Visit Natchez Ms

It’s no mistake that Natchez, Mississippi, is called the crown jewel of southwestern Mississippi. This quiet town and its surrounding area plays host to a unique blend of history, festivals and blues. If you are seeking out a vacation away from the usual, Natchez might just hit the bull's eye. Here are some sights you should not miss if you are passing through this exciting town.

Instructions

1. Learn more about what music fans will tell you--that Natchez’s most abundant natural resource is the blues. The Blues Trail is a series of historical markers and sights that stretches from Louisiana to Memphis and passes directly through Natchez. Find out more about Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson and John Lee Hooker through this unique trail.

2. Visit Natchez in October for its Angels on the Bluff annual balloon race. At this exciting time dozens of hot air balloons raced down the Mississippi River to the delight of crowds below. This event is a rare opportunity to see this many hot air balloons all at once.

3. Take a trip through history by taking one of Natchez’s many historical tours. The Natchez Plantation offers you a view into the old ways of farm life, while the Natchez Cemetery offers ghost tours for those brave enough to visit. And the Devereaux Shields House offers a wealth of sights for architecture buffs.

4. Learn about Natchez’s original inhabitants at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians. This recreated American Indian village housed by Jefferson College is a great way to look into how these residents lived, worked, ate and played.

5. Get down and dirty every April as Natchez celebrates its musical heritage. The annual Blues Festival is an opportunity to see some of the finest blues musicians still playing today.

6. Gamble at the Isle of Capris Casino. This casino is open 24 hours a day for you to try your luck at blackjack or at the many slot machines. Riverboat gambling in Natchez, MS, is big business. No visit to Natchez is complete without a trip to the casino.

Tags: more about, this exciting, through this

Value Property In A California Divorce

Determine value as close to the trial date as reasonably possible.

The value of property for purposes of divorce in California is defined loosely as the price that a willing buyer and a willing seller would agree to on the open market. California is a community property state, meaning that generally, property acquired by either party during the marriage and before separation belongs to both spouses equally. Valuing community property is particularly important because the property must be divided in half upon divorce. Because an incorrect value can have dramatic results upon divorce, consult an attorney before settling on a final valuation number.

Instructions

1. Compare the sale prices of similar properties in the area to determine the value of real property. The value cannot be based on a listed sale price, the value of the property as determined by the county tax assessor or by the amount of tax due. Note that the value of real estate can only be shown by an expert, the property owner or the property owner's spouse in a divorce proceeding in California.

2. Refer to the price at which a publicly held stock was traded for on the date of valuation to determine the value of stock.

3. Read the promissory note and figure the amount of principal due to determine its value. Future interest due on the note is not included in the valuation.

4. Read the "cash surrender value" figure noted in a whole life insurance policy to determine its value.

5. Refer to the mid-point between the high and low retail values, as shown in the Kelley Blue Book, to determine the value of automobiles. Hire an expert automotive appraiser to determine the value if the mid-point value does not seem reasonable. Automotive appraisers are commonly retained to determine the value of restored classic cars.

6. Hire a property appraiser to determine the value of furniture, furnishings and tools. Note that the item's age is more important that the cost to replace it, as used items, particularly furniture, sell for considerably less than new items. Although not required, some California courts are willing to consider the completed sale prices of online auction houses to assess value.

Tags: determine value, determine value, appraiser determine, appraiser determine value, community property, Note that, property owner

Sidecar Riding Instructions

Sidecar Riding Instructions

Sidecars, a special attachment to the side of a motorcycle allowing additional passenger space, have been around nearly as long as there have been motorcycles. The addition of a sidecar changes the aerodynamics and weight distribution of the motorcycle, which can affect handling. The addition of a passenger to the sidecar adds more weight to the vehicle and further affects the handling. The actions of the rider of the sidecar can contribute to the safe handling of the motorcycle and sidecar.

Riding a Motorcycle Sidecar

While the "tip-over line" of a motorcycle runs from front wheel to back wheel and allows the cycle to tip to either side, a motorcycle with a sidecar is more stable. According to the instruction manual provided by the state of Washington for riders taking the motorcycle drivers' license test, the tip-over of a motorcycle with a sidecar is a triangle. The weight of the rider of the sidecar should stay within the triangle formed if lines are drawn to connect the three wheels of the motorcycle and sidecar.

Other safety instructions for motorcycle sidecar riders are similar to any passenger on a motorcycle. The sidecar rider should lean in the same direction as the motorcycle driver. At any other time, the sidecar rider should refrain from any unnecessary motion that might adversely affect the stability of the vehicle.

Most motorcycles equipped with a sidecar still have space for a passenger behind the driver of the vehicle. According to the Washington manual, heavier passengers should ride in the sidecar. Passengers in the sidecar should wear a seat belt if it's available.

All passengers on a motorcycle, including riders in a sidecar, should wear a helmet and all other protective gear recommended for a motorcycle rider. The driver and all passengers should refrain from the consumption of alcohol before operating a motorcycle.

General Safety

The additional weight of the sidecar and passenger increases the stopping distance of the vehicle. A driver of a sidecar-equipped motorcycle needs to begin braking earlier than one with only a motorcycle.

The driver also needs to alert passengers, if possible, to any upcoming maneuvers. This includes having to avoid road surface problems such as potholes or pavement breaks, changing lanes or stops.

The Washington manual also suggests that riders of sidecar-equipped motorcycles, or other three-wheeled motorcycles, should take turns more slowly and adjust their speed when encountering obstacles.

Tags: motorcycle sidecar, sidecar should, with sidecar, have been, motorcycle driver, motorcycle with

Transfer The Warranty On A Harleydavidson Motorcycle

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are one of the most popular motorcycles in the world.

When you are ready to sell your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you will not only want to transfer the title of your motorcycle to the buyer, but you will want to transfer the warranty as well. Every new Harley-Davidson motorcycle comes with a two-year warranty that begins the day that you purchase the motorcycle. Transferring the warranty to the buyer allows you to not be hounded by the buyer, if the bike malfunctions after the transaction is complete.

Instructions

1. Locate your local dealership. If you do not know the location of your nearest dealership, visit the Harley-Davidson website and click the "Dealer Locator" button at the top of the page. Input your "ZIP Code," "City," or "State," and then click "Find." Write down the address of your nearest dealership.

2. Visit the dealership and ask a sales associate or the financial manager for a warranty transfer form. On the form, include information, such as the motorcycle's VIN number and the address, phone number and name of the buyer and seller. The seller and the buyer must sign the form in person. The sales associate or financial manager will file the paperwork.

3. Receive the warranty card in the mail. It will be sent to both parties involved in the transfer in three weeks.

Tags: your nearest dealership, associate financial, associate financial manager, financial manager, Harley-Davidson motorcycle, nearest dealership, sales associate

Use Tivo With Fios

Use TiVo With FiOS

Company-provided set-top digital video recorder (DVR) boxes often leave a lot to be desired as far as functionality and expandability. Verizon FiOS consumers, however, can choose between the Motorola-branded Verizon DVR boxes, a TiVo DVR or another brand's DVR. This is possible with the use of CableCARD decoders.

Instructions

1. Contact Verizon and request a multistream CableCard decoder for each TiVo unit. If FiOS service has previously been installed in the home, an installation fee might be assessed. Be sure to specify that either one multistream card or two single-stream cards are needed for each TiVo box. Multistream boxes are preferred as they are less expensive monthly than two single-stream cards.

2. Prior to installing the CableCard decoder, connect the TiVo to a television and perform the on-screen setup. It is important to do this a few days prior to the CableCard installation, if possible, to ensure that all applicable TiVo software updates have been applied.

3. Note: The following steps should be performed by a certified Verizon technician.

Attach the coaxial cable source to the back of the TiVo and power the unit on if it is turned off.

4. Open the CableCard door on the front of the TiVo unit and install either the single M-Card or ONE S-Card.

5. At this time the "CableCard Decoders" screen will appear. Simply select the applicable menu item to view the CableCard information. If necessary, call the Verizon office to activate the CableCard, providing the applicable data from the television screen.

6. Select "Configure CableCARD 1" from the menu andd select "Test Channels." Be sure to verify that any premium channels--HBO, for example--are functioning properly.

7. If two S-Cards were used, repeat Steps 4 through 6.

Tags: CableCard decoder, each TiVo, single-stream cards, TiVo unit

The History Of Hair Ties

The History of Hair Ties

Hair ties have always been around in some form, although the elastic bands we think of today were not even envisioned until the mid-1800s. Does this Spark an idea?

