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You can further the interior of your car’s capacity to produce much better music by getting it some subwoofers. Along with that, you do have to have some subwoofer boxes to go with that. You see, subwoofer boxes could be sealed, ported, or bandpass. And these three are just a few of the styles that these boxes could have.
Consult first with the manufacturer or the retailer of your subwoofer speakers. Ask them about the dimensions of the box. Then, ask them also if the given dimensions are interior or exterior. Interior dimensions would have to include the ???? inch thickness of the wood. On the other hand, for exterior dimensions, the manufacturer has already took that into consideration.
To start off, you should have these tools and materials for you would be using them as you proceed with this task: a ???? inch medium-density fiberboard, a jigsaw, a router, a power drill, a down spiral or a spiral bit, a ???? inch bit, a file, some sandpaper, a razor blade or a scalpel, some spray glue, a tape measure, a pencil, some screws, silicone, a solder, a solder gun, a calculator, some scratch paper, and your car’s carpet.
Start the constructing process by using your pencil and tape measure to trace out the patterns of the enclosure on the fiberboard. Trace out the patterns for the six sides of the box. Also add in a center divider for inside the box which would serve as the separation between the two speakers. Cut these patterns out with the jigsaw.
Take the pattern for the top portion of the subwoofer enclosure. Use the frame of the grille of the subwoofer speaker and a pencil to trace the outer and inner portions of this. Do this on the location of the board where you would like to put in your speakers. Use the router with a ???? inch bit and cut a depth of 3/8 inch. Do this between the inner and the outer circle, and this area would be the place where the frame of the speaker will be flush mounted.
Cut the holes for the speakers using the jigsaw. Later on, use a file to smooth the edges. You can also use the sandpaper to smooth out the area. Then, cut out round holes measuring two inches. Do this on each of the side panels. These holes will be filled with the connectors for the speaker wires.
Using screws, assemble the box. Seal the joints with silicone. This is to ensure that air will not leak out. Leave the front panel off first. Then, spray glue on the outer portion of the box as well as on the back of the carpet. Wrap the carpet tightly into the box. Put in some carpet at the top panel. With the use of a razor blade or a scalpel, cut vertical, horizontal, and angled lines in a star pattern into the carpet. Then, cut out the carpet that covers the connector holes.
Place in the connectors and make them run through the holes. Make sure that the two prong terminals are inside the box. Then, screw down the connectors. Seal around them with silicone. Solder the speaker wires to the speaker and connector. Also solder the positive wire to the positive lead of the speaker. Do the same with the negative ends. After everything has been done, put in the front panel on the box and screw them in. Push the speakers into the star pattern cut out on the carpet that covers the speaker holes on the front panel. You can now install the box inside your car and enjoy the music.
Carpets that you would be needing for this project could be purchased at Toyota Parts Online along with other auto products. This store specializes in Toyota parts like specifically made Toyota Corona parts.
About the author
Mark Clarkson is a 35 year old marketing consultant for a leading auto parts store. This native of Denver is also an offroad enthusiast.
Written by admin on May 9th, 2006 with no comments.
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by: Chris AndrettiThere are three different styles of performance chips http://www.autoanything.com/performance-chips/10A50207.aspx to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and capabilities. However, for all their differences, the one thing they have in common is the power to propel your vehicle’s performance to unbelievable heights.
3 fundamental types of performance chips
Control Modules
A control module plugs directly into your under-the-hood electrical system, standing right in between the data from your various sensors and the computer. The module intercepts the data before it has a chance to reach the onboard computer. Then, it analyses the information, determines the proper adjustments to the air/fuel ratio, ignition timing and other key functions, and then sends commands to the onboard computer. A control module delivers accurate, immediate tuning for your engine because it is always plugged in and constantly reading and interpreting data from your sensors.
Each control module is custom-programmed to maximize the output and efficiency of your vehicle’s specific year, make and model, taking into consideration engine size, transmission type and even your stock tire size. What’s more, many control modules come in different power levels, or stages. That way, you can choose the perfect amount of power for your unique driving habits.
Many of the control modules for diesel rigs have optional in-cab monitors that display up to the second readings of such critical engine information as turbo boost, engine gas temperature and RPMs. Some even display your 0-60 acceleration and quarter mile time, and give you on-the-fly control of different settings. For the best results, you will want to use a higher grade fuel with more octanes, like 91 or higher.
Installing a control module is simple and should not take more than 15 minutes. They have a built-in, heat-shielded wiring harness that plugs directly into your onboard computer, so there’s absolutely no soldering, splicing or drilling required. After all the wires are connected, you never have to worry about adjusting the module ever again, unless you would like to return to your factory settings.
Power Programmers
Like control modules, power programmers reconfigure your vehicle’s onboard computer to perform at peak levels, but they operate differently. Rather than being permanently installed into your electrical system, power programmers like Superchips http://www.autoanything.com/performance-chips/20A50218A1.aspx are plug-n-play devices.
