Auto Moto Cars News - Auto Parts

Cadillac Cts: Luxury and Safety into One

nospam@example.com (MotoManiac) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 11:27:08 +0100

Joining the list of the safest cars in the industry, the latest Cadillac model, which is the 2008 CTS, gains the Top Safety Pick Award by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Cady receives achievement and good remarks both from reviewers and buyers since it was launched in August. One confirmation for this is the rise for its sales since September, reaching to 59.5 percent. To earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick Award, a vehicle must outdo the stringent frontal, side and rear crash tests ...

Ford Mustang Tapped for Knight Rider Fame

nospam@example.com (MotoManiac) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 09:00:15 +0100

Former and current Knight Rider fans are in for a treat. NBC is set to air a special two hour backdoor pilot of the iconic Knight Rider on February 17. The two hour movie stars Justin Bruening (All My Children), Deanna Russo (NCIS), Sydney Tamiia Poitier (Veronica Mars) and Bruce Davison (Close to Home). Original Knight Rider hero, David Hasslehoff will also appear in a special character appearance as Michael Knight, his former character in the series. Startlingly enough, a Ford has replac ...

Technologies for a Cheaper and Greener Ride

nospam@example.com (MotoManiac) — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 18:59:22 +0100

It seems that car makers all over are getting serious about non-renewable resources. Recent developments in the automotive industry are apparently aimed at environment and consumer conscious innovations.
Continue reading "Technologies for a Cheaper and Greener Ride"

A Redeveloped Website, Offered by Car Price.com

nospam@example.com (Szymon) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 21:26:13 +0100

For car buyers who need a more reliable and fastest way in helping out choosing the best vehicle, Car Price.com has the solution. It comes with a new website that caters the necessary requirements of people when doing the research if buying a car.
Continue reading "A Redeveloped Website, Offered by Car Price.com"

The Next in Mobile Technology:driverless Driving

nospam@example.com (MotoManiac) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:01:23 +0100

Yet another cool reason to upgrade to a better mobile phone unit. You might be handling your mobile phone instead of the wheels the next time you find yourself driving. For the past months, Delphi has been working on developing such applications for the currently popular iPhone, smartphone and Blackberry. But don’t get over excited yet. The concept was just presented by Delphi in this year’s Consumer Electronic Show (CES). Done thru Bluetooth, Delphi’s Wireless Vehicle Access softwar ...

Audi Set to Unveil First Diesel-ran Sports Car

nospam@example.com (MotoManiac) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 05:46:42 +0100

Here is another first from the luxury car maker, Audi. The German brand is said to release, if ever, the first diesel powered supercar. The much anticipated diesel-run sports ride is set to be unveiled on the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The German brand’s latest venture will feature a design concept called R8 V12 TDi. The car will feature a slight modification from the brand’s famous V8 engine. The 500 bhp diesel-power supercar will be a twelve cylinder version o ...

Auto Auctions-How To Succeed

nospam@example.com (Szymon) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:44:47 +0100

Have you ever heard of seized auto auctions? Have you ever wondered if there is an alternative to purchasing your next car through a dealer,or of someone getting a car at an incredible price, or wondered what happens to vehicles seized by the banks, police agencies or the government? Are you curious about what happens to pre-owned government vehicles?
Continue reading "Auto Auctions-How To Succeed"

How to Select The Auto Shipping Company that's Right for You

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:13:00 +0100

Shipping a car can seem like a very overwhelming task, but if the following simple steps, suggestions and tips are followed, the process can be fast, and painless.

1. Get Quotes 2. Read and Understand Contracts 3. Check on Insurance 4: Inspections

Get Quotes: Some of the questions most often asked are "What will the total cost be to ship my car??" and "How do I find the auto shipping company that best suits my needs?" The best and easiest way to obtain these answers is to submit a request for several auto shipping quotes, and then compare prices and car shipping companies to find the one that best suits your needs. In order to best customize your quotes, you should be prepared to provide the following information:

*Origination/Destination *Approximate departure date *Year/Make/Model of vehicle(s) *Type of car transport service desired such as open or enclosed car transport.

