The Benefits of Truck Tarps

Tarpaulins, often called tarps, are frequently used to cover and secure loads in different types of trucks. Truck tarps can make carrying loads in pickup trucks, flatbeds, dump trucks, and other types of trucks much easier. Having a truck tarp is also safer, with less likelihood of the load falling off the truck and causing problems for the driver or for other vehicles on the road.

Truck tarps for pickups typically cost around $40. Truck tarps for full size pickup beds are about $5 more. These tarps are made to cover a full load in the bed of the truck, securing it and protecting it from the elements. Good truck tarps come with hook and straps to secure the tarp to the truck bed and eliminate the need to tie complicated knots with rope to secure the tarp.

Truck tarps are also available for flatbed trailers. Cargo such as lumber and steel cables are often carried in flatbed trailers. Truck tarps covering a 48-foot long trailer with 8-foot drops can be purchased for about $400 online. Usually, two tarps are needed, bringing the total price to around $800. These truck tarps are waterproof and have grommets through which cables can attach the tarp to the truck.

Dump trucks also need to be covered with tarps to secure their load. Roll up tarps are usually used on dump trucks. These tarps roll up into a cylinder for storage up behind the cab of the truck, and can be pulled out and secured to the other end of the bed to cover the truck's cargo. Tarps for dump trucks usually start at $300 for basic models, with bigger or more elaborate models costing more.

Covering truck beds is one of the many uses of tarps. There are a variety of other applications for tarpaulins.

Discount Motorcycle Tires

Discount motorcycle tires are a great buy, but only if you know how to choose the right ones. As motorcycle tires cost a bundle, investing in a pair of discount motorcycle tires is actually not a bad idea to put a curb on your expenses.

When buying discount motorcycle tires, make sure to check the tire pressure. This is because it is the air, and not the carcass, which supports the tire. Nowadays, underinflation of tires is considered to be a tire's number-one enemy. For better traction during wet conditions, increase the air pressure by 10 percent. If you are not sure of the pressure of the motorcycle tire, you could look at the sticker found on the VIN plate, for the required pressure of the tire. Proper alignment is important for discount motorcycle tires, as proper alignment ensures better handling and longer wears of the tire.

Since improper balance of the motorcycle shortens tire life, it must be checked when buying discount motorcycle tires. This is mainly because its balance changes after 500 or 1,000 miles of use. Make sure that the valve stem cap of the discount motorcycle tire is securely fastened on the stem, as it is an important part of your tire's sealing system. When buying discount motorcycle tires, make sure to buy tires of the same construction. This is because tires of different construction should never be run together; the results can be disastrous.

The best means of maintaining motorcycle tires is with soap and water. New protectants only promote cracking and finish the deterioration of the tire. Always remember to visually inspect your motorcycle tires before using them on the road, as setting off on a road trip with a nail in the tire could prove disastrous. It is always better to avoid potholes, curbs and sharp objects on roads that can compromise your discount motorcycle tire's integrity.

What Determines Pricing of Used Cars?

2009 proved to challenge car shoppers - while one might have thought to find a nice price on a pre-owned vehicle, sticker shock even among used lots likely prevented a few sales. With the new year, the possibility of lowered prices grows as the economy settles, which may lead people to wonder why prices fluctuate on used cars. If a car is brought in after a number of years, shouldn't the price be set in relation to wear and tear? Not necessarily.

What determines the pricing of used cars? Naturally, everything is set according to the current state of the economy. When times are tough, one might expect retailers to lower prices in order to entice customers to shop. However, in some situations a questionable economy may lead to a shortened supply of things, which in turn affects the cost in another way. Last year, we saw this in the automotive industry.

As gas prices fluctuated and skewed high, this likely inspired car owners, rental companies, and other businesses reliant on transportation to hang onto cars rather than upgrade to newer models. Even though hybrid cars on the market presented the opportunity for drivers to work more efficiently, the burden of taking on another large payment may have detracted sales.

Buy-back programs designed by the government last year to relieve drivers of gas guzzlers also factor in pricing. Where such cars might have been filtered to used lots for resale, many of these cars and SUVs were destroyed, thereby limiting the supply. When owners are overall reluctant to trade in, and fewer used cars hit the market, it affects the cost of what is available.

Will these change in 2010? Predictions lean toward lower used auto prices in the coming year. If you have something to trade, that definitely will help your cause toward obtaining a good price for something else.

What A Load Of ...

Non-truckers often don't stop and think about the trucking industry and the many trucking companies that help keep the economy going. Without those big rigs hauling various loads, whether it is gasoline, office supplies or grocery items, this country would be at a stand still. Where do you think the gasoline you pump comes from? What about that package of diapers you are buying your child? How did they get on the shelves? The answer: a big truck delivers all of that and much more!

Let's talk about the various types of trucks that you might encounter on the roads. Each one is different because the loads of cargo are different. For example, the same truck that delivers your favorite ice cream brand to the grocery store will not be the same type of truck that delivers office supplies to the local discount store. By the same token, you will have a trucking company that might specialize in the delivery of one certain type of product over the other.

