Perform A Tow Wire Job With Ease Using A Hydraulic Hoist

One of the main components of indoor crane systems is a hydraulic hoist. Unlike traditional cranes or lifts, this device relies on an oil-based piston mechanism rather than a large motorized operating system. The piston device allows the hydraulic hoist to carry much larger loads with a fairly small motor, in comparison to cranes and hoists of similar size.

Marinas and shipyards are places where you will find this kind of equipment. It helps move boats into and out of the water. Other uses for this type of hoist are for loading and unloading cargo from a boat hold onto nearby trucks. Aside from boat docks, manufacturing and warehouse operations use a hydraulic hoist as part of their indoor crane systems.

Instead of workers breaking their backs by lifting heavy loads, these hoists offer ergonomic lifting solutions for indoor industrial work environments. Indoor cranes offer an overhead mechanical advantage and allow efficient workflow without taking up too much ground space.

Investing in one of these is ideal when your factory space is difficult to maneuver around in. You can achieve heavy lifts with ease and utilize indoor space much more efficiently with indoor crane systems that incorporate hydraulic hoists.

A hydraulic hoist helps you perform a tow wire job with ease. For example, miners digging for ores and precious minerals will not have a problem lifting heavy objects. Having one of these helps you avoid hurting your workers in the process. These hoists are also used for erecting steel or other structural components on a construction site.

There are also trucks and boats that use them for small tow wire jobs. Converting a standard truck bed into a dump truck is not a problem when you have one of these at your disposal.

A small, electric motor powers one or more pistons found in the device. As they move downward, pressure is applied to the oil supply found below. Once the oil contracts to its minimum size, the pressure is then transferred to the hoisting mechanism.

When the pistons move in reverse, the hoist can lower or release objects as determined by your indoor crane systems operator. This is operated from inside an operator car cabin. It sits along the base of the support tower.

One advantage of having a hydraulic hoist perform a tow wire job is the relative distance between the motor and hoisting mechanism. Because of this distance, the machine emits less noise than a traditional crane or lift. This makes these indoor crane systems ideal for moving theater sets during intermissions. Despite their size and small motor, it still packs an incredible amount of lifting power.

There are some potential drawbacks that need looking out for. For one, hydraulic hoists do not operate as efficiently as other lifting devices. This could lower your productivity and increase some of your operating costs. Anything that is hydraulic-based is susceptible to leaks and broken oil cavity seals. Study your options carefully before deciding. A broken down system will require extensive repair and maintenance work if you do invest in one.

Alice Pollard is looking for indoor crane systems that can help him perform a tow wire job.

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Chrysler 300 Luxury Series Makes Its Debut

The Chrysler brand is a premium make, but its competition is Buick not Cadillac, Lexus or Lincoln. This means that Chrysler lacks a true luxury brand, something it hasn't had since the Imperial was its flagship sedan.

Chrysler, however, has a line of rear- and all-wheel-drive models that derives its platform from Mercedes-Benz technology. Its 300 and 300C stem from the automaker's days as part of the failed DaimlerChrysler entity, vehicles that were updated in 2011 and continue to lead the Chrysler brand.

The 300 series is as close to being a luxury car as you can get and with the introduction of the Luxury Series, this model is now the most luxurious Chrysler product ever built, even topping previous Imperial models that stood for luxury.

Here is what you'll find in the Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series:

Exterior Enhancements -- The 300's athletic, but luxurious stance receives several important exterior treatments in the Luxury Series. RWD models are equipped with 20-inch polished face wheels while AWD models are outfitted with 19-inch painted pocket aluminum wheels. Its fascia features platinum chrome accents, side mirror caps and chrome door handles. Its grille is unique to this series too and features a platinum-chrome finish with platinum chrome mesh.

Engines and Transmissions -- Choose the V-6 engine with rear-wheel-drive and this motor is paired with a ZF-licensed 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine enables the big Chrysler to attain a class-leading 31 mpg on the highway. A 5.7-liter V-8 is available too and comes paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Interior Upgrades -- How do you define luxury? Step inside the Luxury Series and a cabin full of enhancements are included. An 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Garmin navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link, an LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable color EVIC are among the features present. This model also includes a power tilt and telescoping steering column with memory settings; power-adjustable pedals with memory; a power backlight sunshade; Berber carpet floor mats featuring satin chrome lower door sills with "Chrysler" logo; dual heated and cooled cup holders; foot well lighting; LED-illuminated interior door handles and map pockets for the front and rear. Many of the standard features found in the Luxury Series are optional in other editions if available at all.

Safety Measures -- Front, side and driver's knee airbags are standard with the Luxury Series as are side curtain airbags that offer protection for outboard sitting passengers. This sedan is equipped with four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control and features active head restraints to protect occupants.

Chrysler Warranties -- If you're ever stuck, towing assistance is provided for the first 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This vehicle offers a bumper to bumper warranty for 36 months or 36,000 miles. Drivetrain and corrosion warranties have Chrysler models protected for 5 years or 100,000 miles. Extended warranties are available through your Chrysler dealership.

Cost for the well-appointed 300 Luxury Series begins at $40,145 or about $12,000 more than base models. However, this Chrysler is competitively priced with other full-size luxury sedans, offering a lower beginning price point than most.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Chrysler 300 fenders and Chrysler 300 accessories.

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The Best Way To Jump Start A Car

If you've never had to jump start a car, it can be a very good thing to learn. If you have ever experienced getting into your car, turning the key and nothing happens, then you probably know how frustrating it can be. Your car doesn't have enough current to activate your high amperage motor. You have to find someone else to give you the currency you need to get to a location to change out your battery. Here are the steps you need to take to get your car jump started.

You should first call someone that can come and help you. If it's in the winter you should always keep blankets with you to make sure you aren't left in the cold. Many times batteries die because of the extreme weather people live in. If this winter is freezing and colder than normal winters you may need to end up changing your battery at some point.

