Mercedes Performance Parts Gambit Pays


Since mass-produced cars like those of the German automaker Mercedes Benz roll out of the production shop setup for standard drive applications and average driver expectations, it is not very often that one sees a Mercedes Benz perform flat out. Backed by a successful campaign in the Formula Circuit, Mercedes Benz is known for race cars. But, as the technology on marquee Mercedes Benz models are earmarked only for a niche market, for most Mercedes Benz, the technology is under the hood but the specifications are unfortunately, not.

Depending on which side of the fence one stands, mass-produced Mercedes Benz models are best in class, but the thought of available Mercedes Benz technology not included in regular models is almost regrettable. Production cost, one should think, is a major consideration. As the way things are, Mercedes Benz owners just have to take it as a good thing. At the flipside of the standard issue cars is the thriving hot rod industry. The hot rod industry approximates the envelope-pushing technology of major car manufacturers. It deals with car modifications, basically the car technology that should have gone in the car. As it is a car modification facility, parts of engine performance that Mercedes Benz owners are looking to focus on can be kept apart from the other according to importance.

Fitments available in the hot rod industry are often called performance parts, ranging from performance brake pads to performance exhaust system. On the whole, performance parts are specialized car parts that tweak the car setup toward performance, making car modification a lucrative gambit. In most cases, they are replacement parts. Mercedes Benz maintenance items like those in the friction brake system, which are chronically exposed to high-heat operating condition and are prone to wear out, have performance parts equivalents.

In the case of the Mercedes Benz brake system, while the stock fitted Mercedes Benz brake rotor sports a contact disc surface, the performance brake rotor is designed with a heat vent system. Performance parts come in cross-drilled, finned, and slotted brake rotors. These hollowed out portions on the contact surface of the Mercedes-Benz rotors allow an exhaust for heat. When heat does not build up in the Mercedes-Benz brake system, the rotor does not get deformed all too easily and therefore reduce the braking power of the car. Additionally, the hollowed out surface of the PERFORMANCE rotors makes the brake pads cleave to the disc more tightly, resulting in greater speed retardation.

On the engine side, performance parts can be fitted on the cold air intake system, aimed at drawing in greater amount of cold air that goes into the combustion chambers and mixes with the fuel to form the car?s burn material. The Mercedes Benz manifold also has Mercedes performance parts equivalent. Since manifold stockpiles the exhaust for emission, a manifold that is not up to specs can result in backpressure buildup. When the engine burns the air and the fuel mixture, exhaust materials become the byproducts. These fumes are ushered out of the system through the manifolds. The performance manifold, called the header, has bigger passageways compared to stock issue, allowing a freer flow of exhaust. Because fumes do not stay long in the exhaust system and backpressure is prevented to build up, no horsepower from the engine is needed to help the exhaust system push out the gases.

Let Your Fascination Take A Shape At Infiniti New York


Are you looking for a car change or want to add one more in your collection? You might have assumed features that you want in your new car. If yes, then have a look at Infiniti range of cars you will definitely see your dream materializing in Infiniti cars. Infinity range of cars is perfect blend of luxury and style that may fascinate anyone. If you have fascinated by chic looks and smooth drive of Infinity then come to Infiniti New York and take your dream machine to home. It will be really a subject of honor that you possess an Infiniti car, which is undoubtedly a dream of all car lovers.

Infiniti New York is the right place to convert your dream in to reality. Everyone in New York considers Infiniti New York as one of the best dealers of Infiniti range of cars. There you can find every model of Infiniti and can also have a delighting drive on your selected model so that you may strengthen your decision of buying Infiniti without wasting a single moment. If you have any doubt regarding performance of this car then you must know that it possess the honor of being awarded with most loved car. Any product can never be popular without performing well and the same applies here as people who are enjoying its smooth drive are telling others about its power and beauty.

At Infiniti showrooms, you can be owner of this most loved car very easily. So what if you don?t have enough money, Infiniti New York provides you amazing financing facilities. People who have a dream of buying Infiniti can but can not do so just because of lack of money can now buy Infiniti with easy installment payment schemes. With this, one will have to pay a particular amount of money as down payment and remaining will be paid in easy installments. Taking advantage of this scheme is very god as there is less documentation with lots of benefits. You might be pestering about interest rate but Infiniti New York assures that you that you will get your car financed at reasonable interest rate. Apart from financing schemes, there are many other offers also that will make your deal more convenient as well as interesting. The other big advantage of coming at Infiniti New York is that you will never have to worry about maintenance and part originality of car. You will get full support whenever your car requires maintenance or replacement of any part. It is always advisable to buy new parts only from authorized dealer only otherwise duplicate parts may degrade the performance of your Infiniti.

