Car & Automotive Articles APRIL 13, 2008
The Legendary Ford T-Bird
By Ronald Firquain
Ronald Firquain
Level: Platinum
Ronald Firquain is a writer, marketer, entrepreneur, webmaster and has 16 years of computer knowledge. You can download e-books for making money online, building a ...
Ford T-Bird are legendary and the current models are really elegant. Brought back from our glory years, reinterpreted for these modern times, is a timeless classic begging for the open road. As Ford Vice President of Design explained the 1955 to 1957 Ford T-Bird is as symbolic of the times as rock and roll music and bobby socks. Some clubs cater for any model produced by a particular manufacturer while vehicles including Corvettes and Ford T-Bird are served by specialist organizations.
To make sure that the paint color comes out correctly, we suggest that you make sure that your T-Bird is present for the painter to color match color. Your T-Bird is one of the rare vehicles to come full circle from classic roadster to pavement burning muscle sled to punchy sedan, then recently back to its roots. As Motor Trend Detroit editor, wrote Perhaps the most outstanding feature of the new Ford T-Bird is the clever wedding of sports car functionalism with American standards of comfort.
It is also a lasting piece of American culture. The 91 model is an excellent value for a used car. And if your it is equipped with a cold air intake system, the cold air intake filter will perfectly match it. The it is a retro design that has been around a few years now but still manages to stand out from the crowd. Taking you back to the golden age of the American roadster, and is about driving freedom. The sole power train under the hood of the 2004 model is a 3.
1959 T-Bird is a cruiser in every sense of the word. It is a vehicle that has shared the platform with the
1988 is absolutely gorgeous with its remarkable features that includes platinum spark plugs, 225/60/16 tires, new computer and wiring, custom 2. For this year, it is fully loaded with outstanding features power disc, brakes, air conditioning, cruise and speed control, power door, power locks, tilt steering wheel, power windows, power driver seats, seat belts, AM/FM radio with cassette, power steering, climate control, 6-way power sunroof and custom wheels.
Knowing that the resale and trade in value of your 1993 is $1,480. Millions of vehicles are recalled each year and it is possible that the 2005 is among them. This Ford T-Bird is an 11" long die cast collectible metal car with operable doors, hood & trunk. And it is a big purchase, so take the time to research carefully, make a few phone calls, check with the Better Business Bureau, and your consumer affairs about your Ford T-Bird dealership.
The thoroughly modern interior of the new Ford T-Bird is done up with classic style. The trunk of the Ford T-Bird is spacious enough for a golf bag, and carrying along the soft cover for the stowed top shrinks the available space considerably. This 2005 is subject to prior sale and it may become unavailable without notice. I have a 94 Ford T-Bird is there an easy way to remove the sunroof to replace the screws that came loose. Top speeds were high; my 1967 is capable of better than 140mph and that is not atypical.
Ronald Firquain is a writer, marketer, entrepreneur, webmaster and has 16 years of computer knowledge. You can download e-books for making money online, building a website, improve your golf game, playing guitar and much more. For more information go to: Ford Thunderbird Cars
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Five Fairy Tales Of Automobile Bumpers
By Jeff Mohr
FAIRY TALE #1 All Automobiles Manufactured In The
FACT: In 1982, the federal government bowed to pressure from automakers and rolled back impact test requirements from 5 to 2.5 mph for 1983 and later model cars. The 2.5 mph standard also allows unlimited damage to the bumper and attachments - and most of today's flimsy bumpers cost considerably more than the old 5 mph bumpers to fix.
FAIRY TALE #2 Todays 2½ MPH Bumper Standards Apply To All Vehicles Manufactured In The
FACT: Federal bumper requirements apply only to passenger cars. There are no federal standards for Minivans, Pickup Trucks, or SUVs.
FAIRY TALE #3 Bumpers Don't Need To Be More Effective.
