Monday, June 6, 2011
Tips For Buying Automated Commercial Car Parking Systems
The Mechanical Car Parking Systems is a state-of-the-art technological innovation developed by many companies engaged in manufacturing and marketing car parking systems which combines the advantages of the different car handling systems presently available in the market.Mechanical Car Parking Systemswhich includes car parking as well as bike parking system allows depositing and retrieving a car or bike directly on the concrete slab of the car or...
Buying Car Parts
The Internet has changed the way people buy things. It doesn't matter if that purchase is a small ticket item or a larger ticket item like car parts. In fact, major online auction companies like eBay.com have an entire section devoted strictly to cars and car parts.
For the professional
If you are a professional searching for car parts, running an online search for "discount auto parts" or "wholesale auto parts" will yield a treasure trove of sites that offer huge discounts, free shipping, and great warranties for a minimum purchase. You can take advantage of these online stores which buy in bulk from the manufacturer and resell them at close-to-wholesale prices to you. And, if you are a reseller or have a business license, you may even qualify for tax minimized purchases as well! Often these are great places to purchase parts if you run a shop that has a tight schedule since overnight delivery is available in many areas, allowing you to get that one part quickly to get a customer's car on the road again.
For the hobbyist
However, if you are not a professional auto parts purchaser, you are still able to buy car parts at a discount. If you are a car enthusiast or a backyard mechanic, you may find that you meet the minimum purchase requirements from some of the discount auto parts sites mentioned above, simply from the amount of work you do, since the minimum purchase requirements are surprisingly low. If you can get a good deal from these online shops, go ahead and order!
If you don't think you qualify initially, there is a chance that you may still be able to qualify. Here's how: find one or two fellow car enthusiasts, either people you trust, or people you can find from a taking out a small classified ad in a newspaper. When you've found these people, you can pool your purchases in order to qualify for the minimum discount.
And don't forget about eBay.com and other auto auction sites where you can bid on great car parts and get them at really low prices!
Whether you are a professional car parts buyer or a hobbyist looking to fix up that project car, you can find inexpensive parts online.
For the professional
If you are a professional searching for car parts, running an online search for "discount auto parts" or "wholesale auto parts" will yield a treasure trove of sites that offer huge discounts, free shipping, and great warranties for a minimum purchase. You can take advantage of these online stores which buy in bulk from the manufacturer and resell them at close-to-wholesale prices to you. And, if you are a reseller or have a business license, you may even qualify for tax minimized purchases as well! Often these are great places to purchase parts if you run a shop that has a tight schedule since overnight delivery is available in many areas, allowing you to get that one part quickly to get a customer's car on the road again.
For the hobbyist
However, if you are not a professional auto parts purchaser, you are still able to buy car parts at a discount. If you are a car enthusiast or a backyard mechanic, you may find that you meet the minimum purchase requirements from some of the discount auto parts sites mentioned above, simply from the amount of work you do, since the minimum purchase requirements are surprisingly low. If you can get a good deal from these online shops, go ahead and order!
If you don't think you qualify initially, there is a chance that you may still be able to qualify. Here's how: find one or two fellow car enthusiasts, either people you trust, or people you can find from a taking out a small classified ad in a newspaper. When you've found these people, you can pool your purchases in order to qualify for the minimum discount.
And don't forget about eBay.com and other auto auction sites where you can bid on great car parts and get them at really low prices!
Whether you are a professional car parts buyer or a hobbyist looking to fix up that project car, you can find inexpensive parts online.
Buying A Fuel-Efficient Car
Whether you buy a new or used vehicle, fuel efficiency--good gas mileage--is high on the list of most buyers' concerns. The difference between choosing a fuel-efficient car or one that guzzles gas, will either save or cost you money over the life of the vehicle, which could be substantial. Fuel efficiency varies widely from one car to the next. Obviously you can check the EPA rating for city/highway MPG on the window sticker, although most of us know the average car never reaches those numbers.
You can also check consumer guides, car magazines and Web sites, Web site forums or ask friends, relatives and co-workers which vehicles they recommend as fuel-efficient cars. Don't buy more car than you need, as larger vehicles generally have bigger engines that are less fuel-efficient. Find the most fuel-efficient car in the size group you're interested in, whether a two-seater, compact, mid-sized, SUV or pickup truck. There are several online sites where you can compare fuel consumption ratings of any car.
Your choice of transmission can also affect the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Generally, a car with manual transmission is a more fuel-efficient car than one with automatic-assuming you shift properly. And a manual with overdrive, tachometer or shift indicator is the biggest fuel saver, saving up to 10% on fuel costs. If you do buy an automatic, which makes more sense for larger cars, the more gears the better.