The hair tie's early history

Up until the invention of elastic, men, women and children held their hair back with colored ribbons of fabric or bands of leather, either tied or fastened in place with a pin. Colorful ribbons were seen as status symbols and objects of envy on the heads of young girls, but women would never have been seen in public with their hair tied back in such a casual fashion until the look was popularized in the late 20th century.

Hair ties in men's fashion

The hair tie started as a predominantly male fashion accessory, as European men popularly wore their hair in what was then called a "queue," the French word for "tail," through the end of the 1700s. Even after that style died publicly in favor of shorter hair on men, the queue, tied either with a leather strap or a small bag known as a "caul," was the military regimented hairstyle throughout Europe through much of the 1800s.

Hair tie alternatives

While women from pre-modern times may have scoffed at the idea of a ponytail, the look of cauls and snoods was popularized in the Middle Ages and brought back in the 1970s in American women's fashion. While a caul sections off small amounts of hair, a snood encases an entire head of hair in a netted bag that is often adorned for festive occasions such as weddings.

Hair ties and elastic

Hair ties were revolutionized by the invention of elastic in the 1800s. Thomas Hancock, considered the father of the rubber industry, obtained the first patent in 1820 for the use of elastic in fasteners for gloves, shoes and stockings, and on St. Patrick's Day in 1845, British businessman Stephen Perry obtained the patent for the rubber band.

It was only in the mid-to-late 20th century that the basic rubber band was updated specifically for the purpose of tying hair, due to the standard rubber band's tendency to pinch and pull, resulting in pain and sometimes hair loss. The first "elastic loop fastener" was patented in 1958 by the Hook Brown Company to attach strands of blended fabric and elastic in a concentric circle, and it is still popularly used today.

The hair tie today

Modern variations of the hair tie include the "scrunchie," which consists of an elastic band sewn inside bunched, colorful fabric, as well as limitless fashion variations that can be bought or made with just a needle and thread by affixing plastic flowers, ribbons, or jewelry to a standard hair tie.

Tags: Hair ties, rubber band, their hair, 20th century, History Hair, History Hair Ties

Designing Car Seat Covers

Every parent wants their kids to be safe and fashionable. Fortunately, with the many stylish fabric options available in today's car seats, safety conscious parents do not have to sacrifice either option. However, there may be some circumstances when you want to add extra glitz to a car seat, such as when using an older seat for a new child of the opposite gender. Although you must be careful, there are a few ways to glam up your car seat cover.

Important Safety Considerations

Car seat manufacturers do not authorize the use of any aftermarket products on car seats. This includes homemade car seat covers, harness strap covers and adding additional head support. Using or making these types of products will void your car seat warranty and may cause your car seat to fail in the event of a crash. Car seats are rigorously tested using the manufacturer's products, and aftermarket products could react in an unknown manner during an accident. Additionally, car seats are often made with flame-retardant materials, and many consumer fabrics do not meet the same standards. Although aftermarket products remain popular because of their style or perceived comfort, they are just simply not safe to use.

Design Alternatives

Fortunately, for parents who still want to jazz up their car seat, there are a few options that are acceptable for altering the look of your car seat. The first option is to search the manufacturer's website for a new car seat cover. Car seat covers are interchangeable between seats as long as the make and model of the two seats are the same. Most major manufacturers offer dozens of designs and fabrics for each of their car seats. In addition, they also offer harness straps in different colors. Change these to a different color, or mix and match them to give your child's seat a funky look. You could add a girlie ruffle to the edge of a manufacturer's car seat cover without affecting any other part of the seat, or you could use dye to alter the color of your seat's cover. Finally, you can easily create a car seat cover that works to change the look of your seat and keep your child warm in colder months. By adding an elastic edge to material cut to fit over the outside of the seat once your child is inside, you essentially create a decorative "shower cap" for the seat. By cutting a window where your child's face is, you allow them to see both in the car and when being transported other places.

Tags: your seat, seat cover, your child, aftermarket products, look your, look your seat

Put A Street Bike Motor In A Golf Cart

Golf carts are boring until you drop in a motorcycle engine.

Installing a motorcycle engine into a golf cart is a somewhat challenging undertaking, but with patience, you'll find that the process can be remarkably easy to accomplish. As opposed to installing a motorcycle engine into a go-kart, you will need to replace the rear axle of the golf cart unless it is fitted with either a belt or chain drive sprocket. Otherwise, the process is the same.

Instructions

Remove Unnecessary Parts From the Golf Cart

1. Support the golf cart on jack stands and remove all unnecessary parts. Use the socket set and screwdrivers to remove the batteries if the golf cart is electric, as well as the rear body panels, seat and roof.

2. Unbolt the rear axle from the suspension. If the rear axle transfer case can be used, discard this step. Usable transfer cases include golf cart models utilizing chain or belt drives. Most electric golf cart rear axles will not be reusable.

3. Remove the old golf cart's engine. If the golf cart is electric, the engine will most likely be integrated into the rear axle. In these cases, remove the rear axle and engine as a unit.

Determine the Proper Mounting Location for the Motorcycle Engine

4. Test-fit the motorcycle engine into position, being careful to leave clearance for the rear axle and suspension components. In most cases, modifications will be necessary to the body of the golf cart after the engine is mounted. The motorcycle engine should be mounted as near to the middle of the golf cart frame as possible to help distribute weight evenly. You will clear the golf cart body in later steps if necessary. Ensure that you leave plenty of room for the golf cart bench seat.

5. Find a new rear axle if necessary. Possible choices include rear axles from single-seat ATVs, scrapped or damaged side-by-side ATVs or even golf carts with the proper axle sprocket.

6. Fabricate the motorcycle engine's mounting brackets using heavy-gauge square stock steel tubing. Try to keep the engine as low to the ground as possible to help lower the golf cart's center of gravity. This will aid in preventing tipping accidents. Also keep in mind the location of the rear end sprocket in relation to the engine drive sprocket. They should perfectly line up.

7. Mount the engine and rear end into place, tightening down all fittings.

Assemble the Remaining Parts

8. Assemble the remaining parts, including mounting the gas tank, running the fuel lines to the engine carburetor and installing the drive belt or chain.

9. Run the throttle linkage to the engine carburetor, then install the motorcycle-style gearshift onto the floor where it is easily accessible. Install the clutch as a hand-activated assembly either on the steering wheel or on a post mounted to the floorboard. You may also mount the shifter and clutch as a single unit if you mount the clutch lever onto an extended shift lever assembly.

10. Install the new battery and run the terminals to the starter routed through the motorcycle starter switch. Install the golf cart body, cutting the plastic with a reciprocating saw where necessary to clear engine components.

11. Prime the engine with fuel and fill the fuel tank.

Tags: golf cart, rear axle, motorcycle engine, engine into, motorcycle engine into

Start A Motorcycle Run & Fundraiser

Bring on the Hog dogs for a charity run.

A motorcycle run is a charity event that invites motorcyclists to donate money to a cause in exchange for a group drive. Such an event can include a meal, a concert, a motorcycle show, or another tandem event. Planning a motorcycle run involves cooperation from local authorities as well as pinpointed advertising to draw in motorcycle riders.

Instructions

1. Plan a route. The route can be as long or short as you desire. Most are generally at least an hour long. Law enforcement authorities in the municipalities and jurisdictions along the entire route need to be alerted; often, law enforcement agencies will offer to escort the motorcyclists along the route. Try to make the route as visually interesting as possible, but also take safety into consideration.

2. Arrange a meeting location. Look to places with large parking lots like churches, community centers and large shopping centers. Be sure to approve the meeting location with the owner of the facility.

3. If desired, plan accompanying activities. Some popular add-ons are motorcycle shows before the run, a BBQ style dinner for the attendees either before or after the run, or a concert to celebrate the end of the day.

4. Purchase any additional materials necessary, such as T-shirts or pins. Some charity motorcycle runs offer these items for purchase while others offer them as a perk for registration. Some also offer an item as a reward for early registration, such as a free pin to the first 50 registrants. You can determine if you think this is necessary based on the size of the event and the cost of registration.

5. Advertise your event. If possible, create a website and get involved on a social media page like Facebook or Twitter. Post on classified listings and check with local papers for free events ads. Place flyers at locations all around your proposed location and consider that bikers may come from locations farther away to support your cause. Motorcycle shops or club meeting locations are good places to put up flyers.

Tags: charity motorcycle, meeting location

Hook Up An Old Vcr To A New Tv

Hooking your VCR to your television is simple.