After receiving your quotes, find out what payment method the carriers use, and what forms of payment are accepted (credit card, cashiers check etc). Some auto shipping companies don't require any type of payment in advance; others will require a deposit of 10-25% of the total fee. Occasionally a carrier will require full payment in advance. Carriers can vary widely in their billing practices, so be sure to ask what they are.

Contracts: Read your contract carefully, and get any questions that you may have answered in writing. Be sure that you are comfortable with the answers before signing anything. Do not rely on verbal promises. After signing your contract your auto shipping company will always refer you back to your contract for any questions or complaints that you may have.

Be sure to look for any clauses that may state that there are no guaranteed pickup or delivery dates. Although most vehicles are delivered within the predicted time frame, many transporters will not guarantee a delivery date.

For your protection, be sure to ask for a clause (in writing) that will waive any cancellation fees if the car isn't picked up by the auto shipping company within an agreed upon number of days of the scheduled pickup date.(3-14 is standard) If you are promised an exact date, get it in writing, as well as the remedy if the transporter is unable to perform as promised. (Discounted rate, no cancellation fee, rental reimbursement etc)

Insurance: Any licensed and bonded transporter will have insurance that would cover any damage or theft while in possession of the auto shipping company. Ask for a copy of transporters insurance coverage, and find out whether their insurance is primary or secondary to your own car insurance. Itâ€™s also a good idea to check with your own insurance company to verify coverage while in transit. Be aware that typically neither insurance company will cover possessions left inside the car during shipping. This is why most companies do not allow personal items to be shipped in your vehicle. Also keep in mind that extra weight in the car could damage the undercarriage during loading and unloading.

Inspections: You will be asked do to a vehicle inspection at both drop off and delivery to ensure that no damage has been done. This is for the protection of all parties involved. It is a good idea to wash the car before hand so that documentation of the cars condition is easier. Be sure to note mileage and the underside of front and rear bumpers. Don't pick your car if you can't verify its condition. Problems don't often occur, but if the vehicle is signed for and then damage is found you will have little or no recourse.

While most auto shipping experiences are problem and worry free, in the event that damage is found, document it with your driver, get his signature, and then contact the car shipping company. The transport company should work with you to reimburse you for any damage that was done.

If you take all of the above into consideration, and ask the suggested questions, you should have an easy, hassle free auto shipping experience. Happy Shipping!

Toni Anderson is a marketing specialist with The iRelocation Network.For more information and tips on shipping your car, and a free, online instant quote please visit our site at autoshipping

How to Avoid Counterfeit Auto Accessories

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:11:00 +0100

If you are unfamiliar with what makes aftermarket accessories the genuine article or a shady deal, then you may not be able to recognize a counterfeit performance car accessory when you see it. Counterfeits exist in every conceivable market, and discount car accessories are no exception.

This problem is nothing new. Over the last 20 years, criminals have sold phony high-performance car accessories for reduced prices. Loss of revenue for the automotive industry is not the on negative result. The less expensive price can save you some money while driving a car from accelerating gas prices. But consider this: most discount car accessories and parts sacrifice quality and safety with inexpensive and weaker materials.

Counterfeiters are clever people. They can create aftermarket auto accessories realistic enough to fool you long enough for it to be too late to do anything about. Several years ago, CBS Evening News ran a report on very crucial aftermarket automotive accessories: counterfeit brake pads. These pads were made of compressed grass clippings and wood chips, useless as brake pads. When you need to stop fast in an emergency situation, grass isn't going to cut it. When it comes to purchasing performance automotive accessories, stick with a brand name you know you can trust.

Is there a way for the average person to be protected against after market automotive accessory fraud?