Under normal driving conditions, smaller engines offer better fuel efficiency and economy than larger ones. All other things being equal, the larger engine and the more cylinders it has, the more fuel it consumes. Additionally, cars with smaller engines usually cost less and gas costs are lower because you don't need higher octane gas. That doesn't mean a bigger engine is never a good choice. In some cases, a larger, more powerful engine may provide the greater fuel efficiency. If you use your vehicle for work or often tow heavy loads, a smaller engine could burn more fuel if it has to work too hard and function beyond its most fuel-efficient range.
Depending on the type and size of motor vehicle you purchase, you may have the choice of front-wheel, rear-wheel, four-wheel or all-wheel drive. The majority of passenger cars and minivans have front-wheel drive, a design that supplies better traction and more interior room than rear-wheel drive. Although front-wheel drive was originally adopted to improve fuel economy over rear-wheel drive by reducing the weight and size of cars without giving up driving performance or interior space, there's really not much difference in fuel efficiency between the two.
And although four-wheel and all-wheel drive provide better traction and braking in certain driving conditions, the weight and friction of the additional drivetrain parts may increase fuel consumption by up to 10% over a two-wheel drive vehicle. Most often in SUVs and pickup trucks, four-wheel drive is enabled at will by the driver when additional traction is necessary. All-wheel drive is an option on some SUVs and a minority of passenger cars. Full-time all-wheel drive, however, makes for the least fuel-efficient car, because all four wheels are always being driven, drawing power from the engine and thus using more gas.
Another way to be a fuel saver, is by limiting the options you select for your car. You may not have realized that many conveniences from power windows, seats and mirrors to air conditioning and seat warmers decrease fuel efficiency and cost you more in fuel consumption. They add either weight, increase aerodynamic drag or pull extra power from the engine or through the alternator.
Aluminium wheels are one of the few options that actually reduce weight and thereby increase fuel efficiency.
Obviously, considering other fuel options such as a hybrid electric car, is another choice for a fuel-efficient car.
© 2004 AllAboutHybridCars.com. Any reproduction of this article in any manner is prohibited without the consent of AllAboutHybridCars.com. We give permission to use this article on your website or e-zine if you reproduce it exactly as it appears here including this notice. Visit www.AllAboutHybridCars.com/eBook.htm to order your FREE report, "7 Critical Facts Everyone should Know Before Buying a Hybrid Car."
You can also check consumer guides, car magazines and Web sites, Web site forums or ask friends, relatives and co-workers which vehicles they recommend as fuel-efficient cars. Don't buy more car than you need, as larger vehicles generally have bigger engines that are less fuel-efficient. Find the most fuel-efficient car in the size group you're interested in, whether a two-seater, compact, mid-sized, SUV or pickup truck. There are several online sites where you can compare fuel consumption ratings of any car.
Your choice of transmission can also affect the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Generally, a car with manual transmission is a more fuel-efficient car than one with automatic-assuming you shift properly. And a manual with overdrive, tachometer or shift indicator is the biggest fuel saver, saving up to 10% on fuel costs. If you do buy an automatic, which makes more sense for larger cars, the more gears the better.
Under normal driving conditions, smaller engines offer better fuel efficiency and economy than larger ones. All other things being equal, the larger engine and the more cylinders it has, the more fuel it consumes. Additionally, cars with smaller engines usually cost less and gas costs are lower because you don't need higher octane gas. That doesn't mean a bigger engine is never a good choice. In some cases, a larger, more powerful engine may provide the greater fuel efficiency. If you use your vehicle for work or often tow heavy loads, a smaller engine could burn more fuel if it has to work too hard and function beyond its most fuel-efficient range.
Depending on the type and size of motor vehicle you purchase, you may have the choice of front-wheel, rear-wheel, four-wheel or all-wheel drive. The majority of passenger cars and minivans have front-wheel drive, a design that supplies better traction and more interior room than rear-wheel drive. Although front-wheel drive was originally adopted to improve fuel economy over rear-wheel drive by reducing the weight and size of cars without giving up driving performance or interior space, there's really not much difference in fuel efficiency between the two.
And although four-wheel and all-wheel drive provide better traction and braking in certain driving conditions, the weight and friction of the additional drivetrain parts may increase fuel consumption by up to 10% over a two-wheel drive vehicle. Most often in SUVs and pickup trucks, four-wheel drive is enabled at will by the driver when additional traction is necessary. All-wheel drive is an option on some SUVs and a minority of passenger cars. Full-time all-wheel drive, however, makes for the least fuel-efficient car, because all four wheels are always being driven, drawing power from the engine and thus using more gas.
