Archive for the ‘Car Care’ category

The Need For An Autometer Fuel Pressure Gauge

December 21st, 2009

Most transmission or engine problems typically originate from a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator. A fuel pressure regulator is situated between the engine and fuel source. The ideal fuel pressure range significantly varies in different types of automotive vehicles. The car’s engine greatly depends on the fuel supply under a specific fuel pressure. The fuel pressure is basically the engine’s driving force to know the right fuel injection requirements. Majority of fuel pressure regulator problems result from no fuel supply to the engine, which then leads to vehicle breakdown.

To determine a potential fuel pressure regulator problem, a fuel pressure system gauge will be needed. It is an automotive tool that is inserted along the system line within a testing port in the assembly. In the event that the testing port is not present you can use a fuel filter hose instead, in order to bypass the line. In most cases, your fuel pressure car gauge should produce a reading of 45 to 55 psi on the injection mechanism and 14 to 18 psi on the throttle bottle injection assembly. A slight variation from the specified numbers can still be acceptable but a drastic deviation is a sign of impending problems that may result to engine failure.

That being said, having a reliable fuel pressure test gauge is very crucial to maintain accurate readings of fuel pressure levels. Remember that whenever you press the pedal you need to reach the perfect PSI to ascertain that your engine will be capable of delivering sufficient power and torque. The only way to ensure this is by looking through your automotive fuel pressure gauge system. If you are planning to purchase a reliable and functional gauge, you should check out the autometer gauge. The autometer pressure fuel gauge is specifically designed to give precise and accurate readings. Additionally, an autometer gauge is shock-proof to make certain that it will produce accurate fuel pressure reading regardless of the road condition as well as your driving style.

Maintaining and keeping the appropriate level of fuel pressure greatly helps to prevent potential damage to your vehicle’s engine. The good thing about an autometer diesel fuel pressure gauge is that you can find the one that will perfectly match the type of automotive vehicle you drive. Furthermore, there is a wide selection of styles to choose from.

Whether you need an electric fuel pressure gauge or a digital fuel pressure gauge, autometer gauges will surely help you to ensure that your fuel pressure is within acceptable levels at all times!

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Posted in Accessories, Car Care

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Airless Paint Sprayers

November 18th, 2009

If you are planning to do a small automotive repainting job at home, an airless car paint sprayer will help you accomplish the task. The use of an airless automotive paint sprayer is a cost-efficient option as oppose to purchasing a separate air compressor and spray painter.

Technically, airless sprays make use of a small electrical pump motor which forces paint into a small hole or orifice then breaks it up into a fine spray. You can adjust the shape of the cone into various patterns to match the job. The components of a typical airless sprayer include the power cord, electric pump, on/off trigger switch, paint nozzle, spray controller, and paint container.

In general, airless paint sprayers are used for surface preparation. Since they are high-pressure sprayers, precautions must be adhered. They are far more dangerous than those using hydraulic pumps. Always refer to the operating instructions on the manual for proper and safe usage. Before you remove the attached paint container be sure that the unit is unplugged. After removing the container, you can now pour in the paint. Sprayers that do not have containers will run the tube directly to the paint.

It is recommended to do practice painting on a scrap wood before commencing with the actual application. This is required so you can do the necessary adjustments on the spray cone as well as with your spraying techniques. Spray from side to side while overlapping the edge to ensure even coverage. Always move your hand parallel to the surface for even application.

To find the best airless paint sprayer, you have to consider some important buying parameters. First, you have to determine how often you will be using the sprayer as well as the size of the area you will be painting. A small electric airless paint sprayer is enough if you will be using it for several small painting jobs.

Since these sprayers come with a variety of tip attachments, carefully select the size that will help you to finish the task more efficiently. Moreover, you also need to check its hose size. The size of the hose can affect the mobility of the sprayer. To increase your working range, choose those with longer hose.

You should also check airless paint sprayer reviews to easily compare different brands and models of air sprayers. Ask recommendations from relatives or friends who have procured a particular model of airless automotive paint spray.

Exhaust both online and offline stores to find airless paint sprayers with affordable deals. Efficiently accomplish you car painting job with the aid of  airless sprayers!

