Three Reasons to Buy Peugeot Parts Online

Comprehensive Range

We�re not talking about a single random scrapyard, but rather a huge network of authorized breakers yards that in essence come together to offer the biggest and most eclectic range of parts the UK has ever seen. And when it comes to the rarest of parts and those that haven�t been made by the manufacturer for decades, there�s really not a better place on Earth to turn. If a Peugeot part exists or has ever existed, this is where you�ll find it. 

Convenience

Heading out to six or seven breakers yards in hopes of finding the Peugeot part you need isn�t exactly fun at the best of times � especially when you know full-well that you�re probably coming home empty handed. The alternative therefore is to sit at home, make a few clicks online and have someone else search the length and breadth of the country for the part you need in the best condition and at the cheapest price. And once it�s found, they�ll deliver it right to your door at no extra charge. 

Costs

And finally there�s the biggie � the price. Apart from maybe a branded garage selling official top-tier parts for exorbitant sums, chances are you aren�t going to find any third-party retailers offering price promises and guarantees. Shop online however and you not only stand to find what you need for less than half the price of the store-bought equivalent, but it will also come backed with guarantees that you simply will not find it cheaper anywhere else. 

Hook, line and sinker - the single best option on the market today for the UK�s Peugeot drivers. 

By Dave Marsh

Dave Marsh used to import hard to find Peugeot spares from the continent, though now spend his days writing on various subjects around the auto industry. 
+Agnes Jimenez

3 Cheap Alternatives to Repainting Your Car

Your car is like a member of your family, and, like the rest of your loved ones, you only want the best for your car when something breaks or your paint starts to peel. Why recycle your car or sent to the car removals if it�s not needed?

Some paint jobs, however, can cost in excess of a thousand dollars, even for the simplest of colors and the smallest of cars. For those who can't afford to have an expensive paint job done on their car, a few affordable yet quality alternatives are available.

Do-It-Yourself: Head to the Hardware Store

That's right. The hardware store isn't just for homeowners or contractors anymore. Many people who want to breathe new life into their vehicles can head down to the hardware store, pick up a few items, put in some quality hours in the garage and have it all done for under $100.

To begin, purchase some sandpaper, painter's tape, foam brushes, paint trays and primer spray paint. Depending on the size of your car, you may need to purchase between four and six quarts of paint. A good thing to remember when purchasing paint is that you will likely need to apply at least six coats of paint to your car before the job is done.

Once you have purchased all the supplies you need, begin the prep work. Remove any and all pieces that come off easily. Doing this will help you avoid any unnecessary cleaning that may arise should you accidentally paint any headlights or other parts that should be left untouched. 

Next, thoroughly wash every piece of material that you plan to paint. Make sure your work area is clean and free from any extra debris. Dirt and grime that is left on the vehicle will cause a number of problems during the painting process.

Next you must mix your paint. Make sure the paint is mixed to the point where it looks and feels similar to milk. This will ensure that every part of the car is covered evenly and that there is no extra runoff after you are finished. 

It is also important that you plan how you want to paint your vehicle. Keep track of every part of the vehicle that you have already painted and remember to evenly spread the paint over each section of the car. 

While a significant amount of elbow grease is required for a decent paint job, doing it yourself certainly beats heading to Maaco to spend $1,500. 

Rustoleum

Rustoleum offers a wide range of products for individuals looking to paint their cars at home. 

Head to your local hardware or automotive store and pick up four quarts of gloss Rustoleum, four cans of Rustoleum primer spray paint, sandpaper, acetone, painter's tape, a spray gun and air compressor. 

After you have completed the prep work, removed all necessary parts and cleaned the outside of your vehicle, you're ready to begin painting. If you plan on using a darker color for your car, make sure to apply a dark colored primer first. If you plan on using a lighter color for your vehicle, apply a light colored primer first. 

After you have completed the job, you'll want to let the car sit for a few days to let the paint cure. Similar to using regular paint, this will set you back between $100 and $200, depending on the size of your vehicle. 

Because Rustoleum products are exclusively made for automobiles, the process is relatively easy. Similar to other do-it-yourself jobs, you must have proper knowledge of how to use the products and what to do if you make a mistake. 

Good Old Fashion Spray Paint

A few cans of spray paint can go a long way for someone who knows what they're doing. 

Before you try this method, however, make sure you have had some training on how to properly use spray paint and have a backup plan in case it doesn't work out.

First, buy as much spray paint as you need from your local hardware store. Remove any parts of the vehicle that you don't plan on spray painting and set them to the side. 

Next, remove the hood completely and spray paint it by itself. This will make the process much easier and will keep the engine clean. After the entire car has been painted, let it sit for a couple of days to cure, wet sand the exterior of the vehicle and then apply a coat of polish.

While this is a very affordable alternative to spending thousands of dollars at a local collision and paint center, it is a very risky process. You may end up using too much paint and may have to repeat the process multiple times to get the look you want. 

Author Bio

Rebecca Smith�s is a car enthusiast that stems from working on cars with her Dad when you was just a young un�. She is interested in finding creative ways to reuse car parts or modify cars that are at the end of their years. In her spare time she runs a Car Removalist Company.

Custom Paint Job - Things To Do First

Daniel Harris possesses a creative mind that drives him to express himself with any medium he can get his hands on. He currently funds his artistic endeavors by writing for BYK Additives & Instruments who specializes in color measurement.

In a world of increasingly similar people, there is the urge to be unique, to mold your vehicle into an outward vision of your personality. It grants a certain status. You are the person that has the guts to proclaim to the neighborhood who you are. Unfortunately guts and courage will not counter the accidents, changes in personal taste, or the very real potential of a resale that might dampen any urge to buy a custom paint job.

