Auto Parts Online Review

How To Clean Your Abs Wheel Sensor

2008-10-28T06:17:21.435-07:00

Does your ABS light come on consistently and you do not know what is wrong! Well, when you check your code, you may see that it says that your front wheel sensor is damaged. However, that is not always the case. A lot of times, your ABS wheel sensor is just fine; they just need to be cleaned. Of course, if you take it to a shop, they are going to tell you that you need a new one. So we are going to go over how you can clean your own ABS wheel sensor in your Toyota and save yourself a lot of money. After you clean it, if you are still having the problem, you will need a new one. However, most people have noted that nine times out of ten, this does indeed fix their problem.First of all, before you get started, you are going to want to make sure you have everything that you need to perform the job. The only things that you are really going to need are a ratchet, jack, wheel lock and, of course, a rag or paper towel to clean it off with. After you have all of this stuff, you can feel free to get started. This should only take you an hour or two to do yourself.Getting Started On Your Wheel SensorFirst, you have to choose which side you want to get started on. You can choose either the passenger side or the driver side; it does not really matter. However, whichever side you do choose, that is the side that you, of course, need to jack up first. Before you jack up the car, you need to turn the steering wheel to the opposite side that you are working on. For example, if you are working on the driver side, then you are going to want to turn the wheel to the passenger side. Also, when you get it jacked up. You should use a jack stand, not just the jack. You never know how long you will need to have this car jacked up, so you will want the jack stand.After you turn the wheel and get everything all set up, you will notice that you should be able to locate the ABS wheel sensor very easily. It should be located directly mounted to the knuckle. To take this off, you are going to have to remove the two bolts that are holding them in place. In most Toyota cars, they are 10mm bolts. However, some of them can change from time to time. Overall, there will be about four bolts you have to take out. To do this, just follow the ABS sensor around so that you can remove all of the bolts. When you get the sensor off, you will notice that it is all covered in dirt. Take your rag or paper towel, and start whipping it off. As you do, you will notice that the very middle of it has a sliver strip that you could not see before. A lot of times, dirt blocks this and can cause problems, as you found out. After cleaning it, simply reverse the steps you did to reinstall it. Also, be sure to check both of the front ABS sensors. The one on both sides of the car!Still Having ProblemsMost of the time the procedure discussed above will fix any problem that you are having with your ABS sensor. If you have cleaned both of the front sensors and there are still problems, then you do have a damaged ABS sensor. At this point, you need to get new ones and replace them. If you want, you will be able to install them the same way you cleaned the other ones. However, instead of cleaning the old ones and putting them back on, you can simply put on the new ones. Overall, this is a one day job that can save you a ton of money. Most people do not notice how much money that they can save by doing this themselves until they actually do it![...]

Online Car Show

2008-10-25T10:03:59.936-07:00

Car shows are a great idea as it is a public exhibition where you can see your favourite concept cars, debuts, out of production cars or even current models. It brings in many car enthusiasts, owners and professionals together in one place which proves successful for the car manufacturers as it provides a huge amount of PR for them. The main shows usually take place twice a year.

Some car shows occur more often than the big shows but are generally at a smaller scale with not as many vehicles. These smaller car shows may have a different theme each week whether it is classics, muscle cars, street rods or lowriders.

Online car shows are a very popular concept as they enable enthusiasts to view cars whilst in their armchair, bed or maybe on the train. They can also discuss their vehicles in forums with other enthusiasts. Online car shows also enable car owners to buy and sell vehicles online.

Here are some of the themes you might see online:

Street rods

Street rods are hot rods built before 1949; a hot rod is a vehicle which has been modified to improve performance, usually by increasing its power and speed. A few panels were removed and flames were painted on the side of the vehicle giving the impression that it was hot, hence the name hot rod.
Lowriders

A low rider vehicle is what you would expect; it is a low riding vehicle which has had its suspension modified in a way so it would drive lower to the ground. Lowriders are generally old vehicles from the 40's and 50's and were manufactured low already and have user controlled height adjustable suspension. Many low riders come with factory accessories and many accessories are available to buy for modification, for this reason most lowriders are not road legal. Some of the most popular lowriders are the 1964 Chevy Impala hardtop and the Chevrolet Monte Carlo.

Muscle cars

Muscle cars are also known as pony cars and are generally American or Australian high performance cars and have two doors, rear wheel drive and extremely powerful v8 engines. The classic muscle cars were produced from the 60's and 70's and were used on the street with some used for racing. Some of the most popular classic muscle cars are the Pontiac GTO, Dodge R/T and Ford Mustang.

By: Barry Loughran

Shelby Releases The New 2008 Mustang Gt500kr

2008-10-25T09:23:31.013-07:00

Shelby launches the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR, and with good reason – with a successful launch of the Shelby GT and the retiring GT-H Hertz rental Mustangs selling at auctions for as much as $90,000. The 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR is a special-edition GT500 in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the original “King of the Road.” The GT500KR is a product after the GT500 to wear the mostly extinct SVT Badge trying to prove to us that Ford still has a performance division.

The 1967 New York auto show host the launch of the original Ford Shelby Mustang GT500KR that is powered by a 428 cubic inch Cobra Jet V-8 engine with 335 horsepower. The 2008 Shelby KR models are supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 engine under the hood with a Ford Power Upgrade Pack that comes with revised ignition timing and throttle calibration. The 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR that over takes the older model by 205 horsepower.

Other than the racing stripes and hood vents the other Shelby GT500’s have, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR comes with a signature hood with two forward looking mail slots at the leading edge of the hood feeding the blown 5.4's appetite for air and twist-down hood pins for a more secure racing genius.

The test done recently on the Shelby GT badge did not go well when the stick through pins of the badge vibrated out on rough terrain. The badges used on the Cobra grille and fenders have wings on them in celebration of the 40th anniversary GT500KR edition. The rocker stripes on the GT500KR are the same as it predecessor.

