Showing posts with label how to replace car battery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label how to replace car battery. Show all posts

Monday, June 30, 2014

Roadpro 12V Fused Replacement Cigarette Lighter Plug with Leads

Roadpro 12V Fused Replacement Cigarette Lighter Plug with LeadsI used this to repair an air compressor. I originally bought a replacement plug from a local auto parts, and it got melted by the current draw.

When I first used this plug, it acted "dead" because the fuse blew instantly. I think the provided fuse was only 1 or 2 amps, which is not nearly enough for an air compressor. I bought some 20 amp fuses locally, and it has been working fine for a few months now.

I was a little concerned because the wire pigtail was slightly lighter gauge than the compressor cord, but is has not been an issue thus far. The green LED indicator is nice because you can tell if the socket has power.

A good deal for the money, but it should come with a heavier fuse to match it's current handling capability.

Ok..first thing..read the instruction manual when you get this..it's a 2 amp fuse cig plug only good for your ipods or mp3 players..now if your gonna use it to power up a compressor, install led lights or power up dvd players, etc..go to home depot buy a 15 amp fuse (automotive/ marine fuse only) and change the 2 amp fuse....coz if yu dont the fuse will blow right away..and your gonna start thinkng the product is useless like some people here..lol..to change just unscrew the tip or header of the plug..insert the new fuse...now you can run whatever you want..this is great for the led light project that i did..save me from routing wires to the battery or tapping on my cars electronic fuses. This is a good product if you know what you are doing or buying.

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Bought this for a new CB I was installing in my pickup. The price is right and this lighter adapter is quality. Beats "The Shack" (Radio Shack)quality for their adapter hands down.And, easy to connect. No taking it apart to wire it in.

Read Best Reviews of Roadpro 12V Fused Replacement Cigarette Lighter Plug with Leads Here

This has saved me several times -much easier to replace the fuse in this than in the truck -so when I do dumb things and overload it the fuse in the plug blows and not the truck. I like it.

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I'm using this in conjunction with a RoadPro RPSL-7000 AC to DC 6 Amp Power Converter that I bought on Amazon to power a car stereo amplifier from a wall outlet. I crimped the power and ground leads from the amp to the leads on this item and everything worked fine. Note that there is a fuse installed in this item that is probably only rated at 2 or 3 amps, so if you need to draw more current through it, like I do, then you will need to replace the fuse with a higher amperage fuse, but that's readily available at Home Depot and plently of other places. So far, no problems.

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Sunday, June 15, 2014

Wagan EL2405 100-Watt Smart AC USB Inverter with DC Socket

Wagan EL2405 100-Watt Smart AC USB Inverter with DC SocketI bought this device for an 8 day car vacation trip. I specifically wanted to recharge and power my MacBook Pro, which comes with an 85 Watt power supply (my kids used the MBP in the car to watch videos). It was used continuously while we were driving, approximately 22 hours total during the 8 day trip. The device just basically worked, what more can I say? I also used the built in USB port to charge up my cell phone and iPod (only one device at a time).

According to the documentation, this device only outputs 90W sustained. This wasn't an issue for me, as I doubt the MBP was drawing anywhere near the 85W limit of the power supply. Compared to others reviewed at amazon.com, this device does not have a fan, so it operates silently. The last thing I needed was *more* noise in the car.. ;-)

The only negative I had is that the MBP plug was kinda loose in the AC outlet in the device, not sure if that's the fault of the MBP power adapter or this device. It was tight enough, so the plug did not fall out while the car was in motion.

I'm glad I bought this device.

I bought this for a car that needed to charge both a USB and a conventionally powered device as well. The good: it did charge both devices and apparently did not damage either. The bad: it literally started BILLOWING SMOKE after just a few hours use and could have caused serious damage if not removed. It was actually hot to the touch when it was pulled from the car socket.

I would not recommend this product to anyone for any reason as not only is it a complete waste of the money, but from my experience, it is actually hazardous to life and property.

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This Smart AC 100 usb has blown the fuses in my car TWICE, making all three of the outlets in my Trailblazer inoperable.

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We have used this item several times and have only had it for a short time. It is nice being able to plug in our GPS and plug in a phone charger at the same time. I am glad we purchased this item.

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As soon as it arrived I tested it in the van to make sure it was generating good power. It passed the tests good. We took it on a long road trip in case we needed to power up the laptop but we never ended up using it.