Once someone comes to help you they should park their car close enough to yours so the cables can reach both of your batteries. You should open both hoods and keep them open with prop rods. The car that is giving the jump should be shut off. You should then clamp the jumper cables onto the car that is providing the jump first. Connect the red (positive) clamp to the red post of that battery first. Make sure the charges on the other end are not touching before placing the black (negative) clamp on the black post. Then you can connect the other end of the cables to the car battery that is dead. Connect the red first and then the black, making sure they never touch.

After you have successfully connected the cables to each car you should then turn on the car that is giving the jump for five to ten minutes to allow the dead battery to receive some charge. Then you should shut it off. You can then turn on the car that has the dead battery; if it doesn't start you may need to allow it to stay plugged into the cables longer. If you need to do this, only keep the car that is doing the jumping on for the time needed. Once you get a good enough charge you should first disconnect the black (negative) charge of the car that is providing the jump and then the red. Then you should repeat this process on the car that received the jump. You should then keep the car that received the jump running to ensure you can get somewhere to fix it and close both hoods. You can then get back on the road and get your battery diagnosed. You will usually have to replace all parts that are out of current, but there is usually a warranty given with it. The average warranty for a brand new battery is 7 years, if it dies before that you can go to the place you bought it and get it replaced. Many mechanics will test your device before they fully diagnose and replace it to ensure they need to replace it. You'll be able to get back on the road quickly after you know how to jump start your car.

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How To Navigate An Auto Show

There are many people who enjoy attending the auto shows each year as the new cars are almost ready to come out. You may be one of these people who like to walk around and see many of the new makes and models that will be offered to the public. This gives you a first glance opportunity to see the cars before they are offered to the general public. This can be kind of fun to do. You may want to attend the auto show with your family. This can be a fun family event that helps you bond and enjoy each other's company. You could also find a friend or a group of friends that can attend the expo with you. Most often they have food and beverages for sale at the expos so you can enjoy a few hours of browsing the car floor then get a bite to eat and visit with your friends or family who are with you. Perhaps you are one of the people that love to go to the expo each year and you look forward to it all year. There are some things that can help make your visit to the auto show more enjoyable.

The first thing you can consider when you are going to attend an auto event is to have a plan if there are specific makes or models you wish to see. Often, there are floor plans on the websites for the car shows that can show you where each particular make and model are. This way you can make a plan to be sure and see the ones that you are most interested in first. Then if you run out of time, at least you have seen the ones you really wanted to see.

Another thing you can do to make your event more fun is to avoid the busy times. The opening weekends are typically the most crowded and should be avoided if possible. If there are too many people, you may not have as good of a time. Often, you may want to sit in the cars etc. and if there are too big of crowds, this may not be feasible for you to do. By avoiding the crowds, you can help your attendance feel better. If you can attend the expo on a weekday, you will typically have a lot less people there at the same time as you are. This can be more enjoyable and much more relaxing. You may then have time to sit in some of the cars you are interested in and really have time to check them out. Going earlier in the day can also be a good idea to avoid the big crowds.

Once you are at the show, don't rush. You can plan to go at a time when you have plenty of time to look around and enjoy yourself. If you feel rushed, you may not enjoy the event near as much. Most of the car manufacturers will have representatives there by their particular vehicles to answer questions for you and you can find out a lot of information this way. The auto show can be a great event.

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Handy Locksmith Tools for You

If you are looking for tools and equipment to be kept handy in case you lock yourself out of your car, then this article will be useful in detailing how you can help yourself without running to find a locksmith.

Numerous makes and models of cars are available today. Each of these cars has their own unique features and are designed and manufactured by a particular company. Though the basic mechanism of all cars remains similar, the functionalities of each car may be different and that is what differentiates the cars from each other. One car may give good mileage while another may have an excellent engine that gives amazing horsepower. Cars are also made in different sizes and can seat varying amounts of people. Vehicles having the ability to seat two people are ideal for couples while vans and large sized vehicles can seat an entire family or up to eight people. Engines capable of different speeds can be found in the vehicles and that helps them to be driven in different terrains like hilly or straight lanes.

New age cars are generally available in different colors and the more famous are the metallic shades one which give the body of the car a glistening appearance. Seats fitted into modern vehicles are extremely comfortable and are usually easy to clean and maintain. While car thefts were a common occurrence a few decades ago, most modern cars have an alarm system and locking mechanism that keeps them safe from meddlers. Using radio waves as the mode of transmission, the keyless remote mechanism works with a central fob that acts as a main hub for receiving signals. By clicking a button on the keyless remote all doors of the car can be locked to ensure safety. Since radio waves are used to transmit signals, cars can be locked from even several feet away.

Only radio waves of a particular frequency are used to send signals across and this too is encrypted in order to ensure that not everyone can transmit signals to open the car doors. Transponder keys use a similar technology and are connected to the engine or the car doors. They do not have groves like traditional keys and unlocking occurs only when the signals are sent by a particular key. It is thus no longer easy to open locks on cars with the help of a pin or tools like a widget. An alarm is triggered when the car door is forcibly opened or the car is meddled with. Beeping accompanied with blaring of the horn is usually the alarm and helps in alerting the owner and scaring thieves and meddlers away.

In case you get locked out of your own car or forget the remote inside the car or loose or misplace the car remote, you may have to get hold of a locksmith to help you open the door. Instead you could have tools like decoders handy which will help in decoding the signal to your car and open it for you. These types of locksmith tools can easily be carried around and thereby help one in becoming self sufficient.

This writer of this article is currently associated with Transponder Island, a prominent supplier of remote keys for various car models and locksmith supply.

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A Closer Look at IIHS Safety Ratings

Buying a new car means finding out what it comes equipped with including safety equipment. These days, most new cars offer a suite of airbags, traction and stability control, and four-wheel antilock brakes. Some vehicles offer important safety enhancements including a rear view backup camera, collision avoidance and active head restraints.

