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Why Nitrogen?

2012-01-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

If you are one of those who doesn't regularly check your tire pressure, then Nitrogen is for you.
Air is composed of 1% water vapor, 21% Oxygen and 78% Nitrogen. The water vapor and oxygen escapes faster than nitrogen. Nitrogen molecules are the least permeable and stay in your tire longer. By reducing the percentage of oxygen and water vapor, your tires will maintain proper pressure longer than if you use "air". For example, with 95% nitrogen in your tires, they retain optimal pressure three to four times longer.
Proper tire pressure is very important because it can increase fuel efficiency, give your tires longer life and give you increased safety. Fuel efficiency is increased because with correct tire pressure the contact patch of your tire, that is recommended by the manufacturer remains correct, which lessens the rolling resistance and maximizes fuel efficiency. You get longer tire life because by eliminating the oxygen, you eliminate oxidation of the rubber which can make it lose strength. The safety of your tire is increased because the tire doesn't fluctuate in pressure when it is filled with nitrogen. 90% of blowouts are caused by under inflated tires.
Another benefit of using nitrogen is the improved TPMS performance. TPMS sensors go off every time there is a change in your tire pressure. Nitrogen is more consistent, so you will minimize the chances of your sensor light coming on unless there is really a problem.
Rim rust is also a problem that is caused by condensation from the water vapor in air. Nitrogen is dry, so it eliminates the potential for condensation.
NASCAR, commercial airlines, US government, food processing and packagers are already utilizing the benefits of nitrogen. Maybe we should look into the benefits of using nitrogen in our own vehicles. Spending a little money now to save money in the long run is a proactive idea. It is an even better idea when you reap all of the benefits it provides.

Winter Driving in South Dakota

2011-12-30T16:57:00.000-08:00

This information was provided as a public service by the SD Department of Transportation. I would like to share it with you.

Should I Travel?
Pay attention to travel advisories and weather warnings. Call 511 from any South Dakota mobile phone or land line. Get condition reports from 511 seven days a week, 24 hours a day. You can also visit www.safetravelusa.com for road conditions. While traveling on Interstate 90 look for messages on the electronic message signs.

Weather Warnings
Winter Storm Watch- indicates that severe winter weather may affect your area.
Winter Storm Warning- indicates that severe winter weather conditions are confirmed for your area.
Blizzard Warning- means that large amounts of falling or blowing snow and sustained winds of at least 35mph are expected for several hours.

Winter Storms
Be prepared:
*Carry a charged cell phone.
*Carry a winter travel survival kit
*Let someone know when you depart, your route and expected arrival time.
*Dress according to the weather conditions.
*Keep dry and wear clothing in layers.
*Fill your fuel tank before you leave.
*Check road conditions and weather forecasts

If Stranded In A Storm
*Stay with your vehicle
*Use your mobile phone to call 911. Be aware of your location and situation.
*Put all your emergency supplies by you.
*Check your supplies to see what you have and arrange in order of their use.
*Run the engine sparingly. 15 minutes every hour is a good rule of thumb.

Ice Storms
These don't happen as often in South Dakota, but are just as dangerous.
*Don't drive in freezing rain.
*Your windshield washer fluid and defroster will not keep the rain from freezing on the windshield.
*If freezing rain starts while you are driving, get off at a safe place and wait for the storm to pass.
*Remember to contact someone ad let them know where you have stopped.

More information to come in the next blog. Be Safe, Be Smart! Don't think it can't happen to you, it can because mother nature doesn't discriminate!

2011-12-28T15:44:00.000-08:00

Have You Had Your Vehicle Checked Over For The Winter?

2011-12-08T07:19:00.000-08:00

Getting your vehicle checked over before the cold weather hits could help you save money in the long run. Some of the things one should consider having checked is:

*Battery

*Tire Tread & Pressure

*Wipers, Fluids & Filters

*Belts, Brakes, Cables & Hoses

All of these are wear items that should be checked frequently.

One should also consider getting your vehicle headlights restored. Headlights will dull over time and restoring them will let more light shine through, which will be important as our days have less light in the winter.

Putting a survival kit in your car is a must! We all hope nothing ever happens to us, but being prepared can give you peace of mind. Here is an example of what you should have in your kit:

*Jumper Cables

*Multi-tool

*Map of local area

*First Aid Kit

*Flashlight

*Rag

*Duct Tape

*Rain Coat

*Emergency Blanket

*Folding Shovel

*Fuses that fit your vehicle

*Water Bottles

*Protein Bars

*Reflective Tape, Triangles or Flares

*Phone for 911 calls only (fully charged)

*Lighter

*Compass

*550 cord (google the uses of this stuff, you will be amazed)

Keep yourself and your loved ones safe this winter by being prepared!

