Choosing A Safe And Reliable Car Transport Service

It doesn’t matter if your car is a sports car, an antique car, or even just a plain family car, if you want it safely delivered to you, you will have to find a reliable and affordable transport company that has a car transport package that suits your needs and your budget.

But, when choosing a car transport service you have to be aware of some issues regarding the transport and delivery of such. Transporting something as precious as your car would be suicide if you don’t take the proper precautions.

Here are some things to look out for when considering a car transport service.

Insurance
Your car is a big investment. If you allow your car to be transported carelessly, you could end up with a badly banged-up car. To avoid this, you can have your transport service insure your car. While doing research on what transport service to hire, always look at the total price plus insurance. It may seem like a waste of money to some, but for those who have experienced having their cars shipped to them with dents, scratches, and – gasp – other major damages; insurance will seem like a welcome advice.

Know What Type of Transport You are Dealing With
There are quite a few options on how to have your car delivered. You can have door-to-door, enclosed, open, terminal-to-terminal, and rail service among others. Some of these options may have features that you do not need, or features that are more than what you need. Make sure you understand the details of each option and choose one according to your needs.

Schedule
You have to be clear on the schedules of pick up and delivery.

Pick up time is the amount of time it takes from receipt of the order to transport until your automobile is loaded unto the trailer. This time is usually 2 and 10 days. Transport services appreciate a three day allowance to find a trailer and assign your car to that trailer.

Transit time will take about 8-10 days. This depends on the destination and route taken. These trailers will usually carry about ten automobiles at the same time. And as they make the necessary stops to deliver each automobile, it could use up a lot of time. So, it would do well to be patient during these times.

When you and your car transport service come to terms on the dates, reinforce the fact that you will be expecting punctuality in the delivery and pickup. You might also want to consider whether the company allows you to cancel the transaction if they are late for pick up, or to refund a certain amount if they deliver you car late, or with damage.

If they are to be delayed, your car transport service should inform you ahead of time so you will not have to waste any time fussing over what happened to your car.

Report, Report, Report
It pays to have everything documented and in paper. Have the transport service inspect your car before and after transport so you can assess whether there was any damage sustained during the process. They should check the condition of the car and note this all down in paper. This is a standard operating procedure for many of the car transport services around.

Conclusion
Finding the appropriate car transport trailer to fit your specific needs and budget should be an easy task providing that you know you budget limitations, special travel requirements for your car, and the length of trip. In today’s market there are literally hundreds of car transport trailer options out there, and you can count on finding the right one for you in no time at all.

The size of the car transport company is not the deciding factor. What really decides whether you can trust your transport service is the skill and track record of the service. Always investigate the past transactions of the transport outfit to see if there are any potential problems regarding their service.

Now you are all armed and a bit more knowledgeable in these matters. Car transport will now lose most of ‘scary-ness’ you had attached to it, thanks to added knowledge! Use this knowledge wisely and enjoy a worry-free car transport!

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Choosing A Reliable Mini Cab Service

You can’t underestimate the importance of a reliable mini cab service. For some, a cab is just something that takes them home late at night, or gives them a ride to the airport when they’re off on holiday. For others, a mini cab is a lifeline – a ride to the local shops or to the doctors – and regular customers establish good relationships with the drivers. You may need a mini cab for:

• A night out
• Theatre trips
• The school run
• Visiting the doctor or the hospital
• Helping with supermarket shopping
• Airport transfers

So, what should you look for when you’re choosing a taxi service?

Licence

A good mini cab business will be licensed by their local authority. Requirements for licensing can vary, but authorities need to know that the cars used by the taxi company are suitable for carrying passengers, and companies may also have to submit proof of ownership and relevant service details for the vehicles, as well as copies of the driving licences of drivers working for the business. Once licensed, the company should display their licence number on the cab, so check that the company is licensed before you book with them.

Recommendations

Recommendation is often the best way to find a good mini cab service. Find out which services are used regularly by supermarkets and doctor’s surgeries, or ask neighbours which companies they would use. You will find that most people have come across a company with very bad or very good service and are happy to tell you who they use.

Cost

If you’re planning a long journey, make sure that the firm you choose is willing to agree a cost before you start. Most reliable firms will have set prices for trips to city centres or airports and if you agree this price before you go, you won’t get any nasty surprises at the end. For shorter journeys, ask for an estimate and find out whether additional charges apply after a certain time.

If you’re going to be using a mini cab service on a regular basis, it makes sense to do a bit of research before you commit to a booking. That way, you can find a service that meets all your needs and is of real use to you.

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Choosing a Radar Detector

For almost as long as police have been clocking and ticketing motor vehicle speeders, speeders have been using radar detectors in order to avoid being caught. Although today they have been thoroughly tested for accuracy by various police agencies, laser and radar guns (and sometimes their operators) still sadly make mistakes. It has been estimated that over 25% of all radar tickets have been issued in error. Radar detectors are therefore considered a useful tool by many of today’s motorists.

There are three different types of radar detectors, firstly the customary corded units, the newer cordless dash, visor, or windshield-mounted battery run units, and concealed remote units that are permanently mounted in your vehicle.

Corded Detectors: The most popular radar detectors are corded detectors designed to be plugged into either your car's cigarette lighter or fuse box, and then attached to the windshield using suction cups. Corded radar detectors offer a number of advantages over remote and cordless radar detectors, which include their easiness to install, their transportability, and their ability to detect all the bands.

Cordless Detectors: Cordless radar detectors have the advantage of being free of loose cords. Cordless detectors have the ability to conserve battery life, and can turn themselves on and off within milliseconds. Range and sensitivity can be sacrificed as a result - cordless radar detectors typically have 30% less range than a corded detector. However a new cordless radar detector that will detect POP radar has been developed and is expected to arrive on the market halfway though 2005.

Remote Mounted Radar Detectors: There are advantages in having a remote mounted radar detector, which include their being inconspicuous to the law enforcement and to thieves alike. However the disadvantages of remote radar detectors include their higher costs, their requirement for professional installation, and their inability to be easily removed.

A radar detector can be purchased easily online, however, a local car audio store should be able to inform you of state laws that might limit purchasing options. Whatever your decision, remember that a radar detector does not give anyone license to drive recklessly, and by doing so, put other people’s lives in danger.

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Chemically Improving Your Gas Mileage In Your Car

What if you could actually improve your gas mileage significantly (5-20%)? Not have to alter your driving habits? Not have to install any extra questionable parts on your car? What if it were as easy to do as 1-2-3?

Well, it is.

For years Big Oil has offered three or so different grades of gas octane 87 regular, 89-90 premium and 91-94 super.These grades are actually based upon a 100 octane scale where the cleanest burning, most ideal fuel was propane (clean burn fuel). But the scale never took into account arromatic petrol compounds and derivatives which can actually surpass the 100 octane mark, some as high as 115-130 octane.

So the object here is to get the engine running the cleanest burning fuel possible, leave less soot and deposits in the combustion chamber and on the valves, clean the injection system, or in older cars the carburetor, not hurt emmisions systems, not void our warranty, and, in the end, get increased gas mileage and increased engine life. Wow, thats a lot. It really isn't, though.

In recent tests it has been proven that arromatic petroleum distillates, alcohol (methyl alcohol), ether, acetone, and toluene can and will do all of these. That is to a point. If you make the fuel mixture too rich you can actually do the opposite. The ideal mixture found that was easiest to obtain and handle was 1-2 ounces of acetone per full tank (acetone can be found at your local hardware store or paint supply shop). This was tested on everything from 4-8 cylinder gas engines to big Cummings diesel engines. The range in increase of fuel efficincy was 5-20% and the average being 9%. It was found if you used 3 or more ounces per tank ful results were the same or worse than without the acetone - the mixture was too rich.

