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How Much Oil Should You Add Up In AC Compressor?

Written by Chris in Auto Engines,Cars

Add Up In AC Compressor

You may know how your car’s air conditioning system works. It needs to have a certain amount of oil, just like your car’s engine. If you don’t want to suffer from an unexpected failure in your air conditioning system, you should have an idea of how well it is operating.

Normally you do not need to add oil to your AC compressor after it is installed unless your installing a new compressor or if there is a leak in your AC system. If you still have to add oil, check the compressor specifications on how much oil is needed.

For a new compressor, look up the specifications of your AC system. An average car might use a bit of oil (4 oz. ) and two cans of refrigerant R-134a (12 oz.)  Normally you’ll want to evacuate the entire system before adding oil or refrigerant (which has oil in it). 

If I have a leak in my AC system, it’s best to fix the leak and then deal with the oil needs next. Well, discuss how you can prevent the failure of your A/C system and keep things running well.

Servicing Your AC

Your vehicle’s A/C compressor should be serviced at regular intervals by inspecting it yourself or going to a mechanic for a car checkup. 

Your air conditioning system uses a compressor that acts like an engine and needs oil for lubrication. The compressor helps compress the AC gases that later expand, which causes cooling. When gases compress, the gases get hot. Your car’s AC is able to keep you cool when air is blown over the cold gases in the evaporator.

You may be surprised to know that the AC compressor has cylinders like a car engine, except these cylinders, help compress gases. It is working hard to compress the refrigerant in the system and needs oil to help with heat control and lubrication.

AC Refrigerant

The recurring compression, expansion, and circulation of the refrigerant through the system can eventually cause stress on the system if it isn’t maintained properly.

If the AC isn’t getting as cold as it used to, you may have a leak. One reason your AC may not get too cold is a leak in the system. If you try fixing the leak yourself, you’ll need to be very careful because no one is quite sure how much refrigerant was lost.

If you fix the leak and add AC refrigerant, you’ll need to understand it does come with some risks.

AC refrigerant comes with oil in it, and adding too much may cause the compressor to run inefficiently or create leaks again from excess stress. 

If you don’t add enough, then the AC compressor might get too hot or have a mechanical failure. 

How does the AC System Works?

First, the refrigerant is compressed by your AC compressor, where the temperature increases. Then it gets cooled in the condenser. It is collected in the receiver and turns into a liquid. It is then allowed to expand, allowing it to get cool as it passes through the evaporator. Then the gas is compressed again.

As the low-pressure refrigerant returns to the compressor, it enters the intake area, is compressed, and exits the output side as a high-pressure gas.

Oil In AC Compressor
Photo Credit: http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w210-e-class/1535567-where-add-c-compressor-oil.html

Types of Refrigerant

In the past two decades, the automotive industry most commonly uses R134a refrigerant. After 2015, advancements in refrigerants have taken place with the adoption of a new refrigerant R-1234yf, which is environment-friendly.

The advancement in refrigerant also changed the lubricant used inside the compressor. PAG oils (polyethylene glycol) are the best substitutes for the former lubricants. R-1234yf also requires PAG oils. The PAG oils come in various viscosity, e.g., PAG 100 and PAG 150. If in case the OE specs aren’t given for your A/C system, then you should choose PAG 100 for R-134a, as technicians mostly use it because of its universal viscosity.

Proper maintenance is required to increase the efficiency of your compressor and for long-life compressor operation. The application of a certain amount of lubricant inside the compressor increases the efficiency, and the components of the AC system operate well and smoothly on start-up without creating noise.

If you add an excessive amount of oil for lubrication inside the compressor, it will reduce its cooling capacity. It also creates an unnecessary internal coating inside your compressor, reducing heat transfer between the atmosphere and the system.

Application of Adequate Amount of Lubricant in Different Cases of Compressor

USE CAUTION WHEN ADDING OIL OR REFRIGERANT TO A SYSTEM THAT HASN’T BEEN EVACUATED

  • If you add oil to an old compressor: When it is a matter of an old compressor, you should drain the old oil from it before filling any new oil. If you do not know the quantity of oil drained from the compressor, you may not know the amount remaining inside your compressor. So you will need to have a good idea of the amount of oil you need to add back. ​
  • If you add oil in a new compressor: In case you have a new compressor, remember one thing: many compressors are pre-filled with a lubricant, which will also result in an excessive amount of oil in your compressor. For a new compressor, look up the specifications of your AC system. An average car might use a bit of oil (4 oz. ) and two cans of refrigerant R-134a (12 oz.) 
  • If you replace any part of your car’s A/C system: In case you replace the A/C component then you should consider the average amounts in some cars below the criterion of oil replacement: 
Oil In AC Compressor
Photo Credit: https://gobdp.com/blog/healing-the-stop-leak-reputation/

Part OF the A/C system

Amount of Oil to Add

(Only if needed. Each car may be different)

Accumulator2 oz.
Condenser1 oz.
Evaporator2 oz.
Filter drier1 oz.

You should adopt the following practices to prevent premature failure of your compressor:

  • Compression preparation before the operation: To ensure lubrication, check which type of compressor you have, one with oil or a dry compressor that needs oil. If reusing an old compressor is filled with oil, it needs to be drained, and new oil needs to be added before re-installation. The dry compressor should have oil added to it so it will have the appropriate amount of oil before it starts up. 
  • Flushing of AC system: Sometimes, your compressor will make noises due to internal failure. This may happen because of the small particles inside the compressor, which mixes up with the oil and moves throughout the AC system. This contaminated oil must be flushed as early as possible. 
  • Removal of particles: Evacuation doesn’t remove all of the particles, so you will need to take apart the system and replace parts that are clogged. Usually, it will be the condenser that needs to be replaced since this is where the particles tend to get lodged after coming from the compressor. The evacuation process only removes air and moisture. It does not remove the oil. 
  • Use suitable lubricant: You should give preference to the lubricant that can properly mix up with the refrigerant. The wrong oil will lead to the everyday failure of your compressor and damage to the other AC components. 
  • Driving carefully on bumpy roads: You should drive carefully on bumpy roads because it significantly impacts the life of your AC compressor.

