Go For The Best Corvette Performance Parts And Wheels

For lovers of the Corvette, nothing pleases more than improved performance. Unlike the older automobiles, one can't tweak the engine of a Corvette to get more power from the machine. There are two areas, however, where one can push one's Corvette to higher limits. The first of these areas is in Corvette performance parts and surprisingly the second area is in Corvette wheels.

There are established suppliers of a large cache of Corvette performance partsand accessories. This ranges from the simple air cleaners to the Supercharged Stroker Motors that can be used in the C6 or the ZO6 Corvettes. The list of performance parts includes the air cleaners and intake systems besides the cooling parts. The performance packages are included and the Superchargers as well. There are speed skip shift eliminators for the Corvette 6, the C5s from 1997 till 2011 and the ZO6, ZR1 and the Grand Sport. One can order the Pro Charger Supercharger Kit for the ZO6 2006-2011 or the Twin Turbo Kit-STS for the C6 LS2 2005-2007.

The Stage 4 Performance Package is ideal for the C6 LS3 2008-2011 while the Supercharger Kit-Magnuson TVS 2300 is well suited for ZO6 LS7 2006-2011. If yours is the Grand Sport or 1997-2011 C5, the ZO6 or the ZR1 you can opt for the HP Tuner Software Standard. Other Corvette performance parts include air cleaners and intake systems such as the Corvette Cold Air Intake applicable for 2001-2004 C5 and the ZO6 as well as the Corvette Air Filter Cleaning/ Recharge Kit SLP-Blue.

Corvette wheelsare great contributors to the performance of your Corvette. The latest in these products are extremely strong and durable besides being very flashy and attractive. The best dealers in wheels for the Corvette models carry a large inventory in the chrome plate factory GM wheels for immediate delivery anywhere across the globe. All one-piece alloy wheels have a three year chrome warranty. Corvette owners will be amazed to see some of the WCC forged wheels, custom wheels and reproduction wheels for their cars. The Corvette wheels in the forged series are offered in three styles. You can order these in a range of widths and offsets to meet the custom needs of your vehicle. The wheels can also be polished if you wish.

Community Marketing for Oil Change and Lube Companies - An Idea For You

If you want to succeed in a small business of your own, you have to participate in the community. You can't just be another company scraping off the cream of the top, making lots of profit, and then turning your back on the very community that supported you through the ups and downs in the business cycle. If you look at the businesses which have been in the community long-term, the ones which are the most respected, the reason they are still in business is because they are one with the community. I'd like to go ahead and talk about this for a moment if I might.

For this case study I'd like to talk about the oil change and lube business model. You see, before I retired, I was involved in the automotive service sector. Something triggered my memory the other day, as I got one of those little postcards in the mail telling me that my city was sponsoring a; "used oil and oil filter recycling event." The postcard said that if I brought my car in between a certain time during the weekend, then they would give me a free oil filter for merely bringing in my used motor oil, after I changed the oil in my car, along with the used filter too.

It turns out that our local NAPA Auto Parts store is helping to sponsor this event. Sponsoring an event with a local community church, large corporation, environmental group, or municipality of this type can do wonders to help your business. Not only is it free advertising in the community calendar section of the newspaper, but all those that participate also will get a coupon from your business, and know that you care about the community, and that your small business is one with the local community. It's amazing how much goodwill you can get for your business by doing something positive in contributing to your community and the environment.

Interestingly enough, we had helped out at times with our mobile oil change units at churches and volunteered to change the oil in cars of the senior citizens, and then we gave a discount for regular churchgoers, and did the oil changing in the parking lot while they were in church. We'd then donate the money back to the group for the youth program. In fact we allowed the youth to help us, that's free training on how they can change their own motor oil in the future. We gained in several ways not only from community goodwill, but we were able to find eager young people willing to work on our crews.

Why don't you try this in your community to develop synergies, and see what it's all about. You'll be glad you did, and your business will find itself with increased revenue and increased customer loyalty. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it.

Tube bending machines

Pyramid type bending machine with 3 driving rollers having variable centre distances.

The adjustable geometry of this machine makes it possible to bend an extremely wide range of section bars and is widely used especially in the construction of window/door frames in aluminium or other material, in steel structure work and many other fields of activity.