The effects of the acetone were then tested on the fuel line components themselves for resilience and it was found that unlike methyl alcohol (racing fuel) it did not have a caustic effect. Acetone will have a etching effect on paint, plastic headlight lenses, etc... Spills should be wiped up immediately.

So, to make the story short and get straight to the point, if you wanted to add an average of 9% fuel efficiency to your vehicle and do it for less than $.50 per fillup - its as easy as adding 1-2 ounces acetone per tankfull. Thats it - the only problems are Big Oil doesn't want you to know how to save on gas and you may still void you warranty as they now test for gas additives like acetone.

Also, one last note, acetone or any additive that makes your engine more efficient and burn cleaner is better for the environment - less emmissions.

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Checklist Before Starting a Home Based Business

When you are looking for a home business opportunity, it is important to make sure that you are aware of all that you will be required to bring to the equation. This can help save you a lot of confusion and money by avoiding opportunities that require too much from you to get started. Here is a checklist of thing that you should consider before selecting a home business opportunity.

1. Do you need to get a license to run the business? Many states require that businesses get a license before they are allowed to open. This includes home businesses in many locations. Check with your local government agencies to see what you will need to have in place to start your own home business.

2. Do you need a zoning permit? If you have a home business opportunity that requires doing actual business with the public, you are going to need to make sure that you will not be in violation of any zoning laws. Most cities have very strict residential zoning requirements and it is not hard to violate them. Make sure that the type of business you want to start will be acceptable to run at your current location.

3. How much equipment will you need to buy? You’ll need to know exactly how much money you’re going to have to spend to get your business operational. While some home business opportunities require just a computer, others may need a special printer, extra software, additional gadgets or even heavy equipment. This can add up in a short period of time. Make sure that you are aware of all the expenses that you will incur before you start up.

4. Do you have enough space in your home to devote to your business? Running an informational company is one thing, but if you are going to be stocking products in your home, you’re going to need enough space. For tax purposes, you’re also going to have to have a room that is completely devoted to your home business. This means no kid’s toys, or anything from your normal family life can intrude on this room. If you don’t have this kind of space you may need to add on to your home to accommodate your business.

5. Will you need to purchase any insurance? If you are doing business with the public at your home, you will need to get liability insurance. This will help protect you if anyone falls on your property or injures themselves in anyway. If you will be storing products, you will need to have them insured in case there is a flood or they get damaged in any way.

Lastly, you may want to consider business protection insurance that will help you in the event of any copyright infringement claims or other common complaints. Don’t forget your own health insurance, or any insurance that you may need to provide for employees. This can add up quickly and increase your overall start up costs.

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Checking And Charging Motorcycle Batteries

How are Motorcycle Batteries Rated?

The amp/hour (AH) capacity is the basis for rating motorcycle batteries. For example, a 12AH battery can produce one amp of current flow for 12 hours, or two amps for six hours. In order to calculate the amount of time needed to use up a fully charged motorcycle battery by turning the lights on, we have to take power in watts, and divide it by voltage, which gives us the current draw in Amps. Therefore, a 72 watts beam and tail together, divided by 12 volts equals a 6-amp draw. So in 2 hours, the 12AH battery is dead.

Checking Motorcycle Battery:

If you decide to check if your new motorcycle battery is done correctly, follow this actual factory-recommended service procedure.

If the battery is not a maintenance-free type which doesn't have a vent tube, unwrap the battery, unkink the vent tube and snip about a half-inch off the end. Fill it with electrolyte midway (between the high and low level markings on the case) and leave it undisturbed for one or two hours. Remember, the battery will still be at only 65% of full charge at this point. Add electrolyte again if required.

If your battery is a refillable lead-antimony type, it should be charged at one-third of its rated capacity in amp/hours for four to five hours to get it to full charge. Maintenance-free type battery should be charged with a constant-current charger that can drive the charge with as much as 16.9 volts. This should be closely supervised so as not to exceed full charge.

Next, recheck the electrolyte level and add water if required. Let the battery cool so the case contracts enough to fit into its typically tight little holder. Run the new breather tube, if the battery comes along with one, carefully through the original factory routing.

Things to Remember when Charging the Battery:

1.First of all, it is important to remember that Red is positive and Black is negative in order to avoid any accidents such as short-circuits and nasty shocks.

2.The charger should be compatible with the motorcycle battery, and give a greater output than the battery voltage but not too high.

3.Make sure the connections are clean and the electrolyte is at the upper level, and don’t fill the cells up to the very top of the battery.

4.You can either use an optimizer on the battery which can effectively switch off the battery when it’s charged and prevents overheating, or disconnect it manually.

5.It is recommended to put your battery on charge every two or three weeks.

6.An upper and lower level battery should have all the cells on the upper level, not over and never under the lower level.

7.For topping off the low cells, use only distilled water.

8.The minimum charge for a new batter should be at least for 8 hours.

9.If you have a dry battery, fill the cells slowly and leave the battery for around half an hour.

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Check Out Used Car Sales - First!

When you are looking to purchase a car, there are countless steps in the process and countless details to consider. It can quickly become quite an overwhelming and discouraging process. I have been a financial advisor for many years, so maybe I am a bit biased in this process, but I have one main bit of advice for anyone looking to purchase a car: check out used car sales, and do it first!

I have heard and received a lot of advice that people should consider new car sales and used car sales equally when they are trying to make a vehicle decision. That is okay advice, but I believe that even better advice would be to look at the possibilities that used car sales offer before you even attempt to purchase a new car.

There are many reasons for this suggestion, but the first is simply to be aware of how much money a new car really is. Life is expensive, and there is never an end to the number of bills that need to be paid or responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Looking at used car sales rather than just for new cars can be a great way to find a great car that is within your budget. Doing this will allow you to really free up funds to go to other important bills and needs in your life.

You would be shocked to learn how many great deals that there really are with used car sales. People often think of used cars as old and rusted, but there are used car sales for cars that have barely been driven. So get any preconceptions about used car sales out of your head and go in to a search with your mind open to whatever you will find. You will be pleasantly surprised by the price and quite often with the selection of used car sales.

If you're looking to purchase a car, take the time to research your different options. See what used car sales are available in your area and plan to make a visit at each of these places before you make a final purchase. It is always a good thing to have a lot of options when you are purchasing a car. Talk with friends you know that have purchased a car through used car sales and see what advice they give you. Be knowledgable so you can make the best possible decision.

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Check Engine Lights: Myths And Facts

You’re driving along and suddenly your Check Engine Light comes on. What does it mean? Check Engine Light, Check Engine Soon Light, Service Engine Soon Light, Engine Light, Engine Management Light, "whatever" you want to call it, simply means that your vehicle’s computer system has detected a problem.

Depending on the year, make, and model, it may be related to the engine, the transmission, even the brakes and suspension. There are literally hundreds of reasons a Check Engine Light may appear. The following questions and answers discussion will clarify the truth about Check Engine Lights…

Service Engine Soon Light FAQ:

1) Can the car be driven?
The general rule is: if the Service Engine Soon Light is on, and the car seems to be running ok, you can drive it. However, you should have it checked at your earliest convenience.

If your vehicle is running poorly—bucking, stalling, hesitating, or you just don’t feel safe, tow it. When in doubt always tow it!

2) The check engine light went out by itself. Is it ok now?
Probably not. Check Engine Lights often come and go. Even if the light is out, your vehicle’s computer system will retain information that will allow the problem to be diagnosed. To avoid potential long term issues, get it checked out.

3) My check engine light stays on. What should I do?
If your check engine light stays on constantly, follow the instructions above, under “Can the car be driven?” Don’t panic.

4) Can I disconnect the battery, or pull a fuse to reset the service engine soon light?
Maybe, but I wouldn’t. Removing the battery cable or an ECM or PCM fuse may clear the code, but it is not universally recommended in the industry. Most manufacturers advise against it. See the Best Way to Reset Check Engine Light Codes below.