What every car shopper should understand before buying a car is how well this vehicle performs in crash testing. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates most vehicles and that information will not only tell you how safe a car is, but give you a good idea on its insurance costs. Indeed, those vehicles that score highest in IIHS testing also offer reduced insurance premiums.

Lets take a look at the four categories the IIHS uses to determine a passenger vehicle's crashworthiness:

Frontal offset -- Head on collisions are oftentimes deadly, thus this test can determine whether a vehicle's front crumple zones and airbags will help you survive an accident. Even the smallest models such as the Fiat 500 and Toyota Yaris perform well in these tests.

Side impact -- If you're t-boned in an accident, your chances of survival decrease as speeds increase. Many cars employ rigid steel beams in doors and offers side impact and side curtain airbags to provide an extra measure of protection. Many compact cars including the Mazda 3, Nissan's Leaf and the Chevrolet Cruze have measured up to the IIHS' requirements.

Roof strength -- Rollover accidents can be deadly, more so with high-profile vehicles such as SUVs. Roof strengthening measures undertaken by manufacturers have made roof pillars stronger even for some large models such as the Buick Enclave and Ford F-150. Stability control keeps these vehicles planted, equipment required by the IIHS for 2012 models.

Rear crash protection/head restraint -- Get hit in the rear and you may survive the accident, but have whiplash injuries. Many cars employ rear crumble zones and some come with active head restraints, the latter offering another measure of support in such accidents. Volvo models are among those big on such safety measures as are certain Cadillac, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai and Volkswagen vehicles.

The IIHS assigns Good, Acceptable, Marginal and Poor ratings for each test area. For any vehicle that gets four "good" marks, the IIHS awards it with its "Top Safety Pick" award. For the 2012 model year 115 vehicles received the top rating the most ever. So, before you buy know the rating and call your insurance agent to find out what rate you'll pay before you make a purchase. If your rate is higher than you expect, it could be that she hasn't received the latest IIHS ratings as posted to IIHS.org.

Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Chrysler PT Cruiser hoods and Chrysler PT Cruiser scoops.

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Stranded in Your Car? Here Are Some Tips

Although it is not likely that you are reading this while you are stranded in your vehicle, it is wise to think about what you should do before you get stranded. This way you will know what to do if your car or truck fails you and you find yourself at the side of the road waiting for help to arrive.

First, there are some basic car safety tips that you are more than likely aware of. It doesn't hurt to repeat them.

1. Always make sure you have your cell phone with you in the car and that it is fully charged.

2. Plan your route away from less than desirable neighborhoods. You don't want to be stranded here!

3. Don't ignore possible signs of trouble with your vehicle before it is too late.

If you sense your car is about to die on you, try to safely get your vehicle to the side of the road before it does. Obviously, it is much better to be stranded at the side of the road than in the middle of the road.

If, however, you find yourself in the middle of the road, there are some things you should do. More important than anything else is to use your common sense.

Right away, put on your hazard lights. You want to immediately let other cars know there is a problem.

Call for assistance. If you do find yourself without your phone, more than likely a law enforcement officer will find you or the other drivers will call to report that you are stranded.

Many car safety websites advise you not to attempt to cross the road unless you are absolutely certain that you can do so safely. If you are on a busy freeway, you more than likely can not do this safely and without harm!

If you can get out of your car or truck safely, put up the hood of your car. This will help others to spot you and avoid your vehicle. It will also signal to law enforcement personnel that you need assistance. Remember, do this only if you can get to the front of the car safely.

If you are lucky enough to be able to get to the side of the road, you need to put the hood up, make sure your hazard lights are on and wait for a marked law enforcement vehicle to offer assistance.

If you have your phone, do not immediately call 9-1-1. This number is for true emergencies. If you are safely out of traffic, you can call a local towing company and wait for your own tow.

No matter what your situation is, always remember to use your own best judgement. Do not get into a strangers vehicle. Do not put yourself in a dangerous situation. Keep in mind at all times, that other drivers may not be paying attention or notice that your vehicle is stranded.

These are just a few things to think about when stranded in your car. Each situation is different and safety is not a guarantee, but with some basic precautions, you can improve your chances of getting help and leaving the situation safe and secure.

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Laws About How Loud Exhaust Can Be

In the year 2002, the Specialty Equipment Manufacturing Association or SEMA brought about the introduction of measures in the state of California that would limit the noise to not more than ninety five decibels. This law was applicable throughout the state and applied to all kinds of motor vehicles.

Soon, other states also adopted such rules and many of these states even proposed to enact their own laws. At the same time, there are many states that have laid down their own laws that govern the amount of sound that can be emitted by the exhaust of a vehicle.

There are a number of states in the US that have adopted the standards as laid down by SEMA. When measuring the levels from the exhaust a sound reading has to be taken at a distance of twenty inches from the pipe of the vehicle. An A weighted which is a special calibration decibel meter will placed in a certain way at the tip of the pipe.

The test has to be conducted while the car is in neutral and with the speed of its engine at three fourths of its maximum rated revolutions per minute or RPM. The procedures used during the tests have been laid down by the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Almost every state has a law in place regarding the kind of muffler that a vehicle must use in order to ensure that it does not sound louder than permitted levels. This device must always be in fully functional state. There are however no laws in place regarding which kind of device have to be used in a vehicle. This means that it is possible to use cherry bomb low restriction straight through mufflers are perfectly legal.

There are also many states that use their own set of criteria regarding different kinds of vehicles. There are different criteria that will be used depending on the year in which the vehicle was manufactured. Florida is a good example of the kind of variable amount of tolerance there is towards laws about how loud exhaust can be.

In the case of a motorcycle that was manufactured prior to first January 1979 the limit is set at 82 decibels at speeds not exceeding 35 miles per hour. If the bike is traveling at more than 35 miles per hour the maximum sound that can be produced by the bike is 86 decibels.

