Rabu, 14 Maret 2012

Choose Petrol RC Car Among Others to Get the First Place in the Race

People have been constantly participating in many racing activities. They have even considered racing to be an exciting activity. The use of cars is one of the most popular types of racing. This is then followed by horse racing and motorcycle racing. In every race, the main goal is to be the first to arrive at the finish line. There is no such race that recognizes the last one to arrive as the winner. This is very obvious.
When you are involved in the world of car racing, RC cars are the best types of vehicle to be used. They are known to be fast and furious on the roads. These cars have also been designed for such sport or activity. This is because they are not that bulky unlike the others. It is perfect to be used in the racing field because of its lighter weight.
If you are currently engaging in this kind of activity, you really have to acquire the best RC car possible. No matter is you are still a beginner or a pro, you need to have an excellent car that will guarantee your success in every race. To make this possible, you need to look for a Petrol RC car. You may be asking why but many professional drivers have already been using this type of car in their races and fortunately, they won every game. Indeed, Petrol RC car is different from the rest.
We all know that every vehicle or automobile is run by an engine. The vehicle may have a good or modern appearance but if the engine is not working well or not that efficient, then still it is useless. You will only be dubbed as a racer with a nice yet loser car. You don't want that to happen to you. That is the exact reason why you have to opt for a Petrol RC car. You do not have to settle on being the last or at the middle of the winning list because you deserve to be on top of it.
What are the features of a Petrol RC car? Why should you choose it over the others? Well the answer to those questions is very simple. As what has been mentioned above, a car can win when it has an efficient and excellent working engine. And a Petrol RC car has more than this feature. The type of engine that a winning car should have is within every Petrol RC car. Isn't it amazing?
Every car racer or even an ordinary person who wants this sport or activity as a hobby must be able to feel satisfaction as they step out from the car that he has used in the race. Frustration can definitely influence a person's drive to aim higher. And if you do not want this to happen, you must see to it that the car you are using is worth racing.
Petrol RC cars are one of the most opted racing cars used by professionals today. A guaranteed success is given to you the moment you use it. The price may differ a little but the satisfaction you are going to get is different. It is something money can't buy. Get the first place now and be a fast and furious racer!

Senin, 12 Maret 2012

Ferrari Classic Cars Past and Present Making the News

The supreme luxury sports car marque Ferrari is never far from making news headlines, whether it is the Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 racing team or, say, their ever popular sports cars like the Ferrari 458, winning even more automotive accolades than you can shake a stick at. One thing is for sure - the Ferrari cars, and the brand as a whole, has always been evocative.
Even from their humble beginnings at the start of the 20th century by their founder and automotive engineer Enzo Ferrari, the company owes much to its racing roots and heritage. The Maranello based super car manufacturer has long been synonymous with the motor racing world, especially as Ferrari is the oldest Grand Prix team in the world.
Ferrari F620
This month was the time when Ferrari chose to announce their new successor for the hugely popular Ferrari 599, the all-new F620. The Ferrari F620 has got a hard act to follow, as the 599 has been a great success for the Maranello based company. This new car is expected to feature the same V12 engine which has also been used in the company's newly released Ferrari FF all-wheel-drive model.
The engine that will feature in the F620, however, is rumoured to have a higher power output engine that will deliver an amazing 700bhp, which is nearly 50 more bhp than the FF model.
Ferrari 250 GTO
Also in the recent news was the auction sale of a rare 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO, which ended up selling for an epic £20.2million (or $32 million) by the auctioneer's company Talacrest, who specialise in luxury cars.
The 250 GTO is a legend and is widely regarded as one of the World's most sought after Ferrari's. Only 39 250 GTOs were ever produced from 1962 - 1964 and this particular 250 GTO was believed to be sold by its private English owner and alleged to have been bought by an unknown buyer from Spain.
250 GTOs are powered by a 3.0-litre V12 engine, which produces 300hp, allowing this special car to be able to achieve 0-60mph acceleration in a mere 6.1 seconds and 174mph as its staggering top speed. This is very impressive, even by today's standards, and especially so for a sports car produced in the early 60s.
The 2013 Ferrari California
This week, the company with the logo of the 'Prancing Horse' has just announced the replacement for the current Ferrari California model will be unveiled at the 2013 International Geneva Motor Show in the Swiss city of Geneva. The Italian sports car company have announced that the all-new luxury Grand Tourer will be more powerful, lighter and feature a new "handling speciale" package.