If you look on the back of a new television, all of the output ports can be intimidating, especially if you're an amateur who is just trying to get all of your components to work. The average person wants to hook up the equipment, turn on the power and enjoy the show. While all of the options on the back of your television can be confusing, hooking up an older VCR to a new television isn't that hard if you know what you're doing.

Instructions

Hook Up an Old VCR to a New TV

1. Determine whether the back of your television has an RF port or an AV port. An RF port will be a single female port that a cable can be screwed into, while an AV port will have two female ports for an audio visual cable. Most new televisions have audio visual, or AV, ports, and therefore an AV cable will be needed.

2. If your television has an AV port, simply hook the AV cables into the back of your VCR and the back of your television in "AV In" port. You will have to change the "Input" mode on your television's remote control and choose the appropriate mode in order to see the picture. Most televisions have a VCR selection.

3. If you have digital cable, the cable coming from your wall should be connected to the "RF In" or "Antenna In" port on your digital cable box.

4. There should be an empty "RF Out" or "Antenna Out" port on your digital cable box and an empty "RF In" or "Antenna In" port on your VCR. Connect your RF cable to each of these ports.

5. Run a second RF cable from the remaining open port on your VCR that should be labeled "RF Out" or "Antenna Out" to the open port on your television labeled "RF In" or "Antenna In."

6. Plug the VCR into an electrical outlet and turn the VCR power on. You should be able to view VHS tapes on your VCR.

Tags: your television, port your, back your, Antenna port, Antenna port your, back your television

Use The Honda Rebel Helmet Lock

Use the Honda Rebel Helmet Lock

Honda's entry-level motorcycle, the Rebel 250, provides a solid platform for new riders to hone their riding skills. Practical, inexpensive and easy to operate, the 250cc Rebel also provides security for your helmet when you are away from the motorcycle. Integrated into the frame, just to the left of the rear fender, the helmet lock is simple to use and can provide an added level of comfort in knowing that your helmet will be safe from would-be thieves.

Instructions

1. Park your motorcycle and turn the ignition to the "OFF" position. Remove the key from the ignition switch.

2. Locate the helmet lock on the left side of the rear fender. Insert the key into the helmet lock and turn it clockwise to unlock the mechanism.

3. Loop the helmet's chin strap together, passing through both D-rings then looping over the first D-ring. Tighten the chin strap and hook the helmet's chin strap over the locking bar on the helmet lock assembly.

4. Hold the helmet steady, then turn the key counter-clockwise to lock the mechanism. Test that the mechanism has locked by pulling gently on the helmet. If it is locked in place, the helmet will not come away from the bike.

5. Rest the helmet against the rear fender and remove the key from the helmet lock.

Tags: chin strap, helmet lock, rear fender, away from, helmet chin, helmet chin strap

Use The Comcast Hd Remote

Program and use your Comcast HD remote in a matter of minutes.

Remote controls for the devices that we use for entertainment seem to constantly pile up. Designs in universal remotes just haven't been able to keep up with our desire for more technology and entertainment. Using and programming a Comcast HD remote will help you regain control of turning on the TV and flipping channels, among other things.

Instructions

1. Turn on the device you are planning on programming for use with the Comcast remote. Note that the "Aux" button on the remote corresponds to devices such as DVD player or sound system, while the "TV" button is responsible specifically for your TV.

2. Press the "TV" or "Aux" button on the top of your remote once, depending on the device you're programming. Press and hold the "Setup" button until the selected mode button blinks twice.

3. Locate the four-digit code specific to the manufacturer of the device you are programming to the Comcast remote. You can find this code either on the manual that came with the remote or online. Enter the code, and the selected button will blink twice if this has been done correctly. If you have entered the incorrect code, the selected mode will light up once and exit programing mode. In this case, repeat the process from the beginning.

4. Aim the remote at the device you're programing and press the "Power" button. The device should turn off. If it doesn't turn off, repeat the process using another code under the list of codes for the manufacturer of the device you're programming.

5. Write down the code that works and store it in a safe place for future reference.

Tags: Comcast remote, device programming, code selected, manufacturer device, manufacturer device programming, programming Comcast

Repair A Dent In A Motorcycle Tank

If you ride a motorcycle, you know a thing or two about dents. A dent on a motorcycle's gas tank requires some extra finesse to remove. Because it is a gas tank, you cannot drill a hole and pop the dent out at home. The most effective way for motorcycle enthusiasts to repair dents at home is to use a kit. More completed dents or dents with creases should be handled by professional repair shops. The instructions below are for a standard dent repair using a glue-based suction dent repair kit.

Instructions

1. Clean the dented area. This repair relies heavily on suction to hold the dent puller to the dent. You do not want dirt or grime to interfere with this suction.

2. Insert a glue stick into the glue gun and allow to heat.

3. Apply the heated glue to the dent pulling piece's suction cup.

4. Place the dent pulling piece in the center of the dent. Apply pressure to get a firm connection and allow it to sit in place for a few minutes.

5. Attach the pulling bridge to the dent pulling piece. Place the bridge over the dent pulling piece, allowing the pieces to connect. The connection is made by inserting the top of the dent pulling piece into the bridge piece.

6. Attach the turning knob to the dent pulling piece extending from the bridge.

7. Slowly turn the turning knob until the suction cup on the dent pulling piece pops from the surface.

8. Repeat the process if the dent is not removed the first time.

9. Use a glue removing solvent in conjunction with a scraper to remove the glue from the tank.

10. Clean the area once you are done and polish.

Tags: dent pulling, dent pulling piece, pulling piece, dent repair, suction dent, turning knob

Use A Bicycle Suspension Pump

Sure, you've pumped up your tires hundreds of times. However, you just purchased your first full suspension mountain bike and aren't sure why you have a separate pump for your shocks. In an air fork or rear shock, the air serves as the spring and pressure is adjusted to make it stiffer or springier. A regular bike pump cannot produce a high enough pressure to effectively fill your suspension, so a specific shock pump is needed.

Instructions

1. Take off the cap for the air fill valve on the fork. The valve should be located on the top of your fork. It will be a shraeder valve like those found on many bike tires.

2. Connect the pump hose to the fill valve on your fork. You will need to screw the hose connector on. Once on, the gauge should read the current pressure.

3. Add additional air to make the shock stiffer. Refer to your bike or fork manual for recommended pressures based on your weight and riding style.

4. Pump the shock and use the gauge to ascertain the correct pressure.

5. Lower the pressure. To make the shock bouncier and less stiff, release air from the shock by pressing down on the bleed valve until you have obtained the desired pressure. Be careful not to release too much air or you'll need to pump the shock up again.

6. Repeat for rear suspension if applicable.

7. Check air pressure regularly to ensure your shocks are ready for every ride.

Tags: fill valve, fork will, make shock, your fork, your fork will, your shocks

Use Super Unleaded Gas In Chevy V8 Engines

All the Chevrolet V-8 engines produced by General Motors have minimum octane requirements to prevent the audible knocking sound, sometimes called "spark knock," that often occurs with low-octane gasoline. A small amount of knocking won't damage the engine but heavy knocking typically caused by using a gasoline with a lower octane rating than required can cause engine damage and leave you with a costly repair bill. Knowing when to use super unleaded gasoline in a Chevy V-8 engine requires knowing and following a few simple rules.

Instructions

1. Use regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 on all Chevrolet V-8 engines except the 6.2-liter; for that engine, use super unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91. You can use this higher-octane gasoline in all of the V-8s; however, it is overkill and you'll pay more without realizing any benefit.

2. You can use a lower-octane gasoline at high altitudes. If you're traveling through the mountains, for example, you may see octane ratings lower than 87 on gas pumps. In this case, refer to the descriptive adjectives: for example, use "Regular" for the V-8s except the 6.2-liter engine and use "Super," "Premium" or "Extra" for that engine. Fill up with higher-octane gasoline when you descend to lower altitudes.

3. Increase the octane rating any time you hear heavy knocking. For example, in a pinch, you could use a lower-octane fuel than recommended (but not significantly lower). If 91-octane gasoline is not available, you could use 87-octane in the 6.2-liter, but not on a regular basis if knocking becomes pronounced.

Tags: octane rating, gasoline with, unleaded gasoline, Chevrolet engines, except 2-liter

Motels In Downtown Milwaukee

Milwaukee lies on the shore of Lake Michigan.

Milwaukee is on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, about 75 miles east of Madison, the state's capital. The city caters to eclectic travelers, as it offers a large selection of visitor attractions, recreational activities and yearly festivals.