Here is something to remember: A price that seem too good to be true, generally is! Seeing a popular brand of auto body kit that you've been eying available for half price may be a scam. Many counterfeiters have started to counter this approach by lowering their price just enough to avoid suspicion. Don't forget to do your research. Don't stop as soon as you find one instance of what you're looking for. Comparing prices to determine the average price for the accessory will allow you to make an intelligent decision on what you have observed.

Look closely at the package. At first a package may look creditable, but then some signs appear that it could be selling a scam.

Go to shops that you have had experience with or those that have received high reviews. Visit places you know about, or have been recommended to you by someone you trust. Sometimes the shops are being fooled just as much as you are, and every small shop is not deliberately being crooked by selling you discount car accessories. Distributors will usually purchase from those which have provided good service and good products. Consider purchasing from distributor that you've had previous good experiences with.

Be directly in touch with the manufacturer. The maker of the car can usually tell you if the item is real if you are unsure. Most major companies have protocols for proving the authenticity of accessories. Finding this information may be as simple as the code that is engraved on the part.

Your vehicle, your money, and your life are important. It would be foolish to settle on purchasing discount car accessories just to save a few bucks. Most manufacturers have phone lines or websites devoted to reporting fraudulent aftermarket automotive accessories and parts. Protect yourself, and report these crimes if you feel you've been a victim.

A car enthusiast himself, Alex Springton enjoys customizing his car with the latest aftermarket accessories. Alex gained much of his expertise in a professional repair shop using automotive repair shop software from Winworks and recommends their repair shop management software to other mechanics.

Auto Darkening Welding Helmets

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:08:00 +0100

Auto darkening welding helmets offer an intuitive protection to modern welders. These helmets automatically darken when a welder strikes the arc. They free the hands that in the past had to lift and lower the faceplate, or remove the helmet altogether to see. Many injuries have been eliminated by auto darkening helmets because they cover a welder's eyes at all times without risking exposure to irritating fumes and flying debris. By instantly responding to light, these helmets auto darken when the welder strikes the arc and clear up after the welder shuts off the arc.

Auto darkening welding helmets prove especially useful to welders working indoors under poor light conditions. Traditional welding helmets can literally blind a welder if he has to suddenly cease welding and kill the arc, leaving himself in total darkness and subject to fall and/or injury. Because of this, many construction companies now require all of their welders to use auto darkening welding helmets so they can see to walk the buildings they are working in. Auto-darkening helmets also help farmers working outside because they react to sunlight much like the light an arc. In future years, it is very likely all welding helmets will be auto darkening not only because they are more convenient than standard helmets, but also because their ever-increasing precision allows for customized-eye protection--something Federal authorities and Insurance agencies may soon require.

There are two types of auto darkening helmets that welders use. One is battery-powered; the other is solar powered. Solar power is more convenient and efficient when working outside, but work deep inside of large structures, or even underground, will require battery-powered helmets. Both employ sensors to "know" when the light brightens, and when it is time to adjust the special glass in the face shield to block just the right amount of light. From time to time a welder calls in with the question, "Won't the arc from my fellow welder trigger the auto darkening glass?" The answer could be yes or no, depending on the model in question. Basic models will grow darker with any exposure to arc light, regardless of the source. Deluxe auto darkening helmets have a sensor built into their design that "understands" the difference between the operator's arc and a coworker's arc. For private individuals working by themselves, it makes little difference, if any, if the helmet has an auto-darkening sensor like this. For a company, however, it is best to invest in high-end auto darkening welding helmets to have a sensor for secondary arc light. It simply makes sense to do so. Auto darkening welding helmets offer an intuitive protection to modern welders. These helmets automatically darken when a welder strikes the arc. They free the hands that in the past had to lift and lower the faceplate, or remove the helmet altogether to see. Many injuries have been eliminated by auto darkening helmets because they cover a welder's eyes at all times without risking exposure to irritating fumes and flying debris. By instantly responding to light, these helmets auto darken when the welder strikes the arc and clear up after the welder shuts off the arc.

