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<title>Latest Articles by teahupoo</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Tire Maintenance-It's Important For More Than Your Tires</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/tire-maintenance-it-s-important-for-more-than-your-tires.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/tire-maintenance-it-s-important-for-more-than-your-tires.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 15 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Caring for your car tires is of great importance if you wish long life for these. Tires come between your car and the road. Tires carry the weight, the mass of the car and balance the car on the road. If your tires are not running smooth, your engine will work harder resulting in consumption of gasoline. Yes, well maintained tires can ensure better performance from your car and better fuel economy as a result. So what are the best ways of maintaining your car tires?

Maintain the right air pressure. Read the air pressure chart given in the door jam. Each vehicle has its optimum air pressure which must be maintained in order to balance your car in running condition. Maintaining air pressure below the desired level will cause wear and tear to you tire. The tires will drag on the road and overwork your engine. If you maintain a higher air pressure than is necessary for the tires then it may burst on high speed. So make sure that the tire pressure is checked regularly.

Wheel alignment is very important. Do not ignore that. Misaligned wheels will again wear off the tires in no time. The car will not run smoothly and will drag in one direction. Correct wheel alignment will ensure that the pressure on your engine is less and your car is well-balanced on the road.

Rotate the tires. Ideally in every six months you should rotate your car tires. Since the road conditions vary from one stretch to another, there is no guarantee on how your tire works at different sections of the road. Take the front tires to the back and bring the back tires to the front at regular intervals. Remove any material that may have punctured your tire. These days it is almost impossible to realize whether your tire has punctured because of the radial tire technology. So, regular inspection of the tires is advisable.

When your vehicle is in ideal condition for a long period ensure that it is parked inside or covered well. Heat damages tires. Also remember to check the tire pressure before you take your vehicle out for a long drive after an idle period. Air pressure decreases with time even if the car is not running for a while. Balance your tires correctly. Irregular balancing will cause vibration. On bad roads it is suggested that you drive slow to reduce wear and tear of the tires.

Keep an eye on the tread of your tire. That wears out too especially if the tires are not correctly balanced or are misaligned. If the tread of the tire wears off you will need to change the tires immediately. Remember wearing off of the tread of the tires can actually lead to misalignment of the wheels and compromise the balance of your car.

Keeping a tab on the above points is not that difficult. You can get all of these done if you get your car services regularly. To be safe on the roads, where you spend a considerable time, you need to be on safe tires. ]]></description>
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<title>Unrated Gas Saving Devices And Products To Avoid</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/unrated-gas-saving-devices-and-products-to-avoid.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/unrated-gas-saving-devices-and-products-to-avoid.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The list of unrated devices that have not received EPA test results and the ones that you must stay off are listed below. You can refer to the EPA website for details of each product. The devices are categorized in the type of its functioning and listed alphabetically.

Air-bleed devices:

ADAKS Vacuum Breaker Air Bleed, Sept. 1971 
Air-Jet Air Bleed, Aug. 1972 
Aquablast Wyman Valve Air Bleed, July 1973 
Auto-Miser, Feb. 1980 
Ball-Matic Air Bleed, June 1976
Berg Air Bleed, Jan. 1972
Brisko PCV, Feb. 1971
Cyclone-Z, Jan. 1983 
Econo Needle Air Bleed, April 1972
Econo-Jet Air Bleed Idle Screws, 1972 
Gas Saving Device, Jan. 1983
Grancor Air Computer, 
Hot Tip, Sept. 1982
Landrum Mini-Carb, June 1976
Landrum Retrofit Air Bleed,  June 1976 
Mini Turbocharger Air Bleed
Monocar HC Control Air Bleed, June 1972
Peterman Air Bleed
Pollution Master Air Bleed, Aug. 1971
Ram-Jet, Jan. 1980
Turbo-Dyne G.R. Valve, April 1978 

Stay away from these driving habit modifiers too:

