Gas Mileage and the Green Factor

Toyota Motor Corporation has long focused on this move towards being eco-friendly, and so it is no shock that the Toyota Highlander is another in a long line of Econ and EV driving vehicles. The green quality of this vehicle is impossible to ignore, as this is a vehicle that actually limits what exactly the throttle can do in order to secure a more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly car. While that makes it more difficult for the engine to truly reach its full capacity, the EV mode still makes the vehicle more efficient.

The US EPA had a rating of 27 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg in highway driving, which is amazing in comparison to other hybrid sedans on the market, much less SUVs. In looking at the ratings, it is quite obvious that because the electric motor operates so often while driving in city conditions, the mileage is much better.

Finally, the Highlander is a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle, also known as an SULEV. This particular SUV is fairly straightforward, as the toxins and harmful emissions from this particular vehicle are even less than someone smoking a cigar. It sounds amazing, but it is true, as there is 80% less pollution from the Highlander than from a conventional, average-sized SUV. As a result, this vehicle is the perfect suburban vehicle.

Additional Features

Already previously mentioned, the Highlander is the only SUV currently on the market that actively offers a third-row seat. As opposed to the RX 400h or Ford's Escape hybrid, even the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, this vehicle is still hands down better than the competition for room.

As for safety features, the air-bags are strategically placed, as well as there being a reinforced body and an electronic brake force distribution. The brake systems are anti-lock, as well as there being a star safety system. There are also daytime running lights, helpful in the event that there is fog or other inclement weather. Finally, there is a theft-deterrent system in place that also causes an immobilization of the engine.

The warranty from Toyota is not as spectacular as the vehicle itself, mainly because it only covers the first 3 years, or for mileage up to 36,000 mi. The actual warranty for the power train is 60 months, or, of course, 60,000 miles, and that isn't quite as long as some of the other warranties Toyota offers for vehicles.

Although, given all of what has been talked about, the Highlander is a pretty amazing vehicle overall. The features and the description of the exterior are definitely in support of the opinion that this vehicle is the best hybrid SUV on the market now. When you're someone who doesn't normally like to buy SUVs, but you have a concern for the environment and may need to get an SUV, this is definitely the car for you.

Photo: http://www.toyota.com/highlander/

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Author: You can check out more hybrid car reviews at hybridcarchat.com. Join the hybrid forums and receive a free guide to increasing your gas mileage.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Extended Review

2009 Camaro - A Ghost - Or a Real Contender

2008-06-26T05:47:00.000-07:00

There are a number of things that I like about the 2009 camaro, But will it pick up where the first generation camaro left off, or will it build a legacy all it's own, I think it's going to be somewhere in between, I don't see it raising eyebrows like the first generation camaro did.

It has it's good points, and it's bad points, I'm going to start with the good points about it, first of all Chevrolet has done a great job in the engine area of the car, using the best of new technology to build horsepower, and keeping it low in the emissions area, the 2009 camaro is a contender in this area......

The LS6 engine putting out a respectable 400 HP is a good place to start with the camaro, and the idea of optioning a six speed standard transmission doesn't hurt either, for a real muscle car freak like me a standard transmission is a must, if for nothing else, the added fun factor of driving the car.

The rear end of the car is reminiscent of the 1969 camaro, a good place to get ideas for the new camaro, but they could have used a few more ideas for the 1969 model, the 2009 camaro has a true muscle car look, with it's low slung stance, and body lines that seem to make the car look wider then it is.

The front end of the 2009 camaro could use a bit of work, it look to much like a foreign car, and not enough like an American muscle car, all you need to do is look at the new Dodge challenger to see what a true melting of modern, and classic should be, they have done it better then anybody.

The front of the camaro needs to be taller in the grille area of the car, and it should look more muscular, and less sports car in the front, it should retain the idea of a 1969 camaro in the front also, and it can be done, just think a little more like a camaro person, and less like a modern art person.

The interior of the 2009 camaro could not be more perfect, they have combined just enough of the modern, with just the right amount of the first generation camaro look, the center console and dash gauges of the car are nothing short of awesome, the work on the interior is beautiful as it can be.

The interior is very sexy, a long with being totally functional, it has the feel of an air craft cockpit a long look and idea of a muscle car of the 1960's, as I have said above, it could not be more perfect of a design then it is.

It could go either way, we'll see what the progression of the camaro brings over the years, with just a few small changes it could be a top contender for one of the best new muscle cars on the market, all Chevrolet need to do is pay a bit more attention to the people buying the car, and they will have the full idea.

It has just enough of the old to get my vote to be a real contender for the gold, it could use a few more engine options, the rear quarter panels are perfect also, but a little work on the tail lights wouldn't hurt the 2009 camaro, make them a little less import looking, and a little more muscle car.

Photo: http://www.musclecardrive.com

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Author: Muscle Car Restoration, Muscle Cars For Sale
I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is.

2009 Camaro - A Ghost - Or a Real Contender

Top 7 Best MPG Mopeds

2008-06-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

Are you looking to find the best mpg mopeds on the market? Are you wondering which are the best gas powered scooters? Would you like to conduct a gas scooter USA comparison, between available models - in order to know, which are the best mpg mopeds that might fit your needs perfectly?

Are you looking at purchasing a moped with a specific number of cc's, for example the best scooter 150cc gas moped that you can find? Here we hope to provide you with the Top 7 best mpg mopeds available right now on the market today, in order to help you come to making a more informed purchase.

We provide specific details on the best mpg mopeds and the best gas powered scooters, your very own gas scooter USA comparison between models, exploring their individual strengths and further details about each moped in a very easy to read and perfectly clear, understandable format!......

Right, let's get started!

1/ First off the block for your best mpg mopeds is the:

Retro Scooter 150cc RR150RT RoadRunner i-Scooter.

The 2007 150cc Retro vespa style Scooter is an awesome looking gas powered moped, it's fast, reliable and has plenty of legroom for those of you who are somewhat taller.

This retro scooter is an i-Scooter; it comes with a good sized rear trunk to put whatever you need to into it, an alarm system with remote, disk lock anti-theft and comes with a scooter cover. This scooter is low maintenance. Returning 73 miles to the gallon, it has a 1.4 gallon gas tank which will give you a good range. It's air cooled, 1 cylinder, 4 stroke, 2 valves and maximum speed is 60mph. Transmission is continuously variable and is fully automatic. Fuel is Premium 89 + octane only. Oil capacity and type: 0.9 liters / 15W/40 motorcycle grade. The oil change is done after the first 300km and thereafter every 1000km.

The weight of this i-Scooter is 89kg or 196lbs. It's maximum load is 145kg or 320 lbs. The total length is 191cm or 75". Seat height is 73cm or 29". Handlebar height is 93cm or 36". Comes in a range of colors. A great one for the category of best mpg mopeds returning as mentioned above an economical 73 miles to the gallon. This scooter is street legal in every state except California, be sure to check out local laws. If bought new, it comes with 24 months (2 years) power train parts only guarantee. New prices start around $1100 or thereabouts.

2/ Second up in the best mpg mopeds and best gas powered scooters top 7 is the:

50cc Speedster Scooter.

Returning a whopping 100 miles to the gallon plus, this is an ideal scooter for all your home errands around town. Achieving a respectable 40+ mph, this is the perfect city commuters bike. This is a reliable scooter. This is a reliable, quality scooter; it's fun to ride and road handling is superb, a very easy scooter to get used to surprisingly quickly. Saves a lot on gas this one! - This is a very, very economical method of transportation!

It's power comes from a 49.5cc air cooled, 1 cylinder, 4 stroke, 2 valves engine which is pretty quiet too. Transmission is continuously variable and is fully automatic. A touch over a 200 mile range on one tank of fuel (2 gallons capacity). Gas - Premium 89 + octane only. Brakes front and rear. The maximum load of the 50cc Speedster Scooter is 145kg / 320lbs. The toal length is 167cm / 69". Seat height is 75cm / 30" and the handlebar height is 105cm or 41 inches. An excellent nippy little scooter which qualifies for our top 7 best mpg mopeds of choice. It is street legal in all states except California, check local laws first and comes with a power trains guarantee of 12 months (1 year).

This model will cost you brand new about $900. How long before these best gas powered scooters pay for themselves and start earning You money?!

3/ Next up in the Third pole position is the:

Road Queen 250cc iScooter by RoadRunner

This is truly one of the best mpg mopeds that you can buy, another qualifier for our top 7 ratings of best gas powered scooters. If a gas scooter USA comparison needs to be made, this choice could be high up on your list!

The manufacturer is: RoadRunner.

Boasting a top speed of 75-80mph and returning around 60 miles to the gallon this is a great fun scooter / moped to ride! Comes in a range of awesome eye catching colors, it is very stylish too with it's sleek, aerodynamic design. These best mpg mopeds are perfect for so many uses, whether commuting to work on a daily basis or even for those slightly longer trips on the road. It will give you a smooth ride with good acceleration.

The engine type is water cooled, 1 cylinder, 4 stroke, 2 valves. Transmission is continuously variable and fully automatic. Fuel type is Premium 89 + octane only. The maximum load is 180kg or 400lbs. It's total length 222cm or 87 inches. Seat height is 73cm or 29 inches. The handlebar height is 103cm or 40 inches.

This is one of the best mpg mopeds that you can get for the money, saving you not only lots of money on gas but giving you a great stable and fully enjoyable ride experience also. Perfect for most adults. It comes with an alarm too. 24 months power train parts only guarantee and street legal for every state except CA, check local laws first.

Prices from close to $2000.

4/ Mid way through the range of best mpg mopeds and best gas powered scooters is the moped / scooter taking our 4th position on the starting grid of mopeds or scooters seriously worth looking at with a view to making a purchase and it is the:

Race Scooter 250cc 19HP - RR i-Scooter, manufactured by RoadRunner Scooters.

Prices for this lean, mean racing machine also start at an amazingly low $2000. With a top speed of 85mph this scooter really does take some beating supplied from it's 19HP engine. With this supremely quick scooter you need not balk at the idea of wasting money on gas, for it still will return for you, a very cool and surprisingly very high number of miles to the gallon.

This scooter is the epitome of stylish good looks and comes in a range of great awesome colors, something to suit everyone's individual tastes. Acceleration is smooth and very quick at picking up speed. Transmission is continuously variable and once again, fully automatic. The engine type is water cooled, 1 cylinder, 4 stroke, 2 valves. Very, very little vibration even at higher speeds. Great specification package. If you are wanting to know which moped is right for you, these best mpg mopeds are certainly worth your very serious consideration. Perfect for near everyone!

Prices start at an amazingly low price under $2000!

Well able to covey most adults in comfort and with ease even upon winding roads or hilly terrain. Loaded with features also which include:

MP3 player, Speakers, Over-Sized Trunk, Pre-Installed Alarm with Remote, Disk Lock and Waterproof Cover. What a great package!

Maximum load is 400lbs. Length is 77 inches total. Seat height 31 inches. Handlebar height 40 inches. Street legal in every state other than CA, check your local laws first and comes with a 24 months, 2 years guarantee for the power train parts only.

An awesome scooter - perfect for someone like you!

Heading towards the back of the grid now, but certainly not least are our final 3 best mpg mopeds and best gas powered scooters. These final three choices will complete our first part gas scooter USA comparison review and best advice, buying tips guide.

In fifth place then, number:

5/ Engine rip roaring to go in the line up of the top 7 best mpg mopeds in fifth position (remember, these are presented to you in no particular order), is the:

150cc Racer Scooter by TANK.

A well balanced and perfectly well behaved scooter returning a good top end speed of 65mph and returning just for you, a quite awesome and astonishing 90 miles to the gallon. Just three dollars of gas in this scooter will take you far. Perfect for light shopping trips or quick errands around your city. Never get stuck in traffic again! Not only will you save money on gas but you will save time too, which means that you can either make even more money from each day or spend the valuable time saved with your family and friends, doing what is more important to you, rather than sitting in a traffic jam wasting gas and time getting frustrated.

These best mpg mopeds, the 150cc Racer Scooter by TANK is a great all round model to choose for the average user. Acceleration is smooth, the road handling is very good, the ride stable, very little vibration, great rider comfort, just perfect for breezing around on these hot summer days and nights. This scooter is not only very well balanced and designed, it is very low maintenance and comes at a very economical best deal price new at around $1,250 - now that's what I call a bargain!

Capable of carrying most adults in comfort, the bike comes with extra accessories too.

Engine is Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, 149.7CC 8.84 HP. Air cooled. Electric or ignition start. Transmission is automatic clutchless centrifugal belt drive. Front brake is hydraulic disc brake with ABS and the rear braking system is a hydraulic disc brake. Wheel base 53". Seat height 30". Ground clearance 6". Warranty is 1 year engine and drive train parts only. Alarm and remote control are included.

At around $1,250 this moped / scooter is a steal and will pay for itself in no time at all!

Highway legal in CA and most other states - Check local law. Motorcycle license required in most states.

6/ Second to last in our recommendations in sixth place for the best mpg mopeds and best gas powered scooters is the:

Honda CT70 Replica - Street Legal Mini Bike 110cc

Not intended for highway use (although can be used on highways if you wish), check local laws (see below). This one is ideal for private estates, gated communities, RV and camping grounds, light trail use etc and returns a whopping and incredible 108 miles to the gallon! Certainly it's not going to set the world alight with any blisteringly hot world records for speed, nevertheless it will return for you 55 miles per hour and can easily convey all you big guys around with a degree of comfort.

Looks wise, it's not bad, in fact, some might call it pretty stylish in it's own inimitable way. With a 110cc 7.1hp engine, 4 stroke and manufactured by Lifan, reliability itself is assured for you.

Electric and kick start, 4 speed manual clutch, drum brakes, 7" ground clearance, it comes with a warranty of 1 year parts only engine & drive train - 30 days limited labor.

Street and highway legal in all States - Check local law. Not legal in California. A motorcycle license required in most States. A great little machine guaranteed to give you years of pleasure and use.

Cost just under $1000!!

Last but not least in our top 7 best mpg mopeds and best gas powered scooters is finally our number:

7/ And what a beautiful looking and totally awesome best mpg moped we have here, the one and only:

Lifan motorcycle Enduro Trail Bike 200cc.

Yours for just under $1,450. This is a proper full size dual purpose Enduro dirt bike. If you have been looking for a wickedly cool dual purpose bike to cruise around and go off road, then you need look no further, we've got your ultimate motor bike right here. This is an awesome, supreme, top quality motorcycle by Lifan. It has style, speed and complete and utter reliability. The Lifan 200 cubic centimeters 163FML-2 mono cylinder 16.1 HP motorcycle engine punches out plenty of power to the rear wheel making it not only quick but lots of fun too, to ride on or upon off road conditions. Top speed is a little over 65mph. And if you want to save on gas, this motorcycle is very fuel efficient, deliverly an astonishing 102MPG. Can you better that?! That's fantastic!