5) What is the Check Engine Light?
The Check Engine Light is a warning light for multiple systems operating in your vehicle. In simplest terms, it’s like an engine management warning light to alert you of a problem. Just like your computer pops up with an “error message window” saying that something’s wrong, your service engine soon light pops up to warn you that it has detected a malfunction: mechanical, technical, software, or otherwise.

6) How to Reset Check Engine Light?
This is a great question! I get it all the time. See the guide below.

Resetting Check Engine Light:
First, if your Check Engine Light is on, it’s on for a reason. The Check Engine Light indicates that your vehicle’s on-board computers have stored a fault code. There are hundreds of fault codes, any one or more could be stored in the computers memory.
Fault codes are critical for accurate diagnoses of the problem.

Sometimes the fault code points directly to a faulty component, allowing for a quick diagnoses and repair. Other times, the code may only indicate a problem circuit and thus extensive diagnostic procedures may be required.

By resetting the Service Engine Soon Light, it erases important fault code data that turned the check engine light on in the first place. Without this critical information, the root problem can not be discerned.

Unfortunately, there is no "universally" accepted way to safely turn off a check engine light. Even if there was, if the root problem is not addressed, it will come back on.

So whether it’s a Chevrolet Service Engine Soon Light, Camry Check Engine Light, Mighty Max Check Engine Light, or a 1993 Thunderbird Check Engine Light, they require individual procedures to diagnose, repair, and reset the check engine light code.

Following is a Safe and FREE way for resetting check engine light codes.

Best Way to Reset Check Engine Light Codes:
If you’re not interested in diagnosing your truck, SUV or car Check Engine Light, or it’s already fixed, and you just want the engine light out, visit any local repair shop. Most shops will have a universal Check Engine Light Code Reader that can quickly and safely reset, and check engine light trouble codes. It should take about 30 seconds.

Note: European models are better off with a specialist, and some older vehicles may require more time.

Here’s what to do:
Politely ask your local service center (ask a technician if you see one) if they could reset the check engine light with their Check Engine Light Code Reader. They may protest, arguing that the problem must first be diagnosed.

Tell the service representative that you understand fully, and that you appreciate his professionalism. But that you would just like to try resetting the Service Engine Soon Light, and if it comes on again, you’ll come back for a full diagnosis.

Be genuine. Service representatives respond positively to sincerity. If the service center wants to charge you just to reset your Service Engine Light, try another facility.

Alternatively, some parts store such as NAPA and AutoZone will reset your check engine light for free. Be wary of "diagnostic ideas" from parts representatives, however. Don't let them sell you any parts to "try" to fix the problem.

IMPORTANT, check engine light repairs can be quite costly given their technical nature. Service centers can easily hide behind complex technical language to inflate the difficulty of your Check Engine Light concern.

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Cheap Lambo Doors

Picture this. A sleek, fresh-out-of-the-showroom customized Pontiac Grand Am with the leather interior and 20 inch sparkling triangular-patterned rims gliding through the scene. Styling and profiling with an impeccable windshield, its as clean and spotless as Max´s taxicab in the hit movie Collateral. What additions can possibly be added to customize and highlight this perked-up car to its maximum potential? Look no further than cheap lambo doors to complement your machine.


Cheap lambo doors, or scissor doors for the novices, provide a classy upgrade over your standard car door. These scissor doors open upwards instead of outward with a swinging motion, either by hand or with the press of a button. In order to modify your four-wheeler with cheap lambo doors, you have to remove certain parts like fenders and make way for hinges to install it. You can either remove parts or bolt cheap lambo doors in place of the old car door. Modifications can be done in car conversion shops and distributors for cheap lambo doors that specialize in customizing your vehicle with other accessories as well. You can also purchase Vertical Door Kits, an assembly system which allows you to install your cheap lambo doors yourself with a little technical know-how on the side.


Cheap lambo doors are available far and wide. Keep in mind, you shell out money to pay for the modification and installation of your cheap lambo doors instead of paying for them in the physical sense. There are a variety of companies that design and create car conversion kits that bolt on to your car doors existing frame. Expect to pay in the range of $1500 to $3000 for a scissor door conversion kit to install. Usually the older the car model, the less you pay.

Door conversion kits should be easy to install and consist of a superb design, durable material (usually steel), and A+ performance in opening and closing effortlessly without the slightest creak of a hinge. So go ahead, modify your Lincoln Aviator or Porsche Carrera with the slick essence of cheap lambo doors!

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Changing Tyres

You may not have any experience in changing tyres, so knowing when to do so could be difficult without a proper inspection. If you don’t feel comfortable diagnosing the problem prior to changing tyres, then a professional can help. However, determining how to change a tyre can be quite easy.

One sign that can tell you it’s time to change your tyres is by how well they are performing. One example could be that your car, which usually handles well in poor weather conditions, is suddenly not handling as well. Another is that it takes longer to stop when you brake.

A tyre’s tread should not be worn beyond the legal limit, which is a minimum limit of 1.6 millimeters. Most tyre manufacturers mould T.W.I, or tread wear indicators, right into the tyres tread pattern, usually at 1.6 millimeters. When the tyre is worn to the T.W.I, then it should be replaced.

Tyre wear can be caused by several factors, not just through age and use. Emergency braking, under- or over-inflation, and migalignment can cause them to wear. Once a tyre is worn to, or even past its legal limit, changing tyres is a must.

To avoid wearing out your tyres too early, check to see if your tyres are properly inflated. To do so you will need a few simple tools.

You will need a tyre pressure gauge to check the tyre’s pressure. This can be either mechanical or electronic, or can even use a pump with a gauge built right in. You can also opt to by a small compressor that powers through your car’s cigarette lighter. They are great for saving time and effort, but make sure to avoid buying a cheap one. They don’t work as well, and often break very quickly.

If you’ve done all your checks, but your tyres are still in bad shape, then changing tyres is inevitable. But don’t worry, the process can be done easily and quickly with just a few tips.

Before you begin changing tyres, you should check to see that your car’s jack is there, you have a properly inflated spare tyre, you have a lug wrench that properly fits your wheel, and you also have the correct lug bolts.

Once you have safely parked your car, make sure you put a couple of bricks or large stones beneath the tyres to ensure that it doesn’t roll or move. Bring the jack, spare tyre, and lug wrench to where you will be changing tyres.

Begin byremoving the hubcap/plate and loosening the nuts prior to jacking up the car to prevent the wheels spinning on you. Turn them counterclockwise to loosen until it comes off. Once this is done, you can jack up the car.

Remove the old tyre. Since you have already taken out the lug nuts, pull it with your weight forward in order to prevent you from falling backward.

Now you are ready to put the new tyre on. Adjust the tyre in the threaded shafts so they fit. Then you can replace the lug nuts, tightening them in the proper order.

Once this is done you can lower the jack so that they tyres are once again resting on the ground. Lastly you can replace the hubcap or plate.

Changing tyres can be hard the first time you try, but once you get the hang of it, it will be easier and easier each time you do it.

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Cement Mixer

History of Cement and Cement Mixers

Cement mixers are a way of carrying and mixing cement while you are working to repair a foundation, sidewalk, or building a mold. Cement is mostly known to be made out of asphalt, which stands for secure in the ancient Greek language.

Cement is a mixture of several different types of materials. This includes sand, limestone and asphalt. Asphalt and cement were found to be used beginning in 625 BC in Babylon as well as in Greece. The idea of this secure foundation was lost for centuries, and began to be experimented with beginning in the 1500’s. After much exploration, European’s found that this type of material was being used in Venezuela. They took the idea and began to use cement for re-caulking ships.

Road building using cement became popular in America in the middle of the 1800’s. This was part of the revolution that began with the industrial age. Cement was first taken from natural resources, such as the lakes that were in Trinidad. However, by the beginning of the 1900’s, the mixture for roads and pavement began to be a mixture of several different types of rocks.

