The Harley-Davidson Big Twin has a look and sound that is unique among motorcycles.
Harley Davidson has been improving its Big Twin engines since the first side-valve 74-cubic-inch engine was introduced in 1922. The Big Twin series has progressed through the Knucklehead, Panhead, Shovelhead and Evolution engines to the Twin Cam series, which was produced from 1999 to 2006. While Harley riders usually prefer the design of their first personally owned Big Twin, they generally concede that each progressive redesign has been an improvement over previous designs.
Engine Size
The Twin Cam 88 has a cylinder bore of 3.75 inches and a piston stroke of 4 inches, rendering a displacement of 88.4 cubic inches or 1449 cubic centimeters. This is an increase in bore size, but a decrease in stroke compared with the previous 80-cubic-inch Evolution engine's 3.5-inch bore and 4.25-inch stroke.
Power
The 1450-cc Harley Twin Cam 88 engine is rated to produce 80 horsepower at 5200 RPM, and 82 foot-pounds of torque at 3500 RPM.
Valvetrain Changes from Previous Models
The 1450-cc Twin Cam 88 engine has a single overhead cam for each cylinder. The cams are driven by a silent chain. This is in contrast to all previous Harley Davidson engines, where the cams were located in the crankcase and drove the valves through pushrods. This overhead cam design allowed a more efficient combustion chamber design with a 9-to-1 compression ratio, providing a 10 percent power increase over the previous Evolution engine.
Tags: Evolution engine, Harley Davidson, over previous, Twin engine, Twin series
Learn change the fork seals in a Harley-Davidson motorcycle
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are equipped with telescopic front forks. Operating as large shock absorbers, the front forks enable the front wheel to maintain contact with the road under varying conditions. The dampening action of the front forks also protects the rider from harsh road conditions, and provides a smooth and comfortable ride. A front fork seal that is leaking reduces the dampening ability of the front fork, and may cause handling and braking problems.
Instructions
1. Lift the motorcycle using a motorcycle jack until the front wheel clears the ground. Ensure the motorcycle is securely tied down to the jack.
2. Remove the brake clevis pin at the brake lever, brake shoe anchor and centering bolt on motorcycles built before 1972. Remove the axle nut, fork slider cap nuts, speedometer cable and brake caliper on motorcycles built from 1973 on.
3. Push the axle out of the wheel using a hammer and drift. Remove the wheel from the front fork assembly, making sure not to lose any spacers from the wheel hub.
4. Remove the fork tube cap. The cap is under mild spring tension; use caution when removing the cap. Use the correct size socket on the cap to prevent damage to the nut.
5. Place a drain pan under the forks, and remove the fork slider lower bolt. Pull the fork tube out of the slider, and allow the fork oil to drain. The slider bolt is located at the bottom of the fork tube inside the axle saddle. Some models are equipped with a fork oil drain plug on the side of the slider tube near the axle. Discard the used fork oil in accordance with local disposal laws.
6. Remove the oil seal lock-ring using lock-ring pliers. Pry the oil seal out of the fork slider using a dull flat-tip screwdriver. Use caution that the inner and outer surface of the slider is not damaged when the seal is removed. Inspect the fork tube, fork slider tube and wheel assembly for damage. Repair or replace any damaged or worn-out parts as required.
7. Grease the outside of the new oil seal, and push the seal into the fork slider. Use a socket of the same size as the seal to help push it into the slider until it seats at the bottom of the seal well. Replace the oil seal lock-ring, and ensure it has snapped completely into the ring groove.
8. Slide the fork slider onto the fork tube, and fasten the original screw and washer. Tighten the fork slider screw to 11 ft-lbs.
9. Fill the fork tube with the correct amount and type of fork oil. Consult the manufacturer's specifications for specific information on your model of motorcycle. Pour the measured oil from a graduated measuring cup into the top of the fork tube with a funnel. Tighten the fork tube cap to 11 ft-lbs. using the correct size socket.
10. Reinstall the front wheel onto the fork sliders Push the front axle through the sliders and wheel hub, making sure that any spacers are reinstalled in the correct locations. Replace the brake clevis pin at the brake lever, the brake shoe anchor and centering bolt on motorcycles built before 1972. Replace the axle nuts, fork slider cap nuts, speedometer cable and brake caliper on motorcycles built from 1973 on. Tighten the axle nuts to 50 ft-lbs.
Tags: fork slider, fork tube, motorcycles built, front fork, front forks
It may not seem like it from the consumer's viewpoint, but motorcycle dealerships require many employees to keep them running smoothly. It's a good deal more complicated than simply cashiers and mechanics. There are a myriad of support positions that help the mechanics and salespeople to do their work more quickly and easily. Professional motorcycle dealerships are intricate, well-oiled machines of service and consumerism.
Mechanic
One of the most important jobs in the dealership is the mechanic. Mechanics are responsible for completing bikes that get shipped from the factory, fixing customers' bikes and testing bikes before they're sold, and are arguably the lifeblood of a dealership. Mechanics receive professional training from trade schools and from the manufacturer. Ongoing education is provided to keep mechanics are up to date with the latest and greatest technology being used in their brands' machines.
Porter
Porters function in part as the mechanics' aides. They are primarily responsible for moving bikes into and out of the service area, storing the bikes properly and helping run parts in the larger dealerships. Porters may also be asked to wash and clean bikes that have been repaired, though many high volume dealerships have separate bike washers. Being a porter is a popular job choice for people still completing their mechanic's certification.
Clothing and Accessory Sales
The sale of accessories and clothes that go with the motorcycle is essential to any good dealership. Riders will need helmets and protective clothing, and many desire fancier wheels or saddle bags. This is where the salespeople come in. Although there is no formal training or school, clothing salespeople become very skilled at helping customers find the best fit for their road clothes and the coolest accessories for their bikes.
Service Writers
Working in conjunction with the mechanics, service writers are the guys the customer talks to about a broken motorcycle. Service writers provide the interface between the customer and the mechanics, and provide the quotes for repair costs. Service writers are typically former mechanics who have grown tired of the actual wrenching or would like to move into a more administrative position.
Owners and Management
Essential to any well-run motorcycle dealership is the management. Dealerships are either owned by independent owners or are part of a larger network of dealerships owned by the same people. Managers are either brought in by the corporate office or simply hired and promoted from the local workforce. Management is responsible for running the dealership, from payroll and hiring to store layout and labor prices.
With an economy that continues to spur downward, many people are looking for ways to alleviate some of their debts by asking for forgiveness. This is most commonly seen in real estates where the property value has depreciated to the point where the mortgage is more than the value. In some cases, banks will forgive the borrower the difference in a transaction called a short-sale. If you have experienced serious financial issues, you can also attempt to ask other debtors for forgiveness such as credit cards, personal loans and car loans.
Instructions
Gather Documentation
1. Gather all the paperwork you can find or think of that will help show your financial situation.
2. Find old pay stubs, original loan documents or unemployment payments. Use credit card statements, your mortgage payment or car payment history to prove you have been a trustworthy borrower but have hit unexpected circumstances.
3. Use other documents such as foreclosure notices or lack of payments on credit cards to prove your dire situation. Use as much paperwork as you can find to show your debtors the situation you're in.
Contact a Lawyer
4. Research and talk to friends and family to find a trusted lawyer that can properly represent you in your settlement.
5. Contact a few lawyers that have been recommended to you and set up a free consultation with him or her. Ask each of them the same questions that you think of before hand to assess his or her potential.
6. Decide with lawyer you feel the most comfortable with and proceed to hire him or her to represent you.
Contact Your Creditors
7. Show your lawyers the documentation you have gathered beforehand.
8. Write a formal letter explaining why you're in the current financial situation you're in. Talk about the job loss, divorce or other tragic life event that caused the financial crisis. Towards the end of the letter, ask for forgiveness or settlement of your debts. Include your lawyers name and contact number in the letter and ask the debtor to correspond directly with him or her.
9. Give the letter to your lawyer and have him or her read over it to critique it. Make any modifications to the letter that are needed and then send it off to your creditors.
The Harley Davidson name is practically synonymous with quality and stylish motorcycles, but there are times when owners of the company's popular Road King model want to upgrade from the stock exhaust system. Doing so deepens and ups the volume of the King's engine output, making the cycle a presence to both see and hear. Making small DIY changes to the standard system can help your 2010 Road King to be heard.
