Checking Out A Used Car
by: John Sanderson
Nothing is quite as exciting as purchasing a new car. Even if it's a "used" new car. Don't get too caught up in the pretty shiny metal and chrome, it's what's under the hood that counts. Take a serious test drive before you make a decision. Used cars bought from a private owner don't have any warranty with them. You don't want to buy someone elses problem.
Do you homework. There is a lot of help available on line when you're purchasing a used car. You'll have the vin or vehicle identification number. With this number you can pull up a vehicle history through your state. Do a search for the model and year of your car online. Were there any specific complaints or call backs on this particular model?
The first place you should test drive this car is to your trusty mechanics shop. With a bit of notice he'll be glad to set a bit of time aside to go over the car with you. He'll take a look at your car with a keen and unprejudiced eye.
Take with you whatever service records are available on the car, these will help your mechanic understand the vehicles past. Your mechanic will check the hoses and belts and condition of the oil. These are easy fixes if they need changing or replacing. Your mechanic will check the radiator fluid for coolant level and to make sure the fluid is going to protect in severe cold conditions. He'll see how much oil, if any is present on the engine. Perhaps the car has been burning oil. He'll check the transmission fluid.
Another thing he'll check is the lights, inside on the dash, and outside to make sure they work. He'll check shocks, breaks and tires and alignment.
He'll take a look at the body. Is there any rust underneath on the frame? Does all the paint match, or has the car been repainted? Is everything in alignment? Do the doors open and shut properly?
Let your mechanic take the car out for a test drive. He may be able to pick up subtle things, perhaps a shutter or hesitation, or hear a sound that you may not. His is the best advice you're going to get in this situation.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Replacing Worn Out Tires Is A Real Pain!
Replacing Worn Out Tires Is A Real Pain!
By: Robert Knechtel
OK - You've been putting off replacing those tread thin tires. Face it, replacing tires is a downright aggravating experience. Shopping for tires rests somewhere between doing your taxes or doing house cleaning. A dentist's waiting room, while you're hanging on anticipating that root canal, is unlikely to increase your anxiety. But, the bleak condition of most waiting rooms at tire dealers all too often propels us into an ambiance bordering on the repulsive.
Throughout our lives, the majority of us who drive will no doubt spend more than at least a day out of our lives marking time in a succession of these dismal dens. And then, we're left to pore over long outdated, pawed over magazines offering little worthy of our attention.
We tend to think of tires like we think of electricity. Electric power is taken as a given. Only if it shuts off, are we really forced to think about it. We're rudely reminded of our dependence on it when we lose it.
Our lack of consciousness about our tires is identical. Ignoring them seems to be the norm. All is well until we get a flat or blowout. All of a sudden we have to interrupt whatever we're doing. We can't get to a movie, miss picking up the kids or won't make yoga class. Or much more seriously, one of our tires gives out and causes an accident. It's not difficult to imagine any number of similar disruptions.
Fortunately, tire makers today are consistently improving tire performance and safety. Nevertheless, we, as car owners, have to cooperate. All things mechanical can only take so much wear and tear. Although excellent quality standards are built into tires today, they do have their useful life. It's up to us to provide ongoing maintenance in the form of correct tire pressure, regular rotation, proper alignment and balancing. Even though we may be scrupulous about tire maintenance, there will come a time when we simply have to replace them. We dread the root canal and we dread the tire dealer.
How about a little surprise? A lot of the aggravation in replacing tires can be bypassed.
To the rescue come the good people at websites such as The Tire Rack. Your computer becomes your tire store while you sip a cool beverage in the comfort of your home or office. That's right. All you need to do is log on. Now that's convenience you might not otherwise expect when buying tires.
Here's the rub. If you're shopping for Bridgestone, Michelin, Dunlop, Goodyear, Pirelli or any other major tire make, The Tire Rack maintains and ships a full inventory of tire sizes and models. An easy to use "search widget" will permit you to locate readily the right size and tire model for your make and year of car, truck or SUV. ATV tires are available, as well. You can peruse tire reviews.
There's more. The Tire Rack has made arrangements with tire dealers in your neighborhood to receive shipment and install them. If it's more convenient for you, The Tire Rack will ship to your office or home.
You'll want to consider these efficiencies when you buy tires online.
1. Save time shopping online.
2. You've selected the right tires.
3. No waiting at the dealer to complete the purchase.
4. Receive the tire maker's full warranty.
5. Less interruption to your busy schedule.
6. You're more likely to do it right now while you're thinking of it.
Wait! There's an even better idea. Have The Tire Rack mount your tires on a new set of wheels ready to stick on your vehicle. Very few things can rehab a worn looking jalopy better than a brand new set of tires and wheels.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
By: Robert Knechtel
OK - You've been putting off replacing those tread thin tires. Face it, replacing tires is a downright aggravating experience. Shopping for tires rests somewhere between doing your taxes or doing house cleaning. A dentist's waiting room, while you're hanging on anticipating that root canal, is unlikely to increase your anxiety. But, the bleak condition of most waiting rooms at tire dealers all too often propels us into an ambiance bordering on the repulsive.
Throughout our lives, the majority of us who drive will no doubt spend more than at least a day out of our lives marking time in a succession of these dismal dens. And then, we're left to pore over long outdated, pawed over magazines offering little worthy of our attention.
We tend to think of tires like we think of electricity. Electric power is taken as a given. Only if it shuts off, are we really forced to think about it. We're rudely reminded of our dependence on it when we lose it.
Our lack of consciousness about our tires is identical. Ignoring them seems to be the norm. All is well until we get a flat or blowout. All of a sudden we have to interrupt whatever we're doing. We can't get to a movie, miss picking up the kids or won't make yoga class. Or much more seriously, one of our tires gives out and causes an accident. It's not difficult to imagine any number of similar disruptions.
Fortunately, tire makers today are consistently improving tire performance and safety. Nevertheless, we, as car owners, have to cooperate. All things mechanical can only take so much wear and tear. Although excellent quality standards are built into tires today, they do have their useful life. It's up to us to provide ongoing maintenance in the form of correct tire pressure, regular rotation, proper alignment and balancing. Even though we may be scrupulous about tire maintenance, there will come a time when we simply have to replace them. We dread the root canal and we dread the tire dealer.
How about a little surprise? A lot of the aggravation in replacing tires can be bypassed.
To the rescue come the good people at websites such as The Tire Rack. Your computer becomes your tire store while you sip a cool beverage in the comfort of your home or office. That's right. All you need to do is log on. Now that's convenience you might not otherwise expect when buying tires.
Here's the rub. If you're shopping for Bridgestone, Michelin, Dunlop, Goodyear, Pirelli or any other major tire make, The Tire Rack maintains and ships a full inventory of tire sizes and models. An easy to use "search widget" will permit you to locate readily the right size and tire model for your make and year of car, truck or SUV. ATV tires are available, as well. You can peruse tire reviews.
There's more. The Tire Rack has made arrangements with tire dealers in your neighborhood to receive shipment and install them. If it's more convenient for you, The Tire Rack will ship to your office or home.
You'll want to consider these efficiencies when you buy tires online.
1. Save time shopping online.
2. You've selected the right tires.
3. No waiting at the dealer to complete the purchase.
4. Receive the tire maker's full warranty.
5. Less interruption to your busy schedule.
6. You're more likely to do it right now while you're thinking of it.
Wait! There's an even better idea. Have The Tire Rack mount your tires on a new set of wheels ready to stick on your vehicle. Very few things can rehab a worn looking jalopy better than a brand new set of tires and wheels.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Monday, January 22, 2007
What Makes Classic Car Insurance Special
What Makes Classic Car Insurance Special
By: Gray Rollins
Anyone who owns a vintage vehicle or a collection of enduringly stylish classic cars knows that a standard automobile insurance policy can't adequately cover the specific needs of someone who drives a classic vehicle. A classic car owner is more likely than a standard driver to make a claim for repainting after a tiny scratch, for example; whereas a typical driver will be much more likely to get into a highway pile-up than a classic car owner. The habits and requirements of the drivers who spends time behind the wheel of a classic 1950s Ford are obviously quite different from those of a driver who gets around in a used 1997 Taurus; so it makes plenty of sense that insurance companies would create policies specifically for drivers who own vintage cars.
