Showing posts with label 8 volt car battery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 8 volt car battery. Show all posts

Sunday, October 5, 2014

DELUX DLX-05 Universal Smartphone car mount and USB Charger

DELUX DLX-05 Universal Smartphone car mount and USB ChargerIt is just an OK product. If your outlet is mounted on the console, then it's great, but mine is on the front panel. The weight from the phone makes it sag, and then it doesn't stay secure in the outlet. I have maneuvered it to lay flatter on the console, but now I can't see it as well. However, for the purpose of charging and having handy while I'm in the car, it's good.

I bought this car charger for my Galaxy S3. I wasn't sure it it will fit, but it does. My previous car charger had FM transmitter but i can never get it to stay in one place because it would keep sliding out. This one works much better because it's like a finger grip rather than side strap. It doesn't have an FM transmitter but I don't use it any way. The gooseneck is longer than What I needed but it's not a big deal. Well worth the price.

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This universal smartphone car charger is very convenient. It comes with a phone holder, so you don't need to buy one separately, nor do you need one of those sticky pads on which to place the phone holder. Just stick the entire thing into your cigarette lighter (is that the still common term for those?). This cord also charges my phone very quickly the same or better than if I were to plug it into a wall socket with the cord it came with. Pretty good for a "universal charging cord".

My only gripe with this product is that you really have to play around with it for it to stay in that cigarette lighter for the electricity to actually get to the phone. On more than one occasion, I plugged it in and it was charging wonderfully, and then when I look back at it a few minutes later, it's no longer charging and I have to adjust the stem. It takes a bit of practice to find out how the size and weight of your phone affects the stem's ability to maintain a consistent electrical connection.

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The neck is perfect length for my car (2009 BMW 335i). It's not bulky at all like some of these mounts are, and I've tried several. Very good quality and great price. Highly recommend.

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Like all the other say, it's hard for the power to stay connected even though firmly inserted into the socket. It looks like the manufacturer tried to fix it with some rubber gasket-like additions, but it didn't work very well. Also the pivot screw doesn't tighten down so that its position remains firm. Don't get me wrong, it's secure, but when tapping away on my phone the overall position changes and I have to 'fix' it when I'm done messing with it.

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Friday, October 3, 2014

TomTom Rider 2 GPS Navigator for Motorcycles and Scooters

TomTom Rider 2 GPS Navigator for Motorcycles and Scooters
  • Tomtom Rider Is One Of The Smartest Navigation Solutions For Motorcycles.
  • Rugged Waterproof Device
  • Anti-Glare Screen
  • Integrated Sun Visor, And Gloves-On Operation
  • Navigation Instructions Are Spoken Via In-Helmet Cardo Scala-Rider

I received this unit for Christmas primarily for my bike, but once I purchase the car mount adapter it will be used in the car as well.

This is an excellent unit, to say the least. One reviewer mentioned that it's too difficult to turn the unit onI say "hogwash". The pushbutton is stiff, yes, but that's done to keep the unit from turning on accidentally while in your jacket pocket or carry bag (and with a touch screen, you can well imagine how much mischief one could accidentally create if it turned on without your knowledge). Ditto with the Scala Rider headsetyou don't want the thing accidentally turning on, running the battery down, do you?

Another reviewer mentioned that it doesn't have a "speedometer" or trip meter functionit most certainly does have a speedometer, and what I assume is the "trip meter"but since TomTom set the unit from the factory to eliminate as much extraneous information as possible, you have to activate it in the menus. Once that has been activated, it'll be there until you turn that feature off. In fact, there are a great number of features you can turn on and off in the menus.

I found the documentation to be adequate, and to the point. The printed documentation is to get you up to speed until you charge the units and turn them onit's easy sailing after that. The unit is very easy to use, and it has tutorials right on the unit, so in my opinion further paper documentation is rather redundantactually, I think it's pretty smart on TomTom's part to include tutorials on the unit itself rather than supply a printed bookthat way I don't have to carry around the book, as all of the information is already on the unit! They really don't say much about the bike power cable, but I can certainly understand whyit's not possible to provide information about every bike out there, and if you aren't familiar enough with your bike, or can't figure out how to install it, it's probably best to get someone who is (like your bike dealer) to do the installation.

I've got a Motorolla Razr phone, and the TomTom easily hooked up to my phone via Bluetooth, and it painlessly downloaded all of my phone numbers I have stored on the phone (thank you for providing this helpful feature!).

I do wish that it gave the street name when it gives you instructions to turn, but I soon got used to how it worksnot only does the display give you very clear instructions on where to turn, it also gives you the street name. Once you get used to it, it's easy. But I would like the option of hearing the street name (my PDA does, but the map display isn't as easy to see as the TomTom). While playing with the unit as my father-in-law drove the car, I discovered one potential issue with having the street name spoken to youwhat happens when the street name is changed, but your maps haven't been updated? If you rely on the spoken street name, you might miss itit's best to take a glance at the screen to make sure you're taking the correct turn (I found one such roadthe name has recently been changed, but the map showed the old name instead). Still, I'd prefer to have it spoken, and visually double-check the map.

