Fix Your Car's Paint Scratchings With No Ugly Paint Blobs

Car paint scratches are inevitable, but you do not have to pay a body shop lots of money to repaint every scratch. Depending on the size of the scratch or chip that you have, it can be a do-it-yourself job or having to go to the professionals. Any ding over a nickel or scratch that is wider then a pencil eraser, is better left to the professionals.

Tip 1: Locate exact-matching paint.
One of the biggest things in a do-it-yourself scratch / chip repair is getting the right color. You can obtain the right color from your local car dealer. It's even easier online, where you can order a bottle of paint in about 5 minutes and have it in your hands within a week. To find you proper color the first place to look is the door jamb of the driver or passenger side. If not there, a few other places to look are the glove box, trunk, or under the hood near or on firewall. Color codes vary depending on make or model. Just because you bought a "cosmic galactic green" does not mean that name is what the car company named it the next year or another car company did not take the same name, but it is completely different color. The color code is very important in ensuring you get the right color and can vary from 2 numbers and letters, up to 7 numbers and letters and all combinations in-between.

Tip 2: Test your color match before beginning your repair.
Once you selected the proper color code now is a time to see if it's a match for your car. You can do a few things here. Try just a tiny spot in an inconspicuous place, trunk, under the hood, door jamb, or apply the paint on a piece of sheet metal. If it matches time to prep your car.

Tip 3: Clean first, for permanent results.
Completely wash your car; you never know when a scratch is hiding under some road grime. You will want to use a soap that will remove any wax residue like Dawn, due to the PH balance. You are going to want to make sure the area you are going to fix is ​​thoroughly clean so go over it again with window cleaner or a wax / grease remover.

Tip 4: Dab, do not stroke, for best results.
When applying the paint it is best to be out of direct sunlight and a mild 70 degree does best. The cooler it is the longer dry times will be and the sun can give you an uneven look to your repair. With automotive paint a little goes a long way, so if you need you can add a second coat after allowing the first coat to dry takes at least 30 minutes. When applicable, dabbing is recommended so that it does not leave stroke marks. Try to just apply the paint to the affected areas, and be as tidy as possible. If you make a mistake, remove unwanted paint with nail polish remover and repeat.

Tip 5: Polish your paint to blend in your repair.
Let the repair completely cure for a couple of days then wash wax and polish the car paying special attention to the area you touched up. If everything went well you should have a scratch that is almost undetectable and blend in with the existing paint. The remaining paint can be reused for future use. Keep it in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight it will last longer than keeping it in your car.

How to Spot Fake Chinese Silver Panda Coins on eBay

If you buy Chinese silver Panda coins on eBay, you could be buying a counterfeit coin.Many Panda coins listed on eBay are fake. Nearly half are suspicious looking.

I rarely encounter fake rare American coins on eBay, but fake Pandas are common.

I bought some counterfeit pandas directly from China a few years ago and now know what to look for in a fake. They're easy to spot when you know what to look for.

The fakes are so well done, I'd swear the China Mint has a night shift going specifically producing fake versions of their own highly regarded silver coins. My coins were in capsules and even mint plastic envelopes. They looked for all the world like they were real.

I'm not sure what made me test one for authenticity, but I got a wild hair and proceeded to remove the capsule from the plastic pouch and then the coin from the capsule.

The first thing I did was give it the ring test. That's where you balance the coin on the tip of your finger and tap the edge with a Paper Mate pen. It should give a high pitched, sustained tinggg. This one did not. It just went thud.

I got out another panda coin I know to be real andave it the ring test. It rang pleasantly. Then I compared the two coins and noticed the suspect coin was probably 20% thicker than the real version.

The final convicting test was to cut it in half with a hack saw. The interior metal was a dark gray with a silver plating over it. I tried to contact the China distributor, but they ignored my request for a refund.

What makes me think the China Mint might be producing the fakes as well as the real version of their panda coin? The fakes resemble the real ones in every detail except one: the capsule that protects them.

Remember, I said the fake pandas are thicker than theirs real real? In order for them to weigh the same amount, and have the same outer case dimensions, there must be some extra room in the mint capsule for a thicker coin. And there is!