One of the most useful facets of many classic car insurance policies has to do with the idea of flexible usage. This unique idea allows drivers to attain full coverage at a variable rate depending on how often they drive their car and in what situations. Most drivers with antique automobiles drive their vehicles over less than one thousand miles each year, but some collectors drive up to five thousand miles a year in their prized cars. Some drivers are extremely careful about distance because of its potential wear and tear on the vehicle, but just as many classic car enthusiasts are more concerned about what kind of situation they are driving in than how far they are driving.
Many vintage car owners only take their precious vehicles out for special events like auto shows or parades, but there are some drivers who enjoy taking the occasional drive outside of the umbrella that these events provide. With an insurance policy that supports flexible usage, a driver can pay only for the coverage that he or she needs to cover his or her classic car driving habits. This means that a driver who enjoys a leisurely weekend afternoon of driving through town in his or her car will be able to do so without risking the investment that the car represents, but also that a driver who only starts the engine during a special event will not have to pay extra money for open road privileges that he or she won't use.
In addition to what is and is not covered, there are many conveniences that a classic car owner can enjoy by having classic car insurance instead of a standard auto policy. For one thing, having the agent who is responsible for the policy be knowledgeable about and sensitive to the needs of classic car owners can save quite a bit of hassle and phone time. Vintage car collectors are understandably very selective about where they get their cars repaired, and often will be unwilling to let anyone but their personally trusted mechanic look at their car. The reasons for this fact will be obvious to an agent who understands the needs and desires of people who own classic cars, but for an agent who is not experienced with these kinds of customers it can be a difficult fact to swallow.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
By: Gray Rollins
Anyone who owns a vintage vehicle or a collection of enduringly stylish classic cars knows that a standard automobile insurance policy can't adequately cover the specific needs of someone who drives a classic vehicle. A classic car owner is more likely than a standard driver to make a claim for repainting after a tiny scratch, for example; whereas a typical driver will be much more likely to get into a highway pile-up than a classic car owner. The habits and requirements of the drivers who spends time behind the wheel of a classic 1950s Ford are obviously quite different from those of a driver who gets around in a used 1997 Taurus; so it makes plenty of sense that insurance companies would create policies specifically for drivers who own vintage cars.
One of the most useful facets of many classic car insurance policies has to do with the idea of flexible usage. This unique idea allows drivers to attain full coverage at a variable rate depending on how often they drive their car and in what situations. Most drivers with antique automobiles drive their vehicles over less than one thousand miles each year, but some collectors drive up to five thousand miles a year in their prized cars. Some drivers are extremely careful about distance because of its potential wear and tear on the vehicle, but just as many classic car enthusiasts are more concerned about what kind of situation they are driving in than how far they are driving.
Many vintage car owners only take their precious vehicles out for special events like auto shows or parades, but there are some drivers who enjoy taking the occasional drive outside of the umbrella that these events provide. With an insurance policy that supports flexible usage, a driver can pay only for the coverage that he or she needs to cover his or her classic car driving habits. This means that a driver who enjoys a leisurely weekend afternoon of driving through town in his or her car will be able to do so without risking the investment that the car represents, but also that a driver who only starts the engine during a special event will not have to pay extra money for open road privileges that he or she won't use.
In addition to what is and is not covered, there are many conveniences that a classic car owner can enjoy by having classic car insurance instead of a standard auto policy. For one thing, having the agent who is responsible for the policy be knowledgeable about and sensitive to the needs of classic car owners can save quite a bit of hassle and phone time. Vintage car collectors are understandably very selective about where they get their cars repaired, and often will be unwilling to let anyone but their personally trusted mechanic look at their car. The reasons for this fact will be obvious to an agent who understands the needs and desires of people who own classic cars, but for an agent who is not experienced with these kinds of customers it can be a difficult fact to swallow.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Motorcycle Wheel Repair
Motorcycle Wheel Repair
by: Tim Gowens
Motorcycle wheels can be repaired just as easily as any other alloy wheel. The process is the same, but requires a different machine, because most motorcycle wheels have a "pressed in" barring that remains with the wheel.
As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. So Metro Wheels converted an old brake lathe to a state-of-the-art motorcycle wheel repair machine. All our hard work has been worth it, as the new custom repair machine allows for the barring that is pressed in and accommodates most wheel sizes. The wheel is centered on a shaft and then heated to ensure smooth movement under hydraulic pressure.
Repair vs. Replace
Why invest in motorcycle wheel repairs? Because replacing OEM motorcycle rims and wheels can range from $350 to $2,000 per wheel. So those who didn’t want to spend that kind of money began asking about having them "pressed" back out - and the motorcycle wheel repairs industry was born.
So long as safety isn’t an issue (that is, when a wheel can be repaired by a professional technician without jeopardizing the lives of the riders who are relying on the wheel to do its job), then alloy motorcycle wheel repair is an excellent choice for economy and cosmetic restoration. But when a wheel has been damaged severely, Metro Wheels will not compromise your safety: if there’s any question, we’ll err on the side of not repairing what could lead to serious injury.
Our Team of Experts
One of the better-known motorcycle wheel repair businesses in the country is Metro Wheels, Inc. in Marietta, Georgia, just north of Atlanta. Metro has one of the largest wheel repair facilities and wheel networking capacity in the country, with the expert team to repair alloy wheels quickly and safely.
At Metro Wheels, we teamed up with the sharpest engineers to design a state-of-the-art wheel repair facility. Our repair processes assure 95-100% wheel accuracy at completion.
Motorcycle wheel repair in the Atlanta area has been saturated with many companies claiming that they can fix any wheel. But the truth is that many of them are "fly by the night" companies with a sledgehammer and a torch. They can bend out a wheel, but most cannot check it for accuracy because they do not have a proper way of "spinning" the wheel. This is not the correct way to fix any wheel.
Some can make the wheel unsafe by not properly applying consistent pressures in a specific way with an exact heat. They stress crack the wheel beyond safety standards and call it a repaired wheel. But you could be jeopardizing your safety by using someone without proper experience.
Because we have been in business for over 15 years, our experience in motorcycle wheel repairs exceeds most shops’. Our aluminum wheel repair specialists can repair most wheels that have been curbed, scraped up, cracked or chemically damaged, providing excellent structural and cosmetic repairs; and our professional, certified welders are second to none.
Metro Wheels uses its own engineered equipment and guaranteed processes to return damaged, scraped and, in most cases, cracked wheels back to their original factory specifications. Because your safety is our highest priority, we will not repair any alloy wheel that cannot be safely ridden on after repair
Metro Wheels’ Repair Process
The repair process is straightforward. First, we mount the wheel accurately on a motorcycle axial simulator. With the proper heat, consistent hydraulic pressure and light vibrations under pressure, the alloy wheel will move - without cracking - back to its original condition. If there is a crack that can’t be seen by the naked eye (under chrome or paint), it will instantly pop out; our certified welders will then fill and repair the crack. After the wheel has cooled, it will retain its original strength. Heat, consistent pressure and vibration are key to an excellent wheel repair.
When a wheel is delivered to Metro Wheels, it is either dropped off by the owner, shipped in or picked up in the metro Atlanta area from our wholesale customers. We generate a work order for each individual wheel, detailing the customer’s information and any special instructions. Each wheel is assigned a unique work order number that is engraved on the inside of the rim, so that Metro can track its history precisely. This number also makes it much easier to track the wheel throughout the repair process.
Once identified, each wheel is washed thoroughly to remove all road dust and dirt, because the dust could be hiding additional scratches, gouges or cracks. Metro uses a pressure washer system with a diluted acid-based cleaning compound that will not damage a wheel’s existing finish.
This is particularly important because brake dust removal is essential to determining the level of damage to a wheel. But it must be done correctly, because wheels with a polished or anodized finish can be damaged if the wrong washing compound is used. For instance, a two-piece wheel with a bright lip that is not chromed is typically an anodized finish, a chemical treatment that is very hard to see. If the wrong cleaner or acid is used on such a finish, the wheel surface will be streaked; however, this anodized finish can be stripped off and any scratches buffed out.