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Posted in Car Care, Exterior

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Fuel Injector Cleaners

November 18th, 2009

The fuel injector is an important automotive component that requires proper cleaning and maintenance. Over time, they tend to clog and get dirty thus dramatically decreasing the overall performance of your car. Bear in mind that if you don’t address the problem immediately it is likely that the whole fuel system will start to malfunction. This is because the injector is responsible for getting the fuel into the engine. That being said, finding the right fuel injector cleaner is highly important.

Fortunately, you can practically find an injector cleaner in almost any auto shop. You can choose from various brands, which typically contain the same ingredients. Most of these cleaners are meant for easy and simple injector cleaning. They contain chemicals that need to be introduced to the injector to get rid of fuel deposits and additives.

Fuel injector cleaners are made from concentrated detergents, which function to break up the minerals that form and clog the tiny nozzles of the fuel injectors. The buildup of these mineral can cause a great reduction of fuel flow on the engine cylinder which will result to sputtering, hard starts, and knocks.

Even though auto manufacturers are constantly improving the injector’s design, there is still a big chance that it will get clogged.  Therefore, the use of these cleaners can significantly help to improve performance and fuel efficiency.

To find the best cleaner, you have to consider a few important things. First, ascertain that you will choose the right product. Canvassing on different automotive stores and doing an online research will help you find the best ones. List down all of the top-of-the-line cleaners, and then narrow them down through a cleaner comparison. Weigh their pros and cons to spot the most suitable one.

Reading reviews can also be a big help. Reviews provide consumers with insights on what a particular injector cleaning product has to offer. Moreover, you must only buy from reputable brands such as the gumout fuel injector cleaner or the chevron injector cleaner.

Carefully follow the instructions stated on the product’s label to ensure that you will be using it properly. Remember that each product is different therefore application intervals will also differ. Ask a knowledgeable friend or someone who have already used an injector cleaner to help you out.

Overall, injector cleaners can effectively flush out fuel deposits from your car’s injector. Bear in mind that keeping your fuel injector clean will give way for a more efficient system!

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Posted in Car Care, Performance And Replacement Parts

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Car Polishing

November 18th, 2009

Proper grooming and maintenance are the keys in prolonging the life of your car. Since it is one of your big investments, you would certainly want to make the most out of it. Some people think that keeping their car in good condition requires a big sum of money. Although there is truth to this assumption, you can still save some by polishing your own car instead of hiring a professional. Yes, it is true that taking your car to an automotive cleaning shop would absolutely cost you a lot but by just purchasing an efficient car polisher you can do the job even in the comforts of your own home.

The thing is some just don’t have the time to do the cleaning on their own. More often than not, people just don’t want to waste their fruitful weekend over tasks as mundane as car cleaning. However, it will not hurt to give even a little time to polish your car once in a while. The truth is car polishing is very much different from car waxing. The common misconception is that you need to polish your car every time it starts to look dull or dirty. If you want to add shine on your car’s protective coating, you do not need a car polish but instead you need a wax.

Keep in mind that a polish must only be used if you really have to. The main function of car polishing is to remove scratches and other paint problems. However, you cannot use it anytime you want since it removes a thin layer of the paint every time you apply it on the car’s coating, unlike the wax that introduces a protective layer and give a shiny appearance to your car. That is why it is advisable to use a polish once in a while, or only if you badly need to remove visible scratches.

In order to find the best car polish, it is very important to read its label carefully to know what ingredients are used in the polish. Remember that polishes contain abrasives and other mild chemicals. You need to know whether it is designed to clean or protect the car’s paint. There are polishes that are capable of cleaning and polishing the car at the same time, but of course you need to read its label to ensure how they really work. Additionally, some polishes may include fillers that are used to hide any imperfection on your car’s coating. The polish is intended to improve the luster of your car’s paint but it will wear away with time due to exposure on different weather elements.

It will also be helpful to read car polishing reviews so you would know what to expect on a particular polish product. You also need to scour different automotive shops to compare various types of polishers. Reading the car’s manual will also be useful since most car manufacturers include recommendation on the type of polishers applicable for the type and model of the car you have. Be sure to apply it properly to ensure that it will serve its intended purpose!

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Posted in Car Care, DIY

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Waterproof Car Covers

November 16th, 2009

Car covers are beneficial especially for those who do not have their own garage. The presence of environmental elements such as tree sap, hail, and bird droppings can introduce potential damage to your car’s coating. That is why using a reliable automotive cover can help you not only to protect your car’s finish but also keep it looking brand new.