Possibly one of the most hair-raising trucks on the road today is the one that hauls vehicles. You know - those car carriers where you just KNOW that one of those vehicles are going to come loose and fly off onto the hood of your car! Or how about the tanker trucks that haul fuel or other hazardous products like fertilizers and chemicals? Truckers who drive these types of trucks probably have nerves of steel. Not only do they have to worry about safety precautions for their own loads they are hauling, but they also have to keep an eye on some of the crazy drivers on the road and always be on the lookout for potential hazards.

Some trucking companies specifically handle household or office moving. Think of those families that sell their homes and move half way across the country. Truckers that handle that type of load not only have to be careful of these household items due to insurance issues but also have to have great customer service skills to handle these stressed out people making this move.

There are many other types of trucks on the roads today. Flatbed carriers, refrigerated trucks, dry van carriers and even those trucks that carry livestock ... non-truckers encounter some of these every day on the roads. We all should be cognizant of the fact that these trucking companies and truckers literally drive the economy. They have a tough load to carry and without them doing their jobs, we could not do our own.

Discount Auto Parts - 4 Ways to Save!

If you are in the market to purchase replacement or performance automobile parts, you have several options before you in order to get what you want. Thanks to the internet, you can research your options and narrow down what you need right online. In fact, in many cases, you can order what you need right from the ease of your desktop. Still, some sources are better than others and you really need to know what you are buying before purchasing parts from anyone.

The following are four options for finding parts:

Salvage Yards. Also known as junk yards, salvage yards provide cheap parts for just about any type of vehicle. You just need to know if the particular make/model you own is sitting somewhere on site. The larger junkyards inventory their cars and with that information you can find exactly where the vehicle is located. Prices are usually very reasonably, but you must remember that the part you are purchasing is used and quality levels can vary from junker to junker. Salvage yards are a particularly good place to shop if you need a door panel, fender, or other body component.

Retail Stores. The large chain stores typically have something for everyone. Sale prices can be good, but selection may be limited to a few key brands. Replacement parts for less common vehicles can be harder to find. Some parts are subject to big mark ups, particularly with retailers who rely upon intermediary suppliers for their entire inventory.

Car Dealers. New car dealers are an excellent place to find replacement parts. They should be if they feature your particular make/model vehicle. The larger dealers generally have well stocked parts departments right on site. The drawback is often their prices typically reflect big mark ups. You'll pay through the nose if you have a dealer install anything for you too.

Wholesalers. Most reputable wholesalers are now marketing their inventory right online. The advantage to you is a wider product selection, lower prices, ease of ordering, and quick service. Shop only with those wholesalers who have a toll free number listed where you can contact a live person, if needed. Go with those wholesalers offering free shipping, typically available on orders exceeding $50. You can save big with a well known wholesaler, such as the Auto Parts Warehouse, as they cut out the middle man to offer you the lowest prices across the board.

As with any transaction, check your parts carefully as some retailers unknowingly stock counterfeit parts. Make certain that you can return whatever you purchase if a problem comes up. Use a credit card to back up with your purchase with the credit card issuer's guarantee.

Mud Tires

Mud tires are required when riders consider off road riding. This means the vehicle is required to traverse rough terrain. Pebbles, mud and stones prove to be only a few of the numerous obstacles that need to be countered. It is obvious that this does not refer to a regular ride or drive but are mostly journeys that are undertaken due to personal preferences or during off road races. The most important consideration in off road racing is to be able to maintain balance and stay upright over irregular and rough terrain. This can actually be quite a simple task when bikers and drivers use mud tires. Apart from undergoing strenuous physical training in order to maintain equilibrium, people need to be attentive towards their tire usage. Together this can help win competitions. The best mud tires are those that offer maximum clearance and traction. This alone may not help riders because mud tires need to be combined with other compatible components and an accurate vehicle framework.

Taller mud tires provide greater clearance below the chassis and differential. Wider mud tires and various special tire tread patterns increase traction. In most cases, mud tires tend to be after market accessories that are fitted in a vehicle as per requirement. When contemplating a mud tire replacement, fender clearance should be kept in mind. Apart from this, people need to be attentive towards selecting a mud tire design that is able to manage utmost up and down travel and side-to-side movement when in use. Mud tread tires along with all terrain tread tires are apt for off road journeys.

Apart from their ability to perform on mud terrains, they are well suited for deep snowy and rocky paths. They may not be able to hold ground during rain and can be very unsafe in such conditions. Apart from these hindrances, based upon the tread of a mud tire some designs tend to create a noise when in use. This does not create much of a problem as they are often used on dirt tracks where noise is of least concern to riders.

Discount Auto Parts - How to Save 50%+

Car parts can be awfully expensive, but if you know how to fix a car, you're already saving a boat load of money. Sadly, a lot of us out there don't know how to fix a car, so we have to take it into a little shop, and pay full price for parts, and labor! It can really be a burden on the wallet, but if you know how to fix simple things, and you know where to find parts to save money, you can really save big.

#1 Know your parts

The first thing that you're going to want to do is find the part online. There are many auto parts searches online, and whether you have one that you enjoy, or don't, a simple search for that part can yield some great results.

