Showing posts with label Accessories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Accessories. Show all posts

Monday, September 12, 2011

Truck Floor Mats or Auto Floor Mats - Make a Great Holiday 'Adult' Gift


Finding a meaningful gift is sometimes impossible during the holiday shopping season. Are you running out of gift ideas that the recipient will appreciate and won't have to worry about returning the gift? The answer is Truck Floor Mats or Auto Floor Mats make the perfect gift for anyone on your list with a luxury car, sports car, sedan, van, SUV, pickup truck, virtually for any type of vehicles.





Today's interior auto floor mats or floor liners are superior aftermarket products that provide extra protection for your vehicle's floor against spills, crud, mud, slush, grime and daily foot friction. Floor mats are a great, thoughtful gift because the recipient will think you every time they get in and out of their vehicle, many times throughout the day. You may even get the extra appreciation when the kids spill their fast food fries followed by the spilled pop - all of which is no big deal because the gifted floor mats or floor liners you gave as a gift, protected their vehicle's interior and clean up was a breeze.





You'll be amazed how easy is to give a meaningful gift this year, to even that most difficult 'hard to buy for' person on your list. To help you with a flawless purchase, before you buy floor mats be prepared to have the following information ready:





# Vehicle's year



# Make and model



# Basic vehicle layout (bench seats versus buckets)





Shopping online for custom, fitting floor mats, floor liners and cargo liners will also save you time and avoid the mad mall shopping scene. Easy search terms like "rubber floor mats", "truck floor mats", "car floor mats" "all weather floor mats" will aide in finding e-commerce sites selling quality floor protection products.





Some of the top automotive manufacturers for floor protection with products that provide protection, function and style are:





# WeatherTech All Weather Rubber Floor Mats



# WeatherTech Extreme Duty Floor Liners and Cargo Liners



# Husky Heavy Floor Mats, Floor Liners and Cargo Liners



# Nifty Catch-All Premium Floor Mats and Cargo Mats



# Nifty Catch All Extreme Floor Mats and Cargo Mats





Mats and liners provide a custom fit to the vehicle's interior dimensions. Custom fit floor mats and liners are achieved by today's digital manufacturing capabilities that can match virtually every type of vehicle interior. Common materials used are carpet, rubber, or a high-tech poly-based material, each with different application strengths. For example, carpet floor mats are generally more common in warmer, drier climates. While all rubber or the poly-based materials in floor mats, liners and cargo liners are for all weather climates where moisture is prevalent.





This year forget about giving gift cards or booze! Give something you'll get a sincere thank you! Floor mats, floor liners or cargo liners make a great gift for anyone on your holiday list.



This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

Sunday, December 07, 2008

BMW Bluetooth Integration - Free Tips on How It Works

BMW Bluetooth integration is available for BMW's that did not come with it factory installed. This can add greater functionality toyour BMW vehicle, as well as greater convenience and safety. It is no secret that use of a cell phone while driving can be hazardous to your safety and that of others – and increasingly, this practice is being outlawed throughout the nation. The biggest benefit that BMW Bluetooth integration can provide you is that the danger of using a cell phone while driving is eliminated. You’ll be able to make outgoing calls and receive them without ever having to touch your actual cell phone!

About Bluetooth
Bluetooth (named for a Viking king who brought the entire Scandinavian Peninsula under his rule for a short time during the Middle Ages) is an industry-wide standard, electronic protocol that allows a range of different digital devices to “talk” to each other without the need for cumbersome, tangled cords. These run the gamut from personal computers
to game consoles today, but the earliest use of Bluetooth was to integrate cell phones into automobiles , so drivers could use these devices without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. BMW Bluetooth integration means just that – you’ll be able to use your cell phone while keeping your eyes on the road and maintaining control over your vehicle. No physical connection between your cell phone and your vehicle is necessary.
Features Galore
BMW Bluetooth integration allow you to control your cell phone using nothing more than your steering wheel and radio controls. You’ll be able to go though your digital phone book, dial numbers and adjust the volume easily and safely.
If your cell phone supports such features, you can also display information on your BMW’s dashboard console and even activate it using voice commands. In addition, BMW Bluetooth integration using a quality kit from Bavarian Soundwerks means you’ll never miss an important call just because you’re listening to the radio. Whenever you make an outgoing call or receiving an incoming one, BMW Bluetooth integration allows your cell phone to mute the programming playing on your sound system at that moment.
Easy and Affordable
Bavarian Soundwerks assembles each BMW Bluetooth integration kit from genuine BMW parts. These kits use the original OEM wiring and come with clear, step-by-step instructions. With virtual “plug-and-play” capability, you’ll have your vehicle ready for “hands-free” cell phone operation in minutes. Bavarian Soundwerks BMW Bluetooth integration kits are also compatible with your existing equipment, as long as your vehicle is not equipped with BMW Assist (this must be removed before installing a BMW Bluetooth integration kit). BMW vehicles that were not originally manufactured for the U.S. market must also have a factory installed phone system
or “Option 640” pre-wiring.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Car Mirrors - Widely Use For Your Vehicle

