Labels

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Tips How To Change Your Boat Oil


Just like cars, boats need to have their oil changed. Four-stroke outboards, inboards and stern drive boats require regular oil changes. Follow these quick steps to change your boat oil.

Steps

  1. 1 Determine how often you should change the oil. The frequency will vary by model, but a good rule of thumb is to change the oil every 100 hours of operation or at least once a year.
  2. 2 Decide whether you should bring your boat to a dealer or do it yourself. Unfortunately, there aren’t any quickie oil change shops for boats, so you have to change your boat’s oil yourself or take it to your local dealer.
  3. 3 Learn that if you decide to go it alone start the engine to warm it up.

    • Turn off the engine.
    • Remove the drain plug.
    • Drain the old oil.
    • Change the filter
    • Replace the drain plug
    • Fill the engine with new oil, using marine grade oil. Boat engines work much harder than car engines and automotive oil isn’t made to protect marine engines.

     Thanks :)
    Please Always Visit Our site at tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

An All-Informative Guide About New and Used Trucks


"Trucks are one of the most frequently used vehicles for transporting cargos and passengers from one place to another and though they differ greatly in terms of size, power and configuration, they can be personalized as per one's requirement and usability."


Trucks have become a vital part of our lives when it comes to transporting people and cargo from end-to-end. Trucks are available in different sizes and configurations and are usually powered by diesel engines, although gasoline engines are also available in the American market. Unlike old times when trucks were only used as a transport vehicle, the modern SUV and pickup vans are available with the latest features such as touch-screen navigation, DVD players, Bluetooth connectivity and satellite radio amidst others. Both new as well as used trucks are easily available in the market at varied prices and can be customized as per one's need and requirements.

While the trucks have been in use for long, it was during the 1920s after the First World War that the industry witnessed a major boom and drivers even started to make a living out of the truck business. Trucking companies started increasing in number as the demand for transporting goods from one corner to the other went up and while some of them saw losses during the Depression, those who could survive witnessed a boom from the reviving economy. In 1935, Congress passed the Motor Carrier Act which tried to regulate the trucking industry and laid down certain policies for doing so. Though the trucking companies were primarily concerned that these policies will curb their business, yet road infrastructure became better and the industry witnessed growth with the rise in demand.

Truck manufacturers saw an increase in sales during the war as defense contracts promoted heavy-duty vehicle production on behalf of the war efforts. Ford, Dodge, and Chevrolet all re-entered the market with newly styled models that featured modern styling and progress in comfort and engineering. Truck transmissions evolved with time and more and more companies entered the business with the American trucking industry leading ahead of the European industry. Nowadays, with the domestic sales industry reaching out to a wider international audience, the trucking industry still remains an essential means of transport in the 21st century as well.

When you think of trucks, whether new or used ones, there are certain well-known brands such as Volvo Group, Ford, Dodge, Fiat Group, Toyota Group, Nissan, Tata Group, General Motors, Volkswagen and Daimler AG amongst others who are known for their heavy-duty as well as light commercial trucks. Names such as Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra, Dodge RAM 1500 or 3000, Nissan Frontier, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger have become an essential part of the trucking industry. Both new as well as used models of these trucks are extensively used for different purposes and are available with certified dealers at attractive discount rates.

Modern pick-up trucks are no longer as bulkier as their conventional predecessors and have now packed carlike comfort, high-end features and versatility which makes them the most preferred vehicles in the American market

Thanks :)
Please always visit Our site at tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

Save Money on Used Motorcycle Parts


For every motorcycle enthusiast, it is indeed very taxing to maintain bikes as good as new - its engine running and all its other parts functioning. We know for a fact that it's not only for the sake of transportation but also for a little satisfaction of our vanity - seeing everyone admire us, atop an excellent piece of machine. Like any road going vehicle, a motorcycle's performance is based on the smooth running of thousands of parts, large and small. It is a nuisance indeed to find some faulty parts on a vehicle and prevent owners from enjoying its full use.

Broken parts on a motorcycle can spell tragedy for its driver and extensive damage to the machine. In a motorcycle, the safety and security provided by a four wheel vehicle on each corner doesn't exist as such, when its rear wheel locks up at 70 mph it could skid out of control and throw its rider. What's more heartbreaking is to know that the cause of the accident is because of a broken part.