-Wide centre distance: optimal bending of square and rectangular tubular section bars, and special section bars for closed-section window/door frames.

-Medium centre distance: optimal bending of round tubes with the right compromise to obtain very small radii without ovalising.

-Narrow centre distance: optimal bending of thin and asymmetrical section bars with maximum limitation of warping ensuring driving under any condition.

Other important features:

-Mechanical clutch device on upper roll to offset surface speed.

-Tippable base-plate to work in horizontal and vertical mode

-Rotating parts mounted on bearings and constructed in casehardened ground high alloy steel

-Machine body in steel

-Electric cabinet and hydraulic power pack incorporated in the machine.

-Wide range of accessories available upon request to permit the machine to bend any type of section bar.

Development of a control that was already amazing and is now absolutely astounding.

Simply because until now such a simply beautiful, simply intuitive and simply complete program had never been seen. Industrial computer on Windows platform able to manage two or more interpolated axes with an indescribable progression and precision.

15" Touch-screen monitor. Intuitive system to program any type of regular and/or irregular geometry designing it directly on the screen.

"dxf" file importation with possibility to modify shape to bend on the screen, directly dragging the ends of the segments to lengthen or shorten them, or clicking on the arrows to enlarge or reduce the bending radii; all the operations are acknowledged by the "bending4program" that updates in real time. In conclusion the shape we see on the screen, and that we can measure with the specific tools, is really the actual shape that the machine will produce.

The upper roll is hydraulically adjustable whereas the seat of the lower rolls can be adjusted in four different positions of hydraulic pipe bender.

Mobile control console containing machine and interpolated computerized numeric controlCNC tube benders.Completely automated management of passage from straight section to bent section. A group of algorithms that, calculated according to the machine geometry, the profile section and the shape to be obtained, produce harmonious and imperceptible association of tubing bender with perfectly symmetrical shapes.

Tires and wheels: get guaranteed offers of wheels for sale online

Buying automobile tires and wheels separately from the market can turn out to be bad investment. But, if you can search online, you can get to see many packages for these products. There are list of companies found from the internet search, which can give you complete solution for purchasing tires for any kind of vehicle. When these products are purchased together, then these packages can save a lot of money. Also, you would be able to find discounted range of product in it.

Internet search will provide the result of different types and sizes of wheel. You can also compare prices of the product from different brands. Any automobile user manual gives complete information related to the proper size of tire and wheel from the market. You can see endless styles and colors of wheels and tires. Once you go online, you would be able to see images of each product in the website itself. Not only for sedan and small cars, SUV and light truck owners can also avail these packages for their kind of automobiles. Vehicle owners looking for an option of off-road or 4*4 tires and wheels can get suitable packages.

People residing at heavy ice and snowfall condition might purchase winter tire package along with the regular package. Free shipping option by any company will ensure additional cost saving for the car owners. Usually, it is seen that weight of the wheels and tires make the shipping quite expensive. In addition, any kind of charges related to the balancing and mounting should be clearly displayed. And, it should not be hidden in the fine print. To remove the confusions, many organizations involve different charges in the per-tire price.

When from the online source, you are looking for wheels for sale in a package, then it is found to be quite less time-consuming and more convenient experience for the shopping. Different online companies come up with the solution for providing products quickly and undamaged. This service includes the service for professional installation.
Once choosing wheels for sale from the online source, then different online companies start accepting several forms of payment. Also, they offer quicker method of shipping. The main benefit buying these packages is the cost saving aspect.

Any kind of wear is guaranteed throughout the life of the product. Few websites having closeout section include different packages at the discounted price. Several closeout deals can save good amount of money.

Radio One Roadshow Vehicles

The Radio One Roadshows were an annual event that took place throughout the summer during the 1970's, 1980's and 1990's. The shows were extremely popular with the general public and were broadcast every morning across the nation. The roadshow vehicles that accompanied the shows became a very important part of the events as they were held on countless beaches around the United Kingdom.

In all, there were four Radio One roadshow vehicles throughout its history, so I thought it would be a good idea to take a walk down memory lane and write a small piece about the vehicles that drove the iconic Radio Roadshow.