Engine is Single cylinder 4 Stroke, 196.9CC model 163FML-2. Maximum power is 16.1 HP at 8000 RPM. Max Torque 14.5 N.m at 6500 RPM. Electric and kick start. 5 speed manual clutch on the transmission. Chain drive. Steel frame. Hydraulic disc brake on the front, on the rear, drum brake. Seat height 29 inches. Ground clearance 8 inches minimum. A standard warranty: 6 months parts only engine & drive train - 30 days limited labor. Speed 60-70mph. Over 100 MPG. Highway legal in most states - Check local law. Motorcycle license required in most US states. Color choice is red or blue.

This concludes out top 7 best mpg mopeds article, which we hope has been useful to a good degree for you.

Remember, before taking to the highway, it is highly advised that you undertake some level of training first by fully qualified instructors, this will ensure your safety to a better degree and the safety of other road users too. Also remember that protective clothing is there to do just that, protect you - a safety motorcycle helmet is recommended at all times.

We hope that you have enjoyed our top 7 best mpg mopeds review guide to the best gas powered scooters, so that you can now make a more informed decision upon the gas scooter that will fit your needs perfectly.

Buying a gas powered scooter potentially will save you shed loads of cash and the savings made, particularly with today's very high gas prices, given time will be quite considerable.

When out on the road, whatever your mode of transport do please ride with care, concentration and consideration for others at all times!

Photo: http://www.evosales.com http://www.minitrail70.com

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Author: Mark P Andrews is the co-owner of UltimateMotorbikes.com http://www.ultimatemotorbikes.com/best-mpg-mopeds-best-gas-powered-scooters.htm providing access to some of the very best deals available online for new and used best mpg mopeds, and the very best gas powered scooters deals! For an out of this world buying experience at down to earth prices, UltimateMotorbikes is Your Number One Shop Online! Please visit our website Today to find out more about how we can help You find, the Very Best Deals For You by clicking on this link: Save Lots Of Money On Gas!

Top 7 Best MPG Mopeds

How To Change Traffic Lights On Your Motorcycle - The Legal Way!

2008-06-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

Search Google for "how to change traffic lights" and you will find numerous sources of information. There are techniques that actually work for example the use of a mobile infrared transmitter (MIRT) and those that don't like the universal remote control method. One thing that is consistent is that there is only one method that is legal for everyone in all 50 states.

A MIRT works by sending a signal to a traffic light that will either turn the light green or turn all the lights red. This technology is only authorized for emergency vehicle use. If you do not drive a police car, fire truck, or ambulance it is not legal for you to own or operate a MIRT. In Michigan the penalties of using a MIRT or pretty stiff and I assume they are similar for all states......

Michigan MIRT Law...

+ A misdemeanor and up to 90 days in jail and a fine of $5,000 for the unlawful POSSESSION of a MIRT.
+ A FELONY charge with up to TWO YEARS in jail and a fine of 10,000 for the unlawful SALE of purchase of a MIRT.
+ A FELONY charge with up to FIVE years in jail and a fine of $15,000 for individuals using a MIRT that resulted in a traffic accident
+ A FELONY charge with up to 15 years in jail and a fine of $25,000 for the use of a MIRT resulting in death.

In fact any device used by an individual to alter the normal operation of a traffic light is illegal in all states. With Penalties this stiff why risk it when there is a legal solution. Fortunately, a motorcycle accessory known as a Traffic Light Changer is perfectly legal and works great.

Most traffic lights use electro magnet sensors buried under the road surface to determine if a vehicle is present. They usually appear as large black outlined rectangles on the road surface. Left turn lanes are the most likely to find these sensors but some secondary roads also have lights that will not change until a car is present. These sensors have to be sensitive enough to detect a car on them but not trigger when a vehicle is in the next lane over.

A Traffic light changer does not alter the normal operation of any traffic device. It merely helps to inform the traffic light's sensors that you are there and waiting. Frankly there are not enough steel parts in a motorcycle to properly trigger the traffic light every time. A traffic light changer simply makes your motorcycle appear much larger to the lights sensors. The best part is that this form of a traffic light changer is completely legal in all 50 states.

The Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/12-601.1 reads, in part:

(e) This Section does not prohibit use by motorcycles of electronic or magnetic safety devices designed to allow traffic control signal systems to recognize or detect motorcycles.

So if you or anyone you know is tired of being stuck at lights for what seems like forever get a traffic light changer today. Most of them will fit on any motorcycle, install in minutes, can be hidden out of site and are fully self contained. It is a perfect inexpensive and LEGAL solution to a common motorcyclist problem.

Photo: http://www.motorcyclingblog.com

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Author: The Traffic Light Changer is the ultimate motorcycle. Never get stuck at a red light again. It is legal in all 50 states, installs in minutes and can be hidden out of site. Check it out at http://www.thelightchanger.com

How To Change Traffic Lights On Your Motorcycle - The Legal Way!

Trailer Buying Guide

2008-06-19T06:21:00.000-07:00

Thinking about buying a cargo trailer, horse trailer or even a motorcycle trailer but aren't sure which trailer to buy? As you might have realized, choosing a trailer now-a-days can be perplexing. It's not surprising given the amount of trailer manufacturers and different types of trailers available.

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a trailer. One of the first considerations is to choose an established trailer manufacturer. As with most everything, you usually get what you paid for, so try to choose the best trailer that you can afford.

Deciding on what type of trailer you need for your application will help in narrowing down the manufacturers. There are trailers for almost every conceivable type of cargo, from motorcycles to horses to concessions. If you have to haul it, then there's a trailer made to haul it or at least one that can easily be converted to do the job......

After choosing a manufacturer, figure out what size trailer you'll need. Trailers come in several different widths and lengths. If you're considering an enclosed trailer, you'll also need to consider the height of the interior. If your trailer towing needs require that you spend very much time inside the trailer, choose one with enough interior height to keep you from bending your neck or back when standing.

Open or Enclosed Trailers

The next step in choosing a trailer is figuring out whether you will need an open or an enclosed trailer. An open trailer is one which exposes the cargo to the outside elements. If inclement weather isn't a factor for your cargo, then an open trailer may be the most economical choice. Open utility trailers can range in price from about $900 to $2500 new.

Open utility trailers are well suited for many applications including small landscaping businesses that are just starting out and need a way to haul their landscape equipment. As their business grows and they decide to move up to an enclosed trailer, the open utility trailer will still be incredibly useful for hauling all sorts of material such as mulch, rock and plants.

Another plus for open trailers is their weight. Open utility trailers tend to be lighter and provide less aerodynamic drag than enclosed trailers.

While open trailers are economical and very useful, they do not provide the protection from the outside environment that an enclosed trailer will. Enclosed trailers also offer an added measure of security because the trailer functions as a portable, lockable storage building.

Enclosed trailers tend to be heavier and less aerodynamic than open trailers. Enclosed trailers usually cost in the $1600 to $5000 range new, but can go much higher.

Single or Tandem Axle

Once you've decided on either an open utility trailer or an enclosed cargo trailer, you'll need to decide whether the trailer should have a single axle, dual axle or possibly even three to four axles.

Single axle trailers have just one load bearing axle. Trailers with single axles come with and without brakes, but as a general rule of thumb, most single axle open and enclosed trailers come without brakes. If you plan on hauling more than 3000 lbs, trailer brakes need to be considered. In fact, it's a legal requirement in most states.

Anything heavier than 3000 lbs should be hauled on a dual axle trailer, be it an open or enclosed trailer. Dual axle trailers use two load bearing axles and usually feature either leaf springs or independent torsion bar suspensions. Brakes are recommended for dual axle trailers and again may be required depending upon where you live. Also, dual axle trailers tend to track more accurately than single axle trailers over varying road surfaces.

Rear Access

If you decide on an enclosed trailer, next you have to decide on either a ramp rear door, double rear doors or one single barn-type door. Choosing the type of rear access will greatly depend on the cargo you intend to haul. If you're going to be hauling a motorcycle, race car or any other type vehicle, then a ramp rear door will provide the easiest loading and unloading method.

Be sure though when purchasing a trailer with a ramp door that the ramp is spring assisted as some of the ramp doors can be very heavy. Ramps are also nice for hauling furniture or other heavy items where you'll be using a dolly to load and unload them.

If you will be using the trailer quite often and will be in and out of it, then a ramp can become rather cumbersome. Enter double door trailers. It is much easier to open the doors, step in and get the tool or item you need and then step out and close the door than it is to drop a ramp every time you need access. Too, you have to consider the clearance needed for opening a ramp rear door.

Single barn type rear doors are usually found on smaller enclosed trailers and are comparable in convenience to double rear doors.

Trailer manufacturers are aware of the ramp issue and most now add a side door for access to their enclosed trailers giving those that require a ramp the best of both worlds.

Trailer Brakes

In addition to the various types of trailers, there are several types of trailer braking systems.

Electric braking systems are the most common type of braking systems found on trailers today. These type braking systems connect the brake system on the tow vehicle to the brake system on the trailer. This is accomplished by installing a brake controller inside the tow vehicle. The controller senses the braking force of the tow vehicle and in turn activates the brakes on the trailer.

A hydraulic surge brake system consists of an actuating cylinder that is usually integrated with the trailer tongue assembly. As the tow vehicle applies its brakes, the "surge" of the trailer towards the decelerating tow vehicle compresses the surge actuator. As this cylinder is compressed, force is applied to the master cylinder and from there to the braking cylinders.

Surge braking systems are more expensive and usually only needed if you'll be using several different tow vehicles that would each require a brake controller.

Electric brakes are usually preferred over surge brakes because their operation is independent from the tow vehicle. If for some reason the tow vehicle loses its brakes, there would not be enough deceleration surge to activate the surge brakes. However, with electric brakes, the driver could manually activate the brake controller thus allowing the trailer to slow the entire rig.

In some states, any trailer with brakes is required to have a breakaway system. In the event that the trailer becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle, the trailer brakes would apply automatically to stop the run away trailer. Trailer equipped with electric brakes carry a separate battery to activate the breakaway systems. Surge brakes use a cable that locks the breaks in a breakaway situation.

Informed Buying

The most important aspect of buying a trailer is to be an informed buyer. Ask lots of questions. Any reputable dealer will be glad to answer your questions and in fact, should ask you a lot of questions regarding your intended cargo load. Ask about the warranty. Does the manufacturer stand behind its work? Most established manufacturers offer a very good warranty program and will go out of their way to satisfy a customer.

Photo: http://www.jungtruck.com

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Author: To help you in your search for the perfect trailer for you and your cargo, visit http://www.trailershopper.com where you'll find hundreds of new and used trailers for sale by individuals and dealers.

Trailer Buying Guide

Muscle Cars - How to Rebuild and Modify Your Muscle Car

2008-06-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

After the World War II, muscle cars became an instant hit, as motorists and car buyers aimed to acquire vehicles that would showcase and show great power and speed. The term was basically a name description of what the car was to the industry.

Muscle cars were considered the instruments to bring back the glory and profitability of the global car industry. Muscle autos were hugely popular in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.

With the emergence of many other car brands and more superior car models, muscle cars are now nowhere in the map of global cars. However, there are still some of those vehicles that are in circulation within the market......

Those muscle autos are now considered novelty and collectors' items. If you happen to own one, it surely would be your interest to improve and revitalize the look and performance of your old car. Thus, you would certainly find ways on how you can rebuild and modify your muscle auto.

Here are some suggested procedures on how you can rebuild and revitalize the look and feel of your muscle autos. Take note that some auto detailing techniques may already be familiar to you, especially if you are into regular auto detailing.

1. Plan the restoration process ahead of time. Muscle cars are important and are sensitive cars. Any error or mistake on the rebuilding and auto detailing procedure could greatly harm and alter the overall appearance of the exterior of the car.

Thus, it would be advisable if you would do a research and ask experts on what to do right about your muscle auto. Make a simple list of things to do and do a checklist to serve as a guide as you do the rebuilding and modifying process.

2. Spend time and more effort rebuilding the body of the muscle cars. Pay particular attention to details. The overall body of the car should be given more care and proper treatment. Do you need to modify and do little changes at the engine and the overall system?

If you are not too familiar with it, just leave it to the experts. Just tell them what you want, what you aim and what you intend to do and let them do the rest.

3. Settle to do a major auto detailing. When the insides of the muscle autos are modified and improved, take time to do a major auto detailing process.

When you auto detail muscle cars, you aim to revamp and overhaul the total exterior and physical package of the vehicles. Repaint. Spend to repair damaged parts. Check the wheels. In no time, the muscle autos would look as awesome as new again.

4. To wrap things up, check the overall electrical system of the muscle autos. Pay attention to the electrical wirings responsible for the proper functioning of lights and horns. Make sure the battery is functioning well.

5. There is no need to change the overall physical appearance or the assembly of the body packaging, not unless you want to remodel your muscle autos. If you do so, your muscle cars would cease to be muscle cars and should be called through other names.

As your muscle cars take a new rejuvenation and look, always remember that muscle cars would not ever function like the modern powerful cars. During their time, muscle autos were the most powerful vehicles on the road.

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Author: Alex Baumm, member of the Carclubtalk Car Club. More than half a century has passed, so do not think Muscle Cars are still as superior. They would definitely make as good collectors' items, though. Ask your questions about Auto Detailing etc.

Muscle Cars - How to Rebuild and Modify Your Muscle Car

2008 Honda Mugen Civic Review

2008-06-16T23:58:00.000-07:00

Honda has been the center of attention for the last few decades mainly due to the innovative models it has been producing. There is a long list of models to the name of Honda but the recent model that has caused the Honda enthusiasts to go wild is the Honda Mugen Civic model which is expected to be released by mid-October 2008. It is an M-Tec Sedan coming out as the Formula One version of Civic Si, co-developed by Honda and MugenIn Japanese Mugen means "without limit" and it is an auto part manufacturer. This company was founded by Hirotoshi Honda who is the son of the founder of the original Honda Motor Company Mr. Soichiro Honda. However, Mugen is not a part of Honda Motors and has been operating independently since its foundation. Mugen is famous for the parts that it has been developing mainly due to its involvement with F1 and super GT racing. This involvement has certainly refined the production of Mugen and those who want to give their car a sports looks and most likely to buy the Mugen auto parts. The company has also been known to produce high performance and racing parts for the racers as well as the street tuners.

The Honda Mugen Civic is a 4-door car and comes in Fiji Blue Pearl color at the moment only. It is a limited version so only 1000 lucky customers will be able to drive this beautiful car around with pride. Due to the limited version fact the price and the demand for the car has gone really high and most of the dealers are currently selling it at the price of $30,000 per piece. This is the right car for the Honda lovers and enthusiasts who have long been waiting for an elegant yet sporty look four doors Sedan......

The exterior of this beautiful Fiji Blue Pearl car is wrapped in an aero body kit that integrates side skirts, front spoilers along with matte black sports grille, adjustable rear view wing and black rear bumper diffuser that is much like M3. Although these changes might seem to be minor and of little importance however when put together you get a car that gives you a unique athletic look by still maintaining the elegance and beauty of Civic Sedan. But you need not worry that people might confuse it with its Civic Si version since the Mugen Si badge is clearly displayed at the front grille, spoiler and the rear deck.

The wheels are made from aluminum weighing less then 17 pound and are 18x7.5 inch wide only. The weight of these wheels is actually 27% less then the normally available 17 inch Si wheels. These seven spokes are encircled by BF Goodrich G-Force KDW 215/40ZR18 tires which have made this model ready for any race track.