#2 Take note of the store

When you find a store that sells your auto part, what you're going to want to do is mark it down. You won't want to purchase from them just yet. Instead, you're going to want to search for deals.

#3 Look for the coupons

Search for the store, plus any coupon codes, or if you can go into the store, look for some printable coupon codes. This is a great way to save on top of the parts that you want to purchase.

Another thing that you can do is search for cash back deals, and even use a credit card that can help you save. This is really the only way to truly get discounted auto parts. By implementing these tips, you can save a good deal of money!

Fiber Glass Body Kits - Tough Enough?

Most people consider fiberglass to be pretty tough stuff. It's made from plastic resin and synthetic fibers, so it's been engineered to hold up in difficult situations. The problem is that depending on how it's used, it can have varying levels of durability. Fiberglass body kits, in turn, also vary greatly in quality from manufacturer to manufacturer. A body kit can quickly turn your car into a piece of art or a piece of trash, depending on how it was made and how it's maintained.

The problem is that a lot of people think fiberglass body kit parts will hold up like metal. This is because the other parts of their car are made of metal. The problem is that it just wouldn't make sense to weigh down a car with a metal body kit. Fiberglass, though, needs to be treated carefully, or it will easily crack and break. Once this happens, you'll have to get new parts, which you can install yourself or hire a professional to install.

Installing your own body kit shouldn't be a snap decision. It's a potentially very dangerous thing to do. Fiberglass contains synthetic fibers that could easily injure your eyes and skin. On top of that, damaged fiberglass parts have the potential to break further into small particles at which point any damage to the part will be impossible to repair. This means that a slip up in installation could mean purchasing a whole new body kit.

Fiberglass does have the advantage of being easy to mold. This means that body kits makers can adjust it to fit all sorts of artistic visions. There's literally a unique body kit out there for everyone. Fiberglass versions cost anywhere between $350 and $800 dollars, which may make the fragility of the material seem acceptable for cheaper kits, but infuriating for top of the line head turners. Again, it all depends on your situation.

There are other options. Some body kits are made from Urethane, which is stronger and less likely to break down after sustaining initial damage. Since these are tougher, they may be the better choice for those who expect their body kit to last longer. It also means, though, that they're more expensive and less unique. Body kits are all about customizing, and the choice is yours, but you should be careful to consider the roads and weather where you live before jumping in to fiberglass.

Motorcycle Tire Care

It is essential to keep your motorcycle tires in good condition. Proper motorcycle tire care is needed to keep the life span of your tire much longer. Doing a weekly or monthly check up is a recommended habit to ensure that your tires are still safe to use.

Motorcycle tire care is done to ensure that the tire walls does not have any cuts or cracks in them as this may do great damage to the tire even how small the crack or cut is. One important thing to check is the air pressure of the tire. You must always maintain enough pressure to have a safe motorcycle ride. Proper pressure also allows your motorcycle cycle to have a better performance. Make sure that the air pressure does not get low as this make it harder to control the motorcycle. Having low air pressures can cause the tire to separate and it may even cause some blowouts. Blowouts are caused by a heated tire due to a low air pressure. So it is really important to monitor the air pressure of your motorcycle tire.

The tread wear is also an important part of the tire. Vehicular accidents are most likely to occur when there is no enough tread. Most known manufacturers will say that a tread depth of 32 seconds of an inch means that it is time to replace the tire. A lot of people ride their motorcycles with a bald tire. This is not a very good practice as you will be prone to accidents. Remember, you only have two tires so you do not need a bald tire. You need both tires in good condition to prevent possible accidents. You must always ensure your own safety and the way to do this is to make sure you have a correct tread depth.

The rims play a very important role in keeping the tires for a long period of time. It keeps the shape more intact. If you are having a spoke rim, it is important that you tighten them correctly to prevent any damage. It is recommended to have a professional tighten them up for you. They are more knowledgeable on how to secure them and they have the proper equipment in tightening it up. If your rims are solid, this may cause your tire to dent and wear faster and even cause them to wobble along the way. This is quite a dangerous situation and very much unsafe. You have to replace them immediately.

Maintaining motorcycle tires are important. It is just like taking care of your own life. A small problem in the tires may lead to a much bigger one. That is why proper motorcycle care must be done in a regular basis. You have to keep them free from any kind of problem that could possibly cause a much greater problem in the future. Check the tires every now and then to ensure that you will be traveling safe miles with a good motorcycle tire.

What's a 3/2 Compressed Air Valve?

Recently, I published an article on this site titled: What's a 2/2 compressed air valve? Here, in the next installment in this series, is information on a slightly more complex air valve; the 3/2 style.

The first number in the 3/2 air valve, the three, refers to the number of "working" air ports that are found in the valve body. That is, the number of ports that supply air to the valve, and channel the compressed air to whatever it is that the valve is supposed to do.

Most 3/2 valves will have numbers or letters etched, cast or painted near each of their three "working" air ports. If there are numbers near the ports, the number 1 would be the supply port to bring the compressed air to that valve.

Port number 2 would be the working port from which air would flow to accomplish whatever task that you wanted that valve to do.

