Omega Debuts Platinum Link A/V Cables - Marketnews.ca Specifically designed for multi-room use, Aaron's ZA100 stereo amplifier delivers 50 . ... Review: Logitech Z-10 speakers sweeten PC music feed - Sci Fi Tech ... industry for wireless hi-def AV streaming technology, eliminating cables ...
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Thursday, November 09, 2006
Custom Modification Center for Cobra Cars
America's Greatest Living Car Designer BusinessWeek - USA... The 260/289 Cobra, which he designed and built, was the fastest car on earth ... is launching a line of performance parts and opening a custom modification center. ...
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Pros and Cons of Modifying Your Car
Toyota Wish Hijacked! Conclusion, it's good to spend money to modify your car, at least. Make your car unique so that when you make a report, it's easier for the police to trace. Yes, I admit that sometimes, too much modification is against the law, ...
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Thursday, July 20, 2006
The Budget way to modifying your Car
By Bobby Leong Best Modified BMW
MORE with LESS--The cheapest way to get the most out of your car.
Many car owners modify their cars to create that special car that is totally unique to them. Some has much to splash on their new or used car to upgrade the look or performance, some wish for the same thing but has limited budget. This guide is dedicated to those who want to create a special car on a budget and for those who do not wish to spend too much on their car as they have other priorities in life. With this guide, I want to show how to get the most out of your car with maximum impact with limited budget. This guide is based on the popular BMW 3 series E36 but it can be adapted to all makes of cars.
STEP 0! - Face Lift!
Before you go into any modifications, you may want to start to facelift your BMW to the latest specifications according to your car series. Check out what type of face lifts are available for your car... You may consider white indicators, new grille, new badge etc.
STEP 1 - Colour-Code Bumpers
The first step to creating an attractive BMW is to colour-code your bumper/spoiler for cars that do not come with colour-coded bumpers as standard. Colour-coded bumpers make the car look fuller, lower and much more pleasing to the eye. There is nothing less attractive than a BMW with such attractive colours but has a grey underside (bumpers). Especially if you have a light colour car, you will find huge improvements to the look of your car just by colour-coding your bumpers. However, if you are thinking of changing your spoilers in the very near future, skip this step to save you the cost of painting. (many new cars post 2000 already come with colour coded bumpers as standard hence this step will not be necessary)
STEP 2 - Lowering springs
Lowering the car is the second step to any modification. Even a car without any body kit on can look mean and cool with colour-coded bumpers and a set of lowering springs. They will improve both the look of the car as well as the handling! You don't have to change the dampers or suspension kits if you are on a budget, springs will do the trick. But be careful not to go TOO low or your car will become a lawn mower!
STEP 3 - Exhaust System
Exhaust system is next on the list. It makes the rear end much more mean and sound the part too! especially with twin DTM-pipes. Those BMW cars with single tailpipe can upgrade to twin tailpipes which will certainly gain you credits. Those BMW that already has twin tailpipes may consider 2x twin tailpipes! A full exhaust system should also improve performance by about 5-10bhp. So you get style plus performance for your BMW!
STEP 4 - Alloy Wheels
Alloy wheels are certainly the most visual changes you will find on any car. It will change the whole look of your BMW. The only reason it is in step four is because there is no point having large alloys that sits high above the ground. Different types of wheels will create a different look. Personally, I think five-spokes alloys look best. It provides both better cooling for the brakes as well as showing off your brake discs (if you fit large ones). Some people judges the performance of your car by the size of your brake discs as you need them to stop your fast BMW car! Fitting larger alloys enable you to fit wider tyres for better grip. There are a large number of designs and offsets to choose from, so choose wisely! Don't go oversized! You want to keep your BMW as the ultimate driving machine not just a showing machine.
Step 5 - Body kits
When you reach this stage, you have spent quite a lot and you will not stop spending until you have created your ultimate car. There are many body kits to choose from (see Modified BMW gallery for more details). The first step could simply be to add a rear boot spoiler for the added special touch. Rear boot spoiler is the most visible body kit. If you want to go further, buy a full kit (front and rear spoilers, side skirts and rear wing). Although you could mix and match kits from different manufacturers, it is always advisable to go for the set as some manufacturers design their kit to compliment one another, air flow through the car will also have been considered in the design of the kit.
STEP 6 - ACCESSORIES + UNLIMITED
As you have carried out the five basic steps to modifying your BMW, you should by now have created a very unique BMW. However, you may want more and I can tell you that there are many more things you can do to your BMW and they are unlimited, from interior upgrades, sound system upgrades to engine upgrades and even body kit upgrades. Check out Extreme BMW modifications for extreme body kit in www.bobmodifiedbmw.com
However, I would do it in the order mentioned above, but you may have different views on that. People who like fast cars will certainly upgrade their engines and the interior and the sound department is usually ignored as they only add weight to the car and slow the car down. However, if you want comfort out of your BMW, then by all means upgrade your interior and sound system.
In conclusion, before you go about spending your hard earned cash to modifying your BMW car, plan well, set a budget and use the steps laid out here as your guide to modifying your BMW car. You may want to check out the visual effects of modifying your BMW car in www.bobmodifiedbmw.com.
About the Author
Bobby Leong is a modified car enthusiast with wide experience in car modifications. His modified BMW M3 was featured in 3 publications. Check out his website #1 World's BEST modified BMW at www.bobmodifiedbmw.com for more tips and modified BMW photos.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
How to TURBOCHARGE Your Car?
For most of us, we just leave the dirty job to the car mechanic. But the geek and car enthusiasts, the best thing to do with a car is to modify the body, upgrade the shocks and most of all tweak the engine for the best performance. Here's a list of sites that i recommend to help you do your own engine tweaks like TURBOCHARGING or SUPERCHARGING to boost engine performance and fuel effeciency.
Overboost.com - Do It Yourself Turbocharging Part 1 At this point, you reach the two most important questions involved with turbocharging.1) How do I get a turbo attached to my car and 2) how do I provide ...
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Howstuffworks "How Turbochargers Work" A turbo can significantly boost an engine's horsepower without significantly ...What's the wildest car model you've ever seen get the turbo treatment? ...
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Turbocharging the Mitsubishi/Chrysler 3.0 V-6 Engine Turbocharging the Mitsubishi / Chrysler 3.0 Liter V-6 Engine ... Chrysler hasmade more turbo cars than anyone, and that takes the attention of many looking ...
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Turbocharger - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Here exists one of the negative consequences of turbocharging, the increase ...This is because in petrol cars exhaust temperatures are much higher (than in ...
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Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Cars - Buyers' Guide WRX: Subaru commemorates its trophy-collecting rally cars by producing sedan and... Baja Turbo gets the 2.5-liter boxer four, where turbo-charging boosts ...
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Racerchicks.com: Automotive Q & A - Should You Turbo Charge or ... A little more detail on turbo charging/ supercharging VS normally aspiration ...Exhaust headers for turbo race cars are made from high alloy nickel steels ...
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Ray Hall Turbocharging - Turbocharged cars Ray Hall Turbocharging: Main page, Turbocharger kits, parts, fuel injection andjava turbo calculator applets.
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Amazon.com: Supercharging, Turbocharging and Nitrous Oxide ... This book presents an overview of Supercharging, Turbocharging and Nitrous ...Learn how to make your car faster · Learn how to make your car faster: A list ...
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PTC Express: Turbo-charging Your Everyday Engine Turbo-charging Your Everyday Engine. Albert Raczynski loves cars – he loves racingthem, designing them, and fixing them. He is a mechanical engineering ...
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Turbo Kits.com Frequently Asked Questions The kits do come complete with everything you need to turbo charge your car andall necessary components are included. Unless otherwise noted. ...
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Turbo tuning and Turbocharging your car A site that explains all about different tuning methods for road and race cars.