Cement mixers first became popular in the 1920’s, when automobiles started to become popular. Mixers were first seen as trays that were heated over coal fires. Aggregate was dried in this tray, than asphalt would be poured on top of it. This mix was then stirred by hand. Drums were soon after invented to be used, and soon wheels were added in order to make it easier for the building of roadways and sidewalks. These were known as floating screeds and were popular until the 1960s.

By the 1970s, these types of construction were becoming a concern with the environment. This caused even better technology to be produced in relation to cement mixers. The mixtures that are being used now have an increased improvement with mixture, allowing for less noise, skid resistance, and weather resistance.

Because of the ability to use the cement mixer in relation to the types of roads and sidewalks that are being built, it is allowing for greater roadways and sidewalks. It has also caused the major modes of transportation to be supported by this type of rock. More than ninety-four percent of the ground that is used for transportation is made out of cement. The cement mixer plays an important role in making sure that this secure surface is made.

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Catalytic Converters and Your Vehicle’s Emission System

Before 1975 no U.S. vehicle came equipped with a catalytic converter. Changes in environmental policy -- started with the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] by the Nixon Administration – soon changed all of that. Now, with very few exceptions, all vehicles must come outfitted with a catalytic converter. So, what does a catalytic converter do exactly? Good question…we will answer that query in this article.

When your engine burns fuel it produces gases that are harmful to the environment. If not handled properly, these same gases will exit through your vehicle’s exhaust and work to do harm on the environment. The EPA, which was established in 1970, mandated that starting in 1975 vehicles were to come equipped with an apparatus to reduce dangerous emissions. The particular piece of equipment created to accomplish this task was the catalytic converter.

The catalytic converter in your vehicle is installed in the exhaust line between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. Pellets inside the converter work to transform detrimental gases into harmless gases before they exit the tailpipe and go out into the open air. As you might guess, a properly functioning catalytic converter is essential toward preserving air quality standards.

There are four telltale signs that indicate a catalytic converter will soon fail:

· Rusted or broken converter body or end tubes.

· Bits of substrate in other sections of the exhaust system.

· No rattle detected in a pellitized converter (If the converter doesn't rattle, the pellets may have melted together or fallen out).

· A rattle detected in a monolithic converter (A rattle in this kind of converter indicates the substrate has separated.)

If you see evidence of any of these signs, then you must replace your catalytic converter right away. If you don’t, you risk receiving a ticket from a police officer and you may automatically fail your next motor vehicle inspection.
You can install a new catalytic converter yourself and save money on parts and labor. Shop online for the best deals going.

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Catalytic Converter Fires: A Real Danger!

Driving down the street with the setting sun at his back, Bob Cummins navigated around parked cars and fire hydrants to find the right place to park. It just wasn’t something that was easy to do – finding a vacant spot – on his narrow, winding suburban street. Wedged between two business districts, Bob’s block was frequently filled with cars from outside the area, taking away from the already limited on street parking. While he knew he could simply pull into his own driveway and park, he also knew that he’d have to move vehicles around later when his wife, Susan, returned home with the kids.

Glancing out of his right mirror he noticed it and slammed on his breaks. A car pulled out of a spot down the street behind him and its driver pulled into a nearby driveway and exited the car. Bob slowly backed up halfway down the block and slipped his Volvo XC90 into the empty spot. A little tight, he thought, as he left just enough room between the driveway in front of him and the car behind him for his SUV. Within moments Bob left the comfort of his Volvo and stepped inside the foyer of his center hall colonial.

Less than ten minutes later the sounds of sirens filled the neighborhood. At first, Bob did not give it much thought, but as the sirens drew closer he decided to step outside to investigate. To his utter horror, a car just two houses down from his home was engulfed in flames. Within moments his worst fears were confirmed: his new Volvo XC90 was on fire! Minutes later the fire was extinguished but Bob's SUV was destroyed.

An important part of your vehicle’s emission system is the catalytic converter. It is tasked with reducing harmful emissions that pollute the atmosphere and it has been a part of nearly every passenger vehicle built since the mid 1970s. Unfortunately, the catalytic converter can also run very hot and, at the same time, spark ignition of anything that it comes into contact with. In Bob’s case, it was his 2005 Volvo that was parked directly over a small leaf pile that started the fire that destroyed his XC90.

When parking your vehicle, take care to make sure that no debris is on the ground directly underneath your car. Even a small pile of dried out leaves can be just enough fodder for a fire. In the case of a high profile vehicle, such as the XC90, the clearance between the bottom of your vehicle and the ground is higher, meaning you many not notice anything underneath when backing into an empty parking space.

Hundreds of vehicle fires every year are attributed to motorists who park their cars over leaves; unfortunately this practice almost always results in the total loss of the vehicle due to excessive fire damage.

Play it safe when parking your car, truck, van, or SUV by examining the area underneath it to make sure that is completely free of all debris.

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Cat Training Techniques & Information

The most popular form of cat training is that of learning them how to use the litterbox. This is especially important for indoor cats, but is also ideal for an indoor/outdoor pet. Many people are surprised to know that cat training can also involve an actual toilet, which will eliminate the expense and odor associated with a litterbox. This type of cat training will consist of several weeks during which time the litterbox is elevated and moved until it is near the toilet. The move should be gradual so as to not cause the cat a great deal of confusion or, even worse, cause him/her to misplace the litterbox. During this type of cat training, the litter can be suspended above the toilet using either a small bowl or box. At the conclusion of cat training involving the toilet, the cat will be able to use the toilet by perching over the bowl.

Cat training for indoor cats may also involve the implementation of a scratching post, which will prevent them from ruining furniture or carpet with their nails. While it is very possible to trim the nails, great care must be taken so as to avoid cutting a vein if the nails are cut too short.

It is best to begin cat training as early as possible. If you have a kitten, start early and teach him/her the basic behavior that is expected from an indoor pet, such as not clawing the furniture and how to use the litterbox.

Experts believe that cats can and often do bond with their owner. In fact, cats are thought to be able to initiate eye contact in an effort to convey a message or may even mimic the actions of their owner. The bonding process is especially important while you attempt cat training. As with any pet, training can be very daunting and often stressful to the owner. It is much easier to instill cat training techniques on a kitten as opposed to a cat, which is something that every pet owner should consider prior to selecting a new addition to their family.

Cat training is the best way for indoor pets to live a happy and healthy life with their owner. A cat that is not properly trained will not understand what is acceptable and what is not, which is why cat training is so important to both the cat and his/her owner.

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Carparts Online Or Offline?

Carparts Online
Tired of hunting store after store for the right part? You can spend days hunting scrap yards and part stores, and even then, you may not find what you need. With the internet more part suppliers, retailers, and collectors are selling their carparts online. The more advanced online shops allow you to search by application, make and model, or manufacturer for auto parts and discount carparts. Fill your virtual cart up with everything from air filters to complete engines, and never leave your garage.

Carparts options
If you do not have the patience to shop online, or if you need something right now, there is nothing wrong with going to your local retailer. In most cases the carparts they offer will have a lifetime warranty and even if they do not have the part you need they will either know where to get it or how to order it. You could look at various local shops and price compare and there is nothing wrong with teaching yourself on the various brands out there that serve your make and model.

One carpart that could save you money.
There are many advantages to buying a car with a standard transmission with a clutch. Having more control over the transmission, it is possible to get better gas mileage than with an automatic transmission. You can save about $1000 buying a standard compared to an identical automatic. You also have the benefit of being able to push start your car. There is also the camp of standard snobs who always quip, "I would rather drive my car than just steer..." I am just kidding.

Carparts are online now, simply search and click. If you have doubt whether the quality of carparts bought on the internet are of the same standard the regular carparts bought from your local carpart shop are – don’t be scared. Everything is just the same, just cheaper.

Thank you for listening.

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Caribbean Stud Poker: How to Play

Caribbean Stud Poker is gradually gaining in popularity as compared to its stud twin: Texas Holdem mainly because it is an easier game to learn and you can play it face to face and still enjoy.

