Train horns are audible devices designed for signaling the approach of a train and to communicate with railway personnel during track switching, warnings, and other rail functions. When signaling the approach of a train, the use of the horn is controlled by a whistle post. In the United States, railroad horn requirements and regulations are controlled by the Federal Railroad Authority. Originally, train horns were steam-powered and ran off of the steam that powered the engine. Since most trains have become diesel, train horns have now almost all changed to compressed air power.
Leslie Controls Company SuperTyfon
This horn is referred to as the "king of horns" due to its enormous size. The SuperTyfon measures over 3 feet across and is available in five separate horn configurations.
Buell Strombos
This horn is a smaller horn that is popular with collectors as a novelty item due to its low cost and nostalgic look. Although it is technically marketed as a train horn, it is also used on 18-wheelers and other large vehicles.
AirChime, Ltd. 'K' series
In 1954, AirChime Ltd introduced the 'K' series of train horns, which has remained popular to the present day, becoming the highest sold train horn in America by the year 2000. These horns are designated by the number of notes that are played when they are sounded: a K3 model plays three notes, while a K5 model plays five notes.
Keep up with your Harley-Davidson's motorcycle maintenance.
Harley-Davidsons require regular maintenance just like any vehicle. To ensure your motorcycle runs properly, always perform regular maintenance and fluid level checks. Primary fluid helps with shifting gears and being able to find neutral. If you are low on primary oil, you may have trouble shifting or finding neutral on your bike. Check your primary oil as often as you tune up your Harley. A good rule of thumb is to check it every three months. If the oil smells burnt, go ahead and change it. Changing the primary oil is recommended at least every six months.
Instructions
1. Locate the derby cover on your Harley. This is a plate usually made of chrome that covers the end of the clutch. Use a Torx driver to remove the derby cover bolts on the left side of the Harley. After removing the bolts, set them aside along with the derby cover for later re-installation.
2. Push the Harley into an upright position and hold it in place with a motorcycle stand. If you do not have a motorcycle stand, have a friend help hold the bike in an upright position.
3. Look into the primary cover. The primary fluid should be level with the lower edge of the clutch spring. You might have to use a flashlight to see the fluid level.
Harley-Davidson Motor Company has long held a high ranking among the elite motorcycle manufacturers of the world. Their motorcycles are vastly popular and their riders feel prestigious in ownership. Harley-Davidson's extensive history of excellence and the variety of its products appeal to many types of motorcycle riders. Finding out about the Harley's history, culture, design, development and the bikes themselves is an education.
Instructions
1. The easiest place to begin learning about Harley-Davidson Motor Company is its informative website. It directs visitors to company history, new and vintage motorcycles, the Harley-Davidson Museum, racing, and Harley-Davidson accessories. The site even offers access to motorcycle riding training courses and visitors can search for pre-owned motorcycles.
2. Take a free tour at a Harley-Davidson manufacturing facility. Vehicle Operations in York, Pennsylvania, is the largest of the Harley-Davidson factories. Tourists visit the factory floor to witness the assembly of the Touring and Softail® models. Chrome plating and welding are points of interest.
Vehicle and Powertrain Operations is located in Kansas City, Missouri, and tours begin with a video before tourists are lead to the factory floor where they observe robotics, frame bending, and laser cutting, along with crankcase and cylinder-head assembly.
Tomahawk Operations, in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, is devoted to the manufacture of fiberglass and plastic parts, which includes side car, windshield, and custom manufactured parts.
Powertrain Operations is located in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. This is the site for the manufacture of Harley-Davidson engines and transmissions.
3. Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum at 400 W. Canal St in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Specialized group tours, exhibits and special events teach about Harley-Davidson culture and history. Harley-Davidson artifacts and galleries are on display.
4. Attend the Harley-Davidson Fantasy Camp in Milwaukee, which offers an extensive education over a five day period about Harley-Davidson design and manufacturing. There are visits to factories and development centers, and campers are provided with motorcycles during their time and meet company executives.
5. Talk to the dealers. Harley-Davidson dealerships continually offer training to employees through the Harley-Davidson University, so employees should be able to give knowledgeable answers to technical and general questions that customers and interested parties may have.
6. Read reviews. Various websites give information and reviews of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. (See Resources)
7. Buy or borrow a book. Any bookstore with books on motorcycles will include, at the very least, images of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Visit a library and look for a book on motorcycles under Dewey-Decimal number 388.347. The Harley-Davidson name is so well respected and represented in the world of motorcycles that information on the company and its motorcycles is certain to be found there.
Tags: about Harley-Davidson, factory floor, Harley-Davidson Motor, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Harley-Davidson Museum
Replace the Brake Pads on a Harley-Davidson Road King
Harley-Davidson is an American motorcycle manufacturer that began producing two-wheeled vehicles in the early part of the twentieth century. The Road King is a large touring bike that comes with a twin-cam V-twin engine, saddlebags and full-length floor boards. The Road King is even available with an optional side car. To slow down the 812-lb. motorcycle, proper brake maintenance is a must.
Instructions
1. Locate the brake caliper, which is mounted on the front disc brake rotor. Loosen, but do not remove, the two small brake pad holding pins with a 12-point ¼-inch box end wrench in a counterclockwise direction.
2. Remove the two bolts that attach the caliper to the front fork with a 10mm wrench turned in a counterclockwise direction. Set the bolts aside. Slide the caliper down the rotor to clear the front fender. Use caution as the flexible brake line will still be connected to the caliper.
3. Insert a flat-blade screwdriver in between the two brake pads in the caliper and pry the pads apart, which pushes the piston back into the brake caliper, making room for the new thicker brake pads.
4. Remove the brake pad holding pins that were loosened in step 1. Slide the brake pads up out of the brake caliper and discard them.
5. Apply a thin coat of brake pad lubricant to the backside of the new brake pads to keep them from squeaking in the future. Slide the pads into the brake caliper with the curved end towards the rear of the motorcycle. Run the brake pad holding pins into the mounting holes in the caliper, but do not tighten them.
6. Slide the brake caliper back onto the rotor and tighten the two holding bolts with a 10mm wrench in a clockwise direction. Tighten the brake pad pins with a ¼-inch wrench.
The Windows and Mac operating systems come preloaded with a set of wallpapers, or desktop background pictures. You can also set any desired image as the background, whether it's a personal photo or a downloaded picture. It's easy to delete a wallpaper file, either preset or customized, in a few mouse clicks.
Instructions
Windows Vista and XP
1. Click on the "Start" menu and then on "My Computer."
2. Double-click the "C:" drive, scroll down and then double-click the "Windows" folder.
3. Double-click the "Web" folder to open it and then the "Wallpaper" folder.
4. Click on the wallpaper image file you want to delete and then press "Delete." The image should be erased.
Mac OS X
5. Double-click the "Macintosh HD" icon on your desktop and open the "Applications" folder.
6. Open the "System Preferences" folder and click on "Desktop and Screen Saver."
7. Click on the "Wallpaper" link in the left section of the window and you will see the available images in the right section of the same window.
8. Click on the image you want to remove and then drag it to the trash bin on your desktop.
Harley-Davidson originated the softail motorcycle in 1984.
Hardtail motorcycles feature old-school rigid frames that have no rear suspension. Most motorcycles through the first half of the 20th century were hardtail motorcycles. The lack of suspension made hardtails impractical for long-distance riding. Softail bikes have an active suspension system in the form of an A-frame rear swingarm. The term "softail" originated with Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 1984 in an effort to attract a broader customer base.
Hardtail Basics
A hardtail motorcycle can be a rough ride. It has no rear suspension system incorporated in the rigid frame, although it does incorporate a telescopic or similar suspended front fork. The suspension comes only from the front fork, tires and a single seat with springs. Two-up seats had no springs, but only padding to cushion the ride. The hardtail is akin to early postwar sports cars in which the desired object of driving was to feel the road. Hardtails provided the rider with the same direct feeling of the road.
Softail Basics
Softail motorcycles were Harley-Davidson's answer to a new generation of riders who demanded more comfort in riding. It also solved the problem of long-distance riding, which could literally be a pain in the backside for hardtail motorcycle riders. The softail features a suspension system with shock absorbers mounted horizontally and underneath the frame to hide the shocks from view. This gives the softail the appearance of a hardtail with its rigid frame. The bike has the look of the classic hardtail but with a softer ride. Harley-Davidson developed several softails, including the Fatboy, Cross Bones Bobber and Rocker models. The Cross Bones, perhaps, most closely resembles the old-style hardtails.
