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Great-Kazoo
06-08-2019, 22:24
A machine, called a centrifuge, that uses inertia to separate materials.
I'm not sure why you're taking such an issue with this.
You forgot the centrifugal clutch. A CVT transmission works in a similar manner.
So, when are you guys going to WHIP OUT an Edmonton-Oiler- Lagrange equation?
https://ctl.s6img.com/society6/img/SMM7l6_NKwYnB9tdvdbZAd82I5k/w_700/prints/~artwork/s6-0039/a/18157041_2257706/~~/euleroiler-prints.jpg?wait=0&attempt=0
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfeYCVi84Eg/UDAWdlKCKMI/AAAAAAAAAHE/vaMMBwd5DWo/s1600/eulers+jersey.gif
OtterbatHellcat
06-08-2019, 23:19
From some random smart dude on the interweb search.
Astronauts in a centrifuge feel it pressing them outward. And the fact that these devices are called centrifuges implies that in certain cases it is indeed more convenient to consider this fictitious force as in some sense real.
Centrifugal / Centripetal / Inertia
Newtonian Mechanics.
Not to stray from this science stuff too much but I just ordered struts and shocks for my truck. Apparently 120K miles of Colorado roads were about all the original set could handle.
It looks like Tahoe's come with the same crap front suspension that my Amigo has. That's a bit of a bummer from the off-road perspective. Anyone know what kind of rear suspension they have?
I'm not sure what you're saying since the Amigo and Tahoe don't share components.
I think the rear suspension depends on year. I think it was leaf springs up through 2000 and then coil springs.
Are you referring to a torsion bar front suspension? That changed over to coil springs as well, but I'm not sure on the year.
IFS with stupid torsion bars instead of coil overs or shocks and struts. With regard to the rear, I was wondering 3, 4, 5-link suspension, coil springs or leafs. I assume the rear will be more robust than flexible.
Based on what I can find on the web, I think the last year for front torsion bars was 2006.
Torsion bars aren't that big of a deal, but in a vehicle as heavy as a Tahoe, I'm afraid the IFS components wouldn't last as long as they have on my current ride.
Anyway, this one has my attention right now.
https://denver.craigslist.org/cto/d/denver-door-tahoe-4-wheel-drive/6907416741.html
So did you buy it? I see the seller pulled his ad.
Oh whoops, sorry. No I didn't. It was a 1995 2-door for $800.
Do those Vortec motors have timing belts or chains?
Great-Kazoo
06-10-2019, 00:09
https://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/cto/d/phoenix-2007-chevy-tahoe-4x4-lt/6905580695.html
Why a tahoe ?
I like the size and that they are basically a 1500, and an SUV. Plus, there are millions of them so parts are available and problems will be well established with quick to find solutions.
Oh whoops, sorry. No I didn't. It was a 1995 2-door for $800.
I think you will soon regret it, if you get the 2 door, due to access issues. Especially is you plan on using the back seat at all.
I like the size and that they are basically a 1500, and an SUV. Plus, there are millions of them so parts are available and problems will be well established with quick to find solutions.
Yeah, parts are cheap, especially windshields which we often have to replace regularly here.
If you want it for family use, I'd go with the 4-door.
Do those Vortec motors have timing belts or chains?
The 5.3l V8 uses chains.
I think you will soon regret it, if you get the 2 door, due to access issues. Especially is you plan on using the back seat at all.
That's one of the things I don't like about the Amigo, so it was a big red flag when I saw that ad for a 2-door. Still probably twice the interior room though. I'm sure I'll end up with a 4-door.
The 5.3l V8 uses chains.
I like timing chains. I've changed a timing belt, buy that's just one more thing I don't have to worry about the previous owner dropping the ball on.
I seem to recall the 5.3l Vortec as being 'Marine Rated'. ETA: Found this on the web: https://www.gmmarinepower.com/products.html
From what I understand, the engines have to be able to run at significant RPM for days. I'm not sure about the details.
They do rev nicely with very little vibration.
As I was poking around, the older 5.7l, the 5.3l and 6.0l all use timing chains.
Here ya go, Irving!
https://i.imgur.com/4skpJJD.png
Then were would the ladder go?!
Bailey Guns
06-11-2019, 12:11
Turn it on edge and slide it between the seats. Excess hanging out over tailgate or over cab.
Turn it on edge and slide it between the seats. Excess hanging out over tailgate or over cab.
I think I'd just build racks and hang it on the passenger side and hope I don't crash into a lake with that side being my only exit. Although with a convertible, that'd hardly be a problem.
It bugs me so much when I see a 28'+ ladder in a pick-up bed where the legs are wedged in the tail gate and 10'+ are shooting up over the cab. Totally fine in a pinch, but I've known guys that just don't buy a rack and drive around that way all day.
Bailey Guns
06-11-2019, 14:21
You need to get your redneck on.
Picked up a new company truck today. I highly do not recommend Fords little V-6 in an F-150. What a pooch. According to the magic onboard computer its getting about 15mpg on the highway and I think it has a 23 gallon tank. The previous Ford I was driving would get 20mpg and had a 36 gallon tank. Looks like I?ll be stopping for fuel a lot more than I?m used to.
The 2.7l EcoBoost?
I get 21mpg on the highway with my 5.7l Hemi.
...with a 33 gallon tank.
No. It?s some sort of naturally aspirated 3.3 V-6 I think.
Picked up a new company truck today. I highly do not recommend Fords little V-6 in an F-150. What a pooch. According to the magic onboard computer its getting about 15mpg on the highway and I think it has a 23 gallon tank. The previous Ford I was driving would get 20mpg and had a 36 gallon tank. Looks like I?ll be stopping for fuel a lot more than I?m used to.
This is the Eurotrash turd Avis gave me this week at the airport. No other cars available, WTF? (I'm Avis preferred plus mind you). No car selection in the app so I had to go to the counter (typical in small markets).
https://cdn1.autoexpress.co.uk/sites/autoexpressuk/files/styles/article_main_image/public/2018/12/01_43.jpg?itok=6BoXGmXq
Worst part is I rushed getting out of there because I couldn't figure out how to open the rear hatch so I just got pissed and threw my bags in the back seat without giving it a good eyeball, and the "car" is AFU.
Someone hit something as evidenced by two chunks of rubber missing from the RF tire, the wheel rashed AF, and front tires just about worn off with 3400 miles on the clock. Not surprising, the steering wheel is crooked AF too going down the road, and up on the highway at 75MPH it's kinda squirrely.
Tried to get roadside to replace it and they have ZERO cars in Des Moines. Airport counter couldn't even answer their damn phone until the 4th try from roadside. They were going to bring in a car from Omaha.
The thing that REALLY pisses me off is that when the counter agent told me what the "midsized car" was upon inquiry as to make and model, I asked what a Ford Ecosport was and if it was a sedan or SUV because it sounds like an SUV and I very much prefer a sedan.
Her, "It's a midsize car."
Me, "Well, I reserved an "Intermediate" car with Avis and don't know what that means."
Also me, "Is it an SUV or a sedan?"
Her, "It's a midsize car."
Me, "Is it a sedan?"
Her quite snarky, "If that's what you prefer to call it."
Me, SMH, "Just give me the keys."
I go out and it's a fukn goofy little POS micro SUV.
Looking it over more when I had time, it was also full of adhesive from the shipping film and still had some film stuck to parts of the inside door frames. Whoever prepped the car and everyone that touched it since should be fired.
Looks like the 2.7l EcoBoost would have been an upgrade.
https://www.ford.com/trucks/f150/features/power/
Performance numbers for the 3.3l Ti-VCT are pretty anemic for a full-size truck.
And I have a big aluminum camper on it too. I'm sure that doesn't help.
Great-Kazoo
06-11-2019, 21:43
This is the Eurotrash turd Avis gave me this week at the airport. No other cars available, WTF? (I'm Avis preferred plus mind you). No car selection in the app so I had to go to the counter (typical in small markets).
https://cdn1.autoexpress.co.uk/sites/autoexpressuk/files/styles/article_main_image/public/2018/12/01_43.jpg?itok=6BoXGmXq
Worst part is I rushed getting out of there because I couldn't figure out how to open the rear hatch so I just got pissed and threw my bags in the back seat without giving it a good eyeball, and the "car" is AFU.
Someone hit something as evidenced by two chunks of rubber missing from the RF tire, the wheel rashed AF, and front tires just about worn off with 3400 miles on the clock. Not surprising, the steering wheel is crooked AF too going down the road, and up on the highway at 75MPH it's kinda squirrely.
Tried to get roadside to replace it and they have ZERO cars in Des Moines. Airport counter couldn't even answer their damn phone until the 4th try from roadside. They were going to bring in a car from Omaha.
The thing that REALLY pisses me off is that when the counter agent told me what the "midsized car" was upon inquiry as to make and model, I asked what a Ford Ecosport was and if it was a sedan or SUV because it sounds like an SUV and I very much prefer a sedan.
Her, "It's a midsize car."
Me, "Well, I reserved an "Intermediate" car with Avis and don't know what that means."
Also me, "Is it an SUV or a sedan?"
Her, "It's a midsize car."
Me, "Is it a sedan?"
Her quite snarky, "If that's what you prefer to call it."
Me, SMH, "Just give me the keys."
I go out and it's a fukn goofy little POS micro SUV.
Looking it over more when I had time, it was also full of adhesive from the shipping film and still had some film stuck to parts of the inside door frames. Whoever prepped the car and everyone that touched it since should be fired.
Picked up a car during one of the trips to NY for a funeral. Like you the "reserved vehicle" was not available. So we settled on a charger they had. Pointed out the cracked windshield, dented passenger door AND the trashed out bumpers. Agent says everything is noted on the form as damaged except the bumpers. Why's that? This is NY bumpers don't count, no one has an undamaged bumper. Umm ok.
Then we see these big rig mud flap things hanging off peoples cars. WTF? that's a bumper saver [facepalm]
https://www.amazon.com/Luv-Tap-BG001-Complete-Coverage-Universal/dp/B01BFLFF7A/ref=sr_1_11?hvadid=77653070147229&hvbmt=bb&hvdev=c&hvqmt=b&keywords=rear+bumper+protector&qid=1560310938&s=gateway&sr=8-11
I?ve always been lucky with rental cars when they don?t have what I reserved. I?ve always been upgraded.
