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Helium-powered car?

Ever wonder what they will think next? We’re ready to go out there and put our names on one of those lists to get a hybrid car because of gas prices at the pump and then someone comes in and yells; “Wait, have you heard of thermoacoustic propulsion?” No, in fact, most of us haven’t thanked him much as we hung up the gas pump and looked at that total and cringed when we received our automatic pump receipt from the Kiosk at the station. My God, that hurts. That’s just to put gas in my vehicle; “I hate OPEC”, you tell yourself and you think the unthinkable; “We are going to bomb the Middle East and take the damn oil!”

Well, in fact, it may be a long way off and never make it to market, but now a new engine is being tested, which could power cars, and it has no moving parts. It works by “thermoacoustics”, it works by applying external heat to a cylinder or tank with helium gas inside, as the gas heats it from acoustic waves, it generates enough heat to produce steam and then it is used to generate electricity.

The resulting pressure fluctuations operate with vibrations at approximately 80 Hz. This sound is converted into electricity through steam. A microphone as a motto, electroacoustic transducer produces sound waves. A 700-watt prototype works very well and can be used to power cars without batteries, therefore no need to dispose of old batteries that cannot be charged, hence electric cars with no residual pollution later on. We may never see it due to strong lobbying efforts in the oil and auto industry, but I think it’s a pretty good idea.

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Choosing a fishing kayak

Which Fishing Kayak Is Right For You?

Confused about which fishing kayak you should buy? If you’ve never used a kayak before, you may not be sure which one you will need. Read on and we’ll try to break down the basic differences that will allow you to make an informed purchase.

There are basically 2 types of kayaks.

They are Sit On Tops (SOT) and Sit In Kayaks (SIK). Each type has models that fish well. Before discussing the merits and differences of each type, let’s first discuss fishing kayaks in general.

What makes a kayak a good fishing kayak?

Anglers often have needs that may be different than someone who has the strict intention of rowing. Some of the basic features anglers prefer in a kayak are stability, storage, and enough flat surfaces to bolt on fishing extras like rod holders and depth finders. Performance and maneuverability, while important to many, may not be the main factors when choosing your first fishing kayak.

Begin your decision process by answering a few basic questions that will help you narrow down the kayak models that are most appropriate for you.

1. Consider yourselves first.

What are your height, weight, inseam measurements, and general condition? If you are a big or very tall man, there are certain kayaks that will suit you better. In fact, this will make your decision easier because finding the right kayak will be more a matter of finding one that handles your size and weight more than anything else. Look for kayaks with plenty of legroom and a weight capacity to suit you and your gear.

If you are a small to average person, buying a kayak that is large, heavy, and has a 600 pound capacity is probably not your best option. But if you’re going to fish in the ocean, a very small kayak wouldn’t be the best option either. As you will see, choosing a kayak can be something of a compromise. As you read on, consider the different factors and consider them when making your choice.

2. What vehicle will you use to transport your kayak?

If you plan to transport your kayak in the bed of a truck, a larger and heavier kayak does not present a problem. However, if you have a large SUV, such as a Suburban 4WD, you should consider the weight of the kayak because it will take extra effort to raise and lower the kayak from the roof of such a vehicle. The bottom line is that if your kayak is easy to load and unload, you will use it more often.

3. Where do you plan to use the kayak?

Will your kayak be used exclusively in fresh water? If so, where? Lakes, ponds, small rivers and streams? Are you going to fish in large, open bodies of water with lots of waves and a dive? Planning to use your kayak in salt water? Planning to fish in the ocean and launch your kayak through the waves? How do you plan to get your kayak on the water? Can you just drive it into the water and launch yourself or do you plan to launch into remote areas where you can’t drive your vehicle to the water’s edge? All of these factors are important when choosing your kayak.

4. What fishing methods do you like to use?

Do you wear only one style? Do you use artificial lures, live baited fish, or both? If you are using bait, do you want to use live bait or dead bait? Will you need space to live well in your kayak? Do you plan to anchor and make friends? Fly fishing? The type of gear you plan to wear and wear will affect your decision. In short, the way you fish can affect which kayaks will best suit your needs.

5. What kind of fisherman are you?

Are you strictly a catch and release fisherman, do you like to take the occasional meal home, or do you take fish home regularly? Where are you going to keep your catch? Is there space in the kayak you have selected?

What style of kayak is right for you? A Sit On Top or Sit Inside kayak?

Sit In Kayaks are the traditional type of kayaks. When most people think of kayaks, this is the type that usually comes to mind. They are similar to canoes in that you sit inside the bottom hull of the kayak. The seats offer more initial protection against the elements, however, in harsher conditions, they can fill with water without the proper accessories. In adverse conditions, they are usually equipped with a skirt. A skirt is a covering that surrounds you and the opening of the kayak that prevents water from entering. When wearing a skirt you may inadvertently limit access to items that are inside the kayak, but if you are a basic angler this may be right for you.