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Overboost.com - Do It Yourself Turbocharging Part 1 At this point, you reach the two most important questions involved with turbocharging.1) How do I get a turbo attached to my car and 2) how do I provide ...
more>
Howstuffworks "How Turbochargers Work" A turbo can significantly boost an engine's horsepower without significantly ...What's the wildest car model you've ever seen get the turbo treatment? ...
more>
Turbocharging the Mitsubishi/Chrysler 3.0 V-6 Engine Turbocharging the Mitsubishi / Chrysler 3.0 Liter V-6 Engine ... Chrysler hasmade more turbo cars than anyone, and that takes the attention of many looking ...
more>
Turbocharger - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Here exists one of the negative consequences of turbocharging, the increase ...This is because in petrol cars exhaust temperatures are much higher (than in ...
more>
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Cars - Buyers' Guide WRX: Subaru commemorates its trophy-collecting rally cars by producing sedan and... Baja Turbo gets the 2.5-liter boxer four, where turbo-charging boosts ...
more>
Racerchicks.com: Automotive Q & A - Should You Turbo Charge or ... A little more detail on turbo charging/ supercharging VS normally aspiration ...Exhaust headers for turbo race cars are made from high alloy nickel steels ...
more>
Ray Hall Turbocharging - Turbocharged cars Ray Hall Turbocharging: Main page, Turbocharger kits, parts, fuel injection andjava turbo calculator applets.
more>
Amazon.com: Supercharging, Turbocharging and Nitrous Oxide ... This book presents an overview of Supercharging, Turbocharging and Nitrous ...Learn how to make your car faster · Learn how to make your car faster: A list ...
more>
PTC Express: Turbo-charging Your Everyday Engine Turbo-charging Your Everyday Engine. Albert Raczynski loves cars – he loves racingthem, designing them, and fixing them. He is a mechanical engineering ...
more>
Turbo Kits.com Frequently Asked Questions The kits do come complete with everything you need to turbo charge your car andall necessary components are included. Unless otherwise noted. ...
more>
Turbo tuning and Turbocharging your car A site that explains all about different tuning methods for road and race cars.
more>
Friday, June 16, 2006
500 Auto Accessories!
by Matthew C. Keegan
An almost endless supply and variety of aftermarket parts and accessories are available for your vehicle. Who can you thank for this, the Beach Boys? Yeah, little deuce coupe...
The auto accessories market is experiencing explosive growth thanks to the ever increasing number of new vehicle models being marketed all across North America. For more than fifty years consumers have been the chief benefactors of this unrelenting growth and the selection for you has never been better. Let's take a look at some of the many automobile accessories available to auto enthusiasts like you and how you can get your hands on what you want!
By definition, automobile accessories are those items [including parts] that do not come with your vehicle. Yes, in some cases you can purchase a fully accessorized vehicle, but for the sake of clarity I am defining auto accessories as aftermarket purchases only.
Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, the accessories available for it will vary. The more popular the model, the more likely that someone, somewhere is making custom fitted accessories for it. Indeed, America's most popular vehicle - Ford's full size pick up trucks - have more than 500 different types of accessories made especially for that truck. These accessories come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and ultimately number in the many thousands of different items when calculated separately.
The following are just some of the many accessories available to owners of Ford's F-150 pick up truck: air deflector, air scoop, bed extender, bed rail cap, bed rails, bed wing, body armor, body kit, brake light cover, bug shield, bumper, bumper cover, bumper guard, bumper mounting kit, bumper trim, cab spoilers, car wash supplies, cargo rack, door handle, door handle cover, door panel, door sill, fender flares, fender molding, front bed cap, front bed protector, front spoiler, fuel door, graphics, grille, grille guard, grille insert, grille shell, header panel, headlight covers, headlight trim, hood hinge, hood protector, hood scoop,mirror,mirror cover, mud flaps, nerf bar mounting kit, nerf bars, push bar, rear window protector, roll pan, roof rack, roof rails, running board mounting kit, running boards, running side box board, side molding, side skirts, side step, skid plate, spoiler, sport tubes, sun shield, tail light covers, tail light guard, tailgate, tailgate cable, tailgate cap, tailgate cover, tailgate handle, tailgate handle cover, tailgate handle relocator, tailgate net, tailgate protector, tailgate spoiler, truck bed rack, truck bed side rail, valance, vent visor, visor, wheel well trim, window covers, windshield wiper, wiper cowls.
As you can see the list is quite lengthy! Staggering better describes the market.
So, how did this whole business get started? Well, for the most part we have California to thank, particularly southern California. While New Jersey gave the world the turnpike and the parkway, the Golden State brought us freeways and a beach culture popularized by such groups as the Beach Boys, who sang about cars, girls, and the youth lifestyle. Sand, surf, girls, and driving go together, so if you are going to be in your car for a long time you might as well make it comfortable and personalize it, right? Thus, companies like Covercraft got started, specializing in car covers, while other companies were launched specializing in the building or modifying of entire cars, like Saleen.
Yes, your choices for auto accessories are simply fantastic: you can outfit your car the way you want it to look by giving it your personal touch well beyond what the automaker had in mind. Hey, this is America: the land of freedom and individuality. Accessorize your car today!
About the Author
Copyright 2006 - Matt Keegan is The Auto Writer covering topics from replacement auto parts to car reviews. For discount auto accessories including quality Ventshade products and Husky liners, shop
An almost endless supply and variety of aftermarket parts and accessories are available for your vehicle. Who can you thank for this, the Beach Boys? Yeah, little deuce coupe...
The auto accessories market is experiencing explosive growth thanks to the ever increasing number of new vehicle models being marketed all across North America. For more than fifty years consumers have been the chief benefactors of this unrelenting growth and the selection for you has never been better. Let's take a look at some of the many automobile accessories available to auto enthusiasts like you and how you can get your hands on what you want!
By definition, automobile accessories are those items [including parts] that do not come with your vehicle. Yes, in some cases you can purchase a fully accessorized vehicle, but for the sake of clarity I am defining auto accessories as aftermarket purchases only.
Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, the accessories available for it will vary. The more popular the model, the more likely that someone, somewhere is making custom fitted accessories for it. Indeed, America's most popular vehicle - Ford's full size pick up trucks - have more than 500 different types of accessories made especially for that truck. These accessories come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and ultimately number in the many thousands of different items when calculated separately.
The following are just some of the many accessories available to owners of Ford's F-150 pick up truck: air deflector, air scoop, bed extender, bed rail cap, bed rails, bed wing, body armor, body kit, brake light cover, bug shield, bumper, bumper cover, bumper guard, bumper mounting kit, bumper trim, cab spoilers, car wash supplies, cargo rack, door handle, door handle cover, door panel, door sill, fender flares, fender molding, front bed cap, front bed protector, front spoiler, fuel door, graphics, grille, grille guard, grille insert, grille shell, header panel, headlight covers, headlight trim, hood hinge, hood protector, hood scoop,mirror,mirror cover, mud flaps, nerf bar mounting kit, nerf bars, push bar, rear window protector, roll pan, roof rack, roof rails, running board mounting kit, running boards, running side box board, side molding, side skirts, side step, skid plate, spoiler, sport tubes, sun shield, tail light covers, tail light guard, tailgate, tailgate cable, tailgate cap, tailgate cover, tailgate handle, tailgate handle cover, tailgate handle relocator, tailgate net, tailgate protector, tailgate spoiler, truck bed rack, truck bed side rail, valance, vent visor, visor, wheel well trim, window covers, windshield wiper, wiper cowls.
As you can see the list is quite lengthy! Staggering better describes the market.
So, how did this whole business get started? Well, for the most part we have California to thank, particularly southern California. While New Jersey gave the world the turnpike and the parkway, the Golden State brought us freeways and a beach culture popularized by such groups as the Beach Boys, who sang about cars, girls, and the youth lifestyle. Sand, surf, girls, and driving go together, so if you are going to be in your car for a long time you might as well make it comfortable and personalize it, right? Thus, companies like Covercraft got started, specializing in car covers, while other companies were launched specializing in the building or modifying of entire cars, like Saleen.
Yes, your choices for auto accessories are simply fantastic: you can outfit your car the way you want it to look by giving it your personal touch well beyond what the automaker had in mind. Hey, this is America: the land of freedom and individuality. Accessorize your car today!
About the Author
Copyright 2006 - Matt Keegan is The Auto Writer covering topics from replacement auto parts to car reviews. For discount auto accessories including quality Ventshade products and Husky liners, shop
Body Kits to Spruce Up Your Car
by Charles Kassotis
Many people want to be able to add cool effects to their cars. The problem, however, is that they can be pricey to have installed. This is where body kits come in. Even though you will likely need to go to a shop to have some of the parts properly installed, buying a body kit online can save you a great deal of money over all.
Body kits are the accessories that make your car cool. Things like spoilers, ground effects, wheels, LED lights, and other neat things that you can put on your car come in body kits. Some kits are pre-assembled, and you can browse pre-configured kits to decide what you want. It is also possible on some Web sites to put together your own custom body kit, choosing the particular parts and effects that you want. Then you can order, and have the car body kit shipped directly to you.
Car body kits are usually organized according to the type of car you have. Body kits are usually customized to make and model, as there are specific ways that the parts need to fit on different cars. Many people like to buy the stock model of a more expensive car, like an Acura, BMW, or some other car. Then it is possible to buy the body kit for that make and model, and then soup it up. This often costs less than buying the souped up model at the dealership. And with car body kits it is possible to improve the look of less expensive cars. You can add a sporty look to a Honda, Toyota, or even a Ford or Mercury make with the help of a body kit.
Most body kits are built so that you can put it together yourself, although the process is not a particularly easy one. However, it is often a good idea to go to a shop for some help, especially if the kit calls for some alterations to things like bars and some of the supports. Also note that most car body kits come without color. You will have to have it painted to match your car. There are some people with the experience and knowledge to paint their own body kit parts, but most people will not be able to get a good coat covering. Having the body kit properly painted can be helpful and ensure that your car looks right.