I?ve always been lucky with rental cars when they don?t have what I reserved. I?ve always been upgraded.
Yea, I get "upgraded" frequently. Unless I'm somewhere with inclement weather, I prefer a sedan so I can lock my shot in the trunk. Most often I pick a different/better vehicle right from the app while I'm still on the runway and walk to its numbered space. Even some of the smaller airports with the rentals right at the terminal do this.
Hard to believe Des Moines is COMPLETELY sold out, but that's what they're telling me. Avis will be catching a ton of shit from me for this one, including social media. May not do any good, but lets me vent.
My rental car for past 15 years. (Loaner car doesn't count)
-Ford Focus on year 2007
-Chevy Aveo 2015
-Jeep Compass 2016
I did put lots of miles on COmpass doing work loads etc. lol
When I used to work next to the Enterprise rental desk at work they would tell me some stories. Basically, if Colorado cars smelled too much like weed and people in Southern states with border check points (Texas, Arizona, SantaFe) would get searched and complain, they'd offer people going on one way trips North an "Upgrade" to get rid of the car. Heading to Montana? Would you like this Charger upgrade?
...Then we see these big rig mud flap things hanging off peoples cars. WTF? that's a bumper saver [facepalm]
https://www.amazon.com/Luv-Tap-BG001-Complete-Coverage-Universal/dp/B01BFLFF7A/ref=sr_1_11?hvadid=77653070147229&hvbmt=bb&hvdev=c&hvqmt=b&keywords=rear+bumper+protector&qid=1560310938&s=gateway&sr=8-11
I just saw a few of these driving north up the NY Thruway, and thought, What the heck? Thanks for splainin' that for me as it made about sense as putting fake testicles on a truck.
I could spend a few summers in upper NH or ME. Is very nice here. [Flower]
Fukn Des Moines. The people here are pretty surly too... Buncha grumpy cuss'.
Yea, I get "upgraded" frequently. Unless I'm somewhere with inclement weather, I prefer a sedan so I can lock my shot in the trunk. Most often I pick a different/better vehicle right from the app while I'm still on the runway and walk to its numbered space. Even some of the smaller airports with the rentals right at the terminal do this.
Hard to believe Des Moines is COMPLETELY sold out, but that's what they're telling me. Avis will be catching a ton of shit from me for this one, including social media. May not do any good, but lets me vent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4T2GmGSNvaM
ChickNorris
06-12-2019, 17:03
2 days ago, this is how my neighbor @ the end of the block found their car.
& NOT my doing for those who would jest. ;-)
Why did you take their wheels?
whitewalrus
06-12-2019, 17:06
2 days ago, this is how my neighbor @ the end of the block found their car.
Guess times are turning tough again. Been a while since I seen someone's car with the wheels stolen
whitewalrus
06-12-2019, 17:09
Picked up a car during one of the trips to NY for a funeral. Like you the "reserved vehicle" was not available. So we settled on a charger they had. Pointed out the cracked windshield, dented passenger door AND the trashed out bumpers. Agent says everything is noted on the form as damaged except the bumpers. Why's that? This is NY bumpers don't count, no one has an undamaged bumper. Umm ok.
Then we see these big rig mud flap things hanging off peoples cars. WTF? that's a bumper saver [facepalm]
https://www.amazon.com/Luv-Tap-BG001-Complete-Coverage-Universal/dp/B01BFLFF7A/ref=sr_1_11?hvadid=77653070147229&hvbmt=bb&hvdev=c&hvqmt=b&keywords=rear+bumper+protector&qid=1560310938&s=gateway&sr=8-11
Well the bumpers cannot even take a bump these days....
whitewalrus
06-12-2019, 17:11
Fukn Des Moines. The people here are pretty surly too... Buncha grumpy cuss'.
Welcome to the midwest, people there in customer service could care less about you
2 days ago, this is how my neighbor @ the end of the block found their car.
& NOT my doing for those who would jest. ;-)
I agree with whitewalrus on this.
Even those 1000+ each wheels retail are running 25% of the priced used on Ebay. It took me 6mo to sell all 4 wheels when insurance changed all 4 of my wheels on comprehensive. I told insurance company that I wanna keep the old wheels. They said they are okay with it.
I agree with whitewalrus on this.
Even those 1000+ each wheels retail are running 25% of the priced used on Ebay. It took me 6mo to sell all 4 wheels when insurance changed all 4 of my wheels on comprehensive. I told insurance company that I wanna keep the old wheels. They said they are okay with it.
Damn, I still have to get new tires for my new summer wheels...
Stock photo. Bought used from my son and they are flawless.
https://cdn.hartmannwheels.com/wheels/front/9/original/Hartmann_HRS4-DTM-GS_Wheel_Audi_VW.jpg
Angry_abe
06-12-2019, 21:18
Any recommendations for a shop to get window tint done in the centennial/Littleton area? Just need to match my untainted driver and passenger front windows to the rear factory tint. What’s the going rate around here? Only place I have actually spoke to some one so far is lynx wrap in centennial and they priced me at 127$
ChickNorris
06-12-2019, 21:29
Any recommendations for a shop to get window tint done in the centennial/Littleton area? Just need to match my untainted driver and passenger front windows to the rear factory tint. What’s the going rate around here? Only place I have actually spoke to some one so far is lynx wrap in centennial and they priced me at 127$
https://www.ar-15.co/threads/174183-Auto-Window-tint
Just so happens to be a recent thread topic hidden in a slightly odd location.
Damn, I still have to get new tires for my new summer wheels...
Stock photo. Bought used from my son and they are flawless.
https://cdn.hartmannwheels.com/wheels/front/9/original/Hartmann_HRS4-DTM-GS_Wheel_Audi_VW.jpg
Nice wheel. What are you planning to put on it?
Angry_abe
06-12-2019, 22:08
https://www.ar-15.co/threads/174183-Auto-Window-tint
Just so happens to be a recent thread topic hidden in a slightly odd location.
Is that in a trading post section? I have not been a member of the site for more than 30 days so I can’t see that thread unfortunately.
Nice wheel. What are you planning to put on it?
My old 2003 A6 2.7T Sport.
Relegating the 5-spoke wheels currently hosting Blizzaks to winter setup only.
Going to try to stuff 255's on them but have to check fitment.
My son had these on his slammed S4 Avant until he got some other fancy wheels with "fat lips" or whatever.
He's a shop foreman or tech lead or whatever they call them at a huge dealer in Tx (truth is I'm damn proud of him) and I asked him to keep an eye out for a set of Audi 9-spoke takeoffs and he coincidentally was planning to sell these so now they're mine.
Good a thread as any. So funny story...... cost us a new car....
Out of shits and giggles after a friend out of state was mooning over one, I showed my wife a Veloster N. (N being important part) Basically performance hot hatch on a budget since the former value hot hatches have gotten out of control in price (or in subaru case $$$ and dont even make a hatch STI anymore)
She falls in love when I thought she hates it...... only issue.... she can't drive manual. On the otherhand said she'd let me drive it. Piques my interest even if practically speaking I'm screaming bad idea because she doesn't drive things like she stole it, and usually is only willing to drive AWD/4wd, needs heated seats, and wont go out in any moisture on roads pretty much.... to a FWD performance car..... I tried coaxing her to wait to replace her juke another couple years until they maybe add better interior options and the 7 speed DCT next year.
So what's ended up happening, is since she couldnt bring herself to learn manual on a dodgy used $2000 car, she's finished ordering a 2016 Veloster Rally to be imported from california(I guess 1,200 made, mostly seem to reside on the coasts). Ugly car, but great looking matte blue paint and wheels on it. Why not. Juke stays as her "winter" car in the meantime or backup if she realizes manual isn't always fun as a daily driver.
My biggest complaint I think is trying to upkeep that delicate matte paint.
http://www.canadianautoreview.ca/images/car_photos/2016-hyundai-veloster-rally-edition/normal/hyundai-veloster-rs1.jpg
Ha. Please keep us updated as she learns to drive it.
Martinjmpr
06-13-2019, 07:55
Matte blue paint? Is that so you can buy a car from the factory that looks like it's been plasti-dipped? [facepalm]
Great-Kazoo
06-13-2019, 08:21
Matte blue paint? Is that so you can buy a car from the factory that looks like it's been plasti-dipped? [facepalm]
it's what H-D did when they ran out of clear coat. Passed off flat / non gloss paint jobs as limited edition units.
H-D even had a run of unpainted , brushed / wire wheel finish rides, with a clear coat.
I ran across something yesterday where there's new paint protection film that is matte, so you can add a matte finish to anything.
I personally am not a fan of the matte fad.
ChickNorris
06-13-2019, 08:44
it's what H-D did when they ran out of clear coat. Passed off flat / non gloss paint jobs as limited edition units.
H-D even had a run of unpainted , brushed / wire wheel finish rides, with a clear coat.
I like the clear coat over unpainted metal.
More maintenance but so what...
ChickNorris
06-13-2019, 09:24
Is that in a trading post section? I have not been a member of the site for more than 30 days so I can’t see that thread unfortunately.
Alternative to restricted access thread:
https://www.ar-15.co/threads/24158-Commercial-Residential-and-Automotive-window-tint
Found time to swap out my rear shocks today. I?ll tackle the front struts tomorrow. I thought the tears would be easy but the upper bolts were rusted up and access to the nuts wasn?t pleasant to say the least.
Once I get the fronts done I?ll have to fiddle with the settings to see which ones are best for Colorado?s lovely roads.
Front struts done. Of course I start taking things apart and find my upper ball joints are shot so had to make a trip to the parts store and spend more money. I was tempted to just stick it back together and deal with the ball joints later but common sense took over so I just did them while I had everything apart.
The left side was actually probably okay. The right side had probably close to a quarter inch of play. I could use my fingers and rattle it around in most directions once I had it disconnected from the spindle.
FYI. It?s a 2010 Ram 1500 with about 120K miles.
hurley842002
06-14-2019, 13:22
FYI. It?s a 2010 Ram 1500 with about 120K miles.