A new bike will have a different noise level which is set at 78 decibels for speeds of 35 miles per hour or less. For speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour the permissible noise levels for a new bike are 82 decibels.

If a vehicle does not weigh more than ten thousand pounds and which has been built prior to first January 1979 the amount of sound that it can make is limited to 76 decibels at speeds of 35 miles per hour or less. For speeds of more than 35 miles per hour, the amount of sound that it can produce is limited to 79 decibels.

A new vehicle cannot produce sound in excess of 72 decibels for speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. For speeds in excess of 35 miles per hour, it cannot produce sound that is more than 79 decibels.

If an exhaust is too loud then it means that it is not in good working condition. To limit the sound produced, many auto enthusiasts have started installing electric and even manual cutouts which are mounted into the system. When these are used these devices help in venting gases from the exhaust into the atmosphere but without sending them through a muffler.

Texas is a state which does not allow use of such cutouts and it also prohibits use of bypasses or any other similar device in an automobile. Though the state has said that such devices cannot be used in a vehicle there is no explicit instruction that prevents a person from installing such devices in their vehicles.

All that this shows that there are really no fixed set of laws about how loud an exhaust can be. However, by following the SEMA guidelines you can learn to stay within the law in most states and not have to worry about breaking any laws about how loud an exhaust can be.

AutoWerks of America is a great source for volkswagen parts and parts for other imports.

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The Need for Driving School Flexibility

One of the most important things that often gets overlooked when new drivers are weighing their driving school options is flexibility. Without a doubt this is one of the most important characteristics of a professional and high quality driving school.

Driving school is just one of many things that people take on in the course of their life. And sometimes scheduling driver training and attending classes can be challenging. Therefore, driving students need to be afforded the flexibility that will allow them to go through driving school in a way that fits into their schedule.

Top schools understand that they need to offer a service that caters to their customers. Here are some things that new drivers need to be looking for when selecting the appropriate school for their specific situation:

Number of courses

Top driving schools offer more than just the core defensive driving certificate program. Look for driving schools that offer additional courses that will meet a wide range of driver's needs. This shows that these schools provide diverse and comprehensive driver training. Look for courses such as refresher programs, winter time driving, advanced certification courses, evaluation and practice courses, as well as programs that cater to business customers.

Course options

Look for schools that offer courses on a regular basis. Great schools frequently start new courses on a regular basis and also offer a condensed version of driver training during the holidays, over March break, and throughout the summer.

Multiple locations

Great schools provide its students with a number of locations for them to do their training. This will ensure that they can take classes that are relatively close to their home or school, making it a convenient way to incorporate driver training into their busy schedule.

Make up classes

Sometimes life just gets in the way. Therefore, good schools will provide their students with options to re take a class if they have to miss a class for a specific reason.

In-car lessons

All in-car lessons will not go as scheduled. Sometimes students will have to cancel or reschedule their lessons and their instructors need to be as accommodating as possible.

Certificate of completion

Driving schools need to provide its students with enough time to complete their in-car lessons. Not all students will be able to complete their driver training in a timely manner. Sometimes things get in the way and driving instructors need to be flexible to accommodate their students.

Payment options

The truth is that some students simply cannot pay for their entire driver training up front. Therefore, students should look for schools that offer their students a number of payment options to ensure they can find a plan that is ideal for their situation.

Driving schools that not only offer top-notch programs but also offer a number of flexible options to its students will be the schools that are preferred by new drivers.

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Buying a Personalised Number Plate Online

Personalised number plates allow it's owner to show their individuality. It might read some thing very obvious or it may be something personal. But whatever the message, it's clear that anyone can get one these days. Once associated with the rich and famous, number plates are now incredibly more accessible.

There are a number of reasons to buy a umber plate - investment, fun and promotion come to mind straight away.

And with prices as low as 80, you can search for and buy a number plate online. No hassle, no fuss and it can be all done from the comfort of your own home or office. And these days, you can order it practically anywhere from a mobile device, smart phone or notepad.

Regardless of where you buy it, there are a few things that you should look out for when buying online.

Longevity

The track record of your supplier is important. While every business has to start somewhere, it is important to check how long a company has been trading. If a company has been trading for a long time, they have a proven track record, happy customers and repeat business.

They will not be willing to sell you a number plate if all the right credential are not in order.

Accreditation

Make sure the supplier you've chosen to buy your number plate online with has a number of accreditations. These include:
DVLA Number Plate Supplier RegisterCNDA - Cherished Number Dealers AssociationRMIF - Retail Motor Industry FederationInstitute of Registration Agents and DealersFederation of Small BusinessesRNC - Registration Numbers ClubAssociation of Personalised Registration Traders

Again, it goes to the credibility of the company. If they are affiliated or associated with the above associations, then you can be sure that they protect their professional reputation.

Online security

It is so, so important that you know the supplier has a secure site with a digital certificate to accept payments online. You don't want to give your credit or debit details to a company that doesn't have such stringent security. Most websites who accept your card is secured using what's known as SSL encryption technology. Originally designed by the US military, it keeps internet fraud at bay.

Make sure the website has at least 128 SSL encryption. If you want to know what type of security your supplier has, then you can check it out. Most have a little lock on the bottom right of the browser. If you right click it, then a description pops up.

In summary, it's it's easy and hassle-free to buy online. But be wary of the suppliers that are out there. Always buy from a trustworthy company.