If you are going to assemble your car body kit yourself, it is important to test for the proper fit. Test fit all of your pieces before you do anything like prep and paint the parts, and certainly before you adequately secure them. Most body kits sellers will not allow you to return parts that have been prepped, painted, or drilled. Most will not even allow you credit or an exchange. It is extremely important to make sure that you have the proper parts, and that you know where they go, before you start doing any actual work.
About the Author
For more information on body kits and the different makes and models of cars that you can purchase kits for, visit The Body Kit Info
Many people want to be able to add cool effects to their cars. The problem, however, is that they can be pricey to have installed. This is where body kits come in. Even though you will likely need to go to a shop to have some of the parts properly installed, buying a body kit online can save you a great deal of money over all.
Body kits are the accessories that make your car cool. Things like spoilers, ground effects, wheels, LED lights, and other neat things that you can put on your car come in body kits. Some kits are pre-assembled, and you can browse pre-configured kits to decide what you want. It is also possible on some Web sites to put together your own custom body kit, choosing the particular parts and effects that you want. Then you can order, and have the car body kit shipped directly to you.
Car body kits are usually organized according to the type of car you have. Body kits are usually customized to make and model, as there are specific ways that the parts need to fit on different cars. Many people like to buy the stock model of a more expensive car, like an Acura, BMW, or some other car. Then it is possible to buy the body kit for that make and model, and then soup it up. This often costs less than buying the souped up model at the dealership. And with car body kits it is possible to improve the look of less expensive cars. You can add a sporty look to a Honda, Toyota, or even a Ford or Mercury make with the help of a body kit.
Most body kits are built so that you can put it together yourself, although the process is not a particularly easy one. However, it is often a good idea to go to a shop for some help, especially if the kit calls for some alterations to things like bars and some of the supports. Also note that most car body kits come without color. You will have to have it painted to match your car. There are some people with the experience and knowledge to paint their own body kit parts, but most people will not be able to get a good coat covering. Having the body kit properly painted can be helpful and ensure that your car looks right.
If you are going to assemble your car body kit yourself, it is important to test for the proper fit. Test fit all of your pieces before you do anything like prep and paint the parts, and certainly before you adequately secure them. Most body kits sellers will not allow you to return parts that have been prepped, painted, or drilled. Most will not even allow you credit or an exchange. It is extremely important to make sure that you have the proper parts, and that you know where they go, before you start doing any actual work.
About the Author
For more information on body kits and the different makes and models of cars that you can purchase kits for, visit The Body Kit Info
Car Bras For New Fashion
by Chris Andretti
Anytime you hit the road, your vehicle faces rocks, debris, bugs and many other enemies that are waiting to lay waste to your hood and grille. Safeguard your sensitive leading-end paint with a car bra, sometimes known as a car mask or front end mask, to:
- Preserve like-new paint
- Ensure resale value
- Eliminate worry from dings and dents
- Sport classic race-inspired looks that virtually scream speed
A guide to protecting your paint with a car bra
Your vehicle's front end is confronted by a barrage of attackers every day. Whether it's tire-tossed rocks, flying debris or exploding bugs, your paint ends up bearing the brunt of your commute. The results can be distressing: dings in your grille detail, chipping of your paint layers, and evil scratches. Not only are they unsightly, these damage marks also invite rust underneath your paint.
To stop this process, car bras employ thick vinyl material for deflecting these airborne adversaries away from your vehicle's finish. Small dings and scratches can't get through your car bra's outer layer, leaving your paint pristine.
Car bras protect your finish underneath the vinyl layer, too. They employ soft, paint-safe linings that pamper your vehicle and complete the network of protection over your front end. When installed properly, the quality protective outer layer, soft inner lining and custom-tailored fit ensure perfect front-end paint condition. You get like-new looks, boosted resale value and extra satisfaction with your vehicle.
Each type of car bra has its own unique set of upsides to choose from:
Full front end car bras
The original bra design is still overwhelmingly popular with today's cars, trucks, SUVs, vans and minivans.
These bras offer complete shielding for your vehicle's front end and look great, too. They employ separate pieces for the hood and grille/bumper sections of the bra, allowing full engine compartment access. Plus, they're designed to accommodate whatever factory air dams, pop-up headlights and driving/fog lamps your vehicle uses.
Sport bras
Same paint-protecting concept in a smaller-scale version. Sport bras like the Lebra car bra fit just the leading end of the hood of your vehicle, stopping paint damage in the most commonly attacked area. The popular feature of sport bras is they allow the original looks of your vehicle to show through. And, they feature the same custom-tailored crafting as a full front end bra.
T-style bras
Designed from the same concept as sport bras, T-style bras stand guard over the larger hoods of trucks, SUVs, vans and minivans. Because these autos have raised hoods and significantly more vulnerable paint, T-style bras cover the leading edge and the center of the hood, stretching from front to back. They attach in much the same way as a sport bra and allow full hood access.
How much of your front end do you want to cover?
Each style and shape of car bra covers a different amount of the front end of your vehicle. The more paint your car bra covers, the more paint is protected. The less area the Colgan car bra covers, the more your vehicle's original looks can show through. It's all a matter of personal preference.
When you want to cover the most possible area of your vehicle's front end, select a full front end car bra If you want to protect the most vulnerable paint on your front end and still show the original looks of your vehicle, pick a sport bra To safeguard the exposed, sensitive hood of your truck, SUV, van or minivan, grab a T-style bra.
Although this might sound like more fashion information than the latest issue of Cosmopolitan, I'm convinced that car bras serve many purposes and will continue to be a hot dress-up item for vehicles in the future....:)
About the Author
Chris Andretti is a writer and aftermarket accessory specialist for AutoAnything.com. Visit their site for a car bra if you're looking for a Colgan car bra or a Lebra car bra.
Anytime you hit the road, your vehicle faces rocks, debris, bugs and many other enemies that are waiting to lay waste to your hood and grille. Safeguard your sensitive leading-end paint with a car bra, sometimes known as a car mask or front end mask, to:
- Preserve like-new paint
- Ensure resale value
- Eliminate worry from dings and dents
- Sport classic race-inspired looks that virtually scream speed
A guide to protecting your paint with a car bra
Your vehicle's front end is confronted by a barrage of attackers every day. Whether it's tire-tossed rocks, flying debris or exploding bugs, your paint ends up bearing the brunt of your commute. The results can be distressing: dings in your grille detail, chipping of your paint layers, and evil scratches. Not only are they unsightly, these damage marks also invite rust underneath your paint.
To stop this process, car bras employ thick vinyl material for deflecting these airborne adversaries away from your vehicle's finish. Small dings and scratches can't get through your car bra's outer layer, leaving your paint pristine.
Car bras protect your finish underneath the vinyl layer, too. They employ soft, paint-safe linings that pamper your vehicle and complete the network of protection over your front end. When installed properly, the quality protective outer layer, soft inner lining and custom-tailored fit ensure perfect front-end paint condition. You get like-new looks, boosted resale value and extra satisfaction with your vehicle.
Each type of car bra has its own unique set of upsides to choose from:
Full front end car bras
The original bra design is still overwhelmingly popular with today's cars, trucks, SUVs, vans and minivans.
These bras offer complete shielding for your vehicle's front end and look great, too. They employ separate pieces for the hood and grille/bumper sections of the bra, allowing full engine compartment access. Plus, they're designed to accommodate whatever factory air dams, pop-up headlights and driving/fog lamps your vehicle uses.
Sport bras
Same paint-protecting concept in a smaller-scale version. Sport bras like the Lebra car bra fit just the leading end of the hood of your vehicle, stopping paint damage in the most commonly attacked area. The popular feature of sport bras is they allow the original looks of your vehicle to show through. And, they feature the same custom-tailored crafting as a full front end bra.
T-style bras
Designed from the same concept as sport bras, T-style bras stand guard over the larger hoods of trucks, SUVs, vans and minivans. Because these autos have raised hoods and significantly more vulnerable paint, T-style bras cover the leading edge and the center of the hood, stretching from front to back. They attach in much the same way as a sport bra and allow full hood access.
How much of your front end do you want to cover?
Each style and shape of car bra covers a different amount of the front end of your vehicle. The more paint your car bra covers, the more paint is protected. The less area the Colgan car bra covers, the more your vehicle's original looks can show through. It's all a matter of personal preference.
When you want to cover the most possible area of your vehicle's front end, select a full front end car bra If you want to protect the most vulnerable paint on your front end and still show the original looks of your vehicle, pick a sport bra To safeguard the exposed, sensitive hood of your truck, SUV, van or minivan, grab a T-style bra.
Although this might sound like more fashion information than the latest issue of Cosmopolitan, I'm convinced that car bras serve many purposes and will continue to be a hot dress-up item for vehicles in the future....:)
About the Author
Chris Andretti is a writer and aftermarket accessory specialist for AutoAnything.com. Visit their site for a car bra if you're looking for a Colgan car bra or a Lebra car bra.
