The Pentastar V-6 Engine-Equipped 2013 Ram 1500 Bowed at the 2012 New York Auto Show

By Marty Bay
Chrysler has finally revealed the 2013 Ram 1500 which is powered by a Pentastar V-6 engine and this has happened at the 2012 New York Auto Show. During this event, Chrysler has provided a number of important information about the 2013 Ram 1500 and most of the details included on the car maker's statements have truly delighted some of the car buyers and automotive experts that were present in the said event.

According to Chrysler, one of the existing models of the 2013 Ram 1500 that will be released in the automotive market in the near future will be equipped with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which is capable of producing a maximum power output of up to 305 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine's impressive performance was further enhanced by the company's use of the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission.

The TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission was the product of Chrysler's partnership with ZF. Unlike the conventional transmission that uses a shift lever which is mounted on the console, the TorqueFlite is using and controlled by the rotary "e-shift" knob which is mounted on the vehicle's instrument panel. Due to this rotary "e-shift: knob, the 2013 Ram 1500's transmission helps in making the vehicle more fuel-efficient.

The Pentastar V-6 was the engine that Chrysler has used to replace the 3.7-liter V-6 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission which is only capable of producing up to 215 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque. Due to this, it is quite obvious that the current version of the Ram 1500 particularly the Pentastar V-6 -powered model is more powerful compared to its predecessor.

But despite of the increase in the maximum power output and amount of torque produced by the new Pentastar V-6 engine used on the 2013 Ram 1500, the vehicle's fuel consumption is better compared to the previous year's version. Based on the company's estimates the 2013 Ram 1500 which is equipped with the new Pentastar engine is almost 20 percent more fuel-efficient compared to the previous year's models.

Aside from the introduction of the new Pentastar V-6 engine and the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission, Chrysler has also implemented a few revisions on the Ram 1500 to complete the vehicle's overhaul. This includes the installation of a larger grille, revised foglamps, LED tail lamps and turn signals, new front fascia, and quad projection headlamps.

The Ram 1500's interior was also upgraded. The vehicle's seats and door panels were revised, the materials used inside the cabin are more upscale, and the number of standard features has increased. Due to these improvements, Chrysler is optimistic that the 2013 Ram 1500 would emerge as one of the most sought about truck models for this year.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marty_Bay

Basic Tire Maintenance

By Ellen Knight

For many of us, vehicle maintenance is not something we think about until something bad happens. Whether it is the "check engine" light or a flat tire, many of us tend to think that everything is just fine until something goes wrong.

With a little basic tire maintenance, you can improve the quality of your ride, save some gas and avoid some problems that ignoring tire maintenance can create. It is not a lot of work. And you are sure to regret not taking care of your tires if you go out to get into your car and find that tire is flat. Of course, this always happens at the most inconvenient time possible. Luckily, maintaining your tires is not extremely difficult and does not take a lot of time.

Although it may seem that the most common type of tire problem is a hole or a nail in the tire, it is actually under inflation. If you do your best to make sure your tire is always properly inflated, you are already one huge step ahead of the game. In doing so, you are avoiding the biggest cause of tire problems. When you take steps to keep your vehicle's wheels properly inflated, you not only avoid the leading cause of tire failure, you may also save money on gas. With gas prices what they are, this should be a very appealing incentive to maintain your tires.

Another thing you can do to get the most out of your vehicle's tires is to have your tires rotated regularly. This will help to avoid uneven wear on the tires. With all of the turns and manuevers made when driving, it makes sense that some tires may show more wear than others. This is the reason for tire rotation. You want to wear all of the tires evenly so that you can extend the life of your tires. When this is not done regularly, you may find yourself replacing tires sooner than you should have. Although your vehicle's owners manual should tell you how often to rotate your tires, most manufacturers recommend doing so every 5,000-10,000 miles.

Another step you can take to avoid uneven wear on your tire is to go in to your chosen auto mechanic once a year for a tire alignment. Of course, if your tire is pulling to one side as you are driving, you will need to get an alignment immediately.

With some simple and basic maintenance, you can extend the life of your tires, drive safer and save some money.

Proper maintenance can avoid a lot of potential problems. However, if you find that you are in Austin, Texas and need a tow, contact Harpers Towing Austin. They have a conveniently located south Austin towing office that serves all of Austin and the surrounding areas quickly and efficiently.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ellen_Knight

6 Elements to the Right Rebuilt Engines

By Jeremy P Stanfords

The most important part of a car is the engine. Although it can last a long time when given proper care and maintenance, it will eventually wear out. When it's time to replace the engine, there are several things to consider to make sure that the remanufactured engine for sale is the right choice.

Warranty

Quality remanufactured engines will have at least one warranty that applies to performance. Since a rebuilt engine for sale is made from an old engine base, the warranty is one of the elements that makes it more attractive. Consumers can put more faith in any car part that has a warranty as compared to one that doesn't.

New Parts

Choosing rebuilt engines with new parts assures their higher quality and reliability. Some new engine components include rod bearings, piston rings, pistons, timing chains and pulleys, cams and valve lifters. Remanufactured engines should also come with a new overhaul gasket set and installation gaskets for the vehicle.

Shipping

When purchasing a replacement engine, the customer should have the option to have it shipped directly to their home or to the shop that will do the installation. If the customer is well-versed in engines, this might be a labor of love on an older vehicle. When the motor belongs to a vehicle that needs to get on the road quickly, however, fast shipping is a consideration. Most companies charge extra for shipping, which is calculated based on location, weight and speed of delivery.

Expertise

When a company offers remanufactured engines, it is important that the mechanics performing the work are experts. Different manufacturers, such as Ford, Chevy and Dodge, have different philosophies, layouts and specifications. There are several different types and sizes of motors for each manufacturer. In order to do the job correctly, the mechanics must understand the nuances of each engine. For example, work on the Ford 3.8, the 4.7L Dodge or the 8.1 Chevy engine should be done by a specialist that understands how to properly machine them for the best performance and long-term reliability.

Type

It is important to have the right type of motor in a compatible car. Depending on whether the engine type has a good track record or not, the consumer might consider changing the size or type of motor currently in the vehicle. The best way to make sure this happens is to check the manufacturer's recommendations. If a vehicle was built with that particular motor as an option for that model year, it will likely fit. The same size and type of motor is often the best choice, simply because the fittings and sizes are already proven to work well.

Installation

Having the motor installed is an important part of the job. It should be done by a professional with experience and the proper tools and surroundings. The installation might be done by the same shop that rebuilt the motor. If this is the case, the customer will be charged an installation fee as opposed to shipping.

When a vehicle's motor needs to be replaced, the owner should make sure that these six elements are in place for the best chance for a longer extended life for the vehicle.

Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like more information about an 8.1 Chevy engine, visit http://accurateengines.com/
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_P_Stanfords

Universal Fit Brabus Style LED Puddle Lights

By Eric Wu

If you are looking for the right way to enhance the beauty and appeal of your beloved Mercedes, you should opt for Brabus style LED puddle lights as these are one of the latest and coolest ways of glamorizing your Benz and of course, any other cars such as Lexus, BMW, Audi, etc.