Before hitting the road, you connect it to your OBD-II Port, which is handily located right under your dashboard. You will then answer a number of questions about your vehicle, any modifications you have made and what level of power you want. Based on how you respond to the questions, the power programmer then uploads a new set of operating instructions to your vehicle’s computer. The new operating program only has to be uploaded once, so you can pack away your power programmer or experiment with some of the other settings and modes. Best of all, the whole process only takes about 10 minutes, and the only tools you’ll need are your own two hands.
The advantage of Hypertech http://www.autoanything.com/performance-chips/20A50217A1.aspx and other power programmers is that you have greater control over the tuning of your system. For example, you will be able to recalibrate your onboard computer to any changes in tire size, speed rating or even your rear end gear ratio. These changes dramatically affect your vehicle’s performance, but your computer does know to recalculate unless you use a power programmer to communicate with it. Moreover, many of our power programmers let you tune your engine for regular octane usage instead of the usual 91 or higher fuel grade.
Engine Management Systems (EMS)
If you want total control of your vehicle’s computer system, don’t just reprogram it-replace it. An EMS is a complete substitution for your stock onboard computer, giving you virtually unlimited command over just about ever aspect of your vehicle’s control system.
Engine management systems are designed to customize your car, truck, or SUV to your exact specifications. For those of us who know about the inner workings of your entire drive train, only an EMS gives you full control of every minute detail, from your air/fuel ratio and fuel injector control, to idle speed and nitrous (wet or dry) management.
You mount the EMS inside your engine compartment. Once it is secured, you simply unplug the wires from your old computer and plug them into the new one. Those wires sync your EMS with all of your vehicle’s sensors, so it has an immediate connection to all the data from every critical part on your automobile. It uses the readings from your sensors to run your engine at its peek level. You can even plug your laptop into the EMS to view performance information and manipulate settings.
Application with your ride
Sure, a control module, power programmer or EMS unleashes huge gains in horsepower, torque and efficiency, but you are probably wondering how it actually works. For most performance parts, their purpose is obvious-more power. You can visualize and hear a hotrod exhaust system hard at work, and you can hold the pipes and headers right in your hands. A performance chip, on the other hand, exists in the invisible world of electrical pulses and binary codes.
About The Author
Chris Andretti researches performance products and writes copy for AutoAnything.com. Visit their site for air intakes and various brands like K&N air intakes and AEM air intakes.
Written by admin on April 27th, 2006 with no comments.
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by: Matthew C. Keegan
You just paid a cool $73,000 for your fashionably new BMW and are cruising down the boulevard enjoying the ride. You zig and zag your way around the slow movers, marveling over the responsive steering and handling engineered into your 750i. As you pull into your driveway, park your sedan, and exit your vehicle, you turn around and your eyes feast upon its stunning Kalahari beige metallic finish. Quite frankly it is the most attractive looking vehicle you have ever owned. Unfortunately, many new BMW owners fail to provide the one level of protection that can keep your car????????s expensive finish from permanently losing its luster. What is that? Read on and I will tell you about a product that simply must be part of every luxury car owner????????s inventory.
If you haven????????t guessed it yet, what I am talking about is a custom fitted car cover for your bimmer. Yes, even if you garage your 750i or other fine vehicle, time and the elements will certainly attack your car????????s finish. Sure, you can do regular washes and waxes, but the inevitable will happen: something, somewhere will damage the finish. Besides, do you want to spend every weekend polishing your car? I doubt that!
No, you can????????t drive with a car cover on, but you can certainly have a car cover on hand to keep your parked car safe. Yes, there are enough things out there that can harm an expensive finish, even damaging it to the point where only an expensive repair can remedy the insult. The following are some of the hazards just waiting to happen:
1. Bird excrement ???????? You don????????t need to be parked under a tree for your car to get hit; a single drive-by bombing by a winged creature can do your finish in.
2. Weather ???????? Rain, snow, ice, and especially hail can damage a car in mere moments.
3. Trees ???????? A small branch can scratch any finish.
4. Sun ???????? Harmful solar rays are bad for your skin and your car????????s skin too.
5. Pollution ???????? There is no place on earth that is pollution free. Acid rain and airborne driven particles just love a new car????????s finish.
6. Kids ???????? Try keeping your neighbor????????s kids away from the car. You may succeed, but hit balls can make a beeline for your wheels. Some car covers even offer protection against minor impacts.
All right, so you are cleverly thinking that your garaged vehicle is immune to such petty insults, right? Well, in one word you are incorrect. Indoor air pollution and dust can take its toll on your car????????s finish as can small impacts from anything that falls off of a wall and onto your car.
The solution? Select a car cover that is right for your vehicle. Even if you keep your car garaged most of the time, the best car cover on the market can protect your bimmer from moisture, the sun, dirt, pollution, and small impacts. Choose one that is custom made for your car with side mirror pockets built in and four layers of quick drying polypropylene material to provide the ultimate level of protection. You don????????t want something so thin that it doesn????????t provide all around protection ???????? you just never know when you will have to have your car outside for an extended period of time ???????? and you don????????t want a car cover that entombs your BMW either. Instead, select one that works with your bimmer, not against it.
