ATV Stuff

Skin Care For Men

2010-04-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

The manufacturers of beauty care products have blatantly ignored men while persistently pursuing women. Decade ago beauty regime, cosmetics, etc were considered a female's prerogative. So what's new? There is a clear blurring of gender lines in today's world. Eyebrow plucking, facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, hair removal and hair colours, which were regaled to women only, now find a mention in men's list for beauty.

Men have shown interest in taking better care of their skin. Simple daily ritual of cleansing and moisturizing is the key to healthy beautiful skin. Men’s skin care products include moisturizing creams, cleansers, face and body wash, scrubs, exfoliant and night renewal cream with a variety of natural ingredients for example sea salt, coconut, Aloe Vera and even beer.

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Men's skin is 20% thicker than woman's skin because it’s richer in collagen and elastin. The active sebaceous glands make the skin much oilier. No matter what is your skin type, you have to clean your face daily. Deep cleansing keeps the pores clear, skin healthy and good looking. Just like women's skin, men's skin is also prone to dehydration, sun damage, changes in the environment like air pollution, climate etc. Basic cleansing, protection and moisturizing after shaving is an effective skin care routine.

- Daily face washing will unclog the pores and help in prevention of variety of skin conditions such pimples, acne, ingrown hair, etc.

- Daily shaving of their face makes the skin prone to dehydration. Use shaving creams or foams designed for specific skin type.

- If your skin is prone to imperfections such nicks, pimples, etc after shaving; soothe the skin with moisturizer or after-shave lotion.

- Sunscreens are not only for women. Men's skin should also be protected against the sun. Buy sunscreen or moisturizers with SPF of 15 or above.

- Steam your face before shaving. It opens up hair follicles. Splash cold water on your face after shaving to close the pores on the skin. Aloe Vera is a wonderful post shave moisturizer.

- The use of the correct oils for oily and acne prone skins can be very helpful. Essential oils like lavender, sage, mint and tea tree are naturally antiseptic, active and help heal the skin.

- Eat a balanced diet and stay active. Up your intake of fruits and vegetables and avoid greasy fried foods. Exercising clears your pores and increases your metabolism and sweating cleanses your inner body.

- Drink plenty of water daily to keep your skin hydrated. If consume liqueur, beverages or soft drinks, increase your water intake to keep your self from being dehydrated.

Skin care for men is akin to women's skin care regime. Clean your skin every day and moisturize your skin for healthy beautiful looking skin.

orstudents

Skin Care Ingredients to Watch Out For

2010-04-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

Skin care products are made of different substances. Some may be wholly organic while others make use of preservatives and chemicals. Vitamins, minerals, oils, and a whole lot of other skin care ingredients find their way inside your jars of moisturizers, bars of soaps, and tubes of creams. While these skin care ingredients are generally approved by the concerned federal agencies, they can affect your skin differently especially if it's sensitive. The following are some skin care ingredients you must watch out for in buying your beauty products:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

A common component of cleansers and shampoos, sodium lauryl sulfate is a detergent that can cause probable damage to the skin with prolonged exposure. Since cleansers and shampoos only have short-term contact with the skin, the risk of exposure is minimal. However, prolonged or repeated exposure to this substance can cause dryness and irritation.

Synthetic Colors

How a product looks certainly adds to its marketability. Often, a product's appeal lies on its appearance, particularly its color. Mixing chemicals and other skin care ingredients does not guarantee an attractive hue so synthetic colorants are often added to enhance or change a product's color. However, since they serve no real purpose in taking care of your skin, they are best avoided. Although studies are still inconclusive, preliminary testings often indicate the connection between synthetic colors and some diseases like cancer.

Mineral Oils

Often used as product base, mineral oils are comedogenic, meaning, they can cause whiteheads, blackheads, and minimal breakouts. Mineral oils are also found to interfere with the skin's natural ability to perspire which can cause blocked pores.

Synthetic Fragrances

Like synthetic colorants, the use of synthetic fragrances are often just for market appeal. While there are no clear evidence linking these synthetic fragrances to diseases and skin damage, they can mask spoilage in your beauty products. Foul smell is often one of the indicators of expired skin care products but with synthetic fragrances, products may still smell good long after they have expired.

Imidazolidinyl Urea

A common cause of dermatitis, imidazolidinyl urea is a preservative found in some skin care products to prevent bacterial growth. Prolonged exposure or use of a product with this substance can make you prone to developing skin irritations and contact dermatitis. In addition, a variety of this substance is known to release formaldehyde, a popular toxic chemical used in embalming.

Great skin care products do not rely on how good they smell and look or how long they last. Their value lies in their components and how these can benefit your skin. To be on the safe side, you can opt to go for organic or natural skin care products. Most skin experts also recommend products that contain vitamins A, C, and E to prevent aging, correct discoloration, and increase antioxidants. It is also advisable to learn more about a product and its components prior to purchasing or using it. The Internet, as well as dermatologists, is a great source of information regarding skin care products.

provideocoalition

Skin Care Made Easy

2010-04-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

The skin is the largest organ in the human body. The skin constantly protects the human body from infections and other sickness. Yet at the same time, the skin is the most vulnerable organ in the body because it is exposed to pollution like cigarette smoke, specifically to the carbon monoxide emitted by cars. The skin may also be exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays. In the long run, these factors may lead to skin degeneration and the clogging of pores. In addition to these factors, environmental poisons like toxins and chemicals may set off chemical reactions that produce free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that may damage skin membranes, proteins, and DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). These harmful molecules are primary reasons of deterioration of the skin cells. Because of these threats to the skin, skin care has become a major health issue nowadays.

Other factors that may contribute to poor skin conditions may include the following:

Antibiotics and alcohol lead the way in reducing good bacteria in the digestive tract. The liver and most of the immune system is in the digestive tract;
Poor diet, or faulty digestion restricts the absorption of nutrients that are important to skin's health;
Sluggish liver cannot store skin-nourishing vitamins such as Vitamin A;
Smoking subtracts years from your health and makes the skin lose vitality and color; and
Lack of exercise reduces blood circulation. This means that fewer nutrients and oxygen make it to the skin.
Taking care of the skin does not have to be expensive and complicated, simple adjustments in one's lifestyle may spell the difference between healthy and impaired skin. One simple way of taking care of one's skin is to keep it clean, especially the hands because the hands can spread germs and bacteria to the skin and other parts of the body. Individuals with dry and flaky skin can use moisturizing soap, lotion, cream, and other skin care products. The use of gentle skin care products are encouraged by many health professionals. To lessen the development of pimples, non-comedogenic (won't cause pimples) products should be used.

In addition to proper hygiene, a proper diet should be followed in order to maintain healthy skin. It is important one's appearance is directly related to what people eat or drink. A balanced diet composed of carbohydrates, protein, fats, essential fatty acids, and necessary vitamins and minerals is essential in maintaining the health of the skin. Fruits and vegetables are also important for skin care because they contain plenty of antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that may help protect skin cells from damages that might be brought by free radicals especially the ones that are caused by environmental exposure.

Drinking enough water throughout the day may guarantee proper hydration of the body and help reduce skin dryness. However, it is advised to drink the right amounts of water because too much or too little may bring unwanted effects. Ask health professionals to know more about proper diet and hydration.

Skin care these days is an essential part of a healthy regimen because of the abundance of environmental pollution, global warming, and the thinning of the ozone layer. Without taking care of the skin, individuals may heighten the risks of developing skin ailments like psoriasis, skin cancer, and other skin conditions. Understanding proper diets, hygiene, and hydration are essential in maintaining healthy skin.

theafa

Acne Prevention - Hygiene and Medication

2010-04-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

Proper Hygiene

One of the most common misconceptions about acne is that it's caused by dirt. It's not! Acne is caused by a combination of factors you can't control, like your hormone balance and the natural pace of your skin's renewal system. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can control that may help you keep your acne in check. Begin by following these simple suggestions for healthy-skin hygiene.

Acne Prevention - Tip #1: Don't over-wash. Since dirt is not causing your acne, excessive scrubbing and washing won't make it go away. Try to limit yourself to two washings per day — anything more than that can leave your healthy skin dry, and your acne-prone areas irritated. Habitual over-washing may also stimulate extra oil production, which could result in more breakouts.

Acne Prevention - Tip #2: Skip harsh scrubs. It's okay to exfoliate, but be sure to use a gentle formula with small, smooth grains. Avoid products with almond or apricot shell fragments; they can irritate or even tear your skin and further aggravate your acne.

Acne Prevention - Tip #3: Say no to alcohol. If you use a toner, avoid products with high concentrations of isopropyl alcohol, or common rubbing alcohol. A strong astringent, alcohol strips the top layer of your skin, causing your sebaceous glands to produce more oil. The result? Dry, red skin — and possibly more blemishes.

Acne Prevention - Tip #4: Don't squeeze or pick. Squeezing or picking your blemishes — with fingernails, pins or anything else — can force bacteria deeper into the skin, causing greater inflammation and infection. You'll also increase the damage to the surrounding skin, so the blemish is more likely to leave a permanent acne scar.

Acne Prevention - Tip #5: Hands off! Propionibacterium acnes (the bacteria that causes breakouts) is a normal resident of your skin; it doesn't lead to acne until it gets trapped inside the hair follicle. Excessive touching of your face, including rubbing or even resting your chin in your hands, can drive bacteria into your pores — where it can begin its dirtywork.

Acne Prevention - Tip #6: Work out, wash off. When you exercise, your movement generates heat; clothing and equipment cause friction. Until you shower off, heat and moisture are trapped against your skin, creating an ideal breeding ground for the spread of bacteria. So whenever you can, shower off immediately after exercising.

Acne Medications

Acne Prevention Treatment - Find a regimen and stick with it. Most cases of mild acne can be improved with "over-the-counter" products, or products that don't require a prescription from your doctor. There is a wide range of treatments available, and there’s a good chance one of them will work for you. If you start treatment before your acne gets severe, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding physical and emotional problems down the road. But if your acne gets worse or lasts more than a couple of weeks, see a dermatologist. Here's a quick listing of the most common products used to treat acne — click on the links that interest you for more information on that course of acne treatment.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills the bacteria that causes acne.

• Proactiv® Solution: A dermatologist formulated Combination Therapy® acne management system. Click Here and receive 2 free bonuses when you try Proactiv® Solution Risk-Free for 60 Days!

• Salicylic Acid: Unclogs your pores and encourages skin renewal.

• Tretinoin (Retin-A®): Promotes healthy sloughing.

• Antibiotics: Kill bacteria and reduces inflammation.

• Oral Contraceptives: Help regulate hormone levels.

• Anti-Androgens: Inhibit the body's production of acne-causing hormones.

• Isotretinoin (Accutane®): Treatment for severe cystic or nodular acne.

There are a number of prescription medications known to cause acne. If you routinely take any of the following drugs (or drugs like them) and have problems with acne breakouts, you may want to consult your physician to discuss an alternative treatment with fewer side affects. But try to keep it in perspective, your health comes first!

Anticonvulsants (like Dilantin) are prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy and other kinds of seizures. Most medications in this family list acne as a common side-effect.

Corticosteroids (like Prednisone) are often used to treat asthma and other chronic lung diseases. Like cortisol, a natural steroid produced by the body during times of intense stress, corticosteroids can stimulate sebum production and lead to blemishes.

Disulfuram (or Antabuse) is prescribed to help chronic alcoholic patients who want to remain in a state of enforced sobriety. When mixed with alcohol, this drug causes a range of unpleasant symptoms intended to discourage further mixing. Unfortunately, regular use of Disulfuram (even when not drinking) can cause acne in some patients.

Immuran. Like other immunosuppressants, Immuran is used to suppress the immune system in patients awaiting an organ transplant. It can help prevent organ rejection; it can also suppress your body’s natural ability to fight the bacteria that cause acne.

INH (or Isoniazid) is typically used to treat tuberculosis, or TB. Thought to be largely eradicated, TB experienced a resurgence in the late 1980s among the homeless population and in patients suffering from AIDS. It continues to be a problem today.

Quinine is prescribed as a precaution against — or treatment for — malaria. If you’re traveling to a part of the world where malaria is a risk, be sure to ask your doctor about alternative solutions.

Thyroid preparations. Some thyroid medications (such as Thiourea and Thiouracil) are known to trigger acne. These preparations are used to stimulate the thyroid gland in patients with low thyroid function. Large amounts of iodine, which also helps to regulate thyroid function, can also cause breakouts.

centerforsocialmedia

Acne Medication Potential Side Effects

2010-04-12T16:24:00.001-07:00

Patients with mild or occasional acne may be able to treat themselves without the use of prescription medication. Such remedies may include an alteration in diet and exercise habits, regular cleansing to remove residue and buildup on the skin, choosing the right cosmetics and eliminating stress. But for some individuals, this simply isn’t enough. For those who suffer from moderate to severe acne, a stronger medication may be needed in order for that individual to find relief from their condition.

There are several different types of medication that are commonly used to treat acne, each of which may contain the potential for certain side effects. As is the case with most over-the-counter acne medication, prescription medicines are usually available as gels, creams, lotions or solutions. In determining which is the best choice for the patient, a physician will study the skin type, severity of acne and the patient’s likelihood of having a negative reaction to any medication. Once a prescription is written, the physician will explain how often to use the medicine and how to properly apply it to the skin.

As mentioned previously, it is not uncommon for individuals to have a reaction to strong acne medication. For some it is only temporary, but others may require a change in their prescription. The most widely seen reaction is that of the skin’s condition actually worsening. Many physicians agree that most medications will cause the skin to worsen before it actually improves, which may take 6-8 weeks of using a medication. However, additional side effects may include extreme redness, burning, stinging, peeling, soreness, scaling or a discoloration of the skin. If individuals notice these side effects becoming increasingly worse or if they do not go away after a specified period of use, which should be indicated by a physician, the medication may need to be changed.

Individuals who take oral medications for the treatment of acne may face an entirely different set of potential side effects, including an upset stomach, dizziness and skin discoloration. Certain types of medication can be dangerous to women who are pregnant or children under a certain age, so individuals should report any possible conditions to their physician prior to accepting a prescription.

As with any medication, there are often risks and benefits of it’s use. The best way to learn of these is to speak with a physician, ask about any potential side effects and completely disclose your current medical condition and any medications that you are currently taking. In some instances, medications may negatively react with one another and this can be very dangerous to the patient. Acne medicine is no different and the patient should have a complete understanding of how it operates before using it.

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as, or used in place of, medical advice or professional recommendations for the cause, diagnosis or treatment of acne. If necessary, individuals should consult a medical doctor or dermatologist for information regarding the use of acne medication or other effective treatment methods.

nerdgirls

Acne Cures and Myths

2010-04-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, few find it, but this is only because they haven't found the right acne cure for them. Each of us is different, and our bodies function and respond to treatment differently. What works for some, may not work for others. However, there are a few proven treatments that do provide an acne cure for a large majority of acne sufferers.

The best over the counter acne cure seems to be ProActiv. This is a skin care system that contains benzoyl peroxide as the active ingredient. It is an expensive treatment, but that is because it has proven to be so effective as an acne cure. ProActiv is a non-prescription topical acne treatment, with prescription strength benzoyl peroxide.

Accutane, which is a prescription medication, has also proven to be quite effective as an acne cure. However, it is also expensive, and as an oral medication, there is the possibility of serious side effects. Due to the possible side effects, many choose not to take this powerful drug, even though it works well for the majority of people who use this treatment.

Another acne cure seems to be retin-a. Retin-a is used to treat acne, acne scars, wrinkles, skin discoloration, and other skin disorders. It is highly effective, with few side effects. Retin-a is used as a topical treatment, and is available by prescription. However, there are other over the counter medications that contain small amounts of retin-a.

The important thing to remember is that acne cures do not work overnight. Furthermore, you may need to continue acne treatment even after the acne has cleared up, or start the treatment again should you have another outbreak in the future. Discuss the need to continue treatment with your dermatologist.

The three acne cures discussed above are expensive. However, they are expensive because they work. This doesn't mean that all expensive treatments work, it simply means that these three, which have been proven to work for the majority of people who have tried these treatments, are well worth the cost.

Acne Myths

Myth #1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene. If you believe this myth, and wash your skin hard and frequently, you can actually make your acne worse. Acne is not caused by dirt or surface skin oils. Although excess oils, dead skin and a day's accumulation of dust on the skin looks unsightly, they should not be removed by hand scrubbing. Vigorous washing and scrubbing will actually irritate the skin and make acne worse. The best approach to hygiene and acne: Gently wash your face twice a day with a mild soap, pat dry--and use an appropriate acne treatment for the acne.

Myth #2: Acne is caused by diet. Extensive scientific studies have not found a connection between diet and acne. In other words, food does not cause acne. Not chocolate. Not french fries. Not pizza. Nonetheless, some people insist that certain foods affect their acne. In that case, avoid those foods. Besides, eating a balanced diet always makes sense. However, according to the scientific evidence, if acne is being treated properly, there's no need to worry about food affecting the acne.

Myth #3: Acne is caused by stress. The ordinary stress of day-to-day living is not an important factor in acne. Severe stress that needs medical attention is sometimes treated with drugs that can cause acne as a side effect. If you think you may have acne related to a drug prescribed for stress or depression, you should consult your physician.

Myth #4: Acne is just a cosmetic disease. Yes, acne does affect the way people look and is not otherwise a serious threat to a person’s physical health. However, acne can result in permanent physical scars--plus, acne itself as well as its scars can affect the way people feel about themselves to the point of affecting their lives.

Myth #5: You just have to let acne run its course. The truth is, acne can be cleared up. If the acne products you have tried haven’t worked, consider seeing a dermatologist. With the products available today, there is no reason why someone has to endure acne or get acne scars.

asknature

Acne Causes and Treatment

2010-04-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

Acne is one of the most common skin problems affecting people worldwide. A big misconception is that acne affects only teenagers, but many are surprised to learn that adults also suffer from this same inconvenience. Among the many causes are clogged pores resulting from makeup, everyday air particles and often a simple case of hormonal changes. While acne is a part of life for many individuals, it can be effectively treated.

One of the best natural remedies for acne is to wash your face at least twice on a daily basis. Early in the morning and late at night are both good times to cleanse the face. A moisturizing soap will be the most gentle for your skin whereas others with a harsh ingredient may strip the skin of it’s natural moisture and may even cause itching and/or redness.

Many people choose to use retail acne treatment products, which can be effective if used properly. It is very important, however, that consumers read and understand the instructions and/or warning labels found in the packaging. All acne treatment creams, pads or face wash products should be kept away from the eyes and are for external use only. This is not only true of retail products, but prescribed medications as well.

For a recurring or severe case of acne, many sufferers turn to a dermatologist for a more aggressive treatment. In most cases, a prescribed routine and medication can help to treat acne. In most cases, a follow-up visit will be scheduled so that the doctor may monitor the patient’s progress and determine whether additional steps should be taken to treat the problem.

It is very important to avoid aggravating, or disrupting, any and all acne blemishes. Otherwise, the sufferer will face a possible bacterial infection from dirt and/or germs that may reside underneath the fingernail. Many believe that just because their fingernails appear clean, there is nothing to worry about. That’s simply not true. There are many germs and bacteria, which are not visible to the naked eye, that reside underneath the fingernail. This is why an acne sufferer should avoid any direct contact between their hand and the blemish area(s).

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as, or used in place of, medical advice or professional recommendations for acne diagnosis and/or treatment. If necessary, acne sufferers should consult a dermatologist or qualified physician for acne treatment.

openstreetmap

Custom Lasik – Is it in you?

2010-04-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

Today highly successful Lasik eye surgery has become the norm and patients and surgeons are searching for even better results. As with all technology, there is always someone trying to create a way to do things faster, better, cheaper. In the past, Lasik surgeons strived to have their patients be able to see almost as well after Lasik surgery as they did before using their glasses. Now the push is on to fine-tune patient’s vision beyond what they currently can see with contacts or glasses. This is where Custom Lasik comes in.

For traditional Lasik surgery, the doctor bases his treatment on what his patient tells him during the initial exam. This is very similar to an ordinary eye exam where your eye doctor asks you questions; which is clearer, one or two? This is a very subjective method of determining focusing errors based on how you answer the questions. Our answers to these questions may change from one day to the next based on how we’re feeling and how well rested we are.

In the past, many Lasik surgery patients were happy if their after-surgery vision was as good as their pre-surgery contact lens corrected vision. Now with Custom Lasik, your surgeon may tell you, “After Custom Lasik surgery, you’ll be able to see better than you now do with your contacts or glasses”. For this to be possible, Lasik treatment has to be incredibly sophisticated and personalized for each individual.

In Custom Lasik, the front surface of the cornea is ‘mapped’ much like a topographical map. This topographical map shows not only the height and curvature of the front of your cornea, it also shows the back. The computer analyzes every tiny irregularity on the surface of your cornea and stores this information. But it doesn’t stop there, it goes on to create a simulation of what your ‘best possible’ vision could be. This detailed information is fed into the computer and will assist your surgeon in guiding the laser to give you the best, one-of-a-kind Custom Lasik vision correction.

connectusers

Hair Loss: Stress Triggers

2010-04-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

It is not surprising that one of the major factors leading to hair loss stems from stress. Extreme stress can affect several aspects of one’s life and health, including causing hair If you suspect that stress is triggering your hair loss, then you will have to make changes in your lifestyle; otherwise you may well end up with bald patches on your head.

Stress can be triggered externally or internally. External situations come from the environment. Internal factors are linked to emotional responses such as depression, grief or resistance to change. If this stress is continuous and is not solved, it will begin to affect the way in which the body reacts.

Hair loss will often result as a reaction to the way in which stress impacts the balance in your body. When stress begins to take place in your body, the hormonal balance in your body is upset. There may be an excess production of hormones which may then go into the scalp area and causing your hair to fall out. Usually, this hair loss will be noticeable after two to four months. You will be able to identify the hair loss by the thinning of your hair, bald spots or more hair falling out than usual.

To manage stress, you can use a variety of relaxation ways. Meditation techniques can be used to help you let go of daily problems. Massage therapy and going on a vacation are other ideas that you can adopt. You can also work on changing dietary habits and exercising regularly. If the problems are more external or related to a life-changing situation, there are a variety of places that will help you in working through the problem.

Hair loss due to stress triggers can be stopped pretty easily and quickly once you control your stress and ease the pressures that you face. Take comfort that hair loss is usually not permanent in these cases and hair tends to grow back after stress is reduced. When you eliminate stress, the hormonal balance in your body is restored and production of particular nutrients is back at normal levels. In conclusion, it is important to get help and support quickly before hair is not lost completely.

noflightclub

Arthritis : When Things Are Swell

2010-04-07T09:13:00.000-07:00

Arthritis is one of the most debilitating conditions affecting mostly people over the age of 55. It doesn't only affect that specific age group, but also a percentage of young adults. It's not just a simple disease but a group of conditions that may cause damage not only to your bones but also to other organs in the body.

Different forms of arthritis manifest different symptoms. Common symptoms of arthritis include: persistent joint pain; tenderness in a joint which is aggravated by movement; inflammation indicated by joint swelling, stiffness, redness, and/or warmth; pain and stiffness in the body, especially around the joints; joint deformity; loss of range of motion or flexibility in a joint; unexplained weight loss; non-specific fever; and crepitus (weird crackling sound in the joints.)

There are over 100 different types of arthritis affect approximately 46 million Americans today. The three most common types are: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Osteoarthritis is more commonly called as degenerative arthritis. This develops from a simple breakdown to an eventual loss of cartilages of one or joints. Cartilages are protein-based mass that serve as cushions in between joints. This type of arthritis usually attacks weight-bearing joints such as the hands, feet, and spine. It is mostly related to aging and it progresses further as the years pass. It usually occurs at the age range of 45-60. Men are at higher risk for osteoarthritis before age 45. Women, however, are more prone to it around age 55 specifically around the hand, foot and knee joints. Severe cases of degenerative arthritis require total joint replacement, mostly of the hip and knee joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis may also affect different joints, and as previously mentioned, it may affect some body organs and even our blood. It mainly affects the synovial lining of the joint. The synovium is a soft tissue that lines the non-cartilaginous surfaces within joints. This issue comes as a secondary effect of infections. In this case, the body's autoimmune system malfunctions and attacks healthy joint tissue, causing inflammation and joint damage. Although it is not as degenerative as osteoarthritis, it may cause joint deformity in a mild level.

Gout is caused by displacement of uric acid crystal to the joints. Also known as hyperuricemia, which literally translates high uric acid content in the blood, it is a metabolic ailment wherein uric acid builds up in the blood and crystallize in the joints of other parts of the body. Chronic gout attacks may lead to hard lumps of uric acid deposits around the joints, and in the process decrease kidney functions and form kidney stones.

There are different kinds of treatment for the different forms of arthritis. There are medications available that aid in arthritis pain relief. Antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used as relieve pain and decrease inflammation on affected areas. It has to be paired with constant visits to a physical or occupational therapist to ensure that mobility and range of motion is maintained.

Arthritis isn't just a simple joint pain that we can disregard. The pain alone is difficult to ignore, let alone the complications it will bring if it remains untreated. Nobody is safe from getting arthritis as there are forms that have causes yet to be defined. Bottom line is, take care of your body - be mindful of your diet and exercise constantly. You'll never know when this sneaky disease will catch up with you.

healthnewsdigest

Andropause and Hair Loss

2010-03-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

Andropause and hair loss often go hand in hand. Imagine clumps of hair falling off your head, or observing strands of once healthy hair collecting in the shower drain. Maybe you run your hand through your hair and feel it thinning. It can feel daunting and quite scary.

Typically, hair loss is a result of an imbalance of male testosterone hormone in the body. Instead of infusing the hair with healthy testosterone, enzymes break it down to a simpler form known as dihydrotestosterone.

An excess of this hormone has the effect of decreasing the size of hair follicles which eventually break down and make your hair fall off sporadically. The medical condition that is best associated with hair loss in Andropause sufferers is hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a by-product of decreasing levels of Human Growth Hormone, which is responsible for regulating our aging process. Andropause sufferers’ hormones have a profound effect on the rate and consistency of hair loss. Dihydrotestosterone (considered by medical circles the strongest, most potent form of testosterone) is responsible for building and growing body hair in men (at normal levels - an excess causes hair degeneration.)

This includes body hair, pubic hair, head hair, armpit hair – any hair. DHT is directly produced in the skin, made to work by supporting enzymes that break it down for distribution throughout the body. DHT levels are present more in certain areas of the body than in others – explaining why we may have a full crop of hair on our heads and little bushes of hair on our chests and backs. Realize, women also have DHT in their bodies but produce less of it.

That explains why women don’t have body hair. Case in point: an excess of DHT is prevalent in Andropause sufferers, explaining the reason for hair loss. The enzyme used to break down testosterone to dihydrotestosterone is ¨over activated¨ - working too hard and too fast.

This is the primary cause for this Andropausal condition. As aforementioned, dihydrotestosterone is present more in certain areas of the body than in others. For this reason, men’s hair can fall into funny patterns. You know, the balding train station clerk you might have seen with more hair on his scalp than the top of his head. The shrinking of hair follicles as a result of the production of DHT is attributed to this.