Accidents Happen

Inexperienced drivers, slippery weather conditions, and the occasional mistake in judgment mean that your car is an accident waiting to happen the moment that you drive it off the lot or out of the shop. Accidents lead to chips and scratches on your car and the potential need to replace entire doors that are beyond repair. Not a problem, right? You just have to touch up that cool custom paint job that all your friends� envy. Easier said than done.

Custom paint jobs, while cool, deviate from the normal colors that a car is typically painted. This isn't a problem until it�s dragged into the shop and the car mechanic has to try and match your cars color code, which can be unique if you had the pain custom made which turns the matching game into a guessing game. Because of  how color is measured, it is difficult for the mechanic to find that exact shade of blue when there are ten million possible color variations. Depending on the quality and resources available to the mechanic that will be in charge of the repaint, they may not have the material available that will allow for the identification of the exact shade that was used on the custom job. The wrong choice and your car could be painted two different shades of blue. What was once cool and visionary becomes a mockery of what it once was.

People Change

Custom designs, especially custom designs that have flames, thunder bolts and any other number of symbols might lose their significance as individual�s age. Cars for many are an investment. They are meant to be the mode of transportation that can last years and sometimes decades. It is important to project ahead when considering a custom paint job. At twenty-one purple and blue lightning bolts running down the side of the car may seems cool, but will the cool factor be maintained as the years pass? Before making any big purchases or decisions you should project ahead and ask yourself: �in twenty years will I wonder why I wanted this?�

Resale Plans

If you get to the point that you�re wondering why you purchased that unique paint job, you might decide to sell it. Selling the car is problematic because the second that you deviated from the norm you opened yourself up to a potential loss in resale value. The problem is that the demand for a car with lightning bolts down the side is not high. This is reflected in the price.

There is the possibility that the modifications in the paint job could fall into a niche of people eager to buy the car for or above resale value. There is the possibility that the car mechanic has the gadgets necessary to pin point that exact shade, and there is a slither of the chance that you will never get into an accident. This possibility should be considered remote for the potential buyer. The odds are not in your favor. After you have considered the potential pit falls of a custom paint job, and still desire a lightning bolt covered car go for it. Or the time being at least you�ll be the coolest person in the neighborhood. And that is something that money can buy.

Are Car Mods Worth It?

Vince Evans was a light mechanic and auctioneer until he went back to his old love, writing. Rather than shouting at North Easterners, he prefers to write about New Jersey used cars dealers.

When thinking of decking out your car you should research to see how much that modification might increase or decrease the overall resale value of the car.

Personalized Aesthetic Modifications

Some modifications like wings attached to the rear of the car or a giant picture of a unicorn paint job might have disastrous effects on the resale value. Okay, yes most people won�t paint a giant unicorn on their car, but the overall concept is true. What is charming to you might be ugly to them. These types of modifications are all flash. They modify the car to fit you. The payoff for these is the personal satisfaction that comes with knowing that you are unique and not like all of those zombies that own the same car.

The problem with personalized aesthetic mods is that the resale value corresponds with the number of people that are willing to buy the car. Because most people are zombies that like to play it safe and not mod enthusiasts, the resale value might take a dive. When you try to sell a mod car to the masses, they sometimes get uncomfortable when they think about owning a car with some kinds of mods. They like normal cars that are a solid red, white, or black. They want the end of their car to be wingless, and they desire to avoid the shame and embarrassment that might arise in formal social situations when people see them climb out of their car at the company picnic. These types of people might not be able to see themselves buying the modified car at market price, let alone above market price. For that reason personalized modifications do not always sell well and should be considered only if resale value does not matter.

The Warranty Problem

Whether resale of a modified car is on the horizon, you should check beforehand if the mod can void the warranty. There are documented cases of warranties being voided because poorly installed modifications led to damage to the vehicle. A voided warranty will lead to a drastic dip in the resale price.

Modifications that Appeal to the Masses.

That being said certain modification when installed skillfully and correctly do appeal to the masses and can increase or at least not hurt the resale value. Replacing that old cassette tape player with a CD player or installing a TV with a DVD player into the back of a mini-van can increase the overall sale price. Soccer moms are less likely to road rage when their kids are occupied with a movie instead of arguing in the back seat. Likewise replacing the ratty seats with new leather can raise the comfort level, aesthetic appeal, and sales price of the eventual sale. It is important to make all mods appeal to a large demographic. Ask yourself what kind of people would buy a car with this modification. If you have a fairly large list of potential buyers, the modification should be safe to install.

Whether the mod is a functional or an aesthetic change, the potential mod buyer should be aware how the changes will affect how used car dealers from New York, Idaho or California will be able to sell your car. The wrong modifications could lead to a larger dip in the sales price than might be expected. And the right one can drastically increase what you can expect for the car.

Tips To Sell Your Modified Car

Things You Should Know Before Selling Your Modified Car

Unlike selling a traditional used car, putting a modified car on the market can be a whole new ballgame. However, when approached correctly, selling a modified car can result in much higher profits. Getting cash for cars is a game that essentially comes down to advertising and presentation strategies. Individuals selling and buying traditional used cars can mainly rely on prices that are close to the Kelley Bluebook value. On the other hand, a modified vehicle must speak for itself.