You see, the genuine Chinese panda case has three tiny nibs on the capsule to support the thinner coin. The fake coins do not have these three little nibs. Want to see how many fakes are on eBay? Look for the three little nibs on the capsule.

When I'm interested in a silver panda coin where I do not see the nibs, I contact the seller and ask them to check the coin with the ring test. I almost invariably get a response like "I know the coin is real. I'm not going to test it for you." Or, I get no answer at all.

I feel like buying the coins and doing the test myself and then reporting it to eBay, if they turn out to be fake. Suddenly reality hits me. It's a losing battle. It's my word against the seller's.

The seller can always claim I switched their real coin for a fake, just so I could accuse them of selling counterfeit coins on eBay. Selling counterfeit coins on eBay is strictly against eBay policy and will get you banned from ever selling on eBay again.

I can not single handedly stop the sale of fake coins on eBay, but I can educate potential buyers who will listen, and not bid on counterfeit coins. I rarely encounter a counterfeit Morgan or Peace dollar on eBay, but there's a profusion of fake pandas for sale there.

While getting out fake and real Panda coins to photograph, I also noticed counterfeit Pandas do not age as well as their real counterparts. For photographs of these coins graphically showing the difference between real and fake, go to: http://heritagecoingallery.com/2014/07/20/are-you-aware-of-the-profusion-of-fake-1-oz -chinese-silver-panda-coins-on-ebay /

MAN Trucks: From the First Diesel Engine to the Latest Solutions

The father of the revolutionary type of engine is known to be Rudolf Diesel, who patented his invention in 1897. But first diesel engines were extremely large and heavy and used only as stationary units in factories or for powering ships. Further development of this promising technology became one of the main concerns among machinery manufacturers. In 1919-1923 the German Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg AG (abbr. As MAN) was taking an active part in adapting diesel engines for use in commercial vehicles. The goal was achieved in 1924 when the world saw the new direct-injection diesel engine at the German Motor Show in Berlin. According to the expert public, the compressorless diesel engine from MAN was one of the most important innovations to be offered through the entire show. The series production was not long in coming. The low vehicle weight of the unit and the colossal 80% savings in operating costs (compared with the conventional carburettor engines of the time) stand for unquestionable sales points.

Such a successful automated technology boosted the evolution of trucks. In 1928, MAN unveiled its first three-axle truck, which was the predecessor of all outstanding MAN heavy-duty trucks. Further achievements, connected with the MAN brand, included the introduction of the all-wheel-drive, the first German truck engine with exhaust gas turbocharging, the motor units with electronic injection control and, finally, the innovative engine with common rail (CR) injection system. The latest Euro 6 engines are utilizing a third-generation CR system, aimed at limiting nitric oxide, particle emissions and consumption at every operating point.

Strong roots are considered to produce beautiful leaves. As for an experienced German manufacturer, it is known to offer a multitude of exquisite and practical solutions in the range of long-distance, construction and distribution transport.

Long-distance solution

When it comes to either national or international long-haul transportation, efficiency and productivity are the key factors to succeed. The MAN TGX trucks are tailor to this particular need. Their economic engine versions are claimed to be the most consumption-efficient units in the competitive market. The selection includes 6-cylinder Common Rail engines D20 and D26 with 360 to 480 hp of output as well as the 6-cylinder inline D38 with 520, 560 or 640 hp. The Common Rail high-pressure injection system is bolstered by turbocharging and exhaust gas after-treatment. Other contributions to the beneficial level of efficiency are provided by high-strength lightweight construction, aerodynamics adjustments and a GPS-controlled cruise control.

Building site solution

With respect to construction transport, special attention is paid to payload and axle layouts. The MAN's offering in this sector combines the TGS trucks. The range is represented by the 18 to 44-tonners with the choice of drive formulas. Either the permanent all-wheel drive or the MAN HydroDrive selectable front-wheel drive is responsible for the necessary transaction on the building site with its challenging road situations, while the driver is assisted by the MAN TipMatic semi-automatic manual gearbox.

