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Preparing for your emissions test. Emission Time- By Megan Evans.

Body Kit Buyer’s Guide: 3 Important Things That You Need To Know


 

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Customizing your car has become quite popular these days. Car owners have gone from purchasing simple accessories like bobbleheads and car foams to decorate their automobiles with, to installing full-blown body kits for maximum personalization. Body kits are nice, but you have to know a number of things first before you start investing to make sure that you get your money’s worth.

Body kits can include a range of customizable car sections, from roof scoops and side guards to front lips and rear bumpers and spoilers. There are different types of car body kits available in the market, with each type varying significantly in usage, price and style. If you are looking to get started in the body kit department, here are some things you need to do first:

1. Set a Budget

Before you start thinking about which designs or car parts you wish to place a body kit on, you need to finalize your working budget first. The price of body kits is highly determined by the type of material it will be made of. There are materials best-suited for luxury cars and racing vehicles, so obviously those materials will also cost dearly. Then there are also materials easily mass-produced and manufactured, which makes body kits made from them affordable and easy to acquire. Unfortunately, low-end options like these tend to be solely for appearance purposes only, as performance-improving body kits usually require more valuable materials to be made of.

 

Decide if you wish to prioritize aesthetics or performance, and after that, you should be able to better estimate how much you can cash out for your investment. Be careful in computing for costs, as you also need to consider paying for installation, insurance and even delivery fees if you are having the body kit shipped.

2. Find Out Which Material Best Suits Your Car

There are different materials used in producing car body kits. Each material has its own pros and cons, so you need to study them carefully so that you can better decide which kind of body kit you should put your money into.

 

The most common material used in body kits is fibreglass. It is also the cheapest material, which explains why it is the most popular choice for inexpensive customizations. Fibreglass is very light in weight so your automobile’s speed and performance won’t be hindered regardless of its design. Additionally, it goes well with hot weather due to having good resistance to high temperature.

 

Another common material for body kits is polyurethane. It is a little more expensive than fibreglass, but it is also more durable because of its high flexibility. It’s better suited for cold environments, though, since this kind of polymer is susceptible to warping if brought under significant heat.

 

If you don’t have any restrictions on your spending allotment and you are looking for a kit that will also boost your car’s performance, you might want to check on using carbon fibre. Carbon fibre got its name from carbon cells being weaved together like clothing fibre to create an ultra strong yet light and flexible material. As indicated by its expensive tag, carbon fibre is considered high-tier material. It’s a popular choice for race car drivers and collectors who wish to exhibit their cars for showrooms and gallery purposes.

It is worth mentioning that you also need to make sure a nearby body shop can properly install a body kit of your chosen material. As an example, fibreglass can be difficult to handle because of its rigidity. Not all body shops are adept at installing fibreglass kits because they can easily break if mishandled, and the same goes when driving a car with this kit. Only consider certain material if you know a body shop that has expertise in installing it. Otherwise, you might break the kit before you can start enjoying the customizations.

3. Review Your Car Insurance

You need to check back on your insurance documents before going for a body kit because it might affect your current deal with your company. A number of insurance companies consider the installation of body kits as significant tampering with the vehicle, regardless of how much or how it little it actually affects the car’s performance. Reading back on the terms and agreements of your current insurance policy is helpful in making sure your car stays insured even after installing the kit.

 

If you have any questions or uncertainties regarding select terms or regulations as placed on your documents, do not be afraid to reach out to your insurance company and ask. It’s much better to be vigilant and well-informed than face serious risks later on. It will also save you time and the headache of going back and forth with an insurance agent for possible breach of contract.

 

These are just a few pointers to get you started on your road to customizing your car with body kits. There are several more factors you need to learn about aside from these: recommended brands for specific material and body kit parts, reputable body shops for installing certain types of body kits, and even potential resale value if ever you plan to get another car in the future. The possibilities are endless, but your resources are probably finite so due diligence is a must.

 

5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Wheel Bearings


Although small and relatively unnoticeable, wheel bearings are one of the most critical automotive components that are relevant to vehicular safety.

A wheel bearing is a collection of steel balls that are kept together by a race or specially-designed metal ring.Good-quality automotive bearings enable the wheels to spin fast with the smallest amount of friction possible. At the same time, they allow the proper rotation of the hub assembly, therefore, providing smooth tire and wheel rotation.

In automobiles, wheel bearings facilitate the proper function of the hub, tire, and wheel assemblies to work together. They help maintain stable driving behavior and depending on the design or make, also supply the wheel speed information for the vehicle’s ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

When To Have Your Wheel Bearings Replaced

Wheel bearings are highly prone to wear and tear. Lubricating them frequently and adequately will prolong their functionality and safe use.

However, like any other automotive part, they do not last forever. If you want to ensure the functionality and safety of your vehicle, you need to be aware of the tell-tale signs that indicate you need to replace your wheel bearings immediately.

Below are some of the usual signs that show you have to replace your wheel bearings as soon as possible:

1.   Unusual noises coming from the tires

When you start hearing loud, strange noises coming from the tires, you can be certain that your wheel bearings are already worn-out.