Once thoroughly cleaned, one of our expert technicians performs a complete inspection of the wheel for radial and lateral runout. Radial runout is vertical, and Metro measures to see just how much the wheel is out of round with a micrometer gauge that measures to 1/1,000 of an inch. If a wheel has 5/1,000 of an inch radial runout, you could put a dial indicator on the wheel and then spin the wheel. The distance the wheel traveled up and down while spinning would be 5/1,000 of an inch both in the high and low position - or swing.
Lateral runout, on the other hand, is how much the damaged wheel will wobble from side to side. On some larger diameter wheels subjected to a hard pothole hit or curb, the wheel will be bent and, if hit hard enough, it will bend and twist the spokes. Most lateral runout can be corrected with pressure on the back of the wheel. But when the lateral runout cannot be corrected, the wheel is not repairable.
Lateral runout is the hardest type of repair to make. It also happens to be the most deceptive, because while a wheel may look like it has only minor rim damage, it can actually be fairly significant and not easily seen to the naked eye unless the wheel is spinning.
The next point of inspection is for alloy defects such as curb rashes and cracks. Metro recommends that the tires be removed for this inspection because most damage cannot be seen otherwise. Metro wheels will not remove the tire for you. You will need to have the tire removed and please keep the barring in the wheel (if it is loose). We will bring it back to its original condition ready to have the tire re-mounted. You will be riding again in no time.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Tim Gowens
Motorcycle wheels can be repaired just as easily as any other alloy wheel. The process is the same, but requires a different machine, because most motorcycle wheels have a "pressed in" barring that remains with the wheel.
As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. So Metro Wheels converted an old brake lathe to a state-of-the-art motorcycle wheel repair machine. All our hard work has been worth it, as the new custom repair machine allows for the barring that is pressed in and accommodates most wheel sizes. The wheel is centered on a shaft and then heated to ensure smooth movement under hydraulic pressure.
Repair vs. Replace
Why invest in motorcycle wheel repairs? Because replacing OEM motorcycle rims and wheels can range from $350 to $2,000 per wheel. So those who didn’t want to spend that kind of money began asking about having them "pressed" back out - and the motorcycle wheel repairs industry was born.
So long as safety isn’t an issue (that is, when a wheel can be repaired by a professional technician without jeopardizing the lives of the riders who are relying on the wheel to do its job), then alloy motorcycle wheel repair is an excellent choice for economy and cosmetic restoration. But when a wheel has been damaged severely, Metro Wheels will not compromise your safety: if there’s any question, we’ll err on the side of not repairing what could lead to serious injury.
Our Team of Experts
One of the better-known motorcycle wheel repair businesses in the country is Metro Wheels, Inc. in Marietta, Georgia, just north of Atlanta. Metro has one of the largest wheel repair facilities and wheel networking capacity in the country, with the expert team to repair alloy wheels quickly and safely.
At Metro Wheels, we teamed up with the sharpest engineers to design a state-of-the-art wheel repair facility. Our repair processes assure 95-100% wheel accuracy at completion.
Motorcycle wheel repair in the Atlanta area has been saturated with many companies claiming that they can fix any wheel. But the truth is that many of them are "fly by the night" companies with a sledgehammer and a torch. They can bend out a wheel, but most cannot check it for accuracy because they do not have a proper way of "spinning" the wheel. This is not the correct way to fix any wheel.
Some can make the wheel unsafe by not properly applying consistent pressures in a specific way with an exact heat. They stress crack the wheel beyond safety standards and call it a repaired wheel. But you could be jeopardizing your safety by using someone without proper experience.
Because we have been in business for over 15 years, our experience in motorcycle wheel repairs exceeds most shops’. Our aluminum wheel repair specialists can repair most wheels that have been curbed, scraped up, cracked or chemically damaged, providing excellent structural and cosmetic repairs; and our professional, certified welders are second to none.
Metro Wheels uses its own engineered equipment and guaranteed processes to return damaged, scraped and, in most cases, cracked wheels back to their original factory specifications. Because your safety is our highest priority, we will not repair any alloy wheel that cannot be safely ridden on after repair
Metro Wheels’ Repair Process
The repair process is straightforward. First, we mount the wheel accurately on a motorcycle axial simulator. With the proper heat, consistent hydraulic pressure and light vibrations under pressure, the alloy wheel will move - without cracking - back to its original condition. If there is a crack that can’t be seen by the naked eye (under chrome or paint), it will instantly pop out; our certified welders will then fill and repair the crack. After the wheel has cooled, it will retain its original strength. Heat, consistent pressure and vibration are key to an excellent wheel repair.
When a wheel is delivered to Metro Wheels, it is either dropped off by the owner, shipped in or picked up in the metro Atlanta area from our wholesale customers. We generate a work order for each individual wheel, detailing the customer’s information and any special instructions. Each wheel is assigned a unique work order number that is engraved on the inside of the rim, so that Metro can track its history precisely. This number also makes it much easier to track the wheel throughout the repair process.
Once identified, each wheel is washed thoroughly to remove all road dust and dirt, because the dust could be hiding additional scratches, gouges or cracks. Metro uses a pressure washer system with a diluted acid-based cleaning compound that will not damage a wheel’s existing finish.
This is particularly important because brake dust removal is essential to determining the level of damage to a wheel. But it must be done correctly, because wheels with a polished or anodized finish can be damaged if the wrong washing compound is used. For instance, a two-piece wheel with a bright lip that is not chromed is typically an anodized finish, a chemical treatment that is very hard to see. If the wrong cleaner or acid is used on such a finish, the wheel surface will be streaked; however, this anodized finish can be stripped off and any scratches buffed out.
Once thoroughly cleaned, one of our expert technicians performs a complete inspection of the wheel for radial and lateral runout. Radial runout is vertical, and Metro measures to see just how much the wheel is out of round with a micrometer gauge that measures to 1/1,000 of an inch. If a wheel has 5/1,000 of an inch radial runout, you could put a dial indicator on the wheel and then spin the wheel. The distance the wheel traveled up and down while spinning would be 5/1,000 of an inch both in the high and low position - or swing.
Lateral runout, on the other hand, is how much the damaged wheel will wobble from side to side. On some larger diameter wheels subjected to a hard pothole hit or curb, the wheel will be bent and, if hit hard enough, it will bend and twist the spokes. Most lateral runout can be corrected with pressure on the back of the wheel. But when the lateral runout cannot be corrected, the wheel is not repairable.
Lateral runout is the hardest type of repair to make. It also happens to be the most deceptive, because while a wheel may look like it has only minor rim damage, it can actually be fairly significant and not easily seen to the naked eye unless the wheel is spinning.
The next point of inspection is for alloy defects such as curb rashes and cracks. Metro recommends that the tires be removed for this inspection because most damage cannot be seen otherwise. Metro wheels will not remove the tire for you. You will need to have the tire removed and please keep the barring in the wheel (if it is loose). We will bring it back to its original condition ready to have the tire re-mounted. You will be riding again in no time.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Friday, January 19, 2007
Where To Find Classic Car Parts
Where To Find Classic Car Parts
by: Joel Noah
Classic car parts are not easy to come by. But if you have finally been able to purchase the classic car you’ve always dreamed of, finding the classic car parts to restore and accessorize it may be a high on your priority list.
Whether you have a muscle car, an antique or a vintage model, you will inevitably find the need to replace and restore some of your car parts. Classic car parts are not as readily available as for the cars that are still in production. You can’t just walk into a dealership and place your order because the parts are no longer being made. But with a little digging, they can be found.
Some places to start your search include:
Online Auctions
Online auction sites, such as Ebay, are probably the easiest place to begin your search for classic car parts. If you’ve seen the ads that Ebay has “It,” you know this is true. Ebay Motors has many listings for hard to find vehicles and classic car parts. You’ll have to cover the shipping charges, so that is something to consider when purchasing larger items.
