Wednesday 30 June 2010

2006 Honda Accord in Milwaukee Acura Dealer, WI video - SOLD

www.acurabrookfield.com SOLD - Take a look at this pre-owned 2006 Honda Accord,Stock: 12176. Visit our website for more information on this vehicle and our full inventory. Acura Milwaukee 19180 W Bluemound Road Milwaukee Acura Dealer WI, video (800) 639-2287 Our story began over 43 years ago with a philosophy of "Loving Care Service" and that approach has helped the Zimbrick family of automotive retail centers to grow to 14 franchises with a selection of over 2000 quality vehicles. We are proud of the great staff that we have the privilege of working with. Their commitment to excellence is a major reason we have developed such a loyal client base our customers become our friends. We are also pleased to support many important community activities. We appreciate the opportunity to provide you with the best automotive ownership experience possible. Youll find that exceeding your expectations is our standard practice. Thats what "Loving Care Service" is about. Offering: 2010 Acura TSX - Tech/V-6 2009 Acura MDX Tech/ Entertainment/Sport Pkg 2009 Acura RDX - Tech 2009 Acura RL Tech/Tech & CMBS - ACC 2009 Acura TL - SH-AWD/Tech 2009 Acura TSX - 5-Speed Automatic/6-Speed Manual, 5-Speed Automatic/Tech 2004-2009 Certified Acura www.acurabrookfield.com www.acurabrookfield.com Serving Milwaukee, Brookfield, Waukesha and the surrounding areas faithfully! This vehicle received the following service and updates during our reconditioning process: OIL & FILTER ...

Tuesday 29 June 2010

What to Know About Ceramic and Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

You don't have much reason to think about your brake pads until either they start to wear down, start to grab and squeak or, even worse, fail on you. Then you likely want to know more about your brake pads and the options available as you decide what to do to have them replaced.

Really, all you want your brakes to do is work and work in all kinds of weather and temperatures and to work quietly. Noisy brakes are only slightly better than no brakes at all. Also, you don't want your brakes to generate lots of dust to mess up your rims or wheels. All brakes will produce dust as they hit your rotor and stop your car. But the issue of dust is especially important if you've waded into the aftermarket to buy custom rims and wheels and so have money invested. Clean rims mean happy owners.

The materials used to make brake pads have changed over the last few decades. Asbestos pads of course were tied to the health problems that made asbestos an issue in the first place. Semi-metallic brake pads are a current option that is a cheap way to go. Semi-metallic pads are made of strands of steel and, while they do the trick for braking, they also can be noisy and do produce more dust. Also, the metal part of the pad will wear on the rotor faster than other options. Still, semi-metallic pads are frequently selected because of the price.

Ceramic pads have only come on the marketplace since the 1990s but they have advantages that many drivers enjoy. The ceramic models are threaded with copper fibers instead of steel. Ceramic brake pads can work with higher temperatures and don't generate as much dirt and grim. The ceramic materials mean less noise and less wear on the rotor for the long haul. It is also generally accepted that ceramic brake pads last longer than other pads. As a result, ceramic pads in general do cost slightly more than the other options.

It's good to have all this in mind when it comes time to replace your brakes. A little knowledge will give you peace of mind as you make this important decision about your car. Brakes are nothing to fool around with and that's an understatement. You have to have brakes that work. But brakes that aren't as noisy or as messy are nice to have as well.

Monday 28 June 2010

'96 Jeep Cherokee - Brake Pad & Rotor Change TIME LAPSE (NOT A HOW TO)

Time lapse video of me and my dad changing the rotor and then brake pads of my '96 Jeep Cherokee. I made this with my new MacBook using a cool freeware app called Gawker. I wanted to see what this process looked like condensed into a few minutes. NOT a howto video, just a time-lapse video.

Sunday 27 June 2010

Francisco's Auto Repair | 714-375-2661 | Huntington Beach | www.FranciscosAutoRepair.com