Another good feature of this new model is that the suspension has been lowered by almost 0.6 inches. This change in design has caused major impact on the performance of the car by improving the damping force by 8% in the front and huge 24% in the rear. These figures are very much reliable since the fine tuning has been performed at the Japan's Famous Race Circuit Twin Ring Motegi. Another major change that has taken place in this high performance car is that the Mugen Civic have got better catback exhaust system. This change has resulted in the back pressure to be relieved much easily and the driver getting better performance without feeling much change except for the aggressive exhaust note they might hear.

The inside of this car is also as unique yet elegant as the outside. The center console have also got the Mugen badge embedded on it along with the spherical Mugen brushed aluminum shift knob which is 2.0 inch wide only. The inside of the car have also got the familiar Si dressing like Si embroidered in red color on the front bucket seat's back.

The safety of the driver as well as the others in the car has also been taken into consideration when designing this car. This car has the famous Honda Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. This body structure ensures the safety of the driver and is able to absorb and disperse the energy of the impact when an accident takes place. And even in cases when you have to suddenly stop the car your safety has been ensured through the ABS or anti-lock braking system as well as the 3-point seat belt.

Photo: http://www.tuningnews.net

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2008 Honda Mugen Civic Review

2008 Honda CR-V Review

2008-06-16T23:51:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Honda CR-V is the latest in line with the Suv's keeping up the Honda style and technology. The CR-V 2008 is a step over its predecessor, the crv 2007. There are many significant changes in this car and higher technology integrated. From the outside the body is sleek and smoother. The car features body colored bumpers. The Ex and the EX-L classes include one touch power mono roof. Included in this is a tilt feature. Also this car sports folding power side mirrors.

The interior of the car is also improved a lot. It is bundled with the available Honda satellite linked navigation system to help you drive around. It essentially keeps you from getting lost. The leather seats are heated for driving comfort. The steering column is tilt and telescopic so that it can fit and adjust according to the driver.

Significant changes have been made in the engine also. The car is powered by a 166 hp DOHC I VTEC engine having 4 cylinders. It has a great fuel economy and the vehicle gives ultra low emission carrying the ULEV designation. It runs as 1800 rpm. It has a torque of 161 lbft. The mileage that this car gives is also very good averaging at 20/27 miles per gallon on the city and on the highway......

The style is basically a blend between the premium SUV and the SUV formula CR-Vs. The SUV adds to its features the power driver's seat and an automatic climate control. The CRV was one of the best selling SUV vehicles of the year 2007 with its many versatile features and providing a spacious five passenger seating.

This SUV has a sedan like handling features. It is engineered towards complete safety of the passengers. This car has a five star safety crash safety rating that is the highest rating to be ever given out by the federal government. This rating includes both frontal impact as well as impact from the rear. The CRV is rated as the top safety pick by the Insurance institute of highway safety. The CRV is only the second SUV that has every obtained the highest safety rating by the federal government for both frontal and real impacts and also obtain the top stop in Insurance institute of highway safety rankings.

The Honda CRV 2008 is built refining its own style and added further enhanced features. These are serious upgrades in terms of quality and control. One of the most essential features is having a dual zone climate control system in the car. The drivers' seat has an eight way power adjustment feature and a power lumber support that is an added feature in the CR-V EX-L. The EX-L models are also equipped with premium audio systems which are taken from the Honda satellite linked navigation system cars. This car brings together the features of the best SUVs and has the ride and comfort and the handling of a sedan. With the dynamic and the interior styling this car is sure to attract both new and old Honda buyers.

Also as mentioned the SUV is packed with safety features making this car the safest car of the year. A lot of detailed emphasis has been put into safety. The safety technology that has been applied to this out distances the nearest competition by implementing the features that are beyond the conventional industry standards. This includes side curtain airbags that contain a rollover sensor. Also a front side air bag with a passenger side occupant position detection system. It is equipped with antilock breaking system and electronic brake distribution. Also included is a tire pressure monitoring system. It has a rigid body with fully independent suspension. This results in a quite cabinet which has smooth and agile handling capabilities. The 4.2 v-tech cylinder engine and a standard 5 speed automatic gear transmission provide and excellent balance of power that makes driving this car a pleasure.

The construction feature of the SUV features extensive use of high speed steel to provide rigidity. There are various luxury features in the interior that make the car more delightful like the center table that is used for holding beverages. There is also a 12 v power outlet available as an auxiliary jack along with the audio system. The audio system provides the interior with 160 watts of power and allows portable music playbacks. Over all this is a splendid car to own in the city as well as for a smooth ride in the highways.

Photo: http://www.casanovacars.com

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2008 Honda CR-V Review

Internet Access From Your Car

2008-06-15T04:46:00.000-07:00

Mobile internet access generally refers to accessing the web from your phone. But what if mobile started to mean more? What if it incorporated systems that allowed you to access the web from your car, while you were driving? Wouldn't that be the ultimate in mobile? After all, cars are designed with mobility in mind.

In-car computers used to belong to the realm of science-fiction. They were a pipe-dream and nothing more. Now though, it seems that every major IT player is developing technology that will make that dream a reality. Microsoft is busy with Auto, a system that allows for voice recognition, as well as navigation and emergency response services. It currently has a contract with Ford, but that will expire soon and it's expected that either Hyundai or Kia will pick it up......

BMW is working on a system that will allow unrestricted access to the Net in all of their new 2008 cars. There are some restrictions in place, however, as the technology will only be available in Europe, at least for the time being. BMW has also wisely limited the access of front seat passengers so that they can only use the service when the car is travelling under 3mph (4.8kph). Front seat passengers searching the Net are one thing, but the idea of drivers searching for information is terrifying, regardless of how slowly they're going. Back seat passengers, meanwhile, are free to interact online to their heart's content, whether they're bogged down in traffic or cruising the open road.

The ATX Group, who consider themselves the "largest independent telematics services provider to the automotive industry" have been developing initiatives to address the safety issues surrounding in-car computing. Their partners in this endeavour are the Connected Vehicle Trade Association. One of their proposals includes a generic top-level domain that would "dumb down websites" while they're being used in vehicles. An article in engadget.com proposes text-to-speech software that would read text aloud, enabling drivers to concentrate on the road ahead.

Finally, Intel is working on a vehicle-friendly version of its Moblin OS. It's a Linux-based system, which runs on atom processors and will control in-car systems as well as multimedia functions. It also allows third-party developers to build applications and services that can be added to the platform.

In-car computing sounds like a terrific innovation and a significant step forward for IT-related industries. Traffic authorities, who are still struggling to get a handle on drivers using their phones while travelling, will bear the brunt of its disadvantages, however, and may not view it as favourably as others. Data recovery specialists, on the other hand, can expect business to go through the roof with the influx of hard drives damaged in automotive skirmishes.

Recommended sites:

Engadget 1

Engadget 2

Engadget 3

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Photo: http://www.rsportscars.com

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Internet Access From Your Car

The Working Principle of Digital Designs Subwoofer

2008-06-15T04:19:00.000-07:00

Have you bought a new automobile or maybe you are planning to remodel your old one? Are you looking for an audio system for your new automobile? One of the important parts of audio systems is a Subwoofer. If you are planning to buy subwoofers then it will be interesting to know the function of the woofers.

What are subwoofers? They are the drivers which produce low frequency sound. The sound produced by them ranges from 40 hertz to kilohertz or higher. They are meant to produce low bass frequency sound. This means sound frequency below 35 HZ.

A car audio system should be of high quality. Nowadays music systems come with various additional features. The main sub-parts of a system are radio, compact disc player and speakers. The speakers include tweeters and woofers. The quality of the sound depends on the quality of subparts used in the system. The main part which supports the sound quality is a loud speaker. But there is a small difference between a general speaker and a car speaker. A car speaker produces low frequency output sound but the power signal is high. Due to this acoustic energy is generated. The acoustic energy produced has a bad affect on the output of the sensors. The common solution of this problem is installation of woofers on the trunk of the car.......

Why the woofers are installed on the back seat space. The woofers are generally big in size and there is no enough space available on the dashboard or the doors.

Do you want to have high sound pressures in your automobile? It can be easily done by adding woofers in the cabin. This competition is increasing every day and people are looking for latest audio accessories which help them in enhancing the quality of sound. Because of this reason the woofers are getting more and more popular.

If your car is not so big then it is a good idea to opt for small woofers. As high power woofers can generate high volume levels. You should be very careful while selecting the level of volume in the car. High sound level for a long period of time can cause hearing loss and other acoustic problems.

How car woofers are made? Most commonly they are made up of electrodynamic driver. A woofer contains a cone which is driven by a voice coil. The voice coil is surrounded by a magnetic field. The working principle is very simple. The current flows through the coil and the coil moves in relation to the frame. The magnet and the coil form a linear motor. Due to flow of current voice coil moves like a piston. The motion of the cone creates sound waves.

Do you want to buy high quality subwoofers. Internet is good source of quality automobile accessories. You should look for a reputed online store. Lots of people love to do online shopping due to various discounts and bonuses. By following some tips and techniques you can easily buy a right woofer for your automobile.

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Photo: http://audiojunkies.com

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The Working Principle of Digital Designs Subwoofer

Top Benefits of Car Repair in Utah

2008-06-12T22:06:00.000-07:00

If you own a car, then you know the importance of keeping a car maintained so that it will run well for as long as you have it. But there are times that you just can't avoid a breakdown. For those car owners that get stranded with a need for car repair, there are many places throughout Utah that can help you with what you need. But first, you will want to check out your car insurance company's preferred list.

Just like the healthcare industry, the auto insurance business will have a preferred list of car repair shops for each company. These lists are available to those who have insurance with that particular company. If you contact your insurance agent, they can give you a list of all their preferred car repair shops in Utah. What do preferred car shops have that the others do not? Any car repair shop that ends up on an insurance company's preferred list will be able to ensure high quality repairs that will quickly and affordably get your car running and back on the road......

Preferred car repair shops not only benefit the insurance company, but it benefits you as well. Not every car repair shop in Utah will be up to the standards to meet your needs quickly and inexpensively. If you use a car repair shop that has already been guaranteed by your insurance company, then you know that you can get things done faster. And with the savings, you will be able to keep your car on the road longer. The costs are cut for you because you are a preferred customer, and the insurers will get discounts on parts and labor for you in order for that repair shop to be a part of their preferred list. And since they are already known to have great service, this will keep overall insurance costs lower for the insurance company. Knowing about your insurance company's preferred car repair list and using it will help you and your company save time and money.

To get a repair shop on an insurance company's preferred list, the shop has to demonstrate the ability to handle and type of vehicle that the insurance company can send there way. The shop must also have a solid reputation for repairs. Too many complaints from customers could keep a shop off of many insurance preferred lists.

If you want your Utah car repair shop listed on a preferred list, you will have to agree to certain price requirements. Many times, your shop will have to agree to give the insurance company a discount for labor and parts. This means that anyone who is sent to you from the preferred list will see those savings on their bill. It is by no means a large discount for you, but it can save your customers a lot of money, especially if the car needs a lot of repair. It is a wise decision to try and get on a insurance company's preferred list so that you will have a guaranteed stream of business for your shop, and you can prove your reputation because the insurance company has put their trust in you.

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Author: Jordan Mcpelt is a professional author who specializes in Utah Car Repair and Car Repair in Utah. For more information on Car Repairs please visit http://www.cascadecollision.com

Top Benefits of Car Repair in Utah

7 Most Logical Reasons To Get Up To 100mpg

2008-06-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

I have friends in the UK who recently passed on some information to me.

They were sharing with me how much they have to pay for gas at the pump, wait for it, gas is well over $11.00 per gallon and diesel, which a great number of their cars run on is currently well over $12.00 per gallon!

It makes you wonder just how high the prices will go on gas prices in North America. Could we follow suit? Where will these escalating gas prices end up? Every week they seem to rising ever higher and higher, and every time they rise, little by little it's eating a bigger and bigger hole in not just my finances but your finances too.

Consider this, if you drive a car, any car or truck, whatever and it does 20mpg, now think about all those little journey's you do every week, how many miles a week do all of those journey's, those errands add up to? Then ask yourself how much all of these journey's and/or errands were costing you 12 months ago, 6 months ago, 3 months ago, 1 month ago and little by little you have no doubt seen a pattern emerging as each passing month has been eating quietly into your overall finances.

How many cars do you own in your family? One? Two? Three or more? Just how much are all of these journey's costing you month on month?......

Are you getting worried about keeping up with your bills, or your mortgage payments? Are you planning ahead? Have you worked out yet that in 6 months from now, if things carry on the way they are, that these escalating gas prices will be putting on your shoulders ever more extra worry as you struggle to meet all of your financial commitments? It's worrying isn't it?

What are You going to do about? Are you going to sweep the problem under the carpet, hoping that the problem will go away, or are you going to take some sensible action now, to start seriously saving some money and making your dollar work for you, whilst you still have a chance to do so?

Ask yourself this question. If there was a way to getting up to 100mpg, wouldn't it be prudent right now to start seriously considering such an option?

I'm not suggesting that I can save you money left right and center, but just thinking about all those little journeys and errands, well, the miles soon add up don't they? For example, let's pick a figure out of thin air. How about 200 miles per week, does this sound reasonable? Now divide 200 miles weekly by 20mpg, that's 10 gallons of gas per week and then times this by the amount that you are paying at the pump for your gas in your area. This will give you, on just one vehicle your weekly spend, outlay on gas that you are paying. If you have two cars, you can double this etc. Then times the figure by 4 weeks to get your monthly spend. It's quite a bit isn't it?

So, how does one get up to 100mpg, thereby at the end of the month saving yourselves a considerable amount of money that could be put towards much more important things?

Now, ok, I/we realize that this solution is not for everyone, but for a lot of you, surely it is worth seriously looking at and considering, especially now that the summer months are upon us with plenty of fine weather.

Have you ever thought about buying either a new or used gas powered moped or scooter? Now don't laugh the idea off straightaway, out of hand, have a think about this first, before throwing the idea away. We are talking about your precious finances here after all.

Modern mopeds and scooters today have come along a very long way in recent years. Not only are they very reliable, they're stylish too and most of them return absolutely astonishing miles per gallon, you will literally be blown away when you realize just how much money you could be saving per month.

Many mopeds and scooters are very nippy, achieving really quite sensible turns of speed, they're excellent modes of transport in heavily congested areas, dodging all the traffic jams and hold ups, lots of them have good carrying capacity with room to spare for your shopping or small parcels, boxes etc. For simply going to friends, they are absolutely idea and never again will you be stuck for trying to find a parking place very close to where you need to be.

It may well be that you still want to make a style statement and you feel that the design of many modern mopeds and scooters lacks some imagination, but that shouldn't stop you either. If this applies to you, have a think about buying a retro Vespa or a Lambretta or similar. There's no reason why you shouldn't still be able to look cool touring around town or city on your new mode of transport.