Infiniti New York is the best suitable place to find your dream machine with dream facilities. As car is an exclusive thing thus everyone would like to spend his/her money only after a satisfactory investigation. Proper analysis is very necessary as it is a thing on which people spend a large share of their hard earned money but when you are buying an Infiniti car you can be fully assured that you have chosen the premium thing.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo


The strikingly styled 2008 Lancer Evolution showcases new performance and handling technology, including an all-new 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged/intercooled engine and the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) dynamic handling system. S-AWC offers an extraordinary level of control at each wheel, going well beyond the capabilities of other all-wheel drive systems.

Two Lancer Evolution models will be offered in the U.S. market for 2008: the GSR with a new 5-speed manual transmission and the Lancer Evolution MR with a new 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST), a new-generation automated manual transmission. The MR model is also equipped exclusively with Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs, two-piece brake rotors for better heat dissipation, BBS forged-alloy wheels, HID headlamps and additional interior features. Significantly, the newest Lancer Evolution will have less differentiation from market to market than the previous generations.

“The high-performance engine, sports car handling dynamics and striking design of the 2008 Lancer Evolution will appeal to enthusiasts worldwide – for those who desire a daily driver with street credentials as well as those planning weekend track action,” said Dan Kuhnert, vice president for marketing and sales, Mitsubishi Motors North America.

The 2008 Lancer Evolution design makes a maximum performance statement, blending concept car themes and sound aerodynamic principles while conveying the brand?s rally heritage. A shark-nosed front end inspired by jet fighter air intakes, a distinct wedge-like profile and crisp, taut lines highlight the basic new-generation Lancer design. Building on those themes, the 2008 Lancer Evolution looks the part of the street-wise sports machine with its a unique front end, aggressively sloping hood with integral air scoop and engine heat outlets, boxed fenders, and 18-inch alloy wheels with Brembo brakes.

Inside, the Lancer Evolution presents a “class up” approach and shows a new international flair. Available user technology, including high-end Rockford Fosgate? audio and navigation systems, reflects the tastes of a broadening customer base.

The 2008 Lancer Evolution?s 4B11 engine is an intercooled-turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder. Beyond that description, it differs greatly from the legendary 4G63 it replaces. The 4B11 is built with a reinforced cast-aluminum cylinder block versus the cast-iron block used in the 4G63, and aluminum is also used for the cylinder head and cover and the timing chain case. Unlike the 4G63, the 4B11 does not use a balancer shaft, made possible by the new engine?s inherently lower noise and vibration and use of hydraulic engine mounts.

The new 4B11 T/C produces more power than its predecessor: 291 hp at 6,500 rpm (vs. 286 hp at 6,500 rpm) and 300 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm (vs. 289 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm). The 4B11 T/C provides a broader torque curve, as well. A revised turbocharger yields up to 20-percent quicker response at lower engine speeds versus the 2006 engine?s turbocharger.A major divergence from the previous engine architecture is in the use of a direct-acting valvetrain in place of the roller rocker arm configuration for reduced weight. A timing chain replaces the belt, and MIVEC variable valve timing us used on both the intake and exhaust camshafts (the most recent 4G63 had MIVEC on the intake only). The rear-located (firewall side) stainless steel exhaust manifold helps improve weight distribution, and the freer-breathing exhaust system features a larger-volume main muffler with dual tailpipe outlets.

Exclusive to the Evolution MR model for 2008, the 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) is an automated manual transmission capable of executing lightning-quick upshifts with no drop-off in engine power. The TC-SST features both a console-mounted shifter and magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters and offers manual and fully automatic modes.

Essentially, the TC-SST is a manual transmission that can select two gears at a time: one gear is engaged by one of the two wet multi-plate clutches, and the other is pre-selected, awaiting to be engaged by the second clutch. The gear change is made – either manually or automatically depending on mode selected – when the electro-hydraulically operated clutches are “swapped,” which occurs simultaneously, with no perceptible lag time.

With exciting performance assured, Mitsubishi is able to equip the Lancer Evolution to be a markedly better car for everyday driving. The new Recaro seats ensure support during sporty driving and integrate new side airbags. While providing an even deeper-bass exhaust note than the previous model, the 2008 Lancer Evolution is designed to reduce unwanted noises and vibrations. The MR model, in particular, features an additional 11 pounds of sound insulation in the toeboard and under the carpeting.

The 2008 Lancer Evolution is built around Mitsubishi?s next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) unibody design. The RISE body structure disperses energy loads during side and rear crashes and controls distortion, enhancing occupant protection and also helping to protect the fuel system during a rear impact.

The 2008 Lancer?s safety package is one of the most comprehensive in the segment and includes an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags, plus a driver?s knee air bag. The standard anti-lock braking system (Sports abs) integrates electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and all Lancer models feature a tire pressure monitoring system.