Originating in the Caribbean and based loosely on five card stud poker rules, this game offers a fan alternative to traditional table games with an opportunity to place a side bet and hit a big jackpot too. Some of these jackpots are progressive and you can win millions of dollars if you break those machines or tables..

What is Caribbean Stud?
It is not a traditional poker game in the sense that you play against the other players and the best player wins the pot. Caribbean stud belongs to the family of games including Pai Gow poker, Let it Ride and Three Card poker for example, where your opponent is the dealer and your goal is to form a better poker hand than the dealers hand. However, basic knowledge of traditional poker hand ranking is required.

The Rules of Playing Caribbean Stud:
1) The game begins with the players placing an ante bet at the same amount as the table minimum on the ante circle on the table.
2) At the same time, you should decide whether to place an additional side bet for the progressive jackpot.
3) Then, the dealer deals each player five face down cards plus four face down cards and one up to himself.
4) After looking at your cards, you should decide whether to fold or to call. If you decide to call, you should place an additional bet double the amount of your former ante bet.
5) After all the players have made their decisions, the dealer shows his hand. In order to qualify in a Caribbean stud poker game, the dealer must have an ace and a king or better. If he does not qualify, you will be paid back your ante bet but the call bet is a push.
6) If the dealers hand qualifies, he compares hands against each of the players individually. If his hand is better than yours is, you lose both your ante and your call bets.
7) If your hand is better than the dealers hand, you would be paid even money for your ante while for your call you would be paid according to a paytable. The paytable can vary from one casino to another. Generally, US casinos pay out 50:1 on a straight flush; 20:1 on four of a kind; 7:1 on full house; 5:1 on a flush; 4:1 on a straight; 3:1 on three of a kind; 2:1 on two pairs and even money on one pair or less.
In case your hand and the dealers hand are even, both ante and raise will push.

One of the reasons that Caribbean stud poker is so popular is the option of placing a one dollar side bet and winning a large progressive jackpot prize. In order to qualify for the bonus payout you should have a flush or better. For a flush, you would be paid a 50 dollars bonus and in order to win the jackpot that usually resets from 10,000 dollars, you must have a royal flush. However, your chances to hit a royal flush are estimated as about 650,000 to 1, therefore I would recommend skipping it.

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Cargo Liner Essentials and Information

The proliferation of available pick up trucks on the market has yielded quite a few useful aftermarket accessories to enhance the ownership experience. Trucks from Ford, Chevrolet/GMC, Dodge, Toyota, Nissan, and Honda are all being marketed to businesses as well as to individuals who prize the versality of these types of vehicles. If you own a pick up truck, more than likely you extensively use the cargo bed as you transport wood, gravel, home supplies, or other heavy duty items. To protect your cargo bed from damage, quality custom made cargo liners offer ample protection for your vehicle that no off the shelf product can possibly equal. Let's take a look at some key features that make custom made liners a smart buy.

Liners from Husky are among the select brands on the market offering premium protection for your SUV or truck as they made to exacting specifications to produce the following importaint characteristics:

Every liner is designed to the precise specifications of your vehicle’s cargo bed. There is no "one-size-fits-all" style made.

Custom liners are produced from tough polyethylene materials to stay supple in a variety of weather conditions: from summer's intense heat to winter's extreme cold.

High quality liners contain molded-in tread patterns that grips onto cargo. This means that whatever you decide to place in the back of your truck will not shift around.

Many custom made liners not only cover the bed bottom but the interior sides as well.

Able to resist moisture including snow, ice, hail, sleet, and rain; can properly contain mud, dirt, gas, oil, even battery acid.

Quality cargo liners are available in three important colors: gray, black, and tan to match or pleasantly contrast just about any vehicle produced.

In addition, not like off the shelf models, custom made cargo liners are thicker, much more able to resist abuse, and even have a better look to them. Since you paid a lot of money for your vehicle, why would you select a product that is costly, won't last, and looks terrible? Instead, choose a custom designed cargo liner that is certain to hold up over time, through a variety of conditions, and still look great years later.

Finally, a cargo liner will add value to your truck. Once time comes for you to trade in your truck for the latest model, your cargo liner will be credited with helping you maximize your trade in value: no scratches, dents, or dings thanks to your properly fitted custom cargo liner!

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Car Window Shades

Whether you are traveling in the heat of the sun or just looking for a little privacy, car window shades are a solution to your dilemma. They come in a variety of materials including vinyl, mesh, sunscreens, and nylons and corrugated cardboard. They are designed for windshields, back and side windows.

If you want a subtle looking shade, you can select a plain color, or you can purchase shades that are wild, with colorful designs. Some shades are free, given to drivers by companies wishing to market their products. Logos and messages are printed on the shade and displayed when placed on the windshield of a vehicle.

Portable and affordable car shades work well in any driving environment, especially when the sun’s rays are its fiercest. If your parking spot offers no shade, just pop on the car window shade, and you’ll return to a cool, comfortable car without having to wait for the air conditioning to kick in. They work great as side window covers too. If you have a child, these shades are designed to reduce the glare that shines through a side window, affecting the vision of your child. Although it does not offer protection from ultraviolet rays, it will provide shade and a comfortable ride for your little ones. When side shades are in place, the driver will not encounter any visual distortion, or will vision be impaired while driving.

Car window shades are cheap, very easy to pack and work efficiently. Sometimes, air bubbles appear on the shades, and you might want to get rid of them by squeezing them out. Also, you can’t open windows when the car shades are in place. To put the shade in place, all you have to do is unfold and stick it to the surface of the glass. You do not have to wet the shade or the window. To remove the shade, you simply peel it off and roll it back up.

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Car Tires, Your Link With The Road

Car tires are more important than many people give them credit for being. They are literally your link with the road. The most dangerous place for you to be is out of or in poor contact with the road. In this predicament you are not able to have any input into your course of direction and that is a bad thing when you are going 60 plus miles per hour with no way to avoid crashing into something. Friction is what we are going for and there are some things that you have control of and some things that you don’t in this area. You are responsible for your own and anyone else’s life in the car you are driving and so you had better be sure that you have taken all the measures that you can to prevent a problem.

Now the contact of the road has several factors as already mentioned. The majority of the friction comes from the contact of rubber of the tire with the concrete or asphalt of the road. The action of gravity on the mass of your car is the only thing that is causing this contact and so naturally more weight equals more friction between the road and your car tires. A good thing but can turn against you in the form of inertia after the friction has been overcome say after you’ve locked up the brakes, now inertia is greater with a heavier vehicle and takes more in the way of friction to stop it. Anyway rubber and concrete naturally have a lot of friction.

Air pressure in tires will change the properties of the rubber by stretching it so that if a tire is overfilled it can decrease the amount of friction. There is also less surface area in this case. Anyway so you have rubber tires and concrete roads what more can you be responsible for? Well tread for one. How does tread affect the ability of car tires to make contact with the road? Well now we have to talk about outside factors that affect the surface of the road, namely weather. Water and snow and mud decrease the amount of friction by filling the natural grooves and not allowing contact between rubber and road.

So how does tread help in this situation. Well tread is actually good because of the grooves in the tread of your car tires. The grooves allow the material no matter what it is to have a place to go other than between the rubber of the tire and the road. This decreases the “hydroplaning” effect that you get with all the different natural elements that can make driving conditions bad. So the moral of the story is to make sure that you always have good tires with lots of tread on your vehicle in order to maximize the ability of your car to grip the road and therefore provide you with control over the vehicle that allows you to slow down and steer to avoid problems.