Fuel Conservation Device, Feb. 1980 
Gastell, Feb. 1981

There are a number of fuel additives too that have flooded the market and are no good:

Bycosin,1971 
EI-5 Fuel Additive, Sept. 1976 
Fuelon Power, Sept. 1993 
Johnson Fuel Additive 
NRG #1 Fuel Additive, Feb. 1978 
QEI 400 Fuel Additive
Rolfite Upgrade Fuel Additive, March 1975 
Sta-Power Fuel Additive, Feb. 1972 
Stargas Fuel Additive, Feb. 1972 
SYNeRGy-1, June 1981 
Technol G Fuel Additive, Aug 1972 
ULX-15/ULX-15D, May 1981 
Vareb 10 Fuel Additive, April 1974 
XRG #1 Fuel Additive, Feb. 1980 

Let's now look at the fuel line devices to stay away from:

FuelXpander, 1980 
Gas Meiser I, May 1981
Greer Fuel Preheater, May 1981
Jacona Fuel System, Aug 1982
Malpassi Filter King, June 1983
Moleculetor, May 1981
Optimizer, May 1983
PETRO-MIZER, Dec. 1982
POLARION-X, April 1985
Russell Fuelmiser, Sept. 1982
Super-Mag Fuel Extender, Jan. 1982
Wickliff Polarizer, June 1981

The ignition devices that you should stay away from are:

Autosaver, May 1981
Baur Condenser, Aug. 1981
BIAP Electronic Ignition Unit, Sept. 1970
Fuel Economizer, Sept. 1982 
Magna Flash Ignition Control System, Feb. 1972
Paser Magnum/Paser 500/Paser 500 HEI, May 
Special Formula Ignition Advance Springs

Internal Engine Modifications that you should say no to is:

Dresser Economizer, Dec. 1981

The Liquid injection device of Goodman Engine System-Model 1800, April 1980 should also be avoided.

Stay away from the following Mixture Enhancers:

Energy Gas Saver, Jan 1982 
Environmental Fuel Saver, Feb 1980 
Gas Saving and Emission Control Improvement Device, Jan 1983 
Glynn-50, Aug. 1981
Hydro-Catalyst Pre-Combustion Catalyst System, July 1973 
PETROMIZER SYSTEM, May 1981
Sav-A-Mile, Oct. 1981
Spritzer 
Turbo-Carb, Aug 1982 
Turbocarb , Aug. 1982 
Basko Enginecoat, March 1980
Dresser Economizer, Aug. 1982 
Electro-Dyne Superchoke, Jan. 1976 
Filtron Urethane Foam Filter
Lamkin Fuel Metering Device, July 1974
Smith Power and Deceleration Governor, April 1974 

Let's now look at some Vapor bleed devices that one must avoid:

Atomized Vapor Injector, Feb. 1983
Econo-Mist Vacuum Vapor Injection System, Mar. 1975 
Frantz Vapor Injection System, Sept. 1971
Hydro-Vac, Aug. 1983 
Mark II Vapor Injection System 
Platinum Gasaver, July 1991
POWERFUeL, Aug 1983 
Turbo Vapor Injection System
SCATPAC Vacuum Vapor Induction System, July 1973 
V-70 Vapor Injector, May 1981 

Finally some miscellaneous products/devices:

BRAKE-EZ
Dynamix, Aug. 1982 
Fuel Maximiser, Nov. 1981
Gyroscopic Wheel Cover, June 1983
Inset Aftermarket Retrofit Device, Aug 1999
Kat's Engine Heater, Oct. 1982 
Lee Exhaust and Fuel Gasification EGR 
Mesco Moisture Extraction System, July 1983
S.C.U. 01 Device, Aug 1983 
Treis Emulsifier, July 1981
Vitalizer III, Aug 1999