Radio One Roadshow Vehicles – Mark One (1974–1975)
This has been described as ‘essentially a caravan with an attached drop-down stage', it is safe to say that this roadshow vehicle was pretty basic and would have lacked any of the comfort and technology that is prevalent today. Unfortunately I have been unable to find any record of the make and model of this vehicle.

Radio One Roadshow Vehicles – Mark Two (1976–1981)
The roadshow vehicles anti had been with Mark Two as this was an articulated, trailer mounted combination which boasted a fold down stage plus two off stage areas for the technical equipment and hospitality. When this vehicle was decommissioned by Radio One at the end of 1981, it was taken up by BBC's Saturday Superstore and was used as the ‘Delivery Van'. It became the Saturday children's show roadshow vehicles element for their outside broadcasts.

Radio One Roadshow Vehicles – Mark Three (1982-1989)
As the popularity of the outside broadcasts grew, the need to enhance the roadshow vehicles capabilities increased and the BBC acquired Mark Three. This articulated trailer has a much larger and higher stage, plus a bespoke roof area. The roadshow vehicles space was also enhanced to include a larger area for audio production and office space for the BBC production staff. When Radio One had finished with it, it was re-branded and launched as the Radio Two roadshow vehicle.

Radio One would use back up vehicles in the shape of 7.5 and 12.5 ton trucks for the roadshow vehicles right up to 1989. These trucks would carry the majority of the audio gear, which had grown to such an extent that they could double as roadshow vehicles themselves with separate stages and room to the host the engineering, audio and technical crew. Two of these trucks are now owned by a private company and act as roadshow vehicles in their own right on a regular basis still to this day.

Radio One Roadshow Vehicles - Mark Four (1990-199)
As the 1990's began, it was necessary to have two roadshow vehicles to cater for much bigger live performances and larger crowds, the main vehicle would house the main audio and technical equipment and the primary stage, the second roadshow vehicle would back up the main vehicle and provide office and green room facilities to the entertainers, having two roadshow vehicles working in tandem greatly enhanced the capabilities of the roadshow as a whole. These roadshow vehicles had bespoke PA lifts installed to allow the huge speakers to be easily lifted on to the roof of the trucks.

Finding the correct driving instructor

To begin with you have to be clear on right before choosing a driving instructor is the fact that your identity is a good match for their personality. By way of example you will not want a driving instructor who is extremely blunt and impatient if you happen to be a nervous learner.

Other than the compatability factor you will also discover additional factors to consider before coming to a decision on a driving instructor.

A few pointers to reflect upon are:

1. What portion of their driving lesson is spent parked in a motionless car learning driving theory, of course the greater practical on-road time you get the better.

2. Just how long will an average driving lesson last? Some driving instructors will give 50 minute driving lessons to attempt to maximise how many driving lessons they squeeze into everyday. Additionally if you intend on purchasing three hour long driving lessons make sure that you can concentrate for that duration, if your concentration has gone your capacity to learn drops and the money is wasted.

3. Which kind of auto will the approved driving instructor be providing you driving lessons in? How simple is it to try and do the necessary driving test manoeuvres in this car and furthermore does it possess a automatic or manual gearbox?

4. Will the instructor take you out on very much the same route each week or are you going to experience quite a lot of contrasting routes and traffic circumstances?

5. Does the instructor have comprehensive experience of the regional driving test routes and, when organizing their classes, do they merge this data?

6. If any of your very own close friends or family members have just recently tried a approved driving instructor they should be able to highly recommend the driving instructor to you. A testimonial provided by a reliable source much like a member of family will be way more effective than any information you could potentially get from an alternative individual.

7. One thing you will need to figure out is how busy the approved driving instructor is before making a commitment to driving sessions. You will not want to have a driving lesson and then have to wait patiently 2, 3 weeks before the instructor can fit you in for the next lesson, make sure there is an abundance of capacity for the particular attention you may need.