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Car Shipping Help

Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for your next auto transport company:

Make sure the auto transport service you select has the proper insurance in case you have any damage to your vehicle
Do they have a history of good service and customer satisfaction? Visit website like autoshipments dot com for a list of auto transport companies and reviews to help you make your selection.
Confirm your auto transport company is bonded
Do they have a toll free number you can call
Are the sales agents knowledgeable and courtesy on the phone?
Do they offer door to door service?
Always make sure the price they give you is the final cost and there are no hidden charges
Request at least a 3 day window for pick-up and delivery of your vehicle or vehicles
Do they have a physical location address available at their website you can verify

Many times shipping your vehicle is cost effective with today’s rising gas prices so you should always explore the option when you need to relocate your car, truck or SUV. This also allows you to focus on your move and your family relieving you of stress of driving your vehicle.

Here are a few things to remember prior to shipping your vehicle:
Insure your vehicle has no obvious fluid leaks.
Be sure that the battery is secure, has no leaks, and that the fluid levels are low enough to accommodate expansion.
Make sure that your vehicle is clean enough to ensure an accurate pickup inspection.
Leave only about ¼ tank of gas in the vehicle, as a full tank of gasoline adds a lot of costly weight to the transport.
Disable or disconnect anti-theft devices or alarms.
There can be serious problems and unnecessary expenses if the driver is locked out or if the alarm goes off during the auto shipping process or the car transport.
Remove all personal belongings except standard vehicle items such as jack and spar tire.
Remove after-market or not build-in radios, cassette decks, CD/DVD players and/or toll passes/tags and garage openers.
Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty items such as ground effects, spoilers, fog lights, bike racks, grill covers or wide mirrors, and lower or remove the antenna if possible.
Repair or seal any tears or open seams on convertible tops to prevent fast-moving air from causing further damage.
Make sure the radiator has adequate levels of fresh antifreeze and prepared for new climates.
Very slightly open one window to relieve pressure due to temperature and elevation changes. This will allow for your vehicle(s) to breath and protect window(s) from blowing out because of the temperature and pressure changes during transport.

There are literally thousands of choices in today’s market place but applying some prudence and asking the right questions will all but guarantee you a safe and reliable auto relocation.

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Car Service Contracts: Full Service Or Foolish Service

Upon purchasing a car, one may also be required to avail of an auto service contract to do away with untimely and expensive repairs. Before agreeing into any of it, one should first completely get a grip of both the contract's terms and the one responsible for supplying the coverage.

The following will help in the understanding of the use of a car service contract and what should be considered before getting one.

Car Service Contract mistaken as a warranty

A car service contract should not be mistaken as a warranty as made understood by federal law even if it is sometimes called "extended warranty". Similar to a warranty, a car service contract promises to provide or pay for particular services or repairs.

A warranty goes together with a new automobile and comes together with the original price of the car while an car service contract is sold separately and can be arranged for at anytime.

Things to consider in a car service contract:

o Duplication of car service contract with whichever warranty treatment

Before buying any car service contract, try comparing it with the manufacturer's warranty first. This will avoid shelling out for coverage that may already be provided by the warranty.

o Accountability of car service contract

Check on who is accountable in performing or paying for reparations within the terms of the contract whether it is the dealership, the manufacturer, or an independent company.

A lot of these car service contracts that dealers sell are controlled by companies that are independent or administrators, as they are called. They function as adjusters of claims who authorize payment claims to dealers under service contract. Therefore, any dispute on claims should be discussed or settled with the supervisor.

Once the administrator stops his business, it is a possibility that the dealership may be compelling to execute the terms of the contract. It is also possible that if the dealer runs out of business, the administrator may be the one expected to complete the contract's terms.

It is imperative to know the credibility of the dealer and/or the administrator. Inquire about their references and verify them. The local or state office for consumer protection, local automobile dealers associations, Department of Motor Vehicles, local Better Business Bureau are good sources of references and public information.

It is also important to know the length of time the dealer or administrator have had in the business. It is also vital to determine if the dealer or administrator has the funding to sustain their contractual responsibilities.

Know if the car service contract has an insurance company that has underwritten it. This is mandatory in some states. If it is so, verify the company's solvency with the State Insurance Commission and check for complaints that might have been filed against it.

o Prices of Auto Service Contracts

The cost of auto service contracts are usually known through observing the vehicle's model, make, condition whether it is new or used, the coverage, and the contract's length. The price ranges from hundreds of dollars to over a thousand.

Over and above the initial charge may be an additional fee to pay known as deductible, every time the car is repaired or serviced. In some auto service contracts, one may pay just one charge for each visit for all the required restoration, no matter how many. On the other hand, other contracts demand the client to pay a deductible for each unrelated repair.

Transfer of cancelling fees may also be asked to be paid once the client decides to sell the car or wishes to finish the contract. Contracts usually decrease the payment for towing services and other related car rental expenses.

o Coverage

Only a few car service contracts treat all types of repair. Typical repairs for parts such as clutches and brakes are usually not coming with the service contracts. If some items are not listed in the service contract, assume that it is not included. An example of this is if the contract indicates coverage on the "drive train" only, it will surely not pay for the alternator which is a component of the electrical system.

Beware of absolute rules that reject or deny coverage for any reason. An example of this is if a part that is covered is damaged by a part that is not covered, no claim will be given.

One my not have full protection even on parts that are covered in the contract. This is possible due to some companies using a "depreciation factor" in calculating the coverage. This primarily means that the contract covers only partial repair or replacement costs if they take into consideration your vehicle's mileage for instance.

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Car Rentals – The Skinny

If you are like me, you do not like to travel to most cities and be dependent on the local taxi or transit systems. I want to be able to go where I want when I want to. More importantly, I want to be able to leave when I want to. Welcome to the world of car rentals.

This is not going to be a commercial for any particular car rental company as I have no allegiance to any of them. This is going to be about the do’s and don’t’s of renting a car.

First off, I never wait until I get to a city to rent a car. I get online and make reservations before hand. And I do not go to the individual car rental companies; I go to places like Travelocity, Xpedia or Orbitz to check pricing and make reservations. These outlets save a lot of time and the rental costs are extremely competitive. In fact, you will find deals on free upgrades and price breaks on different styles of cars. Here is where I make my reservation. It costs me nothing; and if, for some reason I change my mind about the rental, I am not liable for any charges. Perfect for the person whose whims guide him or her.

Flash forward to the car rental depot. Be prepared to show your valid driver’s license and a valid credit card (MC or Visa) as it is mandatory. Next, they are going to present you with all kinds of different options. Listen to them and affirm or deny each dependent on your current needs. The one option I always deny is the insurance. It is expensive, and both my automobile insurance company and my credit card company provide this auxillary coverage.

Once you get out to the car, check for damages, scratches, or anything that they could bill you for later. Make notes on their pre-damage check list for your protection. Check the fuel level and all of the gauges on the dash to ensure all is okay. Next, check the air, the windows and even the radio if you are dependent on niceties.

Have fun on your stay. Only two things to do on your return. First, make sure you top off your fuel within 10-15 miles of the drop-off point so you pay no costly fuel surcharges. Second and most important, make sure you get everything out of the car that is yours.

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Car racing seats | Body kits | Racing seats | Hid kits

Owning a car has become the most important necessity for modern day life as it gives you sense of freedom and independence. You can personalize your car by adding on high-tech auto accessories like car spoilers, hid kits, racing seats, underbody neon kit, diamond plate and floor mats which will not only boost the performance of your car but make it look smarter and chic than ever. Your car displays your style statement to onlookers and creates awe in them.

You can personalize your vehicle by stylizing it in the way you want it. Large array of auto accessories have been manufactured and launched in order to enhance the look and performance of your car with a wide range of products. Certainly auto parts installed already in your vehicle by the company, factory or the dealer are perfect in their functioning but you can enhance the level of functioning by installing the more advanced and modified features into your car. There are wide ranges of automotive accessories including body kits, car spoilers, hid kits, racing seats, underbody neon kit, diamond plate floor mats, car covers, brake dust shields and many more that can be installed after replacing the auto parts installed by the factory.
Internal and external car accessories differ in their prices and can be bit expensive as well depending on the brand name.

