Archive for July, 2008
Friday, July 25th, 2008
If you ever plan to involve yourself in activities such as boating, camping or some sort of automotive pastime, such as auto crossing or drag racing, then chances are you’ll need to do some towing. While it may seem scary, towing an average-sized trailer is really easier than it looks.
Two of the most important things to have when you tow are basic common sense and the ability to adjust your driving. In other words, when towing, everything you do while driving needs to be done at about half the speed when compared to driving without a trailer. When you turn, go much slower. When you accelerate, do it much easier. When you brake, allow yourself a great deal more space to stop. And when you change lanes, allow room for your vehicle and the trailer.
The types of things you are likely going to tow are a boat, a camper of some sort, or a car trailer that’s usually home to a race or show car. The following information on towing basics applies to just about any type of towing application whether the trailer is carrying a boat, a car, or any other item that needs a lift from point A to point B. The universal nature of this information is due to the fact that how much you can tow and what you tow with are mainly based on weights and capacities.
For purposes of discussion, let’s suppose you bought a boat and want to tow it to a lake. As the photos illustrate, towing a boat with a pickup truck is a very common way to go. As such, the tow vehicle is a major consideration when pulling a trailer, making that vehicle as important as what you’re pulling.
As far as cars go, a full-size body-on-frame, rear-wheel-drive car like a Ford Crown Victoria (rated to tow 2,000 pounds) or Chevy Caprice is a basic minimum for towing anything approaching the weight of a 2,000-pound trailer. For smaller trailers, a smaller car can work, but for hauling anything more than 2,000 pounds you’re going to need a truly tow-friendly vehicle.
Ideally, a truck or an SUV is always a smart choice for towing that boat or camper. Even a compact pickup like a Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado is going to be better than just about any car. For heavier loads (say more than 4,000 pounds) a half-ton truck like a Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado will meet the needs of just about any of the trailer-towing basics we’re discussing here. But even among half-ton trucks, towing ability can vary. For example, an F-150 with a 5.4-liter V8 will have a much easier time towing a 5,000-pound load than one with a 4.6-liter V8 because it simply has more horsepower and torque. Furthermore, the engine isn’t the only thing that can handle a heavier load. The transmission, brakes and rear axle are also upgraded, along with the larger engine. Beyond a typical half-ton truck, a three-quarter (such as an F-250) or one-ton (F-350) can handle loads well beyond 5,000 pounds. For example, an F-250 with a 5.4-liter V8 and 3.73 gears is rated to tow 12,500 pounds. Properly equipped, an F-150 is rated to tow 8,000 pounds with a 5.4-liter V8, an automatic transmission and 3.55 gears.
Besides the tow vehicle and the trailer, the other critical element is, of course, the hitch. Trailer hitches are rated according to capacity of the load weight and tongue weight. Load weight is referenced in terms of Gross Trailer Weight (GTW, see chart at the end of article). Tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball. This is usually calculated at 10-15 percent of the maximum rated GTW. The tongue is usually formed from the V-shaped merging of the trailer framerails at the front of the trailer. The coupler of the trailer is what accepts the hitch ball.
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Thursday, July 24th, 2008
The right recreational vehicle dealer can help you with choosing the perfect traveling RV: one that has everything you can possibly need while on the road. Information is the key to getting the perfect traveling unit for all your adventures. Think about where you want to go, what you need for your travels and your expectations while traveling. Now that you know what you’re looking for, find a recreational vehicle dealer and find the RV that is right for you in every way. Whether you are looking for a used or new RV dealer, the results will be the same. You will be provided with all the pertinent information to assure that you have the ultimate traveling experience. Traveling the country is an experience that you want to enjoy, and with a recreational vehicle, you can learn even more about the adventures that await you. Dealers provide information about the different accessories, upgrades and specifications available. This helps you choose the right traveling unit. Traveling is great fun; if the only thing holding you back is the recreational vehicle, then talk to an RV dealer and let him help you find the perfect unit to get you out on the road enjoying your freedom. There is so much information about recreational vehicles that will have you wondering what the best unit will be. An RV dealer supplies you with options and can provide ideas about what might fit your needs. Imagine traveling to Texas or Florida in the perfect RV, seeing all the beautiful scenery on the way. This is what all the talk is about when traveling. Enjoy comfort and enjoyment while owning your own RVs, traveling to wherever you desire. Campgrounds are located everywhere and provide for meeting new friends and plenty of relaxation while enjoying the fresh outdoor air. Finding an RV dealer you trust and respect is very important, this is where the dealer information gives you insight into their performance as far as being reliable and wanting to know your needs before selling you a used or new recreational vehicle. They will listen to all your needs and help you select a unit that meets your needs, and some will go beyond the call of duty to ensure you have an excellent traveling experience. RV dealers are located almost anywhere; once you find the perfect dealer, you can be sure to a have a great experience just choosing the RV. Then you are on the road to adventure and total freedom. Don’t worry about the mail or the phone, all you need is the RV and your comforts to enjoy freedom of the road. Think about it; an RV dealer who can supply with all the information to choose an RV and then all you have to do is add the final additions with personal effects and you are ready to hit the road and just start driving. Destination or no destination, this is the great thing about an RV, you do not have to follow a schedule of any kind.