The main purpose of this Brabus style LED puddle lights is to light up your car right underneath the body kit side skirt. These circular LED lights are generally put beneath the body of your car and they are connected to the gates of your cars such that the moment you open the doors of the car, the LED lights up and your car dazzles. You can also operate it manually as well as you can keep the lights on when your car is parked and thus make it stand out from the rest.

A lot of people are getting these new Mercedes Brabus style LED puddle lights nowadays as it is one of the trendiest designs of automotive lights. Each single LED module for this side skirt lighting kit contains 9 pieces LED bulbs and a lot of such modules are brought together to make a chain of LED. The chain of light is attached on either end of the car beneath the surface.

These lights give a glow to your vehicle and are sure to impress a lot of people. They help in giving the perfect look of perfection to your Mercedes. So, if you value a lot about style and glamour, you should opt for these Mercedes puddle lights. These lights can be installed with ease and with a little bit of knowledge and technical expertise, you may be able to do it yourself as well.

So, we would definitely recommend you to buy these puddle lights and help your own image. If you are driving a Mercedes and you are looking for the finest ways of giving it a new look that is sure to bring you a lot of compliments and good reviews, you must try to opt for Mercedes puddle lights as they are trending at the moment.

These lights need to be securely fitted beneath your car and the light adjustments along with the door need to be made. After the installation is done, they should work fine as most of the different people who have opted for this product have given positive reviews about it. You are sure to experience immense pleasure in using it. So, be prepared to show off your glamorous and superbly stylish Mercedes. Stand out from the rest and glow with all your might. No doubt, the Mercedes puddle lights is going to rev up your popularity quotient and you are going to love your ride even more!


Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Wu

Tips for Increasing Your Car Fuel Efficiency

By Dan Lenson

Calm Down on Your Driving

One of the first things a driver can do to improve the efficiency of the fuel is to change their driving habits. I know we all like to drive fast with lots of breaking and accelerating. But apart from the obvious danger issues that come with driving fast is also uses a lot of fuel. Try to start breaking more softly and don't leave breaking to the last second. This is especially true for long journeys.

Change Your Oil Filter

It is important that you check your oil filter on a regular basis, whenever it gets very dirty looking. They are usually quite reasonably priced, so it's a good idea to keep them replaced as soon as they looked a bit bunged up.

Oil Change

Sticking with the subject of oil, if you have an older car for example something that has more than 120,000 kms on the clock then it's a good idea to change your oil every 6,000 kms. Once your car gets into the region of 160,000 kms plus then you can add a mixture to the oil which can improve the efficiency. Some people believe these oil additives can cause problems with various parts of the engine. I haven't seen this myself but you should look into the effect of these additives on your particular engine or make of vehicle before using it.

Drive With Friends

This is often not practical but one of the greatest improvements you can make is to combine a trip with friends or family. For example if you drive to work and have a work friend that lives in the general same area or on the way to work then why not give your friend a lift to work?

You can go halves on the petrol costs which should save you a lot of money over time.

Get a Modern Car

Sometimes it is just a case of finally realizing your beloved old car is just costing you too much in fuel and decide to buy a modern and fuel efficient vehicle. When a car gets very old it usually becomes more charming but unfortunately the same cannot be said for how well it processes its fuel.

Of course getting a car which is quite new is often a large expense which puts this option out of reach for many people but it is still a very good way of being more efficient with your fuel. Maybe even try one of the new hybrids which have amazing fuel economy.

To view a wide range of automobiles in New Zealand I recommend Auto Co a dealership located in the city of Auckland. They import hundreds of vehicles from Japan every month that in turn reduces the cost of these cars.

They have an excellent amount of positive feedback in Trade Me which shows hundreds of satisfied customers.

They also can organize finance for their customers, choosing from a number of lending companies. Click here to view their auto finance page.

One final point that I want to stress is of all these fuel economy tips which you can implement, changing the way you drive is something everyone can do today and it won't even cost you anything to start.

Keep that in mind when you drive your car on your next long journey.
 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Lenson

Fleet Solutions: Factory Rebuilt Engines

By Jeremy P Stanfords

Trucks or cars tooled for a particular purpose are hard to replace. A company that custom ordered its vehicles and is now experiencing the mechanical problems associated with an aging fleet will not want to part with the vehicles that do a specific job for them. In some cases changing out the fleet would mean retraining employees or the very least, retooling. For a deep motor problem, a new motor might be the way to get more out of the vehicles that are already owned.

After warranties expire, the cost of repairs comes directly from the company's coffers. Remanufactured engines provide a way to extend a warranty on an aging fleet. Company cars and trucks don't wear with the same pattern as those owned by individual consumers. Although some heavy duty trucks may have running gear problems if they are over-worked, most company vehicles put on a lot of miles and will result in problems that are in the drive train. It is not uncommon to see a relatively well kept company truck with a blown motor. Looking at the odometer will explain why. As is often said, it's not the years, it's the mileage. Getting a factory rebuilt engine can earn another three years in warranty on the most crucial part of the drive train, not to mention bring an aging fleet back to life.

Businesses must make a value-based decision. A quick examination of options is in order. Having already covered the pitfalls of completely replacing vehicles outright, it should be noted that that is the highest cost of all of these options. Next on the list is getting a brand new engine to put into the existing vehicle. The labor cost will be the same to purchase either a new engine or a remanufactured motor. The mechanical, electrical, vacuum and other hook-ups will all be the same. The warranty will be about the same, as well. The difference is the brand new one will cost about one-third more.

When quality, warranty and compatibility are similar and price is the main difference, it makes it easy to choose the less expensive option. While a single person may want to revel in the fact that they paid top dollar, a sound business decision should require the best bang for the buck.

The best value is typically a remanufactured engine. This said, the lowest priced remanufactured motor out there is not the best option either. Quality rebuilt engines do all the tanking, testing and balancing that is required to guarantee their products. Too low a price might mean that somewhere in the process someone took a short-cut. Too high a price comparatively speaking, and the consumer may feel as if he has overpaid.

Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like more information about remanufactured engines, visit http://accurateengines.com/.
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_P_Stanfords

More Essential Motocross Gear

By Carrie M. Moore

Motocross is becoming more popular by the day. The nature of motocross requires a large amount of safety gear to prevent injuries. Some of the gear is not required, some of it is, but all of it is a wise idea. When used properly, the gear will prevent many common motocross injuries.

The helmet is perhaps the most important piece of motocross gear. Preventing head injuries of all types, the helmet should be specifically designed for motocross use. A good helmet fits the rider snugly without compromising vision or ventilation. The helmet should be worn with a snug-fitting pair of motocross goggles.

A neck collar should be considered for motocross. The neck collar supports the neck, preventing exposure to the shocking movements experienced in hard landings. A quality neck collar will have a washable cover, and should have the option of being worn alone or attached to the chest gear.

Motocross jackets and jerseys are constructed of tough, breathable material to keep the rider cool. The rider may choose which they prefer. They function to protect the rider's body from chaffing by the chest protector.

The chest protector should be worn over the motocross jacket or jersey. Despite the name, the chest protector covers the rider's entire core body, front and back, as well as providing protection to the shoulders and upper arms. Quality chest protection will be made of plastic, have good ventilation, cooling moisture control and is equipped with quick release buckles for ease of taking off and putting on.

Wrist supports will prevent wrist injuries caused by jarring motocross landings while still allowing full wrist movement. Wrist injures while riding are common, so a good pair of wrist supports are recommended.

