Your Guide to Everything with a Motor
Vehicles
Tiny Device Alerts You To Pump Up Your Tires
Jan 23rd
A new federal auto safety requirement has engineers busy perfecting a tiny sensor that could help make accidents resulting from underinflated tires a thing of the past.
The regulation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requires all passenger cars to be equipped with tire-pressure monitoring systems by 2008. Automakers will begin installing the systems on their 2006 models.
The rule gives manufacturers of micro-electro mechanical systems, also called MEMS, a lucrative opportunity to cash in. According to a report by ASME, a professional engineering organization, there could be a demand for 70 million MEMS tire-pressure sensors a year as a result of the requirement.
Vehicles equipped with MEMS-based tire-pressure systems have a sensor attached to the inside of the rim of each wheel, which measures the tire pressure and transmits the data to a central receiver in the vehicle. The receiver then analyzes the data and tire-pressure readouts are displayed to the driver. If the tire pressure is too low, warning lights alert the driver of a potential hazard.
The pressure sensor is a high-tech device containing several components including a temperature sensor, voltage sensor, accelerometer, micro-controller, antenna and battery.
The NHTSA estimates that the new mandate would cost auto manufacturers an average of about $48 to $69 per vehicle, depending on the technology used.
Currently, engineers are working to design tire-pressure monitoring systems that are functional, cost-effective and, at the same time, able to withstand extreme temperatures, vibrations and other rigors of the road. MEMS manufacturers are presenting their prototypes to automobile and tire companies for consideration as they move to comply with the rule.
Time to Fall Back Into Your Auto Maintenance Routine
Jan 21st
As summer winds down and fall begins in earnest, auto-care experts say that getting your vehicle serviced for cold-weather driving should be high on your list of things to do.
Here are some tips from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) – the nonprofit group that certifies automotive technicians – on preparing your car for winter weather.
* Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules. Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual. Do this more often – every 3,000 miles or so – if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
* Get problems such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling and diminished power corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse.
* Replace all dirty filters.
* Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Keep your gas tank filled to help prevent moisture from forming.
* Have the cooling system flushed and refilled as recommended. Periodically check the level, condition and concentration of the coolant.
* Have a certified auto technician check the tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses.
* Make sure that the heater and defroster are in good working condition.
* As part of routine battery care, scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces, then re-tighten all connections. If the battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
Note that removal of cables can cause damage or loss of data on some newer vehicles, so check your manual. Also, be sure to avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid; wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
* Examine the exhaust system for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes.
* Examine the tires’ tread and look for uneven wearing and cupping. Also, check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Rotate the tires as recommended.
* Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking them. Don’t forget to check your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
* Prepare for emergencies. Stock your car with gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or cat litter, tire chains, a flashlight and a cell phone. Put a few “high energy” snacks in your glove box, too.
Things To Avoid When Buying Used Cars
Jan 20th
Nowadays, life can be pretty hard. Everything is increasing with prices escalating out of site! This makes us all targets of potential scams and frauds.
With all these swindlers and scammers lurking just about anywhere, it is best to always be on guard and to know the things to be avoided in order to prevent the probability of being a victim of frauds and swindles.
Consequently, people who are buying used cars should also be aware of the different fraudulent activities being employed by unscrupulous people in order to have the best buy of used cars.
Moreover, people who are aware that the cars they have bought are stolen, chances are, they will be held liable.
Here are some things to avoid when buying used cars:
1. Used car buyers should avoid any transactions that are too good to be true. This will only make the matter worst if the buyer will believe that the deal is the best-used car deal ever.
2. Buyers should avoid buying used cars from sellers that do not provide a permanent address or the actual place of work of the phone number given.
3. It is important for a buyer to check on the VIN or the vehicle identification number plate. It must be securely fastened onto the used cars dashboard, with no rivets that are loosened.
Loosened rivets would mean that the VIN plate does not fit or it has been previously removed.
4. Also, the buyer should also avoid buying used cars that have VIN plates that are touched up, its paint is newly retouched, and the numbers look as if they are not the original factory numbers.
VIN plates can be easily swapped by a thief and use those that are taken from a destroyed vehicle.
5. As much as possible, it would be better to avoid buying a used car that is freshly painted. There are instances wherein the stolen cars identity is being changed through changing its paint color.