Post pics if you get a chance, I was wanting to get the quick lifts for the front of my Xterra, but once I realized I had a broken leaf and had to drop $$ on those, I went with the cheaper option of Bilstein 5100's and just wrestled with the stock coils.
hurley842002
06-14-2019, 13:29
Posted another Pic in the latest purchase thread, but I've done a couple other things since.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/898de6654d89958f10fb59fc9396bbce.jpg
Old man Emu rear springs providing 1.5-2" of lift.
Front Bilstein adjustable shocks set at 1.5"
Added a roof basket up top.
Used some plastic restore to get the plastic looking new again.
IMO it doesn't look lifted, but it now has a stance that I feel the Pro4x should have had from the factory, similar to the mild boost the 4runner TRD Pro comes with. All Xterra's are a bit low from the factory IMO, when you consider they are quite capable on the trail.
Looks good . I miss my old xterra
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/2dbbfd7a7ae61de3078ec86cb56e3530.jpg
hurley842002
06-14-2019, 14:26
Looks good . I miss my old xterra
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/2dbbfd7a7ae61de3078ec86cb56e3530.jpg
I liked your Xterra, was set up well.
I really want to do 33's, but the size I want (255/85-16) are very limited for options, the 285's are a bit wider than I want, but I may end up with them next time around, just a tough decision because we travel a bit in the X.
Post pics if you get a chance
It really doesn?t look any different. I was worried that since my truck already sat pretty level before that it might sit a little nose high. During the strut replacement I found that the previous owner had installed some 2? lift blocks on top of the factory struts. Ride height is the same now as before I replaced everything.
Here?s a before picture.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/3131f355e7bf9959a97a89e737344958.jpg
And here it sits now.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/3ccc52d804ccd0f13dcc38951a98ba93.jpg
hurley842002
06-14-2019, 15:35
It really doesn?t look any different. I was worried that since my truck already sat pretty level before that it might sit a little nose high. During the strut replacement I found that the previous owner had installed some 2? lift blocks on top of the factory struts. Ride height is the same now as before I replaced everything.
Here?s a before picture.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/3131f355e7bf9959a97a89e737344958.jpg
And here it sits now.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190614/3ccc52d804ccd0f13dcc38951a98ba93.jpg
Looks good, any difference in ride quality?
Also, the spots in the driveway in the bottom picture are from one of my wife?s friends. She comes to visit on Wednesdays and parks in the driveway.
What does everyone think about whether I should say something or not?
None of my vehicles leak anything but before you know it I?ll have a rather large oil stain in my driveway from her parking her crappy Toyota Camry there.
Looks good, any difference in ride quality?
Yes. Still monkeying with the adjustments. Accidentally started on 3 by mistake and that was way too soft. The truck floated like an old Cadillac. Took it straight up to 7 but it was slightly too stiff and kind of rode like a Camaro. 6 front and back wasn?t too bad but maybe ever so slightly too stiff in the back. I currently have it set at 6 in the front and 5 in the back but I?ll have to drive it a bit to see if that is the sweet spot.
ChickNorris
06-14-2019, 15:42
I noticed the stain.
I think its rude & you should say something. I would & have to similar offenders.
It?s the wife?s friend. Maybe I should run it by her and see what she thinks.
ChickNorris
06-14-2019, 15:48
Right. You wouldn't want to make her cry on accident by politely asking her to park on the street or to use the provided cardboard & brick.
Giggle
Also, the spots in the driveway in the bottom picture are from one of my wife?s friends. She comes to visit on Wednesdays and parks in the driveway.
What does everyone think about whether I should say something or not?
None of my vehicles leak anything but before you know it I?ll have a rather large oil stain in my driveway from her parking her crappy Toyota Camry there.
I have no qualms asking someone with a leaky ass car to please park it on the street. I paid good money for that concrete.
I generally ask them if they know their car is leaking fluids and suggest they have it looked at before it causes more damage. Now please move your POS into the street honey.
You could also put up a barricade on Wednesdays with a "NO LEAKER PARKING" sign.
Just go out there when she's over and duct tape a large sheet of cardboard to the bottom of the car.
I never park in a driveway unless directed to. It strikes me as presumptuous, if not rude.
ChickNorris
06-14-2019, 17:48
Honestly, it might not have even occurred to her that it's an issue. Brutal brings up a good point, mention the leak & that it should be checked... blah blah words & more words... she's probably a couple quarts low.
Only guessing though... I'm no expert.
Great-Kazoo
06-14-2019, 17:55
so many things i could suggest for the friends staining issues.
Martinjmpr
06-17-2019, 11:53
If it were my house my wife would be the one talking to the friend. Wife hates oil stains in the driveway more than I do.
Deny sex until the situation is resolved.
Deny sex until the situation is resolved.
Should I be denying my wife or her friend?
Both. Deny sex where ever possible. Deny the neighbors as well until you get what you want.
BushMasterBoy
06-17-2019, 12:25
Duct tape and sex? I just use engine cleaner (Gunk) and a pressure washer...
I just use engine cleaner (Gunk) and a pressure washer...
For sex? Twisted.
Here ya go, Irving!
https://i.imgur.com/4skpJJD.png
I saw one of these (the Dodge Caravan type) of van with camp style tape all over. It was around 120th and Holly area.
Rear trailing arm got bent.
Just purchased online and need to replace it.
So it just ?got bent? all on its own?
I?m thinking there might be a story behind how that happened.
ChickNorris
06-28-2019, 11:14
Spontaneous bendiness. It's probably a thing.
Good question.
I try to avoid a fair size of a rock near construction (near 136 and Holly) and still hit a rock. The size was about 6 to 8" ish.
Good that the trailing arm was under 50 bucks and said to be not too difficult to install.
Will post a photo soon.
I knew it just didn?t bend on its own. Lol.
Although I wouldn?t be surprised if some killer pothole did it in.
Yeah. :( lol
https://imgur.com/V9GWMVz.jpg
Yeah. :( lol
https://imgur.com/V9GWMVz.jpg
Ouch. Looks like good access though.
Kid wanted to fix an old moped/bike I have in the garage for the past 10 years. I knew the carb needed work, metering holes gunked solid. I did more then I wanted to do. I think next time I will just let him work on it until he figures it out himself ir breakes it. It runs now but we need some tubing for the oil injection.
DT50 Yamaha, watercooled, oil injection, fun trail moped.
GilpinGuy
06-28-2019, 22:45
I got in my wife's Nissan Rogue and drove it for the first time in a long while. I got home and told her the vehicle isn't moving until I make repairs. No f-in around.
The front end was making creaking and groaning sounds like mad and the wobble above 40MPH..... The play in the front end is crazy. I just ordered MOOG control arms, ball joints, tie rods, etc. If I have it all apart I'm doing it all. I'll check shocks and other stuff while I'm in there but, I mean holy cow, the ball joints are ready to freaking explode. Every corner I thought the wheel was gonna pancake on me.
Wife: "I didn't notice anything." [facepalm]
I hear a tiny little squeak and I think "MUST FIX FAULTY COMPONENT IMMEDIATELY" like a robot.
<rant over>
Its gonna be a fun weekend. Glad I got in that thing when I did. Luckily YT vids make it look like a fairly straightforward procedure, but I know what's up. If anyone has done tfront end work on this vehicle, I'd love to hear any advice. [Coffee]
My wife?s Rogue creaks a little. I highly suspect it?s just sway bar bushings but haven?t had a chance to investigate.
I bet most of those happened on pothole or construction leftover rocks.
Anyone got a newer ford map card (A9 or A10) that I could buy cheap, or borrow for approximately 20 minutes?
Cursed myself. Installed the oil tube. Now it wont idle again. I think either some crud from the tank got in the carb, or the gas loosend some of the left over crud and plugged another passage. Anyway, will get this figured out.
Anyone got tips for carb cleaners? Need to get the nasty dried on, sand looking stuff to disolve.
Find someone with an ultrasonic. It will clean things you'll never reach with carb cleaner.
Trailing arm installed. Much more difficult to take it off than I initially expected.
https://i.imgur.com/CJ9kHCJ.jpg
Anyone got a newer ford map card (A9 or A10) that I could buy cheap, or borrow for approximately 20 minutes?
For the new(er) F150, I made a A8 card (was A4), so only 2 years behind on maps now. May snag a Ebay A10 card to upgrade both cars.
In the mean time, I programmed a few things: changed the lane change flash from 3 blinks to 5, added preset EQ modes, changed the ACM (audio control module) programming so the factory amps dont pull bass at higher volume, and enabled fog lights with brights on (OEM turns fogs off when brights are on).
Now, I need to change the recognized tire size in the cluster. Tires are a tough bigger than stock so the speedometer is off.
Running out of free mods... haha
ChickNorris
07-07-2019, 12:13
For the new(er) F150, I made a A8 card (was A4), so only 2 years behind on maps now. May snag a Ebay A10 card to upgrade both cars.
In the mean time, I programmed a few things: changed the lane change flash from 3 blinks to 5, added preset EQ modes, changed the ACM (audio control module) programming so the factory amps dont pull bass at higher volume, and enabled fog lights with brights on (OEM turns fogs off when brights are on).
Now, I need to change the recognized tire size in the cluster. Tires are a tough bigger than stock so the speedometer is off.
Running out of free mods... haha
Yay. Wish I could do a few of those... might have to figure something out if it's even possible on my old truck... will definitely be looking into it for my Ruby F150
Yay. Wish I could do a few of those... might have to figure something out if it's even possible on my old truck... will definitely be looking into it for my Ruby F150
Forscan
https://forscan.org/
I have a few spreadsheets for the as-built mods for the f150
ChickNorris
07-07-2019, 15:12
Wow... did that name sound out very wrong in my head at first. Giggle.
Thanks for the link.
They were talking trucks. I think those fake testicles go in the back and the forscan must be further up somewhere.
ChickNorris
07-15-2019, 18:02
I usually don't sort something out just to make fun but this was special.
If that was wood and crushed velvet, it'd by like an inside-out Mercedes.
That MB is owned by New Orleans Saints Fan.
[LOL]
Maybe it's a math teacher and that is chalkboard paint.