Overall, I give the TomTom an A-. TomTom, if you're reading this, I'll give you an A+ if you guys update the software so that it'll give you the street name by voicethen you'll have the best bike GPS available! However, I'd still buy the unit as is. It would just increase the functionality by including this feature.

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My wife gave me this unit for Christmas. She's a doll and I love her very much, but she was not very versed about what to shop for or expect from a GPS unit. I've now used the unit several hours during trips, utilizing the blue tooth connectivity with my cell phone and the included headset within my helmet. Ive also used it in the car a lot. They said this unit was designed by motorcyclists, but obviously the bikers TomTom consulted knew very little about the minimum expectations for features required in a decent GPS unit...especially one costing this much.

I am going to break-down my review into two parts....what it has that is good...and what it lacks that makes it a non-competitive GPS unit in the US. I've used GPS technology at work and at play for years. Most of my background with consumer-grade GPS units is with the Garmin brand. So it is to that brand that I will make most of my comparisons because Garmin, for the most part, has it right and does it right! (imho)I have no financial or personal relationship with Garmin, whatsoever.

OK..first for the positive...it's water resistant/proof (don't really know about the proof part cause I havent had it in the pouring rain yet)...Fast processor and fast acquisition of the GPS constellation...good screen graphics and brightness...decent battery life...sensitive touch screen technology....blue tooth capable...can download your Outlook contact database....decent internal memory...heavy duty Ram mounting hardware for your bikes handle bars....USB connectivity to your computer for map downloads, etc....and if you are into directions from the unit, it has a few male and female voices from which to choose.

Now for the features it should have but does not:

-Should have a trip computer with trip parameters such as max speed, average moving speed, time moving, time sitting still, odometer, trip odometer, vertical and horizontal elevation, etc. None of this exists on the tomtom rider.

-Should leave a track, or a bread crumb trail, as you ride along. Not available on the TTRider. This is a real disappointment.

-Should have larger fonts for speed, arrival time, etc. Way too small to have to deal with on a motorcycle...even when set to the largest font.

-Should not "snap" to the nearest road to fool you into thinking their base map is accurate...because it is not that accurate in reality.

-Should come with a cig lighter plug for powering, but it does not.

-Does not allow any preference setting while in motion. You must stop before you can do anything with this unit outside of a few limited functions. Excuse: a safety feature

-Cannot make a call while moving. You can only recieve calls while moving. What's that about???? (yea I know, safety)

Has annoying icons on the screen when the phone and headset are not connected and there is no way to get them off the screen!!

-Gives you no options as far as screen orientation relating to your travel direction...always points you up. Thats ok most of the time, but we deserve to have a choice in this price class.

-Can fall off the ball mount and, if not tethered to the bike or mounting base, it will hit the ground and will be lost.

No elevation available...for those of us that ride in mountains and are use to seeing this on gps units, it's certainly an oversight by the TTRider. GPS derived elevation is not that accurate in the first place, but readings are relative and give a pretty good indication of elevation changes as you ride.

Direct sunlight makes the screen totally INVISIBLE.

If I could send it back to Amazon I would. I plan to give it to by wife for her car and purchase a gps unit that more closely fits my needs as a touring motorcyclist and as a consumer that refuses to settle for inadequate and poorly designed products.

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1. I have owned a Rider for more than 18 months.

2. The first one I had, the dock broke in Texas while I was riding Route 66.

3. I called TomTom from Texas (I live in Calif) and asked them to FedEx a new one.

They said no can do.

4. Once home, TomTom sent me a new Dock, but... it took them 1 month to get it to me.

5. After a while I started to notice that the Rider was not charging while in the dock and on my bike.

6. They asked me to send them my Rider back with all the accessories.

7. Then after 4 weeks, they sent me a new Rider, with no charger and no accessories.

8. The asked me to send it back.

8. After another 4 weeks, they sent me another.... new Rider... with all the accessories.

9. The dock didn't charge.

10. After another week, they sent me a new dock. It works.

There are known issues with the docks and charging, but TomTom won't admit it.

It's manufacturering issue. I'll let you guess where they are made.

The Tom Tom rider is good, easy to use. But if anything goes wrong, you'll be waiting many weeks for a replacement.

Ad of course the wait time on the phone, plan on an hour with each call.

I probably would NOT buy another one.

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I bought this product from Amazon and received it 4-days ago. In the last 4-days, I have been in contact with TomTom by phone and email trying not only to get detailed information about the product, but also trying to get help with it. This is by far the worst motorcycle GPS on the market.

The Pro's: (there is only one)

1) They have upgraded the headset to the Cardo Scala Q2.

The Con's:

1) The screen is unreadable outside either in the sunlight or on overcast days. It looks completely white washed. There are no settings to resolve this on the unit.