Auto darkening welding helmets prove especially useful to welders working indoors under poor light conditions. Traditional welding helmets can literally blind a welder if he has to suddenly cease welding and kill the arc, leaving himself in total darkness and subject to fall and/or injury. Because of this, many construction companies now require all of their welders to use auto darkening welding helmets so they can see to walk the buildings they are working in. Auto-darkening helmets also help farmers working outside because they react to sunlight much like the light an arc. In future years, it is very likely all welding helmets will be auto darkening not only because they are more convenient than standard helmets, but also because their ever-increasing precision allows for customized-eye protection--something Federal authorities and Insurance agencies may soon require.

There are two types of auto darkening helmets that welders use. One is battery-powered; the other is solar powered. Solar power is more convenient and efficient when working outside, but work deep inside of large structures, or even underground, will require battery-powered helmets. Both employ sensors to "know" when the light brightens, and when it is time to adjust the special glass in the face shield to block just the right amount of light. From time to time a welder calls in with the question, "Won't the arc from my fellow welder trigger the auto darkening glass?" The answer could be yes or no, depending on the model in question. Basic models will grow darker with any exposure to arc light, regardless of the source. Deluxe auto darkening helmets have a sensor built into their design that "understands" the difference between the operator's arc and a coworker's arc. For private individuals working by themselves, it makes little difference, if any, if the helmet has an auto-darkening sensor like this. For a company, however, it is best to invest in high-end auto darkening welding helmets to have a sensor for secondary arc light. It simply makes sense to do so.

Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries. - Automotive Tools.

Safety And Reliability Of Our Vehicle's Steering - We Owe A Debt To Early Hot Rodders And Auto Racers

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:06:00 +0100

We owe a debt of gratitude to early "hot rodders". Those who modified and raced cars in their day pushed along the development and evolution of cars and vehicle steering mechanisms so now we can count on precise, safe and reliable steering mechanisms and units without question.

It is always interesting that is usually not the factory design teams, with all their resources, that push along developments and modifications in the automotive industry. It is often the hobbyist, the guy in his home garage, who under competition leads to the development and progression of what becomes improvements and modifications in the automotive. At a later point the automotive industry will step in to mass produce the improvements into features and options that gain widespread use in our vehicles and on our highways.

Just before and after the 1940's vintage car periods most sport car enthusiasts and hot rodders were driving pre-1935 Fords. The most popular steering gears swapped among speed and hot rod enthusiasts was the pre-1934 Ford steering gear units. It had a very fast steering ratio and could easily fit the Model "A" and "32" car frames. Parts were readily available, the cars were lightweight and few rodders felt the need to look any further.

By the early 1950's, the 37' - 1948 Ford steering mechanisms with the transverse drag arrangement gained popularity and a following over the previous preferences. The steering was a near perfect built in for 1935-36 Ford frames and its major advantage over the older units was it was self centering. After a turn in completed, the worm sector "floats" back to center. However if the steering was mounted normally in a pre-1935 chassis , a mount had to be built on the inside of the frame rail and boxing the frame was necessary to eliminate rail flexing.. Naturally since the pitman arm swung horizontally (cross steering) and was tied into the right front spindle. 1940's era Ford spindles had to be used. But it was no big deal and the most "modern" rods of the era went this route, even to the extent of adding 1940 Ford steering wheels, shift linkage and dashboards.

The "Gemmer" box was also turned on its side and mounted through the frame like the original. Usually a horizontal plate was welded on top of the rail to hold the steering, and the pitman arm was rotated 90 degrees so that it could be pinned up. A parallel drag link could then be used with a dropped front axle. But the evil bump steer was ever present.

In the late Fifties, another steering box started to gain popularity with street rodders. This was the parallel drag line steering from the 1954 and later Ford and Chevy pickups. (The Ford F-100 being the most popular of all). To install the Ford box in a Model "T" frame it was easiest to run the column down thought the floorboard almost between the driver's legs. Mounts for the gear box were fabricated and the pitman arm was modified to point straight down or was replaced with a new one flame cut out of half inch steel plate. Only minor modifications to the box itself were needed to bolt the pickup steering into the 1928-34 frames.

