Monday, January 31, 2011

Installation Instructions For Harley Davidson Signal Mirrors

Installation Instructions for Harley Davidson Signal Mirrors


Turn signals are considered by motorcyclists to be one of the biggest detriments to the appearance of a motorcycle and often appear as bulbous, amber eyesores attached to the handlebars or frame. Harley-Davidson now offers a set of mirrors with integrated turn signals to improve the aesthetic flow of their famous motorcycles. While installation of the mirror itself is fairly simple, wiring the integrated signals takes some preparation and electrical competency.


Preparation


Obtain a factory service manual made specifically for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. These manuals will help familiarize you with your motorcycle's electrical system as well as providing detailed removal and installation instructions. Gather a basic understanding of the front turn signals wiring locations and removal process before beginning. Next, lay out the parts included with your new turn signal mirror kit. Take a few moments to ensure that all necessary parts are present and in working order. Finally, protect yourself from electrical shock by disconnecting the motorcycle's battery. If you own a Sportster or VRSC (V-Twin Racing Street Custom) model, locate the Maxi-fuse behind the left side cover and remove it instead of disconnecting the battery.


Factory Mirror and Turn Signal Removal


Remove the mirrors by unscrewing the acorn nut or lock nut on the underside of the brake and clutch lever perches, then twist the mirror counterclockwise to unscrew it from the perch. Some models, such as the FXSTD (Deuce), FLSTF (Fat Boy) and all Dyna and VRSC models use a ball stud-type clamp that secures the right-side turn signal to the bottom of the mirror post. To remove the mirror and turn signal, loosen the ball clamp by rotating it counterclockwise, then remove the mirror as normal.


Lighted Mirror Installation


Install the new mirrors onto the clutch and brake lever perches, inserting the power wire leads through the perch first. Twist the mirror clockwise until it is seated against the perch. Attach the gray ground wire lead to the bottom of the mirror post, facing the flat edge of the ground terminal upwards. Secure the mirror by adding washers and the acorn or lock nut.


Turn Signal Wiring


Locate the motorcycle's wiring harness; refer to a service manual for the location of your specific motorcycle's harness. Road King models (FLHR) have their harness hidden in the headlight shell, while larger Touring models often secure the wiring harness in the front fairing. Once you have located the harness, trace the wiring from the original turn signals back to the harness to locate each signal's connectors. Disconnect the original signals and attach the new signal mirror's wiring Y-harness in its place. Route the new harness back to the handlebars and connect the first connector on the Y-harness to the signal mirrors. If desired, you may retain the use of the original turn signals by connecting them to the secondary connector on the wiring Y-harness.







Tags: turn signals, acorn lock, bottom mirror, bottom mirror post, Davidson Signal, Davidson Signal Mirrors, Harley Davidson

Change The Face Shield On A Fulmer Helmet

Fulmer's line of full-face motorcycle helmets are equipped with the company's QR1 quick-release face shield mechanism, allowing the wearer to quickly and easily replace his helmet's face shield without tools. Release levers built into the face shields' base plates -- the pivot mechanisms on both sides of the helmet's eye port -- are easily operated with your thumbs to make the entire process as pain-free as possible. Once the old face shield is removed, installing the new shield takes only a few seconds, giving you more time to ride and less time fussing with your helmet.


Instructions


1. Place the helmet on your knee, facing away from you, and raise the face shield until it is completely open.


2. Place your palms on both sides of the face shield, and hook your fingers under the edge of the shield. Push down on the base plate's release levers with your thumbs, and lift the face shield upward with your fingers until it pops off of the helmet.


3. Hold the sides of your new face shield in your palms, and place it in a completely opened position against the helmet's base plates. Press the sides of the face shield against the round catch on the base plates with your palms.


4. Push the face shield down into a closed position until the base plates' release levers click shut.


5. Move the face shield between its fully closed and fully opened positions to ensure that the shield is locked into place against the base plates.







Tags: face shield, base plates, with your, your palms, both sides

Spend A Day In Times Square

Times Square is probably the most well-known tourist spot in all of New York City. When you think of Times Square, New Year's Eve is probably the first thing that pops into your mind. Times Square is good for much more than just one night a year. In fact, it is arguably the most exciting spot on the planet. Here is spend a day in Times Square.


Instructions


1. Shop at Toys 'R Us Times Square. This is the ultimate toy store for both kids and kids at heart. A Barbie play area with a life size Barbie dream house, large Lego constructions of some of New York City's landmarks such as the Empire State Building and gargantuan T-Rex from "Jurassic Park" are just some of the highlights awaiting you at Toys 'R Us Times Square. The Candy Land area is a must for anybody who loves his sweets. If that isn't enough, there is even a Ferris wheel in the middle of the store.


2. Eat a meal at the Hard Rock Cafe found in Times Square. Every major city has a Hard Rock Cafe and New York is no different. The Hard Rock found in Times Square holds memorabilia from rock legends like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The King, Elvis. There is even a concert venue for special events that take place throughout the year.


3. Stop at one of the many souvenir shops to pick up some Times Square merchandise to take home. Chances are somebody from home will ask you to bring something back from your trip to New York City. The small shops at Times Square offer every cliché souvenir there is. The famous “I 'Heart' New York” shirts are all over the place in Times Square, as are mini snow globes, FDNY/NYPD and World Trade Center merchandise.


4. Buy some candy at M&M's World. This is the place for anybody who loves M&M's or chocolate in general. Giant replica M&M's can be found at the store, such as one dressed as Lady Liberty. Of course, M&M's World holds many assortments of the beloved candy, including colors that you can only find at the store.


5. See a show at one of the many theaters in Times Square. Everything from Shakespeare to children's theater to some of the most popular musicals of all time can be found in Times Square. Remember to get your tickets far in advance, though, as these shows sell out almost immediately.


6. Eat at the ESPN Zone in Times Square. It's safe to say that unless you're at the game, there is no better place to watch a sporting event in New York than ESPN Zone in Times Square. The restaurant holds over 100 HD TVs which showcase the best in sports from around the world. There is also a gift shop right in the restaurant.







Tags: Times Square, found Times, found Times Square, Hard Rock, York City

Friday, January 28, 2011

Get A Vizio Tv To Show The Full Screen Picture

VIZIO specializes in LCD TVs.


VIZIO is a television manufacturer that specializes in LCD high-definition TVs. If you have noticed that the video content on your TV is not filling the entire screen, you may need to make an adjustment to the viewing mode on the television. The VIZIO has several different video display modes, and not all of them fill the entire screen. Choosing the correct mode can get your TV to display full screen video.


Instructions


1. Turn on your TV and find a station that does not display full screen. Typically, standard definition channels don't display full screen and instead display two black bars on both sides of the screen.


2. Familiarize yourself with the various display modes. There are three major display modes that can make content full screen: "Wide," "Zoom," and "Panoramic." Wide mode is optimal for wide-screen movies or television programs and will proportionately display the content as full screen. Zoom mode is also optimal for wide-screen movies or television programs. Zoom, however, simply cuts off the top and bottom black bars on a wide-screen program. Panoramic mode is good for standard TV broadcasts that display black bars on the right and left side of the screen. This mode stretches the left and right side of the image to fill the screen, while leaving the middle of the image intact.


3. Locate the "Wide" button on the top of your remote control. This button allows you to cycle through the various display modes.


4. Click on the "Wide" button to cycle through modes. The selected mode displays on the screen when you enter the mode. Choose the one that best suits your viewing needs. You can view each mode and choose the one that fills the screen most effectively.







Tags: full screen, display modes, black bars, display full, display full screen, content full, content full screen

Paint The Wall For An Lcd Projector

Use paint to create a screen for your projector.


Instead of purchasing a costly and cumbersome projector screen, take a weekend and paint a screen onto your wall. Painting the screen directly onto your wall is a project that will prove cost effective at the end. While you could paint your wall with an interior paint, using specialty paint will reflect the light and result in a clear, crisp picture. Wall preparation is key to this project; the screen will magnify any imperfections in your wall. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Turn on your projector and adjust it to the size you want the screen to be.


2. Mark the corners of the screen with a pencil to provide a guide. Line a straight edge up with the marks and sketch a line across. Trace the whole screen with the projector on.


3. Apply painter's tape flush with the guide lines around the whole screen. Use wide painters tape to make sure paint will not get onto other areas of the wall. Use a putty knife to press the painter's tape onto the wall to ensure a strong bond.


4. Apply a layer of spackle around the inside edges of the screen slightly overlapping the tape. Allow the spackle to dry, then sand to a smooth finish. Apply a light coat of spackle to the entire screen area. Sand the spackle after it dries. Apply at least two more coats of spackle, allowing each coat to dry and sanding between applications.