How hair grows is a wondrous thing in itself that needs to be recognized. Typically, hair grows at a rate of a quarter inch every 2 weeks. Andropause sufferers have their ¨hair growth cycles¨ disrupted when there is erratic growth of some hair strands where ¨new¨ hair pushed ¨old¨ hair out. Because Andropause is a period of hormonal imbalance, a lack of hormonal stability and poor homeostasis (holistic balance) in the body pushes things out of whack.

If you want to maintain healthy strands of hair, one thing you can do is hit that stair climber machine fellas! Exercise reverses the aging process and may certainly reverse this symptom. There are also hair loss products that can help you recapture your hair.

Secondary causes of hair loss in men suffering Andropause is stress. More specifically, stress raises the levels of cortisol and cortisone (known as stress hormones) in the body. Eating non-nutritional foods also speeds up hair loss.
Pretty much any activity that speeds up the aging process will speed up your hair loss.

Stay away from caffeinated drinks, fast foods, and cigarette smoking to keep running your hands through your thick mane longer. Participate in recreational activities to reduce stress and light up your life with a proper exercise regimen.
If you’re suffering from this condition, don’t let it affect you in the least bit! Andropause should not serve as a punishment – rather, a realization of a future for the better.

The information in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice.

byoweb

Advancement in Hair Transplantation

2010-03-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

A standard hair transplantation procedure involves the removal of donor strip of hair from the back of the head from where the follicular unit grafts are dissected under a microscope. These grafts are then preserved in saline and are then transplanted on a bald patch on the crown area of the scalp.

Given the time consuming and tedious nature of this procedure, a hair transplant surgeon is often able to transplant only about 500 to 600 follicular unit grafts per day. However, thanks to the recent hair transplant advances, this technique is often replaced by the follicular unit extraction (FUE). The cost per graft of FUE is typically twice the cost of the standard follicular unit hair transplant procedure discussed above but it is comparatively faster and minimally invasive.

Some hair transplant advances

In a typical FUE procedure a small round punch is made in the donor area to directly extract 1, 2, 3 and 4 hair follicular unit grafts. The follicular units extracted using this process is typically referred to as "blunt dissection" where a punch is made to envelope the entire follicular unit separating it from the surrounding soft tissues.

Once the underlying follicular unit is separated from the surrounding tissues, it is easily extracted using a small forceps. The small holes left behind after the follicular unit extraction gradually heal over the next few days and are not detectable to the naked eye once the patient's hair grows out. The healing time is much less than the donor strip extraction procedure.

While the FUE procedure has been adopted by most hair transplant clinics, the standard strip excision method is still the most popular hair transplant procedure because it is more economical than the FUE.

Moreover, due to some recent hair transplant advances such as the use of trichophytic closure technique, the linear donor scar created by the strip excision procedure is now often rendered almost undetectable to the naked eye. This advancement in the hair transplantation technique has made FUE procedure relatively less appealing.

Hair transplantation research

Besides the hair transplant advances in the transplantation procedures, a lot of research is also underway to clone the hair. If the hair transplantation research is successful it will be possible to make several copies of donor hair in the laboratory. The application of this technique would be used in the form of hair transplantation. In the traditional procedures, the biggest limitation is often the donor which is not able to meet required density. However, hair cloning promises to overcome this problem by having the amount of hair required to be grown in a laboratory from a single donor hair and then implanting it into the scalp.

Hair transplantation research for cloning is very difficult and there are many hurdles that have to be overcome regarding the safety and cosmetic characteristics of the cloned hair. Some hair transplantation research has also provided breakthrough for some hair loss medication like Dutasteride.

barbersstop

Healthy Tips To Weight Loss

2010-03-17T09:18:00.001-07:00

The world is fascinated with weight loss, some for health reasons and others for cosmetic. No matter the reason, many people try harsh diets that never work, extreme exercise regimens that result in injuries or other weight loss program that end without success. The reason that none of these weight loss methods seem to work is because in order to stay with a program, you have to enjoy it. Not only that, but it has to be safe as well.

Below are 5 genuine tips to weight loss, which almost anyone can do without tossing out their favorite food or spending every spare minute in the gym. Realistically, any weight loss program will take time. If anyone promises you different, they are either not being completely honest or are simply uninformed. Follow one single weight loss program for 30 days, whatever it may be, and see if you have results. If not, move on to something else. In the meantime, check out several tips to getting started today.

Tip # 1
Walking. If you can set aside 30 minutes every day to enjoy a leisurely stroll, you will be strengthening your legs and your heart while burning some calories in the process.

Tip # 2
Use a mini cycle. These portable little exercise units offer the look of bicycle pedals set up on a metal bar, but without the high price or weight of a standard exercise bike. With a min cycle, you can pedal at your desk, on the couch or anywhere else that you can comfortably set and reach the pedals.

Tip # 3
Walk or take the stairs instead of an elevator. This is a terrific weight loss exercise without even noticing the extra effort. Something as simple as a few extra steps every day can go a long way where weight loss is concerned. The next time you go to the store, park in the middle of the parking lot and walk to the store. Avoid parking in the closest spot to the door, which is tempting, but opt to walk instead.

Tip # 4
You don’t necessarily have to cut out all of your favorite foods, but you should eat them in moderation. There is no single food that will completely hinder your weight loss attempt but, if consumed excessively, it may. For instance, simply limit your intake to one candy bar or, if you are being really careful, a miniature candy. There is no reason to cut out your favorite food when a conservative amount of the things we love can still have a place in our lives, including during the times that we are focusing on weight loss.

Tip # 5
Whatever your exercise routine, set aside a certain time each day to do it. Individuals who set a routine are much more likely to stay with it and find success than those who simply exercise whenever they have time. The goal to successful weight loss is to make time.

This article is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is not to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or a doctor’s recommendation. Prior to beginning any weight loss program, individuals must consult a physician for proper diagnosis and/or treatment.

teenfatcat

You Can Protect Your Car From Mother Nature

2010-03-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

Mother Nature has it out for you…your car, that is. The moment you bring your vehicle home from the dealership, the assault has begun. Sun, rain, snow, hail, dust, birds, debris, pollution, and a host of other elements and items can doom your “new car” look in no time. What can you do? Fight back, that’s how. Let’s take a look at some smart ways you can protect your vehicle’s finish and keep it from looking old before its time.

Wash and wax. Okay, so you don’t have a hose handy. If you go to the car wash, make sure that it is brushless, otherwise the circular marks on your finish will certainly do a number on your car’s appearance in no time. As far as waxing your vehicle, polishes made by popular brands including Turtle Wax should do the trick. Yes, I know, a friend recommended a particular brand that can give your car a look that is better than new. Go ahead and use it…just follow the directions on the bottle precisely!

Keep it covered. Yes, driving down the street with a car cover on your car will certainly get you some attention! I do not recommend that you do that, but having a car cover available for your vehicle makes sense even if you keep your prized possession garaged. Dust and indoor pollution can take its toll even when your car sits in your garage while bird crap, moisture, hail, tree sap, the sun, and small impacts can hurt your car’s finish when parked outside. The more layers your car cover has, the better the protection it will offer too. Select one that has mirror pockets for the best fit.

Minor details. Other accessories that offer protection for your vehicle include: floor mats and liners, seat covers, vent shades, hood protectors, and brake dust shields. If you carry pets regularly then a pet pad or pet box can protect your interior like nothing else.

When purchasing cleaning products make sure you read all labels carefully. That cleaner you use may not be the best thing for your wheels and the interior of your car should have its own type of cleaner. Check manufacturer’s recommendations to make sure that the product you use is the right one; some cars come with an initial supply of cleaning materials to help you properly treat your brushed aluminum or burl wood interior.

thehealers
myfacenetworking

You Can Save Money On Car Expenses

2010-03-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

Gas prices remain at historically high levels and the long term trend is indicating that they will stay high. If you own one or more cars, you understand that saving cash somewhere, somehow is important to helping you preserve your budget. The following are some important tips to help you manage your car expenses.

Look over your insurance. If your car is between two and three thousand dollars, consider canceling your collision coverage. The money you save could then be set aside by you toward a down payment on your next vehicle.

Keep your tires suitably inflated. Your gas mileage will fall if your tires are under inflated. Keep your tires at the suggested pressure amounts and your gas mileage should stay stable.

Do not change your oil too often. Unless you drive entirely in the city you do not need to change your oil every 3000 miles. Most cars can last up to 7500 miles between changes. You will, however, still need to change your oil twice yearly even if you drive infrequently.

Do some minor maintenance yourself. You can change your wipers, the air filter, battery, and replace a tire yourself. If you rely on others, your costs will climb considerably.

Use regular gas. If your car requires regular gas, do not indulge in premium. Your car probably will not run any better and you will have paid as much as 25 cents extra per gallon extra.

Don't purchase an comprehensive warranty. The amount of money you pay for an extended warranty is usually more than what the warranty is worth. If you feel that a particular car model requires an extended warranty, perhaps you should consider shopping for a vehicle that is much more dependable.

You can save plenty of money by washing and waxing your car yourself. Treat yourself to the services of a car wash no more than 2-3 times per year.

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. The manufacturer of your vehicle will know how long parts should last. Change your timing belt before it becomes a problem, your fuel filter as required, and keep an eye on your brakes, tires, and shocks. Most cars built today do not need a complete tune up for as long as one hundred thousand miles, so do not put down the $250 for a tune up before one becomes a necessity.

Use a private garage. No, you do not have to take your Chevy to the Chevrolet dealership for service. If you have a decent, local garage that knows your make and model you can typically save money by using them instead.

We aren’t likely to see gas prices below $2 per gallon again, while $3 per gallon may soon be the rule. Supply and demand cannot be controlled, but you can take the above steps to make certain that your car does not cost you more than it should.

jaman
myface

Your Auto Warranty: What To Look For

2010-03-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

When deciding which car to buy, make sure you check the auto warranty that comes with the vehicle. In this article we will help you sort through all the auto warranty-related issues. After all, not every new car warranty is created equally. Some will cover all the non-wear items on the car up to only three years or 36,000 miles. Others will cover repairs all the way up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. The strength of the coverage that is included will help you decide whether to buy an extended auto warranty.

It's important to understand the different parts of an auto warranty as it is good to know the difference between a new car warranty and an extended auto warranty.

A typical new car warranty has two parts: the "bumper to bumper" warranty, which covers everything except the "wear" items such as brakes and tires; and the power-train warranty that covers all the parts that make the car move, such as the engine and transmission.

Bumper to Bumper

Few extended vehicle warranty plans cover absolutely everything on a vehicle. Read the warranty contract and find out exactly what is and what is not covered. If the contract says it covers everything except for X, Y, and Z; that's a lot more coverage than a contract which lists 10 or 20 items which are covered. Keep in mind your own history with vehicles and what repair/maintenance you expect to have in the next few years to your car.

Wear and Tear

Many extended vehicle warranty plans cover parts that break, just as they cover those that wear out. Once again, read the contract to understand the differences and how they may affect your final cost.

An extended auto warranty can be purchased to prolong the coverage of the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Most people are familiar with the extended warranty that is sold at dealerships. This is sometimes called a "factory warranty" because factory-trained technicians perform the required work on the car. There are also "third-party" warranties, which can save consumers money but are generally less convenient to use. Many third-party warranties require out-of-pocket payment for repairs before reimbursement. Weigh all these factors carefully before you make your choice.

By looking carefully at your auto warranty before you buy, you will save yourself much potential future problems.

glasgowstudent
thepoint

Your Guide To Towing – Know Before You Tow

2010-03-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

If you love to camp, hike, fish, water ski and enjoy the great outdoors; chances are there will come a time when you want to tow a boat or camping trailer. Know before you tow with this guide to towing.

Here are some terms you should be familiar with and what you need to check. The Base Curb Weight + Cargo Weight + Passenger Weight = GVW or Gross Vehicle Weight. The GVW + Loaded Trailer Weight = GCW or Gross Combination Weight.

The GVW must not exceed the GVWR which can be found on the safety Compliance Certification label. The GVWR is the maximum weight allowed on a fully loaded vehicle. This includes passengers and cargo. Once you have this information, you will be able to figure out what size trailer a vehicle can tow.

There are two different types of hitches on the market. A weight carrying hitch is common for small to medium size trailers. Use a good weight carrying hitch that properly distributes the weight. You’ll find a label on the hitch that provides the weight carrying and weight distributing capacity of the hitch. Don’t exceed the rating.

The weight distributing hitch uses a hitch platform to distribute the tongue load to all the wheels of the towing vehicle and trailer. It is the required type of hitch for most Class III and IV trailers. This type of hitch is welded or bolted to the frame of the vehicle and it has equalizing arms that are connected from the hitch to the trailer’s frame.

Besides the GVWR and the correct type of hitch, you also need to make sure your braking system is adequate. If your load is more than 1500 pounds, the law requires a separate braking system. There are two types on the market.

Electronically controlled brakes provide both automatic and manual control of the trailer brakes. The tow vehicle needs to be equipped with a controlling device and requires some wiring. Surge brakes are independent and are activated by a master cylinder that is located at the junction of the trailer tongue and hitch. Make sure your braking system conforms with all legal requirements.

The trailer will also need to be equipped with trailer lights that meet government regulations. Do not connect the trailer lights directly to the vehicle’s lighting system. They need to be installed with a proper wiring harness. See your dealer to ensure you have the correct wiring harness for your vehicle.

Safety chains should always be used when towing. They provide a connection between the trailer and the vehicle should the hitch fail. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue to stop the tongue from connecting with the ground if the hitch fails, and leave only enough slack to allow for a full turn.

A trailer is a great investment. It will take you from the mountains to the valleys and from the river to the lakes. If you haven’t towed before it’s natural to feel overwhelmed about choosing a vehicle and trailer to tow safely. This guide to towing will have you confidently towing in no time!

tugzip.com
gothamcenter

The Best Ways To Test Out A Luxury Car

2010-02-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

Luxury cars offer drivers the smoothest, most comfortable rides and have some of the most advanced engineering of any vehicles on the road. Many drivers and passengers alike wish that they could experience these beautiful driving machines, but only a select few people can count themselves lucky enough to own these exquisite cars that cost quite a pretty penny. If you are contemplating the purchase of a luxury car, you will want to be certain that your money is well spent.

Although there are plenty of consumer guides to luxury cars that can give you important information about things like safety statistics and gas mileage for various models of cars, there are a few things that no guide can tell you. Some of those things include which luxury car’s design is most suited to your driving style; which car’s controls will be the most intuitive for you to use; and which car will be the most satisfying for you to drive. This means that you will want to spend some time behind the wheel of your luxury car of choice before you sign on the dotted line.

There are two ways to try out a luxury car before you buy. One is to take a test drive, and the other is to take out a short term rental on the car you are considering purchasing. Each of these choices has its own advantages and disadvantages. A test drive is free, which makes it more attractive to many drivers. A rental can cost quite a bit of money, even if you only rent the luxury car in question for a week or a few days. However, a test drive is rarely more than half an hour long, which can severely limit the kind of experience you can have in the car you are considering the purchase of. A rental offers a longer time frame that will allow you to really get to know the ins and outs of your potential car, allowing you to make a truly informed decision. With a rental, you will be able to travel the streets you normally traverse through the course of your day. This will give you a realistic picture of what it would be like to navigate and park with the luxury car you are contemplating.

Although in this way a rental is highly preferable to a test drive, a rental isn’t always a practical or possible choice. Often, consumers who are comparing different luxury cars are interested in the hottest, newest cars on the market. These kinds of vehicles are often in great demand, which means that they are not likely to make it onto the lot at your local rental outlet. In these cases, try to get your dealer to allow you a longer test drive than the average customer. Occasionally, a salesperson will be willing to let you try a luxury car for up to twenty four hours. So even if a rental isn’t an option, you may still be able to give the car a thorough spin around your neighborhood.

communitywalk

The Benefits Of Radar Detector

2010-02-26T12:54:00.000-08:00

If you are anything like me, then your life is really busy and there is not enough time in the day to get everything accomplished. Busyness may be reflected in many ways in your life, such as choosing fast food over a home cooked meal or not getting enough sleep. One thing that my busy lifestyle has meant for me is fast driving. I know, it isn't safe, and I've really been working on my schedule to allow enough time for safe driving, but in the meantime I've discovered the best thing of all: a radar detector.

Basically, a radar detector is something you can buy and install in your vehicle that allows you to be made aware of when their is a police car near you. Why is this helpful, you ask? Well, for those of us who drive even a little bit over the legal speed limit, a radar detector allows us to be warned whenever there is a cop that could potentially pull us over for our bad behavior.

I know, it sounds horrible to use a radar detector because it basically allows you to break the law without getting caught for it. I have learned, however, that inspite all of my efforts to just slow down, that life is going to continue at a fast pace and hence that I need to rely on a tool like a radar detector if I have any hope of keeping my driving record clear. There have been probably fifteen instances in the past year alone where I have been speeding along from one activity to the next and my radar detector has suddenly alarmed me that their is a cop near me. I can immediately slow down to the speed limit and remove the risk that I might get caught.

Obviously, if having a radar detector were legal than every driver would have one and no one would ever get caught speeding on the roads. Not everyone has learned the secret of the radar detector yet, so that is why I am trying to enlighten other fast drivers and make it possible for a few more of us to get by without tickets. Yes, radar detectors cost money, and so not everyone will be able to purchase one. The way I look at it is that a one time purchase of a radar detector is much more reasonable than paying for an endless number of speeding tickets. So here are your options: either slow down and drive the speed limit or purchase a radar detector to protect you from getting caught in your bad habit.

Avotone

Test Driving Tips

2010-02-26T11:18:00.000-08:00

Are you thinking of getting a used car? Are you searching for tips on what to check and look for when considering buying a car? It is of utmost importance to have a thorough knowledge of the car that you are going to acquire. This will ensure your enjoyment and contentment for the years to come using your car.

The proper mind set

First of all, you must keep in mind that test driving a car is not a simple procedure. It will determine the claimed performance of the car you want by the dealer and contrast it with the performance in real conditions. This is the time wherein you can see if the car that you have always wanted measures up with your ideals and standards.

Prepare a checklist of criteria

It is important to make a checklist of criteria by which you will be able to judge a car's performance without having any problems regarding objectivity. It will help you see the car's advantages and disadvantages without the influence of other factors that are not as important. This will also enable you to conduct the test drive faster since you already have a set list of the things that you are looking for in a car.

Explore other weather conditions

You should consider test driving a car in inclement weather conditions to have a better feel of the car's overall performance regardless of the type of weather it will be used in. It is good to know the car's feel when driving in rainy conditions or at night. If the dealer requires that a representative accompany you on the test drive, let the person know what you are planning to do and what route you will be taking.

Drive in different kinds of terrain

When test driving a car, outline a route that will take you to different kinds of terrain like bumpy roads and steep hills. When checking a car's turning capabilities and braking power, consider doing it in a side street that has very little traffic. If you are going to evaluate the car's acceleration and speed, then taking it to the open highway or the interstate is a good idea. You should also do a lot of driving on the types of roads that you encounter in everyday driving like your route from work going to your house or vice-versa.

Inside the car

When you are inside the car and behind the wheel, some of the things that you should check are the following:

Look to see if the gauges are working properly and are easy to read. Make certain you can easily see beyond the steering wheel and it does not in any way obstruct your view.

On the dashboard

After checking the gauges and steering wheel, the next thing to look at is the dashboard. Check that all the dashboard controls are within easy reach and you do not need to significantly move out of a comfortable driving position. Search for any extensions on the dashboard that may potentially cause injury to the driver or passenger during sudden stops or when surging forward.

Visibility

Check that windshield wipers are working properly. Use the squirting mechanism that applies the wiper fluid onto the windshield and find areas that may not be reached by it. This is critical since it may affect your night time driving and when driving during bad weather conditions. Does the car have a tint? If the tint is too thick, it will impair night visibility and cause you to have a hard time driving at night. There are also laws that prevent the windshield from being tinted. Check the rules and regulations in your state to determine if that applies.

On the road

While driving, check for blind spots by looking closely at the side mirrors as well as the rear view mirror. Evaluate the performance of the car's suspension by checking if it offers a comfortable ride and you feel that you are in control at all times. Look for a parking lot without too much vehicles and conduct a few sharp turns as well as a U-turn. Does the suspension work well or does the car wobble too much?

Steering performance

Observe that the car has a responsive steering mechanism. A little turn of the steering wheel should be enough for the car to respond efficiently. The steering should be balanced enough so as to have enough power for easy steering and at the same time it should correctly render the feel of the road to the driver.

These are some of the things to consider when taking a car for a road test. Remember to put a car's performance first in your priority before its other aspects.

mybookface

Temperature Sensors - Replacement Time Again?

2010-02-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

When people in the office talk about temperature sensors they are almost certainly talking about part of a car emission control system. The engine control system adjusts the fuel and air-flow to the combustion chambers of an internal combustion engine depending on its temperature. If the temperature sensor is faulty, then the engine will not run correctly, if it runs at all.

Older drivers may remember the manual choke control that you pulled out to start the engine when it was cold, and how this was superseded by the automatic choke. Somehow the manual choke never went wrong, unlike its new and allegedly better replacement.

Temperature sensors are one of the most frequently replaced parts in an automobile.

Temperature sensors away from the world of motoring are designed to measure the temperature at different stages of a chemical or other industrial process and feed back that data to a control center. Pyrometers are specialist temperature measuring devices with a very fast response time and a very high operating temperature range.

Pyrometers may have a response time as low as 5 milliseconds and can measure the temperature without contact with the material. These features mean that a pyrometer is essential where a manufacturer wants to measure the temperature of a rapidly moving steel rod or even of a molten steel stream.

A pyrometer works by analysing the thermal radiation emitted by a hot object.

All black bodies emit radiation of the same frequency at the same temperature. An optical pyrometer the frequency emitted by an electrically heated filament is matched with the frequency of the radiation emitted by the hot object/material under test. When the two match they are the same temperature. The temperature of the filament is obtained by referring to tables of data and operating conditions.

In a radiation pyrometer the radiation emitted from the object/material under test is detected using sensor such as a thermocouple.

socialphobiaworld

Tech Tips For Summertime Road Trips

2010-02-26T08:54:00.000-08:00

As people start to plan their vacations, many are choosing to hit the highway rather than travel by plane. But as many experienced travelers could tell you, a great road trip is often made before you leave-by making sure you have the right items to ensure a more entertaining and enjoyable vacation.

You have a map. You packed your snacks. But have you thought about the tech gear you might need for the road? Read on.

Satellite Radio

Anyone who's taken a road trip knows the frustration of fumbling with the radio tuner and finding nothing but static between cities. With satellite radio, travelers can enjoy crystal-clear, commercial-free music wherever they go. SIRIUS satellite radio, for example, offers 120 channels of music, sports and entertainment and several different receiver options for the car.

iPod Accessories

New iPod accessories make it easy to take your favorite playlist on the road. The Digital Lifestyle Outfitters TransPod, for example, lets travelers play their iPod through the car stereo, while simultaneously charging the battery.

With the JBL On Tour Portable Speaker, you can take your tunes to the beach, your hotel room or any other destination along the way. Other accessories such as Accurian skins and cases help keep your iPod safe and scratch-free during your trip.

Digital Cameras

Memories are what matter, so you'll need a good digital camera and photo printer to share them. Digital photography bundles such as the Kodak C340 come with everything you need for on-the-spot picture taking and printing. The camera offers point-and-shoot simplicity and easily connects to the included printer to create brilliant photo postcards.

Another option is the sleek Casio EXZ60, which packs a lot of power into a superslim package. It offers 6.0 MP resolution, an anti-shake feature and can easily fit into your pocket.

Portable DVD Players

RadioShack offers a wide variety of portable DVD players, including an all-in-one portable TV/DVD player/radio/alarm that is perfect for road trips. It features a 7" wide LCD screen for clear viewing of your favorite TV shows and movies, and the alarm is a nice backup if you sleep through your first wake-up call!

Portable Navigation

Nothing ruins a road trip faster than getting lost in an unfamiliar city. If you're directionally challenged, you might pick up a handheld navigation device such as the Magellan RoadMate 760 Portable GPS Receiver. This model offers voice prompting, a 3-D visual indicator and a SmartDetour feature to help find alternative routes around traffic-all around the U.S., Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Canada.

vocaleyes

Tactical Driving Tips

2010-02-26T07:57:00.000-08:00

The winter and driving shopping season is right around the corner. We need to remember that in the winter, with snow and freezing conditions, our driving tactics need to change. Accidents will occur on the snow and ice that wouldn't on dry pavement. This article will cover the important things to remember and how to drive safely.

The most important thing that everyone needs to remember is that you cannot stop as fast on icy or snow covered pavement. You need to drive slower which will give you more time to slow down. When you need to come to a stop anywhere give yourself more time by starting to slow down earlier than usual. When driving behind other vehicles make sure that you leave a
bigger distance between you and the vehicle in front. This way you will have more time to slow down and also react to unexpected stops.

Slow down everywhere and anything that you do. Take turns slower, drive on straight roads slower and slow down alittle even on slight curves in the road. Anytime you have to turn that steering wheel ease of the gas appropiately. You need to be deliberate in all your actions. Anytime that you need to push
on the pedals, gas or brake, do it easily and steady. When making a turn ease that steering wheel slowly and don't make fast jerky movements.

Always be aware of your road conditions. Even when it is not snowing the road will ice up in places where there is moisture. This will happen more during the overnight hours when it is colder and there is no sunlight. Sometimes a spot will look just wet but is is actually ice, "black ice" as we know it. Be aware of bridges and overpasses. These road surfaces are always colder and therefore freezes up first. If you do find yourself
on ice just coast, don't brake or turn the wheel, until you pass over it.

Drive defensively. Always be on the lookout for other motorists that are making all of the mistakes. Approach intersections cautiously looking for other skidding vehicles. Keep an eye in your rear view mirror for vehicles hitting you from behind. Keep enough distance away from everyone so you don't become part of their accident.

Even after taking all your precautions you will eventually find yourself involved in a sliding situation. When you do, DON'T PANIC! Take your foot of the gas and don't hit the brakes. You then want to steer your car into the skid. People always hear that but don't know what to do anyway. If you are driving straight and the rear of your vehicle is sliding to the left and the
front of the vehicle to the right, then you need to countersteer your car to the left. If the car corrects itself then straighten the wheel back out. Sometimes the car will over correct itself and now it is sliding the other way. If this happens just countersteer again in the opposite direction.

Follow these tips and hopefully you won't become the next accident statistic. People with suv's are not immune to these rules. Remember not to drink and drive, stay off of your cell phone and always wear your seatbelt.

amcharts.com

Stay On the Road To Safety In All Conditions

2010-02-25T14:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, whether or not you're a good driver is less important than the weather you're driving in. Of the nearly 6.2 million traffic accidents that occur a year, approximately one million are weather-related, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Fortunately, newer vehicles are now equipped with sophisticated technology solutions to help drivers navigate through a variety of weather conditions safely.

