Many people tend to disregard the exhaust system of an automobile. They may think that the exhaust system does nothing more than to discharge the waste products of the combustion process. Although this is exactly what the exhaust system does, the way these waste product is discharged out of the engine is essential to the performance of the engine. A gasoline engine involves three processes: combustion, mechanical drive and exhaust. If one of these processes is impeded, the condition of the engine will depreciate.
The exhaust system has three major functions, the first of which is to channel out the waste products of combustion out of the engine to allow it to continue to burn fuel unhindered thereby ensuring that the engine runs smoothly. An efficient exhaust system allows the waste gas and compound to escape quickly out of the system. If these waste products do not escape from the engine immediately, they may choke up the engine thus causing it to break down.
Another function of the exhaust system is to reduce the noise generated by the engine. Noise is one of the "wastes" produced by the engine. The exhaust gases leave the engine at extremely high pressure. If these gases escaped directly out of the engine, the noise generated would be tremendous. Thus, to minimize this noise, the exhaust system lets the exhaust gases pass through metal plates and tubes called the muffler. As the gas passes through the muffler, the noise is reduced.
The third function of the exhaust system is to clean up the emissions that are harmful to the environment. When the engine burns fuel, it produces gases that pollute the air such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. The exhaust system, through the Catalytic Converter, cleans up the exhaust gases by breaking down the harmful gas compounds. Chemicals in the catalytic converter act as catalysts, changing the highly hazardous gas compounds to less harmful ones.
Because air pollution is a major environmental problem that affects us all, catalytic converters are a necessity. In fact, it is illegal in most states not to have a catalytic converter. Replacing defective catalytic converters is not only an ethical necessity but also a legal requirement. If ever your car needs a new catalytic converter, you should purchase a new one and have it replaced as soon as possible. A catalytic converter is essential for the better performance of any exhaust system.
Mazda Catalytic Converters can be found at auto parts wholesalers and auto parts dealers all over the country. However, there is a much easier way to shop for Mazda Parts and other VW Parts. By far, the most convenient and fast way to shop for Mazda Parts is to visit a dependable and trustworthy online auto parts supplier with a good reputation as an excellent source of top-notch, low priced auto parts and accessories.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Survey On MOney Expenses On Automobiles
The latest findings from the Sainsbury's Bank Car Buying Index reveal that 7.85 million Britons aim to purchase an automobile between this month and February 2008 - a rise of some 200,000 noted on the previous six-month period. Meanwhile, an estimated 58.6 billion pounds is to be splashed out on vehicles. This figure is up by 5.4 billion pounds from the study covering the spending from March to August.
Research from the financial services provider also showed that 5.35 million are set to purchase a second-hand car, a slight decrease from figures recorded during the previous index. Meanwhile, 2.11 million are aiming to buy a brand-new automobile. Overall, 2.2 million plan on spending more than 10,000 pounds on a vehicle, as 670,000 put their estimated expenditure at over 21,000 pounds.
Steven Baillie, head of loans for Sainsbury’s Bank, said: “It’s interesting to see that the significant drop in the numbers looking to purchase cars witnessed back in March appears to have been a short-term dip, with our recent findings revealing an increase in people looking to purchase a car over the next half-year. The amount people are willing to spend on their car purchase is also up by an average of 500 pounds on six months ago.” However, he claimed that despite signs of “some recovery in consumer confidence”, the most recent study reveals a fall of more than 10 billion pounds in the total amount of money spent on new cars compared with the same time last year.
Meanwhile, just under a third (31 per cent) of those who plan on purchasing a car during the next six months are set to fund some of their purchase through a personal loan. Of the total estimated amount of money to be spent on buying automobiles, 18.5 per cent, or £10.8 billion, will be financed via such a form of borrowing. Mr Baillie added: “The total amount planned to be taken out in loans for car purchases is up by 28 per cent when compared with the previous six months, which means that motorists must make sure that they shop around for a competitive rate as they could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of pounds in repayments.”
Across Britain, people living in the north-west of England were said to have driven the recent propensity to get a car, as the proportion of such consumers aiming to make said purchase has risen by seven per cent during the last six months. However, south-east residents are still revealed to be the biggest motoring spenders, with a predicted expenditure of £13 billion.
In June, a study by Alliance & Leicester showed that a quarter of personal loans borrowers are to use their borrowing to purchase a used car. Meanwhile, 12 per cent of consumers will put the loan towards buying a new vehicle, as three per cent aim to either get a motorbike or caravan. Richard Al-Dabbagh, senior personal loans manager for the financial service provider, claimed that leaning towards personal loans “isn’t too surprising” as the majority of forecourt finance deals are uncompetitive.