The best solution is to always have a replacement part handy in order to have extra parts for those which have been damaged or lost. Having ample budget for this would, however run risks for your pocket. If you do not have sufficient budget to afford the high costs of brand new replacement parts but afraid of scratching around for used motorcycle parts from questionable origins and warranty, don't fret. There's still a way for you to save money by buying used motorcycle parts and prevent you from living your worst nightmare.

Yes, indeed! Buying used motorcycle parts are a great way for you to save money and keep your bike going splendidly. There are just some pointers or guidelines for you to remember once you have decided that your budget leaves you little choice between brand new and used motorcycle parts. By following several general guidelines, you could still acquire used motorcycle parts that are in tip top shape, good condition and will not be the cause of your bike getting torn apart.

First of all, when scouting for used motorcycle parts, especially online, make a point to double - check, there are things to look out for, consider and avoid. Don't ever miss out on crucial details, like, how old can the used part be? How compatible will it be to your bike's model and make? Next, it is understandable to be skeptical, after all, the World Wide Web is full of BS and scams. You have to be careful to avoid those who make stupid claims that expect you to believe them. It is but your right to verify and countercheck the validity of everything that they are offering you and once you have placed an order, as much as possible, give certain conditions for your purchase. Something that may go like, they will have to show you if the purchased part functions upon getting secured on your bike. You could also inquire for warranty periods.

There are ways to save your money and still get above-average used motorcycle parts. Just be wise enough once you decide to be practical and economical.

Thanks :)
Please Always Visit Our site at tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Some Tips How To Improve the Performance Your Motorcycle


Taking your bike to the next level of performance does not mean that you need to know master all the technical secrets. There are 3-basic approaches to improve its performance. The simplest approach is to ensure that your bike is working appropriately.

1. By taking better care and switching over to superior quality oil, you will get improved gas mileage, power and handling.

2. Another approach is to link the power with the performance and modify the bike accordingly, so that the horsepower is more than the factory set power.

3. Customize the motorcycle based on specific functions like racing, cruising, off-roading, etc. The racing bike has its own characteristics, which is not same as the touring bike.

You can apply all the approaches on the same motorcycle. However, not many riders would like to change the performance that their bike originally gives.

Simple Ways to Enhance the Functioning of Your Motorcycle
You need to follow a few simple steps to improve the performance without any major modifications.
1. Properly Inflate Tires: If the tires are too full, it makes the bike difficult to handle. However, if they are not full, it leads to poor fuel efficiency and poor handling. 34-38 PSI is ideal.

2. Check Tire Tread: Check the tires frequently and replace them if the tread is worn out. Worn tread, especially if it is uneven leads to poor handling.

3. Regulate throttle cable length: The motor response will be quick, but it cannot be controlled easily if the slack is too little, or if the slack is too much. Then it will not respond swiftly.

4. Lubricate cables, control pivots and replace worn out cables - With proper lubrication, the controls will become more responsive.

5. Set suspension sag - It is important to balance the rear and front suspension systems, without which the handling will be poor.

Motorcycle Oil Filter
6. Use high quality filter or motorcycle specific oil - Good quality and clean oil will help the engine run cleaner. Besides changing the oil, also change or clean the filter when required.

7. Lubricate and adjust the chain - Handling will be poor and the bike loses horsepower, if the chain is dirty or rusty. Also, loose chains can break easily.

A Few Other Points to Consider
Some of the basic changes like getting a brighter headlight or a comfortable seat will also help you get the most out of your bike. Besides increasing the visibility for the rider, a brighter headlight will also make them visible for others.

Louder horn is another good safety precaution. Few riders choose loud engine, so that the truck and car drivers are aware about them. However, it is not necessary for a bike to have a loud engine, in order to be safe on the road.

It is possible to alter the engine in order to have more power, provided that you take care of the above-mentioned basic requirements. These steps can easily increase your motorcycle performance. You can also learn motorcycle repair through step-by-step instructions available online.