8. If you select a particular driving instructor will you continuously get this particular driving instructor? Make sure you are comfortable with having different driving instructors if you decide to go with a larger driving school. Also be aware that they may sometimes use a trainee instructor and if they do you want to make sure you get a discount

How To Choose An Aftermarket Car Audio System

Searching the web for answers will leave your head spinning with too much information, as there are many important factors to consider in selecting a car stereo system that meets your particular needs. With this in mind, I've simplified the process down to the key factors to consider in selecting a car audio system. I hope this spares you buying the first aftermarket sound system that you find on sale, which might not be right for you, or your car. I'm going to save you time you won't spend searching for answers on the Internet, money you won't waste on parts you don't need, and embarrassment you won't have asking advice from friends, commission sales people and installers. As a bonus, when your family and friends want to buy their own aftermarket car sound system, this article will make YOU their resident "expert!"

Know Thy Vehicle...

The first step is to figure out the size of the components that fit your vehicle's stock provisions without any major modifications. IE. To see if speakers will fit in a vehicle, you must take off the speaker cover, and measure it's length, width and depth, as not all cars can accommodate speakers with a large magnet. Many aftermarket auto-electronics manufacturers have guides to help determine what size radio and speakers will fit what vehicles. Metra (manufacturer of parts used by car stereo installers) offers a fitment guide on its Web site.

Know Thy Self...

Determine realistic goals for your aftermarket car audio system project. IE. Building a loud, flashy stereo system is far different than buying a great-sounding audio system using your pre-existing speaker locations. For example, if adding subwoofers, consider how much cargo space you want to give up to get that extra low end sound. Another consideration is whether or not to maintain a stock appearance, which will discourage theft. In addition, if you lease the vehicle or intend to trade it in, choose components and installation that won't permanently alter it's appearance and/or can be easily removed. Contemplate keeping the factory head unit, if it integrates with other systems in the vehicle, and adding only amplifiers and speakers.

Know Thy Budget...

Always know your budget *before* you shop for an aftermarket car audio system. The "budget" must include installation, labor and parts (mounting kits and amp wiring). NOTE: If you're keeping your factory radio, ask about the availability of any options and the cost of any adapters. As with many things in life, the more you are willing to spend on your new car audio components, the better features and sound quality you'll get. Depending on how important music is to you, it may be worth spending more for high-quality audio components, and then adding on to the sound system over time.

Know Thy Shops and Installers...

Finding car audio retailers is as simple as an Internet search, but deciding which shop is right for you is not so easy. Sometimes, the shop you choose is just as important as the products. Always ask friends' opinions and check online reviews. Make sure the retailer is an authorized dealer for the brands they carry and ask them how they handle product warranty issues. Make sure the shop's installers are professionally certified by the Consumer Electronics Association's MECP program. (Mobile Electronics Certified Professional) which is the only nationally recognized program. Ask about installation rates, labor rates, warranty and guarantees, and see that the installation bays (where your car will be worked on) are spacious, clean and well lit. NOTE: It's always best to visit a shop at slow times (weekday mornings), when there will be time to ask questions, test-drive products and listen to systems without being rushed.

Know Thy Audio System Components

HEAD UNIT

If you're purchasing a complete car audio system, start with the head unit or radio. Find head units that fit your vehicle (DIN, DIN-and-a-half and double-DIN are standard sizes) and have your desired features (such as navigation, satellite radio, MP3 playback and iPod integration). Check out all of the features and controls yourself, and don't simply be won over by what the salesperson is pushing on you. Listen intently and evaluate various components (especially the speakers) for good sound reproduction. The best way to do this is to use your own CD to audition audio components. Always use tracks with which you're very familiar, so you know exactly how they're supposed to sound.

Many models now offer detachable faceplates, but this security feature only works if you remove the faceplate. Some models even feature a plate that rotates when you turn off the vehicle, only making it look as if it's been removed. Another available feature is automatic volume control, where the system automatically adjusts the radio's volume, based on the vehicle's speed and the varying amount of road noise and wind noise inside it. Most people prefer units that have larger buttons with greater space between them, as they are easier to use, so they distract the driver from the road less. The same goes for the radio display, most prefer large numbers that are easier to read. In addition, try to find a radio that shows not only the radio station, but also the time and preset number.

