LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck and Motorcyle News

LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News Announces Auto Parts Supplier of the Month For September, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:09:00 +0000

LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News Announces Our First Automotive Industry's

Automotive Parts Supplier of the Month

Allen's Used Auto Parts of Tampa, FL!

"LDJ Auto Body News has gone through some major renovations in the past 30 days. We've added many great new concepts to our line-up to help our readers and those in our industry gain knowledge of things happening in our industry and we've added some exciting new regular features", said Dee Blackman, Senior Editor of the newsletter. "One of the things we are adding is our "Supplier of the Month" award that is given to auto parts and auto industry suppliers who go above and beyond the call of duty in their respective niche to provide a great experience for their customers. In an economy where everyone is affected by price, it's important that we give recognition to those that do their best to offset the ever increasing prices for both consumers and businesses, thus affecting the industry as a whole. We want to let people know that there are companies out there who go the extra nine yards to provide the best customer service while still keeping pricing at a minimum."

A big congratulations to Allen's Used Auto Parts of Tampa, FL for being named LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News' "Automotive Industry Auto Parts Supplier of the Month" for September, 2012.

Located at 5509 E. Broadway in Tampa, FL, Allen's provides new, aftermarket and recycled parts for auto industry businesses and consumers alike. Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable and they keep a vast inventory of used parts. Their huge inventory of mechanical parts and body parts is well maintained and impeccably organized. "I have been doing body work for 40 yrs.", said Larry Blackman of LDJ Auto Body and Mechanical, Gibsonton, FL, "and I was extremely impressed by the organization of their parts inventory. In our business, it is key that the used body parts we buy for our customers are in good shape and Allen's is the first place we call when looking for used parts. They tell us when our order will be ready and we plan our job scheduling based on that time frame. If Allen's tells us our order will be ready for pick-up at a certain time...it is. That's as important to us as the price. Nothing is worse than having to tell a customer that their vehicle will be late because your supplier didn't deliver on time. That just doesn't happen at Allen's. These guys do great work and we depend on them."

In addition to their parts supply, Allen's also offers auto repair services like parts installation, tune-ups, oil changes, and more, all of which are reasonably priced and expertly done by their staff of knowledgeable mechanics. "It's a great place to do business and we even send our own customers there to buy their parts. There aren't many suppliers that I'll actually send my customers to," said Blackman, "When it comes to that, you have to really be the best. We don't make recommendations like that lightly. This is a competitive business and you have to be careful when you recommend someone to one of your own customers. There has to be an amount of trust there and that takes a lot of time to build. Allen's is one of those places."

EDITOR'S NOTE

Allen's Used Auto Parts of Tampa, FL is owned by Hoss who works the counter along wiht Dean, Brian, Mike, and Todd. This hard-working team of auto professionals assembled by Hoss will provide you with a great customer experience. Whether you are an automotive industry business owner or just the owner of your favorite vehicle, you owe it to yourself to give Allen's Used Auto Parts of Tampa, FL a try. We highly recommend them for all your auto parts and service needs. Give Hoss a call today....we promise you won't be disappointed. Tell em Dee sent you!

Congratulations guys......and keep up the great work!

-Dee Blackman
Senior Editor and Publisher
LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News
Happy Motoring!

LDJ Auto Body News Welcomes Don Elfrink, New Contributing Author

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 14:34:00 +0000

LDJ Auto Body News Welcomes Our Newest Contributing Author, Don Elfrink of AutoMatStore.com!

We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Don Eflrink of AutoMatStore.com as our newest contributing author here at LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News. Don has done several guest posts for us in the past and had such a great response from all of our readers that he is going to be a regular here at LDJ Auto News.

For those of you who don't know Don, here's a short bio to bring you all up to speed as to Don's expertise in the automotive industry. We are looking forward to some great upcoming articles from Don Elfrink and welcome him to the new team here at LDJ Auto News. We'll be running new articles by Don regularly, so be sure to register now so you don't miss any of the great info Don Elfrink has to offer and be sure to stop by his website at www.AutoMatStore.com for some great deals too!

Check out AutoMatStore.com for some great ideas on floor mats for your car or truck!

Here Don Elfrink's autobiography! Look for more article soon!

An Entrepreneur for Life

I’m no stranger to owning my own business – I’ve operated several over the past three decades. I’ve owned everything from a vending business (which wasn’t one of my best decisions, by the way), to an expedited delivery business, a trucking business, a manufacturing business and, today, an ecommerce website. I’ve also been involved in entrepreneurial enterprises since college. You might say it runs in my family.

Getting Off to a Good Start

I actually left college after completing my junior year at the University of Missouri in St. Louis so that I could go to work in our family business. We operated an LTL (less than truckload) trucking business in the greater St. Louis area. I learned the ropes and honed my skills in St. Louis, and then made the move to Columbia, Missouri, where I opened and ran a terminal that served the central part of the state.

Perhaps the greatest strength of our trucking business was our ability to deliver overnight to destinations as far away as 400 miles, which was unheard of in the industry. However, even with our excellent service, we were limited by the geographic area we served. To supplement our trucking service, I started an expedited business, which gave us a greater serviceable area and more profitability. Unfortunately, four years after I moved to Columbia, the family trucking business was sold. Like they say, though, when one door closes, another opens. That’s when I expanded my expedited business to include truckload services and began doing business with clients across the country.

Entering the Automotive Industry

Really, it was my time spent in the trucking business that helped me get involved in the automotive world. One day, I visited a client that manufactured automotive floor mats. One of his designs really caught my eye – it was manufactured for a full-size van, and covered both front floorboards, as well as the area between the seats. I saw immediately how it would benefit truck drivers, so I asked my client if he had floor mats that would fit 18-wheelers. He said no, but that if I could provide templates and patterns, he could make them for me. They were a huge hit with truck stops, trucking companies and truck manufacturers, and after a few years, I actually bought the floor mat plant from the original owner. I was now in the automotive industry.

Finding My Own Success

There are many different aspects to owning a manufacturing business, but one in particular helped me establish my current business, AutoMatStore.com. In the manufacturing process, we created an inventory of overruns, returns and obsolete products we had a hard time finding a market for. However, with the advent of the Internet, especially sites like eBay, we were able to address that issue.

That was when I realized the potential of the Internet. I sold the manufacturing business about seven years ago so I could start up an Internet ecommerce site focused on automotive floor mats. We decided from the beginning that customer service was going to be the difference between our company and our competitors, and it provided to be the lynchpin of our success. With our emphasis on customer service, we have realized an astounding growth of between 15 and 20% every year for the past five years, during a time when the auto industry was suffering one of its worst slumps in history.

Forward to the Future

Of course, we’re not content to rest on our laurels. Our plan for the future is to create similar ecommerce sites that focus on either a specific type of item, a specific vehicle or a specific vehicle type. That specific focus and our drive to provide outstanding customer service will help us stand out in the market.

Don Elfrink is the owner and operator of AutoMatStore, an auto floor mat company based out of Columbia, Missouri. Before AutoMatStore.com, Elfrink was the operator of a company that produced automotive accessories. AutoMatStore.com focuses on all-weather, logo, carpeted and molded car mats.

Automotive Memories.....Your First Driving Experience, A Moment Locked In Time.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 22:51:00 +0000

There Are Some Things in Life We Never Forget

No Matter How Old and Forgetful We Become!

Share Your First Driving Experience!

Don't Forget to Add Your Pics!

As we age, many things in our lives become distant, blurry, half-memories. We don't actually forget them, they just become a little blurry! LOL. However, one thing just about everyone can remember is the first time they drove. It's just such a great feeling that it becomes burned in. It's just a great feeling!

Add caption

While reading through my daily reading digests, I came across an article in one of my favorite blogs, Jalopnik.com. The article entitled, "How Did You Learn To Drive?", by Patrick George, caught my eye and my husband and I just started reminiscing about how we learned to drive. That feeling of "total control" when you first take the wheel, no matter what age you are, is just really "cool"! LOL It's a great topic of conversation not matter where you are or who you're with because EVERYBODY has a story to chip in. Try it next time you need to "break the ice" at a boring occasion, you'll be the hit of the dinner table!

1959 Oldsmobile 98 Regency...the car that
'daddy let me drive'!

My own experience happened when I was just 5 or 6 years old, (ok, I'm a little unclear of the exact age, but, I am....whoops, almost gave it away there! Suffice it to say, it was quite a few years back....LMAO!), and my dad, a Chicago police officer, sat me on his lap and took his own hands off the whee and let me drive his 1958 Oldsmobile down the road.... Now, if you're any kind of mathematician at all, that should give you a pretty good idea of the year we're talking about! Anyway, what an awesome day that was. It changed the way I felt about everything! From that time on, all I wanted to do was grow up enough to experience driving on my own. Now my hubby, Larry, says the first time he ever drove was with his dad in a 1959 Studebaker Lark! (We're pretty close to the same age, although, he does have me by a couple years! LOL)

Larry's first "drive", 1959 Studebaker Lark. (Kinda
looks like a "Rolls Royce 'wannabee"! LOL

Regardless of what year it was or who it was that let you drive, I'll bet you can answer that question without too much hesitation, right? Like I said, it's just an awesome feeling to have that much control over something that powerful and the first time you do it....well, it makes an impression!.

So that's the question of the day.....what was the very first vehicle you got to drive? We'd love to hear your stories (and see your pictures!). Larry and I had a good 1 hour conversation that included some really good memories and lots of comic relief! Larry's got me digging around in the old picture boxes and trying to find some our old photos. If I find them, I'll be glad to publish them for ya! Be sure to send us your pics too! Let's see what some of us were driving around back in the day!

Welcome to the NEW & IMPROVED LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, & Motorcycle News!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 19:38:00 +0000

September 1st Marks the First Day of Our New Format Here At LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News

Register Now to Make Sure You Don't Miss ANY of The Great New Features Starting Today!

You can register via email or RSS feed. We're compatible with all readers including Google Reader, which we recommend. LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News is now available via your smart phone! Our mobile site is now optimized for most mobile operating systems including tablets.

We decided that the official end of Summer would be the official start of the new and improved features being implemented here at LDJ Auto News! We're excited about our new format and we're sure you'll enjoy all the great information that passes through our doors.

Here's An Overview Of Our Newest Features

You'll enjoy a host of new guest bloggers. Each week, we'll have at least one new guest article from some of the most interesting and influential people in the auto industry.

www.caruserreviews.com

New car, truck, and motorcycle reviews from some of the best review sites on the Internet to help you find your new car, truck, or motorcycle. We do the research so you don't have to. From pricing to accessory packages, you'll love our new review section.

New automotive product and accessory information. Here you'll find information on the latest, greatest car, truck, and, motorcycle parts, accessories, and even clothing and gear. Our bloggers will research and review the best products and find the best places to buy them. We'll be updating our affiliate lists so you'll be able to find those products at the lowest prices possible right here in this blog.