Most of the time, this noise may sound like some metal part rolling; as such, you may mistake it as engine noise. But if you listen carefully, you will hear some grinding or grating noise that tends to get louder whenever the vehicle accelerates.

If you detect these loud noises, take your car to your mechanic immediately.

2.   Uneven tire wear

Alignment issues, worn out or bent suspension parts, or lack of tire rotation are the common causes of abnormal wear patterns on your tires. However, old and broken wheel bearings can also lead to this automotive problem as well.

If you notice that your tires have chopped or scalloped patches, it is highly likely that you already have faulty wheel bearings.This is because the looseness and the vibration that reverberates through the wheel are causing uneven tire wear.

In case you notice that your tires still keep getting abnormal wear patterns even after they were rotated, have your wheel bearings checked by experts. Be on the watch for any rhythmic noise coming from your tires that increase whenever you accelerate.

3.   Wheel looseness

 A car feels “loose†when the steering power is not what it used to be or it seems a bit weak. This sensation refers to wheel looseness or wheel play.

Since the steering mechanics of a vehicle contains wheel bearings, they affect its performance. When a bearing begins to get old or wear down, it can become loose inside the wheel hub and spindle. This issue will make your vehicle feel loose while steering.

4.   Feeling of a loss of control over your car

When driving, do you feel that you still have full control of the car or steering? Or does the vehicle seem to be drifting, pulling, or going where it wants to go?

 When a wheel bearing is damaged or old, its smooth exterior lining disappears. Because of this, the vibration is transmitted to the tires. This will cause the car to feel like it is being pulled to one side or the other by some invisible force.

In this instance, it is crucial to have the wheel bearings replaced as soon as possible.

5.   After detecting signs of wear during routine checks

Lastly, check your tires regularly to see if you need to replace your bearings immediately.

To do this, jack up each wheel and spin it as fast as you can. While doing so, listen for any wheel bearing noises. These are comparable to grinding sounds.

After listening for sounds, wriggle the wheel in a rocking motion. If the wheel bearings are still serviceable, you will notice that one-eighth of an inch is possible for proper movements. In case you observe more significant movements, you will most likely need to replace your current wheel bearings.

Since wheel bearings play a vital role in the efficiency and safety of your vehicle, early detection and replacement of these parts will protect its optimum performance. They will save you from costly additional maintenance and repairs as well.

About the Author:

Hassanein Alwan is the Managing Director of Mineral Circles Bearings with more than 10 years’ experience in the bearing industry’s technical support division, sales, and marketing, plus strategic business development consultancy.

 

 

Top Car Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Vehicle


A clock with the words fast service on it.

Cars, like any other machine, require maintenance and proper care to function effectively for an extended amount of time. Any driver who wishes to keep his car running for a long time has to put in the time for the maintenance of the car and use it responsibly. Reading this article can be very helpful for such drivers. Here are some smart and neat tips that you can use to get the most out of your car and make it run as long as possible.

Keep logs of the performance of the car

Keeping a log about your car can be very helpful in tracking its performance. You can write down stuff like how much fuel you put in the car and the distance it travelled in that amount of fuel. This can help you calculate the efficiency and mileage of the car, and you can compare different gas stations and figure out which brand provides the best mileage.

You should also keep logs of how often you change the engine oil and brake fluids. Using these logs you can find out about the regular maintenance schedule and other changes that are affecting the performance of the car.

Make a rigid maintenance schedule for your car and stick to it

A rigid maintenance schedule is essential to the long life of any car. You should do basic maintenance checkups daily and take the car to the mechanic for a routine checkup at least once a month. You should check the water levels and engine oil of the car on a regular basis. Whenever you hear a weird sound coming from the car, don’t delay the visit to the mechanic. You should fix small issues instantly before they can turn into larger, more damaging and more expensive issues.

Change the engine oil frequently

A clock with the words fast service on it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is very important for the proper maintenance, functioning and protection of the car as well as the driver that the engine oil and other fluids of the car are checked and changed regularly and frequently. The engine oil should be changed every month to extend the life of the engine, and you should also change the brake and transmission fluids regularly to keep yourself safe from accidents and avoid wear and tear in the car. The water in the carburetor of the car should also be filled up frequently to avoid the car from getting too warm.

 Clean the car regularly

A clock with the words fast service on it.

Regular cleaning is also very important in extending the life of the car’s paint and interior. Many people focus too much on the performance of the car that they forget about its appearance. So you should use paint friendly cleaning products and other high-quality cleaning accessories that you can find at websites like Carifex. So, start driving smarter today with Carifex.

 Get good quality gas for your car

A clock with the words fast service on it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Low-quality gas can mean the slow death of your car, it is terrible for the engine, and it usually has a lot of dirt and impurities that can damage the engine. So get your gas from a reputable gas station where the pump filters are changed frequently to keep out impurities, and the fuel is not watered down.

How to Improve Visibility When Driving At Night


Make Your Vehicle Visible at Night

Description: Night road lighting needs bulbs that offer good vision. The brightness allows drivers to see more clearly and your vision is increased to a longer distance. Being able to see at long distance is important.