Jayne Henry of Speedy Registrations Ltd - speedyreg.co.uk. Speedy Registrations have been supplying number plates to the public since 1984. Based in Northern Ireland we also specialise in private number plates. They aim to provide a choice of personalised number plates to meet all requirements; and pride ourselves in our highly competitive prices, matched equally by our professional customer care service. Every transfer is conducted in strict accordance with DVLA regulations covering number plates.
For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Jayne Henry
Tel(DDI): 02866 387 124
E-mail: sales@speedyreg.co.uk

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Smartphone Apps for Drivers

Ok, so everyone knows that when you are on the road you should only be focused on driving. Even though this is what you should be doing, not everyone follows the rules. Well, there's an app for that. There are so many apps out there for drivers, of course they are all meant to be used when the car has come to a complete parked state. Some of these apps can be helpful if you have a wreck or your car breaks down, and some help give you directions and ways out of traffic jams. Depending on how often you drive and what your needs as a driver are, there are probably many different apps you can use to help make your drive safe and as stress free as possible.

A few of these apps actually make sure you are as safe as you can be. One of them is called iZup. This app determines if you are driving or not by using GPS and blocks you from answering text messages that you may receive while driving. It comes with three different auto response messages you can use if you do get a message. Sadly, this app is only available for the Android Market and doesn't include iPhones or BlackBerrys. Like the iZup app, the Otter app also enables the use of text messaging by determine if you are driving or not. It also allows you to pick different automatic responses to help you keep your eye on the road and not worry about your phone. This app is available for several different types of smartphones.

In the event of having a wreck or a break down, there may be an app out there to help you get moving and back on the road. iWrecked is a great app for the iPhone, in case you do wreck. It has a list of things you need to do after being in an accident like taking photos, getting a hold of your insurance company, exchanging insurance info and anything else you may need to do. The app can also locate the local police station that is nearest you, dial 911, call a cab, or a tow-truck service. iWrecked is a free app for the iPhone. There are also apps like aCar that helps remind you when your car is up for maintenance or inspection, or RepairPal that will help you find repair shops and will even help you find a tow-truck service in the event you break down.

There are also some apps to help you and your car to be more efficient. The Cheap Gas! Smartphone app can determine the gas prices of the gas stations that are by you or are in a certain zip code so you can get the cheapest gas. Beat the Traffic app is a great app for people with long commutes, or who just want to, well, beat the traffic. It scans all of the possible routes you can take to get to your destination, and gives you alternate route suggestions if there is traffic or congestion on your route. For those of you who not only want to be efficient, but also want to be green, the GreenMeter app may be perfect for you. It monitors your driving then shows you your car's carbon emissions, fuel cost, and mpg.

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New or Used Car - Which Is Best?

Everyone loves a brand new car, there's nothing better than driving it away from the dealership gleaming. There are also a lot of people that refuse to take delivery of their new car if it's raining; they prefer to wait for a nice day, after all it really isn't fun getting your new car dirty in the first few miles.

The interior of new cars have a particular smell; you can even get car fresheners that purport to give off a new car smell. Every single part of your new car is spotlessly clean. Take a quick look under the hood and you have a sparkling engine. Make the most of it all though, because it doesn't take long for your new car to no longer have that just out of the dealership look and smell.

Another consideration is the depreciation that occurs as you drive out of the dealership. You may as well tear up $100 dollar bills, if you live in a state with sales tax. Just think, if you have to pay 8 percent sales tax on a $30,000 car, it's $2,400 that you say goodbye to instantly. There is also the depreciation that occurs simply because once you leave the dealership your car becomes a used car. You could never sell it for the same price you paid, even if you turned around and took the car back to the dealer having driven a few hundred yards.

However, there is something about a new car and that's why, despite the initial depreciation, so many people chose this option.

If you are not quite so concerned that your car comes with zero on the milometer and doesn't have the tag calling it brand new attached, then why not consider a nearly new car. You will be pleasantly surprised at the difference in the price; in fact many people are now choosing this option to save on the initial depreciation. You have the option of spending less for effectively the same car, or you can pay the same price as you would have done for a new car, but get a few more extras for the same price.

There are many cars around that are classed as used cars, because they are, but actually only have a few miles on the milometer. Some are only a few weeks old, so they are practically new, but don't have same price tag. There are many reasons that these cars are available to buy. One of the main reasons if because they were ex-demonstration cars. These are the cars the dealership uses when people want a test drive, but they can't sell them as new so the price drops considerably, even though they may have only been driven a hundred miles or so.

Sometimes people just make a mistake and find they really can't get on with the car, so they take it back and get something else. Other instances are where someone purchases a car on finance and, due to a sudden change in personal circumstances, can no longer afford the repayments. The finance company take possession of the car and then sells it at a reduced price.

Ultimately it's up to personal choice, but it's always worth considering the options, before making a final decision.

Lawrence Reaves writes about Used Auto Parts and Used Ford Engines for Woodfins.com

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It's Time to Get '12' On Your Number Plate

The 5th Day of December was an important one in the personalised number plate business. Why I hear you ask? I'll tell you.

It was when the next series of numbers - 12 - were released.

The formation of the '12' numbers has caused a lot of excitement within the personalised number plate world. As is often the case with number plates, you can substitute numbers for letters and letters for numbers to spell a word.

'12' is the ideal substitute for R.

Now you can have any word that has a 'R' in it. There are actually over 7.5 million combinations to choose from. That's a whopping number and in this article, we couldn't cover that amount of words. But here are a few to get your creative juices flowing. I've broken them into a number of categories so you can pick and choose your favourite.

Businesses

Personalised number plates are a great way to promote your business offline. With so many businesses focused on building their business online, you can easily differentiate yourself with a plate that promotes your business. Above all, it creates interest and you never know when someone is looking for your services.
AG12 CUL for all things agriculturalFA12 MNG - for farmers of all typesBA12 BER - for all the barbers out thereHA12 CUT - for all the hairdressers out thereBA12 TWO - for any combination of three letters to spell out your Bar

Names

Having your name on your name plate is the epitome of personalised number plates. Think of names and surnames and don't forget nicknames.
GO12 DON
If you have the same firstname as the great chef Mr Ramsey, treat yourself to your name.
HA12 PER
Victoria & David could solve their Christmas present worries this year by buying their little daughter a personalised name plate. Also works if your surname is Harper.
DE12 DRE
The much loved character in Coronation Street - Mrs Barlow - could get her own number plate. The Irish name Deirdre comes to life beautifully using the '12' registration combination.
CA12 ROT
Don't forget nicknames. If you have red hair or love rabbits, how can you resist a nameplate such as this one?