Distribution solutions

Short-haul city and intercity distribution requires the most optimal combination of high payload, safety and eco-friendliness. In this regard, MAN developed even two model ranges, the TGM and the TGL, to meet every possible need.

The TGM trucks are driven by Common Rail diesel engines D08 that generate between 250 and 340 hp. The high-torque 6.9-liter engines hold their strength during start-up in short-haul distribution operations and are extremely smooth on longer trips. The TGM trucks in the 12- to 26-ton weight class combine a high payload and an impressive body-mounting capability.

Lighter variants of distribution trucks are represented by the MAN TGL lineup. The 7.5- to 12-tonners are driven by 4- and 6-cylinder engines D08 with the output of 150 to 250 hp. Thanks to their low weight, the TGL trucks are suitable for high payload and offer outstanding ride dynamics and optimum manoeuvrability.

What's next?

Engine technology has not reached its limit yet. The competition in the field never rests and lawmakers continue to put more pressure on the manufacturers regarding CO2 emissions. The MAN representatives claim that they look forward to taking on this challenge. No doubt, they can afford such intentions, as they have enough knowledge, experience, and passion under their belt.

In the meantime, there are 100 years of dynamic and productive history behind every MAN truck, produced in the 21st century. Such an advantageous background makes even used MAN trucks have a good reputation on the market.

Easy Strategies to Create Happiness in Your Life

MOST OF US know intellectually that happiness really comes come from within - not without. Our acquisitive culture has made us only too aware of the transient nature of short-term, external fixes. Like a Chinese meal, we're all too often left hungry after feasting at the table of consumerism! Hungry for more, yet not knowing where to turn to satiate us, we use food, sex, work, drugs and so many other distractions to self-medicate and numb the gnawing pain. It's a right palaver, this happiness shtick!

Certainly, no one else has the power to make us happy - not in a long-term, ongoing way. People come and people go. If we rely on another human being for our happiness, we really are sailing up the Swanee. And what a massive and unrealistic responsibility to place upon another person. Not to mention totally unrealistic. Nope, we have to get the happiness pill all by ourselves ... And yes, it does take a little work. But oh, is it worth it!

The secret?
Change your thoughts. Nothing outside of you has the power to make you intrinsically happy. You can choose happiness, or you can choose to dwell on people and situations that bring you down. Ditto gratitude. When life takes you down, have a look around and acknowledge all the truly wonderful things you have to be thankful for. Roll around and luxuriate on the grass you're on now. It's not always greener the other side!

Indeed the old Bard hit it on the head when he wrote: 'There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.'

Copyright: Gina Baksa

Best Soaps to Use When Washing Your Car

People usually think that they can use any soap they want to wash their car. This is not true. In fact, some types of soap will actually damage your car. For example, if you use dish soap to wash your car, the paint on your car will begin to peel off. If you continue to use this soap, it will only get worse and worse. If you want to preserve the paint on your car and give it a new, shiny look, here are some of the best soaps to use.

Pinnacle Bodywork Shampoo

If you want to treat your car like you treat your own hair, then this is the soap to use. It is specifically designed to give your car the perfect wash without leaving any scratches or soap marks. It targets dirt, sand, and gritty substances, leaving your car with a nice clean look. It also has a new foaming substance called Tuff Suds II that was washed away even the clingiest dirt. If you have a protective wax on the surface of your car, this soap will retain the wax while still washing away the unwanted dirt.

Simple Green Car Wash

This car wash soap is so great because it is biodegradable and safe for the environment. It is also non-toxic and non-abrasive. It is inspired by Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner and has been reformed to account for the needs of a car. This soap comes in the form of a concentrate that you mix with water. It then turns into a foamy substance that removes all dirt and grime from your car. It is also safe to use on waxed cars and will not leave streaks or swirls. This product can be used on a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, RV's, SUV's, trailers, and even motor homes.

Homemade Car Wash Soap

If you want to save money, you can actually make your own soap for your car right at home. You can use substances that you probably already have in your house and create one of the best car soaps. There are a few different substances you can use. A vegetable-based soap added to a few gallons of water will allow for a shiny clean that will help keep dirt and bugs away. If you are looking for an even deeper clean, add about a half cup of Borax to the mix and scrub away! The use of a pressure hose will work even better.