When visiting the city, consider windsurfing, sailing or kite surfing on Lake Michigan, or perhaps explore local museums such as the Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum or the Science and Natural History Museum. During the summer, visitors flock here to experience festivals that celebrate the cultures of German, Greek and Italian lifestyles.

Comfort Inn and Suites Downtown Lakeshore

The Comfort Inn and Suites is located in the eastern district of downtown Milwaukee, near the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Bradley Center and Miller Brewing Company's Milwaukee Brewery. The motel features comfortable services that include a complimentary breakfast with hot waffles, high-speed wireless Internet access and an on-site business center.

Each guest room has cable television, voicemail and Nintendo game systems. Surrounding the property are restaurants serving American fare and international cuisine. Tangerine, the Plaza Caf and Mia Fishers are all within walking distance of the motel.

The Ambassador Inn Milwaukee

The Ambassador Inn features 40 guest rooms in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. Near the hotel are such tourist attractions as the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Captain Frederick Pabst Mansion.

Guests are encouraged to enjoy hotel amenities that include a complimentary continental breakfast, free shuttle service throughout the downtown area, a 24-hour front desk and concierge assistance. Each room is equipped with cable television, high-speed wireless Internet access and Aveda personal care products.

The Ambassador Inn operates an on-site restaurant called Envoy, which serves American fare and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner service.

Days Inn and Suites Milwaukee

The motel features a complimentary continental breakfast, a business center and an on-site fitness room. Nearby attractions include the Midwest Airlines Convention Center, the Lakefront/Maier Festival Grounds and Miller Park.

Each room has cable television service and high-speed wireless Internet access. The motel provides a complimentary shuttle service throughout the downtown area that extends to a two-mile radius. Less than a five-minute drive from the Days Inn are restaurants that serve a variety of American and international cuisines. Casablanca's, the 5 O'clock Steakhouse and Maders are recommended by the motel.

Tags: cable television, high-speed wireless, high-speed wireless Internet, Internet access, Lake Michigan, wireless Internet

Change Front Axle Ujoints In A Dodge

Change Front Axle U-Joints in a Dodge

If you have noise coming from the front end accompanied by vibrations or clunking noises when turning corners, you may need to replace the axle U-joints in your Dodge. Before you tear the front end of the truck apart, verify that is where the problem is by trying to move the joint up and down while the truck is in park on level ground. If there is play in the U-joint, replacement is required.

Instructions

1. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels of your Dodge with a lug wrench. Raise the truck using a jack and support the front end on a set of jack stands. Remove the tires and wheels, setting them aside for now.

2. Remove the cotter pin from the axle located in the center of the hub using a pair of pliers. Loosen the nut with a socket and breaker bar. You may need an assistant to step on the brakes while you break the nut loose. Remove the nut and washer and set them aside for now.

3. Remove the brake caliper from the mounting bracket by removing the mounting bolts with a socket and ratchet or wrench. The head of the bolts is located on the back side of the caliper and slides out the back of the caliper.

4. Slide the rotor off the wheel studs and set it aside. Locate the four hub assembly mounting bolts on the back of the steering knuckle. Remove them with a socket and ratchet then slide the hub out of the steering knuckle.

5. Grasp the end of the axle shaft and carefully slide it out of the axle housing through the steering knuckle. Set the axle on a clean surface and remove the four retaining clips on the U-joint caps with a pair of pliers.

6. Press out the bearing caps of the U-joints using a U-joint press. If you do not have a press, you can rent one at most auto parts stores; while there are several different styles, they all come with directions for use.

7. Remove the old U-joint from the axle and insert the new joint. Press the caps into the axle and stub shaft using the U-joint press. Press the caps into the yokes far enough to install the new retaining rings, making sure they are fully seated in the grooves in the yoke.

8. Slide the axle back into the housing and install the hub back into the steering knuckle. Use care here and line up the splines on the shaft with the splines in the hub before pushing the hub in place. Insert the four retaining bolts and tighten them to 149 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.

9. Slide the brake rotor onto the wheel studs and position the brake caliper onto the brake caliper mounting bracket then insert the mounting bolts and tighten with a socket and ratchet.

10. Install the washer and axle nut on the end of the axle shaft and torque it to 132 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Install a new cotter pin in the hole at the end of the axle shaft and bend the ends over to hold the pin in place with a pair of pliers. Repeat the entire process on the opposite side of the truck if that axle U-joint needs replacing as well.

11. Install the wheels and tires, tightening the lug nuts, until they are snug, with a lug wrench. Remove the jack stands and lower the truck with a jack. Tighten the lug nuts completely with a lug wrench.

Tags: steering knuckle, with socket, axle shaft, brake caliper, mounting bolts, pair pliers

Change A Super Glide Gas Tank

Removing this may require many steps.

Changing the fuel tank on a recent Dyna Super Glide is much more difficult now that it was as recently as 2005. Since 2006, all Harley Dyna Models have been equipped with the closed loop, Delphi electronic fuel injection. This electronic black box system often confuses the diagnosis of engine problems and complicates what were once routine maintenance and repair chores. The good news is that you will not need a laptop to remove and replace your gas tank. The bad news is that the job is now considerably less intuitive than it used to be.

Instructions

Remove the Old Tank

1. Pull the electrical caddy cover off -- on the right side of the bike near the battery compartment -- with your hands. Put the blades of two, small flat-head screwdrivers on either side of the fuel pump fuse and pry out the fuse.

2. Shift the bike into neutral, start the engine and wait for the engine to die. Try to start the bike for another five seconds.

3. Remove the seat fender tab screw and washer with an Allen wrench. Pull the seat back and up to expose the battery. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery post with an open end wrench.

4. Reach under the tank and pull up on the fuel tank fitting and simultaneously pull down on the fuel line.

5. Unscrew the acorn nut in the middle of the instrument panel with an Allen wrench. Pull the panel up and pull apart the plug and socket ends of the fuel pump module connector.

6. Plug one end of a short section of 5/16-inch diameter hose with a 5/16-inch diameter bolt. Constrict a worm-style hose clamp around the bolt by turning the adjusting screw with a screwdriver.

7. Position a large gas can next to the left side of the motorcycle near the fuel tank. Cut off one of the two clamps from the ends of the crossover hose with tin snips.

8. Hold the open end of the short section of 5/16 hose next the crossover hose fitting that you just unclamped. In as close to one motion as possible, replace the unclamped end of the crossover hose with the short section of 5/16-inch hose and insert the free end of the crossover hose into the fill hole of the pre-positioned gas can.

9. Drain the gasoline into the gas can. Clean up any spillage with rags and immediately carry the rags to a well-ventilated location.

10. Loosen the remaining hose clamp on the crossover line and the clamp on the continuous vent line with a screwdriver. Pull both lines off their fittings.

11. Loosen and remove both the front and rear mounting bolts, washers and nuts under the tank with an open end wrench. Pull the male and female halves of the fuel gauge connector apart.

12. Remove the tank by lifting straight up. Carry the tank to a well-ventilated location and allow the tank to air out.

13. Remove the 10 top plate screws from the top plate of the old tank with a Torx socket and socket wrench. Remove the top plate and top plate gasket. Discard the gasket and the screws.

14. Reach into the tank and push down on the fuel pump to remove it from the fuel pump housing so it will fit through the hole. Remove the complete fuel pump assembly including the fuel pump, fuel pump housing, fuel filter screen, hose, fuel level sender and float from the old fuel tank.

Install the New Tank

15. Loosely attach the new fuel tank to the mounting brackets with the front and rear tank mounting bolts, washers and nuts using an open-end wrench. Install the old crossover line and vent line to the new tank using new hose clamps and a screwdriver. Tighten the front and rear mounting bolts with an open-end wrench.

16. Install the old fuel pump hose and a new fuel line hose clamp on the fuel filter fitting. Install the complete old fuel pump assembly in the new tank until the rubber spacer on the bottom of the assembly rests on the bottom of the new fuel tank.

17.Reconnect the fuel line. Reconnect the fuel pump module connector.

18. Replace the instrument panel and tighten the acorn nut with an Allen wrench.

19. Re-install the fuel pump fuse in the electrical caddy. Replace the electrical caddy cover.

20. Reconnect the loose cable to the negative battery post with an open-end wrench. Replace the seat. Refasten the seat mounting tab to the rear fender with an Allen wrench.