Hobbies

Personalised number plates can show the world how you love to spend your time.
GO12 DON
If a G&T is your favourite tipple, then how perfect is this nameplate?
PO12 KER
If you breed pigs or love a bit of bacon for your breakfast, this is an ideal name plate for you.
AR12 OWS
If you're in the TA, then this could be for you. Alternatively if you like a bit of Archery, then this is perfect as well.

All vehicles bought on or after 1st March, 2012 will have a '12' plate. Grab yours now before it's too late. The applicability of '12' to words in the English language will put many combinations in much demand.

Jayne Henry of Speedy Registrations Ltd - speedyreg.co.uk. Speedy Registrations have been supplying number plates to the public since 1984. Based in Northern Ireland we also specialise in private number plates. They aim to provide a choice of personalised number plates to meet all requirements; and pride ourselves in our highly competitive prices, matched equally by our professional customer care service. Every transfer is conducted in strict accordance with DVLA regulations covering number plates.
For interviews, quotes, images or comments contact:
Jayne Henry
Tel(DDI): 02866 387 124
E-mail: sales@speedyreg.co.uk

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The Advantages Of Buying Used Cars

When it is time to purchase a different automobile, many consumers face the choice of new or used. While there are advantages to both, most consumers will benefit from the financial advantage offered by used cars. It is often possible to by a gently used vehicle that offers many great options at a much lower price than buying new.

One of the primary advantages of buying used cars instead of new is cost. The average new automobile drops in value by 20-25% when the buyer drives it off the showroom floor. While some may think this to be an urban legend, the Blue Book values confirm that with as little as 1,000 miles, practically new vehicles have lost this amount of value.

All cars on the road could be considered used cars. It really does not matter who put the first 100 miles on the vehicle, once it hits the pavement it is a used car. Vehicles manufactured today have a much longer lifespan than those manufactured 25 years ago. Older vehicles often were designed for a 100,000 life span. Many would need a major overhaul before reaching that mark. However a vehicle manufactured today often is good for 300,000 miles without major repair. This makes purchasing a vehicle that someone else has had before an even smarter move.

Used cars can be a green choice. Environmentally conscious individuals may find that a slightly used vehicle can help to lower the effect manufacturing new vehicles on the planet. Newer used vehicles provide many of the environmentally friendly features that have been introduced within the past few years but do not require the energy, raw materials and other forms of waste associated with a new vehicle. With the longer lifespan of vehicles, the pre-owned car that is bought today may last many years into the future.

Used cars for sale are available from many different sources. Some buyers prefer to purchase their pre-owned vehicle directly from the previous buyer while others prefer purchasing from a dealer. It is sometimes possible to get a better price directly from the previous owner, however, the buyer then must sell his own existing vehicle. Most dealers will take the previous vehicle as a part of the down payment on the vehicle being purchased. In addition, most private parties do not offer financing on the used automobile that is being sold.

Used cars offer a great way to save money for individuals looking to upgrade their vehicle. They are available from dealers as well as private parties. For the environmentally conscious, they offer a green advantage.

If you are looking to view used cars for sale in New Zealand or looking for great value cheap cars, then you will love the Genuine Vehicle Imports website. Find out why at http://www.genuinevehicleimports.co.nz/

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Choosing The Right Kind of Tires For Your Car

What would a car be without tires? You could have the best engine and the greatest transmission but all of that would mean nothing if you didn't have tires. Your car would just sit there, as pretty as it is. It would not be drive-able. That is why tires on a car are so important. With the advancement in tires today, you can actually buy a pair of tires that will transform your mediocre car into a dream on the road. But the advancement in tire technology is so great these days, that it can also be intimidating and confusing. Which ones are right for your car?

When it comes time to replace the tires on your car, you can do a couple of things. You can find the same make and size as the ones that came on your car when you bought it, or you can go for an upgrade if you feel your car needs it. You may also be considering changing the wheels. While some people like to put new wheels on the same old tire, it may be a good idea to get new tires and wheels together.

There are many things to consider when purchasing new tires for your car. First, think about what kind of driving you do and what your needs are when it comes to tires. Do you drive in wet weather conditions often? Do you drive mostly on the freeway or just around town? How much driving do you really do? These are some questions you may be asked by a salesperson helping you buy tires. If you do live in an area where weather is a factor, you may want to look at getting all season tires. Especially if you live in climates where it snows often such as Montana or Utah, it would be a good idea to have snow tires that you can swap out for standard tires in the summer months. Consider the speed rating on the tires. You may not need a tire that is made for speeds over 150 miles per hour. Most cars on the road have a V rating and that is more than enough speed rating for most cars. Unless you have a car that can go over 150 mph, you don't need anything higher than a V. Tires with higher speed ratings will cost you more and won't last as long because the tire is made of softer material. The tread will have a shorter life with higher speed rated tires.

When it comes to ride quality, a low profile tire such as a 40 or 50 series can look great on your car but your tires will take more of a beating when you drive or bumps or potholes. It's best to stick with a 55 or 60. Tires can also make noise than others depending on their tread design. If you drive a lot on the highways, you may want to consider the noise factor but for driving around town, you won't notice the noise much. A tire salesperson can tell you which tires are quieter than others and can recommend the best ones.

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Cool Car Colors

A car color can give you a lot of insight into the driver and his or her personality. Here are a few cool car colors.

Black - If you want to be taken seriously then a black car is the way to go. It's a somber color but most important officials such as politicians and business tycoons tend be chauffeured in black luxury cars. If you look young for your age and want to be taken seriously, black may be a good color choice for you. This color commands respect while still blending in with the crowd.