All in all, you should add up oil in the amounts required by your compressor. This will ensure that your compressor will start up well, and the oil will spread evenly throughout your car’s A/C system.

Conclusion

Now you have a brief idea of how important oil is to your AC compressor and how the air conditioning system of your car can be properly maintained. The lubricant inside your compressor has considerable effects on the life of the system. Therefore regular intervals, you should maintain your A/C compressor and add up the proper amount of lubricant when needed.

As I described above, due faulty compressors cause issues with your AC system. If you need a mechanic to service your AC compressor, it’s usually best to get a new one since parts and labor make this the more cost-effective and reliable way to proceed.

You should follow your car guidelines while you are adding up oil inside the compressor, whether it is new or old. I hope the information and guidelines provided in this blog will help you find the solution to your problem.

Our Guide to Choosing the Best 12-inch Subwoofer

Written by Chris in Auto Parts,Reviews

Best 12-inch Subwoofer

When subwoofers are mentioned, most people would think of loud bass sounds that shake and rattles everything inside your car. Though that may be true, there’s more to subwoofers than strong beats that create vibrations. The effect of a low-frequency sound is essential to the true sound of almost all types of music. They give your audio more depth and realism.

A subwoofer covers the low-pitched frequencies from audio sources. Whether it’s your favorite jazz band or the latest dubstep beat, this loudspeaker is sure to get a better range of sound than not having a subwoofer. It will create bass sounds and an all-encompassing feeling that other speakers can’t reproduce as accurately. Here are a few factors to consider while choosing the best 12-inch subwoofer:

  • Higher Power
  • Have voice coils
  • Easy to install
  • Affordable
  • Positive reviews
  • Power Handling

In this article, we will discuss what a subwoofer is, as well as its benefits. In addition, we will also talk about three of the most popular types of subwoofers. Later, we’ll give you the top five choices for the best 12-inch subwoofer available today. Hopefully, you will also find the factors you need to understand and consider to buy a subwoofer that is best for you. After you finish reading this article, we hope that you can evaluate your options better.

Top 5 Best 12-inch Subwoofers 2019 Market

Product (Amazon Links)Peak Power  

Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12 Punch P3 DVC 4-Ohm 12-Inch 600-Watt RMS 1200-Watt Peak Subwoofer

1200 Watts

Review

 Alpine Type-R 12-Inch 2250W Max Subwoofer 4-ohm

2250 Watts

Review

  Infinity Reference REF1200S 12″ Shallow Mount Subwoofer

1000 Watts

Review

 ​Kicker 12″ 800 Watt CompVR 4 Ohm DVR Subwoofer​

800 Watts

Review

Skar Audio DDX-12 D4 12″ 1500 Watt Max Power Dual 4 Ohm Car Subwoofer

1500 Watts

Review

What is a Subwoofer?

Before we proceed with the article, let’s discuss first what a subwoofer is. A subwoofer is a loudspeaker that aims to reproduce low-pitched audio frequencies called bass. They are meant to work with other speakers, so you can have a range of low-frequency to higher-frequency sounds. Having one of these can give your audio more depth and realism, so it feels like you are really at the center of it all.

Subwoofers are considered a vital part of your car sound system as they reproduce bass sound waves. This is the reason why they are very popular among all music and audio enthusiasts. Once you have it installed in your car, you will notice the huge difference in the quality of sound and experience. This way, you can enjoy your music more while you are driving.

Benefits of Subwoofers for Cars

If you are still curious about what a subwoofer can do to your car audio system, read on. In this section, we will discuss some of their benefits before making a purchase decision.

  • Subwoofers prevent distortion. The bass range is more likely to sound distorted if you use a normal loudspeaker. The reason behind that is that the sound is strong, but your speakers are underperforming. You can eliminate some distortions and have a wider range if you have a car subwoofer.
  • Subwoofers improve your speakers’ lifespan. Playing a higher volume of bass is obviously good in terms of sound quality. But doing so can damage your speakers. If you don’t have subwoofers, your speakers will wear easily, as they are not intended to handle powerful sounds.
  • Subwoofers improve the audio system experience. This may be the most important reason why car owners invest in subwoofers. A regular car stereo normally comes with a small audio system; hence, they deliver poor audio quality. While with a subwoofer, there is an option to create a better bass and adjust your frequency tones.

Three Types of Car Subwoofers

Before making your way to purchase a car subwoofer, you should know first what type it is that you need. This section will discuss the three most popular types of car subwoofers. From this, you will have a general idea of what will be compatible with your car’s audio system.

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  • Powered Subwoofers: This is also known as the active subwoofer. It contains its own amplifier, which solves the problem of inadequate power. By having its own power, this type of subwoofer can produce a greater and more booming sound experience. Ease of connection is what makes the powered subwoofers ideal for most people.
  • Enclosed Subwoofers: This might be perfect for beginners, as they are already pre-mounted. This is also great if you do not have much space in your car. One advantage of having an enclosed subwoofer is the ease of installation.
  • Component Subwoofers: This subwoofer only comes with a speaker. One disadvantage is that you have to purchase the enclosure and the amplifier separately. On the upside, you can have your car audio system highly customizable as you get to choose your own parts.

Essential Factors to Consider When Buying a 12-inch Subwoofer

After deciding on what type of subwoofer you need, comparing some of the specifications can be very helpful. In this section, we will talk about some of the essential factors to consider to help you decide.

  • Power: This is considered one of the most important factors that should affect your decision-making. Having more power would mean that it could produce more bass. But keep in mind that investing in a powerful subwoofer will be a bit expensive.
  • Voice Coils: This feature is very popular with most audio enthusiasts and car owners. The reason is that voice coils would mean more flexibility and wiring options.
  • Installation: Before making a purchase, make sure you have the instruction manual and all the specific components for installation. If you have those, the installation would be very easy. Though some would require help from a stereo system installer store, you can choose one that you install on your own.
  • Power Handling: This is also very important as it determines how many watts your subwoofer can accommodate. Having more than 1000 watts is impressive, but you should watch out for some that do not deliver the bass as expected. It is advisable to read reviews like the one above because some users have experienced the burning up of speakers. Look for speakers that are durable and reliable. 
  • Price: Keep in mind that you have to set a budget if you are going to buy a subwoofer. It is also a way to narrow down your options. If you are willing to invest in a more advanced subwoofer, be prepared for a higher price.
  • Reviews: If you are still not sure about which subwoofer to choose, consider reading user reviews. This is very helpful as the reviews come from the users themselves. Their experiences can make it easier for you to weigh the pros and cons of each product.