2) The documentation included is for the original Rider, not the Rider 2nd Edition.

3) The screen is unreadable outside

4) There is no documentation available from TomTom or from RAM-Mount for the motorcycle mount that is included.

5) The screen is unreadable outside

6) TomTom's 30-day map guarantee only works if you call and harass them about it. Then you must fax or email proof of purchase before they will comply with there own guarantee.

7) The screen is unreadable outside

8) The power button is ridiculously hard to operate

9) The screen is unreadable outside

10) THE SCREEN IS UNREADABLE OUTSIDE!!!!!!!

So, in my opinion I can only believe that people who rate this highly either ride only at dusk, or during the nighttime. Either that, or they want everyone to make the same mistake they did, so they don't feel like they are the only one's that were taken for their money.

Oh, and did you get it yet?

THE SCREEN IS UNREADABLE OUTSIDE!

The whole purpose of the unit is to use it outside on a motorcycle!

I have owned a TomTom GO910 for a few years, and was actually very pleased with it except for the cost. But I will NEVER purchase another TomTom device after dealing with the company over the last 4-days.

My recommendations would be to please do your research online in advance. The TomTom Rider and the TomTom Rider 2nd Edition are pure crap, because there SCREENS ARE NOT READABLE OUTSIDE! Which itself is ridiculous as they were specifically designed for motorcycles!

Do yourself a huge favor, buy the Garmin Nuvi 550 instead! It's waterproof with an 8-hour rechargeable and replaceable lithium battery! Plus, its only half the price of the all too overpriced Zumo model! Wanna save even more money, buy the Garmin Nuvi 500. Again, waterproof with an 8-hour rechargeable and replaceable lithium battery. The only difference between it and the Nuvi 550 are the maps. The lower 48 vs. all of North America.

I bought the Rider 2 GPS last summer, to tour the south of France, from Paris. I'd travelled before with maps, sometimes missing offramps out of confusion (freeway signs here are only really good if you're a local, in which case you don't need them in the first place!!). After having used a TomTom GPS in a rental car to go to Italy, I decided to get one for my Speed Triple, for the pleasure of being guided from "above". The decision was made a week before my departure, so I didn't really have time to investigate the market. I discovered only Garmin & TomTom have bike-specific models, and that both were incredibly expensive compared to car units. Being used to, and pleased with the TomTom interface, I decided to buy TT. The first Rider 2 I bought would not connect to my Motorola Razr V3i, despite the help from the sales reps, and would refuse to turn on, even fully charged. After 3 (THREE!!) trade-ins, I had to leave for my 1 1/2 month vacation with my current unit, picked up the same morning.

My first beef was to find that not only would it start trying connecting to my V3i, then fail, but I'd also have to use the cellular connection to obtain the updates, and 1 month trial of various options I'D PAID FOR!! This is totally stupid. If you're going to have to use a PC to save your SD card, let the PC handle further downloads and updates!!! It doesn't take being a racket science wiz to understand a DSL connection is more reliable than a cellular. Also, the fact you have to pay for updates, and options that should be standard, is preposterous.

My second problem, is the fact that as long as you're moving, you cannot access/change routing information. That's totally stupid too. Even at walking speeds, the unit will accept no change of route, or any other modification. When you're on the freeway, or on city streets with no place to stop, this is really aggravating. I know it's supposedly for security reasons, but changing your destination to a favorite isn't going to put you in danger in most cases, stopping and starting on a road close to heavy traffic will. In any case, you can tap all you want on a car unit, so security obviously isn't a valid reason. In any case, I hate when an appliance is set to restrain my use of it, and not let me decide for myself when/if what I do is safe.

3rd beef: sometimes, maps are obsolete from the start. When driving through Italy, I was directed to turn right on a freeway, in the middle of... fields!!! There was an offramp on my screen, miles from any actual offramps. Only corn fields, which had obviously been there for years, and weren't going to disappear in favor of a new road overnight. Really scary when you're on a schedule..

Maybe I should have listed first the On/Off button. I have very strong arms & fingers, but the time & pressure (and numerous attempts) it takes to turn it on hurts my fingers each time. Needless to even think of asking my girlfriend to do it...

The last unnicety I can think of right now, is the fact, if you're typing an address, the streets that pop up aren't entirely legible on the screen. It appears there's no way to view further past the first letters. This is really a bummer in France, where streets precede their name. Example: if you're looking for an address on Boulevard du General De Gaulle, all that appears on the screen is "Boulevard du Genera", so you have to type each and every letter in the name, or you'll get directed to another general's name, and, as there's no "back" function, you'll have to go through the whole itinerary planning procedure again to try to get it right. Total lack of user-friendliness, for a unit that's supposed to be usable by bikers, with gloves on.

On the upside, missing an exit leads the unit to recalculate another itinerary very quickly, the reason exactly I'd bought a GPS. Arrival times are incredibly accurate, even on long trips. Screen maps are legible. The RAM fixing system is great, and solid, but props there go to RAM, not TomTom. The Scala system works fine, and is reasonably audible, although the choice of a higher pitched female voice, on full volume is a must, if you're going to be riding over 100 mph.

