Monthly Archives: March 2010

Author : Jonathon Hardcastle

Your car is bursting at the seams with children, sports equipment, groceries and pets You think it may be time to trade up to a larger car But is an SUV the right choice to make for your family?

First and foremost, as anyone who watches the evening news knows, the price of gas has skyrocketed and SUVs are notorious for poor gas mileage Or are they? Depending on what make and model of SUV you choose, some get as good or better gas mileage than some large cars For example, the 2004 Honda Element gets 22 miles to the gallon in the city, just 2 miles per gallon less than the 2004 Honda Accord At highway speeds, the Element gets 8 miles per gallon less than the Accord, a larger, but not huge, difference Also, more and more auto manufacturers are designing hybrid gas-electric SUVs that provide better gas mileage along with the traditional extra space and power of SUVs

Another major consideration when choosing between a car and an SUV is safety Most people assume that, because of their larger size, that SUVs are safer than cars However, crash tests conducted in 2003 proved that large SUVs were only slightly safer than mid-sized cars and were actually slightly more dangerous than large cars SUVs also can roll over when taking turns at high speed, something that cars are far less likely to do Drivers who are switching to SUVs after many years of driving cars may need some practice to learn to drive their SUV safely

Many people think that SUVs, due to their larger size are more comfortable and have more cargo capacity than cars To a certain extent this is true, but it depends heavily on what make and model of SUV you choose Some SUVs actually have limited cargo space, though almost all have the power to haul a trailer As far as comfort, many drivers prefer being higher up from the road, but older drivers and those with disabilities may have a hard time getting into the raised seats Additionally, buckling a child into a car seat installed in the recommended back seat center position may be difficult for shorter moms and dads

Finally, if you do a lot of city driving and, more importantly, parking, SUVs are less maneuverable and harder to parallel park than traditional cars Even in the suburbs where most people park in lots, the spaces may not be wide enough for certain SUVs

Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles on many topics including Automotive, Real Estate, and Business

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : Daniel Millions

One of the great things we hear about Fuel Boost Diesel Additive is that it helps clean up the diesel being used in vehicles Diesel that is cleaner leads to far fewer maintenance issues over time and a longer life for your vehicles In other words, it’s a very good thing for automobile owners who are hoping to achieve a maximum lifespan for their automotive investments (and who isn’t really?)

The trouble with fuel is that there are other issues at hand other than the quality of the fuel or the effect that fuel has on your automobile As more people are making efforts to become good neighbors on a global scale we are turning our attention to our oil consumption and our dependency on foreign oil and other fuels that are not as easily replenished

One consequence of this is that we are beginning to use alternative fuel sources more and more often in automobiles, farm equipment, and tractors This is great for the environment though not as often so great for the inner workings of your average diesel vehicle

If you are concerned about being a good neighbor, another way of doing this is by using your vehicles a little bit longer You can still use the alternative fuels that leave a less noticeable impact on the earth while minimizing the emissions that are produced by these vehicles, using less fuel, and prolonging the life of your vehicles, tractors, and farm equipment One simple way of accomplishing that goal is by using fuel additives for diesels such as Fuel Boost Diesel Additive

Older vehicles often run less efficiently This is part of the problem and one of the main reasons that older vehicles often have poorer emissions ratings than newer vehicles It is also one of the main reasons that older vehicles have a tendency to burn more fuel than newer vehicles They aren’t able to work at maximum efficiency and this means that they waste fuel, burn fuel, and end up mucking up the inner workings far more often than would be expected in newer automobiles

Biodiesel and other alternative sources of fuel are often seen to be dirty fuels by comparison, at least that is what the big oil companies would have you believe If you add Fuel Boost at every fill up you will find that the quality of even the alternative fuel sources can see great improvement

If you want to see a noticeable difference in efficiency and gas mileage in your vehicle track your mileage with a few fuel ups before beginning to use Fuel Boost Diesel Additive in your automobile The change in performance, power, efficiency, gas mileage, and emissions should be adequate proof of how well this product works

If it makes this kind of impact in the first few uses, imagine the impact it could have if you use it each and every time you fill your fuel tank whether you are using traditional fuel or alternative fuels to carry you well into the future

Learn how to make BioDiesel on our BioDiesel Forums.