WINTER TIRES

2011-11-22T09:56:00.000-08:00

Who Needs Winter Tires?

Everyone who drives in weather that is consistently at or below 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter tires use a different compound that is combined with appropriate tread designs that stay pliable in the winter conditions, creating shorter stopping distances. Winter tires offer great traction on ice, snow and slush, but also on dry roads in cold weather.

Thinking that your all-wheel drive or 4 wheel drive with all season tires is going to get you through the winter weather is a false hope. The all season tires in winter weather will not provide you with shorter stopping distances or better adherence while turning, only a winter tire can provide you with that comfort.

There are two myths that are FALSE:
1) Since my vehicle has 4WD or AWD it will get great traction power, so I do not need a winter tire.
2) Winter tires are more expensive and do not last as long.

These are the average stopping distances you can expect with each type of tire:
SUBCOMPACT CAR
Winter Tire 128.3 ft
All Season Tire 166.3 ft

MINI-VAN
Winter Tire 125.7 ft
All Season Tire 167.7 ft

SUV
Winter Tire 117.1 ft
All Season Tire 140.4 ft.

The life of your tire is hard to predict, but by storing your winter tires properly it can add life. Storing tires outside will cause the tires to become dry and crack. Tires should be stored in a cool, dry, clean, indoor environment. If you choose to store them on a rim they may be suspended or stacked. Storing them without the rim requires them to be stored upright and turned every 4 weeks.

Ask the company where you get your tires if you can rent storage for your tires. Most will have a secure place that meets all the requirements needed to get more life out of your tires.

Knowing the facts, you may want to invest in some winter tires. Most of the time your winter tires will be less than your insurance deductible. Spending some money now, will save you money in the future and increase your safety in the colder months.

Tire Tips

2011-11-02T16:14:00.000-07:00

Most new cars come with a tire pressure monitoring system already installed on your vehicle, but there are many things to keep in mind when it comes to tires. These systems are not to be used as a substitute for performing routine maintenance.

Under inflated tires can adversely affect your fuel economy, lead to skidding, loss of control and hydroplaning on wet surfaces. It can also increase your stopping distance and you are more likely to have a tire fail.

Some tips to keep your tires safe:

Do your own pressure checks. Over and under inflated tires will cause your tires to wear unevenly. Remember that tires can lose pressure over time and that cold air causes them to lose some air. Tires lose roughly 1 pound per square inch of pressure for every 10 degree drop in outside temperature. Check your tire pressure at least once a month.

Inspect the sidewalls and tread. Cuts or bulges are signs of impending tire failure.  It is important to rotate your tires every 5,000 miles or every other oil change. You will get longer life out of your tires. Ask your technician that does the oil change to check the tread depth of your tires also. Uneven wear may be the sign of worn suspension parts or the need for an alignment.

Replace all 4 tires at once. It is recommended that you change all four tires at the same time. Uneven tread depth on your tires will cause early wear on your tires and the vehicles suspension. Other risks you take by not replacing all four tires are fishtailing and hydroplaning.

Tire Age. Tires age over time regardless of if you have serviced them or not. Manufacturers continually work to find out what ages a tire. Remember that a tire in motion is better than a tire that sits. Tires that sit for long periods of time, like on a RV that is only driven in the warm months, will have other issues.  Tires that sit may have soft spots and weather checking.

The bottom line.  Try to buy those with a build date of two years or less stamped on them. Replace your tire according to the auto manufacturers age recommendation. To find out the correct tire pressure and size of tire your vehicle requires check the white sticker on the inside of the drivers door.

Remember to give your tires some extra attention once a month. If your not sure about your tires, take them to your local shop for some advice.