Sit On Top kayaks are a new kind of kayak. They look like some kind of modified surfboard and you sit on them instead of on them. SOTs have what are known as scupper holes, which allow water to drain out of the cab. In this way, when the water is washed over the kayak, the cabin can be flooded briefly, but it will drain quickly eliminating the need to pump water. This is especially beneficial in places like the surf zone.

Both styles of kayaks are useful for the fisherman and within each style there are models that will suit you better than others. Let’s go back to some of those previous questions and see why they are important in helping you choose which of these types of kayak will be best for you.

Stability:

Anglers do something in a kayak that most paddlers don’t: they fish. Therefore, having a relatively stable platform can be very important, especially for a person who is new to the sport and kayaks. When kayakers talk about stability, they are talking about two types. Initial and secondary. Initial stability is the side-to-side wobble you feel when sitting in a kayak. Secondary stability is when the kayak is approaching its turning point and how much forgiveness you have before it actually turns over.

Many recreational kayaks have tremendous initial stability but have a very steep secondary. When they reach their secondary limit, they literally abandon you. On the contrary, there are kayaks that wobble like crazy but are very forgiving when they hit the landfill. Most recreational fishing kayaks have a good compromise for both initial and secondary stability.

Since you sit on or near the floor of a SIK, they tend to appear more stable. In SOTs you sit in the kayak and as it has a double hull you also feel taller. This higher sitting position may initially make a SOT appear less stable. If you have a SOT and a SIK that are the same length and width, the SIK will likely be more stable. Because of this, SOT designers tend to widen their kayaks. So no matter what style you choose, there will be a model that you will feel comfortable with.

Initial stability may seem more important for beginners and secondary stability more important for experienced kayakers. It makes sense. The beginner has not yet developed a sense of balance. It is a lot like learning to ride a bike. When you start out, it’s new, so you think about it more. After a while it becomes second nature and you don’t think about it at all.

Speed: Generally, the longer and narrower a kayak is, the faster it is. SIKs are usually faster, however there are also fast SOTs. Speed ​​is only important if you need it. If most of your fishing is done near shore or in small protected areas, you probably won’t need a long, fast kayak. However, if you are fishing in a large reservoir, bay, sound, or in the open ocean, the ability to cover distances may be very important to you. A SIK of the same size is usually faster because it is narrower than a SOT of the same length.

Maneuverability:

If you are going to fish in small streams or narrow estuaries, you will probably want a kayak that is easy to maneuver. A long, fast touring kayak will be more difficult to use in these situations and could affect your overall fishing experience. A shorter SOT or SIK is better for you in these types of settings. In big water, making a sharp turn is generally not crucial, so a longer kayak is not a problem.

Friendly accessory:

One of the joys of kayak fishing is turning a simple recreational kayak into a very efficient and compact fishing boat. This is done by adding fishing accessories. How much you add depends largely on your fishing style and your gear philosophy. Some fishermen only carry a rod and some lures and others like to carry a lot of equipment. No matter what your preference is, simply adding a rod holder will greatly increase the fishiness of your kayak. Many flat surfaces are good for mounting accessories.

Storage:

Fishermen tend to carry a lot of equipment with them. Organizing this equipment requires that the kayak you have chosen have adequate storage space. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but it’s nice to have a few different places to put your stuff. SOT kayaks have a double hull, which means there is a lot of potential storage space below deck. Depending on your needs, this can be very important to you. Perhaps you plan to camp or take long trips in your kayak. This large, relatively dry storage area may appeal to you. If you plan on launching your kayak through the waves, this space will allow you to store your rods under deck, keeping them safe while traversing the surf zone. Many SIKs have hatches that offer access to sealed compartments in the hull. Many of the SIKs used by fishermen also have large open cabins that make it easy to access equipment that may have been stored around them. Milk boxes and other plastic containers can also be used for external storage. They fit into the tank wells of many SOT kayaks and can also be tethered to the deck of SIKs.

Fishing logistics:

Kayak fishing takes place in many different environments, from large bays, sounds, and even the open ocean, but many of us also fish in very small waters. A small, shallow river can be fished very easily with a short, light kayak. Such a kayak will be easier to navigate obstacles such as logs, log jams, rocks, waterfalls and spillways, white water and rocky shoals. There will be times when you will need to carry or drag your kayak around, over, or through these locations. In these types of situations, a smaller and lighter kayak is the best option.