The third port in a 3/2 air valve is an "exhaust" port and if numbered, it could be a 3 or a 5. If the port designations in a 3/2 valve are letters, then port 'A' would be the supply port and port 'B' the working port, with the third port normally being an 'E'.

As in the 2/2 valve there may be one or two additional ports in the ends of the 3/2 valve to allow an air signal line or lines to be connected. If this is the case, this 3/2 valve will either be single, or double air piloted.

The 2 in a 3/2 air valve indicates the number of positions that the internal valve mechanism has. In this case, two. When this valve is operated or actuated, it will either open or close and air will either flow to the application upon actuation, or it will be prevented from flowing.

Most 3/2 compressed air valves will be NC, or normally closed. When the valve is not actuated, it's normal state is closed, and compressed air cannot pass through it.

If your application calls for air to flow through the valve when it's not actuated, that the circuit needs air to be flowing through this valve when it is at rest, then a NO or normally open configured valve would be selected.

All 3/2 valves have actuators that will operate or 'shift' the air valve. An external button, or toggle, or perhaps a solenoid actuator would be the visible actuator. Inside, there will likely be an internal actuator - a spring - which will shift the valve to the off position when the external actuator is not being used.

If the external actuator is 'detented', then when the valve is operated, it will stay in it's last selected position until an operator changes it. Detented means it will stay where it's put! This is useful when an operator needs to actuate the valve, and then manually perform another operation while the air valve feeds air to the application.

Unlike it's less complex 2/2 valve cousin, the 3/2 valve is used when a compressed air supply is needed to an application or device that uses compressed air to power it, yet in itself has no integral air pathway to atmosphere. Therefore, when the device has performed it's function, and it's time to 'deflate' it or to let the compressed air back out, the third port in the 3/2 valve comes into play.

When the compressed air supply through the valve is shut off internally, a pathway back through the valve to atmosphere will be opened, to allow the compressed air to escape. The air supply is shut, so the compressed air flowing to the valve cannot flow through it, and the compressed air that was formerly in the device or application can now bleed back down the air line through the valve to exhaust.

So, what type of devices are these?

Usually they are single acting type actuators. One comes to mind immediately; "Air springs".

Both Firestone and Goodyear (among others) manufacture "air springs". These are devices that look like tires, but rather than have an opening in the middle of the doughnut where the rim goes, they are closed on both sides with steel plates. In one side there will be an air port to which an air line from a 3/2 valve can be connected. These "air springs" are mounted on their sides, picture a tire lying flat after you've taken it off your car, and can generate huge actuation forces. Force equals pressure times area, and the "piston" size inside an air spring can be huge. The application of air springs mirrors that of typical air cylinders, yet offer large capacity at a fraction of the cost of an air cylinder of a necessary size to generate the same force as the air spring.

Another application for 3/2 valves is single acting air cylinders. Whether they are spring extend or spring retract, an air supply is required to operate the SA cylinder. A 3/2 valve is designed to do just that.

A couple of more points; the 3/2 valve can have the exhaust port plugged, and voila, you have a 2/2 valve.

If the cost of the valve is the same, you can use a 3/2 air valve anywhere you might use a 2/2 valve. Since 2/2 valves always have to have the "working port" ultimately plumbed to atmosphere, that there is an exhaust port in a 3/2 valve offers no obstacle to it's use.

If you have a double acting air cylinder, and you don't have a 4/2 or 5/2 (more on these valves next article) available, you can use two 3/2 valves to operate any cylinder that requires two supply lines in order for it to extend and retract.

At ABOUT-air-compressors.com my e-book entitled All About Air Valves - Volume One is now available. If you are interested in more information about air valves, do visit the site and download a copy. This first e-book is an introduction to air valves, and focuses on the 2/2 iteration. Future volumes will focus on 3/2 valves, and then the 4/2 & 5/2 configurations.

And as always, if you have any questions, please send me a message from the contact screen at my web site.

Truck Graphics at a Discount

There are many companies that will sell truck graphics and some of them will help design but there are times when a budget is very tight and a person will have to be creative and frugal with the vinyl. There are ways to be very effective and also save a lot of money.

Some business people will buy a vehicle wrap. A wrap is giant car or truck graphic that has been applied to just about every square inch of vehicle surface. They are not cheap but they are very effective because they grab the viewers attention. The going price for a car wrap is $3000. For a business starting out this may be a prohibitive amount of money. Still, any business will gain from this kind of exposure and especially a new business.

There is a way to do truck graphics that will almost imitate a car wrap without the humongous price tag. There is a way to spend several hundred dollars and create the impression that the entire car is the medium, which is what car wraps do. The way you do it is with good design. Truck graphics are sold almost like hamburger, the more you buy, the more you pay for. Like hamburger you can have one big meal or you can cut it up into smaller portions and spread it around.

Have you ever seen the cars that are owned by Progressive insurance? They are all small cars and the graphics on them only cover a fraction of the entire surface area, but the graphics were so well thought out and the location was so carefully chosen that the little sub-compact car becomes a familiar roving billboard. The name Progressive is sprawled across the side of the car, right across the drivers door. The name is big enough that you can't miss it and because everybody is familiar with the company becomes immediately recognizable. The color of the car is white and the color of the graphic is blue so there is plenty of contrast and the name is easy to read. In addition they have applied the vinyl diagonally so that it will more easily capture your attention.