^lol
Yeah, that is definitely NOT a factory matte paint.
https://www.walmart.com/nco/2-Pack-Value-Rust-oleum-specialty-flat-black-chalkboard-spray-11-oz/174026849
https://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Product/RustoleumUSA/CBG/specialty/chalkboard-spray/1913830_SPC_11oz_ChalkBoard_Black_480.ashx
Maybe it's a math teacher and that is chalkboard paint.
Math, meth...whatever...
Welp.
I think my trans is finally in dire need of a rebuild.
CO Springs rush hour coming back Friday, too much slippage and shuttle shifting going on running 235*+ hot line temp. 210 in the pan.
2004 CTD 48RE.
^lol
Yeah, that is definitely NOT a factory matte paint.
https://www.walmart.com/nco/2-Pack-Value-Rust-oleum-specialty-flat-black-chalkboard-spray-11-oz/174026849
https://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Product/RustoleumUSA/CBG/specialty/chalkboard-spray/1913830_SPC_11oz_ChalkBoard_Black_480.ashx
Reminds me of this rat rod I saw once. The guy had a bucket of that chunky sidewalk chalk and would let kids draw on the car at car shows.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190721/2d1cdf4a6b8cabd56578f61ae44c2284.jpg
Reminds me of this rat rod I saw once. The guy had a bucket of that chunky sidewalk chalk and would let kids draw on the car at car shows.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190721/2d1cdf4a6b8cabd56578f61ae44c2284.jpg
Owner should pimp it out with rustoleum chalk spray!
OtterbatHellcat
07-20-2019, 19:13
'Merica.
OtterbatHellcat
07-20-2019, 19:15
Brutal, I think the slush box in the ambulance is nearing it's demise as well. If it needs rebuilt, might as well go brick shithouse with it.
Brutal, I think the slush box in the ambulance is nearing it's demise as well. If it needs rebuilt, might as well go brick shithouse with it.
I'm not going whole hog. Just using a reliable builder with better than stock parts and a 100K mile guarantee. Fairly local, comes recommended and isn't ATS.
I'd like to drop a Goerend triple disc TC in it and maybe a few other hardened parts, but all the authorized Goerend guys are too far away. I'll find out soon what parts the builder uses, and perhaps if he's open to my ideas.
RonMexico
07-20-2019, 22:57
Cursed myself. Installed the oil tube. Now it wont idle again. I think either some crud from the tank got in the carb, or the gas loosend some of the left over crud and plugged another passage. Anyway, will get this figured out.
Anyone got tips for carb cleaners? Need to get the nasty dried on, sand looking stuff to disolve.
Sea foam? Clean the fuel system and the engine, two birds with one stone.
Sea foam? Clean the fuel system and the engine, two birds with one stone.
I wish. After a few frustrating hours I am quasi sure it is the ignition. I ran it down my driveway and still no start even with a healthy fuel smell out the tail pipe.
I pulled the spark wire and no spark. Then some spark, so back in and still no go. Then intermittent spark.
Finally found the right schematic, but no service manual. Ignition is cdi so no points. It also has a safety control module.
Coil measured at 2ohms and 20k ohms, not sure if that is ok. Found a generic replacement for $8 on ebay, may just throw that in just in case there is a break in the spark wire.
The cdi, not sure how to test, but a used one is $80, so might be time to scrap the bike.
Last shot is the control module. It takes in the kickstand, neutral and oil level and can kill the spark. But I have started it numerous times with kick stand on, the oil is full. Can pull tank again and disconnect the module ignition kill wire to make sure.
If it starts for wven a few seconds I will reclean the carb, just in case.
Most frustrating is that the ignition just quit out of the blue.
I recently purchased a ignition coil for bank5.
It probably needs to be done fairly soon.
I'm hoping to get my van past 250,000 miles before I get something else. Shouldn't take too long since I'm at 218,000 now. Van is only 8 years old though.
I am looking for a work van priced around 1000-1800. Lots of 2000-2007 options on FB marketplace. Thinking about Odyssey Sienna or anything low maintenance.
Van is at 230,000 now. You can get one with under 100,000 miles for $7,500-$10,000 depending on the trim. Those are Dodge Caravan prices. I was finding Honda Odysseys in the same condition and year as the one I bought (for $8,000 with 140k) for $15+. Watch out for that weak tranny on the Odyssey (pretty much ALL Honda autos) that another member is dealing with.
Van is at 230,000 now. You can get one with under 100,000 miles for $7,500-$10,000 depending on the trim. Those are Dodge Caravan prices. I was finding Honda Odysseys in the same condition and year as the one I bought (for $8,000 with 140k) for $15+. Watch out for that weak tranny on the Odyssey (pretty much ALL Honda autos) that another member is dealing with.
Thanks for the advice on it. Looks like many of people posted transmission issues w/their Odyssey.
I prefer staying 2k or lower. I think I got the idea what I will be getting into with 2000 van. I've checked suv and trucks, and they are priced higher.
https://offerup.com/item/detail/715689936/?fbclid=IwAR1VOdDQJyPhjMDJZ0U8WlHxBfBrwgiRer13sA_R-yaMBaK68JeM_OYv5OM&_branch_match_id=676083232927764591
This one looks clean, but it seems to have transmission issue. Look at the Zerex Asian transmission fluid bottleback of the vehicle. After seeing that, I went to Facebook, and she posted on public post that her car slips.
How is offerup? I've never used anything besides Craig'slist. Any other sale sites I should be looking at?
Genius move going onto Facebook to double check though!
At the price range of 1000 to 1500, I am sure there are vehicle that has some problems.
My sister bought 2000 or 2001 (forgot what year) honda accord with under 100k for $600-700 3yrs ago, because her boss thought transmission was going out. After doing 3 transmission services (drain the pan and fill as recommended by honda) with OEM honda fluid, it was running fine. Best case would be they put aftermarket fluid on Honda transmission.
https://i.imgur.com/dJYKUIB.jpg
ETA on offerup:
I haven't sold anything there, but people are selling vehicles there more. Craigslist start charging $5/mo on vehicle ad, and FB and Offerup doesn't.
I am sure it is land of flakes and "Is this available?"
I
https://offerup.com/item/detail/715689936/?fbclid=IwAR1VOdDQJyPhjMDJZ0U8WlHxBfBrwgiRer13sA_R-yaMBaK68JeM_OYv5OM&_branch_match_id=676083232927764591
This one looks clean, but it seems to have transmission issue. Look at the Zerex Asian transmission fluid bottleback of the vehicle. After seeing that, I went to Facebook, and she posted on public post that her car slips.
That looks like a bottle of Zerex Asian Vehicle Formula 50/50 pre-mix coolant. That could be a reflection of far greater issues.
Just checked and it is the 50 50 anti freeze.
1000 is very tempting but it may require lots of labor and parts. Yikes.
Misfiring + coolant loss...maybe a head gasket issue? [panic]
How delicate are wheel bearings now a days?
The driver front wheel bearing on my van is getting noisy. I've been noticing it for a few days (July 8th) and just diagnosed on Saturday. I've got the part ordered and it was supposed to be here today, but it doesn't look like it's going to make it tonight. This is not the bad wheel bearing sound that I'm used to where if you load the bearing by making a turn it gets louder. It is consistent through out and only changes based on speed.
Based on my experience having bad wheel bearings in the past, they can go awhile before total failure. This seems to be increasing in noise since I've noticed. I've got to drive about 500 miles tomorrow and I'm concerned that I'm going to strand myself in the middle of nowhere. Should I try and take a different vehicle?
I suppose I could see if a local shop has one, buy it, take it with me in case I need to do a road side repair, and return when I get back. To answer the obvious question, I'm not sure if I'll need my big ladder tomorrow or not, and the big ladder won't fit on my other vehicle.
As a side note, fuck you Amazon and Colorado, because Rock Auto will no longer ship to my address.
On an unrelated topic, I try to use synthetic oil in my van and shoot for 5,000 mile oil changes. I realized I've never actually checked to see if the engine is leaking or burning oil between changes. This time around I was getting late on my oil change and was getting a bit nervous. Turns out I shouldn't have been because not only was the oil level just right, but I don't think I've EVER seen oil this clean at an oil change, and this was at 6,400 miles. Van has 230,000+ miles on it. Well done Dodge.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0cSEp-CDGlVXemTLBKxmNjmXn0R4FwEdYmd3EiL8Q-9jjlXZG2WrQ3iB-RAdWfqzAnAT97dfcbHsUDHtkCJAZqe69sUNQHeFiqKQZgUaxAa DvJekd10sdeG5k-2rMaUREz8iZb1VujFzgM3AehQsfQ-J4GGSn3BCP1Pln5XnmMp6Gg79Gz5pZ3Fn8---LDdA8hCQ3BfLUwLa4UECqp8HzvNelAvSr0KNF4x4t6k4RHKWSg fSV2-fb8rgnL-jmqkww0jgxsKKstAOCJd0UntLhb9OycsBTIreNJi01ExTPFUhL ukX7uwX4joVYYG_BoTRnkkc4SDuQFXg7qsVwPXyuvmGfI37h6x rZLSdfe26xyjZZuUDb9_102_GUNQxiyTBEnak89qgdm6VcNqYP FNSoE5QDc42yawG4_Wm8S68QALJi6U-wRmyyDIPN5llhbHd1qLvMX-dOvT0qyWJcK0w_IwkP9z40CUflV_0IhBQu8ZjUqdI0p7tvSPhV MAGeYU_QK8toAn7ce7aSK6ZzDQpvidxntvBGsLKXWTtYiUnT6P i6UGD4cwLPl63TKv4IQR93geP0JEUIN4inb-85NmEGPVYW4Dhc4cSJNWbkiFariK3Gbb-Hm-IW1kRhZAxSvMmQrL7Qm2WMriaYffNLarHx0yV1b75a7GTOuol0 wewP6DeJqJuFXFIsH3RwYT2x_BP7KLMFMOQprKpNaTSJnC6BZ0 0lw=w1112-h625-no
I run my company trucks 10-15K between oil changes. Never had any problems. Oil is a lot more scientific than it was back in the day.
