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How to Deal with Slow-Moving Vehicles

2008-06-18T00:59:00.000-07:00

Oftentimes, you get annoyed especially if you are about to go to a very important meeting or you are about to attend a very important occasion when you are stuck in a traffic jam. However there are many other things that can get you exasperated when you are driving your much-loved car. One of the most annoying things to come across on the road is a slow-moving vehicle. There will always come a time that you will come across slow-moving vehicles on the road no matter what kind of road you are taking.

Just like any other traffic jam, you can be stuck on your lane and stay there for quite sometime if you happen to encounter vehicles like this. Even if you want to pass these vehicles, if you don’t have the space, the chance and the ability to do it, you will stay there in your lane as long as they find their exit and out of your way. There are some vehicles, which are street sweepers, tractors, and horse-drawn carts that hinder the flow of the traffic. Since most of these are commonly out in the streets to do their work, you cannot yell at the driver. However, you can also avoid being stuck in traffic due to these slow-moving vehicles. There are several ways you can do to prevent it.

So, here some ways that you can learn in order to deal with the slow moving vehicles.

You should be alert and look for those slow-moving vehicles when you are driving whether on a highway or any other type of road. In addition to this, you should always adjust your speed consequently.

You should always keep your eye out for those incoming vehicles like big rigs and small, old-fashioned vehicles. The latter is a kind of vehicle that is often equipped with lesser power when it comes to steep grades.

Moreover, you should also be cautious of older types of vehicles and huge vehicles like trucks when you are part of incoming traffic. These are the type of vehicles possibly take longer to achieve the speed limit, so it is much better to avoid them rather than run at their back.

It would be best if you stop your vehicle or make it slow down when you see livestock on roadways You should keep in mind that frightening and stampeding any of them can make you land in jail or can make you pay a fine for a certain amount since doing such is illegal. And lastly, you should always be alert and cautious of all other vehicles you are running with on the road.

Whether you are in traffic with slow-moving vehicles or not, this tip is useful for you. It does not just make you a responsible driver but a sensitive driver as well.

It is a fact that driving slow is a need especially when you are not in a hurry. By doing these tips you would be able to prevent arguments and mishaps on the road.

Still, when you are driving at a very slow phase because of slow-moving vehicles directly ahead of you or driving on your same lane, you could still do something about it. There are tips that could be easily be learned. All these tips could greatly help you and all other vehicle drivers. You only need to study it, put it into actual practice, and share it to others.

How to Drive in Risky Conditions

2008-06-16T19:56:00.000-07:00

Oftentimes, driving especially during bad weather conditions can cause accidents.
These accidents are not caused by the malfunctioning of your car but it is sometimes caused by the driver itself. Even if you check your car before going on your trip often or if you have high performance parts installed in your car, and even if you are an experienced driver already, if you can’t stay in control when driving during bad weather conditions, you’ll still be in danger.

There are several ways to consider when you are driving on foggy, rainy or snowy conditions. Of course, these include the important parts in your car, the weather condition and the control and focus of the driver. So, here are several tips that you can use to avoid accidents and to stay in control when you are driving during bad weather.

*Always keep in mind that you should slow down when driving in bad weather conditions.
It is better to use low beam lights rather than high beams because you’ll get fewer glares and you would be more visible to other drivers when driving in a foggy area. There is several tail lights that are effective when used in the fog but you can’t really depend on it.

*Driving at a speed of 35 mph and above can result to hydroplaning especially during heavy rains. Usually, hydroplaning happens when the tires ride on a pillow of water, which can cause loss of control over the steering. When hydroplaning happens, you take your foot off the accelerator immediately in order for the car to slow down and grip the steering wheel as straight as possible. Never hit your brakes since water can affect the brakes of your car, don’t ever hit your car brakes. You should drive slowly and apply the brakes a number of times in order to revitalize their stopping power.

*You do not need snow tires when driving on a snowy area. You should not rely too much on all-season tires. Usually, these tires are designed for light snow. Instead of all-season tires, it would be best if you will use premium snow tires with treads that have a much better performance at low temperatures compared to ordinary ones.

* You should not make sudden moves when you are driving on an icy area. Whenever your car encounters skidding, you should turn the steering wheel to the direction where the car’s rear is sliding. Moreover, you should also be cautious with the temperature because if the temperature is around 32F, the ice becomes more slippery and it would be more hazardous.

*Usually, bad weather conditions can cause accidents if and only if the driver of the car doesn’t know how to handle the situations that go with it. Even if sometimes it is really a tough thing driving through bad weather especially on slippery roads.

*However, it would be best if you’d be more responsible than be reckless and be the cause of the loss of other people’s lives. It does not really matter if you are a neophyte driver or an experienced one. In fact what matters most is that you should be the responsible one.

So, performing these tips is the best thing to do. You must know all these things because these would greatly help you to become a responsible member of the road. Being responsible does not only mean that you think of your safety. It is always a must that you are concerned about the safety of every people on the road. Doing all these things may be so simple but surely, the benefit you would get is much more than that.

How to Drive Safely Around Children

2008-06-13T19:22:00.000-07:00

Many children are often involved in vehicular accidents not just in the United States but all over the world. Oftentimes, this is caused by the recklessness and the negligence of many vehicle drivers. The reason for these accidents is that there are reckless drivers who don’t understand what simple traffic safety rules are. We should bear in mind that there are always rules in everything. These rules are made for you to abide and to save you and other people from any form of accident. You can prevent harming children by abiding, learning and following these simple traffic and safety rules. So, here are several simple traffic and safety rules you should always remember.

*At times, we have a tendency of not noticing the road because children appear to be small. In this case, you should look in between vehicles where you are parked if there is some kid standing because you might run over their feet.

*You should look carefully if there are children walking or riding vehicles when backing out of your driveway or when you are about to exit your garage. For sure, you don’t want to hit them when backing.

*You should be alert, and it would be best if you will slow down when you are driving through a school zone. You must check if there are children on the streets in cases that there are no sidewalks. And also be cautious with those children waiting or playing next to the bus stop.

*Always drive carefully through areas where children might run out on foot or on a bicycle from the back of a parked car. A child usually reacts to situations far different from an adult. A child sometimes sees a car approaching will make him run faster across the street rather than staying on the sidewalk as an adult would do.

*You should keep an eye out for children playing on the sidewalk or along the road. Also take note that children’s eyesight and hearing are still developing that they cannot easily sense a moving car. A number of children might have been injured running right into the sides of vehicles.

*You should also look for flashing signals that are commonly used by school buses to warn drivers. A flashing yellow signal only means a plan to stop while a flashing red one means that the bus is on the process of loading and unloading children. In this way, the drivers must stop their vehicles and move just when the red lights stop flashing and the bus starts moving. There are some states, which have laws requiring cars to stop until the school bus has completed loading and unloading passengers.

*You should park it on the way where you don’t have to look behind and risk backing when parking your car. Also, look around, between and under you car because some children may hide in these places before driving

*You must practice the same alertness in parking lots. The presence of kids, buses, and cars in school parking lots could cause lots of accident in the road. So, better watch out for it. And lastly, never ever honk at the children.

For sure you really don’t want to kill an innocent child because of your recklessness and you don’t want to be sued because of your irresponsibility, right? Then it would be best if you will apply these simple traffic and safety rules when driving around children. When you put these rules into actual practice, you will surely protect yourself from any sort of humiliation and you could ensure that you would not be causing trouble to anyone, especially with children.

How to Avoid Rants and Raves on the Road

2008-06-13T00:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is true that road mishaps are bound to happen anytime. And so, with all the mishaps and troubles encountered because of road rage, it is best if we do something in order to avoid this from happening. Of course, drivers are prone to accidents especially if they lose their temper when driving. Thus, this should be prevented. Being a courteous driver is the first step in how prevent it. So, here are several steps you can make use of to prevent rants and raves on the road.

* Get plenty of sleep always. You should have enough sleep and get some breakfast to keep you calm and focused on the road. You must also note that sleepy drivers are irritable most of the time and often make driving safe for all the people on the road.

* Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination. One of the best things you can do to be able to achieve this is by planning your route.]

* Always remember that the road is not yours. Most drivers think that once they are behind the wheels, they are the king and they already own the road. However, unselfishness and thinking that the road is shared by many people could definitely help keep things calm.

* You should be prepared and cautious about almost anything that might happen like changes in the traffic. You should be acquainted with possible dangers before it happens can save you away from annoyance and troubles.

*Always be observant. It is advisable that you become familiar with the number of cars that are around you, and what the normal speed should be. By the use of your peripheral vision is also a wise thing to do in order for you to become aware of the unforeseen signal that other drivers might send out.

* Always be calm especially when there are unavoidable things that happen. It is not good behavior to lose your temper and swear at other drivers under any circumstances. By practicing patience and cooperation is the best way to deal with any kind of accident on the road.

* Always stop for a break when on a long distance drive. Being in your vehicle for a longer time could make you physically unwell and frustrated. You should have time to relax.

* Arguing about little things is really useless. When someone almost cuts you off without turning their turn signal lights on, don’t bother arguing about that. Just forget about it and enjoy your ride.

* Since sudden turns and changing of lanes can cause accidents and anger to other drivers, then you must turn on your signal lights ahead of time.

*One of the worst things a driver could do is tailgating, so you should avoid doing this. It can provoke other drivers to get mad and lose control of his vehicle.

If you follow all these things, it is not only you that would enjoy the benefits. And also, every people on the road will surely be benefited. Oftentimes, it would give you a great feeling that you caused no harm to others and you are now part of the people who wants peace on the road. With that, you should take effort in avoiding rants and raves on the road. And yes, it would be best for the greater majority of people. You can just get war and enemies from road rage. So, there’s no point in collecting them. Each and every one of us should make friends, and make peace on the road. With that, a nonviolent road can be achieved where everybody can enjoy their drive.

Maintaining the Good Condition of your Car’s Cooling System

2008-06-12T01:35:00.000-07:00

Of course, the cooling system is very important in your car. Without it, your vehicle’s radiator will not last long and the car’s systems will experience too much heat. That is why you need to make sure that you maintain it’s the vehicle in top condition. You should also check it on a regular basis to make sure that all of its parts are working properly. And if ever you notice that there are some problems, you can work on them at once.

For sure, you are responsible enough to maintain and check your car’s cooling system. But if you don’t know how to maintain it properly, your whole efforts would still be useless. With this, you should learn the techniques on how to maintain a car’s cooling system. Here are some methods you can make use to achieve it.

*You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations as to when the radiator should be flushed. You can do this method by draining the coolant from the radiator's bottom, by flushing the core out by the use of cold water from a garden hose, and by refilling the radiator with the necessary fluid. In this way, you can avoid debris and engine deposits from gathering in the radiator since these can cause overheating in your car.

*In maintaining the cooling system of your car, you must not forget to inspect the radiator hose. There could be leaks in the hoses whenever they become spongy, cracked or brittle, or when a bump has developed in the lining. With that, it is essential that you have an extra set of radiator hoses in your garage because it is really easy to replace hoses in the cooling system.

*If there are water stains on its pump housing or looseness in its shaft pulley you should not forget also to check the water pump once in a while. There are two basis of water pump failure; it could be the crack developing in its seals or the damage of its bearings. By inspecting these two features, you can prevent water pump failure.

*You should observe if there is a foamy beige residue or fluid inside the engine compartment, crankcase, and radiator. This fluid is a mixture of oil and coolant. This could also imply that there is a worn or cracked head gasket. The head gasket provides the seal between the engine block and the crankcase. When the head gasket is damaged, it can cause too much damage to the cooling system’s parts since it can heat up the engine and can melt the pistons, cylinders and valves.

* You should look for any type of leaks in the entire cooling system of your car. You could easily spot the coolant and the anti-freeze – Particularly, these are common brightly colored fluids when they are spraying, bubbling, or dripping into your driveway.

* You should observe for excessive rust when maintaining the car's cooling system. It is common that there are rust-colored water stains sitting at the bottom of the radiators or on the housing of water pumps. However, you should be on the lookout for rusty metal flakes or chips that indicate serious corrosion.

*You can easily prevent overheating problems. Be responsible and be cautious of the needs of your car’s cooling system. It may not be that damaged or that dirty, but it sure needs to be checked and have the damaged parts replaced to make the whole system work best. These methods are not that complete but they can be helpful to you and your car’s cooling system. You should understand these methods, study them and put them to actual practice. Through this, you can maintain your cooling system and save money since there is no need for you to visit any mechanics just to make it work again

How to Extend the Service Life of your Vehicle

2008-06-11T00:29:00.000-07:00

At this point in time, buying a new car would really cost you a lot of money as compared to the time when you bought your old one. In this case, it would be more practical for you to preserve the service of your vehicle rather than replace it as a unit. Making your present car last longer would surely make you spend less. So, here are some tips to make your car last longer:

You should allow your vehicle to breathe easier. It may not be new to you that when the air filter is clogged, the engine would not properly operate. Thus, you need to regularly maintain the good working condition of the air filter. The problem in the operation of the engine could make it fail sooner, thus making your vehicle fail as well.

You should make it cool. Overheating in the engine will not do you any better. With that, it must be noted that it is a need to maintain the cooling system and ensure that there is a proper coolant level in it. . In that way, you could be saved from spending more of your money for the repair of your engine.

Have the tires’ pressure checked. If you always neglect the tires in your vehicle, then you better reconsider. Ensuring that the tires are given the right pressure means a better fuel economy and safer ride for you. With this simple and free task that you can do, you could help your vehicle’s service last longer.

You should check the gauge. You could rely on the gauge to know if there are problems with your oil pressure, cooling system, or even tire pressure. So, you need to watch on your gauge and do the necessary actions depending on the results you may be reading from it.

You should allow professional mechanics to check your ride regularly. You must establish trust in one repair shop and one mechanic where you can regularly bring your vehicle for check ups.

You should inspect your vehicle closely. It is advisable that you spend at least five minutes to walk around and look at your car. You should check the tires if they are wearing off unevenly. Then open also the hood and see the condition of the hoses. You must be sure that all the lights are at the top of their shape. The list of things you should check is endless but it does pay to check them regularly.

You should follow check-up schedules. You could work on this if you have a trusted mechanic that checks your vehicle. This is because he would know when the last time something had been done to your vehicle was. And of course, he has the right knowledge as to what will be done to your vehicle each time you bring it to him.

Always be a smart driver. If you don’t know still, the way you drive will directly or indirectly affect the life span of your vehicle. When you drive smoothly, you are being kind to your car. But when you drive carelessly, you do no good to your car.

You should maintain vehicle’s cleanliness. Cleaning both the exterior and interior of your vehicle could very well help preserve the service life of your vehicle. Washing and waxing of the exterior regularly would also help. For the interior, regular vacuuming of the carpets should also be done. The moment you see spills on it, you should clean them immediately so whatever was spilt on it won’t be difficult to remove.
You should keep your vehicle covered. Never expose your vehicle to the sun too much. It could do harm to your vehicle. In that way, you must keep an eye where you park your vehicle.

Doing these for and to your vehicle could save you from the costly act of buying a new one. However, you should take note that there’s a proper time to replace your vehicle. Pay attention to this detail as it would definitely do you no good to preserve the service of your vehicle when it is not anymore able to serve you as you need it to. Have a good drive always.

Dealing with Road Rage

2008-06-10T00:35:00.000-07:00

Did you experienced a bad day and you just didn't feel like yourself? Then, suddenly, some “jerk" makes you angry on your drive home. Perhaps almost all of us have experienced some form of road rage while driving. Since most people are able to recover from their anger quickly, in some situations, it can turn deadly. That is why it is important to recognize the symptoms and address them quickly, so here is your guide to dealing with road rage. These are some conditions that are perfect for road rage, and almost everybody has experienced them. The only distinction between you and a road rager is how you deal with these feelings.

You have to get a hold of your emotions in order to protect yourself. Perhaps, the worst thing that you want to happen is to meet someone who is as angry as you, or possibly even more possessed by rage. This will likely cause a confrontation on the road which may lead to an exchange of gestures, dangerous driving tactics and physical violence. If ever you are angry at someone on the road - let it go.

When you are an innocent victim of road rage by some angry driver you must protect yourself. You should follow some of the guidelines on the right to help yourself overcome these types of situations. Most importantly, never make eye contact with an angry driver. An angry look is all he/she needs in order to increase the level of rage. The best advice is to safely get away from an angry driver as quickly as much as possible. You should take the next right turn and choose an alternate route to your destination. When necessary, pull over and cool off before continuing on your way.

* The first thing to do is to breathe deeply. The urge to go after another driver can be intense, but you should take a few deep breaths as soon as something happens and keep your hands firmly on the wheel. Always remind yourself that the situation is only temporary and that you have the power to stay in control of your emotions.

* When an enraged driver attempts to follow you there is a good chance that the level of violence may increase. Never go home. You should go straight to the nearest police detachment and file a complaint/report when you arrive there.

* Never endanger yourself by trying to evade a road rager. You should drive the speed limit and observe all traffic control devices.

* You should always remember to be respectful while driving. You should treat other people the way you would want to be treated

* You should scream it out. When someone cuts you off, roll up the windows and release your anger in the privacy of your own car. This will feel good to let go of your frustration and no one will get hurt.

* You should keep your eyes peeled for aggressive drivers. Cars which change lanes erratically or speed up and slow down inconsistently bring trouble. You should avoid them at all costs (even if it means slowing down) and stay focused on your safety.

* You should depart for your destination as much as possible. Car drivers in a hurry are more likely to experience road rage because they fear being late. You should check traffic reports before leaving the house or come up with at least one alternate route that might not be as crowded as the one you normally take.

* You must stock your car with soothing music, a stress ball and books on tape. These will help create a peaceful sanctuary in your vehicle and you should reach for them if you start fuming over something that happened on the road.

* Then, pull over to calm down. If you start to experience feelings of rage, drive your car to the side of the road (or exit the road altogether) and regain your sanity. Exacting the revenge on other drivers may seem logical while in the heat of the moment. However, this can result in tragedy, so better clear your head before proceeding.

Selecting and Using Fuel for your Race Car

2008-06-06T22:21:00.000-07:00

We all need fuel in running across all classes of motor racing. It doesn’t matter if the fuel is gasoline purchased from the corner gas station, gasoline developed for racing engines, or alcohol-fuel is a common thread.

We really need to be careful about how we get our fuel to the track as a car racer. We must always remember that we are dealing with a very energy-rich substance. The gasoline and alcohol are, first and foremost, fuels. We also need to exercise a respectful amount of care when handling and storing these fuels.

The very first thing that we should do is to transport fuel only in containers that were designed to carry it, and it should be kept in a well-ventilated area. When you store your fuel containers in your trailer, you need to make sure there is enough airflow even when at rest so there is not a build-up of vapors. If all you smell is gasoline when you enter your trailer, it’s time to look into installing some vents. Never turn it into a combustion chamber.
You need to think about safety equipment for fire prevention just as you spend money on safety equipment such as helmets and harnesses. You must have at least two easily accessible fire extinguishers in your trailer, and it is also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher readily available in your pit spot.

These fuel jugs contain gasoline, and black is among the best colors to use on a can that is not metal. Black jugs protect the fuel from damaging ultraviolet rays. For the purposes of this discourse, we need to concentrate on the "hows" more than the "whats" involved with fuel.

When there is a demand, I will be more than happy to develop a full-blown story about the manufacture of racing gasoline, the role and the specific chemical nature of fuel, how it is blended and manufactured for racing applications, and why these requirements are different from highway gasoline. Meanwhile, the more important issues are not the chemistry that makes up the fuel, but the development of the processes and methods we apply to select the fuel we use.