21. Refuel the motorcycle.

Tags: fuel pump, fuel tank, Allen wrench, crossover hose, with Allen

Play Jewel Quest

Play Jewel Quest

Jewel Quest is a fun and easy-to-learn matching game that is similar to games like Bejeweled, but with a new twist. Your goal is to turn all the grey background tiles gold by rearranging the different jewels on the board. You can move jewels either vertically or horizontally. Depending on how well you play puzzle games, Jewel Quest can be easy or really hard. Are you up to the quest?

Instructions

1. Match up three or more jewels. You can only move two jewels at a time, and they must be adjacent. You can only swap them if the swap will put one of them into a line of three or more. Completing a row or column of jewels will clear them and make the area they were in gold. When you have turned all the tiles to gold, you have completed the level!

2. Uncover the Relics! On later difficulty levels, you will be confronted with Relics; jewels that are covered in grey. In order to use them, they must be "uncovered." To uncover a relic, move two more of the same shaped jewel next to or on top of the relic. Once the relic is uncovered, it becomes a regular jewel that can be used in the normal way.

3. Fill in the odd spaces as quickly as possible! The first level is easy; there are no blank spaces to complicate things. In later levels, you will find that a variety of spaces have been left black, indicating that you must work around them. Some jewels will be "trapped" by the black spaces, meaning that there is only a single way to clear them and turn their spot gold. Take care of these spaces first! The last thing you want is to have a difficult spot to fill at the last second!

4. Think ahead. Before you move two jewels, think about how this will affect the jewels above them. Remember, the jewels descend when you clear jewels below them. Will this clear the jewels you need in specific spots? While you may have a limited time span, take a few extra seconds and make sure the move you're about to make is a good one.

5. Remember that you have five different types of jewels to work with. Try your best not to concentrate too hard on a single type of jewel. If you do, you may find that you skip over a really obvious move with a different jewel type.

6. Download it! By downloading Jewel Quest, you gain access to a treasure trove of new levels and challenges!

7. Keep at it! Even if you begin with a miserable start, you will eventually get better! Try not to give up after the first failure!

Tags: Jewel Quest, move jewels, clear jewels, clear them, find that, jewels will

Import From A Sony Handycam Mini Dv To Imovie

The Sony Handycam weighs only 6.7 oz.

The Sony Handycam Mini DV can record video with 1080i HD resolution, connect directly to an HDMI television and auto-stabilize shaky footage. You can import video from your Sony Handycam camcorder by connecting the device to your Mac via the USB cable. The iMovie app will automatically connect to the device once you open the program. You will be able to transfer all clips from your camera to the program. Starting the video import process takes only a few minutes to complete.

Instructions

1. Insert the mini USB data cable in the right slot on the camcorder. The USB slot sits in a row of other output jacks on the camera's right side. Insert the other end of the USB cable into an open USB port on your computer.

2. Locate the camera mode switch on the top of the camera. This circular shape moves the camera between recording and playback mode. Turn the switch toward the "Play/Edit." position. Press and hold the rewind button on the left side of camera to rewind the Mini DV tape to the beginning.

3. Turn on your Mac computer. Open the iMovie program. The program will automatically detect the Sony Handycam device. The import window appears showing all the video footage on the tape. Click the "Import All" button.

4. Navigate the browser window that appears and choose a computer folder to save this video footage. Click the "OK" button. The video footage will appear in the clip bin of iMovie once it has finished importing.

Tags: Sony Handycam, video footage, from your, Handycam Mini, program will

Hotels Near Denny Creek Washington

Hiking the Denny Creek Trail in Washington will take you past the Snoqualmie Waterfalls.

Denny Creek is a hiking trail near Snoqualmie Pass in the state of Washington. The trail takes you past the Snoqualmie River and Snoqualmie Falls, which are famous for having been featured in the 1990s TV show Twin Peaks. The trail leads to Melakwa Lake and is nine miles round trip in all. If you are interested in hiking the trail or visiting the area there are several hotels that you can consider.

Salish Lodge and Spa

The Salish Lodge and Spa is located 25 miles away from Denny Creek and has 89 rooms that were renovated in 2010. All of the rooms come equipped with custom wood furniture, oversized bath tubs, wood burning fireplaces and many have a view of the Snoqualmie River. The hotel is located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It is also just 30 minutes away from Bellevue and Seattle. Nearby attractions include the Snoqualmie Falls Park, Alki Beach, Ballard Locks, Golden Gardens Park, Pacific Science Center, Washington Park Arboretum, Bellevue Square, Redmond Town Center, Westlake Center, Pioneer Square, Space Needle, Woodland Park Zoo and other tourist spots. Guests can also enjoy activities like bike riding, hiking, rafting, kayaking, playing golf, fishing, horseback riding and skiing. The River View King room is offered at $289 per night, the River View Double at $289 per night, and the classic rooms at a $276 nightly rate, as of January 2011.

Old Hen Bed and Breakfast

The Old Hen Bed and Breakfast is a 24-minute drive, or 17.29 miles, away from Denny Creek. It is near the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls and Snoqualmie Pass. Some of the amenities that it offers are free Wi-Fi, usable throughout the premises; a flat-screen HD television; a library; heated floors and a complimentary breakfast. Guests can visit the Snoqualmie Casino, and shop at the North Bend Factory Outlet Stores. If you are the adventurous type some of the activities that you can enjoy while staying in this hotel are hiking the trails, canoeing on the Snoqualmie River, downhill skiing, inner tubing, snowshoeing and sledding. The Old English Balcony Suite is available at $250 per night plus tax, while the New Hampshire Red Suite is offered at $175 per night plus tax, and the Rhode Island Red Suite at $125 per night plus tax, as of January 2011.

Summit Lodge

The Summit Lodge is located 20 miles away from Denny Creek in Washington and has 80 rooms available for guests. Some of the amenities available in the room include cable TV, free wireless Internet and free coffee. Also available are a year-round heated pool, a jacuzzi and meeting rooms. The Snoqualmie Falls, Remlinger Farms, Northwest Railway Museum, Salmon Hatchery-Issaquah, Snoqualmie Casino and Boehm's Candy Factory are all located within a 30-minute drive of the hotel. Activities such as hiking, fishing and biking are all close by. Room rates cost between $100 to $150 per night, as of January 2011.

Edgewick Inn

The Edgewick Inn is located 16 miles away from Denny Creek in North Bend. The hotel has 42 rooms with queen-sized beds and two suites equipped with jacuzzis. All rooms come equipped with television, air conditioning, Internet access and cable TV. Within a 10-minute drive is the Snoqualmie Summit Ski Resort where you can sled, ski, snowshoe or ice skate. A 15-minute drive will take you to the Snoqualmie Falls where you can hike, fish, kayak or just relax by the waterfalls. Above the waterfalls is the Salish Lodge and Spa where you can get a relaxing massage, have some lunch or get a spa treatment.

Tags: Denny Creek, away from, Snoqualmie Falls, away from Denny, from Denny, from Denny Creek

Save An Hd Video With A Sony Picture Motion Browser To An External Hard Drive

Track your HD video captured on a Sony camera with the provided Sony Picture Motion Browser.

The Sony Picture Motion Browser is a program that accompanies many Sony video camera purchases (including HD video cameras). This program uploads video directly from the video camera, once connected, and sorts the video files by date and when captured. This allows you to easily access your recorded files. Once the data is uploaded into the program, you may copy the data to any storage device, including an external hard drive.

Instructions

1. Plug the USB data cable into the USB port on the Sony HD video camera, then plug the other end into a USB port on the computer. Power on the Sony HD camera and set it to "View." Wait a moment and the Sony Picture Motion Browser software should load automatically (if it doesn't, the program is available on the "Start" menu). Wait while the software uploads the video content onto the program display screen.

2. Connect the external hard drive to your computer via the USB cable provided, then power on the hard drive.

3. Click "Start," "(My) Computer," then double-click the removable device icon. A window appears on the screen with all the data currently stored on the external hard drive.

4. Click and drag the video files listed in the Sony Picture Motion Browser that you want to copy into the external hard drive over into the open display window. A progress bar appears, displaying how much time you need to wait before the files have finished loading.

5. Close out the open windows once the HD video files have finished uploading to the external hard drive. Right-click the removable device icon and select "Eject" from the pull-down window. You are free to disconnect the hard drive once the icon disappears.

Tags: hard drive, Motion Browser, Picture Motion, Picture Motion Browser, Sony Picture, Sony Picture Motion

Choose A Reliable Mechanic On The Road

Choose a Reliable Mechanic on the Road

Nothing can wreak havoc on a road trip like car trouble, but a good mechanic can take much of the anguish out of an untimely breakdown. Here are some tips on tracking down a reliable auto mechanic when you're away from home.