They have a Triton engine that uses four valves per cylinder instead of three that are used in the iron block truck version and they use the cylinder heads from the Ford GT, that has a aluminum block.

They are only going to produce one thousand of these, they will being selling the 2008 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500KR in Spring. You can probably bet with the S word on the hood and a power bump should have about $12,000 premium, putting the King of the Road about $50,000 area.

The director of the advanced product creation and SVT division of ford Hermann Salenbauch said the Shelby GT500 is one of the most successful cars they have ever made in almost every way.

Pulling Power

2008-10-24T20:50:01.827-07:00

ARB bumpers are designed to handle several different makes and many models of winches. The one caveat is the winch chosen must have the solenoid control-box remote mounted on top of the bumper, while the winch itself is housed inside.

This hidden winch-mounting location limits the winch selection to any size and type of Warn other than the new low-profile models, which have the solenoids as an integral part of the winch housing on the old upright 8274.

We chose the new Warn 9.5 Extreme Performance (XP) for the Maya Hunter. Its 9,500 pounds of pulling power and heavy-duty solenoid design are ideal for long pulls and frequent use, and it comes with 125 feet of 5/16-inch wire rope and roller fairlead.

Be forewarned: it takes two people to mount the winch — it’s heavy and the bumper is cumbersome. The job is best done with the bumper resting on top of sturdy milk crates or suitable stand.

Mounting and wiring the Warn winch are straightforward in the ARB bumper, with two small details: 1) the mounting holes in the roller fairlead must be drilled out to match the mounting holes predrilled in the bumper, and 2) the Warn winch motor has to be rotated so the control handle is accessible through the opening in the bumper’s top plate.

You also may need to modify the ARB solenoid pack’s mounting bracket that mounts the pack to the bumper. Usually the bracket fits perfectly. But we had to make a two-inch extension for this application. — BWS

FJ-40 Land Cruiser

2008-10-24T20:44:26.123-07:00

A Legend from the Far East story by Jim AllenPhotos by Jim Allen and theNational Archives or courtesy Toyota Motor Company Toyota’s first try at producing a military vehicle for post-war Japanese Defense Forces, then called the Japanese Police Reserve Force, as well as for in-country use by the U.S. military. It was built on the Toyopet model SB truck chassis and had a 28-horse, 995cc flathead mill. The command car lookalike didn’t make the cut. There was a time in the early 1960s when the mighty Jeep was challenged on its own turf and given one heck of a run for its money. The Land Cruiser came about in response to a 1950 procurement order for 1,000 vehicles by the American army occupying Japan. The specs called for a small jeeplike 4x4 for local use. In just five months, the Toyota Model BJ was born to answer that call. It used an updated version of a “cloned” six-cylinder engine (that’s familiar to Americans) mounted in a modified one-ton truck chassis, with four-wheel drive and a utility body added. It had a single-speed transfer case with a truck-type four-speed and a deep 5.53:1 first gear. The axles were narrowed truck axles and a lot beefier than they needed to be. The BJ was Toyota’s first production SWB 4x4. In light of the competition only offering four-bangers, equipping this rig with a big (105 horsepower) six seemed like overkill, but it later proved to be a good choice. Diesel engines were also offered. The BJ was built until 1955. Production of the BJ models, proudly called Toyota Jeeps, began in 1953 — though Willys-Overland had something to say about that name, much to Toyota’s embarrassment. Confusion over language probably had to do with trademark faux pas, especially given that the wording of the American procurement order mentioned something about “jeeps.” On June 24, 1954, Toyota formally changed the name of the BJ from Jeep to Land Cruiser, and now, as Paul Harvey says, you know the rest of the story. The BJ evolved into the FJ in 1955 with the introduction of the F-series engine, another evolution of the copied six. New variations were developed on the same basic platform, and, to differentiate between them, they carried a different designator. In 1955, there were 10 models, FJ-20 to 29, the FJ-25 being the standard SWB model. The Toyota model codes (BJ, FJ-25, FJ-40, etc.) used the engine series as the first designator, the chassis as the second (could the “J” be for “Jeep”?), and the various model numbers followed to indicate the exact version built on that chassis. By way of contrast to the 1966 shown nearby, here’s Tim Jonet’s 1977 ragtop. It not only represents the final years of the SWB Land Cruiser, but it shows how the FJ-40 remains a player in the wheeling world with buildups from mild to wild. The later years not only brought a bigger 2F engine (258 cubic inches, 145 horses), but also a four-speed tranny, improved axles, power disc brakes, and such creature comforts as air-conditioning. The FJ-25 was the first Toyota 4x4 exported to the USA, 62 units for 1958 and 1959. In 1960, the FJ-40 made its worldwide debut, and Toyota Motor Sales USA (established in 1957) began offering them as special-order units at its handful of dealerships. For a short while, the FJs were offered alongside the Crown and Toyopet cars, but those cars were soon withdrawn from the market due unsuitability for the American freeway system, and, from 1961 to 1965, the FJ-40 was the only Toyota on the market. The FJ-40 differed from the FJ-25 in that it had a two-speed tranny (three-on-the-tree) and a two-speed transfer case with a shifter on the dash. The FJ-40 could be configured as a metal hardtop with full doors and roll-up windows or as a soft-top and doors with body cutouts, a la Jeeps. Later in production (1963 or 1964), the separate soft-top variant was discontinued and the door-opening design was consolidated for hard- or soft-tops. Toyota Motor Sales, US[...]