Gloves should be worn in conjunction with wrist supports for motocross riding. The gloves should be specifically designed for the motocross sport. Gloves provide protection from minor abrasions and allow better grip on the handles of the motocross bike.

Riding underwear is another consideration for motocross riders. These padded shorts protect against injuries to the hips, thighs and tailbone. High-end pieces come with moisture control and ventilation to prevent excess sweating. The padding should be sewn into, rather than attached to, the fabric to keep it in proper position while riding.

Knee braces are required in some motocross arenas. The most common injury in motocross is the ACL injury. Knee braces should be snug yet comfortable, allowing full range of motion. Many knee brace models support the lower leg as well.

Kidney belts will protect your back and kidneys from the jolts of impacts while motocross riding. If the rider has back problems, the kidney belt is recommended. Good kidney belts have moisture control and good ventilation to prevent overheating.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carrie_M._Moore

Blank Transponder Keys - Program Them As Per Your Requirement

By Stacey Kumar

Are you looking for a device that can safeguard your prized possession meaning your precious car and improve your driving experience then a blank transponder key is the best solution for the same. These can be programmed in accordance to your requirement to safeguard and facilitate your car with various advanced features.

Today we are living in the progressive age of science and technology, where every minute a new invention takes place for the betterment of our lifestyle. At present, technology has paved the way for improvement in almost each and every sector. This time the advancement in technology is done for improving the security of cars by replacing the old bunch of keys with a new concept namely transponder keys. It is a new invention of technology for not only increasing the safety of a vehicle but also for enhancing the driving experience of the car owners. Being an excellent substitute of a bunch of keys, these transponder keys are also referred to as the 'Smart Keys'.

When we own a brand new car, the first thing that comes to our mind is its security. In this context these transponder keys are an excellent mode for safeguarding your car from any sort of theft. But apart from offering excellent security to your vehicle, these keys also offer many multiple features for enhancing your driving style as well. These transponder keys are a small device that facilitates the locking/unlocking of the doors, switch on/off the ignition, easy opening of the particular doors, windows or roofs, closing & opening the fuel pump cap and many other functions. Apart from these qualitative features, these transponder keys also offer an alarm system that alerts you with a continuous noise of beeps, when anyone tries to get into your car or even touches it without your permission.

Talking about the functions, these transponder keys are manufactured using cutting edge technology. Actually a transponder is a computer chip, which is placed inside the head of the ignition key and is embedded with a unique code. These keys further use radio signals for connecting to the other device, which is installed behind the steering wheel of the car. Through these signals the attached device in the car identifies the code and performs the function with a flash of light of the lamps for indicating the receipt of the transmission of these signals. But in case the sent code is not being identified by the device, then it will not unlock the doors of the car or start the engine. Thus, only the owner of the car, who is in possession of the key, would be able to start the car.

But what if you lose your transponder key? Then do not worry as a blank transponder is the solution for it, which can be can purchased from any online store. These blank keys are then laser cut to match with the code of the car ignition. For this you can call any local locksmith, who would take just 30 to 45 minutes of time to cut and align the keys with the setup device of your car. Besides, further programming of these keys is quite easy and can be done on your own. Moreover, a manual guide is also offered with these blank transponder keys that give step by step instruction to further configure them as per your requirement.

Are you looking for blank transponder keys for your car then a wide range of these are available in the market. You can even search for them on various websites that offer a wide range of transponder keys for different types and makes of cars. So search more on the internet and opt for the best among them, which matches your requirement.

The author of this article is associated with Transponder Island, which is a renowned organization engaged in providing a qualitative range of locksmith supplies at affordable prices.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacey_Kumar

2012 Chrysler 200 Review and Road Test

By David Louis Johnson
For years Chrysler has struggled in the mid-size sedan segment with their un-loved Sebring. Their replacement the 200 is aiming to change that. Re-named to fall into the line-up below the 300, the 200 has many modern features such as bluetooth, heated seats and LED light strips in the headlights. Some DNA is carried over from the Sebring, but Chrysler promises that this is a new car. On first sight this is hard for some to believe as it shares common styling with the Sebring. Over all Chrysler has made a decent effort to modernize the look of the car.

Inside the cabin is an improvement over the Sebring with better materials and some nice touches like an analogue clock in the middle of the dash. Put your hand on the dash and the material is soft to the touch, not the hard plastic you might expect. Strategically placed chrome trim also helps liven up the inside. No doubt this is light years ahead of the Sebring. Then is it a nice interior? Don't be so sure, while it is better than those that came before it there is still an intangible cheap feeling. Interior noise levels are higher than on many of its competitors such as the Chevrolet Malibu. The dome lights give off a very harsh bright white light that is enough to make you feel like you're in Guantanamo Bay.

On the road the 200 has a decently comfortable ride. The suspension is firm but not overly so and the handling is good. Steering feel is numb and unresponsive like many other midsize cars. Going over bumps the car feels solid enough. Under acceleration the 2.4L 173 horsepower 4 cylinder engine feels lacking. Overall the driving experience to under-whelming and forgettable. Driving it you can't escape the feeling that Chrysler is the last American car company holding onto their age old formula: build it cheap and market it well. The Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Malibu have managed to cast off that reputation but it won't be so easy for the 200.

Most people will want to opt for the 6-speed transmission for best performance and fuel economy. Our test car was equipped with the 2.4L 4 cylinder, while the optional 283 horsepower 3.6L Pentastar V6 promises to deliver class leading performance.

Bottom line: Not a bad mid-size car, but a tough sell against better and well priced competitors like the Chevrolet Malibu and Nissan Altima.

http://www.compareacar.net/blog - try a different way of researching a car, expert reviews and exclusive visual comparison tool.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Louis_Johnson

Toyota Innova's Upcoming Rivals: Maruti Ertiga, Nissan Evalia

By Aman Rawal

The launch of Toyota Innova in the country way back in 2005 has changed the way you look a Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV) or Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV). Earlier, an MUV or MPV was only about space and space minus any modern day feature, comfort or gadgets. At that point of time, Innova was termed as 'risk' because it offered optimum 'sedan-like' comfort along with innovative equipments and premium looking outer shell with a futuristic face. But keeping all the taunts aside it came, it saw and it conquered the MUV segment comprehensively creating a golden benchmark for the others to follow.

Recently it got its first facelift, which has made it sportier and more upright than the previous one together with addition of several gadgets at the instrument cluster and console along with grand comfort making it a multi 'Premium' vehicle in the segment. While the hood has got two choices of motors namely diesel 2494cc and 1998cc petrol mill that offers a mileage of 12.0kmpl and 13.5kmpl respectively. After leading the segment for long, it got first pinch by Mahindra Xylo, which is second most bestselling after Toyota Innova in India. The rivalry will undeniably become denser after the launch of upcoming Maruti Ertiga MPV and Nissan Evalia; both were showcased at 2012 Delhi Auto Expo.

Maruti Ertiga

This compact MPV from Maruti has been the talk-of-the-globe ever since it was displayed as RIII Concept at many Auto Shows worldwide. Maruti Ertiga MPV will be made available in convenient options of petrol and diesel powered low displacement engines, which can have some edge over the two big diesel power-trains offered in Innova. The 7-seater will have decent space in the cabin along with many up-to-date elements as well. Although it will not fight in terms of power with Innova's 2.5L or smaller 2.0L engine, but will definitely eat a good amount of market share when it comes to fuel efficiency. It will offer very good drivability compared to Toyota MPV due to its compact design. The Ertiga will be launched by the end of this month i.e. March 2012.