The best thing of all about these machines though is the sheer very high number of miles per gallon that you will be able to get from them. If you are worried about these escalating high prices for gas and you cannot see any light on the horizon any time soon, have a good think about it and I think you'll soon come to your senses, realizing just what a great option this could give you in terms of saving some serious amounts of cash. Notice that I said 'option'. No one is saying to you to give up altogether your automobile, that would be just plain silly, but for certain journeys, a moped or scooter could just be the answer to your prayers.

Isn't it about time you started to think more carefully about all your options to save money to spend on more important things like keeping your mortgage payments going? Buying a moped or scooter might just be your best option.

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Author: Mark P Andrews is the co-owner of UltimateMotorbikes.com http://www.UltimateMotorbikes.com providing you links to thousands of awesome deal prices online for every moped and gas powered scooter imaginable. You Pay The Prices That YOU WANT TO PAY! New & Used mopeds and scooters by the thousand from right across North America!! Find easily the perfect deal for you right now, today! Also a very extensive range of all motorcycle parts, spares and accessories plus truly huge numbers of every motorcycle you can think of from the smallest and most economical moped or scooter through to the most expensive and classy custom built choppers and trikes. Massive range of motorcycle leather jackets, motorcyclists clothing, motorcyclists helmets, helmet cameras, boots, you name it, if it's related to motorcycles in any way, shape or form, we are making it available via our web site. PLEASE VISIT US TODAY!! http://www.UltimateMotorbikes.com

7 Most Logical Reasons To Get Up To 100mpg

Do You Want to Start Your Own Custom Harley Shop?

2008-06-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Many people dream of owning a business, and turning a hobby into a profession can seem like the ideal way to realize that dream. If you like to build and fix your own Harley Davidson, you could turn your passion for motorcycles into a lucrative opportunity. The subject of starting a business is beyond the scope of this small article, but here are a few tips to get you started.

Dream Big, Start Small

One of the reasons that a custom bike shop is such a good opportunity is that your startup costs don't have to be large. You can start off working in your own garage on one project at a time. You won't need to keep a large inventory of Harley bike parts on hand as you can order just what you need......

You can either build a custom bike of your own design then try to sell it, or you can take commissions and build someone else's dream bike. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Using your own design means you can build according to your strengths and order just the Harley bike parts you need. You aren't on a deadline so you can spend as much or as little time each day on it. The problem is that once you have the bike done, you have a significant investment in it and you have no idea how long it will be before you find a buyer.

Getting customers first and working on their design can be more lucrative but more difficult. You have a paycheck waiting for you at the end of the project and may collect some of the money up front. However you are now held to someone else's ideas and timetable.

Transitioning from Hobby to Business

Turning your love of custom Harley bike parts into a profession may seem like a terrific idea, but there are pitfalls. The most important attitude adjustment you will have to make is to understand that this is a business now. One of the leading reasons home businesses fail is that their owners can't make the adjustment. Many of your motivations will have to change.

This change means that some of the fun of bike building will disappear. Many people who own custom motorcycle shops find that they are less interested in working on their own bikes now that it is their job.

The fact that you can start small means you can test the waters of self-employment and see if you can make the adjustment. You could start with a weekend project without quitting your job, investing in only the Harley bike parts you need as you need them. After a couple of these kinds of projects you can decide if it seems like something you can commit to and if the income is worth the time you invest.

Photo: http://www.skinz.org

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Do You Want to Start Your Own Custom Harley Shop?

Dynamometers - A Brief Overview

2008-06-08T06:58:00.000-07:00

Dynamometers can be used to determine virtual road loading of engines and full power train and are capable of testing for a variety of engine development activities, including:

Calibration of engine management controllers
Detailed investigations into combustion behavior
Power and torque measurements

Dynamometers: Functionality

Each dynamometer is designed to measure the following characteristics:

Torque
Rotational speed
Power output of a combustion engine, electric motor or other power source.

A myriad of companies provide various solutions to measure these characteristics, but the commonality is that all dynamometers function in a similar fashion......

Dynamometers: Two Types

In addition to classification as absorption, motoring or universal, most dynamometers are classified in one of two categories:

Engine dynamometers are designed for coupling directly to the driveshaft of an engine under test.
Chassis dynamometers measure the power output of a drive train by using rollers turned by the tires of a vehicle under test.

In addition to the two traditional dynamometer, select companies offer portable dynamometers that attach directly to the flywheel of an engine. This allows accurate measurement of engine output without removal of an engine from its drive train.

Dynamometer Designs

From simple power display systems with manual control to completely automated testing solutions, there is an electronic motor testing system to meet your testing requirements.

Eddy current dynamometers: harness the magnetic flux between fixed and rotating electromagnets spun by the engine under test.
Powder dynamometers: create flux through the application of a fine magnetic powder between the rotor and coil.
Electric Motor Testing Systems: Electric Motor Testing Systems are designed to provide maximum reliability, excellent durability and performance; available for testing electric motors from 5 to 4,250 hp.
Fan, hydraulic and water brakes: use air, water or hydraulic fluid to provide an indication of the power applied to the system

Chassis Dynamometers

Chassis dynamometers serve to quickly identify service issues such as low horsepower, overheating, emissions compliance and speedometer accuracy. Once identified and repaired, the chassis dynamometer will verify the problem is corrected and can be used to perform engine break-in after rebuild.

Accessories

Exhaust Systems
Guard Rail Stone
Guard Wheel
Chocks Cooling Fan
Calibration Weights

Engine Dynamometers - The Complete Diagnostic System

Engine dynamometers offer the most innovative engine diagnostic tools today, supplying solutions to troubleshoot problems such as low horsepower, insufficient torque, and leaks. Engine dynamometers are also capable of indicating and verifying:

Repair is complete
Engine is operating according to specifications
Ready to break-in engines before installation

Engine dynamometer product lines include: Water Brake Style Engine Dynamometers, Portable Dynamometers, Eddy Current Dynamometers, and AC Dynamometers.

Towing Dynamometers

From light passenger cars to heavy commercial truck vehicles, power is transmitted through a drive shaft to a two speed transfer case with a neutral clutch. Four electric brake retarders are attached to the output shaft of the transfer case which is controlled by in-cab instrumentation inside of the testing environment. Power on the retarders is converted into a DC voltage through the power controllers located in the control cabinet.

Water Recirculating System

It can be used with any style engine dynamometer or chassis dynamometer. One system can serve several engine dynamometer or chassis dynamometer systems if sufficient capacity is designed into the system. Water Recirculating Systems are custom engineered for moderate to high volume engine dynamometer or chassis dynamometer users, and require a below grade sump or an above ground tank.

Benefits of Using a Water Recirculating System with your Dynamometer:

Reduced dynamometer operating costs through water conservation
Reduced dynamometer maintenance costs with controlled, high-quality water supply
Easier clean-up: materials discharged by evaporation as opposed to drainage
Ensure proper dynamometer performance by maintaining water pressure, volume, and cooling

Photo: http://archie.lipsmusic.net/

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Author: We wish to provide as much information as we can for you. Please browse our onlineresources at http://www.taylordyno.com - including our free and immediate downloads including brochures on our dynamometer systems and various accessories, or our interactive questionnaire to assist you in choosing the dynamometer that is right for your unique situation.

Dynamometers - A Brief Overview

Plymouth GTX - The Ultimate Muscle Car?

2008-06-08T06:15:00.000-07:00

General Motors changed the car market in 1964 with the introduction of the GTO. By stuffing a large engine into a mid-sized car they created the muscle car. Sales exploded and the other GM divisions had to have a piece of the action. Chevrolet, Oldsmobile and Buick quickly produced high performance versions of their mid-sized cars also. The management at Plymouth was caught asleep when this happened and it took a couple of years to come up with a viable alternative. That alternative was the Plymouth GTX.

In 1967 Plymouth introduced one of the all time muscle car legends. The GTX only came with two engine choices. The more affordable of the two was the 440 cubic inch big block rated at 375 horse power. The other choice was the fearsome 426 cubic inch Hemi with a conservatively rating of 425 horse power. These cars were performers and either could do zero to sixty consistently in the six second range. That's not all, according to Motor Trend Magazine the GTX was on of the best handling cars of its size produced during that era. The GTX was a solid performer and sales were brisk with nearly 13,000 produced in 1967......

In 1968, the GTX was restyled along with the rest of Chrysler's intermediates. This design which was shared with the Dodge Charger, Super Bee and the newly introduced Plymouth Road Runner was an instant classic and is the picture most people visualize when they think of classic cars of the 1960's. Engine choices remained the same and performance was exceptionally strong. Car Life Magazine called the GTX "The fastest and the most powerful standard car built in America. And the 440 is not far behind." Sales increased to over 18,000.

The GTX remained basically the same in 1969 and 1970. There was little need to change the car from a performance prospective. It was the car to beat. Changes were relegated to grill and rear end updates. The power plants remained the same with the exception of the 440 cubic inch big block in 1970. In 1970 Plymouth added a third engine option to the list. It was the famous 440 Six Barrel. The Six Barrel was actually a tri of two barrel carburetors mounted on top of the engine. Not only was it cool to look at but it added about 35 horse power to the car.

In 1969 Plymouth sold almost 15,000 of the cars. However, in 1970 sales had dropped to about 7,000. The car was the same. It was the market that changed.. The muscle car era was ending rapidity. High fuel prices, high insurance rates and a slowing economy had people looking for small cars with good gas mileage.

Chrysler introduced a new design for their intermediates in 1971. The design was heavily influenced by the design of jet aircraft. It was a forward leaning design and the front end of the car resembled the intake of jet aircraft. It was a love it or hate it kind of look. Unfortunately, the era of large powered cars was over and would not return for almost twenty five years. Sales dropped to about 2,600 units.

Plymouth continued the GTX name for a few more years as an option package on the Road Runner. It was never the same. The GTX had come to the performance car market late and like a shooting star it burned very bright for a while and then faded away. Today collectors and enthusiasts actively seek out this series because of their good looks, impressive power and relatively scarcity.

Photo:
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http://www.magnumforceracing.com

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Author: Learn more about Plymouth muscle cars at Muscle Car Facts a website dedicated to all the muscle cars of the past.

Plymouth GTX - The Ultimate Muscle Car?

Car Deer Collisions in the United States

2008-06-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates there are approximately 1.5 million auto deer collisions per year, resulting in damage losses of around $1.5 billion USD, which works out to an average cost of $1,000 per accident. One U.S. insurance agency also supports these statistics, and goes on to report that, in the year 2004, there were 150 human deaths in the United States that were directly linked to car deer accidents.

The bear is often considered to be one of the most dangerous animals in North America. As a combined group, polar bears, black bears, and grizzly bears are responsible for 5 to 10 human fatalities per year in North America. Comparing this statistic with the 150 human deaths caused in 2004 by auto deer collisions, one might come to the conclusion that the most dangerous animal in North America is, in fact, the White Tail Deer.

An insurance study conducted in 2004 and 2005 indicates the ten states with the most deer hits per year are as follows:......

Pennsylvania
Michigan
Illinois
Ohio
Georgia
Minnesota
Virginia
Indiana
Texas
Wisconsin

Statistically, most car deer accidents occur between the months of October and December, which also coincides with the deer's mating season. It has also been noted that more accidents occur during the night, or anytime between dusk and dawn. This is attributed to the fact that deer are a very nocturnal animal and spend most of their time foraging at night.

With all this information, it's clear that drivers must take every possible precaution when driving. The following list reviews the top ten ways to keep yourself safe and minimize your chances of a car deer collision when driving:

When at all possible, avoid driving between dusk and dawn.
Try to avoid rural roads and poorly lit areas.
Be particularly vigilant when driving through areas with high foliage or low hanging branches on the roadside. If there are two people in the car, ask your passenger for help watching the sides of the road.
Reduce your speed, and don't overdrive your lights. The most common remark people make after they've been in a car deer collision is that the animal "came out of nowhere."
If you see one deer on the side of the road and you're fortunate enough not to hit it, be sure to slow down, because where there is one deer, there will often be others.
Always wear your seatbelt.
Use high beam headlights as much as possible to light the sides of the roadway.
Do not ride motorcycles in areas with high deer populations. Riding a motorcycles leaves you much more vulnerable to serious injury in an accident than does driving a car.
Finally, if a collision with a deer is eminent, brake and hold the wheel straight. Too often, drivers swerve trying to avoid the animal, and drive off the road or into the path of another car. These accidents can often be more serious than hitting the deer would have been.
If you do hit a deer, stay in your car until help arrives. If the deer is still alive, it may be stunned and could become very aggressive if aroused.

If you drive a great deal in the United States, especially in areas with high deer population, you are at risk of hitting a deer. However, with these guidelines in mind and a good dose of common sense, you can reduce that risk and keep yourself and your passengers safe.

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Author: Ellen Bell works for Home Products n' More, a company dedicated to providing high quality products for your home, garden, and auto. Home Products n' More offers an electronic deer whistle and a deer whistle for cars to reduce the risk of a car deer collision. Visit us at http://www.deer-whistle.com/

Car Deer Collisions in the United States

The Basics - Running a Car on Water

2008-06-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

Commonly known in the scientific world as Brown's Gas, water gas or water fuel is a derivative of hydrogen from water. It is always debated whether this can really fuel cars or if it only serves as a fuel booster. Well, the answer is both may be true. Water is now being tapped as a source of fuel. However, it should not be mistaken that the water in itself is being used to run engines and machines. What happens is that hydrogen is extracted from the water and I used to increase the capacity of gas. In some cases, the hydrogen is converted to another form which allows itself to become the source of energy to run engines.

The device used to convert water into a source of energy is hydrogen generator. It is something that can be installed by anyone and it does not require any modification to your car. This is also cheap in comparison to conversion of ordinary cars to hybrid since hybrid cars have more functionalities needed to have the conversion completed. The hydrogen generator is installed in the car's engine compartment and as a result, the hydrogen it generates sustains the mileage capacity gasoline......

Brown's gas has the power of hydrogen, just about the same with the power of hydrogen bombs. It is in this nature of hydrogen that the energy is drawn from. It has the strength of hydrogen and yet it is very stable as the chemical component of water, which is hydrogen dioxide. Believe it or not, hydrogen fuel can run a truck. It is also called HHO and if one does not want to use it as a main source of energy, it may serve as a blend with gasoline. Since hydrogen does not burn that easily, this translates into gasoline burning lesser than what is required. As such, mileage is increased.

It is reported in many studies that the usage of hydrogen gas or Brown's gas can increase mileage of up to 250%. Although the normal number is 50% only, this is still a big amount of money compared to using gasoline in its pure form. One should take note that many may claim that that hydrogen is used as a sole source of energy. However, it is disputed that this still needs to run with gasoline. Experiments are now being done to tap hydrogen as a real pure source of energy without having to blend it with gasoline.

Environmentalists will be happy if all people will use hydrogen power. This is precisely because the hydrogen burns cleanly. It does not emit harmful chemicals to the air as gasoline does. In fact, hydrogen emits oxygen when it is burnt. We all know that we need oxygen to survive. Needless, to say, everyone will benefit from the exhaust of hydrogen gas. Aside from that, there are no harmful chemicals involved in the process of making hydrogen gas or water gas unlike oil. Petroleum wastes cause poisoning and contamination to rivers and other water resources. However, hydrogen gas will only go back what it has taken from Mother Nature.