Exhaust X-Pipes For More Power
by Pat Stevens
Although X-pipes are essential for race cars, adding this modification to a stock car can be a good idea for many reasons - increased power, fuel economy and less noise inside the vehicle. This type of aftermarket performance part is something you can either purchase or have custom-made for you by a good muffler shop. Installation is simple enough for the at-home pro, and the result will be well worth the effort.
The Evolution of the X-Pipe
To understand the importance of the X-pipe in relation to improved performance and power, you have to know about its roots. The X-pipe is really the offspring of the H-pipe design, which was first conceived in the 1960s by the major American car manufacturing companies at the time. Duel exhaust pipes for V-8-powered vehicles are very noisy, as there is no sound wave cancellation between the 2 separate four-cylinder engines and unconnected exhaust systems. Engineers were looking for a way to cut down on interior noise levels and improve the engine's power. They realized that running a balance tube between the two branches of exhaust pipe would work to broaden the torque curve (thus improving engine performance) and dissipate sound resonance in the exhaust system.
In the 1990s improved technological advancements made it possible to construct an exhaust pipe that, instead of connecting by means of a balance pipe at a severe 90-degree angle, could unify the two branches of pipe to create a flow of exhaust in one direction.
Now X-pipes are being manufactured for popular performance cars, usually off-road versions minus catalytic converters, but you can also find them in legal models fully equipped with proper emissions equipment. Performing an X-pipe mod is an option that you should consider.
Why X over H?
It has been proven time and again that the X-pipe design is more efficient than the H-pipe. Various tests have shown that for multiple cylinder engines the X-pipe outperforms H-pipe exhaust systems, especially as rpm increases, providing both better torque and power. Unified exhaust pipes work most efficiently with multiple cylinders because of the scavenging effect. With exhaust X-pipes the almost seamless connection between the two exhaust pipes allows sequential firing cylinders to salvage any spent exhaust gases from the combustion chamber more efficiently and creates more room in the cylinder for a fresh intake of undiluted fuel and air. When you have two exhaust pipes, as the velocity in one header tube increases, the pressure in the adjacent tube is lowered causing the exhaust to be sucked out of that cylinder. X-pipes are simply better at doing the job, especially at higher speeds.
Installing Exhaust X-Pipes
This is a simple mod that almost anyone can perform successfully. Most companies produce exhaust X-pipes that are simple bolt-ons that can be installed in less than an hour using the usual hand tools.
If you own a vehicle that doesn't have an X-pipe available, it is possible to have a custom X-pipe assembled for you. A muffler shop can construct it by taking an X-pipe union and bending up some exhaust tubing until it fits. If you decide to make your own exhaust X-pipe from scratch, so-to-speak, remember to place the X-pipe union as close to the rear of the vehicle as you can to increase the power.
A Brief How-To
To install exhaust X-pipes, first begin by positioning the passenger-side header pipe in place and tightening it before moving on to the next step. Make sure it is secure. Now, fit in the actual X-pipe along with the driver's side header pipe. Remember that the long leg of the X must go toward the front driver's side of the car. Now it's time to fit the pipes of the X into position and loosely attach them to the after-cat system. You might have to adjust how the after-cat is hanging for proper tailpipe positioning and tuck up the X-pipe square. On some vehicles the tranny crossmember has an exhaust hangar - if this is the case you can tack the hardware onto the pipes. Tighten the bolts and tack-weld the junctions at the X. Check everything one more time before removing the X-pipe and welding the full length of the junctions. The assembled unit now needs to be bolted back into position - simple as that.
All in all, with exhaust X-pipes torque and power will increase resulting in fast acceleration, improved fuel economy and a nice quiet ride. The difference is noticeable with the installation of X-pipes on a V-8 engine vehicle - interior noise is reduced considerably because you don't hear the firing impulses of 2 four-cylinder engines, but instead hear the noise of all 8 cylinders blasting out of both pipes at once.
About the Author
Written by Pat Stevens sponsored by http://www.autopartswarehouse.com. The Auto Parts Warehouse offers 24h sales support & free shipping for orders over $50. Also, you'll find BMW auto parts here. Please link to us when using this article.
Although X-pipes are essential for race cars, adding this modification to a stock car can be a good idea for many reasons - increased power, fuel economy and less noise inside the vehicle. This type of aftermarket performance part is something you can either purchase or have custom-made for you by a good muffler shop. Installation is simple enough for the at-home pro, and the result will be well worth the effort.
The Evolution of the X-Pipe
To understand the importance of the X-pipe in relation to improved performance and power, you have to know about its roots. The X-pipe is really the offspring of the H-pipe design, which was first conceived in the 1960s by the major American car manufacturing companies at the time. Duel exhaust pipes for V-8-powered vehicles are very noisy, as there is no sound wave cancellation between the 2 separate four-cylinder engines and unconnected exhaust systems. Engineers were looking for a way to cut down on interior noise levels and improve the engine's power. They realized that running a balance tube between the two branches of exhaust pipe would work to broaden the torque curve (thus improving engine performance) and dissipate sound resonance in the exhaust system.
In the 1990s improved technological advancements made it possible to construct an exhaust pipe that, instead of connecting by means of a balance pipe at a severe 90-degree angle, could unify the two branches of pipe to create a flow of exhaust in one direction.
Now X-pipes are being manufactured for popular performance cars, usually off-road versions minus catalytic converters, but you can also find them in legal models fully equipped with proper emissions equipment. Performing an X-pipe mod is an option that you should consider.
Why X over H?
It has been proven time and again that the X-pipe design is more efficient than the H-pipe. Various tests have shown that for multiple cylinder engines the X-pipe outperforms H-pipe exhaust systems, especially as rpm increases, providing both better torque and power. Unified exhaust pipes work most efficiently with multiple cylinders because of the scavenging effect. With exhaust X-pipes the almost seamless connection between the two exhaust pipes allows sequential firing cylinders to salvage any spent exhaust gases from the combustion chamber more efficiently and creates more room in the cylinder for a fresh intake of undiluted fuel and air. When you have two exhaust pipes, as the velocity in one header tube increases, the pressure in the adjacent tube is lowered causing the exhaust to be sucked out of that cylinder. X-pipes are simply better at doing the job, especially at higher speeds.
Installing Exhaust X-Pipes
This is a simple mod that almost anyone can perform successfully. Most companies produce exhaust X-pipes that are simple bolt-ons that can be installed in less than an hour using the usual hand tools.
If you own a vehicle that doesn't have an X-pipe available, it is possible to have a custom X-pipe assembled for you. A muffler shop can construct it by taking an X-pipe union and bending up some exhaust tubing until it fits. If you decide to make your own exhaust X-pipe from scratch, so-to-speak, remember to place the X-pipe union as close to the rear of the vehicle as you can to increase the power.
A Brief How-To
To install exhaust X-pipes, first begin by positioning the passenger-side header pipe in place and tightening it before moving on to the next step. Make sure it is secure. Now, fit in the actual X-pipe along with the driver's side header pipe. Remember that the long leg of the X must go toward the front driver's side of the car. Now it's time to fit the pipes of the X into position and loosely attach them to the after-cat system. You might have to adjust how the after-cat is hanging for proper tailpipe positioning and tuck up the X-pipe square. On some vehicles the tranny crossmember has an exhaust hangar - if this is the case you can tack the hardware onto the pipes. Tighten the bolts and tack-weld the junctions at the X. Check everything one more time before removing the X-pipe and welding the full length of the junctions. The assembled unit now needs to be bolted back into position - simple as that.
All in all, with exhaust X-pipes torque and power will increase resulting in fast acceleration, improved fuel economy and a nice quiet ride. The difference is noticeable with the installation of X-pipes on a V-8 engine vehicle - interior noise is reduced considerably because you don't hear the firing impulses of 2 four-cylinder engines, but instead hear the noise of all 8 cylinders blasting out of both pipes at once.
About the Author
Written by Pat Stevens sponsored by http://www.autopartswarehouse.com. The Auto Parts Warehouse offers 24h sales support & free shipping for orders over $50. Also, you'll find BMW auto parts here. Please link to us when using this article.
Monday, March 13, 2006
Chrome Plating Fiberglass
by Jay Berentis
Fiberglass is quickly become the substrate of choice for custom car and car racing enthusiasts. Fiberglass has many advantages over using metal. Most notably are the weight issue and the ease of working with fiberglass. Fiberglass molds can be made for almost any automotive panel to lighten or customize. Older muscle cars or vintage vehicle that are no longer in production and racecars are the main market area that we see right now. The only problem with fiberglass is that you are limiting the types of finishes that can be placed over the substrate.