FACT: Consumers want stronger bumpers and they want them on all vehicle types. In a 1998 Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS) survey, 77% of respondents said the government should require car bumpers to withstand a 5 mph impact with no damage. Eighty-eight percent said federal bumper standards should apply to all passenger vehicle types, not just cars.
FAIRY TALE #4 New Bumpers Are Better Than Old Ones.
Generally no. Bumpers used to be stronger. Example: "The 2004 F-150 is all new, but its bumpers are just as flimsy as before and even a little worse," says Adrian Lund of IIHS. "The highest damage total was in the rear-into-pole test. The whole bumper was pushed downward, and the tailgate was crushed. In addition, the left and right ends of the bumper were driven into the rear fenders." But it's not just Ford.
FAIRY TALE #5 All Bumpers Are The Same.
No. Bumpers vary a lot in terms of both components and performance. In fact, some vehicles don't even have bumpers. According to Adrian Lund of the IIHS; when one Toyota RAV4 was crashed into another Toyota RAV4 at 10 mph, "it didn't engage the rear bumper because this SUV doesn't have a rear bumper. Instead, the striking RAV4 hit the spare tire mounted on the tailgate,"
Why It Costs You Money...
Bumpers play a significant role in insurance costs because so many physical damage claims are for relatively small amounts of damage involving the front or rear of vehicles--damage that a well designed bumper could prevent. Half of all collision claims are $1,500 or less. Repair costs for these minor incidents are a major factor in overall collision insurance costs.
So, How Can Consumers Tell If A Vehicle Has A Good Bumper?
Consumers cannot tell a good bumper from a bad one by looking at it. The federal government does not require automakers to disclose information about bumper performance.
Jeff is CEO of Mohr Mfg - http://www.superbumper.com The company makes portable, energy absorbing, spare safety bumpers that prevent rear end collision damage caused by Tailgaters, Uninsured Motorists, Bumper To Bumper Traffic, Distracted Drivers, Inattentive Cell Phone Users, Drivers With Poor Judgment, Text Messengers And Lousy, Stinking Parallel Parkers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Mohr
Defensive Driving Skills Or How To Survive On The Road - 7 Rules to Live By
By Alex Baumm
It is true that driving is a very dangerous activity. Any trouble in driving would not only endanger his own life but also the life or lives of his passengers and other drivers and passengers at other cars in the road.
Through the decades, people have witnessed some of the most tragic accidents by road. It is in this regard that there is a need to further popularize defensive driving.
Defensive driving refers to a form of road driving training that is aimed at helping a driver take an important intellectual and safety approach that helps save brakes, fuel, tires and of course, lives.
Defensive driving skills are necessary to lower if not totally eliminate the risks of driving vehicles through the anticipation of dangerous driving situations even at the face of adverse conditions and inappropriate driving practices by others.
There are seven general rules that are generally observed when a driver is acquiring and practicing the skills to defensive driving. Here are those general rules.
1. Pick and purchase the right car.
Of course, the basic requirement before acquiring and using defensive driving skills is to make sure you are driving the right vehicle. No matter how cautious and safe you are as a driver, you would inevitably encounter challenges and road accidents if you are driving an unsafe and accident-prone car in the first place. So how could you select and purchase the right car? There are some basic tips on car purchase.
First, when purchasing cars, avoid bland and dark colors. Gray, tan and silver are bland colors that look like urban camouflage. Thus, other drivers would have a hard time taking distinct and immediate notice of the car.
Likewise, dark colors like black and red are very hard to see especially in dim light. Then, make sure the car's center of mass is low and the four-wheel drive system has a differential center balancing forces between rear and front. It would also help if you would avoid purchasing or driving cars with heavily tinted windows especially in the front.
2. Inspect the car thoroughly before driving.
Check all the components and parts of the car prior to driving. As an unwritten law, drivers should make it a habit to inspect the good quality and condition of tires, engines, lights, brakes and oil and water levels especially in preparation for a long trip.