Keep checking the EPA website for more products that you should avoid as well as for products worth checking into. ]]></description>
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<title>Gas Saving Technology That Is Helping The Go Green Movement</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/gas-saving-technology-that-is-helping-the-go-green-movement.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/gas-saving-technology-that-is-helping-the-go-green-movement.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ To begin with, there is nothing better than taking alternate modes of transports. Use public transport, car pools, walk, take your bike to your college these are the best steps that your can take towards a greener earth. It may sound difficult at first, living without a car but once you get used to it is just like not using plastic carry bags from the grocery. However for those who are still not there yet and are not comfortable with the idea of leaving behind their cars, we agree that in America, you do need to drive more often than not. But by choosing your vehicle and vehicle parts wisely you can do your bit towards making the world a better place.

Looking at the current trend there are a number of new additions that we can foresee in the auto market that may prove to be gas-saving in an environmentally friendly way. It is however only after such products are launched that one would actually know how good those are, but some of the product innovations predicted in future are ones to look out for.

Cylinder Deactivation

Deactivating engine cylinders when the load on the engine is low is termed as cylinder deactivation. Here four cylinders work reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. This feature plays a huge role when the vehicle is stuck in traffic and idling. Four cylinders are only active under such circumstances. 

CVT transmissions

The full form of CVT is continuously variable transmission. It is an automatic transmission device.  It transmits power steadily from the engine and to the wheels. There is no shift point in the process which helps in fuel economy.

Direct Injection-Gasoline

Direct Injectors are mounted in the combustion chamber at the center. Then a process termed as "spray guided" is applied. This improves the combustion efficiency of air-fuel. That in turn reduces the pumping losses. It is expected to increase fuel economy by a staggering 15%. 

E STEER

An electric power steering is used to eliminate the simple power steering. It is said that such devices can save up to 4% compared to the power steering based on hydraulics. 

All of these products are supposed to pave the future for fuel economy. Fuel economy is the need of the hour. If it is achieved in a way that does not have harmful effects on the environment, then that it what one must adopt. As a consumer you may also consider using hybrid cars, electric powered vehicles and try doing your bit towards healthier living.

Using an environment friendly vehicle and devices and following the basic steps to save fuel and by maintaining your car on a regular basis, you can have savings and also get better performance from your vehicle. We are not suggesting that you go and buy a solar powered vehicle right away, but yes, keeping your eyes open, looking for devices that are economic and also "green" can be a good step forward. ]]></description>
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<title>Detailing Your Wheels-What You Need To Know Before You Begin</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/detailing-your-wheels-what-you-need-to-know-before-you-begin.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/detailing-your-wheels-what-you-need-to-know-before-you-begin.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ There are some things you need to know about your wheels before you begin detailing them. One of the first things that you need to know is whether you have painted or non painted wheels. Regardless of which type you have you will have to deal with brake dust however.

One of the biggest contributors to an unattractive wheel is an accumulation of brake dust. The dust is created by the wear from the brake pads, as they wear the dust forms and ends up coating the wheels. There are special cleaners available on the market that can make the job of getting rid of brake dust easier and there are versions for both painted and non painted wheels.

Many of the wheels on the market today are made of some type of metal alloy and aren't painted at all. These are fairly easy to clean without worrying about damaging the finish. If you do have painted wheels you have to be a little more careful as not to scratch or otherwise damage the wheel with a cleaner that is too abrasive. If you have any doubts at all you should consult with the manual you should have received with your wheels or check with the manufacturer.

When washing your car and your wheels you should wash your wheels after washing your car and use a different sponge or cleaning mitt from the one used for washing the surface of your car. The reason for this is that your wheels and tires will have quite a bit more dirt and debris than the rest of your vehicle.
The tires and wheels of a vehicle are in closest contact with the surface of the road obviously and because of this they also attract the largest amount of dirt so you must be much more diligent and put a lot more effort into cleaning them. You can also usually wash the wheels with a more abrasive cleaner than you can on your car's finish.