Instructions
1. Squirt a bit of cutting oil into the interior of the muffler's exhaust opening. Cutting oil severely reduces friction on metal components and prevents sparking that may harm your skin when working. Don the recommended safety gear, such as eye, nose and ear protection.
2. Tighten a metal-working bit into a drill and drill into the baffle, which is the long metallic extension in the muffler's center. Cut away and remove the endplate, the small circular plate that's attached to the end of the muffler that controls output, with a hacksaw.
3. Grasp the baffle, weakened and loosened because of the drilling, with a set of pliers and pull gently, but firmly to remove it. This may take a few attempts, and if need be, continue drilling the baffle until it's loose enough to pull free.
4. Don a heavy duty work glove and manually scrape the interior of the muffler to remove any metal shavings. If need be, consult the owner's manual on remove the muffler, so that you can hold the piece upside down and let the shavings fall out. Do not, however, blow into the muffler, which will force shavings into the engine.
Tags: Road King, Harley Davidson, interior muffler, muffler that
Long hours riding your motorcycle can do a number on your lower back. This pain can make it difficult to perform future rides, and it might even cause you health problems. There is a simple way to prevent this from happening and make your motorcycle a lot more comfortable in the process. Make your own backrest to provide support and relief to your back as you sit astride your bike even for long-distance rides.
Instructions
1. Draw the shape that you want to make the backrest with a marker onto a piece of ½-inch-thick plywood and cut it out with a saw. A good size is an oval roughly 8 inches long and 6 inches tall.
2. Lay the wood on top of a piece of 1 ½-inch-thick foam and cut the foam with a knife to the same shape as the wood. Stick the foam to the wood with spray adhesive.
3. Wrap a piece of upholstery batting around the foam and glue it down to the wood to give the backrest a smoother finished appearance.
4. Trace the shape of the front backrest onto the wrong side of the fabric you want to use. Add ½ inch for seam allowances and cut out the shape with scissors. Do the same for the sides of the backrest, except add 1 inch to allow for fabric to secure the cover to the wood.
5. Sew the fabric piece together with a ½-inch seam using a sewing machine and cut small V-shaped relief cuts every inch into the seams to allow for turning the fabric around easily.
6. Flip the fabric around and slip it over the backrest so the wood is showing from the bottom. Use tacks and a hammer to secure the fabric to the wood.
7. Screw a metal strap bracket onto the back of the backrest with screws and power drill; make sure the strap is centered on the wood. Cover the mounted strap and the cover tacks with a piece of awning material and use chrome studs to hold it on.
8. Remove the pillion seat from the bike and attach the other end of the strap bracket to the bike using the exposed mounting area. Make sure that the padded side of the backrest is facing the front of the bike.
Honing a cylinder sounds complicated at first, leading many people to take their engine blocks to professionals for a simple hone. In reality, honing is basically just polishing metal, and it is something the average do-it-yourself mechanic can easily do once the engine is stripped apart. The tools required for this project are inexpensive and can easily be found over the Internet or at many automotive stores. A cylinder-honing kit usually attaches to an electric drill and is a simple cylindrical device with an abrasive surface. The spinning device is thrust into the cylinders multiple times until the desired surface texture is achieved. These instructions assume you have already torn the engine down, the cylinders are exposed and you are ready to begin honing.
Instructions
1. Select the proper-sized honing tool. Keep in mind when making your selection that these are intentionally built slightly oversized. For example, if the cylinder you want to hone is 2 inches wide, there is no need to purchase a honing tool that is larger than 2 inches wide. It will automatically come slightly larger so it applies adequate pressure to polish the cylinder walls. The amount of polishing done is not determined by the width of the tool, but rather by how long it is used inside the cylinder.
2. The desired rotational speed is 1,200 to 1,600 rpm, so make sure that speed is within your drill's normal operating range at full power. If your drill has a speed selection switch, set it to around 1,400 rpm. Any rotating device that operates within the required rpm range will work, but a drill is usually the most convenient device for this task. If you're using a cordless drill, make sure the battery is fully charged before beginning. A reduced charge could lower the rotational speed and alter the results.
3. Apply lubricant liberally to the honing device. Any oil-based lubricant will work for this task. Mineral oil or a lubricant specifically made for cylinder honing will work fine. Slowly rotate the honing tool using the drill, and pour oil over the entire contact surface. To ensure proper lubrication, apply more oil than what appears to be necessary. It is better to have too much than not enough.
4. Hold the trigger on the drill to maximum operating speed, and quickly thrust it in and out of the cylinder several times. This process removes metal rapidly, so don't go more than five thrusts without stopping to check the cylinder walls. The desired finished product will be shiny, without visible nicks, scratches or wear, but you want to remove as little metal as possible. When it appears you are halfway done, reverse the direction of the drill (clockwise instead of counterclockwise, or vice versa) to produce a criss-cross pattern that helps oil stick to the cylinder walls.
5. When finished, wash the surface area with soapy water. The honing process produces metal dust and fragments in the cylinder that could potentially cause engine damage, so it is important to clean away as much of the metal as possible. When the cylinder has been thoroughly washed and dried with a lint-free cloth, apply a thin layer of motor oil to the freshly polished surface to prevent oxidation.
Tags: cylinder walls, honing tool, will work, basically just, basically just polishing, inches wide, just polishing
Alabama has a lot to offer the motorcycle enthusiast. In addition to scenic highways to travel, several cities host motorcycle events. Whether you are interested in a poker run to raise money for a local charity or a bike rally complete with parties and contests, you are sure to find what you are looking for right in the heart of Dixie.
Bama Bike Fest
Bama Bike Fest in Forkland offers three parties each year to benefit the National Kidney Foundation. The parties are held on private property, and only adults age 21 and up are admitted. The $30 entry fee supports the foundation. The festival offers free primitive camping sites and free hot showers. Limited RV hookups are available as well.
Bama BikeFest
16971 Highway 43
Forkland, AL 36740
334-289-5213
bamabikefest.com
Alabama H.O.G. Rally
The Alabama Harley Owner's Group, or H.O.G., Rally is held in May. The rally is a "rolling rally" beginning in Dothan, traveling to Montgomery and ending in Mobile. The rally includes tech presentations by Harley-Davidson in each city. Additionally, there are games to play and parties to attend. The multiple routes between cities serve as poker runs where riders are eligible to win prizes.
Alabama Harley Owner's Group Rally
205-426-2952
alstatehogrally.com
Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride
The Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride begins in Bridgeport and ends in Waterloo. It is held the third Saturday in September each year. There is no registration required to participate, and there are no fees charged. Anyone can ride, and all motorcycles are welcome. The Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride is the largest annual motorcycle ride in the United States. It recognizes the route taken by Cherokee, Creek, Seminole, Choctaw and Chickasaw nations who walked the original Trail of Tears and commemorates their journey.
Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride
al-tn-trailoftears.net
Vulcan Bike Week
O'Reilly Auto Parts sponsors Vulcan Bike Week in Birmingham beginning in June 2010. Competitions are featured for many bike categories. Prizes available include cash prizes as well as three motorcycles to be given away. Drag races offer bragging rights and a $90,000 total purse. Vendors are welcome. Live concerts will provide entertainment. The event is family-friendly, and kids are welcome.
A chopper is another name for a custom motorcycle with an extended front wheel, and whether you are replacing the stock seat that came with the bike when you purchased it or are installing your own seat on the bike, there are a few steps to ensure safety and comfort. Most choppers use a series of catch tabs to hold the seat onto the frame, and some may also utilize bolts or screws. The exact process to install a seat on your bike may vary slightly, but the overall procedure is the same across all makes and models of motorcycles.
Instructions
1. Inspect the frame to locate the slots just below the base of the gas tank that are used to mount the catch tabs of the seat. When the seat is installed properly, the front of the seat will be locked in place and unable to move from side to side. Slot the tabs into the slots on the frame and ensure the seat is firmly attached before working on the rear.
2. Lower the back of the seat onto the frame of the chopper and push the entire seat forward slightly so that the catch tab on the back of the seat can slide into the mounting bracket. While pushing forward, also press downward on the rear of the chopper seat to lock it into place. Move the seat slightly in all directions to ensure the tabs are firmly locked.