We need to understand the correct way to store, transport, and handle it after selecting a fuel.
There isn’t a class in racing, at least none that I am aware of, that does not have some very specific rules that surround the fuels used to power its vehicles. Even the Top Fuel drag racing has specific rules for the content and make of the fuel used in those engines. The classes at the local dirt track may have a spec fuel that you have to run, that makes the selection process easy for the racer. When you are in a class that is designed around gasoline and the fuel used must be gasoline, the selection processes are a bit more difficult.

The term gasoline is a very generic term which the rule makers intended to be very specific. There’s a plethora of fuels that can be classified as gasoline. We need to be more concerned with the type of fuel we need rather than the type of fuel we think we need or want as local racers. When you are racing in a Hobby Stock or a Bomber class and using a slightly modified or very stock engine, buying a special racing fuel would be a waste of your money. It’s a matter of fact that it might even slow down the car. When the engine you are running has a compression ratio that is less than 10:1, the gas available at the local corner gas station will be more than adequate. There’s no need to spend nearly double on racing gasoline.

Things You Should Not Do When You Are About To Buy A Car

2008-06-06T02:56:00.000-07:00

Buying a car could become so exciting. Sometimes, buyers tend to be so blinded by their excitement and forget that they should find the best deal. To lead you to the car that you are really looking for, I’ll mention here some situations that you should avoid so you could find the best deal. Here, don’t ever commit these mistakes.

1. Don’t fall in love with a model. Don’t listen to your emotions. It could just lead you into choosing the car that is not really suitable for you. Never close your options to the vehicle model you want. This would just limit your judgment to other vehicles. When you really want a particular model, your tendency is to ignore other models and welcome all the features it has no matter how good or bad it is.

2. Never skip the test drive. You should be after the service the vehicle could give you, forget first your display intentions. These vehicles will surely appear as brilliant as they may seem in the glossy brochures of the dealers but you may never be sure if it performs as brilliantly as it appears. Doing a test drive is your sole chance to test the quality of the vehicle you chose. This would be a better move than repenting in the end why you bought such kind of vehicle.

3. Don’t buy unnecessary extras. Dealers will always want to earn extra profit. Don’t allow yourself to be fooled by their tactics. In the end, you will just realize that they are just a waste of money.

4. Don’t negotiate down from the sticker price. Don’t refer at the sticker price when you are trying to negotiate a deal with a dealer. A $500 discount is not that promising if you really come to think of it. Research for its true cost and work on negotiating it up but lower than the sticker price.

5. Never focus only on the monthly payment when negotiating. Have an idea of the real cost of the vehicle that you are about to buy. Though maybe you would pay just a small amount monthly, you might end up paying for other fees other than the exact vehicle’s price and, worse, more than the sticker price! Therefore, make sure that you agree on the price of the vehicle first before negotiating the monthly payments for other fees.

6. Never buy the “deal” instead of the vehicle. Don’t purchase a vehicle just because you are getting a load of discounts. Don’t bite that bait. Make sure that you really want what you’ll be purchasing because in the end you will be the one who will be benefited by it.

7. Never wait until you’re in a dealership to think about financing. Always get prepared. Before you go to a dealer, ensure that you are armed with the knowledge about financing terms. If you are not, there is a greater chance that you will be manipulated by the dealer.

8. Never underestimate the value of modern safety features. Don’t just depend purely on the information the salesperson gives you regarding the safety features of a vehicle. Know the best safety features that will answer your needs and find vehicles that are equipped with them.

9. Not knowing your present car's value. If you have an old vehicle in your garage, research for its value for you to know where you will be getting a good deal—trading it or selling it—before purchasing a new one.

10. Not consulting an independent mechanic to check a used car. If you are purchasing a second-hand car, it is not only important that you spend less money because in the end you could just find out that you wasted every cent you spent for that. Consult a professional mechanic and let him check it. Don’t be blinded by the exterior appeal of the vehicle; be after its overall condition.

The more you can get out from these situations, the better. if you allow yourself to be under circumstances like this, you will be the one left to suffer. So make the right decisions always..

Equip Your Car for Emergency Breakdowns

2008-06-05T00:51:00.000-07:00

Usually, your car breaks down at the most inconvenient time and in the most inconvenient place. Making sure that your vehicle has these basic bits and pieces tucked away in the trunk can keep you and your family safe when the unexpected happens

*If your car breaks down in an urban area, there is usually a phone nearby and with that phone comes a place which is warm or cool to wait. A cell phone becomes a much more important survival tool outside of the urban areas. Although you can't get a signal where you are, text a message to someone you trust to respond and choose the option which allows the phone to continue looking for a signal and deliver the message when possible. You should allow the phone to use its full battery capacity before recharging it from your car battery. Then, unplug the adapter so that no charge from the car battery or the phone is wasted when it is fully recharged.

*Basic tools required for basic repairs are often a good idea. Most hoses are held in place with clamps which require a turn or two from a screwdriver to keep them in place. Using an exacto or similar blade to make a clean cut on the end of the hose and a screwdriver to tighten the clamp on the fresh end of the hose can do wonders of getting you down the road to the next service station.

*When the clamp has failed, you should use duct tape... You must choose the real stuff with embedded fibers and so on. There’s no substitute for the real thing. The silver colored, semi-adhesive impostors are not the same. You would be amazed what duct tape can accomplish in a time of need.

* You should keep at least a quart of motor oil in your trunk. And make sure it's the correct weight and viscosity recommended for your car's make and model. Never check or attempt to refill your oil until the engine has cooled to the touch.

* When your break down somewhere cold, or in a high altitude area, you will need the warmth. Passers by will see your red arm waving at them and in a pinch; you can still tie the sweatshirt around the end of a long load.

* You should keep a gallon of distilled water in your trunk. You must change it out every few months. You should drop a couple of drops of chlorine in the bottle if you are reusing the same gallon jug.

* Water is a liquid version of duct tape. When you are stranded in the desert, drink it. If your coolant springs a leak, you should fill it. If you run your vehicle through a mud hole, you should fill the window washer fluid with it. When you cut yourself while patching a hose with duct tape, then, use the distilled water to wash the wound.

* Pantyhose are the third best item you can have in your trunk.

*You should often have flares on hand. Mark the dimensions of your car in the dark for your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road.

*You will never know where you will be or how long you will have to wait for help when your car breaks down. It may not be a matter of life and death, but you must always make better decisions when you’re not starving.

* You can't beat the chemical hand-warmers which are available commercially for a true emergency in cold weather. Even in the desert, nights are very cold and chills and frost bite are no joke. If you never use them, it still will not hurt you to have them on hand. When you need them, there’s no substitute. You should always be prepared for your Emergency.

How to Deal with Car Mold Problems

2008-06-04T00:32:00.000-07:00

Undoubtedly, driving or riding regularly in a mold infested vehicle is a good way to enable elevated levels of airborne mold spores vehicle. You have to mold test the outward air flow out of the heating/cooling duct registers of the car/truck, plus test any visible mold grows. Moreover, test the air of the passenger compartment air, the trunk, and any other storage areas for the possible presence of elevated levels of airborne mold spores in comparison with an outdoor mold control test.

You must do mold testing all around your home and workplace because of possible mold contamination of either area from mold spores transported from the car/truck into or from your home or workplace on your hair, skin, clothes, and shoes. It is common for your car or home air conditioning systems to be mold contaminated if there are elevated levels of mold in the car and/or home. You should use the do it yourself mold test kits, available from a large hardware or home improvement store. You would compare the number and variety of mold growths on the culture plate of each test kit for each duct register and also for the passenger compartment air test, in comparison to an outside mold control test done 5 feet away from your vehicle. You can mold lab analysis and mold species identification, if you so desire, of the mold test kits.

You should spray one of the Mold Home Remedy Recipes into the car’s heating/cooling duct registers to kill mold hidden inside the heating/cooing ducts. When there is still a moldy smell, consider replacing the carpeting and reupholstering the seats. Never use bleach to try to kill car mold because bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces such as seat upholstery and carpeting. The worker should follow proper safety procedures such as using a 3M brand breathing respirator mask from a large hardware store or home improvement store, throwaway painter’s work clothes or other protective clothing, and rubber gloves while killing and removing mold inside the vehicle.

To prevent future car mold problems, a car or other vehicle that is sitting unused for more than a few days ought to have all interior surfaces including carpeting and upholstery washed with Borax laundry detergent, a natural mold cleaner, in warm water to remove deposited organic dirt mold food and landed mold spores. When your vehicle isn't sealed well against weather, then you could find mold growing unseen behind door panels, beneath carpet, and so on.

The mold and mildew not only smell bad, they also present a health problem. Inhaling and touching mildew or mold spores causes allergic reactions or asthma attacks. Moreover, exposure to mold can also irritate your eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs. Moisture is needed for spores to grow; thus, removing moisture is a key to preventing mold and mildew.

*If ever you smell a musty odor in your car or know there has been water damage but can't locate the mold, there are few types of inexpensive do-it-yourself mold test kits you can use. One provides results virtually instantly and others require collecting samples and mailing them to a lab for analysis, with lab results back to you in a few days.

*Specialty cleaners like Biocides including chlorine bleach and other disinfectants are available that can destroy living organisms, such as mold on nonporous surfaces. You should wash mold off hard surfaces with it and water, then dry completely. Usually, moldy absorbent materials like upholstery and carpets will have to be replaced.

*After cleaning up mold, you have to make sure to correct the source of moisture, otherwise it will return.

How to Deal with Auto Emergencies

2008-06-03T02:42:00.000-07:00

Most drivers encounter some sort of emergency involving a malfunction of their vehicle or a situation requiring emergency driving techniques at one time or another. The result can be accident, injury or even death if these emergencies are not handled properly. Panic is the real enemy in an emergency. Emergency plans can help prevent panic and possibly save lives. So, here are some of the most common emergencies and how they can be handled so that accident prevention along with pedestrian and motorist safety is the prime concerns.

(Stopping on the highway)
Most emergencies require stopping on the highway. Stopping on a highway for any reason is risky, so if you must stop, you must observe the following precautions:
*When the highway has paved shoulders, signal your intention to pull off the highway, pull off at near traffic speed, then slow down. When the shoulder is unpaved, signal a right turn and slow down to a safe speed before pulling off the paved roadway.
* In dusk, darkness, or bad weather, you should leave your low-beam headlights on and turn on your interior lights and your four-way flasher.
* When you have to stop in a risky location (such as over the crest of a hill or on a curve), get everyone out of the vehicle and well away from traffic.
* You should place a flare or other warning device just behind the vehicle and another at least 300 feet (91m) farther back. Then, retrieve them before you drive away.
*If ever you need help, raise the hood and tie a white cloth to the antenna or left door handle.
The hazard emergency lights on most vehicles will not operate when the brakes are applied. When you are off the road or if stranded on the road, you should shut off the engine, put the vehicle in PARK, apply the parking brake, and take your foot off the brake pedal.

(Throttle sticking)
You must slow down when you're driving along a street or highway and for some reason. You reduce the foot pressure on the accelerator however, the accelerator pedal does not respond and the vehicle does not slow down. On the other hand, the accelerator pedal is suddenly depressed to the floor, and the vehicle lurches forward, although you've taken your foot off the accelerator for some reason.

You can first lightly tap the accelerator pedal a few times to see if it will spring back to its normal position if this situation occurs on the open highway and you have a lot of distance between you and other traffic. When this fails, try to pull the pedal up with the toe of your shoe, or have a front seat passenger reach down and do it. Never reach down yourself because that would divert your attention from the road.

You should turn your ignition to OFF and apply the brakes if you must slow or stop rapidly. But you must be sure you turn the key to OFF, not LOCK. You can't turn the steering wheel when the key is in the lock position on most vehicles. When you have power steering and power brakes, turning off the ignition will require increased physical effort to steer and brake the vehicle as the vehicle slows. When the vehicle slows down, steer it off the roadway, if possible.
Look for the source of trouble after you stop the vehicle. The accelerator pedal possibly binds on the floor mat or the rug in your vehicle. Moreover, you can easily free the pedal by moving the rug or mat. When the problem is not in the passenger compartment, look in your engine compartment and check the accelerator linkage. Several parts may be stuck or binding and a little oil (from the dipstick used to check your oil) may solve the problem.

Don't Abuse Your Car

2008-05-30T01:56:00.000-07:00

You know, some things that we do to our cars do not benefit them, in any way. In fact, those things could even cause them trouble, without us knowing it. Therefore, we should be always on the lookout for things that we do to our cars. They may not be helping them.

So here are five things that you should avoid doing in your car. These things are necessary for your vehicle to stand longer in serving you.

First, avoid sunny day carwash. You and your car are entirely different. Don’t assume that your car would love to feel cool in a hot summer day. If you do it, then your car’s finish would be the one to suffer. The hot day would make the car’s body to heat up and when you add moisture like water into it, it would just help in heating up the metal. With that, the finish would just turn out bad. If you want to fix that problem, then the best thing to do is to repaint it. However, that would require you to spend more money. If you want not to spend, then don’t wash on sunny days. The ideal time and place for washing your car is during cloudy days or under a shade. If you can’t really help but clean it, then wash it just before dawn or in the late afternoon.

Second, do away from pressure washing a modern car’s engine. Don’t dare use your pressure sprayers! You may clean your engine using a garden hose instead. A pressure sprayer could force the entry of water to some parts that water is not supposed to go. As you know, moisture could cause to the malfunction of electrical parts. Therefore, as much as possible, water should not be allowed to get into contact with them. To tell you, a dirty engine that works would be far better than having a clean one that does not work.

Third, don’t overload the alternator or the charging system. You may have so many electrical devices inside your vehicle. However, do you think that your car’s alternator and charging system could still handle supplying power to all of them? When you have so many devices in there, the alternator would be required to work too hard. If that’s the case, the alternator could fail to charge the battery fully; therefore, the battery easily drains up. When that happens, a frequent replacement of battery is needed, damage of the alternator, and the failure of the vehicle to start. So why bother to have a large stereo that requires so much power when what is in exchange is trouble in your vehicle?

Fourth, don’t use “universal fit” wheels. Don’t just follow the trend. When you customize your vehicle, see to it that whatever accessory you install in it would do no harm to your vehicle. When talking about the wheels, don’t take into consideration using “universal fit wheels.” It doesn’t mean that it will fit any car when it is tagged as universal. It’s not that. Don’t bite that kind of bait. Instead, consult a tire shop about the appropriate wheels for your vehicle.

Lastly, never tow an automatic-equipped car with drive wheels down. If you badly want your vehicle to shorten its service, do this. That’s so simple.

So if you’ve been doing it in your vehicle and you still care about its condition, then better stop doing it. Don’t abuse your access to your vehicle. In the end, who will just be the one to be greatly affected? Of course, it would be no one else but you. So take good care of your vehicle.

Car Vacuming

2008-05-29T01:19:00.000-07:00

There is no special science in vacuuming a car. All that you need in a good vacuum is a few attachments, and ten to fifteen minutes to get in there and get the job done is. The crevice attachment and the dust brush attachment are the two most important attachments. You have to make sure your crevice attachment is plastic, not metal. A metal attachment or a plastic attachment that is in poor condition may scratch or damage leather or vinyl upholstery. You must use the crevice tool to reach between and under seats, into tight seams, nooks and crannies, and around seat beads. The vigorous movement on the carpet helps to bring up the sand and grit. You must use the round dust brush attachment to vacuum the console, dash and vents. You can also assist with the dusting by using an interior detailing brush ahead of the vacuum to get deep into vents and cracks. So, here are the steps for proper vacuuming:

* You should start your vacuuming job by pulling out the floor mats. Then, shake out the mats to remove any loose dirt. You can use a 4" upholstery attachment or the bare hose end to vigorously vacuum the mats.
* You should work on the rear upholstery and carpet. Then, push the front seats all the way forward. You must use the crevice tool to vacuum the cracks of the seats, and between the seats and carpeted areas. You should switch to the 4" upholstery attachment and vacuum the rear seat and the deck under the rear window if the seat upholstery is fabric. You should also vacuum the rear carpet. You must use the crevice tool to vacuum around the seat tracks and under the front seats. Also use the round dust brush attachment to vacuum the door panels.

* You should push the front seats all the way back to work on the front upholstery. You must use the crevice tool to vacuum the cracks of the seats, between the seats and carpeted areas, and around the gas and brake pedals. Then, switch to the 4" upholstery attachment to vacuum the carpet in the foot wells and the seats (if the seats are fabric). Also use the round dust brush attachment to vacuum the console, vents and door panels.
* Use the round dust brush attachment to vacuum the headliner if your headliner is fabric. Though, be gentle as this material is not as durable as your seat upholstery.
Tip: When vacuuming carpet, you should use the palm of your free hand to beat the carpet just in front of your vacuum hose or tool. As you beat the carpet, the dirt that is lodged deep into the carpet will come loose for vacuuming.

Cleaning & Treating Your Dashboard & Console of your Car

Caring for the dash and console of your car is really pretty easy. You should simply wipe them down with a damp towel every time you wash your car, and treat them with a vinyl protectant once a month. In order to reduce the effects of the sun's UV rays, use products like 303 Aerospace Protectant or Sonus Total Eclipse, which contain protective UV sunscreens. All of these are my personal favorites because they create a nice satin finish.
The easiest way to treat the dash and console is by using a foam applicator pad. You should Spray your vinyl protectant on the applicator, not on the dash or console, and wipe it in thoroughly. This prevents overspray on your glass and upholstery. Never forget to protect the steering wheel, turn signal levers and the shift boot. You should allow the vinyl protectant to soak in for 3 to 5 minutes, and then buff the dash and console dry with a microfiber detailing towel.

PROPER INTERIOR DETAILING

2008-05-28T01:03:00.000-07:00

The best way to keep your car looking good is by regular vacuuming and dusting of your car's interior. However, to clean the surface alone is not enough. Two to three times a year you will need to detail the upholstery in order to keeps it looking its best.

Warning: Before using any product on your vehicle’s fabric upholstery, carpet, leather or vinyl, test for color fading by cleaning a small, inconspicuous area. Never use the product if it adversely changes your fabric's color or texture.

In Car Interior Detailing: A Systematic Approach
The interior of your vehicle takes a lot of abuse. Unlike the inside of your home, this has many times more square footage, the inside of your car gets repeated, concentrated traffic. Whenever you get in your car, you drag in more dirt. Every time you eat or drink in your car, you add a few more crumbs and spills. In fact, just sitting in your car, you drop hair, dead skin, makeup and many other contaminants. Almost all of this dirt and junk adds up very fast.
However, it is not important to fully detail the inside of your car each time you wash it. Unless you've been to the beach, out in the mud, or tracking in grass and leaves, probably, you can get away with vacuuming and a quick wipe-down every couple of weeks.

In weekly Car Interior Cleanup, here's what I recommend you as a weekly routine for your interior:

* You should wipe down all vinyl, leather and plastic surfaces with a damp cloth. A micro fiber detailing tower is excellent for this task, as it will leave a lint-free, dust-free finish.
* You should pull out your floor mats, and shake or brush off the dirt and debris.
* Then, pick up trash (that old banana peel you tossed into the backseat), and empty the ashtray and console storage bins.
* You should wipe down your door jambs and doorsills with a damp towel.
* And also wipe down your interior glass and your rearview mirror with a damp microfiber detailing towel. When your windows are relatively clean, you don't need to use a glass cleaner.

Recently, a new product category has emerged for the car interior that's equivalent to the exterior quick detailing spray. The interior cockpit sprays, like Sonus Cockpit Detailer combine light cleaning and protective capabilities in a spray-and-wipe system. When you're looking for an interior product that keeps your cockpit looking perfect, you might give it a try. In my mind, this is a much better remedy than layer after layer of protectant.