5. Stand to the side of the screen and look at the wall to see if there are any noticeable imperfections.


6. Use a foam roller to apply one coat of primer. Allow the primer to dry before lightly sanding.


7. Apply one to two coats of the specialty paint. Screen Goo requires a base coat followed by a top coat. You should apply at least two coats of the Behr paint. Allow each coat to dry before applying another; sand lightly between coats.


8. Cut two pieces of molding to the height measurement of your screen; miter the ends at a 45 degree angle. Cut two pieces of molding to the width measurement of the screen; miter the ends at a 45 degree angle. Dry fit the pieces over your screen to check the measurements.


9. Use a foam paint brush to apply a light coat of black matte paint to the molding. Allow the paint to dry, then lightly sand. Flip the molding over and apply a strip of Velcro the length of the molding; press firmly to secure the Velcro.


10. Apply Velcro to the edges of the screen, and press firmly to secure the Velcro.


11. Use black matte finish spray paint to apply two light coats to the molding. If two coats do not adequately cover the molding, you may apply another coat. Allow the spray paint to cure overnight.


12. Attach the molding to the wall around the screen. Press firmly into place to secure the Velcro together.







Tags: your wall, secure Velcro, angle pieces, black matte, degree angle, degree angle pieces

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Clean Chrome On A Motorcycle

Motorcycle


Detailing a motorcycle is important to maintain the pristine condition. After several uses or road trips, the chrome can become dingy and dirty. Washing the motorcycle with regular soap and water or through a car wash can leave the chrome with streaks. With certain techniques, you can clean the chrome and have a mirror quality finish. In approximately 30 minutes, your motorcycle will shine. You should accomplish this process every month, depending on the amount you use your motorcycle.


Instructions


1. Purchase chrome polish. This product will keep the shine. In addition, you can wipe off dust or mud after a ride with a rag. Your motorcycle will continue to shine. Turtle Wax Chrome Polish can restore the finish as well as protect against weather. Mother's Chrome Polish, 3M Chrome & Metal Polish and Mopar Chrome Cleaner also cleans the chrome on a motorcycle. These are available in local department stores or auto-detailing shops.


2. Use hot water to fill your bucket. Get one rag moist from the bucket water. Wring the rag out. Wipe off any excess mud, dirt or grim on every chrome piece of the motorcycle. Pay close attention to the creases around the chrome. Remove all the filth and repeat this step if necessary. You may end up with dingy but dirt-free chrome.


3. Dry the chrome on the motorcycle with the towel. Before you apply the polish or cleaner, it is important that the motorcycle is dry. You can air dry for approximately three hours, depending on the weather condition.


4. Use the chrome polish on the motorcycle. Some products may be liquid while others are a paste. Use your second rag, dip or pour a quarter-size amount of the polish on your rag. Rub the chrome on the motorcycle in a circular motion. Repeat until all of the chrome has a high quality shine.







Tags: chrome motorcycle, Chrome Polish, chrome polish, motorcycle will, motorcycle with

Get A Sears Preferred Membership

A Sears preferred membership is another name for Sears' Your Rewards program. The rewards program is free and offers exclusive deals and discounts at Sears retail stores and at Sears' members-only website. Sears offers preferred membership to frequent Sears shoppers by invitation only, and it is available only in certain areas. If you were not invited to join the Sears Your Rewards program, you can call the Sears rewards hot line to request an invitation to the preferred membership program.


Instructions


1. Call the Sears preferred membership hot line at 800-960-9405.


2. Listen to the touch-tone prompts. Select the option to speak with a representative.


3. Tell the customer service representative that you would like to join the Sears preferred program. Although membership is by invitation only, the Sears representative will take down your information. In most cases, Sears will invite you to join the program at a later date if it is available in your area.







Tags: preferred membership, Your Rewards program, invitation only, join Sears, Rewards program

What Are The Differences Between Xlt And Stx

The Ford F-150 is available in a variety of trims, including the STX and XLT.


Ford produces a variety of trucks and SUVs that cater to almost any driver's and passenger's needs. To further customize its offerings, Ford produces vehicles in various trim levels, which combine upgrades and equipment into tiers. Looking at the Ford F-150, Ford's light-duty, full-sized pickup, the vehicle is offered in a variety of trims, including the XLT and STX.


Ford F-150 Trim Levels


The F-150 comes in 11 trim levels as of 2011, though trim levels have gone up and down in number depending upon the model-year. The 2011 trim levels on the F-150 are the XT, STX, XLT, FX2, Lariat, FX4, SVT Raptor, King Ranch, Platinum, Lariat Limited and Harley-Davidson. The starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) ranges from $22,790 for the XL to $48,380 on the Harley-Davidson (the Harley Davidson trim was introduced in 2000).


STX and XLT Place in the F-150 Trim Range


The STX trim has been offered by Ford since 1998 on the F-150. The XLT is one slot above the STX and is the third lowest trim level offered on the F-150. Both the STX and XLT come equipped with six-speed automatic transmission, roll stability control, air conditioning, power locks and windows, cruise control and remote keyless entry. Keep in mind that, generally speaking, the XLT is a higher trim level than the STX, which means that it comes with slightly upgraded equipment; however, the biggest difference is that by upgrading to the XLT, this opens up a wider variety of potential upgrades to the powertrain, interior and performance systems.


STX vs. XLT Engines and Configuration


Both the STX and XLT trims are available in regular and SuperCab (extended single-cab) configurations and can be equipped with the base V6 or the 5.0L V8. Paint and interior options differ by trim, with the XLT available in a variety of two-tone paint schemes. For example, the STX only comes in gray cloth or vinyl while the XLT is available in three different cloth colors. The XLT is available with additional combinations, including the four-door SuperCrew, with either a style side 5.5-foot or 8-foot box. In addition, the XLT is available with Ford's Ecoboost 3.7-liter, twin-turbo V6 engine, along with an electronic locking rear differential and off-road package unavailable on the STX.


STX vs. XLT Packages and Interior


The XLT is available with the optional convenience and plus packages. In addition, the XLT is offered with in-dash navigation, a chrome package, a compass and rear backup sensors. In addition, the XLT is available in a several choices of 17- to 20-inch aluminum or chrome wheels while the STX is limited to three 17-inch and one 18-inch wheel option.







Tags: available with, Ford F-150, trim levels, addition available, available variety

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Install A Sissy Bar On A Harley Low Rider

Install a Sissy Bar on a Harley Low Rider


Harley-Davidson gives owners the option to fit the FXDL Low Rider models with a passenger backrest or "sissy bar." Both the factory and aftermarket parts manufacturers produce sissy bar parts for the Low Rider, giving bike owners a variety of options for individually customizing their bikes. Sissy bars provide added comfort and security for the passenger as well as acting as a handy, secure place to strap or bungee cargo. Install sissy bars with a few common tools and basic mechanical skills.


Instructions


1. Park the bike on solid, level ground. Rest the bike on its jiffy stand.


2. Remove the battery bolt from the negative battery cable terminal on the battery with a 10-mm wrench. Remove the battery negative cable from the battery terminal to prevent accidental engine start-up and possible injury.


3. Remove the fender screws from the strut cover and strut on one side of the fender with a Torx driver and ratchet. Grasp the strut cover on the outside of the strut and the fender mounting bracket on the inside of the fender to hold them in place while you mount the sissy bar sideplate.


4. Apply threadlocker compound to the longer fender screws provided with the sissy bar kit. (Harley-Davidson specifies Loctite Threadlocker #243 (blue) as the threadlocker compound.) Place the sissy bar sideplate in position over the strut cover. Insert the new fender screws into the sideplate, strut cover and strut holes. Torque the fender screws to 12 to18 lb-ft with a torque wrench and Torx driver. Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the other side of the fender.


5. Insert the sissy bar upright into the sideplate channels. Apply threadlocker compound to the upright screws unless they are pretreated. Install the sissy bar upright screws and tighten them according to the manufacturer's specifications.


6. Hold the passenger backrest in position on the upright plate. Install the passenger backrest screw through the plate and into the backrest pad and tighten it securely with a #3 Phillips screwdriver.


7. Ensure that the back side of the upright plate is clean and free of oil. Remove the protective sheet from the upright plate medallion adhesive pad. Center the medallion on the plate and press it firmly into place.


8. Connect the battery negative cable to the battery negative terminal. Install the battery bolt and tighten it securely with a 10-mm wrench.