Top Picks for the Best 12-inch Subwoofer

In this section, you will find detailed reviews of the top five choices for the best 12-inch subwoofer. We will provide you with some of their top features and specifications. Aside from that, we will also give a rundown of their pros and cons to give you a better idea of which you might want.

1. Rockford Fosgate P3D4-12 Punch P3 DVC 4-Ohm 12-Inch 600-Watt RMS 1200-Watt Peak Subwoofer

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The PD34-12 Punch subwoofer belongs to the brand’s top-performing Punch P3 series. It delivers 1200 watts of peak power handling and now features anodized dust caps and aluminum cones.

Unlike previous versions, the Punch P3 subwoofer is equipped with unique spider venting that allows motor cooling. It also features new stamp-cast basket cones that provide strength while minimizing resonance and weight.

It features custom 10-AWG nickel-plated terminals and a diamond-cut cast aluminum trim ring. Aside from that, it has an extended pole piece and bumped vented backplate.

Another great feature is that it offers the Vertical Attach Surround Technique, also known as VAST Surround. This feature improves the speaker’s effective radiating cone area, which provides up to 25% more effective radiating than normal speakers.

Pros:

  • Can accommodate power handling up to 1200 watts
  • The excellent stamp-cast basket cone design
  • Made for deeper bass and louder sounds

2. Alpine Type-R 12-Inch 2250W Max Subwoofer 4-ohm

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The Alpine Type-R Subwoofer will enhance the audio system and provide big bass to almost all vehicles. One interesting feature of this is that the cone is made from Kevlar-treated pulp, the material in bulletproof vests. In addition, it has HAMR Santoprene that allows larger amounts of excursion, unlike other subwoofers.

This type of subwoofer is intended for use by those who want a thump and accurate response. Another great feature is that the Alpine Type-R Subwoofer delivers up to 2250 watts of peak power handling.

Pros:

  • Features cone made from Kevlar-treated pulp
  • It has HAMR Santoprene that provides a huge amount of excursion
  • Can accommodate up to 2250 watts of peak power handling

3. Infinity Reference REF1200S 12″ Shallow Mount Subwoofer

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The Infinity subwoofer is a 12-inch subwoofer that can deliver up to 1000 watts of peak power handling. Its cone is made from high-efficiency polypropylene and is equipped with roll rubber surrounds.

One great feature of this subwoofer is the dual voice coil, making it easier for more wiring options. It offers a smaller depth so you can fit it into shallower car speaker areas.

This subwoofer is guaranteed to make your audio experience more moving. It features innovative materials and engineering that make the brand outstanding. It’s not enough that this subwoofer offers extreme output; it also provides impressive accuracy.

Pros:

  • Can accommodate up to 1000 watts of peak power handling
  • Material is made from polypropylene
  • Features dual voice coil and vented pole pieces

4. Kicker 12″ 800 Watt CompVR 4 Ohm DVC Subwoofer

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The Kicker subwoofer is a square-shaped subwoofer that features impressive design, looks, and superb performance. It delivers reliable Santoprene surround so you can enjoy your speakers for a long time. It has a strong polypropylene cone with 150-400 watts RMS.

The Kicker subwoofer features dual voice coils that improve your amplifier to deliver high-quality bass. This car subwoofer can deliver up to 800 watts of power handling capacity and covers a frequency of 25-500 Hz. To sum up, this product can give you reliable performance, good sound,  and efficient handling.

Pros:

  • Can deliver up to 800 watts of peak power handling
  • Made of an injection-molded polypropylene cone
  • Most people really enjoy how it sounds 
  • Dual voice coils

5. Skar Audio DDX-12 D4 12″ 1500 Watt Max Power Dual 4 Ohm Car Subwoofer

The Skar Audio subwoofer is proven to deliver the appropriate performance for higher-power applications. The brand is known to incorporate several exclusive techniques that enhance accurate bass. Also, the RMS power handling is up to 1000 watts of power.

The exterior of this subwoofer is also impressive. It features a high-temperature voice coil, the DDX-12 can deliver 1500 watts of power. It also offers 202 oz. motor for accurate notes.

It comes with a competition-grade pressed paper cone, stitched high-roll foam surround, a total mounting depth of 6.60″, and a cut-out diameter of 11.25″.

It allows minimum compression, thus preventing the possibility of burning up.

Pros:

  • Best for use with 1000 watts RMS
  • Peak power handling is up to 1500 watts
  • Competition Grade Paper Cone Stitched to High Roll Foam Surround
  • Features Massive Double Stack Magnet & High Temperature 2.5″ Copper Voice Coil
  • Advanced Air Flow Cooling Design | Fs: 34.2 Hz
  • Frequency Response Range: 25 Hz – 250 Hz | Sensitivity (SPL): 87.7 dB

Conclusion

Subwoofers can add a lot to the experience of music lovers, and we are sure you will love the experience of using a high-quality speaker in your car. We hope that there is some information you found valuable as you search for the right speaker for yourself.

The process of choosing the best 12-inch subwoofer may seem tricky, but using this guide could help.

By carefully reviewing 2 or 3 options, you’ll be able to decide which one will work best for you. It is very helpful to read product reviews and search other websites for more information, such as crutchfield.com. Weigh the pros and cons, and then get the speaker that is best for you. 

Best Clear Coat for Cars: Making The Right Choice

Written by Chris in Reviews

Best Clear Coat for Cars

The clear coat determines the final physical appearance of your car. It is considered one of the most important parts of your car’s finish. Clear coats don’t only add shine and gloss to your car but also add another layer of protection. With this, it is very important that you choose the right one for your car.

To help you decide, we will be discussing some of the factors to consider when choosing the best clear coat for your car.