6. Used car buyers should avoid buying cars from a seller that cannot present the cars insurance policy. This could mean that the car is stolen or the seller is not the true owner of the car.
It is extremely important for the buyers to take note of these things before buying a used car. An ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure!
The World Of Collection Cars
Jan 16th
Collection cars are highly sought and even have special trade shows dedicated to their very existence. In the world of collectors, you have mechanics who can rebuild old cars to look new, individuals who have protected the original beauty of the car without extensive restoration or collectors who completely build collection cars from the ground up. Every year, collectors gather at shows around the world in order to view a variety of collection cars together in one place.
Early camaros, vintage mustangs and other muscle cars or trucks are just a few of the collection cars that are showcased at trade shows. In exchange for an entry fee, event organizers accept collection cars into their show and award prizes for the top entrants. All collection cars are judged by preselected experts, who decide which are the best of the lot so to speak.
Collection cars are not only nice to look at, but they also bring a pretty price for their owners. Antique and collection cars are highly sought among collectors, but are also popular among those who simply wish to reminisce about their glory days. In addition, many collection cars are purchased for investment purposes. If preserved, collection cars may continue to increase in value during the years to come. If entered into additional car shows, they may continue to win awards or garner media attention that will make them even more desirable.
Collection cars will not be found at the local car dealership, but they are close by for the enthusiast who doesnt mind doing their research. Some of the best places to search for collection cars are specialty magazines, the local newspapers classified ad section, televised or local trade shows, and even online. Before purchasing anything online, buyers are urged to conduct due diligence on the automobile. An in-person inspection, along with a mechanics observation, should be conducted prior to signing on the dotted line.
Quite often, collection cars are invited to participate in local parades. No matter the time of year, these auto enthusiasts are anxious to showcase their set of wheels and are proud to ride as part of many parades on an annual basis. Many collection cars can be entered into parades by contacting the local city hall to inquire about participation. Everyone loves collection cars, including those who dont characterize themselves as collection car enthusiasts. From the professional mechanic to the hopeful auto designer and the child who isnt even old enough to sit behind the steering wheel, collection cars are a sight to behold and are celebrated by all who appreciate classic detail at its finest.
The Ten Minute Power And Air Tools Maintenance Guide
Jan 14th
In the fast-paced world that we live in today, power and air-driven tool maintenance doesnt seem high on our priority list. However, tools are an expensive investment and every one of us wants a power or pneumatic tool to work properly and safely when we pick it up to use it. The best way to ensure this is to perform regular maintenance and cleaning. There are some simple routine maintenance, cleaning, storage and proper usage tips that anyone can understand and perform. They all take only ten minutes or less.
The first thing that most people ignore with a new tool is the operating and care instructions. Right out of the box, if the care instructions are ignored, your new power or air tool is destined to have a decreased life. Improper usage can also doom your tool to an early rest in the junk-pile. There are some parts of a pneumatic tool that need proper oiling, or lubrication, while some components of an electrically driven tool need to be kept free of dust and debris. Keep the care instructions information in a binder, or protect it with plastic and put it in a place you will remember. When it comes time to access the information, perhaps even years from that point, you will be glad you did.
Power tools such as drills, drill presses, power screwdrivers and rotary tools require little maintenance. Keep them clean and store in a clean, dry area where they have some protection. Keep dust and debris away from areas where electricity flows, and protect them from the elements. Check the electrical cord, switches and connectors periodically for damage. Ensure proper tightening of chucks and bits. If the tool has been provided with a case, use it for storage.
Other power tools like tablesaws, bandsaws, mitersaws, sanders and the like all require special attention for their maintenance. This is because the very nature of the tool involves a cutting or abrasive action. These cutting and abrasion surfaces wear out and must be replaced periodically, but it goes deeper than that. Flattening tool surfaces, keeping sawdust and/or resin buildup away from integral components, checking electrical and/or electronic components for any sustained damage, wheel and bearings function and proper lubrication are all important to proper operation and life of the tool.