Mirrors are used almost everywhere. From houses to stores, these things are already considered staples. With mirrors, rooms are made to look bigger while some are used to view one’s self or an object. Among the many machines dependent on mirrors are automobiles. The car mirror assembly, which is comprised of different mirror types, is definitely necessary in the safe operation of a vehicle.
First, there is the rear-view mirror, which is attached to a swivel mount above the windscreen. From the name itself, this type is designed to view the back portion of the vehicle, especially when the driver shifts the gear in reverse. While parking , for example, the driver can look at this mirror to see if there are any obstructions at the back. Another type of car mirror is the side-view mirror, which is strategically attached on both the driver’s and passenger’s sides. This type is often used when turning and changing lanes. While his vehicle is in motion, a driver glances at each mirror once in a while to check vehicles or other objects coming from the sides. These two types are the most common mirrors but there is also another one used in some vans called the back mirror. Installed at the rear window, this type allows the driver to see the tail end of the car so that he can estimate proper distance when parking or when in the middle of a tight traffic.

To have the car mirror assembly is one thing but to keep it in its proper position is another. The side-view mirrors, for example, are best positioned to view 90 percent of the road and 10 percent of the car body. In this angle, the driver has a good perspective of both the road and the vehicle. This proper side-view mirror position is also best achieved if the vehicle has a power mirror feature. This technology enables the driver to adjust the mirrors without the need to open the windows and reach for the mirrors to change their position manually. A more precise position of the side-view mirrors is achieved simply by pressing the corresponding buttons on the power mirror console.
These uses of the car mirror assembly only show why this is a staple in every vehicle whether it is a compact car or a heavy-duty truck. Without these mirrors, operating an automobile properly can be a really inconvenient task. More importantly, these parts are designed and are used to promote the safety of the driver, his passengers, and even of other motorists.

Sunday, November 09, 2008

Free Tips on Dodge Nitro Cold Air Intake - Improved Engine Output

The Dodge Nitro is one of the latest Chrysler-produced sport utility vehicles in the market. This compact American automobile takes pride in its quality-made auto parts that make driving both on and off road hassle-free. Among the SUV components that make this machine reliable is the Dodge Nitro cold air intake.
Primarily working for the engine, the Dodge Nitro cold air intake is made with a cone-shaped filter and tubes. This auto part is found inside the engine and is strategically placed near the grills of this SUV. In this position, the intake manages to scoop in a lot of cool air and bring it in the engine system. Once this air, which is filled with oxygen, reaches the engine block, it then mixes with the warm fuel. This combination leads to a good internal engine combustion that translates to the production of more horsepower. Aside from that, the right mixture also allows the power plant to burn the fuel more efficiently, thus nothing is left unburned. With that, fuel economy vastly improves, and that leads to lower noxious emission and to fewer trips to the gas stations.

Aside from functioning as an engine booster, the Dodge Nitro cold air intake is also behind the smooth sound of this SUV. A power plant that is not in good condition usually creates a lot of noise. What the intake does is to help lessen the rumbling or sometimes knocking sound from the engine block by aiding it to get the right cold air and warm fuel mixture. Thus, this automobile not only generates more power but also produces minimal engine noise.
This SUV from Chrysler is just among the latest models of the company available in the United States. It still has years to further establish its model in the industry. Armed with the precision-engineered Dodge Nitro cold air intake, which is already considered as a staple in the system, this vehicle is already on its way to efficiently traverse even more on and off roads in the years to come.

Free Tips on MG Seat Cover

Custom created seat covers made by Covers for Auto of southern California for the celebrated British car MG are truly in tune with the sharp bodylines of the Euro-styled automobile. So, whenever you need replacement seat covers for your sprightly MG in the US. You may rest assured that the American built seat cover will fit snug on the British built automobile seat like gloves.
Not unlike their US counterpart, the MG marque of Custom seat covers are made strictly in accordance with specifications made available through the British automaker to the minutest detail. As a result, they fit perfectly without any crease or groove and are prized by customers for their outstanding performance, eye-catching looks and unbelievable durability. Custom MG seat covers are hence increasingly preferred by MG enthusiasts in the US as also in all other overseas countries. Yet another breed of customers goes for MG seat covers for their varying patterns and vast array of color combinations that spell novelty and innovation.

MG seat covers (including most models) are patterned through in-house state-of-the-art technology, aided by CAD/CAM process of engineering; using a wide range of materials that include fabrics, polypropylene and leather. And they are all custom made to provide that same fit and performance. Even in terms of business integrity, Covers for Auto provides ‘Free’ covers for the arm-rest, head-rest, console covers as well as many other components needed during installation against regular orders for seat covers; while others charge ‘Extra’ for all these bits and pieces.
Since most contemporary MG marque of vehicles have specially adapted front seats that can be swiveled, folded and even tilted to resemble aircraft day-beds, the controls for which are located within the seat housing, MG seat covers are provided with appropriate cut-outs or slits made in them to facilitate easy access to these. Provision for the use of integrated shoulder belts and safety side airbags are a standard feature in all Custom MG seat covers.

