Archive for the 'Cars and Trucks' Category

Hydrogen For Cars Represents Way The Ahead

by Adrian Fletcher

As gas prices continue to rise with seemingly no end in sight, energy experts, energy commissions and the people on the street are all looking at every potential alternatives to reliance on gas. One particularly promising option is hydrogen fuel cells. Hydrogen car fuel is not just a subject for exploring new energy horizons it opens up new possibilities in our mode of travel.

Hydrogen gas is an important contender to replace fossil fuels as an energy source for combustion engines. It can be found in most things including water to the compost heap in your backyard. The high degree of availability makes hydrogen gas a valuable and attractive resource to consider.

Methods for producing hydrogen fuel for cars can vary, but they are all quite efficient and much cleaner than is fossil fuel production. For instance, a gasoline production refinery requires 300 billion gallons of water to produce that fuel, but if it produced the same amount of hydrogen, it would only need one million gallons of water.

The gallon of gasoline equivalent to hydrogen costs about half as much as gasoline but improves fuel economy by over two-thirds more. Hydrogen fuel also decreases engine operating temperatures, all but eliminating emissions as well as the unwanted carbon footprint.

Availability of hydrogen for cars is currently a big drawback for production of hydrogen- fueled vehicles. The possibilities of home hydrogen fueling stations is a reality but at the time of the writing of this article, not an affordable one for every home.

If cars were to run exclusively on electricity generated on board from hydrogen fuel a new paradigm in vehicle design would emerge. The equipment needed to propel a car would be much more basic, and smaller doing away with many design limitations. Some of these limitations include having to design around a heat-producing engine, and bulky floorboard configurations that currently are required for driveline equipment.

Hydrogen for cars will become more cost effective as hydrogen production increases, creating a new era of energy consumption. Using hydrogen will decrease society’s dependence on fossil fuels, an added benefit for the environment. The reality is that gas prices will not retreat much from this current high mark, which will only increase the pace at which hydrogen fueled cars and the equipment needed to make them a reality develops.

About the Author:

Posted on Sunday, October 19th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »

Motorcycle Law: Ponch and Jon

When examining the various branches of law enforcement, it is evident police motorcycles are an integral part of maintaining and enforcing traffic safety. Motorcycle patrols can be more common in some areas of the nation than in others. This incongruity has a great deal to do with weather and road conditions in any given city or county. Where it’s cold, you have less motorcycle patrols. Typically, motorcycle patrols frequent highways or busy thoroughfares as their deftness and speed are well-suited to navigating the gridlock.

Motorcycles have been used in law enforcement since the early 1900s. They were used to monitor traffic laws and as escort vehicles for government dignitaries. Over the years, a variety of police departments and state troopers exclusively used Harley-Davidson models. In recent history, however, police have decided to use motorcycles from such companies as Kawasaki, Honda and BMW. Despite their rich history, motorcycle patrolmen would only be folded into the popular culture by means of a television show.

The television show, known as “ChiPs,” was on-air from 1977 to 1983. The popular show depicted the brave officers of the California Highway Patrol. This light action-drama starred Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox. Although most motorcycle patrolmen are rarely paired off, the series asserted Erik Estrada’s character, Officer Francis (Ponch) Poncherello, was so undisciplined he needed the guidance of a more level-headed officer, Larry Wilcox’s Officer Jon Baker, to keep him from getting into trouble.

A typical “ChiPs” episode used a lucrative combination of light comedy and melodrama. While on regular patrols, the dynamic duo would invariably get entangled in a new crisis — just another day for Ponch and Jon. One of the many sub-plots of the series was Ponch’s role as a Cassanova. Before he could court the love of his life, the typical episode would involve over-the-top stunts and crash scenes. With the debris cleaned up after a quick commercial break, the show always wrapped with a lighthearted sub-plot.

