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How to Clean Headlights (Step by Step Process)

Author:David Victor | Last updated: February 10, 2022

How to Clean Headlights (Step by Step Process)

Since the headlights remain so close to the road during a drive, they stay really vulnerable to all types of hazards. Debris and liquids from the road, harmful particles from the air, harsh weather conditions, UV-rays- all of them work together to ruin the showroom look from the headlights.

But it is not just about the shininess. Having a dirty headlight means you will get dimmer light output. That is not only heavily dangerous on the road but also illegal in almost every state. We will cover the headlight cleaning process below. Note that there are several ways you can approach this. We tried to go over as many of them as possible.

Should You DIY or Get Expert Help?

If we are talking about headlight cleaning, you can go for one of two options. Either go to a mechanic for professional cleaning or do it at home. Both have their own merits. So, it is up to you.

FactorsProfessional HelpDIY
CostCan cost up to a lotDoesn’t cost much except the price of necessary materials.
TimeMay take up to 12 days to finishDepending on your method, you can finish it within 10-60 minutes.
QualityResults in a high-quality professional cleaningIt depends on your skill and method. But it won’t be as good as experts.
PlaceYou need to take your vehicle to the mechanical shop.You can do it in your garage.

Cleaning Yellowish Headlight at Home

Wondering how to clean yellow headlights at home? You can remove the yellowish hue from your headlight using nothing but denatured alcohol. It is a product that many of us already have at home. If not, get it from any roadside paint store.

What you will need-

  • Denatured alcohol
  • Dish soap
  • Two soft rags

Process-

  • At first, wash your headlights thoroughly with dish soap and water. Dry them by wiping them with a soft rag.
  • Pour a bit of denatured alcohol into a mug. Dip a corner of a soft rag into it.
  • Rub it on the entire surface of the headlights.
  • Finally, rinse with water and dry it.

Optional- Apply a coat of polishing compound and wax on the headlights.

Cleaning Headlights with Vinegar

This method utilizes a combination of white vinegar and cooking spray. Honestly, this is probably the best way to DIY clean your headlights, and it takes a long time too. The acidity in vinegar works its way through rough build-ups.

Necessary Items-

  • White vinegar
  • Cooking spray
  • Warm water
  • A sponge
  • Soft cloth

The procedure-

  • Get the lenses out of the headlights and dip totally into vinegar. Leave it for an hour. The vinegar will weaken the messes on the lenses.
  • Use a sponge to rub the lenses gently to remove the grimes.

If your headlight lenses have scratches, then follow the steps below-

  • Instead of using the sponge to rub them, rinse the lenses and dry with a soft cloth.
  • Apply some cooking spray over them.
  • Gently buff with a soft cloth on them to make them smoother again.

Once the process is over, your headlights should regain their original beauty.

Cleaning Headlights with Baking Soda

Have some extra baking soda from your kitchen to spare? Yes, they are one of the best items for headlight restoration. Baking soda dissolves the oxidization on your headlights and thus, removes their yellowness. They also remove any paint job.

Necessary Materials-

  • Baking soda
  • Bowl
  • Painter’s tape
  • Warm water
  • Sponge and clean cloth

The Procedure-

  • Cover the pain area around the headlight with painter’s tape since baking soda can wash the paint away as well.
  • Make a paste that contains five tablespoons of baking soda and enough water.
  • Apply it to the corner of your sponge. Use the sponge to put the paste on the headlight surfaces.
  • Rub using a soft, clean cloth in tiny rotary motion.
  • Keep rubbing gently until the plastic or glass lose their messy looks.
  • Rinse with water. Rewash the surfaces with dish soap and warm water. Let them dry.

Caution- Make sure not to drip any baking soda solution when washing the headlights.

Using Turtle Wax Headlight Lens Restorer

You can go for Turtle Wax Headlight Lens Restorer by sparing some time and money. It will provide an even better result than your household items. Below are the materials that this kit includes-

  • Clarifying compounds.
  • Sealing wipes and base coating
  • Spray lubricant
  • Precision green pads for polishing

Here is how to clean headlights using Turtle Wax Restorer-

  • Give your headlight a wash with dish soap and water.
  • Notice how much build-up there is.
  • Take a soft cloth and apply the lens clarifying compound to it. Rub it on the headlight lenses in up-and-down or side-by-side motion.
  • Do it for around 2-3 minutes throughout both headlight surfaces. Then let them dry.
  • Use a microfiber towel to wipe the compound from it.

If your headlights are still not clear enough, know that there is oxidization.