  • Transparency
  • Gloss Level
  • Ease of Application
  • Scratch Resistance
  • Price

We will also identify some of the best options available on the market and provide details about each. We hope by the end of this article, you can decide which clear coat is best for your car.

Product (Amazon Links)Image (Amazon Links) 

USC Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol (2 PACK)

Our Detail Review

Sherwin Williams Finish 1 Ultimate Overall Clearcoat, FC720, 1 GAL)

Our Detail Review

SpeedoKote SMR-130/75-K-M – Automotive Clear Coat Fast Dry 2K Urethane, 4:1 Gallon Clearcoat Kit w/Medium Act.

Our Detail Review

Finish 1 2K Urethane Automotive Clear Coat: 32 oz. Quart Clear Coat + 8 oz. Activator

Our Detail Review

Dupli-Color EBCL01257 Clear Coat – 8 oz.

Our Detail Review

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What is a Clear Coat?

Before we talk about the best clear coat for cars, let’s define what a clear coat is. The clear coat is a layer of transparent paint you apply over the colored paint on cars. Simply put, it is a car paint or resin with no color. Almost all of the vehicles manufactured at present have a clear coat lacquer.

Applying a clear coat to your car not only makes your car shiny but also has other advantages aside from that. Clear coats add depth to the car’s color, and your car will likely appear new for longer.

It also offers sun and ultraviolet ray protection that can cause fading and damage to the paint. It protects from spots on the surface caused by bird droppings, acid rain, and dirt. These can be washed off fairly easily.

Why do I need it?

Applying a clear coat is highly recommended if you want someone to purchase your car. It is because you would not want your car to look ugly.

Clear coats can increase your car’s level of attractiveness, and we all know that appearance sells. Recent studies have proven that the car paint finish is the biggest factor buyers consider.

Contrary to popular belief, frequent maintenance is still required even though your car has been painted with a clear coat.

Maintenance includes waxing, polishing, and even washing the car’s surface. You may also use a paint sealant for physical enhancement as well as protection.

Top Picks for the Best Clear Coat for Cars

If you still have difficulty choosing the best clear coat for your car, then you are in luck. This section will discuss the top five picks for the best clear coat for cars available on Amazon. 

We will also discuss their features as well as their advantages and disadvantages. Hopefully, after you read this section, you’ll find the right choice for you.

1. USC Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol (2 PACK)

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This type of clear coat already has the two components needed for clear a coat, so you don’t need to do any mixing. It has a special nozzle and valve technology, which guarantees an even spraying. This type of clear coat has two internal chambers that will make sure that the right ratio is mixed. The nozzle ensures spray gun-like results. The spray is broader than traditional aerosols and is easier to clean up.

The USC Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clear Coat can be applied over any base paint. When you use this type of clear coat, drying time will be more or less 12 hours. The flow will be smooth, and it will deliver a long-lasting shine. Another advantage of using this clear coat is that it is very resistant to contact with chemicals, fuel, and weather. It should be noted that this clear coat only has 48 hours of pot life once the components are mixed.

This type of clear coat is very easy to use and apply. You have to activate, shake and spray over the base paint of your car.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Well-designed nozzle
  • Can resist external elements

2. Sherwin Williams Finish 1 Ultimate Overall Clearcoat, FC720, 1 GAL /with Hardener (Hardener Medium – FH612)

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The Sherwin-Williams Clear Coat can be used on any vehicle. Use this type of clear coat to attain a professional and durable car paint finish. It also has UV protection, which means that it protects the paint from fading.

This type of clear coat ensures a long-lasting, durable shine that also provides good protection. Another advantage of using this clear coat is that it has excellent gloss. 

Pros:

  • Excellent gloss
  • Medium drying time
  • UV protection

3. SpeedoKote SMR-130/75-K-M – Automotive Clear Coat Fast Dry 2K Urethane, 4:1 Gallon Clearcoat Kit w/Medium Act.

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The SpeedoKote SMR-130/75-K-M Automotive Clear Coat is usually used in the car repair industry. This type of coat is a 2k acrylic urethane clear coat that has outstanding ultraviolet rays and sun resistance. It also has been proven to provide superior chemical and dirt resistance.

This type of clear coat has been specifically formulated to deliver fast curing time after application. It is very easy to apply, and you can buff it easily in four to six hours. Like other brands, it can also be applied to any vehicle. When you use this type of clear coat, the estimated time of drying is about two hours.

Pros:

  • It has superior UV, sun, dirt, and chemical protection
  • Fast cure
  • Very easy to apply

4. Finish 1 2K Urethane Automotive Clear Coat: 32 oz. Quart Clear Coat + 8 oz. Activator

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The Finish 1 2K Urethane Automotive Clear Coat is also a great choice if you are looking for a clear coat. The technology used for this clear coat is 4.23 VOC high solids urethane. The chemical used is best for multi-panel and spot repairs. While it aids in reparation, it also exhibits long-lasting gloss and shine.

The 4.23 VOC high solids would guarantee superior durability and buffing characteristics. The chemical mixture consists of 4 parts clear coat and 1 part hardener. Aside from that, the application should be fairly easy. If you decide to buy this clear coat, the drying time can be up to 24 hours.

Pros:

  • Made from excellent ingredients
  • Exhibits long-lasting shine and gloss
  • Very easy to apply

5. Dupli-Color EBCL01257 Clear Perfect Match Automotive Top Coat – 8 oz.

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The Dupli-Color protective clear coat finish is used to make touch-ups on parts of your car’s painted surface. It works well with all OEM-painted surfaces. 

There may also be some disadvantages when using the Dupli-Color protective clear coat. The nozzle sometimes sprays in irregular patterns. This may become very inconvenient for the user, as uneven paint could be discharged from the can. Thus, leaving blotches that create problems.

Pros:

  • The spray gun nozzle makes application very easy.
  • Effectively restores the appearance of an old car
  • Dries very quickly – 1 hr

Types of Clear Coats

Clear coats play a big part in modern car finishes as it determines the final appearance of your car. There are many clear coat options in the market right now. Knowing the right one might be challenging, but this is important to decide which is the best for your needs. In this section, we will discuss some of the types of clear coats to help you decide.