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : Tony Hill

The BMW 1 series was introduced to the market in 2005, replacing the 3 series compact models It brought to the market something completely new – it was an affordable BMW with distinctive looks, great performance and all the BMW quality fixtures and fittings you would expect

During its first year in production the BMW 1 series proved to be an instant hit and became one of BMW’s most successful cars as it sold around 150,000 units during 2005 In 2006 the 1 series accounted for 19% of all BMW sales – the primary reason for this being that it was BMW’s smallest and most affordable car throughout their collection (excluding the Mini)

The 1 series offers the driver something exciting, refreshing and something distinctly BMW

During 2007 the 1 series was upgraded and BMW introduced a 3-door sports hatch – the new-look BMW was modified and loaded with new technology to help lower emissions and offer better fuel consumption – which means that the 1 series is not too expensive to run which is definitely a plus point

You can get a 3 or a 5-door, a coupe or a convertible and there are loads of different trims so you can personalise your car to meet your needs

The styling of the 1 series is quite different from any other car in the BMW collection and its unique shape certainly makes it stand out on the roads The BMW 1 series is both classy and sporty – which is what you want from a BMW Its distinctive long ‘nose’ and structured side panels combined with its stylish front lights make for one hot-hatch – and the interior doesn’t disappoint either!

Competitors for the 1 series include the Audi A3 – and I know which one I’d prefer!

The 1 series is far classier that the A3 and miles sportier than the A Class (another competitor) – pricewise a new 1 series costs just over 16,000GBP and an A3 will set you back around 14,000GBP – I think the looks alone are worth the extra 2000GBP – let a lone the more prestigious badge, improved performance and quality cabin

In terms of practicality the 1 series is not particularly roomy – so is maybe not a good choice for big families, but for couples it is the perfect choice The BMW will give you great handling, good performance and good economy!

The BMW 1 series is definitely not just another bland hatch – it oozes style and quality

Tony is an online marketer and researcher, currently researching used BMW 1 Series and BMW Scotland

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : Jim Brown

Lifting a Truck, Pick-up or Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) is equivalent to lowering the suspension of the car to make it look sportier Lifting on their case would give the car a mean machine look Common functions for lifting the vehicle is when it’s used to trek along rough terrains and rivers Others also consider lifting for car show events and contests There are different types used for lifting vehicles, which range from the cheap and ordinary body lift to the expensive and technical installations

Body lifts – This is the most typical lift for street vehicles that don’t tackle much the off road terrain Commonly used in show trucks, pick-ups and SUV’s these installations could take half a day Keep in mind that other components are still stock which would affect the ride handle and airflow to the engine

Spring Over Axle – Among the numerous ways to lift vehicles, the spring over axle lift commonly comes as a stock design for most of the 4 wheel drive vehicles This technology is the most stable amongst the off road lifts since the springs sway independently from side to side These installations are good for rock crawling events

Lifted Springs – The most common lift procedure all over the world are the lifted springs Springs comes in all types of height and types Some springs come as soft and some are configured to be hard Just be wary of buying because the cheaper the springs, the poorer the ride Hard or stiff springs help prevent the tires from coming into contact with the chassis or the body This type of lift can give you a natural ride on the highway

Shackles – The cheapest way to get a lift is by using shackles Lifting your vehicle this way is okay but must be done in moderation Lifting it with taller shackles may cause problems with steering and the vehicle’s front sway control Shackle lifts are measured in halves If you are using an inch taller shackle, this will produce a half inch actual lift

Coil Suspensions – The best 4 wheel drive vehicles are installed with coil suspensions Recently coil suspension kits are being sold that fits a variety of models Coil suspensions offer unmatched suspension travel and reasonably priced springs The kits may not come cheap since the manufacturing of these lifts may cause a lot of work Coil Suspension kits also come as weld on system so it is not that hard to install it All you have to have is a welder and that’s it These kits are the best in terms of handling and a smooth ride

James Brown writes about JC Whitney coupon, StylinConcepts.com coupon code and AutoAnything.com promo code