Tags: fender screws, strut cover, battery negative, passenger backrest, threadlocker compound

The Specifications Of An 8 1l Engine

General Motors launched its 8.1-liter engine -- also called the 8100 Vortec -- in 2001. The 8.1-liter powerplant was offered in the Chevrolet Avalanche 2500, the Silverado 2500HD and the Silverado 3500HD, as well as in their GMC Sierra counterparts, from 2001 through 2006. In 2007, it was replaced by the more compact and more powerful 6.0-liter V8. The pickups that had this engine were intended for use as workhorses and part-time workhorses, so the 8.1-liter Vortec was engineered to have balanced performance.


Horsepower


The 8100 Vortec underwent a few changes throughout its production life, most of which were electrical. This engine produced 340 horsepower at 4,200 rpm in 2002 and 2003. In 2004 through 2006, the engine's horsepower ranged from 320 to 330 at 4,200 rpm, depending on which year model it was and which vehicle it was in.


Torque


Just as with horsepower, the 8100 Vortec torque varied -- in small increments -- between 2002 and 2006. In 2002 and 2003, the 8.1-liter produced 455 pound-feet of torque at 3,200 rpm. From 2004 through 2006, the engine's torque varied from 440 pound-feet at 4,200 rpm to 450 pound-feet at 3,200 rpm.


Internals


While the horsepower and torque did change between year models, the changes made to the engine over the 8100 Vortec era were almost all electronic. The internals of the engine saw only minor changes. The bore (cylinder width) was 4.25 inches and the stroke (piston travel distance inside the cylinder) was 4.37 inches. The overall displacement ranged from 8,095cc to 8,128cc, a very minor fluctuation attributable to changes in the cylinder heads. The compression ratio of the 8100 Vortec was 9.1 to 1.


Configuration


The 8.1 liter Vortec had a V8 engine configuration. It had 16 valves, meaning there were only two valves per cylinder. They were driven by overhead valves. The 8100 Vortec had sequential electronic fuel injection (SEFI) and was powered by regular gasoline.







Tags: 8100 Vortec, through 2006, 2002 2003, 2004 through, 2004 through 2006, 2006 engine

Get A New Key For My Hyundai Elantra

Get a New Key for My Hyundai Elantra


Lost Hyundai car keys can be replaced relatively easy. However, it can be expensive, so is important to explore your options in order to save money. Many of the modern Hyundai keys are laser cut are can be replaced by matching the vehicle identification number, or VIN. Depending on your vehicle's year, the Hyundai Elantra keys can either be replaced at a locksmith or at your nearest Hyundai dealer.


Instructions


Instructions


1. Look near the base of the driver's side windshield. Locate a slim metal plate along the side of the windshield that will have the VIN number. Record the number and have your driver's license, registration and insurance documents on hand. This will be needed to prove ownership.


2. Visit you local hardware store if you are looking to simply make a duplicate of a non-computerized car key. Some later Hyundai Elantra car keys have computerized chips at the base of the key to open the locks. These cannot be made by the hardware store.


3. Look for area locksmiths. There are many locksmiths that have the technology and capability to cut and reprogram duplicate car keys. The prices are typically cheaper than the dealer.


4. Visit the dealer as a last resort. Visit the Hyundai USA website and click on "Find a Dealer." Enter your zip code and it will reveal a list of the nearest dealers and service centers.


5. Call the dealership and ask for the parts department. Arrange a time or appointment to have the key replaced.







Tags: Hyundai Elantra, Elantra keys, hardware store, Hyundai Elantra keys, Hyundai keys, side windshield

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Make Hd Dvds

The high-definition DVD is a now-defunct disc format, capable of storing and playing back HD videos. An HD DVD is slightly different from a standard DVD, as it is capable of holding up to three times the data of a regular DVD thanks to the information being more closely imprinted onto the disc. With HD video files containing more data in a singe file, this expanded storage size is necessary. Even though the format is no longer produced, you can still create your own HD DVD, as long as you have the proper equipment.


Instructions


1. Insert the blank HD DVD into the HD DVD burner, then close out the "AutoPlay" window that loads onto the screen.


2. Select and open the DVD burning program you have installed on the computer.


3. Choose "Video HD DVD," which is the only HD format capable of playing on your HD DVD player.


4. Choose the "Add File" option (sometimes displayed as a "+" icon) and choose the high-definition video you want to place on the disc. It is possible to import standard-definition video files, but you won't receive the increased video resolution from the disc.


5. Repeat the import process with all the files you want on the disc and click "Burn."







Tags: format capable, video files

Styles Of Harley Davidson Full Face Helmets

Harley Davidson makes a line of motorcycle helmets that provide both safety and style.


When riding a motorcycle, a helmet is more than just a fashion statement. It is a piece of safety equipment, and that role should never be sacrificed for style. Harley Davidson owners, though, represent a certain type of flair in their choice of motorcycles. So Harley Davidson manufactures a number of helmets that manage to complement that style while still providing the level of safety needed in a helmet. There are several styles available in full-face helmet varieties.


Classic Full Face


The classic style of full face helmet is the standard bearer for Harley Davidson's line of helmets. The classic style is only available in men's helmets in the spring 2011 line. The classic full face helmet has a fiberglass shell with both chin and forehead venting and removable face shield The helmet features the Harley Davidson logo. As with all helmets, proper fit is necessary for safety, so it is available in-store only.


Modular Helmets


Modular helmets from Harley Davidson offer full-face features but with more flexibility. Some have chin bars that lift up, while others feature sun shields that can be retracted. Six different styles are available in men's helmets for spring 2011. One modular helmet is available for women in the 2011 offering. Modular helmets can be equipped with Bluetooth units and headsets for communication. Ventilation and other features vary from helmet to helmet. As always, in-store is the approved way to purchase a modular Harley Davidson helmet.


Hybrid Helmets


Hybrid helmets employ a hybrid fiberglass shell to meet safety requirements and do so at a weight that's lower than traditional motorcycle helmets. That helps with long rides when a helmet can start to feel heavy. Harley Davidson's spring 2011 collection includes two men's hybrid full face helmets. The two styles are the Americana helmet and ultralight Torque style. Both can be equipped with headsets and Bluetooth. They, like all Harley Davidson helmets are available in only stores.


FXRG Helmets


Harley Davidson's FXRG helmets use Kevlar (the same material used in bulletproof vests) to provide maximum safety with minimum weight. The trade-off comes in terms of price, with FXRG helmets costing more than Harley Davidson's other helmets. There is one full face FXRG men's helmet and one full face women's FXRG helmet offered in the spring 2011 product line. Both feature many of the same things, like headset capability, offered with other Harley Davidson helmets. Both are available only in stores.


Other Helmets


A helmet style called Skyline is offered for women. The spring 2011 catalog includes two full-face versions (one black and one silver). The helmets are designed to prevent "helmet hair" while still offering standard Harley Davidson helmet features. One helmet is offered in the youth collection in a full-face configuration. While it does not include access for headsets and Bluetooth, it is made from polycarbonate and offers full safety functionality. These helmets may be purchased in-store only.







Tags: Harley Davidson, spring 2011, full face, available helmets, available helmets spring

Become A William Arthur Stationary Dealer

William Arthur is a luxury stationery brand that's been in business for more than 60 years. It offers a wide range of paper products, including wedding invitations, custom stationery, greeting cards and announcements. It is well known for exceptional quality and customer service. As an extension of the brand, William Arthur allows qualified businesses an opportunity to become authorized dealers of its fine stationery products. Before being approved, interested businesses must contact the office directly and complete an application.


Instructions


1. Contact William Arthur at (866) 985-3472; ask to speak with the sales and marketing department. Request an application, which can be emailed or faxed to you for your convenience.


2. Read through the dealer application to see what information you need to include. Print or photocopy the blank application in case you make a mistake. Use blue or black ink to complete the application. Complete all sections providing accurate, insightful information about your business.


3. Gather your credit references in a Word document. Credit references can include businesses and banks with which you have a financial history.


4. Take pictures of your storefront and perhaps of the other products you sell. The idea is to give William Arthur an idea of the setup of your store and its location relative to other dealers, and whether your products are compatible with the high standard of quality associated with its name.


5. Photocopy your reseller's license. If your state doesn't require a reseller's license, contact William Arthur to determine what you can include as a substitute.


6. Gather your application, photographs, credit references and reseller's license. Submit your application via fax or by mail. It may take William Arthur up to three weeks to review your information and make a decision.







Tags: William Arthur, reseller license, complete application, Gather your, your application

Monday, January 24, 2011

Buy Ford Parts

Ford


Ford is one of the three largest domestic automakers in the United States. Generally speaking, getting replacement parts for a Ford vehicle is fairly simple and quick. There are a few standard places to go to get these parts, you just need to make sure you identify the right part that needs replacing or you could have some problems with your Ford.


