Monthly Archives: February 2013
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- February 27, 2013
Driving a boat is nothing like driving a car on the road. Here's what you need to know.
Learning Boating Controls
On most center-console vessels, you'll see a control panel. This is where you'll find the self-explanatory steering wheel and ignition switch. You'll also notice the throttle, a device that not only puts you into forward or reverse but also controls your speed. Next to the throttle sits the power-and-trim switch that raises and lowers the motor.
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- February 27, 2013
People test batteries for a variety of reasons such as troubleshooting. For instance, a brief test may determine if an airsoft gun needs repair or simply requires new batteries. Most testers must be connected to the positive and negative terminals of a battery. They use lights, meters or digital readouts to provide the user with an estimate of the remaining strength. Several techniques may be used to conduct a test.
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- February 26, 2013
Driving a motorcycle on the open road is thrilling, but this can be a dangerous hobby if you don’t take the proper precautions. Motorcycle accidents are often more severe than car or truck crashes, and many are fatal. The best way to avoid injury is to practice proper motorcycle safety before you ride, as well as during your journey.
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- February 25, 2013
Our society is becoming increasingly concerned with protecting the environment, and the self-charging battery has been developed to meet this demand.
Development of Self-Charging Batteries
Batteries that are able to generate and store energy at the same time have recently been developed by Georgia Tech. These batteries must have a source of energy from which to generate and store this energy, and common activities like walking have the potential to do so.
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- February 22, 2013
A question was posted over on Bob The Oil Guy regarding battery desulfators and whether or not they work. There were some interesting answers, much opinion and some real life examples of people using these devices. User 3311 must be a battery sales man as his response said "No they don't work. Electrical snake oil..." I would suggest the opposite is true.
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- February 20, 2013
Most motorcycles are a large investment. That is why it’s imperative to keep them in the best shape possible. This means that taking the proper steps to store your bike during the winter is important. The proper storage steps will ensure that your motorcycle is rust free and ready to ride when springtime arrives.
Storage Location
Choose a dry, indoor location to store your bike for wintertime. This can be in a place such as a garage, a rental storage place or a motorcycle dealership. If the bike must be kept outside, search for a covered area that is hidden from passersby. Additionally, protect your bike with proper security measures such as a fork or wheel locks.
Change the Oil
Changing your bike’s oil will significantly reduce the effects of condensation and rust. It’s necessary to do this each time the bike is stored for the winter.
Protect the Engine
Before storing your motorcycle, you will need to shield the engine’s cylinders from moisture. Remove the spark plugs, and dispense clean
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- February 19, 2013
Technology advances have created smaller, lighter electronic devices that make many areas of life highly convenient. However, powering these devices has been somewhat problematic because the liquefied electrolytes in standard batteries require hard casings. Current battery technology is inflexible, and its vulnerability to high heat includes the possibility of hazardous leaks or explosions.
A safer power source could soon become available in bendable batteries that use nanotechnology to fuse electrolytes to various flexible materials. Researchers around the world are developing these groundbreaking devices, which have the potential to change the entire electronics industry.
Paper Batteries
A team of researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York created a flexible battery using ultrafine carbon nanotubes fused to paper. Components are integrated on a molecular level, meaning that cutting the finished battery into various shapes, along with folding, rolling or twisting it,
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- February 14, 2013
Riding a jet ski gives you a chance to enjoy the open water while having fun with your friends. However, you shouldn't rush out and jump on one of these vehicles without any preparation. If you're an inexperienced rider, you need to learn a number of important safety tips before taking your first ride.
Learn How to Control a Jet Ski
Although controlling a personal watercraft is relatively basic, it's important to familiarize yourself with the vehicle before taking an extended ride. If you've never driven a personal watercraft before, you may want to take a class to learn basic controls and safety techniques. A class can also help you learn how to identify each feature of your personal watercraft.
Pre-trip Checklist
Before you take your personal watercraft to the lake or ocean, you need to ensure that it's ready for the water. Begin by checking your watercraft's battery for corrosion and damage; if the battery terminals are badly corroded, you may need to replace the battery. Next, inspect
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- February 13, 2013
Powerboating is an enjoyable hobby that offers excitement and relaxation. Boaters can take to the water at high speeds or putter down a picturesque canal. When hobbyists are just starting out in the sport, they may consider taking a few powerboat training courses to ensure their personal safety as well as the security of the guests that they may welcome onboard.
Beginning a Powerboat Hobby
Powerboats typically have a high rate of power compared to their weight. In addition, the boat’s hull is evenly balanced. Therefore, the vessels are easy to maneuver and capable of reaching high speeds. The model’s overall design is streamlined to decrease drag and air resistance.
Be sure to review the total cost of powerboat ownership before buying a boat. The recreational vessel will require storage, transportation to the marina or dock, insurance and operating expenses as well as funds for the initial boat purchase.
Buying the right boat size is essential as a vessel that is too large may be overly
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- February 13, 2013
When the battery in your car dies, you may wonder if you can save a substantial amount of money by doing the installation without the help of a professional. While cost savings may be enjoyed by doing this installation yourself, there are other factors in the installation process that should be examined before coming to a final decision.
Benefits of Installing a Car Battery Yourself
• The labor costs that are charged for a car battery installation often top about $50 per hour. Instead of paying this fee, a driver can purchasetheir own battery and follow a tutorial on battery installation.
• Most people are able to install a battery in their car in less than an hour, so there is no need to drive to a mechanic and wait for the installation to be completed. When a professional is involved, drivers need to wait for other customers who may be ahead of them in line. Completing an installation yourself means that you retain use of your car instead of waiting for maintenance to be done.
• Professional