Showing posts with label deep cycle car batteries. Show all posts
Showing posts with label deep cycle car batteries. Show all posts

Saturday, August 9, 2014

INNOVA 3030 Diagnostic Code Reader for OBDII Vehicles

INNOVA 3030 Diagnostic Code Reader for OBDII VehiclesRecently the "Check Engine" light illuminated on the dashboard of my 2002 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, and I used this as an excuse to purchase a code reader. I chose the Equus 3030 based on price, richness of user interface, and sophistication of the company's website (Innova).

I was not looking for a high-end tool, with battery-backed up memory and an internal list of code descriptions. Ideally, I will seldom use this tool, and using the manual (or even better, the company's website) to look up codes works fine for me. So I have to write down the code on a piece of paper, and take that to my computer, rather than the unit remembering it for me. Plus, no batteries to go dead while the tool sits in my toolbox.

I did appreciate the extra indicators on the LCD display, and the Green/Yellow/Red LEDs for quickly checking the status of the system. Other inexpensive code readers have a single line of text displayed, with very little else, and you need to scroll around to get information. With the Equus 3030, icons are displayed to indicate which tests have run, or have not returned good status. Also, a count of codes, pending status, and the status of the check engine light are all displayed along with the code itself.

The CD included with the unit is designed for Windows users. However, it contains the manual in PDF form, plus an instructional video that played just fine on my Mac. I cannot comment on anything else on the CD, but it's certainly not required to use the tool. And as I mentioned, code lookup can easily be done on the Innova website, with the URL printed on the front of the tool. I have the hope that they will keep their database of trouble codes up-to-date, which is often better than software on a CD.

I was able to plug the tool in to my car's OBDII connector, turn on the ignition switch (without starting the engine), press the "link" button, and in seconds had a code displayed. I noted the code, and looked through the user manual. Unfortunately, they only list common codes in the user manual, and didn't have my code. So I typed it in to the search box on their web page and found that I had a fault in my #2 cylinder glowplug. It was a simple test to verify that (check the resistance of each plug), and indeed that was the fault. I have glow plugs on order, and will replace them myself on the weekend.

This device is cheaper than even having a mechanic look at my car these days. Even if I wasn't able to fix the problem myself, I feel more confident going to a mechanic if I have a good idea of what the problem is. The price I spent was well worth it to me, and now I have the tool in case similar issues come up in the future. With today's car electronics, there is no other reasonable way to diagnose trouble.

This is what it is and does what it does. It is a basic bare bones code reader (doesn't give you any live telemetry data) but has the advantage of being future proof. This is one of the most affordable code readers that works with the older On-Board Diagnostics (OBDII) and the newer Controller-area network (CAN or CAN-bus). CAN has been in use by some car manufacturers since the 1990's but as of 2008 all new cars sold in the U.S. are required to use CAN. Both protocols use the same type of connector on most cars. Even if you have a car that is OBDII don't be tempted to save a few bucks on an OBDII only reader; you're bound to have a CAN type car in the future.

It is well made, the LCD and status lights are highly readable and the controls are simple and easy to learn. Amazon is shipping the updated 3030a model that is virtually the same as the one pictured except for a slightly different button placement and a newer processor that apparently is more compatible with all car manufacturers.

Buy INNOVA 3030 Diagnostic Code Reader for OBDII Vehicles Now

As a backyard mechanic I was frustrated with the new cars and the check engine light that results in a $60 charge to read at a garage. Now that the price of a reader is less than $80 it makes sense to try the Equus Innova 3030 car reader and I was happy I did. It works great and is easy to use but does have a minor problem I discovered. My Subaru would not communicate with the 3030. The tech support phone line was tied up, but they quickly responded to my email and sent me a new Innova 3030 with a new chip set. Apparently Subarus, Mazdas and Volkswagons tend to have a problem in communication and in this case require a newer chip set in the 3030 which apparently works on all brands (I checked my Honda and toyota OK), so if you have one of the former car brands ask for the newer chip set. The manual has one misprint and the key must be turned to on position before plugging the 3030 into the car. Tech support at the website was great and called back later. I had already saved $60 on reading my codes plus saved $80 labor by installing a failed sensor myself although I think many other codes require a shop manual to actually track down the problem part. In summary a great tool for backyard mechanics to read the codes, fix the car and turn off the check engine light.