Sabtu, 10 Maret 2012

Converting Your Classic Mustang to Disc Brakes

As much as we all love our classic Mustangs I have to admit that I've become spoiled by modern power disc brakes. The old manual drum brakes of 40 years ago just don't seem to cut it anymore. So, what choices do you have. There are certainly plenty of choices out there, everything from the big brake kits with huge rotors and multiple piston calipers to very straight forward "I just want my car to stop really well" brake conversions. But be sure of one thing! Not all kits are created equal!
Here are four hard and fast rules that you need to keep in mind when you are shopping for a brake conversion:
1. If you have to change your spindles, look elsewhere.
2. If you have to change your tie rod ends, keep looking.
3. If you have to change or modify your brake pedal, that's not the right kit for you.
4. Can you buy replacement wear parts from local sources? If not you should move on.
There are kits out there that are made to fit your car, if you are doing any of the above you are adapting a generic kit to your car.
You can tell a well designed kit by how it installs. I good kit will bolt right on to your current spindles without replacing or modifying them. Using all new bearings and seals installations like this are a snap. The master booster combination is key! Why would you want to go through the expense and frustration of modifying your brake pedal? Quality kits are available for use with manual or automatic transmission cars. Those kits bolt directly on to your firewall and your brake pedal.
Cross drilled and slotted rotors, the truth is I have them on my car. Do I really need them? Nope. I just think they look cool. I don't do any high performance driving and I'm pretty good about not riding my brake pedal. So, if you're not over heating your brakes they really may not be needed. But, like me you may just like the way the look. In that case what the heck. In most cases the same goes for multiple piston calipers. If think about it how many modern cars have multiple piston calipers? A very small percentage. Admittedly on my 98 Mustang I do have the Cobra multiple piston calipers, again mostly for looks but on my 66 I opted for the single piston "I just want to stop really well" version.
Next I guess we should talk about powder coating the calipers. For me this is much less optional. I want my calipers to look good and be protected. I've tried painting them but I really haven't had much luck at that. After a short time they are chipped up, paint peeling, etc.. I don't want to take the time to do that job over and over again. Now that powder coating is available for most calipers and it is relatively inexpensive it is a good choice for me personally.

Kamis, 08 Maret 2012

Tips Before Buying Classic Cars

Classic cars have their own charm. Their charisma and beauty can turn several heads on the road. If you have set your eyes on any such beauty then it is time that you know some helpful tips before you finalize your decision. Most of the prospective buyers have a potential classic car in their head, however if you have not decided on the model of the car then it is best to read reviews about different classic cars and make a fair comparison.
It is important to know the exact year of manufacture before comparing car reviews. Even a small time difference can change the value of any classic car. You can visit different car clubs or online car forums to get the best advice. One must also decide on whether they would want to buy a restored car or they would prefer to buy a project car and restore it themselves. Project cars may be cheap however they would incur heavy expense in the restoration process whereas restored cars are easy picks. Once one has finalized the model of the classic car, it is time to shop around for price. It is best to check the average market price by searching the internet. One must also shop around for insurance options available for classic cars.
Not all insurance companies provide auto insurance on classic cars hence it is important that you research and understand classic car insurance policies online. Next thing is to speak to the car owner and understand the reason for selling the vintage car. One must understand that it is hard to find spare parts for old models and most of the parts available online are going to cost a fortune. Thorough inspection by a local mechanic is recommended to avoid major expenses in future. One must check for dents or scratches or any surface abrasions. It is also important that you check the interiors of the car thoroughly. Inspect the odometer and look out for any loose wires. One must also inspect the car upholstery for stains or damages.
Next important thing to check is the history of the car. It is best to know how many owners the car has had before, was the car involved in any kind of crash or accident, has the car been involved in flood or any other natural calamity etc. Do not forget to check the vehicle registration and other documents. Once you are completely satisfied with the vehicle you can move towards the negotiation stage.