Hardtail Pros and Cons
Hardtail bikes feature frames made of simple construction and no movable parts. These lightweight frames are easy to build, which attract novice bike customizers, and cost as much as 30 percent less to build than softails. Hardtails appeal to chopper enthusiasts and older riders who grew up with the original Harley-Davidson and Indian motorcycles that were constructed as hardtails. The frame requires minimal maintenance. Although the hardtail weighs less and is faster than softail, its overall handling is awkward. They are also less comfortable and virtually impossible to ride longer than an hour without a rest.
Softail Pros and Cons
Compared to the hardtail, the softail provides a luxurious highway ride, with the rider happy to sit in a softail's seat for lengthy periods of time. The softail's suspension minimizes highway bounce and vibration. However, it is more expensive and requires more parts to build. It also requires more maintenance. For many years, the softail suffered a poor reputation because the early suspension systems were cumbersome and slowed down the bike. The first Harley-Davidson softails used small telescopic forks that were inadequate and affected handling. Today's technology has eliminated those issues. Only recently have riders embraced the softail as an equal to the hardtail. Still, the softail is slightly heavier and slower with less ability than the hardtail to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. Given that the softail has more movable parts than the hardtail, it's susceptible to structural integrity issues as the bike ages.
Take care when cleaning your Fatboy and it will look good for a long time to come!
Harley-Davidson has always been known for great motorcycles, and one of the most popular motorcycles is the Softail Fatboy. This model looks like a motorcycle from the 1950s with its large fenders, wide body and classic colors. You can clean your Fatboy using standard automotive cleaners provided they do not damage chrome. Check the bottle. If it does not state that it damages chrome, the product is okay to use on your motorcycle.
Instructions
1. Place the Fatboy on level ground. If you place the bike in your yard, make sure you place something under the kickstand to ensure the kickstand does not sink into the ground as the dirt saturates with water. This prevents the bike from falling over. A crushed soda can works.
2. Place a baggie or plastic wrap over the air filter. Even if your filter is designed to get wet, the driving force of a hose nozzle can force water into your fuel intake.
3. Place a couple drops of automotive soap into a 5-gallon bucket and then fill the bucket with water.
4. Spray the entire bike off with hose water.
5. Apply soapy water onto the bike using a clean cotton cloth or automotive sponge. Start with the top of the bike and work your way down. This includes the painted surfaces and chrome surfaces. Rinse the rag or sponge off and dip it back into the bucket as needed.
6. Spray the soap off the bike using the hose water.
7. Wipe the Fatboy dry using clean cotton beach towels. Beach towels really soak up water and prevent the need of using chrome polish to clean spots off your chrome every time you wash your bike.
Tags: bike using, clean cotton, Fatboy using, hose water, Softail Fatboy, using clean, using clean cotton
The San Diego Convention Center is close to a variety of hotels.
The San Diego Convention Center is located in the city of San Diego in southern California. According to Visit San Diego, it is in downtown San Diego's marina district and spans well over 600,000 square feet. The San Diego Convention Center was designed by Arthur Erickson, an architect from Canada. The center, which was established in 1989, hosts events including trade shows, political conventions and speeches. For those planning to visit the center, various hotel options are nearby.
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is less than 1/2 mile from the San Diego Convention Center. It is also near attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo and Seaport Village. The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is a luxury waterfront hotel comprised of 1,625 guest rooms and suites, all with wireless high-speed Internet access (for a fee), hairdryers, cable television, security safes, coffeemakers, ironing facilities, private voice mail, individual climate control, iPod docking stations and 24-hour room service. Other highlights of the hotel include a 24-hour gym, more than 125,000 square feet of flexible event and meeting facilities, outdoor swimming pool, two tennis courts, wellness spa, delicatessen and a number of full-service restaurants and bars (including a sports bar).
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
1 Market Place
San Diego, CA 92101
619-232-1234
manchestergrand.hyatt.com
Hilton San Diego Bayfront
The Hilton San Diego Bayfront is a waterfront hotel that is directly adjacent to the Convention Center. The Hilton San Diego Bayfront is also steps away from the Gaslamp Quarter. The spacious guest rooms and suites all come with wired and wireless high-speed Internet access, writing desks, HD plasma televisions and Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries. Other features of the downtown San Diego hotel include a full-service restaurant, bar, Hertz vehicle rental, whirlpool, saltwater heated swimming pool, leisure club, business center, souvenir shop, foreign currency exchange, baggage storage, an on-site clothing boutique and childcare service. Pets are welcome to stay at the hotel for a non-refundable fee if they weigh no more than 75 pounds.
Hilton San Diego Bayfront
1 Park Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-564-3333
hilton.com
San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina
The San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina is sleek waterfront property across from the convention center. The San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina provides guests with quick access to well-known attractions in the city, such as the San Diego Zoo and the Gaslamp Quarter. The vast hotel consists of 1,362 rooms and suites that are spread out between two towers. The in-room amenities include alarm clocks, air conditioning, ironing facilities, work desks, 24-hour room service, coffeemakers, hairdryers, makeup mirrors, security safes, high-speed wireless Internet access (for a fee), radio, cable television, pay-per-view movies, two phones and private voice mail. Other perks include valet parking (for a daily fee), ATM, limousine service, foreign currency exchange and a shoeshine stand.
San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina
333 W. Harbor Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-234-1500
marriott.com
Andaz San Diego
Andaz San Diego is a chic downtown hotel that is a mere 1/2 mile from the San Diego Convention Center. Andaz San Diego is in the historic Gaslamp Quarter district and offers 59 contemporary guest rooms and suites. All the units include iPod docking stations, 42-inch flat-screen televisions, complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access, glass-enclosed bathrooms, security safes, hairdryers, air conditioning, individual climate control, ironing facilities, tea and coffeemakers, bathrobes, ample workspace and honor bars. Other perks are valet parking, meeting and event facilities, sundeck, rooftop swimming pool, guest lounge, wine bar, nightclub and a full-service restaurant that specializes in classic American cuisine with a Southern California twist.
Andaz San Diego
600 F St.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-814-1000
sandiego.andaz.hyatt.com
Tags: Convention Center, Diego Convention, Diego Convention Center, Andaz Diego, Diego 92101
The Roadliner and the Raider are both motorcycles manufactured by Star Motorcycles, a subsidiary brand of Yamaha. In 2010, the Star Raider was developed through to a 2011 model, while the Roadliner did not have a 2011 model available in 2010.
Engine
Star Motorcycles reports that both the Raider and the Roadliner have a 113-cubic-inch engine providing 1,854 cc, and are equipped with five-speed multiplate-clutch manual transmissions. Both motorcycles have V-twin air-cooled engines.
Size
The Star Raider is 101.2 inches long, 45.9 inches high, 36.4 inches wide, with a ground clearance of 5.8 inches. In comparison, the Star Roadliner S is 101.6 inches long, 43.3 inches wide and 43.3 high, with a ground clearance of 6.1 inches.
Fuel
The 2011 Raider, which retails for around $14,490 is manufactured with a 4.2-gallon fuel tank and provides an estimated 42 miles per gallon in fuel consumption. Star Motorcycles reports that the $15,290 Roadliner S has a 4.5-gallon fuel tank and also achieves 42 mpg.
FInd the right gift for the Harley-Davidson lover in your life.
Buying a gift for the Harley-Davidson lover in your life doesn't have to be a difficult task. Show your man how much you love him with a thoughtful gift from Harley-Davidson that will compliment his home, work and road life. Harley-Davidson has several items to offer and finding a romantic gift can be easy when you know what to look for.
Leather Jackets
Men will love a brand new Harley-Davidson leather jacket to wear on the go. Show your Harley-Davidson lover how much you love him with a brand new jacket to keep him safe and warm on the road. He will thank you for such a valuable and stylish gift. Compliment this gift with a pair of leather luminator chaps or a pair of Bar and Shield logo mechanic's gloves.
WIne Glasses
After a long day on the road, invite your man inside for a homemade dinner and a glass of wine from his brand new 12 oz. Harley-Davidson seasonal wine glass. Cook him his favorite meal and let him enjoy fine wine from a wide selection of Harley-Davidson themed wine glasses. Designs are printed in platinum and are sure to relax him and enhance your romantic moments. This gift goes great with a 33 oz. glass carafe to hold your wine, or a stainless steel corkscrew with engraved graphics and an embossed Bar and Shield logo.