Fiberglass is quickly become the substrate of choice for custom car and car racing enthusiasts. Fiberglass has many advantages over using metal. Most notably are the weight issue and the ease of working with fiberglass. Fiberglass molds can be made for almost any automotive panel to lighten or customize. Older muscle cars or vintage vehicle that are no longer in production and racecars are the main market area that we see right now. The only problem with fiberglass is that you are limiting the types of finishes that can be placed over the substrate.
For most of the vehicle this is not a problem most automotive finishes are compatible with fiberglass. The problem comes with the accessories to the vehicle mainly the bumpers. Chromed metal bumpers add a large amount of weight seventy-five to one hundred and fifty pounds each. This added weight could cause some problems with cars that are primarily fiberglass. The fiberglass body may not support the added weight and cause stress cracks. If the vehicle is for racing the added weight can slow a vehicles track time.
Custom Coating Specialties has a new process XXX Chrome Plating that allows the coating of fiberglass bumpers and most any other substrate. It is called chemical metalizing. The process involves laying down a foundation coat on a part to achieve a truly smooth surface. Then a thin coating of metal is applied using a chemical reaction instead of the normal electrical process. The final step is to place an armor coating over the top. The finished process looks identical to chrome plating. Some of the advantages to this process are that any surface can be chromed and any imperfections in the piece can be fixed using standard automotive repair procedures. There is also an environmental benefit to using this process.
Chrome plating uses several extremely hazardous chemicals and is heavily regulated. Chemical metalizing produces a minimal amount of waste and is more environmental friendly. You can check out more on this process at www.chromeandpowdercoat.com
About the Author
Jay has been involved in the automotive industry for over fourteen years. Jay graduated from college with an associate's degree in automotive collision repair and refinishing. Jay worked in several high-end body shops before taking the position of manager at a GM dealership. Four years ago he started a custom coating shop specializing in coating for automotive and industrial applications(chrome, powder coat, ceramics, and liquid coatings)
About the Author
Jay has been involved in the automotive industry for over fourteen years. Jay graduated from college with an associate's degree in automotive collision repair and refinishing. Jay worked in several high-end body shops before taking the position of manager at a GM dealership. Four years ago he started a custom coating shop specializing in coating for automotive and industrial applications(chrome, powder coat, ceramics, and liquid coatings)
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Why Are Custom Cars Popular?
by: Matt Garrett
The flames from the silencer of the car burst out, as if the car would fly. The bright red spoiler adds to the glamour of the car. The blue light which throws itself beneath the car entices you to the top and the paint and stickers make you want that car. You probably would have imagined one of the best custom cars, by the time you read these lines. What do you think, why custom cars like these are so popular and people just can't stop making their cars like one of them? Why every time a customized car passes by you, your heart skips a beat? Think about it.
Well, the reason behind the popularity of custom cars can be many. But let us discuss some of the major reasons. One of the prominent and arguably the predominant reason behind custom cars is street car racing. The second reason behind the popularity of custom street cars is the craze and the love of people for their cars. They want to see their car and its performance in a completely new way and opt for customization according to their needs.
Let us discuss the street car racing concept which has led to the popularity of custom street cars. Car lovers love to flaunt their cars in speed and style. Street car racing is popular in many countries. They happen both legally and illegally and the business of illegal street car racing is much higher than the legal racing.
People buy normal cars from the market and then customize them according to the racing requirements. They concentrate on modifying engine, body and style. Engine customization is their priority. The famous nitro boosts are added to the engine to give drivers an added edge over the other racers when it comes to super fast acceleration at any point of time. Among other modification are the rpm boost, better exhaust, flame silencers, ignition system, and fuel intake system. When it comes to style, neon lightning, stickers , alloys, window graphics, spoilers and other parts give car a completely new look.
With enhanced acceleration, top speed and nitrous oxide support, a car is ready to zoom ahead in a race. These customizations make any car a speeding beauty. People get both style and power which they always wanted in their cars. Street racing would continue to be the driving force behind popularity of custom cars.
Another reason behind popularity of custom cars can be sheer looks and style. They want their car to look the best when they take it on to streets. Car lovers tend to customize their cars and turn them into fabulous machines. People paint their cars with vibrant colors; they change their bumpers and add many more features to them. They put on neon blue bulbs, stickers and stylish wiser and spoiler to add to the charisma of the car. The alloys and rim covers give cars an all together different look. Light accessories, license plate accessories, high volume deck, tinted windows panes make a car look awesome in its own kind.
So if you are bored with the looks and performance of your car, customize it applying your own creativity or give it to a customization company.
Muscle Cars & Cloning
by: David C. Atkin
With the quality of the workmanship on some of the muscle car clones, it's tough to know if your getting ripped off or taken advantage of, but you can still be smart about it, by learning about the car that you want to buy, getting ripped off will make you hateful and sour about the whole car industry, and it's not all of the industry that's trying to rip you off, just a small portion of the very weak ones.
Now if your looking at buying a classic cars you should learn all you can about the model that your buying, and learn about the person who's selling it, check out the car and be sure it's what it has been represented to you as being, get some references on the guy, or the company selling the car, first and foremost is that you know that the seller or his company is reputable.
You can do this by going to places like http://ussearch.com on the net, or the Better Business Bureau located at http://bbb.com on the net, or you could use a private investigator to find info about the seller and his business, your looking for info, like his criminal record, and from the bbb look for things like, has anybody got a complaint against his business at this time, and what are the complaints, a complaint can be frivolous and have no merit, look for the serious stuff.
Now as to the car it's self, this can be very tricky, you need to look at the vin number, and make sure that it claims that the car is what the person sell it said it was, on GM cars you also need to look at the rpo number, this number will tell you if the engine and transmission are the correct one for the car your buying, or if things have been changed, the rpo code must match what the vin plate says, you can also look at things like rear end tags and transmission tags. Use this desoder for GM & Mopar http://muscle-car-resto.com/vin .
On mopar products you need to look at this like the trim tag, usually located on the left inner fenderwell, you also need to look at the vin plate, this will tell you things like the make or manufacture of the car, the body style, the price class whitch is what the car was built for, what engine should be in the car, what assembly plant it was built at, look here for a mopar vin decoder http://muscle-car-resto.com/mopar-vin.html you'll want to match the vin up to the codes on the engine and transmission
For more info on these sujects check out our muscle car community, loated at Muscle car community .
About the Author
David C. Atkin owner of Red Line Restoration, I've been in the automotive business for about 20 years, and I love the old cars, and want to see them stay on the road.
With the quality of the workmanship on some of the muscle car clones, it's tough to know if your getting ripped off or taken advantage of, but you can still be smart about it, by learning about the car that you want to buy, getting ripped off will make you hateful and sour about the whole car industry, and it's not all of the industry that's trying to rip you off, just a small portion of the very weak ones.
Now if your looking at buying a classic cars you should learn all you can about the model that your buying, and learn about the person who's selling it, check out the car and be sure it's what it has been represented to you as being, get some references on the guy, or the company selling the car, first and foremost is that you know that the seller or his company is reputable.
You can do this by going to places like http://ussearch.com on the net, or the Better Business Bureau located at http://bbb.com on the net, or you could use a private investigator to find info about the seller and his business, your looking for info, like his criminal record, and from the bbb look for things like, has anybody got a complaint against his business at this time, and what are the complaints, a complaint can be frivolous and have no merit, look for the serious stuff.
Now as to the car it's self, this can be very tricky, you need to look at the vin number, and make sure that it claims that the car is what the person sell it said it was, on GM cars you also need to look at the rpo number, this number will tell you if the engine and transmission are the correct one for the car your buying, or if things have been changed, the rpo code must match what the vin plate says, you can also look at things like rear end tags and transmission tags. Use this desoder for GM & Mopar http://muscle-car-resto.com/vin .
On mopar products you need to look at this like the trim tag, usually located on the left inner fenderwell, you also need to look at the vin plate, this will tell you things like the make or manufacture of the car, the body style, the price class whitch is what the car was built for, what engine should be in the car, what assembly plant it was built at, look here for a mopar vin decoder http://muscle-car-resto.com/mopar-vin.html you'll want to match the vin up to the codes on the engine and transmission
For more info on these sujects check out our muscle car community, loated at Muscle car community .
About the Author
David C. Atkin owner of Red Line Restoration, I've been in the automotive business for about 20 years, and I love the old cars, and want to see them stay on the road.
Muscle Car Restoration 101
by: Jason Tarasi
Restoring muscle cars is a hobby for some and a profession for others. There's just something about the classic high-performance cars that collectors, racers and general car enthusiasts find fascinating. If you are a hobbyist who is interested in restoring a muscle car, you will probably benefit from a few restoration tips. The restoration of muscle cars begins with shopping for a muscle car that can be restored. Prior to buying a car for the purpose of restoring it you need to make sure that the parts needed for the restoration are available and you can get your hands on them, and that you can afford to complete the project once you start it.