Here are some quick rules to make a big impact on a small budget.

1. Make sure the color of the truck graphic contrasts with the trucks color so people can easily read it
2. Make the type oversize so you will give the impression of a grand format
3. Place the truck graphic off-center so that it will jar people into noticing

Car Lights

Preventive maintenance

Replace the lights while you can.

The preventive replacement of lamps is recommended every 50,000 km. Even working properly, the lamp loses about 30% brightness over use, and this represents a reduction of 1 / 3 also in safety.

Learn to identify yourself the "tired" lamps. It is very easy: just look at the bulb (glass lamp) to see its blackening. The darkening is a sign that the lamp is near the end.

It is caused by evaporation of the tungsten filament. As a consequence the particles fall off the filament and accumulate on the surface of the bulb. Thus, in addition to providing less light, the lamp will retain heat, which further accelerates the process of evaporation of tungsten.

When you least expect, you will be in the dark. So look closely at the glass of your lamps.

In the periodic checking of the external lamps, one should also observe the optical assembly. If the glass is clouded, it is a sign of water infiltration, caused by any cracks in the optical assembly, which greatly increases the risk of early lamp wear.

Replace the lamps in pairs.

When burning a lamp of one of the headlights, switch the other also. The lamps are manufactured by the same process with the same material and same equipment. Therefore, they have roughly the same durability. That is, when a lamp burns, it is very likely that other, which is equal, is also near the end of their life.

Replacing the pair, you will be guaranteed and free of contingencies. Plus, will not spend time and money stopping to make another exchange.

Always check the navigation lights.

Not always the lack of light in the vehicle is caused by a light bulb burned. Problems can occur from short circuit, oxidation of contacts, loose contacts by vibration and yet the lamp not being burned.

Redouble your attention and constantly control these lights. You can check its operation even without leaving the car. Just look at the reflection in the bumper of other cars or the wall of your garage.

It is worth being forewarned. Keep reserve lamps in your glove box.

Not just replacing the bulbs, it is also very important and useful to keep reserve lights in your glove box.

They may be useful in any emergency. Thus, you avoid fines, accidents and increase your comfort, because driving in low light as well as dangerous is very tiring.

Which ATV Will You Be Needing?

If you think you will be purchasing an ATV, regardless of the reason, some things you really need to remember, of course depends on your purpose, your budget, then your needs, a used model might be OK, or a new one from a dealership could be a somewhat better decision. 

Regardless of the place or dealer where you decide to buy your machine, you should not be lax on the amount of research . You should check everything out thoroughly before you make a decision. Your decision should come from you and not the help of a dealer. You just want to be sure and get plenty of good impartial advice. 

You certainly do not need to let a salesman influence you in any way at all. Just make sure you know what you want, as well as what you need. This should be determined before you ever enter a showroom to purchase. 

Probably the very first thing you should concentrate on is the age or ages and sizes of the riders. If you are purchasing for one of your children or a small person, then you need to go with a smaller model in order for the rider to be most comfortable while riding. If it is for a bigger adult, then quite possibly you will need to look at the larger models. 

 If you will be getting it for someone other than yourself, you need to make sure that person goes with you to try it on for size. You will find it will always be better to make sure about the size than to make a purchase and whammo, the size is totally wrong, and totally uncomfortable for the person you bought it for in the first place. 

Probably the next most important consideration when making a purchase, is the purpose of your buying to begin with. Is the ATV going to be used on the farm or ranch to haul feed or supplies around to where ever they are needed? To bring the kill home when hunting in the woods ? Maybe other purposes ? 

 Will it be used for fun or maybe you might try a little bit of racing? These machines come in many sizes, styles, colors and they also come with a lot of accessories. So you should make sure the one you decide on, has all the features and stuff on it that you might need or want. 

If it is only going to be used for work around the farm or ranch, or maybe the store or warehouse. You probably will need to make sure it is heavy and strong. One that can carry large and heavy loads. You will probably need to get one with all the racks, also a hitch so you can pull a loaded wagon or trailer of some sort. 

 However, if you are not going to use it for work purposes then you surely will not need all that extra stuff. If it is going to be strictly for fun, get as few of those features as you can. Hey man if you think you might try your hand at racing the machine. The only way to go is light and lighter, with a big engine, that is designed for being used for racing. Once you decide what  is going to be the purpose of the ATV,  then is the time to choose the tires.

If your going to be a mud hog, get the tires with the deep heavy tread so you can go strong through the mud. If you will only be riding around barn lots, and trails you will only need the cheaper lightweight stock tires, these should be sufficient. As for racing you will need the specially designed lightweight racing tires.

You will really have to look at all the prices and do not let anyone talk you into buying something you cannot afford. Most dealerships will discount the price some. Will depend on how hooked he thinks you are on the machine.

If you believe it might be important to have a service warranty or guarantee after you purchase, then you will need to try and buy from a dealership that has a reputation for good customer service. No matter, always compare prices and try to be fairly exact on the price the dealer should charge you.