3. Locate the thumb screw or bolt hole on the rear fender of the bike, or the frame. Use a screwdriver, socket set or wrench (depending on the seat and the frame) to attach the bolt or screw on the mounting bracket of the frame or fender, and tighten it so the seat can no longer move. Double check that the seat is installed properly by attempting to move it forcefully, then make any necessary adjustments.
Begin your wedding ideas by thinking about what Harley-Davidson means to you.
The history of the Harley-Davidson bike began in 1901, and more than a hundred years later, the name is still a household name for motorcycles. Capture the essence of Harley-Davidson in your wedding by including the identifiable black and orange colors, the classic logo, the Harley history, and of course, the bike. Layer these aspects in abundance, or include slight Harley-Davidson references by choosing colors within a soft and muted color palette.
The Harley-Davidson logo
Use the logo to set your Harley-Davidson wedding apart from a general motorcycle theme.
Incorporate the black and orange Harley-Davidson logo throughout your wedding. Keep the design of the logo the same, but change the words "Harley Davidson" to fit your names or newlywed monogrammed initials. These personalized Harley logos can be printed on wedding favors, hand-painted on a hanging wood sign, placed on your wedding cake using fondant and even embroidered on the mens ties. If you want the Harley-Davidson logo to be referenced subtly, substitute the orange for gray and the black for white.
Black and orange
Create a black and orange color scheme for your decorations so that guests will be able to identify with the Harley-Davidson theme. The ceremony will be the first impression guests have of your wedding, so take advantage of the space, and wedding party to play out your theme. Bridesmaids can wear black dresses as they carry orange flower bouquets. Repeat the orange and black in the men's tie color and boutonnieres. Continue the orange flowers and black and orange color scheme in your reception decor. Place black tablecloths with orange flowers in the center for table decor. To create visual interest, expand your color palette by layering a variety textures and colors within the orange color palette. Use fiery reds, dainty yellows, citrus and pale orange for your flowers and decorations.
Harley-Davidson History
Capture the long history of Harley-Davidson motorcycles by highlighting key points such as the first time the bar and shield logo was used in 1910, the 50th-celebration logo created in honor of the V-engine, and the Aermacchi logo founded in the 1960s as Harley-Davidson expanded to Europe. Use these logos to decorate each cake layer, or hang large photos depicting each significant moment you want to capture. Mimic this timeline effect by creating a time line of significant family marriages. Create a photo wall using old photographs placed inside vintage frames and hang them using orange and black ribbon.
The Motorcycle
To fully complete the theme, motorcycles must be included. Top your wedding cake with a motorcycle cake topper. Use your online wedding resources such as Etsy, Craigslist, and Ebay to find a Harley cake topper that suits your style. Play out the cake topper by making a grand exit on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. If you have a have a motorcycle, you can use your own. You can also rent a Harley-Davidson bike from the official website or local Harley location which allows you to choose the style and decade.
Tags: your wedding, black orange, cake topper, color palette, Harley-Davidson logo
Plenty of fine establishments will cater to a biker after a long day's ride.
Biker friendly accommodations range from those calling themselves "biker friendly" because you can park your ride right outside your door to those offering special packages, events and merchandise geared specifically to motorcycle lovers. If you have specific needs or desires, be sure to call ahead and get definite information from the hotel's management.
The Iron Horse Hotel
The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee is a boutique hotel in a renovated warehouse that goes all out to cater to travelers on two wheels. Parking is secured, with some covered spots available, and includes rag bins and check-in carts. There's an on-site bike wash and gear store, and guests receive special welcome bags with hotel logo skull caps, saddlebag lunches, lip balm, sunscreen and route suggestions. Rooms have tiled entryways with hooks for heavy leathers and a bench to store helmets and boots.
Created and operated especially for motorcycle riders by motorcycle riders, Blue Highway Motorcycle Lodge in Hillsboro, Wisconsin, offers six cottages, each suitable for two adults, and each provided with fire pit, grill, picnic table, whirlpool tub, flat screen TV and fireplace. Rooms are decorated with vintage bike art and memorabilia. In the summer season, all six cabins are reserved for bikers only.
Best Western
The Best Western hotel chain operates a trademark Rider-Friendly Ride Rewards program in conjunction with Harley Davidson. Over 1,200 Best Westerns in the U.S. and more than 85 in Canada participate. You will find wipe-down towels, bike wash stations and motorcycle-friendly parking. Harley riders get a 10 percent discount and earn miles and other rewards.
Tags: Best Western, bike wash, Horse Hotel, Iron Horse, Iron Horse Hotel
Using a Power Commander fuel-injection controller to alter a motorcycle's fuel curve at low, mid and high rpm ranges can make significant performance changes, increasing and smoothing power delivery on the road. These changes are normally made using special software to program the Power Commander, but you can also program them manually using the buttons on the Power Commander's faceplate. Although these buttons do not provide an extensive range of options, they allow you to do enough to fine-tune a motorcycle for changing riding conditions.
Instructions
1. Remove the seat to access the Power Commander unit, using the seat release mechanism or by unbolting the seat with an Allen wrench.
2. Hold down all three buttons on the Power Commander's faceplate and turn the motorcycle's ignition on. Release the buttons once the LED bar graph on the faceplate illuminates completely once.
3. Press the left button once to select the low-range rpm fuel settings. A single LED bar will illuminate, denoting the current setting level. Press the button once to increase the fuel curve by one bar. Hold the button down to decrease the fuel curve by one bar.
4. Press the center button to select the mid-range rpm fuel settings or the right button to select the high-range rpm fuel setting. Adjust the fuel curve as needed, following the same method used to adjust the low-range rpm fuel curve.
5. Wait for 20 seconds to exit the programming function without pressing any of the buttons. The graph position illuminated on the LED will shift from the current setting to the lowest bar, indicating that the programming has ended.
6. Turn the ignition switch off.
Tags: Power Commander, fuel curve, button once, button select, buttons Power, buttons Power Commander, current setting
Nisland, South Dakota is a town of 204 people (as of the 2000 census) and has no motels. There are accommodations in several nearby towns and cities, however, including Newell, Belle Fourche and Whitewood. Motel rooms in the area are hard to come by during the first week of August because of the nearby Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees.
Newell Motels
Newell, South Dakota is 7 miles northeast of Nisland. With a population of 646, the town covers only 1 square mile, but it does have a single motel: Newell Hotel & Apartments on South Girard Avenue. This hotel is the closest accommodation to Nisland, located about 15 minutes away by car along US-212 and SD-79. To get to the hotel, turn right on 4th Street from SD-79 and take the 3rd left onto Girard Avenue.
Belle Fourche Motels
Belle Fourche is a city of about 4,500 people, located 15 miles west of Nisland on US-212. The town offers a wider array of motel options than Newell, including both independent motels and national chains. If you prefer a familiar name, Belle Fourche has a Super 8, a Motel 6 and an AmericInn Hotel & Suites. Locally-owned motels include Ace Motel, Kings Inn, Reid Motel and the Sunset Motel.
Whitewood Motels
Whitewood is another small town located 15 miles south of Nisland. It has a population of 844 people, but boasts two motels, both independently owned. Tony's Motel offers kitchenettes in some of the rooms, with either two queen-sized beds or one king-sized bed. Iron Horse Inn bills itself as a destination hotel on 14 acres in the Black Hills. It actively courts Sturgis Motorcycle Rally attendees and offers covered motorcycle parking.
Other Nearby Towns
For those willing to travel even further, there are several other towns with a selection of motels within 45 miles of Nisland, including Sturgis, Spearfish, Deadwood, Central City and Lead. Deadwood is a historical tourism destination in its own right, as it is the site of the graves of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok. Spearfish was founded during the Black Hills gold rush and is the largest city in the area with a population of 8,600.
Tags: Belle Fourche, Black Hills, Girard Avenue, located miles, Motorcycle Rally
Lake Santeetlah was formed in 1928 when the Santeetlah Dam was constructed. The lake consists of 76 miles of mostly naturally forested shoreline. The lake holds a variety of fish including small mouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, crappie and lake trout. The closest motels to the are located in the small nearby town of Robinsville. The motels in Robinsville can accommodate single guests or families and small groups.