Before going shopping for a muscle car to restore, decide what your purpose is for restoring a car. Do you just want a great muscle car to drive? Will you be racing? Are you restoring the car so you can participate and compete in classic car shows? Do you intend to sell the totally restored muscle car for a profit?
Once you've determined the purpose behind your muscle car restoration you'll have a better idea about what type of muscle car you want to get. Before you go shopping, read up on different muscle cars and learn all about their performance, their value and so forth to make sure that the car you choose is appropriate for you intentions. To make sure that you don't get ripped off in a muscle car transaction, find out what the muscle cars you are looking for are worth "as is" and what they are worth once they are restored. Having this information at your fingertips will help you to determine whether or not you are really getting a "great deal" when you begin to negotiate to buy a muscle car.
Before you buy one, make sure that the parts needed to restore your muscle car are available and affordable. Set your budget and your timeline for restoring the car so you know how much you can afford to spend for the muscle car itself and for the parts and other expenses that will be incurred in the process of the restoration. Following these simple suggestions at the beginning of your muscle car restoration project will prevent you from starting a project you can't finish and will ensure that your muscle car restoration project is enjoyable and that you meet your goals for muscle car restoration, whatever those goals may be.
About the Author
Jason Tarasi is a muscle car enthusiast who runs the Muscle Car Monster Website, where members can buy and sell muscle cars for free through the site's online classifieds. Muscle Car Ads
Shelby Mustangs: Everlasting Allure
by: David Anthony
Shelby Mustangs are legendary are they are known amongst true fans as classics that can never be duplicated. They were the first "muscle cars," the first street racing cars that got young men's blood boiling everywhere. They were the beginning of the sports car and unfortunately, only 14,559 of them were made in the six year span that Carroll Shelby modified Ford Mustangs.
Shelby's dream was to give the Mustang a new look, a face lift in a way. And once he got a hold of it, it was never the same. One of the major changes it went through was the engine. Shelby gave it a huge engine, making the new and improved Mustang one of the fastest and potentially, most dangerous on the road.
The first Shelby Mustang, the GT350, appeared in 1965 and was painted white with the classic parallel blue stripes. It was essentially a race car with few comfort amenities. It wasn't until the 1967 model that this car actually received a back seat! It was that year, in fact, that Shelby decided to dress up his creations and tone down the racing element a bit. The result was the GT500, which was a perfect blend of mean racing machine and stylish street vehicle. The GT500KR (King of the Road) appeared in 1968 and quickly became a favorite amongst fans. Many enthusiasts today view the KR as the most powerful Mustang ever produced.
Today, many Shelby Mustangs have survived, but they need extensive restoration to ever look like they did in their glory days. The rare "barn" finds are few and far between. But, for those that have somehow stumbled upon a Shelby Mustang stored pristinely for some thirty plus years in a rural barn somewhere, the find is unbelievably sweet.
Purchasing a Shelby Mustang today takes a lot of research before you should allow any cash to change hands. Shelby buffs know how to make a reproduction look exactly like an original and if you don't do your homework, you just might get duped.
Knowing what parts a Shelby Mustang uses is essential. Mechanics that know these cars would never put the wrong parts in them. If you know your stuff, you would also know that a Shelby Mustang equipped with the wrong parts is a signal that you may not be purchasing the real thing. Keep in mind that this is not always a sign of a fake, but it's a definite red flag. Some people truly just do not know how to care for a Shelby and even if it is authentic, you're going to spend a lot of time and a lot of money restoring it to its original glory.
Checking the VIN number is the best way to know if you're purchasing an authentic Shelby Mustang. The person you're buying the automobile from should have the original paperwork too- some even have the signature of Carroll Shelby on the paperwork.
Purchasing a Shelby Mustang in mint condition isn't cheap. In fact, it will set you back a few hundred thousand dollars. In the 1960's, these cars were going for $4,000-6,000...you could barely purchase a good engine for that today!
Owning a Shelby Mustang in the 1960's was a status symbol and in many ways, it still is. Shelby Mustangs symbolized the beginning of an era and the few that own one today are considered to be very lucky.
About the Author
David Anthony is, among other things, a web developer and Ford Mustang enthusiast. Visit his site to see the latest clutterless Ford Mustang listings on eBay Motors(tm).
The Rise And Fall Of The Muscle Car Era
by: Jason Tarasi
Muscle cars were produced from the mid-1960s into the early 1970s, but the production of such beasts fell drastically due to a number of factors. First was the controversy over whether it was wise and responsible to make such powerful vehicles available to the general public, primarily due to road racing. Because muscle cars were often used irresponsibly, liability relating to them was pretty high which forced insurance companies to increase rates for insuring muscle cars. Emission control requirements intended to curb pollution also played into the picture making it near impossible for automakers to produce muscle cars that met the standards they had to adhere to.
Needless to say, the muscle car industry changed quickly due to these influences. Demand decreased because many "would-be" buyers of muscle cars couldn't fathom paying the enormous insurance rates for a high-power vehicle and automakers had to meet the challenges presented by pollution control standards.
Since muscle cars were produced for a limited number of years, they are valuable items for collectors and are still highly desirable to those who enjoy racing or desire a quick, powerful, mid-sized car. Since the decline in the production of muscle cars, some automakers have attempted to bring the muscle car era back to life by producing powerful vehicles that resemble the legendary muscle cars, but in my opinion, they don't hold a candle to classic muscle cars like the GTO, the Road Runner or the Chevelle SS.
It will be interesting to see how the history of muscle cars plays out. Will present day automakers renew production of true muscle cars that are fast and powerful? Will there be enough demand to make muscle car production worth it to them? Or, will muscle cars continue to be limited to those classic models that were produced in the 60s and 70s?
Classic muscle cars are pretty amazing pieces of machinery. One that is restored and in cherry condition is really worth a lot of money. As time goes on, there are fewer muscle cars available which makes them even more valuable to classic car collectors and muscle car enthusiasts.
About the Author
Jason Tarasi is a muscle car enthusiast who runs the Muscle Car Monster Website, where members can buy and sell muscle cars for free through the site's online classifieds. Muscle Car Ads
Power, speed and performance - those are the three major traits of a muscle car. When first produced, muscle cars were just pretty darn amazing because they combined the efficiency of a lightweight, mid-sized body with the performance of a high-power V8 engine and special design features that further increased the cars' acceleration capabilities. Because muscle cars topped all other vehicles in terms of power, speed and performance, they were ideal for racing.
Muscle cars were produced from the mid-1960s into the early 1970s, but the production of such beasts fell drastically due to a number of factors. First was the controversy over whether it was wise and responsible to make such powerful vehicles available to the general public, primarily due to road racing. Because muscle cars were often used irresponsibly, liability relating to them was pretty high which forced insurance companies to increase rates for insuring muscle cars. Emission control requirements intended to curb pollution also played into the picture making it near impossible for automakers to produce muscle cars that met the standards they had to adhere to.
Needless to say, the muscle car industry changed quickly due to these influences. Demand decreased because many "would-be" buyers of muscle cars couldn't fathom paying the enormous insurance rates for a high-power vehicle and automakers had to meet the challenges presented by pollution control standards.
Since muscle cars were produced for a limited number of years, they are valuable items for collectors and are still highly desirable to those who enjoy racing or desire a quick, powerful, mid-sized car. Since the decline in the production of muscle cars, some automakers have attempted to bring the muscle car era back to life by producing powerful vehicles that resemble the legendary muscle cars, but in my opinion, they don't hold a candle to classic muscle cars like the GTO, the Road Runner or the Chevelle SS.
It will be interesting to see how the history of muscle cars plays out. Will present day automakers renew production of true muscle cars that are fast and powerful? Will there be enough demand to make muscle car production worth it to them? Or, will muscle cars continue to be limited to those classic models that were produced in the 60s and 70s?
Classic muscle cars are pretty amazing pieces of machinery. One that is restored and in cherry condition is really worth a lot of money. As time goes on, there are fewer muscle cars available which makes them even more valuable to classic car collectors and muscle car enthusiasts.
About the Author
Jason Tarasi is a muscle car enthusiast who runs the Muscle Car Monster Website, where members can buy and sell muscle cars for free through the site's online classifieds. Muscle Car Ads
How To Build Your Own Replica Sports Car
by: Gregg Hall
Many sports car fans have gone into production! That's right, they have built their own sports cars--often to resemble some of the most rare and valuable sports cars in history. These replicar owners are kit car builders who go out of their way to make high-quality replicas of the real thing.
Among the most popular home-built replica cars are Cobras. The finished products often look indistinguishable from their original counterparts.
Building your own replicar can have a lot of appeal. It may be a way to obtain the dream car one otherwise never afford. It may also be a family project or the extension of mechanical interests. After all, the process must certainly appear exciting to any would-be mechanic who loves to tinker with a car. Replicars allow one to actually build your sports car from the ground up using kit body and other parts, usually along with a commonly available mainstream automotive base.
