http://www.westsideautopros.com Ron Haugen Presents Auto Repair Des Moines and Auto Repair Urbandale Tips With Today's Topic: Lauren Davis Customer Testimonial Westside Auto Pros March 29th, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
The Purpose of Turbochargers
The Purpose of Turbochargers
By Ron Haugen
A lot of people do not know that turbochargers are actually a kind of a supercharger. The turbocharger used to be called a turbo supercharger. It was not long before the name was shortened. It is important to know what a turbocharger does and how it works. However, keep in mind that it is a lot of work to install these yourself or do any type of work on them. It is always a good idea to get an ASE certified mechanic to help you out with this.
The turbocharger is made to compress the oxygen that comes into the engine of your car. When the oxygen level is increased it will increase the overall power output. Whenever the oxygen is compressed it will allow more to come into the engine in a shorter amount of time.
A supercharger is belt driven. However, the turbo charger is powered by the exhaust gases of the vehicle. Basically, a turbocharger will take a byproduct of the vehicle's engine that would usually not have any use. It will use this to get the horsepower of the vehicle increased dramatically. If a vehicle does not have a super charger or a turbocharger, then it will be called normally aspirated. These types of vehicles will have air drawn into them through the air filter. The air will then go through the meter. This will in turn regulate and monitor the air that goes into the system. This air will then be delivered straight into the combustion chambers of the engine.
The turbocharger will be made of 2 parts. The first part is the compressor. The compressor is what compresses the air intake to the engine. It is what causes more air to get to the engine in a shorter amount of time. The other part of the turbo charger is the turbine. The turbine will take in the exhaust gases and then use them to power up the compressor. Something else that is often talked about with a turbocharger is the boost. This is the amount of the pressure in the air for the intake is exposed to. The more air that is compressed into the engine means the higher of a boost you can get.
It is important to remember that a turbocharger engine will have a compression ratio that is lower than a normally aspirated engine. Because of this you not be able to put a turbocharger on with an engine that was meant to be normal aspiration. If you do this, then you will be putting the overall performance and the life of the engine at risk. You should also keep in mind that the lower compression ratio will mean that your engine will run a lot less efficiently when it is at a lower power. It is a good idea to go to an ASE certified auto technician to discuss what can be done to get a turbocharger safely and effectively put onto your vehicle.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Purpose-of-Turbochargers&id=6123417
Helpful Hints on Hybrid Cars
Helpful Hints on Hybrid Cars
By Ron Haugen
Hybrid cars are becoming more and more popular as people start to look at alternatives to traditional gasoline. Hybrid cars can be made using several different technologies, including electric, solar, and alternative fuel supplies. In recent years some manufacturers had to start wait-listing their hybrid models because of the demand. While hybrid cars can be great, the maintenance required is very different. Here are a couple things to consider.
When hybrid solar and electric cars first hit the market, many people were shocked to find a simple battery pack could cost as much as $2000. Considering a non-hybrid car battery can run around $100, this was a huge sticker shock for many. However, this isn't the case today. Hybrid cars have warranties just like every other model on the market. Toyota offers a 100,000 mile or 8 year warranty on their new Prius models. This should make you breathe easier. Other manufacturers that use battery packs have followed suit, offering warranties that range anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 miles. When you consider this, the cost of replacing the battery packs isn't so outrageous. As an added plus, since the technology was first introduced to the market the prices have come down drastically. What would have cost more than $2000 just 5 years ago can now be found for as low as $500 with some research.
Scheduled maintenance is an area that many people who are considering hybrids get scared of. In most cases it's not much different. You do need to find a mechanic who is skilled with working on hybrids, but that aside most of the maintenance is similar. The schedule may be a little different though. The maintenance schedule is also not the same as it generally is with other types of cars. For example, many hybrids use an air filter along with the battery system that needs to be replaced every 40,000 miles. This is in addition to regular maintenance. Oil changes should be done every 5,000 miles, which is no different than the recommendations for other types of cars. Some hybrid models can actually save you money on maintenance as well. Some models use a brake system that regenerates itself, meaning you could potentially get 80,000 miles out of your factory brake pads.
We all know that we shouldn't take the showroom sticker at face value. While a car manufacturer may rate their vehicles with a high MPG rating, actual driving may decrease this. With this said, the hybrid models do typically get better fuel economy. A hybrid car will run on the alternative power under certain conditions, and switch over to fuel when it's necessary. Those who tend to drive a little on the fast side, or those who need to make long highway commutes won't see the same savings as someone who only needs to drive through the city a few miles to get to work. Most hybrids will list their rated MPG between 45-50, and actual conditions can affect this by as much as 20%. If you drive long distances at fast speeds you can expect to get around 38 MPG in most models. However, when you compare that to the fuel economy you would get with a non-hybrid you will see that you are still coming out ahead of the curve.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Helpful-Hints-on-Hybrid-Cars&id=6119000
Monday, March 28, 2011
What Is Paintless Dent Removal?