Nissan Evalia

Nissan Evalia is also said to be 'Nissan NV200' and with its launch, the battle will worsen as the two Japanese auto majors will be on even grounds as both will be offering near about the same size vehicle. The Nissan MPV has won many awards as it provides optimum utility to its buyers. Globally the 8-9 seater is available in many avatars for instance, taxi and cargo carrier along with private and passenger vehicle. Nissan is said to launch it as premium MUV, which has outmost quality material used in the interiors together with technically advanced gadgets and its robust yet superior looking face. It is expected to boast a 2.0L heart under the bonnet with petrol and diesel run choices that offer amazing mileage figures of more than or around 15 kmpl. This Nissan flagship vehicle will be brought here in August 2012.

Keep yourself updated with the latest information about Toyota Innova Pictures and Toyota Innova Reviews.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aman_Rawal

5 Things to Do Before Booking Your Driving Lessons

By Darren Hirst


You need to plan ahead when you're thinking of taking your driving lessons in Sheffield or elsewhere in the UK.

Planning is an essential part of your driving process and there are a number of tasks that need to be completed before you book your driving lessons.

The first thing you need to think about before booking your lessons is how you will fund them. Most people save up months before taking lessons and this is something you need to think about before you start. Some are lucky and their driving lessons are funded by their parents as a birthday present. Another way to fund them would be to take out a loan, although we strongly recommend avoiding this as much as possible because no debt is good debt.

The next thing you need to do before booking your driving lessons is to get your provisional driving licence because you can't start your driving tuition without it. Your instructor will ask to see this on your first lesson and if you haven't got it then they won't take you out on the road because it's a legal requirement that you have one. It is very simple to apply for a provisional licence,do it now and get ahead with booking your driving lessons.

The next stage in booking your lessons is looking around for the right driving school. There are different ways in which you can find driving schools in your area. Firstly you can look on search engines such as Google and search for a driving lessons. Most schools have a website with all the information you will need. Other means of finding the right school for you would be the yellow pages. This would involve you ringing them up to find out details and is not as informative as the internet however it's still useful.

After finding your driving school check that you will get good lessons from them; it 's important to find out if you will get a good service and you can do this by reading reviews and testimonials that ex-pupils have left about the school you're thinking of booking with. This is a great insight to how any business runs because it's pupils first hand experience with that school.

The final stage to booking your driving lessons after finding the right driving school is to get on with your driving tuition! Start revising for your theory test as soon as possible because it will help you both on the road and it will speed up your learning. Pass your theory test as soon as possible so it doesn't hold you back when booking your practical driving test.

Just Driving operate in and around the area of Sheffield. Our Driving Lessons in Sheffield have been on the market now for many years and we have very experienced instructors. The Driving Lessons Sheffield we provide are specifically planned out to meet pupils needs so you don't get second rate driving tuition.

To book your driving lessons call now on 0800 783 4803 and talk to one of our friendly receptionists.
 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Hirst

5 Reasons to Take Driving Instructor Training

By Darren Hirst

Many don't know the benefits of taking driving instructor training and therefore rule out the career of a driving instructor. Here are a few reasons why driving instructor training needs to be considered by all looking for a new career.

1. It's very flexible and can be taken around times to suit you, evening or weekends it doesn't matter because it's your driving instructing course. You control when you take the training which wouldn't happen in many other training programs. The flexibility continues to when you're a fully qualified instructor as you organise your own diary to fit around your daily schedule.
2. Taking driving instructor training isn't expensive and the skill remains with you all your life. Once you're given the skill it sticks with you and ensures you will never be out of a job even if you decide to move on to a new career after driving instructing for a few years. It's a skill that can be compared to the one you actually teach, learning to drive. Once you know how to drive it sticks with you all your life, you will always be able to teach someone how to drive.
3. No qualifications are needed to become an instructor, all you need is to be over the age of 21, have 4 years of driving experience and pass a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check. Once you have done that you're ready to start your driving instructing course and pass your instructing test!
4. Taking instructor training can be a quick process depending on how much time you're willing to dedicate to it. If you train full-time you can become an instructor very quickly and get earning a lot quicker than you would in other careers. This is why it's favourable to a lot of other trades as it takes years to become a professional in other lines of work.
5. The final reason for taking the training is the earning power! However many hours you can work you can earn! With driving lessons now been charged at around £20 per hour the money you bring in all depends on how many hours you can work and many make a very healthy living from it.

There are many reasons for taking instructor training and the above are just a few of them. When thinking about your next career don't rule out anything until you have thought about all the reasons to take it up.


Just Instructor training offer driving instructor training to everyone who qualifies to learn how to become a driving instructor.
If you're wanting to start taking driving instructor training or gain more information about how to become a driving instructor visit their website.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Hirst

30 Gas-Saving Tips for Drivers - We Compiled Every Single One We Could Find!

By Amy H. Smith

Gas prices are going down! What a relief. But, anything above $3 per gallon still feels too painful. It's not time to give up on those extra gas-saving measures, yet. (Not that it ever should be.)

So here is every tip for saving fuel that's out there -- the simple ones that can be put to use today without a lot of expense. So, barring those obvious (and expensive) "buy a hybrid car" and "convert an old diesel to bio-diesel" suggestions, these are the things drivers and environmentalists agree will save drivers some money and save the world some pollution.