One of the most important things to do is to accurately represent your vehicle, and show it in the best light possible. Presentation starts with attention to detail. Detail the entire car. The little things can add up quickly, easily resulting in a price difference of hundreds of dollars. Clean the engine with degreaser, add a layer of vinyl protectant to all plastic surfaces, and steam clean the appropriate interior surfaces. Love can equal value.

Changes and upgrades should be included in any advertisements taken out on the vehicle. It may be hard to list all of the modifications in a single ad. Be sure that you also keep a detailed list of any modifications that you have made to the vehicle to present to potential customers. Each change, no matter how small, can raise the value of the car. When possible, keep receipts or any form of documentation for your upgrades. All changes may not be readily visible. The receipts also verify the expense that was incurred as the car was upgraded. If the original parts of the car are in your possession, then include those in the package. Buyers may not be thrilled with every modification. However, they may be interested in restoring certain aspects of the car. The attractiveness of the offer may be based on the good condition of the vehicle itself.

Attempting to get cash for cars can be difficult. You often run into extremely saturated markets. Where you advertise can make a huge difference. It is vital that you try to reach your likely customer base. Modified cars will attract car enthusiasts. These are the people that like to get under the hood and get their hands dirty. The Internet is full of message boards, clubs, and websites geared directly at these types of people. Begin advertising on resources such as these for a higher success rate. Advertising to well-informed customers also increases the likelihood that you can get a fair price for the vehicle. The Internet is also a great resource because advertising can usually be done for free, depending on the site. It is also wise to avoid putting all the eggs in one basket. Advertise in as many places as you can. Use Craig's List, newspaper �Auto-Trader� sections, classifieds, and any other form of media at your disposal. Do not fail to neglect the appearance of the car as well. Use pictures where possible, and put the detail work to use.

This has been a guest post from Are You Selling, a website that helps people get cash for their cars.

Three Tools You Need for Car Restoration

Car restoration can be a very satisfying weekend hobby that can also become a lucrative side business. But in order to be able to have a car restoration project result in an enjoyable rather than a frustrating experience, it's important to have at least three essential tools handy before you begin any project.

Impact Wrench

The nuts, bolts and lugs attached to any vehicle, much less a vintage vehicle that may have been sitting around unused for years, will take some muscle power to be removed during the course of the restoration process. For safe and quick removal of any of these fasteners, make sure you have a good quality impact wrench. This piece of equipment, also known as a torque gun or air wrench, enables you to remove lugs, nuts and bolts using minimal physical exertion. They are available in sizes ranging from one-quarter inch up to three and a half inches.

Angle Grinder

The second essential tool to have handy when doing car restoration is an angle grinder. This hand-held power tool is essential for cutting, grinding and polishing metal during the restoration process. Some models can also be fitted with a sanding disc in order to serve double duty as a sander.

Oscillating Saw

The third essential car restoration project tool is an oscillating saw, also called a reciprocating saw because its cutting action is facilitated by a push and pull motion of the blades. Its fast side to side motion makes a quick job of cutting through thick metal as well as being able to do reach into tight spots where cutting action is needed. Cordless models give you even more flexibility and it's a good idea to invest in an oscillating saw that features alternate blades as well as sanding pads for even more versatility.

Before starting any car restoration project, make sure your jack and stands for lifting the vehicle off the ground are sturdy and reliable so you are completely safe anytime you are working under the vehicle. A reliable creeper also lets you move around underneath the car much more easily. An air compressor is a smart investment, since tools such as impact wrenches and grinders need this to provide adequate power.

Depending upon the complexity of your car restoration project, the tools you currently own may not be optimal for your needs. So take inventory before you begin and do a little online research to judge whether the essential tools mentioned above offer you the features and capabilities you'll need for your particular project. If you're a car restoration novice, ask other buddies who have more experience to recommend those specific tool models they give high performance ratings to and check out online product reviews to determine their ease of use and performance before purchasing them.

Author Bio

Lyndsi Decker is a freelance writer and is currently promoting Multi Tool Blades. She enjoys restoring cars and often blogs about it. In her free time she enjoys road trips with her husband.

How to Get the Most From Your Cars Engine

If you are unhappy with the stock engine that came with your vehicle, then there is a good chance that you are considering the option to upgrade it. Of course, this is something that will require you to put a significant amount of money into the car itself. Furthermore, it will require some labor and time. However, if you follow the steps outlined in this article, you can modify your engine to get the most out of it in no time.

Research engine upgrades for your car. 

 Depending on the specific vehicle you drive, there is a good chance that there will already be some upgraded engines available. Try doing some research online to find out what the most common engine modifications are for your vehicle. A lot of times, you can read about this on car discussion forums, which are typically authored by vehicle owners just like you. You may even want to join in the discussion and ask questions as you go along.

Consider your experience.

Have you worked on engines before? If so, then you may be able to save money by performing the modifications yourself. Otherwise, you will likely want to hire a professional for the job. After all, modifying an engine is a complicated process and can be very expensive to repair if you mess anything up.

Pick out a turbo kit. 

Depending on how much power you want your upgrade engine to have, you will want to choose a turbo kit or other upgrade for your engine that meets your needs. You can buy these online through a number of car part retailers, or you may even be able to get a discount by ordering through your local repair and engine work shop.

Hire a professional or buy necessary tools. 

Once you have the parts you need, take your car and the kit to a professional to have it installed. Or, if you plan on doing the repairs yourself, then be sure that you have the proper tools to do so. This includes everything from wrenches and jacks to spherical roller bearings which you can get from statewide bearings. After all, without the right tools, you will not be able to complete the installation properly.

Test the new engine. 

Be sure to run diagnostic testing on the engine before you take it to the streets for the first time. This will ensure that it runs properly, does not overheat, and has the right amount of power. 