November is the Best Time to Buy a Convertible!

When is the best time to buy any high ticket item? When everyone else isn't buying. For example, car manufacturers were offering all kinds of incentives to buy a new car, and dealers were dealing. They were desperate to sell anything. But then along comes Cash for Clunkers. The first few days, when things were still uncertain, it was a good time to buy a car. But as buyers came out in droves, dealers' inventories ran low and they started charging full sticker price. Why? Because they could. And since their inventory was low and time was short, many buyers purchased a car that wasn't really what they wanted.

Wouldn't you rather walk in when there's plenty of selection and the dealers are willing to do almost anything to sell you a car?

How long have you wanted a convertible? I know this isn't the time you're thinking about it, with the weather starting to turn cold, but that's the point. No one else is thinking about buying a convertible either. This is not a car that you're just going to drive in the summer. If you bought it in the spring, you'd use it year-round, right? Heaters and the design of the top have improved greatly over the years. The only difference between winter and summer is that in the winter you'll drive with the top up. That means that people won't notice that your shiny new car is a convertible.

It would be nicer to get that brand new ride in May when you can use it to full advantage. But is it worth the extra cost? This fall you have a handful of things going for you. First, because of the season, most people aren't buying convertibles. That means more selection and better negotiating position. Second, it's time for car dealers to get rid of their remaining 2009 inventory. In fact, some dealers still have brand new 2008 cars on their lots! How much are they willing to dicker on those cars? Third, we're in a recession. Although most of us haven't felt it yet, the economists are saying that the graphs are starting to turn in a positive direction. When the recession really does end, there will be a lot of pent-up demand for everything from houses to golf clubs to cameras. Everything that we said we wouldn't buy when times were tight - including convertibles.

Indirect Marketing Strategies - Who is Impacting Your Business?

Your customers directly impact your business each time they decide to spend money with you or not. Your customers affect your livelihood, the success of your business, and the future of its existence. Are you aware that there could be others influencing your business indirectly? There are those in your community or those somehow related to your line of work that have the capability to influence your potential customers and their buying power. For example, ponder the pharmaceutical drug industry. Are the drug companies themselves solely responsible for the choices that the general public makes when filling prescriptions? Of course not. The physicians writing the prescriptions are the ones recommending certain medications over others. There may exist two or more medications very similar in nature, maybe some even generic. Pharmaceutical representatives know this and take the issue of influence very seriously. They spend lots of time, energy, and money, giving doctors promotional products, gifts, and meals.

You too can make an effort to target these influential entities. This is important for several reasons. Make sure that these people or companies indirectly impacting your company are aware of the benefits of your products and services. Those who influence your business have the potential to sway prospective consumers in the public. If you establish rapport with them, the likelihood is that they will continue to help increase your business.

For a restaurant in a mountain resort town, local inns, spas, and bed and breakfasts could influence business significantly. When tourists inquire about dinner, the concierge has his or her own opinions for recommendations. It would be wise for a restaurant in such a town to establish pleasant connections to draw more business. The same situation could apply to massage therapists, ski rental shops, boutiques, or art galleries in the town.

Work to identify categories of those who influence your company. Then, target these individuals or their businesses. Remember that they have the power to refer new clients to you. How can you convey to them that you will be treating potential clients exceptionally well? Remember, their reputation and good word are on the line. Use a personal approach. Invite these influential people to dinner. Give them free products or services. Treat them well and prove to them that their referrals will receive the same.

Be careful in your approach to connecting with these key influential people. Your first impressions will be powerful and lasting. You do not want to set the tone for a personal or selfish agenda. Offer an invitation to buy the person's lunch with the intention of getting to more about their own line of work. Explain that you, yourself, have referred others to their company and want to be sure that you are thoroughly familiar with their company. This means that the other party will obviously have the chance to reciprocate and learn the same information about you.

When you have made initial contact with such individuals, offer them a free or discounted product or service. If you are a barber, give them a coupon for a free haircut. If you own a tire store, offer them a discount on their next set of new tires. If your business is a furniture store, let them know that you have a special price for them on their next purchase. More importantly, be sure to send some clients their way- and let them know it. You can call their business and mention, "I am sending a few people over to your store. They're looking for an Oriental rug, and I told them you would take good care of them." These key people will appreciate your efforts and will return the favor- as long as your products and services are of good quality.

Finally, always take time to thank those who influence your business and help it expand. The end of the year, or possibly the winter holidays, is a great time to reflect upon the new referrals that have come your way and to show gratitude to those who supported your business. Send fruit baskets, wine, cookie bouquets, flowers, gift certificates, or cards to honor those that impact your business and to encourage them to continue.

Remember, just because someone isn't regularly spending a lot of money with your company doesn't mean that they are not indirectly impacting your livelihood. Take some time to think about who is- or who is not- sending customers your way. Use a positive networking approach and build those connections to generate continuous referrals.