Friday, October 31, 2008

Guides To Find Tow Bar Specialist

Trust one of the UK's top tow bar specialists with all your towbar enquires and fitting needs.
With affiliations with SMMT and BALI, which incorporates the biggest brands and the right solutions for your needs. In addition, product fitted by experts means your product automatically comes with a lifetime guarantee.. UK customers will be familiar with the fact that all tow bars need to capable of towing any vehicles approved towing weight, but most will be unsure of fitting a towbar themselves. Choosing approved tow bar specialists to fit your chosen product means peace of mind that your tow bar is safe and secure - and even comes with a lifetime guarantee.
As a valued customer of Indespension, once your towbar is installed you will also have a 12-month guarantee on wiring and components and Indespension are happy to service your trailer to ensure its safety. For the best in detachable and standard tow bars, UK based Indespension offers great prices for all vehicles.



Before you choose a tow bar, we always recommend you check with one of our tow bar specialists whether you need to take the B+E Driving Standards Agency test to check your driving once towing a large weight is safe. This test is necessary for vehicles towing excessive weights, although depending on your towbar needs, you may not need to take this additional test.
Indespension are experts in tow bar and trailer needs in the UK. We make sure that our tow bar fitters are securing your cars safety.

Jack tow bar services

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Volvo Grille:Mark The Car With Style

Every vehicle has many parts that contribute to the totality of its function. Every part or accessory is not useless---they all play important roles to achieve the premium performance of the car. Noted car makers such as Volvo have continually found ways to serve their patrons better by developing different car parts suitable for almost any car. Thus, when one takes a look at a Volvo, the distinction not only lies in its smooth performance, but also in the aesthetics. At the front of a Volvo one will immediately behold the beauty of its grille. How every Volvo Grille would mark the car with style, at the same time executing efficiency by allowing the car to breathe.

The Volvo Grille is an opening in the bodywork of the car to allow air to enter. Most vehicles feature a grille at the front of the vehicle to allow air to flow over the radiator and cool the engine compartment. Other common grille locations include below the front bumper, in front of the wheels (to cool the brakes), in the cowl for cabin ventilation, or on the rear deck lid (in rear engine vehicles). While some, have what appears to be tiny grilles which are not positioned to duct air through the radiator. These are horn grilles, which enable the sound of the horn to be clearly heard forward.
The Volvo Grille has become a distinction with its slash bar, bearing the emblem of its name. The emblem represents the company's core values: quality, safety, and environmental care. True to its values, the company managed to deliver their goals to their patrons, making their name immortal in the car industry. They have earned their right to be trusted when it comes to quality products that are durable enough to last the life of the car.
The Volvo Grille has become a distinction with its slash bar, bearing the emblem of its name. The emblem represents the company's core values: quality, safety, and environmental care. True to its values, the company managed to deliver their goals to their patrons, making their name immortal in the car industry. They have earned their right to be trusted when it comes to quality products that are durable enough to last the life of the car.
Also, one must aways take note of maintaining the car as a whole, particularly the Volvo Grille. It should always be clean and clear of any blockage (example, snow, dried leaves, etc) so that it could perform its best. So to let the car breathe, hook it up with Volvo.

Tips on Jeep Bumper Brackets :Giving More Protection Than Ever

Jeeps are known to have high endurance in off-road trails and people consider it having a fearless character, great stamina, and strong durability. The fearless character could be easily attained with just an installation of exterior accessories that improve its already rugged look. But durability, stamina, and endurance are things that only be provided by the function and performance each Jeep part brings.
Bumpers are one of the parts that contribute in giving the three characters Jeep is reputable for, and also adds to the improvement of the Jeep’s look. Although bumpers are already useful, safety is something that people shouldn’t and couldn’t risk and so bumper improvements are only proper. One such thing that improves the function and appearance of bumpers of Jeep are the Jeep Bumper Brackets . It is a metal piece which connects the bumper to the reinforcement or frame.

The Jeep Bumper Brackets assembly is made up of different components. First is the bracket mounting, usually shaped like a rectangle. Second is the bracket support
which serves as the bracket for mounting other bracket types. Third is the bracket stay which holds the bumper ends in most cars. Fourth, there is a bracket arm which serves the same purpose as the bracket stay but instead is shaped like a human arm. And fifth, the bracket reinforcement which holds the bumper reinforcement to the car’s frame.
Although these Jeep Bumper Brackets are made with only highly durable materials, several minor collisions could still put a bent on these things and be damaged. Especially with Jeeps being used in off-road trails, drivers shouldn’t be surprised if one day their Jeep Bumper Brackets give up. And when this day comes, Jeep owners should be ready to acquire themselves a replacement only in their trusted aftermarket dealers. Jeep Bumper Brackets are minor parts but essential in adding safety and protection to the vehicle and its passengers

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Free Tips on Keyless Entry Remote System

In 1983 this was a question millions of people were asking car manufacturers around the country. However if this is the first time you've heard of the Automotive Keyless Entry Remote System, let us explain. Have you ever seen someone walking to their car and push a button on their key ring to unlock the doors? That's all that we're talking about here, but having the technology for it in the early eighties was simply fascinating.