A clock with the words fast service on it.

Image Source:  https://images.pexels.com/photos/2083455/pexels-photo-2083455.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940

Introduction

Whether you are a distinguished person like Max Polyakov Noosphere or an employee who frequently drives at night, you will want your headlights to function properly. Ensure to always check them often. If you notice they are cloudy, damaged or dirty, fix them immediately. Otherwise, they will eventually turn yellow, dull or deoxidize and that will affect your night road vision.

Ensuring maximum night road lighting

If you stop along the road at night to check your vehicle, ensure to act immediately if you notice your headlight has a problem.

If your headlight is oxidized, use Twenty20 Crystalite to restore it. And if the headlight is hazy because of scratches, you will need to use another product called Meguair’s Headlight Restoration Kit.

After fixing the headlights, ensure to protect them so that they can last for long while providing the best night roadlighting. The most recommended protectant is Meguiar’s Headlight Protectant. It has been tried and tested and has been in the industry for more than one hundred and ten years.

And if you are using Halogen bulbs for your night roadlighting, consider upgrading them to LED because it is the best technology in the United Kingdom.

Also, if you need the perfect night road vision ever, consider buying HID Conversion Kits which are plug_and_play.

The right bulbs to use when driving at night

A clock with the words fast service on it.

Image Source: https://images.pexels.com/photos/1979696/pexels-photo-1979696.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&dpr=2&h=650&w=940

 

The type of bulb you use for your night road lighting is very crucial. It is recommended to choose the following headlight features:

  • Long life
  • Style
  • Maximum vision
  • Off road

Since our guideline is based on getting the best lighting duringa road trip at night, we will focus on Maximum Vision Headlight Bulbs.

Maximum vision

Advantages

  • The light is brighter.
  • Drivers get more clear vision when driving on a country road at night.
  • Drivers are able to see longer distances on the road at night.

Disadvantages

  • Colour temperature is restricted.
  • The life expectancy of the bulb is lowered.

Conclusion

That is how you can get the best night roadlighting. Did you find our information useful? Which kind of headlights are you using in your vehicle? Please share with us what you like about time and let us know if you would recommend them to others. And if you have any questions, feel free to write to us.

Author bio

This night road lighting article was written by Luckywho works in the vehicle manufacturing industry. He is a great writer and there are many informative articles related to vehicles written by him. He also loves travelingand he enjoys interacting with people especially people who are interested in vehicles.

 

 

 

Top Five Safest Cars of 2019


Technology is expanding at an exponential rate and is integrating into our lives in many different ways; one of which is car safety. Innovations such as automatic braking and blind spot warning systems have changed the way we drive forever. No longer do people have to strain their necks to look behind them when there is a handy rearview camera plastered on the dashboard. According to the National Safety Council, around 40,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2018. This number was around 1 percent less than 2017, which one reason being that modern cars are becoming safer. With many innovations out there, consumers still face the age-old predicament – what car to choose? To help answer this question, I have developed this list of the five safest cars of 2019. The cars listed below are not in any hierarchical order, and are based on data gathered from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, (IIHS),

  1. Toyota Camry – From $23,945 MSRP

    The Toyota Camry was a 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2019. One feature earning some praise is the adaptive headlights which are equipped on the XLE Hybrid model. Adaptive headlights are an active safety feature that is designed to make driving in minimal light situations safer by increasing visibility over hills and around hills. All models come equipped with 10 airbags and driver/passenger whiplash-injury-lessening seats. Overall this is a very deserving car in terms of safety and price.

  2. Subaru Outback– From $26,345 MSRP

Another IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2019 the Subaru Outback does not disappoint. One cool feature of the Subaru Outback is the Subaru EyeSight package. This package monitors traffic movement, warns if the driver sways out of their lane, and optimizes the cruise control system. This model also comes equipped with the pre-collision braking feature to help avoid frontal impacts by automatically applying the brakes in emergency situations.

  1. Mercedes-Benz E-class – From $53,500 MSRP

The Mercedes-Benz E class series is the most expensive on this list, but the safety features make it worth every penny.  This car is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2019. This model has the Mercedes brake assist feature, which senses when a vehicle or person is in front of the car and helps the driver stop the car in time. The Driver Assistance package adds features such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Driver Assistance package also includes a semi-autonomous driving mode – which is not a fully self-driving feature but works well in low-speed situations and is smart enough to assist the driver in emergency situations.

  1. Lincoln Continental – From $46,145 MSRP

    Lincoln is often referred to as a luxury brand, which leads to high levels of comfort and safety, but at a higher price. All models of the 2019 Lincoln Continental are equipped with blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and even pedestrian detection. This was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ choice in 2019, earning the highest marks in all categories except for Child Seat anchors ease of use, where it earned a ‘Good’ rating.