Gas Saving Tips Real Or Just Talk

2011-10-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

Everyone has their ideas on how to save gas, but do they really work or is it just talk. We all would like to save money and we can by doing some little common sense things. If they really save you money or not, you have to be the judge.
One thing a person can do to save gas is by skipping the drive through. When you sit in the drive through your vehicle is constantly idling; which is putting time on your engine, emmitting unnecessary emissions into the atmosphere and wasting expensive gasoline. Does it really take that much extra time to park, walk in and get your order?
The Canadian government did a study that proved that idling for more than 10 seconds uses more gas than a restart. There are a lot of things you can do to improve your gas mileage that have been proven effective. Some things include; proper tune up of your vehicle, proper tire pressure in all tires and clean air filters.
One of the biggest things we can change in order to save gas is our driving habits. Believe it or not how we drive has the biggest effect on our gas mileage. Some easy tips that can really help make a difference:
1. Accelerate more gradually. The harder you hit the gas, the more you use.
2. Anticipate stops. By looking ahead you can coast to your stop and save gas.
3. Drive more slowly on the highway. We all are busy and think we need to go fast, but shaving 5 - 10 MPH can save you a lot of gas.
3. Shift gears earlier. If you have a manual transmission try shifting to a lower RPM. The higher your engine revs the more gas it uses.
Test these out and see over a month how much you will save because the gas prices won't go down any time soon.

Fall Is For Preparing For The Next Season

2011-09-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

Tired of raking every year? Most people rake every year thinking it is better for their lawn. Leaves can actually make a good compost and give your lawn the minerals it needs to grow greener the next year. You may want to consider mulching your leaves this year and letting them decompose naturally in your lawn. Most riding lawn mowers can be made into mulching mowers by getting the special blades needed. Check with the company you purchased your mower from to see if it has that option. Mowing is important to continue in fall also, it keeps the weeds down so that they don't choke the grass you already have.

Fall is also the time of year to start winterizing your small motor vehicles. If you own a ATV, Jet ski, mower, weed eater or dirt bike it could need some end of the year maintenance. Batteries is the biggest yet most preventable failure you can have. This is because they sit for months without being used. It can be a real pain when spring comes and you can't start the equipment. If you don't remove your battery in the winter and store it in a warm dry area, you should go out once a week and start it up. Make sure you let it run for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps to keep the charge up and can help prevent a dead battery in the spring.

Make sure to check with your local technician or your owners manuals for proper winterizing of your small motor equipment.

Conventional vs Synthetic Oil

2011-08-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered which oil is better conventional or synthetic? There is a lot of information about both, but how do you decide which one is best for your vehicle.

Synthetic oils are structured with very specific properties, which leads to stronger oxidative protection against breakdown and lower evaporation rates under high temperature conditions. They also excel at low temperature operation and provide superior film strength.

These features mean a longer service life, excellent component protection, better fuel economy, enhanced performance and power, eased cold starting and quicker circulation during the initial warm-up period.

The synthetics despite the benefits are still not the norm, due to their high cost. Synthetic blends are becoming more popular. Synthetic blends can range on average at 20-50 percent synthetic base oil use and can offer substantial performance increases over non-synthetic brands.

If you are thinking of changing from conventional oil to synthetic or synthetic blend make sure you properly prepare your vehicle. Talk to your technician on the proper synthetic or blend to use and how to switch your vehicle over.

So why should you switch to a synthetic or synthetic blend? Synthetics benefits are worth the higher price, when you consider the value of your engine.

Fun Facts!

2011-08-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

*The automobile is the most recycled consumer product around the world.
*In 1914, the first electric stop light was installed in Cleveland, Ohio.
*In 1972, cars traveled along LA freeways at an average speed of 60mph. In 1982, the average was 17mph.
*Most fender-benders happen on clear, sunny, dry days.
*People are willing to spend longer walking to and from a parking spot in parking lots than on city streets.
*Highways can handle more cars at 55mph than 80mph.
*Most American automobiles' horns beep in the key of F.
*Saturday at 1pm has heavier traffic than weekday rush hours.
*If everyone waits to merge at the point where a highway loses a lane, rather than earlier, traffic flows better.
*One in three males pick their noses while driving.
These fun facts were courtesy of AC Delco's Intune magazine.

Chrome Wheels

2011-07-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

Chrome wheels are great looking and make the style of our vehicle stand out, but they also require some tender loving care or they won't be shining for very long. The main problem is chemical staining which are frequently milky, black or greenish in appearance and result from using acid-based cleaners. Soap and water are usually sufficient to clean wheels. If you choose to use a wheel cleaner make sure it does NOT contain:
*Ammonium Bi fluoride
*Hydrofluoric Acid
*Hydrochloric Acid
*Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonic Acid
*Sulfamic Acid
*Phosphoric Acid
*Hydroxyacetic Acid
Also keep in mind that many wheel cleaners will take off paint and to keep clear of the pain on the brake calipers.