Photo: http://www.forbes.com

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Author: David Jackson has been an affiliate marketer for 4 years. Essential information and powerful tools that will grow your Car Fuels empire can be found at Hydrogen Fuel Cells http://hydrogencarfuel.blogspot.com. Copyrights@ Carpediem. This article may be printed in any form, on the guarantee that the article stay the same without any omittances, deletions, alterations or changes throughout this article. This copyright is to stay with this article.

The Basics - Running a Car on Water

Auto Parts Guide - Essential Off Road Auto Parts

2008-06-06T22:08:00.000-07:00

So you're finally ready to make the leap into the world of off road auto parts, and willing to invest the time and money into gearing your rig for rugged terrain.

If you practically live on the trail already, there probably isn't much you can learn here. On the other hand, if you're just getting started with customizing your vehicle with auto parts, read on to get an idea of the essential auto parts you need to properly equip your ride.

Lift Kits

Beginning this article with lift kits is not to say that they are the most important and absolutely essential auto parts for going off road. Actually, you'd be surprised just how capable some vehicles are with stock equipment, provided that they're driven correctly......

But for the true hardcore off road enthusiast looking to take on some serious terrain, a suspension lift kit is not just a necessary auto parts modification, but also one of the most major projects you could possibly undertake.

Regardless of what type or brand of suspension lift kit you choose to invest in, the ultimate goal of adding one is typically twofold:

Clearance:

Lifting your vehicle just a few inches off the ground provides your vehicle with added height clearance. This allows you space to outfit your ride with larger tires, in essence producing better all-around traction and giving you more room to clear obstacles.

Articulation:

Articulation is a term used to describe the amount of allowed up and down wheel travel ability. Generally speaking, the more articulation you have, the more your wheels can flex when crawling over obstacles.

Tires

Upgrading your tires goes hand in hand with adding a suspension lift kit, since the combined bigger size of the tires plus the extra inches from your lift kit will offer much needed clearance through tough environments.

It is a common misconception that adding off road tires is all about getting improved traction. While this may be true to a limited extent, there are other, better auto parts for improving off road traction. Overall, adding tall tires is mostly about clearance.

It should also be noted that when adding larger tires and a suspension lift, certain stock components may not be able to stay up to snuff in harsh conditions. For this reason, you may need to update some related hardware to help keep up. Ring and pinion gears are one huge example. Axles and brake systems are some others.

Check with someone who has some technical know-how for a better idea of what you're up against.

Winches

A winch may be the single most important off road auto parts purchase you can make. In fact, many would recommend that a beginning off road enthusiast's first purchase should be a winch.

Fact is, your ride could be equipped with the best gear in the world, but even then your rig would not be immune to getting stuck in some uncompromising terrain. A winch isn't just a helping hand in these instances -- it's a life-preserver for your vehicle.

Lockers

Although bigger and more aggressive off road tires may provide some added traction in off road terrain, lockers are actually the biggest traction upgrade you can invest in.

Never mind all the technical intricacies that lie within these auto parts; the bottom line is that lockers offer incredible traction, and can even be tweaked on the fly to accommodate different situations and environments.

Protective Equipment

It's only natural that when hitting the trails, your auto parts will get a little banged up along the way. Fortunately, you can help mitigate some of the damage by outfitting your vehicle with a number of protective accessories.

Skid plates are probably one of the most crucial auto parts, as they protect the underside components, which are very easy to damage. Front and rear bumpers, fender flares, and sport cages are just some of the other auto parts you can use to protect your rig.

Performance Auto Parts

Upgrading to larger tires and adding more weight with winches, bumpers, and other additional auto parts equates to less horsepower. You can make up for that loss by taking a page out of the import tuner's book.

Everything from performance exhaust and intake systems, to computer modules, and even turbo systems can give you the horsepower you need for extra muscle, and oftentimes even improved gas mileage.

Other Accessories

Whether it's a sparkling set of chrome wheels, a performance-grade battery or any other premium auto parts, there are enough off road auto parts available for you to customize your rig to your heart's content.

Photo: http://bigwheeloffroad.com

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Auto Parts Guide - Essential Off Road Auto Parts

Buying a Used Rollback Truck

2008-06-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

Rollback trucks are now the standard of the auto recovery industry. Easier and less expensive to operate than boom type wreckers, buying a used rollback truck is a sound business decision.

Since very few used car and truck dealers will have used rollback trucks in their inventory, the internet has become a viable channel to locate the best deals and selections. Buying a vehicle from an online listing is not that much different than the conventional buying methods. The amount of vehicles available may be astounding to a first time internet shopper, but that simply opens the door to more bargains......

The first priority should be finding a truck within a reasonable distance from you. Naturally, not many buyers will be willing to drive cross country to look at a vehicle. Once one or more vehicles that fit your needs are located, begin the process of contacting the seller to get as much information on each vehicle as possible.

Many times a potential buyer can begin eliminating vehicles from consideration by simply asking the seller questions about the vehicle. Maybe the truck doesn't have a particular option that the buyer needs. Or the buyer may have doubts as to whether the vehicle is in reasonably good condition.

The point is to not be afraid to ask questions. A reputable seller will be glad to answer questions from all potential buyers. Be leery of a seller who seems reluctant to answer your questions, or tries to shift the subject to something else. An honest seller will usually call attention to any known defects, and make sure buyers are aware there may be a problem with the vehicle.

The most trusted and respected sites have many ways to protect buyers. Never try to bypass the safeguards that these sites put in place to protect the buyer. Safe and secured transactions are the main priority for all parties involved.

Buying a used rollback truck online is a safe and viable method of getting the best selection and best price. But as in any buying decision, shop around for the best deals before buying any used rollback truck.

Photo: http://www.californiatreeequipment.com

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http://www.usedrollbacktruck.com

Buying a Used Rollback Truck

Mercedes Lights

2008-05-31T01:55:00.000-07:00

The lights in a Mercedes car like any other car lights are very important. They show you the way and warn others about your actions preventing accidents and keeping things in the safe side. There are many different lights available today - some for general use and some for special purpose.

The primary function of the lights is to provide safety and convenience to the driver. Mercedes made their lights to be one of the most important things in the car. Without the lighting assembly installed a Mercedes is as safe as a blind driver.

Lights give the ability to see during darkness providing a good illumination. If your lights are good enough the dust on the road or the foggy day won't be such a big obstacle. Rain-filled weather conditions will be a piece of cake for you too because even if you feel like swimming in the whole water around you there will still be enough visibility for you keeping you informed about everything that is happening around you......

The Mercedes tail lights are another very important lighting system that is available for you when you drive. They are attached at the front and rear part of your vehicle. They come in pairs - left and right. The signal lights or also called turn lights are usually yellow in colour and they are one pretty important part of the Mercedes tail lights. They are available to indicate if the vehicle is turning and on what direction it will go next. Everyone who is interested in knowing where you will turn will see indication of that before you turn no matter if he is in front of you or on you back.

This simple thing prevents collisions with other cars or accidents with the people walking on the streets. It is good for these lights to be used not only when you make a turn but also when you change lanes because sometimes other drivers will not see you on time especially when you are in the blind zone. It is also considered polite because you provide information on your action and let others know you intentions and the way you will achieve them.

One very important aspect of these tail lights is the emergency condition. If you push the "hazard" button beneath the dashboard you will activate a simultaneously blinking of both - the left and the right tail lights. This will inform the people around you that you are having troubles with your car. When an emergency instance occurs the people around you should know that you may not have the full control over your car and accident is likely to occur. Warning them with the lights will help them manage the situation and it will safely let you call for help.

On the side view a parking lights are available. They make the vehicle more visible and they are pretty useful when going into intersections or making turns. It allows drivers to see others from greater distances and keep them informed on what is going on around them. This is very important especially in low visibility because of fog, dust and rain or any other thing which could reduce the visibility. On breaking situations the parking lights could also serve as a break lights.

One pretty cool solution for Mercedes lights is called Euro Altezza Lights and it is available for many models. It will add the sporty look to your car and it will enhance the prestige of the vehicle. These are performance tail lights with clear or smoked lens in red or amber colour provided by special lamps.

After you choose these Euro Altezza Lights for your car keep these lights maintained. To benefit from and use the wonderful features of these lights you should insure proper replacement when necessary. You may want to check up with your service provider from time to time to see if everything is fine. This is important because many things on the road could damage or reduce the effectiveness of the lights. For example this could be the dust. Stray objects, snow or rain could become hazardous too. Everything that is interfering with the lights could become a problem. You could not keep all problems away but you could see if you lights need special care after the busy day.

There is also a way available for you to protect you tail lights from all the scratches and damages that could happen on the road. With all the stones and stuff flying around it is impossible for something to not hit your tail lights. The solution for you could be to use a proper protection.

The Mercedes tail lights guard will keep the scratches to their minimum saving you money on replacement parts. This protection unit is usually made by durable steel designed to fit your tail lights perfectly. The easy installation will help you buy it and install it yourself.

This protection will not only help you protect you tail lights. It could add the look you want for you car. Mercedes have that sleek look when you buy it but is it what you want? And what about some cool rugged look to tell the others about you sporty way of living?

The tail lights guard will not reduce the illumination of your lights and it won't help for any dangerous situation to occur and it could be a fine investment. Buy it once and you may not need to wander if you lights are good after a long ride. No matter if you want style for you car or simply some protection the tail lights guard is what you need.

If you are a car style enthusiast you should know that there is nothing cooler than a nice lighting system for the car. It doesn't matter how nice your hood is looking or what a nice wheel rims you have. The lights are what get the attention. This is so even during the day. Just imagine some nice reflection from a car and what it could feel like even in the bright sunny day.

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Mercedes Lights

Bargain BMW Parts

2008-05-30T03:56:00.000-07:00

Two kinds of xenon bmw headlamp for bmw lighting can be purchased, but they aren't authorized for use piece driving in any province. It is crucial that you choose wisely, buy good quality parts, and install them most late model s, the best horsepower gain per dollar is through a software upgrade. While modifications can greatly heighten the performance of your BMW, the parts necessary are seldom available used.

This car's design is motivated primarily by its bold and powerful functionality, as well as style. They want communicating, pilotage, and amusement. These vehicles represent quality and those who are fortunate enough to own one, drive it with pride, beaming at all of the nods of approval that they receive while on the you are in search of great quality parts for your BMW, you need to know where to find the finest parts for your model of car. Should you live in a hot climate, go to the track or do a lot of performance driving you may need better cooling......

Specializing in used BMW parts and new & rebuilt auto parts. Their all in one kits render everything you need for proper installation. Many people power be recognizing that headlights they see on the road are tinted in a variety of coloring. The downside is that these parts are often much more costly than their, how can you find quality parts for your vehicle? Original BMW accessories from the transit and luggage scope give your BMW the flexibleness your lifestyle requires. Nothing is worse than paying top dollar for low you decide to buy your from the dealer, you can be certain on the knowledge and expertise they can provide you. Practical hard-top lifts for convertible models and a variety of extras such as luggage nets or cool bags complete the BMW Transportation & luggage accessories reach.

Since their debut in the automotive industry, BMW has been continually creating generation. The ultimate site for the ultimate car featuring BMWs from classics to contemporary. If you start the ignition, you will instantly see what the high-rev engine is capable of. It goes without saying that the trechnicians at a dealership will know more about your car part needs than you will, and can even help you with your replacement parts the price is more than you hoped to pay then maybe you could try buying parts online. It does not matter what you need to buy, whether its engine parts, alternator, transmission, exhaust, or mirrors, you will want to know where to find that part at economical hout a doubt, the best place to purchase is through a reputable retailer. It is rarely the case where you can simply bolt on a supercharger and off you go without needing to consider these other components.

I cannot address each specific BMW model in terms of forced induction, there are too many differences to describe here. Two kinds of xenon bmw headlight for bmw lighting can be purchased, but they aren't authorised for use piece driving in any state. Lastly air passing done the lines causes the brakes to be spongy and become ineffective. The interplay of each factor achieves the best outcome: bmw performance and bmw tuning that is suitable for mundane driving. Xenon headlights come in many different coloring or tints that depend on the brightness grade of the bulb, mensural in Kelvin. You can take pare styles in aluminum, chrome, titanium, or elegant wood. Customizing cars can be a really fun avocation and does not hold to be overly expensive.

These BMW xenon lights are especially popular on the new BMW's. These vehicles represent quality and those who own one, drive it with pride, beaming at all of the admiring looks that they receive while on the you are looking to buy great quality parts for your BMW, you need to know where to find the best parts for your specific model. While modifications can greatly raise the performance of your BMW, the bmw parts necessary are seldom available used. Parts for 3 series 5 series 7 series BMW cars. With xenon headlights, the colour of light varies with the brightness of the bulb, which is mensurable in Kelvin.

Photo: http://www.revengebodystyling.co.uk

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Author: Rand Stuck is an AST certified BMW technician with over 13 years experience working on BMWs and currently manages the BMW Accessories department for a large BMW dealer. Rand specializes in BMW performance and sourcing really hard to find BMW OEM parts!

Bargain BMW Parts

A-to-Z BMW Lighting

2008-05-30T03:47:00.000-07:00

Xenon lights come in many different colors that correspond to the brightness of the bulbs. The M3 CSL's engine differs from the M3 with different camshafts, carbon-fiber intake manifold and alpha-N engine management. But also equally important are issues of how other components within your BMW may need to be improved to adequately deal with all of that upgraded horsepower. Once you look inside the new BMW 3 Series M3 you will immediately recognize that a existence of astonishment awaits you in the fine wood interior pare, the perfectly color and material complimenting titanium or aluminum trim, all of which underscores the generously spacious vehicle interior. Using original bmw accessories makes your BMW even more individualized and sporty. The ultimate site for the ultimate car featuring BMWs from classics to contemporary. Increased power means higher acceleration, superior speed and much greater stress on your brakes. Drivers anticipate more from their cars these days. This was the final year of production for the mighty E36, with only 50 coupes and 70 convertibles being made.

M is for Magnificent: Perfection has a price, and it's probably worth it. OEM part can be purchased both from a local dealer or online- and the online sites usually hold lower prices and much more mixture. It also had three times the of any other. BMW owners who go to performance driving schools must guarantee that this service is accomplished often, and that it is done proficiently. The tunning company offers high quality build using the best tuning part providers such as AC Schnitzer. Find the best price for BMW M3 Grilles at!......

The new M3 V8 follows BMW's other M engines, which is to take a small engine and. Original BMW light debase wheels stress the energetic character and elect mode of your BMW body. Even just one or two parts can do a immense difference in the appearance or performance of the car. Other limited production modes (based on evolution models but featuring special paintwork and/or unique interior schemes commemorating championship wins) include the Europa, Ravaglia, Cecotto, and Europameister.Production of the original E30 M3 ended in early ing won more road races than any other model in history, the E30 M3 is considered by many to be the world's most successful road race car.