  2. Kia Optima – From $22,990 MSRP

    Last but not least the 2019 Kia Optima was yet another IIHS Top Safety Pick+ in 2019. All models come with Kia Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, (ADAS), which include: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Forward Collision Warning System, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning and more. The limited package includes Kia’s 360-degree exterior camera system which allows the driver to see practically a birds-eye view of their car which can help in a tight parking situation or at any other time. Overall the Kia Optima has a lot of advanced safety features at a super affordable price.

 

Author: Katherine White is a contributor for 365 Business Tips and a digital marketing expert for local brands such as Audi Las Vegas. Her educational background in Public Relations helps her tackle topics regarding strategy, branding and messaging.

 

How to Prep Your Car for Labor Day Weekend


Labor Day was borne well over a century ago, out of a long struggle between poorly-paid workers and their employers. For modern folks, the Labor Day holiday signals the opportunity to enjoy a final balmy weekend away before the colder season sets in.

Millions of Americans have made a tradition out of the good-old Labor Day car trip. Something sure to cast an immediate dampener on any roadie, though, is car-related trouble. Want to know how you can best prepare your car for Labor Day weekend? Follow the guide below, and your vacation is sure to go off without a splutter.

A clock with the words fast service on it.

Image Source: Unsplash

Preventative maintenance

The last thing you want to happen on your road trip is the dreaded break-down. The easiest and most reliable way to know that your car’s running as it should is to book it in for a service a few weeks before of Labor Day. After all, the professionals know best, and they’ll inspect your vehicle from top to toe for existing and potential faults.

However, there are also some things you’d be wise to do at home:

  1. Check your oil

Letting your car run dry of oil can cause major damage to your engine. Since long road trips will chew up more oil than your usual commutes, you need to be particularly vigilant about checking whether your car’s oil is at the recommended level (if it doesn’t reach the recommended line on the dipstick, add more).

And while you’re beneath the hood, you might as well check your windscreen water reserve. You don’t want to get caught out without wiper water, especially if you plan to drive over dusty roads near the sea or desert.

  1. Clean your air filter

Though you might not know it, air filters do a lot for a car. They keep the engine running smoothly, and ensure good fuel economy. But like any type of filter, they get blocked easily, hence why it’s a prime idea to get a bucket of soapy water handy and to work out how to remove your vehicle’s air filter for a quick wash. Sorted!

A clock with the words fast service on it.

Image Source: Unsplash

  1. Do a tire inspection

Before leaving, visit a garage or use your own tyre-pressure gauge to check that your tyres have the recommended PSI. Also make sure that you have a spare in the boot just in case, and if you see any visible cracks or spots of major wear, consider getting a garage to check that things are OK before Labor Day rolls around.

Other proactive measures

  1. Stock the car

If you’re travelling with kids, road trips can either be the best of times, or the worst of times. Aim for the latter by packing smart. Stock the car with plenty of books and comics for the kids to pore over; age-appropriate toys; materials to doodle with; your favourite music playlists downloaded and ready to stream in the car; plenty of healthy and light snacks; motion-sickness tablets; lots of water; diapers and wipes; and so on.

And, of course, don’t forget your regular emergency travel bag, complete with flashlight, jump cables, blankets, comprehensive first aid kit, and water.

A clock with the words fast service on it.

Image Source: Pikwizard

  1. Fuel up!

So, you’re all packed up and ready to go: what’s left to do? Swinging into the nearest petrol station to get a full tank of fuel, of course. If your vehicle’s windscreen is so dirty it poses a hazard, this may also be a great time to go through a car wash. A couple of coffees for the grown ups, and you’ll be ready to drive on and enjoy your Labor Day weekend!

Road trips are one of Allison’s favourite ways to explore a new city or country. She especially enjoys driving past perfectly lined trees, old towns and amazing coastal views. To see more of her published work, visit https://allisonhail.tumblr.com/.

 

I Think My Car is a Lemon. What’s Next?


A clock with the words fast service on it.

When you purchase a new or used car under warranty, and the vehicle ends up having a persistent mechanical or safety problem, it can be highly frustrating. The good news is that federal and state “lemon laws†exist to ensure that manufactures of faulty automobiles are held liable. As a consumer, you can initiate a lemon law case against an automaker without paying legal fees, as the manufacturer would pay your lemon car attorney’s fees when it is found liable.

How do you know if your car is a lemon? And if it is, what steps should you take to ensure that you receive proper compensation (either a replacement vehicle or a buyback of the lemon vehicle)? Below is what you need to know to pursue your claim and what to expect during the process.

Is My Car A Lemon?

Both federal and state law define a lemon as a vehicle which has a serious mechanical or safety problem that is covered under a warranty, but has not been repaired after a “reasonable number of attempts,†or has been in the shop for a significant number of days in a short period of time, without the problem being resolved.

The phrase “reasonable number of attempts†can be open to legal interpretation. Consequently, the assistance of an experienced lemon car attorney can be indispensable for determining whether your car qualifies for lemon status. In general, if you have tried to have the automobile repaired three to four times and it still doesn’t run properly, there is a good chance you have a lemon vehicle on your hands.

Supporting Your Claim

Ensuring the viability of your lemon claim begins with documentation. When you take your vehicle to the dealership or one of the manufacturer’s authorized repair facilities for repairs, be sure to document the repair history.