  • In that case, spray some lubricant on a green pad and on the headlight. Rub it up and down on the headlight. Keep both pad and headlight lubricated as you move to different sections.
  • Flip the green pad to the tan side and buff for a minute in the opposing direction. Don’t forget to lubricate.
  • Use the teal side of the second pad to rub the headlight up and down for a minute, then use its purple side for the next minute.
  • Wipe the headlights thoroughly using a microfiber towel.
  • Use to compound kit again to compound the entire surface.
  • Buff it off using a cotton towel.

Your headlight will achieve a restoration equal to professional cleaning.

Final Note

There are many other options to restore the former color of their headlights. We have mentioned some of the best ones. You can also use toothpaste, bug spray, or Coca-Cola. But all of them are for short-term cleaning.

Make sure to apply the base coat or any polishing compound after cleaning your headlights. Doing so will ensure a long-lasting lifespan for them. It will also save you from having to clean them occasionally.

Filed Under: Blog

Top 5 Reasons To Update Your Windshield Wipers for The Winter

Author:David Victor | Last updated: February 7, 2022

Top 5 Reasons To Update Your Windshield Wipers for The Winter

You probably don’t realize how important windshield wipers are unless yours stop working. Struggling to see in the rain, snow or fog makes traveling stressful and dangerous. A good rule of thumb is to carry a spare set in your vehicle in case your wipers malfunction along the way.

While you should regularly check your windshield wipers for signs of wear, replacing them before winter ensures you’ll have proper visibility in the worst weather conditions. Here are five reasons to upgrade your blades before the snow starts to fly:

  1. Avoid deteriorating wipers: Going back and forth between freezing temperatures and the hot sun causes wipers to become brittle and eventually crumble. The metal arm can scratch the windshield if they break apart too much, leaving you with even more costly repairs.
  2. Steer clear of a streaky windshield: If the wipers are leaving smears or smudges when you use them, you won’t be able to see clearly, making you a hazard to yourself and other drivers.
  3. Avoid Squealing sounds: Driving with wipers that squeak each time they go back and forth is irritating and may affect your concentration ability. Verify that the glass is free of debris before making a replacement, as a dirty windshield is one possible cause for this annoyance.
  4. Get added protection: Consider investing in winter wipers, as the rubber is stronger and made to grip the windshield better. This snug fit helps them from freezing.
  5. Acquire peace of mind: Knowing that you’re driving with a new safety feature will make you feel better whether you’re traveling on a sunny day or through a blizzard. You’ll be prepared for whatever weather lies ahead.

Having new wipers on your car is the best defense against dangerous weather conditions. They literally clear the way for you to get from place to place safely.

How Snow Can Have an Effect on Your Windows

A considerable snowfall may be fun to play in; however, you may experience opposing feelings regarding driving. It doesn’t take long for the flakes to cover your vehicle. If you have to travel, make sure you clean off your entire car before leaving, including windows. Making a small peephole in front of the steering wheel isn’t acceptable, as you need to see everything going on around your car, especially in bad weather.

Although your vehicle’s windows were created to withstand various temperature changes, the glass can get weak when cold transitions quickly to heat and even start to crack. Inspect your windshield regularly so you can repair chips before they turn into larger problems.

Where To Find Upgraded Windshield Wipers

Don’t get stuck sitting along the highway Googling the phrase, “reasons why windshield wipers not working.” Be proactive and make this essential purchase before the weather gets worse.

If you’re asking yourself, “What windshield wipers do I need?” your car’s manual should give the size and might even list some recommendations. Whether you’re interested in upgrading your wipers or getting the same ones you have, an auto parts store associate can help you find what you’re looking for and order it if needed.

When you’re ready to shop, rely on a business you can trust. Find the best products from a committed auto parts store.

Filed Under: Blog

A Comprehensive Guide to Fuel Filters: Complete Rundown!

Author:David Victor | Last updated: December 25, 2021

A Comprehensive Guide to Fuel Filters

The fuel we use for our vehicles isn’t as clean as it should be. It contains contaminants that can be harmful if they find their way into your engine. For that reason, car manufacturers place a fuel filter in every vehicle they produce. The location of the filter depends on several factors, but I’ll get to that part later on. First, let’s discuss what exactly it is that fuel filters do and why they’re so important.

Read More: BEST Penetrating Oil for Seized Engine

What’s A Fuel Filter?