When washing your car, you should use a soap product that is safe for its surface and will help prevent more dirt from clinging in unwanted locations. If you do not know if a certain type of soap is safe for your car, do not use it. All of these products are safe to use and will give your car the maximum clean and shine.

Ways To Receive Money Online

Nowadays, a lot of things can be transacted online. The effort of many websites to make their sites more secure opened up a lot of possibilities and allowed many financial transactions to be connected online. It is now possible to send and receive money online without compromising your personal and financial details. This created many wonderful opportunities online such as shopping and telecommuting.

One huge importance of this is that anyone can easily earn money at home. By signing up with a payment website, you can take advantage of the many ways to make money online. Sometimes even just having your bank account is enough. Still, it pays to know the different ways you can receive money online. Whether you want to try your hands at eBay selling, freelance writing, or work from home virtual assistant, knowing the different options that you have for receiving money is good information. Below are some of the popular ways you can receive money online.

• PayPal. If you would like to be active in eBay, then you should get PayPal. One of the most common ways that people use to send and receive money, PayPal has quickly grown from being primarily used in eBay to being used and accepted in most of the major shopping websites. PayPal claims to keep all your financial details secure. With PayPal, you do not have to provide any financial and personal details to anyone or any site; you simply have to give your PayPal address and anyone can send money to you. Sending and receiving money have fees depending on the particulars of your transaction. You can link you bank accounts, debit cards, and credit cards to your account so you can use them to fund your PayPal account or withdraw your PayPal fund.

• Amazon WebPay. If you already have a PayPal account, then getting familiar with Amazon WebPay will be quite easy. It is very similar to PayPal - you only need to have your email address and you're good to go. The best thing is it is free! Like PayPal, it allows you to link bank accounts and credit cards. You can even withdraw your funds to an Amazon gift certificate.

• WePay. If you find yourself dealing more with group payments, then WePay is another good alternative for you. You can easily collect money from a group of people and then withdraw it to your bank account, paper checks, or with a prepaid VISA card.

An Energy Efficient Air Conditioner Makes Cents

If you're in the market for a high efficiency air conditioner, you need to know a little bit about the rating scale for energy efficiency to help you discern a good investment from a disaster one. The efficiency rating for air conditioners is known as the SEER rating. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and it's the ratio of cooling produced to energy used. A high SEER score means a highly efficient AC unit.

A new AC unit can have SEER ratings anywhere from 13 to 23, while older models generally have a SEER rating of 10 or under. If you invest in a new air conditioning system, you can save anywhere from 10 to 70% on your utility bill. So, should you splurge on a top of the line AC unit or settle for a cheaper model?

Climate, home size and seasonal duration all have a major impact on the air conditioner that's right for you. If you live in Hawaii, where the weather is perfect year round and trade winds keep homes from getting stuffy, investing in a top of the line SEER rated unit may not get the return on investment you're hiring for. On the other hand, if you live in the south, where much of the year the weather is hot and humid, paying a higher price up front for your AC unit will be well worth it.

Obviously, when you're choosing an air conditioner, the higher the SEER rating, the higher the price tag will be. The SEER rating is usually shown on an EnergyGuide sticker attached to the unit. If you're struggling with whether or not you should splurge initially or save money up front on a unit with a lower SEER rating, consider this. A high efficiency air conditioner will pay for itself several times over in utility savings during its lifetime.

Just how much money can you save by upgrading your air conditioner? Let's say you owned a 1970's era air conditioning system with a SEER rating of 8. If you upgrade to a new, efficient model with a SEER rating of 16, you'll cut your energy bill in half each month. Even if you live in an area with short and mild summers, upgrading your old air conditioner can pay for itself.

If you're in the market for a new air conditioner, or you're sick of setting aside a chunk of each paycheck to the utility company, consider investing in an energy efficient AC unit. You'll end up saving money each month by cooling your home more efficiently, keeping you and your wallet comfortable this summer.