Photo Frames
Capture romantic memories with the Harley Script chrome photo frame. Find a romantic picture of the two of you from your wedding day or a favorite event that you shared together and place it in the frame. The clear crystal accents and the sculpted Bar and Shield frame topper surrounding a special image are sure to make romantic sparks fly. This gift goes great with a mirrored Bar and Shield logo wall clock to decorate his space in the office or at home.
Tags: Harley-Davidson lover, Shield logo, brand Harley-Davidson, gift goes, gift goes great, gift Harley-Davidson, gift Harley-Davidson lover
The correct exhaust system is important for performance and style.
Putting new exhaust pipes and mufflers on a Harley Davidson motorcycle is a common task for anyone who works on their own bike. Because the exhaust is such a vital part of the bike's performance and overall look, it is important to choose an exhaust system that works with the rest of the motorcycle.
Instructions
1. Remove any heat shields from the exhaust pipes.
2. Use a socket with a short extension to remove the two nuts attaching each exhaust pipe to the cylinder head.
3. Remove the locknut and bolt attaching each exhaust to the support bracket.
4. Slide the exhaust pipe off the two cylinder head studs, and remove the exhaust system from the motorcycle.
5. Remove the crush gasket from each exhaust port. Use a rag to clean around the port before moving to the next step.
6. Install a new crush gasket in each exhaust port.
7. Check the new exhaust system for loose nuts or screws.
8. Put the new exhaust system into place, and slide the flange over the cylinder head studs.
9. Screw the two cylinder head bolts onto the studs, but do not tighten.
10. Attach the exhaust pipe to the support bracket with the locknut and bolt from step three. Do not tighten.
11. Double check the alignment of the muffler and exhaust pipes. The exhaust system should not touch the frame or any other part of the motorcycle except at the cylinder head and support brackets.
12. Tighten the nuts at the cylinder head, then the support bracket locknut.
13. Install any heat shields that your new exhaust system requires.
Tags: exhaust system, cylinder head, each exhaust, exhaust pipe, exhaust pipes, support bracket, attaching each
Filling the oil filter on your motorcycle's Flathead engine helps keep the filter from leaking and ensures proper engine function. The oil filter needs to be changed every time that the engine oil is changed. The oil filter will be in a different place on different Flatheads, but is always mounted to the oil pump, which will be connected to the crankcase. You can complete this job at your home in about two minutes.
Instructions
1. Place the oil filter wrench around the oil filter and turn the filter counterclockwise. Once the filter comes lose, remove it from the oil pump.
2. Pour fresh motor oil into the new oil filter slowly. Fill the new oil filter halfway and tilt the filter side to side a few times to settle the oil.
3. Fill the new oil filter all the way with fresh motor oil. You will see the motor oil at the top of the filter once it is full. Rub motor oil around the rubber seal that is around the upper edge of the filter. Place the filter onto the oil pump and turn it clockwise until snug.
Change all three oil types every 2,500 miles to prevent mechanical failures on the road.
Harley-Davidson's 2006 Heritage Softail is powered a three-part engine, transmission and primary drive system. Oil changes are required in 2,500-mile intervals to keep the motorcycle in a healthy state of tune. While most motorcycle oil changes are as as simple as emptying and refilling the engine's oil supply, the primary drive and transmission oils must also be changed at the same time. Although this does add some extra work to the job, it can be completed by most Softail owners in a reasonable amount of time.
Instructions
1. Warm your Heritage Softail's oil supply. Start the motorcycle and take it for a short, five-minute ride, then park the motorcycle on its side stand and let it cool for another 10 minutes.
2. Place the Heritage Softail on a stand to hold it in an upright, level position. Unscrew the oil tank filler cap by hand. Unscrew the transmission filler cap, located on the right side of the transmission, facing toward the front of the motorcycle, using a 3/8-inch Allen wrench.
3. Unscrew the engine oil drain plug from the bottom of the engine, located along a cross-member that runs between the lower frame rails near the swingarm, using a socket wrench and a 5/8-inch socket. Drain the engine oil into a drain pan.
4. Slip the sealing washer off of the engine oil drain plug, then wipe the plug's tip clean with a shop towel. Place a new sealing washer on the drain plug, then screw the drain plug into the engine by hand. Tighten the drain plug to 20 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and a 5/8-inch socket.
5. Unscrew the cylinder-shaped oil filter from the oil pump, located on the front of the engine, using a strap wrench. Drop the oil filter into your drain pan and allow any oil remaining in the oil pump to drain. Clean the oil pump and its mounting flange with a shop towel and a parts-cleaning spray.
6. Pour 4 ozs. of 20W-50 motorcycle-grade engine oil into the new oil filter. Spread a light coat of oil around the oil filter's threads and mounting surface. Screw the oil filter onto the oil pump by hand until it is seated snugly. Tighten the filter an additional 1/4-turn to lock the filter in place. Do not use tools to tighten the oil filter.
7. Fill the engine oil tank, located below the right side of the rider's seat, with 2.6 qts. of 20W-50 motorcycle-grade engine oil. Screw the oil tank filler cap into place by hand.
8. Unscrew the transmission oil drain plug from the bottom of the transmission assembly, located between the pair of shock absorbers mounted on the bottom of the motorcycle, using a socket wrench and a 5/8-inch socket. Drain the transmission oil into your drain pan.
9. Slip the sealing washer off of the transmission oil drain plug, then wipe the plug's tip clean with a shop towel. Place a new sealing washer on the drain plug, then screw the drain plug into the transmission assembly by hand. Tighten the drain plug to 20 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and a 5/8-inch socket.
10. Fill the transmission assembly with 1 qt. of Harley-Davidson transmission fluid or an 85/-140 API GL5 gear oil. Screw the transmission filler cap into place, using a 3/8-inch Allen wrench.
11. Unscrew the round clutch inspection cover bolts from the outer primary drive cover, located on the left side of the engine, using a Torx T-27 screwdriver. Pull the clutch inspection cover and gasket away from the primary cover to reveal the clutch assembly.
12. Unscrew the primary oil drain plug, located directly below the clutch inspection cover port, using a Torx T-40 screwdriver. Drain the primary oil into your drain pan.
13. Slip the O-ring off of the primary oil drain plug and replace it with a new O-ring. Screw the drain plug into the primary cover, using a Torx T-40 screwdriver. Tighten the drain plug to 6 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and a Torx T-40 socket.
14. Fill the primary chaincase with one quart of Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Fluid or Type D or F automotive automatic transmission fluid. The fluid level should be even with the lower portion of the clutch assembly, visible through the clutch inspection port.
15. Reinstall the clutch inspection cover and gasket, using a Torx T-27 screwdriver. Tighten the clutch inspection cover mounting bolts to 10 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and Torx T-27 socket.
Connect high-definition cable to your TV and enjoy better picture quality. High-definition cable programming is becoming more popular as high-definition televisions become less expensive. High- efinition means greater screen resolution than older, standard-definition televisions. Setting up HD cable on your TV requires the right equipment and cable service.
Instructions
1. Contact your cable service provider and request HD cable programming. HD cable channels are usually not included in standard cable service contracts.
2. Verify you have all the necessary equipment to setup and view HD cable programming. Most cable service providers include an HD cable box, HDMI cable and coaxial cable with your HD cable service contract. You must have a high-definition television to watch HD programming.
3. Connect the cable jack to the HD cable box using the coaxial cable. Attach one end of the coaxial cable to the cable jack and the other end in the "Cable In" port on the cable box.
4. Connect the HD cable box to your HDTV using the HDMI cable. Attach one end of the HDMI cable to the "HDMI Out" port on the HD box and the other end in the "HDMI In" port on the HDTV.
5. Turn on both the HD cable box and the HDTV. Using the remote, select the HDTV source to HDMI. Use the remote to select and view your HD cable programming.
Harley Davidson motorcycles have electronic fuel injectors. The electronic control module of the fuel injector controls the amount of fuel and air from the carburetor that is supplied to the engine's cylinders. Occasionally the electronic control module needs recalibrating. This can be done with an add-on module. Add-on modules such as the Power Commander FXCW Rocker connect to the electronic control module and fuel injectors. The add-on module calibrates and modifies the electronic control module's signals before they reach the injectors.
Instructions
1. Tip the motorcycle's seat up on its hinges. Remove the plastic battery cover. Remove the battery and the plastic tray it was sitting on. Unplug the wiring harness for the taillight from the main harness, located to the right of the battery. Remove the four rear fender bolts. Remove the rear fender.