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Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008
Since their introduction to the public several decades ago, ATVs have become increasingly popular. They are very appealing to riders because of the amount of the excitement one feels as they are riding. People are now discovering that the whole family can enjoy the excitement of the ATV.
On the negative side, though, more people are injured while riding ATVs than in any other recreational outdoor sport. If you are beginning to pursue an interest in ATVs, there are a number of things to know.
The first step is to head for the trails with someone who has experience with others ATV. Actually ride an ATV so that you can decide if you are really interested in getting one. Once you are certain that you like it, go pick out your vehicle. As of this second, it’s not a law but it is recommended that people of certain sizes use ATVs of certain sizes.
For example, if you have a son and he weighs 85 pounds, do not try to find an 800 or 900 cc machine for you to stick him on. Try putting him on a 440 or 600 cc machine. This is more in line with something he can handle. Also, make sure that you are fitted to the right machine.
It is usually not recommended that beginners buy brand new machines. As you end up becoming more familiar with the sport, you will talk with people who have different models, and you may end up finding yourself in constant pursuit of the “next best thing.” After you have your first machine, definitely take a safety course. Courses are usually broken up into three or four weeks, with them lasting two and a half hours a night once a week.
Consider these to be well worth your time and your money. Some courses even end with the instructor taking the class out on to trails. Courses are not mandatory - but they will most likely be one day!
Next, you should take the time necessary to sit down at night and read your owner’s manual. Keep in mind that each ATV is different, so if there are labels or parts you don’t know, the only real answers you will ever find will be in the manuals. Oh yeah…when you go out on the trail, make sure that you carry the owner’s manual with you.
If you have bought a used machine from a neighbor or someone else, you can get a copy of the owner’s manual by taking the serial number off the machine and going to a dealer.
The next thing that you are going to want to do is to get out on to a trail and practice. That really is the only way that you are going to learn how to drive an ATV. Of course, you will always want to make sure that you have permission from whoever owns the land! In the beginning, be sure that you do what you must to ensure that you are riding sensibly.
Ride with experienced people. As with other sports, you only get better by riding with people who are better than you. So ride with people who have a fair amount of experience. In addition, no matter how confident you are, when beginning, make sure that you always ride under the supervision of someone who can guide you. In other words, never, ever ride alone.
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Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008
When most people think about a motorcycle trip on the open road, one thing comes to mind; simplicity. People envision motorcycle riders roughing it with just the clothes on their back. In reality though, even the most die-hard motorcycle rider likes to have at least a few of the essentials with them, and many more like to take a little bit extra.
This is where a custom luggage motorcycle rack comes into play. Most modern motorcycles can easily be outfitted with basic saddlebags to carry a few items. Motorcycle luggage racks however give the rider the ability to be able to pack a little bit more. Even older model motorcycles can be outfitted with custom luggage motorcycle racks for them to pack their belongings in. When you decide to outfit your motorcycle with a custom luggage motorcycle rack, there are three important things you should take into consideration.
3. The Material it is Made From
While purchasing a custom luggage motorcycle rack that is made from cheaper materials may seem like a good idea to save a few bucks, in reality it really isn’t a good idea. Purchasing motorcycle luggage racks made from quality materials will actually save you money in the long run, because you won’t have to replace it as often. Motorcycle parts are exposed to the elements far more than car parts are, and this exposure can cause materials to deteriorate faster. When you purchase a custom luggage motorcycle rack that is made from high quality materials, it will last you for years to come.