Swap Meets
Finding a local swap meet may be just the thing you need to locate the classic car parts you need. They are great places to find older model accessories and other outdated items.
Classic Car Part Dealer Publications
Often times you can find the parts you are looking for in car part dealer magazines. The only drawback here is that you will probably have to spend top dollar. This option could be used as a last resort though if you are unable to find a specific part anywhere else. Exhaust all other possibilities first if money is tight.
Clubs and Organizations
Clubs and organizations exist for as many hobbies that people can think up. Certainly, there are a fair number of clubs and organizations geared toward car enthusiasts. Locating and joining one such club may prove beneficial in your hunt for classic car parts. You will be able to make connections with other people who share your interest.
In the Internet age, it is also possible to find a club or organization centered on classic car parts by doing an online search. Try searching Yahoo groups and you are likely to find a list of clubs you could join. Again, making connections with people who share your interest in classic car parts may lead you to a dealer or another source from which you can purchase classic car parts.
Junkyards
Maybe you don’t picture yourself hanging around a junkyard to find used classic car parts, but you may be able to find a diamond in the rough. If you have never used this type of service before, it could be worthwhile to check it out. Everything is computerized and usually a visit or a phone call is all you need to check and see if they have the part or accessory that you need for your precious investment.
Of course you will want to take good care of your classic car to limit the number of parts that you will need to search for. The less time you spend tracking down parts, the more time you can spend enjoying the car of your dreams.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Joel Noah
Classic car parts are not easy to come by. But if you have finally been able to purchase the classic car you’ve always dreamed of, finding the classic car parts to restore and accessorize it may be a high on your priority list.
Whether you have a muscle car, an antique or a vintage model, you will inevitably find the need to replace and restore some of your car parts. Classic car parts are not as readily available as for the cars that are still in production. You can’t just walk into a dealership and place your order because the parts are no longer being made. But with a little digging, they can be found.
Some places to start your search include:
Online Auctions
Online auction sites, such as Ebay, are probably the easiest place to begin your search for classic car parts. If you’ve seen the ads that Ebay has “It,” you know this is true. Ebay Motors has many listings for hard to find vehicles and classic car parts. You’ll have to cover the shipping charges, so that is something to consider when purchasing larger items.
Swap Meets
Finding a local swap meet may be just the thing you need to locate the classic car parts you need. They are great places to find older model accessories and other outdated items.
Classic Car Part Dealer Publications
Often times you can find the parts you are looking for in car part dealer magazines. The only drawback here is that you will probably have to spend top dollar. This option could be used as a last resort though if you are unable to find a specific part anywhere else. Exhaust all other possibilities first if money is tight.
Clubs and Organizations
Clubs and organizations exist for as many hobbies that people can think up. Certainly, there are a fair number of clubs and organizations geared toward car enthusiasts. Locating and joining one such club may prove beneficial in your hunt for classic car parts. You will be able to make connections with other people who share your interest.
In the Internet age, it is also possible to find a club or organization centered on classic car parts by doing an online search. Try searching Yahoo groups and you are likely to find a list of clubs you could join. Again, making connections with people who share your interest in classic car parts may lead you to a dealer or another source from which you can purchase classic car parts.
Junkyards
Maybe you don’t picture yourself hanging around a junkyard to find used classic car parts, but you may be able to find a diamond in the rough. If you have never used this type of service before, it could be worthwhile to check it out. Everything is computerized and usually a visit or a phone call is all you need to check and see if they have the part or accessory that you need for your precious investment.
Of course you will want to take good care of your classic car to limit the number of parts that you will need to search for. The less time you spend tracking down parts, the more time you can spend enjoying the car of your dreams.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Winterize Your Classic Car
Winterize Your Classic Car
By: Andrew Holliday
The mercury is dropping and the nights are drawing in. It’s time to start thinking about that ‘investment’ you so eagerly purchased over the summer. Ideally we would all garage our classic cars over the winter, not bringing them out again for their first wax and polish until the following spring. Unfortunately for many of us that is just not an option, so a little bit of preparation early on can save you a lot of heartache later. The two main things you should be thinking about are ensuring that your winter driving is as safe as possible and protecting your classic car from the harsh elements. Here are a few tips to get you on the right track.
Safer Winter Driving
1. Check your Antifreeze/Coolant. Make sure that the type you are using is sufficient for the climate you live in. Check the levels regularly; however always check when the engine is cold. Not only will you get a more accurate measurement but also opening a hot radiator is an extremely dangerous thing to do!
2. Check your tires. You’ll need good tread to get through 6 inches of snow. A change in temperature will make all sorts of parts on your car expand and contract. This includes the air in you tires. Ensure that they are inflated to the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for your vehicle; this will not only help with traction but will extend the life of your tires. Also remember that the rubber your tires are made from will also contract. Check old tires for cracking and replace if necessary. It’s easier to do it now than on the side of the road in freezing temperatures!
3. Belts and hoses are also likely to expand and contract as the temperature changes. Check them over and change any that show signs of wearing or cracking.
4. Add a gas treatment. Over time water vapor can build up in your gas lines and will freeze when the temperature drops, blocking your fuel lines. A can of fuel treatment early on will remove the moisture and prevent this from happening.
5. Check the condition of your battery. Most auto parts stores and mechanics garages will do this for you free of charge. A hard to start engine can be impossible to start with an old battery, so replace if necessary.
6. Check your spark plugs. While your mechanic is checking your battery have him take a look at the plugs too. Corroded, oxidized or badly aligned spark plugs can also make it impossible to start the car in the morning.
7. Clean or replace your wiper blades. There are many brands of snow blades available that are designed not to stick to the windshield. Not all will work with older cars however, so at the very least, clean the ones you have with an alcohol based cleaner. Also check your washer fluid level and keep it topped up. Make sure to use a washer fluid that has some antifreeze in it.
8. Stock your car with some essential and emergency items.
· Flashlight (check the batteries!)
· Ice scraper
· Well stocked First Aid Kit
· A blanket, hat and gloves in case you brake down without the engine running and need to keep warm.
· Reflective triangle warning sign or flares
· Jumper cables
Protecting That Investment
1. Wash and dry your car regularly. The salt on the roads will wreak havoc on your bodywork and before you know it that cancer of all cars, rust, will be well and truly set in. So give it a good clean, underside included, as often as possible.
2. Check all fluids regularly; older cars and older gaskets have a habit of springing leaks throughout the winter months. It’s easier to top up the fluid than replace a major part that has seized up. If you find a constant leak, get it fixed or fix it yourself. You knew there would be a few running repairs when you bought your car, so no complaining about the cost. Remember it’s all about keeping that classic car on the road.
3. Apply a good wax early on. A good wax applied in several layers will help keep that ‘all original bodywork’ you paid so much extra for, in great shape come sun, snow, rain or shine.
4. Drive defensively. Just because you know you don’t have anti-lock brakes and traction control doesn’t mean everybody else does. Those one off parts are just as hard to come by regardless of whose fault it was they got wrecked in the first place. Drive with others in mind and try to think ahead. Remember you can’t think for the idiot in front of or behind you, but you can try and get out of the way if they come skidding towards you!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
By: Andrew Holliday
The mercury is dropping and the nights are drawing in. It’s time to start thinking about that ‘investment’ you so eagerly purchased over the summer. Ideally we would all garage our classic cars over the winter, not bringing them out again for their first wax and polish until the following spring. Unfortunately for many of us that is just not an option, so a little bit of preparation early on can save you a lot of heartache later. The two main things you should be thinking about are ensuring that your winter driving is as safe as possible and protecting your classic car from the harsh elements. Here are a few tips to get you on the right track.
Safer Winter Driving
1. Check your Antifreeze/Coolant. Make sure that the type you are using is sufficient for the climate you live in. Check the levels regularly; however always check when the engine is cold. Not only will you get a more accurate measurement but also opening a hot radiator is an extremely dangerous thing to do!
2. Check your tires. You’ll need good tread to get through 6 inches of snow. A change in temperature will make all sorts of parts on your car expand and contract. This includes the air in you tires. Ensure that they are inflated to the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for your vehicle; this will not only help with traction but will extend the life of your tires. Also remember that the rubber your tires are made from will also contract. Check old tires for cracking and replace if necessary. It’s easier to do it now than on the side of the road in freezing temperatures!