Supersonic car targets 1,000mph

2008-10-23T03:11:20.128-07:00

The British team that claimed the land speed record in 1997, taking a car through the sound barrier for the first time, is planning to go even faster.RAF pilot Andy Green made history in 1997 when he drove the Thrust SSC jet-powered vehicle at 763mph (1,228km/h).Now he intends to get behind the wheel of a car that is capable of reaching 1,000mph (1,610km/h).Known as Bloodhound, the new car will be powered by a rocket bolted to a Typhoon-Eurofighter jet engine.The team-members have been working on the concept for the past 18 months and expect to be ready to make their new record attempt in 2011.Bloodhound project leader Richard Noble told BBC News: "This is one of the most exciting things you can do on God's Earth; and when you've the opportunity to do it really, really well, with the latest technology, you can't resist the challenge."The initial studies have illustrated just how grand a challenge it will be.The 12.8m-long, 6.4-tonne Bloodhound SSC (Super Sonic Car) will be expected to travel faster than a bullet fired from a handgun.Its 900mm-diameter wheels will spin so fast they will have to be made from a high-grade titanium to prevent them from flying apart.The car will accelerate from 0-1,050mph (1,690km/h) in just 40 seconds; and at its maximum velocity, the pressure of air bearing down on its carbon fibre and titanium bodywork will exceed 12 tonnes per square metre."This is a big engineering adventure," commented Bloodhound's technical chief, John Piper."We've not seen anything yet which we can't overcome given the opportunity and the time. We don't have all the answers yet, but we have quite a few of them, and I'm sure other solutions will present themselves."Wing Commander Green acknowledges there will be risks involved but says the car will be designed to maximise his safety."Does that make it zero-risk? No. Is life with zero-risk interesting? No."This is worth making a risk for because it's a huge challenge and a huge prize at the end, not just for the biggest record but to inspire the next generation of engineers, to share it with every schoolchild in the country," he said.Inspiration is a key driver for the project. The genesis of the idea came from Lord Paul Drayson, the UK's new science minister who also happens to be a racing driver.He approached Noble and Green when he held a post in the Ministry of Defence to ask them if they could do something that would grab the attention of schoolchildren and turn them to careers in science and technology."The consequences if we don't inspire the next generation are that we will wither as a country," Lord Drayson told BBC News."Over the centuries, we've been involved in some of the most important scientific discoveries. The Brits are good at science. We have got to make sure the next generation gets the vision, and has the opportunity to maintain that tradition."As a consequence, a schools programme will be built around the project that aims to involve young people at every stage in the designing and building of the car.The team's HQ in Filton, Bristol - the "home of Concorde" - will have a schools visitor centre featuring the "classroom of the future".Richard Noble added: "Our industries are starved of engineers. There are real problems on the education front; and, of course, what we've got now is the environmental challenge coming up."There are a vast number of new products that are needed, and Britain simply isn't going to play unless we have the engineers."Lord Drayson's role has also ensured one key element of Bloodhound has been made available to the project team: the EJ200 jet engine.The Ministry of Defence is lending the team engines that were used in the flight development programme for the Typhoon. These test engines are beyond combat use but have more than sufficient working time left in them to power Bloodhound.The EJ200 will produce about 20,000 lbs of thrust (90 kilonewtons) and will sit underneath a hybrid rocket engi[...]

Corvette Fuel Injected Engine

2008-10-19T00:07:31.331-07:00

327 Corvette power under the hood linked to a 350 transmission. This beautiful painting of a sun fire Yellow has been reproduced as a limited edition art print. We utilized the rear end, 4-speed transmission, and Rochester fuel injection. Under the hood is a 4-speed transmission. This car, which was bought in the mid 1960s by a California resident who installed was completely restored at that time, except for the bashes to the undercarriage from the filming which were left for historic interest. It had been designed from the outset for a V-8.

This technology was primarily limited to military and commercial aircraft until the 1960s when specified crankshafts for the 327 Corvette. This model features a 350 turbo transmission. The stock motor mounts bolt to the new LT1. With 93 horse power 3 speed Automatic transmission, Floor shift, Independent front torque tube rear suspension, Hydraulic brakes. The cars Hammerstein stores are a 1962 Corvette he owned for more than 20 years. The 1969 has a Special 4 barrel carburetor, with a three speed overdrive turbo auto transmission. 65-66 vintage with a 375 horse power engine in it for power. 1929 Sedan, all steel body on solid frame, turbocharged 327 engine. During his trip up, he blew away a brand in 1964 fuel injected engine.

Talked my brother out of a 1967 Corvette motor with double hump heads and a 350 automatic from an old Impala, I think. But my most fun, fast, loud, and chick magnet, street racing combination was a roller cam 327 motor with 471 whining blower, protruding through the hood, with dual quads under an injector air scoop, connected to a 1950 hydro with drilled valve body and furnace brazed torque converter, coupled up to a 50 ton truck locked rear end, with 5:14 ring and pinion, spinning slicks.

I ran the car like that until it came out with the 327 Corvette motor in 1962. While I was a drag racer in the 60s in Detroit, there was a guy who would show up sometimes. He had a 1960. I bought a new engine, 375 horse power. My brother had a 1955 car that was hopped up. His red, white, and black super engine. It provided by a four speed behind it. Question I recently purchased a 1957 car. He took that car and dropped a crate motor in it along with a full rear suspension. For power Fred went with a motor with injection by Street & Performance, a 700R4 overdrive automatic, and a Nova rear end. We put a 1965 fuel injected engine in it.

8 Cylinder, 327 Corvette 1968-1969 engine, automatic transmission, 120 miles, new dash, new interior. Most exotic was the 1956. The engine the car had a 283 as the last running engine and I have upgraded that to a 62 issue engine. He traded a motor my dads friend Mike the hack had. The front and front bodywork hood opens up and hinges forward to reveal a small block with Hill born injection with eight trumpets reaching to the sky in search of air. Around 1988 I built an all out light weight 400 for a customer who was running super stock.