Some kayaks to consider:

Kayaks suitable for big and tall paddlers:

1. Hobie Outback

2. Hobie Revolution

3. Hobie’s Adventure

4. Hobie Quest

5.Ocean Kayak Prowler Trident 15

6.- Great game of Ocean Kayak Prowler

7 Heritage of the Redfish 14

8. Native stingray 14

9. Native Ultimate 16

10.Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160i

11.Wilderness Systems Pungo 140

12. Wilderness Systems Ride 135

13. Malibu X-Factor

Kayaks suitable for medium to small size rowers (medium to small size rowers have few restrictions and can use almost any sit-down or sit-down kayak that suits their needs. Here are some popular options):

1. Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120

2. Wilderness Systems Pungo 120

3. Native manta ray 12

4. Hobie Sport

5. Hobie Revolution

6. Hobie Outback

7. Hobie Quest

8. Malibu Mini-X

9. Koho’s perception

10. Perception of the patriot fisherman

Best of luck in making a decision, I hope to see you in the water soon.

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Neapolitan Baked Ziti

So simple and so delicious.

Neapolitan baked ziti (you can also use penne instead of ziti if you prefer) is a rich mix of sauce, ziti, Italian sausage (try my fresh Italian sausage), and cheese. Italians tend to cook ziti, pour a simple tomato sauce on top, and eat it before main dishes.

But the recipe I have created is primarily for a main dish. Don’t forget a little Chianti or another red wine with it. It’s pretty easy to make too, especially if you have the sauce made ahead of time. I always use my Botticelli’s rich Italian tomato sauce.

Ingredients (6 servings):

* 1 1/4 pounds mild Italian sausage

* 3 cups tomato sauce (Botticelli’s rich Italian tomato sauce)

* 1 pound ziti or penne noodles

* 1/2 pound fresh mozzarella cheese

* 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

* Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Bake the sausage in a 350 degree F oven for about 30 to 40 minutes (until golden brown). Once cooked, cut each link in half lengthwise and then cut the halves into about 1/4 to 1/2 inch chunks. Reservation.

in the meantime

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Boil pasta (use fresh if you can) in a few quarts of salted water for about 8 to 10 minutes (al dente). Pour into a colander to remove the water. Place the olive oil in the same skillet in which you cooked the pasta. Add the pasta and stir. Add the tomato sauce and sausage along with the salt and pepper and mix well. Pour everything into a large baking dish and slice mozzarella to coat the top. Bake in the oven for 40 minutes or until the mozzarella has started to brown.

Enjoy.

Jack Botticelli

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The 3 Most Overlooked Factors to Consider When Buying a Car That Could Save You Money

We can all think of obvious things to consider when buying a car, be it new or used. Things like:

– Starting price

– How do you drive? (noises, moans, clunks)

– How many miles / km have you traveled?

– Interior condition (rips, tears, marks, wear)

But what about the things that we often DO NOT consider? Some of which can have a major impact on the actual cost of maintaining and operating the vehicle we intend to buy? These can really sneak up on you and leave you with buyers’ remorse pretty quickly, if you’re not ready for them.

In this article, I’ll cover 3 of the most commonly overlooked factors when buying a car so you don’t get caught the next time you want to buy. Are here:

TIRES

The size of the tires installed on the vehicle you intend to purchase, as well as their type, can affect a number of things in the future, including:

Ride quality – Lower profile tires can be more difficult to handle, because there is less rubber on the sidewall to absorb road bumps and bumps.

Road noise: Again, lower profile tires can be louder on the road, such as large wheels or four-wheel drive tires (all terrain and muddy terrain tires), which can be very noisy compared to normal passenger car tires. This can surprise and annoy you if you are used to a quiet ride.

Ongoing Costs – The size and type of tires on the vehicle you want to buy can have a massive impact on costs down the road, both the cost of replacing tires and fuel costs.

Something equipped with a large four wheel drive tire with more rolling resistance will cost you more as the car will consume much more fuel than normal road tires, sometimes surprisingly. This is definitely something to keep in mind if you are considering a four wheel drive vehicle or an SUV.

When it comes to replacement costs, always be sure to write down the size of the tires installed on the car you are considering purchasing and call at least 3 tire stores for quotes on how to replace them. This is one of the most common causes of surprise additional costs that I see every day, and people are usually not prepared for it or not expecting it.

TYPE OF TRANSMISSION

This is another factor that is commonly overlooked when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. When considering the type of transmission in the car you are looking at, keep the following in mind:

Maintenance costs for different transmissions vary greatly. What type of transmission is in the car you are looking at? It could be, to name just a few:

– Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

– Regular automatic

– Automatic double clutch

– Manual transmission

All of these (and the other types found in vehicles now) require different types of oil, types of filters, different service techniques, and different service intervals, which, as you may have guessed, will have an effect on the costs associated with maintenance, as well as if something drastic happens and the entire transmission needs to be replaced.