Top 30 Gas-Saving Tips for Drivers

1. Slow down. The faster we drive the more fuel we consume. Slowing to 20 mpg would defeat the purpose of driving, of course. Lead foots, though, should keep their speed in check. Driving 75 mph consumes 20% more fuel than driving 65 mph.
2. Stop braking... as much. A moving car consumes less fuel than an accelerating one. In heavy traffic it's smart to leave plenty of distance between you and the car ahead. Settle into a speed that allows you to coast along slowly, because constantly braking and accelerating again - even at low speeds - reduces your gas mileage by 10% to 20%.
3. Aggressive driving? It's unsafe and guzzles gas! Weaving in and out of lanes increases your braking and accelerating. (See #2.)
4. Easy turns. If you need to slow down before turning a corner or bend, brake before turning. Coast into the turn and you'll benefit from the car's momentum as you accelerate afterwards.
5. Stop flooring it. Jack rabbit starts eat up more fuel, too.
6. Avoid stops. No, we're not suggesting rolling through STOP signs and red lights. Travel a route that's short and requires the fewest stops. Remember how accelerating uses more fuel? (See #2.)
7. Move forward. Avoid driving in reverse as much as possible.
8. Turn right. Waiting to turn left requires idling.
9. Turn off. Sure, it's exhausting to get out of the car and walk in to a building for your morning coffee, but it consumes less fuel than if you idle in the drive-through line for more than 30 seconds (especially with the A/C running). The same applies for the school pick-up lane, ATM withdrawals, traffic jams, etc.
10. Buy regular. Some car manuals suggest otherwise. But if your car has no fuel specification, buy the cheaper stuff; it won't make a difference in the way your car runs.
11. Wake up! Hit the gas station early in the day when the air is cool. Gas is measured by volume, and cooler gas is the densest; you'll get the most fuel for your buck in the morning.
12. Don't top off. Trying to squeeze that very last drop of gasoline into the tank after the pump has shut off just leads to spillage and evaporation.
13. Upside down? Yes! Turn the fuel pump nozzle upside down before removing it from your tank. You've paid for the fuel that remains in the nozzle; so use it!
14. Tighten up. The gas cap keeps fuel from evaporating out of your fuel tank and, still, 17% of vehicles on the road have loose or broken gas caps!
15. Pay cash. Many truck stops and highway travel centers charge a little bit more per gallon when you pay with a charge card.
16. Travel light. Leaving odds and ends in the trunk, in the backseat and on the floor adds weight to your vehicle. Lighter vehicles consume less gas. Emergency supplies and the spare tire are important, but all that other stuff can go. Remove bike and ski racks when they're not being used.
17. Pump up. Under-inflated tires don't roll properly.
18. Get in line. Aligned tires are more fuel-efficient than tires that pull every which way. Driving on unbalanced or misaligned tires creates drag.
19. Heavy metal. Steel-belted radial tires increase fuel efficiency by 10%!
20. LRR. Look for tires rated for "low rolling resistance." They could improve fuel efficiency by 7%.
21. O/D. Use it during highway driving.
22. Cruise control. Use it on smooth highway drives, but not bumpy, winding roads or short trips.
23. Replace the spark plugs.
24. Clean air. Change the air filter regularly, but not necessarily every time someone tells you to.
25. Maintain the proper oil level. It reduces friction and that reduces fuel consumption.
26. De-ice. In wintertime, remove icicles from your car frame. Snow and ice are heavy additions to your vehicle.
27. No A/C. It's unanimous that air conditioning use reduces fuel economy up to 20%
28. Get polished. A shiny clean and waxed car creates less wind resistance!
29. Park inside. Or in the shade. The warm sunlight heats up your car and causes fuel evaporation.
30. Roll up the windows/Roll down the windows. There seem to be equal arguments for both, so we encourage you to do your own testing and decide what works best for you!

If any great tips were missed, please leave a comment! Every little bit counts when it comes to saving fuel... and money.

Amy H. Smith writes for Smith Haven Chrysler Jeep Dodge located in St. James New York on the North Shore of Long Island.

When you're ready for those new tires, oil change or spark plugs, please visit the service department at Smith Haven Chrysler Jeep Dodge in St. James, NY. We'll be glad to tune up your vehicle for better gas savings.

Make a service appointment at http://www.smithhavenchryslerjeepdodge.net/index.htm.
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_H._Smith

Of Pistons and Power

By Aiden Jefferson

Let's face it, cars can be confusing. Car repairs and car parts can be even more so. For that matter, if you ever go shopping for a new car, you will probably have a salesman trying to impress with as many technical terms as he can. What exactly are dual overhead cams and do I really need them (answer-not really) Don't worry though, we are offering up this little guide to help you out.

Horsepower is undoubtedly one of the most common terms you will ever hear. The more horsepower the more power you have right? Yes, but how much do you really need? It's some complicated science but 1hp equals 550 foot pounds of work per second, or the amount of work done by one pound of force over the distance of one foot. All you really need to know is the more horsepower the faster you can go. High end sports cars like Ferrari can produce an amazing 700hp plus. A muscle car might range around 600hp or so. Your average sedan on the road will usually be anywhere from 170-250, give or 20hp.

Liters, cylinders and pistons are other terms you have no doubt heard as well, such as a 3.5 liter, 6 cylinder engine. Here is what it means. Every engine has pistons that pump up and down inside a tube shaped cylinder, one for each piston, so 4 pistons would equal 4 cylinders. Fuel needs oxygen to burn, so as the pistons pump up and down they suck air into the cylinders. The air is then mixed with the fuel and ignited to create the energy needed to move your car.

"Liter" refers to the volume of air that the cylinders suck in during a cycle. So a 3.2 liter engine takes in 3.2 liters of air. Gasoline mixes with a proportion to the amount of air used, but in general, the more air the more powerful your combustion. So a 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine has 4 cylinders with 2.4 liters of air. The average car will be 4 or 6 cylinders, while sports cars are often 6 or 8 but some, like the Rolls Royce, are famous for their 12 cylinder engines.

Anybody that's into cars at all will have heard of a V6 or v8 engine and it is a surprisingly simple term. The number beside the V is the number or pistons (or cylinders) that an engine has. The V literally refers to the physical configuration the cylinders are in. There are other configurations as well, such as the inline and H shape, but the V is the most conducive to power and efficiency, which is why it is standard for most high performance cars.

So see? That's not so confusing now. Of course, there are plenty of other terms to learn, but now you can ask your friends how many liters their car is and laugh as they scratch their heads.

Aiden Jefferson lives, works, breathes and writes in sunny Southern California. He primarily writes about used vehicles, certified used vehicles, education and real estate. He has an unrepentant love of pop culture and humor that he works in whenever he can.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aiden_Jefferson

If You Do Not Want To Spend A Lot Of Money Buying A New Car Then Consider Long Term Car Rental

By Junaid Qamar Gilani

When buying a new car, many of us aim for a car that has all the latest gadgets and is not that expensive. It is easy to save money, if you know what to do. It is not that difficult just follow the steps given below. You never know when this saved money might help you. The first thing that you should not do is go to a car dealer. The only thing the sales person is interested in is a commission. It is their job to sell you a car at the highest rate. Do not let anyone talk you into buying a car.

Now that you know what not to do, go check online and find the car that you are interested in. Go to different car websites and go through all the cars, and decide on the one that you want. Then go to different auto sales websites and read the reviews of the car you have chosen. Once you have decided on the car, go online and post a request for bids. This way different dealers will offer you bids with full cost exposure. Tell all the dealers that you will be picking only one dealer and that will be the dealer with the lowest price. This will make them want to keenly compete against each other and you will win the day by getting the lowest offer. When you get the lowest offer, go and see the car dealer. Never buy a car if the dealer says they will make it available from another dealer. Tell them the exact price you want to pay, and do not budge from this price.

If there is not a chance that the dealer will accept your offer, simply walk out. Do not stop until they agree to accept your offer. Also, buy your car at the end of the month as they are usually desperate to make sales at this point and they will be more likely to cooperate with you. If you decide that you do not want to buy a car, you can also go for a long term car hire and long term car rental program. These programs differ from every car rental company. This way you will save your money and look for a cheap deal that will provide you with a car without fully paying for it.

A long term car hire and long term car rental is a solution for those who do not have the money to buy a car but they need one. People who travel a lot can also use it. They can save money by using these facilities. People, who wish to hire or rent cars for the long term are offered a lower price. Once you become a regular customer, they will throw in discounts and other promotions. This way you sign a contract with the company and you get to take the car home immediately. You might also be offered luxury vehicles, or brand new vehicles for the same price. Make sure you look for a quality car hire or rental service. Pick a company that has a good reputation and can make a competitive offer to you.