It is essential to have a variety of cleaning brushes and cloths to get to all of the nooks and crannies that your wheels have where dirt and contaminates can hide. At times it may even make sense to periodically remove the wheels from the car to thoroughly wash them, especially if you drive a lot. You should also wash your car and your wheels more frequently if you live in an area that is near the ocean or during the winter when the roads are salted to help with icy conditions. ]]></description>
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<title>Aftermarket Gas Saving Devices Tested By The EPA</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/aftermarket-gas-saving-devices-tested-by-the-epa.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/aftermarket-gas-saving-devices-tested-by-the-epa.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In this article we will reveal our research on finding the devices that are tested by EPA and show a considerable reduction in gas mileage and does not affect harmful emissions adversely. Again note some of the products may not be available in the market at present. EPA however has a legal disclaimer for all such products as follows:

"certain conclusions about possible gas savings by testing the product or by evaluating the manufacturers' own test data" have been reached by EPA. Remember that EPA never endorses a product.

AUTOTHERM

Idling can cost up to one gallon per year! And it is true that we have to spend a lot of time idling. So how do you keep your engine warm without wasting gas in idling? Well the Autotherm Energy Recovery System uses the vehicle's heater or fan to heat or cool the engine during winter or summer without keeping the engine on. This reduces emission and improves fuel economy. In 1985, this device was tested by the Air Force.

The benefits of the device also include:

Less carbon monoxide production.
Low maintenance cost.

Engine coolant is pumped by a circulator through the heater core of the vehicle and utilizes the heat in the engine that is actually residual. This device is truly very helpful for those who spend a lot of time waiting at the road side for example the police cars or fleet of transportation vehicles.

P.A.S.S. Kit

Cartel products manufactured the P.A.S.S kit. It functions the same way was PASS Master discussed in the previous article. The EPA did not test it separately but had rather used the results of PASS Master test to determine the feasibility of the P.A.S.S kit. 

IDALERT

In 1981, IDALERT was tested. It is considered to be a device similar to AUTOTHERM and saves the gas consumption that takes place in idling. This device is meant to warn the operator whenever there is unproductive idling in the vehicle. The various ways the alarm warns the operator includes buzzing, warning lights going on and off and finally the horn goes off automatically if the buzz and the lights fail to draw the attention of the operator.

Kamei Spoilers

A spoiler is generally fitted in the front of the car. It has the following advantages:

Reduces sensitivity to cross wind
Gives better directional stability
Established more adhesion to the road
Reduces air drag
In short, increases the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

This device is said to reduce gas consumption by 0.3% to up to 3%. There is no concern related to the emission standards of a spoiler. How do you install a spoiler?

The device is fitted using only six screws.
A ground clearance of a minimum of five inches to a maximum of 9 inches is maintained.
Made of ABS plastic, spoiler can be painted to match the body of your vehicle.
Fiberglass spoilers are also available.
It starts from $50 and goes up to $500.

If you are looking at devices to increase the aerodynamics of your vehicle, then there are more attachments other than spoilers that you can explore. ]]></description>
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<title>What Does The EPA Have To Do With Gas Mileage Ratings?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/what-does-the-epa-have-to-do-with-gas-mileage-ratings.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/what-does-the-epa-have-to-do-with-gas-mileage-ratings.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The US Environmental Protection Agency or EPA is closely involved with product testing and emission control for all vehicles. The various gas saving devices are all tested by EPA for fuel economy and emission values before those are released in the market. So it plays an important role in creating consumer awareness towards latest products introduced in the market. EPA runs a program where it tests and evaluates all retrofit devices for emission and fuel economy standards.

"The purpose of the program is to generate, analyze and disseminate technical data in a public document. Participation in the program is voluntary unless ordered by the EPA Administrator or the Federal Trade Commission. All voluntary testing is paid for by the applicant. The program is restricted to four wheeled highway vehicles weighing six thousand pounds or less," states EPA.

Following are the conditions set by EPA in quotes for the tests:

"Fuel additives are included in this program; however, oil additives and lubricants are not. 