2. The Weight and Size of the Luggage Rack
The weight and size of the luggage rack you choose can have a huge impact on how your motorcycle handles on the road. Having a luggage rack that is too heavy can cause excess drag on your motorcycle. If the luggage rack is too large, it can make the motorcycle awkward and unbalanced. While you may desire to choose the biggest luggage rack there is so that you can carry more things with you, you should definitely speak to a specialist about exactly what weight and size luggage rack is the best choice for your specific motorcycle.
1. Compatibility with Your Motorcycle
This is the most important thing you should consider when choosing your custom luggage motorcycle rack. Not all luggage racks are compatible with all motorcycles and choosing the wrong rack can make many different things happen. The rack may not attach correctly, which can cause physical damage to the motorcycle or even cause the luggage rack to fall off. When consulting with the person or company that is going to manufacture your custom luggage motorcycle rack, it is important that you make sure they help you find a luggage rack that is perfectly compatible with your motorcycle.
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Monday, July 21st, 2008
San Johnson’s pickup truck is driving him to the poorhouse.
“That thing they say at the Dodge dealer, 13 to 15 mpg, that’s a bunch of bullcrap,” the 51-year-old says while waiting to fill up his 2005 Dodge Ram at Huey’s Mart.
“It’s about 11,” he continues, “eight when I’m pulling my trailer.”
Like many Las Vegans, Johnson plans to downsize to a more fuel-efficient vehicle, as soon as he can scrape up the cash.
“Some of the little trucks, like the Toyota Tundra, they’ve got a full-size bed in the back,” says Johnson, an independent handyman who needs to haul bulky tools from job to job.
Unfortunately, Johnson can’t even scrape up the cash to fill his pickup right now. He walks inside Huey’s to place $60 cash on pump No. 5 — and that’s after waiting for 20 minutes at the only valley service station never to break the $4 mark.
“It’s really having an effect on me, man, I’m telling you,” says Johnson, who spends as much as $300 per week on gasoline.
“My operational costs in the last eight years have went up over 300 percent,” he says. “Everywhere I look, I’m trying to figure out when am I gonna break even.”
Jeremy Muklow also feels the pinch. He says he plans to ditch his big ride, a 10 miles-per-gallon 1977 Dodge Power Wagon, for a Honda CDR motorcycle. The 25-year-old iron worker hopes the trade will slash his gasoline bill from $120 per week to $20.
“Dude, it’s depressing,” says Muklow, who has had to give up snowboarding and dirtbike-riding, his two favorite pastimes.
“I can’t go so many places I used to,” Muklow says. “It’s really frustrating.”
Findlay Toyota reports that fuel efficiency is now the No. 1 concern of its new car customers.
“We’ve seen an upsurge in demand for our smaller cars,” says general manager Rich Abajian, who reports that 70 percent of customers seek a car that gets good mileage and 20 percent specifically request Toyota’s Prius hybrid, which has a combined city/highway mpg of 46 and a base sticker price of $23,000.
“Two years ago, people weren’t coming in and asking about them, because they thought they were too gimmicky,” Abajian says. “And six months ago, only about 5 percent were asking.”
As recently as March, Abajian says Findlay had 15 unsold Priuses on its lot. Now there are none, and 100 are on back order. (The longest wait is about three months.)
Although trading in a gas guzzler is always the most fuel-efficient choice, it is not always the most cost-efficient one.
A recent Consumer Reports study warns that downsizing too soon can cost more in the long run than drivers will save at the pump. At issue is the cost of depreciation and loan interest. Depreciation accounts for 48 percent of total ownership costs in the first five years of ownership, while fuel (according to 2007 prices) averages 21 percent.
As a rule of thumb, therefore, if you financed a new car less than three years ago and haven’t paid off the loan, even a hybrid won’t pay off.
In addition, as Abajian points out, the market value of used gas guzzlers keeps dropping as gasoline prices rise.
“You look at what cars are running through the auctions for, and the value of a big truck coming in on trade is decreasing in the last 90 days considerably,” he says. “So it doesn’t always make sense to trade in something like a big truck, because the money they’re losing on that truck probably would pay for a lot of gas.”