Instructions

1. Prepare in advance so you won't be caught off guard and desperate if trouble does arise. For example, if you know you'll be visiting the L.A. area in a few weeks, do some online research now to obtain some decent possibilities in that region.

2. Check with the concierge or other staff members at the lodging where you're staying. There's a good chance they have helped other guests with the same problem, or will just know of someone through their own automotive needs in the past.

3. Ask for some references, even if you don't plan to call them. The fact that they provide you with some will be a pretty good sign to begin with.

4. When calling around to garages, also ask about credentials, such as membership in ASE or good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Another good question to ask is whether they back up their repair work with warranties. Similarly, while visiting a garage, look for certification reflecting the training and knowledge of the shop's mechanics.

5. Consider the attitude and professionalism of the staff on hand. Are they helpful and courteous, or surly and off-putting? Trust your instincts if you get a bad feel based on the staff.

6. Make sure the place you're taking your car will provide a free estimate before beginning substantial work. This is standard procedure, and any repair shop refusing to cooperate should raise serious red flags.

7. Try to find out if they have extensive experience working on your particular brand of car. Failing that, see if they specialize in foreign or domestic vehicles and pick the right match.

8. Determine how you'll get to and from the repair shop ahead of time, so you won't have your choices too restricted by your location. Having a membership with an emergency road service company can be invaluable in these situations, since they can tow you free of charge to the best possible shop.

Tags: Choose Reliable, Choose Reliable Mechanic, Mechanic Road, Reliable Mechanic, Reliable Mechanic Road, repair shop

Programs For Low Income Families In Fort Walton Beach Florida

Low-income families can get help with food, shelter and housing.

Low-income families in Fort Walton Beach, Florida can get help with food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. The Florida Department of Children & Families provides help with food, medical care and cash assistance to eligible low-income families. The Jobs Plus/One Stop Career Center offers services to the unemployed, youth, veterans and persons with disabilities. The Public Housing Authority helps low-income families find housing solutions, and several local nonprofits and churches offer meals, help with utility bills and clothing.

Food

According to the Opportunity, Inc. Resource Directory, food assistance in the form of groceries, prepared meals and food stamps is available in Fort Walton Beach. Emergency groceries can be obtained at the Salvation Army, Striving for Perfection Ministries, and Sharing and Caring, Inc. Meals are prepared by different organizations throughout the week; schedule and location information is available through Caring and Sharing, Inc. The Department of Children & Families provides economic services, food stamps, and Medicaid for those that meet income eligibility.

Florida Department of Children & Families

Ft. Walton Beach ACCESS Storefront

450-G Racetrack Rd NW

Ft. Walton Beach, Florida

850-833-7595

dcf.state.fl.us/

Shelter

In Fort Walton Beach, emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence is provided by the Shelter House. The Waterfront Mission is a one-night emergency shelter for men and provides referral for women and children. Bridgeway Center, Inc. serves people who have been homeless for a year or homeless four times in the past three years and have a chronic mental illness and/or substance abuse disorders. Help with transitional housing can be accessed at FRESH Start (Okaloosa Coalition for the Homeless.) The HUD Fair Housing Market assists low-income applicants with more permanent shelter needs.

Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority

85 Ed Brown Street Southwest,

Ft. Walton Beach, Florida

850-244-7645

Employment

Comprehensive employment services are available at Jobs Plus/One Stop Career Counseling. Services include public access to the Internet and fax machines, current job listings, programs for dislocated employees and youth, as well as services for veterans and person with disabilities.

Fort Walton Beach JobsPlus

409 NE Racetrack Rd.

Ft. Walton Beach, FL

850-833-7587

jobsplusonestop.com/

Tri-County Community Council

The Tri-County Community Council coordinates an array of services, including transportation to medical appointments, shopping and recreation, the Head Start school readiness program, and help with paying utility bills. This agency also offers emergency food, help with rent, and funds for home weatherization and repair.

Tri-County Community Council

409 N.E. Racetrack Road

Ft. Walton Beach, FL

(850) 833-7587 ext. 203

tricountycommunitycouncil.com/

Considerations

Some agencies have limited funds and it is a good idea to call the agency ahead of time, particularly for help with rent or utility bills. Ask the agency what documentation they require to prove financial need. Most service providers require personal identification, such as a photo ID, birth certificates, and social security cards for each member of the household before they can process your request for service. Agencies involved in emergency assistance do not help the same client repeatedly; they will not pay a utility bill, for example, every month.

Tags: Walton Beach, help with, Fort Walton, Fort Walton Beach, Beach Florida, Walton Beach Florida, Children Families

Yamaha Roadliner Vs Harley Fatboy

Yamaha answered the call for a similar but less expensive cruise motorcycle than the Harley-Davidson Softail Fat Boy Lo with the Roadliner S. In November 2009, the Roadliner starts at $14,990. The Fat Boy sells for $16,299.

Fat Boy Characteristics

The 2010 Harley Fat Boy Lo is a contemporary version of the original softail cruiser with a lower profile and dressed in black, according to motorcycle.com.

Roadliner S Characteristics

Best described as a neo-retro look, the 2010 Yamaha Roadliner S features a sculpted seat, a massive presence mimicking the Harley, and a clock-style instrument cluster on the gas tank, according to starmotorcycles.com.

Fat Boy Features

The Fat Boy's chief feature is its low stance, hence the Lo appellation, making it the lowest-seated Harley motorcycle ever produced.

Roadliner S Features

The Roadliner S features a distinctive ultra-streamlined look with a long, low aluminum frame and a low center of gravity.

Fat Boy Specifications

The Fat Boy is equipped with a V-Twin two-stroke air-cooled engine with a 6-speed manual transmission, front and rear disc brakes and a 64.5-inch wheelbase.

Roadliner Specifications

The Roadliner S is equipped with a 48-degree V-Twin fuel-injected air-cooled engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front and rear disc brakes and a 67.5-inch wheelbase.

Tags: 5-inch wheelbase, air-cooled engine, brakes 5-inch, brakes 5-inch wheelbase, disc brakes

Install Saddle Bags

Throw-over saddlebags fasten to the bike under the seat.

A motorcycle saddlebag is a storage-bag accessory fastened to the motorcycle in some way. While there are many types of saddle bag, throw-over bags tend to be easiest to install because they fit on most motorcycles and typically don't require additional drilling or modification to your motorcycle, as some bags do. Keep in mind that motorcycles come in all different shapes and sizes and so do saddle bags; ensure that you purchase one known to fit your motorcycle.

Instructions

1. Browse through your motorcycle owner's manual for information on removing the seat and follow the instructions. Otherwise, look for screws around the edge of the seat and unscrew them if you don't have your manual. If you're still having trouble removing the seat, you can search the Internet for your bike's seat removal instructions.

2. Unlace the saddlebag's yoke, the part that goes under the seat. With the yoke unlaced and now extended, place the saddlebag where you'd like to install it. Overlap the yoke onto itself and outline where the yoke overlaps itself and any of the bike's hardware with a marker.

3. Lay the bags flat with the yoke on a piece of wood or other raised, flat surface. Line your marks up with each other and make sure the holes on the yoke line up as well. While they typically will, you may need to drill about six holes through each piece of the yoke to get lined-up holes.

4. Place the bag back on your motorcycle in your desired position and fasten the seat onto the bike again. If the saddlebag has tie-downs, tie them to a part of the bike that doesn't get hot for extra saddlebag stability. Leave only about an inch of slack --- too much slack won't secure the bags but too little may snap the tie-downs.

5. Ensure that both the seat and saddlebags are secure and snug and that there's no way for the bags to hit your bike's spokes, chain, belt, wheels or anything that gets overly hot when the bike is in use.

Tags: your motorcycle, motorcycle some, removing seat, under seat, your bike

Make The Exhaust Louder In A Kawasaki Vulcan

With a few modifications, even a stock Vulcan exhaust can have a deeper sound.

Kawasaki's Vulcan cruiser motorcycles are powered by a V-twin motor that can be easily mistaken for American iron. Unfortunately, the roar of the Vulcan's motor is dulled by the baffles placed in their mufflers to comply with strict emissions regulations, leaving most Vulcan owners to resort to expensive aftermarket pipes to regain that deep exhaust note. However, modifications can be made to the VN 900 and 1600 models to remove the baffles, increasing the sound of the exhaust note at a minimal cost. Be warned that this modification may void your warranty and gain unwanted attention from law enforcement.