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : Art Gib

The idea of the stereotypical “Sunday driver” conjures up a clear picture in our minds: Grandma and Grandpa putt-putting along in a big old sedan, content to drive 20 miles per hour under the speed limit on nice, safe pavement Well, that might be ok for the masses, but there are those who like to drive for the thrill of it– to navigate off-road terrain where people seldom go, to use their vehicles for the purpose of exploration and excitement instead of just to get from one place to another

For those who want to really see and experience nature, nothing beats off-road driving This pastime has become a passion for many, and its popularity has exploded in the last 20 years Thanks in large part to the innovations in automotive technology that have allowed vehicles to handle very rough terrain, we are free to let our inner explorer loose; however, there are specific challenges to off-roading Here are a few tips to help you stay safe:

– Never attempt any kind of rough terrain without a 4-wheel drive vehicle This may seem like basic advice, but there are still many who think their regular cars can handle it They can’t!

– Water is a common obstacle in certain places, and with a little common sense and know-how about how your vehicle operates, you should be able to handle it just fine For example, know where your vehicle’s air intake is and don’t allow water to enter You may have to spread a tarp over your hood in very deep water

Maintain good forward momentum and your computer system and other vital engine functions will have a good chance of staying dry Never, ever enter fast-moving deep water: you would be at great risk of being taken away by the current

– Did you know that deflating your vehicle’s tire pressure temporarily will help it get through sand, snow, and mud more easily? This technique creates better traction; just make sure you maintain a steady speed, and use higher gears

– For tough hills, hit them straight on using a high gear You may need to experiment a few times to see which gear will get you to the top Using an improper gear will either cause your tires to spin or will not give you enough power to summit A common mistake is to continue to power up while going over the top Don’t! Going too fast at this point may cause you to lose control of your vehicle Once you make it up, ease up on the throttle immediately and take it easy

No matter what part of the world you choose to explore, doing it in a great off-road vehicle that you can trust makes all the difference To have a safe experience, it’s also important to know the basics of driving under all sorts of conditions Happy trails!

For the most amazing, custom-built, state of the art global expedition vehicles, contact the experts at Global Xpedition Vehicles (http://www.globalexpeditionvehicles.com). Art Gib is a freelance writer.

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : Mike Trudel

Hybrid car sales shot up in 2008, unlike their traditional gasoline-engine counterparts As of March 2008, 38,214 hybrid units were sold in the United States That’s a 10 percent increase from the prior year, and – that figure doesn’t include the quantity of one major U S automaker’s hybrids because the manufacturer doesn’t separate these models from the rest of its sales statistics

These hybrid sales are bright spots for the automotive market, which has seen an overall drop in sales by twelve percent in 2008 It’s no wonder – the average price of one barrel of crude oil shot up from $10 87 in 1998 to more than $100 00 in 2008 Many Americans simply don’t have the money to spend on that new car or, when they do, they’re making more fuel-efficient choices Consumers are smart They know what they want in their automobiles

Availability of many of these hybrid models is not quite up to demand, however Recent shortages in batteries – both nickel metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium-ion – in newer hybrid models, have caused issues A major U S automaker didn’t launch one of its new hybrid models on schedule because of the shortage, and certain manufacturers are simply running out of completed hybrids altogether

But relief is around the corner for those wishing their gas tank would sip rather than guzzle Automotive engineers and manufacturers are smart too, and are diligently working on solutions to these shortages and ways to improve hybrid technology Below are three interesting innovations

One, creative solutions may lie in technological innovations such as power box hybrid vehicle systems Top manufacturers for the automotive industry produce self-contained hybrid drive system power boxes, including a traction inverter, DC/DC converter, battery pack, bus distribution center, battery management controller, safety circuit and thermal management subsystems A drop-in solution for belt alternator starter (BAS), integrated starter generator (ISG) or full hybrid vehicle applications, the system operates over a wide range of voltages and power levels

These power boxes have complete systems within single housing (easing installation), a simple package design that can fit behind the rear seat, and building-block technology, which increases flexibility, as well as reducing cost and complexity They are also applicable across multiple platforms and powertrain configurations, as well as compatible with a variety of lithium-ion batteries manufactured globally