By: Ronald W. Firquain

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

2008-10-16T09:52:38.811-07:00

The Goodyear Assurance tire is the first mass-market tire with three distinct tread zones. The outer zones are designed for dry performance, the intermediate zones are optimized for wet performance and the center zone is for ice performance. The tire features a directional tread pattern with long, sculpted, sensual shapes that draw the consumer's attention. It looks different, and it looks like it will perform to its claimed abilities. The aggressive appearance helps the dealer explain the tire's benefits and technology to consumers. This simplifies the purchasing decision of consumers who place safety as a priority. The Assurance line is the most successful product launch in Goodyear's history. Actual demand is three times above initial estimates, and Goodyear has expanded production from one plant to four. Show all

Performance Off-Road System

2008-10-14T09:27:55.366-07:00

5" Lift 10" Travel 31" tires with stock fenders 32" with fiberglass
$1995 Parts
$500 labor

This system comes complete with Bent I-Beams, Custom Heim X-Member Radius Arms, Eibach Coil-Springs, Bilstein front Shocks , Cam Kits, and Brake lines. We will not use stock modified radius arms in our off-road kits because the bushings will bind and wear out and the stock radius arms do not hold up to off-road use. Some companies will sacrifice quality to get you to spend a little bit of money making you think you are getting a deal but in the long run you will just have problems and spend twice the money. We pride ourselves with quality at Camburg so you will not see stock modified radius arms in our kits! Our customers will only receive the highest quality parts available from our internal Kevlar stainless steel brakes lines to only using Bilstein shocks and Eibach springs, the same springs that are used on most winning championship stone stock and 7's race trucks! Auto Parts

Coil-Over Off-Road System

2008-10-14T09:25:19.622-07:00

4-6" Lift 16-20" Travel
$5950 Parts
$1200 Labor
Complete with coil-over mounts!
Fiberglass fenders are a must! 33" tires are recommended.

The Coil-over system is an extreme system for pre-run or race. This is the same system used by many racers and has earned 1st place points championships! This system is by far the best today with so much test time, race time, points championships, race wins there is not need to try to sell it, it is just the best! We can install this system in 1-2 days. There is no need to build coil-over mounts because they are included in this awesome system! Included in this package is Custom I-Beams 4.5" or 6.5" wider, Heim x-member Radius Arms, Coil-over mounts. Air Bump mounts with Fox air-bumps, Bilstein, FOX, Sway-A-Way, or King 2.5 coil-overs, Eibach Coil-Springs, Limit Straps, Cam Kits, and Brake Lines.

Mazda BT-50 gets facelift

2008-10-14T08:23:48.475-07:00

Mazda has given its BT-50 pickup truck a minor change and announced that the new model will help it achieve a total pickup truck sales of 12,700 in 2008, up from 11,000 units in 2007.

Produced at the AutoAlliance Thailand (AAT) plant in Rayong, the BT-50 is also exported to 130 global markets from Thailand. The facelifted BT-50 maintains its sporty appeal, with the new design adding a more dynamic and robust look.

There is a new front pentagonal grille, along with new front bumpers, multi-reflector headlights and turning lights. Meanwhile, the rear lights are larger and come with chrome trim. The side profile is highlighted by a new wheel fender kit, as well as 15-inch or 16-inch 5-spoke wheels. There are 11 colours to choose from as well.

Mazda Sales Thailand Co Ltd marketing director Sureethip La-ongthong says that the company will focus on two-wheel-drive pickup models this year. As much as 97 per cent of Mazda pickup truck sales are made up of two-wheel-drive models, while the remaining 3 per cent are four-wheel-drive models for fleet customers.

"Previously the ratio between two- and four-wheel-drive models was 85/15, but presently the popularity of thr four-wheel-drive models have grown," she daid.

Sureethip said the company will emphasize on the 4x2 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter models, with prices starting at Bt489,000 foi the standard cab and Bt541,000 for the Freestyle cab. The 4x2 Hi Racer starts at Bt602,900 and the 4-door model at Bt612,900.

Mazda is also planning to spend Bt20 million for a countrywide roadshow to 12 provinces from March to June. Caravans of the BT-50 and Mazda3 will be shown along with special activities including special stunt shows, concerts, games and prizes. Sureethip said the automobile market should finish the year at 650,000 units, and Mazda plans to sell 16,000 units, which is approximately 2.5 per cent of the market.

1958 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 Updated by TLC Review

2008-10-12T09:40:57.546-07:00

The original FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser had character, simplicity and genuine utility. Since then there has been a proliferation of SUV brands from a wide variety of manufacturers, but none matched the ethic of the original FJ40. For many purists, Sports Utility Vehicles have all but lost their utility. That's why we created the Icon. A perfect balance of classic design and modern performance, the Icon is a return to the character and purity of purpose of the original Toyota Land Cruiser. Its timeless styling and cutting edge engineering have taken it to a new level of utility. Hand crafted and custom designed to the highest standards of operation and durability; it is a vehicle without peer for a journey without boundaries. Auto Parts

WE HAD TO LOOK A COUPLE OF STEPS BACKWARD IN ORDER TO MAKE A BIG LEAP FORWARD.
Confucius said, Study the past if you would define the future. We did. For us, Toyota's legendary Land Cruiser set the standard of innovative design and unparalleled performance. Since its introduction in 1958 it has been respected worldwide as the vehicle of choice for the harshest environments. The classic FJ40 Land Cruiser (1958-1983) has become a legend, providing owners with continued utility and collectors with a timeless trophy. No other brand has come close to matching its versatility.

BEFORE YOU CAN PUSH THE LIMIT YOU HAVE TO FIND IT.
Ownership of any classic vehicle involves some concessions in performance as well as a commitment to continued maintenance. For over a decade, we have given the Cruiser community our support by being the leading specialists in the care and preservation of their vehicles. Outside of its original engineers, no one knows the Land Cruiser the way we do. But now, inspired by the design of the original FJ40, we're proud to say, we can offer even more. By creating the Icon, we have preserved the best aspects of the greatest SUV in history and re-engineered them to meet the demands of the most discriminating contemporary driver.

