What You Must Know Before You Start A Car Paint Job

By Bojan Palen

Often when we're undertaking some kind of project, we would briefly evaluate any potential dangers that require to be avoided. Accidents often happen though when we neglect to look at all the possible dangers. In cases where products or equipment are being used we require to take the what if approach when gauging the safety components.

When it comes to spray painting a car there're many safety components you must take a look at. One area is for individual safety and some other for success of the job.

From the personal safety point of view, you must keep in mind that youre going to be dealing with primers, paints and finishes. A couple of these could be harmful to breath or flammable. Ideally, you should read all labels and instructions on every product you'll be using. These will inform you as to what specified safety guards you must take. It's really essential that you follow them.

To start with, you must make sure that you've the proper mask. There are several types but you will be best to have 2 types. One is for dust so when youre sanding rust spots for example you should wear the right mask. The other type is for fumes. Now if you are working in a well ventilated area you might not need this one. They are small and convenient, so wear them to take caution! Various paints and wares are stronger than others. This includes various of the commercial paint strippers as well.

Wearing gloves will be some thing you have to consider, peculiarly if you're utilizing whatsoever caustic products, which will include the pain stripper. By wearing gloves, youre ensuring your hands are going to stay paint free, which signifies you will not need a chemical to remove the paint from them once you are finished.

A few people find wearing safety goggles a pain. Make zero mistake though they could save your eyesight should an unfortunate accident occur. A piece of rust or even a splash from one of the wares could be easily broken by these goggles.

Aside from the safety clothing, you must think about your surroundings also. Attempt to keep your work area clean and orderly. Say you have all kinds of items, lying around it could not simply be detrimental to your individual safety, but can create a lot of mess that would need a big clean up.

Focus on your work, which implies zero distractions if possible. Above all, keep toddlers and pets away from your work region.

When it comes to safety hints on the genuine job there're few things you may want to remind yourself about. Hopefully you've done a few research on how to paint your automobile, so you recognise the basics. Some of the errors that can give you the most problems are not having the automobile entirely clean before you start. Or you didnt take the time to sand down the rough or rusted spots. Remember to do some light coats and allow for drying in between. - 21396

About the Author:

Visit SprayPaintSecrets and get your hands on a comprehensive step-by-step course that leads you by the hand and reveals all the secrets of professional paint spray cars tips. Learn how to spray paint a car now.

Auto Insurance Rates in Idaho

By Steven Drigs

Step outside and take a hike today in Idaho. The mountains and plains offer such a stunning backdrop it's no wonder people love to vacation there. Especially beautiful in the fall and autumn when the leaves are changing it is a truly gorgeous place to visit and take in all the majestic sights.

Idaho is long and narrow and the largest city Boise is situated down in the southern end of the state, much closer to Utah than Washington or Oregon. If you own a motorcycle and love to take to the open road there are miles of freeway you can traverse from one to the other. There are beautiful parks and lovely places to stop during your entire journey.

Car insurance in Idaho comes a lot cheaper than in other parts of the country. The extremely affordable cost of living makes Idaho a hot bed for conservatives, libertarians and other people that don't believe in big government. Take in the perks and shop your insurance around - cheap auto rates abound in Idaho.

There are unfortunately drivers on the road that don't bother to get covered by insurance. This can be extremely problematic if you get into a wreck with one of them as they won't be able to pay for the damage they caused to your Boise car.

Boise is a free wheeling, free spirited type of town that has plenty of characters from all walks of life. Take a stroll down main street and you will run into a variety of different insurance agents. Times are tough right now so stop by and ask for an auto insurance quote - there's a good chance you'll get it!

There are so many way to save on your car insurance in Idaho it's mind boggling. First off, if it's a cold and snowy December day, stay inside and google "car insurance quotes Idaho". Then fill out your personal information and sit back while you get many free rate quotes.

Eating out is fast becoming a luxury only the upper middle class can enjoy. The rest of us are watching are dollars and counting our pennies so we can save money to afford what we need. If you live in Idaho and need car insurance you're in luck there are many businesses to choose from.

Compare all the data in each companies report so that you know what you're looking at. Once report may save you $500/year, but it also might not include collision or uninsured motorist insurance. - 21396

About the Author:

With the money you could save by getting an Idaho auto insurance quote you could eat out with the family each month at a local Boise restaurant.

What Certifications Are A Must For A Qualified Auto Technician?

By Rand Stuck

This is a question plenty of people ask, probably in the belief that it makes monetary sense to get their vehicles checked and repaired by an uncertified technician because he costs less. Therefore, why pay more for a qualified auto repair expert? Well, you have only to look at the test lineup and mission statements of ASE (The Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) and I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) to find an answer. These are the two pre-eminent organizations in the area of issuing certificates to auto service technicians, thanks to the tests and programs they conduct. This article intends to supply a brief background on each, list their mission statements, and enumerate the test line-up for each.