Most dealerships will provide you with accurate service records, but some dealerships are known to misrecord repair records, so that it looks as if your car is experiencing a new or different problem. Always check your repair documents for accuracy, and keep copies of the records. While the dealership is required to keep copies, and alemon car attorney can help you procure them, the process can be time-consuming and annoying.

Contact The Manufacturer

Whether you live in a state that requires mediation or arbitration with the manufacturer before you pursue a lawsuit, or your state allows you to file suit immediately after it is determined that you have a lemon, you’ll need to notify the automaker of your car’s lemon status. Alemon car attorney can help you draft a certified letter that asks the manufacturer to either buy backyour vehicle or offer a “substantially identical†replacement vehicle.

If you must go through arbitration, the end result of the process does not have to be the end of your case. Arbitration decisions, which tend to favor automakers, are not binding on you, the consumer, but they are binding on the manufacturer. This means that if you get a favorable decision you are happy with, it is the end of the process. But often, people get less than they deserve. When this happens, a lemon law attorney can help you pursue proper compensation.

The Automaker Denied My Claim. Now What?

Regardless of whether you must pursue arbitration, after you notify the manufacturer about your defective vehicle, they are required to respond to you. When the response or arbitration decision is not in your favor, consider contacting a lawyer to file a lawsuit. Your lemon car attorney can help you decide whether to file under federal or state law. Once you hire a lawyer, he or she will handle all correspondence with the automaker and complete necessary paperwork for the court.

When choosing a lawyer, look for someone who has a strong background in lemon law and consumer advocacy, and a record of winning lemon cases. As your legal fees and trial costs will be paid by the manufacturer if you win your case, focus on hiring a highly experienced lemon car attorneyinstead of choosing an attorney with the lowest fees. This can dramatically increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome for your case.

Do I Have To Go To Court?

The short answer is no. A significant percentage of lemon law cases end in settlement. Your lawyer will analyze your case and develop the best strategy based on what you want and the details of your situation. After the automaker is informed about the merits of your claim, the company may decide to settle right away, as it is often less expensive and better for publicity for automakers to settle. If this doesn’t happen, your lemon car attorney will prepare for trial.

I Won! When Do I Get Paid?

Nobody likes losing, and automakers are no different. Whether you settled before going to court, started litigation and then settled, or went through a trial and won, you can reasonably expect to receive compensation sometime between three months and a year after your case concludes. When the auto manufacturer compensates you, it will also pay yourlemon car attorney’s fees.

If you were to lose the case, you would be responsible for your lawyer’s fees. However, most lemon law cases are successful, as attorneys naturally accept cases that they feel they can win.

 When Life Gives You Lemons…

If your vehicle is a lemon, the law gives you recourse. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the proper operation and safety of the products they sell, including automobiles. Don’t settle for less than what you deserve. Instead, use the services of a lemon lawyer to pursue acceptable compensation in the form of a replacement vehicle or lemon vehicle buyback.

Written by Katie McDaniel

 

3 Best Plasma Cutters For Professional Auto Mechanics


Are you an auto mechanic? If yes you will agree that vehicle repair requires you to cut metal every so often. Of all the tools available, a plasma cutter is by far the best for that job.

But how do you choose the best plasma cutter? Well, there are so many things to consider. And the truth is it’s not exactly an easy process.

That’s why we have prepared this review of the three best plasma cutters on the market today. Each unit is suitable for use in an auto garage. At the same time, they all have varying requirements and capabilities.

Read on and learn which one suits you best. Don’t have time to read the whole review? I’ve prepared this summary table to compare all the three and save you some time.

 

COMPARISON TABLE

Max cut thickness (steel) Max severance (steel) Voltage/ amperage Amazon Rating
Hobart Airforce 40i 5/8 inches 7/8 inches 230V/30A 4.8 stars
Lotos Supreme CUT60D 4/5 inches 1¼ inches 120&240V/20-30A 5 stars
Hypertherm Powermax 65 1 inch 1¼ inches 208V/52A 5 stars

 

REVIEW: THE THREE BEST PLASMA CUTTERS FOR AUTO MECHANICS

#1. Hobart Airforce 40i Plasma Cutter

Built with an inverter design, the Hobart Airforce 40i plasma cutter boasts up to 40 amps of power. While the inverter design accounts for its compact and portable size, the amperage gives it a powerful performance. Compared to its predecessor, the Hobart AF 625, this unit weighs almost half but performs way better.

It features the new XT40R torch that is known for its ergonomic construction and high performance. The torch not only cools faster (thus increasing the life of consumables) but also feels comfortable to handle.

The Airforce 40i comes with a drag shield that makes it possible to drag the tip. That too helps conserve consumables while at the same time increasing the precision of a cut.

You can use this plasma cutter with an air compressor. The recommended specifications for the compressor are 4.8 cfm at 90 psi.