Another way to be a fuel saver, is by limiting the options you select for your car. You may not have realized that many conveniences from power windows, seats and mirrors to air conditioning and seat warmers decrease fuel efficiency and cost you more in fuel consumption. They add either weight, increase aerodynamic drag or pull extra power from the engine or through the alternator.
Aluminium wheels are one of the few options that actually reduce weight and thereby increase fuel efficiency.
Obviously, considering other fuel options such as a hybrid electric car, is another choice for a fuel-efficient car.
© 2004 AllAboutHybridCars.com. Any reproduction of this article in any manner is prohibited without the consent of AllAboutHybridCars.com. We give permission to use this article on your website or e-zine if you reproduce it exactly as it appears here including this notice. Visit www.AllAboutHybridCars.com/eBook.htm to order your FREE report, "7 Critical Facts Everyone should Know Before Buying a Hybrid Car."
Be careful not to over tighten your lug nuts!
A common site in your neighborhood auto garage is a mechanic tightening up the lug nuts on your car with an impact wrench. You hear the common screech of the impact wrench as it makes quick work of the lug nuts. You also probably rarely see that same mechanic actually use a torque wrench. Impact wrenches are great tools but they can and will over tighten the lug nuts on your car. At first that doesn't sound like a bad thing. Tight is good, right? Not necessarily. Most manufacturers recommend using a torque wrench when tightening lug nuts. They will specify a certain ft/lb to dial in on the torque wrench. This insures the nuts are tightened properly. Over tightening can damage the studs and possibly lead to a failure in the future. Here is what happens. When the nuts are tightened, the studs will stretch. This tension holds the wheels on to the rim. If you over tighten the studs you can damage them and they could fail. The best approach is to use your impact wrench to snug up the nuts. Then go back with a torque wrench and tighten to the manufacturer specifications. Next time you are having your tires rotated or changed, make sure the mechanic uses a torque wrench and the correct torque. Having the proper tools makes all the difference and will extend the life of your car.
Basic Wheel Concepts: Guide in buying Replacement Car Wheels
Wheels are among the most vital parts in the car. They are the ones that keep it moving and thus, they are indispensable in a vehicle. The size and the quality of the wheels significantly affect your ride quality and handling so always make sure they are in perfect shape and condition. Taking care of them is a must so as not to sacrifice your vehicle's performance. They also need special attention since they are closest to the road; hence, they are exposed to a lot corrosion-causing elements.
Aside from contributing to ride quality and handling abilities, the wheels can also make the car look better and a lot sportier. People have always been concerned with how their vehicles should look and thus they replace or customize some of the parts to make it different from the rest on the road. The wheels are among those that are often replaced to achieve their desired appearance. Accessories are also added to the wheels, such as the hub caps and wheels covers. These auto accessories are designed to match the user's various driving needs and moods.
In buying replacement wheels for your car, there are important things you need to know, especially if you are new to driving. You cannot just choose any kind of wheel in lieu of the original wheel of your car. There are different wheel specifications for every kind of vehicle and car model since suspension design varies from one vehicle to another. Take note that the wheels work hand in hand with the suspension system whose job is to keep the tires in tight contact with the road as the vehicle turns, brakes or is driven down the road without sacrificing comfort of the passengers.
Three aspects of the wheels are relevant to the suspension design: wheel offset, aspect ratio, and tire width. All these should be considered in choosing the best replacement wheels for your vehicle.
Offset refers to the distance from the very center of the wheel to the mounting surface of the wheel disc at the hub. Wheel offset can be positive, negative or zero. A "0" offset means that the mounting surface of the wheel is in the center of the wheel. This measurement is very important in positioning the tire. This also provides for adequate dual spacing.
Aspect ratio is the ratio between the width of the tire and the height of its side wall. A tire specified as "205/60/15" for example, has a width of 205mm and 60% aspect ratio. The "15" refers to the size of the wheel to which it is fitted. You shouldn't buy wheels or tires with lower aspect ratio than what is required because this will wear them out easily as ride quality will deteriorate. However, this could also result to more precision in turning.
You might be thinking of getting wider wheels to give your car a racing car look. Better think about this again. While is it true that wider wheels and tires can give your car a chunk of gutsy looks, they can also ruin your driving satisfaction. This is because the weight of the vehicle would not be evenly spread over the wheel and tire width. Resistance is also increased, thus you wheels and tires could wear out fast.