Before you get caught in the next storm or even rain shower, take time to think through the poor weather conditions you may encounter and what you need to do to stay safe.

• Take a Brake: If you've ever had your brakes lock up on slippery surfaces, you know why to look for vehicles with Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS). With this technology, drivers can apply maximum brake pressure without fear of locking up the tires or skidding out of control.

• Burnin' Rubber: To keep your wheels from spinning on slippery surfaces, look for vehicles with Traction Control Systems (TCS). This technology prevents wheels from spinning during acceleration on normal or slippery surfaces by applying brakes to all four wheels. The newest version of this technology, called All-Speed Traction Control, decreases excess engine power to give you the best acceleration on slippery surfaces.

• The Straight and Narrow: You're less likely to go off the road or lose control of your vehicle after swerving to miss something ahead in a vehicle with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP). This system keeps vehicles moving in the intended direction of travel by applying selective throttle and braking to the appropriate wheels to get the vehicle back on course. This is especially important when driving on mixed surface conditions, such as snow, sleet, ice or gravel, but works on all surfaces.

• Stop, Drop and Roll: If vehicle rollover is a concern, look for vehicles with Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM). If driving conditions approach a rollover scenario, ERM applies a burst of full-braking power to the appropriate wheel to help stabilize the vehicle.

While the latest technology systems operate automatically, it is important for drivers to understand their vehicle's safety and technology features according to leading safety experts at the Chrysler Group.

"Taking the time to understand the latest safety technology available in new vehicles will give consumers the knowledge they need to face the varying weather conditions," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President Product Development, Chrysler Group. "These features will help drivers and passengers stay safe and will help reduce the number of weather-related traffic accidents that occur on the road."

provideocoalition.com

Speeding Ticket – The Legal Basics You Need To Know

2010-02-25T14:17:00.000-08:00

If you have chosen to fight your speeding ticket in court, then you’ll need to know the basics of how to act while you’re in court. With this in mind, I’ve prepared for you some basics of how to behave in court.

Here they are:

Make sure you are well dressed. If you are dressed inappropriately, it will be seen as an insult to the court…and this is NOT going to help your case.

ALWAYS be polite and courteous to everyone there. This includes the judge, the prosecutor, and the police officer. Also, remember that these people know each other very well. Always be nice to these people.

The idea of innocent until proven guilty is for the movies. It doesn’t work like this in real life. Remember the only thing separating you and a conviction is evidence.

If you admit to anything in the court room, the charge against you can be changed at a moments notice. You can be found guilty if it comes from your own mouth. If anyone in the court room (judge, magistrate or prosecutor) asks you anything whatsoever about the ticket, be courteous…and say you would prefer not to testify against yourself.

Remember that the proof required in criminal cases is beyond reasonable count. The key word in all of this is reasonable. If you don’t challenge the evidence, it will be presumed reasonable by everyone in the court room.

Remember that you are being charged for a specific speed. Not just for driving fast. The prosecution will try to show evidence that you were driving a specific amount over the limit, not that you were simply driving “fast”.

You do not need to try and prove your innocence. You simply need to prove that the prosecutions evidence is either unreliable, or is inadmissible. This is an important distinction which you need to keep in mind.

bakersfieldvoice.com

Specialty Motor Oil Protects Cars From Effects of Ethanol

2010-02-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

Ethanol demand is rising. If you fuel your car in the U.S., you are putting ethanol in your gas tank because regular gasoline now contains at least 10 percent ethanol. And many gas stations are replacing their mid-grade gasoline with E85, which is 85 percent ethanol.

The strategy seems to be working. According to Bob Dinneen, president of the Renewable Fuels Association, the U.S. has already reduced its fuel consumption considerably.

The increased use of ethanol is good news in terms of energy independence and environmental friendliness. However, its use can form acids and lead to oxidation of internal engine parts if you do not use the right motor oil.

Lubrilon, a specialty automotive oil, was specifically formulated for use with all ethanol-blended fuels. Lubrilon multi-viscosity motor oils are SAE and API licensed for use in all gasoline engines, and are engineered to help combat the acids formed when burning any modern ethanol fuel blend, including gasoline and E85.

While the name Lubrilon may be new to the average consumer, it is recognized by specialty shops, racing fans and aircraft mechanics across the U.S. Throughout its 30-year history, the Lubrilon name has been known for its lubrication products for the automotive, racing and aviation industries.

The original formula, an engine protection treatment, is still available today. That formula has been determined by university and government testing laboratories to be a one-time, permanent engine protection that virtually eliminates wear. It's the only product of its kind on the market.

macheist.com

Speaking Up About Vehicle Safety

2010-02-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

If you think there's no use in complaining, think again. Consumer complaints about vehicle safety have sparked a number of auto recalls that have helped keep American roads safe.

How many complaints does it take to initiate a recall investigation? There is no set number. However, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), every consumer complaint counts.

The NHTSA is perhaps most recognized for its "5-star government crash test ratings." However, the agency also oversees and manages the recall of defective vehicles. While most recalls are initiated by manufacturers, NHTSA-influenced or -initiated recalls typically result in a greater number of individual vehicles being recalled each year.

To encourage consumer input, the agency uses every available avenue. Efforts to get unsafe vehicles off the road are fueled by calls to the DOT Vehicle Safety Hotline, complaints sent by mail, and reports filed via the Web site at www.safercar.gov. Visitors to the site can fill out an online complaint form, at their convenience, and with relative ease of use.

Every phone call, Internet report or complaint letter to NHTSA is carefully reviewed by vehicle safety experts and the complaint is posted (with names and personal identifiers removed to protect privacy) on the agency Web site.

The agency's technical staff members continuously monitor all complaints to determine trends and next steps. As soon as a trend is suspected and the issue poses a potential safety risk, the agency opens an official recall investigation, with the ultimate goal of saving lives caused by motor vehicle failure and crashes. It could be your vehicle safety complaint that signals agency engineers to open an investigation.

The group says that people having problems with their vehicles that they think are safety related shouldn't hesitate to complain. Direct input from consumers is invaluable to the agency's ability to fulfill its mission and improve service when it matters most: when lives are at stake.

flaminglips.com

Sourcing And Supplying Auto Parts Online

2010-02-25T11:27:00.000-08:00

Auto-parts are freely available in the automotive, parts and aftermarket arenas these days. You can purchase, source and supply almost anything (literally), both online and offline, from a variety of sources.

These auto parts, both new and used, are in ample supply and definitely not all created equal! Online parts supply stores step up to source and supply anything and everything automotive, that you might require for your projects and vehicles.

People look to get the best that the marketplace has to offer at the cheapest price, securing the best value for their dollar and automotive investment, without having to pay and arm and a leg for it necessarily. You should then protect your interests and investments, by taking a closer look at these used parts that you are considering for purchase.

Finding parts and online parts supply stores these days are both quite easy. Most sites and online parts supply stores, offer searchable inventory by category, vehicle, model year and more, to help you track down exactly the used auto parts that you need.

It is up to you to search and find them online, select and pay online, share where you want it shipped and the process, start to finish is quite seamless, hassle-free, ,easy and convenient. Varying delivery periods apply and within a couple of days, you will receive your auto-parts on your doorstep. Comfort, convenience, 24/7 access and availability enables this industry and business round the clock and worldwide so to speak.

Every city typically also has at least one or two stores that sell their used auto parts both online and offline. This is extremely useful for local sourcing and dealing with experienced staff, that are on hand and who can help you with compatibility and matching for the most appropriate part(s) for your vehicle and/or project.

These sites also offers pictures for you to see and identify the exact parts that you need. Take extra care that the site providers actually guarantee that these images are reflective of what you will indeed receive.

Other options that you might have is to order ready-to-be-painted, primed or pre-painted parts. It is advisable that you check with a local auto-body shop for the best option for your application, prior to ordering these parts online.

Compatibility and parts-matching, exact fitment requirements with vehicle model years are important.

Take note of where the parts will be shipped from, how long it will take. Ask and confirm both the cost and duration of the delivery. For you, the best choice will be the store closest to the city you live in to expedite the order.

When searching, sourcing and supplying auto parts (new and used) online, ensure that you cover all the bases and take advantage of what the global marketplace has to offer.

healthfront.com

So You Want To Buy A New Car

2010-02-24T15:04:00.000-08:00

Replacing a vehicle can be a long, tedious process. With so many possibilities available to you, it can often seem overwhelming to pick one that will stay with you for years and years.

For every dealership you visit, you’ll receive many offers. Some will be a better deal than others. During the whole search you should always remember that price isn’t the only thing to consider. You want to know the entire history of the vehicle you’re thinking about buying. It’s a good idea to make sure you do plenty of research.

Your first step should be to narrow down your search to the top 5 cars you would like to drive. Once you have done that task, gather as much information as you can regarding each vehicle.

Learn about the warranties for every car. Learn what is covered in the warranties. Take in to consideration the price of the car once you drive it away. It’s a good idea to obtain your information from the manufacturers instead of the dealers.

If you listen to the dealerships for information, you’ll probably end up dealing with misinformation. You won’t know until it’s too late. Some dealers are just interested in their bottom line, and might bend the truth in order to make a sale.

Next you should narrow your choices to the top 2 cars on your list, by using all the information you have obtained. Now that you have 2 cars to choose from, you can go deeper in your search.

Log onto the internet and google your car. Look for reviews and stories about the cars you are considering. Look for anything that might alter your decision. After you compare all of this, THEN you should take cost into consideration..

If the price looks good on your first choice, you should end your car search right there and consider it a successful mission. Now all you have to do is go and buy your ideal car, and take it on a cruise to familiarize yourself with it.

phpnuke.org

Snow Tires – A Canadian Must Have

2010-02-24T12:24:00.000-08:00

A tire or tyre is a covering provided on the circumference of wheels of vehicles. The functions of tires is to dampen oscillations due to uneven surface of the road, to prevent wear and tear of the wheel, to provide a high friction bond between the vehicle and the road for proper acceleration and handling of the vehicle. They are usually made of synthetic rubber.

Snow tires are special tires designed to run on snow, ice, wet roads, sleet, slippery roads and mud. They have better traction and handling properties. Snow tires differ from regular tires in the following ways:

Hardness. They are made up of softer rubber, which heats up quicker. The softness and hardness of tire rubber depends upon the amount of carbon black in it. For summer tires, the amount of carbon black is more and for snow tires the amount of carbon black in the rubber is less. Rubber becomes brittle at lower temperatures hence summer tires are not suitable to be used in winters.

Treading. The crown or the outer perimeter of tires has jagged pattern on it known as tread. The function of tread is to provide grip during rain or snow. The summer tires have smaller tread on them. The snow and mud tires have larger tread blocks on them hence they are noisier.

Sipes. Sipes are small slits provided on the sides of tires to provide flexibility to tread blocks on the tyre. The function of sipes is to disperse water and snow. They improve traction by providing an additional biting edge to the tyre and are helpful on ice, snow, mud and sand.

Grooves. Grooves are voids on the tires designed to facilitate dispelling of water or snow. Deeper grooves provide better handling and control of the vehicle in snow.

Void Ratio. Void ratio is related to the amount of rubber coming in contact with the road. It is defined by the voids or open spaces on the tyre. A high void ratio accelerates the potentiality to drain water. For snow tires a high void ratio is required.

Aquaplaning. One of the functions of tires is to remove water from the treads on wet roads. When the tire rotates, the treads push water into grooves and sipes, from where the water is pushed out. If the water does not go out properly then the vehicle slides which may cause accidents. This sliding of the tire on water is called aquaplaning. Hence the depth and pattern of treads is very important.

Metal studs. Most snow tires have metal studs fabricated in the tread. This provides better grip on snow and ice. A place where the weather is extreme, the law makes it mandatory to use snow tires. However snow tires are extremely noisy and wear out fast on dry roads. Further, they wear out the road also.

Markings on Snow Tires. The tires designed for Mud and snow are marked with M&S. the icon of mountain and snow flake designates that the tire meets snow testing standards of American Society for Testing and Materials. It mandates that snow tires should have a traction index of more than 110.

fontshop.com

Snow and Your Car

2010-02-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Winter! Snow, ice, and cold can be especially challenging to the body and mind, as well as to important items in your life, including your car. Is your vehicle ready for winter? If not, there are some things you can do to help ensure that your car will start on cold mornings and survive even the nastiest winter weather.

Check under the hood. Make sure that your battery and all of its connections are clean and fastened; hoses and belts securely in place; your oil and oil filter changes up to date; your air filter clean; the radiator flushed and refilled; and your engine well tuned. One of the biggest contributors to a car not starting is the battery. If it is old and needs to be replaced, do it now before you take that long trip.

Look at the windshield. Besides obvious cracks in your windshield which you can have replaced, make certain that the wiper bay is free of debris. Ice and snow can freeze your wipers in place making them completely ineffective. Never pour hot water on a windshield to remove ice. You will remove ice all right…and crack the glass in the process!

Observe the tires. Properly inflated all season tires are usually all that you need for winter driving. In some areas, however, chains may be required. Keep a set in your trunk for emergency purposes.

Carry an emergency kit. It doesn’t take much to get stranded during winter. Even the best maintained vehicle can get caught in a snow bank or stuck in a ditch. Carrying a fully charged cell phone for emergency purposes is essential when driving anywhere uninhabited. The following items should be a part of an emergency kit you have stored in your vehicle at all times:

*Flash light with spare batteries
*Jumper cables
*Tire chains
*Ice scraper/brush
*Sand or kitty litter for traction
*Auto tools
*Wire coat hanger
*Flares
*Candles, matches
*Distress sign
*Medical kit
*Gas line antifreeze; ice lock antifreeze spray

If you frequently travel back roads and find yourself in remote areas, carrying an extra set of hats, gloves, and coats as well as several blankets is wise. Some people carry chocolate with them at all times which can be a great [and delicious!] energy booster as well as fresh water [don’t leave it in the car as it will get frozen].

If you find yourself stuck in snow, make sure that the exhaust pipe is free of all snow if you run your car while idled. Keep a window cracked open to allow for air to circulate; turn the engine off every ten minutes for a half hour or more to prevent carbon monoxide build up inside of the car.

You can survive the hazards of winter by taking a little extra care and caution. Properly equip your car today to ensure that your next trip is a safe one regardless of the prevailing road and weather conditions.

chequer-board.net

Six Steps On How To Make The Most Of Your Used Car Listings

2010-02-24T10:46:00.000-08:00

Selling your used car rather than trading it in gives you the chance of earning money. Car listings have become popular as a method for car sellers to advertise their vehicles to the public.

Rather than searching for car dealers to sell the used car for you, why don’t you sell it yourself?

Here are the steps for your successful used car listing:

1) Set the price – Determine a competitive market value of your used car. Second-hand car values could be found on your local classified ads for similar cars being sold and on certified used car dealership online.

Determine the minimum price you would accept for possible negotiations. Be aware that buyers do their research and having a lower price than others would generate more inquiries.

When your price has been set, consider the most attractive ad to publicize.

2) Groom the vehicle – For buyers, appearance is everything. Make sure that before you place an advertisement; inspect your used car inside and out. To make the most profit, take care of minor and major maintenance issues of the vehicle.

3) Prepare vehicle record – Presenting the buyers with complete maintenance logs and receipts is a powerful selling tool. Prepare paperwork of services done such as oil change, tire and battery replacement and warranties for each.

4) Obtain a car history report – To show that the used car has a clean record with the law and past accidents, purchase a car report from your local department of motor vehicles. The biggest fear of buyers is purchasing a used-car that has been in a wreck. The car history report would reveal if the vehicle has been in a major collision in the past.

5) The advertisement – Ad options include newspaper classifieds, magazines or online listings. However, the most cost-effective and useful tool for marketing is by placing an online ad.

* Photo: Although majority of car listings online do not require photos, eighty-five percent of used car buyers search for car listing with photos.

* Details: Provide a complete description of your car even if you have uploaded a photo. Use extra details and words that would grab the buyers’ attention. Do not forget to place a contact number to be reached.

6) Sell – Since you know your car’s worth, negotiate a fair price. To finalize the sale, you should have two copies of the bill of sale, a receipt that transfers ownership of the car, for you and the buyer.

Once you sold your used car, you’ll be glad you made the most out of your car listing since there was no car dealer involved and all the profit is yours.

viddler.com

Simple Ways To Avoid A Car Accident

2010-02-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

Everyone who is a driver should be concerned with learning ways to drive safer and to avoid getting in a car accident. There is no reason why drivers shouldn't be cautious and aware of the possibilities for danger that come with being on the road. There are many simple ways to avoid a car accident when you are on the road.

One of the most important steps to take in avoiding a car accident is to pay attention to driving! I see and hear about far too many drivers who are attempting to do multiple things at one time. For example, I saw a lady driving yesturday who was also in the middle of putting her makeup on. There is no way that she was fully aware of what she was doing or of the potential danger she was to everyone else on the road. People can get distracted from driving by a variety of things, so they need to re-focus on driving and on avoiding an accident.

The use of cell phones is one of the biggest problems for drivers and one of the biggest causes of car accidents in the past few years. Some states are catching onto this and are banning drivers from talking on cell phones while they drive. If you absolutely need to talk while you drive, then you should purchase a headset so that your hands will be free to drive and help you to avoid an accident on the road.

Trying to carry on a deep or meaningful conversation with other people in your vehicle can also be a serious cause of distraction and hence of a car accident. If you are driving with a full car of passengers, remind them that your job and responsibility is to drive safely and to avoid a car accident for the sake of all who are on the road. Ask that they refrain from beginning serious conversations with you that will require your full attention.

Music and other radio programs can also be big distractions to drivers and lead them into a car accident. Be intentional about the things you choose to listen to when you drive. Be sure that you don't choose anything that will be too much of a distraction to you. Instead, choose soft music or programs that will allow you to fully focus on the road and on not getting in a car accident.

When you are driving, your highest responsibility is to do just that: drive. Avoid a car accident at all costs and save your phone calls and deep conversations for one you are off the road.

johnnypanic.com

Should You Personalize Your Car?

2010-02-24T09:28:00.000-08:00

I am sure that you have seen custom street cars and that you have asked yourself if you should personalize your own car... The answer is very simple: it depends totally on your style, personality, habits and needs.

This may sound strange, but there are only two types of car owners: the ones that love comfort and are prepared to spend large sums for greater protection, and the ones that love the adrenaline surge and are deeply attached to their car, considering it sometimes as a friend and in other cases as a part of themselves or their personality. People of the first type view cars as a way of getting from one place to another quickly and comfortably. They don't really need a custom stree car. But those of the other type are perfect candidates. For them, personalizing their cars is like boosting and refreshing their personalities.

Why do some people want to have custom street cars? The answer is simple. Most of them want them to impress others and express themselves in a new way. Others want them for races. But how does one get to own a custom street car? Custom street cars are really normal purchased cars, whatever the brand, which are then customized according to the 'visions' of their owners. Some custom street cars are so heavily modified that they have little in common with the original thing. These are costly affairs, and a true car lover will even take bank loans to fit out his vehicle to his satisfaction.

Which parts do they change? The commonest changes pertain to the look and design of the car. These are 'upgraded' with a modern touch, stickers, neon lighting and under-car LEDs, paint, window graphics and so on. But the most important thing that is subjected to such customizations, especially in the case of race cars, is of course the engine.

The fastest and easiest way to obtain an adrenaline rush at full speed on these custom street car is to use the renowned nitro boosts. Rpm boosts and fuel intake enhancements are also very often used. The ignition system is also important and some add silencers for comfort.

If the custom street car isn't being personalized for races, then the owners normally emphasizes style and design. You can recognize such cars easily by their vibrant colors and bright drawings in original and creative styles. Also, these types of custom street cars are often fitted out with different types of accessories for the decks, windows, lights and even license plates.

If you are thinking of getting your own custom street car you can get a lot of ideas for arranging and decorating it from the sales persons who work in car accessories stores or from websites. There are lots of tips and ideas out there that can get you started. Also, many car lovers share their experience when it comes to products or installing LEDs on many boards. If you don't know where to begin, ask for the opinion of one of them who owns a model that you like.

fosterclub.com

Should You Give Your Car Away?

2010-02-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

You can give your car to charity and deduct the gross proceeds from the sale if the proceeds are for more than $500.

If the claimed value of the donated motor vehicle, boat or plane exceeds $500 and the item is sold by the charitable organization, the taxpayer's claimed value is limited to the gross proceeds from the sale.

The charitable organization must notify the donor within 30 days of the sale of the amount of the gross proceeds. However, if the charity adds improvements to the vehicle, the charity must notify the donor within 30 days of the contribution. If the charity betters the vehicle then the donor may deduct the vehicle’s market value.

Actually, it is much better if the Taxpayer can deduct the vehicle's market value, because there normally is quite a gap between perceived market value and actual proceeds, and this difference can literally be thousands of dollars.

One car donation center states that it has processed over 500,000 car donations since 1992, which adds up to about 30,000 cars a year.

Did you know that you can also donate boats and RV's?
So if aunt Dora dies, and leaves her jalopy in the driveway then maybe this is an attractive way to get rid of the car especially since it does not start anyway.

But wait! It is not that easy.
Where is the Title to the car? Not in the glove compartment? You may have a problem.
You may also have a problem if the title is joint, say Aunt Dora and Uncle Nick.
If Aunt Dora died and UncleNick is still alive there will be all kinds of problems.

How about vehicle emission controls, was the car equipped with them, were they disabled?

When you make a charity car donation:
You get free vehicle pick-up whether your car to donate is running or not. In some cases the company will actually put a new battery in the car to get it running again.
You avoid confusing Department of Motor Vehicles paperwork or Smog hassles.

How it works:
Call a reliable Vehicle Donation company.
They'll take your information over the telephone, they'll handle all the DMV documents, they'll pick up your vehicle , arrange an auction sale and distribute the proceeds to the charity.

If your donated vehicle/vessel sells for under $500 the receipt you receive at the time the vehicle is picked up is all you need for filing your taxes.

The actual net proceeds of a donated car seem to range around the $400 figure
In all cases, a charity car donation is sold to the highest bidder by a well-established charity vehicle auction.

You must have a certificate of title.

Some companies will also guarantee that if your donated car gets a ticket after your donation date, they'll take care of the ticket for you and they zealously will fight it so you don't have to worry about it.

The reason cars are sold by public auction is that people simply will pay more at an auction for your car than they will pay at a dealer.

Also, if the car is running at the time of the auction people will pay more so it is advisable to get it to running condition when reselling it.

mapmyride.com

Should You Get Rental Insurance When Renting A Car

2010-02-24T08:14:00.000-08:00

Rental Car Insurance: Do You Need It?

If you have ever rented a car for a short period of time, whether during a vacation, a business trip, or while your own automobile was being repaired, you have probably faced the question of whether to take out insurance at the rental agency desk when you rent the car. Paying your rental company for insurance on your rental car is necessary sometimes, but not always. In fact, much of the time rental car insurance ends up adding some fairly steep fees onto your rental even though the coverage you’re paying for may be completely redundant.

To know whether you need to write a check for the hefty chunk of change that many automobile rental companies collect for insurance coverage, all you need to do is spend a bit of time finding out exactly what kind of coverage you already have. In many cases, your regular auto insurance is more than sufficient to protect you financially if you do damage a rental car. Anyone who owns an automobile of their own has an insurance policy that gives them some level of coverage in case of damage to the car from an accident, theft, vandalism, or other mishap. It varies a bit from policy to policy, but most of the time this same coverage will apply to a car rented in the policy owner’s name. This means that if your car is fully insured, any rental car that you drive will probably be just as well covered as your personal automobile.

Of course, before you turn down added rental insurance at a rental car agency, make sure you have spoken to your personal insurance agent or a representative from the company that holds your policy to make absolutely sure your policy covers rental cars. If your auto insurance doesn’t cover your rental, you could be left holding a bill for tens of thousands of dollars. This kind of costly mistake can be easily avoided just by making one phone call in advance. Even if you are not planning to rent a car in the near future, it is not a bad idea to find out today whether your policy covers rental cars. That way, all the necessary information will be there for you when you need it.

Even if your regular insurance plan doesn’t adequately cover rental cars, you don’t necessarily need to pay the high insurance fees that a rental agency will probably charge. There are plenty of options to make sure your temporary wheels are covered in case of a collision or other cause of damage to the car. In fact, you can get a much better rate than a rental agent is likely to offer you even if you don’t own a car of your own. There are specific policies that insurance companies offer for customers who rent cars frequently. A non-owner auto liability insurance policy provides affordable and usually quite comprehensive protection for rental drivers who do not own cars. If you don’t have personal automobile insurance that already covers rentals, one of these can offer you the security of knowing you are fully covered without the steep prices of rental agents’ insurance packages.

Whether you find out that you need to take out a non-owner auto liability insurance policy, or whether you discover that you don’t need to pay anything above what you already do for insurance, a bit of forethought and planning can save you a lot of money at the rental desk. Your rental car may be temporary, but the savings will be permanent.

teenhelp.org

Should Know About How To Air Bag Suspension

2010-02-23T15:46:00.000-08:00

The truck will lay frame on the ground via a air bag suspension. Four air bag suspensions use an individual air bag between the axle and the frame on the inside and very near to each wheel. the motorcycle main frame about a pivot axis, and an air-bag suspension unit. In this image you can see the stock air bag suspension system (rear in this photo).

That is a stock suspension using an airbag to pre-load the suspension. We stock many different brands of truck air bag suspension. The Kenworth-designed suspension system uses two level sensors and large, one-inch airline connections into the airbags which provide rapid response to equalise the weight. AT suspension system employs a long trailing arm in conjunction with an airbag and shock absorber. Looking for a truck air bag suspension. and an air-bag suspension unit. The air-bag suspension unit includes at least one air bag constructed of an elastomeric material. The air bag suspension results in the longest pavement life, while the walking beam suspension results in the shortest pavement life.

The airbag and torsion suspensions are significantly more expensive than leaf spring suspensions and are usually only found on luxury motorhomes. Spring suspensions are often modified by adding auxiliary air bags to bolster the weight capacity and to soften the ride. Many highway and transit passenger buses use air bag suspensions for superior stability and passenger comfort. Whereas with Kenworth AirGlide airbag suspension, the suspension levels out quickly, maintaining stability without affecting the vehicle. Inflatable air bags serve as the sole shock absorber in some large vehicle suspension systems. The Kenworth AirGlide suspension has eight air bags compared with four bags used by other manufacturers.

The Frieghtliner Chassis with air bag suspension delivers a smooth ride and excellent handling characteristics. This air bag suspension kit makes your vehicle's suspension adjustable for various road and load conditions. Order your air bag suspension kit today! The walking-beam suspension causes more dynamic load variation than the air-bag and leaf-spring suspension. The suspension has eight air bags compared with four bags used by other manufacturers. Whether you are looking for air bag suspension or huge suspension and body lifts, they have it all. This image shows the front suspension with the air bag removed. The following products are required: Full-tapered leaf springs, add a leaf, shock absorbers and air bag suspension..... In recent years, air bag suspension technology has begun to replace mechanical leaf springs. Overall the industry has not had much success historically with air bag suspension because of their instability in agitator work. Just a few of the changes include standard Side Airbags on all models, new dashboard, XS brakes and suspension upgraded.