Air tools are generally piston-driven and they require lubrication. It is a simple operation; just add a few drops of pneumatic oil into the air intake coupling. If you are using your air driven tool every day, it doesnt hurt to oil it daily. Keep a good tight seal to avoid loss of pressure on components by using tape on threaded surfaces. In addition, clean or replace filters, as needed depending on usage of the tool. Remember to protect your tools from moisture and extreme heat and cold. Exposure to moisture can cause corrosion on bare metal surfaces and extreme temperatures can do damage in many ways. Finally, use your tools as they are intended. Most tools are made for specific jobs and when they are subject to stress they werent designed for, they will likely fail.
The Story Of Porsche Automobiles
Jan 12th
The story of Porsche could begin in 1950 with the introduction of the Porsche 356 to the United States by Max Hoffman. It could begin in 1948, when the first auto bearing the name of Porsche came out. However, to get a real grip on the heritage of Porsche, you must go back as far as 1875. In September of that year, Ferdinand Porsche was born in the bohemian village of Haffersdorf.
Ferdinand Porsche showed indications of his technical genius at the age of 18 when he wired the family home for electricity. His only formal education was received when he was a part-time engineering student in Vienna, although the title Doctor is often appended to his name. By the time he was 25, Porsche had gone into automotive design. The Viennese firm of Loyner & Co. accepted his first car design. Over the next twenty years, he successfully associated himself with every major car manufacturer in Germany, and he designed about a dozen of the most technically important automobiles in history at the same time.
When he worked for Mercedes-Benz, he helped to create the SSK series, while for NSU, he designed the Auto Union Wandered and the Type 32, which as an ancestor of the Volkswagen Beetle. His disagreements with Mercedes-Benz over the companys engineering policies prompted him to establish his own engineering group, which became Porsche A.G. He collected a premier group of engineers to work under the name of Doctor of Engineering Ferdinand Porsche, Inc. Construction Facility for Land, Air, and Sea Transportation in Stuttgart. His son, Ferry, was one of his employees, and his major interest was in sport and racing cars.
The elder Porsche and his engineers were busy. They developed for Steyr, a luxury sedan in Austria, but this vehicle did not make it out of the prototype stage. They also worked for Auto Union, which is now Audi, the firm that created the Front, the first front-drive economy car in the world. They also created the mid-engine Grand Prix cars and supercharged V-12 and V-16 engines. These, along with the racers from Mercedes-Benz, dominated European auto racetracks for almost ten years.
The company created its most well-known designs for NSU and Zundapp. Prototypes were characterized by Porsches torsion-bar suspension and rear-mounted engine. Neither of the firms manufactured the designs, so Porsche sold the idea to the German government. He then provided the oversight on the construction of a plant in Wolfsburg to build the design. He called it the Type 60, but the world knows it as the Volkswagen Beetle.
After World War II, the Porsche Company began to create the vehicles that now bear the name of Porsche. Almost one hundred years later, Porsche became the marque, and the family that developed the unique and lasting contributions to automotive design and engineering has gone down in history.
The Social Cost of Automotive Fuels (LPG, Diesel, Petrol)
Jan 11th
We aim to give some insight into the financial and economical cost to society as a direct result of exhaust emissions from Petrol, Diesel and LPG engines. The financial costs are calculated based on city population sizes in the UK, and grams of pollutants emitted per 1000km travelled by each automotive vehicle fuel type. These figures relate directly to the economical costs in terms of health care expenditure. The results show the benefits that alternative fuels can offer to society as a whole, helping to reduce health problems such as Congestive heart failure, Respiratory problems and Bronchitis, which all relate to poor air quality. The report is based on findings from various sources including The Norfolk County Council alternative fuel trials, and the BeTa database report on social costs published by Netcen (AEA).
Automotive fuels are constantly taking blame and criticism from the Government as the main cause of poor air quality conditions in the UK. The levels of harmful gases in the environment are costing society financially, economically and physically. Most people are aware of the damaging effects that exhaust emissions have on air quality conditions, but what do these emissions cost to society in monetary terms?
Our analysis showed that the social cost of driving a vehicle varies significantly with the fuel type used. In a small town, Diesel results in social costs of 3.84 per 1,000km, petrol 1.04 and LPG 0.55p. In a large city, Diesel costs 32.70 per 1,000km, petrol 6.08 and LPG 2.33.
The cost of running alternative vehicles such as LPG cars is dramatically less than standard petrol and diesel vehicles and does not require higher maintenance levels. Further benefits include reduced engine noise, smoother vehicle running, exempt from congestion charges and low duty taxes. Having more vehicles running on LPG engine in the UK would assist in reducing emission costs to society while improving air quality.