2. Remove the two Allen hex bolts that hold the plastic electronics cover that sits in front of the rear fender of the bike. Slide the plastic cover out and over to the right side of the motorcycle. Unplug the stock wiring harness, which is located on the left side of the motorcycle, from the electronic control module.
3. Push the PCV harness through the battery box hole on the left side of the motorcycle. Plug the gray connector of the PCV into the electronic control module. Move the stock connector over to the back of the electronic control module. Insert the black connector of the PCV into the stock wiring harness. Secure the PCV and stock harness connection onto the wiring with a zip tie.
4. Replace the battery tray and the battery. Make sure that the PCV harness remains in position.
5. Remove the cover on the front of the bike so that you can access the O2 sensor. Unplug the front O2 sensor from its stock wiring harness. Plug your new O2 sensor eliminator into the stock wiring harness. Reinstall the cover.
6. Unplug the rear O2 sensor, located near the right hand side of the oil tank, from its stock wiring harness. Plug the new O2 sensor eliminator into the stock wiring harness.
Tags: control module, electronic control, electronic control module, wiring harness, stock wiring
The Sea-Doo Sportster comes in two models: the 4-TEC and the LE DI. Both of these personal water crafts are ideal for families as they are capable of seating up to four people. The Sea-Doo Sportster 4-TEC is the bigger, more powerful water craft while the LE DI is smaller in both overall size and engine power.
Size
The Sea-Doo Sportster LE DI weighs 1,235 pounds and is 14 feet, 6 inches long. The Sportster 4-TEC is 15 feet, 4 inches long and weighs 1,454 pounds. Both models have a 7-foot, 1-inch beam, a 12-inch draft and a 20-degree deadrise.
Capacity
Both of these recreational water crafts have a four-person passenger capacity and 715 pounds of load limit. The larger Sportster 4-TEC has a 23-gallon fuel capacity and a 3.5-gallon oil capacity, while the smaller LE DI model has a fuel capacity of 22 gallons and an oil capacity of 2.3 gallons.
Engine
The Sea-Doo Sportster 4-TEC has a 155-horsepower, 4-stroke Rotax 4-TEC 3-cylinder engine and integrates a multi-port fuel injection system with dry sump pump lubrication. The Sportster LE DI has a 130-horsepower Rotax direct injection 2-cylinder engine utilizes an orbital direct injection fuel system with Variable Ratio Oil Injection lubrication.
Exhaust
A dual-muffler exhaust system is used by the Sportster 4-TEC and a water-cooled, water-injected exhaust system is used by the Sportster LE DI.
Engine Protection Systems
The Sea-Doo Sportster 4-TEC employs several engine protection systems, including an RPM limiter, an overheat warning device and low oil, low voltage and check engine signals, while the Sportster LE DI only has an RPM limiter and an overheat warning device.
Drive Unit
Both models of the Sportster have a axial flow, single-stage jet pump and a stainless steel progressive pitch impeller. Their intake grates, however, are different; the 4-TEC has a fixed aluminum intake and the LE DI has a weed-free shaft intake.
Electrical
The Sea-Doo Sportster LE DI and 4-TEC integrate electric starters with 12-volt batteries.
Tags: Sportster 4-TEC, Sea-Doo Sportster, Sea-Doo Sportster 4-TEC, Both models, Both these, capacity gallons
If you own a High Definition TV and are a Comcast subscriber, I will show you in this article get free HD channels with just a basic Comcast cable plan. The amount of Free HD channels available within your area may differ from mine but you will be able to at least receive all of the major networks such as ABC, NBC, CBS and fox!
Instructions
1. For many new basic cable subscribers of Comcast, A new and small receiver box is offered (some say forced upon) to its customers. While the good points of this new basic cable box is the ability for Comcasts customers to use OnDemand features as well as the channel guide features all the digital cable package subscribers are accustomed to. The problem with these little boxes that I have found is the inability to view the available FREE HD channels Comcast is mandated to provide per FCC regulations. The technical reason why you cannot view HD channels with the new basic box is it does not have the required video outputs such as HDMI or "component" RCA type to display High Definition. This was more than likely due to Comcast wanting you to go ahead and purchase their widely advertised HD programing packages available instead.
2. You can still utilize both the basic Comcast cable box, retain your OnDemand features and program guide while taking advantage of the free HD channels available with a few steps.
3. First you will need to find out how your Cable box is connected to your tv, Your cable box has two types of outputs: regular coaxial and composite RCA composite type connections for the video and right and left audio channels. Typically composite RCA connections (red,white and yellow) offers better picture quality than the latter. You need to use this type of connection between your cable box and HD television if you only have one regular antenna/coaxial cable connection. Most new HD televisions today however, come equipped with two.
4. You will need to purchase a cable splitter and two coaxial cables to do this as well. Don't be surprised if you have these laying around somewhere but they are relatively inexpensive if you don't. Connect your cable wire from your wall to the terminal marked "IN" on the splitter. Next, connect the coax cables you have available to the cable box to the splitter and then the TV to the splitter. Now connect the RCA outputs from the cable box to available RCA inputs on your TV.
5. The idea is to use your HD televisions digital tuner to pick up what are called "clear QAM" channels when you do your channel search. As stated earlier, you will be able to pick up all of the major network stations at least. Depending upon your market area, there may be more channels available that have not been encrypted that you can view. There is an excellent website that has a database full of "clear QAM" channels available in your area. (See Link Below)
6. Turn on your tv and make sure your tv input is set to "cable". You will now need to navigate to your settings menu on your television and proceed to do a channel search. If you have the option to search for digital stations only, select it. This is because we are only interested in the digital stations.
7. After your TV has scanned and added all of the available HD and regular clear QAM channels, You will need to edit your channel line up. If after you have done the scan and your TV added all of the analog channels, you should delete all of them off your channel list as you will be watching those through your Comcast cable box.
8. You're done! You can easily switch between your cable box and new found HD channels with your remote. Now you can enjoy the best of both worlds for the same price. It is totally legal to do, just not advertised by the cable companies!
Tags: channels available, will need, clear channels, Comcast cable, your channel, basic cable
Saddlebags are among the first accessories most motorcyclists consider when they think of adding luggage to their Harley-Davidson Sportster. Saddlebags provide storage room for rain gear, groceries or a change of clothes if you use your Sportster as your daily commute vehicle. Before installing saddlebags on a Sportster it's important to install saddlebag supports to keep the bags from interfering with the rear wheel.
Instructions
1. Starting with the right side of the Sportster, remove the bolt, washer and shock absorber cover from the top of the shock absorber where it is secured to the frame. Keep the washer for later installation.
2. Remove the front-most button head bolt and nut from the fender support cover, just to the left of the shock absorber.
3. Attach the rear mounting hole of the saddlebag support bracket by inserting the supplied bolt through the wire retention bracket, rear fender, fender support frame rail, fender support cover and the saddlebag support.
4. Slide the spacer washer onto the screw threads and tighten the locking acorn nut.
5. Attach the front of the saddlebag support bracket and the upper shock absorber mount to the frame using the supplied hex head screw.
6. Repeat on the opposite side of the Sportster.
Tags: shock absorber, fender support, saddlebag support, fender support cover, saddlebag support bracket, side Sportster, support bracket
The iPad is a brand of tablet computers manufactured by Apple. In addition to Web browsing and app use, the iPad can store and play media like digital videos. But before a digital video can be added to the device, it needs to meet specific compression and format requirements. And depending on whether it was encoded in standard definition or high definition, a digital video will need to have a certain video codec to support its resolution.
Video Compression
All digital videos are published through a process called compression. During compression, assorted media tracks (i.e., audio, video) are written with codecs. A codec is a special algorithm that converts digital information into a format that can be read by other applications. Once the media tracks have been encoded, they are subsequently merged into a single file through the use of a multimedia container. Most multimedia containers are commonly referred to by their file extensions. For example, AVI, WMV and MOV are digital video formats that are essentially multimedia containers.
Supported Video Formats
The iPad supports playback for digital videos in the MP4, MOV and M4V formats. While MP4 was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG), both MOV and M4V are proprietary Apple formats. Apple created MOV as the native digital video format for its media player, QuickTime. Meanwhile, the company especially engineered M4V as the digital video format iTunes. But in addition to being in a supported format, digital videos need to be compressed with specific standards before they can be uploaded and played on an iPad. The audio tracks must have stereo sound and be published in the AAC-LC format. Moreover, the frequency needs to be set at 48kHz and the bitrate can be no more than 160 Kbps per channel. And in addition to streaming at 30 frames per second, video tracks need to meet certain codecs and resolution measurements.