So How Does It Work?
Basically it all works by broadcasting radio waves from your remote system to the vehicle. While this is standard in many different technologies out there today, back then it was simply a new innovation. In today's world there are specific encryptions which will keep hackers from trying to intercept the signals and ultimately steal your vehicle.
Without going into all the computerized technology these Keyless Entry Remote Systems will open and lock your vehicle's doors. They can also open the trunk or even sound an alarm if you notice someone snooping around your vehicle. Anytime you push one of the buttons on your key fob, you can expect the car to make an alternate noise or visual. It may be the sound of the horn beeping a couple times, flashing headlights, or even the hazard lights turning on and off. This keeps you from continuously pushing the buttons and possibly damaging the system.
Popularity and The Future
Over the years car companies have realized the popularity of Keyless Entry Remote Systems. It seems that almost every new car purchased today is presented with key fobs to make your life easier. In fact around 85%-90% of vehicles made are required to implement this technology in the new vehicles due to competitors. Eventually you will see all of them providing this to consumers around the world.
Newer versions have more features available like telling you the car is low on fuel. Others may let you know when the vehicle doesn't have the correct air pressure in your tires, which translates into decreased gas mileage. Then of course there are RKE systems that can start your car in the morning to warm it up before work. Everything is gearing society towards the future as well as helping everyone combat car theft. All of these benefits wrapped into one remote, who would have guessed it right?
The Possible Downfall
The only downfall to these devices is simply preference. Some systems have the buttons sticking out where they could accidentally be pressed while in your pocket. Then of course if you own an older vehicle and want to integrate a Keyless Entry Remote System into it, a lot of time and knowledge is needed to set up the wiring. Definitely something you might want an expert to do for you.
When it's all said and done the future is here and has been for several years regarding Keyless Entry Remote systems. Making our daily lives easier is what technology is all about.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Advantages With Automotive Burglar Alarm Systems

The car is most probably the second most important asset of anybody, next to a house. Therefore, it is important that we give importance to its protection and security.
Automotives have been a natural target for burglars. They cost a lot of money, can easily be stolen and transported and may relatively be easy to resell.
Statistics show that 1 out 4 reported crimes are automotive-related. Out of all automotive crimes, 40% occur on the road just outside the house while 30% occur in public places, most often in parks. 40% of these stolen automotives are never recovered by the owners.
Most at risk are older car. New cars already come with appropriate automotive burglar alarm systems. Therefore, it is no wonder that more incidents of burglary occur on older automotives, accounting for almost 80% of all automotive-related crimes.
Due to these statistics, more and more people have realized the necessity of investing in car security measures. Majority of these people will not think twice in going for the more expensive automotive burglar alarm systems.
A less expensive security measure is with the use of steering bars or locks. However, these do not offer enough protection as these may be sawed off by determined and experienced burglars. The steering wheel can also be bent forcibly, making the steering bars or lock easily removable.
To provide more protection, a reliable car security alarm system should be installed. Millions of people have invested in expensive but sophisticated automotive burglar alarm systems. Why not? These have been proven effective in preventing automotive theft or stealing of valuable possessions left inside the vehicle.
How does an automotive alarm system work? Simply put, this is device with a bunch of sensors connected to an alarm. In its simplest form, the switch is placed on the driver's door, which is then wired to an alarm. When the door is opened, the alarm then goes off.
The automotive burglar alarm systems nowadays are more complicated than this. Aside from simple sensors, they now include switches and even detect movement. This motion detector is why we often encounter alarms going off with just the slightest movement or with nearby noise. The type of alarm can also be chosen such that the sound is distinct and can easily be recognized by the owner even from afar. Modern automotive burglar alarm systems can also be wireless and can be controlled remotely and can also have a supplementary battery such that it still works even if main battery fails. All of these added features come with a price, but it is all worth it considering the added security and protection for a prized possession.
With the high incidence of car-related crimes, it is definitely worth the investment on modern automotive burglar alarm systems.

Friday, October 24, 2008

The Features of Car Burglar Alarms

Car burglar alarms are very important in terms of protecting your vehicle. It has many features which you can utilize to make sure you always protect one of your most valuable assets.
Nowadays, nothing is ever certain. Even the most seemingly quiet places end up to have the worst record in terms of crime rates and the stealing. This being said, you can never be too sure about the protection of your assets so you should pull off all the possible ways in which you can protect yourself from people who are interested with what you have. With this in mind, then car burglar alarms are something which you should definitely consider buying.