Motorcycles are fun. Every rider wants the most powerful and the best machine possible. Some people enjoy upgrading and maintaining their bike. Someone with less skill can also customize the bike, with the help of a professional mechanic.
Thanks For Visiting Our Blog.
Please Always Visit Our site at tentanguatomotive.blogspot.com

This Is The Reason Why Important To Change Your Oil

Doing regular maintenance to your vehicle is very important, and it will help you keep your vehicle on the road longer and running better, but why is oil the one we have to change so often? I mean no other fluid or part of the car has to be changed every 6 months of 3 thousand miles. You add gas more often probably, but that doesn’t require a mechanic or a special waste process.
Let us think about how the engine works. Your engine has a lot of metal parts that work together to push your car forward. We should review the most important ones.


Cylinders – Most cars have 4, 6, or 8 cylinders and some random cars have 3 or 10, but what do they do? Well, the cylinder is a space inside the engine block where gas and oxygen mix and eventually combust.

Pistons – They fit inside the cylinder and are what is used to suck in the gas and air mixture into the cylinder, and then compress the oxygen and gas mixture to create an explosion. Cars have a 4-cycle process to make the engine work properly. For the 1st cycle, the piston will slide down the cylinder and suck in the gas and air mixture. The 2nd cycle is to push it back up and compress the gas and air mixture inside the cylinder. The spark plug will ignite the mixture, which pushes the piston back down making the 3rd cycle. The final and 4th cycle is when the piston moves back up to push out the combusted gasses. There are two up and two down steps to complete the entire piston combustion process, which reaches 4-cycles.

Valves – Engines require gas and oxygen to mix and then explode to push the car forward. The valves are positioned at the top of the engine above the cylinder and help control how the mixture gets into the engine, but also provides a tight seal so the pistons can compress the gas and air mixture in the cylinder. The valves move at an extremely fast pace to make sure there is always a tight seal.



Camshafts – The valves mentioned above need to be opened and closed at a very fast pace with precise timing. This is accomplished by connecting them all to a rotating camshaft. The camshaft has multiple grooves with different heights that are custom made to match the speed of the pistons. This prevents the valves from colliding with the pistons and damaging the engine



Crankshaft – This is main metal rod that runs through the center of the engine and connects everything together to push the car forward. When an explosion in the cylinder pushes the piston down, it turns the crankshaft. The crankshaft is connected to your transmission and is what connects the engine power to the rest of the car and makes the wheels turn.
Now all of these parts work together to make your car move forward, but they are also all made of metal. If you were to take two pieces of metal and rub them together at thousands of passes per minute, you would create a lot of friction. This friction will create heat and start to soften the metal, and cause it to stick together. Imagine if all of this metal was rubbing together inside your engine with no lubricant.

This is where oil comes into the equation. The oil in your engine prevents the metals from coming in direct contact, and reduces the amount of friction that have with each other. Obviously this prevention of friction is also preventing your car from seizing up and stopping. If you tried to run a car with no oil, it would only take a few seconds for the engine to seize and become locked together.

But why do we have to change the oil so much? Well, oil in your car is being exposed to extreme conditions all the time. It will eventually breakdown and get filled with gunk. Your engine is creating an explosion every 100th of a second, and this explosion leaves behind burnt gas and air particles that get trapped in the oil. Your mechanic would call this gunk or sludge. You can tell if your car has gunk when your oil is a dark black color. Trust me, it did not go in your car that color. Fresh oil is a clear gold, like a less brown maple syrup.

In conclusion, oil is the most important fluid to keep your engine working. It provides the lubrication all the metal pieces need to keep moving. If you don’t change your oil it will break down and get filled with gunk, and eventually slow your engine down. Old oil will make your car work harder and create more stress on its parts. That means things break faster, and you burn more gas, hence why you have to change your oil so often.
Thanks.
Please Always Visit Our Site at tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

Do You Need To Change Your Tyres And Mag Wheels Regularly ?

In this day and age, there are a variety of cars in terms of design and style. Then there are those cars that are designed with the young man in mind. These are usually the fast and sporty types of cars which young men love to modify to suit their style and personalities. This can be a fun endeavour which is coupled with creativity. In most cases, the mag wheels are the first thing that is changed in order to give the car a new look because the right set of mag wheels can uplift the style of the car instantly.

Besides aesthetics, when do you need to change your tyres and mag wheels and do you need to replace them regularly?


If you want a larger surface area to grip the road, you'll need a wider or bigger tyre. Hence you'll need a bigger wheel. You'll have to check that the specific tyre and wheel that you purchase is suitable for your car and has the correct fitting sizes to fit onto your car. There's no point procuring a mag that just won't fit on your car.