All wheel cleaners should be rinsed off with Clean, Clear Water. Take time to clean under the hub cap, balance weights, wheel nuts, lug nut caps, and between the wheel cladding and the back side of the wheel.

Staining can also be caused by road chemicals, such as calcium chloride which is used to control dust on the roads. Contact with road chemicals can be corrosive over time if you do not keep your wheels clean.

Brake dust may also cause wheel corrosion. Particles that come off of your brakes can be hot and may embed in your wheels creating a small pit. Heavy brake dust can be removed by using a chrome cleaner and polish.

After cleaning your wheel, you should apply a polish to protect the wheel. It is vital to keep your wheels cleaned and polished to prolong the appearance of the wheel.

Do I need my AC charged?

2011-07-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

Do you have a problem with your vehicle cooling properly when the air conditioning is on? This may mean that your air conditioner needs to be charged or it could be a sign of a different problem. AC refrigerant can be harmful to the air, so it is important to have a certified technician look at your system. Most AC's will loose some refrigerant over time, but if your air conditioner needs to be recharged every year you may have a leak within your system. Getting an air conditioning performance check and or an AC system inspection at the beginning of each warm season could save you time and money.

Heating Up

2011-06-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

The weather is heating up and so is your engine. Not many of us think to check our coolant before summer starts, but when was the last time you had your radiator flushed? If you are like me it is the last thing you are thinking of, but it can help your vehicle live longer. In high temperatures your engine can cause all kinds of gunk to build up in your cooling system. Coolant breakdown can also lead to metal fatigue of your radiator, heater core and other important components of your cooling system. Before you risk overheating this summer, get your antifreeze changed and your cooling system flushed.

Wheel Alignments

2011-04-08T15:07:00.000-07:00

Wheel Alignment -Getting It Straight

Knowing if you need a wheel alignment is a common concern for consumers. If you have abnormal tire wear or handling discrepancies, such as pulling, poor tracking, or steering wheel angle problems, you may think you need an alignment. These are the most common reasons why you would think that, but the symptoms you are experiencing may not be the root cause of your problems.

Steering

A common symptom is a lead/pull condition, which is when you have to put in extra effort to keep your steering wheel straight in order to keep your vehicle on the road. Keep in mind that this may also have to do with the road slope or road crown. A vehicle may lead off the road if the crown is too great or road slope is uneven. Test it out on a paved road in good condition. If the vehicle quickly climbs the road crown, then it may have an issue that needs to be looked into further.

Wheels and Tires

Another possible cause of steering and vibrations complaints are your tires. Tires should all be in good shape and have even wear patterns. Slight feathering or edge wear is common on the shoulder of the tires. Have your tires checked regularly for tire pressure, tread depth and wear issues.

Worn Parts

Trim height is a reference point for all alignment measurements. This is the distance between the vehicle's frame and the road. Incorrect trim height can alter a vehicle's geometry and create misalignment. Some things that can cause this are worn suspension parts, such as springs, struts, tie rods and ball joints. Other repairs that can affect wheel alignment are control arm replacement, steering gear replacement, and steering knuckle replacement. Get a good check of your suspension parts before you get an alignment. This can save you some cost later on.

If you are not sure what is causing your vehicle to feel like it is out of alignment have your technician do an inspection and test drive to diagnose any other possible causes first. Scheduling regular maintenance and inspections can also prolong the life of your vehicle.

Remember to frequently check your tire pressure and if you are ever unsure about something ask your repair shop for advice.

Regular Vehicle Maintenance

2011-03-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

Keeping your vehicle in top shape means finding a great service provider that has technical expertise, quality parts, good location and someone you feel you can trust. We would like to be that person for you. Keeping your vehicle maintained is the best way to prolong the life of the vehicle. This doesn't guarantee that you won't have a break down, but it decreases the chance of that happening. Here are a few basic maintenance reminders:
Transmission- Maintenance on the transmission, so check your owners manual first, but it can be required any where between 50,000 - 100,000 miles.
Oil- Newer model oil changes are recommended approximately every 6,000-7,500 miles. However in dusty areas it should be done every 3,000-5,000 miles. Many vehicles are equipped with oil change alerts, but when in doubt check your manual or call the technician.
Tires- Rotating tires every 5,000 miles will increase the longevity of your tires.
If you have any questions call your local repair shop and they should be able to help you. Remember a little money spent now could save you a lot of money later.