Car burglar alarms are really helpful and they can really save you up on this valuable asset. Car burglar alarms are more than just a piece of device which automatically makes some noise once a suspicious person comes up too close with it. In more ways than, car burglar alarms serve vehicles as a really effective self-protection. There is actually a considerable drop in the rate of stolen vehicles as soon as car burglar alarms became a popular commodity. This is obvious proof that car burglar alarms are really working.
Car burglar alarms also offer more than just some warning noise. There are some car burglar alarms whose features include a safety locking system which really prevents somebody from trying to force the doors open. So aside from just making noises, car burglar alarms can also strengthen the lock system of your vehicle so even if the car itself is not the primary but just something inside it, that thief will definitely fail if you have this security device installed.
Moreover, some car burglar alarms are also high tech enough to automatically trigger a response from the police. In this way, the device do not just make warning noises against an intruder but it also actively makes sure that some authorities aid you in that particularly threatening moment. What happens is that as soon as the alarm is triggered, your device will automatically be sending wireless and signals which cannot be intercepted to the proper authorities. As a result, the police can promptly respond on the scene and prevent the unwanted from happening.
Car burglar alarms are really important devices which you should definitely consider buying. They can actually provide you with so many benefits that you end up getting more than what you initially paid for. Keep in mind that your car is a very valuable asset and yet you will not always be around to protect it. After all, you will not always be able to park inside a garage where you know it is kept safe and free from questionable strangers.

The Features of Car Burglar Alarms

Car burglar alarms are very important in terms of protecting your vehicle. It has many features which you can utilize to make sure you always protect one of your most valuable assets.
Nowadays, nothing is ever certain. Even the most seemingly quiet places end up to have the worst record in terms of crime rates and the stealing. This being said, you can never be too sure about the protection of your assets so you should pull off all the possible ways in which you can protect yourself from people who are interested with what you have. With this in mind, then car burglar alarms are something which you should definitely consider buying.



Car burglar alarms are really helpful and they can really save you up on this valuable asset. Car burglar alarms are more than just a piece of device which automatically makes some noise once a suspicious person comes up too close with it. In more ways than, car burglar alarms serve vehicles as a really effective self-protection. There is actually a considerable drop in the rate of stolen vehicles as soon as car burglar alarms became a popular commodity. This is obvious proof that car burglar alarms are really working.
Car burglar alarms also offer more than just some warning noise. There are some car burglar alarms whose features include a safety locking system which really prevents somebody from trying to force the doors open. So aside from just making noises, car burglar alarms can also strengthen the lock system of your vehicle so even if the car itself is not the primary but just something inside it, that thief will definitely fail if you have this security device installed.
Moreover, some car burglar alarms are also high tech enough to automatically trigger a response from the police. In this way, the device do not just make warning noises against an intruder but it also actively makes sure that some authorities aid you in that particularly threatening moment. What happens is that as soon as the alarm is triggered, your device will automatically be sending wireless and signals which cannot be intercepted to the proper authorities. As a result, the police can promptly respond on the scene and prevent the unwanted from happening.
Car burglar alarms are really important devices which you should definitely consider buying. They can actually provide you with so many benefits that you end up getting more than what you initially paid for. Keep in mind that your car is a very valuable asset and yet you will not always be around to protect it. After all, you will not always be able to park inside a garage where you know it is kept safe and free from questionable strangers.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

The Benefits of New Ford Truck Seat Covers

Buying your first or tenth Ford truck will always create feelings of pride and satisfaction. And of course, you will want to protect your investment the best way you know how, but somehow many people never realize that the simple act of buying Ford truck seat covers can protect and extend the life of your truck. Consider the following benefits of buying Ford truck seat covers.

Protect your Seats
If you drive a truck then you are probably around dirt and mud and other stain causing agents on a regular basis. The easiest way to keep stains from ruining your seats is to cover them with Ford truck seat covers that are waterproof. This way, not only will you protect your seats from regular stains, but also from spills of colas, water, chemicals, and the like.
Increase value, or Resale value
Everyone wants to protect their investment, and amazingly a small investment in Ford truck seat covers will pay off in the long run by protecting your main investment, your truck. This is the case because your actual seats and fabrics will be protected by the seat cover and when the day comes that you want to sale your truck or trade it in, you will be able to get a better price or trade in value because your seats and fabrics will be in impeccable condition, like when you first bought the truck. This benefit alone is worth getting Ford truck seat covers, but there are several more reasons why as well.
Give your truck a custom look
When you have seat covers made for your truck or either buy them pre-made you get the same resulta custom look for your truck.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

A Review on the OZ Superleggera Wheels

In today's consumer-driven society, we have become mostly driven toward such marketing proclamations as new and improved, lighter, larger, better and other hyperbolic statements slapped on a new label to sell an old idea. All too often we don't get what we expected.
A buying decision has to take into consideration the source of the product and make a reasonable determination based on the company's reputation, history and reviews from other buyers on the firm's products.

When it comes to wheels, O.Z. has an outstanding reputation among the world's enthusiasts, tuners, racers, and even some OEM for whom O.Z. supplies wheels for.
O.Z.'s Superleggera wheel is a new twist on its traditional multi-spoke racing-theme wheel, applying advanced modeling techniques to make a strong and lightweight street wheel. Think of it as an updated Super Turismo.
For my application I chose an 8x18 O.Z. Superleggera, both for its look and construction. It's the right size for the 225/40-18 Beetle tires and is a nice step up from the previous 17-in. wheels.
Many people don't think too deeply about the construction and weight of the wheels they buy but rather are more concerned with appearance, followed by fitment and finally construction. This is the absolute wrong way to buy wheels. If you want to know how smart people buy wheels, read Dave Coleman's article on how engineering nerds go wheel shopping (Sport Compact Car, Aug. 2002). In simple terms, weight = bad, wrong fitment = very bad, poor construction = dangerous.