In Monthly Car Interior Detailing
Every month your car's interior will need a little more than a quick wipe-down. Then, after a month, your interior glass will have some film buildup, the carpet will need to be vacuumed, and the dash, console and other vinyl parts will need to have their protection renewed. So, here's what I recommend:

* You should follow all of the steps for the Weekly Interior Cleanup.
* Also vacuum the interior carpet, seats, seat crevices and console.
* You should also clean the interior glass with a good glass cleaner and a microfiber detailing towel.
* You must apply a vinyl protectant with an ultraviolet (UV) light inhibitor to the dash, console and tops of door panels (the areas with the most sun exposure). I find that a foam applicator works the best.
In Quarterly Interior Detailing
* You should follow all of the steps for the Monthly Interior Detailing. You should follow all Monthly Interior Detailing Steps.
* You must clean and protect all leather and vinyl upholstery.
* You must also clean and protect all rubber door, trunk and hood seals.

Cleaning your Engine Compartment

2008-05-27T01:11:00.000-07:00

For sure you don’t want your vehicle's engine compartment quite look like the spit-and-polished engines for road tests, isn’t it? Well, that’s normal. Even a car owner who's fanatical about his car's finish can neglect the under-hood area to the point where the engine block is coated with oil, the crusty remains of various liquids sit in discolored hollows, and the entire under hood area looks like it's been texture-coated with a layer of grime. So, let’s face it, if you need a hand cleaner nearby just to open your hood, maybe it's time for some overdue attention.

There are also several good functional reasons to devote some time here, aside from the warm, fuzzy feeling you'll get from having a clean engine compartment. An example for this is that, the dirtier your engine, the easier it is for outside foreign material to get inside, where it can do some real harm. Dirt particles can drop in when you check a dipstick, remove the lid from a fluid reservoir, you must pull a spark plug, and so on.

The thick, built-up dirt and grime on the engine can also compromise its ability to dissipate heat, which cause it to run hotter than normal. The grease and oil can deteriorate coolant hoses and affect electrical wiring. Aside from this, if you have an oil leak, you'll need to clean the motor anyway just to locate its source.

As a rule of thumb, you should give your engine compartment a good going-over about once a year. Always make it part of your spring-cleaning routine. By simply keeping its appearance inoffensive is enough for most car owners. However, some people decide to go the extra step and thoroughly detail it, as well, with polish and even selected repainting.

Coming Clean-There are some different ways to attack the engine clean-up problem. The home driveway approach with a hose and spray-on engine degreaser is the most common method, available at any auto-parts store. One big drawback here is that degreasing an engine can leave quite a mess under the vehicle and this can eventually contaminate the body of water at the end of your particular sewer system. A good alternative to this is to take your mess to the local coin-operated carwash. The standard high-pressure hose, together with your engine degreaser, will do a good job. In addition, many coin-ops now have an engine degreasing mode just for this purpose.

Turning the car over to a professional detailer to steam clean the engine is still another alternative. When you're looking at a thick layer of caked-on grease, this option will not only save you work, but also avoid leaving a memorable mess in your wake.
It is preferable to clean the engine while it's cold to avoid the possibility of burning yourself on hot parts. Even if it has a lot of caked-on grunge, you may want to warm it up for a few minutes to help the degreaser do its job.

Moreover, preparation is important. You don’t want the water getting into places it doesn't belong. For engines with either a carburetor or throttle-body fuel-injector system, you should remove the air cleaner and slip a thick-ply plastic bag (like a food storage bag) over the throttle-body opening. Then, secure it with tape so no water can seep through. On cars with multipoint fuel injection, you should tape plastic over the air intake opening. Do the same with the distributor, if so equipped, and any other major electrical components or obvious openings. When you need to remove or disconnect any wires or hoses, first label them with a piece of tape and waterproof marker so you remember where they go. And never forget to plug any openings in the hose connections.

Smart Driving During Winter

2008-05-24T02:11:00.000-07:00

Basically, winter weather conditions take many interesting forms. In Southern California, it brings rain while in Florida, it brings tourists. However, in the mountains or above the Mason Dixon Line, it means something entirely different. Usually, those who live in severe winter areas have familiar tactics to deal with those mornings when another 18 inches of snow has fallen. When you’re a deep-snow novice, though, and plan to head due north or into the mountains for a ski vacation, read carefully. That picture postcard of freshly driven snow laying like a pure white comforter over the landscape can be ugly especially if you're not used to it. You must consider the following as an automotive primer on real winter.

When you need to get moving the morning following a serious snowstorm, develop a pre-storm strategy. Hopefully you have a snow blower and the time to spend clearing an exit lane for your automobile. Or else, park at the base of the driveway, just out of the path of the snowplow. A good mountain snowfall can nearly obscure your car. When your vehicle is properly prepared for the weather, it won't suffer. But one thing to consider is that the bright, sunny day that often follows heavy snows can encase the vehicle in ice as the layer of snow next to the car melts, then freezes back up as the sun drops quickly in the evening. The solution is to dig the car out of its snowy tomb by mid-morning. New, dry snow is a lot lighter per shovel-full rather than aging wet snow. Starting the car’s engine and defroster, as soon as you've got the snow shoveled away from the doors will give you a head start on your exit. You just have to make sure the snow is cleared away from the exhaust pipe.

Forecast Ahead
First word of caution: You should pay close attention to weather forecasts—either on the local news or transportation departments. The weather at 8,000 feet is very different than the weather a short drive down from that altitude. Typically, long-time residents of heavy snow areas have an entire arsenal of necessary tools—snow shovels, ice scrapers, brooms. A supply of sand or cat litter also should be another item on your list of winter equipment. When your first effort to move your car fails, sand or litter sprinkled on the snow/ice mixture can provide enough traction to break out of your snow tomb. Snow boots and heavy gloves are also a must. Also, never forget to bring chains! An all-too-common myth is that 4WD vehicles can handle any weather condition; however that’s simply not the case. Many transportation departments require chains or heavy snow tires on 4WD vehicles in severe conditions. You should practice putting the chains on in good, clear, dry weather. For those without 4WD, here's an obvious but seldom overlooked tip: you must know if you've got front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The chains will not do any good on the rear tires if those are not the drive wheels.

Driving Tips:
Generally, the best guideline is to take it slow and avoid quick acceleration and sharp turns. Keep plenty of distance between yourself and other cars or any obstacle. Braking on ice is like not braking at all. Your vehicle may become a spinning sled. A few taps on the brake pedal far in advance of where you have to stop will test the road surface and give you time to make necessary adjustments. When you're cruising down the road and see a patch of slush or black ice ahead, slow your speed before you hit the bad patch, then coast over it.

Safety Provisions
If you've got your vehicle dug out and you're ready to go. You should make sure you're also ready for worst-case snow-bound scenarios: roadside flares, bags of sand or cat litter, flashlight, shovel, ice scraper and broom, blankets and/or heavy clothing for you and your passengers, food and water. This sounds dire; however, if you're traveling in a remote area and get stuck, you'll be glad for the extra provisions.

Race Shop Safety Tricks

2008-05-23T01:06:00.000-07:00

One of the issue at all levels of racing is maintaining a safe race shop, from the weekend racer competing as a hobby to the top professionals whose lives revolve around having a safe work environment. Stock Car Racing spoke with a pair of shop foremen from the ranks of NASCAR’s Winston Cup Series. They are Wood Brothers Racing’s Randy Merriman and Ganassi Racing’s Roger Mears. They offered their input on maintaining a safe shop. So, here are several tips offered by Mears and Merriman:

* Eyewear
According to Mears eyewear is one of the first thing we really stay on top, especially in the fabrication area of the shop with all the cutting and grinding and working with grinding materials and things. We really have to focus on the face shields and the eye protection. Some guys tend to get in a hurry and not want to throw their safety goggles on. This is probably one of the biggest issues that seem to be ongoing and one that we have to stay on top of these guys about.

* Fire extinguishers
Merriman- He has one purchase at the top of his priority list in setting up a race shop.
According to Merriman the first thing (a local racer) needs to buy is a fire extinguisher. It is the first and foremost thing a local racer got to have, proper fire equipment to put a fire out in case you catch anything on fire. Then always make sure your fire equipment is up-to-date and kept up-to-date, which we do. Your fire extinguishers must be properly marked.

* Fire prevention
According to Mears, one thing we do is make sure we don’t get any sparks in the race car. When the cars come back from the race we make sure all the lines—oil lines and fuel lines and plumbing and seat covers and anything that’s flammable or that sparks could hurt. This is taken out of the cars before they go back to the departments to be turned around for the next race.

* Proper attire
Gloves are among the significant part of accident prevention. Well-protected hands can mean the difference between consistently having minor hand injuries and virtually no hand injuries.

* Secure welding area
OSHA inspects welding areas to make certain, they’re kept safe and secure, free of mislabeled containers and flammable materials.

* Proper disposal system
A disposal system for waste products is needed in a race shop. Merriman stated that if you’re building a car from the ground up, you’re going to need everything there to do the job from the ground up, which would mean generating paint residue and stuff like that. You should have all that taken care of. You don’t have to throw it out in the environment any more. You cannot do that. Plus your oils and gases, you’ve got to have some way to dispose of them properly. And since you have them there, you have to have something that they can stay contained in, containers that are properly labeled.

* Cleanliness
Having a clean race shop and having safe race shop go hand-in-hand. According to Mears, cleanliness is something we work really hard for. Most of us believe in promoting cleanliness and that the cleaner you keep things the better job you’ll do. Clean floors mean keeping oil and liquids off the floor. Oil and liquids are things you could step on and slip and fall on. By the floors being painted and clean, you can often tell what’s on the floor and keep it clean that way. You should keep things also picked up so you don’t fall on them.

*Communication
By simply letting shop employees know basic rules of safety or giving them periodic refreshers is a key to have a safe work environment. This can also be accomplished with scheduled safety meetings. The verbal communication on site is a key as well.

How to Style your Car

2008-05-22T01:36:00.000-07:00

Are you a type of a car owner who intended to improve the aesthetic appearance of your car? Do you want to get in on that aspect and elegant sports? So, here are a few pointers to help you dress up your car.

What products to choose from: When you are deciding what kind of adjustments made to your car, you should first take into account that there is a multitude of products that are sold out there that claim superior performance and economical. However, the reality is that there are some good and others, and many of the bad ones. You should be picky when looking for car accessories and always remember that it is not a bad idea to see the brands established before considering untested marks or brands.

The wheels: One of the first things which a car enthusiast does when you dress in a car is to replace the existing wheels with these custom made ones. However, this is not just for the performance seen from the wheels and tires also improve the handling of a car and performance. Choosing of the wheels and height between the shorter will be the next step. The bigger wheels draw a lot of attention and further increase the appearance of a car dramatically. On the other hand smaller wheels have to look vintage e or retro look.

Stickers Galore: One of the cheapest ways to modify and customize their cars is the implementation of designs sticker on the car hood or other parts of the body. The sticker designs range from popular performance pieces logos of manufacturers, as well as those designed for rally racing and Indy races. When they are able to make their own stickers, it is very important to obtain permission to copy a design that is protected by copyright. Moreover, if you are thinking of putting stickers on the hood of your car, you should choose the type that will not be damaged by heat from the engine. Among the very ideal for use in car hoods are the metallic foil stickers.

The reduction kits: Reducing your car means making your car becomes more stable in that in addition to providing an aggressive and sporty appearance. The automobiles are not the only ones who have the reduction kits, so if you have a truck, it is most likely, there is a reduction in appropriations kit for your vehicle. Even though having less travel in the improvement of handling, free trade is poor quality walk from the car and stiffer springs are shorter. These are several things you can do to improve the appearance and the position of your vehicle. Your vehicle is natural; so that you can represent that you want to look attractive. Of course, having a good looking vehicle also means spending thousands of dollars. If this is your passion, then the paying of additional payment will not be a problem with you.

Tail lights: These are an indispensable component of any automobile which rolls off the factory. These are mounted right at the car’s rear end to purposely warn the driver of the subsequent vehicle of your car’s presence. Usually, these emit red light when the switch is turned on. But, since almost all vehicles use red bulb or red lens, some car enthusiasts find very traditional and boring. That is why there are vehicles that feature a customized tail light using other color of bulb or shade of lens. In customizing your car’s tail light would also improve the car’s aesthetic appearance. Some tail light accessories that you can make use of are the tail light cover and the tail light guard. These can either be used to enhance the looks of your car’s rear end and to provide protection to the tail light assembly against various road elements that may cause damage to the tail light.

Routine Car Maintenance

2008-05-21T01:46:00.000-07:00

Many people take pride in owning a reliable, attractive car or truck. Keeping a vehicle dependable and aesthetically pleasing is a normal maintenance regimen. To some people, taking their vehicle to the car wash every two weeks and to the quick-lube joint every 3,000 miles is their idea of routine maintenance. However, cars and trucks need more than this to maintain their showroom appearance, to continue to run correctly, and to optimize the factory's safety features. One way to keep a vehicle clean when you're in hurry is car washing, but personal hands-on time is also necessary to protect the paint and to check parts and fluids. Here are some products discussed that are already in many people's garages.

* Belts & Hoses
Check all of the engine's accessory belts before starting any long trip or after every 50,000 miles of use. Nowadays, many cars are equipped with a serpentine belt that runs all of the accessories, so if that belt breaks, you can lose your power steering, water pump and charging system immediately. You should inspect the engine and look at the belt (or belts) to see if there is visible damage, abnormal wear or small hairline cracks. Replace any belt which shows signs of wear. Although a belt appears to be in good condition, it should be replaced every 50,000 miles as preventative maintenance. Like belts, radiator and heater hoses are made also of rubber. Their condition must be checked periodically. Neither the upper and lower radiator hoses can rupture from internal pressure and age without the driver knowing it. If that happens, the coolant spews out, and the engine can seize from excessive heat buildup. In general, you should inspect all hoses for wear, including hairline cracks and soft, bulging spots. Hoses which come in contact with brackets or other metal parts are prone to wear in these areas. Though, the hoses pass visual inspection, we recommend changing all the water hoses every 50,000 miles.

*Brakes
Brakes are the most critical system of a vehicle. Most people never look at the master cylinder until they have brake failure. In late-model vehicles, the master cylinders are often made of semi-opaque plastic which allows inspecting the fluid level without taking off the cover, as is the case with cast-iron master cylinders. In addition to checking fluid level, you should look for leaks where the brake lines attach to the master cylinder and where the master cylinder bolts to the power booster. When you see signs of brake fluid, tighten the fittings using a line wrench on brake-line nuts to prevent against rounding off their shoulders. When the master cylinder is leaking at the rear, replace it.
In the interest of safety, get under the vehicle and inspect the rubber hoses that go to the wheels for excessive wear or cracks; replace these hoses as necessary. Lastly, check brake shoes and/or caliper pads regularly. Worn pads can damage the brake rotor, turning a simple maintenance job into an expensive replacement procedure.

*Lubrication
One of the key factors in keeping your engine running well is adequate lubrication. The fluid level must be checked weekly, and the oil must be changed frequently (every 3,000 miles in older engines) to keep it clean. The most common effect of neglected oil inspection is an engine seize or other type of catastrophic failure. Checking the oil level is more convenient than replacing and engine. You should consult your owner's manual regarding oil-change intervals and lubricant specifications. Using synthetic oil is recommended because it resists degradation better than conventional oil and stays cleaner longer. When you choose to use standard fossil oil, check your owner's manual for the recommended viscosity in various weather conditions. Temperature affects your oil and its lubricating effectiveness, and using the incorrect weight—such as straight 30-weight in winter in cold country—can be harmful to the internal parts you're trying to protect.

Maintaining Fluid Levels

2008-05-20T00:42:00.000-07:00

Some vehicles which operate in extreme conditions will require more attention that those that do not. The hotter the weather, the more stress you put on the cooling system of your car. Several cars and light trucks also burn more oil during warm weather. Cold conditions can bring on frozen batteries or windshield washer fluid lines, and among other problems. Cars and trucks which are driven regularly in warm or cold weather areas should be closely monitored and maintained.

* YOU SHOULD KEEP ACCURATE RECORDS
Knowing when to service your vehicle is important as doing the job. Oil must be changed every 3, 000 miles or every 3-months. Cars and trucks which are stored for long periods of time should have oil changed every 6-month. Transmission fluid must be flushed and added once a year or every 30, 000 miles, and topped off when necessary. The coolant must be routinely changed once each year, preferably before unseasonably warm or cold weather. The brake fluid can be checked with each oil change and replaced every two years or every 30,000 miles. The power steering fluids must be inspected twice per year and topped off when necessary. Washer fluids must be checked regularly and filled when needed.

*BATTERY
The non-sealed batteries require water to operate correctly. Small cells which look like small contact lens holders sitting on the top of battery can easily be popped off to check current water levels. Distilled water must always be used. You should check levels every 3-months.

*BRAKE FLUIDS
The automotive brake fluids protect your car against corrosion and lubricate the many facets of the brake system. You should consult your owners manual to find out which type of brake fluid your vehicle requires, (DOT3 brake fluid is the standard for most cars and light trucks. The brake fluids are classified as DOT3, DOT4 or DOT5. Draining the brake fluid that's currently in your vehicle is known as "bleeding the brakes." This must be done every 2 years or 24, 000-30,000 miles. You'll need to locate your brake fluid reservoir in order to top off brake fluid. It is always located against the front panel of the car, near the windshield. Basically, containers are rectangular and have a solid medal clamp holding them closed. As brake fluid eats away at the paint on cars, it's often recommended that you never poor directly from the container into the reservoir. Instead, you should use an old turkey baster to refill fluid to the "fill" line. Then, pop off the medal clamp on the reservoir by prying it loose with a screw driver. Add fluid and replace lid and clamp.

NOTE: The Brake fluids tend to absorb water. Don’t top off fluids during wet or humid conditions.

*WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
The windshield washer fluid is a weak mixture of glass cleaner and water. Open the hood of your car and locate the fluid reservoir to top off fluids. Generally, it's not hard to find. Almost all tanks are large and made of clear plastic, easily revealing the almost-always blue fluid clearly. You can pour the fluid into the reservoir directly.

*RADIATOR FLUID
Radiator fluid or the coolants are what power your cooling system and protect your vehicle from overheating. The low or non-existent cooling levels can lead to expensive repairs and permanent engine damage. The coolant never runs dry on its own. When you find yourself needing to continuously refill the radiator fluid, you may have a leak.
You should locate the plastic reservoir radiator tank under the hood of your car. The fluid inside the tank will either be green or red. You can identify also the radiator tank by following the hose from the radiator to the tank. Then, unscrew the cap on the tank and add coolant to the "full" line.

Post-Race Inspections

2008-05-16T01:58:00.000-07:00

When the green flag drops, being prepared is the biggest advantage any racer can have. To complete a thorough inspection of the car is one of the best ways to be prepared. The idea is to stop trouble as soon as it starts. A good inspection is not only about being ready, but also being safe. Here are some top-post race inspection tips for your safety:

--Keep It Safe--

• You should check all Grade 8 SAE bolts for self-locking nuts. Then, make sure they are still in place and tight. Always make weekly checks for frame damage and cracks in welding. This is more important on dirt where the track can attack a car. You should also check seatbelts weekly. Watch for rips, tears, ease-of-release mechanisms and mounting points regularly. Check for wear at points where the belts go through the seat. Then, Look under the seat to see the mounting of the submarine belt. You should also check the brakes after every race. If the pads are cooked, when the bleed valves tight, and also the hoses/lines not damaged/nicked. The rotors should not be discolored or cracked. And also the spin rotors to check for warp.

--Parts Checks— When all the safety checks are complete, the list is broken down to specific areas of the car.

• You should check for gouges in all machined areas, excessive play in bearings and spindle washer/nuts. Look for cracks in tie-rod holes in spindles. Also check for excessive play in bearings, the condition of threads on the lugs and how the lugs are mounted to the hub. Then, slowly spin the hub to check for out-of-round. Then, look for cracks in the stud holes. Check the mounting, excessive play and threads for damage and sufficient grease of the Upper/lower ball joints.