Phillips Motel
The Phillips Motel is a small complex with 16 standard rooms, six efficiencies and several three-bedroom cottages available. The standard rooms are equipped with cable TV, a microwave, refrigerator and your choice of a single, double or king-sized bed. The efficiency rooms come equipped with complete kitchens. The Phillips Smoky Mountain Restaurant is next to the motel.
Phillips Motel
290 Main Street
Robinsville, NC 28771
828-479-3370
phillipsmotelonline.com
San-Ran Motel
The San-Ran Motel has been family owned and operated since 1958. Each room comes equipped with a microwave, coffee pot, telephone, refrigerator and cable TV. Private parking is accessible for trailers, motorcycles, bicycles and boats. Several restaurants are within walking distance of the motel. Picnic tables and grills are available on site.
San-Ran Motel
253 Rodney Orr Bypass
Robinsville, NC 28771
828-479-3256
mountainhomepage.com/sanran
Tuskeegee Motel
The Tuskeegee Motel has been in operation since 1967. The motel has both standard rooms and efficiencies available. The standard rooms are equipped with a full-sized bed, small love seat and TV. The efficiencies have two full-sized beds, TV, refrigerator, microwave and kitchenette. The motel also has a convenience store stocked with sandwiches, hot dogs, ice cream, coffee and picnic supplies as well as a small gas station.
Tuskeegee Motel
2511 Fontana Road, Highway 28
Robinsville, NC 28771
828-479-8464
tuskeegeemotel.com
Tags: equipped with, standard rooms, Lake Santeetlah, Phillips Motel, Robinsville 28771, San-Ran Motel, Tuskeegee Motel
The Chevrolet Silverado truck is manufactured with a front torsion bar suspension system on four-wheel-drive models. The system is used to provide room for the transfer case, which is not required for two-wheel-drive coil spring models. The average backyard mechanic can lift the front end of a Sliverado by adjusting the torsion bolts in about 30 minutes.
Instructions
1. Raise the truck at the front wheel by placing the floor jack on a frame rail and pumping the lever until the wheel is off the ground. This relieves the weight on the suspension, making it easier to adjust the spring. Place a jack stand on the frame rail to support the floor jack.
2. Locate the torsion bar mount, just behind the front wheel on the frame rail. It has the appearance of two plates holding a long rod to the frame rail. Locate the torsion bar adjustment bolt, nestled up into the mount. It is a vertical bolt that sets the pressure for the torsion bar. It can only be seen when looking from underneath. Mark the head with a grease pen, so the original position is known.
3. Turn the torsion adjustment bolt clockwise with a 18mm socket wrench to raise the truck. Every half-turn of the bolt will result in about an 1/8 of an inch of lift on the body of the truck. Lower the truck by turning the bolt counter-clockwise. Don't crank the adjustment bolt until it stops; this puts the torsion bars at their maximum pressure, and can wear them out quickly. Usually about two full turns from the stock position does the trick, giving about an inch of lift.
4. Lower the truck from the floor jack and stand, and measure the ride height. Repeat the process on the opposite torsion bar adjustment bolt, as they must be equal and level.
There are many popular beard styles and a variety of ways to express yourself through the way you wear your beard. Knowing the styles and wear them is key to executing them. Since the popularity of beards is here to stay, being in on the cutting edge of fashion is important. Does this Spark an idea?
Full Beard
The full beard is for men who can grow facial hair without blotchy patches, since the full beard covers a large portion of the face. This one is the most popular. To grow a beard, figure out your beard boundaries by designing your neckline. Always keep your beard trim and manageable. Actors Brad Pitt, George Clooney and Jim Carrey have had full beards on occasion.
Goatee and Mustache Combination
The goatee-mustache combination a popular choice. It is also referred to as the Van Dyke, the padlock, the candado or the circle beard. The shape of this combination is an oval, although many men experiment and shapes can differ from person to person. Musician Axl Rose has been seen with this combination.
Balbo
A balbo is a combination of a goatee-mustache that are not connected, it looks like a "T." The balbo also called the chevron. To grow a balbo, take a beard, or goatee-mustache combination and shape it into the balbo. Actor Mickey Rourke has been spotted with the balbo.
Chin Strip
A variation of a goatee is the chin strip. It is just as it sounds, it is a long strip of hair grown on the chin.
Chin Strip and Mustache Combination
The chin strip with a mustache is also referred to as a Colonel Sanders. This is an easy look to attain, just grow a mustache, then trim a chin strip. Actor Mel Gibson has used this look on occasion.
Mutton Chops
Long sideburns that come down the side the face to the corners of the mouth are known as mutton chops.
Friendly Mutton Chops
Friendly mutton chops are mutton chops connected to a mustache. Union Army Gen. Ambrose Everett Burnside, Elvis Presley and actor Luke Perry have worn friendly mutton chops.
Chin Curtain
A chin curtain is also known as a Donegal, Lincolnic and a chin strap. It is a beard without the mustache.
Toothbrush
The toothbrush is about one-third inch at the center of the upper lip, and it is about the size of the head of a toothbrush. It was worn by actor/director Charlie Chaplin, but it was made notoriously famous by Adolf Hitler, and, due to this, it is the least popular style of the bunch.
Fu Manchu
The Fu Manchu is a mustache that grows straight down past the lips and extends past the jaw. A telltale characteristic of the Fu Manchu is that the upper lip has the facial hair and the sides are shaved. Rock musician Jimi Hendrix had a Fu Manchu.
Tags: your beard, also referred, chin strip, Chin Strip, facial hair, full beard
If you are in the market for a used motorcycle, you have the option of purchasing from a private owner or a dealership. Dealerships are more likely to have a wide variety from which to choose, and some type of guarantee that the cycle will run properly. With lemon laws in effect if some states, and databases that keep track of wrecks, there isn't much that a dealer can hide from you. Just look for the cycle you want and move on from there.
Instructions
1. Search online for dealers in your area. Use Yellowpages.com or a more product specific site such as CycleTraders.com to look up those that sell used bikes. If it has a website, open it and checkout its inventory to see if it has something you want. This will save you unnecessary trips. Compare prices between similar motorcycles at the same dealership and between different dealerships to find the best deal for your money.
2. Look up the resale value of the motorcycle you want in Kelley Blue Book. This is based on condition, so you might need to go to the dealership and take a look at the bike first. Just tell the salesman that you are just looking, so you can avoid being pulled into a sale you are prepared for. Find the the wholesale value and retail value of the motorcycle. The wholesale value is the worth of the car, while the retail value is the reasonable price that it should be sold for.
3. Go back to the dealership and see if you can test drive it. Look it over again, and if you are unsure of your mechanical abilities, bring along someone who knows about cycles. Bring money to purchase the bike if you have it as well as your driver's license, Social Security card and insurance information for the paperwork.
4. Talk with the salesman and give them a price you are willing to pay. Stand firm on your price for as long as you can to see if he caves first. If it is a no-haggle dealership, then you will not get it to come down, and you must be prepared when you show up, to pay what is listed on the motorcycle.
5. Fill out loan paperwork if you do not have the funds, and fill out purchase paperwork. Hand over your driver's license, Social Security card and insurance information to them. This will help the dealership fill in some of the blanks on the form before you start filling them out, and it will need copies for the records.
Tags: best deal, card insurance, card insurance information, driver license, driver license Social, insurance information
Computer wallpaper should be offered in the four most common resolutions.
Computer wallpaper adds personality to PC desktops and are popular with computer users. A company can gain free advertising by providing company branded wallpapers for download on the company website. These wallpapers should be stylish and attractive to users, contain the company brand or logo and be offered in the four most common wallpaper resolutions.
800 by 600
The 800 by 600 pixel wallpaper size is a common wallpaper resolution used on computer monitors that use the standard 4:3 aspect ratio. This resolution is very good for smaller computer monitors such as older 13-inch or 15-inch CRT monitors or on the small netbooks that are currently popular with consumers. This is the smallest standard display setting in the Windows operating system and 800 by 600 resolution wallpapers will fit this display setting perfectly.