In terms of voltage, the Airforce 40i requires a 240V input. It actually uses 30 amps at 230V to deliver full output. With that power you can do clean cuts of up to 5/8 inches and sever 7/8 inches of steel. Clean cut ratings for aluminum, galvanized, brass and copper are 3/8, 3/8, ¼ and 3/16 respectively.

The best plasma cutter for auto mechanics is built with auto-refire technology that makes it possible to cut expanded/perforated and painted/coated metals without having to continuously retrigger the torch.

Other topnotch technologies used in the construction of this plasma cutter include wind tunnel, fan-on-demand, post-flow air cooling and thermal overload protection. Collectively, they provide a very efficient cooling system.

As a matter of fact, if you happen to exceed the duty cycle to the point of overheating the machine will turn off automatically. The feature protects internal parts from damage and ultimately ensures durability of the whole unit.

Who is it built for?

The Hobart Airforce 40i can cut virtually every metallic material used to make a vehicle. It is a lightweight yet powerful plasma cutter. That combination is what makes it ideal for professional auto mechanics.

It is particularly perfect for you if you are very mobile. The 31-pound weight makes it extremely portable.

Pros

  • Comes with a 200-amp work clamp
  • Built with inverter design for portability
  • Features a very efficient cooling system
  • Cuts almost all conductive metals
  • Easy to use
  • Post-air flow technology cools the tip and consumables faster

Cons

  • Package doesn’t include a machine torch
  • Cuts through rust and paint are not very clean

It might have its drawbacks but the Airforce 40i is undoubtedly the best professional-grade plasma cutter on this list. Its ability to cut through metals makes it a must-have for any auto mechanic who deals with cutting and welding metals.

 

#2. Lotos Supreme CUT60D Plasma Cutter

With dimensions of 26.7 x 7.9 x 14.6 inches and a weight of 31.3 pounds, the Lotos Supreme CUT60D is one of the most compact plasma cutters out there.

The machine has an automatic dual voltage of 110/120V and 220/240V with 50/60Hz. That means it can either use the 110/120V power or the 220/240V input. It actually senses the power input automatically.

When you use 110/120V the plasma cutter produces 20-30A of output. That’s enough for 1/3-inch clean cut and ½-inch severance cut. On the other hand, the 220/240V option offers a whopping 20-60A of output. With that the cutter can do a 4/5-inch clean cut and 1¼ severance cut.

The Supreme CUT60D is capable of cutting steel (mild, stainless and alloy), aluminum, copper and a number of other conductive metals. That’s just one of the many reasons why it makes a good pick for any professional auto mechanic.

The second reason is the fact that it supports three different plasma functions. You can switch between plasma air gouging, non-continuous pilot arc and continuous pilot arc.

Thirdly, it also supports both 2T and 4T functions. 2T is where you pull the trigger and then hold it continuously as you cut. In the case of 4T you pull the trigger to start cutting and then you pull it again to stop.

The diverse functionality is what makes the Lotos Supreme CUT60D plasma cutter a handy addition to any auto garage. With it you’ll be able to cut through all the metals used in a vehicle with utmost precision. That boils down to all the customizable settings.

As far as construction, the cutter comes pre-installed with an NPT 14-inch type D plug. It also has an air filter regulator. The two make it possible to quickly connect the machine to an air compressor. It only takes 2 minutes at most to finish the setup.

The package also includes a machine torch. You won’t have to buy it separately.

Who is it built for?

This plasma cutter is perfect for general metal cutting work. It’s a non-high frequency start unit, and that makes it ideal for DIYers and mechanics. You will definitely love it if you work or own an auto repair shop.

Pros

  • Supports both 110V and 220V (or 120 and 240V) power inputs
  • Comes pre-installed with almost all components
  • Built sturdily to ensure the most rugged of jobs
  • Can cut through all common metals used in the auto industry
  • Uses safe and non-hazardous compressed air

Cons

  • Uses consumables relatively faster than some high-end units
  • Fairly expensive compared to other intermediate plasma cutters

The two drawbacks don’t make this unit any less than perfect for beginner or intermediate auto repair work. In fact, most plasma cutters of its range blow through consumables as fast as it does. The only difference is that the CUT60D does so and still offers outstanding performance.

 

#3. Hypertherm Powermax 65 Hand System

As its name suggests, the Powermax 65 delivers a maximum output of 65 amps. That’s a massive 44% increase compared to the Powermax 45, its immediate predecessor.

The increased power also comes with some additional weight. This plasma cutter tilts the scale at 65 pounds and measures 19.7 x 9.2 x 17.9 inches.

It’s not exactly the smallest unit on the market but its outstanding performance more than makes up for that. The unit delivers high-quality cuts at a faster speed. It also conserves consumables longer than most of its closest competitors.

The plasma cutter doesn’t come with a power plug. But you can wire it to either a single phase or three phase power source.

If you’re using a single phase of power the Powermax 65 plasma cutter will draw 52 amps at 200-208 volts. That’s way more than most domestic homes or garages can supply. But you can decrease the amperage to 44A by using a 240V outlet.

Better yet you can plug the unit to a 3-phase power supply with 200V. It will draw just 32 amps and perform optimally while on the recommended 50% duty cycle.