3. Belts and hoses are also likely to expand and contract as the temperature changes. Check them over and change any that show signs of wearing or cracking.
4. Add a gas treatment. Over time water vapor can build up in your gas lines and will freeze when the temperature drops, blocking your fuel lines. A can of fuel treatment early on will remove the moisture and prevent this from happening.
5. Check the condition of your battery. Most auto parts stores and mechanics garages will do this for you free of charge. A hard to start engine can be impossible to start with an old battery, so replace if necessary.
6. Check your spark plugs. While your mechanic is checking your battery have him take a look at the plugs too. Corroded, oxidized or badly aligned spark plugs can also make it impossible to start the car in the morning.
7. Clean or replace your wiper blades. There are many brands of snow blades available that are designed not to stick to the windshield. Not all will work with older cars however, so at the very least, clean the ones you have with an alcohol based cleaner. Also check your washer fluid level and keep it topped up. Make sure to use a washer fluid that has some antifreeze in it.
8. Stock your car with some essential and emergency items.
· Flashlight (check the batteries!)
· Ice scraper
· Well stocked First Aid Kit
· A blanket, hat and gloves in case you brake down without the engine running and need to keep warm.
· Reflective triangle warning sign or flares
· Jumper cables
Protecting That Investment
1. Wash and dry your car regularly. The salt on the roads will wreak havoc on your bodywork and before you know it that cancer of all cars, rust, will be well and truly set in. So give it a good clean, underside included, as often as possible.
2. Check all fluids regularly; older cars and older gaskets have a habit of springing leaks throughout the winter months. It’s easier to top up the fluid than replace a major part that has seized up. If you find a constant leak, get it fixed or fix it yourself. You knew there would be a few running repairs when you bought your car, so no complaining about the cost. Remember it’s all about keeping that classic car on the road.
3. Apply a good wax early on. A good wax applied in several layers will help keep that ‘all original bodywork’ you paid so much extra for, in great shape come sun, snow, rain or shine.
4. Drive defensively. Just because you know you don’t have anti-lock brakes and traction control doesn’t mean everybody else does. Those one off parts are just as hard to come by regardless of whose fault it was they got wrecked in the first place. Drive with others in mind and try to think ahead. Remember you can’t think for the idiot in front of or behind you, but you can try and get out of the way if they come skidding towards you!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
How Pop-Culture Collectibles Can Increase Your Online Auction Profits
How Pop-Culture Collectibles Can Increase Your Online Auction Profits
by: David Espino
How Pop Culture collectibles can increase your Online Auction profits
With the increasingly competitive environment for products to sell in the online auction arena, sellers are getting more creative as to the items they purchase for re-sale.
While some of the Dutch Auction items that are frequently sold on eBay will always maintain their commodity status and always sell well, Pop Culture collectibles will usually generate a higher profit-per-item simply because of a combination of two forces.
Scarcity and Desirability.
Pop Culture collectibles can run the gamut from a special early edition pair of Levis to a rare Coca Cola collectible.
However, when I discuss Pop Culture items in this article, I will limit the definition to only the types of collectibles that I’ve managed to have any experience with and that would be T.V., Movie and Toy collectibles.
Obviously, the category of Pop Culture collectibles is much bigger than this limited definition, but in the interests of keeping this a knowledgeable article, I will focus on the limited definition here.
One of my first experiences with Pop Culture collectibles was with a box of unused "The Fonz" posters that I found at an antiques swap meet a few years ago.
I came across this box at a seller’s stand. It had one poster taped to the outside of the box and the price tag on the box said $5 each.
I asked the seller "How much are the posters?", not ever assuming that the price on the box was the current price.
The seller replied with "Three bucks each."
Being new to eBay and wanting to experiment, I counted the posters, which were still in shrink wrap material. There were 25 posters in the box. The box looked like it had been loaded and unloaded too many times, but the posters were in perfect condition.
So I asked the seller, "How much for the whole box?"
He asked, "How many are there?"
I told him, "25".
He said, "How about $40 for the box?"
I said, "O.K.", and handed him $40.
I posted an auction for one of the Fonz posters that week. It was a large photo of "The Fonz for Prez", sort of a campaign poster with Fonzie in his traditional Leather jacket, thumbs up and a "Sit on it" button on his jacket.
The auction was set to close on a Sunday, and when I checked it on Friday, it was up to $22 !
I was shocked and happy at the same time.
On Sunday, I took my family out to dinner and got home to see that the auction had closed at an astonishing $42.50 !
That experience was the one that cemented me in the area of Pop Culture collectibles!
I continued to sell the Fonz posters, one at a time (so as not to "flood the market") at prices from the $42.50 high to a low of $12.50.
My estimate for gross sales is somewhere around $450 for that box of posters.
This type of profit exists in the area of Pop Culture collectibles, but it does take some guts to seek out and "gamble" on these types of deals.
I had no idea what the posters were worth when I purchased them, but I had a good hunch, which proved to be correct.
Other Pop Culture deals I’ve made, most found at antique swap meets:
M.A.S.H. action figures - purchased a box of 28 of them for $50, sold them individually for between $9.00 and $15.50
Star Wars Figures - purchased a box of special limited edition figures for $120 at a regular swap meet, sold the box to a Star Wars dealer for $2,100.
Evel Knievel figure, mint in box, purchased for $10, sold for $115.
Alien 3 movie theater poster (massive, about 4’ tall by 12‘ wide), found at a yard sale for $10, sold on eBay for $50.
Bionic Woman action figure, mint in box, purchased for $30, sold for $85.
In each of these cases, I had no idea what the value was, I just went with my gut. But the fact that they were Pop Culture collectibles made it much easier to take that chance and buy the items.
Another solution many sellers use is to have their spouse at home, ready at the computer to do price research on unknown items!
Armed with a cell phone and a significant other at home doing research, your results will be less of a risk and more fun, too!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: David Espino
How Pop Culture collectibles can increase your Online Auction profits
With the increasingly competitive environment for products to sell in the online auction arena, sellers are getting more creative as to the items they purchase for re-sale.
While some of the Dutch Auction items that are frequently sold on eBay will always maintain their commodity status and always sell well, Pop Culture collectibles will usually generate a higher profit-per-item simply because of a combination of two forces.
Scarcity and Desirability.
Pop Culture collectibles can run the gamut from a special early edition pair of Levis to a rare Coca Cola collectible.
However, when I discuss Pop Culture items in this article, I will limit the definition to only the types of collectibles that I’ve managed to have any experience with and that would be T.V., Movie and Toy collectibles.
Obviously, the category of Pop Culture collectibles is much bigger than this limited definition, but in the interests of keeping this a knowledgeable article, I will focus on the limited definition here.
One of my first experiences with Pop Culture collectibles was with a box of unused "The Fonz" posters that I found at an antiques swap meet a few years ago.
I came across this box at a seller’s stand. It had one poster taped to the outside of the box and the price tag on the box said $5 each.
I asked the seller "How much are the posters?", not ever assuming that the price on the box was the current price.
The seller replied with "Three bucks each."
Being new to eBay and wanting to experiment, I counted the posters, which were still in shrink wrap material. There were 25 posters in the box. The box looked like it had been loaded and unloaded too many times, but the posters were in perfect condition.
So I asked the seller, "How much for the whole box?"
He asked, "How many are there?"
I told him, "25".
He said, "How about $40 for the box?"
I said, "O.K.", and handed him $40.
I posted an auction for one of the Fonz posters that week. It was a large photo of "The Fonz for Prez", sort of a campaign poster with Fonzie in his traditional Leather jacket, thumbs up and a "Sit on it" button on his jacket.
The auction was set to close on a Sunday, and when I checked it on Friday, it was up to $22 !
I was shocked and happy at the same time.
On Sunday, I took my family out to dinner and got home to see that the auction had closed at an astonishing $42.50 !
That experience was the one that cemented me in the area of Pop Culture collectibles!