The Ford pickup box became the standard hot rod steering gear for many years to come, but the Chevy pickup steering was the easier of the two to install. It required only minor frame trimming to fit, but it never reached the level of popularity of the Ford box.

Then along came the time of the mid 60's Dearborn introduced the Ford Mustang. The steering box of the Mustang car was a great toy for the hot rodders.

This was the final step towards the evolution of steering gears.

All in all although our steering mechanisms in our cars, SUVs, trucks and other vehicle are now of more modern designs we owe a debt of gratitude to the hot rodders of their day for pushing along the evolution of precise and reliable steering gears and mechanisms for our vehicles.

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Inspecting a Used Auto Correctly

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:04:00 +0100

Before you purchase a used auto you always want to inspect it. While everyone can do the basics; checking out the body condition, doing the once-over, etc, there are a few small things you can do on your own. When it comes to the engine itself you want a professional to inspect that for you unless you are a mechanic.

The first part of inspecting the car is looking at the condition of the vehicle's body. Depending on the color you might be able to see any noticeable scratches or dents. Another thing to look at when you're viewing the body is the paint. Are there any spots that look discolored?

Sometimes when a car has been in an accident, minor or major, when they replace certain parts of the car they have to repaint it. The paint doesn't always match because the owner doesn't always care if it's perfect. So pay attention to any discoloration in the paint. If you notice something ask the owner or dealer about it.

If they confirm the vehicle has been in an accident you don't have to rule it out altogether. It might still be worth buying and you won't know until you finish your inspection.

When inspecting the body of the vehicle also check for rust. A sign of rust could be a sign of neglect in the care of the vehicle. Sometimes rust can be easily overlooked so try to be thorough in your inspection.

When you finish the body inspection, note the tires. Do they have decent tread? How old are they? How about a spare? You want to know if a spare is included and if it is, inspect it as well. You want to know if you will need to be buying new tires after you buy the vehicle.

Like previously stated, have a professional check under the hood of the vehicle. You can check the oil or other fluids you are familiar with but it is best to leave it for a professional. They can tell you of any problems they see or might occur.

Now you can finally inspect inside the vehicle. Take note when opening the doors; are they sturdy? Do they squeak? If there are floor mats in the vehicle, always check underneath. The carpet or flooring may look worse than when the mats cover them. Check for any signs of flooding damage, etc.

Once you are satisfied with the seats and floors start the vehicle. Listen for any odd noises, etc. Do all the electrical features of the vehicle work? Check the air conditioner and all the vents to see if they work properly. Check that all lighting and turn signals work properly.

Check all the windows and note if they make noise or go slow, etc. All these small details may sound silly but you want to know if something is going to go out shortly after you purchase the vehicle. You want to remember it 'is' a used vehicle so it won't be perfect but you can make note of any odd or unfamiliar noises, etc.

Shane Rethwisch is a retired mechanic and keeps many old beauties running smoothly. For Cameron Park auto repair he recommends their local shop for Cameron Park brakes, smog, or new car standard mileage checkpoint work.

Auto Paint How To: A Basic Guide

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:02:00 +0100

Whether you are just interested in re-spraying a small area to cover up some paint chips, or want to treat your car to a custom paint job that will let you enjoy envious stares from every pedestrian you pass, you will need to follow a few basic rules, and have the right tools to hand in order to carry out the work to a high standard.

The first thing to mention about auto paint jobs is that you should always work in a well ventilated area. Paint fumes can include a number of solvents that can leave you feeling light headed and even poison you if you inhale them, so make sure there is free passage of air through your work shop when you are painting. You should also wear a respirator mask during painting or preparation to avoid inhaling any paint and loose dust that you release.