Major car accidents usually happen because some components and parts of the car are not in good condition, most especially the brakes. Make it a must to have the car sent for a mechanical condition check with professionals at least once a year.
3. Focus on the road.
Defensive driving skills center well on focusing on the road. When driving, always scan the highway or road for any tell-tale signals from other vehicles like turn signals and brake light indicators form other cars.
Usually, vehicular accidents occur because drivers fail to take heed and recognize the light indications and warnings from other drivers. Moreover, it is also imperative for you to make sure your headlights or daytime running lamps are turned on while driving in a busy and rapid road to avoid other cars from crashing into your car.
4. Always assume the worst in other drivers.
It may be a little paranoid, but one of the distinct defensive driving skills is the ability to always assume that other drivers are the worst drivers. As such, do not rely heavily on light indicators from other cars, as drivers have the tendency to change minds on the last minute about taking a turn. Also, expect that other drivers at your back might not be able to see and interpret the stop signals and other tail light indications you may do.
Beware when you see drivers talking to their mobile phones while driving as they are more prone to accidents. Do not always assume that in intersections you will always have your right of way.
5. Keep an exit route.
When driving in the highway, always remain in the outer lane especially on freeways. That way, the need to cross the lane to get to the shoulder in cases of problems would be eliminated. Have space on either side of the vehicle.
6. Avoid danger.
Avoid driving at danger sites, like near large vehicles or cars that are defective. Visibly damaged cars should also be avoided as it can be safely assumed that their drivers are not skilled enough to drive safely.
7.Observe precaution when approaching or passing by vehicle break-down and crash scenes.
When being awed by such vehicular cases, stay focused on your own driving. If not, you may risk running at wandering animals or pedestrians. Worse, you may run across obstacles or other road accident-causing sites.
Alex Baumm. Please visit the CarClubTalk Car Forum to find out more information and tips on Defensive Driving and Car Purchase
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Baumm
Determining Fair Vintage Car Prices
By Jeffrey Hayes
For a person who adores cars, especially vintage cars, putting a price tag on their favorite vehicles, especially if they have been fully restored can be very difficult. The emotional attachment a person gets with a vehicle that has captured his or her passion can be deemed as priceless and for many people parting with their vehicles, selling them to another vintage car enthusiast is like giving a part of themselves as well.
For a buyer though, it is but normal that they would haggle with the prices and be skeptic about the price, this is just basic buying. Cars, both old and new, are usually priced higher than they are normally worth; this is so that when a buyer haggles for the asking price, they still have room to deduct. If a buyer is really determined to buy a vintage car, and he or she doesn't have any inkling about its market value, then in the hands of a good seller, the buyer may be paying a price that's too high.
In determining what a fair price is when buying a vintage car, it would really help a lot if you have a car value guide in hand. A value guide can clearly show a person the valuation of a vehicle determined by the year, make and model of the vehicle and its current condition. For example, you may be looking at two exact vehicles; one may be higher in value if the other one is in a worse condition and would need more repairs.
Conditions are usually rated from 1 to 5, 1 being the best and 5 being the worst. A vintage car in condition 1 is usually in the car show condition and is fully restored. Condition 2 and 3 is drivable, has a good body but doesn't have that car show qualities yet. Condition 4 needs various repairs and condition 5 is not drivable and is a candidate for the junk yard.
Also, try to consider the things that have been altered with the vehicle, A seller may be jostling for higher prices for a "pimped out" vintage car, but remember, the more original parts that are taken out of the vehicle, the lesser its value becomes. This is because if you want to have a great looking fully restored vehicle, it has to have its original parts and designs, and if you want to do this with a tricked out vintage car, you will need to still find the parts and this will cost you more.
The rarity or the number of units made with the same specifications will determine its price as well. Example, if a certain vintage car was made with a limited production number, its value will be higher, but if within that limited units made, there were also units that had better specifications, then those special units are much more rare and would command a higher price.