www.FranciscosAutoRepair.com Francisco's Auto Repair | 714-375-2661 | Huntington Beach | www.FranciscosAutoRepair.com | 7662 Slater Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 http Welcome to Francisco's Auto Repair in Huntington Beach We welcome you to Francisco's Automotive located in Huntington Beach. We have been reliably servicing and repairing automobiles for over 20 years. Most domestic, Asian and European automobiles are worked on a daily basis from minor to major repairs. We accomplish needed auto repairs and service using all necessary tools and equipment. This includes factory scan tools, aftermarket scanners, lab scopes and all related tooling necessary. Along with the tooling up to date training is implemented to keep current on today's automobile systems. 3 Year/36000 Mile Warranty on Auto Repairs We offer a 3 year/36000 mile warranty on our auto repairs for our loyal customers who get all their repair and service work done with us. For new customers, a 2 year, 24000 mile warranty is given. Areas of auto repair services include the following: Francisco's Automotive of Huntington Beach * Automobile Air Conditioning repair and service - Basic service includes recharging, dye/electronic leak checks to component replacement as needed for proper air conditioning operation. * Alignment/Front End/Suspension - Full inspection of the front end of all components is always performed prior to any automobile alignment. 2 and 4 wheel alignments are performed in house using Hunter ...

Friday 25 June 2010

How to Repair Motorcycle Brakes : How to Reassemble a Motorcycle Caliper

Reassemble a motorcycles brake caliper--whether one, two or four pistons--during motorcycle brake maintenance; learn how with the tips from this free video.Expert: Seth Williams Bio: Seth has been working on motorcycles and ATVs since he was 13. He trained at Motorcycle Mechanics Institute of AZ. and currently works at DK Service in Cottonwood, AZ. Filmmaker: Chuck Tyler

Thursday 24 June 2010

Nissan Performance Parts Make a Difference

It is not news to anyone that a lot of people are obsessed with their cars. Whether it is a new car or a classic, every car lover wants theirs to be superior to all the others even compared to one exactly the same. This desire to have the best possible has given rise to the popularity of fixing up and modifying vehicles. Car companies have realized the potential of this market and have started to create their own components just for this. Nissan performance parts can be found for virtually every make and model of its cars.

From the Inside

Improving the look of a car is not that uncommon of an activity for many people. Car washes are brimming full of all types of people everyday applying the latest and greatest wax to their paintjobs to make them even more lustrous and durable. Sprays and wipes are applied to the dashboards to keep them supple longer and to discourage cracking. Seat covers are applied to protect interiors and floor mats placed over the carpet to preserve the cleanliness and life.

Lots of money is spent at carwashes and on products to clean your car. People do it because they know that it will not only make your vehicle look better but it will help it stay in a better condition longer. A vehicle in good condition is always more valuable. Recognizing the importance of these improvements and upkeep is easy.

From the Outside

The acknowledgement in the value of taking care of the appearance of your car has developed into the value of taking care and improving they way your car performs as well. Now instead of just going to the auto shop to buy things to maintain the vehicle it is now popular and common to buy things to improve the mechanics of your vehicle.

Vendors, that were popular among the mechanic crowd, once dominated the market for these components. The companies would make products specific for certain makes and models. These products ranged from brakes, exhausts, lift-kits, and even nitrous oxide kits. Really there isn't any part that you can't find to modify what came stock on your vehicle.. You can make it go faster, stop faster, of climb bigger rocks if you want. Any function of your vehicle that you want to improve you can

As these types of performance modifications became more and more popular the car companies started to take note of the opportunity. Now it is possible to find items to replace the stock parts on your vehicle made by the manufacturer of your vehicle. They array of parts is staggering and they are readily available. Nissan performance parts can be found easily either online or via your mechanic. The modifications can really make a difference for daily use and especially if you enjoy amateur racing. It is easy to make your car the best that it can be these days.

Wednesday 23 June 2010

Preventive Maintenance Tips to Check and Troubleshoot the Repair of Document Scanner Problems

Maintenance and care of equipment is essential to prevent costly repairs and to save unnecessary service calls. In most cases, malfunctions are resolved by operator checks and corrective action. Your wallet will thank you, when the operator has properly checked to determine why devices are not functioning and avoids calling for service to repair or replace a working device.

Before operating the unit, read the manual that was included in the box or download it from the manufacturer website. Otherwise, you may risk damaging the device or voiding the warranty.

PMCS - Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services
Cleaning is the most important step to keep your device working properly. Clean dirty brake rollers, feed rollers, pads, glass, shading plates with a manufacturer cleaning kit or isopropyl alcohol, a lint free cloth, and Q-tips. Also make sure that the paper path is clean and free of debris.