Instructions


1. Determine your exact need. If you know what the problem is and are experienced you can just use your experience to troubleshoot down to the problem part. If you are not experienced with cars you will need help from a friend or possibly a Ford-certified mechanic.


2. Contact your closest Ford dealer. If you need to get a replacement part that is original equipment or you just want to make sure you have the right part, a Ford dealer will have a diagram of your car that can be referenced to determine the exact part.


3. Purchase the parts. You can order the parts from the Ford dealer or buy the parts from an auto parts store if it is a common piece of hardware. Auto parts stores carry parts made by third parties. These parts vary in quality and may not be exactly what Ford uses.


4. Look for parts online. There are many online websites that sell Ford parts (see Resources.) Some sites belong to independent auto parts companies and some are corporate auto parts stores. Other online parts stores may be an individual operation or a conglomeration of companies. When buying anything online be cautious and use common sense. Check out any company before you do business with them.


5. Contact a junk yard if you have an older model or rare Ford that new parts are not manufactured for anymore. A junk yard can also look to see if other junk yards across the country will have the part you need.







Tags: Ford dealer, parts stores, auto parts, junk yard, make sure, part that, parts from

How Install Harley Exhaust Crush Gaskets

New crush gaskets keep your exhaust quiet.


Replace exhaust crush gaskets any time the exhaust pipes are removed. Replacing the gaskets helps avoid unwanted exhaust leaks. The crush gasket is made to mold to the surface of the exhaust pipe and cylinder head. The gasket is deformed as it is squeezed between the pipe and engine port. The gasket will not return to its original shape when removed, making it impossible to match the two surfaces perfectly a second time, and leading to potential exhaust leaks. New gaskets are inexpensive insurance against exhaust leaks.


Instructions


1. Unbolt and remove any heat shields attached to the exhaust pipes.


2. Remove the two nuts and washers holding each exhaust pipe to the cylinder head.


3. Remove the lock nut and bolt holding the exhaust pipe and muffler to the muffler support bracket.


4. Slide the exhaust pipe off the cylinder head studs and remove the exhaust pipe and muffler.


5. Remove the old exhaust crush gaskets.


6. Clean the exhaust ports. Check for carbon buildup on the exhaust pipe and engine port. Wipe with a rag and install the new crush gaskets.


7. Slide the exhaust pipe and muffler assembly onto the cylinder head studs. Install the washer and nut on each cylinder heat stud. Do not tighten.


8. Align the muffler and support brackets, install the bolt and lock nut. Do not tighten.


9. Confirm the alignment of the muffler and exhaust pipes. Tighten the nuts on the cylinder head studs.


10. Tighten the support bracket nuts.


11. Reinstall the heat shields.







Tags: exhaust pipe, cylinder head, crush gaskets, cylinder head studs, exhaust leaks, exhaust pipe cylinder, exhaust pipe muffler

Replace The Rear Brake Pads On A Harley

Rear brake pads on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle require regular inspection for pad thickness.


Rear brake pads on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle require regular inspection for pad thickness. Ideally, they should be changed whenever they measure below 0.04 inches in thickness. Allowing the pads to run thinner than this can cause failure in the brake system. Harley Davidson recommends that brake pad thickness be inspected every 2,500 miles. Inspect sooner if the brakes are noisy, if you experience difficulty when stopping or if the rear brake pedal requires excessive travel or pressure to bring the motorcycle to a stop.


Instructions


1. Position a small drain pan on the ground, underneath the rear brake master cylinder. Loosen and remove the master cylinder cover with a Phillips-head screwdriver.


2. Break loose the pad pins on the rear brake caliper, using an SAE socket wrench, but do not remove them.


3. Spread the rear brake pads apart with a putty knife. Partially pull out the pad pins on the caliper to allow the inside brake pad to come free.


4. Install the new inner brake pad into the brake caliper. Tighten the pad pins and pump the rear brake pedal to seat this new pad.


5. Spread the outer pad and brake piston with a putty knife to allow the brake piston to retract. Break loose and completely remove both pad pins. Allow the outer brake pad to come free. Install a new brake pad in its position on the brake caliper. Re-insert the two pad pins and tighten them to six to eight inch-pounds of torque with a torque wrench.


6. Pump the rear brake pedal with your foot several times to pump up the brake caliper and piston. Add D.O.T. 5 silicon brake fluid to the rear master cylinder to the "Full" mark. Install the master cylinder cover back on the rear brake master cylinder with a Philips-head screwdriver.

Tags: master cylinder, rear brake, brake caliper, brake pads, brake pedal, rear brake pedal, brake come

Friday, January 21, 2011

Change A Car Muffler

As cars get more modernized to pass national and state emissions standards, the exhaust systems are becoming more complicated. Replacing mufflers was never easy for a backyard mechanic, and nowadays it does not come highly recommended. However, if you have an old car and there's clearance underneath, you might be able to do this job in your driveway or backyard.


Instructions


1. Lift the vehicle safely and securely on the car lift. If it's a drive-on lift, even better. Put on safety glasses.


2. Size up the job. Locate the muffler. If it's original equipment, chances are you're going to need more than a muffler in the aftermarket world. Inlet pipes and tailpipes do not always come with aftermarket mufflers. If you do not see a clamp or flange near the inlet of the muffler, you need to replace the exhaust pipe as far as it goes to the next connection, unless the inlet pipe happens to be going straight into that muffler for at least 5 inches. If that were the case, you could cut the pipe and install the muffler and clamp it. If there is any curve on the inlet pipe before it directly goes into the muffler, you're going to have to replace more than the muffler. The problem is the inlet of the aftermarket muffler is straight and if you try to cut the pipe on a curve, it's going to compromise how the muffler fits onto it. If there is a clamp on the inlet pipe and muffler connection, try to determine the condition of the pipe at that connection. You have to be able to heat up that junction between the muffler and the inlet pipe and then be able to separate the muffler from the inlet pipe without incurring damage to the inlet pipe. Two types of inlet pipes are a hop-over or hop-under pipe (meaning hopping over or under the rear axle) or an intermediate pipe that may go all the way to the catalytic converter junction. The type of application will dictate how much you have to replace. In flange connection applications carefully inspect the flanges on both sides because you're going to have to cut the bolts out with the torch and not compromise the other connecting flange. Ideally, this is something you've either looked at already or had an idea of what you were going to need, so the replacement parts should be already at hand.


3. Put on the safety gloves and swap the safety glasses for cutting glasses. Clamp the connection; Light the torch and cut the clamp halfway down on both sides and tap it off with a hammer. Then heat the connection of the muffler inlet and pipe until it is glowing red. Turn off the torch and try twisting the muffler back and forth (be careful because the torch will make the surface of the muffler and pipes very hot, so do not attempt to do this without safety or cutting gloves). Keep twisting the muffler one way and the next as far as it will let you and when you get enough movement from the muffler pull or push it off the pipe to free it. You may have to relight the torch and heat up the inlet connection repeatedly until you're successful.


Light the torch and cut the flange bolts out from the muffler side and then tap on the pipe (on the side you're replacing) with the hammer until it separates. If there are still pieces of bolts in the inside flange, heat up the ears with the torch and when it's glowing red, give the bolt(s) a quick tap with the hammer, but not enough to bend the flange. For the cutting pipe connection, if you happen to have one of those very rare type cars that allows you to just replace a muffler that is welded to the inlet pipe, instead of the torch you can use the exhaust pipe cutting tool and cut the pipe as close to the back of the muffler as you can get and skip the parts until it comes time to put on the new muffler. If you used the torch, turn it off and shut off the acetylene and oxygen tanks. Swap glasses again so you can see better.


4. Remove the muffler and any pipe and any hanger devices. Exhaust hanger removal tools are very handy, but you may not need them if the muffler is supported by a strap hanger that wraps around the muffler and supports it to the car frame. Get everything out of your way so you do not trip on anything while you're looking up at your work area.


5. Clamp connection; If it's a clamp connected pipe, use the exhaust pipe expander to try and work out the ridge indent the clamp made. Some of that might have been done when you were twisting off the muffler.


For the flange connection, clean the flange of all corrosion and rust using the gasket scraper. Be careful as it will be very hot. Tap the flange with the ballpeen hammer on the ball side and get as much rust off as possible.


6. To fix the clamp connection or if you cut the pipe with the pipe cutter, place the muffler inlet up to the inlet pipe connection and size the inlet of the muffler to see if it fits over the pipe snugly. You do not want a much larger inlet than the pipe you're clamping it to or the other way around. You could use the pipe expander on the smallest side (muffler inlet or pipe) to bump it up a little and make the connection more snug. Rarely does a muffler inlet fit inside the pipe. It most always fits over.