Selasa, 06 Maret 2012

Slotted Brake Rotors - Their Advantages And Disadvantages

By installing performance rotors and brakes on your vehicle, braking performance will increase significantly. Of the most common designs available, slotted brake are perform quite well. You will find that most racing vehicles use slotted rotors brake as they offers great combination of reliability and performance.
Slotted brake rotors have carved slots within their rotor surface to move away brake pad debris and dust that is generated from the brake pads. These slots also serve to expel water away from the rotor surface.
As opposed to using a combination slotted and drilled rotor, exclusively slotted rotors are preferred by drivers that aggressively use their brakes over a long period of time. A brake system equipped with a slotted rotor is beneficial, as they are more durable than stock, and have a greater capacity to retain heat.
Slotted rotors give the driver the added benefit of having some additional brake pad bite, or grip, as well. When the leading edge of the brake pad hits these slots, they will add some additional friction to the mix, albeit it is minimal.
When using a slotted type of brake rotor with an aggressive brake pad, the results can be quite impressive. The amount of friction created between pad and rotor will be greater than any other combination, but will cause the pads to wear thin quickly. The amount of brake pad dust will also be increased; so if tire cleanliness is a concern, this should be taken into consideration, as tires show dust very obviously.
A slotted rotor can be a great upgrade over stock for any type of performance driving, as they often have a greater diameter, thereby further increasing the stopping power of the vehicle.
A larger diameter brake rotor will increase braking torque for every increase in size overall. A stock rotor typically runs about 11 inches in diameter on a passenger vehicle, but a performance brake rotor with slots can run up to 14 inches in size. If you are looking to maximize braking performance, it is recommended that you install the largest slotted rotor your wheel clearance will tolerate.
You can determine what your brake rotor clearance distance is by looking online at others that already have completed this upgrade. If you are having problems identifying a brake rotor upgrade for your particular vehicle type, then shop around to find the largest matching slotted brake rotors available, and expect the distributor has done their homework

Sabtu, 25 Februari 2012

Top Classic Car Museums

If you are an auto enthusiast, then you probably have a passion for everything cars. You probably love classic cars, new cars, and all the features that have come in between. There are plenty of places all across the world that share your passion. This article will take a look at the top automobile museums. Now you can make a trio and marvel at all the wonders available for viewers to see.
Sarasota Classic Car Museum. This museum is recognized as the second oldest continuously operating Antique car museums in the United States. They offer you a chance to walk among antique, exotic, European, and even one of a kind classic cars. If you are lucky you can go and view various celebrity cars such as John Lennon's 1965 Mercedes Benz.
Volvo Auto Museum. Nestled in Volvo, Illinois is the Volvo Auto Museum. This place is a must see attraction. They have a special kid's zone, movie car collection, military autos, vintage cars, and many more. If you are interested in purchasing or selling a classic care then these are the people that you want to talk to.
The Auto Collections. This attraction is the world's largest classic car museum. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, this showroom is open every day so that visitors can bask in the glory. The showroom features over 300 car models. You can gaze at cars that date all the way back to the 20s and include most classics till now.
The Gilmore Car Museum. This museum is located in America's auto industry heartland. If you are traveling to Michigan then you will want to check out this museum. Started from a passion for cars, this museum grew into a bigger idea and now operates on a farm with over 8 barns to showcase the classic beauties.
Canton Classic Car Museum. Travel back in time and see more than 45 rare, unusual, classic, and special interest cars. Not only does this museum offer visitors a look at these cars but they also offer historical memorabilia so that you can see what was going on through the time periods when the cars were created.
Antique Auto Museum. Located in Hersey, Pennsylvania is the AACA museum. Visitors may be surprised that this is more than just a museum. It displays present original and restored vintage vehicles that show how the car developed throughout history. In the activity room, children can have a chance to get behind the wheel and drift back into time. This museum also holds larger events on location throughout the year so be sure to check with them for specific dates.
Whether you have a classic car or just have a love for their beauty, these are just a few places that one can check out. IF you currently own one or are thinking about purchasing one, check with your insurance provider and get cheap auto insurance quotes so that you can always have these classic beauties covered. Due to their stature and prestige, these cars will need more protection so that they can stay in the condition that they are intended for.