Depending on the condition of documents and environment, the equipment may require a periodic disassembly to fully clean debris, paper clips, staples, dust, etc. that may have worked its way into the insides of the mechanism. The debris can cause a motor to stop running and rollers and belts to jam. Use a shop-vac to vacuum whatever dirt or foreign objects that have worked their way inside the main and side covers. Generally, it is not recommended to blow the scanner out using a compressed can of air. The reason is that the compressed air leaves film on the glass, does not remove the dirt (just blows it around), may break seals and cold air could damage a hot sensor.

CDD (Charge-coupled device) Cameras and CIS (Contact Image Sensor Assembly) Reader
Upon disassembly, the cameras units on devices with CCD cameras should be cleaned. Care should be taken not to damage the cameras as they are usually quite expensive. Canon products are equipped with CIS reader assemblies with a LED light source and the reader assemblies should not be removed or disassembled to avoid damage.

Consumable Replacement
Separator pads and pick rollers should be replaced when worn or according to manufacturer schedule. Shading plates and glass should be inspected and replaced as required. Fluorescent lamps usually require replacement between 500 to 1000 hours of use according to manufacturer guide recommendations. Canon uses a LED light source that usually does not require periodic replacement.

The Scanner System
Systems include not only the scanning devices, but also the computer and operating system as well as the software. There is a tendency to think that problems are mechanical. This is not always the case. In order to resolve the troubles, users may require technical competency. A+ skills and practices should be employed to troubleshoot the system before a service call. The technician is hired to fix the hardware. It is not his job to diagnose computer systems. This is your job or the job your IT department.

Hardware Feed Issues and Poor Scan Quality
Feed issues and poor scan quality are usually corrected through cleaning and replacing worn consumables. Brake and pick rollers should be checked to ensue that they are properly installed. The paper path should also be inspected and any foreign objects removed.

Scanning Software
Common are issues with drivers not found or installed. Re-install the software or make sure that the driver is recognized. Outdated firmware may also cause the equipment to not operate properly. Install the latest firmware. But note installation of incorrect firmware in some cases could permanently damage the main control board. Also, recheck the scan settings to assure that they are set properly.

PC Computer and Operating System
You must assign each SCSI device a separate SCSI ID to avoid an ID conflict. USB and fire wire devices need proper privileges and security rights when connected to a network. The best method to check for problems with the operating system is to swap the computer with another that you know to be working properly.

Troubleshooting and Repair
You can find minor parts that you can fix without too much technical knowledge. For instance check for broken parts and the tension of springs and flat springs. A parts manual can help you identify a problem. Some companies provide diagnostic software. The Canon quma tool provides diagnostic checks of motors, sensors, solenoids and other essential parts.

If you do not have the technical ability, you can buy a service agreement for your scanner. The warranty covers the maintenance and repairs rather than risking a breakdown and costly time and material repairs. Another option is depot repair where you send the equipment to the repair facility which is less costly than on-site services. Some manufacturers only provide a 90 day warranty and the purchase of an extended warranty is recommended.

Monday 21 June 2010

Does Your Car Start But Then Stop Immediately?

Figuring out why an engine starts and stops immediately is either going to be a very easy problem to find or it will send you in circles trying to find it. I typically do not see many situations that fall between. With today's electronics it can be a very difficult problem to find without using a computer scan tool. But, I am not saying that you shouldn't try to find out what is wrong.

As I have mentioned it previous articles "you should go back to the basics." You have one of two problems, spark or fuel. It's really easy to figure out which one you are having the issue with. First spray some starter fluid or some brake cleaner into the intake and have someone start the engine. Watch here for details. If the engine fires and can run with the spray and stops when you quit spraying then you have a fuel issue. If you remove a spark plug and test the spark and there is none then you have a spark issue. Watch here for details on testing spark.

Most of the time when a car has a problem with starting, running, and immediately cutting off, then the issue is not normally spark. If you are having a fuel issue then consider changing your fuel filter. But first, look at how many miles you have and how long since you filter has been changed. Fuel is filtered much better than it used to be, so mileage recommendations may very from mechanic to mechanic, but your fuel filter should be changed every at least every 60,000 miles. I am not saying run out and put a fuel filter in your car and it will be fixed though.

You need to test and back probe the fuel issue, such as testing for fuel pressure. There are very simple tests that can be done by someone who has almost no mechanical knowledge to rectify the fuel issue. When I say "simple" I mean simple. You can diagnose things easier than you know. All you need is good information and a willingness to fix your own car. You'll be surprised at how much better you feel about driving your car when you are not scared of it breaking down.