Two, most manufacturers for the auto industry foresee the almost inevitable transition from NiMH batteries to lithium-ion hybrid vehicle battery pack systems The best of them have reusable building-block technologies, can accommodate a range of voltages, have systems that maintain the health of the battery cells, and are applicable to mild hybrids, full hybrids or electric vehicles These “packs” are what could make mass integration into the hybrid market of more efficient, more available batteries, possible very quickly

Three, Integrated starter generator systems, which include smart braking systems, crankshaft-mounted starter generators, traction inverters, DC/DC converters, controllers and battery packs, are also out there They provide quick, quiet stop/start, regenerative braking, torque smoothing, high power generation, launch-assist to reduce fuel consumption and emissions and battery management to increase battery life With such a wide range of functions, an integrated starter generator system may become elemental in producing a vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency

There is of course, more for the savvy Such systems will also provide efficient on-board power production – two to five kilowatts – that power electronic features traditionally powered by belts and enable customer features The engine on such models can also start five times faster and much more smoothly than their conventional counterparts

Through these innovations, in-depth research – and a better supply of batteries – more hybrid lovers will be on the road in no time Never fear – if you want it, manufacturers will find a way to get it

Mike Trudel, Freelance Writer.

Delphi Corporation is committed to contributing state-of-the-art technologies and innovations in order to help make our roadways greener. For more information, visit www.Delphi.com/4green.

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : David Maillie

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

David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research. He holds numerous patents including his recently awarded patent for headlight cleaner and restorer. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.mdwholesale.com or by visiting http://www.bestskinpeel.com

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →

Author : Billy Whitmire

When considering the purchase of ATV accessories it is important to consider the categories of essential gear, including riding, safety, navigation, and survival gear This article discusses the categories of essential ATV accessories, and why they are vital to riders Whether a rider is going on a short or long excursion they should have these essentials as part of their regular gear

Riding Gear

Safety Gear

Navigation Gear

Survival Gear

Suitable Riding Gear: One of the accessory categories that will help to make any off or on-track ATV experience enjoyable is suitable riding gear The conditions in which you are riding can be as diverse as the track or trail conditions and having suitable riding gear is important If you don’t have proper wet gear a trek can get real uncomfortable, real quick Being prepared for various weather or track conditions with suitable riding gear can enhance any excursion

Riding gear is an essential ATV accessory that can help make any trek enjoyable even if weather conditions change

Safety Gear: Another essential ATV accessory category is safety gear It is crucial to not only have proper safety gear but to actually wear it too Riding can be dangerous and perilous depending on conditions, and so safety gear is important to protect your body Full safety gear including, boots, shin/knee guards, gloves, chest protector and helmet will help to keep you safe should you crash or take a tumble while riding

Safety gear today may be considered and accessory, but every serious ATV rider should consider it mandatory

Navigation Gear: Today the navigation gear that is available to the average ATV rider is quite sophisticated, and surprisingly affordable If you make it a habit to venture into territory that is new and unfamiliar it is a good idea to have a GPS, map, or on a minimum, a compass Having these accessories is a great precaution against getting lost, but also make sure you know how to use them properly too

Today, sophisticated and affordable navigation accessories are available to keep any ATV rider on track

Survival Gear: Trekking out into the wilderness for a ride on your ATV with only the clothes on your back is not a good idea This is how many riders end up in trouble A trek should always be planned and your ATV should be equipped at least with the minimum of safety gear should something go wrong Essential on board safety gear would include tools, flashlight, food, water, and a basic first aid kit An onboard safety kit can be purchased with all of these essentials included

One essential category of ATV accessories that should be on-board every vehicle is survival gear, just incase of a breakdown, accident or emergency

Before setting out on the trail always check to be certain that your essential ATV accessories are available, and in good working order These accessories are designed to keep you and your riding party safe, so you can concentrate on an enjoyable riding experience

Take care of your ATV and you will be able to fully enjoy it for years. Also check out GIO Bikes to buy a dirt bike, buy an ATV or buy an electric scooter.

Syndication Source: ArticleMind.com Continue reading →