To fix the flange connection, replace the gasket while holding the hop-over/under/intermediate pipe (the intermediate pipe will have hanger hooks that you can place into the rubber hangers to help you hold it while connecting the flanges) and have the nuts and bolts handy. Connect the flanges with the gasket between them, but do not tighten them all the way with the ratchet, socket and the extension with swivel (if you need them). Snug will suffice.


7. Install the muffler to the pipe and apply any support hangers or strap hangers. Paying attention to how the system fits inside its designed exhaust chamber, tighten up the system starting the furthest away from the muffler. So if it's flange connected, tighten the flange first, then the clamp on the inlet pipe if applicable. Tighten the inlet clamp of the muffler, again making sure the muffler stays in it's proper location. This will prevent any rattles or vibrations from the muffler hitting the frame or other nearby components. Tighten the tailpipe clamp if applicable. When everything is tight, hold the tailpipe of the muffler and give it a little shake to see if it hits on anything. Make any adjustments then.







Tags: inlet pipe, muffler inlet, from muffler, exhaust pipe, flange connection

Diagnose Power Steering Problems

Don't let simply problems fester with your power steering system.


The steering system in your car is made up of several components that can fail after years of use. Some problems may be obvious as soon as they start; others may become apparent too late, forcing you to replace major components. Take steps to diagnose some of the most common steering problems and look for signs of minor problems that could develop into serious ones.


Instructions


1. Check the power steering fluid if your car is hard to steer. Lack of steering fluid makes it hard to turn the steering wheel. Other possible problems include worn steering gear and ball sockets in the steering assembly, worn suspension system components and loose steering pump belt.


2. Open the hood and start the engine. Ask someone to turn the steering wheel while you listen at the steering pump. If you can hear the pump make a whine and loud noise, the belt might be slipping. Adjust the belt if necessary. Also, lack of steering fluid may cause the noise. Add fluid if necessary, then turn the steering wheel completely to the left and right several times to purge air from the system.


3. Start the engine and ask someone to turn the steering wheel left and right. Check for loose or worn parts at the steering column, steering assembly connecting to the steering column, connecting arms at both ends of the assembly and steering assembly mounting brackets. Worn or loose steering components may produce loud noises and excessive play at the steering wheel. Take the car to an auto shop for further inspection if necessary.


4. Lift the front of the car using a floor jack and safely support it on jack stands. Ask someone to wiggle each of the front wheels left and right while you watch the wheel assembly connection to the steering system assembly. Look for loose or worn out components. The assembly should remain solid as the wheel is moved back and forth.


5. Inspect the steering pump, connecting hoses and lines around the steering assembly and look for possible leaks using a flashlight if necessary. If you frequently add fluid to the steering pump, the steering mechanism might have a leak. Clean steering components with a shop rag and recheck a couple of days later. You might find a loose hose clamp, torn hose, broken line or crack on the steering pump.







Tags: steering pump, steering wheel, steering assembly, turn steering, turn steering wheel, left right, steering fluid

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Replace Lost Keys For A Used Gm Vehicle

Replace Lost Keys for a Used GM Vehicle


Whether you lost a key for a General Motors (GM) brand car or truck you currently own, or are in process of purchasing a used vehicle for which the owner misplaced one of the original keys, GM makes acquiring a replacement key fairly simple. All you need is to know the car's make, model, year and vehicle identification number (VIN).


Instructions


1. Locate the make, model and VIN of the vehicle whose keys you need to replace. VIN numbers might be on your insurance or registration paperwork. They are also in several locations on the automobile, including just below the windshield on the driver's side dashboard, on the driver's side door below the latch, or in the well in which the door latches. VINs are long strings of numbers and letters that uniquely identify each individual automobile and provide additional information about country of origin, manufacturer and year built.


2. Jot down the VIN number for later reference.


3. Visit the GM Dealer Locator site (see Resources), and search for a certified GM dealer near your location. You can search by Zip code or by city and state.


4. Call a dealer convenient to you and explain that you need to purchase a replacement key. You might be transferred to the parts or service department.


5. Give the dealer the information about the make, model and VIN to order your replacement key. You probably will have to go to the dealer's location to purchase or pick up your replacement key.







Tags: make model, driver side, information about, Keys Used, Keys Used Vehicle, Lost Keys

Get A Free Used Car Vin Check

A used car VIN check is helpful when you are buying a used car. The car VIN check works in a similar fashion to a car VIN check. You must get the VIN number from the used car then run it through the NICB database. Several car check companies offer this service on free VIN check websites.


Instructions


1. First get the VIN number from the used car. The used car VIN is usually located on the front forks of the bike. It may also be listed on the dealer website. If you are buying from a private seller, call and ask them for the VIN number. They should be able to give it to you.


2. Go to a free VIN check website (some are listed below). These sites allow you to enter the used car VIN and get a free VIN check right away on any car or motorcycle. No credit card is needed.


3. Submit your used car VIN to the site in the appropriate box and then read the free report. It is usually downloaded or emailed to you. The Vin check report contains information about whether the used car has been salvaged or stolen.


4. Compare the results of the free used car VIN check to other used cars you are interested in buying. Since it is free, repeat the above steps to get a free VIN check on every car you want to buy.







Tags: free check, from used, number from, number from used, used check

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Sportster 1200 Specifications

Harley-Davidson, a Milwaukee-based company, began producing its Sportster line in 1957. This line of bikes included the 1200, a class of the Sportster that featured a 1200-cubic-centimeter engine. These standard motorcycles, in 2011, are available in three trim levels: Nightster, 1200 Low and XR1200X. The former two are, mechanically-speaking, very similar; the XR1200X is more performance-oriented with a higher compression ratio and sportier brakes.


Engine


In 2011, these motorcycles feature a 73.3-cubic-inch, air-cooled engine with a bore of 3.5 inches and a stroke of 3.812 inches. Both the Nightster and the 1200 Low have a compression ratio of 9.7:1 and can produce 79 ft-lbs. of torque at 4,000 rpm; the XR1200X has a compression ratio of 10:1 and can produce 73.91 ft-lbs. of torque at 4,000 rpm.


Brakes and Wheels


The Nightster and the 1200 Low feature dual-piston front brakes and single-piston rear brakes. The XR1200X has dual four-piston floating brakes in the front and single-piston floating brakes in the rear. The Nightster and the 1200 Low had 100/90-19 57H tires in the front and 150/80B16 71H tires in the rear; the XR1200X has 120/70ZR18 M/C tires in the front and 180/55ZR17 M/C tires in the rear.


Other Specifications


These bikes have an EPA estimated fuel economy that ranges from 38 to 42 mpg in the city and 53 to 57 mpg on the highway. The Nightster, 1200 Low and XR1200X have 3.3-, 4.5- and 3.5-gallon fuel tanks, respectively.


The Nightster has a wheelbase length of 59.8 inches, is 85.8 inches long with a seat height of 25.7 inches and has a dry weight of 545 lbs. The 1200 Low has a wheelbase length of 60.1 inches, is 89.1 inches long with a seat height of 26.3 inches and has a dry weight of 557 lbs. The XR1200X has a wheelbase length of 60.0 inches, is 87.6 inches long with a seat height of 29.2 inches and has a dry weight of 551 lbs.







Tags: Nightster 1200, compression ratio, height inches, height inches weight, inches inches

Gogglemount My Contour Hd Camera

The Contour HD is highly popular for capturing point of view motocross videos.


The Contour HD has become one of the best selling miniature sports action cameras thanks to its simple, single button operation and outstanding high-definition video capture. Its compact size and robust waterproof construction make it ideal for use as a helmet camera to capture footage of any number of extreme sports from the participant's point of view. The Contour HD's unique "Trail Mounts" make mounting the camera to your goggle strap extremely fast and simple.


Instructions


1. Slide the goggle mount into the rails on the Contour HD camera; it will click into place when it is as far forward as it will go.


2. Hold the camera in one hand and the square base of the goggle mount in the other. Depress the large tab at the top of the mount with your thumb and pull the camera, with the circular section of mount attached, away from the base.


3. Set the camera aside. Hook your goggle strap into the slots in the base of the mount which are now accessible. The solid face of the mount must be on the inside of the strap so it will be in contact with your helmet when the goggles are being worn.


4. Press the circular section of the goggle mount, which is attached to your Contour HD, back into the base over the strap.


5. Align your Contour HD when you are wearing the goggles. Switch the camera on to activate the lasers and stand in front of a wall. Adjust the horizontal alignment by rotating the lens. Set the vertical alignment by removing the rails from the base, rotating and reattaching.