Live "chat" with one of our professional technicians here at LDJ Auto Body & Mechanical! We're excited about this great new feature. People will be able to chat live with Larry Blackan, Dee Blackman, Rich Downs, and more. Information for the "do-it-yourself" project owner straight from the pros who do it for a living. Get tips on choosing paint and materials for your project vehicle. Tips on bodywork, tools, proper procedures and more. Get recommendations on what accessories are best for your particular application, and just about anything else in the automotive industry. Live "chat" is active now. Simply scroll down to the bottom right of the screen and click on "Contact Us" to initiate a live chat conversation.

Each month we will be featuring a specific job or project. Each feature project will include start to finish progress reports along with "how-to" articles, detailed pictures and descriptions of the work being done, and instructional videos. There will also be a "discussion" forum regarding each project so you can ask questions and get exactly the information you need from our professional technicians.

We will continue to provide you with a list of the best suppliers for ALL your automotive and motorcycle parts and accessories. We strive to make your automotive accessory shopping experience a good one. We monitor feedback on all of our affiliates and ensure that only the best suppliers with the best prices are listed here. We'll continue to do our homework so you don't have to. Our list of automotive specialists continues to grow, so be sure to check out our pages for the best bargains in town!

Next month, we are working on a "classifieds" page to allow our readers the ability to list their cars, truck, motorcycles, and related parts for sale to other readers. Listing your vehicles and parts is free! Reach thousands of buyers with similar interests to help you sell your items fast.

We hope you like our new format and we'd love to hear your opinions, good or bad, along with any ideas you might have for what you'd like to see here. We look forward to seeing all of you here again and meeting all our new subscribers too!

Happy Motoring!

-Larry and Dee Blackman

LDJ Auto Body & Mechanical

Gibsonton, FL

Official "Cause" of Two Karma Fires Announced

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 19 Aug 2012 23:08:00 +0000

Fisker Announces Cause of Karma Fire in Woodside, CA

Last Weekend's Woodside, CA Fire and Fire in Texas Last May, Both Involving Karma's Are Not Related

Fisker, the manufacturer of the Karma Sedans involved in two recent parking lot fires, announced yesterday that the two fires were unrelated.

According Fisker, last weekend's fire in Woodland, CA was caused by a defective low temperature cooling fan located in front of the wheel and had nothing to do with the lithium ion battery configuration which was originally thought to blame after another fire happend in Texas last May.

In an article at Autoblog written by Sebastian Bianco, Fisker announced a voluntary recall that involves some 2,400 Karma sedans with the suspect cooling fan.

"As the latest statement makes clear, and as we expected, the parking-lot fire was not caused by the lithium-ion battery. Company co-founder Henrik Fisker said, "This incident resulted from a single, faulty component, not our unique EVer powertrain or the engineering of the Karma. As this situation demonstrates, Fisker Automotive is dedicated to doing whatever is necessary to address safety and quality concerns."

"Fisker says the supplier is responsible and will work together with the unnamed company to fix the problem. Retailers will contact customers and "this recall campaign is not expected to have a material financial impact on Fisker." The fix entails a new cooling fan "that meets the required specifications" and a new, extra fuse "for added protection." Around 2,400 Karmas are affected by this recall.

According to Bianco, " Fisker is also saying that there is no discernible connection between the Woodside fire and another fire involving a Karma that happened in Texas in May. Fisker spokesman Roger Ormisher told Bloomberg that, "The report for the Texas fire is not in the public domain and we do not have access to it. ... the real root cause [of the Texas fire] is unlikely to be determined."

Fisker Karma Sedans are becomming increasingly popular due to the electric vehicle's ability to be charged using a standard 120V outlet. Able to travel 50 miles on the lithium ion battery pack which is enhanced by a solar roof configuration, when the battery pack runs low the vehicle's gas powered engine/generator kicks in to provide another 250 miles on a full tank.

See a full overview description of the Fisker Karma at AOL Autos. These extremely "green" engineered vehicles are the first of their kind in that they charge with a standard 120V outlet, get outstanding mileage, and are extremely environmentally friendly. They are constructed soley from "eco friendly" products including corn fiber based floor mats, 100-percent recycled post-industry polyester Eco-Suede, and rescued wood trim retrieved from the 2007 firestorm in Orange County, California.

As stated by AOL Autos., "The Fisker Karma is a vehicle that will appeal to any environmentally-conscious consumer".

Car, Trucks, and SUVs Reviewed By The People That Drive Them!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 19 Aug 2012 17:01:00 +0000

Vehicle Reviews Written By The People That Matter The Most

The People That Own Them!

Researching a vehicle before you buy is a great way to avoid costly mistakes and also narrow down the zillions of ads that are available to us via the Internet, classifieds, and more. Knowing what you want before you start looking can save you lots of time and unnecessary driving. It can also help you head in the right direction when it comes to price, comfort, and a myriad of other things that are important when it comes to buying a vehicle.

Many people choose to read reviews of the vehicle's they are interested i,n hoping to find the 'best' and the 'worst' of the type of vehicle they are looking for. Reviews are a great way to learn about vehicles. What kind of motor configurations are available, colors, sports editions vs. luxury editions, and lots more. But, most reviews are written by "professional reviewers", and, well, a professional reviewer is "just that", a professional.

These reviewers are hand picked by the manufacturer's, flown to their destinations first-class, given a vehicle configured by the manufacturer, and wined and dined while they are putting together their "journalistic" comments about the vehicle in question. I love reading reviews done by the pros because they (the pros), do a great job making sure that they cover all the important things we're interested in, like motor size, options available, and, last but not least, price.

However, we always have to remember that these reviews are done by professionals and not someone who just went out and bought the car, truck, or suv, drove it for awhile, and, then decided to put their reactions to the whole experience down on paper. They are paid to do what they do.

Yesterday, while going through my "social networking" tasks, (a task which is getting longer and longer by the day I might mention), I came across a site that is dedicated to vehicle reviews done by the folks that own them! What a great idea. These reviews are done by people just like you and me. These "reviewers" actually own the vehicles they are reviewing. They are not "special" vehicles that have been 'customized' by the manufacturer to be the "ultimate" vehicle. They are "real" vehicles. The kind that people like you and I are going to end up with if we buy one.

The site is called Car User Reviews and you can find it at http://www.caruserreviews.com. This is a great place to do your research when looking for a specific vehicle. You can look up the vehicles by type or by manufacturer. But, the best part is, the reviews are as real as they get. They are also, for the most part, concise and to the point.

Who could be more "brutally honest" than the person who went out and spent their hard earned dollars for their dream vehicle? That's right! NO ONE! I mean, if you want to find out about a specific kind of vehicle and get the truth, ask someone who owns one, right? That's exactly what this site is all about.

Car User Reviews also reviews car dealerships! That's right....you can look up the reviews for dealerships in your area and find out which ones people love and which ones, well, not so much.... Anyway, it's a great site that you really should check out, especially if you're in the market for a new or used vehicle.

It's also a place where you can voice your own opinion. Have something to say about the car, truck, or suv that you own? Tell it like it is! You can even tell everyone about the experience you had buying your vehicle if you bought it at a dealership.

So, the next time you need some info regarding a specific vehicle, head on over to Car User Reviews and check it out.

You could save yourself some money, time, and even the grief of not making the same mistake someone else already has. I think it's a great idea.

Finding out as much as you can before you purchase a vehicle is the best way to avoid headaches. Running a vehicle's history report is also a good way to ensure that the car, truck, or suv you are looking at is worth your hard earned dollars. Protect yourself from hidden problems. AutoCheck® vehicle history report for only $29.99.

Happy Motoring!
Larry and Dee Blackman
LDJ Auto Body & Mechanical, Gibsonton, FL
www.ldjautobody.com

Know of a site that our readers would love? Send us the site url and a description so we can let everyone know about it. We are always looking for new and interesting information to share with our readers.

Customizing Your Bike. Master Your Own Style!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 08:10:00 +0000

LDJ Auto Body and Mechanical Provides Motorcycle Customizing For Less in Riverview, FL.

From Custom Motorcycle Paint To The Perfect Accessories, LDJ Auto Body Has Your "Look" For Less.

1943 Harley Davidson Panhead

Motorcycles have come a long way since the Harley-Davidson's of World War's I and II. Depending on your own particular style, the evolution of the motorcycle has created a "no boundries" attitude among both bike builders and bike owners.

What's better yet, is that no style is ever outdated! Unlike the classic and antique car enthusiast forum, where the style of the 1957 Chevy and the 1960's era Corvette are forever in the past. Vintage motorcycle styles never really come to an end.

1963 Harley Davidson Cruiser

From baggers to cafe racers, bobbers, choppers, and "crotch rockets", motorcyles just don't see to evolve....or is it something we better prepare our "stuck in the 70's" butts for!

I have been bitten by the "Pinterest" bug! Yup, I said it would never happen, but, I am addicted! I am most certainly addicted to pinning the different motorcycle styles onto my "Pinterest Board", which, by the way" is http://www.Pinterest.com/ldjcustomshop. Pinning on Pinterest is just plain fun! AND, by pinning all of our "cool" custom bikes, I have had a chance to look at some of the greatest "concept" bikes I've ever seen.

2003 Suzuki Intruder 1500 posted by LDJ Auto Body& Mechancial, Riverview, FL

However, bike building and "concept" bikes is for another article. Today, I want to show you just what customizing your own bike can do to make your bike more comfortable, stylish, and whatever else makes it you.

If you have a "touring bike" and like to travel, saddle bags are a 'must have'. Bags come in a variety of sizes and shapes and from hard shelled with locks to what resembles to me to be "duffle bags" mounted on the bikes rear sides.

Windshields are also a 'must have' for the traveling biker. Highway debris and bugs need to be deflected away from the rider as even the smallest fly can become a "bullet" at 70 or 80 mph.

There are a myriad of suppliers at which to purchase your accessories. LDJ Auto Body and Mechanical's professional technicians have put together a list of their favorite accessory shops, based on quality and price.

J&P Cycles - Harley-Davidson Parts carries a full line of accessories for every Harley-Davidson model out there.

H-D Sporty owner's will find everything they need to turn that Sporty into a cruiser at J & P. They have the best selection of Harley-Davidson accessory packages anywhere. From "hard saddle bags" to tool pouches, front and rear luggage carriers, sissy bars, seats, and more, J and P Cycles has the absolute largest selection AND the lowest prices. Be sure to give them a call today!

And for your motorcycle painting needs, LDJ Auto Body and Mechanical in Riverview, FL has the best, professional, certified paint specialists. Call us today for a price on your custom painting needs. Custom paint jobs are simply the best in the business. Go to their website at http://ldjautobody.com and click on photos. You can even request a free quote online. Fill out the convenient form on the home page and Larry Blackman will get a quote to you the same day!

Have fun accessorizing!

-Larry and Dee Blackman
LDJ Auto Body and Mechanical
Riverview, FL
http://ldjautobody.com

Make Sure Your Floor Mats Aren’t Dangerous | AutoMatStore.com

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 18:16:00 +0000

We'd like to thank Don Elfrink of AutoMatStore.com for his contributions here at LDJ Auto Body's Car, Truck, and Motorcycle News. Don's expertise in the auto industry is a welcome addition to our blog. Don's artlicles will be a regualr addition to our automotive news blog so register now so you don't miss any of his great aricles and information.