It is a natural thing to want to drive the latest car and there are many ways that you can do this and drive away in that dream model. Rather than buying a car it is a good idea to consider long term car hire or long term car rental You are rarely asked for large deposits and the monthly payments are usually a lot less than when you buy. Also there are no concerns over maintenance costs and you do not have to worry about depreciation either.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Junaid_Qamar_Gilani

How To Pick The Right Car

By Graham J Baylis

It is probably fair to say that most adults have, at some point, had to purchase a new car. That is to say, new to their household, not necessarily new in manufacture. One of the most important aspects of choosing that new car is getting the correct one for you and your family. Cars are expensive, whether straight off the production line, or second hand, so selecting the one to suit is paramount. It is not something to be taken lightly, as a mistake can work out expensive, especially considering that cars lose value the very moment they leave the garage forecourt, so buying to meet your requirements is of the utmost importance.

Different things also have to be taken into consideration when choosing a family car. The needs of the whole family have to be looked at. For instance, young children have to be equipped with their own car seats, so room is important. Older children may have hobbies which require moving sports or music equipment from A to B. Car sharing, to save time and money, may be an option too. At the same time, you may want a car that reflects your personality, which says something about who you are. It is important to be rational and look at all the qualities you need as a family, rather than what is trendy or the flavour of the month!

Get your facts right. Before you shop around, decide on colour, make and model, and whether you want an estate, hatch back or four door saloon, before you go looking. And, perhaps the most vital, know your budget. Remember to include in your budget insurance costs too. Is the car going to be used for business purposes or to drive to and from work: how many people will be included on the insurance: Car advertising and marketing is designed to entice you in and may mean you are tempted to spend more than you can afford, so be sure of what you want and stick to what you decide. That way, you will be more comfortable if there is need to negotiate on price or style. As it is a family car, running costs need to be looked into, especially if you are going to be partaking in frequent short runs, to and from school, or children's clubs, so the advantages of diesel over petrol will also need to be considered.

Last but not least, think about any special features that you're not willing to compromise on, such as sun roof, opening back windows, child seat anchor points and interior mats. Do you need a tow bar, are alloy wheels necessary, and do you want metallic paint. All these suggestions may seem trivial before you start looking, but can become overwhelming when you finally arrive at the garage forecourt. The choice can be staggering so if you have a definite idea in mind it will make the choice simpler, you will succeed in buying just what you want, and a car you will be happy with for many years, as opposed to a car that you make do but will be looking to change prematurely in the future.

At one time or another most of us have wanted to get another used car, wanting that car with more power, or perhaps just because we want a change. Graham Baylis has changed his car many times and provides advice on choosing the best used car etc, courtesy of - www.wewantanycar.com

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graham_J_Baylis

Improve Your Truck or SUV With a Suspension Lift

By Walter As Dyer

You put a lot of time and money into keeping your truck or SUV looking good and riding smoothly. Why not add enhance your pride in the work you've done with a suspension lift. Suspension lift kits add additional height to your truck or SUV to increase fender clearance and allow for larger tires. If you want to take your truck or SUV off-roading or you just want a new look for you vehicle, lifting your suspension can do the trick.

If you are a DIY kind of person, then you probably view working on your truck or SUV as a long-term project; and purchasing a suspension lift kit so that you can carry on with the improvements you've already makes sense. However, you don't want to go to any old place to make this purchase. You want products of the highest quality at the lowest price. And you want to be sure that the parts will last for a reasonable amount of time.

This may seem like a tall order, but it need not be. Indeed, now is a great time to be in DIY. There are many shops that cater specifically to the needs of such persons. You can find suspension lift kits and other repair parts and mechanisms at many online stores. This makes a huge difference in being able to get the right parts to do the job you have in mind. You no longer have to limit yourself to doing little touch up here and there, or minor operations such as changing tires or installing a new stereo. You can now do almost everything an auto shop can do. It's just a matter of getting the equipment you need.

The web has changed our abilities. With the proliferation of information on the worldwide web of all kinds of stuff, it should come as no surprise that more and more people are taking on DIY projects that involve the most complex kind of work. Jobs like suspension lifts used to be the exclusive purview of the expert mechanic. Now this kind of work can be done by self-taught amateurs who want to improve the look or the functionality of their truck or SUV. We can not only learn how to do the job of the mechanic, we can shop like one as well. If you are a DIY enthusiasts, you now enjoy all of the logistical support an expert automotive dealer or repairman may receive.

Fortunately, the online shops that offer such goods and services are not that difficult to find. If you are interested in purchasing a suspension lift kit for example, all you need do is go to Google and enter 'suspension lift kits' and a great number of online shops will appear on your screen. This will enable you to compare price and value. It will also enable you to determine the record of customer satisfaction of each shop. This is a great way to shop and save!

So, don't delay. Your next great DIY job may just be a mouse click away!

If you are a DIY person, then you may be interested in lift kits. Get high quality suspension lift kits at a premiere online auto parts shop. Please visit http://automotivepartswarehouse.com.au/suspension-lift-kits-c-1077.html to learn more.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Walter_As_Dyer

How to Find Out What Size Brake Pads You Need

By Phil Seddon

Brake pads compliment disc brakes used in automotion and other applications. Brake pads are steel backing plates with friction material bound to the surface that touches the brake disc.

Two brake pads are contained in the brake caliper with their friction surfaces facing the brake disc. When the brakes are applied, the caliper squeezes the two pads together into the spinning brake disc to slow/stop the vehicle.

Although almost all road vehicles have only two brake pads per caliper, racing calipers utilise up to six pads, with varying frictional properties for the best performance. Depending on the properties of the material, disc wear rates may differ. Brake pads can be viewed as a consumable car part and need to be replaced regularly (depending on pad material which are of differing wear and performance rates).

EBC Brake Pads

Above is an example of a set of high performance disc brake pads.

There are various different types of brake pads, depending on the use and type of vehicle, from very soft and aggressive (such as racing applications) and harder, more durable and less aggressive compounds. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend a specific kind of brake pad for their vehicle, but compounds can be changed. This may depend on personal tastes, driving styles and type of use.

Care must be taken to purchase the appropriate brake pad for your needs. Selecting the wrong pad can result in excessive heat, increased wear, increased brake fade and drastically reduced performance. In cars that suffer from excessive brake fade, the problem can be reduced by purchasing better quality and more aggressive brake pads.

EBC Brakes aftermarket disc pad range is huge and supply to countries all around the world. Using top quality materials EBC develop and produce their own products in Bristol, England - a truly homegrown British company working in the right way to supply customers with the very best value brake products for their cars!

EBC Pads and discs are all ECE R-90 approved or carry ABE and are one of the only upgrade brake ranges in the world approved to new European regulations.

Ultimax Pads. If you need a quality replacement brake pad, look no further than Ultimax. Here we have a beautifully engineered brake compound that lasts well, produces minimal dust and is the perfect choice for the urban or daily driver. Why spend more if all you need is a quality replacement pad. Do not be put off by the relatively low price - these are a quality pad that you can trust.

Redstuff Pads. EBC's flagship street brake pad material for prestige and faster cars above 200BHP, EBC Redstuff sets high standards in braking performance. Redstuff has always been known for producing a low amount of dust, but the latest blend has greatly reduced the phenomenon of pad 'pick up' or disc scoring and reduced dust even further.

Tested at Motor Industries Research Association - MIRA have proven a Redstuff equipped car stopping distance in tests by almost 50 feet from 100 MPH offering a huge 30% brake improvement!