To get the best effects when painting, you also need to make sure that you are able to keep dust to a minimum. You can achieve a good environment by hanging sheets from floor to ceiling in the area where you are working, and wearing overalls. You should also vacuum clean the area where you are painting at the beginning of every session.

When you apply auto body paint, the main thing is to get a good even finish that looks good, and the key to getting a good finish is having a good start. Preparation is everything in paining. Get it right, and you will be able to enjoy a fantastic smooth finish that will last for years and look great, skimp on your preparation, and your finish will look shabby straight away, and then get worse over time.

Before you paint, you need to strip off the old paint job. You can do this with a solvent based paint remover, or do it the hard way by sanding back the panels to bare metal using a sander. Whichever method you choose, you need to make sure that you have a very smooth base. To achieve this, use the finest grade abrasive paper available, and be prepared to put serious time into the job.

Once you are satisfied with your base, you can start applying the primer. Use a HLVP spray gun connected to an air compressor, as this is much more even than an aerosol, and will be much cheaper in the long run. You should use long sweeping strokes in a single direction to get a good base to paint onto. After every coat, allow the paint to dry, and then sand it back to a smooth surface. Then apply the next coat in strokes that go at 90 degrees to the previous layer, as this will produce an even color.

There are two types of auto paint that you can use on a car, cellulose based and Two Pack auto paint. Most painters now use Two Pack because it gives a better finish, and metallic colors are available, whereas cellulose paint can be tricky to deal with, and is best used on classic cars where you are trying to recapture an older style.

As with the primer, you should apply the auto paint in coats, spraying in a single direction, then sanding back to a fine surface to remove any imperfections, before applying the next layer at right angles to the previous one.

In between coats, it is imperative to clean the nozzles on your HVLP spray gun, as otherwise, small flakes of dried paint can be caught up in the spray and cause imperfections that will spoil the final effect.

Once you are satisfied that you have got a good covering and applied enough coats of auto body paint to create an excellent finish, apply one more coat for best effects, allow it to dry, and then sand back for a smooth finish. You should leave the paint to dry completely for 24 hours and then apply a wax polish to the whole body in order to protect your new paint job and give it a shine that will certainly catch the attention of anyone you pass on the road.

Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries. - Automotive Tools

Back Up Auto Sensor

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 03:57:00 +0100

The best solution for protecting your car when reversing is to install a back up auto sensor. By adding an infra red sensor to your rear bumper, you will be able to keep track of anything that is behind your car. By knowing what is hidden behind your car when you are going backwards, you will be able to avoid any accidental bumps that will cause damage to your vehicle.

It is almost impossible to see the details of everything behind your car when you are reversing. Thanks to the limited field of view provided by your mirror, and the shape of the rear of your car, seeing small or low objects such as the front of other cars, docks, and even small children can be extremely difficult.

If you cannot see objects, or are unaware of what is behind your car, you run the risk of bumping into it and either causing damage to your vehicle, or injury to any person who is behind you. This is where a back up auto sensor comes into play. These sensors act as your eyes, and work to detect any objects behind your car, and provide you with a warning before you hit them to prevent damage or injury.

Typically, a back up auto sensor takes the form of row of sensors across the rear bumper of your car connected to a warning device inside the car to let you know when you get too close to an object.

When reversing in a car, it is all too easy to be unaware of any small objects behind the car. If you have children, you will no doubt have had at least one scare when the kids have run out from behind the car when you are reversing. Just imagine if you had not been lucky. By having a back up auto sensor fixed to the rear of your car, you will give yourself peace of mind that you are not putting the lives of loved ones at risk.

Most sensors use an ultrasonic field that echoes off any objects in the way of your vehicle as you reverse, and then provide audible feedback to warn you as you close in on the object that is in your way. Basic back up auto sensors simply combine an alarm with the sensors to warn you, but more advanced models also include a visible display to give you an indication of how close you are getting to any static objects.

Fitting a back up auto sensor to your car can be a very straightforward process. All you need to do is fix the sensors to the rear of your car, and then connect it to the power supply and the internal warning device, whether this is an alarm, or a display screen.