Lastly, always have a mechanic check out the car before you buy it. A vintage car can have a lot of secret damages and problems to it. And because vintage cars can be very expensive, you have to make sure first if you are truly getting what the seller is selling you. You just don't hand over your money. Be wise when buying a vintage car, it is a worthy investment and knowing that you paid right for it makes it even a better investment.
Jeffrey Hayes
http://www.consumerreportcars.com
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Muscle Car Motors
By Ronald Firquain
Hi performance cars are built on a new engine case unless you request a rebuilt one. And are the result of careful parts matching, and the correct combination of parts is critical. And are increased horsepower resulting from alteration to cubic inch displacement, camshafts, carburettor, or exhaust system, and that produced by the automobile manufactures. Muscle Cars are hard on clutches, the lockout clutch will eliminate excessive slipping and improve your clutch life up to 5 times longer.
One of the hottest products to emerge in recent years are steel head gaskets. This is how all engines are broken in, and today can be considered since they pull more power out then there predecessors ever did. To put into categories, most stock/street cars are 80% 85% efficient, and race motors are 90% 95%. Reliable engines are dependent upon high quality components and sub components.
RHINO Engines are built with the highest quality parts to give you the best performance and the maximum horsepower. Shipping methods are via truck freight anywhere within the contiguous 48 U. Muscle Cars are not indestructible and can break if not enough attention is given to the proper setting and use. Some motors are very susceptible to knocking because they compress the fuel/air mixture more.
All are built to strict specifications using the most precise measuring tools and devices. Industrial and performance motors are often built with larger clearances and will use more oil. All of our motors are run on our dynamometer to ensure maximum performance is realized. Stock engines are warrantied for 24 months 24,000 miles; muscle cars are warrantied for 6 months 6,000 miles. Today, performance engines are all aluminum, but the cylinder bore evenly coated with a few microns of a ceramic material such as silicon carbide.
Most all motors are high compression, but not verse verso. Ken says that most of these engines are using the valve. And are the most powerful in their class and will easily handle most demanding hills. The days of short life on high performance motors are long gone.
Built on a new motor case unless you request a rebuilt one. And are the result of careful parts matching, and the correct combination of parts is critical. And are by nature not that quiet. And are those increased horsepower resulting from alteration to cubic inch displacement, camshafts, carburetor, or exhaust system, and that produced by the automobile manufactures. Are hard on clutches, the lockout clutch will eliminate excessive slipping and improve your clutch life up to 5 times longer.
Ronald Firquain is a writer, marketer, entrepreneur, webmaster and has 16 years of computer knowledge. You can download e-books for making money online, building a website, improve your golf game, playing guitar and much more. For more information go to: High Performance Motors
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PAGE 2 OF NEW ARTICLES APRIL 2008
Mustang Wheels: The Killer Burnout
by Tom S Power
The very first Ford Mustang roared out of the Ford plant in
The Mustang has kept up cutting edge performance and gawking body design over the years, so if you're a Ford Mustang lover the sky's the limit in terms of options and dressing. Only the true enthusiast knows what it means to be a Mustang owner. Some of the first items to upgrade among many available options are after market wheels, sticky tires, and performance suspension.
When you put your money into a terrific muscle car such as a Mustang, you should also make the car as attractive as possible in other ways. Pick an automobile that doesn't have too many miles on it and one which is dependable. There's no point to it at all if you don't begin with the finest possible vehicle. After choosing the vehicle, you can begin to concentrate on color, low profile tires, and the appropriate Mustang wheels.
Depending on your taste, you might want to consider investing in a good sound system for your Mustang. Sound systems today produce incredible sound and if you are a music lover, you'll enjoy your car a lot more if it's equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system. But if performance is where it's at for you, you can forget the A/C and the stereo. Instead, install performance Mustang springs to lower the car and lose as much weight as possible. And if you can afford it, carbon fiber is the way to go. Whatever upgrades you choose, you will never want to be without your Mustang!