Here at AutoMatStore.com we know floor mats play an important role in your vehicle. They protect the carpeting underneath as well as the metal beneath the carpet from water, dirt, debris and odors. Every car should have a good set of car mats.. However, those mats can sometimes pose threats to your safety if installed or used improperly. Consider the situation with Toyota a few years ago – when vehicles began accelerating on their own, the company blamed ill-fitting floor mats and sticking gas pedals. Do your floor mats pose a risk to your safety? Below, you’ll learn more straight from the owner of a company that creates personalized car mats about how you can protect yourself.

Check factory mats. Many factory floor mats now come with an eye and hook securement system to prevent the mat from moving forward and affecting the brake or gas pedal. Make sure that the eye (grommet) and the hook are in good condition. The eye will be on the floor mat itself, and the hook will be a plastic piece affixed to the carpeting under the mat. Make sure you keep the hook through the eye at all times to ensure that the mat does not move forward and impede your ability to brake or accelerate.
Be ware of the backing. The backing on your floor mats is very important. If you flip that mat over, you should find a rubberized surface with extruded rubber nubs. Those nubs are significant – they’re designed to dig into the carpeting and prevent the mat from sliding forward or backward. If you notice that many of the nubs are missing (they can become brittle and break off over time), it’s time to replace those floor mats with newer options. When selecting new floor mats, opt for a set that has good backing to ensure that the mats stay in place.
Check the fit. While you might think that one floor mat size will fit most cars, that’s not really true. While there are “universal” mats out there, it’s better to opt for a set that is made specifically for the vehicle you’re driving. A mat that is too large (for instance, using a truck mat in a compact car) can roll or slide, impeding your ability to brake or accelerate. Floor mats that are too small for your vehicle won’t offer the protection that your carpeting and floorboards need.
Don’t simply throw them out. Given the ways that ill-fitting floor mats can affect your safety, you might be tempted to go without them altogether. However, that’s not a wise idea. Floor mats are used for good reasons. They offer important protection for the carpeting underneath your feet. For instance, when you drive, you place your toes and upper portion of your foot on the gas or brake. However, your heel rests on the floor. Over time, this will wear a hole in the carpeting. Floor mats protect your carpet from that demise. Additionally, a good set of floor mats will protect your carpet from dirt and water on your shoes and help keep it in good condition for years to come.
Be careful when buying new floor mats. There will come a time when you have to replace your old floor mats. They do wear out over time, and knowing a few important tips will ensure that you get the right quality mats. First, go to www.automatstore.com to discover a quality mat that fits your car – you want to buy a brand that’s recognized for quality. You also want to ensure that the mats are constructed from sturdy material – good quality rubber and carpet are the hallmarks of decent mats. Check the back for grip before you buy, and if you’re buying carpeted mats, make sure you match the interior carpet color of your car.

Floor mats might seem inconsequential, but they’re an essential consideration. With the tips above from Don Elfrink, owner of www.automatstore.com, you should be able to stay safe while protecting the interior of your vehicle.

Don Elfrink is the owner and operator of AutoMatStore, an auto flooring company based out Columbia, Missouri. Before AutoMatStore, Elfrink was the operator of an automotive production site. AutoMatStore focuses on all-weather, logo, carpeted and molded car mat.
http://test.skimlinks.com

2000 Mustang GT - A Father & Son Project by LDJ Auto Body & Mechanical, Gibsonton, FL

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 13:33:00 +0000

2000 Mustang GT Project Car!
A Father and Son Colaboration
by Howard and Eric McCorkle! Great Job Guys!

Cars are something that all of us deal with daily. But, our first car....well, now, that is something special! We all remember that special day when we got our driver's license. That day is, if you think about it, the first real step into the future. The day when we experience real freedom. It's a special feeling to push that key into the ignition knowing that we are truly "on our own".

The next step to "emancipation" from parental control is the day we get our first car.... And our first car is something that stays with us for the rest of our lives. I'll bet there isn't a single one of us that doesn't remember the day we bought it! I can even remember how it smelled! Seriously....our first car is something special. It is a special feeling that we just never forget.

That's why this story is special to me. I love seeing a father and son team up and work together on that special vehicle. It's something I have been lucky enough to share with many "father and son" teams and each and every one of them makes me smile.

Our latest project car was just that. We got an email from Howard, Eric's dad, asking how much it would cost to "just paint the car and install a carbon fiber hood". There's "no body work" the email went on to say, "but, my son would like a nice paint job, and we're thinking about a Lemans stripe package". "He is paying for the work himself and I have heard that you guys do some really great work there." "I'd like to see him get a nice job." "Please get back to me. Thanks. Howard". As I read the email, a smile crept over my face as I thought about all the "first cars" we had painted here at LDJ.

I remembered my youngest daughter's first car, a Mitsubishi Eclipse that Larry had literally "cut in half"! Yep, she wanted that car more than anything in the world, and, at that time, the only way we could afford a DOHC, fully turbo charged, gleaming black Eclipse was if we "fixed one up" and the only one we could find to fix up was basically "a total loss" in the rear end! So, Larry and I bought another one and he cut the damn car in half and welded the two halves together! Walah! One gleaming black, DOHC fully turbo charged Mitsubishi Eclipse commin up! Yes, having one of the best body men on the planet for a dad has it's advantages!

As I answered Howard's email, I already knew that we'd be taking on this job. My husband Larry is a great bodyman. But, first and foremost, he is a dad and a husband. And, I also knew that Howard had come to the right place to get his son's car painted and modified. As Larry looked at the pictures of the car, I could see the smile....the same smile I see every time we paint a "first car". It is just something that he loves to do....and, he loves seeing the look on the face of that "first car owner" when they see the car for the first time after it's done.

This is an awesome representation of what a great
father & son team can do when they put their heads
together! This beats all the video games and time lost
with our kids due to "texting" and "facebooking"!

This car was special though. We both love Mustangs and Howard and Eric had already been very busy doing what guys do to "first cars"! When I was asking Howard for his permission to share this car with all of you, I also asked him what he and his son, Eric, had done to the engine and the rest of the car....it was obvious that they had been working hard on turning this first car into something very unique! In his own words..." We started with brakes and suspension. We replaced the brakes, shocks, struts, ball joints, and lowering springs. Installed 4.10 gears and a cold air intake. Installed Comp 270 cams, long-tube headers, and catless X-pipe. Intalled racing seats and short throw shifter. We purchased a 3 1/2 inch cowl hood. Then we started searching for a painter and decided to go with LDJ Auto Body and Mechanical. Very happy with the outcome of the paint and the hood installation! And believe me, they did an outstanding job! Here's a shot of "under the hood"! I wish I had recorded the sound of this car....it's awesome! You can see the time spent under her hood is significant and the car runs great.

The car was in great condition for it's age to begin with. A few minor scratches were the only "body work" that needed to be done. We started by removing the finish on the vehicle.

The car was fitted with a new, fiber carbon, 3 1/2 cowl inducted hood. After fitting and prepping the hood. The painting process began.

From primer to base coat, the car progressed nicely. The Lemans stripe package really impressed me. The color of the stripe is a pearl, gun metal blue-gray that really set off the red in the car's primary color scheme.

The paint job was completed using all DuPont products. From the filler for the 3 very minor scratches to the base coat / clear coat finish, DuPont supplied every stitch of the material. Even the outrageous "gun metal blue to silver" flip / flop pearl Lemans stripe was DuPont.

The finished product is spectacular and the color combinations are fabulous.

The 2005 Mustang GT has some fantastic body lines and screams "muscle car" with styling that brings back the original "pony" car itself.

Ford's attempt at re-creating the original look of the early Mustangs was a huge success and the Mustang, new or old, has become one of the most popular cars on the road today.

We hope Eric enjoys this outstanding "first car" as much as we enjoyed helping him get this project finished!

We'd like to thank Howard and Eric for letting us share this great vehicle with our readers and we wish them all the best.

For more information on restoration and custom paint work, give us a call at (813) 644-4497. Larry Blackman is always available to answer your questions and help you find the best solutions to getting your project up and running at prices that will fit your budget.

We also do motorcycle restoration and custom bike work.

Estimates are always free so call us today to see how little it can cost to get your dream car or bike on the road today!

Happy Motoring!

Larry and Dee Blackman
LDJ Auto Body and Custom Shop
Gibsonton, FL
www.ldjautobody.com
lblackman@ldjautobody.com

Auto Window Tinting 101 – What You Need to Know

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:07:00 +0000

When it comes to adding style to your vehicle, there are few things that can do more than window tinting. However, it also offers many other advantages, including helping protect your interior from UV damage, keeping your car cooler and can even offer protection for those with medical conditions aggravated by sunlight. Of course, there are a few things you should know before you slap a sheet of tint on your windows.

Seasonal Considerations

Many drivers don’t realize that adding window tint to their cars can have a huge impact on their comfort throughout the year. For instance, just a slight tint can help block sunlight and heat during the summer months. This can make a drastic difference in your comfort levels, particularly when getting into a car that’s been parked in the sun during the summer. Of course, you should still use a windshield sun screen to really cut the amount of heat buildup in your car. During the winter, you won’t notice any adverse effects from tinting, either.

Health Considerations

Some individuals actually have a medical reason for adding window tint. For instance, medical conditions like lupus and eye health problems can be severely aggravated by direct sunlight. Other conditions include skin cancer, allergies to sunlight and photosensitivity. Adding window tint can save pain and suffering for these individuals.

Save Your Interior

While it might seem benign, sunlight is actually a damaging force of nature. All you have to do if you need proof is look at an item left in direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time. Paint fades, vinyl cracks, fabric fades and loses elasticity – sunlight is actually a slow death for the interior of your car. For instance, if you have leather interior, you’ll find that prolonged sun exposure can cause serious damage in a rather short period of time. However, adding window tinting to your vehicle can block the UV rays responsible for drying, cracking and fading your leather interior. Not only does that prolong your interior’s life, but it can have a beneficial effect on your time and finances as well. Less damage means less time and money spent on conditioners and protectants.

Legal Considerations

Of course, adding window tinting is not as simple as you might suppose. You might think that all you have to do is head down to your local aftermarket shop and buy a roll of tint. That’s wrong, though. Most states in the US have some very specific rules regarding the amount of tint (the darkness of the tint) that you can have on your windows. There are even laws that determine which windows can be tinted and how much tint is legal for each window. Understanding your state and local laws is vital. The best place to find out what your state requires in the area of window tinting is your state’s DMV website.

Which Windows Can Be Tinted?

Most states allow you to tint all your vehicle’s windows except the windshield. However, you do need to be aware that the degree of tinting varies with window placement. For example, rear passenger windows can have a darker tint than the driver window. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, and you might find yourself forced to remove the tint that you just paid good money to have installed.