Video Resolution
When it comes to digital video, resolution is defined as the amount of distinct pixels that are displayed within a movie's dimensions. This is the property that determines whether a digital video is encoded in standard or high definition. If a digital video has a height of less than 720 pixels, then the media is in standard definition. If a digital video has a height of 720 pixels or more, then it is in high definition. The iPad accepts digital videos in either standard or high definition. But whereas a standard definition digital video needs to be compressed with a Simple Profile MPEG-4 video codec, a high definition digital video needs to be compressed with a High Profile level 4.1 H.264 video codec.
Video Transfer
Once a digital video has been properly encoded and compressed into a supported format, it can be migrated onto the iPad in just a few steps. Simply add the digital video to your iTunes library and connect your device to the computer through the USB transfer cable. When iTunes recognizes the connected device, a listing for the iPad will appear on the left menu. Highlight the listing and iTunes will display the iPad's storage information. Choose the "Movies" tab and click the "Sync" button. A confirmation message will appear when the iPad-compatible digital video has been successfully uploaded to the device.
Tags: digital video, definition digital, definition digital video, digital videos, high definition, compressed with
McAfee Safe Boot is the encryption and strong access control tool produced by McAfee. Safe Boot has now been incorporated into the McAfee Endpoint Encryption tool suite. It helps prevent unauthorized access to personal or sensitive information that you have on your computer. Sometimes McAfee Safe Boot can interfere with the productivity of your computer depending on the operating system and Safe Boot software you are using on the computer. A required task that may arise is having to disable Safe Boot until you can upgrade your McAfee application suite or finish ongoing work you are doing on your computer.
Instructions
1. Restart your computer in Windows Safe Mode by depressing the \"F8\" keyboard function key during the normal rebooting process.
2. Open the command prompt on your computer by selecting the \"Start\" menu followed by \"Run\" and entering \"command\" in the \"Open\" text field.
3. Change the directory to the SafeBoot directory on your computer by entering the following command at the DOS command prompt followed by the \"enter\" key:
cd c:\\Program Files\\Safe Boot
4. Disable the McAfee Safe Boot program by removing it through entering the following command at the DOS prompt:
SbSetup.exe -uninstall
5. Restart your computer normally after disabling Safe Boot.
A new exhaust can make an enormous difference for a Honda 400EX. The power and good sound gained from this fix can't be matched by any other replacement or add-on. However, this process, though quite short, can be relatively costly.
Instructions
1. Choose an exhaust kit that will provide the best powerband and sound for the way that you use the ATV. Exhaust kits can be found at any major motorcycle and ATV supply store (see Resources below).
2. Unscrew the frame bracket bolts and remove the hose clamp that holds the exhaust lead on. Pull the entire exhaust assembly away from the atv frame and out of the exhaust port.
3. Rub a small amount of heavy heat silicon around the end of your new exhaust leads. Slide the leads into the exhaust port and bolt the lead to its frame bracket. Reattach and tighten the hose clamp that was previously located on the exhaust port.
4. Again rub a light amount of silicon on the inner tip of your new exhaust end. Slide this on to the exhaust leads, and clamp and bolt it in. Make sure that the entire exhaust assembly is completely secure.
5. Have your ATV re-jetted for the new exhaust setup. Refer to the exhaust kit manual for specifics.
Properly aligned wheels will extend the life of a motorcycle's tires.
Maintaining proper wheel alignment is crucial to the overall performance of any motorcycle, new or old. Misaligned wheels obviously affect tires and can also cause undue stress on shocks and springs. Regular use subjects a motorcycle to wear and tear due to uneven road surfaces and weight distribution, potholes, or improperly inflated tires. To keep the bike in optimal condition, check the wheel alignment at least once a year as good preventive maintenance. Complete this project at home without the need for expensive diagnostic tools, lasers or the help of a professional mechanic.
Instructions
1. Set the rear wheel on a stand or blocks on a level surface, ensuring the bike is secure. Have a friend adjust the front end so it's straight.
2. Find the center point of a 10- to 14-foot length of string or fishing line and secure it to the center point of the rear tire tread using duct tape. Adjust the string to ensure it will reach the front tire while clearing any obstacles on either side while running parallel to the ground.
3. Bring both ends of the string to the front of the bike, one along either side. Kneel or crouch down directly in front of the front tire and pull the strings taut, holding them several inches out from the front wheel.
4. Move the strings inward toward the front tire and have a friend adjust and hold the front wheel as straight as possible. Check the distance between each string and the outer edge of the front tire, using a tape measure for accuracy if desired. The wheels are properly aligned if the distance is equal on both sides.
Tags: front tire, center point, either side, friend adjust, front wheel
Television has given us decades of unforgettable characters and innumerable ideas for Halloween costumes. Many of us have a favorite TV hero we've always wanted to be and Halloween provides that opportunity. Here are just a few suggestions, but almost any character can be created with the right clothes and props.
Original Star Trek Male
Wear a solid red, blue of gold sweatshirt. Trim the collar in black. You can get a star trek badge online or make one out of cardboard. Wear with black pants and black high-top boots. Tuck the pant legs into the tops of your boots. Use an old flip cell phone for a communicator. You may be able to find a "phaser" in the toy department of your local superstore.
Original Star Trek Female
Look for a short, long sleeve, knit dress. Trim the collar in black and create a Star Fleet badge out of cardboard. Wear with dark hose and black boots. Run a small microphone from a square purse or bag with a shoulder strap as a tricorder.
Homer Simpson
For the lead character of "The Simpsons," wear a white, short-sleeve, button-down shirt, light blue pants and brown shoes. If you don't have the girth of Homer, stuff a pillow under your clothes and strap it down with a belt. Get a Homer Simpson mask, which is available on-line and in some costume shops. Get a bald cap and draw on his sparse follicles.
Hanna Montana
Wear a long, blond wig, tight jeans, a Hanna Montana T-shirt with a cute, flashy belt and cowboy boots. Carry a microphone.
Lucy from "I Love Lucy"
Start with a short sleeve dress with a full skirt. Add fullness to the skirt with a petticoat. Wear a white apron, hose, pearls and high-heeled shoes. Your base makeup should be pale with red lipstick and heavy blush and eye makeup. You will need a curly red wig. You may be able to find a Lucy wig online.
Local TV Newsman
Wear a shirt and tie. Use fabric paint to add your call letters to a blue blazer. Use hairspray to get your hair into an immovable state. Carry a microphone with your station's call letters.
SpongeBob SquarePants
Get a large cardboard box. Cut holes for your arms, legs and neck. Paint it yellow with spots except for a streak of brown and a streak of white at the bottom. Paint on a big smile and a little red tie. Make a large version of his work hat with eye holes to cover you head. Wear with yellow tights, white socks and brown shoes with laces. You can carry a spatula or a butterfly net.
Tags: Wear with, able find, brown shoes, call letters, cardboard Wear, cardboard Wear with
Honda's venerable Shadow cruiser lives for long stretches of highway but rolls out the factory ill-equipped when it comes to storage. The answer to this problem is found in an age-old solution once used by horsemen in years past to carry supplies and belongings: saddlebags. Used primarily in the cruiser and touring classes of motorcycles, saddlebags can be found in one of two distinct types: soft, throw-over bags and frame-mounted bags. Installing a set of saddlebags can be as simple as removing the seat and throwing the bags over the rear fender. Installing a frame-mounted kit, however, often means relocating the rear-facing turn signals, requiring a bit more time and effort to install.
Instructions
Relocating the Turn Signals
1. Remove the rider's seat. Disconnect the battery, removing the negative (-) terminal first, followed by the positive (+) terminal. Then locate and disconnect the rear turn signals and taillight. The connectors are under the seat.
2. Loosen the rear fender by removing the bolts on the rear fender support strut with an appropriately sized Allen head socket. Lower the fender onto the rear wheel, and slide it out completely.
3. Remove the rear turn signal assemblies from the fender support strut, taking care to note which assembly came from the left or right side of the motorcycle.
4. Cut each turn signal's wiring 3 inches from the connector ends with an electrical wire cutting tool. Slide two 1-inch-long strips of heat-shrink tubing on the wire. Cut two separate sets of electrical wiring approximately 24 inches in length, and solder them into place between the turn signal and the connector end. Slide the heat-shrink tubing over the soldered connections and seal with a heat gun or lighter.