Though a far cry from the genuine danger motorcycle law enforcement officers encounter, the show was a tremendous public relations success. Accidents involving motorcycles are always more gruesome than accidents involving automobiles, a fact seldom portrayed on television. Life is seldom wrapped up with a still of laughing patrolmen and a catchy soundtrack. If you are unsure about a legal situation you may be involved in as a result of a motorcycle accident, seek out qualified representation.

About the Author:

Posted on Thursday, October 9th, 2008
Under: Motorcycles | No Comments »

Hydrogen Gas Fuel - Alternative To Gasoline

Hydrogen is something that is present in great amounts over the entire earth. It is found in many locations such as in water and plant matter, compost materials and even in algae. Because it is present in such large amounts, hydrogen is being considered as an option to replace fossil fuels. Pure hydrogen gas fuel is created by splitting hydrogen from the other elements that join it to form substances like water. Breaking the bond requires some form of chemical processing or heating. After blending hydrogen gas fuel with oxygen, only heat and water are produced when ignited, making it about as eco-friendly as you could hope for!

There are pros and cons involved with each of the different methods of distilling hydrogen to its purest form, which include emissions created from the refining process, and finding an efficient and cost-effective way to produce hydrogen gas fuel. In the United States, steam methane reforming is the method most commonly used at this time and involves heating natural gas at varying temperatures to extract the hydrogen.

It will take quite a lot of capital to establish the infrastructure required to make hydrogen gas fuel on a scale to satisfy a large part of the world’s energy needs. Hydrogen can be separated from water through electrolysis, a process which passes an electric current through the water. Using electricity produced from windmills, solar panels, or other sources will allow hydrogen generation on a much larger and environmentally-friendly scale. Choosing a location for a hydrogen production facility raises geographic concerns. Because there are no greenhouse gas emissions in producing hydrogen gas fuel, the electrolysis method is worth the investment.

Hydrogen is an extremely flexible fuel as it can be stored and transported in both liquid and gas forms. Hydrogen gas fuel can be transported in its vapor form roughly one to two hundred miles from the refining facility. For long distance transport up to one thousand miles the hydrogen is transported in liquid form requiring specially designed super-insulated tanks.

Of all the different types of fuels, hydrogen gas fuel has the highest energy to weight ratio. In comparison to gasoline, hydrogen produces approximately three times more energy without the ill effects of carbon dioxide and sulfur emissions and more than six times more energy than we can get from coal.

Hydrogen gas keeps its efficiency through differing ranges of air fuel mixtures than gas, making it more efficient combustion-wise. The rating of hydrogen gas fuel is equal to that of an octane rating of 130, much greater than the highest octane gas that is available to the consumer at the gas station.

Hydrogen gas fuel can be used to power everything from cities to cell phones. Vehicles ranging from scooters to spacecraft can be operated using hydrogen gas. Consumer vehicles can be produced or even retrofitted to burn this earth friendly fuel. Time will tell if hydrogen gas becomes a viable alternative as gas prices continue to soar. Given it’s abundance and the right infrastructure it could solve many of the worlds energy and environmental problems.

About the Author:

Posted on Thursday, October 9th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »

Motorcycle Accidents: Road Rash

Though car drivers may balk, there are some real benefits to motorcycling. First off, the driver remains connected to his environment. The continuous need to stay composed requires a motorcyclist be alert at all times. His or her margin for error is very narrow and there is a life-and-death need to be present. This is often portrayed as a kind of meditative state at 60 miles an hour.

This idyllic state would be far more attractive if there were no one else on the road. Cars, trucks, pedestrians, and even other motorcycles, have to be taken into consideration. Most traffic fatalities involve motorcyclists. The factors behind these deaths can be attributed to two main factors. The first is the visibility of the motorcyclist. Often they are not noticed and suffer from blind lane changes. The second is a loss of balance, which chiefly occurs during turns.