Read Best Reviews of INNOVA 3030 Diagnostic Code Reader for OBDII Vehicles Here

I did my research and I don't think you'll find a better featured OBDII compliant code scanner for the money. Comes with complete instructions and a bonus CD with more information. It plugged right in and ran its diagnostics without any problems. This unit will probably pay for itself after one or two uses to check stored codes if your vehicle's MIL comes on. Even if you don't do the repairs yourself, you'll be in more of a position to know and understand what needs to be done when you take it in for service. Certainly less chance of being misled as well. Highly recommended. Obviously, before you buy, make sure you are buying it for use on OBDII compliant vehicle(s)-generally 1996 and later. Otherwise it won't do you any good.

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Modern (post 1996) cars provide on-board diagnostic information. All car manufacturers use the format because it was mandated to make it easy to perform emissions tests.

The Equus Innova 3030 code reader retreives diagnostic codes from your car's engine and displays the error code(s) on its display. The 3030 does not need batteries either because it is powered by your car's battery via the OBDII port. You can then look up these codes in the manual or on the Equus website to get details of the problem. These codes enable you to determine what is wrong with the car and then take corrective measures. For example, if the code indicates a cylinder misfire and the spark plugs were recently changed, the cylinder misfire may indicate a bad spark plug. You can then change the spark plug for that cylinder.

This device will also clear the check engine light (CEL). This is useful when you have taken corrective measures, such as replacing a defective part, and you want to determine if you have solved the problem. Replace the defective part, clear the CEL, and run the car. If the CEL does not come on again, the problem is fixed. If the CEL comes on again, then the problem probably lies elsewhere so you might have to try replacing a different part.

This device is also useful for going to the auto mechanic armed with some knoweldge of the problem and will save you the cost of your mechanic having to plug in his much more expensive OBDII reader just so that he can make the same diagnosis.

The manual says not to turn on the car but I kept getting an error message when I plugged in the 3030 to my 08 Mazda with just the key in at the ACC position. However, once I started the car it worked fine, retreiving the error codes, displaying them, and allowing me to clear them. So if you get an error following the procedure in the manual, try turning the car on after you plug it in.

All in all, this is an excellent diagnostic code reader for the money. Highly reccomended.

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Sunday, July 13, 2014

Husky Liners Custom Fit WeatherBeater Front and Second Seat Floor Liner Set for Select Lincoln MKS

Husky Liners Custom Fit WeatherBeater Front and Second Seat Floor Liner Set for Select Lincoln MKS ModelsI already had Husky Liners for my wife's Ford Flex and loved everything about them. So when I purchased my MKS I looked to see if they were available. I got these as well as the trunk liner for he MKS and the fit is perfect, just like the Flex version. From now on, the first thing I will do when I buy a new car is come to Amazon and look for custom Husky Liners!

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Wednesday, July 9, 2014

HQRP 10 Amp 12V / 24V Solar Charge Power Controller / Regulator 10A 150W with LED Indicator plus HQ

HQRP 10 Amp 12V / 24V Solar Charge Power Controller / Regulator 10A 150W with LED Indicator plus HQRP UV Chain / UV Radiation Health TesterI ordered and received two charge controllers for solar applications. One unit was installed on a 200w BP solar panel to charge a car battery. The second was installed in an automatic gate opener with a small PV panel and a small auto battery. The chargers were robust mechanically, and the cinch connectors for the wires were just right for the size wires required.

Good success.

Sunday, July 6, 2014

Aluratek APB04F Dual USB 10000mAh External Battery Pack for Charging of Tablets Smartphones eReader

Aluratek APB04F Dual USB 10000mAh External Battery Pack for Charging of Tablets Smartphones eReaders and Other Mobile Devices
  • 10000mAh Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
  • Dual USB Charging Ports 2.1 Amp
  • LED Charge Status Indicators
  • Rapid Charging Technology Built In
  • Sleek Design

Now that we're seeing the beginnings of the first true 4G mobile networks, smartphones and tablets are becoming an increasingly integral part of many people's daily lives. Whereas it's pretty commonplace to sit down somewhere with your laptop plugged in while you work, modern tablets and smartphones allow us to do our computing and gaming on-the-go. Even with the advances in battery technology and power-saving LED displays, it's tough for the average user to make it through a full day on their mobile device without running out of juice.

Enter devices like this -at 5000mAh, it's got enough power to completely charge most smartphones 2-3 times. Even running 4G and watching streaming videos on your phone, you can comfortably be away from the charger for a couple days without having to worry. It'll also give you about a 75% boost on your tablet battery (iPad 2 battery is just shy of 7000 mAh).