ASE (The Institute for Automotive Service Excellence)

Even 30-odd years ago, there was no way to tell whether an auto technician was competent. That is, there was no professional standard that auto technicians could adhere to. To fill in this vacuum, the autonomous, non-profit body known as National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was set up in 1972. As of today, nearly 420,000 professionals can boast that they possess current ASE certifications. They work in all areas of the automotive service industry such as vehicle dealerships, single garages, fleets, and service stations.

How does the ASE go about awarding a certification? All aspirants sign up for one or more of the ASEs 40-odd exams. The tests are classified under such specialty areas as automobile, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus, and collision repair technicians and engine machinists, alternate fuels technicians, parts specialists, and collision damage estimators. When an applicant has passed at least one exam and has supplied proof of at least two years of relevant job experience, he is officially ASE certified. However, he must take a re-test every five years in order to remain ASE certified. ACT, which runs several academic and occupational testing programs, oversees the tests, held twice a year at over 800 venues around the country. And just in case you thought everyone passes them with flying colors, think again, because roughly one out of three candidates fails the tests, which emphasize job-related skills.

How does the consumer benefit from ASE certification? One, it is a valuable benchmark that indicates the measure of knowledge and skills of individual technicians; and two, it helps a consumer gauge whether a repair facility is high-quality (because it employs ASE-certified technicians). Therefore, watch out for facilities bearing the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence logo on any of their advertisements, including Yellow Pages, or on their exteriors.

ASEs mission: To improve the quality of automobile repair and service through the testing and certification of repair and service professionals in the automotive industry.

In order to understand the process of ASE certification and testing, have a look at the tests as outlined on the organizations website (www.ase.com):

Auto/Light Truck: A1 Engine Repair; A2 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle; A3 Manual Drive Train and Axles; A4 Suspension and Steering; A5 Brakes; A6 Electrical/Electronics Systems; A7 Heating and Air Conditioning; A8 Engine Performance

Alternate Fuels: F1 Light Vehicles-Compressed Natural Gas

Medium Heavy Duty Truck: T1 Gasoline Engines; T2 Diesel Engines; T3 Drive Train; T4 Brakes; T5 Suspension and Steering; T6 Electrical/Electronic Systems; T7 Heating, Ventilation, & A/C; T8 Preventive Maintenance Inspection

Parts Specialist: P1 Med/Hvy Truck Dealership Parts Specialist; P2 Automobile Parts Specialist; P3B Med/Hvy Truck Aftermarket Parts Specialist (Brakes); P3S Med/Hvy Truck Aftermarket Parts Specialist (Suspension and Steering); P4 General Motors Parts Consultant

Advanced Series: L1 Automobile Adv'd Engine Performance Specialist; L2 Truck Adv'd Elec. Diesel Engine Diagnosis

Collision Repair and Refinishing: B2 Painting and Refinishing; B3 Non-Structural Analysis and Damage Repair; B4 Structural Analysis and Damage Repair; B5 Mechanical and Electrical Components; B6 Damage Analysis and Estimating

School Bus: S1 Body Systems and Special Equipment; S2 Diesel Engines; S3 Drive Train; S4 Brakes; S5 Suspension and Steering; S6 Electrical/Electronic Systems; S7 Air Conditioning Systems and Controls

Engine Machinist: M1 Cylinder Head Specialist (Gas or Diesel); M2 Cylinder Block Specialist (Gas or Diesel); M3 Assembly Specialist (Gas or Diesel)

Truck Equipment: E1 Installation and Repair Specialist; E2 Electrical/Electronic Systems; E3 Auxiliary Power Systems

Specialty Test: X1 Exhaust Systems

Now for a look at I-CAR

Created in 1979, I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) is also an international, non-profit training organization dedicated to improving the standard, safety, and efficacy of auto collision repair.

I-CAR has put in place a concept best described as Outward Vision, which embodies the organizations intention to define the Ideal State of the collision repair industry with respect to technical training. Heres how I-CAR defines the industrys Ideal State:

That every person in the collision industry has the necessary technical knowledge and skills relevant to their position to ensure a complete and safe repair. I-CAR continues to develop and deliver technical training programs to professionals in all areas of the collision industry. Furthermore, I-CAR provides a communication forum for anyone interested in proper collision repair. Finally, that I-CAR's primary funding is derived from student tuition and services, insuring that I-CAR can remain unbiased in developing courses and services on an industry-wide basis.

The I-CAR Mission Statement:

To research, develop, and deliver quality technical educational programs related to collision repair; to raise the level of available knowledge and recognize professional achievement; thereby improving communication throughout the Collision Repair, Insurance, and related Industries for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.

The following are some of the training courses offered through I-CAR for collision repair technicians:

Identification and Repair Decisions; Adhesive Repair; Welding Repair; Repair of Padded Dashes; Refinishing of Plastics; Analyzing Damage; Creating a Damage Report Manually; Creating a Computerized Damage Report; Safety & Environmental Practices

Understanding Automotive Finishes; Preparing the Surface for Refinishing; Preparing the Equipment, Paint Area & Refinish Materials; Tinting; Applying the Finish; Blending;

Solving Paint Application Problems; Finish Defects, Causes & Cures; Detailing; MIG (GMAW) Welding Cutting & Heating Processes Advanced Welding Methods; Damage Analysis; Straightening Structural Parts; Full & Partial Panel Replacement; Stationary Glass Replacement; Restoring Corrosion Protection; Preparation Panel Replacement and Alignment; Working with Trim and Hardware; Metal Straightening; Using Body Fillers; Door Skin & Intrusion Beam Replacement; Quarter Panel Placement; Moveable Glass and Hardware.