A complete report is issued for any product evaluated by the EPA. There is no approval, certification, endorsement, nor registration of any product tested in this program. 

Furthermore, EPA does not certify, approve, register or endorse any independent laboratory or the results of any independent laboratory testing. Any claims of EPA certification in this program are false."

Following were set as the overview of the testing by EPA:

"The EPA device evaluation program employs the same scientific laboratory test methods used to certify vehicles in the United Stated. The specific tests are the Federal Test Procedure (FTP) and the Highway Fuel Economy Test (HFET). Each of these involved placing the test vehicle on a dynamometer (a laboratory test apparatus which simulates road conditions) and driving through a specified trace simulating city and highway driving in consecutive sequences. 

Exhaust gases are captured, analyzed and used to determine rate of each criteria pollutant in grams per mile (gms/mi) and to calculate fuel economy in miles per gallon (mpg).

The controlled laboratory conditions and use of a standard test fuel in this evaluation program minimizes variables one would have to address when using actual outdoor driving on roadways.

Laboratory testing assures the test results' comparisons, with and without the device, are not influenced by outside, uncontrollable factors.

EPA conducts tests on at least two different vehicles which are representative of the fleet. Each vehicle is thoroughly inspected and maintained as it was originally certified by EPA prior to testing. A minimum of three tests using each test vehicle without the device are conducted to establish a base line. The device is then installed on the vehicle as instructed by the manufacturer and the same three test series are conducted once again. 

When completed, the device is removed and the initial series of tests are conducted once again to determine whether the vehicle has been affected by using the device."

The data obtained from testing are analyzed for statistically significant differences, either positive or negative. Emission results for each of the criteria pollutants, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen are compared for these differences. If use of a device results in a statistically significant increase of any of the criteria pollutants, EPA would consider installation of the device as tampering with the emissions control system even though fuel economy may be improved.

Applicants for this voluntary program are invited to be present during installation and testing of the device at EPA's test laboratory located in Ann Arbor, Michigan." ]]></description>
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<title>Gas Saving Devices You Should Avoid And Why</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/gas-saving-devices-you-should-avoid-and-why.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/gas-saving-devices-you-should-avoid-and-why.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Most gas saving devices available in the market may actually save gas but on the other hand may adversely affect the quality of gas emission. The EPA describes these devices as below: "Indicated a very small improvement in fuel economy but with an increase in exhaust emissions. According to Federal regulations, installation of this device could be considered illegal tampering"

Let's now look at a set of products that you should ideally stay away from. 

Fuel-Max

In June 1981, EPA tested this device manufactured by Fuel Injection Development Corporation. This is an air bleed device. The EPA test results showed a mere increase in mileage in the range of 1.6% to 4.0%. Although the product showed decrease in carbon monoxide emission and also considerable reduction in hydro-carbon generation, it showed substantial increase in the emission of Nitrogen Oxide, which eventually brought the product down.

Waag-Injection System

In Waag Injection system a reservoir of a 50% mixture of water and alcohol is used in the combustion chamber. The EPA conclusions are as follows:

"In summary, throughout all three phases of the test work reported on the W/A Waag-Injection system, significant increases were found in fuel economy; however corresponding increases were found in regulated emissions, both as measured from the vehicles manufacturer's specifications.

It should be noted that although the fuel economy increases observed were statistically significant under controlled laboratory conditions, the magnitudes of these increases were small. The magnitudes of the corresponding and also statistically significant increases in regulated emissions were larger and require further development to eliminate."

ACDS Automotive Cylinder Deactivation System

Finally, the ACDS Automotive Cylinder Deactivation System was meant to deactivate 4 of the 8 cylinders in an eight cylinder engine. It was tested by the EPA in 1981.
The EPA conclusions are as follows:

1. "The operation of a vehicle on four cylinders through the use of the ACDS hardware did cause a substantial increase in vehicle emissions to levels exceeding the applicable 1979 standards. Co-emissions were typically increased several times to levels near or above the standards. 