Sunday 20 June 2010

Synthetic Oil Changes Vs Conventional Oil

Most individuals don't change their oil until far past the recommended date, a lot of us can't manage to find the time in the day to get an oil change. At that point when we finally take the time to get an oil change we head to the local shop and get the cheapest oil change available. Now it's time to consider that more expensive offer that they've been telling you about, synthetic oil change. By utilizing synthetic oil you are helping the quality of your motor, which helps you not focus on expensive repairs in the near future. Choosing a synthetic oil blend is the smartest thing you could do, it's a great way to assure that your engine will stay up and running.

Not all cars allow for synthetic oil use, most do, if your car qualifies for then you should change to synthetic on your next oil change. Most brand new car manufacturers have moved over to requiring synthetic, and most newer makes and models specifically require using synthetic oil as it has been precision engineered and consists of uniformed molecules.

Before we get into that, let's understand what oil does for your engine. Conventional motor oil works because it helps reduce buildup within the motor itself which overall will reduce friction that can lead to wear and tear on internal parts. Natural conventional motor oil is created from a distillation process of crude motor oil. Synthetic oil on the other hand rearranges the molecules to a new product that conforms to perfect specifications in shape and size while adding additional additives that help fight off sludge and other motor build up. This is why synthetic can last a much longer time without needing to be changed. Most engine friction occurs when the motor is just warming up or while under high load. Synthetic oil assures you that your engine will be working and staying in good shape regardless of your driving habits, whether its cool driving or fast back road driving. With synthetic oil you get the added benefit of having to change oil less and less then in comparison to conventional oil, due to the chemical structure of synthetic. It also protects your engines for a longer time frame, which will help you save money in not only oil changes but in motor changes as well.

The main advantage to using a synthetic blend lubricant is that the actual flow of oil through you engines motor is far more efficient. In most driving conditions, synthetic motor oils are by far the best solutions. Synthetic motor oils primarily excel in just about any driving condition but most importantly they excel in conditions that allow for fast driving. The oil will naturally circulate more efficiently with a synthetic blend as well as more efficiently then your typical non-synthetic blend. To reiterate another time, the actual interval between each and every oil change is greatly reduced.Because synthetic motor oil is specifically manufactured,the issues that usually occur from normal motor use occurs far less often. A usual oil change is required every 3,000 - 5,000 miles where as a a synthetic oil change only requires one every ten thousand miles.

What are the main problems with synthetic changes? Price. Synthetic oils are generally twice as expensive as conventional oils where as they also last twice as long if not longer. Although the pricing is easily justified as you get twice as long without needing to change your oil. Think about going synthetic the next time you get an oil change. You'll want to talk to your oil lube expert and talk about whether or not synthetic is the best option for you. I'm sure you will enjoy their answers.

Saturday 19 June 2010

Disc Brakes Rubbing!

So, when I bought my first bike with disc brakes they started rubbing after the first ride. It was driving me insane so I took it to a bike shop and asked them if it was a problem. They said "ah no, no problem. It will go away after a while." So this didn't make me too happy so I looked into it and found out how to fix the problem.

Disc brakes can be sensitive and the caliper can move around when you hit some bumps on the trail. Fortunately its not hard to fix. Most calipers are attached to the fork with two bolts, and the bolt holes on the caliper are bigger than the diameter of the bolt. Allowing you to loosen the bolts and move the caliper a little ways side to side. If your caliper does not have an adjustment bolt on the side of it, this is the way you have to adjust them.

Fortunately, most disc brakes have bolts on the caliper that allow you to move the brake pads in or out. The caliper will be marked close to the bolt telling you which way to rotate it to move the brake pad in either direction. You can also use this adjustment to make the brake feel tighter or looser, but be careful, once your brake pad wears down far enough, if you adjust the pad too far inwards you could rub your rotor on the steel of the caliper. That is just about the only problem you can run into with that.

Thursday 17 June 2010

How to replace Brake Pads and Calipers

Describes how to change the brake pads and calipers on Tie Down Engineering's brakes.

Wednesday 16 June 2010

Top 5 Most Costly Fixes on Your Car

There is a reason for the saying owning your own automobile is an investment. As much as cars offer convenience, it also puts stress upon its drivers with costly auto repair bills. If constant maintenance and repairs are not given to your vehicle, the possibility of your car needing any one of these five costly repairs is a definite possibility.