Among the different car covers available, those with waterproof features are highly recommended. Waterproof car covers can provide utmost protection to your vehicle even during intense weather conditions. A waterproof car cover is commonly made from heavy-duty and high-quality materials which are designed specifically to prevent the likeliness of rust development. Exposure to harsh weather conditions can significantly accelerate the development of rust therefore protecting your ride with efficient waterproof covers can prevent this from happening.

Waterproof covers are not only available as exterior covering. There are also waterproof protective covering for seat and steering wheel handles. Waterproof seat covers are made to protect your car’s interior from accumulating dust as well as wear and tear due to exposure to harsh weather elements. The steering wheel covers are essentially designed to cover your steering wheel and avoid performance deterioration due to dust build-up.

When shopping for the best waterproof cover, it is vital that you keep some essential buying parameters in mind. First, you need to ascertain the size of your car. Waterproof automotive cars are sold in a wide range of sizes. Be sure to choose the one that will perfectly fit your vehicle. Additionally, pay careful attention to the cover’s durability and permeability. Waterproof covers should be more permeable than standard covers in order to effectively prevent moisture from forming inside.

It is a good idea to opt for a car cover that is made from acrylic fibers. This type of cover offers excellent protection and ideal for areas that receive abundant sunlight. Acrylic car covers are quite expensive but are very long lasting. In addition, they are fade-resistant and waterproof.

Most car covers sold in automotive shops have generic sizes. They are made to fit any standard size automotive vehicle. However, those who own luxury cars should opt for a custom made waterproof car cover to ensure that it will perfectly fit the type and model of car you have. Moreover, it is highly advised to buy a waterproof car cover from a reputable brand name, like the empire waterproof cover. Take time to shop around and exhaust all possible options in order to find the car cover that fits your car as well as your budget!

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Posted in Accessories, Car Care

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Fuel Injector Cleaning

November 16th, 2009

Fuel injector cleaning is necessary to prevent the likelihood of serious engine problems. Every time gasoline vapor deposits are left on the fuel injector it forms a hard varnish on the car’s engine. This can build up and will eventually cause clogging on the fuel injector. That is why some experts recommend cleaning the injectors once you have reached the 25,000 to 30,000 mileage mark. Doing so will ensure to keep the fuel flowing at peak efficiency.

There are a number of ways to clean your automotive fuel injector. Purchasing injector cleaners on automotive shops is one common option. You can also opt to do in-tank cleaning with the aid of a diy injector cleaning kit. Another method is to remove the injector and bring it to a professional mechanic. Some people prefer this method since the injectors will be serviced properly. However, hiring a professional fuel injector cleaning service can be very costly and time-consuming.

Perhaps the fastest and easiest way to eliminate deposits on your fuel injectors is with the use of effective cleaning kits. Additionally, you can greatly reduce your cleaning cost since they are much more affordable as compared to hiring professional automotive services. Aside from that, introducing a commercial cleaner through the injector while the engine is running can significantly remove a considerable amount of mineral buildup not only on the injector but also on the valves and combustion chambers.

To start the procedure, you will need an automotive cleaning kit (which cost around $100) and a long screw. First thing to do is to open the engine’s compartment then either disable the fuel pump or plug the fuel return line. Choose accordingly as some cars may need to set a default code which must be cleared once the job is done. If you are unsure on what to select between the two, you can just install a U-tube so the fuel will go directly to the tank.

After which, disconnect the regulator and then connect the kit at the fuel port on the fuel rail. Next thing to do is to remove the fuel cap from the gas tank. This is necessary to prevent excessive buildup of pressure on the system since the use of diesel fuel injector cleaning kits can deliver a large burst of pressure.

Then, turn on the ignition but the fuel-pump must be shut off so the engine will not turn over. Continue opening the valve on the kit until you reach the desired fuel pressure reading that matches your vehicle. Next, start the engine and run the cleaning solvent through the injectors. Let it run until the solvent is exhausted and the engine shuts down. Reset the fuel pump switch, put back the gas cap, and reconnect the pressure regulator. Start the engine and check if there’s any improvement.

Certainly, cleaning fuel injectors at home can give you greater savings while significantly improving your car’s performance and fuel efficiency!