If you are interested in the best aesthetics for your Mustang then new wheels are essential. Mustang wheels and tires are a great investment and will give you a great look and add value to your car. In addition to an increase in value the low profile wheels, tires and springs will add ease of handling to your vehicle. There are a few different Mustang tire varieties available to choose from for the purpose that best fits your needs. If you are a true Ford Mustang enthusiast and your car is very special to you then you must purchase the wheels and springs. Your prize Mustang will be the envy of all Ford Mustang owners with your new wheels.
Ford Mustangs remain one of the most popular cars of all time. This American-made muscle car is a high performance vehicle on its own. It is also a popular choice for those that want to make modifications. There are numerous sources for after market parts and accessories. A few new parts and you will end up with a cool ride the reflects your own personality.
If you're a Ford Mustang lover the sky's the limit with options and dressing today. The Mustang is not only nostalgic but has kept up with cutting edge performance and gawking body design throughout the years. After choosing the vehicle, you can begin to concentrate on color, low profile tires, and the appropriate mustang wheels. Depending on your needs mustang tires will increase the cars utility value or its performance on a track. Make the most of your Mustang by adding wheels and mustang springs, these upgrades will not only improve the look of a great looking vehicle, it will perform better than ever.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
Wheels And Rims.
by EfraimGershom
Wheels and rimsare the significant parts of any vehicle. Wheels are circular rings on which automobile tires are fitted. The wheel is a part around which there is a tire and the rim is outer lip of the wheel. The rim is the periphery of the wheel and the tire is fitted upon the wheel. The rim is actually the ring of wheel and the center of wheel is connected to the rim. The rim and center together make up the entire wheel.
The wheels and rimsare available in various sizes, colors and styles. The most common types of wheels available today are wire-spoke wheels, pressed steel wheels and light-alloy casting wheels. The pressed steel wheels are light, stiff, strong and resistant to damage. Main advantage of pressed steel wheels is that they need a very negligible maintenance.
The earliest automobile wheels had metal hoop on which a solid rubber tire was fitted. Today, the wheels are available in a great variety of colors and finishes. The sizes of wheels range from 13” to18”. The finished of wheels vary from fully - machined, silver, hyper - titanium, hyper – silver to hard – chrome. The most common type of wheels is steel wheel. This type of wheel contains many sheets of steel, stamped into shape. These strong but heavy wheels can be found on all types of vehicles ranging from sports car to big pickup trucks. Wheels are fitted over the hub using a combination of studs or lug bolts and lug nuts. The studs are fitted to the hub that is connected to the hub carrier. The wheel consists of holes to match these studs. It is placed over the studs. Then, the lug nuts are tightened to appropriate tension.
Different types of rims are chrome rims, spinning rims, truck rims and custom rims. The rims differ in size, design, weight, price and mounting options. If the rims are light-weight, the overall performance of the vehicle on road is found to be improved. Many car owners prefer to use custom designed rims. Such types of rims promote the look of vehicle. Earlier car models consist of steel rims which were heavy. New rims are more aerodynamic and sleek. Alloy wheels are a great option for city travel and are quite popular in the mainstream market. They are light weight, heat resistant and give amazing mileage. Modern rims are sleeker and aerodynamic. Alloy wheels which can improve mileage are most commonly found in the mainstream market.
Chrome wheel rims are famous because of their shiny exterior. Various styles of alloy rims have been introduced in the last decade. Custom alloy rims come as magnesium rims which are heat tempered and x-rayed to ensure durability and good appearance. The size of the rim may vary with the size of vehicle. Smaller vehicles may have the rims of 13 inches in diameter. Larger vehicles possess the rims having a diameter up to 27 inches and beyond. Both wheels and rimsare integral parts of all automobiles. They play a significant role in the appearance and performance of a vehicle.