Transmission Repair

A transmission is the single most important mechanical device in your car. It is what makes a car run. It is also the most expensive part to fix in your car's engine. Most transmissions on late car models last until the vehicle dies, a little over 80,000 miles. Typically, replacing a transmission can cost anyone from $1800 to $3500, varying from the maker, model and labor costs.

Suspension

The suspensions are what keep the car on the ground, consisting of springs, shock absorbers, struts, and linkages with ball joints connecting to the wheels. It is what keeps the vehicle's ride smooth for the car's occupants. The average cost for replacing suspension system is about $1000 to $2000.

Radiator

A car's radiator is what keeps the engine from overheating, a key part of a car's cooling system. If there is a leak in the radiator's core, you will need to replace it. Depending on the type of the coolant used, the age of the car, model of the vehicle, the costs can run up from $390 to $516 for passenger cars, $483 to $854 for SUV's.

Muffler/Exhaust Repair

Vehicles making loud noise are probably having exhaust problem, probably with it's muffler. Mufflers that are damage can lead to increased air pollution, signaling the search engine light to check the engine's exhaust system. Mufflers have many price tags. For passenger cars, after-market parts are $110 to $218, $255 to $380 for original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Prices can vary with different car makes and model.

Brakes Repair

Brakes are what keep a driver safe in their vehicle. Without the brakes, there is no possible way for a driver to stop their vehicle. Brakes making any abnormal noises, slowly dropping to the floor after it is engaged, pulls to one side, brakes need to be replaced. Typically the cost runs from $90 to $250 per axle.

Tuesday 15 June 2010

Aircraft Brake Maintenance and Repair

The first objective is to maintain the clearance between the moving and stationary parts of a brake in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Disassemble and inspect the brake periodically and examine the parts for wear, cracks, warpage, corrosion, elongated holes, etc. If any of these or other faults are indicated, repair, recondition, or replace the affected parts in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Surface cracks on the friction surfaces of the brake drums occur frequently due to high surface temperatures. These surface cracks may be disregarded as seriously affecting the airworthiness until they become cracks of approximately 1 inch in length.

Hydraulic aircraft brakes

For proper hydraulic aircraft brake maintenance, periodically inspect the entire hydraulic system from the reservoir to the brakes. Maintain the fluid at the recommended level with proper brake fluid. When air is present in the brake system, bleed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Replace flexible hydraulic hose which has deteriorated due to long periods of service and replace hydraulic piston seals when there is evidence of leakage. Service anti-skid units according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Mechanical aircraft brake maintenance.

Keep the working parts of mechanically operated brakes free from dirt and foreign matter so the brakes can work freely at all times. Slack in the linkage system must be kept to a minimum.

Hazards of aircraft brake maintenance and repair

Asbestos containing materials are a component of the brake systems in some light aircraft. It has been suggested there might be a danger of asbestos resulting from the installation and maintenance of these components, particularly if the brake changing process takes place in a closed, unventilated aircraft hanger. However, tests have shown that operations performed according to the manufacturer's recommended procedure, normal brake changing work practices on aircraft with asbestos containing brake pads, do not produce a harmful level of asbestos exposure for aircraft mechanics.

Sunday 13 June 2010

Brake Bleeders and Engine Repair Tools

All those who use a vehicle are well aware how important it is to change the oil and fluids in the car at regular intervals. It is not so difficult to change the oil and lubrication of the entire vehicle but the problematic areas are the brakes usually. You have to take lot of precautions and then carefully perform everything. It is not only the question of disassembling or reassembling them but you have to regulate the brake fluid as well as keep air out of the brake lines. There is this vacuum necessary when you perform the work because if the air seeps out into the system, the brake might become sluggish and there is probability that it might fail also.

The brake bleeders simplify this process of changing the brake fluid and save you from getting into any other problem. These brake bleeders are not only easy to use but also are pretty inexpensive and you will get these without any difficulty. Even if you do not know much about mechanics, you can manage with the help of this kit. There is no need of any experience or mechanical expertise to use Brake Bleeders. Although the price is very reasonable, it is worth paying for it than taking the risk of doing the work on your own. It is always better to take precautions when it comes to the brakes of any vehicle.

If you are a new mechanic with little or no experience, you will require a lot of Engine Repair Tools. You would prefer and try to save some money on buying these tools and at the same time you would prefer to buy good quality and durable tools as well. If you are looking for both these things, try and follow precautionary guidelines and look for lifetime warranty before you buy.