Tags: goggle mount, circular section, from base, goggle strap, mount which, point view, with your

Get A 200cc Mini Chopper Registered To Be Street Legal

If you have built your own or constructed a mini-chopper scooter or motorcycle from a kit, you cannot use the bike or scooter on public roads until you've made it legal. Each state has its own rules administered by a state department of motor vehicles regarding the matter. While details vary, the basic requirements are the same. The vehicle must be able to propel itself, be a sufficient engine size to get on the highway (usually 180cc), and must have proper lighting. No mini chopper, motorcycle or scooter will be made legal without passing these requirements. The process is not hard if your bike is well-constructed, but you will need to deal with the bureaucracy to get your vehicle fully usable on streets.


Instructions


1. Fully assemble your mini-chopper so that it is in a running condition. Confirm that you have a working headlight, brakelight and turn signals on the chopper and they all work correctly. Confirm and locate the vehicle identification number on both the frame and engine. Use a phone to check with your local DMV office first to make sure the VIN numbers have not been used by another motorcycle or scooter record if your mini-chopper is used.


2. Fill out the necessary DMV forms and paperwork for your state to create title in your name for the mini-chopper (all legal vehicles must be titled). Bring the paperwork signed and means of payment to file your title application and pay the necessary fees. Obtain a vehicle inspection appointment for your mini-chopper either with the DMV or the state police.


3. Transport the mini-chopper with a truck or similar means to the DMV or state police office so it can be inspected. Bring all your receipts to show proof of purchase of the bike through legal means. Allow the inspector to examine the vehicle and check your paperwork, including the bill of sale for the chopper and engine. Obtain a vehicle inspection approval form signed from the inspector. Get a new VIN number for your vehicle and engine from the inspector if one does not already exist.


4. Return back to the DMV office after inspection is approved you've garaged your vehicle again. Pay the final closing fees to register your vehicle, get your new license plate, and your annual tags. Pick up your plate and tags after your registration record is approved and complete with the DMV clerk.


5. Take the annual license registration tag off its slip and stick it onto your new license plate for your chopper. Use a screwdriver and crescent wrench to attach the legal license plate to your chopper tail or license plate frame. Take your mini-chopper out for a drive.







Tags: license plate, your mini-chopper, your vehicle, license plate your, plate your

Remove An Flht Fairing

The visible, batwing shaped feature on this Harley FLH is the outer fairing.


FLH is a venerable Harley code for a heavy duty motorcycle with big forks and a big twin engine. Subsequent letters in the code often describe marketing more than engineering. You can pull the batwing outer fairing off all Electra Glides, or FLHs, after you remove seven screws and disconnect the headlight. Removing the outer fairing allows you to access much of the front wiring harness.


Instructions


1. Pad the front fender with shop rags to protect the paint. Locate and remove the three screws on the front of the bike just below the windshield with a Torx wrench.


2. Loosen and remove the screw on each side of the fairing just outside the speakers with a Torx wrench.


3. Remove the left fairing cap screw with a Torx wrench after fully turning the handlebars to the right. Turn the handlebars fully to the left and remove the right fairing cap screw.


4. Push the top of the fairing toward the front fender and pinch the headlight wiring connector to disconnect the headlight assembly from the front wiring harness.


5. Remove the outer fairing and the headlight from the motorcycle. Remove the windshield.

Tags: outer fairing, Torx wrench, with Torx, with Torx wrench, disconnect headlight, fairing screw, front fender

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Set The Float Height On A Mikuni Cv Carburetor

Set the Float Height on a Mikuni CV Carburetor


Fine-tuning your Mikuni Constant Velocity (CV) carburetor-equipped motorcycle is a balancing act of maintaining the right fuel level versus the size of the carburetors' various jets. Although these jets are the primary source of power from a quarter to full throttle, fuel level can greatly affect performance at low speed, cruising speeds and at full throttle. Adjustments to the fuel level are made by adjusting the height of the carburetor's internal floats, which regulate the amount of fuel that is allowed into the carburetor. You must be completely comfortable with removing and disassembling your carburetors to perform this task.


Instructions


1. Turn your motorcycle's fuel valve to the "Off" position and pull the fuel lines off of the carburetor. Disconnect the carburetor from the motorcycle's air box and motor. Pull the carburetor out of the motorcycle and remove the throttle cables.


2. Unscrew the drain screw on the bottom of the carburetor's float bowl with a flat screwdriver. Drain the fuel contained within the float bowl into a suitable container. Tighten the drain screw, then remove the float bowl from the carburetor with a Phillips screwdriver to access the float.


3. Flip the carburetor over with the float facing up. The tang at the center of the float should be resting on top of the float valve without compressing the spring at the end of the valve. If the valve is compressed in this position, tilt the carburetor on its side to relieve some of the pressure generated by the weight of the float.


4. Remove the gasket from the carburetor's float bowl mating surface. Measure the distance between the edge of the mating surface to the top of the float, using a vernier caliper gauge or a float height gauge. Compare this measurement to the float height specifications found in your motorcycle's service manual.


5. Adjust the float height and fuel level by bending the metal tang at the center of the float with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Bend the tang down -- away from the float valve -- to lower the float height and increase the fuel level. Bend the tang up and closer to the float valve to raise the float height and decrease the fuel level. Measure the float height again and make any necessary adjustments until the float height is set to float height specified by your service manual.


6. Reattach the float bowl with a Phillips screwdriver. Reinstall the carburetor onto your motorcycle, following the reverse order of removal.







Tags: float height, fuel level, float bowl, float valve, your motorcycle, Bend tang

Eliminate Rotor Warping

Removal of the rotor is required for lathe resurfacing.


The "rotor" is the disk in a vehicle equipped with disk brakes. When a rotor is warped, a pulsing or throbbing sensation can be felt in the vehicle when the brakes are applied. True rotor warping is a result of the metal rotor becoming distorted. The phrase "rotor warping" also refers to uneven wear patterns that can produce the same pulse and throb as felt with genuinely warped rotors. Elimination of rotor warping, both distortion and wear pattern, requires selection of quality parts, a good break-in procedure, limiting extreme braking and proper maintenance of the brake system.


Instructions


1. Steel rotors are precision-machined to ensure the surface is level.


Install a brake rotor of high metal quality and weight. Higher quality and heavier brake rotors dissipate heat more effectively than those made from lighter or inferior materials. Replacing your stock rotor with a denser, heavier metal will reduce metal distortion from heat damage and allow the rotor to operate at cooler temperatures. Cooler temperatures will not only prolong the life of your rotor but also reduce wear on your brake pads.


2. Uneven rotors can result in tire damage over time.


Install brake pads designed to wear evenly on your brake rotor. Some brake pads may be inappropriate for your vehicle's braking system. For example, high temperature ceramic pads designed for installation on racing vehicles for extreme braking conditions may cause premature wear of your rotor or poor performance at moderate speeds.


3. A long road without traffic or pedestrians is best for breaking in new brakes and rotors.


Break in your pads and rotors. The break-in procedure varies by pad type and brand. Consult the instructions provided with your specific product. If no instructions are provided, the first 10 to 100 stops should be from moderate speed to a full stop. Allow the brakes to cool between braking and do not clamp the brakes to the rotors during cooling. The break-in process burnishes the surfaces of both the rotor and pad. Burnished, or highly polished, surfaces will ensure that both pad and rotor wear more evenly.


4. Extreme braking on a motorcycle can result in rotor metal fatigue and distortion.


Avoid extreme braking. Braking hard from high speeds can embed brake material in the rotor surface. High-speed braking also creates significantly more heat. Plan ahead and allow your vehicle to slow by coasting when it is possible and safe to do so.


5. Drilled rotors are used to dissipate heat more rapidly.


Do not clamp the brakes after extreme braking. Pads clamped to super-heated rotors will transfer brake pad material to the rotor. Transferred material leaves a bump on the rotor that interferes with smooth contact. Over time, the buildup of brake material will create a pulsing or throbbing sensation when braking. If you intend to leave the vehicle in a stopped position, place the vehicle in "Park" and release pressure on the brakes.


6. Water from a hose will cool the rotor metal too rapidly and may result in warping.


Do not rapidly cool the brake rotors. The metal in heated rotors will distort during rapid cooling, creating a warp in the plane of an otherwise even rotor. Avoid driving through water that immerses the rotors, if you've superheated the rotors as a result of extreme braking. Do not spray your rotors with water to cool them.


7. Worn pads will expose the caliper metal to the rotor surface.


Install new brake pads before the old brake pads reach the end of their service life. Severely worn pads may expose the rotor to metal-to-metal contact. Grinding the rotors with caliper material will etch and wear the rotors unevenly, requiring resurfacing or replacement of the rotor.