Car spoilers are high-tech performance based auto accessories that lends your car that aerodynamic look which makes it stand apart from the common crowd of the cars. It’s a rear wing that is made of fiberglass usually and is available in different shapes and sizes. You can get best of the car spoilers to enhance the look of your car from world’s best brands which suits your taste and budget. The best car spoilers available are aluminum spoilers, lip spoilers, carbon fiber spoilers, OEM spoilers, and universal spoilers to make your selection from.

Several manufacturers have launched their brands of body kits in order to give more stylized and improved look to your car. Besides this modified and highly advanced body kits include the features such as controlling the amount of exhaust air, down force control and ground effects. You can get race car body kits that lends sporty look to your car and are usually of fiberglass or urethane. These body kits add on to the traction power during acceleration of your car along with aerodynamic pull of your car. Most of the body kits include accessories including fenders, customized hoods, windows, mags, chrome handles, and side mirrors. You can get the external help for the easy installation of body kits since it may require some technical assistance.

Change your ordinary factory car seats with newly designed and stylish racing seats which will enhance the comfort and will certainly lend great looks to your car interior. Racing seats are manufactured using high standard racing fiber and is endowed with side slider and tilt function for more comfort and ease while driving. You can easily install racing seats without any external help following the installation guide or manual.

Underbody neon kit gives an ultra-modern look to your car and enhances its beauty with the display of lights of various colors at one instance. You can log onto www.autoaccessorystore.com for more information on auto performance and stylizing accessories.

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Car Parts The Importance of Wheels

We’ve all noted at some point or another that a particular thing is the best invention since that of the wheel. Or perhaps we’ve laughed as someone has tried to make a simple process unnecessarily difficult for themselves by ‘reinventing the wheel’. Though man had made and implemented a wide variety of tools before the invention of this one, the wheel has assumed an iconic place in the way we look at the world. And unlike many historic inventions which, though important at the time of their genesis, have since fallen by the wayside, the wheel continues to remain an important part of our lives today, forming an essential linchpin upon which one of the most important tools of modern life is built.

These days, it is easy to take for granted the great mobility we enjoy, choosing as we do from a multitude of ways to travel. One of the most frequently used methods of transport remains the car, from its humble beginnings as a self propelled vehicle in the eighteenth century to the vast array of shapes and makes we find today. Like several other modes of transit, the principle of the car is based upon that of the wheel, which, combined with an axle, allows for the forward motion that is such an intrinsic part of the human condition.

As has occurred with other elements of the car, a combination of technology and a preference for the finer things in life has resulted in a choice of wheels and tyres that is quite astounding. Different types of tyres have created greater diversity in the terrains upon which cars may be used, and made use of increased technological knowledge to ensure the safety of a car’s passengers. Meanwhile, such accessories as hubcaps have been added to this important car part to personalize them to both car manufacturer and the driver.

While historians cannot agree entirely upon the exact point at which this important tool was invented, there is little doubt that this remains unimportant to today’s modern motorist. We rarely give our wheels a second thought, but without them, our cars would be entirely useless, and we would be left sitting on the road, in a pointless metal cage.

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Car Parts Staying Safe While Installing

Finding and installing car parts can be different thing to different people. For some, it is an enjoyable hobby, with the garage being like no place else on earth. For others, however, hunting down those wretched parts and trying to get them into the car is a job borne out of necessity rather than a labor of love. But whatever the impetus behind your car repairs, one thing remains true for all car part enthusiasts, and that is that safety must come first.

A car can be a dangerous weapon in the wrong hands, and this is as true of a stationary vehicle as it is of a moving one. Installing car parts can be treacherous work, and you must never begin until you have taken care of all your safety requirements. We all know that driving under the influence can be life threatening, but any exposure to a powerful vehicle can be potentially dangerous if you do not have your wits about you. Never attempt to install car parts when your judgment is in any way impaired, and once you start to get tired, stop immediately. Your car parts can just as well be installed in the morning.

Remember to dress for the job when installing car parts – avoid wearing any loose clothing that might get caught on any moving parts, and be sure to wear sturdy shoes. Do not – under any circumstances – smoke while you are adding parts to your car, the gasoline and oil under the hood are highly flammable. Exhaust fumes also contain a potentially lethal substance, carbon monoxide, so always make sure that you are working in a well-ventilated area.

There are many other dangers lurking under the hood of your car, so always be vigilant when installing new car parts. Battery acid, for example, is highly corrosive, while the battery itself can emit shocks. Prevent injuries when working with your car battery by disconnecting it while you work and always wearing special protective gloves. There are also many potential fire hazards involved in car part replacement, so be sensible and have an extinguisher within arm’s reach.

Installing your new car parts can be an enjoyable and challenging task, so ensure that you enjoy it to the full by taking care of your safety before you start. Exercise caution at all times – using good sense when installing car parts will allow you to enjoy the fruits of your labor in safety.

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Car Parts Putting a Car back Together Again

So you’ve sunk a whole load of money into an old car with the intention of lovingly restoring it to its former glory. But it’s only now that you’ve started looking for car parts that you’re beginning to wonder what on earth have you let yourself in for. Whether you’re in it for the money or for the sheer fun of it, any car you restore is only going to be the sum of the car parts you put into it. So before you start building from scratch, here are a few points to consider.

Cars aren’t that complicated to understand, right? Well, there’s a world of difference between replacing the odd car part here and there and refitting the insides of an empty carcass like a jigsaw. Before you commit financially to any project, be sure to ascertain honestly what your ability is, and also how much time and effort you’re prepared to put into the project. A fancy paint job and new upholstery can be as much fun as installing the most basic of engine parts, if that is where your technical comfort level is. Consider what you’re prepared to put in, before you start ripping those old car parts out.

Once you’ve decided upon the type of project you want to work with, be sure to wait for the right car with the right parts. Of course you can learn as you go along, and that might even be part of the fun, but don’t invest in a car minus parts you haven’t the interest in learning to find and fit. You might love that make and model at the time of purchase, but a few weeks of sitting in your front yard without the final missing part will be enough to sour your relationship forever.

If you are a novice, be sure to take an expert car parts man along with you when you view potential cars and parts. What might look about right to you might actually be along the wrong lines completely, and you could find yourself shelling out a fortune for a part that is completely unsuitable. Also bear in mind always how much money you are willing to spend on car parts, and what you plan ultimately to do with your restored car. An older part might be fine in a vehicle you hope to use for show purposes only, but a fully operable car will need car parts of the same standard.

Caution is the watchword when choosing car parts to put into your restoration job. Know what you want and stick to that, and if in doubt then save your money. Whatever your reasons for restoring a car, the parts you put inside need to be just right, so do the best job you can by waiting for the best parts.

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Car Parts on the Internet The Easier Way to Shop!

Finding the right parts to repair or enhance the workings of your car used to be a dirty job, but when the health of your vehicle was at stake, somebody had to do it! While more run of the mill parts might be found at your dealer, rather than amidst the broken down cars at your local wrecking yard, getting the bits you needed often necessitated several trips between different stores, while the exact part you needed was being hunted down.

But, as it has done in so many other areas of our lives, technology has come to the rescue, in this case specifically in the form of the Internet. This amazing connection that links people from Tennessee to Timbuktu has revolutionized all types of shopping in the past few years, and it can save you many hours of your precious time and bundles of your even more precious energy by helping you find the parts you need without any of the legwork.

From eBay to specialised online car part stores, the car part you are looking for is just waiting to be found. While locating the part you need on a non-specialised site might be down to a fair amount of luck, dedicated online car part stores usually offer you access to their detailed catalogues, allowing you to search for whatever you need by simply typing in the specifications of the part you’re looking for.