Saturday 12 June 2010

ZZR600 NISSIN brake caliper upgrade

This is a short guide on how to replace the calipers on a zzr 600, from the original TOKICO items to some NISSIN's from the honda Fireblade. Mine is an E7 and I'm sure it works on all E models. For more info check out www.zzr-international.co.uk

Friday 11 June 2010

Basic Car Care & Maintenance : How to Test Car Lights

Test your car head lights and tail lights for functionality and to prevent problems; ; learn how from our expert mechanic in this free car-maintenance video. Expert: Jeff Wong Bio: Jeff Wong has a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering. He has owned & operated an aftermarket automotive parts business for five years. He has been working on automobiles for 17 years. Filmmaker: Joshua Kidwell

Thursday 10 June 2010

Catalytic Converter Hazards!

Government auto emissions control legislation mandates that virtually all cars built or sold in the U.S. come equipped with a catalytic converter. A smart device, catalytic converters help to convert dangerous and polluting exhaust gases into less harmful carbon dioxide and water. As helpful of a device that it is, there are some hazards that come with the use of a catalytic converter. Read on to learn what you need to know about your vehicle's catalytic converter.

Many consider a catalytic converter to be a godsend. With pollution levels ever climbing, the U.S. government acted to reduce harmful pollutants in a step to clean up the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency was formed by the Nixon Administration and the agency was instrumental in passing the Clean Air Act to help America control pollution. Since 1975 virtually every passenger vehicle has come equipped with a catalytic converter.

As helpful as catalytic converters can be, they can be problematic. Besides failure, which generally goes unnoticed until your vehicle flunks its next inspection, it is the intense heat of the unit that can cause problems.

If you work on your own vehicle, you need to let your car cool down completely before working near the exhaust system. Catalytic converters get very hot, as hot as 1800 degrees, and any burn sustained from touching a hot converter can be very dangerous, even deadly.

Motorists have also learned that a catalytic converter can be a fire hazard. For the past three decades police and fire department reports have indicated that many car fires have been started because a motorist parked their car over dry leaves. Even when the engine is off the hot converter can drop a spark which can ignite leaves underneath. If that happens, your car can be engulfed in mere minutes and destroyed by the conflagration.

There are also hazards that occur to the catalytic converter itself. Because the unit burns at such hot temperatures, catalytic converters can suffer rapid thermal deactivation. Some experts suggest switching to synthetic engine oil to help reduce phosphorous contaminants a known contributor to failure.

No, you cannot legally remove your catalytic converter as you may become subject to stiff fines and penalties. Yes, if your car was built before 1975, none of these concerns matter to ou so enjoy your classic and let her rip without pollution controls holding you back!

Wednesday 9 June 2010

Replace Alfa 156 1 6 Front brake pads

Replace Alfa 156 1 6 16valve Front brake pads

Tuesday 8 June 2010

Why You Should Consider Using Different Rims on Mountain Bikes

If you are new to mountain biking then you may not realize that the type of rims that you have on your bike can actually alter your riding experience. They can either help you or harm you and so it is important to know the difference between the different rims available. If you are using the bike for cross-country, jumping and free-riding then heavy rims will likely be needed. However, if you are just planning on doing trail riding then you should stick to a rim which is lighter as this will allow better and smoother movement of the bike.

The Difference between Rims

You should find that the rims on your mountain bike are the same at the front and the back of the bike. This is mainly to help with stability as if you have a heavy rim at the back and a lighter one at the front it could really cause problems with balance. This is especially problematic if you are using the bike to perform tricks and to take part in jumps. So you will need to ensure that the rims that you use are suitable for the type of activity you will be taking part in.

If you are planning on using the mountain bike for jumping and performing tricks, you may want to ensure that you have different types of tires. These can be readily mounted onto adequate rims, ready to be used whenever you need them. Having different rims and tires for different mountain bike activities is definitely advised and it will reduce the risk of any accidents from occurring.

If you frequently jump with your bike and take part in downhill riding, your bike will go through a lot of pressure. If you want to remain safe then it is vital that you ensure that the rims are up to the pressure they are put through. If the rim is not string enough then it will bend and the bike will become impossible to ride. Also, a broken rim can cause further problems for the bike with the brake pads and the chain all likely to become damaged.

Another important factor to take into consideration is the spokes on the rims. You need to ensure that they have the proper tension and you can tell this by simply listening to them. Gently hit them with a wrench and listen to see whether there is a dull thud. If there is then you will need to tighten up the spokes. If you take care of the spokes then they will take care of the rims.