This device is fairly portable -a little bulkier than a kit-kat bar -and should fit easily into your purse or backpack... I wouldn't really want to carry it in my pocket, but I guess it'd fit fair easily into a zippered jacket pocket or something. Once you add in the necessary cable, though, it can start getting sorta bulky.

Speaking of bulk, one thing that sorta bugged me about this device was the proprietary charging cable. So many devices nowadays are mini-USB. It's nice having a standard plug. Why, then, do you have to use some weird DC adapter to charge this portable battery? It already comes with a mini-USB cable for use with smartphones and such -just let it charge with that! Since this device must be charged using the proprietary USB-to-DC plug, if you happen to lose it, you're done. Sorta sucks. For this reason (and for the added portability) I'd prefer to stick with a smaller charger like the Belkin F8M158tt Power Pack 1000. Sure, it doesn't have quite the same capacity, but how often are you really going to be needing several days' worth of portable charge on your smartphone in between opportunities to plug it into a wall outlet or USB port?

Anyway, this is a decent device. It comes with a whole range of adapters that allow you to plug it into your smartphone, normal phone iPad / iPod, etc. It's got great capacity but suffers from being a bit bulkier than lower-capacity battery units and a proprietary charge cable. While this could be a good workhorse for iPad users, I'm thinking of these types of devices as being primarily used to extend the life of smartphones for folks on-the-go. As such, this is just a little too bulky to be practical for my daily use. I'd give it a higher rating but the DC charge cable bugs me.

Buy Aluratek APB04F Dual USB 10000mAh External Battery Pack for Charging of Tablets Smartphones eReader Now

You can read all the specific details pertaining to this device in all the other reviews. I just wanted to correct the misconception that it will only charge via a computer USB port. This is not true. I used my HP Touchpad charger and it worked perfectly. This battery pack requires a charger capable of 1.3 amps. The iPhone charger only is .5amps (I believe). Any aftermarket charger that provides a higher current should work fine.

Only reason I am not making this a 5 star item is for the slight bulkiness of the pack. At the discounted price it can not be beat.

Read Best Reviews of Aluratek APB04F Dual USB 10000mAh External Battery Pack for Charging of Tablets Smartphones eReader Here

My first review of this product would have been an enthusiastic 5 star recommendation; however, having had it for a few months I have found a massive drawback a faulty USB cable. I contacted the company to see if they would send me a new one, and indeed they would if I paid 10 dollars for the cable and 9.95 in shipping. Needless to say I was not amendable to doing that.

When I originally received this item, I didn't use it right off as I never found that I was able to drain my Samsung Infuse cell phone or IPod touch 4th gen completely of batteries and find myself no where near a charger. I kept it in my purse just in case, and I did find myself needing it when I traveled extensively in November for both business and pleasure. First I found myself taking many pictures, and sending those pictures to Facebook, draining my cell of battery when I visited Walt Disney World. I was very lucky to have had this to charge my cell while we took a break for lunch or dinner. Secondly, when I traveled to Denver on business from Boston, I found I had forgotten to charge my IPod before I left. Having this in my purse was a Godsend for the 5 hour flight! After these experiences I became diligent about keeping the external battery pack charged, just in case.

Unfortunately, the USB cable (and its' attachments to charge my cell and Ipod) went dead in January as I was on the road for business again. I was unimpressed by the lack of customer service and how long it took them to get back to me only to tell me that I would have to shell out 20 dollars for a replacement cable. My work around for this is inconvenient, but it works I carry an IPod and USB mini cable with the battery to be able to use it to charge when needed. This is unwieldy, but again it works. The battery still works fabulously, so I will rate this at 3 stars for that, but be aware of the 0 star customer service and usb cable.

Want Aluratek APB04F Dual USB 10000mAh External Battery Pack for Charging of Tablets Smartphones eReader Discount?

This is a rechargeable battery that you charge up using your computer's USB port. Once it is charged, then you can plug any number of electronic devices into this battery, using the USB port in the battery, to run or charge your device from it. I've used this to charge up my 2nd generation iTouch iPod(r), my iPad2(r), and my Blackberry(r) Tour phone. (Obviously not all at the same time; just one at a time, grin).