If you want to know more about car wheels, you can search for car enthusiasts' sites that feature different kinds of wheels or go to the car manufacturer's site and check out your car model's wheel specifications. Meanwhile, if you are in need of replacement wheels for your GMC truck, SUV or van, you can drop by at Auto Parts Deal one of the leading sources of outstanding quality auto parts for various makes and models. GMC wheels are just a few of the millions of high quality replacement GMC Parts available at Auto Parts Deal. Go check out the site and see for yourself their comprehensive line of premium quality automotive products.
Aside from contributing to ride quality and handling abilities, the wheels can also make the car look better and a lot sportier. People have always been concerned with how their vehicles should look and thus they replace or customize some of the parts to make it different from the rest on the road. The wheels are among those that are often replaced to achieve their desired appearance. Accessories are also added to the wheels, such as the hub caps and wheels covers. These auto accessories are designed to match the user's various driving needs and moods.
In buying replacement wheels for your car, there are important things you need to know, especially if you are new to driving. You cannot just choose any kind of wheel in lieu of the original wheel of your car. There are different wheel specifications for every kind of vehicle and car model since suspension design varies from one vehicle to another. Take note that the wheels work hand in hand with the suspension system whose job is to keep the tires in tight contact with the road as the vehicle turns, brakes or is driven down the road without sacrificing comfort of the passengers.
Three aspects of the wheels are relevant to the suspension design: wheel offset, aspect ratio, and tire width. All these should be considered in choosing the best replacement wheels for your vehicle.
Offset refers to the distance from the very center of the wheel to the mounting surface of the wheel disc at the hub. Wheel offset can be positive, negative or zero. A "0" offset means that the mounting surface of the wheel is in the center of the wheel. This measurement is very important in positioning the tire. This also provides for adequate dual spacing.
Aspect ratio is the ratio between the width of the tire and the height of its side wall. A tire specified as "205/60/15" for example, has a width of 205mm and 60% aspect ratio. The "15" refers to the size of the wheel to which it is fitted. You shouldn't buy wheels or tires with lower aspect ratio than what is required because this will wear them out easily as ride quality will deteriorate. However, this could also result to more precision in turning.
You might be thinking of getting wider wheels to give your car a racing car look. Better think about this again. While is it true that wider wheels and tires can give your car a chunk of gutsy looks, they can also ruin your driving satisfaction. This is because the weight of the vehicle would not be evenly spread over the wheel and tire width. Resistance is also increased, thus you wheels and tires could wear out fast.
If you want to know more about car wheels, you can search for car enthusiasts' sites that feature different kinds of wheels or go to the car manufacturer's site and check out your car model's wheel specifications. Meanwhile, if you are in need of replacement wheels for your GMC truck, SUV or van, you can drop by at Auto Parts Deal one of the leading sources of outstanding quality auto parts for various makes and models. GMC wheels are just a few of the millions of high quality replacement GMC Parts available at Auto Parts Deal. Go check out the site and see for yourself their comprehensive line of premium quality automotive products.
Automotive air conditioner basic troubleshooting tips.
If your automotive air conditioner isn't working quite right, here are a few ideas to begin. First of all start with the control panel on your dashboard. Most automobiles have an A/C button that actually turns the compressor on and allows cold air to be circulated. You might have accidentally hit the recirculation button instead of the A/C button. (Don't laugh, I had a friend that spent a week in a hot car and all he needed to do was press the right button.) The second thing to check is the actual function of the controls. Do they move at all? Are they loose and giggle around? The big question is "do they feel different from the last time your air conditioner worked?" This could tell if the controls are messed up and need replacing. Your air conditioner system may be fine but the controls could be frozen or broken. If your controls seem to be functioning, lets move to the blower fan. Turn on your car and start you're air conditioner as you normally would. Then turn your blower to it's highest setting. Can you here your fan blowing? If you can hear it, does it sound weak or whining. This could signal that your blower motor is malfunctioning or needs to be replaced. If it doesn't work at all, check the fuse for the blower motor. The fuse for your blower motor should be located in the fuse box under the dash. Most automobiles have the fuses clearly labeled. First take out the blower fan fuse with the removal tool provided in the fuse box. A blown fuse should be easy to identify. However if you are unsure, replace it with a similar rated fuse and try your blower again. If that fuse blows you may have a bad blower motor or a short in the circuit. In this case, you will need an authorized mechanic to fix it. If the blower fan is working properly and you can only get cold air out of the defroster vents, you may have vacuum-system supply line problem. To check for this, look for a small black plastic tube going from the engine area through the dash. It is usually right by the refrigerant lines. Check this tube and see if it has holes or is not connected. If all of these little tips are not helping and you're A/C doesn't blow cold air no matter how many switches you turn on or off, you will probably need an certified mechanic. Good luck and stay cool!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
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