8 Ways To Ensure You Car Stays Young Even After 150000 Miles


Automobiles were always built to last and that is the reason why we see antiques manufactures centuries ago still running and not just in museums. If you take good care of your car it can stay young well past 150000 miles and this is not true only for Japanese cars.

Be a parent to your car and nurture it well:

  1. Be tuned in to the car and learn to recognize coughs, sputters, and knocks. This will help you get a problem fixed well before it becomes big.
  2. Drive the car with care and avoid dents, scratches, and bangs. Always drive carefully and follow rules.
  3. Follow the maintenance schedule stringently. Create a maintenance minder for the car and pencil it into your schedule or diary. Better still get a contract with the garage and let their customer service people remind you. Get parts replaced on time. Get the car tuned and keep an eye on mileage and time.
  4. Create a car maintenance and repair fund in your financial planning. If you save small amounts regularly the repair bill will not scare you into buying a new car. Preparing for contingencies will ensure that you don?t need a credit card advance or loan. It will keep you well out of the debt trap.
  5. Always use parts provided by manufacturers. Never resort to using substandard parts in the car. And try not to delay maintenance servicing or parts replacements.
  6. Keep the car spik and spank and learn how to fight rust. The World Wide Web has several websites hosted by the AAA, car enthusiasts, as well as manufacturers that have tips, schedules, and articles as guidelines for car owners who care.
  7. Drive the car gently don?t ride it rough. If you want to be a racer get a car suited for that and be ready to half the life of the car.
  8. Read the car owner?s manual and manufacture?s website. Be informed and read car blogs and forums where car enthusiasts share information. Learn all about the car and how to maintain it. Once in a while get a friend who is careful to drive the car and tell you if he notices anything wrong —a wobble, knock, or sounds.

Always park your car in a safe spot. Keep in clean. Know all about weather proofing and more. If you care the car will stay young and working well past 150000 miles and save you a lot of money which you will spend when buying a new car. Imagine no loans or interest payments.

The World Wide Web is a knowledge highway and is replete with driving tips and car maintenance tips. Find websites that are relevant to your model of car and store them as favorites. Watch car shows, read car magazines and know how to take care of your car which will take care of you.

Is There Such A Thing As A Trustworthy Mechanic?


At some point everyone needs a mechanic for their car, and it’s hard to find a trustworthy mechanic. However there are steps you can take to help you choose the lesser of all evils when it comes to who repairs your transportation. In the end you need to be able to trust the guy repairing your brakes, putting on your tires and monitoring your fluids.

Trusting Dealerships
Many of us just throw our hands up and take our car to the dealership when we have problems with them. If you consider that they are the experts when it comes to your specific make and model it’s a smart option, unfortunately it’s also a pricey one. When it comes to rare vehicles and some imports it is probably advisable to stick with dealership expertise. Same if you hold an extended warranty purchased from the dealership, at least be sure to stay within their approved mechanic circle to ensure you do not void any part of your warranty.

In reality most of us don’t drive rare imports and don’t want to pay the extra money the dealership will charge us. This coupled with the less than average customer service that many experience at the hands of any dealership service department make a trip there for repairs nothing short of a horror movie. Never fear, there are other options.

Chain Service Shops
There are many chain shops to choose from, which is confusing if you consider that many times mechanic shopping is done under duress. Give yourself peace of mind and research your mechanics before your car breaks down, so when something goes wrong you already know where to take it. Chain mechanics can be tricky, some franchise locations may employ better mechanics than others under the umbrella of the same name. This is generally a trial and error process, so if you find one you think you like, be sure to always have a plan B. .

Neighborhood Mechanic
Not all of us are lucky enough to be in the car business, or even know anyone with any mechanical skill. However, many times a local neighborhood mechanic can be your best bet. Often they are mom and pop shops and that makes every customer an important one. This can also mean much more personalized service from someone who wants to get your future business. Lacking the impersonality of chain store mechanics just working for their hourly, this option may cost more than the chain stores do, but could just prove to be worth it in the long run.

No Matter Where You Go, Do These 3 Things First

Finding the good stuff is never easy, but if you follow the few simple steps below you can at least start off with the best to choose from

  1. Look them up with the Better Business Bureau. Right away you can eliminate mechanics who have had negative reports filed about them. Our lives are busy, if someone took the time to report them, they aren’t worth a second glance.
  2. Utilize organizations such as the ASE, start off with options that are well endorsed.
  3. Ask your friends. Everyone knows how hard it is to find a trustworthy mechanic, so be sure to ask around. Usually people are happy to share a good mechanic, lets keep the good ones in business folks.