For the best performance, you may want to connect the plasma cutter to an air compressor that supplies a lot of clean, dry air. The manufacturer recommends 6.7 cfm at 85 psi. But if you’re planning to do some heavy work you may want to consider a 9 or 10 cfm unit.

Although the recommended cut thickness is ¾ inches, at its best, the Powermax 65 can cut through 1 inch of steel. It has a maximum severance of 1¼ inches.

That alone makes this unit a perfect addition to any auto garage or repair shop. It will cut through any conductive material used to make a vehicle.

But it’s not the only reason why the Powermax 65 is one of the best at the job. Another reason is the fact that it offers up to 4 different torch styles. The 4 are continuous pilot arc, non-continuous pilot arc, gouging and torch lock.

Built with Smart Sense technology, the cutter automatically senses the torch style you have selected and adjusts gas pressure accordingly. That flexibility is precisely why this plasma cutter is one of the most versatile.

Who is it built for?

The Powermax 65 is truly a powerful plasma cutter that might not be suitable for just anyone. If you’re a hobbyist or DIYer who only does small scale auto-repair works you may find it too powerful for your liking. But if you own or work at a professional repair shop you will love it.

In addition to a powerful performance, the plasma cutter is flexible and comes at a fairly affordable price. That’s almost everything you need in a professional plasma cutter.

At 65 pounds, this unit is definitely not one of the most portable. Luckily it is fitted with two handles at the top to make it easier to carry.

Pros

  • Adjusts air pressure automatically
  • Uses consumables in a very efficient manner
  • Can cut up to 1 inch of steel
  • Comes with an easy-to-use CNC interface
  • Fitted with a self-explanatory control panel with an LCD screen
  • Smooth drag cutting

Cons

  • Too powerful for beginners and hobbyists
  • Price is on the higher side

The Powermax 65 is undoubtedly a machine meant for professionals. If you frequently have to cut vehicle metals in your routine repair works then you should consider purchasing this unit.

 

RECOMMENDATION

All the three plasma cutters are great. But each one is suitable for a particular audience. So which unit fits you best? Here’s my recommendation:

Hypertherm Powermax 65 – best for professionals

The sheer power of the Powermax 65 makes it a professional-grade unit. It is fairly heavy, versatile, cuts through one inch of steel and draws a whopping amps of power. With those features it not only offers outstanding performance but also ranks as a high-end model.

Hobart Airforce 40i – best for intermediates

The Airforce 40i needs some background knowledge on plasma cutting. If you’re looking to upgrade from an entry-level machine you may want to consider this particular unit. Besides being portable, it offers a variety of flexible features.

For instance, you can use 2T or 4T cutting technique. You also get to choose between plasma air gouging, non-continuous pilot arc and continuous pilot arc. That versatility makes it a generally reliable machine.

Lotos Supreme CUT60D – best for beginners

This plasma cutter is ideal for you if you’re looking for an entry level unit. It is very affordable (just under $750) and is easy to use. Plus it uses both 120V and 240V, which means you can plug it to a home garage socket or at the repair shop.

 

THE BOTTOM LINE

I deliberately selected an entry-level, intermediate and professional plasma cutter to review. That said, each of these units is the best in its category. With one of them in your auto repair garage you’ll be more than glad that you purchased it.

While the Lotos Supreme CUT60D offers all the basic functions in a portable and adequately powerful unit, the Hobart Airforce 40i takes functionality a notch higher. You don’t need to be a pro per se to use it, but some experience will help you a great deal.

The Hypertherm Powermax 65 on its part is a super powerful machine. It is definitely one for large scale professional auto shops.

 

Drowsy Driving Prevention And Statistics


A clock with the words fast service on it.

Drowsy Driving: The Silent – But Deadly – Practice You Might Not Know About

Any drivers education program would be incomplete without multiple warnings against drunk driving. By the time you enter high school, if you haven’t already heard about the dangers of driving while intoxicated, you definitely will have by the time you start driving. With all of the awareness campaigns against this practice, drunk driving fatalities have dropped by 51% since the early 80s.

However, drunk driving has a dangerous, lesser-known equivalent: drowsy driving. The numbers are nothing to yawn at, either. Driving while tired is responsible for an estimated 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries after a car accident, and at least 1,500 deaths per year. In fact, the statistics are likely to be even higher due to how difficult it is to detect.

Why Drowsy Driving is So Dangerous

Drowsy driving, as the name implies, is what happens when a driver is too tired to stay alert behind the wheel. Doing anything while sleep-deprived is difficult, and driving requires our focus in a way that few other things do. Exhaustion causes you to have slower reflexes, get easily distracted, and make poor decisions. Any one of these can lead to accidents on the road.

The UCLA Sleep Center published a study which found that someone running on four hours of sleep would react the same way to one beer as someone with a full night of sleep would to six. Not only that, but also one survey found that a shocking 55% of police admitted to driving while sleep-deprived in the year leading up to the study.