In the past, many people have been put off purchasing a parking sensor for the rear of their car, because they thing that having the sensor devices on their bumper spoils the lines of their car, and is a little unsightly, but this is no longer the case.

To address these concerns, many manufacturers have now started to offer more discreet back up auto sensors which are concealed around the license plates at the back of the car. These are just as effective as the other models, but are less obvious on the back of your car.

You can choose from back up auto sensors that offer a simple audible alarm that beeps at an increasing rate as you close in on objects, through to much more advanced models that include a screen to display the exact distance to objects to make it completely clear to you just how close to something you are getting.

The latest versions can be integrated into the car more completely than ever, and include the possibility of having an LCD display as part of your existing rear view mirror that shows you the distance in either feet or metres.

If you want to make it simpler to park, reduce the risk of bumping into static objects when you are reversing, or protect other people when you are going backwards, fitting a back up auto sensor to the rear of your car will offer you the kind of warning that you need. The expense of bumping into someone else's car can be quite high, and for a fraction of that cost, you can protect your self and keep your vehicle looking great.

Jason has been in the construction equipment and industrial sales business for over 10 years. He owns and operates Red Hill Supply to better serve the automotive and industrial industries. - Air Compressors.

Auto Refinisher's Questions and Answers Session

nospam@example.com (Parts) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 03:56:00 +0100

Auto Refinisher's Question & Answer Session

Q: The auto paint store where I buy my supplies is recommending that I switch to an HVLP compliant gun. What does HVLP mean?

A: Well, that?s a popular question that many painters have been asking in the last few years. To answer your question; HVLP stands for: High Volume Low Pressure. This has to deal with the amount of air that the Spraygun requires. HVLP compliant guns require a higher volume of air at a lower pressure. HVLP is a government spec. that has been mandated for all Spraygun Mfgrs. To be HVLP compliant a Spraygun must have less than 10 psi of air leaving the air cap. Inlet pressure will vary by model and brand of the gun. I have seen anywhere from 16-50 psi inlet pressure recommended by the different Spraygun manufacturers. If the gun is said to be HVLP compliant it will have 10 psi or less leaving the air cap regardless of the recommended inlet pressure. It must also be at least 65% efficient .

Q: Why should I switch?

A: Well to be perfectly honest, if you don't like to save money you shouldn't switch. In the answer to the previous question I said that an HVLP is 65% efficient. In comparison, a siphon feed Spraygun is about 20-25% efficient and a regular gravity feed spraygun is about 35-45% efficient. In laymen terms, spraying with an HVLP, at least 65% of the material you're spraying is actually going to the panel. A siphon feed Spraygun will only put down 25% or less materiel. And likewise a gravity feed Spraygun will only put down 45% or less. So if your average paint costs $100.00 per gallon you would save anywhere from $35-$55.

Q: Will I have to change my spraying technique?

A: Definitely, with an HVLP you will need to move closer to the item being painted. Typically 8" - 10" away from surface is required. Compared to siphon feeds, they require 10" - 12" from surface. Also, you won't need as much overlap as a siphon feed Spraygun. My recommendation is 15-25% overlap. With a siphon feed you needed to get at least 40-50% overlap to get a nice even job.

Q: So do I just buy a HVLP Spraygun and start using it?

A: No, First things first. You really need to check and make sure you have an adequate air supply. I have talked to guys that tell me they have plenty of air so I go ahead and sell them an HVLP Spraygun and come to find out later they didn't have anywhere near the recommended volume. Now, how do you find out if you have enough air you might ask? The first step is you need to know what your compressor's scfm rating is. If you have the paper work that came with your compressor it should tell or you may have to refer to where you bought it from. Also, sometimes on your compressor you'll find a sticker or tag giving the scfm rating at various psi. If you know what horsepower your compressor is a general rule of thumb is approximately 4 cfm per horse if the compressor is fairly new and 3 cfm per horse on an older model. Don't trust this equation to be 100% factual information though because many compressor Mfgrs adjust their horsepower by over-sizing the pulleys. Finding out this information can sometimes be a pain but it is very important before you buy a HVLP Spraygun.