Individuals and organisations that adopt the environmentally-friendly alternative automotive fuels and technologies are not only generating cost savings for themselves but also for the larger society.
The Slow Drags On The Road
Jan 10th
Punctuality matters. Every dedicated person wants to arrive at school, at work or any appointment right on time. This is a fast-paced world and we need to move hastily in order to meet the pressures of time.
We value time but how are we sure that all people cooperate? There are some slow-drivers on the road and most of the times; you just find your self yelling at one of them. It is really so blood-raising if you are beating the time and then you just get stuck at the back of a slow vehicle. How could you ignore such situation?
Busy streets will not allow you to sort out the good and the not-so good drivers.
Identifying the slow driver is so difficult. Of course, we cannot judge people. Do not lose hope, there is a newly-discovered way and that is: through identifying the car. There is a current study which shows that there are really slow cars by nature! With this, you will be able to ignore being trapped on the back of any of these. Yes, it is true and we have the top ten slow drags on the road:
Occupying the tenth spot for the slowest car is the CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY. It is a minivan which was started to be produced last 1990.It was marketed by DaimlerChrysler. Though it has been one of the best-sellers in the US when it comes to minivans, it is still one of the slow drags on the road.
The ninth slowest is the BUICK CENTURY. Buick Century was a model name used by the Buick division of General Motors for a line of full-size performance vehicles from 1936 to 1942 and 1954 to 1958; Buick also used the Century name from 1973 to 2004 for its value-added mid-size cars.
FORD AEROSTAR comes next as the 8th slowest. It is described as box with wheel. It is the model which represents Fords effort to make a minivan model. It was introduced in summer of 1985. As described, it will be a huge blockade on your way.
Moving slow on the seventh spot is the CADILLAC DEVILLE. It is manufactured by General Motors and was first produced in 1949-2005. In 2006, it is not the Cadillac flagship sedan because DTS takes it place. Whatever it is, it is one of the ten slowest cars.
The sixth is FORD AND CHEVVY CONVERSION VANS. This is only true for old models.
A small car may seem fast. This is false for GEO METRO for it is the fourth slowest auto. It first appeared in Chevrolet-Geo showrooms in 1989.The Metro was a replacement for the Chevrolet Sprint features. The Sprint was also a rebadged Suzuki Forsa.
NISSAN SENTRA hits the third place. Old sentras are really slow. It is a compact made by Nissan. Generally, it is a rebadged export version of the Japanese Nissan Sunny. In Japan, it is known as Bluebird Sylphy and I some Asian countries Nissan Pulsar.
A 5-mile per hour electronically is really a slow performance. That makes TOYOTA COROLLA as a car to be ignored. Yes, older models of Toyota Corolla.It is a compact car produced by Toyota of Japan, known worldwide for its reliability, conventional engineering and low fuel consumption. In 1997, the Corolla became the best selling nameplate in the world. Toyota has made 30 million cars under the Corolla name since its launch in 1966, making it the best selling car of all time.
By far, the slowest one and must must be ignored is the TOYOTA CAMRY. Be it old or new, it is indeed slow. It is a mid-size car manufactured by Toyota in USA, as well as Australia, and Japan. The Camry has been the best selling car, in the United States, for eight of the last nine years starting in 1997. That makes US streets move in a slow mode.
Upon knowing this list, be more cautious. For those who have this car models, our apologies. For those who are planning to buy one, think more. For those who see one tightly in front of their car, try not to be trapped.
The Rules of Go Kart Survival
Jan 9th
Back in the olden days, when the only go kart tracks in the neighborhood were located at the nearby family fun centers, accidents were few and far between. But with the specialized go kart tracks and the higher speeds we see today it is wise to be aware of and to follow a few simple safety precautions. With the lower speeds of yesteryear it was easy to drive safely, but times have changed. Nowadays you must be aware of what can happen on the track and be prepared for it. But with a little bit of preparation go karting can be a thrilling experience. Racing takes all forms, from ATVs to scooters, from motorcycles to mopeds, but go karts are the only form that will give you the thrill of Formula One racing without as much of the danger.