1024 by 768
The 1024 by 768 pixel wallpaper size is another common wallpaper resolution that is very good for monitors utilizing the standard 4:3 aspect ratio. This resolution allows users to show more items on their computer monitor than the 800 by 600 resolution and is a standard display setting built into the Windows operating system. The 1024 by 768 desktop resolution is very commonly used on older 17-inch and 19-inch CRT and square LCD monitors and an 1024 by 768 resolution wallpaper is the most common wallpaper resolution for this display setting as it will cover the entire desktop space.
1280 by 1024
The 1280 by 1024 pixel wallpaper is a wallpaper resolution designed for use on wide-screen monitor displays that utilize the 16:9 aspect ratio. Wide-screen monitors are very popular with computer users as more items can be displayed on this type monitor than on a monitor of the same size utilizing the 4:3 aspect ratio. Offering users quality wallpapers using the 1280 by 1024 resolution will provide those using 17-inch through 21-inch wide-screen monitors with a wallpaper that is designed for their monitor, looks good and fits the display setting correctly.
1600 by 1200
The 1600 by 1200 pixel wallpaper is another resolution size used on wide-screen monitors that utilize the 16:9 aspect ratio. This large screen resolution allows more items to be displayed on the monitor than the 1280x1024 resolution and is a common resolution used on 21-inch and larger wide-screen monitors. Well-designed 1600 by 1200 pixel wallpapers will provide users of large wide-screen monitors with a wallpaper that completely covers a 1600x1200 display without distortion of the wallpaper image that can occur when smaller resolution wallpapers are scaled or cropped to fit this large display.
Many people think removing a catalytic converter from a vehicle can gain both horsepower and gas mileage. Every vehicle will vary, but if you learn remove a catalytic converter from your car, you can test the results for yourself. Read on to learn remove a catalytic converter.
Instructions
1. Park your vehicle on flat, solid ground for safety purposes. Jack the vehicle up and place it on jack stands.
2. Get under the vehicle in the middle area and look along the exhaust pipe until you spot the catalytic converter. It will look like a wide area of the exhaust pipe, sometimes square or rectangle shaped (not the muffler towards the rear of the vehicle).
3. Look to see how the catalytic converter is attached. There are probably four bolts, two in front and two in the rear, that can be removed. Check the size of the bolts and make sure you have a socket to fit them.
4. Use a ratchet and socket or wrench to remove the four bolts from around the catalytic converter. In some cases, the bolts are corroded and must be cut off with a saw and drilled out. If this occurs, be careful to only cut the bolt heads.
5. Pull the catalytic converter from the exhaust and it should be out completely.
Nestled along the canals in picturesque Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Port Everglades is among the country's busiest cruise ports, servicing numerous cruise lines and millions of passengers each year. If you are driving to Fort Lauderdale to begin your next excursion on the seas, there are a range of hotels located near Port Everglades that offer parking for the duration of your cruise.
Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Hollywood Airport
The Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood Airport is an AAA rated, three-diamond property that is located approximately five miles from the cruise port. The six-story hotel offers 156 rooms with contemporary furnishings, complimentary Wi-Fi access, microwaves and mini fridges. Hotel recreational amenities include a Jacuzzi, a fitness center and a heated outdoor pool, while dining options consist of complimentary cooked-to-order breakfasts, a 24-hour pantry pavilion and a bar.
The Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood Airport offers park and cruise packages that include overnight accommodations, shuttle service to the Port Everglades cruise port and parking for the duration of the cruise.
Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Hollywood Airport
180 SW 18th Ave.
Dania, FL 33004
954-924-9204
hiltongardeninn.com
Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Airport North
The Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Airport-North is a three-diamond hotel located within a half mile of the cruise port and less than two miles from the airport. The six-story property offers 126 contemporary guest rooms with pillow top beds, 42-inch HD TVs, mini fridges and complimentary Internet access. Hotel amenities include a 24-hour guest kitchen that serves cooked-to-order meals and snacks, complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool and a hot tub. The Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Airport-North offers park and cruise packages that include overnight accommodations, parking up to seven nights and shuttle service to the cruise port.
Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Airport North
1851 SE 10th Ave.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
954-763-7670
ftlauderdaleairport.place.hyatt.com
Rodeway Inn and Suites Airport Cruise Port
The Rodeway Inn and Suites Airport Cruise Port is a budget hotel located minutes way from the Port Everglades cruise port. The hotel is also within a short drive of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Sawgrass Mills Mall and Seminole Hard Rock Casino. The Rodeway Inn and Suites offers 158 traditionally decorated guestrooms with pillow top beds, microwaves, mini fridges and complimentary Internet access. The hotel also offers two-room suites with separate living areas, pull-out sofas and jetted Jacuzzi tubs. Hotel amenities include on-site dining, room service and an outdoor pool. The property's stay and cruise packages include overnight accommodations, deluxe continental breakfast, shuttle service to the cruise port and parking up to 14 days.
Rodeway Inn & Suites Airport Cruise Port
2440 W. State Rd. 84
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33166
954-792-8181
rodewayinn.com
Tags: Fort Lauderdale, Garden Lauderdale, Garden Lauderdale Hollywood, Hilton Garden, Hilton Garden Lauderdale, Hollywood Airport, Hyatt Place
Show some flair when decorating your baby boy's nursery.
Teddy bears and puppies are common themes for baby boy nurseries, but these ideas can be a bit boring. Creative parents want something out of the ordinary for their baby-to-be. Your lifestyle isn't dull, so your nursery design should show the same flair. Incorporate your taste into your baby boy's room, and you'll have a nursery you'll love to syour friends and family. Does this Spark an idea?
Motorcycles
If you've got a little biker boy coming, give him a motorized start in life with a motorcycle-themed nursery. Paint the crib in baby-safe candy colors, and stencil flames on the headboard and foot board. Print out pictures of classic bikes, and frame them to hang on the walls. Paint a dresser and changing table to match the crib, and toss black leather pillows onto the rocking chair.
Pirate
Design a pirate bedroom for your little captain. Stain the crib in a warm wood tone to simulate the color of a sailing ship. Hang Jolly Roger flags and other ship insignia around the edge of the room. Turn an old chest into clothing storage, and sew little pirate hats onto stuffed toys to set on a shelf.
Woodsy
If your lifestyle is laid back and you're into nature, incorporate the woodsy theme into your boy's nursery. Paint the walls a soft green color, and stencil them with darker green maple and elm leaf shapes. Sew curtains in plaid flannel, and make matching sheets and comforters for the crib. Stain the crib in a dark wood, along with the dresser and changing table, and purchase realistic stuffed animals to pile in a corner.
Space
Decorate a room for your future astronaut. Paint the walls and ceiling a deep blue, and stencil constellations on the ceiling in glow-in-the-dark paint. Buy or make a solar system mobile to hang over the crib. Make curtains in planet fabric, or create them in dark blue and applique planet shapes along the edges. Make moon- and star-shaped pillows to pile in a comfy rocking chair.
Banks lend money for purchasing motorcycles, and lending decisions are not based on the riskiness of the motorcycle. If you have poor to bad credit, you, the buyer, are considered to be high-risk. In addition, the bank determines whether or not to extend a motorcycle loan to you by determining your loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratios along with a review of your credit history. If you have trouble securing a motorcycle loan for these reasons, or if you are a high-risk borrower, you may benefit from pursuing a personal loan rather than a motorcycle-specific loan.
Instructions
Motorcycle Loan
1. Gather your information, such as the motorcycle's year, make, model, engine size and identification number--you will need this to apply for the loan. Expect to provide your income, Social Security number, date of birth and income information to apply. Know the total price of the motorcycle (given to you by the motorcycle dealer or by calling your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to inquire about fees and taxes in addition to price) to apply for the correct amount of financing.
2. Apply though the motorcycle dealer if you are using one. Dealers specialize in motorcycle loans and generally use a variety of lenders, including motorcycle-specific lending institutions such as Yamaha or Harley-Davidson Financial. You might also find that if you are buying new, you can get a very low competitive rate that is not offered by local banking institutions.
3. Apply through a local lender if you aren't using a dealer for purchase. Check with the bank you have an account with to find out if it offers motorcycle loans. If so, apply using the same information provided in Step 1. If your bank does not offer motorcycle financing, call other banks in your area until you find one that offers motorcycle loans (many do).