8. A metal lathe is used to resurface rotors.


Resurface the rotor when you replace the brake pads. The burnishing process used to ensure both the rotor and pad wear evenly requires new surfaces to facilitate correct burnishing. Pad material is transferred to the rotor during the break-in and burnishing process. If new pad material is applied to the top of old pad material, uneven wear can result. Use a metal lathe to resurface rotors. Many automotive parts stores and machine shops have lathes that can be used to "turn" or resurface rotors for a nominal charge. Call ahead for availability.







Tags: brake pads, both rotor, brake material, extreme braking, Install brake, resurface rotors

Get Animated Wallpaper For The Htc Hd2

The HTC HD2 is a T-Mobile-offered cell phone that runs on 3G. Animated wallpapers are a relatively new feature that is available for some smartphones. The HTC HD2 in particular can carry animated wallpapers, and when you locate one that is specifically made for the device, you can easily download it.


Instructions


1. Locate animated wallpapers on the Internet that you like. Make sure they are specifically designed for the HTC HD2 smartphone so that they will have a proper fit on your device.


2. Download the wallpaper of your choice to your computer. Depending on how it appears on the website, you may right-click on it to save it or left-click a link to download it.


3. Connect your HTC HD2 smartphone to your computer. Use the USB cable that came with your phone to do this.


4. Wait for the new small window to appear as your computer recognizes your phone as being connected. Click on the option to view files on your device and navigate to the folder where your wallpapers are stored.


5. Open a new window under "My Computer" or "Computer" to view your computer's files. Navigate to the folder where you downloaded the animated wallpapers.


6. Click on each wallpaper to highlight it. Right-click with your mouse to copy the file.


7. Right-click the folder that contains your smartphone's wallpapers and choose "Paste." Repeat the previous step and this one to copy the remaining wallpapers you saved into the folder.


8. Disconnect your smartphone from your computer. Using your phone's touch screen, navigate to your wallpapers folder. Select one of the new animated wallpapers to use.







Tags: your computer, animated wallpapers, your phone, your smartphone, folder where, with your, your device

Monday, January 17, 2011

What Is The Right Size Battery For A Harley

Born to be wild, batteries included.


When you get your first Harley, the last thing you want is to have your "Born to Be Wild" dreams shattered by a dead battery. Because Harley-Davidson makes many different motorcycle models, it's important to find the right size battery for your bike because there is no universal battery size.


Instructions


Dig out the owner's manual.


Read your Harley owner's manual and find the battery specifications. The battery will have a code consisting of either numbers or letters, which will lead you to the correct size motorcycle battery. For example, a Harley-Davidson Softail side box battery is a PC545.


Identification


Auto parts store clerks can often provide help.


Visit an auto parts store and give the clerk the year and model of your Harley so he can look it up. If you do not have the owner's manual, the clerk may be able to look at the battery currently installed in your Harley .


Resources


Visit stores online if you can't find your battery locally.


If you have problems finding the right size battery locally, consider shopping online for the correct battery for your Harley (see Resources).


Warning


Batteries contain sulfuric acid, which could cause severe burns to eyes and skin. Wear a protective face shield, rubberized gloves and protective clothing when working with batteries. Keep batteries away from children.







Tags: your Harley, owner manual, your Harley Resources, battery locally, battery your, Harley Resources

Business Branding Strategies

Your brand is a primary way for customers to identify your business.


Your company's brand plays an important role in determining how consumers identify your company and its products. A brand helps to differentiate your company from the competition as well as creates an image in the minds of customers and prospects. To develop the most effect brand possible, a few basic strategies can be employed.


Create a Distinctive Logo


According to MyBusiness.com, the more unique your logo is and the more frequently you use it in all of your business marketing and correspondence, the more quickly it will become associated with your business. An effective brand serves to identify your business with just a quick look. For example, most people immediately associated the sight of the "golden arches" with McDonald's.


Develop a Catchy Slogan


A catchy slogan can help to reinforce your brand with consumers, which heightens its awareness. The use of snappy jingles or clever catchphrases have the ability to stick in people's minds and are typically short and to the point. Examples of successful slogans include "Winston tastes good like a cigarette should" and "You're in good hands with Allstate."


Make It Colorful


Colorful brands tend to stand out more, making them easier for the eye to catch. Colors can also give information about the type of product you're selling. Again using McDonald's as an example, the yellow of the arches makes their signs easy to see during day or night. In an era where environmental products have become pervasive, the color of green is typically associated with products that are eco-friendly.


Appeal to Emotion


In addition to the physical characteristics of a brand, your brand strategy should also create an emotional appeal that makes consumers want to use your product or service. Harley-Davidson motorcycles' brand image appeals to people who want to get away from their normal lives and enjoy the freedom of the open road. TAG Body Spray's brand image is about men's desire to appeal to the opposite sex.


Accentuate the Positive


A brand strategy can also serve to demonstrate how your company or product is beneficial for the world in general. A company that uses environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes is helping to make the world a cleaner place, while a car that gets excellent gas mileage cuts down on the use of natural resources. Incorporating these types of features into your brand strategy helps to promote a positive image.







Tags: your business, brand strategy, identify your, your brand, associated with

Remove A Trojan File Or Virus

Remove dangerous virus files from your computer.


Viruses and Trojans can cause serious damage to your computer. You can permanently lose important files and your computer may not work properly. You can remove viruses by using anti-virus software. It is important to update your anti-virus software before performing scanning for viruses. Updating the database will allow you to scan for viruses more effectively. You must also restart your computer to completely remove the viruses. You can use Malwarebytes, Windows Defender and Avira Antivir to remove viruses.


Instructions


Malwarebytes


1. Update Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. Open the program and go to the "Updates" tab and click "Check for Updates." This will update the database.


2. Perform a system scan. Go to the "Scanner" tab and click "Scan." Malwarebytes will then search for viruses on your computer.


3. Delete all viruses. After the scan is completed, Malwarebytes will show you all the viruses it found during the scan. Click "Show Results" and click "Remove Selected."


4. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect. You must restart your computer to remove the viruses completely.


Windows Defender


5. Open Windows Defender and click "Scan." Windows Defender will then start scanning your system for malicious files.


6. Remove all viruses from your computer. After the scan is completed, click "Delete" or "Quarantine" to remove all viruses.


7. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.


Avira Antivir


8. Open Avira Antivir and update the database. Press the "F9" button or click "Start Update" to update the database.


9. Click "Scan System Now" to scan for viruses. After the scan is completed, click "Quarantine."


10. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.







Tags: your computer, remove viruses, Windows Defender, After scan, After scan completed

Friday, January 14, 2011

Change A Heritage Safe Combination

Heritage Safe produces a wide range of safes in a variety of sizes. Heritage safes also have different locking styles. If your Heritage safe has a manual combination lock with tumblers, the combination is unique and set by the company. The combination can be changed, but not by the consumer. A licensed locksmith is needed to open the lock and shift the tumblers. In order to keep the Heritage warranty, you must register the new combination with Heritage. However, any Heritage safe that has an electronic lock not only has a combination that can be changed but that combination should be changed as soon as the safe is in the consumer's home. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions


Changing an Sargent & Greenleaf Model Heritage Combination Safe


1. Look under the "zero" button. If there is an "S&G" symbol, then the factory set master code is: 123456#. Use the code and open the door. Always keep the door open while doing combination changes.


2. Choose a new master code. It must be six numbers long. Try to create a number combination that is memorable to you.


3. Type in: 74*123456# You will hear the lock chirp.


4. Type in 1* (new master code) #, and you will hear chirps again. As soon as the chirps stop, re-enter the new master code followed by the pound sign.


5. Test the lock before closing the door.


6. Keep track of your new master code. If it is lost, Heritage Safe may be able to help you override the new code.


Changing a LaGard Model Heritage Combination Safe


7. Look at the lock. If the lock has the word "LaGard" printed below the zero, then the lock is a LaGard model and the factory set master code is: 123456 Use this combination to open the door.


8. Type in six zeros. This tells the lock to go into reset mode.


9. Type in the existing master code.


10. Type in the new master code twice. The new code must be six numbers long. Try to create a set of numbers that is memorable to you.


11. Test the new combination twice before closing the door. If the new combination has been accepted, a double chime will sound after it is entered.







Tags: master code, before closing, before closing door, closing door, code 123456, code must, code must numbers

Homemade 3 Wheel Car

All that's old is new again.


Three-wheeled cars are enjoying a huge resurgence in popularity in recent years, perhaps unmatched since Karl Benz built the very first mass-produced automobile (the 3-wheeled Benz Motorwagen) in 1886. Trikes can offer many of the benefits of a motorcycle (speed, good fuel economy and reliability) with some of the stability attributes of a car. However, you might want to think twice about building a copy of your Dad's Volkswagen-powered cart.