Do you do 8 hour drives on loud wheel bearings though?
Seeing that picture again (even though I just took it this weekend) makes me think I should try a 10,000 oil change and see how it goes. Paying $40 for an oil change sits a lot better if it's 10,000 miles. Hell, that's only like once a year on my wife's car. Too bad my Amigo eats oil or it'd be a once every 2-3 years on that car.
Do you do 8 hour drives on loud wheel bearings though?
No way. That?s just crazy.
Well, hopefully you'll be near Holly, CO tomorrow, cause I've got your number.
Do you do 8 hour drives on loud wheel bearings though?
Seeing that picture again (even though I just took it this weekend) makes me think I should try a 10,000 oil change and see how it goes. Paying $40 for an oil change sits a lot better if it's 10,000 miles. Hell, that's only like once a year on my wife's car. Too bad my Amigo eats oil or it'd be a once every 2-3 years on that car.
Miles or time. And time to me means every six months. I put on maybe 5-6K at most on my truck and it gets changed twice a year. Going into towing season, and before winter. The oil will accumulate water and if it's not driven enough to cook it off, it will continue to contaminate the oil.
That's what I do with the Amigo. I'll change the oil every 14 months or so, and it's always at like 2,000 miles.
Guess I won?t be driving this car this week. New tires on the way .
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190729/abfe2a7dfe0736a70e7ac84ab5f3cf42.jpg
Guess I won?t be driving this car this week. New tires on the way .
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190729/abfe2a7dfe0736a70e7ac84ab5f3cf42.jpg
I'd be getting an alignment as well.
I'd be getting an alignment as well.
Tough to tell from the angle of the photo but I don't see any obvious cupping or uneven wear that would indicate that an alignment adjustment is in order. I do see an uneven surface wear which leads me to believe that the tire pressure wasn't optimal for large portions of the tire's life. I'd Google the "chalk test" to find the proper pressure and then check frequently to maintain that as we get a lot of fluctuations here in Colorado due to large temperature swings. I do see how the inner portion may have wore slightly less than the outer portion of the tread that is until you get to the shoulder which appears to have wore very similar side to side. The angle of the single photo isn't the best indicator though and I'm not a tire or alignment expert so take everything I said with a grain of salt. An alignment wouldn't be the worst thing probably if it's within the budget.
Aloha_Shooter
07-29-2019, 10:06
On an unrelated topic, I try to use synthetic oil in my van and shoot for 5,000 mile oil changes. I realized I've never actually checked to see if the engine is leaking or burning oil between changes. This time around I was getting late on my oil change and was getting a bit nervous. Turns out I shouldn't have been because not only was the oil level just right, but I don't think I've EVER seen oil this clean at an oil change, and this was at 6,400 miles.
FWIW, Porsche recommends annual oil changes using Mobile One synthetic. That's assuming 12,000-15,000 miles per year; I do around 10,000. Those who are especially antsy about it (like those who track their cars regularly) may change their oil twice a year or every 5000 miles. Oils in general but especially synthetics are miles and miles away from what we grew up on when we changed the oil every 2500-3500 miles. The local Porsche dealership charges me just over $200 for an oil change; I could do it myself for $50 or so but I'd have to clear up space in the garage, run the used oil someplace for recycling, and take time out of my weekend to do it. In addition, the dealership gives me a loaner (usually a recent model Macan or Cayenne) and does a lot to support the local club so I'm okay with spending the money there once a year.
Tough to tell from the angle of the photo but I don't see any obvious cupping or uneven wear that would indicate that an alignment adjustment is in order. I do see an uneven surface wear which leads me to believe that the tire pressure wasn't optimal for large portions of the tire's life. I'd Google the "chalk test" to find the proper pressure and then check frequently to maintain that as we get a lot of fluctuations here in Colorado due to large temperature swings. I do see how the inner portion may have wore slightly less than the outer portion of the tread that is until you get to the shoulder which appears to have wore very similar side to side. The angle of the single photo isn't the best indicator though and I'm not a tire or alignment expert so take everything I said with a grain of salt. An alignment wouldn't be the worst thing probably if it's within the budget.
Yea, I suppose it depends upon the car and driving style. If those are front, there's some aggressive cornering going on there. ;-)
Those are rears on an awd car and it was aligned about 1500 miles ago. The Pzeros just dont last Ive got 10000 miles on this set. Thats about the best wear I can get on them . They are picky and I wont be buying that kind again.
FWIW, Porsche recommends annual oil changes using Mobile One synthetic. That's assuming 12,000-15,000 miles per year; I do around 10,000. Those who are especially antsy about it (like those who track their cars regularly) may change their oil twice a year or every 5000 miles. Oils in general but especially synthetics are miles and miles away from what we grew up on when we changed the oil every 2500-3500 miles. The local Porsche dealership charges me just over $200 for an oil change; I could do it myself for $50 or so but I'd have to clear up space in the garage, run the used oil someplace for recycling, and take time out of my weekend to do it. In addition, the dealership gives me a loaner (usually a recent model Macan or Cayenne) and does a lot to support the local club so I'm okay with spending the money there once a year.
I've also heard of I think Mercedes calling for 10-15k between changes, but have never owned one so can't verify. I'm looking forward to less frequent oil changes. When I first started driving a lot and doing 3k changes, I was changing the oil once a month.
Those are rears on an awd car and it was aligned about 1500 miles ago. The Pzeros just dont last Ive got 10000 miles on this set. Thats about the best wear I can get on them . They are picky and I wont be buying that kind again.
I had P-Zeros summers on my A6 for about 2 seasons. They tramline like sh*t and I got less than about 10K out of them.
Ran Dunlop Derezza's for 5 seasons before I wore them out and they stick like glue. Harsh ride after some miles. Moving to Pilot Sport 4S for my new (larger) wheels. My son is a Master Audi Tech and swears by them.
BushMasterBoy
07-29-2019, 12:17
78504I bought some Hankook tires for my daily driver from Wally World online for $75 . They were highly recommended on some forums. I was sceptical at first, but 10k miles later they seen to be holding their own. Lot of hiway driving on US 50 along the Arkansas river.
I had P-Zeros summers on my A6 for about 2 seasons. They tramline like sh*t and I got less than about 10K out of them.
Ran Dunlop Derezza's for 5 seasons before I wore them out and they stick like glue. Harsh ride after some miles. Moving to Pilot Sport 4S for my new (larger) wheels. My son is a Master Audi Tech and swears by them.
@brutal. Can your son recomend a non dealer shop to program some keys for the A4 B8? My sons car came with one fob, and the $400 dealer cost is a bit shocking.
@brutal. Can your son recomend a non dealer shop to program some keys for the A4 B8? My sons car came with one fob, and the $400 dealer cost is a bit shocking.
Um, son is in TX but I have a local Audi tech/shop here in Parker, friend of my son's that he played football and wrenched on VW's with in HS. As I understand it, there's two apps required to do them. VagCom and VagTacho. Not sure if he does the keys but one would expect so.
Call Hardey. https://hardeysmotorwerks.com/ (303) 840-7664
Tell him Russ sent you. If he doesn't do them or isn't convenient, he may also recommend someone up north for you.
Um, son is in TX but I have a local Audi tech/shop here in Parker, friend of my son's that he played football and wrenched on VW's with in HS. As I understand it, there's two apps required to do them. VagCom and VagTacho. Not sure if he does the keys but one would expect so.
Call Hardey. https://hardeysmotorwerks.com/ (303) 840-7664
Tell him Russ sent you. If he doesn't do them or isn't convenient, he may also recommend someone up north for you.
Thank you.
I've also heard of I think Mercedes calling for 10-15k between changes, but have never owned one so can't verify.
True. I had annual servicing on my 2016 GL 450.
Oil changes on the volvo call for 10k intervals. The oil is dirty as hell and that worries me, but apparently that is the additives doing their stuff. Some other owners have taken and done oil analysis on their oil and confirm that the oil is still actively protecting the engine.
On the kids audi, anectodal evidence suggests 5k oil changes help to delay timing chain stretch. Audi calls for 10k oil changes. Not sure how or why that would help as it makes no sense.
One recommendation for everyone here: check specific rating your oil needs to be and find the right oil. For instance the volvo called out a specific grade that only the professional labeled oil was certified to. But that is unobtanium. So it turned out penzoil platinum has the required certs and it was available at wallmart.
On the kids audi, anectodal evidence suggests 5k oil changes help to delay timing chain stretch. Audi calls for 10k oil changes. Not sure how or why that would help as it makes no sense.
One recommendation for everyone here: check specific rating your oil needs to be and find the right oil. For instance the volvo called out a specific grade that only the professional labeled oil was certified to. But that is unobtanium. So it turned out penzoil platinum has the required certs and it was available at wallmart.
There are arguments that the manufacturers only care about getting owners past the warranty period, but I doubt they want the reputation of having engines puke as soon as they get out of warranty.
The detergent levels in the synthetics is very high and they are molecularly more stable and less prone to breakdown.
I have a similar issue with the Hemi in my truck. Ram calls for a specific certification for the oil, and Mobil 1 doesn't have it. I use Pennzoil Platinum that does.
ChickNorris
07-29-2019, 17:04
My gen 2 ram specifies NOT to use the premium gasoline in the owner's manual.
Nuthin fancy required.
Yay, just discovered that the transmission shop removed two crossmember style structural supports by cutting the bolts when they redid the seals for the transfer case on my FJ Cruiser.. and they didn?t reinstall them afterwards.. the best part about this discovery, is my knowledge that you don?t have to remove those supports to drop or reinstall the transfer case because I?ve done it myself.. seems that I?ll have a trip to town tomorrow to fix this and collect a bit of a refund.
ChickNorris
07-29-2019, 17:06
Yay, just discovered that the transmission shop removed two crossmember style structural supports by cutting the bolts.. and they didn’t reinstall them either.. the best part about this discovery, is my knowledge that you don’t have to remove those supports to drop or reinstall the transfer case because I’ve done it myself.. seems that I’ll have a trip to town tomorrow to fix this and collect a bit of a refund.
Get some.