As you can see, window tinting for your car can be a huge benefit, but there are some specific laws that you need to know prior to having it applied. You also need to remember that if you move to another state, your car might not comply with their regulations, so find out what to expect beforehand.

Don Elfrink is the owner and operator of AutoMatStore, an auto flooring company based out Columbia, Missouri. Before AutoMatStore Elfrink was the operator of a automotive production site. AutoMatStore focuses on all-weather, logo, carpeted and molded car mats.

Custom Ordered Cars – Worth the Hassle?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 12:15:00 +0000

Most buyers get their hands on a new car in the same way. That is, they drive down to their dealership of choice, choose the car they want, go through the purchase process and then drive away in their new ride. Of course, it’s not always this simple. Some would-be owners find that they just can’t seem to locate the car they want anywhere, on any dealer lot. Automaker websites show a variety of unique colors and package options that might not be available in your area. What are you to do? Custom ordering is the answer, but is it really worth it?

What Is Custom Ordering?

Custom ordering a car is exactly what it sounds like. And, contrary to what you might have been told, it is possible, and it’s available from virtually all automakers. However, it’s not as cut and dried as just sending in an order form and then driving off in your new vehicle when it gets delivered to the dealership. Also, don’t believe the hype that custom ordering costs more – you can get the same pricing on a custom ordered car as one the dealer has on the lot (you might sacrifice some negotiating power, though). There are a few things you need to know.

Some Dealerships Balk

First, you’ll find that while the automaker might be happy to supply you with a custom ordered automobile, the dealership you choose might not be so happy about it. There’s a good reason for this. If you don’t like the car when it arrives and cancel the order, then they’re stuck with a car that was tailored for you and will have very little chance of selling to someone else. However, custom ordering is possible, so if this is what you want to do, stick to your guns and find a dealer willing to help. Be prepared to put down a significant deposit, though.

Is It Right for You?

While some folks might be fine driving whatever they find available or what’s most popular on the market, some drivers aren’t willing to compromise. Perhaps you want a specific color or trim option. Maybe you want a unique set of wheels coupled with a different interior choice. Regardless – custom ordering is the way to go.

Of course, you’ll need to exercise patience here. Custom ordering takes time – usually a pretty good chunk. Most automakers require 8-12 weeks to deliver a custom order, and that time can be increased depending on a variety of factors. So, if you’re hoping to put in your order and have your car in a week or two, it’s time to rethink that stance. If you can wait that long, then go ahead and order, but if the thought of waiting a minimum of two months doesn’t work for you, it might be time to reconsider compromising on what you want.

A Few Notes

While placing an order with a willing dealer is really all there is to the process, there are a few things you need to bear in mind. First, make sure you’re working with a good dealership. They’re going to be integral here, and you want a company you’re happy to work with. Second, make sure that the deposit the dealer requires is refundable – this protects you in the case that you change your mind about the purchase. Finally, make sure you get everything in writing from the dealer, from the options and paint to the promise of your deposit being refundable. Without proof in writing, it’s just your word if something goes wrong so take the time to ensure that you’re protected.

Custom ordering a car can be a very good thing for buyers willing to exercise patience, but it’s certainly not a process that’s ideal for everyone.

Auto Trade-Ins 101 – Your Guide to Trading in Your Car

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 12:56:00 +0000

Buying a new car (whether brand new or used) is expensive. For most buyers, having a trade-in is not only a good idea, but an absolute necessity. Trading in your old vehicle knocks down the price of the car you’re buying, which cuts down significantly on the amount of interest that you’re going to pay on your auto loan, and can even make the difference between being approved and being denied the loan that you need. Of course, if you don’t go about it the right way, you might not get much money for your trade-in (or any at all). What do you need to know?

Appraise Your Car’s Condition

Even a "little" damage can be a lot!

The first thing you’re going to need to do is figure out what condition your car is actually in. The better the condition, the more money you can expect to get with your trade-in. First, get a copy of the Kelley Blue Book – this is an invaluable resource that will not only help you figure out just what shape your car is in, but what you can expect to get for it as a trade-in or as a direct sale to someone else.

Investing a few dollars can raise the
price significantly. The cost of this
repair was about $350.

Many different factors go into a car’s condition, including the exterior appearance/condition, what shape the interior is in, the mileage and maintenance on the vehicle and more. Be honest in your appraisal – does your car look like it should be in the junkyard? If so, you need to take steps to remedy the situation.

The Lie of Market Value

If you are going into the trade-in process under the impression that the dealer is going to give you fair market value for your vehicle, you’re in for a huge disappointment. Dealerships NEVER give fair market value. If your car could sell on the curb for $2,000, you can expect to receive less than half that amount from the dealer. In addition, there are a few factors that might make the dealer completely reject your car even if it has a high market value.

The most important factor in the dealership’s offer on your trade-in is going to be your car’s condition. However, other factors include the number of identical/similar vehicles the dealer already has on its lot, the demand for your vehicle in the local area and whether the dealer intends to sell your trade-in at wholesale. In every case, you can expect significantly less money than you would get if you were to sell your car outright.

Dealers can’t offer you market value for one very simple reason – they have to make a profit on the car. Therefore, you can expect them to offer you a lowball figure (say $500) and then sell it for market value ($2,000). Why do they need so much profit from it? It all comes down to the dealer’s overhead.

Think about it this way – every day that your car spends sitting on the dealer’s lot and not selling, it costs them money. It’s not a direct cost, but your vehicle is taking up space that could be occupied by something that might bring them more money, faster.

Sell or Trade-In?

The information above begs the question – should you sell your car outright instead of trading it in? Actually, this is an excellent option and will usually work out better for you in the long run. However, it’s also time consuming and can be more expensive to you in the short term. For instance, to sell your car, you’ll need to invest in a professional detail job, repair any damaged areas/components, pay for a vehicle history/CARFAX report and more. Those costs come straight out of your pocket, though you’ll recoup them when you sell the vehicle.

It also takes time to sell your car outright. Whether you choose to put it by the side of the road with a “for sale” sign in the windshield or list it with one of those “trader” magazines, run an ad in your local paper or something else, it’s going to take some time for your car to sell (if it does at all).

For most would-be buyers, the simplest option is to trade in the car, even though that means getting less money for it in the long run. Often, selling outright can be a hassle, especially if you need a new vehicle in a hurry.

Give Your Ride Curb Appeal

Whether you decide to sell your car outright or use it as a trade-in, you’re going to need to give it as much appeal as possible. The better the first impression your car makes, the better things will go all the way around. How do you boost curb appeal, though? It’s pretty simple.

Washing the car can be fun too!

Fist, make sure your car is clean, inside and out. You need to wash and wax the exterior, and fully clean the interior. That means you’ll need to remove all your personal effects, vacuum the floor and shampoo any stains that might detract from the interior’s appearance. Spend some extra time on areas like your tires and wheels, as well as the dash and your car’s windows. If you don’t have the time or patience for this, taking it to a professional auto detailer is an excellent choice (actually, that might be the best option even if you do have the time).

Second, you need to do a few things to boost your ride’s image. Take a look at your tires – are they old and just about worn out? Consider having a cheap set of tires put on. You should also make sure that any necessary maintenance is taken care of – replace the brake pads if necessary, change your oil and air filter, check your other fluids, inspect the belts and hoses, etc.

Essentially, anything that you can do to maximize the appearance and condition of your vehicle is a good idea, even if you’re trading it in. The more a dealership thinks they’ll get out of your car, the more they’ll offer in trade-in value (but it will ALWAYS be below market value).

Where to Trade in Your Car

Trading in your car is only done at the dealership. However, not all dealers are created equal. You need to ensure that you’re making a smart choice in order to maximize the amount of money you get for your trade-in. In addition to maximizing your car’s curb appeal and taking care of any maintenance necessary, you’re going to need to do a little bit of legwork.

While you might have a “preferred” dealership in town, you need to visit several in your area to conduct research. Hit the lot and check out the dealer’s selection of vehicles. Do you see your make and model represented? If so, how many cars just like yours are already taking up space on the lot? If there are more than one, you can expect a very lowball offer, or nothing at all. It’s not uncommon for a dealership to decline your trade-in if they don’t think it will sell (it’s a business decision, after all). Do the same research at several dealerships in your area and make notes about those that have few or no vehicles that are similar to your own. Those will be your best option when trading in your ride.

Tips to Remember

Trading in your car is a bit more complicated than many people think. Remember the following tips and you’ll do better.

1. The dealer is not going to take a chance on a car they know isn’t going to sell.

2. The dealer is not going to offer a high price for a car they know they’ll not be able to make at least $1,200 for at auction (the key word there is “auction”).

3. “Blue Book” value is not always the best indicator of what you’ll get either with a trade-in or an outright sale. Many other factors affect the ultimate price, including condition, demand and market saturation.

4. Your vehicle history will play a HUGE role in the amount of money you receive. If the CARFAX shows an accident, you can expect a low price.

5. Curb appeal is important, but the condition of your car’s paint and the number of miles on the vehicle are also immensely important considerations for the dealer (or a private buyer).

6. Trading in your car can give you access to credits against sales tax (depending on your state), which will help reduce the cost of your new car even more.

7. Most offers from the dealer are at least somewhat negotiable. Most dealers will offer a low figure at first and then expect you to negotiate it upwards.

8. If you don’t think you can accurately appraise your car, have it done by an expert before going to a dealership.

9. Don’t expect the dealership to give you enough on your trade-in to pay off what you owe on your existing loan. It’s not going to happen, particularly if you’re upside down.

Summer Automotive Care – Tips for Taking Care of Your Car

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:27:00 +0000

Summer is a time of lazy days, warm nights and family vacations. For many people, it means cookouts and spending time with family members. However, summer brings with it more than just an excuse to head to the beach – it’s one of the harshest seasons for your car. In order to make sure that your vehicle stands the test of time, you need to know a few things about summertime-specific maintenance. Here are a few simple, effective tips for maintaining your vehicle through the dog days and beyond.

Trip Check

Summer is the season for travel, more so than any other time of year. However, while taking a vacation or embarking on a road trip can be exciting and a great way to spend more time with your family, it can be a recipe for disaster if you don’t take the proper steps before heading out. One of the most important things to do is inspect your car to make sure it’s roadworthy and won’t cause headaches later on. You’ll want to check the following:

• Charging System: You’ll definitely want to have a charging system check done before you go anywhere. Make sure your mechanic checks your battery, the starter and the alternator. Summer heat can be a killer on these components.

• Tire Condition and Pressure: Give some attention to your car’s tires. Is there a good amount of tread left? Is there any uneven wear? Do you need a rotation? Is there damage from your car being out of alignment? Is the tire pressure set properly? A good set of properly maintained tires can mean the difference between a safe trip and a serious accident.

• Brakes: Your braking system is one of the most important on your vehicle. Make sure that you check brake pad thickness before heading out, and if you feel a pulsation in the pedal or seat when applying the brakes, you might consider having your rotors turned.