GO NOWHERE. FAST.
The simple yet sophisticated design of the Icon sets a high standard for performance and ease of ownership. Its powerful, GM crate fuel-injected Ram Jet V8 is a venerable power plant, supported worldwide and well adapted to virtually any environment. Its heavy-duty, New Process, One Ton five-speed transmission and purpose-built Atlas dual-stick transfer case apply power with precision on the highway (2200 RPM @ 70 MPH) and the trail (87:1 crawl ratio). Its Dana based custom-built axle assemblies offer easy maintenance and proven durability. Its four-wheel power disc brakes give you the stopping power to handle nature's random surprises. And all systems are easily serviced with common parts that are readily available almost anywhere. Even if you're in the middle of nowhere.

Small Busniess

Ford Ranger Review

2008-10-12T09:17:37.300-07:00

Auto Parts - The advertising theme that the Ford Motor Company uses for its line of pickup trucks is “Built Ford Tough”. The rugged Ford Ranger certainly lives up that billing. It has the look and the feel of a very solid vehicle, but it mixes that with an interior that makes you feel like you are riding in a luxury car. Even when you are riding off road, and your truck is covered with mud, inside you feel detached in a world of comfort.

The Ranger comes in six different models that range from the basic XL up to the FX4 Level II. There are three basic engine sizes: a 2.3 liter DOHC I-4, a 3.0 liter OHV V6, and a 4.0 liter SOHC V6. Each engine is matched to either a 5 speed Manual or 5 speed Automatic transmission to give a total of six combinations. The 5 speed Manual with the smallest sized engine yields an EPA estimated Fuel Economy figure of 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Ford boasts this figure to be the highest of any small pickup on the road. The two V6 packages come in either 4×2 or 4×4 configurations.

The standard feature packages of the individual models appear as if someone made a mistake and loaded the truck down with options without telling you. The XLT, for example, comes with standard air conditioning, AM/FM/single CD/MP30 capable stereo, and even carpeted front floor mats. It is in the optional packages that the Ford Ranger really excels. There are such a variety of colors and accessories that it is almost like you are building your own truck from scratch. This starts with the basic choice between Regular Cab and Super Cab, and goes on to choices of nine different colors, and nine different interior materials. It includes Tilt Steering wheels, leather trimmed bucket seats, and a Tremor Audio System that packs 510 watts of output power. The specs on the Tremor Audio System would satisfy most people’s needs for a top of the line home stereo system let along finding it in the cab of a truck.

The Ford Ranger may be the baby of the Ford Truck line, but it is a dazzler of an off road, all purpose pickup truck with a host of optional features, but best of all a smooth and yet powerful road performance that has made it one of the best selling and most popular small trucks in the World. It certainly rates a close look for anyone in the small truck market. Auto Parts

Small Business

Toyota FJ Cruiser Off-Road Review

2008-10-12T08:52:43.664-07:00

A matter of styling
The FJ Cruiser looks like one big brute, which is why it does not appeal to everybody. Either you love it or you hate it. This Toyota is actually a modern interpretation of the legendary FJ40, a tank-like truck which the Japanese automaker sold for more than a decade.

What seems to turn some people off is the outrageous size and stance making the FJ Cruiser look like it's up to no good. Truth is, when you finally get behind the wheel, this big SUV grows on you rather quickly.

A muscular V6
The 239 horsepower generated by the 4.0-liter V6 are more than enough to move the near 2-ton FJ. That's because the 278 pounds-feet of torque are available early, allowing 0-100 accelerations in under 8.5 seconds. And with a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilos (5,000 pounds), you can go on vacation with your boat, ATVs or trailer house.

With regard to fuel economy, my tester posted an average of 13.5 liters per 100 kilometers, which I find to be fairly reasonable.

When playing in the mud, the Toyota FJ Cruiser benefits from a good old 2-speed transfer case for RWD or 4WD operation. Believe me, the truck will be extensively covered in mud before it gets stuck, as we found out during Toyota's media launch two years ago and our comparative match last summer. Ever since coming to market, the new FJ has proven to be a sizeable threat to the iconic Jeep Wrangler.

Surprisingly, despite its amazing off-road capabilities, the FJ Cruiser fares pretty well on paved roads. Of course, you shouldn't expect great comfort over long rides, but the suspension adjusts nicely whether you're driving on asphalt or a rough trail. Handling is also commendable.

Toyota Tundra SR5 Access Cab 4x4 V8

2008-10-07T23:25:22.044-07:00

Auto Parts - The full-sized pickup is a uniquely American vehicle. Large loads, large people, long distances, wide open spaces, the demands of American work and leisure, and relatively inexpensive fuel contribute to their popularity. The two best-selling vehicles in the country by far are domestic full-sized pickups, and big trucks are used extensively for both work and play. Although the import nameplates have a dominant presence in the compact pickup class, they have never really tried to establish themselves in the full-size class.

Toyota would like to change that. It first tried with the Japanese- built T100 a few years ago. While it was an exceedingly logical solution to pickup needs, the T100 missed the mark because of its smaller size and lack of a V8 engine. The Princeton, Indiana-built Tundra makes up for those shortcomings with a vengeance, with size and power comparable to any of its domestic-brand competitors.

Two Tundra body styles are offered, regular cab and "Access Cab" extended cab. Both body styles share a common wheelbase and length, so the Access Cab version trades maximum cargo capacity for passenger or inside cargo room. The standard engine is Toyota's familiar 190-hp, 3.4-liter V6. The "i-Force" V8, with 245 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, compares favorably with any competition. Both engines are available with two- or four- wheel drive powertrains.