Best of all, premium car covers can be had for under $200, a worthy investment for any car luxury or not. So, enjoy your new 750i, but give yourself some peace of mind by selecting a car cover that can protect its finish and keep it looking great for many years.
About The Author
Copyright 2006 — Matt Keegan is a freelance writer covering automotive topics from car care to new models. You can protect your BMW????????s exterior with a premium car cover and keep it running great for many years by only choosing genuine BMW OEM Parts and accessories: http://www.alloembmwparts.com
Written by admin on April 24th, 2006 with no comments.
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by: Peter Johnson
It’s not an uncommon sight. Two vehicles line-up at a streetlight, one challenges the other, and once the green light appears they take off as fast as they know how. Illegal street racing is not a new thing. It’s been going on ever since the days of the Model T Ford. Over the years, speeds have increased and with the advent of cell phones and GPS systems, so has the technology. But the consequences of these careless actions have never changed. Thousands of accidents occur each year due to thoughtless, aggressive driving on our streets. But the trend continues to grow. Movies like The Fast and The Furious have helped to spread the virtues of street racing. Movies like these don’t show innocent victims getting hurt, but rather they portray the characters as misunderstood good guys who have a passion for cars. It’s easy to see how young people are able to accept the notion that street racing doesn’t hurt anyone when everything they see in movies confirms it. Videos of illegal street races are downloaded off the web at a growing rate only to fuel the desires of those who are unable to see the dangers in it.
Racing is not a bad thing. In fact, it’s an exciting sport that requires training, discipline and skill. But the streets are no place for racing. Unfortunately, any young person (the majority are young) can get into their car, mash the throttle and drive. No experience, no talent, no discipline. All of this while innocent drivers use the streets for their day-to-day activities.
So what are the solutions. Racing on our streets will never stop, but it can be reduced. What needs to be understood is that street racing is a social activity. People gather in a parking lot, hang out with friends, challenge someone to a race, and come back to the same parking lot once the race is over. Some cities recognized this and have opened drag strips for people to race, socialize and interact. For a small fee, they can prove themselves in a safe, supervised environment. This is also a great way to integrate local police with the participants. In order to reduce racing on our streets, local authorities need to control it. Larger fines won’t reduce street racing. Hundreds of people have died racing on the streets in this country and if the possibility of death doesn’t stop someone, a fine won’t either.
In the end we need to understand that the only way to reduce street racing is to provide an outlit for which it can occur. Until then, the masses will do what they know; they’ll continue to race on our streets.
About The Author
Peter Johnson is the chief writer for http://www.all-about-car-selection.com.
pjohnson@all-about-car-selection.com
Written by admin on April 17th, 2006 with no comments.
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by: Peter Johnson
Taking a car out for a test drive is essential before buying any new or used car. Don’t let that new car smell fool you, not every new car is the right one for you. Use this test drive checklist before your next test drive.
Before the test drive ask yourself the following questions:
- Does the vehicle look attractive to you?
- Is it available in a colour you like?
- Is the vehicle easy to get into?
- Does the interior come in a colour you like?
- Is their enough headroom, legroom, etc. when the seat and steering wheel are properly adjusted? Sit in the front and the back.
- Are the gauges easy to read?
Once you are ready to hit the road, answer these questions as you are driving.
- Is the engine as quiet and smooth as you expected?
- Does the steering have a nice feel to it?
- Does the vehicle have adequate power for acceleration? How about with the A/C on?
- Does the vehicle handle well?
- How are the brakes? Does the vehicle stop safely? Try the vehicle on a variety of roads, including the highway.
- Does the suspension absorb road irregularities well? Is it too soft or too hard?
- Are the interior noise levels okay on the highway? Listen for the engine, wind and road noise.
- Try all of the accessories including the radio, heater, A/C, and power features to ensure that they operate to your liking.
Once back to the dealership, try to do the following
- Try parking the vehicle. Does it have any blind spots?
- Walk around the vehicle with the engine running. How does it sound? Also, take a look at the engine while it’s running. Does everything seem in good order?
- Check the trunk. Is it large enough? Is the trunk opening large enough for balky items? - Do the rear seats fold down?
A great way to test drive a new car is to check if you could rent one from a rental company. This has two benefits. First, you can drive the vehicle for a longer period of time. Second, you can see how it has held up with a few thousand miles already on it.
Write down what you would like to look for before you test drive a new car. With all the excitement you may forget to look for something that is of interest to you. Test drive the competition as well. This will help you determine how well the vehicle you are interested in compares with its closest competitors.
Come prepared and you’ll enjoy the experience and learn from it.
About The Author
Peter Johnson is the chief writer for all-about-car-selection.com.
pjohnson@all-about-car-selection.com
Written by admin on April 14th, 2006 with no comments.
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