  • Topcoat: This type of clear coat is intended to be the final coat that is applied to your base car paint. To be regarded as effective, performance should be outstanding with regard to depth and ease of polishing.
  • Turbo Clear Coat: Collision repair owners use this type of clear coat to increase production. Turbo clear coats require more polishing to arrive at the glossy look. With its name, turbo clear coats dry faster than any clear coats around.
  • Glamour Clear Coat: This type of coat dries slower than the turbo clear coat but might be good for leveling and chip protection. Since they dry slowly, they can also be less sensitive to moisture.
  • Higher Solids Clear Coat: This type of clear coat contains more additives, which results in a thicker film after evaporation of the solvent. Because it’s thicker, higher solids clear coats often dry slower and are more expensive than other clear coats.
  • Euro Clear Coats: Euro clear coats often require heat to accelerate drying. The name may suggest a superior product. However, there has been no evidence proving that.

Essential Factors to Consider

When choosing the best clear coat for cars, here are some of the factors that you should look for:

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  • Transparency: This might be considered the most important characteristic that you should look for in a clear coat. As we’re talking about the car’s appearance, it’s vital that you choose what’s going to make your car look new. As discussed in previous sections, clear coats are the additional coat that has no color or pigment. From that, you should buy a clear coat that will not have a yellow tint that covers up your base paint.
  • Gloss Level: Like transparency, gloss level is another important factor to consider when choosing a clear coat. Since you’re improving your car’s appearance, choosing a gloss level that’s more than 90 units is ideal. That way, your car will look shiny and as good as a new one.
  • Ease of Application: Applying a clear coat to your car should not be difficult as you’re only adding another layer of coating. You have to choose a clear coat that has a nozzle that allows you to spray evenly on the surface. Buying this type of clear coat will ensure that no blotches will happen on the surface of your car.
  • Scratch Resistance: We all know that cars are vulnerable to scratches. Adding another coat will ensure that another layer of protection is added to the surface of your base paint. You should buy one with a feature like scratch resistance and UV protection for maximum defense.
  • Price: The last thing you have to think about is the price of the clear coat you are going to purchase. It doesn’t always mean that the less expensive clear coats do not perform well. In addition, it doesn’t always mean that the more expensive ones have better performance. You have to analyze carefully which clear coat delivers more value for your money.

Conclusion

Choosing the best clear coat for your car may initially seem a little confusing. But once you know what characteristics to look for, choosing the best in the market will be easy.

The best clear coat must have a high level of transparency and resistance to scratching. It should also be easy to apply and protect your car’s surface from UV damage and harmful chemicals.

We gave you the five best choices available on Amazon right now. We hope you can now choose what clear coat is the best for your car.

Looking for other stuff for your car? Click here for more reviews on car products. 

Why Is AC Pressure Too High? Causes And Solution

Written by Chris in Auto Engines,Auto Parts,Cars

AC Pressure Too High

We all want a cool car in the summer, especially on a long drive. Sometimes the air conditioning seems like it’s not working properly, and I get semi-cool air temperature. I wonder if my engine is too hot or if there is another problem.

The air conditioning (AC) performance is important because it keeps the vehicle’s interior temperature under control. If your AC pressure is persistently too high, it points to an underlying issue. When the pressure of the AC system is too high, this might indicate leakage or a diminishing amount of refrigerant, both of which require immediate attention.

When I turn the AC on and it’s warm, sometimes I turn up the fan, hoping things will get cooler faster. If the AC temperatures are abnormally warm, this could indicate an issue with the compressor that might need repair or replacement. We’ll discuss how AC pressure can determine the health of your AC system.

Importance of the AC Readings

Importance-of-the-AC-Readings

Higher than normal temperature readings while testing your AC might also indicate other problems. High-temperature readings from your AC can indicate damage is occurring to your AC system. It needs to operate within a specific pressure range. High pressure might gradually lead to the failure of the compressor. If not corrected in time, the repairs can cost a fortune.

Problems with AC Pressure

High pressure inside the ​condenser fan can cause the aluminum to distort and evaporator coils to leak. The compressor’s repair and replacement cost is high (about $450 plus $700 labor – price fluctuates greatly depending on the car) as the dash might need to be removed for repair. Higher than normal air pressure is usually a consequence of two situations.

One, your AC system might face limited or no airflow through the condenser. This, in turn, might be a consequence of a bad condenser fan motor. If debris near the fan blocks the flow, you will face the same issue. Second, the other reason for a high-pressure reading can be an overcharged system.

Condenser Fan Problems

condenser-fan
Photo Credit: http://rinconrolla98.blogspot.com/2015/03/diy-replacing-ac-condenser-fan-honda.html?spref=pi

The condenser fan of the AC system works at different speeds and capacities. Hence, a malfunction might reduce its efficiency along with speed. This, in turn, leads to the inability of the fan to cool the system and pass air effectively. You can personally test the speed of the fan with easily available DIY equipment.

Problems with the AC System

Overcharging of the system is usually caused due to an excess of refrigerant in the system. It can also be because of excess oil in the system. To test for an overcharged system, you would need to measure the pressure of the system. Make it a point not to add more refrigerant to the AC system unless you know for sure it is low.

To avoid overcharging the system, first, check for leaks. Get a leak check kit or gas sniffer (Amazon Link) to find any underlying leakage. Do not allow any airline to be open, as this causes the air to enter the system, resulting in high-pressure readings. 

When checking for leaks, make sure the look at the lines, hoses, and compressor. You may need to replace one of these parts or just an O-ring. Do a visual inspection and look for oil leaking from any of these areas, and you’ll know there’s a leak.

Most of the vehicles currently use the R134a refrigerant (Amazon Link) in the AC systems. Older model cars from the 90s or older might use R12. Either way, you can use R134a in your car, although you may need an adapter for older cars. 

Overcharging the system and leaks are some common reasons for AC issues. However, other issues could be: loose wiring, slipping belt, low or old oil in the system, and the use of the wrong compressor lubricant can cause issues with your coolant system. You need to check both the AC low and high-pressure side readings for a specific diagnosis.