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Audiovox SIRCMB2 Sirius Satellite Radio JamPack Combo (SIRPNP2 Tuner and SIRCK1 Car Cradle)

Audiovox SIRCMB2 Sirius Satellite Radio JamPack Combo
  • JamPack combo features SIRPNP2 satellite radio and SIRCK1 docking cradle
  • Listen to 100 satellite radio streams with SIRPNP2 radio model
  • 30 presets, 20-song memory, remote control
  • SIRCK1 cradle connects to car stereo via RCA audio cable or built-in FM transmitter
  • Includes cigarette lighter DC power cord; magnetic antenna for your car roof or trunk

You can connect this radio thru the 'Line Out' to a tape adapter and lose the FM radio transmitter MUCH BETTER SOUND QUALITY. Also, you can do the same if your stereo accepts external connections (like for an MP3 player) or has an AUX input. The FM transmitter is ok, but direct connect sounds so much better.

I am a picky person when it comes to sound. This unit did not disappoint. Using the tape adapter (or direct connect) you truly get CD quality sound awesome. I also think the bigger display is better than the smaller ones I have seen on other units. Easier to see while driving. My daugther can read the artist and title from the back seat of our van!

I have had this radio for over a year now it is the best gift I have ever received. It is used every day. I tried XM in rental cars, wife got me Sirius for Christmas very glad she did because the channel and programming are better. This thing has been a lifesaver travelling with kids KidStuff and Disney Radio channels saved our sanity! I listen to Fox News during the commute to work. I loved this thing so much I bought the stock at $3/share WOOHOO!!!

Buy it, you will not be disappointed.

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I bought this product in August for my husband who is notoriously difficult to please. Well, its the best gift I ever got him. Easily set up and the subscription at 12$ a month is negligible. He loves it! We took a trip to the beach and that six hour trip went by like a breeze. we get perfect reception. When I get my new car we'll be buying another setup!

Read Best Reviews of Audiovox SIRCMB2 Sirius Satellite Radio JamPack Combo (SIRPNP2 Tuner and SIRCK1 Car Cradle) Here

I've owned several Sirius radios, and the PNP2 was by far the most rock-solid and trouble free unit. It's not the smallest Sirius radio, but if you want a trouble free tuner, this is the way to go.

And if you like sports play by play, Sirius is the way to go. They have play-by-play from the NFL, NBA, NHL, and 26 college teams (including my KU Jayhawks). They even carry English soccer!

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I purchased the unit in Omaha, NE during a cross country trip. I have since used it on two other cross county trips and have not had any problems with reception. I am extremely sastisfied with the service. The only problem I find is that when travelling in large cities, e.g. Chicago, Washington D.C., etc... there is some interference from radio stations on the same frequency. Herein lies the problem, there are only four FM settings, so it can be a bit tricky to find a station with good reception. That is my only complaint. I recommend the service and this unit, I have enjoyed eight months of quality service.

I read the other earlier reviews. I think one person's FM reception problems might be solved by using the switch on the side of his Audiovox car cradle, designed to hone in on FM 88.1, 88.3, 88.5, or 88.7.

As for using the adhesive backed antennae, I did NOT, preferring just to leave it on the front of the dash near the windshield. There is enough slant there to keep the unit from sliding back into the seats. Works great. For those wanting to use the unit at home, go to radio shack, get a 12V, 500 milliAmp wall receiver, then buy the Adaptaplug "E". Radioshack, a vendor of Sirius products, now sells its AC adapters with different, interchangeable ends. The whole thing costs maybe $18 and will allow you to power this unit at home. Getting satellite reception through your windows, though, might be more difficult.

I think this is a wonderfully clever system. I enjoy both the quality of sound (stereo, as far as I can tell) and the tremendous variety of offerings: classic radio shows like Burns and Allen, Latin, BBC, NPR, NFL, MBA, Blues, Jazz, Rock, Hip-Hop, Classical, Electronic....I'm glad I got it.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Wagan 9863 300/600 Watt Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter

Wagan 9863 300/600 Watt Pure Sine Wave Power InverterWorks to drive my 90 watt circulating pump when modified sine wave would not. Output voltage is low though (using RMS voltmeter) only get about 100 volts out.

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Sunday, March 16, 2014

NOCO Genius GC003 12V Plug Connector

NOCO Genius GC003 12V Plug ConnectorIt works just fine. very useful device to have. I would definitely recommend this item to anyone in need of a Male Cigarette Connector. It turned out to be an extremely handy attachment and I am highly pleased!