There are some steps motorcyclists can take to minimize their chances of injury or accidents. Since visibility is a key concern, motorcycles must be visible to other motorists. This can be as simple as keeping the headlight on at all times or even flying an iridescent flag or streamer. Averting injuries boils down to having a full set of personal protective equipment. First and foremost, among the assorted pieces of equipment, is a helmet. Its benefits are self-evident. Leather or Kevlar-reinforced gloves, jackets, and pants are all critical for preventing injury. It is rarely the fall from the motorcycle that causes injury, rather it is the asphalt itself. Additionally, a pair of sturdy boots will help prevent damage to the feet and ankles.

Other than equipment and better visibility, it is recommended that all motorcyclists finish a driving course with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Understanding the concept of counter steering is necessary to preventing a loss of control. The main culprit in turning accidents is a lack of understanding of basic physics. Essentially, the concept of counter steering involves leaning the motorcycle away from the turn direct to shift the pivot point out from under the center of the cycle’s mass. This requires turning away from the direction you want to turn in. Without proper instruction, this can be very counter-intuitive to amateur riders.

These safety measures are intended to help you stay safe and enjoy your ride. If speed is a key factor to your enjoyment, be sure to have your motorcycle regularly inspected. It is possible many components could loosen over time and mainly at high rates of speed. Proper servicing should be a constant concern. Moreover, make sure your motorcycle license is up-to-date. Protect yourself physically and legally from any unforeseen motorcycle accident.

About the Author:

Posted on Thursday, October 9th, 2008
Under: Motorcycles | No Comments »

An Introduction to Motor Scooter Racing

The racing of motor scooters helps the motor scooter enthusiast meet their hunger for speed. Each race has a different class for riders. Some, officially sanctioned, racing events allow the participant to ride their wild, tricked out modified motor scooters. Also, you can even race a motor scooter if you have a stock scooter. Additionally, you can race your a scooter that is as small as 50cc.

There are several forms of motor scooter races. In Europe, it is popular to drag race your motor scooter. But, in the United States the riding on twisty tracks is popular.

The rules for every sanctioned racing authority varies. But, all officially sanctioned scooter organizations have certain safety requirements. For example, riders must have a full face helmet and a set of leathers. Additionally, your bolts on your scooter need to be safety-wired so they do not come loose when you are racing. Also, Nyloc nuts maybe required on parts of your scooter and you may be required to tape your headlights to your scooter. Overall, when compared to motorcycle and/or stock car racing, motor scooter racing is not that expensive of a hobby.

Their are several regional, and international motor scooter sanctioning racing organizations. Here are some of the major ones:

The motor scooter racing body that serves the Midwest of the United States is the Mid-American Scooter Sports (MASS). They organize races in Ohio, Missouri, and Wisconsin.

As the name implies , the Eastern Scooter Racing Association (ESRA) holds motor scooter races on the eastern coast of the United States.

American Scooter Racing Association (ASRA) - is based in California and is the Grand Daddy of motor scooter racing organization in the United States.

British Scooter Sport Organization (BSRA) - As the name implies this organization governs motor scooter racing in the United Kingdom. It runs races from 50cc scooters and up to 650cc. According to their website it costs 27 pounds to participate in their race.

About the Author:

Posted on Thursday, October 9th, 2008
Under: Motorcycles | No Comments »

Maintaining Good Tire Pressure

Tires are often the last items we think about when it comes to car maintenance, until the day we have a flat. Keeping tires inflated properly and a good tread will save on fuel costs, tire repair, or even towing if you get a flat.

Inflating your tires to the recommended PSI will keep your tires in better condition, preventing uneven wear on the tread. Check the sidewall of the tire, or the manufacturer’s sticker inside the door for the required PSI. The vehicle manual also gives recommended tire size and inflation instructions.

Accidents are a major concern with over-inflated or under-inflated tires. Taking the time to check the tire pressure is worth the safety of the passengers in the vehicle. This is even more urgent if traveling on the highway. Most people do not consider an improperly maintained tire life-threatening, but it can lead to dangerous circumstances.