All types of wheels and rims can be purchased online. There are numerous web sites available that give you a catalog of types, brands and costs of wheels and rims. They are of good quality and free from any kind of damage. You can select wheels and rims as per your requirements and get them at affordable prices.
Shop online for auto body parts, bumpers, headlights, taillights, wheels, rims & engines. Locate used auto parts, salvage yard parts and recycled truck accessories. Connect to salvage yards and used car parts dealers instantly. Search for automotive businesses near you.For additional information for Wheels and Rims, contact Efraim Gershom at 913-236-9629 or visit www.automotix.net/keystone
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
Saving Gas And Increasing MPG With Some Tips and Accessories
by Jimmy Plant
Gas prices, as everyone knows, continue to climb higher and higher, with no end in sight. In
I remember when I used to live in
- Use cruise control - If you’re going to be driving a long distance at a constant speed, using cruise control will allow your car to maintain a speed and feed fuel at an efficient rate.
- Change your air filter. Changing your air filter has can increase your car’s mpg by up to 10%. This is a quick and easy change which can be done by anyone, usually for under $20. Generally, it is good to perform this change about once a year. Often your mechanic will remind you of this during an oil change.
- Use your car’s momentum – This one may sound obvious, but the less you press your gas pedal, the less gas you will use! It is beneficial allow your car to pick up speed when rolling down a hill and use the momentum. You can also pump the pedal to increase speed, rather than flooring the gas. Let those other guys pass you! They’ll feel it when its time to fill up…
- Purchase parts which add mpg. There is a whole industry devoted to selling parts which will enhance both performance and mpg. For example, adding a truck tuner has the potential to increase horsepower, torque and mileage.
- Keep your tires inflated to the right pressure. This is a minor change, but has the potential to slightly increase mpg.
So the moral of the story: take time to care for your vehicle and your wallet will thank you!
If you’re planning on investing in some new mods, it is important to invest in Brand Name Accessories, brands such as K&N and
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
Evolution of In-Car Entertainment
by Roberto Bell
Do you remember the time wherein cars are being equipped with audio systems that are using cassette tapes or are capable only of playing from radio stations? If we remember that, it was when we thought that cassette tapes and radio stations were all there is. Those are the times that we thought that cassette tapes and radio stations are the best in-car entertainment system. However, if we are to look to now as to what many companies can offer us, we will be amazed to find out that indeed the evolution of in-car entertainment has already gone a long way from cassette tapes to DVDs and all that stuff. Music and entertainment are some of the things and features that car owners want to be installed in their cars. This is true in so far as driving a long journey and even short ones are concerned. They wanted to be entertained wherever they go. Having this in mid, many producers and car manufacturers have thought that it is time to upgrade all the in-car entertainment. Some entertainment boundaries have been broken in order to give in to a more precise and state-of-the-art in-car entertainment. Here, we are not just talking about DVDs and CDs but a cutting-edge in multi-CD players that are controlled by voice. Yes. Voice controlled in-car entertainment. Who would have thought that from cassette tapes that are analog in nature is now upgraded and updated to voice controlled in-car entertainment. By voice controlled, it means that the multi-CD player can be commanded without having to press any sort of buttons for that matter. Cool, isn’t? This removes the hassle of pressing buttons while driving. DAB tuner and component tuners are also added to it. Not to mention, of course, DVDs.
Now, the in-car entertainment system is not only for listening music but also for watching movies and television shows. One would envy seeing a car equipped and loaded with special features such as the aforementioned. You just have to sit back and relax by listening to music or watching movies while someone is driving the car for you. Very comfortable indeed.