If the mag wheel is damaged, this is a tell-tale sign that it needs to be changed. It is quite reckless and dangerous to drive with a damaged mag wheel. If it has any kind of hairline crack or large visible damage, take your vehicle to your nearest wheel and tyre fitment centre. You don't want to drive long distances with such a damaged wheel.

If you drive into a pothole too fast, too hard or at a bad angle then your tyres and wheels could be irreparably damaged. This type of accident could cause the wheel to buckle and unusable to the point that you possibly are not able to drive to the nearest fitment centre. In this case, your car will have to be towed then the wheels and tyres have to be replaced.

Most wheel and tyre fitment centres sell a range of alloy wheels. These are quite durable and reliable as it is able to endure various conditions such as rain, dry conditions, dust and much more. However, you need to take care of the mags too. You have to clean it regularly, weekly if possible.
If the tyres and wheels are still in good condition, you could drive with them for many years so you don't have to change them regularly. But when they do get damaged in any way, it is essential that you go to a wheel and tyre fitment centre to have it replaced right away.

Minty's is amongst the leading tyre suppliers in South Africa, and is recognized for our high standard of customer service. We have built a reputation amongst our customers and ensure that they receive tyres and alloy wheels of the highest quality, amongst the largest brands nationwide.

Thanks.
Please Always Visit Our Site at tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

7 Car Maintenance Tips Every Girl Should Know

Check your tire pressure! 

Right, I know that’s important—and yet I’ve no idea how to put that thingy on my tire. (Do I even own one?) I watch the girl in The Fast and the Furious with slight awe.
We’re powerful women, we juggle jobs, sports, cooking, kids, and even our cars. Maintenance can be intimidating, but it’s not as hard as we think. Here are 7 tips that every girl can do to make sure her car is in tip-top shape.


1. REFILL WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID
Sure, you’re supposed to have this “taken care of” for you with your oil change. But especially if you live in an area with lots of snow, it’s important to make sure you don’t run out. If the light turns on showing you need more, open the hood and look for the washer indicator to know where to add the fluid. It’s also smart to have a jug of it in your trunk for emergency refills. You can go through quite a lot of it driving in a snow storm.
Car maintenance isn’t overwhelming with these quick tips from Fuelzee.


2. REPLACE YOUR WIPER BLADES

More than once I’ve had someone ride with me and ask “How can you drive with blades that bad?!” When you feel tension looking out the windshield or you find yourself squinting because the wiper blades are doing a poor job, it’s time to change them out. Don’t stress yourself out wondering which ones to buy. Most auto stores actually have a guide for you! The packaging usually comes with directions right on it too. If you’re nervous changing them out for the first time, just ask for help in an auto store.

3. CHANGE A FLAT TIRE

Flats happen. It’s part of life. So avoid the anxiety you’ll feel when you hear that ominous “bump, bump, bump” and instead make sure you’re ready ahead of time. Do you have a spare tire or a temporary “donut” in your car? If not, get one pronto. Also, get a tire jack and iron. Changing a tire is not complicated, but having someone run through it ahead of time with you (even if that someone is YouTube) can make you feel more calm in the moment.

4. GIVE A JUMPSTART
Maybe you left the lights on, maybe your battery is just old. Sooner or later you’ll be faced with a dead battery. Make sure the problem really is the battery first. Check the headlights and other interior lights and see if they are dim. Check the manual for the location of the battery. (Some cars put them in the back.)
  • Park the cars facing each other and turn off everything in them both.
  • Connect the positive terminal (+) with the red wire on the dead car.
  • Connect the positive terminal (+) with the red wire on the car with a good battery.
  • Connect one black clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
  • Connect the other black clamp to a piece of grounded metal on the dead car. (Look for a bolt where the thick negative cable from the battery connects to the car. If you can’t see this, usually a nut, bolt or other protruding shiny metal will work.) You may see a small spark when you connect to a good ground.
  • If you can’t find any nuts or bolts to connect it to, you may connect it to the negative (-) post of the dead battery. (This risks igniting hydrogen gas, so it’s last choice.)
  • Start working car.
  • Start car with dead battery and let it charge about 5 minutes.
5. CALL A TOW TRUCK

Do you have AAA? Does your insurance company offer roadside assistance? Many car insurance companies offer this for just a few dollars a month.
If your car breaks down, turn on your hazard lights and get your car safely off the road. Then call for assistance or a tow truck service. Take a few minutes (yes, right now!) to make sure you program the number for a tow truck or your roadside assistance into your phone. Also, take time to put in your mechanic’s name and address. If you don’t have a mechanic, think about where you’d want your car taken in a breakdown. Home? Your brother’s house? A mechanically-minded friend?