A popular choice for customization are BMW's, well known for bmw performance. Compare Cheap Prices for Bmw Xenon Head Light at. The exterior mirrors flow with the lines of the car to do aerodynamic lines. So, for average driving you won't see much of an improvement until you are in the higher RPMs. These vehicles represent status and those who are lucky enough to own one, drive it with pride, beaming at all of the nods of approval that they receive while on the you are looking to buy quality parts for your BMW, you need to know where to find the best parts for your specific model. BMW Xenon Headlights,all models, exclusive quality, fast delivery, all in stock. Xenon headlights come in many different colors or tints that depend on the brightness level of the bulb, measured in Kelvin. OEM parts can be purchased at the local car render store, but there is a greater variety at lower prices online. DINAN SUPERCHARGER: LIGHTING: JIMMY's "BMW XENON HALOGENS" Upgrade. When your BMW emits exhaust from the combustion area, if you are not using a performance s, the odds are that your Bimmer is spending needed power to push that most people, once they purchase a new vehicle, that is only the very start of a long and sometimes costly project of tuning to get increased. Xenon light for full and dipped beam headlights provides bright, clear illumination of the road ahead on both high and low beam. Make Advance Bimmer Parts your preferred online source of discount BMW xenon headlights; our BMW xenon headlights are truly reliable and functional. Super white bulbs are 4,800 degrees Kelvin and, as the name says, are a very bright white. A face-lift of BMW's smallest coupe and sedan series for 2002 includes cleaner Bi-xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, which use xenon for both the low.

Since Xenon bulbs have no filament, they will trigger the dreaded "CHECK LOWBEAM Anyone thinking of retro-fitting Xenon BMW lighting to their E39 should run this. Creating specialized and unique looks for your automobile can be a great recreational activity that need not make a large dent in your billfold. Some people want the old classics, like a Hemi Cuda or a Boss 302. You can count on them having the part you need in stock, or they will order the appropriate ones for your car. exclusive luxury and supreme versatility: the new BMW X5 takes driving pleasure to a higher BMW Xenon Headlights. We carry the largest selection of BMW Xenon Bulbs parts and accessories. They are modestly priced and you will really learn a great deal. Even your seat are highly customizable, and you can choose from heated seats, sports place, and even active lifestyle seats. If you wish to alter the appearance of your car, used BMW parts are probably not the best option.

From sporting and modern to completely elegant, there's something to suit almost every taste. Buying the right part the first time, before you install it, will ensure yo get the performance gains you h of these upgrades is easily reversible and will increase the driving enjoyment of your BMW. Also, the type of transmitting and brake usage will help determine how often your fluids demand maintenance. There are also a variety of other professionally run driving schools around the USA that can teach you excellent driving has a car that they have always dreamed of owning since they were kids. It is as strong as steel yet weighs far less.

When your Bimmer expels exhaust from the motor, if you are not using a set of BMW s, chances are that your automobile is wasting precious HP to push that most BMW enthusiasts, once they buy a new car, that is only the very start of an extensive and often expensive process of modifying to achieve boosted. Searching online for your parts and accessories is likely the easiest way to find what you want. When we go into the interior of your BMW, get ready to take from any assortment of looks from sporty to decadent. You hold options when it comes to purchasing repair guides and tools. Capitol BMW, 5200 Atlantic Ave, Raleigh, NC 27616.

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Author: Rand Stuck is an AST certified BMW technician with over 13 years experience working on BMWs and currently manages the BMW Accessories department for a large BMW dealer. Rand specializes in BMW performance and sourcing really hard to find BMW OEM parts!

BMW Lighting

Reviews On Used Motorcycle Parts

2008-05-27T04:07:00.000-07:00

It is only when your motorcycle is damaged that you might be thinking of the cost of repair. This will put you in trouble when you are in immediate need of motorcycle parts. At this point, you can go for used motorcycle parts. They are easily available and will be extremely cheap that you can afford easily.

Used motorcycle parts can be bought easily from any of the shops that you trust greatly. If you are in a confusion of which shop to go for, reviews on used motorcycle parts will help you to take a decision. The reviews generally analyze various issues concerning the used motorcycle parts.

When you are looking for reviews, you will come to know about the rate of used motorcycle parts. You can search for any product and you will get the details of the prices. The price that is common in the international market will be given in the reviews. The rate of the used motorcycle parts in various shops located in various parts of the world will be given. A comparison of the used motorcycle rates in each online shop will be given in the website as reviews......

The quality of the used motorcycle parts in each shop will be given in the reviews. Since used motorcycle parts can be of varying quality, there are chances that you get the worst quality in some shops. When you start using the part, it will be damaged easily. To avoid this risk, you can go through the reviews prior to buying used motorcycle parts and arrive at a conclusion of whether to buy the product from the particular shop.

The reviews will be taking into consideration various other issues concerning the used motorcycle parts including the tips and tactics to buy the best product. Various points have to be noted before going for buying used motorcycle parts. Those who have no clear idea about this will end up in trouble. The reviews will have posts which will give the beginner an idea of how to deal in the market of used motorcycle parts.

Customer reviews on used motorcycle parts in various shops is another entry in the reviews. They will be analyzing the use of used motorcycle parts, their advantages etc. they will give suggestions and information that will be of use to other customers. Since such reviews are from the experienced users, they are reliable and will be helpful to customers. Customers can use the information on the shops as suggested by other customer reviews to buy motorcycle parts.

A large number of reviews that will be helpful to customers who want to buy used motorcycle parts are found in internet. The information is easily accessible by simply visiting the website. Since parts are bought by a large number of people, these reviews have large number of visitors as well. Though there are a number of reviews online, always look for the reviews that are visited by a large number of customers. Those visitors turn out to be the customers of various shops online.

Photo: http://www.cyclepsycho.com

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

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Author: Largest selection of Used Motorcycle Engines and frames anywhere. Used Motorcycle Parts are our business. We buy wrecked motorcycles.

Reviews On Used Motorcycle Parts

Scooter Mileage - How Far Can Your Scooter Travel Per Charge?

2008-05-27T03:59:00.000-07:00

Scooters range in the mileage they can get depending on what type of scooter and the brand. You have electric scooters and gas powered scooters from many different companies. I am going to talk about the mileage and usage of the Razor Electric Scooters. There are a lot of different options with Razor electric scooters, like color speed, size, seat options, distance you can travel and more. In the Razor electric scooter line there are 3 main scooters and then variations of each. First you have the E100 series, next is the E200 and E200S, finally the E300 and E300S. All these scooters offer benefits to the rider that may be riding them. Some are better for beginner, some are better for those that want speed, and some are better for those that want comfort. Whatever the case may be there is a Razor electric scooter for pretty much anyone.

The E100 is the most simple of all the electric scooters from razor. It is the least expensive, lightest, comes in two colors, but does not have an option for a seat. The E100 comes in red and pink. It goes up to 10 mph and as far as the E100 mileage, its good. You can travel anywhere from 5 to 10 miles on one charge, often lasting up to 40 minutes of ride time. The mileage and speed is going to vary slightly depending on the weight and driving style of the operator......

The E200 is the second in Razors electric scooter line. The E200 gets a little bit better then the E100. First it has an option of a seat. That comes with the E200S. That way if you want to just cruise around you can sit down or stand up, whatever is most comfortable to you. The E200 travels up to 13 mph and can travel up to 10 miles per charge. The E200 can last up to 45 minutes per charge.

The E300 is the best electric scooter in the Razor line. The E300 also has a seat option available in the E300S. The E300 is the fastest and the best. It can travel more the 10 miles and up to 15 mph and more, with some riders, per charge. You can ride this scooter for nearly an hour per charge. Traveling 15 mph on a scooter is quite fast. Even though it may not seem like that is very fast, when you get the wind blowing in your face and your feet that close to the ground you may back off the throttle a little bit.

The Electric Razor Scooter line is top of the line and has options for everyone. If you are young or a beginner start with the E100 or E200. If you are looking for speed and distance the E300 is for you. If you would rather have the option of comfort and the ability to sit down then the E200S or the E300S are right for you. What ever the case may be these scooters are a blast to ride.

Photo: http://www.skates.com

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

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Author: The Electric Razor Scooter line has options for everyone. Find what is best for you and ride and enjoy. Razor is also the creator of an incredible new toy call the ripstick.

Scooter Mileage - How Far Can Your Scooter Travel Per Charge?

Understanding Exhaust And Your Motorcycle

2008-05-20T04:30:00.000-07:00

When you get the motorcycle of your dreams, you may think that that's it and you are going to be done with it. That's not always the case. Knowing what you can do for you is just the beginning.

People often times take for granted the role that exhaust plays in their motorcycle parts needs. They may not understand that when your bike has a bad exhaust on it, you will not be able to drive it far. This is not a great thing to have to worry about when you just bought your bike.

There are many places that you can get your exhaust system. These include your local motorcycle parts store as well as other stores in the area. You may be able to get a good discount on your exhaust when you are looking on the Internet or at the places that may sell them for cars......

The other option is to do put it together yourself. You will need to have some kind of experience with motorcycle parts so that you know where it goes of all things. You also want to make sure that you are ready for that kind of work. It really takes a lot of work to put it together and make it work for your bike.

Your bike is going to need a certain kind of pipe to make it work for you and what you are doing. This can mean letting a professional find the motorcycle parts that you are looking for and putting them on your bike in the end. People think that it's easy to do, but it really does take some work to get an exhaust system on your bike. Take the time to figure it out and get it right.

When you decide that you are going to put a new kind of exhaust on your bike, you may not worry about what kind of pipes you want to use and what it will sound like. You really need to pay attention to what you are doing with your bike and how it sounds. A bad job can hurt the way that your bike functions and the way that it sounds too. Take the time to find the right motorcycle part for your bike and your needs so that you are happy with the outcome and the sound of your bike for the life of it.

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

Photo: http://www.rnrfabrication.com

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Author: Victor Epand is an expert consultant about motorcycle gear, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts. When shopping for motorcycle gear or used parts, we recommend only the best stores for motorcycle gear, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts.

Understanding Exhaust And Your Motorcycle

Bike Shows And What You Can Learn

2008-05-20T04:24:00.000-07:00

There are many shows that you may want to attend so that you can learn more about motorcycle riding. You may also have many reasons for attending this show, but why go to these things?

Bike shows offer many things that other venues don't. They can offer you a way to visit with other motorcycle riders as well as places that will sell you different kinds of motorcycle gear for your needs. This can make it more fun to ride a motorcycle as well as give you plenty of information on the products that may be coming out.

The products that are offered at these bike shows may include things that you have not heard of and that you may be very interested in. You also may get to try some of these great new types of motorcycle gear products......

Another great reason that you may want to check out these shows are the events that happen in conjunction with the show. These are typically bike shows and talent competitions. You may even get a chance to try your hand at putting together a bike engine that you would have never dreamed of. Even the chance to get money for doing it or a great job at a top company. These shows are a great way to let people know of your experience and your ability.

These shows can give you a chance to show off your motorcycle if it has been completed and is ready for others to see. Great looking motorcycles get a lot of attention and are good for many of the things that you may want in the end. Maybe even a chance to get into the magazines that you may be reading on a daily basis.

When you go to bike shops, you will find that there are many different ways that you can learn something from them. You may also be able to get your own motorcycle gear out there for people to see. If that is something that you create yourself. Because there are many products that you may find at these shows, you may be come overwhelmed and unsure of what you may want to get. Take some time and you will find the one that is right for you and your motorcycle gear needs. That way you will know what you want to buy and will know what you should buy.

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Author: Victor Epand is an expert consultant about motorcycle gear, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts. When shopping for motorcycle gear or used parts, we recommend only the best stores for motorcycle shows, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts.

Bike Shows And What You Can Learn

Choosing Motorcycle Goggles Or Helmets

2008-05-20T04:14:00.000-07:00

When you ride your motorcycle for the first time, you may not know what you should pick. Goggles or helmets, for your riding adventures. It's not hard to figure it out if you know what to look for.

Which one is right for you?

When you start looking at the options that you may have in front of you, it may seem confusing as to what one is best for you. Goggles are a great way to protect the eyes without having the heaviness of a helmet. You won't have any protection for your head though, when you just have goggles on. A helmet protects the entire head and lets you ride your motorcycle without any real issues. This is because if you get into an accident, then you will have at least a little bit of protection on your head.

Helmets

Helmets are the things that you wear on your entire head so that you have protection in the event of an accident. This can be a very important part of your motorcycle gear collection because of the safety factor and that it helps to keep you alive. Some states even require you to wear them while you are riding your motorcycle in the first place.

Goggles

If you decide that you don't want to wear a helmet or are not required to, then you might want to consider goggles when you are on your motorcycle. Adding this to your collection of motorcycle gear will help you to have a wide range of products that will potentially protect parts of your body. Goggles don't do much for your head in an accident, but you will at least be able to see the road when you are taking that favorite ride around town......

There are many advantages to both goggles and helmets, the trick is finding the right combination of motorcycle gear to go with what you are going to be wearing and what may feel comfortable for you while you are riding. The different products available to you are what will help to make your choice between a helmet and a pair of goggles easier or hard for you in the end. Take the time to find the products that will fit your needs as well as help to possibly save your life. This way you will be happy and safe while you are on the road.

Abstract: If you are ready to take a motorcycle ride across country, there are several steps that you will need to take and several pieces of motorcycle gear to take with you to make the ride enjoyable.

Over The Road Motorcycling And What You Need

So, you're ready to take that first motorcycle ride across the country. How exciting that will be for everyone. But what in the world will you take? Do you need any special gear? These are all questions you may be panicking to ask yourself.

Taking the plunge

When you decide to take your first cross country motorcycle ride, you may not be sure exactly what you should take. This can often be a hard decision but with a little time and a little effort you can figure it out. Probably the first thing you'll want to decide is if you're going alone or taking friends. Most of the time you will be taking your friends with you on your cross country ride, so you might want to make sure that everyone knows with their jobs are. That way everyone will be organized but still having fun.

What to take

OK so now you decided they're going to go with a group of your friends. You will all need to decide what you're going to take with you. Having a group is great because the saddlebags on your motorcycle probably will not carry very much. So where are you going to sleep? A good rule of thumb on your ride is to know where you want to stop. If you don't have a plan of stopping in a motel, you'll probably want to take at least a sleeping bag. Then you won't be stuck sleeping on the hard ground with nothing under you. You also may want to consider taking with you some credit cards or traveler's checks because you don't want to get stuck on the road with no money. After all your motorcycle does take gas to run, and you don't want to run out and be stuck on the highway.

So when you get ready to start your cross country ride, make sure that you have the things that you will need. This way you won't have any issues that you can't take care of on the road. Cross country rides can be extremely fun if they're well planned and everything is thought of. Just remember to have fun and be safe when you're out on the open road, even if you want to seem like a rebel. You don't want to get hurt because you're doing something stupid while on the road.

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

Photo: http://www.dirtbikebitz.com

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Author: Victor Epand is an expert consultant about motorcycle gear, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts. When shopping for motorcycle gear or used parts, we recommend only the best stores for motorcycle gear, used motorcycle gear, and used car parts.

Choosing Motorcycle Goggles Or Helmets

Truck Tool Boxes

2008-05-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Truck tool boxes keep your gear from getting thrown around in your truck bed. The tool box is a reliable storage area to store the gear you don't want to get damaged. You can also lock it to protect your valuable items.