Check it Yourself With a Pressure Gauge (Amazon Link)

  • When checking pressure using gauges and both the high and low-pressure side readings over 150 psi when the engine is off, you may have overcharged your system. You may need to release pressure from the system. Check your car manual for correct pressure.
  • If your pressure is low or zero, you know you have little to no refrigerant in the system and need to check for possible leaks. 
  • If you turn your car on and turn the AC to high and check the AC pressure lines, the low-pressure side should read around 30 psi, and the high-pressure side should read around 250 psi. Check your car manual for specific guidelines. The pressure will cycle between the low and the high sides, so wait till the clutch engages to get the correct readings. 
  • If there’s pressure on both sides, but the readings are off, then it’s likely a part of the AC system isn’t functioning properly. The compressor, clutch, and expansion valve are common problems when readings are off.    
  • If you need to add refrigerant because you have low pressure when the engine is off. First, make sure the other parts of the AC system are operating correctly. Then get refrigerant and fill it up to the correct specifications indicated by your car manual. (Amazon Link)
  • If you need to release pressure from the AC system, it’s a good idea to go to a mechanic. There would be legal (Environmental Protection Agency) and safety concerns if you were to do it yourself.  
  • There are other issues you can solve by yourself with more tools. So decide how involved you are willing to be and shop around. 

System Blockage and Restrictions

If your condenser has blockage or restriction of airflow, the high-pressure side reading would be high, while the low side readings would drop over time. To rectify this problem, you should remove and blockage and clear any debris. After removing the debris, check the readings again. If the issue persists, it is highly likely that something in your system needs repairs.

System-Blockage
Photo Credit: http://forums.aaca.org/topic/81068-can-somebody-post-a-picture-of-the-airconditioner-on-l-8/

It is very uncommon to get high low-side pressure readings with normal high-side readings. If you are experiencing this, this might be because your condenser is not cycling in the correct manner. The cycles are cutting in and out too rapidly, giving those high-low side readings. You might not be able to rectify this malfunction on your own.

The high-low side readings (with normal high side readings) are a result of thermostat switch malfunction. The thermostat might have the wrong range of temperature. To get normal readings, you would need to get the thermostat switch replaced by a local mechanic.

Avoid this common mistake while testing. Avoid adding excess refrigerant to the system. Adding excess refrigerant can cause problems with the AC temperature, the condenser, and other components.

I think the best solution is to thoroughly inspect your AC system before undertaking any repairs. This could save you time and money. In my opinion, it’s better to take your time in the beginning and understand all the steps before making a costly mistake. 

Conclusion

If your AC system is not working properly, it’s time to do an inspection. You can diagnose many problems yourself by using a pressure gauge that shows the high and low-pressure line readings. In addition, you can check for leaks yourself by doing a visual inspection using a kit or an electronic sniffer.  

But I advise that you contact an experienced mechanic for the best results when doing bigger repairs and releasing pressure from your AC system. Mechanics have all the right tools and experience to diagnose and repair your car’s AC system. 

Additional Questions

What should I do if the condenser fan doesn’t turn on? 

With the engine on, turn the AC to high and open the hood. Wait 5 minutes or til the car reaches the normal operating temperature to see if the condenser/radiator fan turns on. If the fan doesn’t turn on, turn off the car and wait 30 minutes for things to cool down. Check to see if anything is blocking the fan from turning.  Check electrical connections. If all seems fine, you may need to replace the fan, the temperature sensor, or something with circuity, like the fuse for the condenser fan. 

Safety Guide for Driving With Your Phone

Written by Chris in Cars,Motorcycles

Driving With Your Phone

Multi-tasking is one of the most desirable skills in life today. It is not uncommon to call, email, or chat while going about our day to today business. But using your phone while driving? That could literary be a killer skill- it is a very unsafe practice that has claimed many lives already.

Driving while distracted is always unwise. Phones distract from our ability to drive safely. Yet, we rely on our phones so much that we forget that it has become a distraction. Here are some safety tips for driving with your phone:

  1. Take full advantage of your phone’s features.
  2. Pull over to make the call.
  3. Use a hands-free device.
  4. Shorten the conversation.
  5. Let your phone be within reach.
  6. Let a passenger do the talking.
  7. Make emergency calls.
  8. Log out of social media.
  9. Turn off notifications.
  10. Set your destination before you depart.
  11. Use a phone dock on the dashboard.

For many of us, the message doesn’t seem to get home despite several campaigns against using the phone while driving; close to 660,000 drivers in the United States admit to using their phones while driving. Things are not any different in Europe and other countries. The numbers are high among young drivers.

Some Statistics

Ever since cell phones hit the mass market, the number of car accidents and fatalities from the same has increased. Analysts estimate that 23% of all auto accidents each year involve cellphone distractions.

According to the CDC, 3,331 people died in 2011 due to accidents caused by phone distractions. That figure was a leap from the 3,267 people that died in 2010 from the same.

Using Your Phone While Driving​

1. Cognitive Distraction

Cognitive distraction involves the driver diverting all their attention from the road to a mentally involving task. In this case, you might be making or receiving a call on a hands-free phone or using a voice-activated app like Siri or OK Google. Cognitive distraction can also happen when texting or emailing.

2. Visual Distraction

This is the most common type of interference when driving with a phone. Visual disturbance involves the driver taking their eyes off the road to attend to tasks such as operating the GPS navigation system, texting, or emailing. Doing that makes the driver lose focus, and even if it is for mere seconds, fatal accidents can occur.

3. Manual Distraction

Manual distractions involve the driver taking their hands off the wheel to attend to some tasks. That could involve using GPS or texting. Manual distractions often cause accidents by slowing your reaction time.

Distraction and Attention

Using phones on the road is a high-risk affair because it often involves all three distractions. Visual because you have to see what you are typing as you text your pal, Cognitive because you are thinking about what to say when chatting or arguing over the phone, and manual because you have to scroll your contacts or follow the GPS navigation.

These distractions slow your reaction time. Researchers found that even legally drunk drivers often have a better response time than drivers distracted by a phone.

Phone usage while driving impairs the attentive functioning of the brain. Then, of course, you will be blind to your immediate environment and not see traffic signs, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

Immense efforts have been made to create awareness about the dangers of phone usage when driving. The battle is also being fought from a legislative and technological front. Some laws have been put in place to illegalize driving while texting, while some apps are being invented to prevent distracted driving.