What Is Paintless Dent Removal?
By Ron Haugen
Paintless dent removal is a good idea for those who have minor dents or dings they want to remove from their vehicle. It doesn't require major body work, and in most cases you can have your car back in as little as a day as opposed to several days to weeks with major body work. The cost is also much lower since the overhead is lower. There are some instances where paintless dent removal isn't possible. If you have a simple dent you want to have pulled out, here are a few things to consider.
A technician that has been trained to use specialized tools will work on the dent locally. This means a dented door doesn't need to be removed. In most cases they will access the dent from the other side by going through a window opening or removing the door panel. The dent is then worked on from the inside, and pressed back out. It sounds simple, but it requires skill and patience. The technician needs to have experience in this so that they don't push the dent out too far or damage the surrounding paint. It is something you can do at home, but it's not suggested.
When Paintless Dent Removal is Feasible
Even large dents can be fixed with this method as long as the paint has not been shattered or cracked. If you have had previous body damage repaired in the area, this method may not work. Dents that are close to the edge of a panel are also difficult to repair with this method. The most common application for this method is door dents, dents on the hood or trunk, and dents on the roof. Hail damage can be repaired with this method, but it's a more lengthy process.
Benefits of Paintless Dent Removal
Paintless dent removal is advantageous for several reasons. For one, it's approved by most insurance companies. This means if you have damage that is covered by your auto insurance, you can get it repaired with this method and get your car back much faster. Since nothing is being replaced or removed, the vehicle will retain its factory value as well. You don't need to report body damage when you sell the vehicle. The dent won't need to be repainted or bonded in any way. When a vehicle is damaged and needs paint touch up on just a small area, it's very hard to match the color. Even if they use a color provided by the manufacturer, this doesn't take in to account the wear and tear the current paint job has, and can still stand out and be very noticeable. The turn around is also much faster. With traditional body repair you may have to relinquish your vehicle to the shop for several days, weeks for larger repairs. Paintless dent removal can be done in just a few hours and you can get your car back on the same day in many cases. Of course you want to call ahead to see what kind of schedule the technicians have, as this could hold up the process a bit. If you have to come out of pocket for the repair you will enjoy savings with paintless dent removal over traditional body work.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-Paintless-Dent-Removal?&id=6105300
Monday, March 21, 2011
Tips for Getting the Right Dual Exhaust
Tips for Getting the Right Dual Exhaust
By Ron Haugen
When people think of sports cars and high performance cars, they think about dual exhaust. While some people want to purchase a vehicle with dual exhaust, others modify their own car to do so. Still others attempt to modify their vehicles, failing to realize that they will not see the benefits of it.
But what is a dual exhaust, and what can it do for your vehicle? There is plenty to work to understand about them, including their purpose an their installation. Before you seek out a vehicle or a mod on your own vehicle, work to understand as much as you can about the system.
The Purpose of a Real Dual Exhaust System
An actual system works to make your engine more efficient. The two separate exhaust pipes make it easier for the engine to rid itself of the gasses that come from the combustion of the vehicle. The 'exhaust' can come out of the engine easier, eliminating the amount of pressure that the exhaust can put on the engine. This allows the engine to be more efficient.
What does this efficiency bring to your vehicle? More power and more fuel efficiency. Your engine will be able to bring more power to your vehicle, rather than working to push out the exhaust. The car will also be able to hit the same speeds with less work, giving you strong fuel economy.
It is important for many to note that there are kits that do not actually provide the benefits. This is a singular pipe that eventually splits into two pipes, right toward the end of the car. This does not provide the extra space for the exhaust to go out to, providing none of the actual benefits.
Getting Dual Exhaust On Your Vehicle
If you want to have one on your vehicle, turn to professionals who know exactly what they are doing. Take your vehicle into a mechanic shop and ask them about the benefits you will see from a real dual system. Talk to them about how much it will cost to have it done to your vehicle, and how long it will take them to do it. If you feel that the benefits outweigh the costs, have the dual exhaust professionally installed.