• Check all nuts for tightness, arms for bends or gouges, bushings for wear and the mounting plate for cracked welds at the frame of the Upper/lower A-arms. Also check for tie-rod ends and sleeves. You should look for bends or gouges, excessive play in the ends and cracks in the sleeves.

• The steering box including pitman and idler arms. You should use a ball-joint spreader to check the flex in each piece, look for leaks in the power steering box, pump and lines. Then, Run through left/right turns to check for binds and less than desired travel. Also check for the center link. This is a piece which should be painted regularly. Then, paint will chip if hit by a rock or flexed enough to bend. You should check holes for taper and wear, and check that the washers and cotter pins are properly attached.

•. Check Brake lines. You should check each line is one at a time to ensure thoroughness. Then, start at the master cylinder and go to each corner of the car with a clean rag to check for leaks. Run your fingers along each line to check for nicks and gouges. And look for kinks and sharper than normal bends that could cut the flow of fluid. All fasteners which include hold-down clamps should be tight.

• Check for the calipers. If the mounting and hold-together bolts tight, when the bleeders tight and not roughed up? Is/are the pin(s) that floats the pads without bind and is the pad wear OK and evenly distributed.

• Also check for the radiator and cap. If it is it clogged, when too many fins bent, and also check all mounts for secure fasteners. If the cap tight and is working in order.

• Check all mountings, nuts and cotter pins (if used) for proper installation of the shocks. If there are any dents in the outer tube, when the shafts free of gouges, and look closely for any contact from nearby components.

Things to Know About Asphalt Tires

2008-05-15T00:53:00.000-07:00

Some car owners especially those non-racers think that tires are nothing more than black rubber doughnuts requiring little maintenance other than an occasional rotation. However, to car racers, tires are so much more. Tires are a car racer’s direct link to the track. They give feedback to how the car is handling, are glaring indicators of what may be wrong with a suspension setup, and are a key to winning. In car racing, it pays to know your tires. Here are some top tips on what every racer must know about asphalt tires. Several tips may be geared toward radials and some at bias tires. However, it all aids to deepen your tire knowledge—and that can do nothing but help you win.

*Hot Pressure is King--The number-one factor in any given tire’s performance is the pressure which the tire is working at on the track, or hot pressure. This hot pressure must be tuned within 0.5 psi of a target that was given by the tire manufacturer or determined through testing. Failure to hit the target may lead a team to chase their tail with the car setup. You should try to tune the car to handle at the target pressures. Then, you may wish to vary the pressures slightly with changing track conditions during a race if it is long enough for pit stops. Without bleeders, during practice keep good records of pressure are build so that the cold pressure can be determined for the race sets.

*You Should Always Use Valve Caps to Minimize Potential Air Loss through the Air Valve--This is a very simple solution which a lot of people ignore. Valve caps are a safety device which you can put on your valve to keep the pressure in the tire. You must work very hard to get your stagger and setup just right, and if you have a defective valve core, especially when you hit bumps on a track, little bits of air escape because of centrifugal force. So, when you have long periods of racing, you could lose quite a bit of air, and you are left wondering why your setup has gone away.

*Bleeders?--Bleeders are difficult to maintain and are a source of air leakage. This is another way which a flat tire can occur, and seldom leak is difficult to diagnose from a bleeder. Bleeders allow higher starting pressures from a racer’s standpoint, without building up to the point of traction loss. This means the car feels better for about five laps than a tire which was started at lower pressures without bleeders. In any car racing series we are involved in, we will try to outlaw bleeders. That reduces the risk of a flat since keeping the playing field level.

* You Must Use Only Properly Calibrated, Quality Air Pressure and Tire Temperature Gauges--The tire performance is very dependent on air pressure. There are many instances where poor quality gauges and/or good gauges that are not calibrated properly will give you a difference of up to five pounds psi. So, to know exactly what you are doing, you have to have a properly calibrated gauge. This applies to tire temperature gauges. This is because the temperature information you gain will help you interpret how your car is set up.

* You Should Contact Patch Area Changes Significantly With Pressure--This is the main reason why hot pressure is so critical. The contact patch area is roughly the load on the tire divided by the air pressure. From this, you would think that lower pressure is always better. That is true only until the tire doesn’t have enough pressure in it to support a stable contact patch. When you go below that pressure, the contact patch gets distorted and very inefficient. This causes the corner speeds to slow down. There is the concern of sidewall flex. Going too low can be risky for the sidewalls, and the manufacturer should be consulted for the minimum pressures to prevent this.

How to Perform Car Maintenance by Yourself

2008-05-13T23:19:00.000-07:00

As a car owner, it is very important that you know how to perform basic maintenance on your car. By performing the maintenance yourself, you will surely save a bundle of money and also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your vehicle is in peak operating condition. Here’s a list of what you need to do and when to do it.

*Every time you fill up your gas tank, you should check the engine oil level and add more if needed. You must consult the owner's manual for the proper viscosity. When your car appears to be losing an abnormal amount of oil (or if you spot leaks on your garage or driveway floor), you may have an engine leak.

* You should also check the coolant level in the coolant surge tank and add the proper coolant if necessary. Basically, the coolant surge tank is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment. You should replace the coolant if it is dirty or has a rusty appearance.

* You should check the other fluid levels. The reservoirs for all of these fluids should be filled to the top of windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.

* Inspect your tires weekly. You should check your car's tires for damage, adequate inflation, and wear. Check the also tire tread by inserting a penny in the tire grooves (with Lincoln's head facing the tread) – when you see the top of Lincoln's head, then the tread is worn and the tires should be replaced. If the tires need air, inflate them to the required pressure per the car owner's manual. However, if you don't have your owner's manual, look for the manufacturer's information label inside of the car-- it can often be found inside the driver's side door or printed inside the glove box. When your tires show damage or wear, replace or rotate them as necessary. Never forget to check the "Space Saver" spare tire in your car's trunk for proper inflation as well (and if you don't already have a spare tire, be sure to get one). Always remember, properly inflated tires are a necessity for safe driving and they can also help your car achieve better gas mileage.

* You should check that all of your interior and exterior lights are working monthly. These include the license plate light, side marker lights, headlights (the high beams as well ), parking lights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signal lights, reverse lights, instrument panel lights, and hazard warning flasher. When any of these lights are not working, replace the bulbs right away. The Defective lights, especially faulty turn signal and brake lights, can be hazardous. This can also result in you getting ticketed.

* Change your oil every 3000 miles. Generally, car manufacturers recommend that you change your engine oil and filter every 3,000 miles. To change your own oil, you need the following tools: socket wrench, oil filter wrench, drain pan, 4 quarts of oil (5W30 or 10W30, depending on your car type), oil filter, and a drain plug gasket. You will also need car ramps in order to raise your car up so that you can get underneath it. When your car is jacked up, you should remove the drain plug using your socket wrench and drain out the old oil into the drain pan. However, when all of the oil is drained out, remove the old gasket from the drain plug and replace it with a new gasket before screwing in the plug. After that, remove the old oil filter using your oil filter wrench. You should be aware that some residual oil will drain out into your drain pan. Then, lube the rubber O-ring on your new oil filter and tighten it hand tight - don't use the wrench because you may over-tighten the filter. You should use a rag to wipe up any spilled oil, collect all of your tools along with the used oil, and clear out from under the car. Lastly, add your new oil by removing the oil fill cap in the top of the engine and pouring in 4 quarts of fresh oil.

Making Your Car Look New

2008-05-12T23:40:00.000-07:00

Most of us love to hear our friends asking how we made our car look so good, or how we keep it looking so new. Isn’t it? It’s true that resale value is greatly affected by how your car looks and the better it looks, the more it is worth. Unluckily, regardless of how much we care for our car, the inevitable does and will happen. Scratches, nicks and dings from road debris, bird droppings and tar from road work and construction, sun damage, acid rain and lot more things that are detrimental to the finish and look of the vehicle. So, here are several tips on how to minimize these things happening and to lessen or remove their damage to your cars finish.

*Bird droppings and tar are difficult to remove from the paint and chrome. Basically, bird droppings are acidic and will etch the paint or even chrome if left on too long, especially in the hot sun. Most bird droppings break up with a little soap and water. A few may require soaking by placing a wet, bunched up paper towel directly on top of the spot and leaving it there until it becomes easy to remove. This is better than picking at it as this can eventually paint to chip or come off on older cars. Tar requires the use of a special tar removal spray. These are made so they won’t be caustic to your paint and will quickly remove the sticky tar.

* Generally, sun damage is going to dull your paint. This can be fixed by using a car polish or, in really tough cases with bad oxidation, rubbing compound. This will also remove most small scratches. Car polishes and rubbing compound usually come as either a liquid or paste and is applied to the paint in a circular motion. After it dries to a haze, then, it is buffed off with a clean terry towel. You must be sure to thoroughly wash your car first as the dirt can contain contaminants that will scratch your paint and make it worse (be sure to use specific car cleaning solutions only). This will make the paint smooth and must be followed up with either a protective car wax or car polish. Synthetic car polishes will last longer; however, car waxes do give the best shine. A great secret of the detailing superstars is the use 2 coats of car polish. And then, you must follow that with 2 coats of a carnauba wax. This will surely give you superior protection and an unbeatable showroom new car shine.

* Usually, nicks and dings occur together. Parking lot dings are the most popular where someone’s car door will typically nick the paint and leave a small ding. The best way to do this is the use paint less dent removal expert. They are in pretty much every town under names which can remove almost any small dent or ding. They remove the entire ding and all you are left with is the nick. Typically, a nick can easily be filled in with touchup paint and a toothpick. You can buy a small container of touchup paint for your exact color at your local dealer at a very affordable price. Don’t use a brush as it will go on too thick and this will make the touchup obvious. A toothpick puts the paint directly in to the nick or deep scratch.

*It’s a fact that there are more of the vehicles on the road which have inefficient and worn or cloudy and improperly aimed headlights. If you are one of these people, then you’re at a higher risk of an accident if you drive with inefficient headlights without enough light output due to opaque or cloudy lenses. Not only is your vision reduced, but also other cars will not be able to see you with dim lights. There is a patented headlight restoration and cleaning kit that has been proven effective in restoring previously cloudy lenses to new again at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Headlight restoration will greatly improve your driving safety and make your car look so much better.

Engine Tuning Guidelines

2008-05-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

When your engine is not running quite right, it is easy enough for us to tell you to send your engine back to the builder. Isn’t it? However, that isn’t always an option. There will be times when you absolutely need to send the motor back to the engine builder— catastrophic failure or anything remotely close would probably be one of those times. So, here are some engine tuning guidelines that will help you get your car running right at the track.

* Most Saturday night short track engines are equipped with several kinds of Holley-brand carburetor. Car racers found out that racing fuel will make the gasket between the metering block and the carburetor housing swell enough to change the fuel curve the engine sees. That is reason why you want to replace it and the bowl gasket with new ones.

*You should remove first the four bowl screws. This allows you to remove both the bowl and the metering block. As you removed the bowl, it is wise to replace the power valve with a new one of the same number. It can be done with a 1-inch wrench. Blowing through the holes in the metering block with compressed air is also often a good idea. This will really help the throttle response.

*Most Saturday night Street Stock cars are required to run stock-appearing valvesprings. These come from companies such as K-Motion, Comp Cams, Crower, and Isky and are 1¼ inches in diameter, 110 pounds, with a seat pressure of 250 pounds over the nose, depending on the lift. Heat by high rpm or water temperature is by far the major downfall of valvesprings. When the engine has been run hot or at high rpm, the springs should be changed at midseason. In changing the valvesprings, remove all of the spark plugs and valve covers, as well as all of the rocker arms. Then, shoot compressed air into one cylinder at a time

* Midseason is a good time to check the distributor. For sure, you want to put the engine at top-dead center and place a mark for the distributor housing down to the intake. You must be sure to make a mental note of the direction of the rotor button for reinstallation. Then, remove the distributor and inspect the gear for excessive wear. Look carefully at the roll pin that holds the gear.

* In moving to the top of the distributor, you should check for shaft wear or lost motion. You must be sure to inspect the cap and rotor button for cracks or wear. When you have inspected these components, remove the rotor button. Then, you’ll want to check your weights and springs for excessive wear. When there is any rust, lubricate them with light oil. You should be careful to check the weights at maximum extension to be sure that the stop is not worn. When it is worn, it will allow the weights to sling upward. This can lead to an increase in total timing and break rotor buttons. You must also be sure to replace any parts as needed, reinstall the distributor, and set the timing.

* Oftentimes, an overlooked part on an average Saturday night race car is the battery and charging system. You should always check the water level and connections, as well as the general appearance of the battery externally.

* Several race cars that run short features, such as 25 to 30 laps, can get by without an alternator. I personally don’t recommend this. The argument here is of the additional weight and horsepower loss if you run with an alternator. In my experience, I have also seen that a car running without an alternator at less than 12 volts is hurting the power. When you’re still in doubt, check your battery voltage immediately after the race—always make sure that the engine is grounded to the frame.

Sweating the Details of Crankshaft and Rod-Bearing Installation

2008-05-08T22:31:00.000-07:00

There is no doubt that a successful race-engine program requires enormous attention to detail. You simply can't overlook the smallest operation with so much at stake. In taking a look at several engine assembly operations, Circle Track thought it would be helpful to take a close look at installing crankshaft and rod bearings.

--The Process--

Installation of the crankshaft and rod bearings requires the completion of two primary operations. First, is a complete check of bearing clearances for proper fit, and the second is bearing preparation for final installation. There is much detail in between. However, these two serve as the major operations in the installation process. Since we move into the process of checking and installing the crankshaft and rod bearings, we work with the assumption that block-machining operations are complete and the housing bore is correct. Jackson also indicated that the acquisition of a new or used bearing manual is very significant throughout this process for specification reference.

--Main-Bearing Clearance--

A small amount of block detailing is recommended before the actual clearance check begins. Deburring and chamfering the edges of the main caps and journals permits an accurate bearing fit especially during the clearance check and final installation procedure. It is a recommended standard practice in the bearing installation process.

--Oiling System--

The next step is an inspection of the oiling-system passages for any flow restrictions. This is caused by bearing overlap. Because of differences in machining methods in manufacturing, bearing oiling holes always don't line up properly with the oiling system passages in the block. Since we were on the subject of oil flow, Taggart demonstrated a technique used on the mains with extended oil feed grooves. The bearing is marked at both ends of the groove.

--Clearance--

We should verify that the bearings have correct clearance to the crankshaft. This begins by taking measurements around the crankshaft journal. If the crankshaft measurement is set, it is directly transferred to the dial bore gauge. By using this method assures a specific crankshaft to main-bore measurement comparison for correct clearance. Nowadays, the bearings are set into place and the main cap is torqued down.

--Crankshaft Placement--

The next step is the placement of crankshaft into the block. This step is taken to check the bearings for proper fit and also to determine correct crankshaft endplay. Prior to starting these checks, Taggart demonstrated a recommended method JAE to prevent damage to the journals when the crankshaft is placed in the block. Before the crankshaft is put into place, tubular plastic sheaths are positioned over the main-cap studs in order prevent any damage caused by accidental stud-to-crankshaft contact.

--Rod-bearing Clearance--

Rod-bearing check starts by verifying the manufacturers' rod specifications. Out of the box, each rod-housing bore is measured in order to confirm published specifications. Next is a check of the rod bolt-torque and rod bolt-stretch values. With the rod properly supported, the bolt-stretch and also bolt-torque specifications are determined.

--Bearing Prep--

Before the bearing preparation begins, Taggart recommends numbering of the bearings in the order they were removed. Numbering the bearings assures that they will be returned to their original checking location in final installation. This method induces repeatability of the dimensions obtained during clearance-checking procedure.

--Cleaning--

When all the bearings have been prepared, it's time for a complete bearing cleanup. The first cleaning is accomplished with the use of standard parts washing solution. After all the parts are thoroughly dried, they are cleaned again. This cleaning takes place with the use of brake clean that has high-evaporation characteristics. This final cleaning removes the remaining residues.

--Installation and Final Checks--

Before the start of final installation, Taggart noted that maintaining the bearing measurements and clearances relies on returning bearings to their original checking locations. It was pointed out that a quality installation requires the use of a premium assembly lube.

Next is the final assembly of the rods. As the rods are being torqued down, a feeler gauge is used to separate the rods. A check of correct rod separation is repeated at all of the rod locations which ensure complete and successful installation.

--Sweating the Details--

In the end, it's clear the bearing installation process demands lots of effort and attention to detail. Jackson noted that the time and effort that are put into this procedure will yield big payoffs in the performance and life of an engine and it can't be overstated that there's no substitute for sweating the details.

How to Keep Your Engine Running Strong For the Entire Season

2008-05-07T23:56:00.000-07:00

Most racers want their car to have a durable engine which will run strong throughout the entire racing season. It is very important to any racing driver for some very simple reasons. First, not having to fix an engine after every race helps you keep your costs down. And most important, if you’re running at the end of every race, your chances are that much better that you’ll win more. Engine durability isn’t an accident. You should plan your engine combination for the type of racing you do, how many races you will run and what you can afford. A Winston Cup engine may have the power you dream of having. However, it is designed to last one weekend before a rebuild and requires maintenance every time it runs. This isn’t the engine for a Saturday-night racer who needs to run an entire season.

In order to give you some ideas on what you can do to your engine, here are some tips over to help you through the season.

Quality Parts - You should start out with high-quality parts. Starting with better parts means your engine will be built better, in the long run ends up costing you less. In using the latest, trickiest part that doesn’t have the track record of a proven part will most likely let you down. You should let someone else be the R&D department. Valvetrain components are the most highly stressed parts in the engine. These have a huge impact on performance. You should work with a manufacturer and make sure that all the valvetrain parts are designed to work together.
Warm Your Oil- Before you start racing around the track, you should use an oil heater or let the engine run to warm the oil up to normal operating temperature. Cold oil is thicker and won’t flow through the oil filter as easily, minimizing the lubrication of the engine.

Preparation and Records- You should check everything. Don’t assume that the parts you just received are the same as the last set you bought, and don’t assume that anything is labeled correctly or is the correct size. You should check and double-check to maintain high quality control. You should also check the timing before each race. When the timing is advanced too far, detonation will occur. The end result can be a melted piston. When the timing is retarded then the engine can run hot, creating overheating problems.

Check Valvespring Pressure- Valvespring maintenance is an important job which will lengthen engine life and give you peak engine performance. You should check valvespring pressure weekly along with checking valve adjustment.

Valves- You should check the valve lash on a weekly basis. This is a good way to detect when there is a bad lifter, bad lobe on the cam or some other problem. When there is a problem that keeps occurring, you should check further to see what the cause is before the entire engine is lost.

Keep it Clean and Lubricated- Dirt and debris act as an abrasive and destroy or shorten the life of an engine. An engine can never be too clean prior to assembly. You should work in a clean environment.

Check Your Oil Filter- inspect the inside of the oil filter is one of the cheapest forms of protection a racer. This maintenance process must be done on a weekly basis. In cutting and inspecting your filter allows you to determine a problem before it becomes a major mishaps.