Redstuff are a harder compound that does take longer to fully bed in to achieve its highest levels of performance - up to 1500 miles/2500 Kms use - during which time the odd 'chirp' of brake noise may be heard when starting from cold in damp and cold conditions at very low speeds. Be patient and in a very short space of time the pads warm and really start to deliver.

Yellowstuff Pads. EBC yellow compound is s true all rounder, has high friction from cold, not requiring warm up for street use.

EBC yellows are brake safety tested which means they have to work perfectly from cold at least as good or better than standard pads.

When Yellows see some heat they really show their quality. On Japanese cars built with lower friction rated pads these deliver a full grade higher stopping and on German cars these are about the only aftermarket pads that will match or beat the already good German OEM spec pads - pretty impressive!.

Greenstuff Pads are regarded as a first level brake improvement over standard and can deliver up to 15% improvement in stopping power. However Greenstuff is not a hard and long lasting pad and drivers may find Greenstuff last less than other EBC pad varieties.

It is essential to note that EBC offer THREE RANGES of Greenstuff pads, engineered for each application

• Greenstuff 2000 series for small sports cars and hot hatches
• Greenstuff 6000 series for entry level truck and 4x4 upgrade
• Greenstuff 7000 low dust Truck and 4x4 Brakes

Appreciated by drivers of cars up to 200 BHP year 2009 sees the launch of the 9th version of EBC 2000 series Greenstuff which has once again pushed the performance barriers of organic friction materials. The latest version of Greenstuff is a deliberately softer compound to improve pedal feel on lighter cars at lower speeds. This resulted in a medium dust material with good lifetime and minimal rotor wear.

Bluestuff Pads are a high friction sport and race material that can be used for aggressive street driving and some types of track use. The material has had much success on the track with quality aftermarket calipers.The biggest advantage of EBC Bluestuff NDX is their bite from cold and progressive brake feel and the ability to bring a car to a complete stop.

It would be well worth your while to search for a quality supplier to source you with the appropriate EBC Brake Pad or disc that will perfectly suit your needs and provide you with the very best value braking experience.

Phil Seddon is an aspiring author who specializes in writing short stories and articles on common topics or interesting debates. In this article he is attempting to steer people clear of making the wrong choice in the EBC Brake Pads buying market so that they have a better understanding of what to consider when making their purchase!

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Seddon

Volkswagen Becoming More Popular Amid Record Profits

By Itzik Juliet Saedin

This first quarter of 2012 Volkswagen has seen its profits jump massively with them nearly doubling to 3.2bn Euros ($4.2bn; £2.6bn) compared with a year ago. This can be put down to many external factors however with brands such as Audi, Skoda, Seat and Bentley under their belt it is hard not to see why Volkswagen cars appeal to the masses.

On the profit announcements Volkswagen also said that they were performing incredibly well in all markets, and outperforming the competition in all regions much to the dismay of brands such as BMW, Citroen and Peugeot.

Why the sudden rise in popularity?

Volkswagen's record profits for Q1 2012 are quite surprising amid the economic outlook however as a brand Volkswagen has always been extremely popular in Germany its native country, the UK and other countries within the EU alike.

When shopping for a car whether on the lookout for a sporty hot hatch, economic diesel for business or even a supercar, Volkswagen is now a leading brand within the car market and the reason for this is simple; Volkswagen has a history behind it and also a great product portfolio.

Volkswagen has always been seen as a premium brand and some of their cars are seen as iconic. On the premium front, Volkswagen's are priced at the higher end of the scale in all markets they attack which has led to a brand awareness which attracts those with a higher disposable income and businesses alike. In the case of their Audi brand, cars sporting the four ring branding are seen as luxury and are highly sought after by many purely because of the persona that they carry.

It isn't all premium brands and high price tags, though.

Volkswagen owns Seat and Skoda, two car brands which appeal to completely different markets compared to Volkswagen and Audi.

Seat is the sporty youthful brand and Skoda is the underdog brand which carries a super low price tag. When you combine four car badges (VW, Audi, Seat Skoda) which appeal to those with a high income, those who are younger and want something cool and those looking for a genuine bargain, it is easy to see why Volkswagen cars are so popular and it is also easy to see why Volkswagen's quote above of outperforming the competition in all regions is feasible.

Aside from history, heritage, brand awareness and a large vehicle portfolio though, there are other reasons that Volkswagen is so popular within the markets they operate.

Resell value

Volkswagen cars hold their value notoriously well and in cases it is not rare to see a 4 year olf Volkswagen Golf GT 140 TDI with 100,000 miles on the clock sell for upwards of 8K, practically half the cost of when new whilst other competitors in the same segment (Renault Megane, Toyota Auris) drop like a stone above a certain mileage.

Reliability

VAG group cars have always scored well in reliability tests and this can be put down to a) lots of practice and years worth of experience and b) German engineering.

Throughout car history the saying 'German engineering' has been used a lot for a lot of different car brands to portray a sense of skill and craftsmanship, however it is hard to argue with that saying when all German manufacturers create extremely reliable cars.

If you are in the UK and thinking where can I sell my Volkswagen for the best possible price I would recommend visiting the Cash for Cars comparison site called dealerbid.co.uk

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Itzik_Juliet_Saedin

What Is A Supercharger And How Does It Enhance Your Vehicle?

By James Chapman Jr.

Another way to add power to your vehicle is to make a normal-sized engine more efficient. This can easily be accomplished by inserting additional air into the combustion chamber. Having additional air gives you the advantage of having more fuel and this triggers a bigger explosion and greater horsepower. If you want to achieve a forced air induction then adding a supercharger will be one of the best ways to do so.

A Supercharger is simply an air compressor which helps push more air into the engine. A supercharger is any device that pressurizes the air intake above the atmospheric pressure. The supercharger is used for supercharging the internal combustion piston engines. The air is usually pushed through a mechanical connection to the engine then the power of the compressor to compress air increases leading to the finally step of going to the cylinders.

What is the Main Advantage of Superchargers?

The big advantage of superchargers is that they produce additional power from less engine speed and avoid suffering from the inherent lag of turbo. The charge temperature is lower than an equivalent turbo application and cooler air increases the amount of oxygen which leads to an increase in the amount of fuel that can be burned, releasing more power. The superchargers are available in a variety of street and race only configurations.

Root type blowers are most common and because they pump a given volume of air into the manifold they became known as positive displacement pumps. They come with a pair of 2 and sometimes 3 lobe straight cut rotors and they are available in many different sizes. The longer the blower case or the larger the rotors increases the amount of air delivered to the motor. It also requires no extra maintenance on the part of the driver.

Additional Advantages

No ordinary shut down procedures need to be made because it does not depend on engine oil to run and requires no drainage. Today, it is only used in gasoline fueled engines in order to prevent common problems associated with high temperature exhaust gas from occurring and to be compatible with LPG or methane

It is also easy to install as it can be attached to both the top and side of the engine, but keep in mind that it does require substantial modifications to the engines exhaust system. The super charger is more expensive to make than turbo chargers.

Other beneficial advantages of supercharging your car using a super charger over turbo charging are instant throttle response and more boost at low engine speed. Since it is belt driven of the crankshaft, it can deliver boost the instant the throttle is opened. Cost and reliability advantages are also claimed for super charging.