Let's look at the first postulation: weight = bad. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that part out. First, there is the unsprung weight that has to be controlled by the dampers through an up-and-down motion. Added to that is the rotational inertia. Drive any front-wheel-drive car with heavy "sport" wheels and compare those to the stock wheel/tire combination, and you'll see that those sporty performance wheels really aren't. Once again, I turn to Dave Coleman and his words about rotational inertia.
What you need to know is that changing to tires that are 1 lb heavier will effectively add 8 lb to the car (four tires, remember) and that adding a pound to the wheels will effectively add somewhere around 6 lb to the car.
In short, think of heavy wheels in the same respect as having an extra flywheel on each corner. To lend personal perspective, consider the several wheel guides you read each year. We have to unpack, clean, position and photograph a couple hundred wheels in the course of two long days. Most importantly, we weigh them to let you, the reader, know exactly how heavy or light a wheel can be.
Before I had the Spec-2 Paradas mounted, I took the 8x18 O.Z. Superleggera to our mailroom scale for a quick test. Including center cap and minus the stem, it weighed in at a light 18.5 lb, which is really quite good.
Looking through a recent wheel guide, I noted that some 8x18s weigh up to a whopping 29.4 lb! One 7x18 busted the scale (not really) at an unbelievable 35.6 lb. Remember the formula about a pound of wheel weight? In all fairness, most of the wheels were in the mid 20s, and I'm pretty sure there's a wheel or two that weigh less than the O.Z. But I'm not going to split hairs. I'll take peace of mind and reputation over absolute minimums any day. I'm not a gambling man.

Part two of my layman's math states that wrong fitment = very bad. Unless a wheel has been TUeV certified for the car, it doesn't go on. Period. This holds true for each and every wheel I've used on my project cars, as well as those under my care, for a number of reasons. First, I know it's been tested to some standard. Second, there's the simple problem of the handling being disturbed by moving the point around which the tire turns on the ground.
Finally, there is construction. I remember driving a hotted-up Z3 that had a set of "tuner wheels" so poorly constructed, perhaps out of reconstituted beer cans, they would flex when cornering and bung themselves on the brake caliper. I didn't want to be around when that metal finally gave up.
Once again, O.Z. engineers stepped up to the task in its choice of metals. To make a lightweight and strong wheel, the company used computer modeling and finite element analysis, along with a special titanium-enriched alloy. The production process also includes a method of heat treating and shot peening borrowed from the aerospace industry. This means that O.Z. can build an 11-lb, 15-in. wheel and an 18-in. wheel with as little as 17.6 lb.
If you are looking for a wheel that lives up to its reputation, consider the Superleggera. It's available in a satin titanium gray finish, with special applications in white (7x17 4x100 pattern) and gold (Subaru exclusive). Note to self: Buy wheel locks, five sets.

Window Tinting

Many people today are enhancing their vehicles to make them look better and get additional benefits from doing so. There are many modifications you can make to your vehicle; however tinting your vehicles window is the most common. Some people tint their vehicles windows for looks and others have a different motive. So, why are so many today tinting their vehicles windows?
One reason that many are getting their windows tinted is because it improves the look of your vehicle. Window tint is very good at making your vehicle look better and worth more. It can even add value to your resale value.


Another reason that windowing tinting is being used so much is that it keeps the heat out. Window tint keeps the inside temperature of your vehicle lower since it blocks out a lot of UV rays. This is a great option to have on your car especially if you live in areas like Florida and California where the sun beats down constantly on your vehicle.
Window tint can prevent interior damage from occurring in your vehicle. Since the tint blocks out UV rays and keeps the temperature lower it can help prevent your car’s interior from cracking and becoming dull. This can save you a lot of money from needing interior repairs.
It provides more safety if involved in an accident. Believe it or not the tint actually helps hold the window together better and prevents it from shattering if involved in an accident.
Also, it can serve as a form of theft protection. With window tint it will be harder to see inside your vehicle giving your more privacy and less of a chance of thieves seeing what is in your car. That way you will have an added form of protection.
Window tinting can even protect your skin. UV rays can be harmful to your skin, even while driving in your car. If you have your windows tinting it will prevent those rays from contacting your skin, and prevent your skin from sun damage.
Window tint can also give you a safer ride since it can reduce glare from the sun, snow, and other headlights which will help you drive safer.
You can save money on gas by tinting your windows. Since the window tint will keep your car cooler you will have to use less air to get your car cooler and that will save you money at the pumps on gas. If this isn’t a good enough reason I don’t know what is.
With all of these advantages you might think that window tinting would be costly, however it is not that expensive to get your vehicles windows tinted. This is another reason it is common for people to tint their windows. They get a lot of benefits at a low cost to them.
As you can see there are many benefits to getting your windows tinted. So, stop waiting and start looking for a professional to tint your vehicles windows today so you can reap the benefits of window tint!