About the Author: 

 Madyson Grant enjoys working on her car and getting the best performance out of it that she can. She is currently blogging tips for improving the quality of automobiles.

Simple Things that will Increase the Value of your Vehicle

The value of a car generally goes down approximately 65% after about 5 years of normal driving. Once you have decided to purchase a new or newer car it is tempting to quickly settle for the best offer you can get on your old car. Before hastily putting a "for sale" sign on the back window and placing an ad in the local newspaper, you should take advantage of a few simple and fairly inexpensive tips that will enable you to get several hundred dollars more than you otherwise would. There are other things that you should always be doing in preparation for the time when you will want to sell your car.

Washing and Detailing

Although this should be obvious, it is amazing how many people neglect to do it. Improving the appearance of a car both inside and out will greatly improve its perceived value. Your vehicle may be in superb mechanical condition, but if it doesn�t look clean and polished the car�s resale value might take a hit. It is well worth the investment of detailing and washing the car, regardless of whether you do it yourself or have a professional do it.
 

Limit Upgrades

Strangely enough, upgrades often decrease a cars resale value. For instance, adding a custom stereo system probably seems like a good idea, but modifications usually lower a car�s resale value. If you do upgrade your vehicle, you should keep the original parts so that it can be easily reverted to the original factory condition. Many experts suggest that you resist the urge to customize if you want to get top dollar when you sell the vehicle.

Keep your Car in the Garage

If you live in an area with harsh climate and severe weather, you should keep it in a garage. If you don't have a garage, consider using a car cover. This will make a huge difference in how your car looks.
Maintenance
 

One of most important and practical things you can do to maintain top resale value on it is to strictly adhere to the maintenance schedule including regular oil changes per the guidelines in the operator's manual. Be sure to document all of these things. A shrewd buyer will be as concerned with the mechanical condition of the vehicle as they are with the looks of the exterior.
 

Repair all Known Issues

Used car buyers love hearing that they�re buying a car with new parts. It instills trust when the seller is willing to spend money on repairs even though they won�t personally benefit from them. Whether it�s a new set of tires, seat covers, windshield wipers or spark plugs, these repairs give the impression that all known issues have been fixed and the car won't be in need of immediate service.
 

As simple as these things are, they will make a huge difference in being able to sell the car for the highest possible price. You can usually get more money for your car by selling it yourself rather than using it as a trade-in on your next car purchase. When you purchase your new car, be sure to choose one that holds its resell value well.

Author's Bio:

Marc Tuttle is the Manager of Internet Marketing at Seat Covers Unlimited. Visit our site to view seat covers by Seat Covers Unlimited.

How To Keep Your Car From Rusting

 

 

Don�t Let Your Car Rust

One day suddenly you find some rust on your car. Rusting occurs when iron or the steel reacts with water with the heat and the salt in the air.

Don�t worry if the rust is at a small place, under the car or at a place where it does not show. The paint is not only for the car to look nice but also prevents rusting. You should be careful in case there is a scratch as that could lead to a bigger repair problem. Make sure you keep your car away from oxidation.

How do you notice the rust?

�    When you clean or wash your car, check for rusting in the wheel wells and all the corners.
�    Look around the car antenna, mirrors, moldings, trims, under the car body with a torch or some light.
�    If you stay near the sea or the ocean or where it rains a lot check the metal of the car regularly for rusting.
�    Ask your service mechanic to properly check under the car for rusting when the car is on the hoist.

Observations:-

�    You might find the paint is darker at some places �� might be that it is rusted below the paint.
�    If you have a scratch or a place where the paint has come off, apply the paint and don�t let it rust.
�    Use the rust removers at the pitted areas.
�    Rust settles at place where there are salt deposit and dirty places.

How to handle the rusting:-

�    Rub sandpaper or a razor at the rusted area. Be careful you do not spoil the paint around the rusted area. You could use a brush to dust the scraped rust.
�    Apply the rust resistor so that the rust does not spread further.
�    Then paint it with a brush or a spray gun depending on the area after applying primer.
�    At some places where the rust is really bad and you need to change that area, take an estimate from the mechanic and decide if it is worth the money spent keeping the life of the engine in mind.
�    You can use the rust removing equipment available

How to avoid rusting

�    Wash your car once in 2 weeks and maybe once  a week where there is salt in the air .
�    Every six months you should wax your car.
�    Make sure that you clean your car from inside as sometimes spilled things can start rusting.
�    Wash your car properly under the car and in between the wheels.
�    You could use the rust preventing sprays if you live at places which have salt in the air, like the areas near the oceans and seas.
�    Keep your car dry as far as possible.
�    Cover your car if the car stays more in the open.
�    Try to keep the car indoors
�    Always clean the rust the minute you notice it.
�    Applying the primer with the machine electrically run, has a better and a long lasting result.

You can save your car from rusting and causing major damage by checking it regularly and repairing the rust the minute you observe it.

Author Bio :- 

John Polk writes for www.markkia.com. He is a freelance content contributor and likes to write about various spheres like Social Media, technology trends and his secret favorite � cars and automobiles. He is a keen observer and contributor for various auto forums and the online auto space.

Car Mods That Will Lower Your Insurance Costs

Even before The Fast And The Furious made it�s debut, car modifications were popular. Not only were car mods a great way to increase your car�s performance, they also increased your car insurance premiums as well. Adding more horses under the hood or tricking out your body kit are almost guaranteed ways to jack your premiums higher than your chassis. That doesn�t always have to be the case, though. There are plenty of things that you can modify on your car that will actually lower your car insurance premiums.