As with tires, I recommend taking note of the type of transmission that is installed in the vehicle and calling at least 3 stores for quotes on transmission services. Don’t be surprised by the cost, as some of these can be big bucks!

Another factor that is normally overlooked when it comes to the type of transmission, is how much fuel will it make the car use?

Modern vehicles have improved a lot, however, automatics generally use more fuel than their manual counterparts. This is a relatively minor thing, but something to consider nonetheless.

MOTOR SIZE / TYPE / CAPACITY

The size, type and capacity of the engine installed in the car you are looking at can also have a drastic effect on the ongoing costs associated with it, much like the transmission.

How many cylinders does it have? Turbocharged, Supercharged, Dual Charged, Naturally Aspirated? Is it gasoline, LPG, diesel, hybrid, pure electric?

All of this has an impact on maintenance costs, for example the more cylinders an engine has, the more parts it will need, i.e. an 8 cylinder engine will need 8 spark plugs, 4 cylinders will need 4. This may seem silly, but when you’re talking up to $ 30 per spark plug or more in some cases, it can add up costs quickly.

In addition to this, the required motor oil, both the type and the number of liters the engine contains, will also change based on these factors. It is not uncommon for some diesel engines to contain up to 10 liters of motor oil, in addition to requiring a higher quality oil which, yes, costs more.

This is the same with many forced induction engines (turbocharged, supercharged, etc.), which generally require a higher quality oil to stop engine damage.

What about fuel costs?

Larger capacity engines with more cylinders require more fuel to run, thus increasing their costs. The type of fuel required will change as well, as some engines require higher octane premium fuels to run without risk of failure, and with fuel prices skyrocketing around the world, this is definitely something to consider.

As with the other two points, make a note of the size, type, and engine capacity of the vehicle you want to buy. I would always suggest calling for quotes on anyone’s service because you are considering buying.

It would also be worth getting quotes for some of the more routine / common maintenance items, if the car is not in registration service yet, such as spark plug replacement, fuel and air filter replacement. Some of the costs for these can vary considerably.

There you have it, 3 of the most commonly overlooked factors when it comes to buying a car. We hope you have learned something new and remember to keep this in mind the next time you buy a car!

Share this with anyone you think could help!

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Sharp Corp’s Marketing Strategy in the Competitive LCD Market

The premise of the “More to Watch” theme was that, just as television was the most powerful storytelling device (perhaps with the tip of the hat towards the cinema), Sharp’s Aquos product line offered the most advanced televisions, providing viewers a more vivid picture. experience through its superior color, detail and sound. One of the five television ads in the campaign showed people – a mother dressing her daughter, a man cooking, an audience in a movie theater – living with their eyes closed. Finally, a woman opened her eyes in an art museum in front of the painting Batalla de Guararapes by Victor Meirelles. Then a voice-over said, “The Sharp Aquos LCD TV. Suddenly, there’s more to watch.” Some critics objected to the underlying concept. On Brandweek, Barry Janoff commented: “Taking the premise of the ad literally means to imply that people cannot see or appreciate their lives unless television is there to help them. And, furthermore, they will not really value their own lives. to swap their normal televisions for an Aquos. Of course, Sharp can’t tell people to go out and enjoy life by turning off their televisions. “

The “More to See” message may have been simplistic and even illogical, but the method by which the centerpiece of the campaign was delivered was as innovative as Sharp’s LCD technology. The campaign was more than multifaceted; In many ways it was an example of interactive fiction, using the different elements (TV spots, print ads, websites, and an “alternate reality games” contest) to engage the audience and keep them engaged in the campaign for months and months. months. This approach was intended to counter the resilience that consumers had built up to 30-second commercials after years of being bombarded by them, not to mention the ability of digital video recorder owners to skip the commercials. The pioneering effort in this type of promotion was the independent film The Blair Witch Project, which generated quite a stir by dropping hints in the media that the film was a student documentary project that went horribly wrong. The curious were taken to the producer’s website, and large numbers of people began to debate among themselves whether the “found footage” of the film students was real or fake. When the low-budget film was released, it became the surprise hit of the summer of 1999, generating an impressive $ 150 million in domestic box office sales.