2. NOx emissions were typically twice the standard. These emissions violate the tampering provisions of the Clean Air Act."

3. "The operation of a vehicle on 4 cylinders through the use of ACDS hardware did improve fuel economy 5 to 16% for FTP and 3 to 20% for HFET for those 8 cylinder vehicles tested, but with the associated emission increases described above."

4. "The vehicles had poor drivability when using the ACDS to operate on 4 cylinders.

5. Vehicle acceleration times were substantially increased when the vehicles were operated with 4 cylinders using ACDS. The acceleration times were typically double the comparable times for 8 cylinder operation.

6. The operation of a vehicle on 4 cylinders cause a serious loss of breaking power assistance under some driving conditions.

The EPA website provides comprehensive information on what product to use and what not. It is important that as a consumer you do not get fooled by the long drawn testimonials that all promotional material include. ]]></description>
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<title>Gas Mileage Enhancers-A Review Of Some New Gas Saving Products</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/gas-mileage-enhancers-a-review-of-some-new-gas-saving-products.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/gas-mileage-enhancers-a-review-of-some-new-gas-saving-products.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ With the market flooded by products that claim to cut down your mileage by 20% or 30% are you confident that you know the products that can be trusted and those that cannot be? EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has tested a number of such devices against various standards and determined a set of devices that actually save gas and does not affect emission standards adversely. Let's look at the first set of such devices that you may consider using. Note some of the products may not be available in the market at present. EPA however has a legal disclaimer for all such products as follows:

"certain conclusions about possible gas savings by testing the product or by evaluating the manufacturers' own test data" have been reached by EPA. Remember that EPA never endorses a product.

Lubricant-Petromoly:

This product was tested in January 1999. Find below the observations by EPA for Petromoly: "Use of PetroMoly in the single test vehicle demonstrated the following when compared directly to the stock configuration test using a basic 5W-30 SAE motor oil as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer:

There was a two percent improvement in fuel economy. On the city drive test, there was a five percent increase in oxides of nitrogen (NOx), a nine percent reduction in hydrocarbons (HC), and a ten percent reduction in carbon monoxide (CO) when compared to the stock configuration test."

There was a three percent improvement in highway fuel economy.

Data submitted by organizations other than EPA have also shown significant increase in mileage and up to 13% decrease in Nitrogen Oxide. So yes, this is product that is worth a try.

PASS Master Vehicle Air Conditioner
Let's look at how this device works:

It essentially comprises of a vacuum switch that senses drop in air pressure in the engine whenever there is an extra demand of power.

Such power demands occur when the vehicle is climbing uphill or accelerating fast.

The switch then opens the circuit that provides power to the compressor clutch thereby making the compressor go idle.

This in turn decreases up to 15 Horsepower load from the compressor and helps the engine accelerate without any drag.

In 1980 this device was tested. Those who used air conditioner frequently found up to a 4% increase in fuel economy on using this device. 

Morse Constant Speed Accessory Drive

To take the place of fixed ratio water pump drive, the constant speed accessory drive was introduced in the market. Why would you want to replace the fixed ratio water pump? Well, with the increase of the RPM (rotation per minute) of your engine, the speed of your air conditioner increases in case of fixed ratio water pumps which leads to wastage of extra power.

However the constant speed accessory drive dubbed as the variable ratio water pump reduces the temperature within the engine even when the engine is climbing a hill. Tests conducted by EPA in 1976 revealed that gas emission was lower and there was a 6% increase in fuel economy. ]]></description>
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<title>EPA Gas Mileage Ratings-How Are They Determined?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/epa-gas-mileage-ratings-how-are-they-determined.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/epa-gas-mileage-ratings-how-are-they-determined.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ EPA mileage ratings for different car models can be a good criterion based on which consumers can make an informed decision on the vehicle to buy. The EPA ratings are determined based on a series of tests conducted by EPA under controlled conditions. How are the tests conducted? Let's see.