Green Mods

Converting your engine to a bio-diesel, or a gas/electric hybrid are great ways to improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump. In many states, car insurance providers will also give you a �Green Car Discount� of up to 15% on your premium. Saving money two ways for one modification is never a bad idea. Even if you paid a lot up front for your green conversion, you can save a lot of money on gas the first year alone. If you take the average car�s gas mileage of 20MPG and convert it to the average hybrid�s gas mileage of 53MPG, that will net you an average yearly savings of $1,438. Now, factor in a 15% savings on your insurance per year and you�ll be racking up some serious cash.

Tracking

Installing a hidden GPS tracker in your car is a great way lower your insurance and give you the confidence of knowing where your car is at all times. Even if your car does get stolen, you can pull up an app on your smartphone and see exactly where your ride went within seconds. Just give that information to the police, and you�ll have your car back soon and there will be one less car thief on the streets to worry about. Getting a GPS tracker installed is almost a public service to your community.

Anti-Theft

Any anti-theft devices that make it more difficult for thieves to successfully steal your vehicle are a good idea. Many cars today come standard with a few basic anti-theft devices, but adding to those will go a long way to giving you peace of mind and a fatter wallet. Some anti-theft devices include:

•     Car alarms
•     Electronic locks or keyless lock device
•     Tubular locks. These locks that can only be unlocked by a tube-shaped key with over 50,000       tumbler combinations.
•     Non-passive fuel cut off devices
•     Many more. Consult your provider to see what anti-theft mods qualify.

 Author Bio:

Mark McCrell is an auto aficionado who loves to drive his 1974 Buick LaSabre around town and write about all things auto.  He currently blogs for the website AutoInsuranceQuotes, which specializes in cheap auto insurance.

Hemi 426 Rebuilds - Are They Right For You

Car Modification - Hemi 426 Engine Rebuild

 
When Chrysler first introduced the hemispherical combustion chambered engine in the early 1960s, it was groundbreaking.   Originally designed for performance on the racetracks, the Hemi 426 proved so successful at its original intent � in its first appearance at the Daytona 500 in 1964, Richard Petty used a Hemi engine to take the checkered flag � that soon there was a sizable demand for street machines with Hemi engines.

While the racing success came early and often, and dealers were able to sell a respectable amount directly to street consumers, the early 70s marked the end of the Hemi 426, as most racing circuits outlawed the engine and Chrysler discontinued production in 1971.

Fast forward almost 20 years, and the Hemi made a comeback, albeit in a slightly different form.  Seeking an engine with ample power and torque, Chrysler reinvented the timeless engine and began installing the Hemi engines in their Dodge pickup line, sparking new interest in the classic model.

Since that time, classic Hemi vehicles have become highly sought-after; there were roughly 10,000 Hemi cars produced between 1964 and 1971 at a cost of $3000 to $4000 each, and now they are among the most valuable collector vehicles in existence.

Meanwhile, restoration enthusiasts and engine builders have increasingly turned their focus on the original Hemi 426, not just for its racing prowess, but also as a durable and reliable engine for cars, trucks, boats and hot rods alike.

For many gearheads, nothing can match the flair and performance of having a classic Hemi under the hood. However, there are some considerations that a builder must make before embarking on a Hemi 426 rebuild.  Perhaps the most crucial consideration is cost; Hemi rebuilds are generally more expensive than other 1960s engines, owing mostly to the difficulty in obtaining the specific parts needed.

The cost can vary wildly, however, and some Hemi rebuilds can be done for a few hundred dollars.  Others, however, can cost as much as $1,500.

The disparity has to do with the adaptability of the original 426s.  While stock Hemi 426 parts are widely available and generally reasonably priced, modified versions can be more of a chore to deal with.  And many of the original Hemi 426s were modified, whether for racing or a customized street version.

Original Hemi 426 parts can still be found with minimal effort, both for stock engines and modified versions � with one notable exception being the DeSoto models, for which parts are extremely scarce.  However, knowing which specific parts are needed when dealing with an engine that has been modded (and often machined) is the tricky part, and while many parts are interchangeable between the various versions, care must be taken to ensure that all parts are compatible.  The good news is that interest in restoring the 426 has led to an upsurge in manufacturing parts specifically designed for rebuilds � the downside to this is that there are so many parts available, it can be difficult to determine which one is correct for your rebuild.

Because of the extra knowledge needed to effectively study the engine components and ensure part compatibility, and the potential for bigger costs to find a rare part, Hemi 426 rebuilds are recommended primarily for those that have experience restoring other classic engines.   The difficulty of actually rebuilding the engine is not so great, but failure to properly match parts can ruin the experience, so proceed with caution.

The Hemi 426 is one of the greatest production engines every produced, and its staying power in the collector/rebuild world is staggering.  Many builders are specifically seeking out the Hemi because of its rediscovered reputation as a classy and powerful engine.  If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding restoration project � one that will ensure that your friends and family can give you no guff � then it is hard to go wrong with an engine that has had such a huge influence (despite limited early production) as the Chrysler Hemi 426.

Author Bio:

Roger Morrison is a classic car enthusiast and an off-road aficionado that has recently taken to blogging to share his passions with others.  His current project is as an online publisher for Chrysler Australia.