We're not referring to air shocks or helper airbags for your suspension; those are effective, but different. Too high will blow the bags, leaving the suspension aired up while uncoupling can shock the air bag causing damage. Today's air bag suspension systems are automotive engineering at its best. Given that you aren't ever supposed to exceed that, I installed a four-bag air suspension, just in case.

myheritage.com

Should I Buy An Extended Vehicle Warranty?

2010-02-23T14:41:00.000-08:00

Whether you are purchasing a new or used car, breakdowns can occur. It’s always a worry that you could have major problems such as engine trouble or a transmission that stops shifting, and you suddenly are digging deep into your pockets for the cash to repair it. So the question that arises often is “Should I Buy An Extended Vehicle Warranty?”

There are always pros and cons. An extended vehicle warranty adds to your total cost, but over the long run it can also be very beneficial especially if a big breakdown occurs.

A vehicle extended warranty is a contract between a vehicle warranty company and you. It isn’t an insurance policy even though most people think of it as one. It is actually the most profitable service a car dealer sells, but it can also be very beneficial to the consumer.

When you buy a new car you get the manufacturers warranty. Then, for a specific fee, you can extend that warranty. If you tend to keep your vehicles longer than the period of the original warranty purchasing the extended warranty can make good sense. If however you tend to trade your vehicles in every few years, the purchase of the extended warranty would probably not be beneficial.

When it comes to used vehicles, some dealers will offer a 30 day warranty and then offer to sell you an extended warranty. There are many companies that are now offering extended warranty coverage on used vehicles.

Purchasing an extended warranty is a great way to give you peace of mind. You can protect your investment and your pocket book from unexpected costs.

Extended warranties usually offer the same benefits as your new car warranty. This means that no matter where you travel within North America your warranty will cover you. Some extended warranties cover just the powertrain, while others cover bumper to bumper. Be sure to check with your dealer or read your policy.

As an added bonus, almost all extended warranties offer 24 hour roadside assistance. Roadside assistance includes gas drops, flat tire changes, locksmith, and towing benefits. You may also get benefits such as vehicle replacement in the event of a breakdown along with accommodation expenses.

Filing claims is a simple process. Many dealers simply require you to provide proof of coverage. Normally you are issued a coverage card. If you are dealing with your local dealership, chances are you are in their computer system. On used vehicles you usually are required to pay the costs and then submit the bill for reimbursement. Different plans have different deductibles.

Don’t buy your extended warranty coverage by price alone. More doesn’t mean better; but then again cheap can mean that many repairs are exempt so read the fine print and read the entire policy carefully before signing on the dotted line.

With so many companies offering extended warranty coverage online and through dealers, it’s important you are sure that the company is reputable. If your extended warranty comes from Ford or GM it’s pretty straightforward; but otherwise you’ll want to make sure you are dealing with a well funded company.

Whether you should buy extended vehicle warranty coverage is really a personal choice, but good coverage can be beneficial. If there’s one thing for certain, vehicles will break down. It’s just a matter of when.

ikbis.com

Shopping For Scooters

2010-02-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

Once you start shopping around for scooters, you realise that there are so many selections. Even though it’s a good thing there are so many selections, it’s hard to figure out which one is good for you with all the different brands, styles and models out there. That’s why the internet is a good tool to help you in your search. There are scooter retailers and personal websites that can help you find the information that you need.

Shopping for motor scooters at the store can have you running around and wasting time, because there are many sales and deals. But using the internet helps you figure out what exactly you’re looking for and where to find it, before you go to the store. And you could even purchase it online if you wanted too. But be cautious as there are sites with inaccurate information pertaining to scooters.

So be on the look out for false information while browsing sites. It’s good to look at sites with peoples opinion on scooters which could help you decide, but make sure they have experience in scooters and know what their talking about. You could see the performance ratings on many scooters which could help you decide on a scooter more easily. Many large sites provide reviews that have been submitted by consumers who have purchased the products. These sites are usually more reliable.

Your main objective when purchasing a motor scooter is buying one that’s comfortable and fits your needs. The best to achieve this is by researching the product you want so you know what it offers and what it doesn’t. That way you can see if it’s right for you. If the scooter will be used as a commuter vehicle it could save you a lot on gas and time. Finding a good deal on the scooter by knowing what you want exactly, is the best reward.

joyent.com

Shopping For Car Subwoofers

2010-02-23T12:44:00.000-08:00

Unlike the subwoofers found in concert or theaters, car subwoofers are more subtle in their design. Ideal for being hidden because of space limitations, car subwoofers are often found in the doors or the trunk of an automobile. They are designed to be compact so that the automobile operator can still enjoy the same dramatic sound of their favorite song, but without the bulky nature of other subwoofers. Realistically, the same model that is used in a theater or concert could never fit inside of an automobile. This is why car subwoofers are small and subtle, in that the manufacturer does not want to take away from the interior appearance of the car by allowing a bulky audio product to be visible.

Unfortunately for many, some music enthusiasts are determined to create intense sounds with their car subwoofers, which can result in hearing loss for those inside the automobile. The most common way to do this is by turning up the bass sound and ‘jamming’ to the beats of a song. If exposed to extremely loud sound coming from the car subwoofers for a prolonged period, hearing loss is often severe. Therefore, these products should be used responsibly just as any other device inside of an automobile.

Car subwoofers can, however, enhance the car audio experience greatly. In addition, they can also be used to greatly enhance the unique look of a car. In this case, car subwoofers are designed to be seen as much as heard. They are designed in various sizes, including round, square, triangular, etc. Most auto enthusiasts prefer to install their own car subwoofers, while others opt for having them professionally installed.

When shopping for car subwoofers, there is no shortage on options. Specialty stores, including retail, auto and online shops carry a wide variety of audio products and feature a broad range of price tags to go with them. Car subwoofers, depending on the model and features, can be very expensive. However, this is the case with almost every automobile upgrade or product. The majority of car subwoofers carry some type of warranty, which should be clearly outlined on the packaging or by the retailer. It is a good idea to save any warranty information, which will be the only way to redeem the manufacturer’s services at no cost in the event of a problem. Warranties will vary depending on the manufacturer, but often are limited to defects that are a direct result of workmanship or materials. Misuse of a product is not normally covered under a manufacturer’s warranty.

boomantribune.com

Shop At A Car Auction For The Perfect Car

2010-02-23T11:38:00.000-08:00

If you are hunting for a car, there are many places you can look. There are new car dealers, used car dealers, those who are selling their car privately, and car auctions. You have a multitude of resources at your disposal to find a great car. Some of these resources are better than others when you are attempting to find the right car for you.

The first question you must answer is what kind of car are you looking for? What are your purposes for getting the car and what will it be used for? What is your budget and realistic price range for the car? Answering these questions will be very helpful before you go off and buy a car. Going to a car auction can be a great and undiscovered way to find the right car for you.

I'll admit that I was a bit leery when a friend suggested that my husband and I visit a car auction or two before we purchased a car for our family. I really didn't know anything about car auctions, but I went along to see what we could learn and possibly to get a great car. We knew we were looking for a family car that could comfortable hold six people. Obviously that narrows down our options either to a van, mini van, or suv. We were aware of these limitations and yet we didn't have an overly large budget to spend. Quite frankly, we were not expecting to find anything that worked.

If you are looking for a great car, I would highly suggest going to a car auction. Basically, a car auction happens when cars have been leased and then are put up for sale to the public. Often car auctions happen in large cities and gather hundreds of people. You have to know what you are looking for then be insistent about finding it. The great thing about going to a car auction is that you can usually find great deals as discounted prices. It is likely that you will get a better deal on a car at a car auction than you will even at a used car dealership.

You can find out about car auctions online, through word of mouth, or even sometimes in newspapers. Check for updates on car auctions once a week so that you do not miss out on any great sales. If you are looking for a great vehicle or two, don't forget to look at car auctions. You may be surprised how much time, money and energy you save looking all in one place
during one day.

richmondchic.com

Seven Vital Facts About Your Car’s Air Conditioning System

2010-02-23T11:01:00.000-08:00

Air conditioning, which was once a great luxury, is now a common feature on most motor vehicles. While the servicing of modern car air conditioning systems is best left to professionals, you can get the most enjoyment from your ac system if you know a bit about how it works and what malfunctions you should be on the lookout for.

1. Odd smells coming from the air conditioning may be caused by bacterial buildups

As your car becomes older, or when the air conditioning system is used infrequently, bacteria, micro-organisms, mold and fungi may start growing, just behind the dash panel on the evaporator causing some very unpleasant odors. Some even claim this can result in headaches and flu like symptom sometimes referred to as “sick car syndrome.”

This problem can be solved by using an anti-bacterial treatment that destroys the bacteria growth and leaves your car smelling fresh again.

2. If you car does not feel cold enough, then you may need to recharge your system

If you feel that your car doesn’t feel as cold as your friend’s car, then your system may need servicing. The air conditioning system in your vehicle is not usually covered by most manufacturers servicing schedules and the refrigerant gas that is used to operate the system depletes over time. On average most vehicles lose up to 15% per annum. This leakage can be caused when then system is not used during the winter months. Thus allowing the small “O” ring seals to dry out resulting in a gradual deterioration in system performance. If this continues, eventually the system will not be able to operate at all.

Most problems of this type can be put right fairly easily by a leak check of your system followed by a complete refill of your air conditioning refrigerant, this is sometimes referred to as a re-gas.

3. Running your air conditioning year round will help maintain the system

If you run the air conditioning in the winter it will help to keep the system well lubricated and leak tight. This is because the refrigerant actually carries the oil that lubricates the system and most importantly the compressor. It also keeps the seals and hoses moist, thus preventing them from drying out and cracking which can lead to leaks.

4. Strange noises coming from the air conditioning should be attended to immediately

If your air-con system suddenly starts making noises you have not heard before it is very advisable to have a qualified vehicle air conditioning specialist to have a look at it.
Some noises could be early symptoms of a compressor failure (the compressor is the air conditioning pump).The compressor is usually the most expensive part on the system ranging from approximately £230 to £600+ and if the bearings in your compressor break down or if the compressor seizes up it also means that other components can become contaminated with metal particles A flush of the system would then be needed as well as replacement of the compressor, the receiver/drier and the expansion valve - quite a hefty bill!

5. Don’t worry about a pool of water forming under your car after using the A/C

If you see a puddle of water on the ground, usually under the passenger area don’t be alarmed. This is a normal feature of the system as it is only water dripping from the air conditioning evaporator. The evaporator has a drain tube fitted to allow the condensation from the evaporator to drain away from the vehicle.

6. Excessive moisture inside the car can be fixed easily

Sometimes the drain tube from the evaporator may become blocked or detached allowing the condensation to build up inside your evaporator. If this occurs water will just build up inside your car to a point where there are damp carpets or misting / high humidity type problems. These problems can be solved with low-cost servicing.

7. Have your air conditioning serviced regularly, even if there are no visible problems

Just as the other systems of your car need servicing on a regular basis, the same is true for the air conditioning system. The compressor needs oil, or else it will seize up. The filter collects debris and moisture. If the filter becomes blocked, then the performance of the system will deteriorate and it can even quit working entirely (probably when you need it most!)

Normally the refrigerant gas in a car air conditioning system has to be recharged completely within four years from the manufacture date and thereafter every two to three years.

An annual servicing of your car’s air conditioning system will guard against malfunctions in the compressor and other vital parts of the system. Regular maintenance will save you money in the long run and guarantee you comfort in the hottest months.

seriouseats.com

Selecting The Best Used Car For Your Lifestyle

2010-02-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

When shopping for a used car, it is important to select one that best fits your lifestyle. For example, if you live in an area that is prone to harsh winters with a lot of snow, a 4-wheel-drive will likely be a good choice. However, these automobiles use more gasoline than a compact car. So, if gasoline consumption is at the top of your list for concerns, a smaller automobile may be the best option.

When you purchase a used car, it’s also important to understand the varying cost of insurance. Automobile coverage for an SUV, for example, is more expensive than a smaller vehicle. The same is true of a sports car, which will likely garner an increased cost of insurance.

The next thing to consider is the style of the used car. If you have children, a van or SUV may be the best way to accommodate everyone comfortably and still have plenty of storage space. If you are single and just want to have a reliable mode of transportation, a smaller car will more than suffice.

If you plan to travel often or will be adding a lot of mileage, your best bet would be to find a used car with the lowest mileage possible. Another selection will include the choice of either an automatic or manual transmission. What about doors? Do you a prefer two or four door automobile? This is an option that most people don’t really think about right away, but it is an important one nonetheless. A four door used car is very convenient for loading luggage or groceries and it also makes it really convenient for passengers to climb in and out of.

When it comes to interior, car owners will have the option of selecting from cloth and leather. Each has their benefits and drawbacks, so which one is right for you? Leather is excellent when it comes to cleaning up spills, but fabric interior is more susceptible to stains. Leather is often very hot to the touch on sunny days whereas fabric interior is comfortable even on the warmest day. Both will show tears and require their own method of maintenance.

When searching for the perfect used car to fit your lifestyle, carefully consider the cost before deciding to purchase. Monthly payments can be high even on a used car, so think about the budget and what you can afford prior to signing on the dotted line.

Lilash

Securing Your Collector Car

2010-02-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

You worked hard to put yourself in a position to afford that dream weekend cruiser you always wanted. Most likely it was a car you loved when you were growing up and set your mind on buying one at some point in your life. Now you have it. Is it protected properly?

How many people have their dream car properly secured with an appropriate security system? Probably not many. I know I didn’t have a security system for any of the three cars I had. My first car was actually parked outside in my driveway and it wasn’t the best neighborhood.

I am currently without my weekend car, I sold my last one, a 13,000 mile 1987 Buick Grand National, when my daughter was born. One thing is for sure though, I will have a system put in for my next car, when it does come. My mother-in-law’s house was broken into a few days before Christmas last year. She had a lot of her most valuable possessions stolen. She was lucky enough that the police caught the crooks the next day at the pawn shop. But, it caused me to take a closer look at how secure my home was.

I previously thought that if you wanted a really quality system you needed to pay a monthly monitoring fee to one of the big companies such as ADT or Brinks. I soon found out this was not the case at all. You can actually build a much more effective system on your own for far less money than those companies. Only 12.9% of burglars are caught throughout the whole country. I would hate to see my car stolen when I get my next one, which I hope will be soon.

I often talk to many people on the various discussion boards I am a member of and a lot of them are in the same boat I was, they had no idea what they could do for so little money. As a result of technology advancing so quickly you can actually buy color video cameras, a set of three for roughly $170. You can add in a recording device for even less than that. You can buy motion sensors that will turn lights on in your home if any motion is detected in your yard. You can attach speakers that give off the sound of an angry barking dog when motion is detected. I don’t know about you but if I were a crook looking to break in and steal something, like a car, I would not go to the house with the angry dog in the garage. There are endless amounts of possibilities on what you can do to protect your house, garage, or more importantly, that weekend toy. One thing I will be doing for sure is the cameras. In the event my car is stolen this will increase my chances my car will be found or they person that stole my car will be caught because I will have video proof of who took it.

Many car lovers spend thousands of dollars on their cars. They spend hours washing and waxing their rides. They have emotional connections with their cars in most cases. What is a couple hundred dollars to prevent it from being taken? When you think about it, isn’t it a must have for your car?

educationarcade.org

Secrets to Buying Go Carts Cheap!

2010-02-22T14:27:00.000-08:00

If you thought go carts were high-priced items, think again. Sure, you can go ahead and pay retail for a go cart, but why would you want to do that when you can buy go carts for up to 50% off the manufacturers price? Learn the secret to obtaining top go carts at bargain basement prices.

Go carts are fun, there is no dispute there. Once you slide into a sleek new go cart and take it out for a spin there is no turning back. If you are like many others the thrill of racing gocarts or traveling off road is something you cannot live without. The only problem is that they can be rather expensive to purchase. This is the reason you need to do your homework, so you can obtain the gocart that you thought was too expensive. If you have a little patience and are willing to put forth just a few hours of work you will be able to find a top go cart for as much as 50% off of the price that other uninformed people are paying.

Instead of renting or borrowing go carts you can own one of your own. Go carts are fun, there is no doubt about that. But you didn't come here for that, you came here to pick up the tips and secrets to purchasing a top go cart for the lowest possible price. So let's get started.

Finding cheap go carts is not as difficult as you might have imagined. In just a couple of minutes you will know everything you need to know about finding your dream go cart for a truly great discounted price. Finding go carts for sale at cheap prices is the easy part. The hard part is that you will have to wait two or three weeks before buying one. But if you can hold out that long you will be able to save some of your hard-earned money on your go cart purchase.

OK, so here we go. Buying a cheap go cart is really a very simple tactic. It's called price shopping or price comparison shopping. All you do is compare prices for go carts from many different sources and then buy the cheapest one. It's as easy as that. You just have to know the correct way to find your sources. With the proper technique you can find great deals that you might have missed otherwise.

Back in ancient times, before the internet, you would have to call up many different go cart stores or actually go out and visit them in person to get prices for their racing or off road gocarts. But the internet turns a two week job into a two hour job. It still takes a little work and some patience, but the savings you can realize will be well worth the time and energy spent.

First, go to Google.com and type ‘go carts,’ ‘go cart,’ ‘go cart sale’ or similar terms into the Google search box. You may also want to try different spellings such as 'go karts,' 'go kart,' 'gocarts,' 'gocart,' ‘gokarts’ or ‘gokart,’ whatever you feel is appropriate. You will be amazed at how many "go carts" results will pop up on your search. These days, anybody and everybody can offer their wares online. You will find many top online dealers for go carts with your simple search.

Some of the sites will not actually sell go carts, but will be informational sites only. You need to check out about 10 or 20 of the top online go cart dealer listings and keep a list of the different prices that they offer for the models that you are interested in. For example, if you want a Carter Brothers go cart you would perform your Google search for Carter go carts. Then write down the different dealer prices for the models you are interested in buying. Also, you will notice on the right side of the Google search web pages there are many sponsored ads. If you have searched for Carter go carts some of these sponsored ads will most likely be ads for Carter go carts. Companies pay a lot of money to advertise on Google. Many of these advertisements are from top online companies that will have great prices, so they should be checked out too.

Next, after you have searched Google and made a list of the different go cart prices for the models you like, do the same thing at Yahoo.com, Froogle.com and any other search engine you can think of. There are many search engines such as dogpile.com, altavista.com, lycos.com, excite.com and many more. Just type "search engines" into any search engine search box and you will find many others. You can also go to ebay and look for go cart auctions. Follow some of these auctions for a few days and you will quickly learn how much go carts are selling for.

The key is to search as many different online dealers as possible and make a list of the varying prices. It will only take tow or three hours to do this. Once you're tired of being a detective put your pencil down and wait a week. Then do it all over again. After two or three weeks you will have found some great deals on go carts by simply doing your homework. Deals you might have missed if you did not put in the time and effort.

It's simple. All you are doing is spending a little time locating all of the best prices you can find online. Then you’re keeping a list of these prices so that you can compare them. After a couple of weeks you should have a list of many top online go cart dealers and their prices for the go cart models you are interested in. It is easy now to go over your list and pick out the best deals. If you can save as much as 50% by doing a little homework and having a little patience it is well worth doing. And from this point on it's all fun.

redstate.com

Seat Covers, Different Types Offer a Perfect Fit

2010-02-22T13:27:00.000-08:00

There are three different types seat covers, a custom fit, semi-custom fit and universal fit. Let's take a closer look at the benefits you get with each style.

The following paragraphs summarize the work of seat cover experts who are completely familiar with all the aspects of seat covers. Heed their advice to avoid any seat cover surprises.

Custom Fit Seat Covers

Just as an Armani suit is properly measured, cut and stitched to fit the unique shapes and contours of the wearer, so too is a custom fit seat cover meticulously designed for a precise fit over your seats. No part of your particular vehicle's seat is forgotten or overlooked - not the position of the head rest, nor the location of the seat's ergonomic controls, nor even where your seatbelts are mounted. Everything is taken into consideration, and these made-to-measure seat covers will fit like they were factory-installed. Moreover, custom fit seat covers will not obstruct your seat's side-impact airbags, so you'll be just as secure as before, only with better looking and better protected upholstery.

Semi-Custom Fit Seat Covers

While a tailor-made suit fits your body to a T, off-the-rack clothing still looks and feels great, and you usually have enough left over for a matching shirt and tie. Semi-custom fit seat covers are the economical alternative to the tailored suit. They are stitched together following patterns that will work with your vehicle's seats as well as with similarly sized seats in other cars, trucks and SUVs. Except for the 3 Star Semi-Custom Sheepskin Seat Cover, semi-custom fit seat covers do not leave access to lumbar controls, and they should not be used if you have side-impact airbags on your vehicle. Nevertheless, they deliver fantastic protection against the whole gamut of seating hazards.

Universal Seat Covers

Like the name implies, universal seat covers fit any high-back and low-back bucket seat, regardless of your year, make or model. Rather than being used as long-term coverings, our universal seat covers are a perfect companion in your vehicle for when life gets a little messy. They install in seconds, so you can slip them on when you need them and store them away in your trunk when you don't. Like the semi-custom seat covers, the universal seat covers should not be used on seats with side-impact airbags.

fanfiction.net

Scams Plague Fuel Customers

2010-02-22T13:02:00.000-08:00

The rising price of gasoline has produced a surge of products that promise to provide relief at the gas pump. Unfortunately, most of them are rip-offs! Some are even dangerous, to your health or to your car.

In May of 2006, Texas based BioPerformance, Inc., was shut down by the Attorney General for being an illegal pyramid scheme. The company's product, a pill for the gas tank that was supposed to increase gas mileage, was found to be chemically equivalent to mothballs, which are toxic.

Even though both company and product were complete frauds, each still drew a large crowd. To promote BioPerformance and suck people into the illegal pyramid scheme (which was disguised as multi-level marketing), the company sponsored big, pep-rally like seminars around the country. At the seminars, people who paid lots of money to have the privilege to sell the little gas pill were encouraged to believe in the product and its ability to make money, despite the fact the BioPerformance bottle had a disclaimer in tiny print: "BioPerformance, Inc., doesn't guarantee anyone any results"

To further encouraged people, the president of BioPerformance, a pastor named Llowel Mims, adopted the benevolent position of announcing his goal to make at least 1,000 participants in the BioPerformance company millionaires. Playing on patriotism, the company promoted the pill as "All American" because it is a way to lessen dependence on the Middle Eastern oil countries and help the environment.

When it comes down to laboratory tests though, BioPerformance's pill doesn't measure up to the claims. In fact, it has actually been proven to hurt car engines. That's a far cry from the "All American" product celebrated at the seminars. The bottom line in this is that if it's too good to be true and hasn't been backed up by numerous independent studies, than it's probably a scam.

deskpro.com

Safety Tips For Wireless Users On The Road

2010-02-22T12:07:00.000-08:00

As more and more families take to the already-crowded highways for their annual vacations, safe driving habits become more important than ever. This includes the proper use of cell phones.

Nearly 208 million people in the United States are wireless phone customers, and law enforcement agencies have long endorsed carrying a cell phone in the car for emergencies. In fact, more than 130,000 emergency calls are made from wireless phones each day to report everything from life-threatening car accidents to reckless drivers.

But highway patrol officers also have broad authority to cite obviously distracted drivers whose inattention can pose serious danger on the road, whether they happen to be reading a map, turning up the radio or making a phone call.

Using proper judgment while driving and using a cell phone is essential, and most safety recommendations are just good plain sense. As a driver, your first responsibility is to pay attention to the highway, so next time you are on the road, remember the following cell phone safety tips from SouthernLINC Wireless:

• Use a hands-free device that allows you to use a wireless phone without holding the phone to your ear. This frees both hands for use on the steering wheel.

• Try to keep your phone calls short and informational; avoid intense or emotional conversations that might distract you from your driving.

• Try to make all your phone calls before you head out on the road, but if you must use your phone, do it while on a restroom or restaurant break or while stopped at a red light.

• Keep your phone in easy reach in the car, not in your purse or glove compartment. If your phone rings and you are unable to safely take the call, let it go to voice mail.

• If you must take a call, let the caller know that you are driving. Don't be afraid to end the call if the weather gets bad or the traffic gets heavy.

• Pull over to a safe spot before looking up a phone number, taking notes during a conversation or text messaging.

• Use your phone to report serious emergencies on the road as well as reckless, aggressive or impaired drivers. Dialing 9-1-1 is free from most wireless phones.

If you must use a wireless phone while driving, keep calls short and use a hands-free device.

chemicalforums.com

Safety On The Road Begins Under The Hood

2010-02-22T11:32:00.000-08:00

Car experts say that one of the easiest ways to steer clear of some serious road hazards is to make sure you're taking care of your car properly. Coolant issues are the number one cause of roadside mechanical breakdowns, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, and there are an estimated 23 million cars on the road using the wrong type of coolant.

"Using the wrong coolant can affect the entire cooling system," said automotive expert Dr. Dave Turcotte, technical director for Zerex products. "When it comes to buying coolant for your car, consumers should not be fooled by claims that a product is universal or right for all makes and models."

Using the wrong kind of coolant can lead to radiator or water pump damage and even cause breakdowns. To make sure the right type of coolant is being used, drivers should refer to their vehicle owner's manual and carefully read the product label to make sure the coolant they're using is automaker-approved and that the make of their car IS on the label.

To avoid road bumps, drivers should:

• Use a coolant product that offers the right chemistry for each vehicle model;

• Check tires for worn tread or improper air pressure;

• Check to make sure belts aren't worn;

• Make sure hoses are attached properly.

expressionengine.com

RV Motorhomes - Popular For Tailgate Parties To Boondocking

2010-02-21T09:20:00.000-08:00

RV motor homes have changed the traveling experience for a lot of families. In the past, RV’s have conjured images of retirees on road trips. Today, with modern advance in RVs and motorhome features, traveling has become a real adventure and quite pleasant. RVing has emerged as a popular hobby among all adult age groups, and spans the urban sports tailgate party to boondocking wilderness adventures.

RVing experience has gained appeal among the young as modern recreational vehicles accommodate many contemporary features such as DVD players, GPS, satellite phones and satellite TV. RVs are also available in a growing number of types and designs, though still generally intended as a temporary living quarters during recreational outings, road trips or seasonal use. The most common types of RV’s are:

 Motor homes
 Travel trailers
 Folding or popup campers and
 Truck campers

RV motorhomes, as the name implies, have their own motor power, and come in three classess; A, B, and C. More and more families are choosing to rent an RV motorhome for vacation due to the freedom, heightened travel experience and money savings they may offer. Savings in air travel, rental cars, hotels and restaurant dining can significant, based on the duration and number of individuals traveling. RV’s are ideally suited for tours having ample windows and seating and can get close to the action! In addition, RV parks commonly offer cable TV and wireless internet, and some State and National Parks offer free RV hookups for water and electricity.