If I'd had more time to choose, I'd have bought the Garmin Zumo instead. The price is too high for a GPS that's so poorly engineered. It does work nicely when it's all set up correctly, but not being able to take phone calls, use paid for updates, or use your PC to download data is unacceptable.

Saturday, September 20, 2014

WirthCo 20138 Knife Switch for Top Post Battery

WirthCo 20138 Knife Switch for Top Post BatteryI just installed one of these on my 2008 Hyundai Sonata. It fits fine under the hood. The 20138 is rated for 250 amps continuous and 750 amps surge at 12 volts.

The only thing keeping me from giving it a full 5 stars is that the clamp was a bit tough to deal with. I could not get the clamp sufficiently far down on the negative terminal of my battery until I opened the clamp wider using two pairs of pliers.

Then, after tightening the clamp, I decided to reorient it. I found the clamp has no "springiness" to it, meaning after it was loosened, I had to open up the clamp a bit using a flat-head screwdriver before it would turn easily enough.

The clamp of the 20138 is made of brass (according to a WirthCo representative I asked). Brass is harder than lead, which is what the negative terminal of batteries is made of. So, expect the clamp to dig into your negative battery post somewhat.

No washer is supplied with the 20138 for use with the clamp bolt. This is not a big deal, but I supplied my own, as I prefer doing things that way.

Aside from that, it's great having this switch installed. Whenever I need to do electrical work on the car, disconnecting the battery couldn't be easier.

I saw this at my local RV repair shop for $ plus they wanted $25 bucks to install it. I found it here for about $24 and now it has been even lowered to $21. Easy 10 min. installation. and saves time disconnecting your battery when pulling a vehicle behind your RV.

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Just what we needed to keep our tractor battery from dying a slow, current-leaky death. Good transaction, speedy shipping, very satisfied!

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I searched all the auto parts stores around where I live in San Diego and all they had to offer in the way of an electrical current "on-off" switch was the type with a green plastic knob. Having had these before and inevitably enduring their failure, I was determined to buy a switch that has more to offer than the green plastic knob. I found it at (where else?) Amazon.com of course! This knife switch has a visual confirmation that the current is either "on" or "off". When the green plastic knob type fails there is no visual clue so you have to go through a sequence of disconnecting electrical connections and eliminating possible culprits. A real pain in the you-know-what. If you are in need of this type of switch, do yourself a big favor. Pay a little more and get a LOT more...performance. Four instead of five stars is because it could be made even stronger without much more cost. More than adequate as it is though.

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This poduct is easy to install and provides an easy way to protect a battery whenever a vehicle is parked for long periods

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Allison 54-1400 Small Digital Clock, Stick-On

Allison 54-1400 Small Digital Clock, Stick-OnThis type of stick-on clock was once available at nearly every check-out stand in creation, no longer.

I needed it for my utility vehicle as I do not wear a watch doing ranch work. The clock was reasonably priced

but the shipping, in a padded envelope at nearly $7 was outrageous, and why I removed a star.

One additional feature this clock has, that none of the others I saw listed have, is that the lens over the

face is slightly magnified and makes reading the numbers easier. It is easy to set and so-far so good. We will see how it does in the cold.

UPDATE: Used it through the winter of 2010-11, down to -8. Clock held up, still using original battery. Use caution setting the buttons, they

are very sensitive and you can mess up the time easily and then you have to go through the program cycle again.

I needed a small battery operated clock. I am very happy with this purchaase. Both the time and dates are easy to read.

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We bought this clock to replace a different one we had in our car that died of heat. This one has survived all day inside a hot car and hasn't given out on us yet. It is small, like the size of a silver dollar--maybe smaller. But small is good. Who wants a huge friggen clock in their car?

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It is way smaller than it looks in the photo, you can barely see the numbers and has gained 9 minutes time in the last month. The shipping cost was about as much as the clock itself. Definitely not worth it!

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Purchasing this item was a great investment for a reliable product. The digital clock was great for my travel needs . You can stick the clock anywhere . Great purchase for the money.

Sunday, June 1, 2014

Car Kit Vehicle Charger + Home Wall Travel Battery Charger for ATT Samsung Flight 2 - Samsung Mythi

Car Kit Vehicle Charger + Home Wall Travel Battery Charger for ATT Samsung Flight 2 - Samsung Mythic A897 - Samsung Solstice 2 SGH-A817 Cell Phone - Premium Combo Pack - BestCellBuy BrandLove the fact that the home charger has a led light that shoes it's charging. Sold for a great price.

I received this fast and they work perfect with my Samsung phone. I couldn't believe how fast the merchandise came.