Oil, Fuel and Filters- Always use clean, quality oils and fuels and you should make sure your filters are clean. This is the cheapest insurance you can buy

Learn from Failures- When failure occurs, find the root cause and keep records so it will not happen again. You should keep the parts or pictures with your records for future reference. Make sure you understand why the failure happened and how the part must be improved to keep it from happening again

Finding the Almighty Racing Dollar

2008-05-07T00:30:00.000-07:00

Many racers are unsuccessful in finding sponsorship support because they never start looking or they are ill prepared for the adventure. Looking for sponsorship-serious financial support-is an adventure with many downs and only some ups. Unluckily, a majority of racers would rather whine about the lack of sponsorship, how difficult it is to obtain financial backers, and how lucky those with sponsorship are rather than actually go after sponsorship. Car racers need to be prepared to earn a sponsorship since the competition for sponsorship dollars is fierce. A racer must have a marketing package that stands out and offers an outstanding return on investment for the sponsor in order to be successful at securing sponsorship. When a racer is going after sponsorship, that racer should already have the equipment necessary for racing. Here are some tips and tricks that will help a racer's sponsorship efforts significantly:

*There are two kinds of sponsors: business owners and fans. Some just enjoy seeing their name on a race car and are looking for nothing in return other than being a supporter of the sport. There are the more serious sponsors who are actually looking for a return on their investment, whether it is in media exposure, foot traffic for their business, or the opportunity to use the sponsorship for hospitality and entertainment at the race events.

*You should keep in mind that racers operating their race team as a business find success in sponsorship more often than those who do not. This is rather inexpensive to head down to the local Staples and have them create letterhead and business cards. They can help with the creation of a professional sponsorship marketing package. First impressions count.

* Telephone service is not expensive. Set up a telephone line that is dedicated only to race team business. You should make sure the people answering that phone understand the importance of a good image.

*We see racers requesting unrealistic amounts of money often. They think the sponsor should finance the team, and they feel that it is OK to go back and ask for more if the original amount was not enough. A sponsor-a successful business person-is going to give a racer what they think the opportunities offered are worth. There are no secret formulas that racers can use to figure out how their sponsorship package should be priced. However, it has a lot to do with what your package includes, along with attendance figures, the number of events being run, TV involvement, and more.

*We also see many racers selling too cheap. It is best to start high and be able to negotiate down if necessary. When you place a low value on what you are offering, the potential sponsor could decide that it is not worth getting involved. Cheap is not always best.

* You should make sure the sponsorship package you have created has a lot of value for the sponsor. The days of painting a sponsor's name on the race car and calling it sponsorship are long gone. Many racers, usually who are without sponsorship or have the nickel-and-dime sponsorships, still have not been able to understand that.

* It’s amazing how few racers see the value of having the sponsor names and/or logos on the hauler. You should keep in mind that more people are going to see that hauler traveling to and from the races than will see the race car when it is performing.

*We see proposals that promise the moon and have little chance of fulfilling that promise. Don’t promise something to a sponsor that you cannot personally guarantee. It's much safer to just say that you will be giving it your best effort-just make sure you do.

FIGHT GLOBAL WARMING!!!

2008-05-05T23:45:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons of global warming is car pollution. This adds up and sticks around. When we drive, we might not picture creating pounds of global warming pollution. However, the exhaust coming out of our car has actual weight—an average household with two medium-sized sedans emits more than 20,000 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) a year. That's ten tons of pollution which adds to the greenhouse effect. SUVs tend to emit more global warming pollution than smaller cars. Heat-trapping pollution, like from cars and trucks, can stay in the atmosphere for several decades or about a century. For instance, some emissions from Honda Civic model are still up in the atmosphere today, thickening the blanket of greenhouse gases that are heating up the planet. The population growth has helped put more cars on the road, and a strong economy has led to more cars per driver. These trends combined with poor gas mileage mean we are facing a dangerous situation.

Driving into the future
To the average, car-owning American, driving is in the top two daily pollution-causing activities. (Electricity use is the other big one, and often flights are also an area to watch.) On the bright side, the vehicle you choose and the way you drive it prepare the best opportunities you have as a driver to trim your global warming emissions. You don't need to be stuck with "Model T" gas mileage. No matter what size or type of vehicle you need, there's always a greener -- cleaner and more fuel-efficient -- choice. Cars with better gas mileage provide a triple benefit. They protect the climate and also cut America's oil dependency and they save money at the pump.

Greener cars- In choosing your car wisely is one of the most powerful choices you can make. Of course, a hybrid vehicle can be a great choice when it’s available in the size, style and price range you need. However, remember that there are a wide range of environmental effects even within a class of vehicles. You can also use the Green Ratings to make a better choice for the environment among the cars that meet your needs. For an instance, even if you're comparing five SUVs, choosing the greenest-rated one still helps fight global warming, protect air quality, and save gas.

So if you're in the market for a car and want to do something about global warming, here are some steps to take for buying a fuel-efficient car to make the greenest choice:

* You must get the right-sized car that fits your needs.First, you should identify what the primary use for your vehicle will be. When you buy a smaller vehicle that fits your everyday needs, you can use the savings in gas money to rent a truck for your infrequent boat-hauling trips.

* You should find the greenest choice in your size and price range.Once you determine the right-sized vehicle for your primary uses, use the Green Ratings for you to find the most environmentally-friendly models. Several models are offered with a range of trims and engines. The fuel economy and the Green Rating depend on the particular features, so note which trims have the best ratings before you head out to your dealership.

* You should consider whether you need options that add cost and detract from fuel economy. The four-wheel drive increases fuel consumption, so if you don't need or use it, don't buy it. You should avoid add-ons like luggage racks that add weight and/or drag, or get removable ones so you can use them only when needed. A souped-up engine guzzles gas and also adds to global warming. Nowadays, all engines in market provide plenty of power for safe and responsible driving. Not playing along with the "horsepower war" will decrease pollution and save money on car payments and at the pump.

NASCAR QUICK PIT STOP TRICKS

2008-05-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago, a 16-second pit stop used to be amazing but a low 13-second or 12-second time is almost expected nowadays. The reduction in time is due to several factors. These include the incredible athletes which make up the pit crews, the efficient choreography designed by the pit crew coaches, and the technology utilized by these teams to make the pit stops smooth and consistent. The technology can apply at any level of racing. The pit stop becomes critical for a racer leaving the weekly wars for the traveling series.

Since 1994, Mike Lingerfelt is the front tire changer for Robert Yates Racing's No. 38 M&M's(r) car on the NASCAR Nextel Cup circuit. During the 2000 Daytona 500, he gained national attention. When he attempted to retrieve a tire at the end of the stop, during the fourth pit stop of the day, Lingerfelt was hit by a car while it was leaving the pit stall. He flew into the air and suffered a fractured left femur. He was sidelined from his tire changing duties for over seven months. However, since coming back he has earned his place on pit road. He checks over his gun. The tool is protected in transit and on the job. Regular maintenance ensures that it will perform at its best.

Making sure the lug nut doesn't get stuck in the gun is a key to consistent pit stops. Teams try to combat this problem with coated lug nuts. For several years, the lug nuts used throughout motorsports were plain steel. Lately, teams have wanted high visibility and slicker lug nuts, so a yellow Teflon coating has been added. They are lightly coated inside and out that provide a cleaner release from the socket and lubrication onto the studs. Several teams take an additional step to use dry graphite spray in the socket itself. Lingerfelt does not use this. However, he knows many other changers that do. He feels that it creates an additional step and the dry graphite gets all over his other pit equipment. Most changers are using a special mixture in the socket. This is a mixture of anti-seize and a product called Ballistol. Mike Lingerfelt feels that anti-seize alone would be too thick. However, in a mixture with the Ballistol, the mixture is thinned out and provides additional lubrication.

The key gets it smoothly down the threads once the nut is on the stud. Several teams are using this same anti-seize/Ballistol mixture on the threads themselves. This again provides smooth lubrication on the threads which reduce the torque required from the impact wrench. This has reduced the time hitting the lugs 25 to 40 percent by several estimates. Not only that, another benefit to these mixtures is their ability to reduce the sticking of the lug nut glue to the threads of the stud.

One last trick that lots of the teams use for fast, consistent stops has its origins in the kitchen. The teams will use Pam cooking spray on the grill which reduces the amount of rubber sticking and blocking air to the radiator. However, teams have also begun using a quick spray of Pam on the wheel to reduce the amount of brake dirt that resides there. Reducing the brake dust on the wheel (or sticking it to the wheel with Pam) reduces the amount blown up in the changer's face.

There are several items that affect quick pit stops. These include the skills of the crewmembers, the quality of their equipment, and communication provides the anatomy of the pit stop. If tenths and hundreds of seconds matter, it comes down to many of the secrets detailed here to make the difference between first and first loser.

CAR RACER'S GUIDE TO SAFETY

2008-05-02T00:16:00.000-07:00

Safety is the most important element of racing. It is one of the best things that every racer has to be concerned with. It doesn’t matter even if you are a hobbyist or if your plan is to make it to the ranks of Winston Cup racing. What matters most are the safety concerns for everyone, and so for that, we are doing a primer in race safety. Safety equipment in racing is vital. Every racer must know how to race safely, for in racing, a good day at the track is one you can walk away from.

*Rollcage- Among the basic elements of safety for the racer is the rollcage. Since the days of convertibles thundering on the sands of Daytona Beach, this remarkable part of the race car has been in evolution. Every year we all witness drivers crawling out of torn-up cars and simply walking away. Through years of observation and engineering, rollcages have become a virtual safety cocoon that’s why they are able to do that.

*Fuel Cell- Fuel cells usually protect with three lines of defense. Generally, the first is a metal container, and the next layer is a rubberized bladder that resides inside the metal box. The metal container acts to blunt or deflect the impact. On the other hand, the bladder then deforms or distorts away from and around the intrusion. A bladder resists puncture at impact through its flexibility.

*Helmets- The primary function of helmet is to protect the head and the brain, and it is a last line of defense in an impact. Also the impact protection, a helmet must also offer fire protection in auto racing. Non–auto racing helmets don’t provide a sufficient level of safety for auto racing, so always use the correct helmet for the job. Presently, most sanctioning bodies require a helmet with a certified Snell 95 rating or higher. The Snell Memorial Foundation is an independent helmet rating organization which sets a uniform standard for helmet safety.

*Seats- The seats are made to absorb the energy of a crash and keep it away from your body. The quality and thickness of the aluminum and amount of padding used in seat construction determine its effectiveness. The more aluminum and padding, the higher the seat’s cost. Basically, seat selection breaks down to a racer’s budget and the speeds at which the racer competes. A racing seat is designed to flex under heavy stress, so whether a seat needs to be replaced or not is all upon the severity of the crash. A mild crash may just bend it out a bit so it can be formed back in. However, a violent crash, well, you probably walked away without breaking your ribs so thank you, the seat did its job—now get a new one.

*Seatbelts-The use of seatbelts is important to keep you in the seat and let the safety systems of the car absorb the impact. If you want belts that are easy to get out of and can be loosened and tightened with your gloves on. You should keep close inspection of your belts. After any hard contact, or at least every five years, you must replace your belts, and some sanctioning bodies recommend changing belts even more frequently than that. When you get a car that already has belts in it, replace them. Don’t even think of running that car, because you don’t know what has happened to it or where it has been. You should think about it, your body is going behind those belts—take care of it.

*Gloves- Driving gloves serve multiple purposes. The most important role of a glove is fire protection. The second(and still very important role) is to provide a solid, predictable grip on the steering wheel. Nomex is a common material for driving gloves, and multiple layers are common. Other materials provide added grip on the palm of the glove (like leather or rubber). Fit and feel are important considerations when choosing a glove, too. A great glove should ultimately result in less strain on a driver’s hands. Sizing usually ranges incrementally from extra small to medium to extra large and so on.

DIRT TRACK RACING

2008-04-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

At times, car racers, drivers and teams find themselves wanting to change venues and switch from their current form of racing to another. Basically, the most common change is from asphalt to dirt. Asphalt is usually hard, fairly smooth in most cases. This often stays consistent in the amount of grip it gives. On the other hand, dirt can be in any condition under the sun depending on the material used for the surface, the grading, the moisture content, and whether or not ruts and holes. These have developed over the course of an event.

Dirt is much harder to plan for because of its ever-changing characteristics. Most dirt tracks start out fairly tight with lots of grip. This is due to the track crew watering it during the afternoon before the first practice. As the event proceeds, the surface material becomes drier and more compact and may either go to a black-slick condition or become very dry-slick with loose material covering the surface.

A team must continuously evaluate the changing grip characteristics and must be ready to make adjustments in order to be successful on a dirt track. A team which shows up with one setup and one design of tire will usually be good for just one segment of the event. When the car is set up for higher g-forces, then it will be good in practice and perhaps qualifying.
As more laps are run through the heat races, the track becomes slicker and the g-forces go down. The setup which was good at a higher level of g-force is considered loose. When the team does not make appropriate changes, then the car will not be able to get off the corners well and will finish in the back of the pack.

The team must be willing to make setup changes. Not only that, they also have to know exactly what changes to make and how far to go with those changes. Here are some general tips on making setup changes from tight to loose conditions:

* You should start out with a setup that performs under tight conditions. This would involve running a stiffer right-front (RF) spring, a stiffer right-rear (RR) spring, a higher Panhard/J-bar, having the weight lower in the car, more left-side weight, less rear steer, and less bite (referred to as cross weight in asphalt racing). You should keep these settings until the track packs down and starts to lose moisture and grip.

*The cars that are running laps before you go out will be going sideways on entry and mid-turn and will lose grip on exit under acceleration. You should always observe the attitude of the cars that run the track just prior to your going out.

*While the track starts to lose some grip and smooth out, begin to soften the RR spring, drop the J-bar a little, move weight to the right and up a little, and consider softening the RF spring's rate.
It's not time to get too radical with those changes, and we should develop a series of changes in four stages. This should adequately cover early practice, qualifying, heat races, and the main event.

*After the heat races have run, the track crew may water the surface again. However, since it is packed tight at this point, the water does not penetrate as well and any grip that may come with the water quickly goes away. Usually, the surface is slick when the feature begins.

Depending on the particular track (this is where experience with each different track comes in handy), this will go to hard and black-slick with moderate grip, or very dry and sandy-slick with very little grip. When you have followed the progression of the grip of the track, then you probably have qualified well and will run well in the heat races and the main event.

BASIC CAR BATTERY CARE

2008-04-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, most cars come with one. However, some motorists act as if this particular component is completely maintenance free. What am I talking about?. . . Hmmm. .I’m talking about your car’s battery. Technological advances have made “maintenance free” batteries standard equipment on virtually every vehicle produced these days. Nevertheless, the term “maintenance free” is a misnomer. It is one that can leave you stranded if you do not perform proper and regular maintenance. Battery maintenance isn’t difficult to do. So, here are some tips that can help you lengthen the life of your car’s battery.

* You should maintain your car's battery.Perhaps the manufacturer says your battery is maintenance free, but don't you believe it! You should check your battery regularly to extend its life and avoid the hassle of being stranded with a dead battery. You must begin with the simple: by keeping your battery clean. A dirty case can really cause current to drain. You should wipe with a damp rag. Use a mild detergent if it is needed. Then, clean the battery posts or terminals. You should loosen and remove the negative cable (black or minus sign) first. Next, the red positive cable, use a brass wire battery brush dipped in a paste made from a few tablespoons of baking soda and a little water. You should inspect the battery case for damage, such as cracks or bulges -- signs that a battery needs to be replaced. Moreover, reinstall the cables, positive first, and coat the terminals and clamps with a thin coating of grease to prevent new corrosion.

* Several batteries need water. When your battery has vent caps, you should remove them to check the level of the electrolyte. It must rise 1/2 inch (13 mm) above the battery's top plates. If it does not use distilled water to raise the level to 1/4 or 3/8 inch (6 or 10 mm) below the bottom of the vent cap. Do not use tap water, as it may contain minerals that can damage your battery. Mechanics must check your battery as a part of your regularly scheduled maintenance. However, they often skip the procedure. You must be sure to ask to have it done.

* You should be kind to your battery.When you inadvertently leave your lights on and drain your battery, you should take the following precautions to prevent damage to the battery and the starter when jump-starting your car. Do not risk causing the battery to explode. With both cars off, you should connect a positive cable end to the positive battery terminal of the dead battery. You should also connect the other positive cable end to the positive terminal of the source battery. Then, connect a negative cable end to the negative terminal of the source battery. You must attach the remaining negative cable to unpainted metal on the car engine (as far from the dead battery as possible). Then, wait for a few minutes and try to start the disabled car. When, it does not start, start the source car and then try starting the dead one again. If the car starts, be careful to disconnect the cables in the reverse order. When the car still doesn't start, do not keep trying to charge it or you are liable to damage the starter. You should bring the battery to an automotive shop to see if it can be recharged. Even if you are successful, you must ensure a full recharge by hooking up the battery to a charger overnight or by driving the car for 5 or 10 miles (8 to 16 km).

Car Engine Maintenance

2008-04-26T01:06:00.000-07:00

There is a saying that “nothing lasts forever ". .Even a car eventually starts having problems. Nevertheless, some cars may provide you with few hundred thousands miles of trouble-free driving, others start having problems from the beginning. Every now and then, cars start having problems after accidents. It may be a factory defect or design flaw. Heavy conditions like, for an instance, driving only short trips without letting the engine to warm up fully makes the engine life shorter. Another factor is corrosion - for example, park the car for a few months in place with high humidity and later it will probably have more problems than the vehicle driven all this time on daily basis. So far, lack of maintenance is one of the most often reason for a car to break down.

*You should check engine oil at every other fill-up. You should follow this procedure for an accurate reading:
You must run or drive your car for about 15 minutes to warm the oil; then park the car in a level place. You should turn off the engine and wait 15 minutes to allow the oil in the engine to drain back to the oil pan. Then, remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a paper towel or rag. Reinsert the dipstick, being sure to push it in all the way. Pull it out again to check the oil level. It should be somewhere between the hash marks on the dipstick. You must add the type and amount of oil as specified in your owner's manual, if necessary.

* You should change the oil frequently.While owner's manuals for today's cars recommend increasing long intervals between oil changes, the fact remains -- frequent changes flush abrasive dirt and metal particles out of the engine, prolonging its life. Most owners’ manuals recommend a more frequent interval for "severe conditions.” Follow the severe intervals recommendations, especially if drive regularly in stop-and-go traffic to maximize the life of your engine.

* You should avoid overfilling your crankcase with oil. Never overfill your engine crankcase with oil. When you do, the oil can rise into the crankshaft, where air bubbles will get churned into the oil. The oil pump can't do a good job of circulating oil with air bubbles. The result can be overheating and stress on engine components. Overfilling can foul your sparkplugs. In reality, overfilling is a bad idea with all automotive fluids.

* You should wipe oil pan plug clean. When you do your own oil changes, clean the drain plug and washer with rags before reinstalling your oil pan. A few plugs are magnetized to trap metal particles.* Never forget the filtersThere are different filters (the main ones are oil, fuel, transmission, and air) important to preserving your car engine. These should be changed according to the schedule in your owner's manual or as follows:
You should change the oil filter at least at every other oil change -- every change is even better because the old filter contains nearly a quart of dirty oil that will remain with the new, clean oil. When you change your oil yourself, wipe the filter threads with an anti-seize lubricant, available at auto supply stores.
You should check the air filter every two months and replace it when dirty or as part of a tune-up. Generally, air filters are easier to get to than oil filters. You could find them under the big metal lid in a carbureted engine or in a rectangular box in a fuel injected engine – you should check your owner's manual for the exact location. Extend the life of air filters by blowing them clean with compressed air.

How Racers Prepare their Race Cars

2008-04-25T00:58:00.000-07:00

A pre-trip inspection helps reduce chances of a dangerous road trouble. It also provides an opportunity to have repairs made with your community technician who knows your vehicle. It is important to provide you with a peace of mind. While no inspection can guarantee a car's performance, it’s comforting to know proper precautions were taken. Here are some proper precautions to be taken:

*You should keep the caps on.When the tire valve is missing its cap, the culprit might be a leaky valve. Those little caps keep out dirt and moisture which can cause leaks. So, you must be sure to keep caps on all your tire valves. Another tip: When you replace tires, remind the tire shop that you expect new valves with the tires.