The range of RV accessories that can beautify and advance comfort of your RV motorhome can fit any budget and convenience. You can include the following accessories inside and outside your RV Motorhome: awnings, grills, ladders, tents and camping gear, screens and shades, kitchen implements, bedding, multiuse furnishings, outdoor lightning. For maintaining and driving your RV motorhome efficiently, there are accessories available for; sanitation, electric generators, fans and vents, air conditioners, cleaning systems, jacks and leveling, repair tools, electronics and mirrors.

If you are planning to buy a RV Motorhome then you will find prices anywhere from $10k to $200K depending on type, size and amenities. However, there are many used RV deals to be found, some used very little and maintained in excellent condition. Lots of financing and insurance is available specifically for motorhomes. It is imperative for you to get your RV Motorhome insured and required in most states where registered. You can also sell your old vehicle and get a new RV Motorhome at good rates with the help of the financers. So you can really relax, insurance companies and travel services also provide emergency roadside services that extended to some surprising locations!

javaworld.com

Road Rage Study May Help You Drive Safer

2010-02-21T08:27:00.000-08:00

Road rage has become a way of life, both on and off the track. And more and more, in cities across America, people are acting out their frustrations on our roadways with dangerous results. It's bad for professional and everyday drivers alike.

In a new study sponsored by the Affinion Group and its AutoVantage automobile membership club, drivers from 20 major metropolitan areas in the U.S. were surveyed to learn more about consumer views on road rage.

"This new study focuses on important attitudes and habits of drivers on the open road nationwide," said Brad Eggleston, vice president of AutoVantage. "This groundbreaking research is an important tool to help educate and influence safer driving habits throughout the United States."

The study showed the cities with the worst road rage were Miami, Phoenix, New York, Los Angeles and Boston. Most courteous cities were Minneapolis, Nashville, St. Louis, Seattle and Atlanta.

When asked the major causes of road rage in the survey, the most frequent theme was people being in a hurry, running late, being impatient and/or speeding, with stress, frustration and bad moods also contributing.

Behaviors by other drivers that cause stress for commuters, and that can lead to road rage, include driving too fast (57 percent observe this happening every day), tailgating (50 percent see this every day) and cutting over without notice (44 percent see this every day).

Commuters reported that other drivers frequently talk on their cell phones (98 percent observe this at least once a week), run red lights (59 percent observe this at least once a week) and slam on the brakes (54 percent see this happening at least once a week).

As a reaction to rude or bad driving by others, people surveyed reported that they honked their horn at the offending driver (40 percent), cursed at the other driver (32 percent), waved their fist or arms (9 percent), made an obscene gesture (8 percent) or called the police to report the driver (5 percent).

Overall, 30 percent said they see drivers doing other things like putting on makeup, shaving or reading while driving. Los Angeles (43 percent) emerged as the city where this is most likely to be seen, while Seattle (18 percent) emerged as the place where this behavior is least likely.

Bobby Hamilton, a spokesman for AutoVantage, was the 2004 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Champion after achieving four career NASCAR Winston Cup Series victories. He founded Bobby Hamilton Racing, which owns and operates three trucks in the NASCAR Circuit.

The most courteous cities are Minneapolis, Nashville and St. Louis. Least courteous: Miami, Phoenix and New York.

ringlink.org

Resurface-Don't Replace-Your Worn Driveway

2010-02-21T07:47:00.001-08:00

Your driveway is your home's first impression to the neighborhood. As the trend of remodeling older homes continues to grow; a cracked, chipped driveway is often a neglected improvement project due to the effort and expense of removing and replacing the concrete or asphalt. A more cost-effective solution is to repair-and strengthen-a driveway by resurfacing the concrete.

Resurface With A Squeegee

• With a simple squeegee application, the Quikrete Concrete Resurfacer provides a durable, wear-resistant surface designed to withstand heavy traffic on driveways, walkways, sidewalks and patios. In order to resurface a driveway, homeowners will need only a long handled squeegee, a five-gallon bucket and the concrete resurfacer, available in 20-pound pails, 40-pound bags and 80-pound bags. One 40-pound bag resurfaces approximately 90 square feet at 1/16-inch thickness.

How To Do It

• Begin by cleaning the driveway. This will ensure the concrete resurfacer properly bonds with the existing surface.

• Follow the directions on the bag by blending the resurfacing mix with water until a pourable consistency is achieved.

• Use a pressure washer to clean the surface and saturate the driveway. Finish step by removing any standing water.

• Pour the mixture onto the concrete surface and then carefully spread with a long-handled squeegee.

• Use the squeegee to scrub the material into the surface.

• For a slip-resistant professional finish, follow within 5 minutes with a broom making full strokes across the full distance of the current work area without stopping.

• Wait 6 hours before allowing foot traffic and 24 hours for automobile traffic (with cool temperatures allow longer curing time prior to use).

• Protect from rain for at least 6 hours, longer in cool or damp weather.

• Do not cover unless immediate rain protection is necessary. No sealer is required.

*If interested in a decorative finish, add desired Quikrete Cement Color to product mixture.

For thicker applications, use additional thin layers of the concrete resurfacer or use a trowel applied layer after the initial squeegee application.

ringlink.org

Respect Large Trucks, Stay Safe on the Road

2010-02-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

Passenger vehicle operators - not truck drivers - cause approximately 70 percent of all fatal crashes involving a car and commercial truck, according to federal government statistics.

Most accidents are the result of an unsafe driving act, such as following a truck too closely or lingering in its blind spot.

The following precautions will help you safely share the road with large trucks:

* Beware of blind spots. Approximately 35 percent of truck-related auto fatalities occur in a truck's blind spots. Tractor trailers have very large blind spots -; as much as 30 feet behind the truck. Always try to pass on the left side; the blind spot on the right side is much larger (running the length of the truck and extending out nearly three lanes).

* Stay back. When following a truck, try to maintain a distance of 20 to 25 car lengths. Driving too closely behind a truck gives you little or no time to react to changing conditions.

* When passing a truck, do not loiter in the blind spot. Before moving back into the truck's lane, be sure you can see its headlights in your rearview mirror. Most fully-loaded semi trucks driving at highway speeds need 100 yards - that's one football field - to come to a safe stop. Leave them plenty of space.

* Pay attention. Driver inattentiveness is the most common unsafe driving act that results in a truck-related auto fatality.

* Heed the weather. Poor conditions make it more difficult to drive safely around big trucks. Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire LLC reminds you that statistics show nearly 1 million vehicle accidents a year occur in wet weather.

When it's raining, slow down, turn on your lights, drive smoothly and maintain a safe distance. If you start to hydroplane, take your foot off the accelerator (if manual transmission, engage the clutch) and don't slam on your brakes.

* Properly maintain your tires. A tire cannot provide good traction on wet roads once the tread is worn below 2/32 of an inch tread depth. Check your tires regularly and replace them at the proper time. Don't forget to maintain the proper air pressure in your tires; tire pressure should be checked monthly.

developers.facebook.com

Replacement Windshields-More Than A Dollars-And-Cents Decision

2010-02-20T15:37:00.000-08:00

Chances are it's happened to you-an errant stone cracks your windshield. Now what?

Replacing a damaged windshield is more than just a dollars-and-cents decision. According to a leading windshield manufacturer, your windshield not only helps protect you and your car's occupants from the elements, it also plays a major role in your safety.

Here are some important points to remember:

• The windshield is a key structural element of your car.

• Proper adhesive selection is critical to installation and structural integrity.

• Original equipment windshields meet federal safety standards.

• The visual quality of original equipment windshields is first rate-not necessarily true for knock-off versions.

• Knock-off windshields may not provide the same level of UV light protection, which could lead to accelerated fading of your vehicle's upholstery and interior surfaces.

The windshield engineers at Carlite® have some tips to keep in mind at windshield replacement time.

Ask for an original equipment windshield and factory-quality adhesives/sealants, installed by AGRSS-certified professionals. Laws in some states require that your installer inform you when replacing your glass with a non-original part. Original equipment windshields fit best and maintain the structural integrity of your vehicle, which is critical in case of an accident.

Original equipment windshields typically have better optical quality. Distortion affects the way the driver sees the road-and other cars. Windshield wipers are designed to work best with factory windshields which have designed-in curvatures. Knock-off windshields tend to have less curvature, which can result in flat spots where the wipers may skip or not clear the glass as effectively.

Knock-off windshields sometimes are made with thinner glass that can allow more noise in, which is particularly irritating to owners of upscale automobiles who paid for, and expect, a quiet ride.

Also, an improperly installed windshield could pop loose when the passenger air bag deploys, potentially reducing its ability to protect the passenger.

So when that stone chip or crack shows up on your windshield, be sure to protect yourself, and all those who ride with you, by insisting on a brand-for-brand replacement windshield like Carlite branded windshields. It's up to you to decide which kind of replacement windshield you want.

epractice.eu

Replacement Auto Parts: Where to Find Them

2010-02-20T14:11:00.000-08:00

When needing a replacement part for you car, where do you shop? Like many motorists you may head down to the big box retailer for all of your needs. A good choice both for value and for selection. Still, mostly any retailer is limited as to what they can stock. This especially holds true if you drive a rare or uncommon vehicle. Try finding a window regulator for your ’69 Torino at the parts store; they’ll get it for you but it will have to be back ordered. So, where should you shop? That’s up to you, but let’s goes over the options that you have.

The Salvage Yard. Let’s admit it: there isn’t anything wrong with going to the junkyard to find the part you need. My ’78 VW Rabbit’s window handle broke and I snagged one off of a junker for just a few bucks. Still, if you are looking for a radiator, engine, exhaust stuff, or anything else that actually runs, you risk that the part will fail soon after you place it in your car. Naturally, the price you pay through the junkyard should be the lowest price going.

Your Dealer. On the other side of the spectrum is your car dealer. If they don’t have it in stock, they can get if for you. Service with a smile and a price that will make you frown! Yes, you will pay dearly for some parts, as middleman mark ups kick in.

Your Retail Store. Retail auto supply chains typically have the broadest selection and the lowest prices of any of the brick and mortar retailers. Your best option for a good buy is when something is on sale; stock items will cost you the prevailing retail rate, but that is the price you pay for convenience. Overhead [buildings, labor] is high even with most national retailers.

Shop Online. Wholesale providers of automobile replacement parts and accessories are springing up all over the internet. Some stores are good, some are not. What to look for: available customer service agents; a toll free number where you can call someone to talk with directly; a store that never closes and has a secured payment site; and clearly understood shipment, payment, and return policies. Generally, an online retailer should be a great option as low overhead and purchasing directly from the manufacturer is what sets these wholesalers apart from the rest. Still, do your homework and make sure that the site is what it says it is.

One special warning: the growth of the counterfeit parts industry is causing fits for retailers and consumers. If you suspect that you have purchased a bogus part, return it to the retailer for a full return. One more good reason to learn what a company’s return policy is before you do business with them.

In all, shopping for parts is easier today, thanks to the internet. From the ease of your computer you can compare prices, service, shipping options, warranties, and more. The consumer is the winner and retailers are keeping prices low in order to bring in additional business.

prestashop.com

Repair Shops & Ordering Tires For Your Car

2010-02-20T12:47:00.000-08:00

They go with us everywhere and they give a whole new meaning to the phrase of ‘being on the road.’ The tires on your car are literally ‘on the road’ everywhere you go and, when it comes time to change them, nothing but the best will do. The first step to choosing tires for your car is determining the style and size of your current tires and writing it down on a piece of paper.

When choosing tires for your car, two of the most important considerations are quality and warranty. When purchasing any new type of automobile equipment or parts, such as tires, you should receive a clear warranty from the manufacturer. In order for this to remain effective, you must keep the original purchase receipt and follow any instructions as provided with the purchase of your new tires.

When it comes to selecting a repair shop to order and install the tires, you will want to make sure that they offer quality service and have a reputation to match. In an effort to ensure your satisfaction, check out the shop’s Better Business Bureau report. This information, which is free at BBB.com, will provide a detailed history of the repair shop and includes the length of time in business, number of complaints that have been filed within 24-36 months and how many of those were resolved satisfactorily according to the Better Business Bureau standards.

When you are ready to purchase, call your local car repair shop and inquire about availability. If the tires that you need are in stock, the technicians may be able to service your car immediately. If they have to be ordered, you will be given a cost estimate and an expected date of arrival. On this date, you should plan to be available for taking your automobile into the shop for servicing.

Before agreeing to the order, make sure that you have everything in writing. When dealing with a transaction that involves both parts and labor, you will need to have a receipt that clearly shows the cost of the both the tires and the cost of the actual labor. This will help to eliminate any future disputes over a cost quoted and will make the transaction much smoother.

And finally, when choosing tires for your car and a repair shop to install them, you will want to choose a company that stands behind their work. If a car repair shop doesn’t offer any type of guarantee on their work, consider shopping around for another tire shop. As a customer, it will give you great peace of mind in knowing that your hard-earned money is well spent with a company who appreciates your business by standing behind their own.

prestashop.com

Recall: Not Necessarily A Bad Word

2010-02-20T11:44:00.000-08:00

Recalls may sound bad at first but they may actually make you safer. They are simply an action by the manufacturer to remedy a safety or emissions-related concern regarding a vehicle defect or regulatory requirement. It may require that you return your vehicle to the dealer for service. If your vehicle is not affected, it may be because it was built at a different time or using a different part than the affected vehicles.

A safety recall can be issued on either a whole vehicle or on a piece of equipment within a vehicle, when the manufacturer uncovers a "noncompliance with a Federal motor vehicle safety standard." In people-speak, that means when a piece of equipment in a specific line of vehicles shows a defect.

In most cases, the remedy is as simple as repairing or replacing the equipment in question. It is usually covered by the vehicle's warranty, or the manufacturer may extend the vehicle's warranty for the recalled part. Naturally, the sooner you have the recalled item replaced or repaired, the less you have to worry about the performance of your vehicle.Ê

While manufacturers attempt to contact all affected vehicle owners, with some 40+ million used vehicles changing hands annually, the task can be daunting. Many car owners may not receive official notice of a recall. That's why used-car owners and even shoppers need to be proactive in learning about existing recalls. Carfax, for example, works with a number of auto manufacturers to display information on open recalls, directly benefiting consumers. Here are some steps you might take:

• Ask the dealer. Ask him if there are any outstanding recalls on the vehicle or its parts. Often, dealers remedying one recall will check to see if there are any other open recalls on the vehicle and offer to repair them as well, but it never hurts to ask!

connect.nola.com

Reasons For Buying A Car

2010-02-20T10:56:00.000-08:00

Besides the obvious reason, transportation, are there any other pressing reasons for buying a car? Perhaps it is a necessity like requiring inexpensive transportation to and from work. Or, maybe you are a “stay at home” Mom or Dad and need a vehicle to haul children around to school and various other activities. Regardless of your reason, make certain that purchasing the car is for a valid purpose and not just because you want to outdo “The Joneses.”

In this guide we will show you some of the pitfalls to avoid as well as information to make your selection much easier. The following are basic reasons you should consider when making that all important car purchase.

Is it a good buy?

The best time period to buy that car you have always dreamed of having is later in the month. Usually, there are numerous rebate programs and bonus offered by month’s end based on a dealer’s monthly sales quotas. The idea is that, sometimes dealers fall short of meeting their sales objectives. If their performance is assessed by the end of the month this can prove to be good news to most car buyers since dealers now have no choice but to sell vehicles at a price that is lower than their norm. They are pressed to make more sales that will count for their monthly sales and that puts you at an advantage as a buyer.

Peace of mind

Sometimes dealers do a song and dance routine just to make that sale. The result is that often car buyers end up with car features they realize later on they do not really need and a price they actually could not afford. You can avoid this potential stress by always remembering to trust your instincts. If ever you feel in doubt, the answer -- don’t -- do not let yourself be pressured to making that purchase now.

This is a common strategy of car dealers wherein they compel the customer to buy that car, now, this moment, today!

Do not forget that you should always sleep on it and then decide. This is a lot better than making your mind up now and forever holding your peace.

First Impression

To quote a common cliché, first impressions usually last. Though not always true, when buying cars, you could get many ideas just by observing how car sales people deal with you. Usually, these non-verbal signals are fairly correct enough enabling you to know what to expect from your car purchase.

If at any time you feel that the person selling you the car is not trustworthy or simply do not like him or her, always remember that you have the option to leave. It is advisable that you do not sell yourself too much. Time is precious, especially yours. So do not waste it. You are always free to politely walk away, anytime, anywhere, and in any way you like it. But if there are not many car dealers in your area, you may want to linger for a few moments more and wait until the negotiations you have with your dealer breaks down and you simply have no option but to run off.

The Invoice Price

Another thing to consider when buying a car is the invoice price. Make sure to ask that you see the invoice. If dealers are working their tails off against it, you have enough reason to believe that the car being offered is an unpleasant deal.

Usually, the price on the invoice is the cost the dealer paid the manufacturer for buying the car. This is before any rebates or incentives were included. Once this is known, only then will you have an idea as to how much the dealer could profit from each vehicle sold. Knowing this information could enable one to be more confident then in negotiating the price.

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

In layman’s term, this is commonly called the sticker price. This is the price one usually sees in the window of the car that is being sold.

Never ever consider paying the amount stated on the sticker price. This amount is just the starting point to your negotiations with the dealer.

Incentives

There are instances when manufacturers provide the dealers with a little something extra, like money, rebates or a bonus because they are able to sell cars that are either overstocked or undersold. Make sure that before actually purchasing a car, you were able to know if that car you are buying has some dealer incentives attached to it. If so, take off that amount from the car’s purchase price and have yourself a very good deal and hopefully, a very good car as well.

seriouseats.com/

Read The Warranty, It Will Save Some Money.

2010-02-20T08:44:00.000-08:00

When consumers buy a car, the seller or manufacturer pledges to vouch for the car. This is a warranty. Federal law enforces warranties to be always available to buyers. It should be made clear to the consumer even when they are just searching for what car to buy or if they are just browsing the internet.

Coverage differs. Therefore, warranties should be checked together with the design, value, quality and other car characteristics.

Warrantees and guarantees often confuse people that are trying to differentiate the two. These two words, although quite similar, have distinct differences in the area of home improvement.

First, the basic terminologies are somewhat different. Warranty is usually attributed to manufacturers while guarantees refer to the labor.

Warrantees are usually pro-rated. This means that the coverage agreements could change as time goes on. Guarantees from the labor sector mostly are inclusive.

Here are some examples:

1. Siding should have a warranty not to crack, sag or buckle.
2. The intensity of colors will not diminish for 3 points or more.
3. Warrantees are transferable to different owners and then changed to 5 years.
4. Require registration.
5. Effects of stains brought about by chemicals or too much mildew due to need for cleaning is not under the warranty.

Warrantees usually offer satisfactory coverage but are not one hundred percent.

What is the coverage of guarantee under one year labor?

Example, a product or service falters in just the first year. It will be changed or fixed without charge. To sum it up, if a high priced product is purchased, the coverage will be 100%. As product price decreases, so does the value of the coverage. It is not the manufacturer’s fault that less coverage is given for cheap products.

Product information and warranty or guarantee inclusions should be thoroughly understood by the potential buyers before signing anything. Always be on the lookout for contractors that adhere to specific brands for a long time. Chances are they have valid reasons why they remain loyal.

Everyone is like a faithful contractor who looks for good service. These contractors are always on stand by to give service. Warranties and product quality concerns also keep good contractors on their toes. On the other hand, bad contractors do not care at all for product quality and warranty. They are always scouting for the cheapest product on sale and totally disregarding the warrantees and services that it could entail in the future.

What are written warranties?

Written warranties are not compulsory under the law but are commonly found in major purchases. Here are some tips to consider in looking for warranties.

• What is the amount of time provided by the warranty?

Always make sure to take note of the beginning and expiration of warranties and also the terms that may nullify it.

• Who is the person in charge of providing the warranty?

The coverage will be provided either by the manufacturer or seller so it should be made sure which of these two.

• What are the specific steps to be undertaken when there is a product failure?

Check if the company, provider or seller will fix the product, change it with a new one or give the money back.

• What are the parts and specific product failures covered by the warranty?

Buyers should thoroughly examine if there are product parts or kinds that are not part of the warranty coverage. Examples are warranties that ask for payment for work done during the repair process. Be wary of inclusions that could be potentially costly or inconvenient. An example of this is transporting a heavy or huge product to a factory for repair or the product should be given back with its original case intact.

• Are “consequential damages” covered by the warranty?

There are warranties that do not include damages affected by the product or based on the time and money spent in repairing the damages. An example of this is when a newly bought freezer bogs down and the food is spoiled. The seller or manufacturer is not compelled to pay for the food.

• What are the warranty limitations?

There are warranties that only give the warranty coverage if the status of the product is maintained as cited in the condition. Certain warranties specify products like washing machines to be used for home use only. If the washing machine is used in a commercial enterprise and breaks down, no warranty will be given.

Buyers should always read the warranty or guarantee terms before purchasing any product if they want to make the most out of their hard earned money.

richmondchic.com

Racing Go Karts: A History

2010-02-20T07:55:00.000-08:00

Go karts were first created in the United States in the 1950s with the majority of historians crediting Art Ingels as the inventor. He built his first go kart in California in 1956 and it was during this post-war period where airmen raced these go karts as a way to pass the time.

They are referred to as go karts, go carts, go-karts, shifter karts, gokarts and many other differently spelled variations. Go karts are related to open-wheel racing such as Formula One and Indy Car. In fact, many top professional race car drivers, including Michael Schumacher, Sarah Fisher, Darrell Waltrip, Tony Stewart and Kyle Petty, got their start on the go kart racing circuit.

Go kart enthusiasts can easily become addicted to the thrill of racing. Once you’ve experienced the excitement it’s hard to let it go. There are ATV all terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, scooters, mopeds, mini bikes and motorcycles, but none give a driver any more of an adrenaline-rush than the popular go kart. They are simple 4-wheeled vehicles with no suspension (relying on chassis flex). They are basically just a smaller version of the professional open wheel cars and race on similar, but smaller, racing tracks.

Go karting can be a stepping stone for drivers desiring to work their way up to professional Formula One or Indy Car racing. It’s a cheaper way to get involved with racing. If a driver shows talent on the go kart circuit he can then move up to the more expensive divisions of motor racing including Formula One and Indy Car.

But go karting is not just for the professionally-minded. Most of the time go karts are raced by non-professionals, people just out for a little fun. Go karts have become popular all over the world and are found in most larger cities. For the faint of heart there are extremely tame tracks located in many family fun centers and amusement parks.

So what is a go kart? Go karts are made up of a chassis, motor, transmission, seat and 4 tires. Since go karts have no suspension the chassis must provide flexibility and yet retain enough stiffness to allow the kart good grip around the track and through the turns. The chassis can be either open or closed. Simply put, the closed, or caged chassis, allows protection for the driver in the event of a rollover. The open chassis does not.

Engines used in karting are typically either 2-stroke or 4-stroke. The 2-stroke engine is generally more of a specialized engine that is made by companies such as Honda or Briggs and Stratton (who also make lawnmower engines). In fact, 4-stroke engines are usually the standard type used in lawn mowers. The 2-stroke is usually more powerful than the 4-stroke and can attain up to 30 horsepower or more.

Sprint karts can usually get up to about 60 mph while the more powerful enduro karts can reach a top speed of up to 90 mph. Shifter karts use a manual transmission and a clutch to bring out all the engine has to offer and can reach speeds of 160 mph or more. These are not toys.

As with Formula One racing the kart tires can be either slicks or rain tires. Slicks have no tread and are used for best traction on a dry track. Rain tires have tread and are used during wet weather. And in icy conditions there are specially-made spiked tires that give good grip on the slippery ice.

Go karts are generally considered a safer and cheaper way to get into racing. With the many different levels available drivers can move up the line until they reach the professional level. With the right mixture of talent and practice racing alongside the top pros is certainly a possibility.

kuenselonline.com

Racing Fans "Clean Up" When It Comes To Tailgating

2010-02-20T06:55:00.000-08:00

It's time for families to pack up and head over to stadiums, ball fields or racetracks across the country-that's right, it's tailgating season. With NASCAR races in full throttle, fans are shifting into gear for traditional pre- and postrace get-togethers. And everyone knows that racing fans are some of the best and most dedicated tailgaters in the country.

The key to a successful tailgate is not just the fans and a smorgasbord of food, it is the preparation and planning made ahead of time -which is why racing tailgates are often the most successful. Not only do race fans know how to prepare a tailgate-they are also prepared for the all-important cleanup after the checkered flag comes down.

Jeff Gordon, NASCAR driver and four-time Nextel Cup Champion, sees many tailgaters first-hand on a weekly basis: "Our fans are some of the best in the world, and their tailgate setups are unbelievable-they have it down to a science. Sparkle® Paper Towels are a critical part of the tailgating formula when it's time to clean up after the race."

Some tips to ensure your next tailgate is a hit:

• Pack your gear the night before the tailgate. Save yourself from the last-minute run-around and the headache of forgetting the grill! You can also leave nonperishable items packed and ready to go between races. Keep paper towels, plastic forks, paper plates, bottle openers and a portable radio to listen to the prerace coverage so you won't forget them when it is time to go.

• You can never bring enough food. Remember that a tailgate is a social affair. You never know when the folks at the site beside yours will end up joining in your fun. And it's not just about the food on the grill-don't forget the all-important side dishes!

• Fly a flag from your RV or at the tailgating site to help your group find its way back to the site. Consider making your own flag to show team spirit and set your site apart from your neighbors'.

• Keep tailgates hassle-free by bringing disposable and multiuse items, such as Sparkle® Paper Towels. Also bring extra resealable plastic bags to hold leftover food. Trash bags are a perennial favorite for both their intended purpose or to use as a rain poncho during the unexpected rain shower.

• Bring along a few damp paper towels in a plastic bag to wipe grimy hands and to clean the setup area. With great food and outdoor eating, you can never have enough paper towels for cleanup.

• Don't forget the ice! Not only does ice help to keep food fresh for the trip, but it's also vital to keep everyone's beverage nice and cool.

boomantribune.com

Racing and the Street- A Deadly Combination

2010-02-20T06:07:00.000-08:00

Street Racing seems like the most affordable way to get the automotive adrenaline rush all us enthusiasts crave. What member of America's youth doesnt get off to hot girls, fast cars, and free rides? What seems like fun and games to some, hoewever, is serious business to others. Not only is racing on public streets illegal in all 50 states, it is the most dangerous and selfish act the youth of today is getting involved in.

Taking off after WWII when the youth returning from war had extra money and a need for speed to go with their new mechanical know-how, street racing quickly evolved into one of America's top killers in today's society. Inspired and revived by the Fast and the Furious movies, street racing has contributed to a frightening level of fatal crashes. Fatal crashes related to street racing has increased by more than 85% every year for the past 6 years. From 1999 to 2000, San Diego, CA has seen an increase of 97% of fatal crashes caused by street racing. Still sound like fun and games?

In the state of Florida, pedestrian injuries related to street racing has increased by 222% from 1999 to 2001. The leading cause of death for people ages 16-20 is automobile accidents. National averages show that for every 1000 street racers, there are 49 innocent by-standers who are injured or killed. So why do kids street race?