When you charge this from your computer, it has 3 blue lights that will light up as it becomes fully charged (1 blue light means it's about 1/3 charged up, 2 lights is 2/3rds). It comes with all the cables to charge the battery from your USB port, and to then charge or run your devices. It does not come with a AC adapter to charge your battery from a wall plug, and it does not come with a 12 volt adapter to charge the battery from your car's 12 volt accessory port (cigarette lighter). To charge/run your device, select the right cable with the right connector for your device, plug it into your device and into the battery, and then there is a button on the batter to push to turn the charging on. While you are running/charging off the battery, the blue lights will tell you about how much battery you have left: 3 lights, full; 2 lights, 2/3rds; 1 light, 1/3rd. I don't have a good way to tell you how many hours this battery will run before you needs to recharge it again, but my experience has been really good. It's not like I have to charge it up each day. I don't use it more than about once a week in an emergency when one of my devices needs a charge. High recommended! The battery is small enough to fit in most pockets, less than 3 inches x 4 inches and about 3/4 inches thick.

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I bought this product reading some of the good reviews and for the price it should have worked too. The first charge went well although it ran out of power just after charging my smartphone only once. That was not a good sign. The next time I tried to charge my cellphone with it, it kept switching off and would need to be turned ON multiple times manually. I give it two stars because of its looks and light-weight design. May be it was my bad luck but i returned it asap.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Dual Battery Isolation Kit with Voltage Sensitive Relay (VSR)

Dual Battery Isolation Kit with Voltage Sensitive RelayI received this item on time when promised. The installation couldn't have been easier. Red cable from Positive battery terminal to isolator then Red Cable from Isolator to second battery positive terminal. Ground isolator with black cable to vehicle body or frame. Ground second battery to body or frame and your ready to go. No need to connect alternator to isolator with this product. So far it works perfect!

Bought this for my car's four security camera's. Without it, my car battery always died in two days. Now no worries. When i go on vacation for a week, the battery is at 25%. I start the car with no problems and the second battery charges up. Thanks

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Disappointed.

I used this kit to install a dual battery setup on my boat along with a Blue Sea 7650 switch. I ended up using the Blue Sea voltage sensing relay as this one feels cheap and did not make me have confidence in its ability to do the job over the long run. The kit needs to come with at least double the amount of tinned copper lugs (the cable ends that connect to the terminals) because there is simply not enough in this kit. I had to go to my local autoparts store and buy more to complete my install. The same was true with the shrink wrap....simply not enough to do a complete install. I guess they don't expect you to install a switch along with it...but how do they expect you to control the power if you don't install a switch along with it.

In the end I would have saved money if I would have just bought the tinned copper lugs and wire separate.

Read Best Reviews of Dual Battery Isolation Kit with Voltage Sensitive Relay (VSR) Here

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Kicker 09ANL200 200 Amp ROHS Compliant ANL Fuse - Package of 2

Kicker 09ANL200 200 Amp ROHS Compliant ANL Fuse - Package of 2
  • Automotive Grade, platinum-graded fuse protection
  • These fuses satisfy the demands of high performance audio systems by consistantly providing the peak current demands while insuring complete protection
  • Two fuse per pack so you will always have a spair

I am using This fuse on a 1500 watt cobra inverter. It is not really overkill considering the max surge amperage available but will shut things down if there is a short in the 12 volt cable. Works good with Raptor GFBW4-ANL 1/0-4 Gauge ANL Rectangular Fuseholder.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Schumacher 82-6-PE Dual-Rate Manual Charger

Schumacher 82-6-PE Dual-Rate Manual ChargerI have owned this charger for about 5 years now and i am impressed on how it still works considering that I use is all the time and slow charge batterys all night! Well worth the price.

To be brief, I bought this a few years ago (from Amazon)and I have used it a handfull of times to charge dead car batteries and it has worked as advertized. It works well. I am pleased with the purchase as I got it for a good price. I would suggest it to others who are looking for a "lessor amp" power charger who don't mind waiting a little longer to charge something versus a chager that is is a faster charger with higher amps such as 10 or 12. Very good value for the $$.

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Monday, February 24, 2014

Garmin Nuvi 850 855 860 880 885T Cradle Replacement

Garmin Nuvi 850 855 860 880 885T Cradle Replacement
  • Original Cradle that shipped with your Garmin nuvi 800 Series GPS
  • This is only the cradle
  • Cradle includes a Garmin G-Ball connection on the back
  • Cradle works with entire Garmin nuvi 800 range

As stated, brand new and perfect replacement. Arrived very qucikly, packed very well and as promised, on first projected date. Highly recommend AMAZON.COM as your PUCHASING PARTNER...

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I bought the GPS and originally had it on a cycle. Unfortunately the connector into this mounting unit, if bumped to much, would come loose on the inside. Hence forth the unit has been moved to my car where the liine into the unit will not be bumped on the side. Seems to work just fine. No problems.