* You should maintain proper inflation.The under-inflated tires are a tire salesman's best friend. They create excessive heat and stress which can lead to tire failure. Get yourself a tire pressure gauge and use it at least once a month (more in hot weather) to keep your tires inflated to the recommendation in the vehicle's owner's manual if you want to get every last mile out of your tires. You should check tires when they are cold (driven for less than one mile) for an accurate reading.

*Beware of the wet thumb.When you top off your tires at a service station, check to see if there's moisture coming from the air pump, simply depress the pin inside the inflator valve with your thumbnail. When your thumb gets wet, advise the station manager that his tanks need to be drained and go to a different station. The moisture, trapped inside a tire, can cause pressure variations and corrode rims.

* You should check for uneven wear.You should check tires for uneven wear. When you've maintained tire inflation properly, uneven wear may indicate the need for wheel realignment. It can also mean improperly operating brakes or shocks, a bent wheel, internal tire damage, or worn bushings.

* You should check tread for safety. Many states require tires to be replaced when they have worn down to 1/16-inch (1.5 mm) of remaining tire depth. Tires sold in North America are required to have "wear bars". It is molded into them to make it easy to see when tire replacement is legally required. But, if you'll be driving in the rain, you should change your tires when there is 1/8-inch (3 mm) of tread left.

Otherwise, water may not escape from under your tires fast enough and you risk hydroplaning. It is a dangerous situation in which your car loses traction and literally floats on the water. Stick an American quarter between the treads in several places. When part of Washington's head is always covered, you have enough tread to drive in the rain. When you drive in snow, you'll need at least 3/16-inch (5 mm) of tread to get adequate traction. Stick an American penny between the treads. When the top of the Lincoln Memorial is always covered, you're ready for winter driving.

* You should rotate your tires. Rotating your tires helps to distribute tire wear evenly and it also ensures that you'll get the maximum road life out of them. The first rotation is especially important. Your owner's manual should specify both rotation period and pattern. If not, rotate your tires every 6,000 to 7,500 miles (9,700 to 12,000 km). Your tire dealer should know the correct pattern of tire rotation.

* Temperatures affect tire inflation.If outside temperatures drop or soar, tires tend to lose pressure. A drop of 10 degrees F (6 degrees C), in fact, will decrease a tire's air pressure by 1 or 2 pounds. Tires can lose even more air in hot weather. The under-inflated tires can result in accelerated wear and poor driving performance. If you live in a place where temperatures vary a lot, you should check your tire pressure often and add air as needed.

PROPER WAYS TO CLEAN YOUR CAR’S EXTERIOR

2008-04-24T00:34:00.000-07:00

A clean car is a happy car. . .Perhaps it's never been said, but who's going to disagree?. .
A clean car may not run any different under the hood. However, your driving experience will change dramatically. If you are one who aspires to attain that next level of shine and wants to protect the long-term integrity of your sizable investment, here are several ways on how to clean your car’s interior:

You should protect car paint from the sun. Paint makes your vehicle look great. It's also the first line of defense against rusted body panels. The best way to protect the paint is to park the car in a garage. If that is not possible, park in the shade or purchase a car covers. The sun's ultraviolet rays break down paint. This causes it to fade. Some car covers protect your car from more than sun, moisture, bird droppings, and dust. They have a thin layer of cushioning that will guard against light impact, such as from a tipped bicycle or small falling tree branch.

You should touch up nicks sooner rather than later .Touch-up paint won't adhere well to rust. You must be sure to keep some matching touch-up paint on hand so you can touch up any minor nicks, often found around door edges, before rust has a chance to form.

Tape saves light covers.A cracked taillight or turn-signal cover, if left alone, may allow your light compartment to fill with water. This will cause some real damage. A good short-term fix is to tape over the crack. You should use the red or orange tape that's made for this purpose. You can purchase it at many automotive parts stores.

You should avoid light fixture problems. When changing a bad bulb, clean dirty or corroded sockets with fine steel wool or a small wire brush. You should wipe the socket clean of debris before installing the new light bulb.

You should fix small windshield chips.If you got a rock chip, cracks, or ding in your windshield, bring your car to a windshield repair shop. For far less cost than replacing the windshield, they can fix chips and cracks, even quite long ones. The repairs keep the chips and cracks from spreading and restore structural integrity. They also improve clarity.

You should fill with washer fluid only.Never add water to the windshield washer reservoir. It will not clean as well as washer fluid. It may also freeze in cold weather and damage the system. Never try to run your windshield washer system once you suspect there's no more fluid in the tank, or you may damage the washer fluid pump.

You should fix the washer fluid tank. Cracked washer-deicer fluid tanks are common once a car is of a certain age. A good remedy is to insert a plastic freezer bag into the tank and fill it with the washer fluid until you can buy a new tank or find one at the junkyard.

Never try to carry too much.Don’t exceed your car's roof load specifications or weight limits. You can find them in your vehicle owner's manual. You should check the weight limitation of your roof rack as well. Typically the range is from 150 to 200 pounds (68 to 90 kg). It is equivalent of eighteen 8-foot 2 x 4s (2.4-meter 38 x 89s) or three sheets of 3/4-inch (17-mm) plywood. When you have to deliver a heavy load from the home or garden center, consider having it delivered. It will save wear and tear on you as well as your car.

You should keep an old blanket handy.You should protect your car's roof from scratches with an old blanket before tying lumber, bicycles, or luggage to your roof rack.

PROPER WAYS TO CLEAN YOUR CAR'S INTERIOR.. . .

2008-04-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Dirty interiors???. . .eeew! . .Of course no one wants a car with dirty interiors . . . Cleaning the interior of your vehicle needs more careful attention than cleaning its exterior. . Isn’t it? . . . Yeah! This is because there are wide varieties of items in the interior of your vehicle using a wide variety of materials which need different cleaning methods. Here are some car cleaning tips for the interior of your vehicle:

You should clean dash gauges carefully. You should use a soft damp cloth to lightly wipe dust from the clear plastic lenses on your dashboard. Too much pressure will scratch them. Due to too many scratches can make it difficult to read your gauges under certain lighting conditions.

You should let floor mats take winter's beating.You should use floor mats to protect carpeting. Rubber waffle style mats are the best types for controlling salt, slush, and mud in winter. They stay in place. Never allow the water to seep through, and are easy to wash clean. Carpet-style mats are also helpful. Shake, vacuum, or wash as needed; you should replace them as they wear through.

You should blast mats with the hose. When washing your car, you should drag out the rubber or carpet floor mats and blast them with the hose. This will dislodge dirt particles that, if it is allowed to build up, it will grind holes in your mats. You should let the mats dry thoroughly in the sun before reinstalling them.

For stubborn carpet or mat stains. After vacuuming floor mats or interior carpeting, you should apply foam rug cleaner to resistant stains as directed by the maker. Work the foam into a few square feet at a time, using a wet sponge or brush. Vacuum it when dry.

You should preserve door and window seals. You should wipe a rubber protectant (such as Armor-All) or silicone on door and window weatherstripping to keep it in good condition. Never use oil based product, such as WD-40, because the oil will damage the rubber. Regular cleaning and treatment of your car's weatherstripping will lessen the likelihood of your door sticking to its rubber seal in cold weather. This is a common cause of damage to the rubber.

You should fix bad weatherstripping immediately.When your weatherstripping is letting rainwater leak into the interior of your car, take a look at it and decide if you can repair it or if it needs to be replaced. The small leaks can be handled with brush-on seam sealers. You should re-secure loose sections, not otherwise damaged, with trim adhesive. Torn sections may be repaired with special caulking available at auto parts stores. You may also be able to extend the life of worn-but-intact sections by inserting foam rods into the hollow section of the weatherstripping. It is available at automotive stores. When you decide to replace entire sections of gasket, don't simply buy generic stuff such as you'd use around the house. You must buy a product that matches your car's original weatherstripping. It is available in a wide variety of profiles from dealerships and automotive mail-order catalogues.

You should keep leather from drying out and cracking. The leather cars seats are durable and they don't require a lot of maintenance. After a few years, however, the seats can become soiled. You should use leather cleaner to remove dirt and stains. Then, you should apply a leather protectant formulated for pigmented or top-coated grain leather (the leather used for most leather car upholstery). The protectants will resist stains and make the upholstery easier to clean in the future. You should choose a protectant that includes conditioners to keep your leather supple.

You should use upholstery cleaners on soiled seats.Like the upholstery cleaners you use at home can be used on your car's upholstery. You should use them sparingly, however, to avoid saturating the fabric. You should use a clean cloth to wipe away the foam. On velour seats, brush the fibers gently to prevent matting them and to preserve the original texture of the fabric.

You should renew fabric upholstery. Spraying fabric car seats and carpets with a fabric protectant, such as Scotchgard, will make them resist dirt and stains. It also makes them easier to clean. Thoroughly clean the fabrics before using one of these products and then test the product on an inconspicuous place to be sure the treatment will not discolor the fabric.

You should place a towel under baby seats. All manner of food bits and liquids can accumulate under a baby seat, where they can permanently stain the upholstery. You should place a sheet of heavy plastic and an absorbent towel under the seat to prevent damage, and re-secure the seat according to the manufacturer's directions.

CAR CARE AWARE. . .

2008-04-22T01:04:00.001-07:00

We depend on our cars most of the time. That is why we should take good care of it. We should give extra time and attention in order to prolong its life. Here are some things you should address with your vehicle to keep it in optimal operating condition so it is there for you to depend on. . . .Here are some tips will surely affect your vehicle’s reliability and give your vehicle a longer life:

You should lighten up your key chain. Your car key chain is a pretty heavy load hanging off the car key when it's in the ignition. The weight is combined with bouncing while you drive. It can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure. You should purchase a lightweight key chain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others to add years of service to your ignition switch. You should drive with only the ignition key in your ignition. If your ignition key "sticks" when you try to turn on the car, it's a sign that your ignition switch is about to fail. You should replace it before you get stranded.

You should choose a good car insurer. No matter how careful you are, disaster inevitably strikes sometimes. It is typically in the form of an accident. You should make sure that your car will be repaired to the best possible standard by finding an insurer that will pay for parts from the original manufacturer and guarantee the repairs it authorizes.

You should keep an auto log. You should keep a pad and pencil in the glove compartment and use them to record your gas fill-ups and mileage. If your gas mileage worsens, you must mention it to your service man. It may be an early warning sign that something is wrong with your vehicle.

You should preserve your car during long-term storage. Store it properly if you are not going to use your car for a longer of time to prevent unnecessary damage and repairs upon your return. You should fill the gas tank to help prevent condensation from accumulating in the gas tank. You must add a fuel stabilizer and drive the car around a bit to distribute the additive to engine parts. You must wash and wax the car thoroughly to protect the finish. You should place a vapor barrier on your garage floor. A 4-mil polyethylene drop cloth will do. You should also disengage the parking brake to help prevent brake corrosion. You must put the car on jack stands to take the weight of the vehicle off the wheels and tires. Also, disconnect and remove the battery to keep it from draining. And place the battery on a trickle type charger or periodically drain the battery, using a small light bulb, and then recharge it with a low-volt charger.

You should park your in the shade. A garage is always the ideal place to park your car. However, if one isn't available, minimize interior damage from UV sunlight and heat by always trying to park your car in the shade. You find parking under a tree results in bird droppings, use a car shade to minimize the sun's impact if no shade is available. And that you'll have a cooler car to step into on hot sunny days. Car shades come in two basic types. These are those that you unfold and place on the front windshield and rear window, or pleated types that attach to the windshield posts (with adhesive), window frames (with Velcro), or the windows themselves (with suction cups).

Clean your car’s interior. You should vacuum and sponge your interior every time you wash your car. The dirt particles are abrasive, and spilled liquids, such as soda, can be corrosive. You should vacuum your interior thoroughly with a powerful vacuum (small cordless models are generally too weak). You should use the appropriate wand heads when vacuuming. The bare metal wand can mark and scratch surfaces. You should sponge vinyl surfaces clean with a solution of mild detergent and water.

PROLONGING YOUR CAR'S LIFE . . .

2008-04-19T00:17:00.000-07:00

Here are some surprising tricks, and maintenance and fix-it tips to prolong the life of your car!. . . .You should be patient during the break-in period. . .If you want your dream car to make it last at long as possible in top condition, here are several tips to remember as you pull it out of the dealer's lot:
During the break-in period, keep your speed under 55 mph (88 kpm) or to the speed recommended by your car's manufacturer. You should avoid heavy loads on the drive train, such as towing trailers, and loading the roof rack or trunk with heavy construction materials. Don’t allow your new car to idle for long periods -- this is good advice for the life of your car, but especially during breaking. The oil pressure generated by doing so may not be sending oil to each part of your engine. You should use only light to medium acceleration, keeping the engine rpms below 3,000 for the first few hours of driving.

. . .You should drive with care everyday. .you should drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair. Don’t race your car's engine during start-up. This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine. You should accelerate slowly when you begin your drive. Most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation. You should warm the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea. The engine doesn't operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components. You should prolong less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights. Or else, the engine is still working to push the car even while it's stopped.

. . .never drive at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it's very hot or very cold outside. This driving behavior will result in more frequent repairs.
You should extend the life of your tires with careful driving. You should also observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road. Never run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don't burn rubber. When turning your steering wheel, never hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump. You should consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear -- as well as the pollution your car generates -- takes place in the first few minutes of driving.

. . .You should buy gas at reputable service stations. . .you should ask whether the gas you buy is filtered at the pump and if the station has a policy about changing the pump filters regularly. When you get a song and dance, find another gas station. There are some stations that don't have pump filters, making you more vulnerable to dirty gasoline. Other stations may not mix alcohol and fuel properly -- or worse, water down their product. You should find a station you trust and stick to it.

. . .Never fill up if you see the tanker when you happen to see a gasoline tanker filling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. As the station's underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your gas can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating repairs.

. . . You should go easy when you're stuck. . .Don’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component when stuck in mud or snow. Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is fine. However, if it looks as though you're really stuck, don't keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeatedly and spinning tires at high speeds, can generate lots of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches, and differentials. Call the tow truck rather than risk big repair bills down the road may be cheaper. It is a good idea to carry a traction aid in the trunk, such as sand, gravel, or cat litter.

Car Care Tips for CNG Users

2008-04-18T01:31:00.001-07:00

Nowadays, most people have started preferring Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as one of the most suitable options to save money. It is in comparison to petrol or diesel. These are the top ten lists of car care tips if you are a CNG user or aspiring to switch onto Compressed Natural Gas.

You should fill up with a lower-octane gasoline: You should buy lower octane gasoline that is suitable for your car. Filling up your car with high-octane fuel is a complete waste of money unless your car requires premium gasoline. The costly premium fuel would still be incapable of boosting your car's fuel economy or performance. So just skip it. You should take a look at the owner's manual on which grade of fuel works best for your car if you're not sure. You are good to drive on this much cheaper gas as long as your engine doesn't knock or ping when you fuel up with regular unleaded.
You should prevent over-inflation: You should not fill your gas tank completely. If there is any additional gas it will just go to slop around or seep out. Don’t waste your money paying for gas your car won't utilize. Stop pumping at the first indication that your tank is full when the automatic nozzle clicks off.

You should Tighten up the gas lead: The gas as is likely to evaporate from the gas tank if it has an escape route. In India, loose, missing or damaged gas caps allow millions of gallons of gas to evaporate each year. So, you must be sure to tighten up the gas cap each time you fuel up your car.

You should Park in a shade: Don’t let your car to scorch in the sun because there's going to be a greater amount of evaporative emissions that take place than you parking in the shade. You should park your car in the shade of a building or tree whenever possible. And buy a good windshield shade. A windshield shade blocks sunlight and keeps heat out of the inside of your car.
You should use a garage: Most people have a garage. You should clear it out and make room for your car. Parking in your garage helps your car stay warm in winter and cool in summer, and you won't have to depend as much on your gas-guzzling air-conditioning or defroster when you drive.

You should pump up your tires: Don't get caught driving on under inflated tires. Under inflated tires not only wear down easily. It also lowers the mileage. Drive at an optimum speed of 40 during unavoidable circumstances.

You should check your tire pressure every month: You must buy a digital gauge and keep it in your glove box. Compare the pressure in your tires with the recommended pressure listed in your owner's manual and on the placard in your car door. Then inflate your tires as needed. You must be sure to check tire pressure if your car experienced a cold weather. A good time is to investigate it early in the morning after your car's been idle overnight.
You must keep your engine in tune: Fixing a car that is out of tune can boost gas mileage by about four percent. So, you must be sure to give your car regular tune-ups. You'll also want to watch out for worn spark plugs. A misfiring spark plug can reduce a car's fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.

You should replace air filters: Maintain a close eye on your engine's air filter. When the engine air filter clogs with dirt, dust and bugs, it causes your engine to work harder and your car becomes less fuel-efficient. Replacing a clogged air filter could improve your gas mileage and save you 15 cents a gallon. It's a good idea to have your engine air filter checked at each oil change.
You must use the right oil: You can improve your car's gas mileage by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. Opt for motor oil with the words ‘energy conserving’ on the API performance label. This oil contains a friction-reducing additive that helps you to enhance the mileage.Don’t skimp on maintenance. You must be serious about auto care. Your car's performance largely depends on it.

How to Keep your Car in Tip-top Condition

2008-04-17T00:53:00.000-07:00

Preventive Maintenance keeps your vehicle in its best condition. A cleaner, stronger machine power gives you a trouble-free machine and smooth drive. It also helps you save more money by preventing costly repairs. Here are some car care tips on how to keep your car in tip-top condition:

Automatic Transmission
One of the most important factors in the life of an automatic transmission is the automatic transmission fluid (ATF). It transmits power from the engine to your drive wheels, while simultaneously lubricating and cleaning your transmission. Majority of automatic transmission breakdowns is attributed to irregular changing and deterioration of automatic transmission fluids. Operating temperatures will rise and lubrication will decrease. This leads to premature wear and transmission failure. The Automatic Transmission should be changed regularly in accordance to the manufacturer's schedule. It should be used in the correct fluid specification to extend the life of your transmission.

Batteries
The battery and its connections should be checked regularly. It should be mounted securely, as vibration affects the battery life. The electrolyte, in non-maintenance-free batteries, these should be checked and topped-off with distilled water (at the correct levels).Connections should be tight, clean and corrosion-free. The plastic casing can be cleaned with a mixture of baking soda and water.

Body Panels/Vehicle Exterior
Frequent washing and polishing will protect your vehicle keeps your vehicle constantly clean. This clears away the build up of damaging chemicals and dirt that may destroy your vehicle's finish. If your vehicle is involved in a collision, no matter how minor the damage is, immediately repaired and painted. Neglecting to have the damage repaired will result to corrosion and more expensive repairs.

Brakes
Have your brakes inspected to ensure your safety and to avoid costly replacements of related brake parts. Brakes are normal wear items for any car. It is best that pads and shoes are checked regularly to prevent metal-to-metal contacts with the discs and drums.

Clutch Disc & Pressure Plate (Manual Transmission)
During normal driving, pressure is applied to the clutch disc and is released continuously. Hence, the lining of the disc becomes worn and is considered a normal wear item. For an accurate diagnosis of your clutch system, it is advisable to bring your vehicle to repair shops to confirm the symptoms and proper repair procedures

CV Joint
The most common symptom of a damaged constant velocity joint is the clicking or popping sound you hear as you make a sharp turn. Almost often, the cause of CV joint damage is a rubber boot that becomes hard and cracked. Simply look for grease spills near the axle boots area that indicate breakage. To prevent the costly replacement of the inner and outer joints (one side), immediately replace a broken boot.