In the state of Florida, pedestrian injuries related to street racing has increased by 222% from 1999 to 2001. The leading cause of death for people ages 16-20 is automobile accidents. National averages show that for every 1000 street racers, there are 49 innocent by-standers who are injured or killed. So why do kids street race?

The average consequences for street racing are:

You will be arrested and have your car impounded for 30 days.
You will be arrested and have your car (or your parent’s car!) permanently confiscated.
You can be imprisoned for up to three months and fined up to $1,000.
Your driver's license will be revoked.
Your car insurance rates will increase or you can be cancelled.

So America's youth still thinks drag racing is a more simple way to get the automotive high? All you need to race on an NHRA track is:

Valid driver’s license
Valid vehicle registration and insurance
DOT-approved street legal tires
Seat belts
Muffler

You need this stuff to ride on the street too! So the hard-ass, ignorant street racers out there need to save up 20 bucks and enjoy the legal and exciting atmosphere at their local drag strip.

webstandards.org

Quick Tips For Improving The Look Of Your Car

2010-02-20T05:48:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it really is what's on the outside that counts. That's the opinion of many of today's car owners who say they're always on the lookout for ways to make their autos look better.

While many drivers turn to high-tech fixes, accessories and add-ons to change the look of their ride, many forget a simple-and inexpensive-step: waxing. Waxing helps protect a vehicle's paint by minimizing the effects of wear and tear. But perhaps just as important, it can breathe new life into a faded paint job-helping your car look its best.

A thorough waxing can take less than 30 minutes-especially if you follow a few tips from the experts:

• Always wash the car thoroughly to remove surface dirt that can scratch the paint while waxing.

• Minor scratches and swirl marks caused by snow brushes, tree branches or improper care can be removed with a scratch and swirl remover.

• Apply wax evenly in a circular motion and always remove wax with a clean cloth.

Wax On, Wax Off

You may be surprised at just how far wax has come over the years. For instance, new Turtle Wax Ice looks more like baby oil than traditional car wax. It was designed to clean, shine and protect all exterior surfaces of a car, including plastic and rubber trim, without leaving residue.

"The paint on today's cars has come a long way, but that exterior finish still needs to be cared for on a regular basis," said Michael Schultz, head of the Turtle Wax Shine Center. "We developed the new Ice formula to provide better care for diverse exterior surfaces."

For those who prefer to stick with traditional waxing methods, the original Turtle Wax Super Hard Shell and Platinum Series are used around the world.

chemicalforums.com

Protecting Vehicles From Theft

2010-02-19T16:00:00.000-08:00

What does DNA have in common with vehicle etching? More than you might think. Both have a unique code and both can be used to fight crime.

Vehicle etching and DNA labels refer to a system that applies a car owner's specific and unique code to a vehicle in a number of apparent or concealed places (the corners of windows, on doors, etc.). Once a car is etched, a highly visible label is applied, letting potential thieves know it has been etched and the car's code is registered with a security company. Doing so makes it easier to track the car down if it is stolen-but it also makes the car less likely to be stolen in the first place. Here's how it works:

• Owners apply an etching stencil to the outside, lower corners of windows and add an etch cream. After five minutes, owners peel the etching stickers off and the car is protected.

• DNA labels are placed on car parts such as doorjambs, hoods and trunks, in places that are easy for you to find, but that do not affect the appearance of your vehicle. If a thief peels off a label, a hidden mark remains in its place. The mark can only be seen under a UV light.

The idea is that when a vehicle is etched, its parts are less valuable to a car thief because they can't be sold off as easily as nonetched cars.

A do-it-yourself kit, The Club DNA Vehicle Etching System, has been developed by Winner International. People using the system are assigned a code known only to them and then, should they choose to do so, they can store their codes in Winner's secure database. The codes can then be used to help identify a vehicle if it is stolen.

The company recommends people use the etching system in conjunction with a steering wheel lock such as The Club. "When it comes to preventing car theft, a layered approach is always best. A steering wheel lock for visibility and deterrence, plus etching to decrease the attractiveness for chop shops, makes a vehicle more secure," says Karen Winner Hale of Winner International. "What's most important is that vehicle owners take the first steps in fighting auto theft by taking responsibility to deter the theft of their own vehicles."

facebook.com

Protect Your Wheels From An Insidious Fiend!

2010-02-19T15:12:00.000-08:00

A few years back, a friend of mine brought over his newly purchased and “gently used” 325i to my home. I was nearly as excited for him as he was for himself as this was the car that he had always wanted. A recent promotion and raise at work meant he could ditch his LeSabre for something a bit more classier and a bit more expensive. As he rolled into my driveway I gave the car a good “once over” before my eyes rested on his front left wheel. While the rest of his car looked showroom new, his front wheels were absolutely filthy. So, what was the culprit that messed up my friend’s wheels? Please read on to find out all the sordid details!

Brake dust. Yes, something as simple as dust from the 325i’s brakes messed up my friend John’s wheels. I handed him a sponge and a towel with some lukewarm water and he immediately began to touch up the alloy wheels and tires. Unfortunately, this was only a temporary fix as a few days later his wheels were messed up again. By that time, however, he had already ordered a set of brake dust shields to take care of the problem. Honestly, I never knew such a product existed until he told me about it.

When John’s brake dust shields arrived, I helped him install them and was impressed how easy they went on his car. Brake dust shields are fitted right into the wheel, kind of like an internal hubcap. Each shield is a one piece unit that fits into place without any sort of special tool needed. John’s shields were sized just right for his wheels [order by wheel size to make sure] and his car no longer looks dirty. Best of all, his remaining warranty is not voided with this highly functional aftermarket part.

Another thing I learned about brake dust is that besides looking bad, brake dust can eat away at alloy rims. You can’t use harsh chemicals on your rims to remove the dust nor should you use a high powered spray. Instead, brake shields [or brake dust covers as some people call them] take away the problem altogether leaving your wheels looking great at all times. Brake dust shields are vented too to allow your brakes to cool down.

Brake dust shields are available through select auto parts stores including the Auto Parts Warehouse’s always open online store.

washblog.com

Pros And Cons Of Used Car Classifieds

2010-02-19T14:12:00.000-08:00

There are several options to buy used cars. Although choosing between these options would depend on your priority and preference, you have the benefit of sorting all the listings in classified ads.

The majority of the used-car dealers provide their list of sales in classifieds. With so many options, how would you determine whose terms could provide you with the appropriate used car of your choice?

Here is a list of second-hand car buying and selling options, and each of its pros and cons.

1) Dealers:

They provide you with a guarantee of title and the best legal protection. They offer a broad selection of cars and most offer less expensive and older model cars.

On the other hand, trade-ins could not provide the best price for your old car and purchasing of used-cars could be risky since most dealers buy from taxi companies, police departments and lease fleets.

To ensure the quality of a second-hand car, visit a dealership that specializes in the makes and models you prefer.

2) Private Owners:

There are two different sides of buying from a private owner – they maintain their car regularly or they are trying to sell the car to dispose of junk. Although most privately owned used cars come cheap, you would be taking a car-investment risk with no warranty, security title and no legal recourse if you purchased a lemon.

You should ask for repair and maintenance receipts to ensure the upholding of the vehicle.

3) Car auctions:

Here you could get a good deal and save a lot of money if you really know cars and are an avid fixer-upper. Auctions also guarantee the car title.

However, you should first do your homework. Some auctions do not provide warranties, cannot let you run a test drive, and you will not be able to check the vehicle’s history record.

4) Rental car companies:

Rental cars are a good deal since they are rented by vacationers, businesspersons for short trips, and are guaranteed wearing road trips. Their cars are regularly serviced and they could provide the records of maintenance history.

However, even with a maintenance record, buyers would not have any idea who has driven the car before buying it. Rental cars could also cost slightly more than used-cars bought from private sellers.

Research is important to guarantee a best deal in your car investment. Avoid being scammed in the classifieds by trying the best option that would suit your needs.

nwcentral.org

Pros And Cons Of Buying Used Cars

2010-02-19T11:22:00.000-08:00

Each year, out of all the vehicles bought in the U.S., 41 million are used cars compared to only 16 million new car purchases.

Since purchasing a car is the next financial investment made by US citizen other than housing, it is important to determine if buying a used car is worth your money.

1) CONS - Here is a list of the disadvantages of used-car buying:

* The options of cars are limited, so the search for the right vehicle could be lengthy.

* The buyers have no idea if the car was treated. Used cars usually have worn consumables such as hoses, tires, shocks, filters, fans and clutch.

* Although used car dealers provide a warranty, it is only limited to a couple of months unlike purchasing a new car with full warranty. Certain maintenance on your purchased second-hand car could be more expensive.

* Purchasing a second-hand vehicle would offer you a lower trade-in value.

* The main disadvantage of purchasing old cars is that it has an unknown quantity. Whether the dealer has worked the vehicle to make it attractive for the test drive, the buyers are still unaware of the repair bills, economical issues, and its reliable transportation.

* It is difficult to negotiate fair financing terms on an older vehicle.

2) PROS - On the other side, buying a used car could benefit the buyer in several ways:

* The original owner of the car received the depreciation hit. The market value of the new car decreases from year to year. An average 30% of its value within three years from the time it was bought, so buying their car would save you a lot of money.

* Unlike purchasing a new vehicle with high insurance fees, you will receive a lower cost of insurance if you choose to buy second-hand cars.

* Although buying new and used cars both provide loans, lease, or money-saving the majority of dealers who sell used cars often have shorter loan terms.

* If your investment is decided based on appearance and gas mileage, choosing a used car would guarantee the value and reliability it has provided over the years.

* A used car would provide your dollar more flexibility. Compared from buying a new car that would eat all your finances, buying a second-hand car would allow you to purchase other accessories such as air conditioning that would cost approximately US$200 to $900 extra.

Buying your used car could waste your money if you fail to do your research, compare dealerships, and be aware of the car’s market value. Be a wise used-car buyer.

msexchangeteam.com

Proper Tire Care Means Safety, Fuel Savings

2010-02-19T10:51:00.000-08:00

Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to check the condition of your tires. Well-maintained tires keep your car safer, help it last longer and save you money at the gas pump, too.

These tips from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) will help to keep your tires in good shape and your travels safe all year long:

• Choose your tires carefully. Tire selection should be based on the correct size recommended for the vehicle and its loading recommendations. Consult with a knowledgeable tire or automobile dealer about selecting the proper tire for your typical driving patterns.

• Buy a tire gauge and keep it handy in your car at all times. It will inform you if you need to add more air to your tires.

• Check your tire pressure at least once per month, and especially before a long trip. Underinflation can cause damage that may lead to tire failure. And overinflation can cause uneven wear plus handling and stopping problems. Use the manufacturer's recommended air pressure as a guide.

• During wet weather, slow down. As your speed decreases, the tire footprint (the amount of the tire's tread contacting the road surface) increases, providing better traction.

• Rotate your tires every 6,000 miles. If your tires show uneven wear, ask your automotive service professional to check for and correct any misalignment, imbalance or other mechanical problem involved before rotation.

• Check your vehicle alignment periodically. Have an automotive professional check your alignment if you notice your vehicle is pulling to one side.

• Inspect and measure your tire tread. You can do this yourself by placing a penny in the tread groove and if you can see the top of Lincoln's head, then it is time to replace your tires.

• Check the tire sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.

• Don't overload your vehicle as it can create excessive heat inside your tires.

• Have your tire balance checked periodically. An unbalanced tire and wheel assembly may result in irregular wear.

Remember, by checking your tires regularly, you can keep your vacation drives safe, enjoyable and affordable.

sici.org

Proper Car Washing, Polishing And Waxing from the Experts

2010-02-19T10:02:00.000-08:00

It is amazing the number of people that don’t know how to properly clean or polish and wax their cars. Many people use products that were never intended for their car and others use products and equipment that should only be used by properly trained professionals. Some never even wax or clean their cars. Then they wonder why their car is given a very low trade in figure at the dealer, or why their paint is dull and flaking.

For the purpose of this article we interviewed numerous professional automotive detailers and similar professionals. We asked them what products they used and for tips that consumers could use. They pretty much came back with the same advice:

Properly clean the car: This is very important as the use of harsh, non-automotive products can actually harm your cars finish and make it wear quicker. Spray the car first and get it wet. Use the water to spray off dirt and other contaminates that will scratch your car if you immediately start using a sponge and water first. Also do not clean your car in the sun on a hot day. Do make sure you use warm water as it works best to loosen contaminates. After getting your car wet, use an automotive car wash solution and add to water in a bucket. Follow the directions on the bottle. Then wash the car. You will find it easier if you use a long handled wash brush (most auto parts stores have these). Be sure to wash and rinse in sections so the car wash soap doesn’t dry before being washed off. Then using terry cloth towels or chamois, dry the car off. Expert tip: use a squeegee. It is much faster and easier.

Remove stubborn contaminants: There will be dirt, bugs, tar, etc… that will be left after washing. There are many products that are made specifically for removing these items you’re your paint and car. The resounding answer from the experts was Meguiar’s bug and tar cleaner. Remove all the contaminants and follow the directions (some products can remove paint if not used correctly). Expert tip: 3M and other manufacturers make a plastic shield that can be applied over areas of your car’s paint like bumpers and behind the tires to protect from contaminants and rock chips.

Use a cleaner polish: This will remove any left over stubborn contaminates like ground in bug splatter on your painted bumper, acid rain etching, bird drop spots, and minor scratches. Use a circular motion, just like for wax. Follow the directions for that particular cleaner polish (some require a wet or damp applicator pad others don’t). Do the car one section at a time and use a clean section of cloth to buff once dry. Most cleaner polishes will dry to a whitish haze. Be sure to buff off all the haze and residue from the cleaner polish. When done the car finish will be really smooth. Expert tip: for deeper scratches, contaminants, etc… you can use an orbital buffer or polisher to apply the cleaner polish. Be careful and use low rpm’s (under 2000) anything above this and you risk burning the paint.

Apply several coats of polish or wax: There is a big difference between car wax and car polish. Car wax is usually a blend of carnauba and other waxes which will give a deep, wet look and new car shine. It comes in both a liquid and a paste, and it will not last as long as a car polish. Car wax is also less effective in high temperatures and can actually melt on hot areas like the hood. Car polish is a polymer blend usually with no wax. Car polishes can last 1 year between coats and is very durable protection for your paint. The experts recommend a car polish with Teflon in it for maximum protection and durability. The experts love the extra, deeper shine from car wax, but all agreed it was better suited for car shows. Whichever you choose, they are both applied the same way. Apply in a circular motion and let it dry to a haze. Then buff dry with a clean terry cloth or microfiber towel. Expert tip: Don’t use regular towels or diaper cloths as they can trap dirt particles and similar and leave scratch patterns in your finish. A microfiber cloth works best for removing dried car polish or car wax haze. 2 to 3 coats are recommended for maximum protection and shine. A good rule is to reapply the car polish or car wax at least 2 times per year. Expert tip: Apply car wax, not car polish (as car polish will leave streaks and smudges on glass), to your windows. Do one light coat and completely buff it off. The car wax will work better than the leading brand glass treatment for rain (it will also quite your windshield wipers).

educationarcade.org

Professional Maintenance Tips To Get Your Car Ready For The Road

2010-02-19T09:05:00.000-08:00

Anytime of year can be the right time to get your car in tip-top shape. Experts know that a top-notch pit crew can make the difference between winning or being an also-ran-even if you're just getting ready for the next family trip. That's why it's important to remember that not all auto repair technicians are created equal.

Just ask Todd Berrier, crew chief for Kevin Harvick, driver of the No. 29 GM Goodwrench Chevy Monte Carlo SS. "It's my job to make sure Kevin (Harvick's) car is in perfect working condition at every race," said Berrier.

He recommends having a trained technician "sweat the details" like he does and inspect the following before you hit the road:

• Tire pressure: About 20 percent of cars inspected in check lanes during National Car Care Month have underinflated tires, which can result in blowouts and serious accidents. Underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA). In addition, low tire pressure can reduce gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.

• Wipers: Generally, wipers should be replaced every six months, ideally in the spring and fall, making now the perfect time to take a look at them. Also, make sure the windshield washers work properly and keep the washer fluid reservoir full.

• Lubricants and Fluids: Nearly 30 percent of vehicles failed inspections as a result of too little, too much or dirty motor oil, and 26 percent had low, overfull or burnt transmission fluid. Twenty-one percent had low or dirty power steering fluid, 23 percent had low or contaminated brake fluid, and 18 percent failed the washer fluid inspection. Improper fluid levels affect your vehicle's safety and can damage vehicle components.

• Parts: It is important to have items such as belts and hoses regularly inspected and replaced with the right parts when needed. Genuine GM replacement parts, for example, are manufactured to the same specifications of the company's vehicles. A broken belt or ruptured hose can cause costly engine damage and travel delays.

"Regular vehicle maintenance and inspections can help improve a vehicle's fuel efficiency, achieve peak performance and even help avoid major repairs down the road," said Peter Lord, executive director, GM Service Operations.

Lord also emphasizes the importance of technician training when it comes to getting superior maintenance.

For instance, according to federal statistics and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), only about half of the 820,000 auto service technicians in the U.S. are certified by ASE, an industry-recognized leader in technician certification.

He points out that not only are GM Goodwrench technicians ASE-certified-and recertified every five years-they receive additional training beyond the ASE requirements.

These technicians are prepped to maintain and repair GM vehicles with a full line of products for one-stop service at over 7,000 GM dealership locations nationwide.

phpnuke.org

Planning A Car Audio System Installation

2010-02-19T08:40:00.000-08:00

With such a wide range of components and gadget on the market for car audio systems, the big question is "Where do I start?"

First you must decide what exactly you wish to do. If you are wanting to build a car audio system for a daily driver (the car you drive back and forth to work) with good sounds, but you are not interested in competing, a system can easily be put together for under $1000. However, if you are looking for the all-out bass monster, be prepared to drop in some big bucks into your system.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when building a car audio system is planning. Get an idea of where you are going to place components, subwoofers, amplifiers, and power distribution. A lot of headache can be avoided with the proper planning!!

For the basic system, lets look at some of the components needed.

Let's first start with the head unit (CD player). Obviously you are going to want a nice head unit. If you start with a good quality cd player, and choose to upgrade your sound system in the future, purchase a head unit that will grow with you. Some of the features you may want to keep in mind are:

1. CD changer controls

2. XM / Sirius controls (if you decide to add Satellite radio in the future)

3. Dual RCA outputs (carries signal to the amplifiers)

4. Pause button (important for competing)

5. Detachable face, or other security devices

6. High voltage line driver - this will send the sound signal at a higher voltage to your amplifier/s reducing noise and improving overall sound quality.

After you have chosen your head unit, you will want to make a decision on amplifiers and subwoofers. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. A $30 subwoofer will be as big as a $300 subwoofer, but the capacities of each will differ greatly. Look at the power handling of each subwoofer and decide accordingly. You will want subwoofers will work with your amplifier/s (see compatibility).

You must also keep in mind the available space in your vehicle. Are you willing to give up your entire cargo area? How many subwoofers will fit? Decide on the size. Sizes will vary from 8" up to 18", some are square (Kicker), but most are round. Also keep in mind the resistance (ohms) of the subwoofer and make sure they are compatible with your amplifier/s (see compatibility). The subwoofer decision will also have an effect on the enclosure you decide to build or buy. For the basic system, I would recommend purchasing a pre-fabricated subwoofer enclosure. This will save you a bit of money and headache (especially if you end up building it two or three times!!). Make sure you take accurate measurement of your cargo area before building or buying an enclosure!!

Other components may be needed depending on the type of system you are building and how elaborate you want your sound to be. For the competition vehicle, figure on upgrading your alternator, adding a battery to your system (maybe more), running high quality RCA cables, power cables, ground cables, and speaker cable. You may need to add a capacitor to provide your amplifier with a reservoir of power for bigger hits from the subs. You may need an electronic crossover, an equalizer, replacement factory speakers, an amplifier for your mid-range and tweeters, additional speakers within your vehicle for staging, etc.

deskpro.com

Performance Parts 101

2010-02-19T05:56:00.000-08:00

In the automotive industry, the term ‘performance parts’ is used for a variety of car and truck parts or accessories, that are designed to enhance a vehicle’s performance. The term is generally tied to the aftermarket industry which makes sense considering that car or truck enhancement parts or accessories are typically purchased after the original purchase. This is not to say that O.E.M. manufacturers won’t create performance parts, because they often do.

Products such as Borla Exhausts, K&N Air Intake filters, ReadyLift Suspension Kits, or Bilstein shocks are considered performance parts because they are created to enhance car or truck performance. On the other hand, the O.E.M. exhaust, intake filter, suspension kit, or shocks that come with the newly purchased vehicles are generally stock parts designed to meet standards at a reasonable price. Someone looking to boost their car or truck’s performance will then purchase an aftermarket part designed to boost performance.

Strictly being aftermarket however, does not categorize a car or truck part or accessory as a performance part. Aftermarket products may include seat covers, car covers, bumpers, sun visors, make-specific paraphernalia (such as TRD’s line of Toyota® accessories), and steering wheel covers. These products are based on aesthetics, comfort, or brand loyalty, not performance. This would make them a car or truck accessory, but not a performance part.

Performance Parts may also play slightly different but overlapping roles from one car or truck to another. For example, K&N’s quality oil and air filtration products are available for virtually every modern vehicle under the sun. However, while lift kits tend to be popular among Ford®, Chevy®, Dodge® and Toyota® truck owners, you are unlikely to see a demand from Mercedes-Benz® or Porsche® owners. This isn’t to say that popular Porsche® and Mercedes® parts (aftermarket at least) are always different from the more popular truck performance parts. Manufacturers are starting to notice and react to new consumer demands. For example, Borla, known for its quality SUV and Truck exhausts, made the cross over and began to offer exhaust systems for Porsche® and Corvette® a few years ago.

fanfiction.net

Performance Chips feed your vehicle a heavy dose of power

2010-02-19T05:29:00.000-08:00

Whether you want a performance chip that you can just plug in and forget about, or one that you can constantly tinker with to find your perfect settings, AutoAnything has the right electrical gear for you. We have three different styles of performance chips to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and capabilities. However, for all their differences, the one thing they have in common is the power to propel your vehicle's performance to unbelievable heights.

3 fundamental types of performance chips

Control Modules

A control module plugs directly into your under-the-hood electrical system, standing right in between the data from your various sensors and the computer. The module intercepts the data before it has a chance to reach the onboard computer. Then, it analyses the information, determines the proper adjustments to the air/fuel ratio, ignition timing and other key functions, and then sends commands to the onboard computer. A control module delivers accurate, immediate tuning for your engine because it is always plugged in and constantly reading and interpreting data from your sensors.

Each control module is custom-programmed to maximize the output and efficiency of your vehicle's specific year, make and model, taking into consideration engine size, transmission type and even your stock tire size. What's more, many control modules come in different power levels, or stages. That way, you can choose the perfect amount of power for your unique driving habits.

Many of the control modules for diesel rigs have optional in-cab monitors that display up to the second readings of such critical engine information as turbo boost, engine gas temperature and RPMs. Some even display your 0-60 acceleration and quarter mile time, and give you on-the-fly control of different settings. For the best results, you will want to use a higher grade fuel with more octanes, like 91 or higher.

Installing a control module is simple and should not take more than 15 minutes. They have a built-in, heat-shielded wiring harness that plugs directly into your onboard computer, so there's absolutely no soldering, splicing or drilling required. After all the wires are connected, you never have to worry about adjusting the module ever again, unless you would like to return to your factory settings.

Power Programmers

Like control modules, power programmers reconfigure your vehicle's onboard computer to perform at peak levels, but they operate differently. Rather than being permanently installed into your electrical system, power programmers are plug-n-play devices.

Before hitting the road, you connect it to your OBD-II Port, which is handily located right under your dashboard. You will then answer a number of questions about your vehicle, any modifications you have made and what level of power you want. Based on how you respond to the questions, the power programmer then uploads a new set of operating instructions to your vehicle's computer. The new operating program only has to be uploaded once, so you can pack away your power programmer or experiment with some of the other settings and modes. Best of all, the whole process only takes about 10 minutes, and the only tools you'll need are your own two hands.

The advantage of the power programmer is that you have greater control over the tuning of your system. For example, you will be able to recalibrate your onboard computer to any changes in tire size, speed rating or even your rear end gear ratio. These changes dramatically affect your vehicle's performance, but your computer does know to recalculate unless you use a power programmer to communicate with it. Moreover, many of our power programmers let you tune your engine for regular octane usage instead of the usual 91 or higher fuel grade.

Engine Management Systems (EMS)

If you want total control of your vehicle's computer system, don't just reprogram it-replace it. An EMS is a complete substitution for your stock onboard computer, giving you virtually unlimited command over just about ever aspect of your vehicle's control system.

Engine management systems are designed to customize your car, truck, or SUV to your exact specifications. For those of us who know about the inner workings of your entire drive train, only an EMS gives you full control of every minute detail, from your air/fuel ratio and fuel injector control, to idle speed and nitrous (wet or dry) management.

You mount the EMS inside your engine compartment. Once it is secured, you simply unplug the wires from your old computer and plug them into the new one. Those wires sync your EMS with all of your vehicle's sensors, so it has an immediate connection to all the data from every critical part on your automobile. It uses the readings from your sensors to run your engine at its peek level. You can even plug your laptop into the EMS to view performance information and manipulate settings.
Application with your ride

Sure, a control module, power programmer or EMS unleashes huge gains in horsepower, torque and efficiency, but you are probably wondering how it actually works. For most performance parts, their purpose is obvious-more power. You can visualize and hear a hotrod exhaust system hard at work, and you can hold the pipes and headers right in your hands. A performance chip, on the other hand, exists in the invisible world of electrical pulses and binary codes.

zannel.com

Perform Your Own Automobile Maintenance

2010-02-18T17:03:00.000-08:00

Today’s cars can typically be expected to pass the 200,000 mile mark with consistent automobile maintenance. With the price of automobiles, you will want to protect that investment by performing regular maintenance. If you can do much of the work yourself, you will save a lot of money in labor. Invest in a good set of tools and choose quality parts when performing your own automobile maintenance. tugzip.com

If you have some skill, but want to learn more look for courses in general repairs and maintenance. These can often be found at your local community center, Community College or an automotive technical school in your area. Consider investing in a good repair manual for your car, such as a Chilton’s manual. The internet is a good place to look for articles and information. There are many sites devoted to auto repair and maintenance.

You will want to keep track of all maintenance performed on your car. You can do this in a log, a notebook or on your home computer. There is software available to help you keep track of maintenance. These programs track repairs, maintenance, replacement parts used on the vehicle and fuel consumption. You can use the same software for multiple vehicles.

Most software allows you to create a service schedule and will remind you when it’s time to perform maintenance tasks on each vehicle in your household. The software contains a wide variety of tips for car care. In addition, many have reference and diagnostic tools to help you diagnose various problems with your cars. Many companies offer a free trial that can be downloaded on the internet. This allows you to try out the program before investing your money.

Your owner’s manual will give you some basic information about when certain maintenance tasks should be done. Most tasks will be listed according to the mileage on the car.