I continued to sell the Fonz posters, one at a time (so as not to "flood the market") at prices from the $42.50 high to a low of $12.50.
My estimate for gross sales is somewhere around $450 for that box of posters.
This type of profit exists in the area of Pop Culture collectibles, but it does take some guts to seek out and "gamble" on these types of deals.
I had no idea what the posters were worth when I purchased them, but I had a good hunch, which proved to be correct.
Other Pop Culture deals I’ve made, most found at antique swap meets:
M.A.S.H. action figures - purchased a box of 28 of them for $50, sold them individually for between $9.00 and $15.50
Star Wars Figures - purchased a box of special limited edition figures for $120 at a regular swap meet, sold the box to a Star Wars dealer for $2,100.
Evel Knievel figure, mint in box, purchased for $10, sold for $115.
Alien 3 movie theater poster (massive, about 4’ tall by 12‘ wide), found at a yard sale for $10, sold on eBay for $50.
Bionic Woman action figure, mint in box, purchased for $30, sold for $85.
In each of these cases, I had no idea what the value was, I just went with my gut. But the fact that they were Pop Culture collectibles made it much easier to take that chance and buy the items.
Another solution many sellers use is to have their spouse at home, ready at the computer to do price research on unknown items!
Armed with a cell phone and a significant other at home doing research, your results will be less of a risk and more fun, too!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Monday, January 15, 2007
Cadillac Convertible Eldorado - From The Early Fifties And Up Till Today
Cadillac Convertible Eldorado - From The Early Fifties And Up Till Today
by: Terry Bolton
Eldorado was a personal luxury model from Cadillac. This model also was the one that had the longest run in the American market.The Eldorado model was the only one sold after the 1998 model year. It was part of the Cadillac line of models from 1953 to 2002 and its main competitors was Buick Riviera and the Mark Series. The name 'Eldorado' is Spanish and translates to 'the gilded one'. The South American Indian tribe chief also had this name It has been said that this chief would wash off the gold dust that was sprinkled in his body by diving into a lake during a ceremony. Another origin of this name are the cities of fabulous riches in South America which inspired European expeditions.
A Brief History
The name 'Eldorado' was proposed for a very special show car built in 1952 for marking Cadillac's Golden Anniversary. Actually, it was the result of an in-house competition that was won by Mary-Ann Zukosky (married name = Marini). Mary-Ann was a secretary in the company's merchandising department. It is also worth mentioning that Palm Springs Life magazine, attributes the name to a resort destination in California's Coachella Valley that was a favorite of General Motors executives, the Eldorado Country Club. Anyway, the name was adopted by the company for a new, limited-edition convertible that was added to the line in 1953.
The Cad models named Eldorado were always near the top of the manufacturers product line although cars bearing the name varied considerably in bodystyle and mechanical layout during this long period. Nevertheless, with exceptions for the Eldorado Brougham models of 1957-1960, the most expensive models were always the opulent, long wheel-based "Series 75" sedans and limousines.
The Development in the 1990s
1992
In 1992, a new Eldorado appeared. It was slightly bigger than its predecessor, but it was so much more adroitly styled that it seemed greatly so. The window glasses were once again frameless, and shortly after introduction Cadillac's excellent new Northstar V8 became available. This combination of sleek styling and increased power seemed more like the great Eldorados and this got good reviews for this model. The sales went up, though never again at record heights. People who purchased this preferred the four door model Cadillac Seville, a trend that was clearly indicated by the sale figures. This automobile continued for the rest of the decade with incremental changes and moderate sales., Its former running mates Toronado and Riviera were discontinued at this time and by the end of the century it was becoming clear that the end of the Eldorado was probably coming as well.
1998
Some minor exterior updates were done for the Eldorado in 1998 as well as a revised interior.
The Swan Song
Cadillac announced that they would end production after the year 2002. Well, this was not just said but done as well: The final ETC model became the most powerful model with an 300 hp engine with front wheel drive. Well, that's not hundred percent true though, because a few cars were produced to mark the end of this proud model in April 2003, cars that were produced in the 1953 convertible colors of red and white. An honorful end of a wonderful car.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Terry Bolton
Eldorado was a personal luxury model from Cadillac. This model also was the one that had the longest run in the American market.The Eldorado model was the only one sold after the 1998 model year. It was part of the Cadillac line of models from 1953 to 2002 and its main competitors was Buick Riviera and the Mark Series. The name 'Eldorado' is Spanish and translates to 'the gilded one'. The South American Indian tribe chief also had this name It has been said that this chief would wash off the gold dust that was sprinkled in his body by diving into a lake during a ceremony. Another origin of this name are the cities of fabulous riches in South America which inspired European expeditions.
A Brief History
The name 'Eldorado' was proposed for a very special show car built in 1952 for marking Cadillac's Golden Anniversary. Actually, it was the result of an in-house competition that was won by Mary-Ann Zukosky (married name = Marini). Mary-Ann was a secretary in the company's merchandising department. It is also worth mentioning that Palm Springs Life magazine, attributes the name to a resort destination in California's Coachella Valley that was a favorite of General Motors executives, the Eldorado Country Club. Anyway, the name was adopted by the company for a new, limited-edition convertible that was added to the line in 1953.
The Cad models named Eldorado were always near the top of the manufacturers product line although cars bearing the name varied considerably in bodystyle and mechanical layout during this long period. Nevertheless, with exceptions for the Eldorado Brougham models of 1957-1960, the most expensive models were always the opulent, long wheel-based "Series 75" sedans and limousines.
The Development in the 1990s
1992
In 1992, a new Eldorado appeared. It was slightly bigger than its predecessor, but it was so much more adroitly styled that it seemed greatly so. The window glasses were once again frameless, and shortly after introduction Cadillac's excellent new Northstar V8 became available. This combination of sleek styling and increased power seemed more like the great Eldorados and this got good reviews for this model. The sales went up, though never again at record heights. People who purchased this preferred the four door model Cadillac Seville, a trend that was clearly indicated by the sale figures. This automobile continued for the rest of the decade with incremental changes and moderate sales., Its former running mates Toronado and Riviera were discontinued at this time and by the end of the century it was becoming clear that the end of the Eldorado was probably coming as well.
1998
Some minor exterior updates were done for the Eldorado in 1998 as well as a revised interior.
The Swan Song
Cadillac announced that they would end production after the year 2002. Well, this was not just said but done as well: The final ETC model became the most powerful model with an 300 hp engine with front wheel drive. Well, that's not hundred percent true though, because a few cars were produced to mark the end of this proud model in April 2003, cars that were produced in the 1953 convertible colors of red and white. An honorful end of a wonderful car.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Monday, January 08, 2007
All About Car Shows: How To Plan In Phases
All About Car Shows: How To Plan In Phases
by: Tonza Borden
Rome was not built in a day and your car show won’t be either. You have to plan your event in phases and execute it in phases. What does that mean? Write everything you want in outline format. Designate a completion date for each item of responsibility. For example, you need to contact car clubs to display vintage cars well in advance of the show date. This becomes your time-line.
When the show day arrives, it will be easier to execute the plan because it was projected in phases. Another example, if you have five teams, divide the project outline among them. Each team will be responsible for its section and meeting the time-line.
Although you are planning your car show to be executed in phases, it is critical to have contingencies in place. In other words: a backup plan to allow for worst-case scenarios such as someone dropping the ball or an unreliable vendor. This does not mean you need to worry about every little negative thing or plan for the worst.
No one can plan for the unknown but when things don’t go as planned, roll with it because it’s show time—and it is a beautiful thing when a plan comes together. Expect a GREAT car show!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Tonza Borden
Rome was not built in a day and your car show won’t be either. You have to plan your event in phases and execute it in phases. What does that mean? Write everything you want in outline format. Designate a completion date for each item of responsibility. For example, you need to contact car clubs to display vintage cars well in advance of the show date. This becomes your time-line.
When the show day arrives, it will be easier to execute the plan because it was projected in phases. Another example, if you have five teams, divide the project outline among them. Each team will be responsible for its section and meeting the time-line.