These can be a straight-bolt on installation, and it works well with stock heads, cams and pistons. What's more, it delivers better low speed throttle response and torque than most engines with big valves. It is a lot more reliable and is subject to less thermal stress.
 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Chapman_Jr.

Spark Plugs and Air Filters, Oh My!

By Aiden Jefferson

Last week we talked about horsepower, pistons and cylinders, but this is hardly the end of the matter. There are plenty of other car terms that people might try to impress you with, so let's work on disarming them a bit more. Another common term is "dual overhead cams."

"Dual overhead cams" is a technical term that applies mainly to high performance cars. Remember, when a piston pumps inside its cylinder it sucks in air that mixes with the gasoline. The gas is then ignited to create the energy to move your car. Each cylinder has valves on them that open to let air in and let the exhaust out. Cams are the lobes that press on the valves to control when they open and close. A high performance engine will usually have four valves and one cam per two valves. So a four valve cylinder would have two, or "dual" cams. Overhead refers to the position of the cams. They sit "overhead" of the cylinders. This matters to car lovers because dual overhead cams are much more efficient and add more power and energy then a single cam. For your average car this isn't really an issue.

So if air and gas mix to create combustion, then there must be something that sparks it right? Enter the spark plug. Sparks plugs are one of those little parts that need to be changed every now and then and you will know it when it needs it because your engine will kick or misfire with the loss or power.

Spark plugs sit at the top of the cylinder. When the piston is in the downward motion it sucks air and gas in, then with the upward pump it pushes it into the spark plug which ignites it. The force of the explosion pushes the piston down, which is also attached to a crankshaft. The crankshaft transfers the energy to a circular motion that will then turn the wheels.

Another common thing that needs replacing is the air filter. While having a dirty air filter isn't going to hurt your car, it can hinder fuel efficiency and gas mileage. When the pistons suck air into the cylinders the air passes through the air filter. This keeps out dust, dirt, insects or anything else that might clog your engine or mix with the fuel. For the record you should never pay to have somebody change your filter, it is incredibly easy and cheap to do and mechanics make a killing on it.

So next time your friend tries to impress you with some car term you will know what they mean. Better yet, now you can impress them by throwing out your own terms.

Aiden Jefferson lives, works, breathes and writes in sunny Southern California. He primarily writes about, used cars San Diego, used cars online, education and real estate.He has an unrepentant love of pop culture and humor that he works in whenever he can. He would love to write about dating and romance but knows nothing about them.
 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aiden_Jefferson

Do Not Be Cruel to Your Car

By Karen Campese

Money has been very tight over the last few years. As a result many people are neglecting to keep up with the routine maintenance on their cars. While all of us would like our cars to start each time we turn the key and stop every time we press the brake and run like new all the time, that is not the case. They need maintenance in order to continue to run smoothly. Spending a little time and money on maintaining your car will help it to provide you with years of service.

Replacing the fluids in the car and maintaining them at the proper levels is very important in ensuring that the car runs well and for many miles. That does not just include the motor oil and anti-freeze, but also the transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and differential fluid. Replacing them is more than just topping off the fluids in the car when they get low. Over time the fluids degrade, get dirty and lose their effectiveness. If you do not replace them when needed, your car will end up needing a new engine, transmission, radiator, power steering pump, master cylinder, camshaft, etc. All of those repairs are very expensive and cost much more than just replacing the fluid.

The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you recommendations for when to change the various fluids and the specific type of fluid you should use. If you do not have an owner's manual, most car makers now post them online at their website.

One maintenance tip that does not cost anything is to simply pop the hood regularly and examine the condition of the belts, hoses and fluids. Replace any belts or hoses that show signs of wear and tear. Replacing them is much cheaper than repairing the damage they will do to your vehicle if they break. If any of the fluids are low, you need to investigate the cause of the leak. Replace any fluids that are dirty.

When you take car in the shop for an oil change, you should have the mechanic rotate the tires, check their air pressure and check the brakes, cv joints, etc. Taking care of these things when they first begin will keep you from spending a lot of money in repairs if you neglect them. Many larger repair shops will inflate and rotate your tires for free with the oil change. That will keep your tires from wearing out prematurely.

Simply keeping your car and its undercarriage clean will keep it from rusting. Rust does not just eat away at the body of the car, it also eats away at the muffler, axles, tie rods, etc. causing them to fail.

There are two maintenance tips will not harm your car significantly if you do not do them, but will save you a lot of money if you do. They are replacing your air filter often and replacing your spark plugs periodically. A dirty air filter and clogged spark plugs will drastically reduce your gas mileage and cost you much money at the pump.

The bottom line is that if you take care of your car, it will take care of you. If you have not taken care of your car, it probably has developed an expensive problem. In that case, your best option is to donate your car to charity. Not only will the proceeds from the sale of your car donation help the charity, it will help you by way of a really fine tax deduction.

Karen Campese is the Co-founder and CEO of Cars4Charities, a not for profit car donation center. They have over 1,000 respected charities that you can donate car to. When you donate your car, you get a tax deduction and help a good cause.
 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Campese

Off-Roading Need Not Be Uncomfortable With the Bestop Seats

By Michael P Balbueba

Jeeps are one of the most admired and highly coveted vehicle brands in the world. If you own a Jeep, it must need pampering and professional care not only in the exterior, but the interior. Most Jeeps are purchased for the purpose of off-roading that involves the hard drive to rough terrain, dirt roads and ravines including rivers. Due to the rough conditions that the Jeep is subjected to, wear and tear cannot be avoided. Driving in the harsh environment does not mean that you should not be comfortable during the drive. It is a must to have the Jeep seats that are soft and comfortable.

The bestop seats of the jeep are subjected to all hazards including varying temperature from extreme cold and heat. The abuse suffered by the Jeep seats wreaks havoc to the upholstery no matter how much care and protection is regularly provided. It is only the bestop seats that provide the hassle-free seat care solution. In order to effectively maintain the original upholstery of the Jeep seat, the best that should be done is protect it with the use of a Jeep seat cover especially if the Jeep seat is one manufactured by bestop seats.

If the Jeep seat needs a replacement, the bestop seats can provide you with the desired comfort and protection as long as you know the specifics of the Jeep make and model including the year of manufacture since it is common for manufacturers to update the Jeep accessories especially when a new model comes out in the market. The signs that you need a replacement for the Jeep seat are protruding cushions and broken springs.

Most Jeep owners prefer to have the wind on their faces when they are driving but the weather conditions often prevent them from doing so. Most of the Jeeps have the hardtops but this can easily be replaced with the bestop supertop where you can enjoy the open air feeling by just removing the rear and side windows and folding the bestop supertop at the back. If it suddenly rains, you won't have a difficult time in folding it back again. You can easily return the windows and you are enclosed from the rain.

There is also this thing called the summer tops similar to the bestop supertop that is recommended only for the summer heat. It only covers the head but allows the sides to be open in order not to suffer too much from the direct sunlight. It just shades the head and the eyes thoroughly.

Enjoy the great outdoors with friends in your Bestop seats built for comfort and durability. Designed to enhance the styling, comfort, and functionality of your truck, Jeep, or SUV, Bestop seats and Bestop Supertop products are sure to deliver an unforgettable off-roading experience.
 
Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_P_Balbueba