While many online stores choose to operate virtually to help them cut down on costs such as rental fees, and light and heating bills, others still simply maintain an online presence to boost their accessibility. The latter breed of business maintain physical stores too, allowing you to check up on parts online while still being able to go downtown to take a look at an item before purchasing. If this is not necessary, most stores will post the part you need directly to your home or workshop, so that you barely have to look up from your car repairs to get the parts you want.

Because isn’t this what hunting down car parts is all about? You would much rather spend your time working on your car than tracking down the parts you need. So log on to the Internet, and then get back to doing what you really love.

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Car Parts It’s What’s On The Outside That Counts

When many of us think of car parts, we consider all the intricate devices that lurk under the hood and come together to make our vehicle drive smoothly and safely. While a large proportion of these parts are usually out of plain sight, many of the essential parts of a working car are part of the body of the vehicle. Just because you can see it, doesn’t mean it’s not essential in making your driving experience as enjoyable and safe as possible.

Safety is one of the most important tasks performed by the highly visible car parts that combine to create the outer shell of your automobile. While the various components of the engine are designed to get you where you want to go, the body of a car is designed to store the people that travel within, and their safety is paramount. Millions of dollars are spent each year on testing the strength and durability of these casings – this is where crash test dummies came about. And with car ratings increasingly including this safety aspect in their final judgment on a particular vehicle, this seems like money well spent. And while collisions and crashes might not be something any driver or passenger wants to dwell too long upon, it is the body of your vehicle that can make all the difference in your health’s prognosis in the event of such an awful occurrence.

The parts that combine to make your car’s outer hull also carry the responsibility of another requirement. This is the comfort of the vehicle’s passengers, an important factor in these days of frequent driving. While comfort might seem a concern of luxury or exotic car makers – we’ve all seen those advertisements that portray the inside of a high priced vehicle as though it were an expensive suite of lounge furniture – it is something to be considered in the construction of all cars. In the early days of motoring, automobiles were so far from user-friendly that motorists were physically only able to drive for limited periods. The car parts that make up the body of your vehicle need to be designed with this in mind also.

It is clear that the external parts of your car have an important role to play in the overall running of your vehicle. Combined with the suspension system, these parts are designed to make your trip as comfortable. Add to this the burden of your physical safety, and it is easy to see that external car parts need to do a lot more than just look good.

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Car Parts Finding Vintage Treasure at Your Local Wrecking Yard

Finding car parts for your vintage car can be difficult, making difficult the wonderful hobby of car restoration. While tracking down the missing pieces of your motor mystery might be an exciting part of the challenge of vintage car restoration, it shouldn’t become a time consuming trial that takes you away from spending time with your beloved vehicle. Here are a few tips to help make hunting down those vintage car parts just a little bit easier.

When your ten-year old car breaks down, you visit your local dealership to find replacement parts, but when the car in question was last made in the fifties, replacement parts are not so readily available. The best source for vintage car parts is possibly your local junkyard, but you obviously won’t have the same consumer rights there! When cars arrive at the wrecking yard, salvageable parts will be removed, but the number of cars arriving at these yards precludes the staff that works there making a catalogue or other record of these parts. Explain your situation to a member of this staff and ask to rummage through the car parts yourself. Remember that wrecking yards are not as customer oriented as a car dealership would be, and always ask before you wander off into other areas of the yard.

Before you go to the wrecking yard, be sure to make a detailed account of what you are looking for, and take photos of your car if necessary. If you are looking to replace an older part, be sure to bring that with you, as it can help you make comparisons with possible replacements, and you can also use it as a trade-in. Be sure to do your research before visiting the yard too, to ensure that you know exactly what you’re looking for and that you understand when a close match will do if you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for.

Wrecking yards are often not the safest places to be, so be careful as you hunt through the debris of old cars looking for your valuable find. Dress appropriately and watch where you step. Remember to bring your own tools, as wrecking yard staff might not be permitted to give you theirs, and always keep your eyes peeled – you never know where your next find might be.

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Car Parts Fear of the Unknown!

Owning your own car can be a wonderful experience. Whenever the mood strikes, you simply hop in, and go wherever suits. Cars represent freedom and spontaneity; they provide single folk and families alike the means to do what has to be done, go wherever needs visiting, and return back home again, all relatively simply and safely. Cars provide opportunity, they save time – except when the thing breaks down, and you have to go looking for car parts.

Apparently, finding car parts is not all that difficult if you know what you’re doing. Unfortunately, many of us don’t. We know that we should probably go back to the dealership where we bought the thing, but we have no clue what we’d ask for. ‘The thing broke on my car’, we’d say, and to avoid enormous amounts of confusion, or simply being laughed out of the place, we stay at home, or take the bus.

Looking at a car’s innards is enough to send most of us to sleep, or make the more sensitive among us wonder who on earth lets us out in such a contraption anyway. And while there’s no question that a car’s engine is no place for the mechanical novice to set loose, there’s little doubt that it’s not as scary as it looks.

Just because you drive it every day, it doesn’t mean you have to have an intricate knowledge of the various parts that make up your car. You probably use a computer too, and wouldn’t know a motherboard from a processor. But that’s okay – you have a multitude of other skills that many a mechanic would give his right arm for. Maybe you’re the world’s best cook, or can knit faster than anyone you’ve ever met. It doesn’t matter – car parts simply aren’t your forte.

So when your car breaks down, don’t worry about appearing dim – your car is a convenience, and you’re not supposed to understand all it’s foibles. When you go to the garage or dealership for repairs or to purchase replacement parts, simply be as precise as you can about what happened. Take a look inside by all means, and try to find a visual cue that might help your mechanic understand what you are looking for.

But don’t worry about your lack of car part knowledge. Ask your mechanic to pick a pair of knitting needles, and we’ll see who knows what.

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Car Maintenance Information You Should Follow

When you buy a vehicle you receive certain instructions regarding maintenance that are recommended by the manufacturer. However, with your busy schedule and the increased cost of car maintenance you frequently put off tire and oil changes, checking under the hood, and other similar regular maintenance necessities. Unfortunately, if you put off car maintenance due to schedule and budget you are risking a bigger inconvenience to your schedule and budget by having your car breakdown. Consider the following maintenance tips to help you keep your car in tip top condition.

Oil Change

Your car needs an oil change every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the way you drive, the age, and condition of your vehicle’s engine, highway driving versus in town driving, and a variety of other factors. Because this is a very wide range in which to change your oil you should probably change your oil every 5,000 miles if you drive like the majority of individuals. Of course, a small percentage of individuals fit into the high and low ranges of the above numbers, but every 5,000 miles is a good round number for an oil change. By following this tip you will spend about 20 minutes and less than $25 and keep your car running for a very long time.

Tires and Tire Pressure

You should check your tires on a regular basis, especially the tire pressure. Each size tire has a recommended tire pressure and maintaining that particular pressure in the tire will prolong the life of the tire as well as provide ease of driving, not to mention increase your safety. When the proper tire pressure is maintained in your vehicle then braking, cornering, and braking are superior which means your safety is increased. Vehicles are not as stable when the tire pressure is out of whack. You should check your tire pressure at least once per month. This is really easy and free as long s you invest in a small tire pressure gauge which is very inexpensive. When you stop for gas and the tank is filling up, simply check all of your tires to ensure the proper air pressure.

Brakes

You know your brakes are one of the most important aspects of your car. They slow you down and basically allow you to avoid accidents on a daily basis. Because of this you need to be extra alert to your brakes. Also, if you can tell it is time to change the breaks because they are squealing or not slowing your car as quickly as necessary then don’t put it off. Instead, take your lunch break, or whatever time you have and have your breaks changed immediately. Additionally, each time your car has the oil changed have a full inspection including your breaks to make sure the breaks are working properly. If not, you may have them changed the same day.

There are lots of different aspects of your car that need regular maintenance and upkeep. Just make sure you are alert to this fact and always follow the manufacturers suggestions when it comes to your vehicle and your vehicle will last longer and your safety will be increased.

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