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Posted in Car Care, Performance And Replacement Parts

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Leather Cleaning Tips

November 13th, 2009

Leather car interiors are once reserved to high-end models but today they are now made available to different types of automotive vehicles from coupes, sedans and SUVs. Many car enthusiasts prefer leather interiors due to their classic look and elegant style. However, the luxury of leather comes with a degree of added maintenance.

Everyday, your car’s interior is subjected to a certain amount of abuse. Driving in the modern world can take its tool on your leather interiors. Greasy fingertips, drink spills, cigarette butts, and dust are just some of the few damaging deposits that people can leave behind. Fortunately, the introduction of a vast array of leather cleaning products made the task simpler and easier.

Just like when cleaning leather furniture, you need to choose the appropriate type of cleaner when cleaning leather car interiors. Moreover, make sure to buy cleaners and leather conditioners that are specifically formulated for the type of leather you have. Remember that automotive interiors are made from different varieties of leather. Therefore, it is important that you know what type of leather you will be dealing with. You can also check the car manufacturer’s manual and take note of their leather cleaning tips as well as their product recommendations.

Generally, car interiors can be made of traditional leather or just coated with leather-like vinyl. Other models feature suede leather which requires an entirely different cleaning and conditioning process than the traditional one. The use of efficient leather cleaning kits can also do the trick. Some car automotive manufacturers have already introduced easy-to-use cleaning kits to aid car users to effectively and safely clean their leather interiors. They can be used when cleaning leather car seats, steering wheels, and other interior components that are covered with leather.

When cleaning leather interiors, the first thing you should do is to test an inconspicuous area to ensure that the cleaner won’t damage the leather. You may also use a small amount of water to determine what type of leather you have. 100% leather would absorb the water when applied, whereas vinyl coated leather will repel it.

Once you have determined what cleanser is appropriate for your leather interior, you may now start your cleaning task. Bear in mind to always use gentle circular motion for all applications. Additionally, you must only apply light coats. After which, wait for a few minutes so that the leather would absorb the treatment. Re-apply another coating for heavy-soiled areas. Let the leather dry naturally or you can speed it up with the help of a hair dryer.  Regularly clean your leather interiors so you can enjoy and appreciate its lasting beauty for a long time!

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Posted in Car Care, Interior

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Powder Coating Equipment

November 11th, 2009

Powder coating is a new and innovative painting technology that is now being used for automotive paint jobs. It produces attractive surface finish without the need of solvents. Generally the process involves the use of free-flowing and dry powder. The best thing about the powder coating process is the fact that it does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. The coating is electrostatically applied to the car’s surface, and then, cured under heat to allow a new surface skin to form. The powder being used is either thermoset or thermostatic polymer.

The use of  powder coating equipment is preferred by car users who want to create a harder auto finish that is tougher than conventional car paint. Therefore, powder coating is the perfect alternative over wet paint solvents. It offers an effective and environment-friendly method of applying paint to your vehicle. While the equipment needed for powder coating is much more elaborate than a spray can, you can now conveniently avail of kits that will allow you to do powder coating at home. Home powder coating equipment kits already come with the necessary tools needed for the job.

Aside from the kits, many also opt for a powder coating portable equipment. The equipment makes use of pigmented powder that is created from aluminum, acrylic, fusion-bonded epoxies, and medium-density fiberboards to produce polymer granules. They are then combined with powder ingredients and pigments to come up with the desired color. After which, the combined ingredients are mixed and placed in an extruder. They will be rolled flat and cooled down. The equipment will then break them down into tiny pieces and milled to create the powder.

These typically use electronically charged gun to apply the powder coating. However, there are still other gun varieties that you can choose from. The tribo charging gun is also a type of powder coating gun used for application. Instead of electricity, this gun uses friction to create electric charge for the powder. Another type of gun that you can use is the bell charging variety. It flings the powder from the bell’s perimeter to produce an electrical charge. No matter what type of application gun you use, the end result is pretty much the same.

When selecting equipment for powder coating application, it is critical that you pay attention to some important details. First, determine the area where you will need to apply the powder coating. For instance, the small powder coating equipment is enough for small applications. Decide whether you need a brand new or used powder coating equipment. Brand new equipment are still highly recommended however those with limited budget should consider purchasing used ones.

Create a more attractive and tougher automotive coating finish with the aid of efficient and reliable powder coating auto equipment!

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Posted in Car Care, Tools And Equipment

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