Sharp enlisted the services of Blair Witch producers Haxan Films to help create the mystery story around which the “More to See” contest and marketing campaign would revolve. The resulting tale was called “Legend of the Sacred Urns” and consumers were invited to solve the mystery of where an eccentric millionaire had hidden three prized urns. The three television commercials that developed the story: “The Key,” “The Pool,” and “The Tooth,” wove a “cinematic mystery,” in the words of Bill Dunlap of Shoot magazine, “set on a country estate, involving a beautiful woman, an older man in a swimming pool, and a careless driver in a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia. ” Marcus Robinson, writing for Boards Magazine, offered his own summary of the setup: “A guy, Peter Lindeman, is swimming in the pool of his great French castle, and his girlfriend is wandering down the road to meet her lover. Unfortunately, he’s massaging a toothache and had his eyes on the rearview mirror, forcing him to swerve to avoid hitting her. He ends up throwing his red sports car into the pool. “

All three ads showed the same incident from a different point of view. In “The Pool,” for example, a woman from a bedroom window saw Lindeman swimming in the pool when a car suddenly flew through the air and landed in the water. A Sharp television was then shown and viewers were directed to the campaign website, Moretosee.com, on its screen. The site provided featured audiovisual leads and blogs, allegedly written by the three characters involved in the search for the three mysterious urns. Chat rooms were also available for people to ponder the mystery together. Once viewers were on the website, they had the opportunity to learn more about LCD technology and Sharp’s Aquos line of televisions. Participants were also directed to other websites to discover clues. The commercials were directed by award-winning documentarian Errol Morris, whose credits included Gates of Heaven, The Thin Blue Line, and Fast, Cheap, and Out of Control.

The television commercials began airing in September 2004 and were shown on a variety of cable television shows, including ABC’s Monday Night Football and CBS’s 60 Minutes. The “More to See” campaign also featured print ads, run by Wieden & Kennedy’s Amsterdam office, which also tried to get people to the website. After starting in the United States, “More to See” was released to 18 other countries. In a complementary component of the campaign, Sharp opened a store in New York City, where consumers could experience the Aquos product line and where more clues were available. The campaign went on for four months, during the critical Christmas season, with bits of the mystery split over time. In the end, Ken Floss from Ohio solved the puzzle and won the grand prize, an Aquos television, and other home theater equipment.

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The Noble M10 sports car

The Noble M10 – A Closer Look At This Sports Car Including Performance, Technical Data, Features, Rivals Comparison, History, Used Pricing

from classic to modern

BACKGROUND

Sports car maker Noble was established in 1999 in Leeds by Lee Noble and specialized in fast, mid-engined, rear-wheel drive cars.

Before launching Noble, he was involved in the design of other sports cars, with brands such as Ultima and Ascari.

The body and chassis of each car was produced by Hi-Tech Automotive in South Africa on the same assembly lines as the Superformance rolling chassis for cars as distinctive as Cobras replicas.

After the bodywork was completed, it was shipped to the new Noble factory near Leicester, at which point the engine and gearbox were added, and the finished car was tested.

It was designated M10 as it was Lee Noble’s tenth design.

As the designer of his own cars, the basic philosophy was to start with a lightweight space frame, to which was added a powerful engine and a sporty aerodynamic body.

Its design included a mid-engine format that would provide good handling characteristics.

In terms of marketing, it raised the price of each car in a way that would position itself in the affordable end of the sports car market, thus reaching a wide audience.

He resigned from Noble in 2008 and went on to create a new company.

CAR

The Noble M10 was the first car designed and produced by the company.

It was launched in 1999 with a price tag of around $ 30,000 and interestingly enough, he built the first two units in a garage located near his home.

Since the car was replaced a year later by the more impressive M12, few of the M10s were actually sold as potential customers switched their allegiance to the next model.

The M10 was a two-seater, only available as a convertible, with a fiberglass composite body and chassis, and a corresponding curb weight of just 960 kg.

It was powered by a 2.5-liter, 24-valve, V6 Ford Duratec engine that developed 168 bhp and 162 ft-lbs of torque.

Paired to a five-speed manual gearbox, it produced a top speed of 135 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds.

It was equipped with 10-inch ventilated disc brakes throughout.

Following the launch of the M10, Toyota introduced its MR2 convertible later that year, which, in appearance, closely resembled the M10. Technical data:

COMPETENCE

Some of the typical competitors of the Noble M10 were the following: Lotus Elise, Porsche Boxter, BMW Z4 and Mercedes SLK 350. Noble performance:

This concludes my review of the Noble M10 sports car.

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Improve Gas Mileage With These Relatively Inexpensive Auto Parts

The efficiency of your vehicle can have a significant effect on your monthly budget. There are many ways to improve overall use. Savvy DIY owners can replace specific car parts to increase mileage. Even if you don’t know how to replace car parts yourself, you can have a mechanic do this for you.

Mass air flow sensor

The mass air flow sensor calculates the air flow as it enters the engine. From this point, the sensor passes this information to the engine’s computer. The engine computer is responsible for regulating fuel injection, transmission shifting, and ignition system functions. A clogged mass air flow sensor will cause the engine computer to receive inaccurate information, which could negatively affect fuel economy.