Fuel filters are straightforward devices installed in the fuel system, and their purpose is to prevent contaminants from getting to the engine. Generally, they’re made of either plastic or metal, and they contain a filtration element. As gas goes from the gas tank to the engine, it passes through the filter first, where it’s cleaned and made ready to use by the engine. 

These devices have existed as long as internal combustion engines have. Earlier models were small plastic cans, which were suitable for the engines of those times. This mainly occurs because fuel passed through filters under low pressure, so the device didn’t need to be durable. 

Nowadays, however, fuel filters are different in design. This is because many vehicles incorporate direct-injected engines, which require the filter to withstand the high pressure in the fuel system. That being said, modern filters are much stronger and are made of higher-quality materials. 

My Mazda MX5 has an MX5 fuel filter that’s more robust and is shielded against excessive pressure with the help of special relief valves. Having said that, you must choose a filter that’s suitable for your type of vehicle, including model, make, and year to ensure a proper fit. 

However, keep in mind that the features on my MX5 fuel filter are only necessary because the filter itself is fitted outside the fuel tank, i.e., on the fuel line or the engine bay. These fuel filters are known as inline filters, and they have to be capable of withstanding internal and external factors. 

On the other hand, filters that are mounted inside the fuel tank have to withstand different fuel blends. Different types of filters are designed to put up with different factors based on their location.

Location of Fuel Filters

As briefly aforementioned, the fuel filter can be mounted almost anywhere between the engine and the fuel pump. Most vehicles have them mounted inside the fuel tank, but some fuel pump assemblies have the filter inside. 

In older vehicles, fuel filters were generally connected to the fuel line under the vehicle’s body. Some have it in the engine bay, allowing it to remove contaminants before it gets to the engine. That being said, the location will depend on a few factors, including the type of fuel system, car model, make, and year. 

Finding the filter is easy – just follow the fuel line until you see it. If you can’t find it on the fuel line, it’s probably inside the fuel tank.

How Do Fuel Filters Work?

Fuel filters consist of an inlet and outlet, as well as a filter medial. The fuel pump uses high pressure to push fuel along the fuel line, causing it to move through the filter media with force. The filtration material is porous and based on the size of the pores; fuel passes while the contaminants remain behind. 

Like those found in diesel engines, some fuel filters feature a mechanism that helps remove water from the fuel. In other words, these filters feature a bowl at the bottom where the water separated from the fuel gathers. These filters feature a water sensor that gives you a warning when the water needs to be drained from the bowl with the help of drain valves. 

Types of Fuel Filters

Fuel filters are categorized as canister or cartridge, spin-on, inline or in-tank, and primary or secondary. As I mentioned above, the mounting style and design of the fuel filter depends on a couple of factors, including vehicle type, model, year, and type of fuel system. 

New vehicles feature fuel filters that are different from older ones, both in terms of position and design. Older carbureted cars have the fuel filter somewhere along the fuel line, whereas modern cars house it inside the fuel tank. Types of diesel feature filters that look and operate differently from petrol engines in that they’re larger in size and bowl-shaped rather than canister or cartridge-shaped.

Depending on the vehicle’s fuel system, the filter may be primary or both primary and secondary.

Primary Filters

These filters are generally used in diesel fuel systems, and they’re tasked with removing contaminants like wax and water. They’re positioned on the vacuum side of the pump, meaning they also protect the pump from contaminants that can damage it or wear it down. 

Primary fuel filters aren’t as restrictive simply because they precede the secondary filter and don’t need to filter the smaller impurities. In other words, most primary filters can only remove particles larger than ten microns.

Secondary Filters

These filters are also used in diesel, and their purpose is to block the smaller impurities that pass through the primary filter. That being said, they’re fitted with tighter media, and they’re positioned on the pressure side of the pump, which is typically closer to the engine. They don’t remove water, but the particles that are smaller than 10 microns. 

Conclusion

Fuel filters are simple devices that are made up of just a few parts. Petrol filters are the most basic, as they don’t require a water-extraction mechanism to separate water from the fuel. Some fuel systems use both primary and secondary fuel filters to decontaminate the fuel, while others use a single filter – a primary one that removes everything in one go.

Also, there are systems that use a typical filter and give you the option for a water separator. Petrol systems use a single filter simply because petrol is cleaner than diesel and doesn’t contain wax and water.

Filed Under: Blog

How Much HP Does A Turbo Add 2021? (Complete Analysis)

Author:David Victor | Last updated: December 9, 2021

How Much HP Does A Turbo Add

Turbochargers have been around since the early 1900s, helping make cars more powerful by delivering greater power. Engines burn fuel by using intake air, gas, and spark plug igniting the gasoline. This mixture of air and gas is then squeezed into a cylinder via the piston to create extreme pressure that drives the wheel’s rotational power. 