Instructions

End Cap Modification (Vulcan 900)

1. Drill out the rivets from the muffler's end cap with an electric drill and remove the end cap. Trim the flange that the end cap was mounted on a rotary tool with a metal cut-off wheel to provide access to the exhaust pipe.

2. Cut the exhaust pipe midway between the end cap flange and the inner baffle with a saber saw.

3. Use a 3/16-inch drill bit to drill four to six pilot holes on the face of the inner baffle, spacing each hole equally apart. Enlarge the holes with a bigger drill bit as desired. In most cases, the exhaust note increases in volume with larger holes.

4. Repeat on the remaining muffler. Start the motor and listen to the exhaust note. Enlarge the holes in the inner baffle or add more as desired to increase the volume of the exhaust note.

Internal Modification (Vulcan 1600)

5. Loosen the muffler's exhaust clamps with a flat screwdriver. Remove the muffler's from the motorcycle and set them on a workbench.

6. Use a 1 3/16-inch bi-metal hole saw to cut out the the metal baffle plate from the muffler's header-side inlet pipe. Stop cutting immediately after the baffle plate has been penetrated to prevent damaging the catalytic converter.

7. Attach the hole saw to a 24-inch extension and insert it into the muffler's outlet pipe. Cut through the first baffle plate and withdraw the hole saw. Pull out the cut baffle piece from the hole saw. Reinsert the hole saw into the muffler and cut into the third remaining baffle plate Stop cutting immediately after the baffle plate has been penetrated to prevent damaging the catalytic converter.

8. Us a 3/16-inch drill bit to drill six to pilot holes into the muffler's end cap around the outlet pipe. Space each hole equally apart from each other. Enlarge the holes with a bigger drill bit as desired. In most cases, the exhaust note increases in volume with larger holes.

9. Reinstall the mufflers onto the motorcycle and tighten the exhaust clamps with a flat screwdriver. Start the motor and listen to the exhaust note. Enlarge the holes in the inner baffle or add more as desired to increase the volume of the exhaust note.

Tags: exhaust note, baffle plate, Enlarge holes, inner baffle, into muffler, 16-inch drill

Edit Xmp Sidecar Files

Sidecar files are created by a large number of programs.

XMP is a sidecar file format. A sidecar file format is created by many programs as exact copies of files created by the software. For example, if you create an image file in a photo cataloging software, the program creates a "sidecar file" with all the same data, but saves it as an .xmp file format. This is then used in case the original document is deleted. If you are looking to edit an .xmp sidecar file, you need to open it in the original software title used to create it.

Instructions

1. Open the program used to create the .xmp file. It does not state this information in the properties of the document, so if you are not sure, run through a method of trial and error, using the different file creation programs installed on the computer to see what opens the created .xmp file.

2. Select "File" and "Open" and wait for the open window to load onto the screen.

3. Choose the .xmp file. Momentarily, the original document loads into view on the screen. If the program is not the one originally used to create the document, you receive an error message stating that the program does not understand the file.

4. Perform any alteration to the open file. This may include adding text or changing the color of the image.

5. Select "File" and "Save" and title the file. When you click "OK," you save two different files. The first is the default document of the program and the .xmp sidecar file format.

Tags: sidecar file, file format, sidecar file format, used create, files created

Use Bluetooth On A Toshiba Satellite Laptop

You can enable Bluetooth on a Toshiba Satellite laptop.

The Bluetooth Stack protocol feature on a Toshiba Satellite laptop is an excellent feature that enables you to import and export files and media of all types to other electronic devices. Although the initial configuration of this software may not be the easiest to understand, the benefits of this technology can be unlimited once it is activated correctly.

Instructions

1. Double-click on the "Bluetooth Stack" icon located on the desktop screen of your computer. Enable the "Bluetooth Discovery Mode" located in the "Connection Settings" folder at the top of the application menu bar. The computer will give a notification when the Discovery Mode has successfully been turned on. Turn ob the other electronic devices' Bluetooth settings as well to make them discoverable by your laptop.

2. Pair another electronic device with your laptop. Select the "Add Device" tab, located in the "Bluetooth Stack" application folder's task bar. Click "Add" to gain access to the "Bluetooth Add Device Wizard." When the wizard dialogue screen appears, click "Next" to begin setting up the device connection. Your Bluetooth Add Device Wizard will now discover the electronic devices that are discoverable within range.

3. Locate the device you are trying to pair when the next page loads with the list of devices your computer's Bluetooth Stack has discovered. The other electronic devices will be listed according to their actual serial or model numbers. If you do not see the device you desire to pair, click the "Search Again" button. When your computer discovers the device, click on that device to highlight it, and click "Next" to continue. The next screen that appears will display a list of options. Click the third option, which should be "Let me choose my own passkey."

4. Enter a password that is easy to remember. A notification will be sent to the other electronic device. It will ask that device for the same passkey. Enter that passkey and click "Pair." The last screen that will appear on your computer screen will prompt you to confirm the pairing of the software. Click "Finish" to confirm the pairing of the detected device to close the "Add Bluetooth Device Wizard" dialogue box.

5. Open the "Bluetooth File Transfer Wizard" to use the software. Select "Browse" to locate the file destination you'd like to transfer. Give the file a name in the box allotted above the file's location. Click "Next" to proceed. The next screen will notify you of the status of the file transfer. The file transfer should be complete. Click "Finish" to complete the process.

6. For future use, go to the file or device you would like to work with and right-click on the item. A drop-down menu will appear. Click the Bluetooth icon to locate your Bluetooth Stack software. Follow the steps listed above to continue with the process again.

Tags: Bluetooth Stack, electronic devices, other electronic, your computer, Bluetooth Device

1997 Harley 883 Technical Performance Tips

The 1997 Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster Hugger was produced as a more light weight and economical alternative to the Harley Roadster. The 883 Sportster line has remained a popular choice for motorcycle enthusiasts on a budget. With only a single disc front brake set, it can be a little dangerous to riders not used to downshifting when decelerating. Also, the 883 cubic centimeter engine produces only 48 horsepower with a top speed of 98 mph. Though comparable to the Roadster in engine size, the 5 speed manual transmission is geared toward producing high torque, meaning it has a low rate of acceleration and would be a poor choice for racing. But there are a few simple ways to improve performance.

Tune Up Frequently

With a top engine performance rate of 6,000 RPM, the 1997 Harley 883 runs harder than most in its weight class. Throw in the tricky cam linkages of having 2 cylinders per valve, and the engine can easily fall out of timing. To that end, if you aren't sure do it yourself, bring your bike in for a tune up after every 3,000 miles, right around the same time as your oil changes.

Brake Modifications

Though any bike presents the danger of stopping hard enough to tip over the handlebars, it's a far better option than rear-ending someone. With only a single disc, the '97 Harley 883 is underpowered in this department. Give serious thought to replacing your brake disc with a ceramic aftermarket counterpart. They heat up more slowly and ensure the brakes grip more evenly. Don't wait until the last minute to swap out your brake pads. Replace them whenever there's is no less than 2 mm of surface thickness left. Also, the original brake lines are probably not as efficient as they once were. Replacing them with aftermarket braided stainless steel lines will improve brake responsiveness. These lines are more durable and have a much longer working lifetime.

Tires

Worn tires can lead to a dangerous loss of traction at high speed. The '97 Harley 883's tires should be replaced whenever the depth of the tread wears away to less than 3 mm. Insufficiently inflated tires can cause a dramatic loss in acceleration and top speed, while overly inflated tires can cause the treads to wear unevenly. The front tire should be kept inflated at 36 PSI and the rear at 38 PSI, both to within half a PSI.

Suspension

Though the front and rear-end suspension of the '97 Harley 883 was well adjusted when it left the factory, chances are that time has weakened the springs. This is called "sag." Ideally, the bike's shock absorbers should be at full extension under its own weight and drop to half extension under the weight of a rider. Two people are needed to adjust the suspension, one to sit on the bike and the other to measure the distance change from the ground and both ends. With this done, the shock absorbers can be adjusted. The shock rebound, a dial at the bottom of the shock, can be twisted clockwise to increase the stiffness of the suspension until sag has been accounted for.

Tags: 1997 Harley, extension under, extension under weight, inflated tires, inflated tires cause, less than

How Do You Use Tie Downs For An Electra Glide

A motorcycle is not going to be able to transport all of your belongings if you're going on vacation or moving, but in both cases, you may want to have your motorcycle there with you. Transporting a motorcycle is not a difficult task if you have a truck trailer with tie down brackets to which bungee cord hooks can be secured. For most motorcycles, such as the Harley Davidson Electra Glide, you will need to install tie down brackets to allow the bungee cords to be secured to the motorcycle without ruining the frame.