• Wipers: Summertime is infamous for producing heavy thunderstorms. Your road trip might pit you against torrential rain, hail and high winds. Make sure that your windshield wipers are up to the challenge. Ideally, you should change your wiper blades roughly every six months or so. Make sure your wipers keep the windshield clear and look for any signs of damage or wear on the blades.

• Fluids: Many of your car’s systems are hydraulic, and require specific fluids to operate. Make sure you check and top off any fluids under the hood, including transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid.

• Coolant: To stay within its operating temperature and avoid overheating, your car relies on coolant circulating through the radiator and assorted pipes and hoses. Make sure you check the coolant level in your car (when the engine is cool). You should also visibly inspect all the hoses for signs of damage, wear and leaks.

• Belts: The high heat ofsummer can mean death for your engine belts, particularly if they’re old and worn already. Make sure you check all the belts under the hood. Depending on your make and model, you might have a single serpentine belt, or several smaller belts. Give them a good eyeball to make sure they’re not cracked and about to break.

Don't let this be you!

Checking all of these systems can be time consuming and difficult if you’re not familiar with automotive technology. If you’re not comfortable inspecting any of these areas, take your car to a trusted mechanic and ask for a trip check before you head off. It can make a real difference in your safety and in your enjoyment of the summer months.

Summer Sunshine and Your Car's Finish! How to Save Your Paint!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 02 Jun 2012 13:55:00 +0000

Summer is my favorite season. Fun in the sun, vacations, and all kinds of great things to do. Now, we all know that protecting ourselves from the Sun has become a very important issue for our Summer activities. Depending on where you live, the Sun can really do some damage if you're not careful! Here in Florida, the Sunshine State, everyone knows the advantages of sunscreen. Without it, you can turn a fun day in the Sun into a very painful evening!

You car, truck, or motorcycle has the same problem. You vehicle's paint is subject to extremely intense heat and the same UV rays that we protect ourselves from during the Summer months. Those UV rays and heat can really do some damage without proper protection. Although most "clear coat" finishes do have some protection from UV rays built in, during the intense heat of the Summer, it's just not enough.

Protecting your vehicle's finish from the Sun and it's damaging effects is easy to do and very affordable. Definitely more affordable than re-painting your car! We've all seen what can happen to a finish when left in the Sun's heat. Peeling clear coats and dull finishes are not at all pretty. And, they can be easily avoided.

Using a wax on your finish that offers UV protection is one way to combat the Sun's damaging effects. There are many waxes and finish protection products on the market today that offer great protection from the UV rays of the Sun. Wax will also condition the finish and keep it looking great all year round!

Here at LDJ Auto Body, we recommend using a high quality carnuba based wax like Meguiar's to keep you finish looking great for years. These products come in many forms and are easy to apply. It's definitely time well spent when it comes to keeping your vehicle's paint looking new.

When applying wax to your vehicle, start with a clean, dry, finish. Wash the finish first to remove any road residue, bugs, tar, and dust from the finish. Dry the vehicle with a shammy. Be sure to move the car to a place that is out of the Sun. Depending on what product you choose, apply the product according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Some finish protectants are a one-step process where you simply wipe the product on and rub till it's absorbed. And, some require that you wipe the product on, allow it to dry, and then wipe it off. In either case, be sure to use a very soft cloth or pad that is recommended for the product that you're using. Make sure that there is no dust or particles in the cloth or pad that will scratch the finish.

It's just that simple! Now your car, truck, or motorcycle is ready to take you to all those fun destinations the Summer Season has to offer! Check out our "Finish Care Products" page to find some great deals on all kinds of products to keep your vehicle's finish looking great.

Happy Motoring!

Larry and Dee Blackman
LDJ Auto Body & Custom Shop
Gibsonton, FL

Women Gearheads? Do They Really Exist?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 05 May 2012 12:31:00 +0000

I just finished reading a blog article on Jalopnik.com, one of my favorite blogs, entitled "10 Ways to Inspire Women Gearheads" and I started thinking, there must be more women "gearheads" out there! But, where are they and why don't we see a lot more of them?

My own experience isn't that different than most, at least I don't think it is. My appreciation for cars dates all the way back to my very early childhood. I was the "first born" of the grandchildren and, I suppose, a little bit of a disappointment to my grandfather, who obviously, would have preferred a grandson.... But, being the trooper that he was, and not about to let a little thing like the "Y chromosome" put a damper in his day, grandpa just decided to make the best of it! He raised his little "tomboy" just like any other grandfather would. Point being, I learned to fish, hunt, and last, but not least, turn a wrench with the best of them! Yup, grandpa loved his cars, and, by the time I was old enough to get a grip on my Craftsman 1/4" socket, so did I...

I think the stigma that the only people who like to get greasy or who give a damn about the foot lbs. of torque being produced by the rumble under their hoods are men, has always been something that men have been trying to create! In fact, I'm not so sure that the stigma ever really existed... Somehow, all the hype about cars and motors and horse-power and other automotive cliche have managed to escape the gender war. Now, admittedly, most mechanical ads and advertisements for auto parts and such will usually show a picture of a "male" working on the car or motor involved,instead of a woman, but, the reason for that is quite different than the fact that women are not really interested in cars!

My thoughts on this are that men are afraid to let women into that elite society of beer drinking and garage socializing because if they let us into that little niche, they won't be able to use the "honey, I'm heading over to soandso's garage to work on his whatever" to escape without the little woman! Right? Seriousy, think about it. If the "little woman" was just as juberant about tweaking someone's "ported head intake to exhaust ratio", she just might want to go with him! Now, that could cause some real problems if hubby was just lookin to get out with the boys and throw down a couple beers while watching the "rear end" of some blonde walkin down the street while making immature gestures and whistling noises.....LOL! :)

I think a lot more women are into their cars more than we think. Maybe not quite into the nitty, gritty of high performance tuning and things of that nature, but, definitely into the way their cars look AND drive. I have a couple girlfriends that can change oil with the best of em' and do so on a regular basis! Probably more from a "saving money" standpoint than a "like to get greasy just for the sake of it", but, still they change their own oil and check the fluids and whatever else one does when taking care of those types of chores. And, of course, there are lots of women who shop the auto parts and accessory stores for neat little things to "spruce up" ol' Betsy and just make her "look nicer". Most of these stores actually cater to women for some of these items and you'll find lots of floor mats, seat covers, steering wheel covers and a host of other accessories geared toward women nowadays! I've even seen complete "make-over" kits for cars with hot pink, flower covered, prints and other "girlie" type designs.

So, don't underestimate the power of your woman, guys! If you really want us to get out there and get dirty with you, all you have to do is ask! I'd venture to guess that at least half of the women out there have more automobile knowledge than they let on. I think many women would be more than happy to join you at your friend's garage and do a little beer drinking while watching your drunken friends try and make their Honda's go faster!

Let's hear from some of our readers out there! Tell us what you think! Let's hear from some women gearheads too! I'll be there's a lot more women around that can appreciate the smell of a good, "high-octane" top fuel nitro mix. Hmmm, that might even make a good perfume idea!

Happy Motoring!

Larry and Dee

Spring Time IS Auction Time!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 03 May 2012 23:53:00 +0000

To all of our readers who've become interested in the auction scene since we introduced Iron Planet Motors a month or so ago, I decided to run a monthly regular article at the beginning of each month showing the monthly schedule for Iron Planet Motors, our auction affiliate. You'll find this feature at the beginning of each month so you can plan your auction buying ahead of time.

As we told you in the last couple of articles, Iron Planet Motors Auctions is a great auction for beginners and seasoned auction buyers alike. And, their easy-to-use sign-up forms are always available here on our blog. With easy to read reports of all the auction vehicles, a super support team, and transportation and financing help, you couldn't ask for anything more! They are definitely our choice for auction buyers everywhere. Couple that with their IronClad Assurance program that assures buyers that the vehicles have been quality inspected, and their new Mobile App, you just can't beat the great service they offer.

Along with our monthly auction report, we'd love to feature some of the vehicles that our readers have purchased. Send us pictures of your purchases and tell us about your auction experiences.

Buying at auction, whether you buy on-line or go to the auction, is always lots of fun. It's exciting to participate and even more exciting to win an auction. Along with the excitement, there are always good buys available and auctions are always a great way to save money, especially when you are looking for a special vehicle or something that might be a little out of the ordinary. When looking for special vehicles or vehicles that are hard to find, keep in mind that auctions, like Iron Planet Motors, give you the opportunity to broaden your shopping area and still be able to rely on their reports to know that you're getting a good solid vehicle even though it may be too far away to look at in person.

See you at the next auction!

Larry and Dee

2013 Shelby GT 500 - Mustang Lovers And Ford Fans Gotta Smile At This One!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:26:00 +0000

OK, so I don't usually do car reviews. I leave that to the real experts like Motor Trend and Car and Driver and the other select few journalists that are way better equipped to bring you all that great stuff. But, every now and then this little gear-head gal finds something that just gives me goosebumps and I just have to throw in my two-cents!

Now, for those of you that know me, I'm kind of a Chevy gal. Camaro gal to narrow it down a bit....So, you can see why Ford's announcement of the 2013 Shelby GT 500 caught my attention, and the attention of muscle car and speed freaks everywhere, for that matter! Even this Chevy loving, Camaro preaching grease monkey has to admit that this thing is a beast!

This stunningly beautiful monster has been affectionately labeled "the widow maker" by even the big boys in automobile journalism. The heart of this new Ford stunner is a 5.8-liter, aluminum-block V8, complete with a larger, more efficient supercharger. Nearly the entire powertrain has been upgraded for 2013, including a new cross-drilled block and heads, updated camshaft profiles, a carbon fiber driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle. The cooling system has also been upgraded, and the new six-speed manual transmission now has a final drive ratio of 3.31-to-1 – optimized to handle the massive amounts of torque put down by the new engine. What that boils down to was Ford's claim of 650 hp and somewhere around 190 mph out of the box!

What's even more amazing is that upon further testing, Ford was wrong! Yup, a little further investigating turned up the fact that Ford was slightly off in it's calculations. This little puppy was recently certified at 662 hp and 630 lb. ft. of torque that will take you to a speed of around 200 mph! And, that's just the way it arrives in your driveway! I've got chills just thinking about the ride in this one! See Ray Wert's 4/27/12 article in jalopnik.com, 2013 Shelby GT500 Actually Hits 662 HP.

Now that I've slowed my heart down a little, here's the answer to the inevitable question....how much is this gonna set you back? Ford just recenly released the pricing of this incredible engineering wonder. The base price is $54,200 for the standard model and the $59,995 for the convertible, but if you want to add the SVT Performance Package, it jumps up by another $3,495. This package includes: Torsen limited-slip differential, 19" forged-aluminum front wheels or 20" forged-aluminum rear wheels, Bilstein adjustable dampers, unique rear springs, a unique instrument cluster, and an SVT gear shift knob. A glass roof will add yet another $1,995, while an electronic package adds another $2,340.

OK, so you might have to take your banker out to dinner and break out a seriously good bottle of vino to gain his attention and beg for a slightly larger loan on this one.....but, what an investment!