There are a lot to expect from the state-of-the-art in-car entertainment system today. They are called multi-media on wheels. If there are television cellular phones, wheels have multi-CD players, amplifiers and subwoofers, speakers and other accessories. It is as if, when in a journey, you are still in the comfort of your home, not bored and relaxed. All these features can be controlled not only by the driver but also those that are sitting from the backseats. The only problem though is that, there might be a situation wherein no person would want to be the driver anymore. All wants to be the passenger and enjoy to the fullest the benefits and advantages being offered by the high technological in-car entertainment system. These state-of-the-art systems of entertainment, however, can only be availed if the owners have the enough money to buy and purchased all such luxuries.
Sam is the owner of Turborevs Car Parts. You can find more information at Car Subwoofer.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
Current Gas Prices – How Can I Get Cheap Gas?
by Roberto Bell
Will we ever see the days of cheap gas again? With everything happening in our world it is very doubtful that we will ever see the return of low fuel prices. What can we do to save on fuel and help our budgets out?
Here are some basic tips to improve gas mileage or save fuel in general. Some of these are obvious, but you may not have thought of some of the items on this list:
•Carpool
•Buy a more fuel efficient car or hybrid
•Plan trips depending on the errands you need to run and develop a route
•Consider buying a motorcycle
•Ride a bike or walk to the local store
•Make sure maintenance on your car is up to date
•Keep tires inflated at proper levels
•Use fuel saving products on your car
•Limit air conditioner use in the summer as it reduces MPG efficiency
The main idea here is to think of every little thing you can do to save on gas prices, and combine the ideas together. Collectively, you can possibly save hundreds or thousands of dollars a year of you develop a plan and stick to it.
The other plan of action, and this is a long term one, is to lessen your dependence on gas and fuel overall. Carpooling is probably the easiest and most effective way to reduce your fuel costs immediately. This may not be practical for some people but for spouses or co-workers that live and work in similar locations it is ideal. Let’s face it…we may not see cheap gas return for a long time, if ever.
The Fuel Savers Guide at http://www.fuelsaversguide.com is an excellent resource to learn gas saving tips and find out the latest information on gas prices.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
Muscle Cars: Cars With An Attitude
by: Alex Baumm
Eleanor is not a person but a muscle car. This Gone in 60 Seconds 1967 Mustang is the complete embodiment of what muscle cars are all about.
Usually powered by a V8 engine, muscle cars were monsters of drag racing world back in the 1960's until early portion of 1980's. With extremely powerful torque, these cars are really going to give you a jaw-dropping ride. Muscle cars are no doubt fast cars with high horse power capability.
The moment you look at such cars, the first things you will see are their bulky curves and high-performance z rated tires which are true affirmation of the reputation that muscle autos are very much known of.
Muscle cars are different from sports cars we have today though some models are inspired by cars like the Ford Mustang. Though sports cars are fast cars like muscle autos, they surely won't last a minute with the supreme torque that muscle autos have - which perhaps makes Eleanor the perfect Gone in 60 Seconds car.
The interiors of muscle cars are real statement of high performance, road warrior type of vehicle. The almost nil sign of elegance and the all heart-pumping design of muscle autos' interiors match their rock and revving integrity that many a cars today try to copy but all in futility.
The moment you turn it on, you can't help but notice the fiery breathing of muscle car's engine. The hissing and guzzling is like that of a dragon sleeping always ready to get the tracks burning.
When you hit the gas, the dragon's V8 engine charges in an instant ready to devour all things that block its way... just like when vin Diesel of The Fast and The Furious rages against the wall and hits the road with such awesome roar.
If what you are looking for is the car with an attitude that never allows being a second rater, muscle autos are the right choice. But prepare to be awestruck with the price because as of now it's of a collector's item kind of thing since you can not easily find one in the market.
However, there are companies and groups that want to bring back muscle cars on the road and these groups are actually buying old muscle autos and reconditioning them to make them roadworthy again.
There are a number of reconditioned muscle cars that can still be found nowadays. There is the all-time favorite 1966 GT 40, 1970 Superbird, 1968 Shelby GT500KR Fastback or 1969 Barracuda Convertible. These models of cars were once kings of the road in the 1960's up to early part of 1980's.