Selasa, 21 Februari 2012

Why Buying a Used Nissan Is a Buy You Can Bet on

Call it used, second hand or pre-owned, one thing's for sure, if it's an older model Nissan you most certainly can call it pre-loved. In fact, it's likely that the owner of that very vehicle has simply upgraded to a newer Nissan model. Yes, brand loyalty is a given once you've owned a Nissan, ask any owner. But it's not just because Nissan offers such a vast range of top quality products, it's also its reputation for building vehicles that last. And if you're thinking of buying a used Nissan, this should seal the deal.
Understandably, the Nissan brand has earned a solid following since it first entered the country nearly five decades ago under the then Datsun badge. During this time South Africans saw the release of iconic cars such as the 1200 and later 1400 Datsun/Nissan bakkie, the Nissan Sunny and the Nissan 350Z to name a few. Today various Nissan products are manufactured and assembled at the Japanese automaker's plant in Rosslyn, North of Pretoria.
Nissan offers an extensive range of products vast enough to cover every demographic and since the brand has been around for so long, pre-owned products are readily available. Passenger cars range from the mini Micra, Tiida, Livina and Qashqai to the speed hungry 370Z and GTR, while the X-Trail, Pathfinder, Navara, Murano and Patrol allow you to conquer the road less traveled. Commercial vehicles like the NP200 and NP300 pick-ups and other commuters in turn let you take care of business. So whatever your needs or preferences, you're sure to find a used Nissan to match your requirements at any of the many countrywide dealerships such as Group1 Nissan.
Some might argue that buying new is the only safe way to go, whereas others believe that buying pre-owned gives you more bang for your buck. There are obviously arguments to support both. One myth we can bust, however, is that buying second hand means buying blind. Nissan's Valid Value programme, for example, was designed to ensure that used Nissan vehicles complied with stringent quality measures. To qualify as a Valid Value Nissan, the vehicle would have to be less than 3 years old, have less than 100 000km on the odometer and have a full service history. Furthermore these vehicles then undergo a 101-point quality check as well as a background check to ensure its legitimacy.

Kamis, 16 Februari 2012

The Elantra Tops Everybody's List

Whatever your age, whatever your budget, when shopping for a new car we all strive to find the best possible value for our money. And we'd like it to be wrapped up in an attractive package that's guaranteed to make us the envy of our friends. In the compact sedan market segment there is one particular new kid on the block that has everybody talking, test-driving and signing on the dotted line. The new Hyundai Elantra is all of the above and then some. Even the critics agree, which is why it's been named North American Car of the Year and is a finalist and favourite for the South African title to be announced soon.
Nothing beats a great first impression and the Elantra has this down to a t. Whether viewed from the front, side or back, Hyundai's new generation 'fluidic sculpture' design language will make you want to do a double-take. Every element from its swept-back headlamps and sloping roofline to its lowered profile and sleek door lines contributes to the Elantra price appearing far more expensive than its R192 900 price tag will reveal. Inside, it's much the same. Quality materials, sleek surfaces and top of the spectrum finishes contribute to a modernised interior that gets the nod from especially style conscious buyers.
Comfortable seating, optimised driving position and a spacious yet quiet cabin in turn, make the Hyundai Elantra a top choice for longer journeys.
One aspect of this popular sedan that will pleasantly surprise is its performance. Available in 1.6L and 1.8L engine choices with both auto and manual transmission options, the Elantra delivers ample power and torque. One reason for this is that unlike many heavier competitors, Hyundai has kept the Elantra's engine weight as low as possible, resulting in a power to weight ratio you'd more often find in a sporty hatch. Another contributing factor is its aerodynamic design that creates less drag. As a result the Hyundai Elantra also consumes less fuel and produces fewer emissions.
More premium than standard, the Elantra is packed with a host of features, gadgets and adaptors you'd more likely expect to find in a luxury sedan such as rain sensing wipers, auto locking doors, dual zone air conditioning and rear parking sensors. To echo its modern character, it also offers auxiliary and USB inputs which allow you to connect your USB stick, MP3 player or iPod® with ease. Does the Hyundai Elantra give you more than you bargained for? Most certainly.