My question? Will Chevrolet come back with a trump for this one? C'mon guys! The new Camaro ZL1’s LSA 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 HP and 550 lb.-ft. of torque is nothing to shake a stick at for sure.....but, alas, we have been "one up'd" yet again. But, I will keep the faith that our friends at Chevrolet will not let this be the last word in the newly founded "muscle car" wars! AND, according to my favorite writer's blog, Jalopnik.com and Ray Wert, the Z28 is still comming! Or, is the new Camaro 1LE actually the Z28 in disguise?

My guess....my love of Chevy and my beloved Camaro will have the last word here! And so we will wait and see just what comes of this situation. I'm not taking off my black silk Chevy racing jacket just yet!

I'd really like to hear from our readers on this one. Chevy and Ford fans alike must have some sort of opinion here....so send me your comments! I hear tale that GM would love to hear about what you'd like the Z28 to be too! Send us your ultimate Z28 configuration and what you'd like to see when, and if, one gets unveiled!

Happy Motoring!

Larry and Dee

Would Your Shop Go The Extra Nine Yards? Customer Service Should Be Their Number One Concern.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:55:00 +0000

We were recently contacted by one of our customers who told us that the water pump on her 2005 Saturn Ion 3 was leaking badly and needed to be replaced. The pump had been leaking water and had gotten progressively worse. Upon inspection of the vehicle, we found that the water pump bearing was the problem and replaced the water pump to resolve the issue.

After she had picked up the car and driven it home, she called to let us know that there was a "high-pitched" squeal comming from the engine compartment that got louder as she excellerated the vehicle. We told her to bring the car back to the shop so we could inspect it and see if we could find the reason for the noise.

Our mechanic inspected the car and determined that the noise was comming from the timing assembly. On this vehicle, the timing chain actually drives the water pump. The whole situation was beginning to take shape. Upon removing the timing assembly cover, our mechanic discoved a timing chain tensioner that was sticking and causing a severe pressure to be put on the timing chain and the water pump bearing. Aha! This is the reason the water pump had gone out in the first place!

Now, this particular vehicle had only 38,000 miles on it. Really low milage for a vehicle of it's age, but, still within the warranty of the vehicle. We documented the job, took pictures of the defective part, replaced it, charged the woman the necessary labor AND offered to help her get the work done under warranty. Would your shop have done the same?

In these economic times, it's important to save money where you can. Using the warranty for your vehicle is extremely important as car repairs can be expensive. This woman's repair bill would have cost her around $900 in labor, plus the parts!

My point here is to be sure that your repair shop is willing to work with you when it comes to items that should be repaired under warranty. Ensure that they will back up the repairs with a letter, if necessary, explaining the reason for the repair and any information leading up to what caused the damage or need for repairs in the first place.

Customer satisfaction should be the number one priority of any shop, big or small. Going the extra nine yards for customers is what gains respect and loyalty and when it comes to car repair, both of those should be at the top of any shops' list. If it's not, it's time to find a new shop. In these times, shops and customers need to work together to make sure that everyone comes out a winner.

When it comes to buying a car, knowing your shop will go the extra nine yards there can be really helpful too. If possible, have your mechanic check out the vehicle before you buy. Small problems that might not be noticeable to just anyone might be found by your mechanic and save you money down the road. Problems that need to be fixed are also great bargaining chips when it comes to negotiating the right price for a car or truck. When it's not possible to bring the car to your mechanic, always use a good, established servcie to get a vehicle history report. AutoCheck is the best vehicle history report available.

Buy a vehicle history report today and find out why AutoCheck is better than Carfax!
Shopping for a used car? For only $44.99, an AutoCheck® Unlimited lets you check unlimited VINs for vehicle history for 30 days. That's right, unlimited VIN# checks for a full 30 days!

This allows you to check each vehicle you look at and compare them all for one low price. You can also take those vehicle reports to your shop and get a professional opinion of which vehicle is the best buy without having to bring the car to your mechanic or vise versa!

Try AutoCheck today!

You'll be happy you did.

Happy Motoring!

Are You A Muscle Car Fanatic? Don't Miss This!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 13:06:00 +0000

I've spent a little time here talking to you about auctions and how you can find things in an auction that you simply won't find anywhere else. Muscle car enthusiasts should take a particular interest here.

Muscle cars are a breed all their own. Started by Oldsmobile in 1949 with the Oldsmobile Rocket 88 which featured America's first high compression overhead valve V8 in the smaller and lighter Oldsmobile 76 body (originally designed for a six-cylinder motor). Born in a time when gas was cheap, cars were more popular than ever, and the "need for speed" was moving faster than "John Force in the quarter mile", the muscle car began it's evolution.

For the true "muscle car aficionado", auctions are indeed the sales venue of choice. I introduced you to Iron Planet Motors as a starting block for auctions because they cater to those new to the auction and are a great place to "get your feet wet" and learn the auction process. Although they are easy to work with for the beginner, Iron Planet Motors is one of the largest auction houses in the world and features excellent, well run, auctions of every kind, including "online auctions" regularly. And, they too feature "muscle cars" in their events.

Mecum Auctions is yet another extremely large auction house which is very simple and easy to work with. Mecum offers two ways to bid at their auctions. Either on-site at the auction or by telephone. Mecum's auctions are exciting, and for those that can't make it to the auction site, they offer "live simulcasts" and "telephone bidding", the next best thing to being there! Although they offer auction events of every kind, Mecum Auctions does a large amount of "muscle car auctions" that will have our muscle car enthusiasts jumping for joy! Mecum often offers "whole private collections" at auction. Find out more about Mecum Auctions and sign up for Mecum InfoNet, a free service that will help you manage their events and help you keep track of what you're watching at Mecum.

Here is a little beauty that Mecum sent me to take a look at. Lot 350 at Dana Mecum's 25th Original Spring Classic Auction, scheduled for May 15-20, is 1970 Chevrolet Yenko Deuce

LT1, 4-Speed! This gorgeous car is only one of the many muscle cars offered by Mecum at the auction to be held in Indy. It's cars like this that keep muscle car fanatics going to the auctions! And, with whole private collections sometimes going on the block, keeping an eye on the auction houses can be fun and exciting!

Vehicle history report services are provided by many companies and are available via the internet. Bidders are responsible for deciding whether or not to purchase a vehicle history report.

With Mecum, the seller will afford every opportunity for the bidder to view all lots prior to sale. However the purchaser must understand that he/she is buying property entirely upon his own or his agent's examination and opinion prior to the auction. For this reason, purchasing a vehicle's history report is highly recommended. And, ALL BIDS ARE FINAL AT AUCTION There is no "Cooling Off Period." If you are awarded the final bid, ownership changes hands at the drop of the gavel. You own the merchandise and are responsible for payment in full and Payment is required within ONE HOUR of purchase unless other terms have been pre-arranged. See all the bidding information terms and conditions here

Once again, these are just some of the awesome items you can find at auctions. And, don't forget, for a really fantastic auction experience and some "hand-holding" for your first few bids, don't forget to check out Iron Planet Motors. Our pick for learning the ropes of the auction process.

Till next time, Happy Motoring!

Larry and Dee Blackman

What Is Available At Auctions? Why This Should Interest You

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:54:00 +0000

Hello to all my readers. TGIF! I was going through my usual reading lists this evening and I came across an article that I want to share with you.

"Oldest know Indian Motorcycle"
Photo by Steven Rinker

Recently, I've been talking a lot about auctions and how they can help you in finding the perfect vehilce to buy and get some really good deals. The article, titled "The Oldest Indian in the World is For Sale", can be found on one of my favorite sites, www.Jalopnik.com. Being an Indian Motorcycle fanatic, they already had my complete, undivided attention. Imagine, the one and only "oldest" Indian motorcycle, for sale! As you can see in the picture here, it's definitely not a pretty bike by any means, but, it is believed to be the oldest known complete Indian in existance. And, it will be sold at auction.

Now, I'm not suggesting that you run out bid on this bike unless you "hobknob" with some of the major players in the motorcycle collecting circles. It's been estimated to sell for anywhere from $65,000 to $500,000! But, it does help me to drive home a point that I've been trying to get across. Auctions are places where you can find things you won't find anywhere else.

For this very reason, auctions can produce some very nice finds for the discriminating buyer. My point is this. When someone wants to sell something that will be of interest to many people, and they want to sell it now, an auction is the perfect answer from a sellers perspective. Selling at auction means that on the day of the auction, you will walk away without the item you brought with you, and, you will have some extra money in your pocket! People who sell at auctions can usually be divided into two separate categories.

Those who have something to sell that is unique and want to reach as many interested people as possible who are interested in their offering, without the hassle of advertising the item themselves.

Those people that have something to sell and want to reach as many interested people as possible, and, have a need to sell the item right away.

As in the case of the Indian Motorcycle, it is a rare item which, most likely, will only be found at large, high dollar auction houses that sell only those rare items that will bring high auction bidders all to one place at the same time.

Either of these cases make auctions great places for buyers who are looking for good bargains! Which is why I have taken the time to talk about this venue as a perfect place to shop for a vehicle. Of course, we are talking about auctions that cater to every day buyers like you and me! Vehicle auctions open up a whole world, literally, in which to search, shop, and compare prices on the specific vehicle you are looking for.

In a past article posted in our sister blog, "The Art of Custom Car and Motorcycle Maintenance" , introducing my readers to auctions, I went over all the reasons why purchasing at an auction could be a very rewarding experience. In the article, entitled "When Purchasing A Used Vehicle, Do Your Homework, Or, Have Someone Else Do It For You", I also introduced you to my "favorite" auction house, Iron Planet Motors. They are one of the best auctions for first time auction buyers, and, for some very good reasons. Let's go over those reasons again here.

Iron Planet Motors caters to first timers. Auctions can be very confusing if you don't know what you're doing, and, mistakes made at an auction are not at all forgiving! So finding an auction that is "first-time-user-friendly" is not just a convenience, it's imperative if you want your experience to be a pleasant one.

Iron Planet Motors has a "vehicle report" on each vehicle to be sold at their auctions that is prepared by an automotive expert who actually visits the vehicle wherever it is located. They do not rely on the owner's description of the vehicle and all claims of vehicle condition, operating condition, lists of options the vehicle has and all other claims are verified by a real person who knows what they're talking about when it comes to the specific vehicle they are reporting on. Pretty cool considering the reports are free and everyone who has ever had a vehicle inspection done by a true professional knows that inspections start at around $150 and go up from there depending on how in-depth you want the inspection to be!

Lastly, Iron Planet Motors helps the first time buyer with a host of other miscellaneous items that need to be considered when you are purchasing a vehicle that might not be located right down the street. They will help you with financing, transportation, and insurance. All of which are things that need to be considered. Once you buy a vehicle at auction, you will be able to do these things on your own. However, having an experienced group of people working with you on your first time is a real blessing.

To summarize how simple all of this is, At IronPlanet, you can search, view, and bid on automobiles, motorcycles, powersports and more. It's simple, convenient, and hassle-free. Buyers can bid with confidence, knowing the vehicle they’re interested in has been inspected and that there will be no surprises.