Friday, October 17, 2008

Tips to Model Car kits

Cars are a passion with so many different people. For these people cars can be old, new, antique, kit cars, exotic cars and even model cars. You may wonder what model cars are and how they are made. The most important item that is needed to make these model cars it that of model car kits. These car kits are available in a variety of places and at various price ranges.
You can however derive great satisfaction from building your very own car from model car kits. These kits will have the necessary items and parts for you to plan the type of car that you are going to build. Now as you are making a brand new car of your own, you can make the choice of making this model car resemble the well known cars. You could on the other hand choose to create an entirely new type of car.
For both of these types of car choices the model car kits have all of the help you will require. While these car kits have the items you need there are other parts that you will need to buy. These various parts will help to provide your model car with the unique look you require from it.



To buy these different parts and accessories will not be that difficult but you will need to look at these items from model car kits and other kits with care before you make the final payment. Before you start out with this process there are some things that you will need to do.
These involve having a good idea of what the end process of the car will look like. You will also need to take into account that as you are making this car from parts and model car kits of a number of different cars there will be times when extensive testing is necessary. To help you make the model car there are groups of people you can contact.
From these numerous people the advice that you get will help you out when you encounter difficulties. You can also find DVDs and videos for model car kits that will describe the entire building process. You should look at these many different instructional ways for help when you get stuck.
You will find that inspiration for a fantastic new look will come once you have gained fresh new input and a new way of seeing the final look in your model car. The many different model car kits can help you to achieve the model car that you will be driving around the city in.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Neon Car Lights, What the kits include .

When purchasing Neon Car Lights for your most loved vehicle, there are a few things that you need to be aware of so that you don't get burn and end up with less then what you started with. I'm mainly talking about the quality of the lights and where you got them from.
A lot of the Big manufactures of neon car lights like Plasmaglow, Streetglow and Liteglow are the only brands that I would recommend when it come to choosing your lights. By purchasing from one of these makers you can be assured of quality parts and performance, and not to mention getting everything in the kits that is required to do the installation. Yes, some cheaper makers of these car lighting accessories do not give you everything that is needed in the kits, so be aware of this, or else it will end up costing you more to get the extra bits required.


And one other thing that stands true when you buy car neon lights, and that is "you only get what you pay for", meaning if it cost you much less to buy the lights then what it would from one of the big brand name's such as PlasmaGlow, then your only going to get a product that will last for a short time. Think Quality first, then you won't have to re-install another kit for some time, and you'll save money in the long run too, cause believe me, it takes a full day for a beginner to install neon under car lights the first time, so you don't want to be doing that too often either.
In regards to all the websites out there that are dealers of neon car lights from some of the big brand name manufacturers, unfortunately are not all fully legit with the running of their business. When i say this, i mean that they DO sell GOOD products (their products may even be from big brand name Makers) and they will happily take your money, but a minority of them won't even send you the product! I have had customers come to me with the "upmost caution" and all guns blazing when buying lights from our online store, because the last dealer they got them from did not even send them their products, and on top of that, they would not answer any support emails or phone calls from these people, so they lost their money. So the lesson here is, be sure that the website owner you're buying the neon lights from is reputable and has FULL Company & contact details displayed on their website should things turn bad.
Our team of dedicated Market & Product Researcher's from All-Neon-Car-Lights.com, have spent an enormous amount of time & money installing neon car lights from a variety of manufacturers, and as a result after all this testing, we only recommend the brand names above for quality neon car lighting kits. We also found after this extensive testing was carried out, that PlasmaGlow had the best, all round car lighting products on the market today, outlasting and out-performing other products in every aspect.
So when it's time for you to actually purchase your Neon Car Lights, make sure you ask the dealer these three questions to prevent you from getting burnt...
1) Does the kit come with all the necessary installation hardware, components and instructions?
2) Does the kit come with a Lifetime Warranty like PlasmaGlow offers for example? And will they ship products for free during a warranty claim? Ask this in case you get your lights and they are not working due to a factory fault, and...
3) Who are the manufacturers of the light kits? If the kit is not a big brand name maker, but has a Warranty with it and all components in the kit, then this could be a quality kit to purchase, but that is something your going to have decide and take a chance on.
Finally, if your purchasing neon car lights online, be sure to check that the dealer has their FULL contact details listed on their website so you can contact them by phone to ensure their validity.

How to Install Neon Under Car Lights

Are you a bit confused about how to install Neon under car lights on your vehicle? What about the wiring, do you know colors are important when wiring up neon car lights? Well if not we'll show you how to install the under car lights onto your vehicle in the fastest and most easiest way.
First of all, before doing *any* electrical work on your vehicle, always disconnect the battery before starting. Do this by disconnecting the negative battery cable.
Performing projects on cars, like installing Neon under car lights, involves drilling holes into the body of a vehicle, its very important to first check the locations where you're going to mount the under car lights, to be certain you won't pierce or damage any crucial parts such as brake lines, fuel lines and electrical lines, etc.