This system is going to be the only way for some to get the power and speed that they are looking to get out of their vehicle. For others, the exhaust is all about show. Take the time to understand as much as you can about the dual exhaust system. You may find that it is pointless for your needs, or that it is something that you should seriously consider investing in. This knowledge will help you to make the right decision and the right purchase.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-for-Getting-the-Right-Dual-Exhaust&id=6072649
Sunday, February 27, 2011
What You Need to Know About Catalytic Converters
What You Need to Know About Catalytic Converters
By Ron Haugen
A catalytic converter is a device that has been mandatory to put on vehicles since 1975. The threat of air pollution is staggering and with it there is not as much of a threat as there used to be. This device is made to help reduce the harmful emissions that come out of the exhaust of your vehicle.
If there is not a catalytic converter put onto a vehicle, then the emissions that come from the vehicle can do serious damage to the ozone. These gases include carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide and hydrocarbons. It is these gases that cause ugly smog and kill off plant life. It also is what a lot of people have to thank for their respiratory issues.
It will use a type of metallic catalyst. It will cause a chemical reaction up against the noxious gases that will turn them into gases that are not as harmful. The main 3 metals that are use are often rhodium, platinum or even palladium.
In the 1960s, the catalytic converter was made. When the 1970s rolled around more and more vehicles were made with these devices. However, in 1975, the Clean Air Act was passed and this meant that every single vehicle that was made had to have a catalytic converter. Since then, a lot of improvements have been made with this particular device. It is so much more efficient than it was back in the 1960s and the 1970s. Since the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA has come about there have been a lot of improvements to make this device work better than ever.
While it is illegal in most areas for a mechanic to remove them, it may be necessary to replace it. These devices can fail because of exhaust valves that have gone bad on your engine or an overheated converter caused by plugs that have been fouled and have caused unburned fuel. It is difficult to know for sure if there is something wrong with them. However, it is typically clogged if you push down on the gas pedal and do not go faster. It also may be the problem is there is a large drop in your gas mileage. A converter that is partially dropped will be something of an engine governor. It will limit the overall RPMs down. If the device is completely clogged, then the engine will not run for long. Expect it to quit completely after only a couple of minutes.
If yours is damaged and needs to be repaired or replaced, do not try to do this yourself. Your device will have a long running warranty on it more than likely. Take it to an ASE certified mechanic and allow them to do the work for you. If you do not properly fix this device it could do serious damage to your vehicle that is irreversible.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Catalytic-Converters&id=5975290
Basics About Shocks and Struts On Your Car
Basics About Shocks and Struts On Your Car
By Ron Haugen
It is important that you understand the basics about the shocks and struts on your car. There is a good chance that you have been told a time or 2 by an auto technician that the shocks and the struts are blown on your vehicle and will need to be replaced. The price will often be a lot more than you expected and you will find yourself wondering if it is really that necessary to get them replaced. Like all parts on your vehicle, it is a good idea to try to have a basic understanding on what everything does and its importance to your vehicle and its ability to run.
It is important to know that not all vehicles will have shocks and struts. Some vehicles will just have shocks while others will only have struts. Shocks will be the part of the vehicle that has to do with the suspension. The strut will have to do with the suspension assembly. The struts and the shocks in your vehicle will have 2 functions. The spring oscillation will be dampened thanks to them and the help with overall ride control. The springs that are in your vehicle are there to absorb the road shocks. Many people assume that the shock absorbers do this. However, the shock absorber is there to help the bouncing spring. Without the shock absorbers there the ride would suddenly become very bumpy and difficult to handle. Imagine when you hit a very large and deep pothole at a high speed; every small bump would be like this.
The symptoms of trouble with your vehicle will include your vehicle swaying or rolling when you turn it. The rear end of your vehicle will squat whenever you accelerate. The front end will dive whenever you attempt to slow down or stop. Also, the vehicle will slide or bounce sideways whenever you are on a rough or winding road. You can also expect your vehicle to completely bottom out on any bump. Bottoming out is when the undercarriage of your vehicle hits the ground.
If your shocks or struts begin to have problems, then they can cause other problems with your vehicle. The wear and tear of your tires will be done so at an accelerated pace if the shocks and struts are not where they're supposed to be. You can also expect for there to be issues with the CV joints, steering linkage, springs and the ball joints. The longer the struts and shocks go without upkeep the more damage will be done overall to your vehicle. It can end up costing you a lot more money than the original bill.
The best way to prevent against any damage to our shocks or struts is to have your ASE certified auto technician check them out regularly. Every time you get your oil changed you should have them looked at. The sooner you get them fixed and working properly the less damage will be done.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Basics-About-Shocks-and-Struts-On-Your-Car&id=5975254
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