3000 Mile Maintenance

Change the oil in your engine every 3000 miles. The filter should be changed at the same time. Newer synthetic oils are said to last longer without breaking down. When you change the oil, check the fluids, the air filter, tires, hoses and belts. At this time check the battery cables and terminals for corrosion. This can be removed with a wire brush or sandpaper.

5000-10,000 Miles:

Have your tires rotated and balanced every five to ten thousand miles. This helps the tires wear evenly and extends the life. The best tires should be put in the front of the car. Check the tire pressure regularly and check the tread for signs of uneven wear or damage.

15,000 Miles:

Change the air filter every 15,000 miles. A clean air filter improves the fuel economy of your car. A dirty air filter can cause the engine to run rough and stall. At this time you should also check the pads and shoes on your brake system. Check the brake fluid and top it of, as needed. The fluid should be clear. If you notice noise when the brakes are applied or the steering wheel shakes or vibrates, this can be an indication that the brakes need replacing. In this case, don’t wait check the brakes and replace as needed.

30,000 Miles:

Check the fluid level on your transmission. The owner’s manual will have information about the kind of fluid that should be used in your car. The manual should have directions on how to drain and replace the fluid. The pan gasket should be changed when the fluid is drained. Also at this time, give the car a tune up. Replace all spark plugs and wires.

50,000 Miles:

Change the coolant at 50,000 miles. See the owner’s manual for directions on how to perform this task.

Remember to take care of your car’s finish. You want the paint to remain in good condition for as long as possible. Wash the car regularly, even in the winter when salt from the roads can ruin the finish. Apply wax to protect the paint from the sun, salt and weather conditions. Don’t neglect the headlights, which can become cloudy and won’t operate as well. New Lite Headlight Cleaner and Restorer will return cloudy headlights to like new condition.

provideocoalition.com

Parti Scooters: All About ‘getting About’ In A Parti

2010-02-18T16:11:00.000-08:00

Do you find you are spending more time in the home because you are not able to walk very far, or you are not able to walk for long periods of time? Give yourself a bit more freedom in life, and look closer at the Parti scooter where you can give yourself a bit more leeway in getting out of the house.

Your Flexibility In Moving About With A Parti Scooter

glasgowstudent.net

The Parti scooter is a scooter you can take with you where you want to go. If you are going on vacation, you can fit the Parti in the trunk, in the van or you can check it on the airlines. The Parti scooter is a scooter known for dependability and for providing users with options when considering a shopping trip or a trip where walking is involved.

The Parti scooter can be taken apart and stored where you need to put it. There smaller pieces are going to weigh under 35 pounds each, so just about anyone could life them. If you don’t have a lot of help in getting around, but you can still walk a little you can assemble and disassemble the Parti scooter when you want to get out of the house and get out on the town. The Parti scooter is just less than 100 pounds, and is not considered heavy for any car. This scooter can be used both indoors and outdoors, where the flat surface will allow you to control where you want to go.

One thing that many Parti users find fun and exciting is the ability to change the colors of the chair. If you are going to use the chair, for the long term, you will find changing the color of your chair is a snap with the interchanging panels on the Parti chair.

What do you need to put the Parti together if you have disassembled it?

You don’t need any tools to put your scooter back together again. The Parti scooter is one you can assemble in just a few minutes, without any tools, and without stress, as it takes only a few minutes (under five) to put the Parti scooter back together if you are storing it in your back seat or in your trunck.

fold.it

Old Locomotives

2010-02-18T15:19:00.000-08:00

Locomotive number 60004 rolled out of Baldwin Locomotive Works (founded in 1831 by Matthias Baldwin) in May of 1927. She was the 13th 4-8-4 type locomotive built in America. The first twelve have all been scrapped, leaving only 3751 as the oldest 4-8-4 in existence.

Destined for the Santa Fe Railroad, she was a new design experience for both the builder and the operator. She was the first class of Santa Fe 4-8-4's (a 4-8-4 locomotive has four leading wheels arranged in a leading truck , eight coupled driving wheels and four trailing wheels in a trailing truck). Each costing $99,712.77 as delivered.

As originally built, 3751 was an innovation in design, with its 4-wheel trailing truck to support the 108 sq/ft firebox. The newly developed Type E super heater was applied. Included was a cast-steel engine bed and separate cast cylinders, with cross-counter balanced 73 inch drive wheels. The total engine weight was 432,240 lbs. The total engine-tender weight tipped the scales at 724,600 lbs. She had a starting tractive effort of 66,000 lbs, with a maximum drawbar horsepower of 3,200 at 40 mph.

Mechanical Engineer Lanning and his staff collaborated with Baldwin in the design of the 3765's, which were delivered between April and June 1938. For maximum speeds of 100 mph, 80-inch Baldwin disc-type driving wheels were specified. Cylinder dimensions were changed to 28 x 32 to eliminate the back pressure problems inherent in the 3751 design.

With the arrival of eleven new 3765 class 4-8-4's in 1938, Santa Fe decided to rebuild the 3751 class. The purpose was to upgrade the locomotive to equal the 3765 class if possible. This project began in October 1938 and culminated with the 3751 being completed in early 1941. Although due to larger drivers the original tractive effort of 66,000 lbs remained the same. The conversion did however allow for 90 miles per hour speeds and raised the horsepower to 3,600 at 50 mph. This major rebuilding was a success in producing a much more powerful and efficient locomotive. With the heavy wartime traffic commencing after December 7, 1941, Santa Fe attempted to obtain more motive power, both steam and diesel from the War Production Board, which had assumed control of locomotive production and allocation

In 1947 the I.C.C. ordered automatic train control to be used on locomotives exceeding 79 mph. 3751 received new equipment mounted on the right trailer truck frame which permitted her timetable a maximum speed of 90 mph.

By 1949 the "deflector" type stack was in place for use in the numerous tunnels over the Tehachapi grade.

On August 25, 1953, her fire was extinguished, but until then she had been on the point of many famous Santa Fe trains such as the Scout, the Navajo, the California Limited, the Chief, Fast Mail and Express, the Grand Canyon Limited, the El Tova, the San Diegan and standby for the Super Chief Diesel Streamliner in 1938. It is also interesting to note that while on standby for this train, 3751 had bettered the diesel locomotive's performance with quicker times between Los Angeles & Barstow!

June, July 1953 was the last big 4-8-4 show, indeed the last for all AT&SF steam. Sixty-four 4-8-4's made mileages of 350,343 in June and 343,627 in July.

jaman.com
youngmath.net

New Magnesium Wheels Race to U.S. Market

2010-02-18T14:47:00.000-08:00

Automotive enthusiasts can now upgrade their vehicles with high-performance, forged magnesium wheels adapted from Formula One racing designs.

Magnesium.com recently announced the introduction of one-piece, forged magnesium wheels for street use in North America. The wheels are 20 percent to 30 percent lighter than forged aluminum and offer increased safety and performance.

"The U.S. wheel market is quite formidable and we intend to supply a smaller but very important segment of the 100 million vehicle wheels used in North America," said Mark Lisnyansky, president of Magnesium.com.

The magnesium alloy wheels are initially available in 20-inch and 22-inch sizes, and are treated with a high-tech anti-corrosion coating. The company will also be developing wheels in various sizes and compositions for specific North American applications.

"Steel wheels are becoming nearly obsolete and the prevailing trend is toward cast aluminum wheels," Lisnyansky said. "While most people are not familiar with forged wheels, performance car enthusiasts know that forged wheels offer significant advantages. And forged magnesium wheels, which are lighter and much stronger than their aluminum counterparts, are the next logical step in optimizing vehicle performance."

Magnesium wheels offer consumers improved safety by shortening braking distances and delivering higher acceleration rates as well as improving gas mileage. The "dampening" factor of magnesium allows for vibrations caused by road imperfections to be absorbed six times more effectively.

Using specialized aviation industry equipment, the company has been producing Superbike and Formula One competition wheel forgings for many years. The wheels are forged in Russia by a subsidiary and then machined and finished in Italy.

gothamcenter.org

New Headlight Technologies Could Save More Lives

2010-02-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

Each year, approximately 5,000 pedestrians and bicyclists are killed along U.S. roads - 2,300 of them occurring at night - and another 70,000 pedestrians are injured in traffic crashes, according to a 2003 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report.

New automotive lighting technologies, including Xenon and Adaptive Front Lighting Systems, can help improve nighttime pedestrian safety, according to the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council.

According to researcher Michael Flannagan of the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, drivers "overdrive" the headlights on many of today's vehicles, meaning they are going too fast to stop safely within the distance made visible by the headlights.

"The critical safety need in low-beam lighting is seeing distance," Flannagan said. "The maximum safe speed with today's average low beams is only about 45 mph. Our studies indicate there is a major safety problem that headlights could address."

One possible solution is Xenon headlights, also known as High Intensity Discharge or HID. Based on a gas discharge process, Xenon uses an arc instead of a filament as a light source. The result is enhanced roadway vision by increasing the light output to the sides of the road.

A 2004 University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute test revealed that Xenon headlamps provided twice as much light for seeing critical objects on the road while producing 25 percent less glare. The wider beam coverage also provides better lighting on road shoulders, where pedestrians and bicyclists are commonly found.

Nearly 120 vehicle models equipped with Xenon headlights were sold in North America in the 2005 model year -; up 21 percent from 2004.

Another emerging headlight technology is AFS or Adaptive Front Lighting System. It provides optimal illumination in various driving conditions by automatically modifying the beam pattern of the headlights in response to various speed, weather conditions and road situations. The headlamps automatically move as the steering wheel is turned. This helps illuminate the road at an earlier stage, allowing the driver more time to adjust and steer or brake as needed.

washblog.com

New Flameless Flares Easier; Safer to Use

2010-02-18T13:50:00.000-08:00

While most roadside safety kits contain at least one traditional incendiary device, they may not be the most harmless way of attracting help.

With burn temperatures of 5,000 degrees and a laundry list of toxic chemicals, the name "safety flare" may be an oxymoron because they are neither safe nor environmentally friendly.

Moreover, road flares, if used improperly, can easily ignite gasoline and burn the clothes or skin of even the most experienced user.

The Keystone Group, based in Niwot, Colo., has introduced a more family-friendly solution: an alternative to the conventional flare called FlareAlert - a battery-operated flare that can be seen for miles around from both the air and ground.

Steve Jones, president of the Keystone Group, first marketed the FlareAlert to police and fire departments, which have bought tens of thousands of the devices. Now the company is offering the product to the general public.

Millions of drivers could benefit from having emergency flares. AAA, for instance, responds to more than 28 million calls for road service annually.

The FlareAlert contains 12 high-output light emitting diodes that give it a bright, non-toxic glow and, unlike its other battery-operated counterparts, has a built-in magnetic base that can be mounted on a vehicle in case of an accident or attached to a mailbox in case emergency personnel need to find a house quickly.

The device uses two AA batteries and has a battery life of approximately 20 hours in flash mode and six to 10 hours in steady-on mode before significant dimming will occur. The bulb life is about 10 years or 100,000 hours.

Worried about the flare getting crushed while on the road? Recent independent testing revealed that it can withstand more than 4,500 pounds of direct pressure. Considering the weight of a vehicle is distributed over four tires, the FlareAlert is able to withstand being run over by a 10,000-pound vehicle.

In addition, because FlareAlert is non-flammable, it will not scorch the pavement or leave behind any debris, making for a more environmentally friendly safety mechanism.

thepoint.com

New Car Prices

2010-02-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

What I want you to understand by the time you get done reading this is that new car prices are the pocketbook’s worst nightmare. There is nothing so damaging to a budget than trying to afford a new car on a salary that shouldn’t be burdened with that luxury.

The problem with new car prices is that they are a figment of the car dealer’s imagination. How much are people willing to pay in order to use and own this vehicle? The best way to show people how unreal these prices are is to show them what happens to the “value” of the new vehicle once it is driven off the lot. That’s right it plummets! Not because the car changed at all but just because it is no longer technically speaking in the language of the auto world a “new car.”

So how do you get the reliability of a new car (which really is another huge misconception) without having to hurt yourself financially. Well there are several ways that I want to suggest you get around the evils of new car prices without having to sacrifice your ride.

First don’t buy new cars! Obvious as this may seem people who can’t afford to throw money away do every couple of years by purchasing a new car. I am lumping in those that lease too as they are not getting anything but miles out of the car as far as ownership is concerned. The only people that have the “right” to a new car are those that can and gladly do take the hit of driving the car off the lot in order to drive a “new” car. Often people enjoy things like the warranties that come with a new car and the low interest rates that are being offered, etc. But the fact remains that you can do it another and much better way.

So buying used is the only alternative right? Right! And it is a good one at that. You see depending on your price range you can often pick up cars that were literally driven off the lot only months earlier but for the drastically lowered price. The sad thing is that the people that are selling them are no longer able to afford them one, because it is more car than they should have, and two, because they had to pay new car prices. Go on the internet and there are literally hundreds of new-used cars for sale that will give you every bit of the dependability and performance of a “new” car for greatly reduced prices.

Two more pearls of wisdom. First, used cars are often MORE dependable than there “new” car counterparts. They have “stood the test of time” and are still motoring fine. Number two it is always cheaper to maintain a car than to by a new one and therefore you shouldn’t sell a car just because you have to put in a new transmission. Think of repairs, even big ones like this, as typical maintenance and you will be a much happier car owner.

bakersfieldvoice.com

Negotiating tips to sell your car

2010-02-18T11:36:00.000-08:00

Are you considering selling your car soon? There are very few people in this world who can actually get the best price from their customers for any given product. Are you one of them or not? If yes, then it can only add up to your benefits if not well then take the following negotiating tips with you.

• List your Car on all online used car classifieds: There are thousands of people who are looking for a used car on popular car buying sites. If you sell your car in such popular sites you are sure to make a profit anywhere around $3000 more than trading it in. You can also expect a market value which is $2000 - $6000 more than the trade value.
• Fix up your car before you sell it: If there is any repair work to be done fix it. You can also attract your car’s customers by waxing your car, vacuum inside and gloss up the tires. The better your car looks the higher chance you stand for getting a good price.
• Workout the price you will be selling the car for: Be confident about your price range. Always negotiate up from the factory invoice price, not down from the sticker price, which is a higher price than the dealer expects to pay. It would be advisable that you fix the price high so as to include the minimal profit for the dealer.
• Be prepared before the first buyer shows up. Make printouts from several internet car pricing sites showing the market value of your cat. Avoid printing the trade in values, that’s what car dealers offer you.
• Be ready for any answer to the buyer’s issues. Incase he complaints about the scratches or mark stain to your car. Tell him its normal wear for any car of that age and mileage, that’s why you are not asking the price of a new car.
• Always remember your car is still worth the market value no matter what money the buyer has. That is why it is advisable that you mention in your ads that the price is firm.

vocaleyes.co.uk

Nascar Races: Hot Tips to Car Racing

2010-02-18T10:42:00.000-08:00

What to Look For While Betting on NASCAR

Auto racing such as Formula One and other races such as the Indy 2000 are big hits internationally. Millions of fans crowd stadiums to watch the different cars race by. The screech of burning tires as they spin by you is an experience that very few forget.

NASCAR is one of the largest racing organizations in the USA. With millions of fans around the country, and some of the most expensive race cars and teams put together you can see how NASCAR and betting go together like peas in a pod. But today we are going to talk about the teams crews.

The great thing about NASCAR is that it is an individual sport and a team sport at the same time. So when we start talking about sports betting, or race betting, the options that we have are spread out and full of potential, although we are going to focus on the teams part today.

Now on any given day a NASCAR driver can come back from last place and win a long and tough race. Certain things must happen for a gambler to win his bet just like certain things must happen for a circumstance like this to take place. This is where the team comes into play.

Sports betting and betting on NASCAR is and around the clock job; the teams mechanics are working on the cars days in a row to get ready for the start time, changing fuel capacities, and tuning up the engines due to weather conditions as well as fitting the correct tires to the surface. A teams crew can make all the difference on race day whether that driver will win or lose. If the car is not running at full capacity due to some over looked object that needed tweaking, the driver may lose serious horsepower from his engine and lose valuable seconds here and there on the track.

Now again in NASCAR there is so much telemetry and science that go into these cars; that the teams will drive a car all the way to the finish line burning off fumes to maybe win the race, or have the race blown because the car ran out of fuel after the last turn. The amount of gas they carry in the car determines weight, how fast the car will move under certain conditions and for how long the car will travel without needing to refuel.

This is what can make betting on NASCAR races so interesting is the amount of variables and how they change minutely due to a change in air temperature or how the sun is beating down upon the asphalt or what wind speeds from which direction.

I hope that this article helps you understand better the ins and outs of car racing in general and NASCAR races in particular. If you are not a fan, try and visit one of the tracks while a race is in progress. It will astound you. If you wish to learn more about auto racing or about the NASCAR race circuit visit http://www.gambling-portal.com/auto-racing.html and have a ball.

communitywalk.com

Must Have Top Notch Fog Lights

2010-02-18T10:18:00.000-08:00

When the weather starts to get bad, there’s rain, snow, sleet or a lot of fog and drivers all too well know the dangers that can come. So it’s a good idea to have good quality fog lights in your vehicle to prevent any accidents.

When it starts to get foggy the level of danger increases, since the headlights are pretty much useless at this point. There is no use for them because the light just gets reflected off the fog and creates a phenomenon called dispersion. This just creates more visibility problems for you.

Therefore fog lights are a necessity when driving through a foggy area. Fog lights are different from headlights because they are yellow instead of the white headlights. A cautious driver would want to have fog lights, fog lights are easy to buy and aren’t very expensive.

Purchasing fog lights are very good investment. They will ensure your safety down the road, because you never know what will happen. It’s better to be safe then sorry. This little task can even save you money, if you got into a car wreck because you had no fog light. Think of the expenses. Sure your insurance will cover the expenses of your car, but don’t forget your premium will increase. In the end you would have to pay more money. So it would just be easier on everyone if you just go to your local store and pick up a fog light, there are many choices to choose from, if you need help just ask the salesperson they’ll be happy to assist you.

Buying fog lights is a great investment; you never know when you’re going to come across a foggy area. That small gesture can help you quite a bit, by getting the lights you won’t have to worry so much the next type you are in a foggy area.

longbets.org

Muscle Car Restoration 101

2010-02-18T09:06:00.000-08:00

Restoring muscle cars is a hobby for some and a profession for others. There’s just something about the classic high-performance cars that collectors, racers and general car enthusiasts find fascinating. If you are a hobbyist who is interested in restoring a muscle car, you will probably benefit from a few restoration tips. The restoration of muscle cars begins with shopping for a muscle car that can be restored. Prior to buying a car for the purpose of restoring it you need to make sure that the parts needed for the restoration are available and you can get your hands on them, and that you can afford to complete the project once you start it.

Before going shopping for a muscle car to restore, decide what your purpose is for restoring a car. Do you just want a great muscle car to drive? Will you be racing? Are you restoring the car so you can participate and compete in classic car shows? Do you intend to sell the totally restored muscle car for a profit?

Once you’ve determined the purpose behind your muscle car restoration you’ll have a better idea about what type of muscle car you want to get. Before you go shopping, read up on different muscle cars and learn all about their performance, their value and so forth to make sure that the car you choose is appropriate for you intentions. To make sure that you don’t get ripped off in a muscle car transaction, find out what the muscle cars you are looking for are worth “as is” and what they are worth once they are restored. Having this information at your fingertips will help you to determine whether or not you are really getting a “great deal” when you begin to negotiate to buy a muscle car.

Before you buy one, make sure that the parts needed to restore your muscle car are available and affordable. Set your budget and your timeline for restoring the car so you know how much you can afford to spend for the muscle car itself and for the parts and other expenses that will be incurred in the process of the restoration. Following these simple suggestions at the beginning of your muscle car restoration project will prevent you from starting a project you can’t finish and will ensure that your muscle car restoration project is enjoyable and that you meet your goals for muscle car restoration, whatever those goals may be.

mybookface.net

Moving Truck Rentals

2010-02-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

Moving to a new house or office is a challenging task, especially if you are moving to another state. Moving truck rentals, if you get a good bargain, can make the whole process easier and help you cut down on the cost of moving.

The cost of moving truck rentals depends on a number of factors, including is the size of the truck and the distance this truck will have to cover. Some well-established companies providing moving trucks may charge a little bit higher rent. The new players in the market might offer you a lower rate. But you must consider two important factors: safety and reliability.

The bookings for a moving truck can be made online also. Online resources provide detailed information about moving truck rentals by different companies. For different locations and destinations, different rates are available. The rental costs could also depend on whether you have hired a moving truck to shift household items or are looking for a quick business delivery.

Before one finally makes a decision about the company whose truck one is going to hire, it is better to compare quotes. During peak season, the costs spike upwards. They come down during certain months of the year. This movement in moving truck rentals depends on geographical locations and climate.

The moving truck rentals should also be compared with moving trailer rentals if you require a number of trucks. As the carrying capacity of an average trailer is greater than that of an average truck, a truck rental could prove to be much costlier to you. Moving truck rentals are quite high if you want to deliver a package across international borders.

fishlinkcentral.com

Motor Homes And Recreational Vehicles

2010-02-18T08:04:00.000-08:00

The first Motorhome was built in 1915 by a wealthy New York couple although from the early 1900’s many automobiles were modified to include sleeping gear and cooking utilities. Nonetheless, the real passion for motor homes began in the 60’s, courtesy of a major television star – Charles Kuralt. Nowadays, motor homes have been actually replaced by the RVs (recreational vehicle), which come in all sizes and shapes. The new RVs include designer kitchens, internet connection and satellite TVs. Overall, the motor homes, or the RVs, since their early invention, symbolized freedom. They can be bought from your local dealer, but as well as from the internet. There are hundreds of sites specialized on buying and selling only RVs.

www.lazydays.com
This is the best site I could find on motor homes and RVs. It has a nice design, and information can be found really easy. For instance, it has three types of searching: Keyword, by brand and the advanced search, which lets you choose what type of RV you want, how long it should be and what price range you want. In addition, you can find slides with the motor home you want, you can order a motor home, and even read stories from RVs owners. They present and sell both new and pre-owned motor homes. Therefore, if you want to buy a motor home, or if you just want to find information on one, this is a really useful site.

www.theautochannel.com
This is another site intended for the RV buyers. Its main objective is to keep a potential buyer informed on the pros and cons of a motor home, and to help the owner of an RV with any problems they may face. Here you can find many links to other specialized sites, a utility to compare prices between different types of motor homes, reviews and you can buy or locate spares for your RV.

www.motorportal.com
Here you can find details on both motor homes as well as other vehicles. But I chose to present this site because it looks very slick and it is also very easy to navigate through. With its vehicles sorted by type and with a exclusive forum for RVs, this is a great site for motor homes reviews. You can find spare parts for your motor home, sell or buy it. Also, if you want to go road tripping, but can’t sleep in your own RV, you can find a list of hotels and motels, which will host you over night.

Having said all this, you should know there are hundreds of specialized sites on motor homes and RVs. You can do almost anything from buying to having someone to repair your RV, wherever in the States you may be. If you have a motor home, good tripping, if you decide to buy one, good luck and if you don’t have and you don’t want one, too bad for you, because you don’t know what you’re missing!

myheritage.com

Mopeds

2010-02-17T17:05:00.001-08:00

Mopeds are good to have in the city because you can easily get around without paying the gas prices that you would with a car. They are also nicer than a motorcycle because they are safer since you have more stability with a moped than a motorcycle. Mopeds have started to get away from that geek look and have become a popular form of transportation.

You don’t have to live in the city to understand the uniqueness of a moped. They are also great to have on a college campus because you can go into areas that you can’t go by motorbike or car. Mopeds are interesting because they have a unique shape. It doesn’t look like a bike, like a motorcycle does, but it has it’s own defined shape. They are great to have also for prices.

They cost less than most bikes and pretty much all cars. In fact, they cost mostly up to a couple grand. However, to drive a moped many states in the U.S. require a driver’s license. To find out if you need a license to drive a moped you can contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles and they should be able to inform you of any requirements you may have.

The moped was originally the reason why we have the motorcycle. A motorcycle is only a faster version of the moped. The moped was extremely popular after WW I. Then after WW II it becomes more popular because Europe needed to have simple, affordable transportation.

In fact, even though America is more popular for motorcycles, Europe is popular for their Mopeds. The roads in Europe can be very narrow and there are crowds of people most of the time, so they use a moped to easily get through the crowds and go through the narrow streets.

Although, Europe does have cars, many of the small towns that are traditional have the narrow brick roads. Their roads are not good enough for two cars and sometimes they can be very windy so that the need for something that is easy to control comes in place. A moped is partially powered by machine and by the rider. The rider has more stability with the controls and the moped usually has a small gas tank.

A moped was designed to easily go from one end of town to the other and is not made for long distance. People who purchase a moped only want to go a few miles. Since the gas tank is very small, you will need to fill your tank up every so many miles. You might get fifteen miles per tank. Mopeds are great for use in the cities and are quite popular in Europe.

amcharts.com

Make A Great Car History

2010-02-17T15:28:00.000-08:00

I have many friends that brag about their amazing car history to anyone who will listen. They rant and rave about all of the great memories they have made with their car and they cannot stop talking about all of the great road trips their trusty car has taken them on. I'll be honest, I got a little jealous after hearing a few of their stories, so I decided to share a little car history of my own.

I love my car, I really do. I love it more than most everything I own and use. A few family photographs and notes from cherished friends are about all that top the love I have for my car. So I guess you could say my car history began the day I bought my beauty. September 5, 1999. Oh, I'll never forget that day. I'll never forget the way I felt as I test drove the car that would one day be the main character in my personal car history story. I drove her, I liked her, so I brought her home. (With a little help from mom and dad of course).

She wasn't in the driveway for more than one hour when I realized that I couldn't begin a true car history with a car that didn't have a name! So I named her. Princess Bug. I know, it sounds silly now, but at the time it felt perfect. The perfect name for the perfect car to enjoy year after year of perfect car history with. Right? Wrong. It is a good thing that I loved my Princess Bug from the start because it wasn't three months after purchasing her that she was in the shop for the first time. Nothing too major was wrong with her, but she still costed me more than I had planned on.

Other than a few annoying trips to the shop for repairs, the car history that Princess Bug has given me is filled with wonderful and cherished memories. I remember when me and three friends piled into Princess Bug and were determined to drive from our hometown in Indiana all the way to Hollywood and back in just a week. Some people say that ignorance is bliss, but since that roadtrip I've always said that ignorance is foolish. We never made it even close to Hollywood but our travels through Missouri and Illinois were pleasant enough to ease the sting of not seeing good ole Cali.

Princess Bug has given me a car history filled with many things to remember I guess. But if you're anything like I was before I started making a history with my car, you're really not that interested in what I have to say. You've been intrigued and now you can't wait to begin a car history with a special vehicle all your own. Just don't forget to name her!

threadless.com

Maintaining Your Car Will Make It Last Longer

2010-02-17T14:38:00.000-08:00

Regular maintenance of your vehicle will extend its life perhaps well beyond what you or others may think is its normal lifespan. Today’s cars can easily top the 100,000 mile mark with many cars on the road exceeding 150,000, 200,000, even 250,000 miles. Ask owners of high mileage cars how they got to that point and most will point to their own rigorous and disciplined maintenance schedules as being the chief factor. By carefully and diligently following a maintenance schedule, you can extend your vehicle’s life too. Let’s take a look at several important maintenance steps you must take in order to avoid costly repairs and to help you hold onto your vehicle longer.