6. CHECK YOUR OIL

Oil changes are so economical these days it’s not really a bargain to do it ourselves. However, you should still know how to check your oil. And where to add more oil if your engine is running hot and you need some.






7. CHECK YOUR TIRE PRESSURE

Tire pressure is important. If your tires are under-inflated or over-inflated you’ll drain your gas mileage and risk accidents. DMV.org has a great explanation of PSI and how to make sure your tires are correctly inflated. Always carry a tire gauge in your car. Also consider carrying a can of air, just incase you can’t get to a station or don’t have the change for the machine in a pinch.
If you don’t know how to do all seven of these maintenance tips, now’s a great time to learn! Let 2015 be the year you take power of your car maintenance. You’ll feel incredibly proud knowing you’re able to care for your car on your own.
 
Thanks .
Please Always Visit Our site at http://tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

What Are The Best Tyres For Your Car ?

What Are The Best Tyres For Your Car?

 

Having a car is a good thing because it is a mode of transportation that gives you the freedom to go anywhere. Like the old adage goes - with great freedom comes great responsibility. This is true when it comes to owning a car because if you don't look after it, it will cause you many problems in the future. When it comes to your wheels and tyres, you also have to consider what is best for your car.
What are the best tyres for your car? How do you choose the right wheels and tyres for your vehicle? Here are a few points to consider when choosing tyres.

How will you use the tyres? In other words, will you be driving to work and home or will you be driving long distances or off-roading? If the tyres are made for all terrains, then you should be reassured that it can be used in wet conditions, dry conditions and off road surfaces. If they are manufactured for high performance vehicles then it should be able to withstand long distance driving conditions and it should be conducive to high speeds. So if you have a sports car where you perhaps spend time on a race track, then it's best to opt for high performance tyres such as the Wanli High Performance Tyres.

What type of vehicle do you have? Consider what type of vehicle you need tyres for. If you have a car, then find a tyre that is suitable for passenger vehicles. The size of the tyre and the fit is imperative for the proper functioning of the wheels. Placing a larger tyre on the wheel than should be there, could cause an accident and severe damage to your vehicle. For SUV's and 4X4 vehicles, choose a tyre that is specifically designed for these larger vehicles. Wanli also has a range of tyres suitable for SUV's and 4X4's as well as a range of Wanli Passenger tyres.

Quality is important. Choose a tyre that is renowned for its quality and will be reliable in the conditions that it specifies. Find a tyre that is recognised for safety and will add protection to your car. For example, if you find yourself on a slippery and wet road where you lose control of your vehicle, will your tyres react positively by gripping the road when necessary instead of skidding out of control? These are factors that you need to consider even though it sounds dark.

Choosing the right wheels and tyres for your car will depend on your type of vehicle, where you use the vehicle and the quality of tyres.
A1 Wheel and Tyre is a private family owned and operated company specialising in the warehouse and distribution of wheels and tyres to the automotive fitment trade. The company has a well established operation in Johannesburg, South Africa.


Thanks :)
Please Always Visit My blog site at http://tentangautomotive.blogspot.com/

Remember This Thing When You're Buying a Bike

A bike can be a very good asset when it is got for all the right reasons. Apart from making a very good exercise tool, it can offer a simple means of transport to run errands or explore the surroundings. The market however has plenty of options when it comes to bikes in that it can be a little challenging for beginners to find and buy a bike they will grow to love. If you are among those wishing to buy a new bike, below are some of the most important things you want to remember to be a success in choosing the best bike.


1. Budget
This is something every purchase needs to act as a guide towards quality, but at the same time an item you can comfortably afford. With so many bike brands and types, a budget will come in handy when making the final selection. When creating your bike budget, consider any extra costs you might incur. While there are bikes that can come complete with helmets, most require you to buy the helmet, apparel and gloves separately. Staying safe while riding your bike is important and so you might also consider purchasing glasses, shoes and pedals to match your riding needs. Lights tire levers, track pump and puncture repair kits can also be included in the budget in case they don't come packaged with the bike. These are all things you need to include in the bike budget so you are sure of what you can afford and what can wait depending on your individual needs and preferences.