Pumped up Six: Ford Inline-6 Modification

I purchased my first car on a cold day in January at the age of 16. It was a red 1969 Mustang coupe, picked up for $1,800, and I still drive her to this day. The search for my first car lasted over a year, while I worked to save up my money. During that time, there were many makes and models of old cars�I knew I wanted a classic�which I looked at and test-drove. While I was still not certain what car I would end up buying, there was one requirement that I had to adhere to by order of my parents: I could not have a V8. Safety, insurance, the fact my parents actually knew the damage I was capable of were all reasons for this call.

Resolved to this fact, I knew I would have to make due with whatever I could get my hands on. I ended up with the Ford 250ci straight six, and hopes of one day swapping her out for something with a bit more sauce once I had finished her restoration and left home. For the time being, in an effort to hide my shame of rocking a six-banger, I installed a set of split headers from Clifford Performance, complete with a pair of 40 series Flowmaster mufflers. A cutout rear valance with dual tipped pipes added to the effect, and people continue to be fooled and shocked when I tell them it�s a six. I say still, because after a few more modifications I decided to stick with the original engine and continue with the shock factor of putting eights to the test.

The first thing to do is getting acquainted with your online resources. The two I have found to be the most productive for my six-cylinder needs are Clifford Performance�where I bought my headers all those years ago�and Classic Inlines. Both of these companies� sites have articles, how-to�s, photo galleries, dyno results, and engine parts. I would say familiarizing yourself with the products both companies offer is key prior to making any plans for that rebuild. Of course, knowing what you want from your car modification is key at this point as well; are you still wanting a daily driver with average fuel economy and some nice pep, or are you striving for an 11 second drag machine?

If you are a true gear head, you may end up doing the modification yourself. If not, make sure you have a mechanic who knows a thing or two about this sort of modification. Not only is this an uncommon task�especially in the States�but the average mechanic might not be as well versed in working on old inline sixes. Shop around for your guy, and think about getting him involved from the very beginning, and not when you finally have all your parts and are ready to go. Odds are, your mechanic will be pretty stoked about taking on such a unique project�unless, of course, you find someone who does the mod frequently.

The number one issue with modifying the Ford straight six is the unfortunate problem with the intake manifold. Sadly, the Ford 170-200-250 intake manifold was cast as part of the head, meaning it cannot be swapped out. There are kits that allow you to bore into the manifold to add extra carburetors, but this method has always seemed sloppy to me, and obviously irreversible. The Ford Australian six, however, does have a detachable manifold, and these heads are very popular for inline modification. The only problem is�living in America�these heads are very difficult to come by, and even if you buy the head from Australia, the shipping will kill.

A more viable option is to simply purchase an aftermarket head from Classic Inlines. Not only will you then have the option to swap out manifolds, but they also have an aluminum head to make the purchase all the more worth it. Odds are, even with the Aussie head you would perform a complete rebuild, and with the aftermarket you can just order it with the new add-ons already there for you. Performance rods, rocker arms, and springs are all elements with will help beef up the power-potential of your head.

Classic Inlines has you just about covered in all aspects of your car modifications. Their master rebuild kit will get you where you need to go, and I highly recommend going that route over building up the parts one by one. They have several options that allow you to completely customize your package. At this point, it is really important to have done your research and know exactly what you want, and hopefully know what your mechanic recommends; because there is a good chance he still knows more about it than you do, even if this is his first six modifications. 

In the case of my �69, I opted with the C.I. Aluminum 250-4v head from Classic Inlines, also adding the Clay Smith S294-122 Camshaft and Lifters, SI 1.86/1.56 Valves, the Yella Terra 1.65 Roller Rocker Kit, and a Romac High Performance Balancer. I decided to go bold, and skipped the carb, going with EFI fuel injection instead�giving me great mileage and performance. I still make about 24 MPG, and dyno�d at 256 HP and 401 lb/ft of torque. At a recent car show, they had a 150 ft drag strip set up for us, and I completely blew the doors off of my brothers �71 351-4v Mach 1.

The common fate of most six cylinder classics�particularly mustangs�is to gut it and drop in the eight. Hopping up the old six was a blast, and is such a unique addition to the story of your ride. At car shows, my �69 gets unbelievable amounts of attention because people have never seen a six dressed up in such a way. She performs well on the road, while also getting my better fuel economy than I probably could have expected from a stock 302. At the same time, it gives me a sense of satisfaction knowing the heart that beats under the hood is the same one that was dropped in on day one.

Author Bio:

Jack Payton is a car nut in the purest form. He loves to write about everything gear related, and rebuilt his first engine at 15. He works as the online publisher for the online tire retailer tires-easy.com. In his spare time he enjoys cruising, attending car shows, and collecting vinyl.

New Audi S7 LED Headlights - Game Day Commercial

Get a sneak peak of the new Audi S7 commercial. Amazingly, of all the features, they've focused more on its new daylight like LED Headlights. Besides claiming it to be more efficient, they are more like daylight thus making them even safer and visible even in the dusk.

See what becomes of the entire vampires party when they are exposed to this new Audi S7's LED Lights.
Kinda funny :-)

Harmful Chemicals In Cars

Alright, so we've discussed about pimping your ride by applying some cool car modification tips, some safety measures to save you from some hazardous car mishaps and some other information e.t.c.

So this post (a rather different one) is not to freak you out. It's just for informative purposes and to spread awareness as well related to the health issues when it comes to cars both new or old. My new online pal, "Brian Turner" emailed me this couple of days ago.

The �new car smell / scent� is a distinctive and special smell that many people find pleasant and exciting. However, that smell may be a result of the many hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing of automobiles. Several of these harmful and toxic substances are carcinogens, while others have some truly serious side effects.