Research from the financial services provider also showed that 5.35 million are set to purchase a second-hand car, a slight decrease from figures recorded during the previous index. Meanwhile, 2.11 million are aiming to buy a brand-new automobile. Overall, 2.2 million plan on spending more than 10,000 pounds on a vehicle, as 670,000 put their estimated expenditure at over 21,000 pounds.
Steven Baillie, head of loans for Sainsbury’s Bank, said: “It’s interesting to see that the significant drop in the numbers looking to purchase cars witnessed back in March appears to have been a short-term dip, with our recent findings revealing an increase in people looking to purchase a car over the next half-year. The amount people are willing to spend on their car purchase is also up by an average of 500 pounds on six months ago.” However, he claimed that despite signs of “some recovery in consumer confidence”, the most recent study reveals a fall of more than 10 billion pounds in the total amount of money spent on new cars compared with the same time last year.
Meanwhile, just under a third (31 per cent) of those who plan on purchasing a car during the next six months are set to fund some of their purchase through a personal loan. Of the total estimated amount of money to be spent on buying automobiles, 18.5 per cent, or £10.8 billion, will be financed via such a form of borrowing. Mr Baillie added: “The total amount planned to be taken out in loans for car purchases is up by 28 per cent when compared with the previous six months, which means that motorists must make sure that they shop around for a competitive rate as they could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of pounds in repayments.”
Across Britain, people living in the north-west of England were said to have driven the recent propensity to get a car, as the proportion of such consumers aiming to make said purchase has risen by seven per cent during the last six months. However, south-east residents are still revealed to be the biggest motoring spenders, with a predicted expenditure of £13 billion.
In June, a study by Alliance & Leicester showed that a quarter of personal loans borrowers are to use their borrowing to purchase a used car. Meanwhile, 12 per cent of consumers will put the loan towards buying a new vehicle, as three per cent aim to either get a motorbike or caravan. Richard Al-Dabbagh, senior personal loans manager for the financial service provider, claimed that leaning towards personal loans “isn’t too surprising” as the majority of forecourt finance deals are uncompetitive.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Airline Accident
Though many are afraid to fly because they fear an airline accident, there really isn’t as much to be worried about as you might think. They say it is safer to fly than it is to drive, but I have mixed feelings about that. Though airline accidents are indeed so rare that they make news, you have to think about your chances for survival. The good news is that many of the times when something goes wrong with a plane you don’t even know it, and everyone gets out safely.
When you are in a car, you know you have a chance to survive an accident. However, if you are in an airline accident, you know what is going to happen. If you are flying through the air and the plane crashes to earth, you are probably not going to survive it. I guess it depends on how you look at it. Many times when there is an airline accident it is on the ground or perhaps happens during landing. This is when your chances of survival are highest. Though this is not always the case, you have to consider the size of the plane. A huge place will offer a bit more cushion than an automobile, don’t you think?
If you are worried about an airline accident, you might want to do some research. When you see the numbers of people who actually die each year in an airline accident you will find the number to be amazingly low. I remember doing research on the subject and was shocked to see the numbers of people who die in auto accidents. It does seem to put you at ease a bit when you think about the numbers.
Though you might be frightened when you go on a plane for the first time, you will feel better if you know your chances for being in an airline accident are slim. I know the first time I flew was terrifying yet exhilarating for me at the same time. I was worried about an airline accident, but I didn’t let that stop me from living my life. I had the most amazing time when I went away, and it was worth the fear I felt when I first stepped onto the plane. It’s a matter of perspective really. You are always in danger of dying, but you have to know that the odds are with you when you fly.
When you are in a car, you know you have a chance to survive an accident. However, if you are in an airline accident, you know what is going to happen. If you are flying through the air and the plane crashes to earth, you are probably not going to survive it. I guess it depends on how you look at it. Many times when there is an airline accident it is on the ground or perhaps happens during landing. This is when your chances of survival are highest. Though this is not always the case, you have to consider the size of the plane. A huge place will offer a bit more cushion than an automobile, don’t you think?
If you are worried about an airline accident, you might want to do some research. When you see the numbers of people who actually die each year in an airline accident you will find the number to be amazingly low. I remember doing research on the subject and was shocked to see the numbers of people who die in auto accidents. It does seem to put you at ease a bit when you think about the numbers.
Though you might be frightened when you go on a plane for the first time, you will feel better if you know your chances for being in an airline accident are slim. I know the first time I flew was terrifying yet exhilarating for me at the same time. I was worried about an airline accident, but I didn’t let that stop me from living my life. I had the most amazing time when I went away, and it was worth the fear I felt when I first stepped onto the plane. It’s a matter of perspective really. You are always in danger of dying, but you have to know that the odds are with you when you fly.