2. Maintenance
This is very important if at all, your bike is to remain in tip top shape serving all your needs over the days. The bike type and brand can determine the maintenance it requires. Luckily, you can handle most of the issues yourself, but it helps to consider professional help and how possible it will be for you to keep up with the demands your bike comes with. You can however find low maintenance bikes to keep worries off your back.


3. Where to buy 
Local bike shops can make very good places to buy your bike. You, however also have the online options of comparing all options before making the final decision. When choosing a shop or outlet, take into consideration after sale service offers and warranties or guarantees you stand to enjoy with your bike. Staff conversant with the bikes can actually prove to be very helpful to you in making the right decision. You can do a little research on available offers from different sources so that you can choose the one you feel meets with your expectations.


4. Frame material
It is basically what makes your bike what it is making it an important consideration to make. The most common frame materials you will find include carbon, steel, alloy and aluminum. The material dictates quality, durability, weight and the price. Each however has its own pros and cons hence the need to consider them all before making the final decision.
Thanks :)
please always visit tentangautomotive.blogspot.com

Monday, January 26, 2015

CAR REPAIR



If you've ever needed to repair your car, you know that it costs a bomb no matter what the problem is. The shop guy is going to talk to you about part costs and assembly costs and you have no idea whether he is offering you the right price or the right part or even the right repairs. It pays to do a little research and find out before letting him run you down with unanticipated costs. Auto body parts are easy to find and source from online websites. These function by bringing in the cheapest parts from the cheapest places, shipping costs and overheads all factored in.

This might be the same thing the shop mechanic does, but you'll never know that for sure. The problem is that most of the time people are in a hurry to have their cars repaired and the man at the shop knows that. He knows he can coax you into buying something higher just because he says he doesn't have anything else and that it will take a few days to get it. If you search online, you are sure to find exactly what you need. Pay attention to what the mechanic says, and see if you can source the parts on your own. It'll be much cheaper if you just have to pay him for his time alone.




Here are a few good leads on where to search for these parts:
— auto-body-parts.com - This is a very useful website with thousands of parts to choose from. It is user friendly and has all the features necessary to source cheap and quality auto body parts.

—usautoparts.net - Not as reputed as the above mentioned site, but still a good place to visit. This website offers a similar interface that allows you to source parts without difficulty.

—eBay.com - Yes, as strange as it might sound, eBay is a great place to look for cheap parts. There are many sellers for auto body parts and it is always worth a look if you need a part for cheap. Be careful though, there is a chance you may get a defective product, make sure the seller is well rated and that you have a way to protect yourself.

There are many more websites to choose from, but the above have been tried and tested. There is nothing wrong with a little exploration though, that's how we find better things. The point to note here is that you do not have to listen to everything your mechanic says. He has every reason to take you for a ride. He may be honest to a fault, but the onus is on you to find the best alternatives for your car, more so if money is tight.

So take some initiative and search for yourself. You might find more than one thing that interests you, worst case scenario is that you've wasted around fifteen minutes or so. If you manage to find the best then choosing auto body parts MN or oem surplus parts from reputed dealers will help.
Thanks :)

Winter ? This Is Driving Tips For a Safe Winter


Winter driving can be scary as well as dangerous. One moment of inattention and you may find yourself in a dangerous situation. With spring a whole season away, this is a good time to review some expert tips and tricks for staying safe on the road. Here are the top ways to keep yourself, your passengers and your car safe and intact this winter.

Pay Attention

In bad weather, even the tiniest lapse of focus can send you spinning off the road. This means keeping your phone switched off while driving. It also means keeping both hands on the wheel instead of changing the radio station or digging for a map in the glove box. Avoid drinking or eating behind the wheel, especially a hot beverage. Teach kids the importance of being quiet in the car, so as not to distract the driver from the mission at hand.







Maintain a Safe Speed

Triple A reports that the majority of winter weather auto accidents are the result of excessive speed. It's difficult enough to maintain control in a winter storm or on icy roads when you're moving slowly. Excess speed can cause your tires, already lacking in traction, to lose their grip on the road altogether. A patient driver is one who arrives alive, particularly in bad weather.