Yay, just discovered that the transmission shop removed two crossmember style structural supports by cutting the bolts when they redid the seals for the transfer case on my FJ Cruiser.. and they didn?t reinstall them afterwards.. the best part about this discovery, is my knowledge that you don?t have to remove those supports to drop or reinstall the transfer case because I?ve done it myself.. seems that I?ll have a trip to town tomorrow to fix this and collect a bit of a refund.
Get some.
Yes. You should even crack your knuckles and neck, then take a deep, calming breath before you start talking. Just to set the mood.
Yes. You should even crack your knuckles and neck, then take a deep, calming breath before you start talking. Just to set the mood.
I also find it useful with mechanics, to place your keys and phone on the counter when you start speaking to them, and at the end of the conversation, you can ask them if they know that Colorado is a single party consent law and if they have any thoughts on the fact that the entire conversation was just recorded on your phone.
You run into trouble with that method if there is a single other person in the room. Could always tell them up front. That usually shuts people down though and that may not be the response you want.
It was my understanding under the law in Colorado that audio recording of any conversation taking place wholly within the state can be legally recorded so long as one person consents.
I can't argue that point, and likely that'd be okay, but if a couple walks in having another conversation, then you've just violated law and the whole thing can't be used in court, I think.
Regardless, I understand it's mostly a tool to set an expectation of difficulty dealing with you to help you get what you want. Hopefully we're having this discussion in vein and you get that you need.
I can't argue that point, and likely that'd be okay, but if a couple walks in having another conversation, then you've just violated law and the whole thing can't be used in court, I think.
Regardless, I understand it's mostly a tool to set an expectation of difficulty dealing with you to help you get what you want. Hopefully we're having this discussion in vein and you get that you need.
Ah, I see your point now, thank you.
My gen 2 ram specifies NOT to use the premium gasoline in the owner's manual.
Nuthin fancy required.
2019 1500 5.7l Hemi owners manual recommends 89 octane or "Plus" aka Mid-grade. Premium not required, but Regular can reduce performance/mpg due to retarded ignition timing.
...but we weren't talking about gas. [Driveby2]
ChickNorris
07-29-2019, 18:17
2019 1500 5.7l Hemi owners manual recommends 89 octane or "Plus" aka Mid-grade. Premium not required, but Regular can reduce performance/mpg due to retarded ignition timing.
...but we weren't talking about gas. [Driveby2]
No, not the same, but you were speaking about petroleum products, additives, rams, extended life & wear etc., in the 'general' vehicle thread.
So, pardon me.
No, not the same, but you were speaking about petroleum products, additives, rams, extended life & wear etc., in the 'general' vehicle thread.
So, pardon me.
You're funny. I still giggle remembering the tactical corset comment.[Coffee]
SideShow Bob
07-29-2019, 19:16
WTF Colorado !
$375 to tag & title a POS 12 year old commuter car. And no anal ease supplied by the DMV.
No damn wonder people have and maintain out of state plates...
WTF Colorado !
$375 to tag & title a POS 12 year old commuter car. And no anal ease supplied by the DMV.
No damn wonder people have and maintain out of state plates...
Remember, its for the children. How else are they going to pay off their college debts?[facepalm]
WTF Colorado !
$375 to tag & title a POS 12 year old commuter car. And no anal ease supplied by the DMV.
No damn wonder people have and maintain out of state plates...
I chuckled a bit this year. My truck and my wife's SUV were both cheaper to register than both of our motorcycles.
Aloha_Shooter
07-30-2019, 09:27
I've also heard of I think Mercedes calling for 10-15k between changes, but have never owned one so can't verify. I'm looking forward to less frequent oil changes. When I first started driving a lot and doing 3k changes, I was changing the oil once a month.
Oil changes on the volvo call for 10k intervals. The oil is dirty as hell and that worries me, but apparently that is the additives doing their stuff. Some other owners have taken and done oil analysis on their oil and confirm that the oil is still actively protecting the engine.
On the kids audi, anectodal evidence suggests 5k oil changes help to delay timing chain stretch. Audi calls for 10k oil changes. Not sure how or why that would help as it makes no sense.
One recommendation for everyone here: check specific rating your oil needs to be and find the right oil. For instance the volvo called out a specific grade that only the professional labeled oil was certified to. But that is unobtanium. So it turned out penzoil platinum has the required certs and it was available at wallmart.
There are arguments that the manufacturers only care about getting owners past the warranty period, but I doubt they want the reputation of having engines puke as soon as they get out of warranty.
The detergent levels in the synthetics is very high and they are molecularly more stable and less prone to breakdown.
I have a similar issue with the Hemi in my truck. Ram calls for a specific certification for the oil, and Mobil 1 doesn't have it. I use Pennzoil Platinum that does.
That theory may well have been the truth for domestic manufacturers 40 years ago but we had a lot of problems with the American auto industry in the 70s. I very much doubt that premium makers like Audi, Volvo, and Porsche want to just get past the warranty period. Porsche in particular seems to glory in the number of owners they have who are running their vehicles proudly past their warranty period. As stated above, lubricants in general (and motor oil in particular) has advanced incredibly. The engineers at the manufacturers recommend particular oils or certifications for very good reasons.
One thing my father taught me nearly 40 years ago still holds true: oil changes are probably the lowest cost, highest impact maintenance you can do for your car.
Moving to Pilot Sport 4S for my new (larger) wheels. My son is a Master Audi Tech and swears by them.
The Michelin PS4S are fantastic tires. Pricey but well worth it if you're driving the kind of vehicle that would use them.
Regarding plate and registration cost.
DAMN BILL RITTER!!!
Regarding plate and registration cost.
DAMN BILL RITTER!!!
Yep.
Plated a new truck back in Texas. It was about $45. Moved here and when I got my Colorado plates it was nearly $400.
Yep.
Plated a new truck back in Texas. It was about $45. Moved here and when I got my Colorado plates it was nearly $400.
The .gov still gets it's full pie regardless of how slices are cut up.
For instance, Nebraska has inexpensive vehicle registration. Their property tax however is roughly 3x higher than what we pay here in Colorado.
In the end, the handouts just keep being funded regardless of where they come from.
I've actually written Bill Ritter's Illegal Taxes in the memo line of checks for registration before.
At the mechanic currently to have them fix their work. Got told so far that they didn’t reinstall the crossmember supports because “the newer year models don’t come with them”... wtf... also was told that “the transfer case won’t efffect the feel of shifting gears on your manual awd FJ Cruiser”... wtf, I think this guy might’ve enjoyed eating lead more as a child than I’ve ever enjoyed shooting it.
Bob Beuprez for Governor 2006 AND 2014!
Just ordered a set of caliper rebuild kits. I have 1 rusty caliper on the new-ish truck (never had that before, previous owner must have sprayed something on it. Going to powder coat calipers and brackets to match body color. Should be a fun project.
I've been trying to get a hold of the correct size spring perches so I can do an axle flip on my trailer. The first time I ordered the wrong size, my bad. The second time I ordered the correct size, but the wrong size came. Guess I'll get to it around winter.
Since it?s a trailer and there isn?t a differential can?t you just literally flip the axle over and put the springs on top?
Since it?s a trailer and there isn?t a differential can?t you just literally flip the axle over and put the springs on top?
Small trailers usually have bowed axles. Not sure...
Since it?s a trailer and there isn?t a differential can?t you just literally flip the axle over and put the springs on top?
Small trailers usually have bowed axles. Not sure...
It has a bowed axle. There aren't any brakes to worry about putting facing front or upside down. I suppose that I could cut the factory perches off and re-weld them, but that doesn't seem like a great idea, especially with me being a beginning "fabricator." Also, leaving the factory ones in place will help me properly locate and measure the new ones.
Now I?m curious to look at the axle on my trailer. I haven?t paid much attention but just assumed I had a straight, tube type axle under mine. Maybe I?ll check it out in the morning. My trailer sits really low and I have to use a pretty big drop hitch to keep it level. I could really stand to raise it up four to six inches.
When I got the trailer home and looked under it, I saw the bend in the axle and assumed he had hit something with it and bent it. I was pissed.
ChickNorris
08-01-2019, 20:54
When I got the trailer home and looked under it, I saw the bend in the axle and assumed he had hit something with it and bent it. I was pissed.
I remember that
When I got the trailer home and looked under it, I saw the bend in the axle and assumed he had hit something with it and bent it. I was pissed.
When it comes to trailer axles, A frown is good, a smile is bad.
My vehicular trials with mechanics seems to never end. It seems that when RSG in Lakewood installed my steering rack on my FJ Cruiser, they screwed up the alignment between the steering rack and steering wheel, to the point that there’s more than an inch of discrepancy in tie rod adjustments between the driver and passenger sides. Basically they installed the steering rack improperly and tried to hide it by overadjusting the tie rods to one side so that the otherwise severely offset steering wheel wouldn’t set off dash lights and error codes. This has caused traction control to randomly engage in turns at up to 45mph, pulling me towards oncoming traffic and almost causing me to shit my pants a few times. And the best part of it all, is that now the owner of the shop is refusing to honor his warranty or do anything to fix his shops screw up. It’s going to be a fun day tomorrow.
My vehicular trials with mechanics seems to never end. It seems that when RSG in Lakewood installed my steering rack on my FJ Cruiser, they screwed up the alignment between the steering rack and steering wheel, to the point that there?s more than an inch of discrepancy in tie rod adjustments between the driver and passenger sides. Basically they installed the steering rack improperly and tried to hide it by overadjusting the tie rods to one side so that the otherwise severely offset steering wheel wouldn?t set off dash lights and error codes. This has caused traction control to randomly engage in turns at up to 45mph, pulling me towards oncoming traffic and almost causing me to shit my pants a few times. And the best part of it all, is that now the owner of the shop is refusing to honor his warranty or do anything to fix his shops screw up. It?s going to be a fun day tomorrow.
How in flipping hell is that possible? It's mounted with two bolts and there are no other holes there?
How in flipping hell is that possible? It's mounted with two bolts and there are no other holes there?