Phthalates is commonly used to soften plastics in the interior of the cars. This toxic substance has been found present in levels that are known to be harmful to the occupants. Another toxic chemical, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), is used as a flame retardant and is found in the car seats, carpeting, and dashboard. PBDEs accumulate in the blood, fatty tissues, and breast milk. Both of these are known carcinogens.

Asbestos, a very dangerous (mesothelioma) cancer-causing substance, is found in high concentration in older cars. Exposure poses a risk to those who fix cars for work or hobby, such as muscle car enthusiasts. In addition, vehicles that are manufactured even today contain asbestos in the brakes, gaskets, pads, and clutch. It has also been found present in hood liners in the interior of the car. Exposure to asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, a fatal lung cancer.

Toxic substances found in vehicles also cause liver toxicity and delayed development in children. It may also cause birth defects because of the potential to accumulate in the blood stream and breast milk. Neurotoxic symptoms and mucus membrane irritation can be caused by other chemicals found to be present, such as acetone, benzene, and toluene.

The occupants inhale the toxins when the car�s surfaces heat up. Parking in direct sunlight, leaving the windows closed, and not using a sun shade all heat the car up enough to release the chemicals. Mechanics and do-it-yourself repairers come into contact with the asbestos when performing maintenance and risk developing mesothelioma.

New government regulations are being put into place to limit the amount of toxic substances used to manufacture vehicles. Some companies, such as Honda, have initiated reducing the amounts even below current laws. When purchasing a new car, ask the dealer for the disclosure of chemicals used in the car. Check the amounts used and compare that the levels of toxicity. This is the best way to reduce exposure to toxins in vehicles.

5 Tips For Car Window Tinting

Body

Having your car's windows tinted can provide several benefits. These include reducing the amount of piercing light entering the car and limiting ultra-violet rays. Selecting the right mechanics or auto industry professionals to do the job is an important decision. Take time to ponder the process and requirements, in order to make the right choice.

Light Reduction

Having the bright sun shining right into a driver's line of vision is not only irritating, but can also be dangerous. One of the main benefits of car window tinting is substantially reducing this amount of light. Not only can this assist with vision issues, it also helps reduce infrared light and ultra-violet radiation, sometimes almost totally. Some window tinting professionals will have figures on just how much UV rays and the like can be reduced, so it's worth investigating.


Privacy

Window tinting also brings privacy benefits to a car. While the driver and any passengers can see clearly out of the car, those on the outside have great difficulty looking in. This can help reduce theft, by keeping internal contents pretty well hidden. With different gradients of darkness, it is imperative to ensure that the level you choose meets local standards. Law enforcement want to ensure that drivers can see clearly through window tinting at night, when visibility may be impaired. Police officers may also want to identify those in a vehicle themselves.


Installation

While it is possible to apply window tinting by oneself, unless you are absolutely sure what you are doing, you could end up with a sub-standard result. The reason being is that the work can be a bit tricky, particularly with the glass of car windows which is curved and needs special application. Cutting and sizing window tinting film to match properly can be a challenge. Applying window tinting film to car windows poorly can result in bubbled film, or tinting that separates from the glass. Specialised tools are also needed for this type of work, so embark on any do it yourself venture with caution.


Warranty

Should you choose to use the experts, check what sort of warranty window tinting installation comes with. Employing those that install window tinting daily should give a consumer extra confidence that the job will be done right. Some good operators offer lifetime warranties on their work, giving extra peace of mind. This is important, as one doesn't want to be left with a home type job, without any recourse.


Removal

Hopefully most customers are happy with the results of having their car windows tinted, and would never want or need to have it removed. If for some reason it does need to be removed, a few words of caution are required. Just like installation, removal on your own can get quite messy if you are not careful with what you are doing. Some window tinters remove whole plates of glass in order to put on the window film, so removing this at home may be a challenge. One can sometimes remove tinting with a hair dryer and some ammonia, but for a worry free removal, consult the experts.

Window tinting has some clear benefits, and the result looks pretty cool too. Be familiar with the options and regulations before shopping around. Just like with your regular car service, award the job to a reputable operator.

Car Modification - Legal Issues

In the last article we talked about Safety Mods. Now it would be appropriate to have a look at some legal issues arising due to car modification. For this purpose I would present an extract from a website which deals with and educates on the legal implications due to car modification. But before that I would like to have some words with you.

Laws enacted by law enforcing agencies are for the betterment of oneself so you must not take steps to violate these laws as it could prove lethal to you as well as civilian around you in long or short run. Now lets see what legal problems you can get into because of unlawful car modification.


Under traffic laws in most states, drivers may be given a traffic ticket for operating a vehicle that has been modified in violation of laws that regulate vehicle specifications and vehicle equipment. Examples of vehicle modifications that may result in a traffic ticket include:

* Addition of non-standard lighting (neon lights, under-vehicle lights),
* Alteration or removal of air pollution and emissions control device
* Modification of vehicle ground clearance ("lowered" or "raised" vehicles),
* Removal of mufflers and other sound-control devices, and
* Window tinting (especially tinting of windshield or driver/front passenger side windows).

An unlawfully-modified vehicle can receive a traffic ticket for a mechanical violation. In some states, citations for certain unlawful vehicle modifications are considered "fix-it" tickets or "correctable violations." In California, for example, if you are given a "fix-it" ticket by a police officer, "yes" will be checked next to "Correctable Violation", and after the problem is fixed (i.e. you remove illegal under-car lights), you must get the signature of an authorized person (i.e. a local law enforcement officer) on the "Certificate of Correction" portion of the ticket. If you are issued a "fix-it" ticket for an unlawful vehicle modification in your state, read the ticket to determine whether you can mail the proof of correction, rather than taking it to court.