Keep Your Car in Tip-Top Shape
Having your car serviced and checked regularly will prevent unexpected breakdowns but it will also allow you to drive more safely on bad roads. Keeping your tires rotated and properly inflated, for example, will provide the maximum amount of traction. Ensuring that your car's battery is in good shape means you're less likely to be stranded and unable to start the engine.


Know What to Do in an Emergency

Do you know what to do in the event of a spin or skid? There are different approaches depending on whether you have front-wheel or rear-wheel drive, but you won't have time to think about it when trouble strikes. Learn how to handle your car and practice your reactions so you'll be ready. Learn first aid and other emergency response skills too, including how to survive if you become stranded in the snow.







Pack a Safety Kit

Winter or summer, keep a fully stocked emergency kit in your car. Consumer Reports recommends including a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, flares or battery-powered warning lights, a tire gauge, jack, lug wrench, tire sealant, jumper cables, battery charger, gloves, water, energy bars, basic tools and warm blankets.

Have Body Repairs Done Promptly
Even if you practice every safety measure and observe all the common-sense tips in the world, emergencies can still happen. If you follow these basic tips, you and your passengers should come through safe and intact. Unfortunately your vehicle may not be so fortunate. If your car takes a beating at the hands of bad winter roads, it's important to have body damage repaired as quickly as possible. Left untouched, dents and paint scratches have no protection from roadway moisture and salt. Rust will quickly set it and even small areas of damage can become significant, requiring more expensive repairs later and even reducing your car's value. Don't wait for springtime to have your winter auto body damage repaired.

Thanks :)

CARA MEMATIKAN LAMPU INDIKATOR T-BELT PADA TOYOTA HIACE

Toyota HIACE

Langkah dan cara mematikan lampu peringatan timing belt atau cara reset lampu indikator T-BELT yang terdapat pada mobil TOYOTA bermesin 2KD-FTV termasuk kijang Innova diesel atau Toyota HIACE Commuter d4d common rail diesel.

Penyebab Lampu Indikator T-BELT Menyala
Kenapa lampu indikator T-BELT menyala? Lampu peringatan T-BELT akan menyala terus apabila kilometer tempuh untuk penggantian timing belt sudah tercapai, dari pabrikan km tempuh penggantian timing belt berada dikelipatan 150.000 km. Kalau lampu T-BELT menyala artinya timing belt harus diganti untuk menghindari timing belt putus karena telat diganti. 

Cara reset lampu peringatan T-Belt atau lampu indikator T-BELT
Apakah sesudah mengganti timing belt almpu indikator T-Belt akan mati dengan sendirinya? Setelah melakukan penggantian timing belt, lampu indikator T-Belt perlu direset ulang agar lampu timing belt menyala kembali jika kilometer tempuh penggantian timing belt berikutnya sudah tercapai.

Berikut adalah prosedur atau langkah dan cara untuk mereset kombinasi meter atau lampu indikator T-BELT:

1. Tekan dan lepas tombol trip meter atau Trip/ODO agar tampilan pada display berubah ke ODO dan angka dibelakang ODO adalah kilometer tempuh.
2. Putar kunci kontak ke posisi OFF, jika menggunakan turbo timer, matikan juga turbo timernya.
3. Tekan dan tahan tombol Trip/ODO dan putar kunci kontak ON.
4. Tekan terus tombol Trip/ODO lebih dari 5 detik dari saat kunci kontak ON.
5. Lepas tombol dan kemudian tekan sekali lagi.
6. Lepas tombol, pada langkah ini akan muncul angka 15 yang artinya 15 kali 10.000 km atau 150.000 km, angka 15 default setting dari pabrikan.
7. Tekan dan lepas tombol untuk memilih berapa ribu kilometer lagi lampu indikator T-BELT akan menyala lagi, angka bisa dirubah dari 1 hingga 20. Contoh, jika dipilih 8 artinya 80.000 km lagi lampu indikator T-BELT akan menyala lagi.
8. Setelah memilih angka yang dikehendaki, tekan dan tahan tombol selama 5 detik atau lebih agar tampilan display berubah ke ODO.
9. Ketika tampilan display Trip/ODO kembali ke mode ODO dan lampu peringatan T-BELT akan mati.