Plugs

Spark plugs have the function of igniting a mixture of air and fuel in the combustion chamber of the engine. Worn spark plugs will not produce effective ignition. Replacing the spark plugs and keeping them clean will provide cleaner and more efficient engine operation.

Air filter

Replacing this filter can be one of the simplest, yet most effective, ways to improve your gas mileage. A dirty and clogged filter will not move air effectively. Restricted flow to the motor will affect efficiency because the more clean air the motor gets, the better it performs. As you explore these auto parts, choose a filter made of cloth rather than paper. You can clean filters made of cloth, so they are reusable. In fact, some of them will even last as long as your car lasts.

Fuel filter

The fuel filter has the function of moving the gas to the fuel injectors. A clogged fuel filter will start to move gas less efficiently, which could lead to increased gas consumption to produce the necessary energy. Automobile manufacturers recommend a specific program to replace this filter. Follow this recommendation to ensure you maintain the best efficiency of your car.

Tires

Tires are an integral component of handling and traction. If you allow your tires to wear out, under-deflate, or go out of alignment, you may notice a decrease in economy. Tires naturally go flat as you drive, so check them once a month to maintain the correct pressure. When you check the tires, look for signs of wear. When replacing tires, choose the narrowest possible tires to reduce aerodynamic drag. Installing low rolling resistance tires can also improve economy slightly.

Fuel injection components

Fuel-injected cars have sensors and systems that must remain in good condition to ensure the best gas mileage. Have a mechanic check the oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control systems, and engine emissions system. Faulty sensors and components could result in a decrease in gas mileage of 20 percent or more.

Many auto parts are inexpensive, but they can produce significant improvements in gas mileage when you replace them. Scheduling regular vehicle adjustments can help ensure that all of the car’s components are working properly for the best efficiency.

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The Dream That Will Never Die: Dreamcast Independent Gaming in 2016

I still remember the day I found out that SEGA was discontinuing the Dreamcast. It was early 2001 and the PlayStation magazine I was reading (we used to read magazines back then) was covering the demise of the Dreamcast before quickly moving on to the hits of the PS2. Thanks to those successes and the massive preference for PlayStation over the previous generation SEGA Saturn, Sony had pulled SEGA almost single-handedly out of the console business leaving them to focus on software only from that day forward. With the Dreamcast surpassing a meager 9 million and the turnaround in sales and the PS2 reaching the dizzying heights of over 150 million units sold, the Dreamcast was destined to be little more than a footnote in the pages of history. the games.

If you had told me that day in 2001 that we would still be seeing new games released for the Dreamcast quite regularly in 2016, I would have simply smiled and nodded while slowly backtracking. And yet here we are fifteen years later and SEGA Dreamcast has a surprisingly vibrant community of indie developers still releasing games despite the fact that SEGA has had little to do with the console (other than fixes) since the early ’90s. 2000s. So if you still have one of those nifty white boxes tucked away in the attic somewhere, or even if you’re just looking to get into retro gaming for the first time, there’s probably something on the horizon worth checking out. . .

Although it’s only been a month into 2016, Dreamcast has already seen the release of an exclusive console game at Leona’s Tricky Adventures. Inspired by the Amiga Gem X puzzle game, Leona assigns the player to increasingly, erm, complicated puzzles based on colors similar to the Lights Out handheld game from the mid-nineties that you might remember. Leona’s Tricky Adventures is available for purchase as you read this on Steam, but the Dreamcast version comes with a full case that includes illustrations. Which is obviously much better.

Looking ahead, the long development of Elysian Shadows is scheduled to hit the streets sometime in 2016. After reaching public awareness through a series of YouTube development videos in 2007, and following a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2014, Elysian Shadows is an RPG with customizable characters, a dynamic day / night cycle, and an engaging 2D / 3D hybrid art style. Set in a fantasy world similar to that seen in the classic JRPG Final Fantasy VI, Elysian Shadows tells a story of conflict between religious fanatics who received magical powers from The Creator and atheists forced to rely on futuristic technology. While there isn’t a solid release date yet and the game’s development has had a couple of snags recently, developer GyroVorbis contends that the title will be released in 2016, and who are we to argue?

Scheduled for June this year, Alice Dreams Tournament is a 2D Bomber Man from French developers Alice Team. Players must navigate 2D mazes using their bombs to clear paths and destroy other players on the stage, while searching for power-ups to increase the number of bombs they can drop or the damage their bombs do when detonated. The game features a robust multiplayer mode that includes seven different game types ranging from standard deathmatches to more elaborate modes involving math puzzles.

Hypertension: Harmony of Darkness is a horror first-person shooter that started as an extension of the Blood franchise, but morphed into its own story as development progressed. After some disputes with Atari due to the assets of Blood being used in the production of Hypertension, as well as a brief cancellation of the project due to that, the development of Harmony of Darkness has progressed and the game is expected to see a release in sometime in 2016.