I have a 08 Jeep Liberty which has a very heavy hood. This device makes charging my battery simple. It works perfectly and is durable. Charging the battery now is as simple as it gets.

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I added a cigarette lighter (wired direct to battery) in my motorcycle sadlebag for my phone charger, this allows me to just plug in without having to remove the seat or add another wire to my battery post(another opportunity to short!) I want to point out, if your looking for one of those pigtails that is the more universal (battery tender style) plug, this is not it. I have the NOCO, I don't know if it works with anything else, but it does not use the standard 2 wire trailer plug that many others use.

Read Best Reviews of NOCO Genius GC003 12V Plug Connector Here

item is as described, it's quality made, so far it's holding fine and looks like it will last for some time.

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This product will not work on my Lexus. It does on my 1998 BMW Z3. I think it is because the lighter plug on the Lexus will not work without the key turned on. It does work without the key in my BMW.

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Monday, February 3, 2014

Schumacher SE-2151MA SportsPower Automatic Battery Charger and Engine Starter

Schumacher SE-2151MA SportsPower Automatic Battery Charger and Engine StarterI purchased the item at Auto Supermarket about 8 months ago. After just at few times used, the meter stopped working. I paid about $115 for it. Not happy at all. Manufacturer offers two year warranty, but I have to ship it back to them (IT IS VERY HEAVY) and then they replace it with a refurbised one not a new one. Stinks, after how much I paid for it.

I have had this unit for approximately 9 months. I had the first occasion to use it last week. I attempted to charge a large automotive battery. I left it on the slow 2 amp charge for 2 days. It did not charge the battery. I took the battery to the dealer and he said that most of the water had been BOILED OFF due to incorrect or defective charging. $115.00 down the drain for another brand new battery. The meter is now reading 100 amps and is frozen. I attempted to test it and tried to bring up a VERY slightly low battery that was low due to testing an audio system. The charger got VERY hot and the meter did not move from 100 amps! I knew it was reading incorrectly because I tested it with an ammeter. I called the company that makes this. They ONLY will send me a USED unit. This after I pay for shipping this heavy piece of junk back to them. One more instance where China gets richer. This is truly sad and disappointing. They have my $$$$ and I've wasted $115. for a new battery and the $80. for this "charger". NO MORE SCHUMACHER units for me!!

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Went through two of these within one month. Overcharges batteries and then self-destructs. Poorly made.......

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Bought my first one several years ago and got to use it 4 times before it died. Auto Zone kindly allowed me to exchange it. The new one was used the day I got it and went to use it again about 2 months ago and got it out of its box and guess what, that's right. Not working. Pleased? I don't think so. It is the Schumacher model se-2151MA SPORTS POWER. Where's the power?

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The charger was advertised as near new but had a significant dent in the front of the charger.I was able to receive a discount because of this. The charger works fine.

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Monday, January 20, 2014

MOTHERS 05140 PowerBall Polishing Tool

MOTHERS 05140 PowerBall Polishing ToolMothers does not recommend our 05140 PowerBall on painted surfaces. We offer 05147 PowerBall 4Paint, which is of a different foam and made for use on painted surfaces. In addition, we recommend the use of a cordless drill due to its lower torque limits. Please use the right tool, in the right manner, for your needs.

I worked at the detailing department at a car wash and know something about buffers. This thing works *great* on paint, just like a commercial grade buffer wheel. If you have experience with a regular buffer wheel, this is an easy adaptation. It's small enough to handle easily, but big enough to do a fairly quick job.

I use a corded drill for doing a large vehicle. Unless your cordless has brand new batteries, they may run out. But you will save money by not having to buy a buffing tool. 2 of these babies (1 to polish, 1 to wax) and a good drill is all you will ever need. They clean up by soaking in dish soap solution for an hour or two (use enough soap). I definitely recommend this product to anyone who wants a good looking car and wants to save about $100 on equipment!

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Bought the Mini PowerBall to do the aluminum wheels on my motorcycle after I tried the regular PowerBall and found it WAY too big to get into all the areas I needed to. Even the Mini was difficult to get into some areas. I wish Mother's would make a Micro or Nano version.