Innovative hardware and software solutions can help to limit phone usage while on the road. Insurers are also using similar apps to reduce accidents and help reduce claims. But personally, what can you do to attentively and safely drive with your phone?

Personal Safety Measures You Can Take​

1. Making and Taking Phone Calls

•Take full advantage of your phone’s features

​If you carefully go through your phone’s manual, you will be surprised to find that there are ways you can use it hands-free or without spending too much of your visual or cognitive attention on it. Features such as speed dial can help you make quick phone calls without having ever to take your eyes off the road.

2. Use the Voice Dialer or the Auto-Answer feature.

•Pull over to make the call

It is not advisable to make and receive phone calls while driving. It is illegal to use your cell phone while driving in states like Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, and many others. That includes texting, making phone calls, or looking at videos. NHTSA also reports that 32 countries across the world have a similar ban- on using phones while driving.

The only way to be on the safe side of the law, and of course, to be safe from accidents, is to pull over when you want to make a phone call or text someone. Ensure to stop somewhere that is safe for you, other drivers, and pedestrians as well.

•Use a hands-free device

There are many hand-free accessories you can use that are either portable or in-car. Before you start your journey, it would be wise to check and ensure that the hand-free device is set up and working correctly. Hands-free devices will let you make or receive phone calls without taking your hands off the wheel.

•Shorten the conversation 

Even when you use a hands-free device, you will not be immune to cognitive distractions. For that reason, it is advisable to make all phone calls before starting the journey; however, if you have to receive or make phone calls while on the road, ensure to shorten the conversation.

Do not engage in arguments or emotional phone conversations when driving. If the phone call starts to take this direction, inform the person on the other end that you are driving and end the call. Emotionally engaging conversations are distracting and are a significant cause of fatal accidents.

•Let your phone be within reach

It is not uncommon to get distracted when we hear a phone ringing. The same can happen while on the road. Having it in a place where you can see minimizes the amount of time you take your eyes off the road.

The other alternative is to silence your phone so that you don’t hear it ringing or vibrating with messages at all. Many times we are compelled to answer a call or text because we are aware of it. Silencing your phone is a safe trick to calm the mind so that you can focus on driving. The world will still be there when you reach your destination.

•Let a passenger do the talking

Driving with a family member, friend, or colleague? Let them answer or make phone calls, then relay the message to you. It is much safer that way. It helps to free your mind, eyes, and hands of distractions when driving.

•Make emergency calls

Even though a cell phone is a significant distraction that risk lives on the road, it can also be used to save lives. In accident situations, you can protect yourself and your loved ones by dialing emergency numbers. Such free and quick calls can save lives when you get into a traffic accident or medical emergency on the road. The same is the case when you witness an accident or crime while driving.

Reading Messages and Looking at Videos.

A recent survey shows that people are more likely to text or look at emails than make calls when driving. The study indicates that there is a 66 % higher risk of fatal accidents when operating a phone. In 2017 alone, 800 crash deaths occurred in the US, caused by drivers’ texting and doing things with their phones other than calling or receiving calls

•Log out of social media

According to experts, these activities take our eyes and mind off the road in a way that is even worse than drunk driving. Don’t get caught up in a situation where you have to scroll your social media while driving.

•Turn off notifications

Also, there is no denying how that WhatsApp video or meme can be tempting. The same goes for text messages from your friends, family, or colleagues. To be on the safe side, turn off notifications when driving.

Maps and Navigation

Thanks to GPS technology, YOU no longer have to remember the street address or route to your destination. Following a GPS map on your phone while driving is how most of us drive today. Even though it is helpful, it can be quite distracting.

•Set your destination before you depart

If you cannot get to your destination without GPS assistance, it would be safe to set your destination before starting the journey. That will help you drive without the urge to look at your phone. When driving at full speed, taking your eyes off the road even for a few seconds can lead to fatal accidents.

•Use a phone dock on the dashboard

It is much safer to place the phone where you can see the maps as you drive. It minimizes the time your visual attention will be off the road when following GPS navigation. Also, remember to set your phone so that it stays awake during your trip so that you don’t have to touch it to see the map manually.

Technology got us in this jam of distracted driving. Maybe in the near future, technology will get us out of it with smart cars with emergency braking and lane departure cautioning systems, among other accident prevention measures. For now, it is upon us to sensibly use our phones while on the road.

Additional Questions

Should I use my phone while at a stop light?

While it is generally safer to use your phone at a stop light than while driving, it still can lead to accidents. You might be even more likely to get into a fender bender at a stop light because your attention is even more distracted because you feel safer while stopped or driving very slowly.  

Can I use my phone while driving in my state?

Most states have a ban on using phones while driving. To see what type of ban your state has, look up the laws for your state and county. Here is a link to a PDF with state bans.

Oil In Coolant Reservoir: Its Presence And What It Means

Written by Chris in Cars,Motorcycles

Oil In Coolant Reservoir

If you look under the hood of your car, you should see green or orange coolant in one of the plastic reservoirs of your car. At times it may be water, but it is usually coolant.  If your coolant is brownish or has brownish spots, there’s oil mixed with the coolant. (Unless your radiator is rusted)

If you’re not familiar with coolant and engine oil, the rule is that they should never mix. Oil should never mix with the water or any coolant in the coolant system, and if it does, something is going wrong with your vehicle, and it will need your attention. 

What does it mean? To answer these questions, let’s first understand the basics of engine functioning, which will also help you identify which problems might be causing these liquids to mix together. 

What Do the Oil and Coolant Achieve?

Oil and coolant shouldn’t ever mix. Oil is a lubricant that is used to cover all the different movable parts of your car’s engine. As you drive your car, the engine generates an immense amount of heat, and the oil can cover these moving parts even when very hot. 

To cool down your engine, coolants are used to keep the temperatures of the engine steady and under control. In your car, four-wheeler vehicle, or other vehicles, the engine is designed so that it is sealed and can’t interact with outside elements. This help protects the engine from foreign elements that might cause wear or damage to the engine. 