AMPLIFIERS

As for amplifiers, it simply come down to budget, system configuration and your own brand preferences. IE. If the speakers you like can only handle 50 watts per channel, then you don't need a 100-watt amp. Amplifiers are the backbone of the car stereo system, and weak amplifiers can damage strong speakers. Amplifiers provide the power, eliminate distortion and increase sound clarity. The size of the amplifiers depends on how much power needed. Basically, the more power you have, the better control you have over your system. So, a good power amp will sound "clear," even if you turn the system above half volume. Where the amplifiers are placed in the vehicle is not critical. They simply need enough air flow and to be mounted on a dry surface. If you are the DIY (Do It Yourself) type, you'll need the following tools to install the amps: an installation kit (featuring a power wire, ground wire, RCA, remote turn on lead and a fuse), crimpers and a drill. Already knowing your head unit and amplifier choices makes it easier for you to choose speakers.

CAR SPEAKERS

Aftermarket car speakers have a larger frequency response (more sound coming through the speakers) and more power handling capabilities, which results in a brighter high end and a fuller lower end to their sound. Now that you know which speakers will fit your vehicle, let your ears do the talking. Evaluating speakers is highly subjective, so you should play your own music through them, and get what sounds best to YOU, as you will be the one listening to them. If the store has demo vehicles, listen to your speaker choices in them to get the best idea of how the speakers sound installed. Store demo rooms are not great for auditioning speakers, as their acoustics and speaker positioning are nothing like that of a vehicle. Also ask which amplifiers are driving them and with how much power wattage.

Aftermarket car speakers come in two main categories: full-range speakers, and component speaker systems. The easiest way to replace factory speakers is with full-range speakers, as they contain all the speaker elements in one unit: a woofer for the lows, and a tweeter mounted onto the woofer for the highs. Some models will also have additional drivers (midrange or supertweeter). Some higher end, full-range speakers also use external crossovers. These separate the different sound frequencies sent to the woofer and tweeter. This way, neither one tries to reproduce frequencies for which they're not intended. The result is a cleaner, more efficient sound. Full-range speakers come in many sizes to fit into factory speaker spaces. Simply remove the old speaker, connect the new speaker and mount it.

Component speaker systems offer a superior speaker design to give you the most detailed sound, and exceptional dynamics, using separate woofers, tweeters, and external crossovers. The tweeter comes separate from the woofer, so it can be mounted in a location that provides the best imaging. This will give the sound greater depth. The crossover network comes external to the woofer and tweeter. Using higher quality internal components creates a sharp separation of the frequencies sent to the different drivers. This results in a more realistic sound.

There are two main specifications when considering which speakers are right for a car: Sensitivity and Power-handling. Sensitivity measures "how much sound a speaker yields from the power applied to it." IE. For a low-powered car stereo (like most stock car audio systems), speakers with high sensitivity ratings will work best. For a high-power system (a brand-name receiver or external amplifier), speakers with lower sensitivity ratings work better. Power-handling refers to how much power (watts) a speaker can handle. In a low-powered system, the speakers don't need to handle lots of power. In contrast, a high powered system (powerful external amps) requires speakers whose power-handling equals the output of the amps. NOTE: The key is the maximum RMS power-handling, not the peak power handling. (RMS ratings measure how much power the speaker can handle on a continuous basis, not just for a short period.)

OTHER ACCESSORIES

Generally, the use of separate tweeters will enhance sound quality. Separate subwoofers will enhance the lower end sound of music. Subwoofers are hard to judge in a sound room too, because a closed vehicle will enhance their bass response. Let the salesman know what you want from your woofer, so they can be sure your component choices accomplish your audio goals. IE. Don't expect to have booming bass from a cheap 8" sub woofer. A speaker's materials also determine its durability and sound quality. Make sure you get all the accessories and component enhancements you will need. IE. Foam baffles to protect your speakers from dust and moisture. Bass blockers to improve smaller speakers' efficiency. Dynamat to lower noise levels inside the vehicle, which will improve clarity.