Overall it is important to take into account the activities you will be taking part in on your bike. If you are planning on jumping and taking part in more extreme mountain bike riding then you will need to purchase heavy duty rims if you want to reduce the risk of injuring yourself and damaging your bike.

Sunday 6 June 2010

KYB Shocks, Tokico Shocks

KYB shocks are available in the GR-2, Excel-G, Gas-a-Just, MonoMax, AGX, Strut-Plus and Self-Leveling or electronic shocks. Choosing your KYB shocks can be hard unless you know what you are looking for. KYB suggests that if you want to keep the original handling and control of your vehicle you should buy the KYB shocks known as the GR-2. If you want to increase your vehicle's handling or control, KYB shocks recommends using the Gas-a-Just shocks. The KYB shocks known as the GR-2 come in shocks and struts and are known to help restore factory designed performance. They are made to compensate for worn or old suspension, and can be used on most imports and domestics including SUVs and minivans. The KYB shocks model Gas-a-Just are made to increase the original performance and also offer stability. These are also a replacement for the monotube shock and are an upgrade from the twin tube, as well as being able to adjust to driving conditions. The MonoMax KYB shocks are known to give the most control for large trucks or any type of SUV. These also are great to use for those that tow or haul often and are great for bad road conditions such as potholes and such. The AGX KYB shocks are used for a fast damping rate change so you are able to fine tune your performance. These are also good for sport cars, certain domestics and imports as well as offering an adjustment knob for adjustments on the applications.

Tokico shocks are available in 5 lines: the HP series, Illumina series, D-spec series, RAK series and Trekmaster series. The Tokico shocks in the HP series are known as the blue shocks, and are the most popular choice for aftermarket shocks. Tokico shocks in the HP series are used for damping and offer flexibility as well as helping with tire adhesion and overall handling. The D-spec series of Tokico shocks are a multi-use shock that uses a piston and valve design. These are damping specific shocks that offer adjustments changing the rebound as well as the compression. When set between a soft and hard setting, these Tokico shocks are adjustable and offer the most in flexibility of rides. The Illumina Tokico shocks give 5 different positions, and were made for tuning street suspensions. With these Tokico shocks, you are able to change the set up for all types of driving environments you will encounter. The RAK series helps with proper lowering of your vehicle, and are all lowering suspension kits. It is recommended that you not exceed dropping more than 2 inches due to the fact that many problems can arise from this such as poor braking, tire wear, harsh ride and stress cracks in the vehicle chassis or body frame. The Trekmaster series are known for stability and ride for on or off road driving with great traction. You get less body roll, better steering and cornering as well as improved braking and ride overall. With so many to choose from, it is a wonder anyone can choose only one.

Saturday 5 June 2010

How to Replace Front Brake Pads : Lowering Car When Replacing Pads

Learn how to lower the car after changing the front brake pads with expert automotive tips in this free online car maintenance and repair video clip. Expert: Mark Blocker Bio: Mark Blocker is a semi-retired ASE-certified master mechanic with more than 20 years of automotive experience. Filmmaker: Daron Stetner

Friday 4 June 2010

What You Know You'll Like and Want About Ceramics

Almost everyone knows about ceramics, whether it's a ceramic tea strainer, a floor tile, kitchen wares, or even ceramic dog bowls, this material is present in almost every home. However, they are not restricted to tools inside the house alone, ceramics can also be found outdoors such as a ceramic garden stool, ceramic pixies and fairies, and ceramic house numbers that tells your address in a very beautiful and elegant manner. But have you ever wondered why ceramics are so popular? Why they seem to be no different than regular kinds of glass, but a lot of people prefer them as compared to plastics and even metals? This is because ceramics are very tough materials, although they may appear fragile like glass, they are very difficult to break. You would know this if you have tried activities like drilling creaming tile or removing ceramic tile. They can also withstand a wide range of temperatures, especially hot ones that can range up to 1,600 degrees centigrade. Normal glass and plastic cannot do this for you. That is why it safe to say that most ceramic items, if not all are microwaveable and dishwasher friendly.