Auto Show
Although I live in a city that is notorious for the high prices of car or any vehicle ownership and I don’t own a car of my own, personally, I love going to auto shows. I don’t have a way to explain this strange fascination of mine except through the fact that I find auto shows tremendously exciting. First and foremost I guess is the feeling of being surrounded by powerful gas guzzling monsters. That in itself is a thrilling experience. And maybe the presence of pretty stall hostesses at auto shows has something to do with it. But the one aspect that impresses me most about auto shows probably is the opportunity to know about the latest and the best in the auto world.
I’m really serious. Auto shows are probably the best place in the world to know all about the latest automobiles and their specifications. They are also places where the world’s foremost manufacturers bring out their latest models, showcase them and even staff the stalls with attractive women, who, even though they can’t explain much about the horsepower of the vehicle, can get the adrenaline in your body racing. But seriously, auto shows are the best place to see some of the world’s leading vehicles in action.
Another attractive aspect of auto shows is the fact that a lot of stunt car drivers make their pilgrimage here. It is almost a not to be missed holy journey for these battle hardened drivers. And the automobile manufacturers spare no opportunity to exploit their need for speed. In most auto shows, you can find events dedicated to testing the limits of man and machine. And the stunt car drivers also take the opportunity to test drive the fastest vehicles, make the most breathtaking turns, achieve the maximum number of spins and in general indulge in all sorts of death defying activities that is enough to make the blood of ordinary mortals like you and me congeal in our veins. I love going to auto shows just to see these people in action.
At a more mundane level, auto shows are also good places to book the latest vehicles at discount prices. Generally, the more revolutionary the car model, the bigger the discounts offered. This is because, like any other trade fair, auto shows are the test ground for manufacturers to test the popularity of their vehicles. And in doing so, they sell a number of vehicles at discounted prices in order to get the cars out on the roads fast.
I’m really serious. Auto shows are probably the best place in the world to know all about the latest automobiles and their specifications. They are also places where the world’s foremost manufacturers bring out their latest models, showcase them and even staff the stalls with attractive women, who, even though they can’t explain much about the horsepower of the vehicle, can get the adrenaline in your body racing. But seriously, auto shows are the best place to see some of the world’s leading vehicles in action.
Another attractive aspect of auto shows is the fact that a lot of stunt car drivers make their pilgrimage here. It is almost a not to be missed holy journey for these battle hardened drivers. And the automobile manufacturers spare no opportunity to exploit their need for speed. In most auto shows, you can find events dedicated to testing the limits of man and machine. And the stunt car drivers also take the opportunity to test drive the fastest vehicles, make the most breathtaking turns, achieve the maximum number of spins and in general indulge in all sorts of death defying activities that is enough to make the blood of ordinary mortals like you and me congeal in our veins. I love going to auto shows just to see these people in action.
At a more mundane level, auto shows are also good places to book the latest vehicles at discount prices. Generally, the more revolutionary the car model, the bigger the discounts offered. This is because, like any other trade fair, auto shows are the test ground for manufacturers to test the popularity of their vehicles. And in doing so, they sell a number of vehicles at discounted prices in order to get the cars out on the roads fast.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Less Maintainence Of Hybrid Automobiles
Hybrid cars are getting a lot of attention from consumers looking to purchase a new car. One reason is that they use less gas and therefore save you a lot of money at the pumps. However, their popularity is not just based on their fuel saving design, they also require less maintenance than that of their conventional cousins.
It can be frustrating to have to take time off from work to go to the mechanic for maintenance checks and repairs. It is equally frustrating to use up part of your weekends for this as well. Owning a Hybrid helps you to avoid this frustration, thanks to their unique design. There are various features that contribute to these benefits.
One reason is that they have fewer parts than conventional cars. For example, the Hybrid vehicle does not have a starter. A car that has fewer parts requires less maintenance and less maintenance means less expense. Another important factor is that the engine is smaller, between 10 to 20 horsepower and designed to run more efficiently by using only one speed.
The generator runs on a separate, gas powered motor and contributes to the lesser need for maintenance. It also does things that conventional vehicles need additional parts for. The generator handles 80 percent of the braking, which helps to extend the life of the brake system. It does this in several ways, such as preserving brake fluid. Brake fluid can be contaminated by the effects of over heating, so by minimizing the heat exposure, the life of the brake fluid is extended. The lesser heat usage also helps reduce the risk of warped rotors. By the generator taking on more tasks, the battery usage is less and therefore will have to be replaced less often.
Another great feature that the design offers is that the air conditioner runs off of electricity and not gas. The steering system is superior in that it is also electric and does not require a belt the way hydraulic systems do. It also provides a smoother ride on rough road surfaces.
Other maintenance saving features are that the valve system requires no adjustments and the injectors don't have to be cleaned.
Hybrid vehicles offer longer warranties that also include the battery. This definitely adds to their attraction. The Prius, offered by Toyota, offers an eight year or 100,000 mile warranty that includes the hybrid system. The Honda Insight warranty offers 8 years or 80,000 miles and includes the power train.