4. Establish an insurance policy on the motorcycle, required by any lender. Sign your paperwork and contracts at the dealer or at the local bank that approved you. Provide any additional information or money down, if required.
Personal Loan
5. Apply for a personal loan if you cannot find a lender for the motorcycle you want to buy. You might run into this situation if there is not enough equity in the motorcycle, or enough resale worth in case of repossession without significant money down. The vehicle may be too old for a loan (not enough equity), or you may not be approved because of your credit rating.
6. Go to the bank from which you want to borrow, but try to find one with a good reputation and easy service. You'll have to open a bank account if provided with a loan. Ask other motorcycle owners which establishment they use before making a decision. Or try your own bank.
7. Provide all of your information to apply for the personal loan, minus motorcycle information. Because you are taking out a personal loan, you do not need to provide any motorcycle information.
8. Wait for your approval. Once the loan is approved, sign your contracts with the bank and receive your check to give to the seller. You are not required to get a full-coverage insurance policy on your motorcycle when taking out a personal loan. Talk with your insurance provider to determine the best coverage for your motorcycle.
Tags: motorcycle loans, personal loan, your motorcycle, enough equity, find that
When you install a separate graphics card on an Intel motherboard with integrated graphics, you may encounter a situation where the onboard video card attempts to override the ATI Radeon graphics card. Disabling the onboard video card prevents interference from it and allows you to use the ATI Radeon card and all of its features.
Instructions
1. Click "Start" and type "devmgmt.msc" in Windows search bar. Double-click the entry matching this file when it appears in the results. The Device Manager launches.
2. Expand the entry next to "Display Adapters."
3. Right-click the listing for the Intel integrated graphics card and choose "Properties." Take the check-mark out of the box labeled "Exists in all hardware profiles." Restart your computer. Open Device Manager once your computer boots and return to the properties page for the Intel. Check the box named "Disabled in this hardware profile." Shut down your computer.
4. Remove the power cable, monitor cable and any peripherals attached to your computer. Remove the computer case cover by unscrewing any fastening screws on the back of your case, or depressing a release button or latch. Wait several minutes for your computer to cool down.
5. Locate the proper interface port for your ATI Radeon card. ATI Radeon cards may be designed for AGP, PCI, or PCI-E slots. You can match the length of the metal interface tab on the graphics card to the length of the interface slot to determine the proper slot to insert the card into. Remove the metal plate at the back of the slot.
6. Slide the ATI Radeon into the slot. Depress the locking lever if your port has one. Screw the ATI Radeon into the back of the case. Locate a loose power cable and insert it into the power port on the card. Close the case and reconnect all cables.
7. Boot your computer up. Open your Internet browser and navigate to AMD's ATI driver site. Select your product and the operating system, and complete the other requested fields to find the proper download. Save the driver download to your computer.
8. Double-click the downloaded file. Click "Install." Choose "Next" and click "Install." Click "Express" and click "Next." Click "Accept." Click "Finish." The ATI drivers are completely installed. Restart your computer and your ATI Radeon should be fully operational.
Edgewater is a lakefront community on the North Side of Chicago, Illinois. The area is home to Lincoln Park -- the largest park in Chicago -- as well as cultural attractions like the Swedish American Museum. Edgewater and its neighboring communities are home to several hostels with proximity to many of Chicago's tourist attractions.
Chicago International Hostel
Chicago International Hostel has the distinction of being the only hostel located within the Edgewater neighborhood. Situated within walking distance of both Lake Michigan and Loyola University, the hostel offers in-room Wi-Fi, security lockers, a common room and a common kitchen. The hostel is also located less than two blocks from the Granville Red Line station. Dining options nearby include Hamilton's Bar and Grill, Vee-Vee's African Restaurant, Habibi Restaurant, Summer Noodle and Rice and Blue Elephant Kitchen.
HI Chicago
Hostelling International Chicago or HI Chicago is located in downtown Chicago just one block from Grant Park and Millennium Park. The hostel offers free wireless Internet access and free breakfast each morning for guests, and guests under 18 are welcome when accompanied by an adult. The maximum length of stay at the hostel is 14 days as of February 2011. Local attractions near the hostel include the Field Museum, the Chicago Architecture Foundation, the Adler Planetarium, Willis Tower and the Hancock Building. Area dining includes Cafecito -- a small Cuban coffee house and eatery adjacent to the hostel's entrance.
Chicago Getaway Hostel
Located south of Edgewater in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, the Chicago Getaway Hostel offers guests access to an on-site barbecue grill, private rooms, outdoor patio, pool and foosball tables, free continental breakfast daily and a self service kitchen. The hostel allows drinking but does not provide alcohol. The hostel also offers 24 hour access with no curfew, computer stations and Wi-Fi connectivity and access to bike rentals. Nearby attractions include the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Local dining includes Salvatore's Restaurant, Wieners Circle, Molly's Cupcakes, Oodles of Noodles, Bourgeois Pig Caf , Aloha Eats, Toro Sushi, Doc Wine Bar and Galway Arms Irish Bar & Restaurant.
AWA Chicago City Center
The AWA Hostel requires that all guests be over the age of 21 or be accompanied by at least one individual of that age. The hostel offers free on-site parking, free unlimited local calls, free Wi-Fi access, televisions in each room and an on-site restaurant. As of 2011, guests must make cancellations within 48 hours of their stay or be charged for the first night. Nearby off-site dining includes O'Brien's Restaurant and Bar, Timothy O'Toole's Pub, Hidden Shamrock, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Atwood Caf and the Rockit Bar and Grill. Attractions near the AWA include Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Shedd Aquarium, Steppenwolf Theater and shopping in the Magnificent Mile.
AAE Chicago Parthenon Inn & Hostel
Located in the heart of Chicago's Greektown neighborhood, the AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel sits two blocks from Union Station, steps away from CTA stops, and offers both cooperative share rooms and private rooms. The common room in the hostel features a 52 inch television. There is Wi-Fi access free to all guests, an on-site restaurant and bar, free breakfast daily and free linens with all rooms. The Willis Tower is blocks away from the hostel and other attractions including the Garfield Park Conservatory, the Field Museum and the Chicago Cultural Center are located in close proximity. Dining options near the hostel include Meli Caf and Juice Bar, Venus, Artopolis, Greek Island Restaurant, Greek Town Gyros, Taco Burrito King and Giordano's Pizzeria.
Tags: dining includes, hostel offers, Lincoln Park, access free, away from, blocks from, breakfast daily
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are built to withstand the stress of long-distance riding. A proper maintenance routine, however, is the key to your motorcycle's continued performance. As with most motorcycles, many Harley-Davidson motorcycles rely on a basic, cable-actuated system to operate the clutch. Cable upkeep is low-maintenance; however, these cables stretch over time, causing an excess of free play at the clutch lever. If left unchecked, excessive free play at the lever will prevent the clutch from disengaging completely, leading to premature transmission wear. Prevention comes in the form of routine cable adjustments, which rein in the amount of free play allowed at the lever and keep clutch engagement operating properly.
Instructions
1. Locate the cable adjuster at the middle of the clutch cable and twist clockwise until the adjuster is seated against the cable sleeve. This will loosen the cable and place the clutch lever is at its loosest point.
2. Access the clutch adjuster in the primary cover by removing the derby cover, using a Torx-27 socket to unscrew the two mounting bolts. If the motorcycle is parked on its side stand, a small amount of primary fluid may spill out of the derby cover port.
3. Locate the clutch adjuster in the primary cover and loosen the clutch adjuster lock nut with the appropriately sized wrench, unscrewing the lock nut two complete turns out.
4. Reset the clutch cable's slack by turning the primary's clutch adjuster clockwise until it is seated against the clutch release. Do not over tighten the adjuster-it should be touching the clutch release without placing pressure on it. This will remove all slack from the clutch cable.
5. Loosen the clutch adjuster by turning the adjuster counterclockwise a full turn from the seated position to provide a small amount of free play in the cable. Tighten the clutch adjuster lock nut while holding the adjuster in position.
6. Pull and release the clutch lever to ensure that the cable is moving properly within the cable sleeve. Twist the mid-cable adjuster counterclockwise to tighten the slack in the cable, leaving 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch of slack at the clutch lever.
7. Wipe away any primary fluid that may have spilled and top off with fresh fluid before replacing the derby cover. Tighten the bolts with a Torx-27 socket.