While the vehicle is raised up on a lift or jack determine the best location for the neon tubes. Make sure they are away from all fuel lines, exhaust systems, areas of extreme heat, moving parts, and areas where a lift jack is used to raise the vehicle.
The easiest way to mount the under car neon lights is to start the screws in the brackets first,(supplied in the kit) then holding the bracket in place, insert and tighten the screws into the holes. Make sure that the wires coming from the *side* neon tubes are facing the front of the vehicle. It's best to tighten the screws just enough to hold the bracket in place, then go back after once you almost finished and individually tighten each one until it seats firmly.
Next you'll need to locate a spot to mount the neon light kit transformer. The preferred location will be somewhere near the battery in the engine compartment and you'll need to drill mounting holes for attaching the transformer.



The power wire on the transformer can be connected directly to the Positive side of the car battery or to any 12V power wire under the dashboard. There will also be an "Earth wire" or Negative ground wire for the neon under car lights that will need to be securely screwed to the chassis of the vehicle, or to any "Earth wire" to complete the power circuit.
The on-off switch should be mounted in a convenient location on the dash and within your reach. Wiring for the switch can be run through a grommet in the firewall, into the engine compartment where it can be connected to the battery. The switch and fuse, that will be included in your neon under car lights kit, should be connected between the transformer and the power supply.
All you need to do now is to plug all the neon tubes into the transformer and complete any additional wiring according to your kit instructions and then you'll be all set to show em off!

How To Install LED Under Car Lights

Are you having trouble installing LED under car lights onto your vehicle? Or maybe your just not sure where all the wires for the under car lights go? Let us show you all the "in's & out's" of this type of installation - which i should mention, is designed with the "Novice" in mind.
The first thing you'll need to do when installing LED under car lights, is to find where you want to mount the led tubes. Be sure to keep their location in mind while doing the wiring part of the installation, so you can allow for the correct lengths of the wires.
It is ideal to mount the led tubes so as they are centered between the overall length of the vehicle for optimal appearance. Tubes should be positioned on the chassis of the vehicle so as they are not visible. Visible led car lights are prohibited by law in most cities.
You'll now need to disconnect the battery before starting on the installation and the drilling of holes. Do this by disconnecting the negative battery cable. This led under car lights installation involves disconnecting the battery first and foremost for safety reasons, and so you don't "short-out" your car wiring.

The easiest way to mount the LED tubes is to start the screws in the brackets first,(supplied in kit) then holding the bracket in place, insert and tighten the screws into the holes. Make sure that the wires coming from the *Side* tubes are facing the front of the vehicle. It's best to tighten the screws just enough to hold the bracket in place, then go back after once you almost finished and individually tighten each one until it seats firmly.
You should have a distribution block in your under car lights kit, find a good location for the block on a flat surface in the engine compartment away from any heat or moving parts.
Next you will need to determine a location inside your vehicle to mount the digital control panel. You want it to be in a location where you can easily access all its buttons and functions while your sitting in the vehicle.


The LED under car lights distribution block and the control panel can be hooked together using the ribbon wire that comes with your particular kit. The wire needs to be pushed through a hole in the firewall and plugged into the "input" on the side of distribution block. For those of you who may be a bit confused as to what the firewall is, it's the wall that divides the engine compartment and the interior of the vehicle. Be careful when you do this because the wire adaptors are fragile.
The power wire on the digital control panel can be connected directly to the Positive side of the car battery or to any 12V power wire under the dashboard. There will also be an "Earth wire" or Negative ground wire coming out from the control panel that will need to be securely screwed to the chassis of the vehicle or to any "Earth wire" to complete the power circuit.
Finally, to be able to operate your LED under car lights, the included switch and fuse should be connected between the control panel and the power supply. All you need to do now is to plug all the LED tubes into the Distribution block, complete any additional wiring according to your kit instructions and then you'll be all set to show em off!

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Protected from the Elements with a Mazda Car Cover

Protect one's Mazda car with a Mazda Car Cover. Yes, brand compatibility is a must. There are, after all, several designs made specifically by automotive companies to match the size, shape, and peculiar styling characteristics of their cars. Having a car cover that has been made specifically for an specific car make will enable the car cover to fit snugly and perfectly. One must, thus, take care not to go for any product other than a Mazda Car Cover. Otherwise, failure may be inevitable.
Having a Mazda Car Cover in place will keep the exposure of the car's panels and metal frames to the sun's harmful UV radiation to a bearable minimal. Not to mention the fact that having a Mazda Car Cover in place keeps particles brought on by occasional gusts of wind out. This is to say then that one no longer has to contend with squished bugs on the windshield when one hopsbehind the wheel first thing in the morning.


The Mazda Car Cover will also keep the paint job of one's car from fading fast since constant exposure to the elements have a rather wearying effect on the car's looks by accelerating the decline of the materials. Hence, with a car cover, one can take longer intervals between paint jobs. No sense emptying one's pockets every so often over the matter of painting one's car over and over. It simply is not practical. This is exactly why Mazda Car Cover offers an easy solution to the problem. The Mazda Car Cover also helps in keeping small furry animals from scratching the surface of the car. Thus, when one wakes up in the morning, there will be no prominent scratch marks to upset and bedevil one's nerves.