Design


If you want to know why three-wheeled cars aren't more popular, you need only look at how weight transfers. When going around a left-hand corner, the vehicle's weight transfers to the right-front corner. This isn't a problem in a car, but a traditional "Delta" shaped trike doesn't have a wheel at that corner to lean on. End result: hit the brakes while turning and the trike rolls over on top of you. The simplest and most obvious solution is to put two tires at the front and one at the back. This "backwards" design is colloquially known as a "tadpole," and is simply the safest and best performing three-wheeled design on the planet.


The Plan


Tadpole trikes suffer from the opposite problem that Delta trikes do; they can flip over backwards under a combination of acceleration and cornering. Not only that, but powering a single rear wheel and turning with two front wheels is simply asking for snap-oversteer (sudden spin-outs).


The best way to safeguard against either of these happening is to make your tadpole trike front wheel drive. Under cornering, a front-wheel drive car lifts the outside front wheel, which will limit your trike's ability to put power down in the twisties and act as a "weak link" in the chassis dynamic capabilities. In short, you shouldn't be able to put down enough power to flip the trike while cornering.


Engine and Chassis


Here's the simplest and most effective recipe for a FWD tadpole trike: a Volkswagen transaxle mated to an 1,100 cc V-twin motorcycle engine with an adapter bellhousing. Volkswagen transmissions are fairly light and their bellhousings face backward, allowing you to put the engine closer to the center of mass for better handling.


Connect the VW's half-shafts to any front-wheel drive car's suspension (Acura RSXs have an excellent front suspension), and tie it all together with a custom-built tube chassis. Stick a huge 15-inch wide street-tread drag tire (both Indy and Mickey Thompson make them) out back on a hard-tail suspension and you've got yourself a basic chassis.


Car vs. Bike


At this point you can go one of two routes, car or motorcycle. You can install a single or two side-by-side bucket seats and some fiberglass or aluminum body panels to make it a car, or you can install a single or tandem saddles to make a motorcycle. Either way, the torque and horsepower of that 1,100 cc V-Twin will provide plenty of motivation for your under-1,000 pound ride. A side-by-side car-style setup simplifies the steering linkage (which will require a chain-drive for center-mount applications), but will make the trike much heavier on one side than the other.







Tags: front wheel, front-wheel drive, install single, simplest most, tadpole trike, weight transfers, which will

Clean A Harley Davidson Air Cleaner

Harley-Davidson, a motorcycle manufacturer in the United States, has a rich history with its first motorcycle being built in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Harley-Davidson is still selling motorcycles as of 2009. Most Harley-Davidson riders take pride in their motorcycles by keeping them well maintained. Whether you ride an expertly restored antique or a brand new model off the showroom floor, the key to keeping your machine running efficiently is to keep the air cleaner element dirt free.


Instructions


1. Remove the air cleaner cover insert on the right hand side of the motorcycle by removing the two attaching screws with a #10-24 hex head wrench in a counter clockwise motion.


2. Remove the air cleaner cover by removing the attaching screw with a Philips screw driver in a counterclockwise motion.


3. Remove the air filter element by removing the three attaching screws with a ¼-20 TORX wrench in a counterclockwise motion.


4. Fill a shallow pan with 9.5mm (or .375 inch) of degreaser.


5. Place the air filter element on its edge into the pan of degreaser. Roll the filter element all the way around on its edge until the filter pleats are soaked with degreaser on the outside. Do not allow degreaser to get inside the air filter element.


6. Remove the air filter element from the degreaser. Place the element on newspapers and allow the degreaser to soak into the filter pleats for approximately five minutes.


7. Rinse the air filter element thoroughly with a stream of water from the inside out.


8. Place the air filter element on clean newspapers and let it air dry completely.


9. Reinstall the air filter element to the air cleaner with the three attaching screws and a ¼-20 TORX wrench in a clockwise motion.


10. Reinstall the air cleaner cover with the attaching screw and a Philips screwdriver in a clockwise motion.


11. Reinstall the air cleaner cover insert with the two attaching screws and a #10-24 hex head wrench in a clockwise motion.







Tags: filter element, attaching screws, cleaner cover, clockwise motion, 10-24 head, 10-24 head wrench, allow degreaser

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Job Description For A Tire Technician

Tire technicians must have a variety of skills.


Tire technicians install and repair tires for passenger and commercial vehicles such as cars and trucks, according to Education-Portal. These technicians also do work for off-the-road vehicles such as heavy equipment and tractors. Tire technicians must meet a variety of skills and training requirements to succeed in this field.


Duties


Tire technicians install, balance, repair and rotate tires. They also might stud tires for snow, repair run-flat tires, retread worn off-the-road tires or complete other specialty tire work. Tire technicians, also called tire repairers, identify and inflate tires correctly for the proper size, according to ONETCenter. They additionally remount wheels onto vehicles, raise vehicles using hydraulic jacks, locate punctures in tubeless tires and reassemble tires onto wheels. Technicians also replace valve stems and remove puncturing objects. In addition, tire technicians might test experimental and sample production tires to determine strength, cause of failure and wearability, according to CareerPlanner.


Skills


Tire technicians must have strong customer service skills. They also must have a solid technical understanding of tire repair and be able to maintain repair equipment. In addition, tire technicians should have strong communication skills and be proficient in the basic use of computers. These professionals additionally must be able to work independently with little supervision, be detail oriented and manage time well. Tire technicians should have strong troubleshooting, listening and critical thinking skills as well, along with manual dexterity and control precision.


Environment


Tire technicians can work for a variety of employers such as automotive parts and tire stores, repair shops and rubber manufacturers. These professionals also can find work at car dealership service departments and roadside service providers. Technicians might jump start vehicles, provide lookout help and change flats when providing roadside service, while those who work in stores might sell tires and manage inventory as well as tire repair equipment. Tire technicians should be able to lift heavy equipment and operate repair machinery safely as well as complete extensive physical labor in all weather conditions, according to Deffenbaugh Industries in Nebraska.


Education


Many employers require tire technicians to have a high school diploma or GED along with experience. Companies also might require individuals to complete certification courses in tire technology available through the Tire Industry Association. One such program is the basic commercial tire service training and certificate program. Tire technicians can renew their certification every two years through an online recertification class. Many employers also expect tire technicians to have a valid driver's license and good driving record. Other employers additionally are willing to train tire technicians on the job.


Outlook


As tire technology continues to evolve, experienced and certified tire technicians have strong employment opportunities in this industry, according to Education-Portal. Average tire technician salaries in 2010 were $30,000, as reported by SimplyHired.







Tags: Tire technicians, have strong, must have, technicians have, technicians must, technicians should, tire technicians

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

A Border To Adobe Photoshop Elements 8

Adding a border to a picture in Photoshop is quite easy


Borders call attention to the images they surround. Take advantage of that fact by using Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 to add borders to your pictures. By completing this project after optimizing image exposure with the new "Photomerge exposure" tool, you can create even more compelling images. To add a border with Elements 8, load the picture to which you want to add a border; select the outline of the image; expand the outline with the "Border" command; then fill the border with a pattern.


Instructions


1. Click the "File" menu, then click the "Open" command. Navigate to the image to which you'd like to add a border, then double-click the image to load it for editing.


2. Click the lasso icon on the tool palette to run the "Lasso" selection tool, then click the mouse on an image portion through which you want the border to run. For example, if you want to create a border around a person, click a place on the image where the person's image meets the picture's background.


3. Drag the mouse around the object to which you want to add the border, then release the mouse to complete the selection. Click the "Select" menu, then click "Modify." Click "Border" to open a dialog box for specifying a border width.


4. Type a number between 15 and 150 to indicate the border's width in pixels, then click "OK" to create the border from the selection you outlined in step 3.


5. Click the upper color swatch at the bottom of the tool palette. Elements will open a dialog box allowing you to specify a foreground color. Click a color, then click "OK" to close the dialog box. The "Gradient fill" tool will blend the color you chose into the background color, which you'll pick next.


6. Click the lower color swatch at the bottom of the tool palette, then use the previous step's instructions to choose a background color for the "Gradient fill" tool.


7. Click the tool palette's multi-colored rectangle to run the "Gradient fill" tool. Click the first dropdown list above the canvas to open the "Gradient picker" window, then click an icon for the gradient style you want for the border.


8. Click the mouse above the border you made in step 4, then drag the mouse down until the mouse cursor is below the border. Release the mouse to add the gradient fill and complete the border.







Tags: then click, tool palette, want border, fill tool, Gradient fill