It seems some of the more sought after truck tool boxes are the ones made from diamond aluminum tread plate and boxes made from stainless steel. These are usually polished or powder coat finishes. Others on the market are made from molded plastic products, and steel. There are a lot of these truck tool boxes on the back of pickup trucks all over United States and Canada.

These truck tool boxes come in all different shapes and sizes to suit your needs as well as specialty boxes, storage boxes and chest you can even use at home. There are boxes made that sit along the side of your truck, up under your truck and even boxes made to fit on the tongue of trailers. If you do any type of hunting that requires a dog, there are dog boxes available that are like a kennel underneath and a place to store your rifles, guns and other gear above. You can get single lid, double lid, shallow well, deep well, low profile and more. The trailer tongue storage boxes are very convenient allowing you to store items in an easy to get at place, protected from weather and thieves......

If you have a truck tool box or want to purchase one but also want a tonneau cover don't despair because they make tonneau covers to suit truck tool boxes. This allows you the best of both worlds.

If you buy power tools or other electronic tools and carry them in your pickup truck, I don't have to tell you how important it is to keep them dry and locked up. A truck tool box is the perfect answer. Not only are the tools locked up but just as important they are out of sight. Most of the time thieves don't bother with what they can't see.

For a great investment for your valuable gear, to keep it protected from the weather, thieves or to just keep it from rolling around in your truck bed, get yourself a truck tool box. You won't be sorry you did.

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

Photo: http://camdenrvservice.com

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Author: Ken Bishop is the author of this article. You may use this article but it must remain the same with this resource text and links remaining useable. You can see more on truck tool boxes on his web site. Truck ToolBox or tonneau covers on his web site at http://www.truckbedtonneau.com

Truck Tool Boxes

Fiberglass Tonneau Cover

2008-05-13T23:52:00.000-07:00

When looking for a great truck bed cover, the fiberglass tonneau cover is one of the more sought after covers on the market. These lids are strong, look great and protect your cargo from thieves and harsh weather conditions. They can also help conserve fuel consumption. With today's high fuel prices, that alone may make it worth your while to invest in a truck bed cover.

You may ask yourself, How is a truck bed cover going to save you on fuel consumption? The tailgate of your truck is convenient and most likely necessary. Unfortunately they catch the wind as it tries to glide over your truck. This resistance is a very big drag on your engine, causing extra fuel consumption. Put a tonneau on and the wind glides right over the tailgate with much less resistance. This is how they save unnecessary fuel burning. If you do mostly highway driving with higher speeds, the quicker you will see a return on your investment......

The fiberglass tonneau cover is a little pricey but that does not matter when you are looking to buy quality and get a good solid investment. They will last you a very long time. These lids are usually painted to match the trucks color. When ordering your cover you will need your trucks paint code which can be found usually on the drivers side door jam. Other popular locations are for Toyota trucks, on the drivers side door right after the C/TR. Ford is also on the drivers side door jam. Nissan is located on the firewall. Dodge may be under the hood or the drivers side door jam and GM on the inside lid of the glove box.

These covers really look sharp on the back of a pickup truck. They look heavy but are easy to open and close with the aid of struts usually on both sides of the cover. You should be able to open the lid with one hand easily. They come with keyed locking mechanisms to keep the thieves out and your cargo in.

Some of these covers come carpeted inside which will deaden the noise from bumps. Some have light options which comes in real handy when looking for something under the lid at night.

There are many types of truck bed covers on the market today. Some of which are soft covers, folding lids and retractable covers but the fiberglass tonneau cover is hard to beat. With their smooth sleek design and painted up the same color to match the truck they seem to appeal to many truck owners. I have even seen some of these covers painted with a mural on them. They look real sharp.

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

Photo: http://www.pickupspecialties.com

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Author: A fiberglass tonneau cover can be a great asset to your truck. Keep your cargo safe from thieves and harsh weather. Check out all these covers and more at this website. Fiberglass Tonneau Cover Also check out a chaper alternative called the undercover tonneau.

Fiberglass Tonneau Cover

Paintless Dent Repair and the Economy

2008-05-08T01:26:00.000-07:00

Imagine driving down the street to drop your kids off at school when...WHAM! Your car is hit by a motorist who wasn't paying proper attention when pulling out of their driveway. No, the damage is not extensive. It is just a little dent. But, a little dent often comes with a huge bill. For many families the need to shell out hundreds of dollars to repair a dent can prove to be extremely cost prohibitive particularly in today's tough economic climate.

There is much in the news these days regarding economic downturns and problems. This is not an imagined crisis. That is to say, there are serious issues facing working people and it is the result of various "pinches" hitting the budgets of most families. For example, gas prices and food prices have started skyrocketing and this leaves many people with limited dollars in their savings. When people are in such situations, the last thing they need is to see their budgets busted by car accident related bills......

This is why paintless dent repair provides such an excellent alternative to traditional bodywork. After all, bodywork on a car ' even if the repairs needed are minor ' can cost a significant amount of money. There are parts and labor involved and that will always run costs up. Even if you have solid insurance, a $500 deductible means you will be forced to shell out $500. When a household budget is tight and credit is hard to come by, a $500 deductible can really be difficult to part with.

While paintless dent repair isn't free, it is significantly cheaper than having traditional bodywork performed. In fact, the amount of money that can be saved on paintless dent repair can reduce your body shop bills by 80%. Obviously, this would be a huge boost to a family that needs to save money as opposed to shelling out hundreds of dollars on a repair bill...especially if an alternative repair method is available.

Paintless dent repair basically molds dents back into their proper, original position. This is a radical departure from the "classical method" that replaced the dented area and then painted over it. Obviously, such a classic procedure means additional parts. These parts aren't free and their cost will be passed to the consumer. In the past, there was no way around this. Now, thanks to the great innovations of paintless dent repair the ability to have such work performed is quite possible and quite effective as well.

So, if you family is concerned about their household budget and are unwilling to shell out more than is necessary on auto bodywork, seeking the help of a reliable paintless dent repair service is highly advised. Really, do you want to spend more money than you really need to? Keeping a budget under control just makes solid fiscal and financial sense. In today's tough economic times such decisions are more important now than ever before. If that means changing your previous auto body decisions then so be it. The end result will be well worth it!

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

Photo: http://www.dent-technique.co.uk

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Author: Paul Fountain is a certified Paintless Dent Technician and a web advisor for http://www.PDQTools.com To learn more about Paintless Dent Repair please visit PDQ Tools.com

Paintless Dent Repair and the Economy

Basic DIY Guide to Car Maintenance

2008-05-08T01:16:00.000-07:00

Driving a car brings lots of convenience to the user, and beyond the selection and buying of a car, we also have to take care of the car and maintain it in good condition so that it will continue to serve us well for at least the next 5 to 10 years.

Today, I will be sharing with you the Basic DIY Guide to Car Maintenance and how you can also do it yourself and save the time and cost spent going to car mechanics!!

BASIC GUIDE TO DIY CAR MAINTENANCE

The first thing to do is to look under the car hood. It looks like a maze, isn't it? Essentially lying underneath that is the fuel system, ignition system, and the cooling system.

We are not going into details on how all these system works. Instead, we will look at how we can perform the simple weekly check on the car and what are the items to look out for when doing so.

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE - Items to look out for

1) Fluids

- Engine Oil fluids

- Coolant fluids

- Windshield fluids

- Washer fluids

- Brake fluids

- Power steering fluids

2) Car tire pressure

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE (1a) - Engine Oil Fluids

TIP: Always check the oil level when the engine has been turned off for an extended period to avoid hot oil from scalding yourself.

Purpose of Engine Oil fluids:

To lubricate the car engine parts and to prevent wear out.

Steps to follow:

1. Wipe the engine oil dipstick clean which is provided by the manufacturer

2. Insert the dipstick into engine, then pull up and check the level. If the top edge of the oil is above the ADD mark, the oil level is acceptable, else you need to add oil immediately. Typically amount required is one quart of oil.

3. To add oil, open the engine oil cap, place a funnel over the opening, and slowly pour the oil into it.

4. Wait for a few minutes and then recheck the oil level to ensure that the oil level is now within the "ADD" and "FULL" marks. Be careful not to add oil beyond the full mark as it will reduce the oil's lubrication qualities and prove less effective.

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE (1b) - Coolant Fluids

Purpose of Coolant Fluids:......

Circulates throughout car engine to remove excess heat. Comprises of a mixture of antifreeze fluid and water, which collects the heat and and brings it to the radiator where air flow cools the liquid before returning back to cool the engine.

Steps to follow:

1) Ensure both engine and radiator are cooled down before checking coolant level.

2) Locate the radiator, and the corresponding coolant reserve tank which is holding the top layer of coolant from the radiator. Check and ensure that the coolant level is within the lowest and maximum levels.

3) When the need to top-up arises, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise by 1 quarter turn to release any built-up pressure remaining in the cooling system, before turning all the way to open the cap.

4) Add coolant as required until level is within the min and max marks.

5) Replace cap and do a basic clean up.

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE (1c) - Windshield Fluids

Purpose of Windshield fluids:

To clean the wind screen as required.

Steps to follow:

1) Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It appears like a white plastic milk jug or jar and hold a small quantity of the windshield fluids.

2) In most cases, you can do a visual inspection of the fluid level, and as long as it is an inch or two below the top, it is considered full, and do not require topping up.

3) If it is too low, simply unscrew the cap and top it up with commercial windshield washer fluid or create your very own diy windshield fluid by adding few drops of dish washing detergent to water.

4) Replace cap and do a basic clean up.

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE (1d) - Brake Fluids

Purpose of brake fluids:

Supports the hydraulic systems which enable the brake systems to function properly.

Steps to follow:

1) Locate the master brake cylinder

2) Clean the top of the reservoir before removing the cover with a wrench

3) Check and ensure that the brake fluid is up to the "FULL" mark. Do not compromise as this is a critical factor in car safety.

4) Top up with the brake fluid through a funnel carefully until the level is about one quarter inch below the top.

Note:

Brake fluids have different grades, so it is advisable to check the owner manuals for specific requirements.

Don't let the brake fluid touch on the car paint, you will be in for a nasty surprise.

5) Replace and tighten the cap when done.

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE (1e) - Power Steering Fluids

Purpose of Power Steering Fluids:

Required for cars enabled with power steering capability, without which it is very difficult to turn the steering wheel.

Steps to follow:

1) Locate the power steering reservoir

2) Remove the cap of the reservoir and check the current fluid level.

TIP: Perform the check only when the engine is cool, else the readings will be inaccurate since the fluid expands when hot.

3) Top up the power steering fluid as specified in the car owner manuals, and be careful not to overfill it.

4) Replace and tighten the cap when done.

DIY CAR MAINTENANCE (2) - Car Tyre Pressure Check

Purpose of Tire Pressure Check:

Regular pressure checks will help to maximize the lifespan of the tires since the wrong pressures can cause over contact with the roads reducing the lifespan, or under contact with the road causing safety issues. Under-inflated tires will also reduce fuel economy resulting in higher costs unknowingly.

Steps to follow:

1) Find out the recommended tire pressures required from the car manuals, measured in psi.

2) For ease of checking, go to any gas station, and insert their tire pressure gauge into your car tire valve stem. Push it until you hear a rush of air, and then release it. Observe the pressure reading immediately on the tire gauge machine.

3) If air pressure is not enough, add air with the air line, and double check pressure when done. If air pressure is too high, release a bit of air with the tire gauge and double check before releasing more air.

4) Replace the valve stem cap when done.

5) Repeat for all tires.

TIP: It is good to also perform a quick check on the tire for any wear and tear and replace early for better car safety.

Conclusion

To summarize, through better understanding on the essential items to look out for during your routine car maintenance, and steps to follow during maintenance, you are now able to keep your car in tiptop performance at all times, and maximize the enjoyment of the car rides for yourself and your family.

Sponsored by: Health, Beauty, Fitness blog

Photo: http://www.sabrejack.com

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Author: Originally Written Article @ http://carcare101.blogspot.com/
The author Jimmy Lee is involved in article writing, publishing, and website design on a freelance basis amid a daytime job as an electrical engineer. His favorite works can be found at http://flashgor.blogspot.com/ and http://www.diypc.wordpress.com/

Basic DIY Guide to Car Maintenance

Are Hybrid Trucks The Wave Of the Future?

2008-05-05T00:55:00.000-07:00

With fuel prices just getting higher and higher, everyone just feels the weight of the expense of fueling their cars. If a person who only has one car to maintain feels this burden, the more that truck operators feel this pain that's burning their pockets. Imagine how many trucks they have to put fuel on day in and day out. Their trucks are on the road most of the day and sometimes even seven days a week.

But the fuel price is not just the only problem that these truck operators and everyone else faces today. The other big problem related to the use of cars is the effects brought about by its fuel fumes to the environment.

For these two problems, there is one answer. Hybrid trucks have been developed in response to these two dilemmas. At first, it was tested for military use. And then tests and development continued until these recent years that truck manufacturers have finally announced its soon release dates. These hybrid trucks have been showcased in truck shows......

Two of the leaders in this arena are Peterbilt and Kenworth. Peterbilt is set to release the first hybrid trucks soon. They will be available in shows this year and preorders are accepted as early as now. Peterbilt is also looking into entering a contract with Wal-mart. Should this push through Peterbilt will be getting a big deal Wal-mart being the second largest truck operations in the US today.

Kenworth, on the other hand, will be following Peterbilt's release of hybrid trucks. Even though it showcased its hybrid trucks earlier, the release of their brand will come second to Peterbilt's. The company has not reported any big prospects as of yet though.

The development and the news of the release of these hybrid trucks has got many truckers excited and eager to make the switch. Others are hesitating though because of the high costs of buying hybrid trucks. Still, with the savings it promises to give truck operators many of them still find it profitable and really worth to invest in these vehicles. Each hybrid trucks is said to give savings to them up to as much as $10,000 every year so it's just something that truckers think they should have. With such great savings, their business would be more profitable. The expensive upfront cost of buying a hybrid truck would surely be worth it because of the saving in daily fuel expenses.

What's also nice about using these hybrid trucks is that there would be less harm done in the environment. With the many trucks the truck owners and operators have, the impact would really be great. The environment would be saved and operators will also be able to save on gas money. With these two hand and hand, everybody will come out happier and healthier.

While skeptics are not as sold out on the idea of hybrid trucks, supporters who are very eager to update their trucks with the new hybrid trucks are ordering them already. This stir is quite great that more and more companies are vying replace their trucks with new hybrid trucks.

Sponsored by: Malaysian Internet Marketer

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Author: Matthew Barr is a successful webmaster of http://www.urban-neon-car-lights.com. He provides more information on plasmaglow, accessory lighting, led car lights, and underglow neon lights on his website.

Are Hybrid Trucks The Wave Of the Future?

Could Terrorists Infiltrate Our Trucking System

2008-05-05T00:23:00.000-07:00

Since the 9/11 incident, the US and countries all around the world has been aware of the danger of terrorist attacks. Anti-terrorism measures have been made to ensure the safety of the public. The lesson learned has just been fresh and it has made a mark in everyone's minds that every possible way terrorism can be spread is examined and guarded against.