Solenoid is the generic term for a coil of wire used as an electromagnet. It also refers to any device that converts electrical energy to mechanical energy using a solenoid. The device creates a magnetic field from electric current and uses the magnetic field to create linear motion. Common applications of solenoids are to power a switch, like the starter in an automobile, or a valve, such as in a sprinkler system.
How a Solenoid Works
A solenoid is coil of wire in a corkscrew shape wrapped around a piston, often made of iron. As in all electromagnets, a magnetic field is created when an electric current passes through the wire. Electromagnets have an advantage over permanent magnets in that they can be switched on and off by the application or removal of the electric current, which is what makes them useful as switches and valves and allows them to be entirely automated.
Like all magnets, the magnetic field of an activated solenoid has positive and negative poles that will attract or repel material sensitive to magnets. In a solenoid, the electromagnetic field causes the piston to either move backward or forward, which is how motion is created by a solenoid coil.
How Does a Solenoid Valve Work?
In a direct-acting valve, electric current activates the solenoid, which in turn pulls a piston or plunger that would otherwise block air or fluid from flowing. In some solenoid valves, the electromagnetic field does not act directly to open the conduit. In pilot-operated valves, a solenoid moves the plunger, which creates a small opening, and pressure through the opening is what operates the valve seal. In both types, solenoid valves require a constant flow of electrical current to remain open because once the current is stopped, the electromagnetic field disperses and the valve returns to its original closed position.
Electric Solenoids
In an automobile ignition system, the starter solenoid acts as a relay, bringing metal contacts into place to close a circuit. The starter solenoid receives a small electric current when the car's ignition is activated, usually by the turn of the key. The magnetic field of the solenoid then pulls on the contacts, closing the circuit between the car's battery and the starter motor. The starter solenoid requires a constant flow of electricity in order to maintain the circuit, but because the engine is self-powering once started, the solenoid is inactive for most of the time.
Uses for Solenoids
Solenoids are incredibly versatile and extremely useful. They're found in everything from automated factory equipment to paintball guns and even doorbells. In a chime doorbell, the audible chime is produced when a metal piston strikes a tone bar. The force that moves the piston is the magnetic field of a solenoid that receives electric current when the doorbell is pushed.
Tags: electric current, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, starter solenoid, coil wire
A tucked-in shirt helps maintain a professional appearance.
Shirt garters are a mainstay for certain professions. Police officers and military personnel often wear shirt garters to keep their shirts tucked in on the job. These devices are similar to suspenders but run down the length of the leg rather than the chest. They clip onto the ends of a shirt and the tops of socks to keep shirts tucked firmly in place; they also help to keep your socks pulled up. Since shirt garters aren't always easy to find, making your own will ensure that you can always maintain a professional, tailored look. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure the length along the outside of each leg from the bottom of your shirt to the top of your socks. Cut four pieces of elastic to this distance plus a little less than 1/3.
2. Fold over 1/3 of each length of elastic and thread each length of elastic through the end of a garter clip. Garter clips are available at most fabric and craft stores.
3. Feed the looped-over end of the elastic through a plastic or metal slide adjuster so that its length can be adjusted. Slide adjusters are available at most fabric or craft stores. Alternatively, take the center prong out of a belt buckle to adapt it into a slide adjuster.
4. Feed the bottom ends of each length of elastic through another garter clip. Pin them in place.
5. Test the length. Clip the ends of the shirt garters to the ends of a dress shirt and the top of the socks. Use two garters for each leg. The elastic should be able to stretch tightly enough to hold the shirt down but not so tight that the garters are uncomfortable. Adjust the slide or trim the length of the elastic as necessary.
6. Stitch the bottom set of garter clips in place. Sew straight across in two lines for reinforcement.
Tags: length elastic, each length, each length elastic, elastic through, available most, available most fabric
While cleaning a motorcycle helmet's visor or face shield would appear as easy as simply wiping it down with a rag, special care must be taken to avoid damaging the coatings that protect the visor from scratches and condensation. This is especially true for the inner surface of the visor, which most helmet manufacturers coat with a special anti-fogging chemical. When done properly, cleaning a helmet's visor should only take a few minutes, but it is time well spent to provide clear vision at all times.
Instructions
1. Wet a paper towel with warm warm and place it over the outer surface of the visor. Allow the visor to soak under the paper towel, loosening the dirt and debris from its surface.
2. Remove the paper towel from the visor. Gently wipe the surface of the visor using a second moistened paper towel.
3. Apply warm water and mild soap to the inner surface of the visor. Rinse the visor with warm water, and pat it dry with a paper towel.
4. Spray the outer surface of the visor lightly with a high-quality plastic polish. Wipe the polish dry using a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the visor.
Riding a motorcycle can be a fun adventure. A motorcycle can also save you a lot of fuel for commuting to work or taking a vacation. When choosing which motorcycle , you need to know what size fits you. The size of the engine is not nearly as important as the overall size of the motorcycle itself. Let's take a look at what you need to know to decide if the overall size of the motorcycle fits your size.
Instructions
Pick The Right Size Motorcycle
1. The best way to determine what size of a motorcycle will work for you, is hands on. If you're just in the "browsing" stage of getting a motorcycle, find a dealer that will allow you to "try one on for size." Most motorcycle dealers are very good about letting potential customers try out their motorcycles, and will offer assistance and tips, to help you decide on the right motorcycle for you. If you're looking in the private sector, you still need to know all of the basic "fit" tips. Gather a friend and go browsing.
2. The first thing you'll want to do, is sit on the motorcycle. Hold the motorcycle up and step across to straddle the seat. You should be able to have both feet firmly planted on the ground. If you need to lean to either side to reach the ground, the motorcycle is too tall. This one is not a good choice for you, as it will neither be safe nor comfortable. If both feet are on the ground and you feel comfortable, we'll move on.
3. Sit on the motorcycle seat and reach out to hold both hand rests on the handle bars. This should be a comfortable reach for you. If you have to stretch way out to reach them, this motorcycle won't work for you. Neither do you want the handlebars so close that your arms are bent in awkwardly. Reach out to pull the clutch and brake levers on the handlebars. Your thumb should remain locked around the handle bar grip. Reach and pull back with your 4 fingers. You should be able to do this smoothly and quickly. You will probably spend many miles in this position, so you need to be comfortable.
4. Make sure the motorcycle is on the belly stand for support. Now, rest your feet on the pegs, or running boards. Make sure that this feels comfortable to you. You don't want your knees to be up in the handle bars. This can be a problem for very tall people! Now, reach your feet towards the shift lever and brake lever on either side. Is this a comfortable move, or are you stretched out to reach them? If all of this seems to small or close together for you, you may need to find a larger sized bike.
5. Once you've found the perfect motorcycle that feels comfortable from all of the different positions, go ahead and sit on it for awhile. Make sure it still feels comfortable for you. Work the kickstand up and down to make sure you can accomplish this easily, both on and off the bike. Safety and comfort are the two most important things you need to consider when riding a motorcycle.
Tags: feels comfortable, Make sure, need know, bars This, both feet, comfortable move
Wholesale mechanic tools can be found at a number of online stores.
Purchasing mechanic tools wholesale is a way to save yourself some valuable time and money. Several tool supply companies offer brand name products at wholesale pricing as a way to entice professional and amateur handymen to purchase their products. Additionally, many of these wholesale dealers offer online shops that add to the convenience of shopping for tools.
Master Wholesale, Inc.
Master Wholesale, Inc. has been in the wholesale tool business since the early 1900's, and began selling their products online in 1995, according to Master Wholesale. The company claims to provide the best prices and availability for any job, no matter how big or small. They offer brand name mechanic tools by companies such as Allied, Grey Pneumatic, Fuller and Champion at discount prices, and often times run various specials and closeout pricing on certain inventory, according to Master Wholesale. Online shopping with Master Wholesale is convenient as well, featuring easy to navigate web pages and free shipping on most orders.
Master Wholesale, Inc.