Hucast Games is looking to release Redux 2, the sequel to its remake of the scrolling shoot-em-up DUX sometime in 2016. Pre-orders for the game are now available and there is a stylish collector’s edition that includes a soundtack CD. and a DVD of extras if you’re willing to pay for that kind of thing. The vanilla game features seven all-new stages and a two-player cooperative mode for players who like to do their arcade shooting with a friend in tow. If you’re a fan of R-Type or other such ship shooters, Redux 2 might be a game worth keeping an eye on.

If you’re looking for something a little more out of the ordinary, away from 2D shooters and puzzle games, then Dreamcas t’s indie scene can satisfy your needs with a title like SLaVE by Isotope and Jay Townsend. SLaVE tries to combine the garish aesthetics of 80s arcade games with the addictive first-person shooter of titles like Doom and Wolfenstein. If the flashy color scheme and first-person shooter punishment bothers you, then SLaVE might be a game for you. However, if you are interested in it, you may want to move quickly; The game is planned to be an ultra-limited edition with no more than 484 copies of the game destined for release.

SEGA abandoned the Dreamcast in the face of stiff competition from the Sony PlayStation 2 after just two years on the market, but there is a community of dedicated independent developers who simply refuse to move on. It has a cult following who are still churning out new content fifteen years after the console’s commercial demise. Since the console’s discontinuation in 2001, more than thirty independent titles have been released, including Sturmwind, Rush Rush Rally Racing, Wind and Water, and Gunlord. So maybe next time you’re in the attic and see your old Dreamcast tucked between a Furby and a Spirograph, consider digging it up, dusting it off, and seeing what the old lady can do in 2016.

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The benefits of midsize sedans

The convenience of midsize sedans is that they are roomier than compact cars, but more efficient than luxury sedans. Midsize sedans give you the advantage of four doors and comfortable seats, but they don’t cost as much as a full-size full-size sedan. The medium size is practical without sacrificing comfort or design. Most auto consumers find that a midsize vehicle is exactly what they need to get their family or business partners around town. While a larger car may be more comfortable on longer road trips, a midsize car is the ideal everyday workhorse.

Fuel economy

When you drive a midsize sedan, you can expect to save a little money on the fuel pump. Economy and compact cars are the only vehicles that have better fuel efficiency, and new technology is closing that gap fast. Midsize sedans are much more fuel efficient than large sedans, minivans, SUVs, or light trucks. The money you save on the fuel pump gives you the freedom to drive more often without worrying about the cost. You will also contribute to the environment because your car uses less fuel than other popular vehicles.

Hybrid vehicles

Once hybrid technology became more agile, it is beginning to be used in larger vehicles more regularly. The original hybrids were compact cars, but today you can find a battery / gasoline hybrid in any class of vehicle. When you pair the battery look with a gas-powered midsize car, you dramatically increase gas mileage. Hybrid cars are becoming more and more affordable. As more consumers buy hybrid cars, the positive impact on the environment and the country’s dependence on foreign oil will continue to improve exponentially. Automakers have responded to consumer demands for more fuel-efficient vehicles by producing hybrid models to suit any lifestyle.

Better handling

A midsize vehicle tends to handle better than smaller or larger cars. The distribution of the car’s weight on its axles creates a very stable center of gravity. This allows the car to turn without leaning too much to one side or the other, and reduces the risk of a midsize car tipping over during a sharp turn. Most of the midsize sedans on the market today have front-wheel drive, which improves their handling and makes them even more responsive and stable. Front wheel drive is superior to rear wheel drive when it comes to driving on wet or icy roads, because the weight of the engine rests directly on the front wheels and keeps them in contact with the road.

Family friendly

Today, most families have four members or fewer. Midsize sedans are the perfect compromise between space and expense. Four adults will fit comfortably in a midsize car, and the kids will fit even better. You don’t have to spend extra money on a minivan or SUV to get a comfortable four-door vehicle that your family is the perfect fit for. The trunk space of modern midsize cars is more than adequate for almost any family’s needs, whether you need to haul baseball equipment or groceries.

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of each RV model?

A class

The Class A RV is the most prestigious of all RVs on the market. The advantages of this RV are that there is always a market when you prepare to sell and there are many used models to choose from when buying. The new A-Class are very safe vehicles, your family can even move in the vehicle while driving. Class A’s are easy to finance and insure and have good repair records. This type of RV makes it very easy to “dock” (park anywhere without electrical hookups). Just stop where you want to go and eat dinner that was made while driving or just fall asleep. You never have to get out of your RV to set up because it is self-sufficient.