Drive Belt
There are two types of drive belts; the V-belt and the serpentine belt. V-belts are to be checked for glazing. To prevent the belts from sliding, proper tension and correct belt size should strictly be followed. It should be grease and oil-free. It should still be checked for cracks at the ribbed area. The back, on the other hand, should be inspected for grooves, fraying, and splitting.

Drive Shaft Boots
Nowadays, most vehicles power is transmitted to the wheels through flexible axles. Rubber boots cover the areas where the axles flex to keep dust and dirt off the joints. However, the boots are made of rubber that becomes hard and cracked over time. Failure to replace the broken boots will result to rapid wearing of the joints due to dirt seepage

Interior Cleaning your vehicle's exterior is keeping the interior clean and well maintained is very important. Regular vacuuming removes much of the dirt that contributes to wear and tear of the fabric and carpet. It minimizes the likelihood of stains. There are a lot of good products today that protect the surfaces of interior panels, fabric upholsteries, leathers and carpets. Such products repel water and stains, making cleaning easier the next time around.

Easy-to-implement Car Care Tips

2008-04-16T02:21:00.000-07:00

Good car care is necessary in order to keep your vehicle healthy. It doesn't require greasy fingernails, bloody knuckles or oily footprints on the new carpet. Here are some car care tips that can help keep your vehicle healthy and your hands clean. These are good for the environment because you'll keep your car running longer. It won't drip hazardous pollutants and you'll postpone the need to use energy to build a new vehicle. These tips won't replace regular maintenance. However if you follow them, you may not need the help of a professional. You may also find that you don't have to pay quite as much when you do.

*Take regular road trips. Some people love short commutes, but cars hate them. Engine oil needs to get hot enough to boil off moisture that condenses inside the engine at least occasionally. For short-distance commuters they must at least every week or two, they must drive for about 15 minutes after the coolant is up to its operating temperature. You don't have to go fast, just long. You should follow the "severe usage" oil change schedule in your owner's manual.
*Once you stop, don't move. If you come home to stay, park your car where it's going to remain overnight. Otherwise you're blending oil and condensed moisture like a short-distance commute.

*Awaken slowly, but not too slowly. For its initial start of the day you should give your car a few seconds to wake up. A long, stationary warm-up is unnecessary for the car and harmful to the environment. You just need to make sure engine oil and transmission fluid have reached everywhere they need to go.

*Stretching exercises. After you start driving, you should allow your vehicle a handful of minutes to do the automotive equivalent of stretching exercises. You should keep both engine speed (rpm) and road speed low, and avoid hard acceleration to ensure that lubricants in places you've never thought of can spread out.

*Keep the revs down. This is mainly aimed at those with manual transmissions. It applies to drivers who like to fiddle automatics that let you pretend you have a manual. You should keep the engine speed (rpm) as low as is practical unless you're trying to go fast.

*Use your nose. The best way to discover a problem before it becomes expensive is your olfactory sense. Almost smell means a problem is brewing. Here are some examples: A sweet odor likely is antifreeze, which means a radiator hose is about to burst, the water pump is failing or, if noticed inside the car, there's trouble with the heater core. A whiff reminiscent of fish oil may be brake fluid.

*Inspect your parking place. You should check where you park your car. The only fluid you should find under your car is clear water that sometimes drips from the air-conditioner. Everything else not only indicates a problem, but it is also an environmental pollutant.

* Quiet! It’s like an unusual smells or dripping fluids, new sounds and vibrations are never a good thing. The problem is describing them to your mechanic in a manner that will allow him to accurately diagnose it, while not making a fool of yourself. It helps if you can express it in words rather than poorly parroting the sound.

* Change is good. The engine oil is far from the only automotive fluid that needs regular replacement. Consult your owner's manual for frequency,

*Rubber dies. You should ask those who restore vintage cars: Sooner or later, you'll have to replace every rubber component in a vehicle. And the miles you drive matter little when it comes to how long rubber lasts. Some automakers recommend replacing tires every five or six years regardless of tread depth.

Car Alert! . .

2008-04-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Having a car and without car are the two classes of homelessness,. Without car, it is hard, very hard. .very very hard. . . but , I don't recommend it to everyone . You must couch surf if you are homeless and without a car. .go on! . .Stay with your friends until you can get a car. Sell whatever you have to get a car. It is best if the car runs. However, running is not essential as long as it is small enough to push. The car can be in any condition even if it is damaged, new, old, used, stinky, cruddy, and rusty. Who the hell cares? . .It is a car.!! . .I doesn’t even care if you can drive. What matters is that you have your car. .If you can't drive, you're going to fix that. That's for another time, though. A car is shelter. . It is a place to sleep . . .It is a mobile storage unit. . .

There is no other device that will do as much for you. ..However, a car, on its own, is not enough. You will meet with local law enforcement if you sleep in your car in a city,. There is nothing quite so unpleasant to wake up to as the sound of a baton hitting a window beside your head. Take it from one who knows by experience. , get yourself a car cover to provide for concealment. . They have a nasty habit of being blown about by wind. You can easily be uncovered as you sleep. A big complicating problem is that car covers attract car thieves. Your car will be an even bigger target for thieves because of your necessary choice of parking locations. You will need to tie the cover down at four points, front and rear bumper, and both sides to deal with this problem. In this procedure makes it more difficult to get into the car, but if thieves or police come, you will have warning and time to compose yourself before you have to face the problem.

Car Thieves

If you understand the psychology of thievery, car thieves are easy to deal with. Car thieves are attracted to a covered car, because they believe that it is more valuable than the average vehicle. The owner is taking good care of it after all. He will approach, leery of police, and to a lesser extent worried about being observed by citizens. He will begin trying to remove the cover, and you will hear the commotion. Adrenaline will course through your body, and you may be tempted to yell. But don't!! You must be patient. You must be sure it is not a cop. Look through the cover, to the extent you can. Search for glints that would reveal a badge. Look for the beam of a flashlight. Look for the red and blue strobes that reveal a police vehicle. Look for these things, because police require different tactics.

Police
The police are another matter entirely. One thing you definitely do not want to do is present a police officer with an unfamiliar and frightening situation. Police are dangerous. They are trained to press the attack forward when confronted with novel problems. Novel equals criminal in the mind of a police officer. You don’t have to scare them. You need to establish communications once you are certain it is a police officer. Ask them to identify themselves. They're going to want to search your car. Do not to consent to them to search. If you have anything even vaguely illegal, weapons, drugs, whatever, do not consent to a search, but I advise you not to consent on general principles. Remember, too, that it is not unknown for a police officer to plant evidence. It's harder for them to do that if you don't consent to the search. . . .
The danger of these municipal ordinances is that they empower the police to threaten the homeless. They do not empower them to prosecute the homeless. Know that and you take their power away.

Timing is Everything!. . .

2008-04-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

One important part of our automobile is a timing belt. It is a nylon-reinforced rubber serpentine belt with square teeth on the inside surface. The function of it is to transfer the rotation of the engine crankshaft to the camshaft-the component that moves the piston valves up and down.Even the non-mechanically minded know the valves admit air and fuel and expel exhaust gases. Without functioning valves, your engine is dead in the water. The timing belt governs the precise timing of the opening and closing of the cylinder's valves it secondarily controls the motion of the pistons by controlling the ignition of the fuel/air mixture. In the case of a broken belt, the pistons will complete their cycle even with inert valves.

Damage Control

The valves are open; when the piston is at the bottom of its travel. However, as the piston hits its high point he valves are closed. There is a real world experience that a mini-truck was cruising a rural road. Then, suddenly, the enginee died mid-shift. One minute it was purring right along and the next minute the only sound was the wind whistling in the open window. Turn on the ignition and nothing, . nothing . .nothing. . absolutely nothing.

Time's Up ! . . .

The diagnosis: The timing belt broke; the truck was lucky it occurred with the tranny disengaged or the engine may have received terminal damage after the truck was dragged to a mechanic. So, what's all the fuss about the timing belt? How could its demise wreak such havoc on the engine? What can be done to avoid this unfortunate automotive surprise? Few engines do not have any extra clearance between the piston at its high point and the closed valves. So, if the belt that regulates the valve motion breaks, the piston will continue to travel but the valves do not. The piston can collide with the valve mechanism causing damage to any number of costly components. Components include valves, valve stems, pistons, cylinder head, and cylinder walls.

Belt or Chain

Check your owner's manual to determine if your vehicle has a timing belt or timing chain (the latter is much more durable before you go into serious timing belt angst). Almost all vehicles, both domestic and imports, have belts, but the rate of failure is greatest on vehicles built before the mid-1990s.

A timing belt is not to be confused with fan belts, positioned around the engine fan and alternator. These are easily inspected for wear and tear. These also give you advance warning: the alternator/generator gauge goes flat and the engine starts to heat up-before serious damage occurs.Not so with the timing belt. In most engine configurations, this belt is protected with a cover so visual inspection is impossible. Out of sight, the timing belt is aging. Heat and friction turn the supple rubber hard and brittle. The reinforcing cords fatigue and weaken. Even if you're ambitious enough to remove the cover, the belt could look like it has plenty of life left in it from the outside. Those nylon or fiber reinforcing cords could be shot without any obvious indication on the belt surface.

Get a Clue

One indication of a bad belt is a glazed. This is an indication that the rubber is starting down the hard and brittle path. The other test is to push your fingernail into the rubber. If the rubber is supple enough to indent, you're okay. Replace it if removing the cover is too daunting, the safe thing to do is stick to the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement. This is where that pesky owner's manual comes in handy. The manufacturer will include mileage limitations on the equipment. The mileage indication—usually 60,000 miles but often as high as 90,000 in later models—is a conservative estimate, but well worth heeding.

Some engine conditions, such as overheating, a damaged camshaft or crankshaft oil seal, a jammed tensioner etc. It can cause premature timing belt damage. If your vehicle has been diagnosed with problems in the systems impacted by the belt, have your mechanic check on the belt's health. A good mechanic will do that automatically, but one who is juggling too many cars at once may need reminding.

HSN Starting in the mid 1990s, some manufacturers started making a better timing belt out of tougher materials, a high temperature grade of neoprene called highly saturated nitrile (HSN). The result is a belt with up to a 50 percent increase in replacement intervals.

Quality Paint Job

2008-04-11T02:03:00.000-07:00

There are several steps necessary to produce a quality paint job. These steps are important and take a great deal of practice to master. You should find a mentor or someone whose work you respect. Ask them to teach you some of the basics. Here are some steps that are necessary to produce a show car finish.

First Step- you should find a Place to Prep and Paint a Car

Decide on where to paint the vehicle. There are a few options. You could rent a paint booth. This would provide a dry, clean, temperature controlled area in which to paint the car. You could either paint the car in your garage or in your driveway. You should do some research in your area concerning where you can paint a car due to the fact it is illegal in some areas.

Second Step-Preparation

One important part of the painting process proper preparation of the car. Defects in the finish of the car could occur if the cars surface is not properly prepared for the application of paint. Proper preparation begins with using a good wax and grease remover in addition to washing the car thoroughly before sanding.

Third Step-Sanding

Sanding is about feel and discovering imperfections. You must be meticulous while sanding, trying to discover and correct all the mistakes, scratches and small dings until you can inspect the entire car body without finding one. Invite a friend or two to inspect your work to see if they can find a flaw in the body of the car. Just remember the end result of your paint job depends mostly on the quality of your sanding.

Fourth Step-Masking

Mask the parts of the car that you don't want to be painted. This is achieved by using a special self-adhesive masking tape. They are designed specifically for car body spraying. You should be sure to cover the lights, windows, wheels and any other part of the car you won't be painting before you begin the priming process.

Fifth Step-Chemical Safety

Chemical safety is a necessary precaution when working with all paint-related materials. Safety equipment must be purchased and used during the painting process. You will need an approved respirator, disposable nit-rile gloves, eye goggles and a painter’s suit. Another important thing to remember is to carefully read all instructions in regards to chemicals you are using.

Sixth Step-Purchasing the Proper Equipment

Purchase the proper paint equipment. You will need to purchase a paint gun. You will also need an air compressor that can handle the demands of your paint gun and a moisture separator. It ensures that you have a dry air supply. Moisture in your air supply can very often ruin a paint job. You may also want to consider using cup liners which can allow you to spray the paint at different angles and even upside-down. You should clean your paint gun immediately after every use to avoid paint curing in your gun. It will set very quickly and you will be buying a new gun soon thereafter.

Seventh Step-Priming

You should apply primer to the car body. One or two coats of this primer are usually recommended and are applied before the application of any other product. Once it is applied, the primer is sanded with a sanding block until the entire guide coat has been removed. It is very important to let the primer sit for at least two hours or preferable overnight before sanding.

Eighth Step-Selecting and Spraying the Top Coating

You should select the proper top Coat of Paint. Your project will depend on what outcome you will want to achieve when painting your car. There are different types of paints used to achieve the perfect finish. Once everyone knows you paint cars, you'll get a lot of people wanting you to paint their cars. Charge them for expenses and practice, practice, practice. Once you bang out a couple of nice paint jobs, there will be no shortage of jobs to work on. Don't be too hard on yourself after your first couple of paint jobs. You’re going to make mistakes and learn a few lessons along the way. But with practice and dedication you will get the hang of it. Also, if you are looking for a easy to follow guide on how to paint a car you will be pleasantly surprised at how quickly you'll catch on.

Ninth Step-Airbrushing Flames on a Car

Learning how to paint flames on a car is a unique skill that can be acquired through; Yeah you guessed it practice, practice, practice and that practice makes perfect. If you have never attempted airbrushing flames on a car it’s an art form that can be acquired through proper instruction.

How to Buy a Car: Tips for a Newly Single Woman

2008-04-10T02:08:00.000-07:00

Women often feel comfortable when it comes to buying a car. Most of them are concerned that they won’t get the best deal. Here are some tips that will help a woman when shopping for a new or used car:

* You should do research.

Use the internet to research. It provides women a wealth of information about different types of cars and car prices. A woman is more likely than man to print out information from car web sites and use it in their shopping process. Sometimes, dealers are willing to honor or beat a competitor's published price to close a sale.

* Test, . . drive the car

A woman should take the time to drive a variety of cars for her to see which car meets their needs and shop around to compare different makes and models.

* You should have the car inspected by a mechanic

It is important to have the car checked out by a mechanic if a woman considers buying a used car. This is a simple step that may save money and headaches for a woman. Another option is to consider a certified pre-owned car that has already been through a rigorous manufacturer's inspection.

* You should get your financing before the negotiation process.

The personal banks and credit unions can typically provide better financing rates and options for a woman. Of course, planning ahead can save money. ·

* You should negotiate the deal.

Before a woman even negotiates, she needs to know what price they are willing to pay. Pricing guides like Kelley Blue Book are helpful. It can give women a "real world" market value for the car they want to buy. Women should prepare to start low when they make an offer and expect a counter-offer. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to walk away from a deal.

* You must enjoy your car!

Buying a new car can be an enjoyable process, and maintaining that car through the years will lead to better returns when it needs to be replaced.

Buying a new car is normally a fairly straightforward process. Buyers have a responsibility to protect themselves by checking the relevant facts before entering any contract. As long as you ask the right questions, note the answers or get them in writing, and know your rights, you should have the tools at your disposal to challenge a seller if things go wrong.

Facts about Car Mileage

2008-04-09T03:10:00.000-07:00

Many people are striving to save a few dollars, in order to pay their bills due to the skyrocketing costs of living and because of the volatile cost of gasoline. One of the most effective ways to achieve this objective is through superior gas mileage.

With gas prices on the rise, perhaps you are worried about how many miles your car gets per gallon. You could, in fact, be getting fewer miles per gallon than you expected when you bought your car. And owners of hybrids may be the most surprised. Manufacturers are required to list how many miles you can expect to get per gallon of gas on every new vehicle. The carmakers are allowed to make these claims based on a government test at the Environmental Protection Agency in which vehicles are put on a treadmill-like device called a dynamometer. The tester watches a computer screen to determine how much to accelerate and when to brake. So, each vehicle is tested in exactly the same way.

Consumer Reports finds vehicles often get worse gas mileage than the figures listed on the manufacturer's sticker most especially for city driving..According to Champion when we do our tests, it's on the road and it gives us a much more realistic evaluation of the fuel economy of each vehicle.. The EPA is currently re-evaluating how it measures fuel efficiency.Hybrid owners may be particularly disappointed with their mileage, considering hybrids typically cost more than similarly sized and equipped conventional cars.There are a number of things you can do to improve its fuel efficiency no matter what mileage your car is supposed to get. Just keep your car tuned up and your tires properly inflated can make a big difference. Here are some tips that can help you to get the most miles for your bucks

1. You must select a more energy-proficient vehicle. One of the best ways to achieve the best fuel economy is by purchasing a car that is the most fuel efficient. In fact, you can save thousands of dollars this way.

2. You should plan and merge trips. There are numerous short trips that require you to start up your car. It can require double the fuel as longer trips with multiple destinations.

a) Traveling. Remember that an additional 100 lbs. in the trunk can lower your vehicle's fuel efficiency by 1-2 when traveling and also an overloaded roof rack can decrease your fuel efficiency by 5%.

b) Commuting. You can definitely save fuel by traveling before and after peak rush hours; using carpools; working from home; using public transportation; and participating in ride-share programs.

3. Drive in a more resourceful manner. Driving aggressively (i.e. fast braking and acceleration, and speeding) squanders gasoline. In fact, that can reduce your gas mileage by 5% in local areas and by 33% on highways!

a) Prevent extra idling. Car runs but goes nowhere, because an idling. The result is 0 miles per gallon. The larger engines usually waste more gasoline idling, than smaller engines do.

b) You should remove extra weight. Removing 100 pounds of weight from your vehicle can surely lower your miles per gallon by up to 2%. This affects the smaller vehicles more than larger cars and trucks.

c) You should use overdrive gears and cruise control and overdrive gears. Overdrive gears will allow your vehicle's engine speed to drop while cruise control will let you drive at a continuous speed,

d) Adhere to the speed limit. The gas mileage typically drops quickly when driving at speeds above 60 mph. Think about it this way: For every 5 mph that you drive over 60 mph, you are adding another 20 cents for each gallon of gasoline.

Tips on How To Become a Successful Car Racer

2008-04-08T23:54:00.000-07:00

Developing a young driver for success in NASCAR involves years of dedication and hard work. Here are some tips that will help you pave the path to the big leagues

*You must develop a sense of balance.

Your Sense of balance should be extraordinary. Your sense of balance lends you to develop a feel for turning a wheel and a keen awareness of what's around a driver on the track. Without a sharp sense of balance, it would be very difficult to fine-tune the other attributes that make a driver, particularly to those that call for finesse and an ability to dial in a chassis. You must learn to ride anything with two wheels.

*You must develop eye-hand.

Coordination Practically all athletic pursuits require a strong eye-hand coordination and racing is no different. There are many ways on how to develop eye-hand coordination. Video games, ping-pong, or simply play catch with a ball soft enough not to inflict injury can enhance it.

*Get 'Em Used to Turning Left.

There are several small cars on the market, with electric power and plastic bodies, that offer inexpensive ways for a child to develop a sense of what it's like to step on the gas pedal and be sure to turn the wheel in the right direction...

*Quarter Midgets

Quarter Midgets give your driver a real education in wheel-to-wheel racing. They have seatbelts and roll cages, and that there is greater level of driver containment. Remember that these are still open-wheel cars and they come with all of the associated risks that come with this genre of cars, but they are really excellent tools to develop driver skills.

*The next step

New lessons in speed conversation through smooth driving and chassis tuning will be required. Karting will teach them how to adapt to changing track conditions, either by the driver making changes through driving technique or through chassis tuning. It also requires the driver to look ahead on the racetrack, a skill that will pay huge dividends in the future

*Get experience on dirt.