1. The first category is for city driving. Here the car is kept sitting a whole night and then it is driven in the rush traffic hours when the car has to brake frequently and start again.

2. The next category is called highway driving. Here the test starts with a warmed-up vehicle and not in the same condition as the vehicle was when it had the city run. Now the vehicle is driven across a good blend of roads including highways, country roads, Interstates and typically includes freeways as well.

All vehicles are tested in the same manner. Generally the different variables that affect a vehicle's mileage include:

Road conditions are very important considerations. If you are driving on good roads freeways or highways you will get a better mileage than you would on a bad road full of potholes and craters.

Being stuck in the traffic influences the mileage too.

Drastic weather changes also influence the mileage. 

Getting the correct volume of gas in the tank is often a tricky business. What the pump auto stop indicates as full tank is actually not a full tank.

The vehicle's make and model also influences the fuel economy.

Driving habits of individual drivers, whether they always over speed or whether they use cruise control, whether they brake often or they drive smooth; all of these affect the fuel economy of the vehicle.

Last but not the least and the most important factor to consider while calculating mileage is the engine condition. 

The fueleconomy.gov site gives you a comprehensive third party test values for different models of cars. If you do not want to believe in the mileage tag provided with a new car or if you do not have the mileage of a pre-owned car that you are planning to buy/sell then the website could be a good place to refer to. The vehicles are categorized based on the year of it was manufactured. 

The car or the truck that you choose to buy is solely your decision. It is always a good idea to gather as much information as possible before spending money. The fueleconomy.gov site is a storehouse of information. For more information, you can refer to the EPA website as well. ]]></description>
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<title>Open Source Software-What Is It And How Can It Benefit Me?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Computers/open-source-software-what-is-it-and-how-can-it-benefit-me.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Computers/open-source-software-what-is-it-and-how-can-it-benefit-me.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Hmmm, so finally is it the age of open source software? "Say what?" is probably what you are wondering! Well, open source software is a phenomenon that launched internet at the first place; the concept of World Wide Web that all can share, improve upon and be a part of.

Open source software started about couple of decades earlier and is fast gaining people's attention, exposure and popularity. Open source software is a software made by the people, for the people and is maintained by the people all for free. A wide network of users, software developers and programmers work in tandem to develop a certain software and improve upon it from time to time based upon their personal experience. An open source software is free to modify, test, develop and share.

It denies the system closed door software development by handful of developers and then sold at high prices in the market to the users. Since the developers of open source software are not paid and they work out of their own motivation, you can expect them to keep working on it until they perfect it. It is in simple words fulfills the dreams of a user. Open source software is developed at a very fast pace since dedicated people work on it on no external motivation like money or promotion. Since people involved are highly talented with the sole motivation of contributing something and working on their passion of software development, the result is generally excellent.

As a software developer, if you want to get involved in an open source software development project, then it is guaranteed that you will get tremendous satisfaction out of the project. 

You can get open source software by google searching the term. A number of websites will appear with access to different downloadable versions of available open source software.

Your next question could be now, if open source software is for free and readily available then why are the commercial manufacturers still in business?

Better still, if open source software gain more popularity over the time, won't commercial manufacturer's become obsolete?

Contrary to the assumption that open source software will throw software development houses out of business, these software developers if adopt the open source software development policy of open feedback can tremendously help their business.

Involving the users at an initial stage and keeping them abreast during the development cycle will definitely score a point with the users. Technically it will help them come up with a far more superior product that is a whole lot user friendly than the initial versions. It will also open up opportunities of brand positioning at appropriate forums.

So step aside the commercial world of highly and often over priced software and welcome the age of free software, developed, tested and maintained by some of the best minds in the industry for free. Let's make technology available for the poorest as well! And if you are a software developer yourself, then hop in and see for yourself the pleasure of doing something solely for your passion and not for money. ]]></description>
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