The biggest disadvantages of the A-Class are that they are also the most expensive. Many of the new Class A’s get less than 7 miles per gallon and the older ones may not even get more than 5 miles per gallon. Every time you want to go somewhere you have to take everything apart, unless you have towed a vehicle, but that makes your vehicle harder to drive and harder to drive. Many people find it impossible to back up Class A RVs and they are intimidating to drive. When major road repairs are needed, he is forced to check into a hotel until his “home” and “transportation” are repaired.

Class B

The Class B RV is sometimes called a conversion van. Because they are basically a truck, the parts are easy to find and most mechanics can do the repairs. They are the easiest to drive, park, or fit into off-road locations that are impossible to reach with larger RVs. The B-Class offers great fuel economy compared to other RVs and is fast on the highway.

Class B is the most expensive per square foot and has very small storage compartments. They are better for one person, but two could possibly spend a weekend together, rather than a weekend could cause serious damage to their relationship. Some of the replacement appliances are hard to find because they were made for small rooms. When it comes to staying in a camp, you will probably pay the same as a bus would pay for the same space. The front window will require a windshield cover to provide privacy and reflect UV rays.

Class c

The Class C RV is a recreational vehicle built on the frame of a van or truck. The advantages of this type of RV are that it is generally easier to obtain parts and perform repair work. They offer the family the same comforts of the Class A RV in terms of living space, while being more economically priced than the Class A. They generally have better sleeping capacity for families with a superior bed with a queen size mattress. They are ideal for long camping trips with large families. The Class C does not intimidate the driver like a Class A, as it is more like driving a truck or van than a bus. As a used vehicle, they are often easy to find and can be purchased reasonably cheaply. They are especially well cared for if the owner has purchased an RV cover to protect the exterior.

The downsides to the C-Class are that their price seems to depreciate faster than their big brother, the A-Class, and the storage space is considerably smaller than the A-Class. They don’t have the luxury look of the A-Class, as usual. they will do it. be more of a camper than a coach. Front cab windows sometimes leak where roofs are mounted and the windows will need a windshield cover to provide occupant privacy and keep the cab cool.

Travel trailer

The advantages of the travel trailer are many. The travel trailer offers a single level floor plan compared to the upper level fifth wheel bedroom. If you are using a truck to tow the RV, you have not lost use of the truck bed like you do with the fifth wheel. Some of the smaller, lighter models can be towed by a large car or truck. Travel trailer costs much less than motorized recreational vehicles. This is especially important if you need to do repairs on the RV. In this case, you can leave the motorhome for repair and still have the use of your truck or van. Plus, when you arrive at your vacation spot and prepare for your stay, you have the truck or van to get around and visit other destinations.

The downsides to these RVs come from driving the travel trailer. Larger travel trailers have quite a few balancing and handling problems. These are the most difficult to steer, drive, and brake of all types of recreational vehicles. Slow and cautious driving is recommended. Trailers of any type (fifth wheel or travel trailer) do not have the luxurious look of the coach.

Toy carrier

The toy carrier was designed for families and sports enthusiasts. There is a large cargo room at the rear that allows you to take your bikes, motorcycles, snowmobiles, jet skis, or other outdoor recreational vehicles to places such as the desert, the woods, or the woods. It’s like taking your garage with you. The garage of your toy carrier can also be used to house extra beds for large families or their guests. You can even add a toy transport screen to provide a shady area that keeps mosquitoes and all other insects out.

Something to consider if you are considering purchasing a toy transporter is whether you have a vehicle that can support the weight of the RV and toy transporter combined with a full garage. The weight of the RV and all of its toys will require the largest eight-cylinder or a heavy duty 250 or even a Cummings diesel.

Fifth wheel

The fifth wheel costs less than motorized RVs when it comes to square footage. Some people like the two-level floor plan caused by the hitch setup. Newer fifth wheels have multiple slide outs. These slide in and spread the square footage, allowing you to stay in one place for many weeks without wanting to kill in another. The raised neck section of the fifth wheel (called the gooseneck) connects on the flatbed of the tow vehicle to the fifth wheel hitch. This hitch design reduces the overall length of the vehicle and, since a large majority of the weight falls on the rear axle of the truck, improves traction and handling for both vehicles. In case the trailer needs repairs, the fifth wheel trailer can be left at the repair shop while you can still use your truck. Also when you arrive at your destination and have prepared for your stay, you have a truck that can take you wherever your dreams take you. This is much easier than driving a huge motorhome to a nearby grocery store to buy some items.

There are some downsides to the fifth wheel. One is that the fifth wheel moves higher than the travel trailer, so it tends to fly a bit on highways and in severe storms. The fifth wheel hitch limits the use of the truck bed to transport large items and a car or truck cannot carry a fifth wheel.