Pink - Pink is a very girly color and chances are that the owner of any pink car is most likely a female. Chances are that the car is mostly custom painted since pink is generally not a car that most auto brands have in stock. Drivers of pink cars can be funky, spontaneous and lots of fun. Someone with a pink car probably thinks of herself as a princess and probably tends to be on the high maintenance side.

Silver - It's one of the most popular car colors in the world. Silver is an easygoing color that isn't jarring. It looks particularly good on convertibles, coupes and sports cars. There are different hues of silver, such as light silver and metallic silver which can be very edgy and rather sexy on the right car.

Red - Red is the color of fire and passion. Drivers of red cars love and crave attention and they sure get it. The color red is particularly favored on sports cars like the Toyota Supra or Corvette. However, red cars do stand out on the road. This can be a good thing most of the time except when you've caught the eye of law enforcement.

Green - Green cars can mean different things depending on the shade of green. A darker green car means that the owner is generally conservative and likes to play it safe. However, a shade of bright neon green conveys an attitude of a young and carefree driver,

Blue - Drivers of blue cars tend to be rather traditional and practical. They are no-fuss kind of people who don't want any frills. This color can look very striking on classic American cars and classic muscle cars.

The most popular colors for vehicles in the United States are white, silver and black. So give the color options some thought the next time you buy a car. Your vehicle color may say a lot more about you than you realize!

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Why Is It Important to Get a Driving Instructor With Referrals?

In the quest to get value for money in the harsh economic climate we are in, you need to be certain that you are being instructed by the right person when you pay for lessons. Not only do you need the assurance that you are receiving instruction from someone highly trained and fully qualified, you have to be sure that he satisfies industry standards. That is, is he or she DSA approved? You also need to find out if they are licensed to offer training services. These are the basics a driving instructor must have before he can be given any referrals.

A driving instructor with referrals is likely to be one who is friendly and understanding. These are absolutely critical qualities for an instructor to have when dealing with a first time learner. If you are just learning how to drive, you need a trainer who will slowly help you build your confidence. So talk to someone you know; a friend or relative who just underwent a driving course. If their instructor proved to have the patience and knowledge to coach a beginner, then you can also use his services.

Instructors with recommendations are likely to have proper equipment for the job, that is, carefully maintained vehicles that are relatively new. They will also probably give you the leeway to choose between an automatic and manual transmission vehicle. Trainers with referrals are careful to see that their cars are in optimal condition as it keeps them in compliance with regulation and standards. Apart from this, they do it to attract and retain customers. Of course they also want to avoid negative comments that can spread easily over the Internet, especially on social networks.

There are a number of websites from which you can get reviews and comments from past students about the quality of services offered by their instructor. Online forums also exist where driving instructors are rated by their former students, who also give candid feedback about their experience with the trainer.

Another factor that will make students recommend a driving instructor is their rates. Reasonable rates will always draw positive comments, especially when combined with top quality service. On average, instructors with decent referrals will charge £21 a lesson. However, many of them will let you pay slightly less if you book lessons as a block instead of individually. This is why it is important to try and locate a trainer with referrals.

For more information on a Liverpool driving instructor with student discount and block booking offers available, visit our website and see how our driving instructor Liverpool can help you pass.

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Best Marine Battery: Lead Acid, AGM, Gel Cell - Prices, Statistics, Characteristics

The best marine battery is the one that will meet your needs, last as long as you own your boat, and that you got at an acceptable price. Marine batteries are a cross between car batteries with their high cranking amps (short bursts of high power) and deep cycle batteries used on golf carts, trolling motors, and other devices designed for continuous use. Good marine batteries have high cranking amps (which the marine industry calls marine cranking amp's) to get the motor started but they also have to be able to run continuously for several hours like a deep cycle battery does. There are three battery types that you need to consider before making a purchase. First is lead acid (also called flooded), AGM, and gel cell. Gel cell batteries are modified lead acid batteries with a gelling agent added to turn the battery acid into a gel. These batteries take a recharge very slowly. AGM batteries recharge very quickly, are sealed and leakproof and can take a lot of abuse. Lead acid batteries can also be sealed and made maintenance-free. Time to recharge a lead acid battery is between the gel cell and the AGM.

You also need to be aware of the reserve capacity rating (how long you can drain the battery). Higher is better. You also will want to look at the CCA rating which stands for cold cranking amp rating. Higher is better. Also the higher the marine cranking amp rating the better. Another vital statistic is the pulse cranking amp rating which measures the starting amperage of the engine

Deep cycle marine batteries are the ones that are designed for continuous use for long periods of time. But they still have to have enough cranking amperage to get the motor started. All three types of marine batteries (lead acid, AGM, gel cell) can be deep cycle but more people favor AGM and lead acid than gel cell. When you look at the pricing for marine batteries you will see a wide range, from around $100 to as high as $750 per battery. The vital statistics above will help you sort out the differences between the low end and the high end products. Also there are several online calculators that will help you figure out the battery size you need. You simply enter the load voltage, the load amperage, and the inverter efficiency rating. This will help you figure out the size marine battery that you need to best meet your application.

Because a Marine battery is a specialized type of application the worst thing you could possibly do is to buy a car battery and think you would be happy. On our website http://www.bestmarinebattery.net/ we have several more pages of analysis that we take you through so you can determine which is the best battery for you depending upon your application. Come see us at http://www.bestmarinebattery.com/

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Choosing the Right Aftermarket Headlights for Your Car - Halo Projector, Euro, OEM or LED Headlights

There are many different types of custom headlight styles on the market such as projector headlights, LED headlights and euro headlights. No matter what reason you have for replacing your headlights you can't go wrong with projector head lights as far as functionality and style goes. Projector headlights are designed to illuminate the road better allowing the driver to see more of the road and to drive more safely at night. As a bonus, just about all the aftermarket headlights out there have cool new designs to update the appearance of your vehicle and if paired with the right HID headlight kit your car will definitely turn heads.