P.O. Box 80844
Seattle, WA 98108
800-938-7925
masterwholesale.com
Mechanics Tool Supply
Mechanics Tool Supply was established in 1991 with the goal of supplying professional quality commercial, industrial and automotive tools at discount prices, according to Mechanics Tool Supply. Brand name tools sold at low prices and quick service are what the company claims you will receive when shopping with them. Mechanics Tool Supply sells wholesale automotive and truck mechanics tools, mechanics body shop tools and mechanics hand tools from companies like OTC, Grey Pneumatic and GP socket, according to Mechanics Tool Supply.
Mechanics Tool Supply
879 Joliet Street, #324
Dyer, IN 46311
888-987-4853
mechanicstoolsupply.com
Tool Discounter
Tool Discounter is an online wholesale mechanic tool company that specializes in automotive and truck equipment, tools and supplies. According to Tool Discounter, their customers receive tremendous discounts due to their ability to by direct from the manufacturer, and thereby pass the savings on to the customer. Tool Discounter offers weekly specials and is proud of their customer service team who can answer questions via email, fax or phone, according to Tool Discounter.
Most motorcycles do not ship with the sort of loud exhaust with which brands such as Harley-Davidson have become synonymous. Yet "loud pipes save lives" has become a common phrase used in the motorcycle community, where often the exhaust note of a motorcycle is louder and more attention-grabbing than the horn that comes standard with the bike. This loud exhaust tone is the result of a simple operation you can perform at home with some basic tools, making your ride louder and more worry-free as you attract the attention of motorists and other motorcyclists on the road.
Instructions
1. Use your owner's manual to locate the bolts that mount the exhaust to the frame and cylinder head of the motorcycle. Every bike is different in this regard.
2. Set your motorcycle on its kickstand so it will not fall over while you are working on it.
3. Remove the exhaust system from the motorcycle by removing the exhaust mounting bolts with a combination or socket wrench.
4. Cover your vise or metalwork stand with shop rags, paper towels or another soft material to keep the chrome surface of the exhaust safe from scratches and dents. Clamp the exhaust in the vise or stand.
5. Install a metal-cutting drill bit 3/8 or 1/2 inch in size onto your hand-held drill. Drill through the first baffle on the inside of the muffler then the second. Do not drill through all of the exhaust baffles or the compression of the engine will suffer, requiring a carburetor rejet.
6. Remove any metal shavings or pieces from the end of the muffler. Use a combination or socket wrench to reattach the exhaust to the motorcycle frame and cylinder head. Be sure all bolts are tightened to the torque specifications found in your owner's manual, then start up the bike and listen to your new, low and loud exhaust.
Tags: loud exhaust, Baffles From, Baffles From Softail, combination socket, combination socket wrench, cylinder head
Ultimate Motorcycling online describes the Harley Davidson Night Rod as a "gunfighter for the road," a bike with modern street attitude. With a powerful V-twin engine, strong steel chassis, modern suspension system and triple-disc brakes, this bike offers performance and power, according to Motorcycle Advice USA's website. Motorcycle.com rates the 2010 Harley-Davidson VRSC Night Rod Special number 21 out of 58 2010 sport bikes.
Engine
The Harley Davidson Night Rod is powered by a liquid-cooled Revolution V-twin engine. It is rubber-mounted. The Night Rod engine has two cylinders and offers 122 horsepower at 8,250 rpms and 85 foot-pounds at 7,000 rpms of torque. The fuel capacity is five gallons. This bike has a manual five-speed transmission. Its EPA mileage is 34 urban mpg and 42 highway mpg. Harley Davidson recommends premium gasoline.
Exterior Features
The Night Rod has a steel black frame with bolt-on lower frame and hydro-formed main rails. The power train is black and powder-coated with black covers. Harley Davidson chose a stainless steel low-rise drag-style handlebar for the Night Rod. The Night Rod has three two-tone color options: vivid black and mirage orange with pearl racing stripe, black denim and brilliant silver with denim racing strip, and vivid black and brilliant silver with pearl racing stripe.
Wheels, Tires and Brakes
The Night Rod rides on Dunlop tires. The wheels are slotted-disc cast-aluminum and have an orange pinstripe. The front brake is a dual hydraulic disc, and the rear brake is a hydraulic disc. Telescopic-fork front suspension and twin-sided swing-arm rear suspension make for a smooth ride.
Electrical
The Harley Davidson Night Rod comes with a 12-volt battery that provides 19 amps per hour. The bike's headlamp uses quartz halogens lights, 55 watts for the low beam and 60 watts for the high beam. Stop lights and taillights use reflector optics, and the turn signals are self-canceling. The Night Rod comes with indicator lamps for low oil pressure, turn signals, high beam, neutral, low fuel warnings, engine diagnostics, coolant temperature--and also for the optional security system.
Key Features
Night Rod's distinguishing features include a race-bred assist and slip clutch, Brembo triple-disc brakes, reflector-optic headlight, 240mm wide rear tire, and forward-mounted controls and foot-pegs. Under its seat, this bike has an electric power accessory connector. Optional safety features include Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Harley-Davidson Smart Security System. The alarm system comes with hands-free security fob.
Polishing motorcycle chrome can be a long and daunting task, this article will go over a few tips to make chrome polishing a bit easier.
Instructions
1. Purchase a high quality chrome polish such as meguiars , mothers, or turtle wax chrome polish. Meguiars , mothers , and turtle wax can be found at your local autozone or advance auto stores.
2. Before you apply the chrome polish be sure to clean it with soap and water and remove any dirt or oil. You can also find cleaning supplies at autozone or advance auto stores in your area.
3. Apply the chrome polish to a rag and work at small areas at a time. Use small circular motions to apply the chrome polish and then wipe it off with a clean rag.
4. For polishing chrome spokes and other small parts you can use a dremel tool with polishing wheels, ( also available at auto zone and advance auto )
5. For polishing chrome in hard to reach areas you can place a rag over a flat tip screw driver and apply the chrome polish to the tip, be sure that the screw driver does not tear through the rag and scratch your chrome. ( i will sometimes use a plastic butter knife instead of a screwdriver )
Tags: chrome polish, advance auto, apply chrome polish, advance auto stores, apply chrome, auto stores
Pet stores like Petsmart and Petco carry an array of clothing types including jackets, T-shirts, Harley-Davidson leather clothes, sweaters, shoes, socks, pajamas, tank tops and muscle shirts. Clothing prices and sizes often vary greatly. Wearing pet clothes can help your pet’s self-esteem and make him feel that he is a member of the family. Read on to learn shop for pet clothes.
Instructions
1. Measure your pet’s size. You may also be able to find your pet’s size by having your pet try on the garment while in the pet store. Most major pet store chains allow pets to be in their stores as long as they are leashed.
2. Browse the available clothes either online or while in the pet store. If you live in a cold climate, be sure that the garment will protect him from the cold.
3. Shop online but be sure that the garment you want is available in the correct size before ordering. Major pet store chains like Petco and PetSmart have websites and you can order pet clothes online.
4. Try the article of clothing on your pet. Make sure that you only put clothes on that won’t be too hot for him to wear. Also, make sure that your pet will still be able to go to the bathroom with the garment on.
5. Pay for your purchase. Most online pet stores accept credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa cards for purchases. If ordering online, be prepared to pay shipping charges.
6. Receive your garment in the mail or other method of delivery if you have placed an online order. You can now put the garment on your pet and let your pet show off his new clothes.
Tags: sure that, garment your, store chains, sure that garment, that garment
The battery in your Harley-Davidson Road King will fail eventually, especially after a long period of inactivity. Getting the old battery out is the first step in getting back on the road, but removing it in the first place can seem tricky. Most Harley-Davidson models house their batteries on the side of their frames. The Road King, however, conceals its battery under the seat. Removing the battery is straightforward, something you can do in a few minutes.
Instructions
1. Unscrew the bolt securing the passenger seat to the Road King's rear fender, using a Phillips screwdriver. Lift the passenger seat upward slightly, then pull it away from the rider's seat.
2. Unscrew the nuts from the back of the rider's seat, using a 1/2-inch socket. Lift the rider's seat upward slightly and pull it away from the gas tank.
3. Unscrew the battery clamp bolt, using a Torx driver.
4. Unscrew the terminal bolt connecting the black cable to the battery's negative terminal, using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the black cable away from the battery and the Road King's frame.
5. Unscrew the terminal bolt connecting the red cable to the battery's positive terminal, using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the red cable away from the battery.