It’s the relation of the steering rack and steering wheel as well as tires and wheels, and their alignment to each other. Proper install should have the tires / wheels lined up with the steering rack, which should also be lined up with the steering wheel. I haven’t had coffee yet though so maybe this still doesn’t make sense
Great-Kazoo
08-02-2019, 10:01
Now I?m curious to look at the axle on my trailer. I haven?t paid much attention but just assumed I had a straight, tube type axle under mine. Maybe I?ll check it out in the morning. My trailer sits really low and I have to use a pretty big drop hitch to keep it level. I could really stand to raise it up four to six inches.
Weld new spring mounts on top of the axle then either add another leaf or buy a new set of springs.
It?s the relation of the steering rack and steering wheel as well as tires and wheels, and their alignment to each other. Proper install should have the tires / wheels lined up with the steering rack, which should also be lined up with the steering wheel. I haven?t had coffee yet though so maybe this still doesn?t make sense
Got it, they didn't center the rack when they installed it. Sounds like incompetent or lazy place.
Weld new spring mounts on top of the axle then either add another leaf or buy a new set of springs.
Easy there. I only have $400 tied up into this thing. Not sure if it?s worth all that.
Started saving for a 2023 vette... intend to pay cash. Just need to find the other $1,500 per month to save.
Why tie up liquid funds into a depreciating asset? Invest some or most to make money and finance at a low rate by just using 20% down (lots of people know more about this than me so it's not advice just a suggestion to research)...I know some people still prefer to pay cash for cars. If that's your jam then save on my friend!
Not feeling the c8 personally. I find people either love it or hate it. I havnt seen many comments in between. What about it do you like?
Why tie up liquid funds into a depreciating asset? Invest some or most to make money and finance at a low rate by just using 20% down (lots of people know more about this than me so it's not advice just a suggestion to research)...I know some people still prefer to pay cash for cars. If that's your jam then save on my friend!
Not feeling the c8 personally. I find people either love it or hate it. I havnt seen many comments in between. What about it do you like?
This is not a finance thread but suggesting that financing ANYTHING (let alone a depreciating liability) so you can take a risk with your "liquid" assets is not something someone with any sort of financial independence would recommend. Take the sure thing by paying cash and THEN investing your "liquid" cash each month. This is a FAR better play won't leave you standing in the rain when the economy shits the proverbial bed.
Back on topic, the C8 is a MUCH needed rejuvenation. The platform will be great for when they start throwing some real power plants behind it. The whole engine in the front and ancient motors thing is [beatdeadhorse]
I sure as hell wouldn't be chomping at the bit to buy the first model year of the C8. I'm sure they'll learn a few things once they're being driven on a larger scale. 2023 sounds about right.
My mistake.
The c8 just still looks awkward to me. No doubt it performs but its just meh
Other than safety issues, does anyone have any preference over using propane or starting fluid to check for vacuum line leaks?
BPTactical
08-31-2019, 10:14
Other than safety issues, does anyone have any preference over using propane or starting fluid to check for vacuum line leaks?
I always used starting fluid, you have better directional control with it for checking a specific area.
SideShow Bob
08-31-2019, 10:19
I always used starting fluid, you have better directional control with it for checking a specific area.
Admit it, you just like huffing the ether....
I always used starting fluid, you have better directional control with it for checking a specific area.
Thanks, that’s a good point
DenverGP
08-31-2019, 10:40
Had fun on a recent repair of my wife's Chevy Equinox.
The radio "infotainment" unit stopped working. No display on the screen, no signs of life from the radio. It has a silver "box" deep in the dash that is the radio and computer that runs the LCD screen, etc. Dealer wanted $200 to diagnose, and if it was the radio that was bad, would be about $1200 total repair cost.
Instead I got the exact same radio from a salvage yard on ebay for $200. Was able to find one from the exact same mode/year/options vehicle, so compatibility should be no problem. Only problem was that the radio has the vin number stored in it, and if that vin number doesn't match the one stored in the other computers in the vehicle, it won't work.
Called the dealer, they said they'd need the vin of the donor vehicle, and the vin of the new, and they could reprogram it for $150. Brought it in, and after 3 hours, they gave up trying to program it, said it must not be compatible with my vehicle. Even tried to charge me the $150... after some "discussion", I got an invoice showing $0.00.
Did some more research, and learned that the VIN is stored in an EEPROM chip inside the radio. Disassembled the radio, located the chip, and connected up to a $10 EEPROM programmer device I got on ebay. Was able to read the data in the EEPROM, and found the old vin, edited the vin to match mine, and then wrote the data back to the chip.
Pics of the EEPROM programmer attached to the chip, and pic of the software I used to edit it. Old VIN is down on line 150, starts off G1PG5
https://i.imgur.com/YHPIJPg.jpg?1
https://i.imgur.com/rvhou4Z.jpg?1
Had fun on a recent repair of my wife's Chevy Equinox.
The radio "infotainment" unit stopped working. No display on the screen, no signs of life from the radio. It has a silver "box" deep in the dash that is the radio and computer that runs the LCD screen, etc. Dealer wanted $200 to diagnose, and if it was the radio that was bad, would be about $1200 total repair cost.
Instead I got the exact same radio from a salvage yard on ebay for $200. Was able to find one from the exact same mode/year/options vehicle, so compatibility should be no problem. Only problem was that the radio has the vin number stored in it, and if that vin number doesn't match the one stored in the other computers in the vehicle, it won't work.
Called the dealer, they said they'd need the vin of the donor vehicle, and the vin of the new, and they could reprogram it for $150. Brought it in, and after 3 hours, they gave up trying to program it, said it must not be compatible with my vehicle. Even tried to charge me the $150... after some "discussion", I got an invoice showing $0.00.
Did some more research, and learned that the VIN is stored in an EEPROM chip inside the radio. Disassembled the radio, located the chip, and connected up to a $10 EEPROM programmer device I got on ebay. Was able to read the data in the EEPROM, and found the old vin, edited the vin to match mine, and then wrote the data back to the chip.
Pics of the EEPROM programmer attached to the chip, and pic of the software I used to edit it. Old VIN is down on line 150, starts off G1PG5
https://i.imgur.com/YHPIJPg.jpg?1
https://i.imgur.com/rvhou4Z.jpg?1
Props to you sir!
Seriously, that's a deep dive to get the fix.
ChickNorris
08-31-2019, 10:59
Happy wife?
;-)
DenverGP
08-31-2019, 11:21
I will admit to being slightly surprised when it turned on normally after reinstalling it in the car.... Of course I didn't let on to the wife that I was surprised.
Now I want to drive it up to the dealer service department with the radio blaring and give the service manager a wave.
It's funny how most security features on cars are are easy to defeat.
Reprogramming the EEPROM doesn't fall under 'easy'. I think of easy as something like jumpering a port with a paper clip and turning the ignition to run to reset.
The primary function is theft deterrence. I think the second one is 'owners making changes on their own without paying the dealership' deterrent.
Good job on getting it figured out.
fitterjohn
08-31-2019, 13:05
When I worked in a shop I always used the bulk brake cleaner.
NO DIY (besides easy maintenance for 1) for a while. Both vehicles are now under factory warranty and one is in 2yr maintenance free. :D
Does anyone use E-85? I've been driving a flex-fuel vehicle for over 90,000 miles and never even tried it. I'm going to try a tank now.
ChickNorris
08-31-2019, 19:37
Does anyone use E-85? I've been driving a flex-fuel vehicle for over 90,000 miles and never even tried it. I'm going to try a tank now.
I made that choice not too long ago. I was disappointed.
My Tahoe was Flex Fuel. When Gas was going for $4/gal, I tried it. Torque was pretty impressive. MPG, not so much. Ethanol contains less energy per volume than gasoline. It has to be significantly cheaper than gas to make it worth it.
There's an attraction for folks that take their cars to the track or drag race.
fitterjohn
08-31-2019, 20:18
Does anyone use E-85? I've been driving a flex-fuel vehicle for over 90,000 miles and never even tried it. I'm going to try a tank now.
I new a few wrx's running it. Also new a guy back in the 2007 range that was running it in his 69 mustang, pretty awesome, but not your standard factory stuff. I was going to run it back when I had plans of building a 395 small block chevy.
DenverGP
08-31-2019, 20:25
My son runs it in his grand prix, but it's only real value is performance in a car that is custom tuned for E85. Stock flex fuel vehicles won't see much if any improved performance, only lower MPG.
In my son's modded supercharged car, the E85 tune lets him run a bunch more ignition timing, and the high alcohol content helps keep the intake charge cooler, preventing pre-ignition / detonation. It acts like a much higher octane fuel.
It's usually at least a 25% MPG decrease, and it's not 25% cheaper anywhere I've seen.
I know at least one guy who had fuel problems after his first tank of E85, because the E85 cleaned the tank really well, but all the crud it cleaned out of the tank clogged up the fuel filter.
Yeah, unless its 25%ish cheaper, not worth it. UNLESS you are tuned for performance with it.
I've definitely heard all that stuff before. I guess just wondering if anyone did it in a regular vehicle. Come to think of it, I don't think I've even ever seen anyone else pumping it. I track my mileage tank to tank so I'm interested to see how much worse it is. Thanks everyone.
ChickNorris
08-31-2019, 21:52
I've definitely heard all that stuff before. I guess just wondering if anyone did it in a regular vehicle. Come to think of it, I don't think I've even ever seen anyone else pumping it. I track my mileage tank to tank so I'm interested to see how much worse it is. Thanks everyone.
Simply put, Plan to need fuel sooner.
BushMasterBoy
08-31-2019, 22:05
I use a 1/4 tank of E85 to bump up the octane and clean the fuel system. The user manual calls for 87 octane and I use 85 octane regularly. I also use Techroline fuel injection cleaner every other tank. Engine is modded with a aluminum intake manifold. Old intake was plastic. The injectors were spotless when I installed the manifold. Engine is a Ford 4.6L V8.
I do lose some MPG, but I seem to gain some performance.
The computer seems to handle the air/fuel ratio very well and all the O2 sensors this were replaced this year.
'03 and later versions are all E85 Flex Fuel vehicles from the factory. 2012 was the last year of MGM's and Crown Vic's.
I have never tried more than a quarter tank of E85. I have never gotten a CEL from this and a live reading of the 02 sensors is nominal. Car has 66K miles.