Sabtu, 11 Februari 2012

Tips for Staying Safe on the Road

For some people, driving can be a form of relaxation, for others it can be an anxiety driven chore. Whatever your feelings on it, driving is a part of our culture and society. Unless you live near everything, or live in an area that thrives on public transportation, then chances are you have to drive at some point. Driving does not have to be a chore that freaks you out every time you are behind the wheel, yet you do need to be aware of the dangers that can occur. This article will look at some of the things that you can do to stay safe while driving. These tips can help you feel more at ease on the road and also protect you from harmful dangers.
One of the best ways that you can avoid trouble on the roadways is to stay alert. This can be hard for some people. You need to remove yourself from all distractions that can occur in your car. Do not eat while you are driving. Not only is it bad for your health, but it can also take you attention off of the roadways. Put down your cell phone. That call or text may seem important now, but is it really more important than your life? Also, do not drive if you feel tired. You may not think that you can fall asleep at the wheel, but trust me you can.
Weather can be very unpredictable and you may not always know if you are heading in to bad weather. However, if you can avoid it then do not drive in bad weather. It will impair your vision and make the roadways a disaster. If you find yourself in unpredicted weather, then pull off the road way and make sure you are out of harm's way. Wait it out before you continue on your journey.
My next tip should be self explanatory but we still have horrible accidents due to it. Do not drink and drive. You may think that you are fine, but you are risking your life and the lives of those around you. Do not learn this lesson the hard way. A cab ride will be less expensive then charges and jail time.
It is also important that you take your car for routine checkups. By staying on top of your checkups you can rest assured that your car is operating at the level that is acceptable on the road ways. Little things like getting your oil changed, tires rotated, and making sure your tires are full of air will make a huge difference in the long run.
Another important tip is, wear your seat belt. It can be annoying and uncomfortable, but it can also save your life. Even if you are just going down the street put your seat belt on, you just never know what can happen. Encourage everyone in your car to do the same also.
These are just a few tips that can help you on the roadways. Driving does not have to be your worst nightmare. If you are prepared then it will be harder for careless mistakes to happen to you. Check with your car insurance company and see if they offer you any discounts for safe driving.

Kamis, 09 Februari 2012

Why Have Spoilers for Your Porsche?

A Porsche car is a beautiful piece of engineering and craftsmanship. So, do you really need to improve on it? Is there any scope to make it better? Won't an aftermarket Porsche Spoilers impact the aerodynamics in a negative way? These are some of the questions that come in to any Porsche car owner. Before, we can answer these very pertinent questions, we have to understand what is the use of spoilers in a high performance car such as Porsche.
Porsche front spoilers are a great way to enhance the aesthetics of a car. When teamed up with rear spoilers, they impart a sporty look to a car. But looks are not that only thing they are used for. There is a much more important benefit. And that's car's performance. Spoilers improve a car's handling and aerodynamics. Front spoilers which are also known as 'air dams' spoil or disrupt the obstructive air flow and keep the front of car pressed to the road by preventing too much air flow from going under the car. In technical terms, they reduce the aerodynamic lift and drag.
Similarly, rear spoilers or rear diffusers work with the front spoilers and wings to increase the downforce of a Porsche. A rear diffuser is installed on the underside of a Porsche and causes the air beneath the car to travel faster than the air flow around the car. This creates a low pressure vacuum in the rear of the car and keeps the car grounded. Thus, the rear diffuser helps channel the air flow under the car in to the low pressure area created in the rear end of the car as it moves.
These enhancements in normal cars are only for cosmetic purposes but for a Porsche enthusiast who loves to race his car, spoilers are a must have.
Since, spoilers can affect a Porsche's aerodynamics and performance so drastically, they have to be chosen carefully. All spoilers are not made same. There is great variation in their design, construction and material. It is very important that you select the correct spoilers for your model. You should check the antecedents and reputation of the company which designed the spoilers. The material of the spoilers also creates a huge difference in performance, durability and affordability of the spoilers. The best material for spoilers is Polyurethane which is almost indestructible. While fiberglass and Carbon-fiber break easily on impact, polyurethane is very durable. Spoilers made of Polyurethane are also easy to install and paint. If you happen to buy spoilers from a reputed company, then there is good probability that even a layman can install it with minimal tools.