A lot of the aftermarket projector headlights come equipped with LED halos but not all of them are made with CCFL halos. The halo can be wired into the parking lights, into a separate switch, or just about anywhere else. The halo or angel eyes originally found on high-end cars such as BMWs became very popular due to their distinctive look and now they are available for just about any make and model out there. The difference between the LED and CCFL halos is fairly simple, the Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp is a newer technology and is said to be around three times brighter.

Euro style headlights are one of the other options that is designed to look more like the factory headlights but with an updated, modern look to them. Although the euro head lights do not come equipped with the projector housing they still do a very good job at lighting up the road, combined with the right bulb or HID kit of course. They are also the cheaper option if you're on a tight budget but still want to improve your car's lighting.

Another trend starting up in headlight industry driven by the Audi R8 model is what is now being called the R8 style LED strip on the bottom of the headlight. Like the halo or the LED options already available this LED strip comes installed inside the headlight assembly usually with the power and the ground wires coming out from the headlight in order for you to wire the LED strip into the parking lights or any other switch of your choice. This is a great new feature that will definitely turn heads.

Some aftermarket headlights are also compatible with factory HID systems. This is something you should definitely check before purchasing a set of headlights for your car. Typically this is the case with higher end cars such as Audi or Mercedes but there are several others out there.

No matter what style headlight you're looking for, most sets are available in a black or chrome housing and some even in a titanium or smoke housing. Installation is usually simple enough to the point where just about anyone can do it but some applications may require professional installation.

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2004 Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 Overview

The Bugatti Veyron requires no introduction; it's known for having 1,001 horsepower. It's the world's fastest production car at 268 MPH, a title that the McLaren F1 held from 1998 to 2005. It's known for 0 to 60 MPH acceleration in 2.6 seconds. And it's known for the most expensive price tag of $1.7 million USD. The Bugatti Veyron is the most recognized supercar in the world, among the likes of the Ferrari Enzo, Pagani Zonda, Lamborghini Murcielago, Ford GT40, and the McLaren F1; but does top speed and over 4-digit horsepower equate into a great supercar?

The Veyron has been around since 2005. It's been tested by BBC's acclaimed Top Gear program and bought by oil sheiks from around the world. It's made other automotive manufactures scratch their heads for years and has spawned dozens of "wanna-be" manufacturers who seek to topple the 1,001 horsepower Veyron. For instance, the SSC Ultimate Aero, built by Shelby SuperCars, challenged the Veyron's top speed by beating the original Veyron's record of 253.81 MPH in 2005 by 2.37 MPH. The SSC Ultimate Aero set a new record of 256.18 MPH in 2007. Three years later, in 2010, the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport once again took the record with a speed 11.676 MPH faster than the SSC Ultimate Aero, topping off at a cool 267.856 MPH as the world's fastest production car.

An 8.0-liter W16 quad turbocharged engine yields an output of 1,001 horsepower for the Veyron. The car nomenclature, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4, indicates a 16 cylinder engine with 4 turbochargers. Impressive output for an 8.0-liter engine considering the Bugatti's engine is smaller than a Dodge Viper's, yet yields nearly double the power. Putting 1,001 horses to the ground is certainly a challenge, so Bugatti decided to implement a permanent four wheel drive system paired to a dual-clutch 7 speed automatic transmission that allows for shifts in under 150 milliseconds, faster than Chuck Norris' punches.

The tires for the Bugatti are specially manufactured by Michelin and can only be changed in France for a recession competitive price of $70,000. That doesn't even include the cost of the specially designed Michelin tires that cost $25,000 for the set.

The size and complexity of the engine requires a significant amount of cooling to make sure that the car does not overheat. It takes 10 radiators to keep the car cool, 3 engine radiators, 3 air-to-liquid intercoolers, 1 for the air condition, 1 for the transmission oil, 1 for the differential oil and 1 for the engine oil. The engine configuration also leads to a fairly impressive, yet relatively unimportant fact that the EPA MPG rating for the Veyron is a mere 8 MPG in the city and 13 MPG on the highway and a whooping 3 MPG when driving at top speed.

Due to the large 8.0-liter W16 and the four-wheel drive system, the Veyron weighs 1,888 kg (4,162 lbs), considerably light considering its size and configuration. The Veyron weights just 7% more than a Chevrolet Camaro (3,860 lbs) and 16% more than a Mercedes-Benz SLS (3,600 lbs). Nonetheless, the weight doesn't stop the Bugatti from accelerating from 0 to 60 MPH in 2.6, something that a lightweight, 2,954 lb (1,340 kg) Gallardo LP-570-4 Supperleggera does in only 3.3 seconds.

Despite impressive figures no matter where you look, the Bugatti does lack the flair that a Lamborghini offers, or the finesse of an Aston Martin. The car design is just plain boring. A well-rounded watermelon that can do 260 MPH is impressive on paper, but the engine compartment just looks like a few round tubes and the front end looks like an overweight whale. The design is even further put into question considering the nearly dozen variants of the car that exist, from an all chrome Veyron, to the Bleu Centenaire, a matte blue that Bugatti created to celebrate their 100th anniversary.

Design goofs or not, the Bugatti is still an extremely popular car, with all the original 300 Veyrons sold as of September 2011, there really is no disputing that the car is highly desirable. The only other option from this point is to upgrade to the $2.7 million, 1,184 horsepower Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, or convert to the more luxurious and just barely more tame Bugatti Galibier.

Carnecks' Mission is to be an online car review source which strives to provide quality car reviews, entertaining videos, and reliable information. CarNecks Vision is to be the best entertaining car information service provider. Visit http://www.carnecks.com/ for more articles with videos and pictures

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