Wife used to run e85 in her flex fuel dodge ram....never noticed a difference in how it ran, or towed stuff. Now the place she used to get if from quit carrying it....
I wondered about towing, but figured that towing gets bad enough gas mileage. Might not matter if it's the difference in going the speed limit over a pass or not. Not that I'm towing anything heavy with the vehicles I drive, especially with my van.
Techron is good stuff. I'll run it in a tankful about every 3-5K. Look for it at Sam's or Costco in a 6-pack. I do not run E85 in a fuel system not built for it. YMMV.
Best thing to keep your fuel system clean is Top Tier (https://toptiergas.com/licensed-brands/) gas. Costco is Top Tier, Sam's is just cheap.
~20/20.
If cheaper than 20% , e85ethanol will be considered.
So I usually average between 17-21 mph depending on how much I drive on the highway compared to City driving. The E-85 tank was almost all a highway road trip and I got 15mpg. Pretty poor mileage comparatively.
So I usually average between 17-21 mph depending on how much I drive on the highway compared to City driving. The E-85 tank was almost all a highway road trip and I got 15mpg. Pretty poor mileage comparatively.
17-21 mph? You must be stuck in a lot of bad traffic.
I drive more aggressively than I should for sure, and when I do get open highway, I'm going fast. Times when I'm stuck behind a semi, or even trying to keep to the speed limit for some other reason, the mpg in the van goes closer to 24mpg.
ChickNorris
09-09-2019, 12:22
Seems 106 is my Ford's limit. I expect that's not very fuel efficient.
Separately, one of the times I went to pueblo I used e85 & for what should have been sufficient for a round trip from Denver, turned out to be an extra stop on Fillmore in COS to refuel & it was not with e85.
Hence my previous comments.
That's about the same for my van with the ladder on top.
I also took a trip to basically Pueblo on E-85 with the same experience. Normal gas would have gotten me back home no problem.
DenverGP
09-09-2019, 14:11
Yeah, I mainly use E85 for short 1/4 mile trips (up a bandi)
I wouldn't really care about the cost per mile of using E85, but it does suck if I have to drive longer distances... shorter range, plus less availability of e85 fuel, and mine doesn't automatically switch from e85 to regular gas, would need to re-tune, etc. So it's very impractical for anything but fun.
If your vehicle has the aerodynamic profile of a small building, higher speeds will kill mpg. Doing the same while having a drive train optimized for towing will further kill mpg.
Flex Fuel is an interesting idea, but I've never found it compelling compared to gasoline. I'd prefer that corn go to reducing the cost of my Doritos. Putting food into our gas tanks doesn't make any sense to me. If the alcohol is produced from a non-food material, that makes sense to me. Now that we're a net exporter of fossil-fuels, Flex Fuel makes even less sense.
Flex fuel was probably a lot more popular back when gas was about $4/gallon and it was still only $2.50.
Damn 60 Minutes on CBS!
[LOL]
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-ethanol-solution/
The Ethanol Solution
MAY 4, 2006 / 3:33 PM / CBS
Gas prices are passing $3 a gallon and climbing, oil companies are making record profits and there is serious concern about this country's dependence on foreign oil. Those things have sparked a lot of talk about using something else, instead of oil, to fuel our cars.
As correspondent Dan Rather reports, Brazil faced similar problems and already has solved most of them. Instead of gasoline, many Brazilians are using ethanol - which can be made from plants into a kind of alcohol - to power their cars. It's cheaper and cleaner. As a result, Brazil has virtually stopped importing expensive foreign oil......
SideShow Bob
09-09-2019, 18:38
Yes, but until recently the Brazilian gubmunt not only subsidized ethanol blended fuel prices, but also ( and still does ) mandate that all fuel be at least 21% ethanol.
whitewalrus
09-09-2019, 19:07
Flex fuel was probably a lot more popular back when gas was about $4/gallon and it was still only $2.50.
During that time I only burned E85
Yes, but until recently the Brazilian gubmunt not only subsidized ethanol blended fuel prices, but also ( and still does ) mandate that all fuel be at least 21% ethanol.
I believe US ethanol is highly subsidized and costs more to produce than it's wholesale price. The gubmint is basically paying corn growers not to sell their product for food or animal consumption.
DenverGP
09-10-2019, 00:31
Flex Fuel is an interesting idea, but I've never found it compelling compared to gasoline. I'd prefer that corn go to reducing the cost of my Doritos. Putting food into our gas tanks doesn't make any sense to me. If the alcohol is produced from a non-food material, that makes sense to me. Now that we're a net exporter of fossil-fuels, Flex Fuel makes even less sense.
Part of the logic for government supporting corn based ethanol is to build out the infrastructure for using, shipping and selling ethanol, which will make it easier to justify the expense of researching alternate ways of making it in the future.
I like it. I will make it pros and cons to make it easier.
PRO
1. gas mileage is so much better than my previous vehicles. I don't need to spend $ on 91 octane anymore, and don't need to spend $150 on DIY oil changes. (Yes, price of oil and filter costs $150).
2. Obviously the cargo space. I am saving travel time, and gas $ by having less trip to haul stuff. Definitely a good move.
3. My kid loves this truck.
CON
1. Transmission- slow, and seems like ecu are slower I know it isn't those dual-clutch, but seems like about 15 years outdated relative to some German vehicles
2. Navigation system- Not user friendly. Difficult to use. Not intuitive.
3. Interior polymer- Feels like cheaper than Elantra/Accent Civic/Fit corolla/scion relative to the price of the vehicle.
Overall, very happy with the lease.
Zundfolge
10-02-2019, 14:21
Flex fuel was probably a lot more popular back when gas was about $4/gallon and it was still only $2.50.
Now E85 is really only good for supercharged or turbo-charged high performance cars (ones set up for it of course).
I thought this was interesting. I'm familiar with the concept since I've had my automatic wipers engage when a bug impacts where the windshield sensor is located.
Bugs: A Self-Driving Car’s Worst Nightmare (https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/car-tech/bugs-a-self-driving-cars-worst-nightmare/ar-AAI77Hi)
Among all the obstacles facing self driving cars—from inclement weather to shaky public acceptance—there’s another few of us anticipated: Bugs.
Anyone who’s ever driven a stretch of road on a summer’s day (or night) has seen an insect come into view and…splat. The mess on the windshield is a minor annoyance, but when a bug obscures the LIDAR sensor on an autonomous vehicle, it’s a much more serious situation.
Ford recognized the problem in 2017 and joined with Pittsburgh-based artificial intelligence developer, Argo AI, to come up with a solution for insects that impact and obscure AV sensors including LIDAR.
Lidar (light detection and ranging) measures distance by illuminating a target with laser light and measuring the reflected light with a sensor. Similar to radar, differences in laser return times and wavelengths discern the range, shape, and speed of static and moving objects.
But the sensors measuring reflected laser light can be obscured by bugs splattered across their lenses, leading to critical loss of information and crashes.
“We realized we needed to come up with a [LIDAR] cleaning, cooling, and control system,” says Mark Bosca, Ford’s Chief Engineer. <SNIP>
I've also had issues where the safety systems go offline due to icing.
The title of that assumes that all self-driving vehicles use LIDAR. Elon is on record and very adamant that LIDAR is the wrong technology to use for self-driving cars for a myriad of reasons, not the least of which is bugs. Tesla doesn't use it and gets clowned by all other manufacturers because he says that AI with self-learning will far surpass anything that LIDAR can do for us. Another obvious reason is that LIDAR can tell you there's a construction sign but can't tell you what's on it and therefore doesn't know how to act upon what it says. On the other hand, cameras in conjunction with AI can read what's on it & react accordingly.
Optical cameras are also not immune to bugs.
Optical cameras are also not immune to bugs.
which is exactly why you don't realize on a single camera or a single anything for that matter. I can't speak for other manufacturers but Tesla uses dozens of cameras and sensors to do what it does.
All hail, mighty Tesla. [blah-blah]
All hail, mighty Tesla. [blah-blah]
All Hail, mighty Jordan Mugen-Honda > McLaren> Tesla (See photos below)
McLaren fanboy.
https://i.imgur.com/jaGxNvN.jpg
Bruce McLaren (founder of Mclaren)
https://media-cdn.mclaren.com/media/images/galleries/grid/Bruce-McLaren-Gallery-001_oXNf1e7.jpg
Ron Dennis owner of McLaren (back then) bows down to Eddie Jordan (owner of Jordan Mugen-Honda)
https://youtu.be/rVYHQkDsTWo
All hail, mighty Tesla. [blah-blah]
Seems to be your response whenever Tesla does something better.
Wasn't even talking about Tesla...but then along you came.
Truly autonomous vehicles are about 2 decades away.
Wasn't even talking about Tesla...but then along you came.
Truly autonomous vehicles are about 2 decades away.
"All hail mighty Tesla" isn't talking about Tesla? Weird. Kinda seemed like it to me.
"All hail mighty Tesla" isn't talking about Tesla? Weird. Kinda seemed like it to me.
Apparently you have problems with sequencing posts. That was in response to your references promoting Tesla for an article that wasn't about Tesla.
We get it. You can't help yourself.
fright88
10-02-2019, 22:10
Bah it would appear something has gone wrong with my power steering rack on the F150. Got in to make a run to the store today after driving back from Denver yesterday with no problems and I have a steering assist fault message along with a hill start assist message. Quick search says may need a new steering rack. Will likely try a power drain to see if that helps. (not likely but who knows)
It's been over 20 years since I've driven anything without any kind of steering assist and I don't miss it.
Zundfolge
10-03-2019, 10:05
Truly autonomous vehicles are about 2 decades away.
Not just that but a massive amount of legislation and infrastructure restructuring away.
Autonomous vehicles and driver driven vehicles really can't co-exist on the same roads so you'll have to have something akin to HOV lanes on major highways for the autonomous vehicles or you have to completely ban driver driven vehicles (which would be politically difficult if not impossible). And that's just on rural highways and interstates. Autonomous vehicles in town are probably more like half a century away as the AI that can co-exist on city roads with other human drivers, pedestrians and etc is several orders of magnitude more complex than the AI that would pilot an autonomous vehicle down a highway full of other autonomous vehicles.
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