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Tuesday, May 27, 2014

TRAVEL LITHIUM BACK UP BATTERY INCLUDES CAR CHARGER 13 POWER TIPS

TRAVEL LITHIUM BACK UP BATTERY INCLUDES CAR CHARGER 13 POWER TIPS
  • CELL PHONE NOT INCLUDED
  • Use as a power source or charger
  • Output voltage automatically adjusts for the electronic device in use

One issue people previously had with this product is that the mini-usb power connector was made of too brittle plastic and would break. This happened to me over the weekend. I sent them an email Sunday night and by Monday morning they had emailed me back asking my address to send replacement. Free of charge they rush shipped me two replacement mini-usb connectors wrapped in a new carry case. Sent Monday, arrived today (Wednesday). Wow!! Also the new mini-usb's sent to me are of the molded, more durable type so they have already updated their product.

This model (2000 mAH) will charge my Creative Zen 2gb mp3 player to full while I'm using it continuously and then still have about 3/4 of a charge leftover. Alternatively, I can get 2 full charges (as advertised) out of it if not using the player while charging. This may not be true of the lower power models. I looked at a lot at units like this before buying and every product seems to have complaints about how much juice it holds or quality of the battery. Obviously mileage may vary according to the device you're charging. This one is very attractive, well featured (has charge indicator, lots of connector tips, attractive carry case, car charger that also works for other devices etc.) and it works great. While it doesn't have a tip for my Samsung cell phone, I can use the standard USB receiver to connect it to my regular charger cord and it does a great job on that too. Only thing it needs is a belt clip or belt clip carry case. It does come with a spiral cord stretchy cable so it can go in your pocket and reach to wherever your player or phone is without sloppy cable to get caught on stuff.

Quality of battery seems excellent this company specializes in electric cars, handicap scooters, atv's etc so I'm confident in the quality of the battery. I highly recommend this product to anyone who's device needs a boost heavy music/audiobook listeners, cell phone talkers, campers & all day adventure sports types.

Saturday, May 17, 2014

P3 Platinum Negative (-) Battery Terminal Block

P3 Platinum Negative Battery Terminal Block
  • Terminal type: Negative
  • Style: Block
  • Finish: Simulated Platinum
  • Outputs: 1 x 1/0 AWG, 1 x 4 AWG, 2 x 8 AWG

Does what I need it to do at a decent price. Disappointed that it's slightly too big. I don't like having to use shims on battery terminals. Different metals lead to corrosion faster when electricity is involved. I got the proper positive and negative terminals & both are slightly over sized.

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This part is junk. Oversize mount hole won't clamp on post. Threw in garbage. Not worth returning.

I purchased both the + and clamps and neither would tighten properly. This is onto a brand new battery. I picked up a couple of cheap lead clamps and they work perfectly. If the slots were cut deeper or the holes were reamed smaller these would work, but these must have been overlooked by QC and got sold as-is.

These might look pretty but they simply do not clamp onto the battery posts properly rendering them useless junk.

Beware of this issue before you consider purchasing these clamps.

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Creates perfect contact with the battery terminal, and has multiple plug sizes to accommodate 8, 4, and 1/0 gauge wire. Built out of solid brass, what more do I have to say? I gave it 4 stars because it just does what it's supposed to do, it doesn't need that 5th star. Make sure you get both positive and negative. Thank you for your time.

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BUEN PRODUCTO DE FACIL INSTALACION, TRABAJAN BIEN SIN RECALENTAMIENTO, LOS POSITIVOS SI SON UN UN POCO GRANDES PARA EL BORNE Y NO AJUSTAN BIEN

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Unlike the positive terminal block this company sells, I think this one fit on my terminal properly. I had issues with the other one (it's made a little too large).

Saturday, May 10, 2014

DC car power adapter for Durabrand DUR-1500 DUR-1700 DUR-8.5 PDB-702 PDV-702 PDV-704 PDV-705 PDV-70

DC car power adapter for Durabrand DUR-1500 DUR-1700 DUR-8.5 PDB-702 PDV-702 PDV-704 PDV-705 PDV-708U PDV-709 PDV-722 DPX3290L portable dvd players PART NO. CAD-10 CAD-12 CAD10 CAD12
  • After market replacement car adapter
  • save money on batteries
  • 100% compatible to orginal manufacturer equipment

it is very good quality. still is working great. haven't had any problems with the product. it is a good buy.

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I purchased this item and it arrived on time, and functioned great with the DVD player that was missing its car charger. It has been providing our children with hours of car fun once again. Although a little skeptical at first as to whether this would be an actual Durabrand charger, I'm very glad to have made this purchase.

God Bless!

Read Best Reviews of DC car power adapter for Durabrand DUR-1500 DUR-1700 DUR-8.5 PDB-702 PDV-702 PDV-704 PDV-705 PDV-70 Here

This product was perfect for what I needed it for. It was exactly what I needed. It fit my dvd player perfectly

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Just as good as one that came with our portable DVD player and hopefully will hold up better than original one did!