I've just spent a week with a V8 4x4 Access Cab Tundra in mid- level SR5 trim. It's big, and there is no power shortage from the i- Force V8. But despite its brawn, the Tundra is one of the most comfortable pickups made. It should fill the bill for personal use or work duty.

front suspension - Auto Parts Review

2008-10-07T22:06:26.877-07:00

One can very successfully rebuild either the original equipment Beta struts (those with removable heads, late units have a rolled-in-place head closure which I have not attempted to disassemble) or the Koni after-market, full strut replacements, for minimal cost and with both life and performance better than new! In background, lets review basic shock strut principals, design, and failure modes. Apart from being a major component of the suspension geometry, the primary function of the strut is to absorb and dissipate unwanted energy. Bump energy is stored in the spring as it is compressed and this energy is then dissipated in the strut in a controlled rebound release to eliminate wheel oscillation. Thus, the strut applies the damping necessary to control the resonant oscillations of the spring and mass of the suspension; a highly tuned dynamic mechanical mechanism. Valving: First, the foot valve system, a bi-directional valving system located in the closed bottom of the cylinder, allowing fluid to freely enter the lower cylinder volume from the concentric outer reservoir as the piston moves up (wheel moving down in a "rebound") and prevents reverse flow (below a preset relief pressure) returning from the cylinder to the reservoir upon piston down stroke (wheel moving up in "bounce"). Second, piston internal valving is also a bi-directional valving system, each controlling the differential pressure required for fluid flow from the high to the low pressure side of the moving piston; one valve system for each direction. That's all there is to valving, but in addition to these pressure operated valving systems which control fluid flow, there are wear-related leakage paths that short circuit the valving systems and degrade damping performance. In MacPherson struts both the piston and the rod bushing, are subject to considerable wear-causing lateral forces, i.e. the reaction forces of acceleration, breaking and cornering. Thus, these are the primary internal wear related failure areas, and are further described as follows: First, there is the piston to cylinder dynamic seal; leakage here affects both bounce and rebound. This seal is a Nylon piston ring (called a wear ring) in all but OEM Scorpion struts, which use a steel piston ring. Second, the top end rod bushing not only guides rod movement and is subject to the fore mentioned lateral acceleration wear forces, but it also must act as a fluid seal for the upper cylinder volume. Wear induced leakage at this point further degrades rebound performance, which is the most important shock parameter. Thus, these two wear-prone areas are the principal cause of strut failure, i.e. when their combined leakage becomes a significant portion of the rebound fluid flow. In operation, the combination of the valving and the differential fluid volume displaced by piston motion because of solid rod volume on the upper side, the fluid flow external to the cylinder is always into the cylinder at the bottom. Through the foot valve, and out the top, through the bushing leakage path. Excessive rod bushing leakage also causes another problem. In rebound, excessive fluid flow from the cylinder through the rod bushing clearance and into the seal area will ove[...]

Toyota quietly unveils FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition

2008-10-07T22:00:17.368-07:00

Auto Parts - While walking around the Toyota display during the last day of the NAIAS press preview, we encountered an FJ Cruiser we'd never seen before tucked iaway in the corner. Finished in white with a white roof along with black wheels and accents, it featured "Trail Teams" badging on the IP and bodywork and "PROTOTYPE" lettering on the rear window. We rang up Toyota to get the skinny, and found out that this vehicle is coming in February.

A limited edition truck in the vein of the all-black FJ Cruiser TRD Special Edition that was offered last year, 3,200 FJ Trail Teams will be built, each with the white-and-black motif you see here. In addition to the exclusive color combo, the FJ Trail Teams' standard equipment list includes 16" TRD wheels, a TRD exhaust, rock rails, skid plates, auxiliary lamps, all-weather floormats, and the contents the Off Road Package that's optional on regular FJs. Inside, white body-color inserts can be found in the door panels and on the stereo surround, and the knobs for the shifter and transfer case are metallic. Pricing for this spiffy-looking new FJ variant hasn't been announced yet, but we should know more before its launch next month. Auto Parts

[Source: Toyota]

Engine V6 i-VTEC

2008-10-06T09:10:47.982-07:00

Honda Motor Co. Ltd. announced a full-model change of the company's flagship Accord model. The all-new Accord is slated for launch in North America in mid-September 2007.Auto Parts According to Honda, the eighth-generation Accord has a larger body and an expanded interior compared with its predecessor. Furthermore, it is equipped with a V6 engine and features Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which deactivates two or three cylinders during cruising.As a result, the new Accord reportedly increased output and higher fuel efficiency at the same time, while ensuring enhanced safety. Honda has no plans to release the hybrid model.The Accord sedan measures 4,930 mm (L) x 1,847 mm (W) x 1,475 mm (H). The edge of the nose spoiler of the V6 model grows to extend the vehicle length to 4,935 mm. The wheel base is 2,800 mm long. The length, width, height and wheel base are increased by approximately 75 mm, 28 mm, 22 mm and 58 mm, respectively, from those of the current model.The rate of high-strength steel used in the vehicle body structure is 48%, which is higher than that of any other previous models. As a result, the torsion rigidity is enhanced by 20%. Despite the larger body size and higher torsion rigidity, the increase in the vehicle weight is within 5%.The Accord coupe measures 4,850 mm (L) x 1,850 mm (W) x 1,433 mm (H). The wheel base is 2,740 mm long. The length, width, height and wheel base are increased by 80 mm, 30 mm, 15-18 mm and 71 mm, respectively, from those of the current model. Although the length and height are shorter than the sedan, the width is 3 mm wider.As for the powertrain, the car comes with a gasoline engine only, with no other engine types available. The engine can be selected from four types: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder i-VTEC engines with the maximum output of 132 kW (177 hp) and 142 kW (190 hp), 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC engine and 3.5-liter V6 VTEC engine.Five-speed manual, five-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmissions are provided for the inline four-cylinder, V6 i-VTEC and V6 VTEC engines, respectively, as the standard equipment. Five-speed automatic transmission is also available for the inline four-cylinder engine as an option.The 142-kW inline four-cylinder and V6 i-VTEC engines are available for both sedan and coupe. The 132-kW inline four-cylinder engine is only available for the sedan while the V6 VTEC engine is only available in the coupe.The i-VTEC system used in the inline four-cylinder engine is a combination of the variable valve timing and lift electronic control system VTEC and the continuous variable valve timing controller VTC. Meanwhile, the i-VTEC system used in the V6 engine is a combination of VTEC and the advanced variable cylinder management system VCM. And this combination can improve fuel efficiency while maintaining the output on par with the V6 VTEC engine.The V6 i-VTEC engine model is compliant with Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV), the zero emission standard set by the state of California.Double wishbone and multi-link suspensions are used in front and rear, respectively.The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is employed as the safety measures. The structure helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin by dispersing the frontal impact to the vehicle frame in a collision against a car with different body size and bumper height.In addition, provided as the standard equipment Auto Parts are active headrest, front airbag, two pieces of side airbags for navigator's seat with the passenger position detection system, side curtain airbag, ABS with the Electronic Brakeforce Distribu[...]