What’s Being Done to Fight Drowsy Driving

In the United States, there are very few states which currently have laws against drowsy driving. Arkansas lists ‘fatigued’ driving as negligent homicide – a class A-misdemeanor – as long as the driver has gone without sleep for 24 consecutive hours. In New Jersey, convicted drivers are charged for driving recklessly just like a drunk driver.

Other states, such as Alabama and California, have drowsy driving awareness days, while Texas and Florida each dedicate an entire week to the cause.

Abroad, both the UK and Australia have laws in place to regulate drowsy driving offenses. Neither nation is as hard on the practice as either Arkansas or New Jersey, but it’s a positive step tin penalizing those who take the road while tired.  

How You Can Avoid Drowsy Driving

AAA has recommended that drivers employ a variety of tools to avoid falling asleep at the wheel. Getting a full night of sleep before hitting the road, taking a break every couple of hours or 100 miles (whichever comes first), and having someone else in the car that will stay alert and split the responsibility of driving with are all good practices.

Nothing is a true replacement for a full night of sleep. However, if you find yourself losing the battle to exhaustion while at the wheel it is certainly better to pull off the road and take a nap than it is to risk causing harm to yourself and others.

8 Common Mistakes When Using An Impact Wrench


Must Avoid: 8 Common Mistakes When Using An Impact Wrench

Make DIY projects and automotive care simple by using an impact wrench. An impact wrench is the best solution for use in tight angles where there is no space left to apply the required amount of torque easily. Plus, It is a pneumatic device that helps in providing sufficient torque to loosen the nuts in the best possible way with minimal exertion.

There are various types of wrenches available in the market ranging from manual to automatic, you can visit wrenchguides for more info. But safety precautions are there which one should consider while using it. For smooth operations, one must avoid the following mistakes.

Practical Mistakes:

  1. Not meant for tightening purposes:

Impact wrench helps speed up the process of loosening or removing the nuts/ bolts, whereas a torque wrench is meant for tightening the fixings. Most people are not aware of this fact.

They use the former mentioned product for making the nuts tight, which leads to the situation of over-tightening and can cause severe damages. Excessive tight wheel nuts may cause brake rotors. This problem is, most of the time, caused by inexperienced users who stretch or strip the threads to ensure the tightening level of nut or bolt.

  1. Avoid cross threading:

Cross threading refers to the situation when the threads of a nut or bolt shift somewhere else from the center position. This can commonly occur while working with metal or aluminium fixings. In this situation, if one makes use of this wrench product, it leads to damaging threads. Thus, it will cause significant damage which cannot be repairable. To overcome this risk, try to thread the bolt manually with your hands.

  1. Choose comparable socket/ drill bits:

It is important to choose a socket or drill bit which is adequately similar to the air wrench in every aspect. Sockets with different outlets are available for this wrench. Most people make use of regular or ordinary sockets.

These are not meant to bear the cyclic load and thus wear off within no time. With overuse, they become oversized and cause slips. Sockets, which are specifically used with an impact wrench have a grip across the flats. Their heavy duty nature prevents them from any wear, damage or falls.

Physical Mistakes:

 

  1. Wrench Size:

 While selecting the size of wrench, one should keep specific factors in mind such as:

  • Nature of the job
  • Torque rating
  • Torque application
  • Size of fittings
  • Tenure of usage

 Remember Torque rating > Actual torque needed.

Such considerations help you in selecting the right size. The wrong size wrench would not correctly perform the operations. If it is too small, then it cannot fit adequately whereas a bigger one exerts more pressure than required. For home use, one can opt for an electric wrench.

  1. Wrench Type:

Nowadays, there are various types of gun wrenches available in the market, and you have to choose among the vast array of options. You have to make the best choice as per your need. Here are some examples:

  • Hydraulics work best for manufacturing or construction sites.
  • Cordless tools are ideal, but expensive.
  • Air wrenches are suitable for garage workers and mechanics.
  • Electric wrenches are perfect for home repairs.

Each category has its pros & cons. So, one must consider some of the factors while choosing its type such as battery life, warranty, torque limiter, etc.

General Mistakes:

  1. Prepare your work environment:

First, clean and declutter your work surroundings. Secondly dress properly with gloves, safety glasses, and a cap. Well, these are the general safety measure that one should keep in mind while working with any tool. But this wrench equipment demands special care.

  1. Operate it with due care:

One should make particular attention while operating with this wrench. Thoroughly inspect the equipment that it is free from any cracks or breakage to prevent damage. Maintain a firm grip on the tool and apply the required force only. Avoid operating it in excessive cold or wet situations as there is a chance of getting electric shocks.

  1. Unplug as soon as you complete the task:

This is an essential measure that one should know. Always unplug the wrench after completion your work. If you have no other operation, then unplug it and store in the toolkit properly. Changing of sockets with the plugged equipment is dangerous and can cause injury.

Conclusion :

Finally, we would say that ‘Be Conscious and Be Alert’ while using an impact wrench.

Thus, it will not cause damage to you as well to the vehicle or any other object on which you are working. It is not a product that only professionals can use, but a layman or amateur can also operate it but with due care.

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