Electrolyzer Efficiency For HHO Production

Building Efficient Electrolyzers

From staggering plate designs to wire cells, which materials to use and how. There are many ways to optimize these fuel cells. The most efficient electrolyzers are coupled with other technology that truly cranks up the mile per gallon gains. I'm talking about HHO production for cars, and if your into hydrogen for fuel, these electrolyzers have a lot to offer.

Controlling Runaway

Would you like to know how to keep your cell from overheating? It's as simple as measuring.
Runaway is when your electrolyzer starts to overheat. This is from pulling too many amps and it's due to too much conductivity. The hotter the cell gets the more amps it pulls until meltdown. This is why it's important to have a fuse, that will governs amps, to your cell. The way to control runaway is to control conductivity. Water alone is a poor conductor, this is why we add a catalysts to improve conductivity. This is also why tap water produces more HHO than distilled water, tap water has conductive minerals in it. Note that these minerals also erode your anodes and muck up your cell. We want to have a controlled environment, because we want precise control of our fuel cell. Precise control means precise HHO output which means maximum gains. So if you want the most efficient electrolyzer use distilled water.

Not All Metals Are Equal

Aluminum corrodes so fast it shorts the cell quickly. Steel erodes so fast it mucks up the cell with additional minerals and promotes runaway. The best to use is alloy steel, among the best of the best would be platinum, but we're going for efficiency, so stainless 316L is the best choice bar none. Run your new 316L plates or wires for 20 miles 3 times and change the water out. This will eliminate most of the oils and impurities on and in the steel. Factory oils to prevent corrosion make for water muck, so just run them and change the water, you'll have less muck to contend with if any.

Really That Simple

Sure different designs give different output, but if you follow the advice of distilled water with 316L stainless steel anodes, you'll be leaps ahead in MPG gains. These efficient electrolyzers are simple, once you understand them and how they work. If your looking for added miles per gallon, horsepower and want to blow all the carbon out of your engine, HHO is the way to go.

Tire Discounters Help 4WD and AWD Owners

Many owners of four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles are in for a sudden surprise the first time they shop for 4x4 replacement tires. Some don't know that, even if just one of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tires on their vehicle is damaged or has excessive wear, all four tires may need replacement. Fortunately, Belle Tire can help. Most offer a wide selection of 4x4 replacement tires, as well as full vehicle service, lifetime tire rotation, lifetime flat repair and huge savings on quality, brand name 4x4 tires for practically every four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle.

Matching 4x4 Tires

In order for a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle to deliver the traction and performance an owner expects, especially in slippery driving conditions on wet, icy or snow-covered roads, the rolling radius and circumference of all four tires must match closely. The mechanical driveline that connects the tires includes differentials and/or viscous couplings designed to allow momentary differences in wheel speeds when the vehicle turns a corner or temporarily spins. However, mismatched tires or even a single tire with a different rolling radius may cause driveline components to work 100-percent of the time. Differentials or viscous couplings may experience excessive stress, heat and wear if a damaged or worn 4x4 tire is accidentally replaced with a different sized tire, a tire with a different tread design, one made by another manufacturer or even one with a different inflation pressure. Everyone knows that the failure of a 4x4 driveline component can be an expensive proposition. So, remember to consult your vehicle's owner's manual to read what the vehicle manufacture recommends about replacing individual, pairs or full sets of 4x4 tires. And, when it comes to making your 4x4 tire comparison, service consultants at your local tire discounter are experts in helping you match 4x4 tires with the correct rolling radius, tread design and tread depth.

Selection

Tire discounters offer a wide selection of quality, brand-name replacement tires, as well as tire and wheel packages, for practically every four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle. They can help you make a knowledgeable and well-informed tire comparison so ask all of the questions you have. Service consultants can also help if you're interested in plus-sizing for a more stylish appearance or in the market for a set of snow tires to give you added confidence and traction when driving on snow-covered roads.

Free Lifetime Spin Balancing, Lifetime Tire Rotation and Lifetime Flat Repair

Why pay for tire rotation at your neighborhood service station? Most tire discounters offer free lifetime spin balancing, tire rotation and free flat repair with the purchase of replacement tires. Tires generate enormous centrifugal forces at high speeds. Spin balancing help eliminate unnecessary stress on suspension and driveline components by ensuring each tire is precisely fitted and balanced to each wheel. Tire rotation is also important, especially to four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle owners. Front and rear tires on four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles perform differently and wear differently when accelerating, braking and cornering. And free lifetime flat repair ensures that your tire is repaired, when repairable, by a certified specialist. Free lifetime tire rotation means all four tires will wear more uniformly over their lifetime, so expensive 4x4 or AWD driveline components will also be less subject to unnecessary stress, wear and expensive replacement.

Money-Saving Coupons

Many tire discounters offer money-saving coupons on their websites. Some offer impressive savings on 4x4 replacement tires. Other coupons may also be available for shock and strut replacement, brake service and a battery checkup. In addition, many also offer printed coupons when you visit for routine maintenance or free lifetime tire rotation. Coupons can add up to huge savings, especially if you've neglected routine maintenance because of the high cost of having it done at your local dealership or neighborhood service station.

So, if you're a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle owner shopping for replacement 4x4 tires for the first time, or a veteran who already knows the score, make a knowledgeable and well-informed tire comparison. And remember to also take advantage of the selection, service and savings available at your local tire discount store.

