Can you afford to waste gas? Worst offenders of wasting your precious (and very expensive) gas.

Can you afford to waste gas?

Buying a fuel efficient car is only the start of fighting the "gas war".  There are other factors to consider and it is much easier than you think.

Most of these "problems" take off at least 1 to 2 miles per gallon from your car's average mile per gallon efficiency.

1. Loose gas cap? Take a few miles per gallon off your fuel efficiency.  According to Service Tech Magazine, September 2000 issue, 17 percent of the vehicles on U.S. highways have either misused or missing gas caps, causing 147,000,000 gallons of gas per year to vaporize into the atmosphere.
2. Underinflated tires & Incorrect wheel alignment (increase rolling resistance);
3. Driving with the parking brake not fully released (increases resistance);
4. Dirty Oil.   Change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and use the proper grade;
5. Slipping automatic transmission;
6. Malfunctioning cooling system thermostat causing the engine to run too cold;
7. Malfunction of one or more components of the fuel, ignition or emission control systems.  A misfiring spark plug can cost you 2 or 3 miles per gallon!
8. Driving habits - idling, excessive use of cruise control, aggressive driving, driving at higher speeds, excessive use of air conditioning.  Consider a sophisticated GPS guidance that can select less-congested routes to reduce excessive idling and the mileage monitor to help drive more efficiently.  If your car is older or doesn't have these on-board diagnostics, there are a number of fuel-saving apps are also available for smartphones. 

Consider talking to your local automotive shop for suggestions and training on how to keep your car running smoothly and some of the other tips above.

Happy driving!

February Newsletter

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs061/1102543209151/archive/1104554354606.html

Transporting Boats

When moving a boat, it is our suggestion that you prepare the boat.  Here is our "Checklist", suggestions on what to do in preparing for moving your boat.

• All items inside your boat such as galley utensils, plates, cups and personal gear should be stored and properly secured.
• All ports, hatches and windows should be locked and the locking device taped over. Cabinet doors, drawers and all lockers within the craft should be closed and secured.
• Personal items and equipment should be itemized and verified by our driver prior to shipment.
• Safety considerations dictate that all fuel, water and holding tanks must be empty or as nearly empty as possible. Paint, paint thinner and other hazardous materials cannot be shipped. The battery cables must be disconnected from the battery.
• If mounted in any way that exposes them to damage or theft, equipment such as radios, antennas, depth finders, compasses and other electronic gear must be removed. Tops and side curtains should be removed prior to transport to prevent water damage to vinyl or canvas covers. Most moving companies are not responsible for canvas covers or tops that remain topside during shipment.  Therefore it is suggested that you remove them.
• A cradle (if used to transport) should fit the exact contour of your hull and be in good condition. Your craft should also be well secured to the cradle. Most moving companies do not assume responsibility for damage attributed to carrying devices such as cradles or boat trailers when they a refurnished on behalf of the shipper.
• Plastic and Plexiglas flying bridge windshields and windscreens should be removed and stored inside the craft.
• SAILBOATS: Standing rigging, turnbuckles, mastheads and bow lights, antennas, spreaders, wind indicators, wires and mast winches should all be removed from the mast (after it is unstepped and prior to transport). Most shippers will not be liable for damage attributable to rubbing or chafing by equipment left on the mast during transport.
• Expect to find some deposits of road dirt/film will most likely occur during the transport of your boat.
• We suggest that your boats be completely winterized when moving from one climate to another. (including engines, toilets and water systems). Masts should be completely wrapped.
• After a joint inspection of the cabin, you should lock and secure the cabin. The keys could be sealed in an envelope and kept by the shipper or agent.
• Shrink-wrap may keep the boat protected from the elements, but is also prevents a proper inspection. However, keep in mind that the carrier is not responsible for damage and shortages under the shrink-wrap if it is intact at destination. Also, shrink-wrap may tear while transporting the boat. If this occurs in transit, the torn material may cause beating and chafing damage to the boat.

We hope this information helps you to better transport your boat!

Preparing Vehicles for Transport

We often are asked, what is the best way to prepare my vehicle for transport.  Our suggestons are as follows:

• Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty items such as ground effects, spoilers, fog lights, or wide mirrors, and lower or remove the antenna if possible.
• Repair or seal any tears or open seams on convertible tops to prevent fast-moving air from causing further damage.
• Make sure the radiator has adequate levels of fresh antifreeze.
• Be sure that the battery is secure, has no leaks, and that the fluid levels are low enough to accommodate expansion.
• Leave only about 1/4 tank of gas in the vehicle, as a full tank of gasoline adds a lot of costly weight to the transport.
• Deactivate or disconnect anti-theft devices. There can be serious problems and unnecessary expenses if the driver is locked out or if the alarm goes off during the auto shipping process or the car transport.
• Make sure that your vehicle is clean enough to ensure an accurate pickup inspection.
• Very slightly open one window to relieve pressure due to temperature and elevation changes. This will allow for your vehicle(s) to breath and protect window(s) from blowing out because of the temperature and pressure changes during transport