Dirt racing teaches the young driver to be smooth on the throttle to prevent spinning the tires. You can't often run wide open around the track. Learning to feather the gas pedal, which is so important in dirt racing, can pay big dividends in the future.

*Get into a scale race car

The strength of scale cars is that they are good tools for teaching young drivers how chassis adjustments affect a race car while still remaining significantly cheaper to race than a full-size car. All the chassis adjustments you learn at this level will work; no matter if you are racing Late Model Stock or Nextel Cup, so the more testing and experimentation you can do at this level the better.

*Get a full size race car

If your goal is to race competitively at the highest levels, you will eventually want to move to full-size race cars on 1/2-mile and larger racetracks

*Look for opportunities to learn.

If you want to race better and move to the next level, you will definitely need to tap the knowledge of others. It can come from driving schools, coaches, or just talking to someone who hustles a car around the track a bit faster than you do

*Learn the chassis

The chassis must be able to take the power and use it properly. The more you can teach about how to utilize the abilities of the chassis, the faster you will be able to go.

*Learn to deal with the public and media

The more successful you are in racing, the more the public will want to know about you, and the less control you'll have over what they find out.

*Develop a program for physical conditioning

People who race for a living generally doesn’t have a problem keeping in shape between racings on weekends and testing during the week, most drivers get all the exercise they need. The muscles they are developing are exactly the ones they need to use inside the car

*Learn how to stay at the top.

If you do make it to the professional ranks, then, don’t forget how you got there. Remember the basics. Remember the fans. Remember the media, your sponsors, and your family. Remember to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

Tips on How to Avoid Car Accidents

2008-04-08T23:20:00.000-07:00

Road accidents are bound to happen anytime. Lots of people die in road accidents every year. Mostly road accidents comprise of passenger car accidents. Drivers are at fault in majority of these car accidents most of the time, while few environmental, and road conditions are the other reasons. To prevent the many car accidents occurring every year, it is vey essential for car owners and drivers to be extremely careful while driving. There are some standard driving rules that need to be followed to reduce the probability of an accident. Each and every driver must follow these road rules in order to reduce the number of accidents. Your car needs to be serviced and checked for any problems every month. The most basic of all preventive measures is to maintain a proper schedule for car servicing. Drivers need to check the front and rear mirrors of the car, as proper mirrors give a clear view of the front and back of the vehicle, thereby avoiding many fatal accidents.
It's a fact that drinking and driving is really deadly. Driver’s judgment decreases and they can no longer drive properly whenever they are under the influence of alcohol. Drinking is a punishable offence in the US. Operation of any machinery under the influence of liquor is strictly prohibited. Drivers really need to maintain a proper distance between two cars to avoid rear end collisions. They should also not attempt to reach for items in the car while driving. Sometimes drivers lose control of their vehicle and cause a serious accident. Road rage is not really good. Drivers need to maintain their cool while driving. Accidents can be prevented if the drivers follow the rules of the road.

1. Always avoid the "fast lane” by using the center or right lane on multilane roads, you have more "escape routes" should a problem suddenly arise that requires you to quickly change lanes or pull onto the shoulder. Highway accidents occur in the left lane most of the time. Thereby, you are more conspicuous to highway patrol if you are in the "fast lane."

2. You must keep your eyes scanning the area ahead. You should not just eyeball the car in front of you but watch the traffic in front of that car as well. This increases your chance of seeing a problem while still having enough time to react to it. It decreases your chance of rear-ending the vehicle in front of you should they make a sudden stop.

3. Beware of blind spots always. Adjust your side mirrors and rearview mirror to provide you with one near seamless panoramic scene of the view behind you. Don’t just rely solely on them. Always turn to look directly into the lanes beside you to avoid missing something left undetected by your mirrors. You should consider the blind spots for other drivers around you, especially truckers. You should also try to minimize the amount of time you spend in them

4. You must drive with your hands in the 9 and 3 o'clock position. This position facilitates maximum vehicle control when you're forced into quick maneuvering to avoid a potential car accident.

5. You should get racecar driver control of the wheel. Another way to maintain control of the wheel is to move your seat close enough to the steering wheel. In this way, your wrist can rest on the top of the wheel with your arm outstretched and your back against the seat. Your arms won't easily fatigue and they’ll be in the optimum position for some last-minute evasive maneuvers.

6. Always judge a driver by his/her car's condition. When your car's condition indicates an inattentive owner because of body damage or dirty windows, it could easily suggest an inattentive driver, too.

7. Always know your car's limits. You should pay attention to how your particular vehicle reacts in certain situation. If your vehicle leans a lot when you're rounding corners, this means that wrenching the wheel at high speeds to avoid an accident will be a scary proposition. It's a key to be familiar with the limits of your car's brakes and tires.

8. Keep your car in good shape. Stick to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for our long-term cars. This ensures that they'll accelerate, stop and steer when we need them to. You should reconsider the wisdom of "getting another 1,000 miles out of old tires"

9. The night time is not really the right time. Travelling at night is really dangerous for it come certain hazards. Some people like to travel at night to avoid traffic. You must drive extra defensively around the witching hour, after midnight. For goodness' sake, don't drive down a dark road with burned-out headlights.

10. You should learn how to drive a racecar. Going to a high-performance driving schoo l is one of the best ways to improve your skill as a driver. With this you’ll learn what it feels like to drive a car "at the limits" and have an opportunity to practice accident avoidance maneuvers and skid recovery in a safe, controlled environment.

As a driver, you can only control what you do behind the wheel, not what your fellow drivers do. You should take responsibility when you drive and focus on the task at hand.

Speed Girl !!! . . .

2008-04-05T02:34:00.000-07:00

I must say I had simple, sheltered life. I always dream of being a race car driver and won in different car competitions. It’s great that there are increasing numbers of girls who are into sport. (hmmmm….) I don’t think it should matter even if you are a boy or a girl.
Of course, women can compete in car racing competitions. There has been a big change in reaction me. The hostility has cooled down quite a bit. Perhaps, the worst is over. The initial reaction to me was one of a lack of respect. What you really need is endurance than men. But that’s not the point. I am not trying to establish the superiority of one sex over another. I am a good driver, but no superwoman. What I am trying to emphasize is that a driver is primarily a person, not a man or a woman. And that a great deal of driving is mental. You cannot afford to get angry behind the wheel. A good driver needs emotional detachment, concentration, good judgment and desire.

A nji Bemben – she has always had the need for speed, she started downhill ski racing when she was twelve and she went on to race motorcycles at Westwood Raceway .

Liz Boeder - a passion for Porsche began in 1991 after buying an old 911. This set the stage for Liz to become a racer chick. Her first experience in a race car came soon after. Hooked now on the sport we know she will be one to reckon with on the track

Renee Eady - she is one of the top solo drivers in the country. she is also an owner and operator of five driving schools she proves driving is her life and passion.

Mary b e th Harrison – she is a winning race car driver currently competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series driving for Glacier Bear Racing. Her Racing Against Drugs school talk program in Western Canada promotes healthy lifestyle choices to school children.

Rhonda Hartman Smith - she said she have been around the sport forever. Her dad has built and driven race cars and her older brother (Richard) started driving. She used to work on his car, help out and go and clean parts and do whatever it took.

Terr i Hundertmark - Seldom you meet a racer chick who stands out, one who puts body and soul into being a true mentor for others. This is Terri and the super job she does on and off the track with her Racing for Kids charity work.

Lindsay Kernohan - she currently competes with the International Karting Federation (IKF) and the World Karting Association (WKA) Manufactures Cup West series and will be competing at both of their Grand National Events

Trac e O'R ourke - This racer chick from down-under begin racing in late 1995 in sprint karts. Since then she has race around the country finishing with many podium places.

Al li Owens - she is a young racer racing BMX bicycles and Quarter Midget cars. With the help from her family and some close racing friends, she started racing stock cars on the half-mile dirt track in Barberville, Florida. She finished the 2003 season 6th in championship points out of a field of 27 cars.

Dor ot hy Kelly - she did not come from a family background of motorsports, in fact she realized her desire to compete in Motorsports 14 years ago when she purchased and raced.

Leilani Maaja Mϋnter – I belong at the track. There's purity, simplicity to racing that attracts me. When I’m driving, nothing else in the world matters. I can't explain..." she grins, "All I want to do is drive."

The point is, this is a performance sport and thus far, none of the woman trying to make it to car racing competitions has proven worthy enough to get there. The true question is that whether a woman can compete. .its have we found a woman who can? So far, we have, we have not, but she is out there somewhere. . . . .

Fuel Saving Tips

2008-04-04T03:24:00.000-07:00

Lastnight, I was in my room watching the news on my television. Then, suddenly I’ve heard a news saying “ blah. . .blah . .blah. . . fuel prices are on the rise again blah. .blah. . blah. . .” while talking heads may be easy to tune out we have too admit that diesel prices are on the rise in many areas. . .that doesn’t mean that you have to sit back and watch your wallet drain. There are 15 fuel saving fuel tips to maximize the efficiency at your average performance and getting the most spark – less bang for each buck spent at no. 2 pump in order to beat the system.

You can squeeze a bit more distance out of each gallon of fuel whether you drive a two-seat hybrid or a three-ton SUV l. There are ten fuel saving tips that served me well over the years, and they help me improve my car's fuel economy and take some of the sting out of high fuel prices.

1. Check your air filter. . ( go with the flow!)
A clean air filter makes it easier for your engine to breathe, which means it will run more efficiently. It is the key to good fuel economy. A dirty air filter restricts the flow of air into the engine, which harms performance and economy. Air filters are easy to check and change; remove the filter and hold it up to the sun.

2. Check your tire pressure
Inflated tires are one of the most commonly ignored causes of crummy MPG. Buy a reliable tire gauge; check your tires when they are cold, and keep them properly inflated. Use the inflation pressures shown in the owner's manual or on the data plate in the driver's door jamb.

3. Slow down
As speed increases, fuel economy decreases exponentially. If you one of the "ten-over on the freeway" set, try driving the speed limit for a few days. You'll save a lot of fuel and your journey won't take much longer. Make sure keep to the right, so you won't impede the less-enlightened.

4. Hang with the trucks
A constant speed keeps shifting to a minimum. It is important to those who have to wrangle with those ten-speed truck transmissions -- but it also aids economy, as it takes much more fuel to get a vehicle moving than it does to keep it moving. Rolling with the big rigs saves fuel.

5. Accelerate with care
Accelerate moderately so the transmission can shift up into the higher gears. Stick-shifters should shift early to keep the revs down, but don't lug the engine -- downshift if you need to accelerate. Keep an eye well down the road for potential slowdowns. If you accelerate to speed then have to brake right away, that's wasted fuel.

6. Get back to nature
Consider shutting off the air conditioner, opening the windows and enjoying the breeze. It may be a tad warmer, but at lower speeds you'll save fuel. That said, at higher speeds the A/C may be more efficient than the wind resistance from open windows and sunroof.

7. Back off the bling
New wheels and tires may look cool, and they can improve handling. If they are wider than the stock tires, chances are they'll create more rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. If you upgrade your wheels and tires, keep the old ones. The stock wheels give a smoother ride and better economy for long trips.

8. Clean out your car
The more weight your car has to haul, the more gas it needs to do the work. If you're the type who takes a leisurely attitude towards car cleanliness -- and definitely fall into that group -- periodically go through your car and see what can be tossed out or brought into the house. It doesn't take much to acquire an extra 40 or 50 lbs. of stuff.

9. Out with the new, in with the old
Many people keep their old cars around even after they buy a new one. The costs of keeping the car may or may not be less then the fuel saved, but it does allow for more predictability in your budget.

10. Don't drive
Avoid driving if it’s not necessary. So, you will save gas. Take the train, carpool, and consolidate your shopping trips. Walking or biking is good for your wallet and your health. Always ask yourself: "Is this trip really necessary before you get in your car.

car buying tips and suggestions

2008-04-03T02:36:00.001-07:00

It is important to take your time, do some research, and shop around when you are ready to buy a new car. There are many factors to consider before making a final decision on the purchase of a new vehicle to that suit your needs.If you are one of the cost-conscious consumers who are concerned with fuel prices, it is important to do your homework before buying a new car. You must ask yourself what size vehicle you require first. Choose the smallest vehicle that will meet their needs to those who are looking to save gas or gain better fuel economy. Some vehicles that weigh one-third less than other vehicles will generally use one-third less fuel. You should find out how many cylinders the vehicle has as well as how many miles per gallon the vehicle uses on the highway and in the city. Some car dealers often post the average fuel economy and other information on the windows of the vehicles. If not, this information can be found online. Keep an open mind while shopping for a car. Lot of times people wind up with vehicles they didn't intend on purchasing before they started their quest. They seldom find out it isn't what they thought they wanted after researching a vehicle.
You should check for hidden costs, add-on fees, and other charges before purchasing your next car. You could end up spending hundreds, even thousands, of dollars over the lifetime of your loan. It’s time to sit down with your sales rep to negotiate the terms of your contract once you've found the car you want. After a little back and forth on price, figuring out your interest rate, and calculating your monthly payment, you're ready to sign on the dotted line.
When you read the fine print you may find that additional fees and charges have found their way into your contract – including add-ons you didn't necessarily ask for. Most car buyers are so focused on getting the best interest rate and negotiating the most affordable monthly payment that they're unconcerned with the fine print of the contract. By the time they get to the step where they review and sign the paperwork, if the sales rep is throwing industry terms at them that they don't fully understand. They become exhausted from the entire process and just want to get it over with.
Here are some insider tips to make sure you don't regret signing those papers.
1.) Read the Fine Print
This seems pretty obvious and self-explanatory. It’s amazing how trusting the consumer can be. You should read and fully understand the contract before signing. Some unscrupulous car dealerships are betting on that because most people don't read the fine print, some sales reps can slide in additional, undisclosed charges or extras with huge mark-ups to their profit. You should make sure there are no blank spaces on your finance contract that can be filled in later – wherever there are blank spaces; write in "$0" or "N/A."
2.) Typical Extras
Almost all of us are familiar with learning about the standard features of an automobile and then figuring out which additional features we are willing to pay extra for. The value of such extras depends on individual customer needs. If the sales rep attempts to tell you that some or all of these extras are standard for every vehicle on the lot, ask to order your car from the factory, or suggest the dealership trade with another dealer that hasn't pre-packaged their vehicles.
3.) Documentation and Administration Fees
The federal, state, and local governments are pushing more and more of their regulatory cost onto the local dealerships. Dealers are required to perform, most add a documentation or administration fee to the total cost of the transaction in an effort to offset some of these fees and services. Depending on state and local regulations, fee adding $100 to $150 seems reasonable and covers most of these additional items.
Some dealers have taken up the practice of marking up documentation and administrative fees and are now charging as high as $300 to $500 per sale. A few are even higher. The charge for most of these fees seems to be more based on getting a customer to pay extra after the customer has finished negotiating, not the average amount it costs to get most deals through various state and federal regulations, as implied.
4.) Ask for a Menu System Disclosure
The best disclosure method I've seen in years involved using a menu system. On a separate sheet of paper the rep produces a document that includes:1.) The negotiated price of the vehicle or trade difference2.) The additional price of suggested extras (these can be shown as various option packages that may save money when bought in combination and as individually priced options)3.) New totals initialed by both parties
This procedure makes sure that any suggested extras are properly explained and disclosed. It also allows the customer time to consider each item separate from the longer and potentially confusing finance documents. The final numbers from the menu should get carried over directly to the finance document.
5.) Other Costs
When buying a car, remember that there are other "hidden" costs (or, costs that aren't usually considered), that go beyond the dealership.
During the lifetime of your vehicle, you're going to have to pay for registration and tags, taxes, insurance, oil changes and fuel every year, and periodically pay for maintenance and repairs. Older models (cars more than 3-5 years old) may cost less up front, but you will likely need to factor more maintenance and repair costs into your budget than if you bought a newer model. While new models need fewer repairs and maintenance work, you will have to pay more up front.
Your wallet does not have to go through the ringer the next time you decide to visit a new or used car dealer. You can protect yourself from blindly signing into an unfavorable car deal by doing your homework, going to a car dealership with a good reputation, being prepared, asking questions, and double checking behind your sales rep

car care tips

2008-03-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

Having or owning a car is probably one of the biggest achievements that a person can ever have in his life. Isn’t it?... Yes it is! It is like an investment, and because of that, we should take care of it as if it is a part of our everyday living. But taking proper care of our automobile does not have to end by just checking its parts regularly as there are other factors that can cause your vehicle to get damaged.

Some people are poor when it comes to taking care of their cars. They just let the rain wash the poop of the windows. How lazy they are!.. Hmmm…The rain sometimes is not enough to wash the hardened poop, mud, bird waste, dog pee, everything else that stuck. It does not necessarily clean your car; it only makes it look clean because it is wet. The car wash is a marginal way to keep your vehicle clean when you're in a hurry, but personal hands-on time is also necessary to protect the paint and to check parts and fluids. We should know the correct way of washing our car and how to take good care of all its parts. Washing is not the same as scrubbing off the dirt; you unintentionally scrub off vital coating primers of your car. So after a couple of hand washing you start to chip off the paint off your car. That is why we should definitely know the proper ways on how to take good care of our automobile.

As a car owner and a car lover as well, I want my car to look attractive and comfortable to ride. The key to keeping a vehicle dependable and aesthetically pleasing is my normal maintenance regimen. I inspect everything………..especially belts, hoses, and brakes of my car.

Before starting a long trip from my house up to my office, I inspect the engine and look at the belt to see if there is visible damage, abnormal wear or small hairline cracks. I replace any belt that shows signs of wear. Even if the belt of my automobile appears to be in good condition, I replaced it every 50,000 miles as preventative maintenance. Nowadays, many cars are equipped with a serpentine belt that runs all of the accessories, so if that belt breaks, you can lose your power steering, water pump and charging system immediately. I also checked the belts, radiator and heater hoses of my car periodically. I especially give attention to the brakes of my car . . . for the fact that it is the most critical system of our vehicle.

Some people never look at the master cylinder until they have brake failure. In late-model vehicles, the master cylinders are often made of semi-opaque plastic that allows inspecting the fluid level without taking off the cover, as is the case with cast-iron master cylinders.

In my car, I always check fluid level; look for leaks where the brake lines attach to the master cylinder and where the master cylinder bolts to the power booster. If I see signs of brake fluid, I tighten the fittings using a line wrench on brake-line nuts to prevent against rounding off their shoulders. If the master cylinder is leaking at the rear, replace it.

I get under the vehicle and inspect the rubber hoses that go to the wheels for excessive wear or cracks. I replace hoses as necessary. And check brake shoes and/or caliper pads regularly. Worn pads can damage the brake rotor or drum, turning a simple maintenance job into an expensive replacement procedure. For vehicles with disc brakes, I replace the pads with whatever style the manufacturer recommends for me to be safe.

modern technology

2008-02-27T23:32:00.000-08:00

What would you buy if you had if you had all the money in the world? Me?...... (Hmmmmm.....)If only I really had It, I would surely buy all the rides in the world...

Before, the use of bicycles was fascinated. But as time goes by the invention of the modern automobile was invented. Many people may question this idea, as they know self propelled vehicles were in existence long before the days of Ford.
In fact, these people would undoubtedly be correct; the idea of a self propelled vehicle and its actual realization had been present for at least one hundred years before Ford ever made one.

However, by considering the definition of invention, the idea of the modern automobile and then briefly tracing the history of the self propelled vehicle, it will become increasingly clear how Henry Ford had invented this dominant form of land transportation. All the essential features of the new road vehicle nowadays were in place. Individuals needed a way to travel long distances for both business and recreation purposes. I am so thankful of modern technology because with the help of Henry Ford, I will not waste my time walking a long way home.