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Sunforce 45444 600W Wind Turbine

Sunforce 45444 600W Wind TurbineI purchased this windmill to augment a solar panel I use to charge a 12 volt battery bank. I have a solar powered well system for watering cattle, and the solar was not keeping up during times of low light. I intend for this unit to be an augment to my current system, not the only source of electrical current. I purchased this unit because it was 200 more watts output than the most popular sun force mill, but I was sort of disappointed that it is not made in USA like the 400 watt model. It is made in Taiwan. I guess this is ok, as Taiwan is an ally of the USA, so at least it was not made in PRC.

The package arrived quickly, and everything was in order and exactly as described. I assembled the unit in just under 30 minutes. There was an extra set of screws, nuts, and bolts included, and this could be handy for fumble fingers like myself. The fasteners are of good quality, and they were all present and accounted for. I did not have to use any of the extras (yet). Also included is a electro brake switch which I am not planning on using.

I first tried to mount the mill on a 21 foot piece of chain link fence top-rail, but it buckled over in the middle. I opted for a heavy piece of tubing from the chain link fence wholesaler, and it works great. I used #10 SOJ cable for my electrical connections. The mill started turning even before I had it hoisted all the way up, and it makes a pleasant enough sound as it turns. There is some small noticeable vibrations that may be due to a small imbalance in the rotor blades or something, but nothing that seems detrimental to the mill.

I made all the electrical connections without any trouble. The charge controller seems to be a fairly substantial unit, but could have been labeled on the back a little more clearly about which color wire goes to which screw, but the instruction manual cleared this up and there were no problems. The controller has a switch on the front that brakes the rotors to keep them from turning. I have not tested this in a stiff wind, but it stops the rotors in 8-10 MPH winds. Also included is a 30 amp panel meter to plumb into the electrical system in case you want to monitor current flow going to your battery bank.

The mill turns pretty much most of the time, although the charge light on the controller will only illuminate when there is a fairly good gust of sustained wind. This intermittent charging will work fine for me as this is supplemental to my solar panel, and I expect to get the most charging on cloudy days and windy seasons when the sun doesn't tend to shine so much. The unit is located in North East Oklahoma. I can readily see that another 21 ft of tower length would increase the output due to more undisturbed winds, but for now this is working pretty good, and I didn't have to use guy wires as the pole is attached to the side of the well house.

I am satisfied with this unit.

***** The Caveat ******

After reading so many negative reviews on this same product, I feel I must amend my review so that I am disclosing everything. Now pay attention: This unit requires wind to work! That's right, I know this is surprising, but this baby doesn't do a thing without wind! And even when it is working at max speed and full power, it will not replace your utility company, your neighbors will not be buying power off of your grid, and you will not be getting a fat rebate check from the grid. They won't be shutting down 3-mile island just because you have a wind turbine in the back yard. Hope this helps alleviate all the disappointed folks looking to start selling wind power and offering free rides to the moon.

The "Product Features" summary incorrectly states that it starts to "operate" at 4 mph, implying it's producing power. If you read the manual, there is a diagram that shows the turbine starts producing at 4 m/s that's 4 meters per second, or about 9 mph, and then the power production is small. It does not produce 600W until you get up to about 30mph. That's a **lot** of wind!

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I bought this from Fry's electronics years ago. i installed this after a lot of effort. it really is hard to get something that high and stable at the same time. I suggest that you set up the pole first before you buy the turbine. Finally, after many tech support emails later, i could only get a trickle of a charge. After everything looked good, Sunforce said that i did not have enough wind! I found that was not true, because I tested it blowing as fast as possible, and I still get the same trickle charge. i'm just too tired of spending more time and effort on this turbine. It is now way past the return period, and it would be hard to prove that their product is defective in small claims since i'm not an engineer. I don't buy any sunforce products now. Neither should you. Also, i suggest that you try to turn the turbine with a drill first to see if you get a charge before installing. I should have done this first myself.

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"OK, I'll take your bait and do the math.

The stated rotor diameter was 2 ft (2/3.28ft/m = 0.61 m or 0.3048 m radius) and the stated power was 600 watts. We'll assume air density to be 1.25 kg/m^3, and the coefficient of performance = 0.4. The Betz Limit of coefficient of performance is 59.3% and is the theoretical maximum Cp.

The basic equation is

P = rho/2 * area in m^2 * (velocity in m/s)^3 * Cp

The area is pi *r^2 = pi * 0.3048^2= 0.2919 m^2. (For reference, 1ft radius^2 * pi = 3.14 ft^2.)

Rearranging the equation, the velocity through the rotor must be

cube root of (P / (rho/2 * A * Cp))

Cube root (600/(0.625 * 0.2919 *0.40))

= Cube root (8222) = 20.18 m/s (1 m/s = 2.24 mph)

Regressing to the English mph, that's a windy 45.14 miles per hour.

Did I do that calculation right? Think I did. However, in such a small aperture, flow throttling likely would occur slowing the wind speed from that outside the turbine influence. The conclusion is that the 600 watts is a maximum rated power value. If the speed is cut in half, the power is one-eighth. So 22.5 mph yields 75 W, 11.25 mph yields 9 W, so this turbine is good for trickle charging a battery (just like a small solar module.)"