Most vehicles sold through IronPlanet have undergone a rigorous inspection process. The inspection reports are posted on their website, and each report includes details and 15-25 photos of the vehicle. They back up the reports with their IronClad Assurance®, which guarantees that the vehicle is as good as they say it is. You can find out more about their IronClad Assurance here. To review inspection reports, you will be asked to sign up — it's quick, easy, and, best of all, it's free. Members of IronPlanet have full access to their available vehicles, past auction results, and can place bids. Their PriorityBid feature allows prospective buyers to place bids prior to auction day. You set the maximum amount you’re willing to bid and their auction system keeps you in the lead up to your maximum! It just doesn't get any simpler to participate in an auction! You can read more about PriorityBid here.

On auction day, each item is on the block for a limited time period, with multiple items often on the block simultaneously. If active bidding is still in progress at the end of the original bidding period, the auction may be extended. If there is no active bidding in the last two minutes of the original bidding period, no more bids are accepted and the auction ends. The highest bidder wins the auction! You can read more about bidding here, or better yet, go ahead and Try IronPlanet today! It really is just that easy!

Whether you are looking for cars, trucks, motorcycles, rv's, motorhomes, or even farm equipment, tractors and construction equipment, Iron Planet Motors has your auction. And your first auction is just a click away! So what are you waiting for?

Get started today! Click on one of the links here to get signed up at Iron Planet Motors. It's free and it's easy. Once signed up, Iron Planet will get you the information you need to get started and you'll be notified of the auciton dates you're interested in. The only thing left to do is start bidding!

Good luck to all our readers and please, send us your auction stories! We love hearing from our readers and we want to see what you've purchased. Brag about your bargains right here!

Happy Motoring!

Larry and Dee

APRIL IS NATIONAL CAR CARE MONTH! What Does That Mean?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:38:00 +0000

Did I mention to you yet that April is National Car Care Month? My regular readers are shaking their heads in amazement! By golly! I don't think she did! Well, fear not my fellow preventive maintenance enthusiasts, I did NOT forget, nor, did I plan on letting this month go by without at least bringing this to your attention, at least once! The logo below is shown on all genuine "CCC" literature. These guys have taken preventive maintenance to a new level!

So, here it is April 16th, and we're about half way through National Car Care Month. I was actually waiting because I wanted to put together a fantastic, unbelievably great article that would not only bring this month to your attention, but, also make you want to do something about it!

I thought long and hard and I figured out that what I need to do to really get everyone revved up (yes, pun intended...) was to make it so easy, so unrealistically simplified, so non-thought provoking, that you would just take my advice and trot off to your local shop and have your car, truck, suv, van, or motorcycle serviced. And, I did just that. I have put together some things that will have you at your shop by the time you finish reading this. And here's how.....

Inside a dirty motor, notice the
brown discoloration from "varnish"
from unchanged oil. All of this
can and will cause sticking valves,
bad gas milage and more!

Here's the top of a badly burned piston. Also
caused by lack of oil and not changing the oil.
As with the "varnish" build up, this can cause
rough running and seriously bad gas milage.

First, I put together some pictures of what actually happens to the inside of your motor when you don't change the oil. Yup, these are real, live pictures of just what happens to your poor motor when you simply don't take the time to care. Now, I've also included some pictures of what happens to brakes when we don't change the brake pads regualrly. Once again, these are pictures of rotors when brake wear down and score the rotors. These are what's left to actually "stop" your vehicle when you're tooling down the highway at speeds sometimes in excess of 70 mph. Not a very pretty picture at all! Especially when you think that changing those brake pads is a very minimal expense compared to what you're going to have to pay for if you can't "stop" your vehicle and even worse.

Set of seriously worn brake
pads. These worn pads will
cause the damage seen in the
lower photo of worn rotors.

Now, with all this being said, I also came up with a list of suggested preventive maintenance items and some materials that will help even the most mechanically challenged of us determine what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, and why! It doesn't get any simpler than that. Clicking here will take you to a nice, general service schedule that has everything you need to have done to your vehicle regularly, in color.....very cool!

Rotors worn down by
bad brake pads.

All of this damage can be avoided by simply maintaining your vehicle. And, that maintenance is far less expensive than replacing the parts that break and the labor involved in repairing this damage.

I have included a link to National Care Care Association's booklet entitled "The Car Care Guide" written by the Car Care Council. It's a great guide for determining what things need to be maintained on your vehicle and how often they should be done. It's a great basis for planning out your scheduled maintenance routine and ensuring that nothing slips by.
The booklet not only describes each routine maintenance point, but, also gives a detailed explanation of why the service needs to be done. It's a great guide for both the average car owner and the do-it-yourself'er to use as a reference.

There are other things to mention here in addition to what needs to be done to properly care for a vehicle, and here are some ideas to help save you money when you do actually have the services rendered.

When changing your oil, look for sales that include oil, oil filter and air filter combined into a single package deal. Most auto parts stores will rotate different manufacturer's products into deals on a regular basis. It's much more cost effective to "bundle" these items than to pay for each one of them separately. We recommend Monthly Oil Change Special (OCS) page from Advance Auto Parts. Advance Auto Parts offers a monthly oil change special each month to save you money on a bundle of everything necessary for your oil change.
Purchase "lifetime warranty" brake pads. Most manufacturer's offer lifetime warranties on their brake pads. Simply keep the receipt from your purchase and when it's time to change the pads, go back to the auto parts dealer and bring them back the used pads to receive a refund on the purchase price of the pads. Essentially, you can purchase only one set of pads for the entire time you own the vehicle! You can click here to go to our 'Online Parts Store' and search right there for the brake pads you'll need!
Buy your maintenance parts while they are on sale and keep a small inventory of the parts you will need to replace. Hoses, belts, and even small replacement parts are good to have handy, like the idler pulley for your serpentine belt, windshield wipers, and fuses, etc.

Planning out your preventive maintenance will help you keep your vehicle in top running form for the life of your car, truck, suv, or van. It will help maintain it's value too. Not enough can be said for the value of these small items which in total add up to great value.

And, of course, there's no better place to save you money than our good friends at Advance Auto Parts.

Seriously, I wouln't preach if I didn't care.....so, get get your car serviced and feel better about it! It'll give you the satisfaction of knowing that you're vehicle is running great and you've taken all the little precautions to keep you and your family safe!

Happy Motoring!

The Best of Our Custom Paint Jobs Go Really Fast!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 17:47:00 +0000

What Happens After We Do The Custom Paint Job?

Here's A Couple of Our Customers Doing What THEY Do Best!

Good Morning and Happy Easter to all of our readers!

I was working in the office yesterday morning and catching up on some seriously overdue paperwork when the phone rang. "Well hello there stranger, how the heck are ya?" was the answer to my greeting. The voice sounded sooooo familiar, but, I guess age really is catching up with me because, embarrassed that I couldn't put a face to the voice, I answered, "I'm fine, who's this?" A belly low, but obviously very real belly laugh was the response along with, "Well, I guess it didn't take long for you to forget your favorite customer! This is Hollis! I was just thinking about you guys and thought I'd call and wish you a Happy Easter!" "Hollis Jones!", I replied with an enormous smile on my face that immediately took over for the previously confused look I must have had. "It's great to hear from you! Happy Easter and what's new with you?" His answer and the conversation that followed got me thinking and reminiscing about all the wonderful people we've worked with in the past and led to the writing of this article.

Larry and I have been in this great business for over 37 years now and we have met and had the opportunity to work with thousands of people. Many of those people have gone on to fame and fortune with the cars, trucks, and motorcycles that Larry has painted or worked on and we're very proud of all of them and the work we've done to help them along the way. So, I've decided to look up some of those great people and share their accomplishments with you here and since his phone call was my inspiration to do this, the first one I will tell you about is none other than Hollis Jones!

Hollis, a long time friend of mine and Larry's and one of our very first customers loves cars and racing. His love of cars and racing led him to start his business, City Suburban Auto Parts in Joliet, IL, some 30 odd years ago and turn it into one of the largest used auto parts suppliers in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. In our recent conversation, he told me he had since sold the business and was now dedicating his time to his real passion, drag racing. He went on to tell me that he has taken the 1966 SS Nova, that was one of the first custom paint jobs to come out of our shop, from a backyard project to a low 6 second semi-pro nationals winner! Yes, at 63 years young, Hollis is living his dream and driving that same vehicle at speeds around 250 mph and loving every minute of it!

I jumped for joy when he told me I could find some videos of that very same car on YouTube and gave me permission to include them in this article! Hollis Jones' 1966 SS Nova is an ongoing "labor of love" that we're sure, with his determination and skill, will bring him straight to the top! When we first had the car in the shop back in the '80's, Hollis had just begun her transformation from an original '66 SS Nova with very minor modifications to the semi-pro Nationals winning car she is now. And it all started with a "pure white pearlized" paint job that is still on the car today! Of course, Larry had repainted the car a few times, but, always the same "pure white pearl" that has become Hollis's trademark with everything he owns. Not a complex paint job, to say the least, but, perfect in every way. Both Larry and Hollis's wife tried to get him to add some "color" to the car, but, Hollis stuck to his guns and insisted that it remain pure as the driven snow and as you can see in the videos, he still hasn't changed his mind!

What HAS changed on the car is the engine! We've watched Hollis and his love for the 1/4 mile track go from 8 second passes in the 1980's to the unbelievably low 6 seconds and 250 mph passes she makes now! So, without further ado, here's some video footage of this great car.

Here she is as we last saw the car. Shown here in a bye run that took only 7 seconds!

Wow, sounding great and looking even better! Now, Hollis Jones loves to go fast. Back around that time, while he was tuning and working on the performance of this great car, I can remember the "promises" to his wife and his family, that once he reached 7 seconds in the quarter mile, he would hang up his fire suit and that would be that! Hmmm, I guess that wasn't the case......in this next video, I think you'll see a few differences in the car! The huge, stainless steel blower hanging out of the hood is one of those differences! LOL

Speaking of blowers, check out Vivid Racing's great prices on everything "race ready"! The below link will take you to a page chock full of blowers and blower accessories at some dynamite prices! AND, you can speak live to a customer representative right here! to find out more about exactly what you'll need to improve YOUR car's performance. Just click on the "Chat Live Now" link to speak directly to one of Vivid Racing's professional technicians.

Back in the '80's, when Larry first started working on Hollis's car, I can remember the two of them enjoying a cold one while trying to figure out how to fit the car for the huge racing slicks that were necessesary to keep him "glued" to the pavement! Larry is quite the magician when it comes to modification of these cars and after some thought and "Blackman" engineering, he tubbed the quarters and they modified the chassis to hold the slicks. It was a job that Larry is proud of to this day. As anyone who has seen a '66 Nova knows, the body lines are beautiful, but, very intricate. The line that travels down the lower portion of the body of the vhicle is a double indentation with a raised point above and below the indent. In asking Larry how he managed to duplicate that line in the portion of the quarter that he had to fabricate, his answer was....."I found somethin that worked....". We also fabricated from scratch, the hood scoop to house the huge blower that then took up residence above the engine block. That particular 1966 Nova had become one of the first "Larry Blackman originals"! As usual, Larry's experience and engineering skills paid off and the rear slicks fit perfectly and the hood modifications were flawless.