It’s hard losing control of a go kart when it’s traveling at a top speed of 5 mph, but it’s a very common thing at 60 mph. It’s the drivers who have the attitude “it won’t happen to me” that seem to end up in trouble more often. And when a driver thinks of his gokart as a toy instead of a racing vehicle that’s where the trouble can begin. But on the contrary, it’s the drivers that take safety precautions seriously that have the most fun with the least accidents. So driver beware.
There is a certain amount of risk at any speed, but most accidents can be prevented with some common sense and preparation. From the type of go kart you buy to the type of safety equipment you use can determine your level of risk. Anything is possible once you’re on the track, head injuries, broken bones, fires and more. That’s why it’s necessary to have all of your safety measures in line before actually climbing into your gokart.
The first step to being safe is to race your go kart in a class that you are prepared for. There are many go cart classes that will cater to every age range from kids to adults and to every experience level from none to professional. Learning to drive a go kart is a skill that can be mastered fairly quickly, but becoming a great driver may take a much longer time. It’s best to drive in a class with drivers of your same experience level. Once you improve your skills you can then advance to the next carting level. Racing against drivers that are much better than you can spell trouble on the track, so it’s smart to move up in class only when you have acquired the skills to do so.
With the high speeds we see today is it actually possible to race go-karts safely? There are two answers to that question. On the one hand, if you are well-prepared with safety in mind it is possible to keep your risks low and remain relatively safe on the track. On the other hand, any sport can be dangerous if you haven’t carefully prepared and throw caution to the wind.
So exactly how fast are we talking about when we say that go karts reach some amazing speeds today? A normal racing kart can reach speeds of up to 60 mph. But an enduro kart can get up to 90 mph and a shifter kart 160 mph or possibly even faster. Now that’s burning rubber! Flipping your vehicle over or getting hit from the side at any of these speeds is not something you want to do. That’s why it’s important to take precautions at every stage.
We have already mentioned that if you don’t feel comfortable at these high speeds you can race in a class that matches your experience level. So don’t start sweating just yet. The number one cause of accidents is carelessness. And no matter how careful you may be you must remember that you will be racing against drivers that may not be as careful. So race in a class that fits your comfort zone.
Helmets are a must at any speed. Find a quality helmet that will protect you from serious head injury if the unforeseen should happen. Head injuries are usually the most serious of injuries when racing and avoiding these types of injuries is priority number one. Clothing is also important. Go-carts carry fuel which can catch fire in a crash. This is why it’s important to wear a fire-resistant racing suit, gloves and protective shoes. If the front of your gokart should hit another car or barrier it’s the feet that most often get injured. A special pair of shoes can protect you from many foot injuries.
Buying a safe go kart is another important thing to think about. Most gokarts these days have a cage that protects the driver during a rollover. They also have strong side bars that prevent injuries when another driver rams into the side of your vehicle. These are two important safety features that you should not be racing without. It’s better to spend a little extra money on a well-built go kart than to skimp and leave yourself less protected. In order for you to have fun you must lessen your risks as much as possible.
We have presented only the main safety precautions in this short article. By keeping safety as your number one goal your go karting experience should be a fun one instead of a risky one. And with a little practice maybe we’ll be watching you race alongside Tony Stewart one day.
The Reasons for Joining in a Defensive Driving Course
Jan 8th
Imagine the number of accidents you see on highways and byways. Thing for a moment the pain one undergoes when injured and pain it causes to the dear ones. No matter whether you are a novice or an expert driver, it is always a wise idea to take the defensive driving course. These course are gaining widespread popularity from all quarters for simple reason that road safety is increasing becoming a global problem.
Perhaps the most attractive reason is that the insurance companies offer varying discounts from 2-10% for taking and completing the driving course. These defensive driving courses differ from one another. A traditional course is generally more expensive from others that are available. If cost and time makes one think on joining a classroom course, they are also offered through correspondence and online.
Perhaps the most popular reasons that can be attributed to taking such course are – it improves the driving skills, helps reduce the chances of an accident and perhaps the compelling reason could be – it is court ordered. In place of a fine or jail time, the court orders a defensive driving course for the erring drivers.
The most common factors that need to be looked into when joining these courses are the different options that come with it. The best one that one could recommend is the traditional classroom course. For those couldn’t make it to the classroom course, thanks to technology, the course is available at your doorstep.