Q: Is temperature selection more important for reducers and hardeners using HVLP?

A: Yes and No, No on spot panel repairs. Large repairs or full paint jobs are extremely important. I recommend using at least 1 temperature selection higher in your reducer selection than what the paint Mfgr. recommends for the temperature that day. (Example: If its 72? and your Mfgr. recommends 70? temp reducer, HVLP Sprayguns will perform better with an 80?-85? temperature reducer.)

Q: Will changing to an HVLP slow my production speed down?

A: According to the Spraygun Mfgrs. No. However I have talked with many Refinish Techs and most all of them say they had to slow down at first. After the learning curve, most all of them were able to go back to painting as many cars a day as before. Even though you're using much less air pressure with an HVLP spraygun to apply the finish you're putting on more material per pass than the average siphon feed Spraygun.

Q: I have been told that HVLP Sprayguns must be kept pristine clean. Is there any truth to that?

A: The truth is yes and no. Yes and no you ask? HVLP guns will spray just as well as a standard siphon feed gun will when it is dirty. So to answer your question it would be no it is not mandatory that HVLP be kept in ?pristine? condition. However with paints now days costing well into the hundreds of dollars per gallon why would you take the chance of ruining a paint job with a dirty gun. And it?s not just with the paint. Primers now days also cost well into the hundreds of dollars as well. So a dirty gun could literally cost you a bundle. Besides the price of the gun, imagine if you will all the material you would use on any particular job that could be completely wasted if your dirty gun caused a problem. Why take the chance? In this day and age you can purchase insurance for everything. Why not purchase a good spraygun cleaning kit? It?s cheap insurance.

Q: Why does my new HVLP gun sound so much different than my old siphon feed gun?

A: Remember HVLP stands for high volume low pressure. Also remember that HVLP must have less than 10 P.S.I. leaving the air cap. So your new HVLP spraygun is going to emit a different sound than your old conventional siphon feed gun. I have talked with some painters that compare their old siphon feed as a high pitched hissing sound and their new HVLP as a low pitched jet engine. So don't be fooled by the sound coming from your new HVLP spraygun. If you inlet pressure is set at the manufacturers recommendation then the air cap pressure will be at or below 10 P.S.I.

Q: I have heard other painters rave about the finish that their HVLP spraygun puts out. I have painted cars for 18 years and I tried an HVLP a few months back and I hated the thing. I just couldn't get my finish to lay out. What could I have been doing wrong?

A: Well, there are a number of things that could have been a problem. First of all I would check my technique. Remember I said earlier you would need to move in closer, slow down slightly, and overlap less. Secondly, I would check my air compressor's CFM. Most HVLP Sprayguns will need anywhere from 8-16 CFM at around 40-50 PSI. On average I want at least a 5 horse compressor with at least a 60 gallon air tank. This would be the bare minimum recommendation. This size air compressor with some HVLP Sprayguns would not be adequate. Thirdly and most often overlooked is air fittings and hoses. Let?s talk hoses first. With HVLP since they work off CFM instead of PSI you will need to make sure you have at least a 3/8" inside diameter air hose. Also use only the amount of air hose needed for the job (i.e. don't use 50 feet if 35 feet will work). Now for air fittings, buy only 3/8" inside diameter air fittings such as Sharpe's 8310, 8320, 8330, and 8340. Also get rid of all air restrictions that aren't absolutely necessary such as those little colored air dryer balls, air regulators, wound up unused air hose and yes even hose reels. These steps can be time consuming to fix all the little problems, but to save the most material and get the best out of your HVLP spraygun these things are very necessary.

Gary Kinsey has been a salesman for R&E Paint Supply for the last 12 years. He has a very proficient knowledge of the PBE industry and is a well trained customer service representative.