Once again the vehicle was repainted, but, this time, the car was stripped down to bare metal and an absolutely flawless, pure white, pearlized paint job was put on the car. Hollis Jones is one of the only people that Larry has allowed to help out with the paint job. Larry's almost fanatical obsession with perfection usually does not allow for any type of assistance. But, Hollis insisted and Larry agreed and the two set out as a team to produce one of the finest paint jobs ever to speed down the 1/4 mile strip.

Hollis Jones' car is just one of many that we have on the drag strip or circle track. Check back often for more success stories!

Buying and Selling - The True Value of Vehicles

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 14:04:00 +0000

QUESTION!

What's the second largest investmet you own?

OK, if your answer was "your wife", well, I suppose it might be a close second, but, let's assume you don't "own" your wife. That said, then, truly, the answer is "your vehicle"! Yuppers, that 4-wheeled beauty in the driveway IS, for most of us, the second largest investment we own second only to our homes.

So, when it's time to buy or sell a vehicle, just how do you determine it's value? If you're thinking, look at the "sticker price" on the window, well, yes, that does have some meaning, but, if we evaluate the vehicle, what is it's "true" value?

Any good sales person or marketing pro will tell you, the value of "anything" you're trying to sell is simply, "what the market will bare". In other words, you can ask or put a price on anything, but, when push comes to shove, you're only going to be able to collect what someone else is willing to pay for it! So when purchasing a vehicle, we need to evaluate exactly what we're paying for!

Some vehicles hold their value more than others. For example, a Mercedes, Audi, BMW, and Volvo are higher end vehicles that will hold their value much longer than some others. This list is just an example and I've shortened it to keep it short and simple here, so pleaseeeeee, don't hang me out to dry if your favorite vehicle is not in that list! LOL The point I'm trying to make here, is that, some vehicles, for various reasons, are able to hold their value for a longer time. Therefore, suffice it to say, when you're purchasing a vehicle, it's very important to remember this and do your homework before you go out and invest your hard earned money! I used the word, invest, here for a very good reason. Buying a vehicle is, for all intents and purposes, an investment. Play your cards right here, and, when it comes time to sell that investment, you'll get the money you need to invest in another vehicle and keep your money working for you.

Condition is everything! A vehicle, like anything else, including us, gets older and things wear out. But, unlike people, an older vehicle can be just as reliable and road worthy as it's newer counterpart if it has been properly maintained! That little word, if, is the key to that sentence. When purhasing a vehicle, ask for proof of maintenance! Looks can be very deceiving when it comes to vehicles. But the proof is in the pudding! Look at the vehicle's maintenance record and you will have a wealth of information. A vehicle that has had it's oil changed and fluids checked and kept in top running condition will undoutedly be a better investment. It is also worth more than one that wasn't! My regualr readers are shaking their heads and muttering, "here she goes again" with the preventative maintenance argument. And, yes, you're right. But, in all seriousness, seeing is believing. A stack of receipts showing what's been done and what's been replaced not only shows you the obvious, but, also let's you know that the owner is serious about the vehicle and took the time and money to keep it up. This is great info to have.....knowing that you won't have to replace certain items that have already been replaced will give you the confidence of possibly knowing there won't be a significant repair bill in your immediate future.

Now, a few other things certainly rank high up there in the list. One of those is milage. A vehicle's milage is it's finger print of actual age. Low milage is good. No milage does not necessarily mean that the vehicle is better! How so? Cars are meant to be driven. Running an engine is what lubricates it's parts. A car that has little or no milage also has NOT been lubricated on a regular basis. Lack of lubrication means little or no protection of it's inner parts from corrosion or rust! Lubrication protects the inner workings from these nasty things so unless the car was started and run for some time this is a red flag!

Lastly, looking at the vehicle's interior and exterior will tell you a lot about the way the car was maintained also. Although, this visual representation is not always the best indicator of a vehicle's condition, it's certainly the first thing anyone sees. Here in Florida, the hot sun and moist weather conditions will quickly deteriorate the finish of any vehicle. Keeping the paint waxed and UV protected is essential here. Now, suffice it to say that just because someone didn't keep the car waxed doesn't mean they didn't take care of it mechanically. What it does tell you, is two things. One, the owner might have been a little on the "lazy" side...LOL But, more importantly, if you are big on looks, you're going to be investing some money to get the vehicle looking up to your standards. It's a good bargaining chip if nothing else! AND, certainly something to keep in mind if you're going to be selling a vehicle. Looks sell. Point made.

The interior of any vehicle is where you'll spend the most time. If it's a total disaster, you're not going to enjoy the ride! Here's another indicator of an owner who just didn't care. Not the worst thing in the world, but, something to keep in mind. If they didn't care enough to clean it out, what are the chances that they changed the oil? Hmmmm, no receipts to show?.....there's your answer! Don't worry, I'm not gonna repeat myself again....LOL. I know you got my point!

So, now that you know what you're looking for, go out there and find it! Auctions are a great place to find that special vehicle. Choose a good auction house that will give you a solid report of the vehicle's condition and you'r on your way to finding that "special" one! Iron Planet Motors is good place to start! These guys do ALL the work for you. Check them out by clicking on the link below. Not only will the give you a full vehicle report, they'll also help you out with transportation and financing. All in one convenient location.

Happy Shopping! See ya next time!

Proof That Vehicle Maintenance Provides Longevity to ANY Vehicle.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:30:00 +0000

Well, here it is! The proof I've been waiting for. I really hate using the words, "I told you so", but, sometimes, even I have to make exceptions. And, this morning, while going through my mail, I came across an article that I just had to share with you.

(photo credit, Rachel Veitch)

You all know I preach about vehicle maintenance all the time. I know I sometimes sound like a "mother hen" and I bet a lot of you feel sympathy for my kids because you know that owning a vehicle in my presence would be a constant nagging voice asking over and over again, "have you checked your oil recently" or the "by the way, when was the last time you had your brake pads changed"? AND, you're probably right. Having a mom and dad who fix cars for a living is a constant barage of maintenance goodies that is never ending. But, all this "hype" about taking care of your vehicle does pay off! Take Rachel Veitch, for example. This 93-year old woman from Florida, just retired her 1964 Mercury Comet Caliente with 576,000 mile on it! Yup, you read it right and there's no "typo" in that last sentence. 576,000 miles is a lot of miles! And, she credits the incredible longevity of her car to, you guessed it, preventative maintenance.

According to Veitch, she purchased her car in 1964, for a total of $3,289 dollars. And, now, 58 years later, she has retired her "chariot", as she put it. You can read the full article, "93-year-old Florida Woman Retires Her ’64 Mercury after 576,000 Miles on the Road", which was posted by "FoxNews.com", and written by Eric Pfeiffer. Now, the only reason Veitch is retiring the vehicle is because she is now legally blind and she feels that it is time for her to stop driving.

"I am legally blind, so I can no longer drive my lovely Chariot," Veitch told FoxNews.com. "They don't have to take it away, I would not dream of driving that car again." The car itself is fine, but Veitch has macular degeneration in both her eyes, making her legally blind. After running a red light in March, she decided to voluntarily give up the vehicle she's been driving since Lyndon Johnson occupied the White House.

"I have taken it in stride," she said. "I don't have cancer, I don't have Lou Gehrig's disease. I am lucky."

She ran a red light and the 93-year old, who obviously has all her faculties in tact, made the wise decision to hang up her car keys. We all get old, it's a fact we all have to deal with, and Rachel, I commend you for your decision.

But, getting back to my "I told you so" comment, "She credits the longevity to a "near-obsessive" approach to the car's maintenance. "I've never been a destructive person and I've just taken care of everything, except my husbands," she told FoxNews." So, there it is, plain and simple and comming from the mouth of a woman who just appeared on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" for racking up over a half a million miles on her car! And, the 93-year old Veitch is now offering her car for sale to Jay Leno! Kudos to you, Rachel, you are not only smart in my eyes for taking care of your car, but you are also a "financial wizard"! There was no mention of how much Mr. Leno, a huge car afficianado, was willing to pay for the vehicle, but, my guess is, it's more than $3,289 dollars!

So, here you have it, ladies and gentlemen. Take care of your car and it will take care of you! Not only did Rachel Veitch make sure she did her maintenance, but, she also kept record of it. According to the article, "Even without the world record, Vietch is fond of noting that the car has outlasted three marriages. Mechanically, it's worn through three sets of shocks, 18 batteries and eight mufflers." Now, that really is commendable! How many times have I told you that keeping track of your vehicle's maintenace and service will get you top dollar when you go to sell it! See, "I told you so.....AGAIN!" LOL

So, the moral of this story is....preventative maintenance is important. Making sure the little things your car needs are taken care of insures that you will get much enjoyment our of your vehicle, and it will give you lot's more years of safe and enjoyable service! It's just that simple.

Preventative maintenance is not that expensive. And the money you spend on maintaining your vehicle is definitely less than the money you'd spend repairing major problems that could have been avoided. So, listen to this "mother hen" and....get out there and change the oil, check your brakes, check the fluids, lube your car, check the tire inflation, and maybe even tune it up! Ask Rachel Veitch when she gets back from depositing that check from Jay Leno, about what she thinks of preventative maintenance? I bet she'll agree with me!

And now, to get you started....check out these great deals from Advance Auto Parts. You'll find some great savings to get you started on all your preventative maintenanace needs. They have great prices on all your auto parts and accessories. You can also go to our ONLINE PARTS STORE, to look up all the parts you'll need. You'll find more great savings and coupons there too! Remember, April is National Car Care Month! There's no better time than now to start getting your car ready for the Summer Season.

Happy Motoring (or maintenancing?) Ok, I know, that was really bad! LOL

Advance Auto Parts Still Has Lowest Prices On Auto Parts and Accessories!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 05:15:00 +0000

Advance Auto Parts

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April is National Car Care Month!

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Buy direct from Advance Auto Parts and save big money! As always, LDJ's Online Auto Parts Store offers you "direct to the supplier savings"! No mark-ups, no middle man. You get the great prices you deserve and we put it all right here, so you can shop in the comfort of knowing that LDJ Auto has found the absolute, lowest prices and the very best deals out there, to make sure you get the lowest prices on the Internet.

Click on a link to go directly to the Advance Auto Parts Store, or, we've even listed the entire store inventory right here, so you don't even have to leave the page! Use the promo codes listed and get the most unbelievalbe savings on everything automotive. Use the search box below to find your parts by name, brand, or category! It doesn't get any easier than this! AND, you can order your parts online, and, have them ready for pick-up at your local Advance Auto Parts, so you don't have to wait for them to ship! That's right! Order today! Pick up today! Install today!

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