On top of that, Turbochargers increase engine power at lower RPMs. After being introduced to the market in 1978, turbo kits and self-installation kits became popular. 

In addition to offering increased power, being able to boost your car’s horsepower is much cheaper than the alternative option of having the job done by a professional mechanic. 

A lot of people choose to purchase a turbo kit for that reason, plus the fact that installing it yourself will show you exactly how the entire system works and allow you to make necessary adjustments. Plus, most kits come with detailed installation instructions that ensure that everything is done properly.

How much does it cost to add a turbocharger vs. a supercharger to a car?

The cost of adding a turbocharger to a car varies depending on the engine size and type of vehicle, but it is generally cheaper than adding a supercharger. What is a supercharger?

Superchargers are used in high-performance cars. They are more expensive to add than turbochargers and can push as much as five times more air into the engine.

A supercharger does not require fuel to run and adds more power to the engine. This results in a faster acceleration rate and a better top speed. 

What is a supercharger boost? A turbocharger is cheaper than a supercharger because it utilizes the engine’s exhaust gas. The exhaust flows through the turbine and compresses the air in the intake manifold.

What effect does a turbocharger or supercharger have on car value?

Turbochargers and superchargers are both forced induction systems that use the power of the engine to compress air that is then moved into the combustion chamber. As a result, more air enters the combustion chamber than can be consumed by the fuel available.

This results in an increase in power. A turbocharger or supercharger will increase engine performance and decrease engine lag, increasing engine horsepower by about 25%.

What’s the difference between turbo and twin-turbo?

A turbocharger is a device that forces more air into the engine, making it produce more power. A twin-turbo system has two turbochargers and helps to provide the power at a lower level. The difference between turbo and twin-turbo is that a turbocharger forces more air into the engine, while a twin-turbo system has two turbochargers and helps to provide the power at a lower level.

How much horsepower does a turbo add?

Most cars have the potential to have the engine boosted with a turbocharger. The horsepower can be increased by up to 60%. But it will cost you $1,200.

A turbocharger can be installed in most cars. It is a good idea to get your car checked by a mechanic if you want to install one for yourself because there might be issues that might make the installation more complicated than you expect.

Moreover, a turbocharger is a device used to pump air into an engine, which typically has a higher compression ratio than a naturally aspirated engine. This air is used to create a larger volume of air and fuel mixture, therefore increasing the engine power output.

In most circumstances, a turbocharger may give anywhere from 10 to 60 percent extra power. In reality, the gain in power might be much more than this. Fuel injection must be updated at the absolute least in order to do this.

The 1.9-liter R4 TDI turbocharged diesel engine from Volkswagen is my favorite illustration of turbocharger advantages. Almost a dozen different models of this engine have been produced, ranging in power from 74 to 158 horsepower.

Other popular turbo configurations include dual and bi-turbo. The term “twin-turbo” refers to engines with six or more cylinders that use two identical turbines to distribute the load. A system featuring a small and a big turbocharger is referred to as a bi-turbo (or sequential turbo). While the smaller turbo is responsible for reducing turbo lag, the second or both turbos take over at higher RPM to significantly improve power.

Engine blocks with six or eight cylinders use quad-turbo configurations. With two bi-turbo systems, it is capable of producing more power than any normally aspirated engine that can handle a quad-turbo arrangement.

Compared to a normally aspirated engine, a turbocharger may raise output by 15 to 25 percent or more with just 6 to 8 pounds of boost pressure. Because of this, a turbo four-cylinder engine may be used in lieu of a bigger V6, and a turbo V6 can be used to replace a larger V8 without sacrificing performance.

Final Words

To wrap up, we have delved deeper to break down a complete discussion in order to jot down all the necessary aspects you need to know. If you have further queries, please don’t hesitate to leave your comments. That’s all for today. Have a nice day!

Filed Under: Blog

Why does RV Lithium Battery Cost More Than The Other Batteries?

Author:David Victor | Last updated: April 23, 2022

Why does RV Lithium Battery Cost More Than The Other Batteries?

RV is one of the most reliable and efficient vehicles that can provide excellent service. For that reason, it is also essential to give what this vehicle needs. Nowadays, RV Camping is in demand because of the pandemic outbreak. Therefore, many people realize the importance of life and enjoy it while they can. 