5. Remove the license plate, and install the turn signal relocation brackets between the license plate and the license plate bracket. Apply a drop of Loctite to the thread of the license plate mounting bolts before tightening them.
6. Mount the turn signal assemblies to the relocation brackets, and run the wiring to the under-seat connectors following the taillight's wiring. Reconnect the battery, starting with the positive (+) terminal, followed by the negative (-) terminal. Turn the ignition on, and test the turn signals for proper operation.
Saddlebag Installation
7. Remove the reflectors by loosening the lock nuts on the inside of the fender strut. Install the mounting spool in the reflector's original location, applying a drop of Loctite to the threads of the bolt before them securing with a lock nut on the inside of the fender strut. Repeat on the opposite side of the motorcycle.
8. Insert the supplied spacers into the factory turn signal mounting holes, followed by the washer, bolt and mounting spool. Apply a drop of Loctite to the thread of the license plate mounting bolts before securing the bolt with a lock nut on the inside of the fender strut. Repeat on the opposite side of the motorcycle.
9. Reinstall the fender, securing it to the support strut with original bolts; then replace the seat.
10. Mount the saddlebags onto the spools. Secure the saddlebags to the spools from the interior by inserting retaining pins through the spools.
Several years after high-definition (HD) media players such as Blu-Ray and HD-DVD were first introduced to the mass market, prices for players and discs are still too steep for many consumers not yet ready to replace their DVD collections. Many of these same consumers, however, own at least one HDTV and are interested in HD video. The solution for manufacturers was to introduce upconvert DVD players as a mediator between standard DVDs and HD media. But for the many who still have yet to fully grasp the concept of HD, the obvious question is, "What is an upconvert DVD player?" First, you must understand the differences between standard DVD and HD media.
From DVD to HD
The great gap that upconverters attempt to bridge is the leap from standard definition video (SD) used by DVD players to high-definition video (HD). HD video provides sharper details, a greater variety of colors that appear more richly on the screen, and overall higher quality.
Standard Definition
DVD players present images in a resolution of 480 (known as 480i) by a process called "interlacing." In this process, 480 alternating lines are displayed on a screen at once to create a picture. On a standard set, DVD quality looks fine. When displayed on HD sets, however, flickers often result, and details appear blurry. Standard DVD quality suffers in the transfer from an SD set to an HD set for the same reason that the quality of a small video online suffers when you switch it to full screen mode; the heightened resolution forces the image to stretch itself to a size it was never meant to be stretched to.
High Definition
High-definition media can handle far higher resolutions that use a process called "progressive scan" to deliver a picture to the screen without loss of quality. Instead of alternating lines, progressive scan displays all lines of video at once. This results in a much more detailed, stable image.
How It Works
While upconvert DVD players will never produce true HD quality, they do improve greatly upon the quality of standard DVDs.
Once connected to a TV, the upconvert DVD player interprets information from the original source on the DVD and broadcasts the image in a high-definition resolution. By employing a process known as "scaling," upconverters take information from the surrounding video and through numerous calculations create new pieces of video that compensate for motion and details that may have been missing in the standard resolution.
The resulting onscreen image does not include more details, but the already present details appear sharper. In place of what would otherwise have been a fuzzy, stretched image, an upconvert DVD player provides users with a picture with colors that are richer and details that are more vibrant.
Conclusion
Upconvert DVD players are meant to be the "middlemen" between standard DVD and HD. While not approaching HD-level quality, they can provide a boost to the picture quality of a standard DVD.
Tags: between standard, alternating lines, colors that, details appear, details that
Shifters are one of the most customizable parts of a motorcycle.
Motorcycle gear shifters, after time and extended usage, can wear out and become hard to use. A rider can also simply dislike a stock shifter and wish to replace it with an aftermarket shifter. The process of changing out shifters on Harley Davidson motorcycles requires only a few basic tools and several minutes of time.
Instructions
1. Park your Harley in a flat, accessible area. Be sure that the motorcycle is very stable on its kickstand.
2. Remove the mounting bolt on top of the shifter shaft using a 12mm socket wrench. This bolt may be tight, so be ready to use some force, if needed.
3. Slide the shifter off the shaft. If the lever doesn't want to slide, try twisting it back and forth as you slide it off the shaft.
4. Slide the replacement shifter onto the shaft at the angle desired. The toothed shaft will match with the full radius of the mounting hole on the shifter.
5. Replace the mounting bolt on the top of the shifter assembly. Tighten down the bolt to prevent possible slipping.
Harley-Davidson's motorcycles are famous for their ability to be ridden for long distances. During these long trips, the motorcycle's tires will wear away and require eventual replacement. While most Harley-Davidson owners delegate the task to a mechanic, changing the tire yourself is a rewarding and money-saving endeavor. If you are willing to take the time to do the job yourself, make the investment in a sturdy motorcycle lift that will support your Harley-Davidson while you remove the wheels and tires.
Instructions
Wheel Removal
1. Place the motorcycle on a motorcycle-specific stand or lift to raise the affected tire off the ground.
2. Using an Allen socket, remove the front brake caliper's bolts and slide the caliper off the front brake rotor. Loosen the front axle lock nut using a socket wrench. Tap the front axle out of the front fork and wheel using a rubber mallet. Lower the wheel to the ground and roll it away from the motorcycle.
3. Remove the rear axle lock nut using a socket wrench. Loosen the rear wheel adjusters using a wrench. Push the rear wheel forward to loosen the drive belt. Pull the belt off of the rear wheel's pulley. Tap the rear axle out of the rear swing arm and wheel using a rubber mallet. Lower the wheel to the ground and roll it away from the motorcycle.
Changing the Tire
4. Lay the wheel on a pair of wooden blocks with the brake rotor facing up. Unscrew the valve stem using a valve core tool and allow the tire to deflate. Push the tire downward to create a gap between the wheel's rim and the tire.
5. Slip a tire iron between the tire and the rim, placing the tire iron in the 12 o'clock position. Slip a second tire iron into place at the 2 o'clock position. Press both tire irons toward the center of the wheel to stretch a portion of the tire over the rim.
6. Remove the second tire tire iron and replace it in the 4 o'clock position. Maintain your grip on the first tire iron. Press down on the second tire iron to pull more of the tire over the rim. Repeat until the entire upper edge of the tire has been stretched over the rim.
7. Pull out the inner tube from the tire. Pull the remaining edge of the tire closer to the top of the wheel's rim. Lift the wheel onto its side and insert a tire iron between the tire and the edge of the rim. Pull the tire iron upward to force the tire off the rim.
8. Place a new tire onto the wheel, hooking the lower edge of the tire over the upper edge of the wheel's rim. Press down firmly on the tire to force its lower edge completely onto the rim.
9. Inflate the inner tube partially with an air compressor. Insert the inner tube into the tire and pull the valve stem through the hole in the rim. Press the tire downward to bring the remaining edge of the tire closer to the wheel's rim.
10. Place a tire iron between the tire and the rim. Press down on the tire iron to lever the tire over the rim. Work your way around the wheel, stretching small portions of the tire onto the rim until it is completely mounted on the wheel.
11. Inflate the inner tube completely with compressed air to seat the tire on the wheel. Reinstall the wheel onto the motorcycle.
Tags: tire iron, edge tire, inner tube, tire over, between tire, clock position, iron between
Sportsters come equipped with rear directional signals installed to the rearmost hole of the rear fender trim. The disconnectible turn signals leads branch off the rear wiring harness inside the rear fender. Sportster turn signals are usually relocated or reinstalled to accommodate saddlebag mounts. Sometimes the turn signals are changed for purely aesthetic reasons. Signals can be shaped like Maltese Crosses, skulls, spades and other outlaw icons. In some jurisdictions it is legal to run only "whisker" turn signals which are integral to the license plate frame. The wiring is approximately the same for all these installations. The Harley rear turn signal relocation kit installs with moderate ease.
Instructions
1. Raise the Sportster on a motorcycle jack high enough for the rear wheel to hang down. Set a flashlight or shop light under the rear fender so you can see what you're doing.
2. Unbolt the seat mounting bolt just behind the seat with an Allen wrench. Pull the seat up, back and off.
3. Loosen and remove the black battery cable from the negative battery post with an open end wrench.
4. Pry the small plug from the tail light access hole on the rear fender interior with a small screwdriver.
5. Pull the turn signal wiring harness inside the rear fender from the tail light housing. Unhook the signal wiring from the clips inside the rear fender.