SEMOGA BERMANFAAT :)


Saturday, January 24, 2015

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR CAR

1. Ensure you and the car are insured with at least liability insurance so if you crash into another car, or something, or someone, that the repairs, and or medical bills will be covered by your insurance. Keep a copy of the current insurance summary in the car in a safe place so it is easy to find but won't get tossed out when you clean up, vacuum, and de-trash your car. 
  • Keep in mind that if you crash into the nice car that belongs to someone else it could cost over $50,000 to fix or replace the car. Make sure you have enough coverage.
2. Ensure you have a copy of the current vehicle registration papers in the car.
3. Ensure you have the current safety and emissions inspection documents.
4. You may want to keep the maintenance receipts in the car as well. Some people keep these in another location but this is a problem when you are at the shop, or home for the weekend. You may wish you had them in the car if someone asks when you last rotated the tires, changed the oil or transmission fluid, or flushed the radiator. Keep these receipts in the car.


5. Learn how to check the pressure in all of the tires and keep a tire pressure gauge in the car so you can check it at least monthly. Under inflated tires cause many accidents. An under inflated tire can be torn off the rim when cornering hard causing a serious crash. 
6. Remember that the oil in the engine needs to be changed regularly. Check the owners manual for guidance. Many cars need it changed every 3,000 miles (4,800 km).

7. Air filters should also be replaced periodically. Dirty oil and dirty air filters will allow dirt into the engine and scar the inside of the engine making wear out much faster and cause early and very expensive engine failure.

8. Rotate your tires every time you change the oil. This means having the wheels taken off and put back on in different locations such as moving the front tires to the back and vice versa. This helps the tires wear more evenly and last sometimes twice as long.


9. Check the pressure in the spare tire every month along with all of the other tires. Seasonal temperature swings can change the pressure in tires even if there is no leak.


10. Your brakes should be visually inspected at least once every year. Brake shoes eventually wear out just like the soles of your walking shoes. When they wear all the way through it can cause damage to the brake rotor that can be expensive to fix. Even though they stop the car effectively the shoes could be very thin and start damaging the brakes any time so check them visually when rotating your tires.
11. Learn how to check the vital fluids in your own car for your own safety. These are easy to check on most cars by opening the engine compartment. 1. Oil, 2. Coolant/Anti-freeze 3. Transmission fluid, 4. Brake Fluid, 5. Windshield wiper fluid. If they are low they should be topped off. If they keep getting low you might have a leak. Check your parking spot for drips.

12. Learn to change a flat tire. Learn how to use the jack and lug wrench that is in your car and practice jacking up your car and changing a tire in your driveway so you will know what to do if you get a flat.

13. In case of emergency keep a few items in a duffel bag in your car. Think about what you might need or want if your car broke down or got smashed and you had to stand outside for 3 hours waiting for help. What if you had to walk home in the heat or in a storm. Suggested items include:
  • 2 liters (0.5 US gal) of drinking water
  • First Aid kit
  • Working Flashlight
  • Warm jacket
  • Rain poncho
  • 6 X 8 foot tarp
  • 50 feet (15.2 m) of thin rope (parachute cord is ideal)
  • $30 cash in ones and fives.
  • If you live in a cold climate you may want to add an extra bag in the winter months that contains:
    • An extra warm winter coat
    • Warm winter gloves
    • Extra pants or thermals
    • Extra socks (wool)
    • Winter boots
      • These items could be used items from a garage sale or thrift store.

14. Learn how to wash your car. Never wipe off a dry car, it will scratch the paint.

15. If you live in a wet or snowy climate you may find it helpful to throw an old towel on the floor of your car to soak up slush and mud from your shoes. Just throw it into the washer once in a while. Be careful to keep it away from the brake, clutch and gas pedals.

16. Obtain a small booklet of sheet protectors to keep a few very important documents safe in your car. Label the outside with the make and model of your car so if it finds its way into the house it is obvious that it needs to be put back into the car. In this booklet of sheet protectors insert the following documents:
  • Insurance summary
  • Registration papers (Write the expiration date in your planner)
  • Safety and Emissions inspection papers
  • Receipts from repairs and maintenance

17. Keep this thin book tucked between the passenger seat and the center console for easy access.
THANKS..
Source : wikihow.com