Invest in a decent tire gauge to measure the PSI in your tires. Don’t decide a tire is inflated properly just by looking at it. Do not rely on air pumps for accurate pressure readings either. They are not always reliable. Air pressure gauges are carried at auto manufacturers, auto supply stores, or even department stores. Find a gauge with a calibration up to 80 PSI.

Check the tire pressure on all tires, including the spare on a monthly basis. Keep a log in the glove compartment of the pressure readings. This way, you can determine the tires need servicing or not. If you decide your tires need to be looked at by a service technician, show the log readings. The serviceman will get a better idea of what to look for by the pressure readings recorded in the log.

Measuring the tire pressure only takes a few minutes, and will give you peace of mind when you are driving. Insert the gauge into the stem of the tire. A measure stick will push out of the end of the pressure gauge, telling you the tire pressure. Add air to the tire if the gauge reads lower than the recommended air pressure. Let air out of the tire if it becomes overinflated by pushing in on the stem in the middle of the valve. Measure the tire again for proper PSI.

This can be confusing the first few times, so if you feel uncomfortable pumping the air to the correct pressure, bring the vehicle to a service station. They will fill your tires to the proper limit. Some service stations offer this service for free; others will charge a small amount.

There are different causes for damaged tires: over inflation, under inflation, heavy loads in the vehicle, or not rotating the tires. Make the monthly tire check part of your routine for the best wear on your tires, and more importantly, the safety of your passengers.

About the Author:

Posted on Thursday, October 9th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »

Have You Ever Thought About Creative Car Audio Reviews

There are as we know many different types of car audios that we can buy. In addition you will be provided with other information. As you look through the internet you will see that you have a wide choice of car audio reviews to look at. To get the best service that is possible you should look not only at the various car audio systems that are in the market but the car audio reviews that you can find.

Now with the many car audio reviews you should be able to judge what sort of car audio will be working to your satisfactions. This information can help you to make an informed decision about what type of car audio that you will be able to afford. All of this help will make your choice easier in choosing a car audio. Now when you go through these reviews you should be able to see the various descriptions that are there for these audio systems.

There are also car audio reviews where you will be able to see the top ten choices of consumers. These reviews are based on what the different customers have to say about the various car audios that they have bought. Once you have finally bought your car audio you will know the best way that you can choose a car audio should you need it again.

For the car lover there is nothing as satisfying as a car that has all of the latest accessories installed. Going into these links will reveal the various car audios these stores have in stock. As this can sometimes be a bother you can utilize the internet as a research mechanism.

Now even though you are initially going to do some research the internet may tempt you to buy some of their goods from these car audio stores. Their comments can help you to avoid car audios that will give you many problems. Once you have looked at the various car audios that you can buy you should check out a few car audio reviews to see what other customers have to say about the different car audios.

So what should you do once you reach these various car audio stores? Once you have brought your car audio system all that remains is to follow the instructions and install the system. Among the many questions that you can ask should be the specifications of these car audios and the price range of each.

About the Author:

Posted on Wednesday, October 8th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »

Considering Buying Oreillys Auto Parts?, Read This

by Tope Olawumi

Oreillys auto parts shop is a well known source with expertise and experience in battery testing, drum and rotor resurfacing, fluid recycling jobs, loaner tool program, testing of electrical parts, module testing, searching of products, etc.

The company was licensed in 1957, though the source in the automotive business and the urge for advancement can be traced back to a much earlier time.

They boast of wealth of experience and expertise in their chosen field. But, the establishment has set up1750 store fronts in well over 26 states of almost $3 billion for the year ending 2006.

Get Performance Parts In Oreillys Auto Parts

The outfit have worked hard just from the beginning to stand by and firmly maintain the conditions of their work statement “To be the chief dealer of auto parts in the market sector by offering would-be customers, expert installers, and jobbers the best result combination of pricing and quality made available with the best possible performance level”.

This provides all customer who come to Oreilly auto parts stores the best level of fulfillment which makes them to always want to come back.