WOOFER

To effectively reproduce low notes, the woofer should be made of stiff, yet lightweight material, and polypropylene is used by most manufacturers. Polypropylene is sometimes mixed with other materials (IE. mica) to make it stiffer and give a more accurate bass tone. Woven fabrics and synthetics coated with metals, are also strong and lightweight, providing excellent response. All of these materials endure heat, cold, and moisture well. The surround materials on a woofer allow the cone freedom of movement, so it can give off bolder bass. Surrounds must be able to endure extreme temperatures and humidity. Rubber ones perform best, but foam and cloth surrounds are less expensive, and still perform well.

TWEETER

A tweeter's material greatly effects it's sound. Tweeters made of soft materials, like poly, textiles and silk, yield a mellow sound. In contrast, hard materials, such as metal, ceramic and graphite, produce a bright high end. When replacing speakers at the bottom of a car door, full-range speakers with pivoting tweeters work best. Tweeters produce very directional high-frequencies, so pivoting (or swiveling) tweeters can be pointed towards the listener for greater sound depth. Detachable tweeters can be used with either full-range speakers or component systems, making them ideal for reuse in multiple vehicles.

CD changers come in a variety of styles to consider. A remote CD changer fits best in the trunk or rear hatch area, but can be custom mounted under some seats, in the glove box or in a side panel. It can be added to any system via an RF controller unit that interfaces via the existing AM/FM antenna lead. A remote CD changer can store up to 12 CDs, but the frequency response through the RF modulator is not as good as from an in-dash CD changer. The in-dash 6 CD changer has begun to appear on more and more vehicles. NOTE: the head unit and CD changer must have same manufacturer and operating system. Even when they are from the same manufacturer, some older models *still* will not work with newer models.

Knowing the basics about your vehicle's stock stereo system, aftermarket car audio systems and your sound system goals is the best way to prepare to purchase a new car stereo system. Knowing the correct questions to ask sales reps and installers takes the stress out of any aftermarket car audio system project.

How To Choose The Correct Aftermarket Exhaust System For Your Car

Although many people get aftermarket exhaust systems to improve the sound of their vehicle, investing in an aftermarketexhaust system will also improve your car's performance with increased horsepower, better torque and reduction of turbo lag (only on turbocharged cars). Other benefits include improved appearance, increased value, better gas mileage & reducing emissions. Aftermarket exhaust systems do all this by simply improving the air flow to the engine. Now that I've convinced you that to invest in an aftermarket exhaust system, you must learn how to choose the correct one for your vehicle.

1. What type of exhaust system is on your car now? If your current exhaust from the catalytic converter back is an aftermarket system, then purchase the same brand of header. The same brands always work best together and be easier to install. If your car is using the stock exhaust, you can choose your header based on your purpose for it. ("Headers" are the pipes that come out of engine block. IE. A V8 has 8 pipes.) The size of the header pipes make a big difference. In general, the larger the pipe, the quicker the flow and deeper the sound. Many high performance engines have open headers (no pipe/muffler after the header), which is the quickest exit of exhaust, resulting in increased horsepower. Since differentexhaust systems offer different benefits, try to find a local shop that specializes in custom exhaust systems and ask them what systems would be the best for your vehicle.

2. Where do you want the most power in the engine's powerband? You'll get more bottom-end power from longer pipes on the header. A V8 engine works well with longer header pipes. Shorter header pipes work best at higher RPMs. So, a high-revving car engine works best with shorter header pipes. Where the pipe is run on the car is based on performance expectations, sound desired and style of car. The most obvious option is a straight exhaust that runs straight out the back of the car. Another option is to have the pipes coming out the sides of the car, just in front of the rear wheels. A third option at the sides of the car is "Lakes Pipes," which come out just after the front tire, run parallel to the bottom edge of the car, and stop before the rear tire.

It takes a delicate balance to select an exhaust system that meets *both* your performance and price requirements. An exhaust upgrade can mean a few simple changes or complete overhaul costing $1,000 or more. Generally, the more anexhaust system will do for your car, the more it will cost you to get it.

3. How will you use your car? Since exhaust systems serve a variety of purposes, determine your specific goal for your exhaust upgrade. If your aftermarket exhaust upgrade is to improve performance, get a higher end exhaust. Someone who only wants to upgrade the appearance of their car can simply add a new exhaust tip to their existing exhaust system. "Mufflers" are "joined into the exhaust pipe closer to where the pipe ends" to "muffle" the sound. Mufflers vary in pitch & sound volume. Some slow air flow down & others let air pass through them.