Read Also: Top 10 Best Car Battery for Cold Weather in 2021 (In-Depth Reviews)

This realization takes place all over the world. That is why most of them decide to travel to different places, be isolated from many people, and relax their minds and body with their motorhomes—as for them, appreciating the environment is essential, together with the people you love. Exploring and making an adventure activity is a new thing to consider.

As you know, because of the busy schedule, providing the needs, financially, burning your eyebrows in your paper works, we forget to enjoy life and be happy with the people around us. And because of the Covid-19 incidence, it opens our eyes and mind. So you are especially discovering the most crucial thing in this world, enjoying your life before it’s too late. 

Above all, this can happen with the help of a good and excellent RV battery. However, there are still some concerns that most of us are curious about. It is why an RV Lithium Battery costs more than the others. And to give you some information about that, let us move forward and discover the details. Let’s get started and learn from it.

Factors That Affects The Cost Of RV Lithium Battery

Some factors can affect the all-over cost of an RV Lithium Battery. Each of them has a crucial role that you need to consider. It includes the following;

Materials Used For Battery Structure

The structure of the product requires excellent materials to give an excellent outcome. Unlike other RV batteries, Lithium contains different materials that might not be available anywhere. In short, the process of making the RV Lithium Battery is more crucial than the others because of the supply of its primary materials. 

Furthermore, the supply materials of RV Lithium batteries are limited. However, the manufacturer assures that every material they are using has the quality to excellently. Therefore, regardless of its price, they create this product for your future RVs. It is also lighter by nature. Consequently, it is more efficient than other batteries.

Performance of your RV Lithium Battery

When it comes to products, many people prefer working and excellent services. As you know, Rv Lithium Battery is known for having an outstanding performance than the others. That is why many customers choose this battery to provide excellent service in their RVs. The benefits of a particular product are essential to test its ability and make people decide whether they can continue using a specific product like this.

Thus, it also affects its cost somehow. Because of its outstanding performance, its price might change and increase based on its purpose and performance. Several storesConsequentlyng advantages of this matter that is why you might find it absurd. However, an RV Lithium Battery might provide the things that your current battery lacks. That is why you can say that this might work on your RV regardless of its cost. 

Demand in the market

There are times that most people rely on purchasing products based on the market demands. But, as you know, most people always consider other people’s opinions. Therefore, if they think a particular product is in order, the services might have an incredible outcome. 

It can be true because most individuals continuously purchase a specific product when they get a positive benefit and are satisfied. Thus, regardless of the price, quality is also one of the factors. As you know, it is essential when things like RV Lithium Battery are on the line. Therefore, you need to assure its outcome even if it’s in demand.

Product reviews

Did you know that getting feedback is also a companies’ way to make things in order? Yes, that is true. The opinion of the customers is essential to develop and get a new idea to improve their production. In things like RV Lithium Battery, the customers’ reviews are at a high level of promotion. The demand for batteries in different types of cars increases. That is why having thoughts is beneficial. 

As you know, not all people have RVs. There are some points that the promotion is the key to elevating their interest in their products. That is why a review is a crucial factor in every products’ success. Thus, when the time comes and the promotion is successful, the cost becomes another issue. There will be an increased level of charge because of its outstanding review.

Because of the positive reviews, the manufacturers demanded more costing. As you know, when the product is in demand, the production increases, which is the advantage that most of them want. Regardless of the cost, many people demand the product to achieve a unique RV Lithium Battery item. 

Durability and Quality

The quality of a particular product is the main reason why many customers continuously purchase it. When you have a durable and quality product in the market, you might increase sales. As you know, all customers always want excellent conditions and services. That is why it is essential to have that in your product, as the RV Lithium Battery. 

The product’s durability is a characteristic that most of us expect when we buy a specific product. What more when it provides a service? RV Lithium Battery is small space storage that can give a comprehensive range of energy to your entire RVs. And having excellent durability can give you great assurance when using this battery in the long run.

Thus, it also has to do with the higher cost of RV Lithium batteries. Because of its durability and quality, some stores offer more increased value. That is why it is hard to decide when you have a tight budget. But, it might be a great product as it has durability. Considering it might be an excellent investment for your RVs. 

Conclusion

There we go. We provide a great reference to give you a hint that helps you understand why RV Lithium Battery costs more than the others. The above information has factors that can affect its cost. Each of them contains a crucial role in your RV Lithium Battery. Considering all of these factors can provide you with a great understanding of this product.

So, we thank you for navigating this article up to this end. We hope that this can be helpful to you at this moment and in the future. God bless and Good luck! 

Filed Under: Blog

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