One way that the US government is doing this is by being extra meticulous and strict in handing out commercial driver's licenses. Each person applying and even renewing his license goes through a background check. Drivers are also asked to give their fingerprints in this process. It has been recognized that terrorist could use semi trucks to haul materials such as flammable and toxic materials. That is why the drivers of such vehicles need to be checked and clearly identified so that terrorists would have limited chances of being able to carry and deliver dangerous materials freely. And if they do, they will be easily identified and traced......

The problem is that these semi truck legally carrying dangerous materials have labels on them saying what they are carrying. Terrorists will have an easier time identifying them as targets for hijack. Drivers can be ambushed and killed. And then terrorists will be able to take the semi truck with the flammable and toxic materials on it. They can then bomb several areas and kill many people. They can also contaminate the water system to induce much more harm to the public.

New technology has been seen as possible answers for the prevention of terrorist attacks and other activities. Through the use of GPS, the travel of the said trucks carrying materials prone for terrorist intervention can be monitored. This can be done since GPS can easily be installed. Should they go off course, they will be detected early on. This will make monitoring and tracing of these trucks when they go to places not indicated in their route possible. Another use for the GPS is, for instance, when the trucks needs assistance during accidents. With GPS, assistance can be sent immediately and cleaning crews will be able to clean up the place sooner. And with complete information they cleaners will have they will be guided on what they will be facing. And in result, they will know what to do when they get to the scene.

There's another device that the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory developed for this purpose. This device will be installed in strategic parts of the semi truck. What they will do is they can stop the vehicle as soon as it is detected to go out of its route or when the driver's behavior becomes suspicious. The device is capable of activating air brakes so this is capable of stopping the vehicle. Research and tests are still ongoing but still the potential use for this device is very promising.

Hopefully, with these devices and with prevention procedures in place acts of terrorism will be stopped in time before they hurt innocent people. And semi trucks being one target for such acts would also be guarded very well by the authorities and the truck operators. And with everybody's cooperation, things will also hopefully go smoothly without any infiltration of terror anywhere in the world.

Sponsored by: Malaysian Internet Marketer

Photo: http://www.militaryfactory.com

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Could Terrorists Infiltrate Our Trucking System

5 Tips For Leasing A Recreational Vehicle RV

2008-05-01T23:32:00.000-07:00

Are you in the process of preparing a cross-country vacation to discover the United States firsthand? Or, are you in the process of designing a extended length driving trip to see friends and family? If so, traveling by RV is something to consider. There are a great deal of benefits to driving extended miles in a motor home. These benefits include deluxe accommodations, comfort, and enjoying many features of a real home.

As nice as it is to discover that going by RV is a extraordinary manner to journey extended miles and with large families, a lot are uncertain about acting thusly. Among the greatest concerns is the recreational vehicle purchasing cost. Whenever you are interested in journeying by RV, but cannot afford the price of owning one, you have other choices. Recreational vehicle rentals are an low-cost path to acquire the use of a motor home. Even so, recreational vehicle leases may become costly if you're not prudent. For that reason, five useful hints for recreational vehicle renters are highlighted below......

1 - Recognize Each Of Your Choices

Recognizing all of your options is the most effective technique to ensure success while leasing a camper. First, analyze all of your alternatives in terms of local recreational vehicle rental businesses. There may be many companies to select from.

Next, examine the models of motor homes for lease. For comfort, as well as safety, lease a camper that is able to lodge you and your vacationing group. For illustration, a family of half a dozen travelers had better not attempt and stuff into a camper constructed for five. Likewise analyze characteristics, such as amount of electric receptacles, onboard television set, DVD units, and so forth.

2 - Compare Leasing Costs

As previously submitted,many persons have several recreational vehicle leasing businesses to choose from. To control the price of your future recreational vehicle journey, compare costs. While comparing the average renting cost for separate firms, also analyze the various motor homes. As formerly expressed, size is not something that you will want to run short on, but by restricting other characteristics, you can be capable of save money.

3 - Understand All Fine Print

When hiring an recreational vehicle, you will be expected to sign a contract. This contract is synonymous to one that you would sign if you were leasing a automobile. With that being mentioned, never presume that every leasing contract is equal. Always fully study an RV leasing contract, including the small print. Never sign anything that appears overly queer. If in uncertainty, demand to bring the contract home and critique it first.

In keeping with interpreting all small print, it is crucial to recognize all recreational vehicle leasing regulations and limitations upfront. Numerous times, these regulations and limitations are highlighted in a leasing document, however there is little injury in inquiring for more information. Be on the watch for any regulations that can restrict the amount of invitees permitted on board, age prerequisites for kids, and so froth.

4 - Be Careful with use of Goods and Services

Being careful is an crucial element of hiring an recreational vehicle. If you are not cautious, you might be financially accountable for any harm that comes about. That is how come you should always exercise forethought. A few tips necessitate keeping all food and beverages properly sealed or put up when on the road, don't cook meals when motoring that can make damaging stains, etcetera. In addition to, When you have kids, be certain to lay out a few ground rules.

5 - Return Your Rental On Time

Bringing back your recreational vehicle unit on time is most-valuable in holding your leasing expenses low and inexpensive. Tardy rentals might receive late fees. These late fees, should they exist, had better be defined in the recreational vehicle leasing document. If you recognize you're extending behind schedule and will be tardy, make certain to contact your recreational vehicle leasing company to inform them of your hold up as soon as possible.

As a review, recreational vehicle renters are encouraged to study each of their leasing choices, compare costs, soundly study through leasing contracts, use care, and bring back their RV rentals not late. These measures, when properly carried out, can not only help to improve the overall caliber of your following recreational vehicle journey, but they can also serve to restrain the expenses associated with that vacation reasonable.

Sponsored by: Malaysian Internet Marketer

Photo: http://www.fernwoodbigsur.com

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5 Tips For Leasing A Recreational Vehicle RV

How to Find the Right ATV For Kids

2008-05-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

ATVs are becoming increasingly popular with families and children, and the sport of quad riding can be a great pass time for families and friends alike. But there are many things to consider before you begin riding, especially if you have kids who are beginners. You would not allow your teenager to drive the family car without the proper training, and it is just as important to give children the proper training and preparation for all-terrain vehicles, even though they do not need to legally possess a license to operate one.

When you begin shopping for the right ATV for your child, be sure to consider the following: clearance between the ATV seat and the in-seam, how the upper-legs are positioned, foot length for correct braking, grip reach, throttle reach, and break reach. All of these concerns come down to control. The child should be able to control the ATV properly, without stretching or straining to reach anything. If the child does not fit comfortably on the ATV, then it is simply not the appropriate size. It might be tempting to buy an ATV that the child can "grow into" but it is not safe. Just be prepared to sell the used ATV when the child has grown out of it, or to pass it down to a younger child, friend, or relative......

There is a rough guideline for ATV size and the age of the rider. Children who are six and older can typically handle a 70 cc engine. Children twelve and older can handle a 90 cc engine. People sixteen and older can handle engines larger than 90 cc. Be sure that you do not put a child on an ATV that is too powerful the child to handle. That will lead to dangerous situations and bad accidents. You should also make sure the children are aware of just how much pressure is needed for the throttle and the brake to work properly before they do any off-roading.

Sponsored by: Malaysian Internet Marketer

Photo: http://atv.off-road.com

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How to Find the Right ATV For Kids

Tips to Keep Your ATV in Excellent Condition

2008-05-01T23:13:00.000-07:00

Once you've made your investment in your ATV, you want to protect it, like any investment. People regularly perform minor maintenance to keep their cars in the best condition, as well as maintenance on their homes, their electronics, and anything else they own of value. All-terrain vehicles are no different, and like most things worth having, they need to have a little love! Here are some basic tips to protect your ATV and keep it in the best running and physical condition possible.

Before you begin any maintenance on the bike, you should be fed and rested. Your concentration and focus will diminish if you're hungry or exhausted. When concentration diminishes, accidents happen. You should always wash and inspect your ATV after riding it. When you detail the ATV (which is not necessary after every ride), you can use an old toothbrush to reach all the tiny little cracks and corners in the ATV. The inspection should include the brake pads, all fasteners and levers, and anything that might need a good dose of WD40. If you need to fix, secure, replace, or otherwise fiddle with anything, be sure to use the right tools......

Pay special care to the air filters and tires. The more you take care of your air filters, replacing as needed, the longer the engine will last. Your tires will last longer if they're not under-inflated. ATV tires can be leaky, and a tire without enough air pressure is a dangerous tire. If you check the ATV tires before and after a ride, you have a better chance of not getting caught with a flat. You should also remove and check the axle regularly. Be sure to oil the chain after each ride, and the oil will penetrate better if you remember to oil it while the chain is still a bit warm.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.zercustoms.com

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Tips to Keep Your ATV in Excellent Condition

Brabus Widestar Based On The Mercedes ML 63

2008-04-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Mercedes Benz-- manufacturer of ML series and producer of quality ML parts like Mercedes ML320 parts-- is one of the favorites of the tuning giant Brabus. Just recently the company engaged in a venture that involves the Mercedes ML 63. This special project has made its debut at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show.

The Brabus Widestar does not only present a new and exciting wide track version of the SUV but also presented the new Monoblock E 23-inch forged wheels and Brabus B63 S performance tuning for the ML 63 with 550 hp/404.8 kW.

The Widestar concept which is available for all current M-Class models combines dynamic looks and maximum functionality. The graceful flowing lines of the fender flares front and back increases the vehicle’s width by approximately 4 centimeters. The extra centimeters enhance the car’s looks while the wide track improves handling. The multi piece Brabus Monoblock E wheels with size 11 Jx23 were custom fitted for the wide track version of the M-Class. Their forge wheel center ensures an optimal combination of light weight design and maximum strength. The new light alloy wheels are mounted with high performance tires that measure 315/25 R 23.

Brabus has also equipped its Windestar Concept with a control module for the standard Airmatic air suspension that lowers the vehicle’s height by approximately 30 millimeters which further enhance its sporty road handling characteristics......

The Brabus Widestar body conversion kit is consists of add-on parts for the doors, and rocker panels that results to a more homogenous transition between the fender flares. There are also a complete front and rear fascias replacements for the production counterparts’ front and back. The front spoiler bumper with its three striking air inlets and four integrated auxiliary headlights lends the M-Class more power while minimizing lift on the front axle.

In addition, the combination of the rear spoiler, the rear fascia with integrated diffuser, and four chrome tailpipes of the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system create a remarkable aerodynamic balance. And this very same aerodynamic property of the Brabus Widestar makes it the perfect platform for a tuned version of the ML 63.

The tuned ML 63 was developed by the Brabus motor engineers in the form of a B63 S performance kit. The production V8 engine produces 510 hp/375 kW and fitted with sport air filters together with high-performance metal catalysts and newly programmed engine electronics with custom mapping for ignition and injection. The combination of all these components gives off an increase in power output by 40 hp/31 kW to 550 hp/404.8 kW. The peak torque also increases from 630 Nm to 650 Nm.

Other benefits derived from the Widestar concept includes the ability to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a matter of 4.9 seconds. Similarly the engine tuning as well as the installation of the Brabus V/max unit increases top speed from 250 km/h to 275 km/h.

Safety features were made even better by the Brabus Widestar concept like for instance using high-performance brake system which features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers with vented and cross-drilled 380 x 36 millimeter discs on the front axle. Plus add to it the 355x28mm brake discs and 6 piston calipers in the rear enables this Widestar brake system to deliver an impressive stopping power that is comparable to purebred sports cars.

Interior designing is another specialty of the Brabus and for the M-Class they have created an exclusive interior options consisting of stainless steel door sills with illuminated Brabus logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and a leather covered door trim pieces to upgrade the factory leather. The Brabus exclusive leather interiors were made from carefully crafted combinations of the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The production front seats were also equipped with special rear consoles that reach all the way to the headrests in which a seven-inch 16:9 LCD screens with integrated DVD player. There is also an electric folding table made from precious wood added to complete the interior.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://www.seriouswheels.com

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Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Brabus Widestar Based On The Mercedes ML 63

Main Components Of Car Stereo Equipment, Explained

2008-04-30T20:47:00.000-07:00

A stereo system is as important in a car as suspension, seat or steering. Cars vary from model to model, and so does music equipment.

The market is highly saturated with both global and local manufacturers. This is making the job all the more difficult for the customer. It is making it difficult for them to choose the perfectly suitable one, when there are so many varieties in size, shape, system and sound available at their fingertips.

Differentiation is done primarily on the basis of cost and quality. Generally, car stereo systems consist of a head unit, main speakers, optional amplifiers and sub woofers to get superior sound output and the wiring that connects all these items.

The head unit in this case is the heart of the whole system. The cassette/fm/cd/dvd/mp3 player that is inserted in the dashboard is the only place from where the entire system is operated.

Two main speakers are put in the front portion of the car and two at the back, by removing the speaker panel of the dashboard. Each main speaker is often further divided into two built parts, one speaker for the highs and the other for the bass......

The entire speaker set is also termed as channel. Usually, a new head unit installation accompanies new speakers insertion as well.

Amplifiers are added to provide some extra strength to the speakers. The further addition of sub woofers or upgrading of cables may also assist in this purpose as well.

The most common use of an amplifier, however, is to empower the sub woofers even more. Sub woofers basically provide deep bass that the small main speakers perhaps cannot achieve.

All sub woofers are actually connected to the amplifier that in turn can easily be mounted right into the sub woofer box. The whole stereo system is then connected to the car battery to start its function.

It is always better to obtain a guide regarding removing dash, door panels and floor pattern of the car before actually installing the music system.

It is also wise to read before hand the installation instruction or guide that generally comes with any new car stereo equipment, especially the one intended for the head unit.

Additional insights can also be gained from these regarding the exact way to install the car stereo system. An antenna is usually connected with the head unit.

After the completion of the entire set up process, radio stations (provided it has FM) can be searched and set specific frequencies to separate buttons, sound can be adjusted (front-rear balance, treble, bass, etc.) and time can also be corrected.

One basic thumb rule regarding the safety precautions is that one should never work on the electrical system of the car with the ground wire attached to the battery Doing this can cause sever damage.

Sony, Kenwood, JVC, Panasonic, Pioneer, Alpine and Clarion are some of the main brands available on the market. It depends entirely upon the customer which one he/she will buy. If someone is brand conscious, can afford higher price and has aspiration for the highest quality audio experience, then Sony Xplod Series can be the best bet.

Sony symbolizes style, status and standard of the highest degree. The others are a bit more pocket friendly. You will have to prioritize your needs and wants, then examine all the details of each model carefully. Also you should consider your budget as well as the car audio space before making a final decision.

One can always consult with other buyers who are still using a product of a particular company or have used sometime or the other and be assured of things like overall performance, service or value for money.

Here are some other post installation guidelines or tips: Always switch off the system when the car is at rest. Switching off is also probably good before starting the engine to reduce the pressure on battery, minimum use of pirated cassettes/discs, keeping the head clean, etc.

Keeping all these details in mind, a customer can shop for the music equipment of his/her choice and enjoy the experience.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Photo: http://blogs.msdn.com

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Main Components Of Car Stereo Equipment, Explained