Rabu, 18 Januari 2012

Dare to Be Different in a Juke

Just when we thought Nissan couldn't pull another out-of-the-ordinary design out of its creative hat, it introduces the unconventional new Juke. The name says it all... In football terms 'juke' implies an unexpected motion to fool the opposition and that's exactly what Nissan's new subcompact is doing with its different but desirable design. It might not be everybody's cup of joe, but then again, Nissan didn't design it for just anybody.
The Nissan Juke is a head-turner, that's for sure. From its predatory grille and muscular wheel arches to its bold light fittings and strong stance, its design has innovation written all over it. And that's just on the outside. The interior is equally styled with multi-textured seat fabrics as well as its trademark motorcycle-inspired gauges and centre console.
Four models complete the Crossover Juke range that retails new from a surprisingly low and highly competitive R198 000 if you buy it new. If you're lucky enough to find a used Nissan Juke, get it immediately, or blink and it might be gone. There are two petrol powertrains to choose from. A smart choice for the everyday commuter is the 5-speed manual 1.6L Acenta or Acenta+ model that both deliver a very capable 86kW of power and 158Nm of torque. For those who prefer more grunt under the hood, the 6-speed manual Tekna models will let you take command of the road with a mighty 140kW power and 240Nm torque offering.
Nissan's adjustable I-CON steering and transmission system available on the Acenta+ and Tekna models, allows you to switch from Normal to Sport to Eco mode in no time at all. Normal mode adapts to your acceleration needs while Sport mode ensure sharper steering response, raises idle speed and cuts down on turbo lag. Eco mode in turn reduces energy and fuel consumption while the air conditioning is in use. Irrespective of the mode you've selected, you'll experience more power and better handling in the Nissan Juke than most other subcompacts.
The SUV-like high driving position of the Juke ensures great visibility while the driver seat is fully adjustable for optimum comfort. And though the 5-door, 5-seater Juke might not be huge on space, it offers clever luggage solutions like a hidden 44-litre area below the board. Other model dependent features that make the Nissan Juke a worthy buy is cruise control, electric windows, Bluetooth® and a keyless entry system to name a few. And the Juke is safe, very safe. It was rewarded a 5 Star Euro NCAP safety rating in recognition of its variety of standard safety measures including driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags as well as ABS, EBD and Brake Assist. But most of all, it's a safe bet to buy.

Minggu, 15 Januari 2012

Hillman Wizard

The Hillman Wizard was a six-cylinder car introduced by the Hillman Motor Car Co Ltd in April 1931 continuing in production until 1933. It was produced in two models, the 65 and 75. The 65 model had a 65mm bore and was rated at 15.7 horsepower, while the 75 model had a 75mm bore and was rated at 20.9 horsepower.
The key selling point for the Wizard, the self-proclaimed Car of the Moderns, was that it had been tested for international conditions, not just those found in Great Britain. The car was reportedly subjected to every conceivable and practical test. Photos exist to this date of the Wizard being test-driven in France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Algeria, Egypt and Morocco. The Wizard was first released with five body styles, each available in a choice of three colours. The models were the five-seater family saloon, £270; saloon de luxe, £285; coupe-cabriolet, £299; four-door sports saloon, £299; five-seater tourer, £270. The bare chassis was available for £198.
The cheaper family saloon and touring car models came with 19 inch steel artillery wheels. Wire wheels were available for an additional £7 10/-. All other models had wire wheels as standard, and Triplex glass throughout instead of only for the windscreen.
Both engines had a 106mm stroke, meaning the 65 model measured 2,110 c.c. and the 75 model measured 2,810 c.c. The 75 model was predominately targeted towards export markets, given the additional £5 horse-power tax that was payable due to its larger capacity.
The straight six cylinder engine featured side valves, a detachable head and coil ignition. The gearbox was a dry single-plate clutch with four speeds (silent third). Suspension was provided by half-elliptic spring at both front and back, with hydraulic shock absorbers. Brakes were a Bendix-Perrot duo-servo series on all four wheels, operated through armoured cables by pedal or lever.
It is estimated that about 3,250 Wizards were sold in 1931, approximately 2,186 in 1932, and numbers for 1933 are unknown. These were disappointing results for a car with so much promise, however the tough economic circumstances of the times almost certainly contributed to the weak sales results for a car that provided its owners with a then unfashionable perception of exuberance.
Meanwhile, the four-cylinder Hillman Minx was having a far more successful time, selling around 20,000 vehicles per year. The Wizard was discontinued from production in 1933. Rootes entered the six-cylinder market again in 1934, with the introduction of the 20/70.