Those who build their own sports cars seem to develop a greater appreciation for the vehicle and a strong understanding of both its limitations and strengths. Replicars really elevate the sports car hobby to a different level--every owner becomes a manufacturer with a more vested interest in the success and quality of each vehicle.
There is an active community of replicar builders and fans. This allows tremendous networking opportunities and a great information resource for what can most definitely become a complicated hobby. Members share information about building kit cars and often have get-togethers, swap meets and rallies where they can find interesting parts and grab new ideas for modifying their homemade cars.
Replicar drivers undoubtedly turn some heads in their "classic" cars, but have a great story to tell those interested, too. It's a different way of acquiring a sports car, but one that replicar enthusiasts probably wouldn't trade for anything.
One can find a sports car they love, purchase it, drive it home and enjoy it for years. There is nothing wrong in that traditional model. There is an alternative, however, for those who want to be more actively involved in the construction of their car than those who simply choose a paint color and option practice. Kit car and replicar enthusiasts truly wring the most out of their sports car hobby by playing the roles of both end-user and manufacturer.
About the Author
Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get patented car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com
Many sports car fans have gone into production! That's right, they have built their own sports cars--often to resemble some of the most rare and valuable sports cars in history. These replicar owners are kit car builders who go out of their way to make high-quality replicas of the real thing.
Among the most popular home-built replica cars are Cobras. The finished products often look indistinguishable from their original counterparts.
Building your own replicar can have a lot of appeal. It may be a way to obtain the dream car one otherwise never afford. It may also be a family project or the extension of mechanical interests. After all, the process must certainly appear exciting to any would-be mechanic who loves to tinker with a car. Replicars allow one to actually build your sports car from the ground up using kit body and other parts, usually along with a commonly available mainstream automotive base.
Those who build their own sports cars seem to develop a greater appreciation for the vehicle and a strong understanding of both its limitations and strengths. Replicars really elevate the sports car hobby to a different level--every owner becomes a manufacturer with a more vested interest in the success and quality of each vehicle.
There is an active community of replicar builders and fans. This allows tremendous networking opportunities and a great information resource for what can most definitely become a complicated hobby. Members share information about building kit cars and often have get-togethers, swap meets and rallies where they can find interesting parts and grab new ideas for modifying their homemade cars.
Replicar drivers undoubtedly turn some heads in their "classic" cars, but have a great story to tell those interested, too. It's a different way of acquiring a sports car, but one that replicar enthusiasts probably wouldn't trade for anything.
One can find a sports car they love, purchase it, drive it home and enjoy it for years. There is nothing wrong in that traditional model. There is an alternative, however, for those who want to be more actively involved in the construction of their car than those who simply choose a paint color and option practice. Kit car and replicar enthusiasts truly wring the most out of their sports car hobby by playing the roles of both end-user and manufacturer.
About the Author
Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get patented car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Lift Kits - The Raised Truck Craze Gone Wild
There was a day when trucks were a working man’s vehicle and scratches were expected. Shells protected valuables and tonneau covers protected tools. Those days are over and truck enthusiasts are souping up their rides more than ever before. With the addition of popular movies featuring fancy cars and popular television shows that glorify plasma screens and ground shaking stereo systems, the custom truck rage is here to stay.
As a sign of manhood or personal taste, many truck owners decide to lift their rides for a performance altered appearance. Lift kits can actually be found online and can be installed on your truck in a do-it-yourself fashion. Some lift systems can be somewhat difficult to install, but after all, challenges are what get us men going and when we are determined, who knows what will happen.
The following bullet points are the benefits to installing a new suspension system with lift kit on your truck:
Style
Performance
Increase in ground clearance
Looks that could make a grown man cry!
The sky’s the limit when you go high-profile with your truck or SUV! Lift Kits push ground clearance and aggressive looks to new heights, letting you conquer on or off-road obstacles with confidence. Lift Kit Manufacturers make custom parts that will fit your specific truck to a “T” to give you the look that you’ve been wanting. My lift kit was recently tested at an off road rally down near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and let me tell you - I didn’t get stuck in the dirt. Ground clearance was needed on the off road trails that we were on and the drool on my buddies faces proved that the style could easily make a grown man cry.
Andrew Bernhardt is a proud Ford F150 owner and an auto enthusiast. He is also a writer for AutoAnything, an online truck accessories supplier of lift kits, suspension systems and more for every vehicle and every lifestyle.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Bernhardt
Lotus Elise - A Supreme Sportscar
Author: William Berg
Lotus Elise is a good looking and high performance sports car developed by the Lotus Company. When the first Lotus Elise was released, it received a lot of attention for its remarkably low weight and striking design. The first Lotus Elise hit the marked in September 1995. Today, there are two main types Lotus Elise available for the car enthusiast: Lotus Elise Series 1 cars and Lotus Elise series 2 cars.
The creator of the first Lotus Elise was named Max David and worked from London. The founder of the Lotus Company, Colin Chapman, had always dreamed about a car that combined extremely light weight with superb performance, and Max David took these dreams to heart. The remarkably low weight of the Lotus Elise is what makes fantastic performance possible even with a modest engine. The shape of the Lotus Elise has been created with dynamics and driving purity in focus.
The first Lotus Elise weighed no more than 1500 lb (680 kg). Driving this car is amazing, due to its remarkable ability to accelerate, brake and corner. The weight of the first Lotus Elise can be compared to the Porsche Boxter, which is considered a low-weight sports car and still weigh almost as much as two Lotus Elise cars - 2756 lb (1250 kg). This means that while the 1997 Porsche Boxter requires and engine output of 201 bhp (149 kW), the Lotus Elise works brilliant with only 120 bhp (89 kW).
As mentioned above, the first Lotus Elise was released in September 1995. The year after the Lotus Company released an even lighter Lotus Elise that weighed an astonishingly low 1488 lb (675 kg). This car was followed by the Lotus Elise 111S three years later. The Lotus Elise 111S is faster than the preceding Lotus Elise cars and is fitted with a Variable Valve Control (VVC) engine. This engine has been developed from the Rover K series and equipped with Variable valve timing (VVT). You will also find more comfortable seats in the Lotus Elise 111S, since some customers found the first two Elise versions uncomfortable. The new seats are filled with more padding.
The next step for the Lotus Elise developers was the roofless Lotus Elise 340R. This cabriolet version of the Elise car was released in a limited edition in 2000 and was equipped with a 177 bhp (131 kW) engine. The name 340R was derived from the first prototype; it had a 340 bhp/ton power to weight ratio. The prototype had a 170 bhp engine, and weighed no more than 500 kg. In accordance with this, the limited edition consisted of exactly 340 cars. Later in the year 2000, the Lotus Company released the Exige. The Exige was similar to the Lotus Elise
340R, but had a hardtop. The engine was exactly the same; 177 bhp (131 kW).
The next step for the Lotus Company was to embark on the construction of the Series 2 Lotus Elise car. The first of the Series 2 Lotus Elise cars was actually announced the same year as the Lotus Elise 340R and the Exige was released. The car from the Series 2 was designed directly on the computer, which was a totally new way of working for the Lotus Company.
About the author:
Read more about Lotus Elise and the new 2006 Lotus Elise
Lotus Elise is a good looking and high performance sports car developed by the Lotus Company. When the first Lotus Elise was released, it received a lot of attention for its remarkably low weight and striking design. The first Lotus Elise hit the marked in September 1995. Today, there are two main types Lotus Elise available for the car enthusiast: Lotus Elise Series 1 cars and Lotus Elise series 2 cars.
The creator of the first Lotus Elise was named Max David and worked from London. The founder of the Lotus Company, Colin Chapman, had always dreamed about a car that combined extremely light weight with superb performance, and Max David took these dreams to heart. The remarkably low weight of the Lotus Elise is what makes fantastic performance possible even with a modest engine. The shape of the Lotus Elise has been created with dynamics and driving purity in focus.
The first Lotus Elise weighed no more than 1500 lb (680 kg). Driving this car is amazing, due to its remarkable ability to accelerate, brake and corner. The weight of the first Lotus Elise can be compared to the Porsche Boxter, which is considered a low-weight sports car and still weigh almost as much as two Lotus Elise cars - 2756 lb (1250 kg). This means that while the 1997 Porsche Boxter requires and engine output of 201 bhp (149 kW), the Lotus Elise works brilliant with only 120 bhp (89 kW).
As mentioned above, the first Lotus Elise was released in September 1995. The year after the Lotus Company released an even lighter Lotus Elise that weighed an astonishingly low 1488 lb (675 kg). This car was followed by the Lotus Elise 111S three years later. The Lotus Elise 111S is faster than the preceding Lotus Elise cars and is fitted with a Variable Valve Control (VVC) engine. This engine has been developed from the Rover K series and equipped with Variable valve timing (VVT). You will also find more comfortable seats in the Lotus Elise 111S, since some customers found the first two Elise versions uncomfortable. The new seats are filled with more padding.