When considering purchasing a new vehicle, definitely think about owning a hybrid. They require less maintenance than the conventional cars and therefore save you money and time spent at the auto shop. They are much more fuel efficient, and offer attractive warranties.
It can be frustrating to have to take time off from work to go to the mechanic for maintenance checks and repairs. It is equally frustrating to use up part of your weekends for this as well. Owning a Hybrid helps you to avoid this frustration, thanks to their unique design. There are various features that contribute to these benefits.
One reason is that they have fewer parts than conventional cars. For example, the Hybrid vehicle does not have a starter. A car that has fewer parts requires less maintenance and less maintenance means less expense. Another important factor is that the engine is smaller, between 10 to 20 horsepower and designed to run more efficiently by using only one speed.
The generator runs on a separate, gas powered motor and contributes to the lesser need for maintenance. It also does things that conventional vehicles need additional parts for. The generator handles 80 percent of the braking, which helps to extend the life of the brake system. It does this in several ways, such as preserving brake fluid. Brake fluid can be contaminated by the effects of over heating, so by minimizing the heat exposure, the life of the brake fluid is extended. The lesser heat usage also helps reduce the risk of warped rotors. By the generator taking on more tasks, the battery usage is less and therefore will have to be replaced less often.
Another great feature that the design offers is that the air conditioner runs off of electricity and not gas. The steering system is superior in that it is also electric and does not require a belt the way hydraulic systems do. It also provides a smoother ride on rough road surfaces.
Other maintenance saving features are that the valve system requires no adjustments and the injectors don't have to be cleaned.
Hybrid vehicles offer longer warranties that also include the battery. This definitely adds to their attraction. The Prius, offered by Toyota, offers an eight year or 100,000 mile warranty that includes the hybrid system. The Honda Insight warranty offers 8 years or 80,000 miles and includes the power train.
When considering purchasing a new vehicle, definitely think about owning a hybrid. They require less maintenance than the conventional cars and therefore save you money and time spent at the auto shop. They are much more fuel efficient, and offer attractive warranties.
Electric Automobiles In The Mainstream Market
Electric automobiles are vehicles that derive their power from electric motors. Many people may think that they are a fairly new invention, when actually, some of the earliest automobiles produced were already powered by electric motors that were fueled by batteries. However, due to the rapid development of internal combustion engines, electric vehicles were driven out of the market.
Electric motor systems are environmentally friendly and emits less pollution than combustion engines. They are also very energy-efficient. In fact, 75 percent of the energy stored in a battery reaches the wheels of an automobile, while only 20 percent of the chemical energy derived from gasoline is used by the wheels in an internal combustion engine.
Another advantage of electric automobiles is that they can provide power at the speed of an engine. This ensures strong acceleration performance for the electric vehicle.
The important factor that determines the cost and performance of electric automobiles are the batteries. Today, advancements in electric automotive technology have produced a number of battery types such as advanced lead-acid batteries, lithium polymer batteries and nickel metal hydride. However, even if an electric motor is extremely efficient, the capacity of the batteries is still very limited. For instance, the best batteries can store only a fraction of the energy of a gallon of gasoline in the same volume. The apparent solution to this is recharging. However, charging the battery fully may take a long time.
Electric automobiles still have a long way to go before they reach the mainstream market. Technology continues to improve and new innovations are constantly being introduced. Currently, hybrid vehicles like the gasoline-electric hybrid are enjoying considerable success. With the continued advancement in electric automobile technology, it may not be long before we see a more efficient and powerful electric automobile, and this time, they are likely to be on the market for good.
Electric motor systems are environmentally friendly and emits less pollution than combustion engines. They are also very energy-efficient. In fact, 75 percent of the energy stored in a battery reaches the wheels of an automobile, while only 20 percent of the chemical energy derived from gasoline is used by the wheels in an internal combustion engine.
Another advantage of electric automobiles is that they can provide power at the speed of an engine. This ensures strong acceleration performance for the electric vehicle.
The important factor that determines the cost and performance of electric automobiles are the batteries. Today, advancements in electric automotive technology have produced a number of battery types such as advanced lead-acid batteries, lithium polymer batteries and nickel metal hydride. However, even if an electric motor is extremely efficient, the capacity of the batteries is still very limited. For instance, the best batteries can store only a fraction of the energy of a gallon of gasoline in the same volume. The apparent solution to this is recharging. However, charging the battery fully may take a long time.
Electric automobiles still have a long way to go before they reach the mainstream market. Technology continues to improve and new innovations are constantly being introduced. Currently, hybrid vehicles like the gasoline-electric hybrid are enjoying considerable success. With the continued advancement in electric automobile technology, it may not be long before we see a more efficient and powerful electric automobile, and this time, they are likely to be on the market for good.
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