Although you are planning your car show to be executed in phases, it is critical to have contingencies in place. In other words: a backup plan to allow for worst-case scenarios such as someone dropping the ball or an unreliable vendor. This does not mean you need to worry about every little negative thing or plan for the worst.
No one can plan for the unknown but when things don’t go as planned, roll with it because it’s show time—and it is a beautiful thing when a plan comes together. Expect a GREAT car show!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Sunday, January 07, 2007
All About Car Shows: How To Control Logistics
All About Car Shows: How To Control Logistics
by: Tonza Borden
It’s on! And controlling logistics is the key to managing all of your planning. It is now up to the teams to control their assigned area or task. For example, you are assigned to assist visitors with parking. It is your responsibility to ensure that cars are parked properly in designated areas only. It is critical that teams know clearly what to do because communication and coordination rules the day.
Nuts and Bolts
Controlling logistics start before the first visitor arrives but it does not stop until the last visitor has gone, all equipment is broken down and, the area cleaned to pre-show condition.
Controlling logistics are the nuts and bolts of the car show. It requires everyone to pull together to get it done. It is also critical that team members commit to the duration to fulfill their logistical responsibilities.
Show Time
Finally! Beautiful cars are rolling in with proud owners geared up to show their stuff. Vendors are getting last minute hookup. Teams are on point and excitement is mounting. It’s early yet, but visitors are arriving to get the best parking spaces. Music is bumping and getting everybody in the mood for cruising. The stage is set and the show is ready to rock. Fellow car show enthusiasts, you have done the work and now, “its show time”!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Tonza Borden
It’s on! And controlling logistics is the key to managing all of your planning. It is now up to the teams to control their assigned area or task. For example, you are assigned to assist visitors with parking. It is your responsibility to ensure that cars are parked properly in designated areas only. It is critical that teams know clearly what to do because communication and coordination rules the day.
Nuts and Bolts
Controlling logistics start before the first visitor arrives but it does not stop until the last visitor has gone, all equipment is broken down and, the area cleaned to pre-show condition.
Controlling logistics are the nuts and bolts of the car show. It requires everyone to pull together to get it done. It is also critical that team members commit to the duration to fulfill their logistical responsibilities.
Show Time
Finally! Beautiful cars are rolling in with proud owners geared up to show their stuff. Vendors are getting last minute hookup. Teams are on point and excitement is mounting. It’s early yet, but visitors are arriving to get the best parking spaces. Music is bumping and getting everybody in the mood for cruising. The stage is set and the show is ready to rock. Fellow car show enthusiasts, you have done the work and now, “its show time”!
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Friday, January 05, 2007
Cops 'n Rodders For Safety Show
Cops 'n Rodders For Safety Show
by: Kenneth McKinley
Yes, you read that right. It is Cops 'n Rodders and certainly not Cops 'n Robbers.
Cops 'n Rodders is an annual benefit car show that is hosted by the Cuyahoga Community College Western Campus. August 13th is the scheduled date for this year’s Cops 'n Rodders. And 2006 marks the fifth year of the school’s hosting this event.
From nine in the morning up until 3:30 in the afternoon of that day, the Cops 'n Rodders event would be in full swing. And aside from being a benefit car show, it is also going to be a day to campaign and inform people about car and driving safety.
During the whole duration of the car show, attendees would find various things to do. Throughout the event, there would be door prizes and giveaways to be granted for free to those lucky ones. If you are looking for some Volvo S70 performance parts for your vehicle, maybe you will win those at this car show.
Children would also be having a grand time at the Cops 'n Rodders benefit car show. There are activities planned for them like face painting. The first 100 children who would be taking joining the child safety helmet class would be receiving free helmets. But this activity is open for all children.
Other sights to behold and take part of in this benefit car show include a demonstration of K-9 units. This would be headed and facilitated by the North Olmsted Police Department. A D.A.R.E. car unit of the police as well as a Special Utility Police Vehicle would also be there for people to see.
Cars and automobiles would not be the only ones who would be available for viewing at this event. The Metro Life Flight helicopters and the Tri-C Police Motorcycle Unit would be making special appearances. The Tri-C West Auto Tech facility would even be giving free tours of their place. So if you are interested in these, then you better head out for the Cops 'n Rodders show.
And if you are already tired and hungry, there are various refreshment booths and food stuff available throughout the show. Live music would also be blaring out and a disc jockey would be making sure that everybody is feeling the beat and rhythm of the event. Vo Parts http://www.voparts.com
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Kenneth McKinley
Yes, you read that right. It is Cops 'n Rodders and certainly not Cops 'n Robbers.
Cops 'n Rodders is an annual benefit car show that is hosted by the Cuyahoga Community College Western Campus. August 13th is the scheduled date for this year’s Cops 'n Rodders. And 2006 marks the fifth year of the school’s hosting this event.
From nine in the morning up until 3:30 in the afternoon of that day, the Cops 'n Rodders event would be in full swing. And aside from being a benefit car show, it is also going to be a day to campaign and inform people about car and driving safety.
During the whole duration of the car show, attendees would find various things to do. Throughout the event, there would be door prizes and giveaways to be granted for free to those lucky ones. If you are looking for some Volvo S70 performance parts for your vehicle, maybe you will win those at this car show.
Children would also be having a grand time at the Cops 'n Rodders benefit car show. There are activities planned for them like face painting. The first 100 children who would be taking joining the child safety helmet class would be receiving free helmets. But this activity is open for all children.
Other sights to behold and take part of in this benefit car show include a demonstration of K-9 units. This would be headed and facilitated by the North Olmsted Police Department. A D.A.R.E. car unit of the police as well as a Special Utility Police Vehicle would also be there for people to see.
Cars and automobiles would not be the only ones who would be available for viewing at this event. The Metro Life Flight helicopters and the Tri-C Police Motorcycle Unit would be making special appearances. The Tri-C West Auto Tech facility would even be giving free tours of their place. So if you are interested in these, then you better head out for the Cops 'n Rodders show.
And if you are already tired and hungry, there are various refreshment booths and food stuff available throughout the show. Live music would also be blaring out and a disc jockey would be making sure that everybody is feeling the beat and rhythm of the event. Vo Parts http://www.voparts.com
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Super Cars
Super Cars
by: Jonathon Hardcastle
Man's thrill for speed can best be satiated with super-cars. Super-cars were made to give a taste of new extremes to mankind. They have powerful engines specially build lighter bodies which allow them to reach high maximum speeds at amazing accelerations.
Modern Super-cars are more reliable than older ones. They use new technology to make them less threatening to the environment; new exhaust converters, comparatively lower ignition engines etc. They are now made with safer gadgets and bodies to keep not only the people inside them safe but also those run over by them. All this, just to build a better future for our children and a safer and cleaner tomorrow. But we are talking about Super-cars here, so that's just not the point.
Super-cars are supposed to be much faster and fearsome than ordinary cars. Though they still are all that, but compared to the Super-cars of the past made almost fifteen years ago they are slightly slower now. The modern Super-cars have so much more technology that even if you hit the brake the computer inside the car calculates the speed and traction control and then brake the car making the response time slower than older Super-cars; in which the car did exactly what and when you told it to do. Fifteen years ago Mclaren proved that they had the technology to cross the 240 mph speed mark. Though Porche have the same technology to achieve that goal, somehow for some strange reason they held back from doing so. In some old Super-cars like the Ferrari F40 there were no door handles, no radio and no carpets and all these things made it a lot lighter. The F40 could go from naught to 60 in 3.2 seconds which almost no modern super-car can accomplish. New modern cars on the other hand have a lot of gadgets but they only serve as distractions. When you are in a super-car is drive and drive fast. Older Super-cars are still much faster than the new contemporary ones.
Environmental agencies and government regulations have made Super-cars of today have made them impotent vis-à-vis there cousins from a decade ago and at the same time have killed the very purpose of engineering and driving a super car.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Jonathon Hardcastle
Man's thrill for speed can best be satiated with super-cars. Super-cars were made to give a taste of new extremes to mankind. They have powerful engines specially build lighter bodies which allow them to reach high maximum speeds at amazing accelerations.