The next step for the Lotus Elise developers was the roofless Lotus Elise 340R. This cabriolet version of the Elise car was released in a limited edition in 2000 and was equipped with a 177 bhp (131 kW) engine. The name 340R was derived from the first prototype; it had a 340 bhp/ton power to weight ratio. The prototype had a 170 bhp engine, and weighed no more than 500 kg. In accordance with this, the limited edition consisted of exactly 340 cars. Later in the year 2000, the Lotus Company released the Exige. The Exige was similar to the Lotus Elise
340R, but had a hardtop. The engine was exactly the same; 177 bhp (131 kW).
The next step for the Lotus Company was to embark on the construction of the Series 2 Lotus Elise car. The first of the Series 2 Lotus Elise cars was actually announced the same year as the Lotus Elise 340R and the Exige was released. The car from the Series 2 was designed directly on the computer, which was a totally new way of working for the Lotus Company.
About the author:
Read more about Lotus Elise and the new 2006 Lotus Elise
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Kit Cars
Author: William Berg
Kit Cars are cars that can be purchased in kit form and assembled at home. It is common for Kit Car enthusiasts to obtain their material from several "donor cars". There are a lot of Kit Car enthusiasts out there and people enter the Kit Car hobby for different reasons. Working with your hands and assembling something from the beginning can be extremely relaxing and riding in a car that you have built yourself is an indescribable experience. Kit Cars are however not for everyone, and if you know that you become frustrated by having to change your wind shield wipers a Kit Car might not be a wise idea.
Assembling a Kit Car can be a way of getting a cheaper car, but you should keep in mind that you will need a place to work in as well as the necessary tools. A lot of Kit Cars are assembled not primarily because they are cheaper than ordinary cars, but because a Kit Car can be made to suit your own particular needs and fill niches where it is hard to find ordinary cars. One of the most well known Kit Cars is for instance the Dune Buggy. The Dune Buggy is also known as Beach Buggy and Sand Rail. This Kit Car is not intended for high ways; it is a recreational vehicle that can be used on beaches and sand dunes where ordinary cars experience problems. The Dune Buggy is small and low-weight and has much larger wheels and tires than a normal car. The engine is mounted on an open chassis that is perfect for hot summer days at the beach. The Dune Buggy is usually constructed from older Volkswagen Beetles.
Kit Cars are also popular due to the possibility to create a car that resembles historic or contemporary cars. One of the most frequently replicated cars is the AC Cobra. The original AC
Cobras was powerful and stylish Anglo-American sports car that was creating during the 1960s. In 1968, the last Roadster platform was produced which put an end to the AC Cobra since the
AC Cobra was built on this platform. The public had however taken a liking to the potent and beautiful AC Cobra and Kit Car enthusiast started to build their own AC Cobras. Today, there
exist more Kit Car AC Cobra cars than original AC Cobra cars. Some of these Kit Cars are exact replicas while others are only inspired by the original AC Cobra. Some replicas can even be said to be improved versions of the original AC Cobra, since the Kit Car builders can utilise the inventions and automobile engineering advances.
About the author:
The Kit car enables you to have the car of your dreams, You can for exampel use a
Hummerkit to build your own hummer to cruise around the city and country in. You can also take your kit Hummer and modify it to create your own custom Hummer.
Kit Cars are cars that can be purchased in kit form and assembled at home. It is common for Kit Car enthusiasts to obtain their material from several "donor cars". There are a lot of Kit Car enthusiasts out there and people enter the Kit Car hobby for different reasons. Working with your hands and assembling something from the beginning can be extremely relaxing and riding in a car that you have built yourself is an indescribable experience. Kit Cars are however not for everyone, and if you know that you become frustrated by having to change your wind shield wipers a Kit Car might not be a wise idea.
Assembling a Kit Car can be a way of getting a cheaper car, but you should keep in mind that you will need a place to work in as well as the necessary tools. A lot of Kit Cars are assembled not primarily because they are cheaper than ordinary cars, but because a Kit Car can be made to suit your own particular needs and fill niches where it is hard to find ordinary cars. One of the most well known Kit Cars is for instance the Dune Buggy. The Dune Buggy is also known as Beach Buggy and Sand Rail. This Kit Car is not intended for high ways; it is a recreational vehicle that can be used on beaches and sand dunes where ordinary cars experience problems. The Dune Buggy is small and low-weight and has much larger wheels and tires than a normal car. The engine is mounted on an open chassis that is perfect for hot summer days at the beach. The Dune Buggy is usually constructed from older Volkswagen Beetles.
Kit Cars are also popular due to the possibility to create a car that resembles historic or contemporary cars. One of the most frequently replicated cars is the AC Cobra. The original AC
Cobras was powerful and stylish Anglo-American sports car that was creating during the 1960s. In 1968, the last Roadster platform was produced which put an end to the AC Cobra since the
AC Cobra was built on this platform. The public had however taken a liking to the potent and beautiful AC Cobra and Kit Car enthusiast started to build their own AC Cobras. Today, there
exist more Kit Car AC Cobra cars than original AC Cobra cars. Some of these Kit Cars are exact replicas while others are only inspired by the original AC Cobra. Some replicas can even be said to be improved versions of the original AC Cobra, since the Kit Car builders can utilise the inventions and automobile engineering advances.
About the author:
The Kit car enables you to have the car of your dreams, You can for exampel use a
Hummerkit to build your own hummer to cruise around the city and country in. You can also take your kit Hummer and modify it to create your own custom Hummer.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Build Your Own Locost Sportscar
Definition of a LoCost:
The G.R.P. Body Panels and other items are supplied by Northshore Boats, 26 Sultan Way, Rous Head (North Fremantle, WA) Note: Northshore Boats may now be out of business (Jan 2000). GRP parts are being finished by Lucas Motors. Sheet Metal Body Panels will be computer cut my brother in law at a local sheet metal fabrication firm. The space frame and suspension arms will be welded by a Guru Welding, Cohn Street, Carlisle a commercial welding firm specialising in in auto and racing welding (the number of Racing Porsches that are always in being welded makes me wonder how much it is going to cost!).
Source:http://www.geocities.com/darren_ponton/Desc.html
Rob has a good website giving an overview of the building process of his LoCost car. It a real good one with detail pics on parts used in building his car. It is based on a "Locost" from Ron Champion's excellent book "How to build your own sports car for under 250.00"
Basically the Locost is a rear wheel drive, two seat roadster-style vehicle, utilising a TIG/MIG-welded tubular steel space frame, with fibre-glass and sheet metal body panels. The vehicle is powered by a Toyota 4A-GE 1600cc 4 cylinder engine, fitted with complete factory fuel injection engine management systems, and a Toyota T-50 5 speed gearbox. The rear axle is from a Cortina Mk2 and steering lower column and rack-and-pinion are supplied from a Ford Escort Mk2. Upper collapsable steering assembly is from a KE-35 Toyota Corolla.
The G.R.P. Body Panels and other items are supplied by Northshore Boats, 26 Sultan Way, Rous Head (North Fremantle, WA) Note: Northshore Boats may now be out of business (Jan 2000). GRP parts are being finished by Lucas Motors. Sheet Metal Body Panels will be computer cut my brother in law at a local sheet metal fabrication firm. The space frame and suspension arms will be welded by a Guru Welding, Cohn Street, Carlisle a commercial welding firm specialising in in auto and racing welding (the number of Racing Porsches that are always in being welded makes me wonder how much it is going to cost!).
Source:http://www.geocities.com/darren_ponton/Desc.html
Rob has a good website giving an overview of the building process of his LoCost car. It a real good one with detail pics on parts used in building his car. It is based on a "Locost" from Ron Champion's excellent book "How to build your own sports car for under 250.00"
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Why Build Your Own Car?
Cars are not created equal. With so many brands to choose from and a wide array of models are released from the production line each year, yet custom cars or replica cars are a fad. Most Hobbyist are going for the build it yourself cars. Aside from cheaper in terms of cost in production, they enjoyed the feeling of satisfaction after months of painstaking and hardwork in finishing thier "obra maestra".
There's a lot of cars which are built from kits, recycled car parts and modified version of used car. Although the initial investment on the equipments is quite high, but the overall cost of production is very low when compared to commercial models.
Many companies are offering kit version of thier replica cars with models like Pontiac, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Humvee, Dodge Viper and many more. It includes a complete instruction manuals and complete set of parts and accessories. The procedureramges from simple match and weld to forming frames and forms which involves basic carpentry.
Others are relying on thier skills welding and automotive. They are building cars from scratch using new and recycled parts and materials. This method more difficult and the quality of the car is dependent on the adeptness of the maker.
Some just make modification on thier old cars and create a facelift on the car body design.
If you are one of the enthusiast and love to weld, sand, paint and mold try to visit these reccomended sites:
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