The great thing about ceramics however, is that even though they have been around for a very long time, even centuries, recent uses for this material are emerging. As you may know ceramics were originally crafted for potteries. But with the discovery of piezoelectric effect, which states that crystal like materials such as ceramics can actually produce voltages of electricity when a mechanical pressure is applied to them, this material is now being used for sound producing items like microphones and speakers. A Piezo ceramic element is responsible for creating resonance on these items. Ceramics can now also be found in your car and your son's skateboard. Ceramic brake pads are quickly replacing traditional pads made of asbestos or metal, and are more efficient when it comes to noise reduction and increasing the lifespan of your tires. Wheels on skateboards, roller blades, and other items are now installed with ceramic ball bearings. These bearings are tougher than their steel counterparts and operate with a lot less friction helping the wheels reach greater speeds.

Thursday 3 June 2010

How to Install an Oil Pressure Gauge

Basically, an oil gauge is used to indicate oil pressure levels. It is commonly installed on the dashboard of a vehicle in order to help the driver to properly monitor the oil pressure levels. When the warning light on the gauge lights up, it is an indication that the oil pressure level in the engine is very low; hence it must be replenished immediately to avoid engine damage. That being said, the installation of an oil pressure gauge is highly important.

In normal conditions the needle on your oil pressure gauge will remain in the same position and you will become used to it being there. You need to be aware when the needle begins to move downwards as this will normally happen long before the warning light comes on and gives you more time to prevent damage to your engine. If your car is more than a few years old, the gauge is indicating that your oil needs changing or that the usual wear and tear of age is beginning to happen. There may be a great deal of life left in your vehicle, but you will need to carefully watch your oil level from today. If the needle dips wildly downwards and then back up to a normal level, there may already be damage or a drastically low oil level. It can prove to be very expensive to ignore the warning signs.

Installing an oil gauge so that you can keep an eye on your oil pressure is not the simplest task and is probably best carried out by a professional, but if you want to do it yourself here is some information that may help.

Whether you will be installing an electric or mechanical oil pressure gauge, it would be ideal that you know how to properly integrate it into your vehicle system. To help you accomplish that, here is a detailed installation guide that you can follow:

Step one: It is critical that you know where to properly place the gauge. You should know that the port where the gauge must be placed is normally situated six inches behind the vehicle's oil filter. In order to easily find the port, you may have to remove the side front wheel on the passenger's side. Once it has been removed, you will see a silver-colored filter (located behind the factory oil pressure switch) that has two wires attached to the electrical connector.

Step two: After locating the port, you have to first drain the oil before removing the electric connector present on the pressure switch.

Step three: Once done, you may now disconnect the switch. The rest of the procedure will depend on the type of gauge that you need to install. Normally, pressure gauges include an installation manual, which you have to carefully read and understand, in order to ensure proper installation.

Step four: When the oil gauge has already been installed, make a test run to know if it is already functional. If you are unsure that you did the right thing, it is best that you find a professional mechanic to do the installation for you.

Wednesday 2 June 2010

Legend learns how to put brake pads on the truck

My 13yr old son learning how to change the brake pads on the truck.

Tuesday 1 June 2010

What is Paintless Dent Repair?

Many times, you are simply in disbelief that your vehicle is sporting another dent or ding. It just doesn't take much to mar the beautiful car's surface. Anything from an errant rock to an out-of-control shopping buggy can all pose a significant hazard to your car's exterior. One of the best ways to repair these types of dents is with Paintless Dent Repair. However, there are certain requirements for the types of damage this process will be most effective on.

What Types of Damage Can Be Fixed with PDR?

The most common types of damage that are easily repaired with PDR are those that are in a door panel or fender. The dents do not have creasing or painted removed. They also cannot entail the trim area and need to be a certain distance away from the edge of the part.

What Is the PDR Process?

This process sounds rather simple; however, it takes a great deal of training and experience to get it right. The first step in the process is to gain access to the area behind the damage. This involves removing the inside door panel or perhaps removing a tire for access to a wheel well. Then, with the use of several specialized tools, the metal is massaged from behind. Once complete, there is no sign of the repair. It's also much less expensive than a traditional repair in a typical body shop. The entire time to do the repair only takes about one to two hours. If you've ever had your vehicle in a body shop, you know that it can days for your car to get fixed. This not only is inconvenient, you could not have access to your vehicle for days.

Let the Company Come to You

Almost all of the companies that offer this type of service offer mobile service as well. They will come to your location, such as your work or home and take care of the car. It's a very convenient way to get your car looking fantastic again. This is also a great idea for a leased or rented vehicle, too.

In Closing

The key to this process is choosing someone who has the training and experience to effect the repair properly. If not, you could end up with more damage than before and it could be very expensive to fix! For the best results, only use a PDR company that is well established, insured, and bonded.