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This wind turbine will make good yard art and a good plaything, but if you really want energy output you need a real wind turbine, and you need to put it up high in the sky where the speedier and non-turbulent wind is.

And as long as you are going to the significant expense of putting up a decent-sized tower, you might as well purchase a heavy-duty turbine that has enough output to pay for itself.

Oh yes, and none of this is worthwhile unless you have a good wind resource, and that can only be determined by measurement and/or careful and pro-level observation.

Friday, April 25, 2014

Husky Liners Custom Fit Heavy Duty Front Floor Mat for Select Ford/Nissan/Lincoln Models (Grey)

Husky Liners Custom Fit Heavy Duty Front Floor Mat for Select Ford/Nissan/Lincoln ModelsThese are quality heavy duty floor mats that fit perfectly. They will last a long time. Four more words required.....there.

Had to do some minor trimming to fit in my 2011 Expedition, but they look great. The driver's side holding grommet or hole is not in the right place, but I really don't care. They are too heavy to move around anyway.

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Sunday, February 9, 2014

CarNetix CNX-P2140 185W Dual Output Intelligent DC-DC Regulator

CarNetix CNX-P2140 185W Dual Output Intelligent DC-DC RegulatorI needed a product that would shut a on board dvr down to avoid draining the battery everything else I could find does it at 10 volts which is to low. This has an adjustable low power shutoff.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

Husky Liners Custom Fit WeatherBeater Molded Front and Second Seat Floor Liner for Select Ford F-25

Husky Liners Custom Fit WeatherBeater Molded Front and Second Seat Floor Liner for Select Ford F-250 /F-350 Modelsthese mats are pretty stiff and don't conform when laid down. They don't lay fully against the floor and I expected it to conform to the floor eventually, not so far. Maybe when it warms up?

they fit good, easy to install, came when they were suppose to, this was a gift they liked them. nice

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Quality product , works great ! They are a little expensive , but for quality , fit and protection I believe there worth it. !

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Fits well (2012 F350) front and back fit real nice. The rear mats seem a bit generic. Not quite long wide enough to go to the outside edge of the door like the fronts. Keeps the mud off the carpet that's the idea.

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Friday, January 3, 2014

Side Post Battery Master Disconnect Switch

Side Post Battery Master Disconnect SwitchThis gadget worked fine. My use was to disconnect the battery when parking the car overnight because something in the car drains the battery. We have searched for years trying to determine what was draining the battery with no luck.

However, yesterday I found an equivalent device with the same design for $5.99 locally which is about one third of what I paid online (including the $7 shipping). The store is called Harbor Freight Tools . They have a bunch of locations around the nation and it would well worth the effort to see if there is one in your area before buying almost any tool.

First, the positive... sturdily built, comes with a bolt, a conductive washer to help make up for any gap at the battery or the cable and seems to work just fine after using a week.

I have a '97 Saturn that I've spent over a year looking for the short charging the battery once a week. I recently replaced the starter and the battery and decided I'd use this to stop the short when the car is parked. The way this works (if there is any other way, someone can reply to my review I thought I tried every reasonable combination) is that the provided bolt goes through the non-threaded end into the battery, and the negative battery cable is attached to the threaded end. I started to do so, it was super tight, so I got a good grip and worked on it. Well, the thread was just a little off. The battery cable had been put on / taken off a good 30 times in it's life so when the head rounded while trying to put this on, I wasn't that stressed and bought a few replacement ends, thinking they might fit better anyway.

That's when I really realized... it really doesn't fit. I DID get it to work (rounded another one of the two cable ends I bought) by force-threading it...

The good news? TIGHT connection, but be careful, you're going to have to really torque this thing, so be prepared if I'd gotten a better grip than just using an 8mm wrench to begin with I possibly could have made it work first round.

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For those that need instructions from cradle to grave this doesn't have it. I have a 1990 Chevy K2500 with a slow battery discharge that I have never been able to find plus it sits for weeks since I seldom use it. The instructions for the install were accurate for me but I can see how some may get it wrong, cross-thread it or just call it junk. When you receive it there's a bolt & washer screwed into the threaded end. However, that's not where they belong and there's nothing in the package to tell you... so if you're not intuitive, or in a rush, you can easily start the install wrong. You need to remove the bolt & washer because they go in the other hole... the one that's not threaded. The threaded hole you just removed those items from is where the battery cable screws in with the bolt that held it in the battery. I'd suggest trying the screw in the battery by hand to see how deep the hole is and when it bottoms out. If the threaded hole on your battery is deep then attach the disconnect switch and, if not, use the washer between the switch and the battery to add some more spacing. I would suggest starting the battery cable by hand also because most of us can't cross thread anything enough to do damage by hand and once started use a wrench to tighten it down. If the bolt that comes with the switch fits your battery then, by default, your battery cable will fit the threaded end. If I have insulted anyone's intelligence on this please don't be offended because it seems some of the reviewers have tried to install this item without switching the bolt to the other hole.