Rabu, 11 Januari 2012

Enjoy Driving Using Classic Cars

There are many reasons why people would want to own classic cars, and the most important one is the car's beauty. Many people will readily admit that the vehicles are unique and good to look at. A classic car will turn heads every time it is driven down the street. The term classic is used to define a car from a different age or era. While the term is fluid, there are different definitions depending on regions. There are clubs that set boundaries that limit the automobiles that can get that label, but generally, the vehicles should be at least over 30 years old. An antique class categorizes those that are over 45 years old.
Classic ones can tend to be quite costly, depending on the era they were made. The more rare the model, the more expensive it will be. Some models are highly sought after around the world with collectors offering great sums to own the car. Naturally, the condition of the car will determine the cost. There are, however, those who buy the vehicles in any condition, just for the joy of fixing them up to their former glory. Refurbishing a classic car can be very costly because of the unavailability of spare parts.
While most of those who buy the classics keep them as show pieces, they are many who enjoy driving these vehicles. Competitions are often held in different regions that are more like beauty pageants for the ancient vehicles. Here classic enthusiasts get to show off their collections to fellow collectors and fans. The vehicles are judged on their beauty, and how well they are preserved and maintained, among other considerations.
Those who drive the old vehicles have to be especially careful on the roads. These vehicles lack most of the safety equipment found on modern vehicles. Basic features like air bags and safety belts were not in use decades ago. The vehicle handling capabilities are also not as efficient as those found on modern vehicles. Break performance and steering are not up to the current standards and, therefore, these vehicles should be driven with the utmost care. Some regions limit or even prohibit the driving of these vehicles. It is also recommended that those who own the vehicles get them fitted with seat belts and other safety mechanisms.
Most of the old vehicles have bodies that were not designed to have seatbelts. This makes installing them quite problematic. There are also those who feel that this spoils the overall appearance of the car and the modern fittings go against the nature of a classic. Other suggestions such as the fitting of modern tires face the same challenges, as do upgrading of the braking system. There are those who suggest fitting the old vehicles with parts from more modern versions of the same model to improve safety.

Jumat, 06 Januari 2012

5 Reasons To Invest In A Car Repair Manual

Car repair manuals on digital media are a worthwhile asset to both owners of existing cars and prospective buyers of used vehicles. Even if you never plan to turn a wrench on your American-made vehicle yourself, acquiring and keeping the repair manual specific to your model offers several advantages during ownership:
1) You're a do-it-yourselfer and wish to perform some repairs yourself. This needn't include major engine overhauls or extensive bodywork - even simple routine maintenance tasks have a right way and a wrong way to get the job done. Following the manufacturer's recommended procedure in a car repair manual can make the process easier and ensure a satisfactory result. Repair manuals also include diagrams, exploded views and up-close photography documenting the recommended procedure of a particular repair. Worth at least a thousand words during a complex task, diagrams and photos provide the DIY mechanic visual orientation to each step and illustrate the tools and techniques required.
2) You want to diagnose a mechanical problem yourself before taking it to a garage or professional mechanic for the actual work. Car repair manuals provide troubleshooting procedures and flow charts that list particular symptoms and offer potential causes and repairs. These procedures aid in isolating a malfunction to a particular component or system in the vehicle. This prepares the owner with advance knowledge of what he may encounter when the car is taken to the garage. Also, troubleshooting procedures familiarize the owner of the vehicle with technical terms or jargon his mechanic may use in explaining the malfunction. Clear communication between owner and mechanic is fostered and misunderstandings are minimized.
3) You wish to double-check a mechanic's repair estimate. Repair manuals offer a written version of manufacturer-recommended repair procedures and are helpful in determining whether a mechanic or garage is proposing a repair which varies significantly from the accepted procedure. If the manual describes a standard water pump replacement procedure without removal of the radiator, for example, yet the mechanic states that radiator removal is necessary, the vehicle owner may wish to obtain a second opinion to save potentially unnecessary labor costs. Conversely, consulting the repair manual can also provide reassurance that the mechanic is not cutting corners and omitting important steps to save time.
4) You need a single reference source for a wide range of vital statistics relating to your specific vehicle. Specifications, fluid capacities, weights and other facts and figures pertinent to vehicle ownership are typically listed in car repair manuals. Details such as recommended lubricants and tire pressure, replacement bulbs and service intervals are also included. Vehicle ownership requires access to accurate facts and figures which may not be available elsewhere, particularly if the vehicle is several years old.
5) You want to sell the vehicle and obtain maximum resale value. Providing the appropriate car repair manual on CD for a vehicle you are selling can be an important sales point. Prospective buyers are often interested in performing initial maintenance and repairs themselves and/or just becoming educated about the mechanics and design of their vehicle. If the vehicle you are selling has some existing mechanical issues that require repair, having the car repair manual available to clarify to prospective buyers what issues need to be addressed can ease buyer concerns and enhance the value of a used vehicle.