Honda Civic Sports Modulo

2008-10-06T08:40:44.102-07:00

Auto Parts The solar icemaker is an eco-friendly device, which has zero carbon footprint. And some more it doesn’t need electricity to keep the ice cool, which is super handy for places like a developing country or disaster zone where electricity is unreachable.

The solar-powered ice maker uses a refrigerant liquid which evaporates when exposed to the sun. The vapor then travels through pipes that come into contact with an absorbent material which cools when the sun goes down. When this absorbent material reaches the 104°F, the refrigerant turns back into a liquid, which its temperature then drops below the freezing point due to pressure difference. When some water is added to the exterior of the evaporator, then ice will form. The solar ice maker needs no electricity, uses only solar energy to produce ice and it has no moving parts. It’s capable of making 14 pounds of ice per day, which is more than enough for average Joe during their hot summer’s barbecue session.

The device is definitely a super handy one for those remote areas which are always exposed to the hot sun, and where those people desperately want some ice to cook themselves down. Currently, it’s still a prototype of the engineering students. Hope they could get it ready by next summer.

Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6 Review

2008-10-06T08:19:32.735-07:00

Auto Parts - It’s not easy being a mid-size, two-door coupe these days. Chevy’s Monte Carlo got its final pit stop last year, while Pontiac is still selling the G6 Coupe, and Nissan recently added a coupe version of its popular Altima. However, you can pretty much count the Accord Coupe’s competition on one hand.

Of course, the Ford Mustang is still going fairly strong, and the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro are making comebacks like the tired rock bands of the ’80s, but they’re Pony Cars, and aren’t really targeting customers looking at this Honda.

But with the Accord sedan is so popular, how can the coupe version find its share of sales?

Doesn’t look the same… or does it?
Try as they might, Honda just can’t dress the Accord Coupe with different clothes than the sedan. Sure, the headlights are slimmer, the grille isn’t shaped the same, but the coupe just can’t stand out as a more driver-oriented counterpart to the four-door Accord. This car needs a Hawaiian shirt or something.

The biggest difference is at the rear of the cars, as the coupe has a shorter deck, and the licence plate is moved down into bumper. Of course, the car’s roofline drops dramatically, and the overall look of the two-door Accord is pretty elegant.

This thing’s big
For 2008, Honda’s mid-size coupe and sedan got bigger and more spacious, and it’s obvious from the moment you step in. What further enhances the impression of space is the expansive dashboard with Paul Bunyon-size buttons and knobs. Rear-seat space is good for adults, provided they can climb back there, but headroom is limited for taller folks.

As in all new Honda and Acura vehicles, the centre stack instrument layout seems fussy, but you quickly get used to finding the buttons you want; liquid-crystal display is on top, audio controls are in the middle, and climate control buttons are on the bottom.

The seats are comfortable and the general atmosphere feels solid, but unfortunately, the rakish A-pillars are wide and create blind spots. Read Article

Toyota Avanza 1.5G

2008-10-05T19:45:14.941-07:00

The Auto Parts success of the Toyota Tamaraw FX and Revo from the 1990s to the early 2000s left mass transit owners and operators wondering if Toyota could cook up an entry-level multipurpose vehicle that could be used as for-hire public transport. Yes, there was the Innova, but the aforementioned model was meant more as a family vehicle than as a better alternative to the Metro Rail Transit, the jeepney, the bus or the passenger car taxicab.That was until the arrival of the Avanza in late 2006. But is its arrival too late in a new (and some say, economically harsh) period for four wheeled commonalty carriers?Step inside and you’ll discover Toyota’s recent fondness for tan or beige colorways and simple dashboard layouts. Everything is within logical and easy reach of any and all occupants, the only exception being the defogger button under the leftmost aircon vent. The audio entertainment is serviceable but not exceptional, and the Kenwood head unit that came with the test vehicle (a P813,000 1.5L G VVT-i A/T) toting indicators that are hard to read. The interior lighting is also serviceable but not bright, with small lamps the size of budget bathroom soap bars. Speaking of the airconditioning, the Avanza totes a dual zone setup, but in Manila’s heat and humidity, both front and rear blowers must constantly be set at the “two” setting to get decent cooling.Seating is good for five to six people, but toss in seven to eight people and they will find seating tight, especially for those at the third row. It can get tight kneeroom-wise at the last row, but the width of the vehicle (1630 mm) allows for great lateral room for both rear rows. Ingress and egress for passengers to and from the third row is easy, thanks to the second row’s folding/tumbling ability.Storage is great for a vehicle of this setup, as there are numerous places within the cabin for placing small items and liquid vessels. Storage for huge cargo is also great, swallowing two to three balikbayan boxes with the third row tumbled forward and the second row backrests folded flat. The only problem was that the third row folding/tumbling latches are hard to find, for they are in the same tan/beige color as the seatcovers and interior.Exterior-wise, the vehicle conveys itself as a people (or people-plus cargo) carrier, but has a Jekyll-and-Hide complex. At the front the Avanza borrows a few attractive styling cues from its Innova sibling and gives it an attractive viewpoint, but the rear section looks like the designers simply hurried their work and didn’t give much thought into the creative process.Hit the road and the Avanza engine tends to make the revs drone out sound from the radio or any inside conversation. Problem is, there’s little low end response, and decent acceleration is only achieved with a 3000 rpm-and-onwards launch. Not helping much either is the inscrutable four-speed a/t, which tends to linger too long in any gear before taking action. The result is downright average but expected – a 157 kph tested top speed and 8.76 km/l on eight days of mixed driving.As expected of a primary city-only multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), handling is somewhat boatlike, but more stable than any midsized SUV. Traction from the OE Dunlop SP10 185/65R15s breaks early (with loud tire squeal) at 60 kph, and at 70 kph the vehicle succumbs to understeer. However, there’s pronounced body roll and the front wheel discs have little bite. Also, the ride is serviceable, reminiscent of vehicles with leafspring setups; unfortu[...]

Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence

2008-10-05T09:12:57.371-07:00

VVT-i is based on the principle of maximising performance by matching the timing of the engine's air intake and exhaust to your driving situation - idling, acceleration, passing and cruising.

The on-board 32-bit microcomputer on the VVT-i engine continuously monitors the RPM reading, throttle opening and other factors to optimise air intake and exhaust. It makes the necessary adjustments every 1/1000th of a second.

For instance, to give you a performance boost during full acceleration, the computer turns the air-con system off for the few seconds when you need the extra power. Once you have returned to stable speed, it turns the air-con system on again. This can all happen so fast, so efficiently - you will not feel any change in comfort.

The three main advantages of driving with a VVT-i engine are:

More Power

By optimising valve timing, the engine delivers powerful torque at low to medium engine RPMs. This continuous optimisation provides smooth acceleration every time.

Better Fuel Efficiency

The VVT-i engine uses fuel more effectively and keeps wastage to a minimum.

Cleaner Exhaust

With more efficient combustion that lowers exhaust emissions, the Toyota vehicle is more environmentally friendly while improving engine performance.

The engine manifold intake and exhaust have been reversed in the VVT-i engine. The intake is in the front and the output is in the rear of the engine. This improves efficiency, reduces intake noise, and shortens the distance to the catalytic converter.

RAINFOREST CHALLENGE - 5 to 14 December 2008

2008-10-03T08:35:35.962-07:00

THE DATE
5 to 14 December 2008

THE ROUTE
From Chukai (Kemaman), Hulu Dungun, Hulu Terengganu and Kuala Terengganu.

THE COMPETITIVE FORMAT/ ADVENTURE
Each team will be tested on their ability to overcome various obstacles along the way. Points gained will be on the fastest time. Penalty for infringement of safety and environmental rules. Overcoming the obstacles with recovery work will be emphasized.

The Rainforest Challenge was awarded the Top Ten Most Spectacular Sports Tourism Event by the Ministry of Tourism & Ministry of Youth & Sports of Malaysia and the Most Countries Participation in a 4x4 Event by Malaysia Book of Records.

If you have the passion of living out your 4x4 passion, have the correct mindset and attitude for a jungle adventure and love meeting up with fellow 4x4 adventurers from around the world - then the Rainforest Challenge is for you.

Be forewarned : This event is not for the faint hearted. Mother Nature rules supreme, event schedule is subject to the awesome might of nature.



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Awesome Check Engine Light

2008-09-26T15:11:22.629-07:00

When you troubleshoot the check engine light of a 2002 Toyota Tundra, approach it by using an OBD2 scanner which is designated for this vehicle. On most generic scanner, it can be used on most brands of vehicles and if you don't specify if to be good for this 2002 Toyota Tundra, you might not get the right fault codes.To fix the 2002 Toyota Tundra fault codes, please remember the following:1.) The diagnostic connector for this vehicle is located on the right side of the steering column, below the instrument panel.2.) This vehicle model uses a two-trip detection analysis in which the fault code stored in the memory will not be flashed in the dash panel. Instead, it will be flashed only on the 2nd time the fault code is detected. This usually happens when you are using a generic scanner but it won't happen if you or the garage is using the authorized Toyota scanner.3.) This Toyota Tundra model also uses "Freeze Frame Data" system in which the actual engine condition factors are displayed in the generic scanner when the fault code appears. These factors normally include the engine temperature, the vehicle cruising speed and others sensors specs related to the fault code. This data is very important in pinpointing the suspected circuit or wiring causing the code. However, in case there are multiple codes showing in the generic scanner, the data described here only applies on the first code that shows up. This will prevent the user from toggling between codes for other data that can lead to confusion.Troubleshooting TIPS:The most common fault code of this 2002 Toyota Tundra model is the failure of the 4 oxygen sensors. If you have a 4.7L engine, two of these sensors are located at the engine exhaust manifolds and the other 2 behind the catalytic converters. In case these sensors are your fault code, contact your Toyota dealer right away for it might be covered under the vehicle's warranty. This is especially true if the vehicle has below 100k mileage. However, if the vehicle has no coverage and you have to the repair the problem yourself, try these:1.) Measure the oxygen sensor signal voltage as indicated by an authorized vehicle wiring diagram. The sensor exhaust manifold voltage reading should be oscillating between 0.1 volt to 0.9 volt. A fluctuation difference of 0.5volt to 0.7volt is considered normal and no fluctuation indicates a defective oxygen sensor.2.) When measuring the rear oxygen sensors at the catalytic converter, the voltage reading fluctuation should be less because these sensors are use to monitor the muffler efficiency. Any fluctuation of around 0.2volt to 0.4 volt is considered normal.3.) If the front exhaust manifold sensors are found defective, make sure the exhaust manifold itself is not leaking or cracked. Unless the manifold is fixed, the new oxygen sensors installed will fail again.4.) Unless you have experience in testing electrical components, it is highly recommended to get an online mechanic assistance when working on these oxygen sensors. A simple mistake such as incorrect use of electronic diagnostic tools can damage the engine computer.If you can implement these techniques, you should be able to fix most of your check engine light 2002 Toyota Tundra fault codes.[...]

Four Cylinder Engine Will Power

2008-09-26T15:04:53.643-07:00

Class Leading Innovation

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