Car Price Guide Brings Your Appetite

Are you the one who is going to buy an old car? Or just the opposite, you are intended for selling your car. Both buying and selling a used car shouldn't be thoughtless. You have to consider some things -the car itself and the market. Since both could settle on how much price you get and how your feeling is in the end. Such car price guide below is expected to help you meet your decision in price.

For sellers, first thing to do is set your car at the right place and watch it from every direction. Physical outlook is vital for the first impression, and the good impression is valuable especially in this car price guide. For that reason, make sure that there is no scratch and stain on the body and the interior of the car.

The most influential thing the car has, however, is its brand and model. Mostly, buyers rely on some certain brands that they believe of having good image on customers. So, both sellers and buyers have to know what the model or type the car you want to sell or buy. For example, Mercedes-Benz brings out different types of model from year to another year, Mercedes-Benz M Class (1997), Mercedes-Benz CLS (2004), Mercedes-Benz R-Class (2005), E320 (2007), and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (2010).

Now, just take a look at another essential part, the features of the car. It is the thing that is unique, and it makes customers become interested. Once an automobile company produces its model, it must have at least a distinctive element that is usually adjusted to the characteristic of some people. For example VW Beetle that is still hearted by any generation represents someone who likes retro style. It is different with VW New Beetle that is more appropriate with someone who loves modern things and style.

Another thing to recognize in the car price guide is the market. For buyers, you'd better look for some information of the car prices earlier before you go to the dealerships or private sellers. You can get it from magazines, newspapers or the internet for further data. They provide prices, features and locations of the old cars in details. Moreover, if you want to check out the accurate car price guide, find it at NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association), Edmunds and Kelley's Blue Book. Also, for the low-priced, you can visit government auctions.

Yet, here are some general car price guides that would be necessary for buyers to be compromised. Think twice if you find that there's reduction at the market as some dealers usually raise the price from the original one previously. Therefore, for sellers, it would be more sensible if you determine the price as standard the price as possible. But of course, don't give up by the customer's demand that you will not get the benefit of it.

Whichever factor that has been mentioned above and other factors such as mileage, accident history and condition in general that would be decisive to rate the value, all depend the buyers who are afford to pay the car they wish for. It is the challenge for sellers to promote their cars and appreciate the needs of their customers.

Discount Motorcycle Tires; Can You Take Advantage of Them?

Picture this scene. You are surfing the net, looking for some extra chrome to stick on your pride and joy (that's your motorcycle not your 4 year old daughter by the way), when you come across a site selling discount motorcycle tires. Not just discount tires; positively slashed bare to the bone discount motorcycle tires! You think back three weeks earlier, when you had your new tires fitted at your local shop. The little fat bald guy who sells tires told you they were cheap right? You do some quick sums in your head and realise you paid twice as much as the ones advertised on the web. Your blood starts to boil, you start to mutter under your breath, all those unutterables that you definitely don't want your four year old to hear.

And you swear, there and then, never to buy your tires from the shop in town again. Oh, no, from now on your will order discount motorcycle tires online....

......That's great, really great. But let me ask you this;

Do you actually know how to fit a motorcycle tire? Because I hate to be the one to shatter your dreams of discount motorcycle tire heaven, but if you don't know how to change a tire, you could be in an extremely embarrassing situation of asking your local shop to fit discount motorcycle tires that you had the nerve to go and buy behind his back! And how much do you think he will charge you for that dubious privilege? (That much? Now double it friend!)

So a little bit of personal development is in order. Now don't be put off, you can still take advantage of those cheap tires, you just need to learn how to fit them yourself. And it is not as difficult as it sounds or as high tech as it looks in the tire shop downtown. The difficult bit is actually getting the tire off the rim, and the fiddliest part of that is breaking the bead, which is the seal that the motorcycle tire makes with the rim. Under pressure after a few thousand miles, that tire is going to be well bedded in. But, you can buy a bead breaking set for less than 200 dollars. If you search around you will quickly find some guidelines for building your own tire removal and fitting station. Heck if you are really keen you will find a way of breaking the bead on your motorcycle tire using nothing but a 2" by 4" piece of timber and a pick up truck (I kid you not !) I must confess that last method looked a little risky even for me to attempt.

A word of warning here. Brake discs are expensive. If you do go down this route, dont damage them. Guess what? That is mentioned in every article you find on the net about changing motorcycle tires, and with good reason.

After breaking the bead, a bit of brute force and manhandling (on the tire, not the wife) and you should be able to fit your discount motorcycle tires with pride.

Oh a couple of points, make sure the bead is seated properly around the rim when you put some air in those suckers. All the literature you will find on changing tires will mention this, but if you don't get the tire seated properly, it could cause some major "issues" later on. And the tire will probably need balancing. Some makes claim they don't, but most do. That's all on the web as well.

That's about it really. The rest is up to you. Do your homework and you too could be taking advantage of all those discount motorcycle tires; one set for winter, one set for summer, one set for track days...

Just remember the general idea is to SAVE money buying discounted motorcycle tires, not spend more, OK?