Minggu, 01 Januari 2012

Automobile Transmissions - The Model A Ford

My very first ride was a spruced up 1930 Model A Ford Coupe. The transmission was stock and the engine nearly so. It was not a "hot rod" by any means.
It was my "knock around" car as a High School Senior. It had its quirks, but I liked it very much. I think I liked it most because it was my first car. I purchased it with my own saved money, earned working 20 hours a week washing dishes in a local Hospital.
I didn't care that it didn't have an external engine oil cooler or Cruise Control. In 1961, I didn't even know what those things were!
I had driven my father's '52 Ford with the "3 on the tree" manual transmission. I liked it and could drive it well. The transmission was modern, with synchromesh rings that I took for granted - until I learned how to drive again in the Model A.
The Model A had no synchromesh rings in the transmission. Therefore, it had to be driven carefully, very carefully, to avoid damaging the transmission.
Essential to success driving a Model A was a technique called double clutching, combined with a keen sense of what was happening mechanically. It took some time to learn but, once learned, proved a worthwhile effort.
Basically, it was best to start the Model A in first gear. That prevented the multiple thrills of trying to put it in gear with the engine running. It could be done, of course, but why do it if it wasn't absolutely necessary?
Always wanting to make a first gear start also had an effect on where and how I parked the car. I always asked myself, "If I park here, how will I leave?"
I developed what I thought were an effective set of common sense parking priorities.
My first choice was to park the car on a slight downhill grade with plenty of room in front of me to roll easily out of the parking space onto the street. A variation on this was in a not-quite-flat parking lot where I could plan to leave my space first rolling then driving forward.
The parking lot alternative was starting in Reverse, backing out, deftly double-clutching my way into First and driving out into street traffic.
That situation was the very best and I was surprised at how many times I could actually make my first choice happen. Not all the time, of course. But often enough.
Shifting up the gears from First to Second to Third required constant care because the lack of synchromesh in the Model A transmission was unforgiving.
Up-shifting was a matter of increasing speed in First to a perceived shift point. At that instant, the clutch went to the floor while I simultaneously moved the shift lever out of First and into the Neutral "gate" where it would move freely left and right.
Then, as the engine revolutions per minute (rpm) slowly dropped with my foot off the gas, I depressed, and then released, the clutch pedal.
At just the right instant, more sensed than felt, the engine rpm was just what it should be to begin accelerating in Second gear. At that precise moment, I depressed the clutch pedal again as I moved the shift lever up and to the right. If I did it right, the transmission would shift almost silently into Second gear.
I would then release the clutch and, usually, accelerate again in Second gear.
The process was repeated going into Third gear.
1. Accelerate to a desired "shift point" speed in Second gear.
2. Simultaneously take my right foot off the gas while I depressed the clutch pedal with my left foot and, with my left hand firmly on the steering wheel, pulled the shift lever back to the Neutral "gate" area.
3. Then, while the engine was slowing down, I would again depress and release and depress the clutch pedal in such a way that,
4. The instant the clutch pedal hit the floor the second time, the transmission and engine speeds were almost always matched to the point that I could slide the shift lever to the right and back to Third gear. Then I would release the clutch pedal to find the car chugging proudly down the street in Third gear.
Cruising down a rural road or a stretch of CA 99 was a pleasure in the Model A. It was hardly a "performance" car, but the engine seemed like it would run easily as long as I could keep the gas tank replenished.