Read Best Reviews of Garmin Nuvi 850 855 860 880 885T Cradle Replacement Here

It cradles my 850 like a baby. Nice to find a replacement that is just like the original and doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

Want Garmin Nuvi 850 855 860 880 885T Cradle Replacement Discount?

I ordered this to replace the one that broke.....socket pulled out.....it works great. I'd recommend this to anyone to replace their cradle if it breaks.

Just like the one that came in original package. I thought the price was too high but could not find another on internet. I needed it shipped super fast and works great.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Husky Liners Custom Fit WeatherBeater Front and Second Seat Floor Liner Set for Select Cadillac SRX

Husky Liners Custom Fit WeatherBeater Front and Second Seat Floor Liner Set for Select Cadillac SRX ModelsPurchased these for our vehicle and am very happy with the fit and function of the units. The materials seem to be a high quality and should last the life of the vehicle.

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Saturday, January 4, 2014

SKQUE WHITE Premium USB Charger Kits (Wall+CAR) With Mini Microphone for Apple ipod Touch iTouch 3r

SKQUE WHITE Premium USB Charger Kits With Mini Microphone for Apple ipod Touch iTouch 3rd /4th Generation
  • Skque Premium Accessories Bundle for your Apple Device
  • 100% New, Non-OEM
  • Conveniently to Use and Carry
  • Super Enjoyment at Anytime & Anywhere
  • High Quality Ensure Safe.Apple iPod®, iPhone®, or iPad® are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. Products are Apple compatible and not endorsed by Apple, Inc.

At first I received the wrong one. But a replacement was sent with no problems. And now it works well

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it sucked! didnt work at all, looks like i got scammed. plugged it in, the ipod didnt even read it & it was just a waste my money. That sucks i guess

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Power Bright XC180 Cup Inverter, 180-watt 12V DC cigarette lighter to 120V AC to power laptop noteb

Power Bright XC180 Cup Inverter, 180-watt 12V DC cigarette lighter to 120V AC to power laptop notebook & more w/ 3 USB ports 2.1A shared compatible with iPad & moreI saw this Inverter on "I want that" show on DIY network, Googled it, found it on Amazon for $35, Now "I got that" and "I love that"

I had to leave a feedback on this product. This inverter is really cool looking. It's really tiny, it fits in your cup holder and has 3 USB ports, I only realized that there was three ports when I received it, the two other ports are located at the back of the inverter.

I love knowing that I will never run out of battery on the go! Now I can charge my laptop, cell phone and ipad all at the same time!! Oh wait there is still one USB left :)

Awesome little device, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who travels. It's much smaller than I thought and fits comfortably inside my cup holder. I also love the ability to use many devices at once, great for family use. Definitely worth the money.

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The power cord doesn't hold tight enough to the device, slips off all the time. I use my Ipad as my GPS, and your so called Power Bright can't even charge it. It just stays in the same percentage. Very, very... disappointed.

Read Best Reviews of Power Bright XC180 Cup Inverter, 180-watt 12V DC cigarette lighter to 120V AC to power laptop noteb Here

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

2.7 Inch TFT LCD Rear View Mirror 1080P HD IR LEDX4 Car Cam Video Camera Recorder Camcorder DVR

2.7 Inch TFT LCD Rear View Mirror 1080P HD IR LEDX4 Car Cam Video Camera Recorder Camcorder DVRI got the item on time as promised. However, the motion detector works but it records continously in 9 seconds file segments, so basically it is useless. That is only the reason why I wanted the product to use it for motion detection during in parked mode so it can save battery life. I was able to fix the "card error" that I was getting. The camera itself is pretty good so I would bumped it up to 3 stars out of 5. It also have a screensaver, meaning, you can turn off the screen while it's recording. One problem is no "contact seller" button, once the item is sold.

Sunday, October 13, 2013

GMax LED Battery Case Kit with Cover and Screws

GMax LED Battery Case Kit with Cover and ScrewsI ordered this item thinking the led brake light kit came without it. Much to my surprise when the led brake light kit arrived the battery case was included minus the cover. Now I have a spare battery case, cover and screw.

Friday, August 16, 2013

KnuKonceptz KCA Kable 0 Gauge Power Wire Black - 20'

KnuKonceptz KCA Kable 0 Gauge Power Wire Black - 20'
  • Oversized Copper Clad Aluminun 0 Gauge Cable
  • Ultra Flex Black PVC
  • Rated for 250A load
  • 16mm OD

I got this power wire today and I am VERY impressed with this. The wire is amazingly flexible and the cross section is HUGE. It lays super easy and at