Modern Super-cars are more reliable than older ones. They use new technology to make them less threatening to the environment; new exhaust converters, comparatively lower ignition engines etc. They are now made with safer gadgets and bodies to keep not only the people inside them safe but also those run over by them. All this, just to build a better future for our children and a safer and cleaner tomorrow. But we are talking about Super-cars here, so that's just not the point.
Super-cars are supposed to be much faster and fearsome than ordinary cars. Though they still are all that, but compared to the Super-cars of the past made almost fifteen years ago they are slightly slower now. The modern Super-cars have so much more technology that even if you hit the brake the computer inside the car calculates the speed and traction control and then brake the car making the response time slower than older Super-cars; in which the car did exactly what and when you told it to do. Fifteen years ago Mclaren proved that they had the technology to cross the 240 mph speed mark. Though Porche have the same technology to achieve that goal, somehow for some strange reason they held back from doing so. In some old Super-cars like the Ferrari F40 there were no door handles, no radio and no carpets and all these things made it a lot lighter. The F40 could go from naught to 60 in 3.2 seconds which almost no modern super-car can accomplish. New modern cars on the other hand have a lot of gadgets but they only serve as distractions. When you are in a super-car is drive and drive fast. Older Super-cars are still much faster than the new contemporary ones.
Environmental agencies and government regulations have made Super-cars of today have made them impotent vis-à-vis there cousins from a decade ago and at the same time have killed the very purpose of engineering and driving a super car.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
How To Make Your Car Show Attractive
How To Make Your Car Show Attractive
by: Tonza Borden
Vintage automobiles, vendors and entertainment work like a magnet to attract visitors to a well planned and well executed car show. A variety of antique classic cars, trucks and cycles, great food, choice of beverage and plenty of it is what visitors want.
Music Matters
Add live music or a disc jockey spinning tunes from the 50s, 60s and 70s and your visitors will stay in the party mood from beginning to end. And no car show would be complete without fun activities for kids.
Kick It Up A Notch
Another attraction can also be your theme such as 50s costumes or funky vintage attire. This is a simple way for hosts and visitors to add to the attraction. The fun can start with shopping at thrift stores for your outfit. Another popular car show attraction is a Swap Meet.
Ask your group to donate retro items from their garage, storage room, etc. and sell it cheap. The cheaper the prices the more you will sell and there won’t be anything to pack up. Are there any musicians or artisans in your group who would perform for the love of it?
An attraction doesn’t have to be huge or expensive—just interesting and fun. Equipped with a small budget and a large cache of creativity, you can make your car show very attractive.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Tonza Borden
Vintage automobiles, vendors and entertainment work like a magnet to attract visitors to a well planned and well executed car show. A variety of antique classic cars, trucks and cycles, great food, choice of beverage and plenty of it is what visitors want.
Music Matters
Add live music or a disc jockey spinning tunes from the 50s, 60s and 70s and your visitors will stay in the party mood from beginning to end. And no car show would be complete without fun activities for kids.
Kick It Up A Notch
Another attraction can also be your theme such as 50s costumes or funky vintage attire. This is a simple way for hosts and visitors to add to the attraction. The fun can start with shopping at thrift stores for your outfit. Another popular car show attraction is a Swap Meet.
Ask your group to donate retro items from their garage, storage room, etc. and sell it cheap. The cheaper the prices the more you will sell and there won’t be anything to pack up. Are there any musicians or artisans in your group who would perform for the love of it?
An attraction doesn’t have to be huge or expensive—just interesting and fun. Equipped with a small budget and a large cache of creativity, you can make your car show very attractive.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Pinstripe Your Car. Basic Customization
Pinstripe your Car. Basic Customization
by: Allison Thompson
Prior to the invention of the car, pin striping was being used as ornamental decoration on horse drawn buggies, coaches and carriages.
However, the use of pinstripes to customize cars began to appear on them during the middle of the 1950’s. Even though it seems that pin striping had in fact been appearing on cars prior to this time and the last American car to appear with pin striping on it straight from the factory was made by General Motors towards the end of the 1930’s. For many people who own muscle or sports cars today, customizing their vehicle is as important as actually owning and showing the vehicle off and pin striping seems to add those final finishing touches.
Normally pinstripes appear on a car using two colours, the first is used to help set off the body colour and then the second thinner line is used in a contrasting colour to make sure that the stripe actually stands out.
Nowadays, mechanical pin striping is the best method for applying stripes to larger vehicles such as trucks, vans or station wagons (RV’s). This system ensures that the stripes being laid down are of a constant width and allows you to focus more of your attention on getting the stripe placed correctly on the vehicles surface. This can be done using magnetic pin striping strips with a central groove which is designed to be used as a paint template. They are specifically designed to hold fast on to any steel surface and can also be used a guide line for your hand when actually doing the work.
Another way of pin striping a vehicle is to use stencil tape. You will soon find that there are several kinds of stencil tape available which are suitable for using when carrying out pin striping on a car. However, with this method you will need to use brushes and the purchasing of a pin striping brush is essential if you want the project to be a success. The benefit of this method is that you are able to apply different colour stripes to your vehicle without having to wait for the other stripes to dry.
The last method for pin striping is Freehand and this is certainly the most difficult and requires a lot of practice before it is mastered fully. However, it does allow the person carrying out the pin striping to have more freedom in relation to what they create on their vehicle. The best way any freehand pin striping newbie can do is lay a strip of masking tape about ¼ inch down from where the finished line will be and then use this as a visual guide when painting on your stripes. However, remember you should not use regular masking tape otherwise the pin striping paint will actually bleed under the edge you can purchase auto body masking tape from any reputable automobile supply shop/store.
At the end of the day it does not matter which method of pin striping you decide to use, just remember it is a great way of making your car look that little bit different from the rest. But it is like anything else, practice makes perfect and by having the best equipment as well to use will help also.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
by: Allison Thompson
Prior to the invention of the car, pin striping was being used as ornamental decoration on horse drawn buggies, coaches and carriages.
However, the use of pinstripes to customize cars began to appear on them during the middle of the 1950’s. Even though it seems that pin striping had in fact been appearing on cars prior to this time and the last American car to appear with pin striping on it straight from the factory was made by General Motors towards the end of the 1930’s. For many people who own muscle or sports cars today, customizing their vehicle is as important as actually owning and showing the vehicle off and pin striping seems to add those final finishing touches.
Normally pinstripes appear on a car using two colours, the first is used to help set off the body colour and then the second thinner line is used in a contrasting colour to make sure that the stripe actually stands out.
Nowadays, mechanical pin striping is the best method for applying stripes to larger vehicles such as trucks, vans or station wagons (RV’s). This system ensures that the stripes being laid down are of a constant width and allows you to focus more of your attention on getting the stripe placed correctly on the vehicles surface. This can be done using magnetic pin striping strips with a central groove which is designed to be used as a paint template. They are specifically designed to hold fast on to any steel surface and can also be used a guide line for your hand when actually doing the work.
Another way of pin striping a vehicle is to use stencil tape. You will soon find that there are several kinds of stencil tape available which are suitable for using when carrying out pin striping on a car. However, with this method you will need to use brushes and the purchasing of a pin striping brush is essential if you want the project to be a success. The benefit of this method is that you are able to apply different colour stripes to your vehicle without having to wait for the other stripes to dry.
The last method for pin striping is Freehand and this is certainly the most difficult and requires a lot of practice before it is mastered fully. However, it does allow the person carrying out the pin striping to have more freedom in relation to what they create on their vehicle. The best way any freehand pin striping newbie can do is lay a strip of masking tape about ¼ inch down from where the finished line will be and then use this as a visual guide when painting on your stripes. However, remember you should not use regular masking tape otherwise the pin striping paint will actually bleed under the edge you can purchase auto body masking tape from any reputable automobile supply shop/store.
At the end of the day it does not matter which method of pin striping you decide to use, just remember it is a great way of making your car look that little bit different from the rest. But it is like anything else, practice makes perfect and by having the best equipment as well to use will help also.
www.SanDiegoAutoSwap.com
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