Regular oil changes – The 30 minute oil change specialists recommend that you change your oil every 3,000 miles or three months, while some manufacturers state you only need to change your oil once every 7,500 miles or six months. Opt for more frequent changes than lengthy manufacturer recommended intervals, but change your oil [and oil filter] every 3,000 miles if your car is subject to hard driving.

Change your air filter – Your engine will run better and cleaner if you change your air filter at least once per year; more so if you do a lot of “stop and go” driving or put on many more miles per year than average.

Rotate your tires – Evenly wearing tires will help ensure that your car stops properly and stays on the road. Have your brakes and shocks inspected too to avoid potential handling and control issues.

Transmission fluid – Your transmission isn’t guaranteed to run forever. Change your fluid at manufacturer recommended intervals, generally once every 30 or 60 thousand miles. Neglect it and face costly repairs and potentially fatal [to the car] consequences.

Drain the radiator – Periodically draining the radiator and replacing the antifreeze will help flush out rust and dirt particles that can clog up your cooling system. When the coolant’s rust inhibitors get used up then corrosion will show up within the radiator as well as in the engine block

Change the spark plugs – Some manufacturers have installed long life spark plugs meaning that changing spark plugs once every 60 or even 90 thousand miles or more is a possibility. Keep in mind that the longer your spark plugs sit in place, the more difficult it may be to remove them later. Optimally, replacing your spark plugs once every 30 thousand miles is ideal.

Examine your exhaust system – Your muffler, catalytic converter, and remaining exhaust system parts can wear out. A poorly functioning exhaust system saps your engine of needed power.

Wash and wax – Yes, your car may mechanically run well, but if the body falls apart, then what do you have left? Regular washings and a once a year wax job should do the trick.

Other stuff – Replace your battery, fuel filter, PCV valve, belts, and hoses as needed and every other part that wears out. Sensors come and sensors go; usually you will only have to replace your knock or oxygen sensors if and when a problem arises.

Ultimately, refer to your manufacturer’s repair book for guidelines as to when to perform maintenance. The key to extending your vehicle’s life is in doing the maintenance when needed to head off costly repair bills. Otherwise you will be neglecting your car to the point where it “dies” prematurely.

You can extend the life of your vehicle. If you aren’t up to the task, hire a qualified mechanic to service your vehicle regularly.

macheist.com

Magnesium Wheels Race to U.S. Market

2010-02-17T13:05:00.000-08:00

Little-Known Way To Save Money On Your Car Oil!

2010-02-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

Imagine if you could save anywhere from $10 to $20 dollars on your usually very expensive oil change doing something very simple. Interested?

Here’s how: Every 3000 miles completely drain out and replace the oil in your vehicle… by yourself! Just by doing this, you can save anywhere from $10-$20 dollars on your oil change. Below are the steps you can take to drain your car oil:

Note that when changing the oil on your car you need to prepare with some supplies. You will need the following: Jack, the correct size wrench or ratchet, oil filter, oil, short bucket, rag, funnel, and a big piece of cardboard.

Start by warming up your vehicle. Drive around the block once or twice, which will heat up your engine a little bit. A vital part to changing oil. The oil must first be warmed up otherwise you will have trouble getting it out. Then, jack up your vehicle, being sure to follow all safety precautions. Make sure to find a strong point on the bottom of your vehicle before jacking it up. An axle is the best place. After making sure everything is secure you are ready to get down and start the dirty work.

The first thing to do is to drain out all the old oil. Look under your vehicle and locate the oil drain, which is usually one of the only 'plugs' in view. Generally this plug will be located right around the middle of the engine.

Then, place your big piece of card board under the vehicle, which will keep you off the ground and also serve to catch any oil that drips. Grab your short bucket or container and place it under the vehicle, just below the oil plug. Once the bucket is in place take your wrench or ratchet and unscrew the oil plug slowly, letting the oil drain.

Give the oil time to drain into the bucket, waiting till it comes out in slow drops. Then, carefully unscrew the oil filter. As you remove the filter, a short stream of oil may come out. Be sure to catch this in the bucket while not burning yourself. After you have drained all the oil out of your engine you will need to replace the plug and add the new oil filter. Once you've finished that, be sure to clean up any messes that were made with your cleaning rag.

When you’re done cleaning up, you can start putting in new oil! Find out how many liters of oil your vehicle takes and pour it in with the funnel through the spout labeled for oil on top of your engine, beneath the hood of your vehicle. Use the dipstick to check and make sure the oil level is high enough. Once the tank is full put all caps back on and close the hood.

Be sure to properly dispose of all the old oil and the oil filter. And guess what? You’ve just saved $10-$20 by changing your car oil yourself… and it doesn’t seem too hard, right?

kuenselonline.com

Little Things You Can Do To Save Money On Car Fuel

2010-02-17T11:47:00.000-08:00

Nowadays, car fuel prices are on the rise and consumers are suffering. Gone are the days when you can carelessly drive your car without worrying about burning up too much gas.

There are important procedures that you, as a car owner, can take in order to improve gas mileage. The following are practical tips to conserve gas:

Close Windows - Windows that are open can create air drag that can decrease the fuel consumption by 10%.

Avoid Bumpy Roads - Rough roads should not be taken as much as possible. Dirt, bumps, rough roads and gravels can cause 30% increase in fuel consumption.

Keep Your Car Light - Take out unnecessary baggage. The trunk should be kept clean, any gadget, tools or loads that are not needed should be taken out. 100 pounds of extra baggage can affect fuel economy by two percent.

Drive Efficiently - Just drive reasonably within the speed limit. Remember that speeds of more than 60 miles per hour increase fuel consumption. Do not do sudden starts, accelerations and stops. Acceleration should be done gradually. The gas pedal should not be stepped on more than one fourth of the way down. This will allow the engine to function most efficiently. Gas conservation could reach up to 5 percent if sudden stops, jerks and accelerations are avoided. Make use of gears for overdrive and cruise control as needed.

Check Your Car Regularly - The car should always be maintained. The engine should be given a regular tune up, the tires should always have the right air pressure and efficiently aligned, the oil should be changed when needed and air filters replaced regularly. Clogged filters can affect gas consumption adversely by up to ten percent.

Don’t Burn Gas Unnecessarily - Turn off the engine whenever there is an opportunity. Idle engine wastes fuel. There are instances where the engine could be turned off; stopping for gas, waiting for someone, changing tire pressure, caught in traffic and a lot more.

Don’t Warm Up Too Long - Lengthy warming up of the engine should be avoided. 30 to 45 seconds should be enough time. Also check if the automatic check is removed after warming up the engine. This is usually stuck which could usually cause poor gas and air combination.

By following these simple tips, you will be surprised at how much money you can save on your car fuel. And guess what? The money really adds up if you continue to follow these simple practices for conserving car fuel!

flaminglips.com

LED Emergency Flashlights: The Right Equipment For A Car Emergency

2010-02-17T11:20:00.000-08:00

The news reported this past year on several families and adventurers setting out for a camping or hiking trip in the northwest only to find themselves lost in the strange wilderness, confined to their cars waiting and hoping that someone will find them. The loss of CNET’s James Kim brought awareness to the ease at which people can get lost while driving through the forest as well as the need to be prepared for any situation when driving in unfamiliar areas.

It is important to have a few basic emergency supplies in your car as part of an emergency kit. Cell phones are by far the most helpful piece of equipment to have with you when you travel, even if going to remote areas. But cell phone batteries are unreliable and many still don’t take one with them when heading into the great outdoors. Having other supplies with you in the car can make all the difference in staying alive and staying safe.

There are many commercial and basic emergency kits available. Most of these preset packs include jumper cables, reflectors and some miscellaneous tools. Higher end models may also include some type of emergency air pump that you can plug into your car’s power outlet and pump air into a flat tire. Some also come with first aid kits.

Weather and climate in your area or the area you are traveling may help guide you with putting together other items you may need in your emergency kit. A shovel can come in very handy to get your car out of snow or mud. Some traction substance is also important for such situations. Kitty litter is one of the most popular types of traction. You may also be able to carry some remnant carpet strips or sand.

One very important component of a car or truck’s emergency kit is a light source. While a decent flashlight might be included in the kit you bought, you might want to look at investing in a longer-lasting, more reliable light. LED flashlights are known for being the best light source for emergency situations. LED lights come in various sizes and features, including emergency beacons and flashing lights. If you have room a LED headlamp may be a good addition for hands-free light should you need to change a tire or signal for help.

Preserving battery power in your car is pretty important. Some people may want to add a spare radio to their kit. There are radios on the market that do not take batteries. Instead you crank a handle on the side to charge it. A good quality blanket is going to be very important in extremely cold weather because it is unwise to keep the car running while you wait for help. Also include a small supply of food and water.

No one expects to be caught in an emergency situation while traveling. Being prepared none the less is important to you and your family’s safety. Before going on your next family camping trip, hiking adventure or trip to see the relatives, put together an emergency kit with the items described above. Consider your specific travel situation and potential needs and add accordingly. This important item could make all the difference.

picturetrail.com

Learning To Back Up A Vehicle Safely

2010-02-17T10:30:00.000-08:00

Backing up your vehicle can be quite simple, once you get the technique down pat, like anything else. It should be a lot easier than going forward. There is a huge difference in speed, than maneuvering the vehicle forward. Keep in mind. The faster your speed is, the faster you have to process information. That said. Driving backwards should be a lot easier than going forward, because you should be going a lot slower. Now if you’re speeding going backwards, the opposite is true. Right?

When backing up a vehicle, always look in the direction that you are backing. When your maneuvering the vehicle to the left, look left. When you’re maneuvering the vehicle to the right, look right. When you’re driving straight back always look over you’re right shoulder. Always glance over the opposite shoulder first, before you proceed to back up. So if you’re backing and looking right, you should be glancing left first, before you start to roll backwards. Backing to the left, glance over right shoulder first. Always recheck you’re blind spot again, if you take more time, before you roll back.

There are a few things that you have to do first, depending on the size of the vehicle. You may have to honk your horn to worn pedestrians and other vehicles. One important thing you must do is looking around before you back up. The other important thing you must do is look where your backing at all times. The only reason to glance forward is to make sure your front end clears the vehicle, hazard, or pedestrian beside your car if you intend on turning the vehicle. Did you notice I used the word glance?

It’s pretty easy. Driving forward, you look forward, driving backwards; you look backwards until your vehicle comes to a complete stop. Everything else is just a glance. When you must back up, only go back far enough necessary to drive forward, especially if you’re view is limited. Putting it in simpler terms. If you’re vehicle has enough clearance to move forward. Stop and proceed forward. Do not guess. Move back more if your not sure. When you’re not sure which way your vehicle wheels are turned. With your foot on the brake pedal and the gearshift in drive or reverse, depending on direction, release up on the brake pedal slowly and look and see which direction your vehicle is heading, and correct accordingly.

Let’s take a quick lesson on backing up. May I suggest you find a vacant parking lot like a mall or a school when it is closed? Make sure you get out of the car and look around for kids playing first. (Do not attempt this maneuver without an experienced driver sitting next to you or kids playing in the area.)

With your foot covering the brake, slowly release the brake until the vehicle starts rolling. Keep your foot above the brake only to move it to the accelerator to get the vehicle in motion moving your foot back over the brake to keep the car from getting out of control. It’s called covering the brake. Looking in the direction you want to go, place your hand at the twelve o’clock position, practice turning the vehicle from side to side bringing it back to straight position and holding it straight for awhile. Stop after approximately the length of a football field and do the same thing going forward. The reason I would like you to do the same exercise going forward is that soon you will realize turning the wheel going forward is the same as turning the wheel going backwards. Once you turn the wheel right or left. Bringing the vehicle back to straight position will require you to straighten the wheel once the vehicle is straight again.

Repeat the maneuver going backwards until you arrive at the approximate point that you started. Also practice turning the vehicle on a bigger degree of a turn when you get a little more confident. Be certain that you are covering the brake pedal at all times. Slowly backing up to your ability only. Also practice backing up between the lines of parking stalls. Do this a few times or a couple of times a week and you will master the art of backing up safely.

Your knowledge on backing up is equally as important as driving forward. Just remember that doing it safely is the most important part of backing up. In other words, looking around before rolling back and looking where you’re backing. Do not roll back looking forward. Do you look back when you are driving forward? .

Lets talk about the blind spot. Position your hands at 10 and 2 on the steering wheel and look straight ahead. You should be able to see out your back window and your side mirrors. Those mirrors are good for viewing traffic coming up behind you. Your blind spot is situated over your shoulders on the backside of your passengers back windows. By glancing in that direction, you will be able to see a vehicle coming along side of you, that you cannot see with your mirrors. Including traffic or pedestrians approaching from the opposite side of the roadway, or parking lots and intersections.

When you want a better understanding of the blind spot. Have a friend or family member stand directly along side the back corner of you’re vehicle, and have them side-step away from your vehicle, and looking in you’re side and rear view mirror until they are not visible, then glance over you’re shoulder. That would be you’re blind spot.

Driving safely is almost impossible without the understanding of your blind spot. All it takes is a quick glance, and if you think you saw something, glance again, before you turn the vehicle wheel, and or move in that direction.

Do not turn the wheel at the same time your checking. It defeats the purpose of checking to see if it’s safe. I like to use the word glance, especially if you’re moving the vehicle. When you’re not moving forward or backwards, take a good look around before you roll. It is important to look in the direction you’re going.

For further information on driving techniques, please find a recognized driving school nearest you.

fontshop.com

Learn About Towing Services And Roadside Assistance

2010-02-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

When you purchase a new car you may get a roadside assistance package included but if you have a used car you typically won’t have roadside assistance and the benefits it provides, such as towing services. Not to worry, there are many companies offering memberships that will give you peace of mind.

Parts do wear out over time. That’s why one of the biggest concerns a driver has is the fear of a breakdown that will require towing. As we all know these events always occur at the most inopportune time or when we don’t have the extra cash to cover a towing bill. By becoming a member of one of the many auto clubs that offer services, you’ll have peace of mind that when disaster strikes you’ll be covered.

AAA, or American Automobile Association, has divisions throughout all of North America. For a nominal yearly fee you’ll be provided with all kinds of services for you and your vehicle. You’ll have full roadside assistance. Whether you run out of gas, lock your keys in the car, get a flat tire, or break down, you’ll be covered. Planning a trip? If you need maps AAA will provide them. And if you’re thinking about taking a vacation to a sunny tropical destination, AAA has full travel services and can offer you some great prices.

Good Sam is another auto and RV club that offers excellent services to its members. It’s a camping club, motor home club, and RV club all combined into one. For under $80 a year you get a full year of roadside assistance for your RV, and all the cars, vans, and trucks in your household. You get a full year of emergency towing services, lockout services, and trip interruption services as well as emergency medical referral services.

Drivershield costs under $70 a year and offers a 24 hour toll free hotline for emergency towing, roadside assistance, and locksmith. It also offers a lifetime collision repair warranty that’s good from coast to coast as well as 50% off at thousands of motels, hotels, and dining locations across the country.

If you ride motorcycle and want the same type of protection for your bike as you have for your car, Bros Club Cycle Services is worth exploring. For less than $100 you will get a two year membership which will give you 24 hour a day 365 day a year emergency roadside protection, which includes a network of more than 40,000 flat bed service providers across the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada. You’ll get towing services, flat tire assistance, dead battery assistance, and you can even purchase your motorcycle insurance at a discount. You also get some great discounts at motels, hotels, dining locations, and parts providers.

It’s a given. At some point in your travels you are going to require towing services. So why not consider a membership in one of the many national auto club programs that will give you peace of mind?

viddler.com

Know your Auto quotes

2010-02-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

Auto Quotes is a full featured PC based electronic catalog for food service equipment and supplies complete with brilliant, full color images and detailed spec sheets. Auto quotes automates the quoting and purchasing process and replaces the need for printed catalogs and price lists.

One of the best places to look for automobile quotes is at automobile exhibitions and trade shows. These events are organized by organizations like the National Automobile Association and by dealers and manufacturers from all over the country. At these events, you see all manufacturers and dealers at one location, and you can get as many quotes and discuss as many deals as you like. You can compare offers and sort out those that look attractive.

Benefits of auto quotes for you

• Automates the quoting and the purchasing process
• Eliminates the need for printed price lists and catalogs
• Helps to reduce any errors drastically
• Helps you not to lose money with outdated pricing again.
• If you are existing Auto quote user you can run it side by side with your current auto quotes. This process will not harm your existing data and ensure its safety.
• Auto quotes online gives you access for your work from any PC, anywhere

How to apply for an auto quote?

• You can approach a car dealer for auto quotes and make a deal
• Another way to get quotes for your car is to go online and check out for hundreds of dealers who offer virtual tours of their showroom.

PC Requirements to run Auto Quotes

• windows 2000 or windows XP, Service Pack 2
• 1GHZ processor
• 512 MB of RAM (amount of RAM may vary depending on what other programs you run on your PC).
• 6 GIG hard drive space
• Microsoft Net framework 2.0 or later

msexchangeteam.com

Knock Sensor Failure: Now What?

2010-02-17T08:07:00.000-08:00

Bella Miller skillfully navigated her BMW 735i onto the expressway, dodging a semi that was quickly barreling down on her. Darting over to the left lane she eased up on the accelerator just enough to give herself a little bit of extra room between her car and the Blazer she was now following. Traffic was fairly heavy at this hour of the afternoon, but one kilometer down the road Bella would be able to take the left fork and follow the outer beltway for seven kilometers. Within moments she would be out of rush hour traffic and on her way home.

With the fork fast approaching, Bella turned on her left turn signal and eased her car off of the expressway and onto the ramp leading to the outer beltway. Seeing that traffic was now light, she pressed on the accelerator and immediately felt a bit of hesitation followed by two loud knocks. Perplexed, Bella eased up on the accelerator and moved over to the right hand lane, reduced her speed, before pressing down on the accelerator again. This time, her BMW responded but she could still feel some sense of hesitancy, so she decided to lower her speed the rest of the way home.

Upon entering her driveway, Bella stopped her car and turned off the ignition. Immediately, the engine began to shudder, knock, ping, and shudder again, before making a noise that sounded almost like a sigh, followed by silence. Promptly, Bella grabbed her purse and cell phone and exited the car and ran into her house thinking that it might explode.

What Bella was experiencing was an engine that was in distress. Her BMW’s knock sensor, designed to permit her V8 to run efficiently on lower grade 87 octane gasoline, had failed. This, in turn, was causing her engine to vibrate as the lower grade fuel was not enough power for her car.

Before 1990, many cars did not come equipped with knock sensors. Thus, in order to prevent vibrating, high octane gas would always be a necessity in order for a car to run knock free. Eventually, knock sensors were created that allowed cars -- including Bella’s 735i -- to run on cheaper, low grade gasoline. In addition, the knock sensor had the all important benefit of stopping engine shudder which can ultimately damage a vehicle.

If you are experiencing engine vibration of any type, it could be that your knock sensor has failed. Don’t delay; have your car checked immediately to prevent possible damage. A knock sensor is a fairly cheap to replace part compared to an engine repair which can cost you thousands of dollars.

mmo-champion.com

Key-Pointers When Buying A Second Hand Car

2010-02-17T07:34:00.000-08:00

Buying a car from an individual or from a local car dealer is one tedious task if the objective is to purchase a second car that is still in good running condition. A buyer would never trade his hard-earned money with just a complete wasted used car. Whether new or used, when buying a car, it should be treated with the same importance and value.

There are things to take into consideration before buying the car and these are:

1. Educate yourself as a consumer
2. Prepare a list of your needs. Prioritize between the necessities and the wants.
3. Determine the budget and the kind of car that would best fit.
4. Make a selection by models and types. Narrowing them will be helpful.
5. Research both online and offline by dealers.
6. Know the value of the second hand car in the market.
7. Research the Vehicle Identification Numbers and history.
8. Take a mechanic when checking the car whether buying from a friend or a dealer.
9. Never shy away from asking questions.
10. If there's a gut feeling about it not being good, don't be afraid to walk away.

Bringing a mechanic along is always a good strategy. Make sure your mechanic inspects the totality of the car, from the history down to its last screw. It should be parked on a level spot. You should make certain that it was driven for about an hour. This should make it a good time to make the inspection. Always make it on a well lit surrounding and in broad daylight.

How to inspect it thoroughly:

Checking the exterior. Walk around to see if there is damage to the body. The corners of the car should be shaken and bounced up and down to see if the shock absorbers are still in good condition. Make sure that the wheel bearings do not make any sound when trying to pull the front tires by tugging them. Open the doors lift the hood and the trunk to see if all the rubber seals are still in place. This will also tell if there's anything loose around the hinges. Check for signs of repaint. There will be difference in the color because shops can never duplicate the original paint of the car. Ask someone to turn on all the lights outside of the car and look if all are working. Cars with only 30,000 miles of travel must still have its original tires. Beware if you find a car with only a few miles of travel but has new tires. When the test drive is done, check the discs of the brakes, this should still be clean and smooth. Check the windshield for cracks.

Checking the Interior. Though it sounds odd, smell the insides of the car. Sniff under mats and the carpet. If it smells like mildew then it's a sign that there is a leak somewhere or that the car may have undergone flood damage. Switch on the air-conditioning to make sure that it really turns the whole inside of the car cold. Next, try the heater. Try out all lights inside as well and never forget to blow the horn. Also try all the seat adjustments. The upholstery should still be in good shape too. There will be a lot more to check and here is where the mechanic can help the buyer.

Looking inside the trunk. Once more, smell the insides and check for any signs of leaks. Make sure that some basic car tools are still present for the new user.

Checking under the hood. Feel the wiring for any cracks or brittleness. Squeeze the hoses and the fan belt for any cuts and possible electrical tape patches. Do not take off the cap of the radiator until its cool enough. The greenish color indicates a good condition where the coolant is. Beware of stains and dirty-whitish color on the radiator. Again, let the rest be checked by the mechanic like the batteries.

Checking under the car. Lie down if you must and use an emergency light to see the engine underneath. Feel any signs of residue. Check the pipes and examine any possibility of heavy rusting.

Do the Test Drive. The owner or dealer should not stop a buyer from going over about twenty minutes of test drive. This is a special time to thoroughly look for any problems with the air-conditioning, heater, steering wheel, brakes, transmission, and most importantly, the comfort. Feel everything; it’s okay to try it on a hump or a slight bumpy road to really experience the performance. Listen carefully to check any rattles. Have a pen and paper, flashlight, gloves, magnet, towel, blanket and even CD or tape when checking a car out.

lightingafrica.org

Keeping Teens On The Road To Safety

2010-02-17T06:52:00.000-08:00

According to the latest information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), teens have the highest crash risk of any drivers, at nearly four times that of drivers over 20. In fact, the IIHS says 39 percent of all deaths of 16- to 19-year- olds are caused by car accidents, making it the leading public health problem for teenagers.

It's the parents' responsibility to teach kids how to be safe in the driver's seat. My son became a race car driver while he was still in his teens, so I really understand the fear of putting your child behind the wheel.

"It is more important than ever to think 'Safety First' before teens get behind the wheel and onto the open road," said Brad Eggleston, vice president of AutoVantage, a leading car care and travel assistance group.

Here are a few tips for parents:

1. Give the driver's seat to your teen. Recent reports suggest teens need between 25 and 50 hours of supervised driving before getting a license. Stay calm. If you panic, so will your child. Cover parking, multiple lanes, various road types, weather conditions and different days and times. Draw attention to safety hazards and day-to-day conflicts. Simple, straightforward instructions are best.

2. Limit the number of friends allowed in the car when your child drives.

3. Wear your seat belt. Some 63 percent of fatally injured teens are unrestrained. Lead by example.

4. Continue to periodically ride with your licensed teen. The sudden freedom he or she gains with a license can result in risky behavior, such as speeding. Teens are new to the road and can be overconfident.

5. No cell phone. The IIHS says drivers with cell phones are four times more likely to be involved in crashes that result in injuries.

6. Drinking and driving don't mix. Make yourself available should things get out of hand. Blood alcohol concentrations as low as 0.02 percent can hinder a driver's ability to track moving targets.

Membership in AutoVantage (http://www.autovantage.com/) begins with a two-month trial that costs $1 and can be canceled anytime during the trial period. Unless you call toll free (1-800-876-7787) to cancel during the trial period, your privileges will automatically continue at a low monthly membership fee. Customers can cancel at any time for a refund of the unused portion of then-current month's fee, no matter how much money they've saved.

slideroll.com

Keep Your Truck Bed Clean

2010-02-17T06:25:00.000-08:00

It was bound to happen. You lend your truck to a “friend” who says they have a couple of pieces of furniture to move and it comes back to you with scratches in the bed area of your truck. It wouldn’t have been so bad had they apologized, but now you have to deal with unsightly scratches that can only make your truck’s value deteriorate quicker. Had you thought about it, you would have stuck a bed liner in your truck ahead of time to prevent the problem from happening in the first place.

The above account actually happened to me as I was trying to help a young couple out with a good deed. I was warned in advance by a friend that the couple would take advantage of me and he was, unfortunately, correct. Let’s just say that it was a bitter lesson learned.

Twenty years have passed and I no longer have that old F-150. My current people mover is an SUV, so I have no open area to deal with. Yet, I likely will have a pickup truck again in the near future and I have looked closely at some of the products available to owners today, particularly bed liners.

Advances in technology have brought new products on the market that either did not exist a few years ago or were too expensive for the average driver. Some of the bed liners you can purchase include:

Spray on liners. That’s right; you can have super-thick polyurethane sprayed right into the bed of your truck. At one quarter inch thick, you can receive protection from scratches or fluid and it is completely air tight. One manufacturer says this about their product, “It's scratch-resistant, slip-resistant, and really easy to clean.”

Roll on liners. Similar to spray on liners, are roll on liners. Everything that I have read about roll on liners means a lot of work for the person who does the job, which typically is the truck’s owner. After sweeping and cleaning the bed free of all debris, you will then need to sand the entire truck bed as well as the sides before applying the rubberized coating. The sanding forces the coating to adhere to the bed area and I must tell you that between the sanding, masking tape, rubbing alcohol, newspapers, and particle masks, this is one smelly and messy job!

Installed liners. Okay, I am biased. If it were up to me, this is the product I would purchase. Option number one is too expensive; option number two is too messy; while the third option -– an installed liner -- makes the most sense to me. Still, you need to be careful in this area too as some bed liners are certainly better made than others. Look for those liners that are scratch and dent resistant, waterproof, chemical proof, stain resistant, and durable, i.e. not subject to cracking, chipping, or fading.

In all, a bed liner makes perfect sense for any truck, particularly if you can put one in that covers the sides and the wheel wells. All the decent ones I have seen are nicely padded and can easily be cleaned. Learn all about the product you want before making a decision to buy.

nola.com