1. The Structure in Detail

Via: https://www.trucknews.com/features/maintain-heavy-duty-engine-coolant-system/

As the cylinders in your car move, they generate lots of heat. The cooling system of your car helps to cool down your engine, allowing the combustion chambers to operate without getting too hot.  

Between the engine block and the cylinder head is the head gasket. This gasket is important because it maintains the seal between the outside and inside areas of the engine. If you notice coolant in your oil, it’s likely your head gasket needs to be replaced since it’s letting in the coolant.

The head gasket seal may be broken or damaged because of excess heat due to several reasons, including not enough oil, not enough coolant, and running the engine at excessive heat levels for too long. 

How it Works

  • Two different and distinct channel networks are bored into your vehicle’s engine block. One of those networks is for the engine oil, while the other is for the coolant.
  • The engine oil’s network directs the oil to the parts of the engine where it is required, whereas the same is achieved for water or coolant inside the engine’s cooling system.
  • Take a look at your engine if you like. You likely be able to see the thin line where the head gasket is located near where you insert the spark plugs. 
  • The head gasket keeps the engine seals to ensure the highest possible compression and to avoid any or all types of leakage of the liquids inside (engine oil and the coolant) onto the cylinders.
  • This is achieved because the head gasket surrounds each cylinder and seals them effectively. The head gasket is made from steel or, in older vehicles, graphite and can handle the heat and pressure of the engine under standard conditions.
  • Being a part of the combustion chamber, the head gasket has specifications and requirements of similar physical strength to the other components in the combustion chamber.

2. Mixing of Oil and Coolant

oil in coolant

If you notice anything strange about the color of your engine oil, one conclusion you can make is that the oil and coolant of your vehicle’s engine are mixing because the head gasket seal is broken. The head gasket (Amazon Link) may have malfunctioned or become broken.

Usually, if you open the radiator cap (when cool) or look at the reservoir tank, you’ll notice the mixing of oil and coolant in the head gasket is broken. It may have a milky appearance, or you’ll see brownish dots of oil. 

So, what should you do? Stop driving your vehicle and get it fixed. The longer you drive it, the more damage will occur. It will eventually ruin your engine and may cause your engine to malfunction, which might be dangerous.

However, you may not notice problems immediately. If you notice your car is not quite working as it normally does, then it’s a good idea to check the engine oil and radiator fluid once your car has cooled down (about 30 minutes).  

Overworking your engine, improper servicing, accident impact, and age-related wearing are common causes of the mixing of the engine oil and the coolant.

3. Oil and Coolant Mixing – Why It Happens?

Common Reasons
Via: http://m.wikihow.com/Check-the-Fluids-in-a-Car

An engine’s head gasket (Amazon Link) failing may be one reason the oil and coolant have mixed. Let’s look at other reasons that may be causing these fluids to mix. According to the leading mechanics and vehicular engine experts, some other reasons why your oil is ending up in the cooling reservoir are as follows:

  • A broken or damaged head gasket is the leading cause of the mixing of the two fluids. In some light or heavy damage to the gasket, the oil and the coolant can eventually start to mix.
  • Damage to the cylinder head is another main reason for the mixing of these fluids. The cracked or damaged cylinder head might be a result of overheating, overuse of the engine, or a heavy impact in the accident. (If you realize that a cylinder head is damaged, get it replaced as soon as possible. If not, fluids can mix and create more problems.
  • Damage to the engine block is uncommon, but it, too, can lead to the mixing of the oil and the coolant. A damaged or cracked engine block contains several movable parts (that use oil). Slight damage to the engine block causes the oil to mix with the coolant.
  • Overheating and driving the engine hard can create problems and cause malfunctions to occur. One of them being oil flowing into the coolant reservoir. Extreme overheating of the engine tends to destroy the head gasket, which allows internal leakage of the engine oil.
  • Water entering the exhaust pipe or engine air intake can occur at times. It might be while driving your vehicle thru streams, rivers, or other bodies of water.  Damage will occur if water enters your engine, so double-check before driving your car if you suspect water is in the engine.

4. Finding a Solution

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFFp4ExM1Gc

If you have opened the reservoir or the radiator top and see that the coolant and oil have mixed, or you have noticed your vehicle has started to run oddly, it is time for you to take immediate action.

Unless you have experience taking apart engines, you should call an experienced mechanic who can inspect your vehicle and possibly repair any damage that has occurred. Check around to see if they have experience with this specific issue so you can get a proper diagnosis and a possible solution.

Depending on whether the problem is big or small, the mechanic will give you different a different diagnosis. Be prepared to make some hard choices. You may need to have a complete engine overhaul, or you might want a second opinion. 

Why Is It So Important?

The mixing of coolant (Amazon Link) and engine oil (Amazon Link) can cause severe damage to the engine of your car and lead to big problems. Getting regular maintenance on your vehicle is essential. Poor use and maintenance tend to put your vehicle’s engine at risk of getting damaged.

If damage takes place because fluids have mixed, the engine will not function properly. At times, sparking, fire, or even small explosions in the engine of your vehicle have been known to occur, putting your car and your life in danger. So, addressing this issue quickly is important to prevent major problems. 

Conclusion

oil in car coolant

Oil in the coolant reservoir can be a huge issue, but if caught quickly enough will save you time and money. It is highly advised that you get a mechanic to inspect your engine if you suspect or know of a problem. You could be saved from major issues and can drive with more assurance in the future.

Additional Questions

Should I replace the oil and coolant if the two liquids mix?

Not at first. If you notice the coolant and oil are mixing, then you need to stop driving the car and find out the reason why this is happening. It won’t help to replace the oil and coolant unless you’ve fixed the problem first. 

Should I use a head gasket sealer to repair a broken head gasket?

Maybe? A liquid head gasket sealer that you pour into the radiator can help seal the gasket, but the results will vary greatly. If you want to be sure not to have more problems down the road, replace the head gasket.    

Photo Credit:

  • http://www.audi-forums.com/b5-forum/61911-oil-coolant-reservoir-please-help.html
  • http://honda-tech.com/honda-civic-2001-2005-78/oil-my-coolant-reservoir-2707594/
  • http://www.powerstroke.org/forum/6-4-motor-problems/798546-oil-coolant-tank.html