This has also cured my battery drain issue and had I installed this earlier I would not have had to purchase a new battery. Once a battery drains down to the point where it won't start your vehicle, or barely turn it over, better start looking for a new battery.

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This Side Post Battery Master Disconnect Switch is great and works exactly as described. That said, my application was for use on a lawn tractor with the standard smaller 12V battery used on most lawn tractors, so the fit was slightly different than on a standard side post battery. However, by using the same bolt used with the negative battery post, as well as the bolt supplied with the disconnect, the device easily mounted against the flat, negative post on top of the battery. With a simple twist of the knob, the battery is disconnected and ready for storage. Also, while mowing, the disconnect knob seems to easily resist loosening during the vibrations produced during operation. Very solid and dependable. Very pleased. Highly recommended.

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The thread pattern does not match my truck's battery cable or Die Hard battery it has the right diameter but wrong threads-per-inch. It cross-threaded.

I returned this GAMA switch and bought the Moroso 74104 (not available at Amazon); the switch itself appears identical. The difference: the bolt is the correct thread pattern for the battery.

Monday, December 16, 2013

OTC 3180 100 Amp Battery Load Tester

OTC 3180 100 Amp Battery Load TesterI bought this item about a month ago, took it to work and tested it out. i checked 12 brand new batterys and the meter only read 8.5 V on all 12. Then i grabbed another analog load tester to test the batterys, which with that load tester all batterys were over 12V. Had my matco guy send it to OTC, only to find out that they DO NOT repair these load testers, so they sent it back after making no repairs. Spend the extra money and go through the tool guys, at least you'll have some type of a warranty. but for something that isnt even accurate the first time you use it you'd think they would give you a refund. SAVE YOUR MONEY, DO NOT BUY THIS ITEM!!!!!!

Works great! Wanted this brand because neighbor has had on for years and the only place I could find it was Amazon. Price was right as well.

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This does the same tesing that most mechanics will do to check the condition of your battery under a load and can see how well the alternator is charging. Smart tool for most DIY mechanics. I can check family and friends cars and save them time and money letting them know where the problem is when trying to diagnose if it's the battery or alternator.

Good quality at good price.

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Test the condition of your battery so you know you won't be stranded.

I have always used a volt meter in the past to check my battery. Unfortunately this would not show me the real condition of the battery. This does! Great tool to have in additon to a volt meter.

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Not sure if it is really drawing 100 amps. Will try to check. I have tested batteries and they tested good and they really were not. Was a big problem as I replaced the starter twice only to find out the battery was bad.

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Thursday, November 7, 2013

Odyssey 31-PC2150S Heavy Duty Commercial Battery

Odyssey 31-PC2150S Heavy Duty Commercial BatteryThis battery has 3/8" threaded posts and washers and nuts come with it. Cables with lugs can easily be attached. However, standard SAE battery terminals cannot be connected. They require an Odyssey 3217-0049 SAE Terminal Conversion Kit which is available from various online retailers.

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Sunday, September 8, 2013

Schumacher SS-51A-PE Ship 'N' Shore Fully Automatic/Manual Charger

Schumacher SS-51A-PE Ship 'N' Shore Fully Automatic/Manual ChargerCharger got very, very hot when charging but it did charge battery (deep cycle battery). It actually heated up the room it was in. Went to fully charged condition at about 7 amps as opposed to 5 amps that the mfger said it would do. I previously had a Schumacher charger and it worked well for 20 yrs.. I returned charger.

Excellent Charger, I use to have a similar charger but unfortunately was flooded with Alex Huracan in Mexico, I wait until was completely dry and spray it with WD-40 on the electronic board and the transformer and continue work for another 3 Years

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My copy of this unit is secondhand and at least ten years old. It had no trouble raising my 12V car battery from 11.6V to 12.8V within an hour or two and automatically shutting off.

On first impression, it's heavy, and it buzzed from the moment it was turned on. It also gets hot, but that's to be expected. The AC/DC converter is probably about 75% efficient. If this charger is legitimately rated at 10 amps, that's 1200W at North American voltage, so it's producing 300W of waste heat. That's a lot and probably why it's so heavy. This thing must have a five pound heatsink. I wouldn't leave it on carpet.

Anyway, it's not as pretty as some of the more recent units, but it's stupidproof, durable, and gets the job done. Can't ask for much more.

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Mar2012 Have had my 51A-PE for 12 years and going for another as a gift for Son who needs a Fully Automatic charger that won't over charge his car batteries, and a heavy duty Manual Charger for his Deep Cycle batteries, all in one package. 10amp is good all around size, not too big and not too small. Manual available for viewing

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I purchased this charger to replace the exact same type that I have owned for over 20 years. If I can get the same service from this unit I will be real happy.

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