Although muscle autos are now rare species, there are a number of clubs that relive the greatness of muscle cars. These groups stage races and events all with the purpose of having some fun and reminiscing those days when muscle autos ruled the streets.
And thanks to the Internet, people around the world who share common interest in muscle cars now have a dependable means to showcase the glory of muscle autos and allow the younger generation to see the real muscle in high-performance driving via muscle cars.
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Classic car restoration is a huge project, but if it's tackled in the right way it can also be a lot of fun, especially if you do it with your family and make a family pleasurable time out of it. Classic cars are meant to be one thing, and that is pleasurable, if it's not fun for you, then you might want do yourself a favor and sell it.
Shop Preparation
The first step during a classic car restoration is to get your shop ready for the task at hand. You will need a camera, a place for the parts, and a labeling system. It is better to take pictures of the parts as you take them off so you know where they were came from and where the new parts should be placed. When taking the parts of the vehicle you will need to put them in a neat manner so you can locate them again if you need them. Cartons come in handy at this stage. Sorting the parts is a great way of keeping track of where they go, what they do, and what the parts are labeled just in case buy a newer part. Never throw away the parts until the car is finished as you might need them again at some point.
Tear Down
The 2nd step to classic car restoration is to tear down the car in sections. Start at one end and work your way down the car until you reach the end. This process will take quite a bit of time as you will need to take pictures on a continuous basis. The pictures will be what the car looked like before the part was taken out and then after the part was removed.
Inventory
In the next step you will determine what parts can be reused and what parts will need to be replaced. This is the best time to finalize your budget for your classic car restoration task. This is a lot easier than it sounds. Sort your parts into two categories: Repair & Replace. Go through the replace box and mark down every part in it on list under the replace column. Now do the same thing for the repair parts and place them on your list under the repair column. By now have a view of what you need and what you don't need to buy. This part of the classic car restoration process might seem monotonous but it very well could return a profit in the end.
Cleaning Process
Once all the parts are removed you can begin to strip your car down to bare metal. There are several methods to get your car in this state, including sand blasting, glass beading, garnet blasting, and sodium bicarbonate blasting. The better way is known as acid dipping but you will need to see if it's offered in your area. This type of stripping doesn't leave sand in every cranny of your car like sand blasting. Acid dipping removes a lot of foreign substances, such as paint and rust.
Evaluation
During the evaluation period, you will calculate what needs to be accomplished. Most classic cars will need the floorboards and the trunk floors, including trunk extensions that attach to the trunk floors removed or repaired, and in many situations there will also be holes and dents. Now take a sharpie marker and identify all the areas that should to be replaced or repaired. This process will find out if your car is a beauty or if it is a pile of metal when completed. Take your time to make certain you have found all the problem areas. Once the car is painted you can not go back.
Body Work & Final Prime Coat
Begin with the hardest job of removing the dents out and filling the rust spots. Once this is done you can move on to the easier tasks. Once your classic car is finished to 36 or 40 grit paper, it is time to paint the final body coat until it is just above level. Before completely dry you will take 80 grit paper to along these problem areas. Once this is complete you can glaze the car. After glazing has dried the initial coat of primer can be applied. The priming process will tell you how even your vintage car looks as finished product so it is important to do it correct the first time around.
Prep & Sand
Now you will need to prepare the car for paint and sealer once the dust has been removed from the car. Even though it is an extra step, it is better to seal the car at this point. Begin with 220 grit wet sandpaper to even the surface of the primer. Apply 320 grit wet paper will assist to achieve that dull shine that you want to complete before moving on. Applying 600 grit wet paper will help you achieve that hazy mirror effect. Your prep work is now complete and you can apply the sealer.
Now that your classic car restoration is complete you can cruise around to show off all your hard work and have a wonderful sense of accomplishment.
If You Want All The Important And Essential Information On Classic Car Restoration, go to: Car Restoration Tips
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