Instructions

1. Install tie down brackets on your Harley Davidson Electra Glide. Install tie down brackets to both sides of the front fork of your Electra Glide as well as one on each side near the back of the motorcycle. Position the tie down brackets on the Electra Glide and mark the bolt holes with a black Sharpie marker. Drill at the marks with a cordless drill and a high speed steel drill bit. Replace the tie down brackets and secure them with your hex bolts.

2. Move your Electra Glide into the trailer that will be used to transport the motorcycle. Lay down a motorcycle ramp leading from the ground into the trailer and push your Electra Glide up the ramp. You can get a motorcycle into a trailer without a ramp, but it will take at least three people to lift the bike and move it in.

3. Attach one end of a bungee cord to each tie down bracket by slipping the bungee cord hook through the appropriate opening of the tie down bracket. Secure the other end of each bungee cord to the tie downs located in the trailer. If there is any slack in the bungee cords, find shorter cords or wrap the cords around the bike in such a way that it reduces the slack.

Tags: Electra Glide, down brackets, bungee cord, into trailer, your Electra, your Electra Glide, bungee cords

Install The Power Commander Iii R6s

The Power Commander III USB device is a racing performance add-on for your 2006 to 2008 Yamaha YZF 600 R6S. This device adjusts your fuel range performance up to plus or minus 100 percent using your bike's fuel injection system. Any changes you make manually or authorize, does not lock into your bike's stock system settings permanently. After removing the unit, your Yamaha will revert back to its original fuel performance settings.

Instructions

1. Remove the "Main Seat" and "Passenger Seat" on your Yamaha R6S by pulling both seats upward.

2. Unbolt the "Front Fuel Tank" with a wrench or ratchet and lift the tank up high enough to allow for easy access. Use an item around your garage to keep the fuel tank propped up.

3. Remove the "Rubber Plug" near the bike's tail section by pulling it down.

4. Insert the Power Commander device into the tail section of your Yamaha momentarily, then slide the Power Commander wires through the "Inner Fender."

5. Slide the Power Commander wires down the right side of your bike and through the bike's "Subframe."

6. Slide the Power Commander wires under the "Fuel Tank Bracket," and join the "Ground Wire" from the Power Commander device to the "Negative Side" of your bike's battery.

7. Unhook both "Six Pin" connectors from the fuel tank's "Throttle Body." One connector will be white and the other black.

8. Plug the "Black" six pin power connectors from the Power Commander device into the "Black" connectors in the "Stock Wiring Harness." Plug the "White" six pin power connectors from the Power Commander device into the "White" connectors in the "Stock Wiring Harness."

9. Clean the "Tail Section" of the bike and the "Power Commander" device with an alcohol swab, then strap the Power Commander device on the tail section using the supplied "Velcro Strip."

10. Double-check your connections, then reattach and bolt your "Fuel Tank" back down.

11. Reassemble the "Main Seat" and "Passengers Seat."

Tags: Power Commander, Commander device, Power Commander device, your bike, Commander device into

Use A Studio Flash For A Photo Shoot

Studio flashes are a great addition to any photographer's studio equipment. Studio photo shoots require more lighting than outdoor or location shoots and studio flashes serve to replicate the natural light that's missing in a studio environment.

Instructions

1. Look around the studio for any natural light that might lend some assistance in the photo shoot. Natural light gives a more natural effect than studio flashes can.

2. Paint the studio for a photo shoot. Lighter colors reflect more light whereas darker colors can produce photos with odd colorcasts on the subject. White walls are always acceptable. Check your camera's white balance when using white walls.

3. Set the studio flash in front of the subject and slightly to the side to avoid harsh shadows. Move the flash head up or down for the best fill light.

4. Manipulate the studio flashes controls for the best exposure values. Many units incorporate control dials or digital arrays to enter flash values.

5. Move the flash so that it bounces the light onto the walls or ceiling. This method effectively cuts the value of the studio flash by half.

6. Keep the subject away from the backdrop or wall to prevent harsh shadows. Move the subject at least six feet from anything that reflects large amounts of light.

7. Use a studio flash rail system to better move lights into position. Rail systems are a common studio installation that offer a great deal of ease and variety of lighting possibilities.

Tags: studio flashes, harsh shadows, harsh shadows Move, light that, Move flash, natural light that

Make A Wii Hd

Make a Wii HD

Despite the fact that Nintendo's Wii home video game console outputs at standard definition, that shouldn't keep you from using it in conjunction with a high definition television. When hooked up to an HDTV, the Wii will look the absolute best it can and provide you with the refreshing detail that the game designers had in mind. Hooking up a Wii to an HDTV requires only a few cables and a few moments of your time.

Instructions

1. Purchase the official Nintendo Wii component audio and video cables. Due to the specialized output for the cables on the back of the Wii, regular component audio and video cables will not work. You can find the specialized official Wii cables at any electronics retailer that sells Wii accessories or at www.nintendo.com.

2. Locate the component audio and video input plugs on your television. On most TV models, they will be on the back of the unit, though some models have them on the side.

3. Connect the component video cables to their respective plugs on your television. They are color coded to avoid confusion. Plug the green, blue and red cables into the green, blue and red plugs, respectively.

4. Connect the audio cables to the plugs on your television. Just as with the video cables, these are color coded. Plug the red cable into the red plug and the white cable into the white plug.

5. Plug the rectangular plastic end of the component cables into the port labeled "Digital AV Out" on the back of your Wii. This will allow the component video and audio signals to travel from your Wii to your television.

6. Turn on your Wii. You will now be able to use your Wii in conjunction with your high definition television set.

Tags: video cables, your television, audio video, component audio, component audio video

Use A Splitter With Satellite Tv

You can split your satellite TV signal.

If you have satellite TV service but want to connect multiple receiver boxes to one satellite dish, you can solve this problem with a satellite splitter. This is a very simple device that will take the signal transmitted from one RF coaxial cable and allow you to send it to multiple receivers connected by similar cables. But you need to make sure it is a satellite splitter and not meant for other signal transmission like VHF/UHF. Multiple types of satellite splitters are available. The one you'll need depends on the number of devices you are linking.

Instructions

1. Make sure you have a satellite-grade splitter. Many of the common splitters designed for cable TV and other formats will not work in splitting a satellite TV signal. Consult an expert at your electronics store to find a splitter that will work with your satellite service.

2. Attach the splitter to the cable directly connected to the satellite dish outside (the cable that comes out of the wall). You must connect this cable to the splitter port that says "IN" or "SAT IN." Make sure you have the right splitter for the number of units you are connecting.

3. Get a simple two-way splitter if you're linking only two receiver boxes. On this splitter, the "IN" port for the dish cable should be the single port on one side. The two ports on the other side connect to your two receiver boxes.

4. Look for a four-way splitter if you need to connect more than two boxes. This splitter has five coaxial ports, and the "IN" port should be the middle one on the side that has three ports. The other four connect to your receivers.

5. Use a four-way multiswitch if you are linking satellite dishes with separate low-noise blockers, or if you want to attach an antenna for your local air channels. On the side with three ports, the dish(es) connect to any of the two end ports while an antenna connects to the middle one. The four ports on the other side are for the receivers.

Tags: ports other, receiver boxes, connect your, Make sure, Make sure have

Use A Separate Wallpaper On An Internal & External Screen

Use a separate wallpaper on your internal and external cell phone screens.

All cell phones feature some sort of wallpaper on their internal screens. However, many cell phones nowadays also feature wallpapers on their external screens. Customization is a popular aspect of technology, especially on cell phones. Express your interests more by using a separate wallpaper on the internal screen of your cell phone and the external one.

Instructions

1. Flip open your cell phone. Press the "OK" key to open the menu.

2. Use the "Down Arrow" key to scroll to "Settings & Tools." Press the "OK" key to open the settings and tools menu.

3. Use the "Down Arrow" key to scroll to "Display." Press the "OK" key.

4. Scroll to "Wallpaper." Press the "OK" key.

5. Scroll to "Internal." Press the "OK" key. A list of pictures saved on your cell phone appears. Scroll to the one you want to use as your internal wallpaper. Press the "OK" key to select it.

6. Repeat steps one through four. Select "External." Scroll to the picture you want to use as your external wallpaper. Press the "OK" key to set it.

Tags: cell phone, cell phones, your cell, your cell phone, Arrow scroll, Down Arrow, Down Arrow scroll