4. What will look best with your car's engine bay? Choose a chromed or polished exhaust header that matches your car engine's current metal finish. Those who have a "show car" may favor a header with a shiny, stainless steel finish. Ceramic coated headers are favored to look ready for the racetrack.

MagnaFlow exhaust systems are stainless steel and come with life time warranty, making them one of the best and most popular in the US. MBRP exhausts are cheaper than many others and made for daily driving, because their exhausts tend to overheat. They are an inexpensive way to improve your car's performance significantly. To improve the performance of your car, MBRP offers a "Pro Series" exhaust that is made from stainless steel & comes with lifetime warranty. To improve sound of your car, MBRP offers a "Black Series" exhaust system.

5. Does your car need to comply with emissions laws? Laws vary from state to state, so check local emissions laws, but 30+ year old cars are usually exempt from emissions testing. If your car is NOT exempt from emissions compliance, then your aftermarket exhaust system MUST be able to pass standard emissions testing. Therefore, you must choose headers that can accept smog equipment like oxygen sensors. If your car is exempt, your aftermarket exhaust system is limited only by your budget.

How To Choose The Correct Car Tire Rims For Your Custom Car Tires

Choosing the right rims for your custom or classic car can be a daunting process. There are many specifics to consider beyond budget, style and type of car. Rims come in many different types from chrome, aluminum, lightweight, steel, one piece, to three piece. When it comes to car aesthetics, tires play a crucial role. Without the right car rims, even the most expensive luxury car seems like it's missing something important.

Beyond aesthetics, there are practical reasons to pay particular attention when buying car rims and spend the time and effort required to perform proper maintenance. A car's wheels can greatly enhance control and performance of the vehicle. This means a safer and more comfortable ride. Below are a few main factors to consider before buying car tires and rims: size, materials, durability and style. Following those, there are also several broad categories of car tires and rims that are best for specific applications.

Steel / Composite Ass – A steel rim has a cast aluminum center that controls the wheel. It's extremely light, so it handles better on the road. Most steel rims are chrome, so their maintenance will require more time and effort.

One-Piece Cast Aluminum – These are the most common category of car wheels. Spare wheels are lighter than steel wheels and machined are mixed, painted or chrome. Their biggest plus is that aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion.

Forged – Forged wheels are the lightest wheels of all because they use less material to cast them. This makes forged rims relatively inexpensive.

Billet Tire Rims – Billet wheels are constructed by welding together two pieces of solid aluminum. As they are welded, billetwheels are harder and more durable tires with distribution centers. The natural color of the metal must be kept because painting and plating these is difficult.

RACE CAR RIMS: a lightweight rim.

BEST CHOICE: a small diameter rim

made from lightweight material. (IE aluminum)

To increase a car's acceleration and speed, use the lightest weight rim available. These are best for this application because they offer less rotating mass to spin as the tires are accelerated forward. The lighter a car's wheels, the better the car's acceleration.

SPORTS CAR RIMS AKA Pimp My Ride: big chrome rims.

BEST CHOICE: Polished chrome rims

with a diameter 2+" larger than the car's stock rim.

Car tire rims come in countless custom styles, and the final choice is always a matter of personal taste. IE. Some prefer rims with LOTS of spokes with little material to the rim itself. Others prefer rims that have very little hollow space. Super shiny, chrome rims are, by far, the most popular tire rims for a "flashy" look, usually with a diameter 2+" larger than the car's stock rim. IE If a car comes with a 16" rim stock then use an 18 inch rim for extra "flash."

EVERYDAY CHOICE (with aftermarket appeal):

a gunmetal rim or a polished aluminum rim.

BEST CHOICE: Polished aluminum.

Although not as shiny and flashy as chrome, these rims will have more style than the stock rims. NOTE: Be sure the rims fall within the width specification required by the tires that you are putting them on. Each tire can ONLY hold a certain width and diameter of rim.

Choosing the correct car tire rims can increase your car's appearance, performance and re-sale value. NOTE: They must be checked regularly. Consult a mechanic if they get dented shape or make a grinding sound.