If the court accepts your correction, the case will be dismissed. But, if you fail to fix the problem within a short time after you receive a "fix-it" ticket, you will need to pay the fine for the unlawful vehicle modification, and you may be issued another ticket which will go on your record.

Source : http://public.findlaw.com/traffic-ticket-violation-law/traffic-ticket-a-z/unlawful-modification.html

Car Modification - Safety Issues.

Car modification has been a recreational activity since the day first car was bought and with the passage of time, it has gained so much popularity that it has taken form of a separate industry where the car manufacturers are busy in creating high performance after market car parts. Now car modification is more popular among youth and teenagers. They are busy and regularly come up with new stunning ideas which leave us with our mouth wide open. Due to the over zealous state of mind of the youth and "Living On The Edge" nature of the art of car modification, people often compromise their safety and do not even refrain in challenging the legal authorities and violating and confronting the enacted laws pertaining to car modification.

Modifying cars can sure be regarded as an artistic activity which involves and requires great amount of creativity but putting your lives in danger and acting as a menace on the roads is not wise at all. We would discuss some safety mods and legal issues abiding by which will definitely make you a safe and sound citizen.

Car Safety Mods

When you modify and try to pimp your ride, many of them are performed to enhance the appearance and make it more presentable. But many car enthusiasts perform it to enhance the performance and efficiency of their cars. Obviously, enhancement of car's performance means more speed and definitely more risks attached to it. By applying the following safeguards, the performance enhancements is sure going to be safe.

Car Seat Belts:

Car seat belts are for you safety so when you modify the interior of the car its possible that you amend some of the settings which can possibly affect the performance of the seat belts. Make sure that seat belts are more efficient and the locking mechanisms are working properly. Make sure that whenever you wear the belt, the tension in it is intact or seat belts are of no use.


Installing Roll Cage:

Installing roll cage kits is sure a wise move especially when you are looking for some drags and drifts and street racing. Installing roll cage kits will ensure to a great extent in case of any misfortune occurs. You install these roll cage kits for better structural rigidity which acts as a supporting beam and are very protective in case of a crash. So ensure that the supplier of the roll cage kits are dependable and trusted.


Unexpected Fire Cases:

Unexpected fire cases often occur during high street end racing. When you are spending thousands on car modification we would advise you to at least have a hand held fire extinguisher at your disposal for your safety so fire suspension much easier.


Improve Car Braking:

In case when the tires, wheel rims and car body kit is modified, it sure leaves an impact on the car braking as the weight of the car is altered eventually. Make sure that your car braking mechanism is safe, sound, efficient and spot on as ever. Aligning the your car brakes to the safety rules is not an expensive job. Just make sure you have a good lock at your car brakes cooling mechanism and confirm that the brake pads cool quickly. Furthermore, just have a good look at brake shoes (pads), brake fluids, drilled disks e.t.c.


Implications Of Tire Change:

Tire change improves your car handling and ground clearance but in some cases they work otherwise. So ensure that you pay some considerations towards this aspect and replace your tires with the compatible ones which enhances the road grip and are also effective on wet tracks. Using tires specific for racing purposes and also keep an eye on the optimum pressure of your tires to ensure better road grip, traction and ultimately, safety.

Polyurethane Body Kits

Car performance body kits are now a days being manufactured by different materials. All have some advantages and disadvantages and selecting a body kit of a particular material depends totally on the price, conditions, usage and other various factors. The different materials could be polyurethane, fiber glass, carbon fiber, ABS plastic e.t.c.

In this post I intend to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of car body kits made up of polyurethane. I hope this will make your mind even more clear and lead you to a better decision making when selecting the performance body kit for your next exterior car modification.

Advantages:

The biggest advantage of attempting your car body kit modification and then replacing it with polyurethane is its durability. These are more long lasting than the famous fiber glass body kits as the material is more flexible. This flexibility makes it to get mount on your car very easily. So if you are reluctant in changing your car's body kit and consider installing a new one very tough job then polyurethane body kits will change your opinion once and for all. This attribute makes a car modification quite simple and pretty much a DIY job hence saving time and money.

Since polyurethane is a hard and flexible substance, it does not damage easily as compared to its other competitors. So you need to bang real hard your car in order to place an impact on the kit. But wait. Did I say "Bang Real Hard!!!" you definitely would not love to strike your car anywhere no matter what material your car body is and this feeling become even more extreme when the material is polyurethane. Because the moment your car strikes and an impact is laid on the kit, there's a great disadvantage waiting for you which I will discuss in the disadvantages section.


Disadvantages:

Since it is a high quality material so generally the polyurethane body kits are more costly than other materials so you really need to have tight pockets if you are going for it. This is a great drawback as it goes out of reach for many car enthusiasts and they cannot afford it at all. Secondly, painting over polyurethane is not a convenient job at all at paint requires more adhesion and also sags more quickly over time when exposed to sun or heat.

Furthermore, these are more heavy than fiber glass, so when you mount them over your car keep your mind well prepared for more fuel consumption as more power is going to be required by your car to drag it. Now coming to the disadvantage because of which you would not love to hit your car and cause an impression on it. Polyurethane body kits are not easily repairable or in some cases, it is impossible do retain the original shape of it and you will only have to replace it with new one as the car dents are not going to be removed. So you have to be even more careful on the road.

Bringing my discussion to an end, polyurethane sure is an expensive material to afford but think of it from the positive angle. The less the people will have them, the more your car is going to be unique. The decision is sure in your hands.