Another Reliable Car Part Store You Can Trust - OReillys Auto Parts

The outlet is a foremost representative of most local and foreign auto-machines assemblers, you must get most auto parts and body parts you required for your car make with no difficulty couple with the recommended specification.

You can also depend on their auto specialists to guide you with the help of their free online chatting system if if you contact them. Their online catalog is well stocked and really easy to use to purchase the correct part you required to the last number and details, you can also use it to locate their outlets closest to you, to them for all that you need.

Oreillys auto parts: The Store Of Reliable Warranty

you order online or offline you benefit from the same level of warranty, which tells you the real quality of oreillys auto parts and other valuable services they give.

About the Author:

Posted on Wednesday, October 8th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »

propane and gas

There has been a long debate in the off roaders empire. The debate on what fuel source is the right one. Both the propane users and the gas users claim there choice is the safest and more efficient.

We will go over a few of the advantages and disadvantages of both fuel systems. Let’s start with the gas option. Gas has been used to fuel almost 80% of combustion engines in the last hundred years.

That fact alone makes a good argument for gas, right? Well let’s take a good look at it. Gas is available on almost every corner in every city in the USA. There is high octane, low octane, racing fuel. Gas is in a liquid form and that makes prone to run out of vents and fuel caps when the vehicle is on its side or upside down.

Propane burns cleaner the gas. Propane is readily available in the US although not quite as common. We have been burning it in forklifts for years with great results. The tanks that hold it are bulky and cumbersome. propane does not run out like liquid when a vehicle is on its side or upside down.

The choice is yours alone. The best way to make an informed decision is consult the experts and decide which fuel is for you. I know some rock crawlers in the formula toy category use propane. The performance seems to be close to that of gas.

offroad tips and info

About the Author:

Posted on Wednesday, October 8th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »

All About Expressive Custom Car Parts

There are lots of people who like to change how their cars look and perform. For these people buying various custom car parts is part of trying to attain their ideal vision of a great car. For this reason you can find these individuals looking through many different car parts magazines and the internet. To get these parts these individual will spend some time researching the various car parts just to ensure that the needed specifications are available so that these parts can be installed in their car.

Unlike many ordinary car parts custom car parts can be bought separately so that they meld together with different brands. This means that you don’t necessarily have to buy all of your custom car parts from the same country or even the same manufacturer. One of the best ways to find the good quality custom car parts is in many ways the internet. Now even though these parts are from different models there is a good chance that they will still provide excellent quality performance.

In addition to these facts you will need to see whether these internet custom car parts can be returned if you find any defective parts. You can also see if there are car parts and accessories stores that can provide you with the service of installing custom car parts in to your car. Generally you will find that very few internet companies allow returns or exchanges.

At the end of your venture into having custom car parts you will have learned many facts that will be of help when you need to install these various parts into your car. There will be others still that you can easily afford without too much of a problem. One way of getting a great car stereo that works to the specifications that you want is to see about having a custom car stereo system installed in your car. There are many different types of car stereo systems that you can install in your cars.

You can explore the various options that are available for custom car stereo parts and decide which ones are more suited for you and your budget. This round of pre-shopping can save you the future hassle of tying to find good quality stereos that have low prices. This type of information is very relevant as you will need to decide on the best route to take. With this information you will need to visit various internet sites that can help you to select the different car stereo suppliers and see if they are willing to do custom car stereo installations.

After you have finished your research in custom car stereo systems you can decide which store you want to buy your new car stereo from. These will come in handy the next time that you have to buy or make another custom car stereo or if you wish to upgrade the various parts. Once you have found whether this type of custom car stereo will be good you should investigate the amount of money that will be required. You will need to see the various other custom car audio systems that are in stock before you come to a final decision. Well before you even think of buying the custom car stereo you have to see the various specifications and verify if that system will work in your car.

About the Author:

Posted on Wednesday, October 8th, 2008
Under: Cars and Trucks | No Comments »