6. Pull the two turn signal connections apart into male and female halves. Mark the socket halves with tape for future reference. Pull the turn signal wires from the two turn signal connections.
7. Loosen the screws on the rear of the fender trim on both sides of the Sportster with an Allen wrench. Remove the turn signals and the old mounting brackets from both sides of the bike.
8. Cut a piece of the shrink wrap tubing included with the turn signal relocation kit in half with a pair of shears. Slide the tubing over the exposed turn signal wires up to the signals for both sides of the Sportster. Shrink the tubing with a heat gun.
9. Push the turn signal lamps and wires on both sides of the fender completely through the small holes on both ends of the new taillight mounting bracket. Push the wires through the open holes in the rear fender trim.
10. Install the new turn signal brackets into the open holes on both sides of the fender by hand. Tighten the fender trim screws by hand.
11. Ensure the wires from both turns signals are inside the rear fender. Tighten the fender trim screws with an Allen wrench.
12. Connect the turn signal wires to the signal connections inside both sides of the fender. Arrange the turn signals so they face back and tighten the hex nut and washer on both signals with an open end wrench.
13. Connect the turn signal wires to the female half of both turn signal connectors on both sides of the fender by hand. Plug the female and male halves of the turn signal connectors back together by hand.
14. Push the loose wires and the gray tail lamp connector back into the tail lamp housing inside the fender. Replace the plug into the tail light access hole in the rear fender.
15. Route the turn signal wires along the inside edges of the fender and secure with cable ties.
Tags: turn signal, rear fender, both sides, fender trim, signal wires, turn signal wires
The origin of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle was in a 10-foot by 15-foot shed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Motorcycle parts are still made in Milwaukee, and in other states also. There is an assembly plant in Brazil, but all parts are manufactured in the United States.
Beginnings
In 1901, William S. Harley created his first blueprint for a bicycle engine. Working in a shed with Arthur Davidson, the first Harley-Davidson motor bicycle was released in 1903. Arthur's brother Walter Davidson joined, followed by William, a third Davidson brother, in 1907. Harley-Davidson Motor Co. was incorporated in 1907.
Sales
One of the first bikes sold was to the founders' schoolfriend Henry Meyer of Milwaukee. The first of numerous Harley-Davidson dealerships was C.H. Lang in Chicago.
Milwaukee
The first Harley-Davidson factory opened in 1906 on Juneau Street, Milwaukee, with a larger facility opening in 1912. In 1947, the Capitol Drive plant was added, with a product development center opening alongside in 1973.
Elsewhere
In 1973, Harley-Davidson assembly moved to York, Pennsylvania. In 1962, Harley-Davidson bought Tomahawk Boat Manufacturing Co. in Wisconsin to make fiberglass parts. A new engine and transmission facility opened in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, in 1997. In 1998, the first overseas assembly plant opened in Manaus, Brazil.
Independence
In 1969, Harley-Davidson merged with AMF, the American Machine and Foundry Co. In 1981, Harley-Davidson executives bought the company back.
Fun Fact
The first Harley-Davidson motorcycle was a pedal bicycle with a single-cylinder gasoline engine. Harley-Davidson released its first iconic V-twin engine in 1909.
Tags: first Harley-Davidson, Harley-Davidson motorcycle, assembly plant, Milwaukee first
The Toyota Motor Corporation is a Japanese company and the world's largest automaker as of 2008, employing over 316,000 people. As of the same year, the company featured a total of 522 subsidiaries. The company has a long history that stretches back to the early 20th century. Much of its success rests on the philosophy of the manufacturing process and importance it places on its employees, giving its staff a smaller turnover than the American Big Three automakers. The company has used its success to move into a variety of other industries, including aerospace and robotics.
Identification
The name of the car company comes from the founder, Kiichiro Toyoda. However, based on the number of brush strokes needed to write the company name, it was changed to "Toyota" and trademarked in 1937. At the same time, a contest was announced to design the logo. 27,000 entries ultimately determined a winner that became to company logo. The name translates in both Japanese and Chinese to "fertile rice paddies."
Following Wold War II, the company's cars were sold under the name "Toyopet." This was altered in the United States to the proper "Toyota" name due to connotations that made them sound childish.
History
The company of Toyota began as a division of the Toyoda Automatic Loom Works Company in 1933. The company offered two vehicles: the A1 passenger car and the G1 truck. Although the company struggled through the war years, it began to garner much success in the Asian market in the 1950s. Following the 1973 oil crisis, the U.S. market began to search for more cost-effective vehicles with better fuel economy. At the time, small American vehicles sold poorly, so the companies failed to produce or advertise many of their models. Toyota leveraged this factor and focused on the U.S. market through its safety features.
In 1980, the company won the first Japanese Quality Control Award, which helped promote its vehicles in the American market. In 1989, the company launched a luxury line called Lexus. This helped it gain an even greater market share throughout the American and foreign car markets. By 2007, the company focused on overtaking the Big Three automakers and succeeded within a year. This was primarily a result of the success of the Toyota Tundra full-size truck and Toyota Camry mid-size car.
Significance
The basic philosophy of the company has developed over the years and is represented in the book, "The Toyota Way." The first key component to the company philosophy is to focus on the concept of "lean manufacturing." This devotes resources only to the goal of end value for the customer. "Just-in-time production" is also a major focus, providing the company the strategy of keeping inventory as small as possible and preventing a backlog of product in changing market conditions. The company also focuses on long-term management practices rather than the immediate bottom line, good systems for solving problems and developing its people in-house with a focus on driving learning in the overall organization.
Features
Toyota is one of the largest multinational corporations in the world. As of 2008, it was the largest automaker globally. In 2006, it reported an $11 billion profit.
The company is headquartered in Aichi, Japan and features a number of subsidiaries including Toyota Financial Services and the Scion and Lexus brand of vehicles. During the late 1990s and early part of the 21st century, Toyota purchased a majority stake in the Daihatsu car company and small shares of Isuzu and Subaru.
Toyota was the first company to introduce a mass-marketed hybrid gas-electric car in 1997. By 2007, the company had sold over one million units.
Considerations
Toyota leveraged its success in the early part of the 21st century. It moved into the aircraft industry by investing $67.2 million in the Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation. The aircraft is planned for release in 2013.
The company moved into the charity and philanthropy market. It started the Toyota Family Literacy Program, helping low-income people get education. It also launched 40 annual scholarships for the United Negro College Fund.
Toyota has also moved into the multitask robotics market. Its focus is to develop robots that will work with elderly people to issue care.
In addition, the company has moved into the biotechnology industry with five different partnerships: Indonesia's P.T. Toyota Bio, the Australian Afforestation Limited, China's Sichuan Toyota Nitan Development Company, and Japan's Toyota Floritech Company and Toyota Roof Garden Corporation.
Tags: moved into, 2007 company, 21st century, About Toyota, company moved, company moved into
Some Chevrolet truck models come with optional heated side-view mirrors. These mirrors have a defroster circuit on the rear of the glass. You usually control the function by engaging a switch inside the vehicle. The Chevrolet truck discussed here is a 2010 Silverado LT, but the controls are similar for other Chevy trucks. Refer to your owner's manual or a model-specific auto guide for detailed information about your particular truck.
Instructions
1. Get in the Chevy truck and insert your key into the ignition.
2. Turn the ignition key to the "On/Run" position.
3. Press and release the button on the dashboard climate control system that has the three squiggly vertical lines. This is the rear window defroster button, which also activates the heated outside mirrors. The defroster will stay on for about 10 minutes, unless you press the button again to turn it off or turn off the ignition.
The Yamaha V Star series offers a number of motor bikes, such as V Star 950, V Star 950 Tourer, V Star 1100 Classic, V Star 1100 Custom, V Star 1100 Silverado, V Star 1300, V Star 1300 Tourer, V Star Classic, V Star Silverado and V Star 250. You can customize any of these models on Yamaha's website using the on-site "Build Your Own" simulator.
Instructions
1. Go to Yamaha Start Motorcycles page.
2. Click "V Star" under "Models" on the left side of the page.
3. Select a model from the list, for instance, V Star 1300 Tourer, V Star 950 or V Star Silverado.
4. Click the "Build Your Own" tab on the next page.
5. Click "Proceed to Build Your Own".
6. Select the model year you want to customize, for instance, 2010 or 2009.
7. Choose a custom color such as maroon, yellow, red, blue flames or stainless steel. The standard color for most V Star series bikes is black.