Some Las Vegans say they’re holding onto their gas guzzlers whatever the price of gasoline.
“It doesn’t matter,” says Chris Tromba, proud owner of a 1992 Lamborghini Diablo, whose 12 cylinders annihilate gasoline at the rate of six miles per gallon.
“It could be $100 a gallon,” the 36-year-old real estate appraiser says. “It’s a 200 mph car, and it was always a dream of mine to own something like that.”
For daily use, Tromba relies on a Mercedes 430 CLK. But he still manages to rack up 12,000 miles on his Lamborghini each year.
“I drive it for pleasure, not necessity,” he says. “I just like a lot of pleasure.
“It’s fun being king of the road.”
Even Tromba’s not entirely unaffected by the $1,000 he and his wife now spend on gasoline per month, however.
“That’s why we’re thinking about converting our main cars to vegetable oil,” he says.
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Friday, July 18th, 2008
We have all been asked that ridiculous question from at least one high school guidance counselor or teacher: “If you had a million dollars what would you do with it?” As if by addressing this question it would map out what our future profession should be, and how to attain it. In reality, most people decide their career by utilizing three methods: follow their dreams, follow in their parents’ footsteps, or simply try on everything and see what fits. For the most part, the best we can hope for is a job we like and a hobby we love. As for Gary Garret Jr., of Lewisville, Texas, he ended up with the best of both worlds.
Gary Jr. chose method No. 2-he followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the U.S. Postal Service. Although they share the same profession, it’s not the only thing the two have in common. Gary Jr. also shares his father’s love of hot rods. Even though Gary’s profession may be notorious for mental breakdowns and for inspiring the “Going Postal!” phrase, it has allowed Gary to engage in two of the activities he enjoys most: building hot rods and spending quality time with his old man. Over the years the father-son combo has teamed up for multiple creations, including their latest project.
Early one morning while making his rounds (yeah, I threw some Cash in there), Gary spotted an old Chevy truck along his postal route. The old girl appeared to be in decent condition, other than some slight body damage on the right rear quarter-panel. Further inspection brought delight to Gary: he discovered the Chevy was still sporting its original paint and interior, and the odometer checked in at just over 56,000 original miles. After some mild negotiation, Gary was the new proud owner of a 1972 Chevrolet Super Cheyenne.
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Monday, July 14th, 2008
Located just off Speedway Boulevard (I-85, exit 49), the Fleetwood RV Racing Camping Resort at Charlotte is a short walk from the front stretch of America’s premier race place, Lowe’s Motor Speedway. The resort, a short drive from the shopper’s paradise of Concord Mills, is adjacent to the renowned Rocky River Golf Course.
Four hundred sixty-two standard and pull-through sites are available, equipped with electricity (30 , 50-amp), sewer, water hookups and a picnic table. Phase I of the resort opened in 1999 with 243 sites on 16 acres. Phase II was completed in 2001 and added 219 ultra large sites and expanded the area to 29 acres. An open Pavilion was also added that features a kitchen, stage, and large seating area that have hosted camping clubs, weddings, and company parties. The ultra modern restroom and shower facility completes all the needs for a great camping experience.
Fishing is allowed in the ponds on the camping property on a fish and release rule. The lakes were originally stocked with 200 bass, 100 shell crackers, 200 bluegills and 100 catfish. There are benches and swings by the ponds so our guests can sit back and relax while they wait on
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Friday, July 11th, 2008
For the ATV enthusiast there are many different brands of ATVs to choose from. However there are a few names that stand out from all of the ATVs that are on the market. These brand names include Yamaha ATVs, Suzuki ATVs, Kawasaki ATVs and of course Honda ATVs.Now while you might be tempted to buy your ATVs from any old place you may want to buy these ATV brands from authorized dealers who specialize in that particular brand. For buying good quality Honda ATVs you should therefore see what various Honda ATV dealers have in stock.There are lots of Honda ATV dealers who can help you to buy an ATV that is within your budget and that will be able to fulfill all of your work or recreational requirements. Some of these dealerships can be found by asking your local Honda motor dealer for assistance. Other times the internet can solve this problem by locating Honda ATV dealers within your area.