You ought to be convinced by now, surely? If all that has been said here does not convince you that you need a skilled technician to work on your car, nothing will. As in every profession, there is a need for qualified, trained experts in the auto repair industry as well. And when you go to an ASE certified technician, you can be sure you are dealing with an individual who has kept himself updated on the latest happenings in the industry. Therefore, dont scrounge when it comes to taking care of your vehicle. Settle only for the best, and those few dollars more wont seem like a lot. - 21396

About the Author:

Rand Stuck is a master technician with over 13 years experience working on BMWs and currently manages the BMW parts department for an online parts retailer. You can find additional Repair and Maintenance information at AutoWerks Parts & Accessories

How To Get Better Gas Mileage And Save Fuel

By Pete Roberts

As gas prices continue to increase you may be wondering how to get better gas mileage. If you are finding ways to increase gas mileage or improve fuel efficiency there are several do it yourself solutions that you may want to consider as part of your standard car maintenance.

A tune up could get you better gas mileage up to 20% or even more if a bad oxygen sensor is discovered. This is an extreme example but if your engine is idling roughly or hesitating and spiting smoke out the muffler then you should and get a engine diagnostic tune up and this could increase gas mileage and possibly extend the life of your engine saving hundreds or thousands of dollars in maintenance.

Check your tire pressure. Many people overlook this simple maintenance item and it should be checked monthly. By keeping your tires at recommended pressure as stated in the owners manual you could get better gas mileage of 2-3%. Not only that you could save hundreds of dollars of more because when your tires are properly inflated it also maximizes the life of the tire.

Driving habits can have a real adverse affect on mileage. Driving habits can be finding the shortest way home or the route that is the most direct and has the least amount of stops along the way. If you have been asking yourself how to get better gas mileage this is a big factor. Find an online mapping service that shows you direct routes.

Do you use your vehicle or car trunk as a storage unit? By eliminating every 100lbs in your vehicle you could be increasing gas mileage by a percentage point. Many people are so extreme in this extra weight that they may only keep their gas tank partially filled to reduce weight. Gas weighs about 6.1 pounds per gallon at room temperature. If your are deciding on how to increase gas mileage there are many solutions to help help improve gas mileage. - 21396

About the Author:

To find out more about hho plans or hho dry cell plans.

How to Insure Your Imported Car

By Tom Martens

If you are planning to purchase, or if you have already purchased, an imported car, getting the vehicle insured so you can get it on the road is a top priority. However, finding coverage for your import can be time-consuming, frustrating, and expensive. But it's not impossible. Just be ready to ask questions and possibly contact several insurance agents to get the coverage you need.

While you can often get a good deal on the purchase of an imported car, you may lose the money you save on the purchase price by having to pay higher insurance premiums. That's why you should shop around and get several quotes to find the most competitive rate. If you are importing a sports care, you almost certainly will pay more for coverage. That's because sports cars are more prone to crashes.

Most insurers will offer you a policy for your import provided they can locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) or car registration numbers. If they cannot find the registration number in their databases, then you need to see if the insurance company can find your exact model in their look-up table. If that does not work for you, you will have to inquire of another insurance provider.

Some insurance companies will only insure popular import models and will only insure the vehicles for the market value. Other insurance companies will insure modified imported vehicles as long as the modifications aren?t substantial. If they are substantial, then you will need to find an insurance provider that specializes in substantially modified import cars. Substantial means different things to different people, so this is yet another reason to obtain several quotes from different insurance providers. One provider may rate the modifications substantial, while another provider may not. It is important to ask questions when obtaining an insurance quote.

Also, some companies will not insure imported vehicles that are European versions of a UK car, with a left-hand drive, the idea being that if you wanted that model, you should have bought it with a right-hand drive to drive in the UK. That is another thing to keep in mind as you import your vehicle and get your insurance.

It is also very important to check your security fittings. These could have a great impact on your vehicle's eligibility for coverage, not to mention the cost of the policy. Not having the right security fittings will either raise your premiums dramatically, or cause the company to reject your car for coverage altogether. Make sure you get detailed information on security fittings before you import your car.

While insuring your import may be time-consuming and expensive, it's not impossible. Do your research. Ask Questions. Call your importer and ask for their advice for obtaining insurance. And if you are importing a sports car, you can often get insurance at a discounted rate simply by joining a car club. Clubs often make deals with insurance companies for their members?ask about the benefits available to you. Finally, make sure you get comprehensive coverage for your imported vehicle. You imported car is an expensive investment, and it needs thorough insurance protection. - 21396

About the Author:

Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading car insurance portal.