8. Click a category from the list such as "Seats and Backrests" or "Windshields". Clicking each category will open the accessories that come under that category.
9. Click and drag each accessory from the right panel onto the bike profile image. The accessory will be installed immediately. To remove it, drag it off the bike or click the "X" button on the accessory. Each accessory you add will contribute to the bike's total price.
10. Click "Save" when you're done, or "Print" to print out this page. To reset all the specifications and start over, click "Clear All".
Tags: Build Your, Star 1100, Star 1300, Tourer Star, 1300 Tourer
The type and position of the handlebars on your motorcycle determine your upper body comfort while riding -- especially for long periods. Ape hanger handlebars are taller than stock handlebars, allowing you to stretch your upper body out while riding. You must choose the height that matches your comfort level by sitting on your motorcycle and holding different sets of handlebars in the appropriate position to determine the best height for you. Ape hanger handlebars are an inexpensive upgrade to your Sportster.
Instructions
1. Remove the maxi-fuse -- located in the fuse holder on the battery strap -- by hand to cut all power to the motorcycle.
2. Remove the two screws that connect the clutch assembly to the left-hand side of the handlebars with a screwdriver. Also with the screwdriver remove the two screws that connect the left handlebar switch assembly to the handlebars. Remove both the left and right handlebar grips by pulling them outward by hand. Also remove the front master cylinder assembly from the left-hand side of the handlebars with a screwdriver. Remove the two screws -- with a screwdriver -- that hold the throttle assembly in place on the right-hand side of the handlebars.
3. Remove, by hand, the retainers that connect the cables to the handlebars. Loosen the screws connecting the control housing to the handlebars. Do not remove the screws completely. To remove the lower handlebar clamps that connect the handlebars to the fork bracket, loosen the two bolts that connect them. Remove the screws and washers that connect the upper handlebar clamp in place with a screwdriver. Remove the two screws that hold the instrument bracket in place. Remove the handlebars from the motorcycle.
4. Attach new ape hanger handlebars to the motorcycle. Reconnect the bolts that connect the handlebars to the fork bracket. Tighten by hand. Tighten the screws of the throttle assembly with a screwdriver. Reattach the upper handlebar clamp and washers. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver. Reattach the instrument bracket and the two screws that hold it in place.
5. Move the handlebars to the position most comfortable for you while you sit on the motorcycle. Once you determine the appropriate position for the handlebars, tighten the screws of the upper handlebar clamp and instrument bracket to 12 to 18 foot-pounds with a torque wrench until the upper handlebar clamp touches the lower handlebar clamps. Tighten the lower handlebar clamp bolts to 30 to 40 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
6. Slide the throttle cable assembly back in place on the right-hand side of the handlebars. Reattach the front master cylinder to the left-hand side of the handlebars and tighten the screws that connect it with a screwdriver. Reattach both the left and the right-hand grips by pushing them back in place. Reattach the left-hand switch assembly and the clutch assembly and tighten the screws that hold each of them in place. Reinstall the maxi-fuse.
Tags: that connect, with screwdriver, screws that, handlebar clamp, side handlebars, that hold
Most audio cables use a wire to transmit electrical signals. But optical audio cables use fiber optic communications to transmit light. This makes them immune to the electrical interference that typical cables are subject to. Optical audio cables (also called TOSLINK or EIAJ optical cables) are a high-quality and affordable alternative to standard audio cables. Plus, they are easy to install. Because optical audio cables transmit digital data, they are most often used for connecting digital audio source devices (such as DVD players) to home theater systems. Generally, optical audio cables use the S/PDIF protocol (Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format), which is a communication format for digital signals.
Instructions
1. Check that each device accepts optical audio cables. The connection port is usually labeled "Optical," but it may say "Digital" instead. In either case, the connection port must be square with a rounded bottom if optical audio cables are to be used.
2. Remove and save the plastic protective covers from each end of the optical audio cable.
3. Connect one end of the optical audio cable to the port marked "Optical In" (or "Digital In") on the receiving device. The plug will click to let you know it is fastened securely.
4. Connect the other end of the optical audio cable to the port marked "Optical Out" (or "Digital Out") on the source device. The plug will click to let you know it is fastened securely.
5. Turn on both devices if they are not already on.
6. Test the connection by operating both your devices normally to ensure the cables have been installed correctly.
Multiple hard drives of different capacities can be installed in a single computer.
Multiple hard drives can be installed on a single ribbon cable if the drives are designed to interface with the computer using IDE or SCSI. The difference between the two is the way the jumpers should be set and the number of drives that can be used on a single cable. IDE devices typically allow two drives per data cable while SCSI devices can take several more, depending on the controller and the cable.
Instructions
IDE Drives
1. Shut down the computer and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Attach the alligator clip of the anti-static wrist strap to the fan opening or other metal location on the computer case. Wrap the other end of the strap around your wrist. Remove the cover from the computer case.
3. Set the jumper settings on the primary drive to "Master" or "MA" according to the diagram or markings on the drive. Refer to the hard drive user's manual or manufacturer's website if necessary for an indication of set the jumper for a particular drive.
4. Set the jumper settings on the secondary drive to "Slave" or "SL" according to the diagram or markings on the drive. Refer to the hard drive user's manual or manufacturer's website if necessary for an indication of set the jumper for the second drive.
5. Mount each drive into an available drive bay in the computer using four mounting screws and a Phillips screwdriver to secure the drive in place.
6. Connect one end of the data cable to the motherboard or hard drive controller port, orienting the missing pin hole in the cable to the missing pin on the controller port.
7. Connect the middle connector on the data cable to the secondary hard drive, repeating the procedure for orienting the missing pin hole on the connector to the missing pin on the drive controller port.
8. Attach the other connector on the data cable to the primary hard drive, aligning the missing pin hole in the cable with the missing pin on the drive's controller port.
9. Connect the power cables to the hard drives.
SCSI Drives
10. Shut down the computer and disconnect it from the power source.
11. Attach the alligator clip on the anti-static wrist strap to the fan opening or other metal location on the computer case and wrap the other end of the strap around your wrist. Remove the cover from the computer case.
12. Set the drive identification jumper on the primary drive to "Drive 0" and set subsequent drives to sequential ID settings. Set the "Terminate" jumper on the last drive in the chain or alternately install a hardware terminator block. Refer to the controller card or motherboard user's manual to determine the exact sequence of jumper settings needed for a particular installation as the exact settings can vary by device.
13. Mount each drive into an available drive bay in the computer using four mounting screws and a Phillips screwdriver to secure the drive in place.
14. Attach the data cable to the motherboard or SCSI controller and then attach the connector closest to the motherboard to the lowest numbered hard drive. Attach the ribbon cable to the other hard drives in sequence, using the next closest connector to the motherboard for the next lowest numbered drive.
15. Connect a hardware SCSI terminator to the last drive if necessary. Note that some drives use a jumper setting to perform this function. Refer to the hard drive user manual or manufacturer's website for a specific brand and model.
16. Connect the power cables to the hard drives.
Tags: hard drive, data cable, hard drives, computer case, controller port
The chromed oil lines in the left of this photo lead to the oil pump.
Replacement Harley oil pumps must be primed after installation but before their first use in order to prevent "air lock" or cavitation. Essentially, air trapped inside the pump while it was out of the crankcase prevents oil from flowing and the engine quickly goes dry. It is a mistake one rarely makes twice since the engine may practically explode within a few hundred yards of leaving the garage on the first test ride. Oil pump manufacturers including S&S, Harley-Davidson and Sifton dryly note that substantial engine damage not covered under warranty may result from failing to prime an oil pump.
Instructions
1. Install the oil pump. Connect feeder and return lines. Fill the oil tank to correct level.
2. Remove check valve cover screw with a flat head screwdriver. Remove the check valve O-ring and spring by hand.
3. Remove the check valve ball with a mechanic's magnet from inside the oil pump body. On a typical Harley oil pump the check valve cover screw is on top of the oil pump body.
4. Look inside the open check valve. The exposed cavity inside the oil pump should fill with oil within seconds.
5. Pour clean engine oil into the cavity if it remains empty and wait for five minutes.
6. Replace the check valve ball, spring, O-ring and screw. Put the motorcycle in "Neutral" and start the engine.
7. Confirm oil circulation with an oil pressure gauge and by removing the filler cap from the oil tank and watching oil return to the tank.