You can also look on the internet for fantastic sales and promotional deals with different Honda dealers. This way you can find the different accessories that you can use with your new Honda ATV. By looking to see what these Honda ATV dealers have in stock you can make the decision about getting either a sports ATV or a general all purpose utility ATV.As there is a wide range of Honda ATVs available in the market you will have a chance of looking for various Honda ATV dealers who can provide you with the ATV that you will find most useful for your life. This way you can search for a Honda ATV dealer who can point you to the Honda ATV that you will be able to drive without any nightmares about money causing you to lose your concentration.When you finally find Honda ATV dealers that you are satisfied with you can then see about narrowing down the choices of ATVs that they have in stock to choose the one that you will enjoy riding around in the most. As ATVs need a lot of body participation you should choose a Honda ATV with a very comfortable seat.The final items that you will need to discuss with your chosen Honda ATV dealers – besides the low price that you would like to pay – is whether you will be able to return your ATV should there be any problems. You will also need to enquire about customer service in case your Honda ATV needs to be repaired.Once you have all of these matters safely dealt with all you need to do is drive your new Honda ATV to the nearest deserted race track and find out if everything that the Honda ATV dealers claim about Honda ATVs is true. So go ahead and plow your way around the race course and have loads of fun
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Thursday, July 10th, 2008
A Dual Sport Motorcycle is basically a street legal dirt bike that can be ridden on the highway and also on trails. Often referred to as Enduros or Street Legal Off Road Bikes, they can be a lot of fun even for the more advanced dirt rider.
The benefits of such a motorcycle are:
1. Not having to transport your motorcycle to an off road trail with a pickup or a trailer.
2. Versatility of highway and off road transportation in one bike.3. Economic savings when used for your every day commuting needs (50 %u2013 75 mpg).
4. Legal and insurable recreation and transportation combinedThere are two ways you can obtain a dual sport bike.1. Purchase a factory made street legal dirt bike. These are sold as Dual Sport Bikes, in the past they were called Enduros.
You have the advantages of the bike being in compliance with all highway vehicle laws, and a design that gives a little more comfort for the riderThe disadvantage to this is a tamed down bike that is a bit heavier and sluggish when compared to a factory designed dirt machine.2. Purchase a dirt bike and make the needed conversions to make it a street legal machine.The disadvantage to this approach is the effort and money needed to ad a legal lighting system, registration and others accessories required by the department of motor vehicles. There are kits that can be purchased to accomplish this but they are model specific and will not fit all applications.
The advantage to this approach is a customized machine and if you%u2019re careful you will maintain most of the bikes power and agility.Which ever path you choose you will not be disappointed. A street legal dirt bike is not only fun but also very useful!
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Thursday, July 10th, 2008
A muscle car spoiler is a car spoiler attached on a muscle car, which is a term for high-performance cars, primarily American models produced between 1964 and 1974. Muscle car spoilers make the vehicle unique and stand out in the crowd. Often with flashy, sporty styling, these mid-sized cars have special trims and large powerful engines (V8 engines). The special trims are intended for utmost acceleration on the street or in drag racing competition.
The muscle car models initially sported only rear spoilers. The construction of front spoilers not only enhanced the appearance, but also added functionality in terms of aerodynamic design. The muscle car spoilers, both frontal and rear spoilers, are usually molded into the bumper caps. This arrangement helps to reduce the car’s lift and drag and increase its downforce. Subsequently, these would ensure increase in traction, permitting the car to brake, turn, and accelerate properly and more forcefully.Muscle car spoilers come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. In early cars, spoilers were made of plastic. Those were not fit to survive the constant exposure of UV rays of the sun. The spoilers are now made from polyurethane, which are durable and sturdy materials. A few are also made from lightweight steel or fiberglass. A car with a good spoiler means that there is less resistance, which would result in a higher top speed.Some of the muscle car models that come with spoilers include the Pontiac Tempest Le Mans GTO, the Buick Riviera Gran Sport, the Dodge Charger, the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS, and Oldsmobile Cutlass 442. The Pontiac Tempest installed its first rear spoiler in 1969, along with other accessories such as decals, and a 366 horsepower, Ram Air III V8. The Dodge Charger Daytona built in 1969 features front spoiler and a huge rear deck spoiler
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