The ball worked well with the Billet Polish to get a mirror shine in most areas. However, I would caution you to take your time and use only light to light-medium pressure on the ball because it didn't take too long before it began to tear apart on the inner folds and start thumping around on the surface, making it useless. I had to buy another in order to finish the job and it was starting to tear by the time I was done. Not very cost-effective. BTW, I have used cotton buffing wheels with the compound bars and the like in the past in order to buff various metals and had already used that method here before using the Mini PowerBall and Billet Polish for the final step in the process. So I wasn't trying to grind away at a rough, dull surface with this PowerBall, just bringing up the shine to as close to chrome as possible.

Read Best Reviews of MOTHERS 05140 PowerBall Polishing Tool Here

This great little tool saved my rims that have been tarnished for ten years. They look like new.

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used on semi truck wheels alum worked great.shined like a mirror. easy to use cuts work in half.

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Friday, January 17, 2014

Truck PAC ES8000 1500 Peak Amp 24V Jump Starter

Truck PAC ES8000 1500 Peak Amp 24V Jump StarterPurchase this as an experiment for a possible replacement to a very expensive Govt purchased jump starter. So far everyone seeme to be impressed. Can buy 8 of these for the cost of 1 bi-annual rebuild of the one we've been using. Easily starts "dead" heavy diesel powered equipment & large trucks.

We got this charger while in IRAQ from another unit that was leaving and we have had it for 5 years so I have no idea how old it is. It still works like new and will start anything from a HMMWV to a HEMTT. We use it on a weekly basis to test trailer lights and start vehicles that have been sitting for long periods. If you have 24 volt systems then this is an excellent source of backup power and alot easier to use and lighter than jumper cables.

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Monday, December 30, 2013

Solid Brass Top-Post Battery Terminal - Automotive, Marine

Solid Brass Top-Post Battery Terminal - Automotive, Marineits refreshing to not use those crappy metal ones that just mush. This makes a good solid connection. more leeway with post and wire sizes too

Cant complain about this one. Does what it's supposed to do, no corrosion since installed on saltwater boat about six months ago

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Saturday, November 16, 2013

Wilmar W80152 Performance Tool Digital Caliper

Wilmar W80152 Performance Tool Digital CaliperSeems to be an excellent product. Easy to use and much sturdier, little flex and more accurate than my plastic calipers.

I'm just a shadetree mechanic, so my precision needs are not high. That said, I've used high precision calipers and micrometers before. I think this product is about as good as the money I paid. The slider does not extend as smoothly as a higher end caliper, and the construction quality is not as great. However, I do get 0.01mm accuracy (claimed) at under $20. I think this will be good enough for me to measure chain slack and hose width for my motorcycle.

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I was using one of the plastic/carbon type calipers and switched to this one. It's nice and heavy -solid stainless. And it's worth the money. I just wish it had fractional inches, as it does decimal inches. Oh, well. The precision is what matters the most.

Read Best Reviews of Wilmar W80152 Performance Tool Digital Caliper Here

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Cobra Hard Wire Kit for Cobra Radar Detectors

Cobra Hard Wire Kit for Cobra Radar Detectors
  • 14-Band detection--detects 7 radar, 6 laser and 1 safety signal
  • Provides complete immunity to VG-2 and alerts for Spectre I/IV radar detector-detectors
  • LaserEye provides 360-degree detection of laser signals
  • One-year limited warranty
  • UltraBright data display provides easy recognition of band detected by use of band identification icons

I decided to buy this because in my car (thanks to the location of the cigarette lighter) it was impossible to use the shorter, springy power cord that came with the radar detector. The instructions are simple (available online at , also pasted below), and what really took me the longest was finding the right fuse to use and then a ground screw to connect the other terminal. But that's really more a function of your car than of the product. Once I got that sorted out the rest was easy and it works and looks great!

INSTRUCTIONS (from Cobra website at ):

1. Connect the fused wire to a fuse in the fuse box. The fuse for the radio is recommended. To connect the wire to a blade-type fuse, it is recommended to use a fuse tap available from Radio Shack. Part number 270-1204 for standard blade fuses, or part number 270-1218 for mini-blade fuses.

2. Plug the cable into the radar detector and turn on the detector.

3. Turn on the ignition.

4. Touch the other wire to various screws under the dash. When the detector turns on, you have found a ground screw. Attach the wire to this screw.

5. Carefully run the cable to the detector, avoiding the brake and gas pedals.

This completes installation.

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ample amount of wire and simple install, one suggestion that most places don't suggest is wiring it into your fuse box under the dash, simply find an accessory fuse plug and push the wires into the pins with a fuse of the proper size. Then run up the molding and in tuck in the headliner.

Read Best Reviews of Cobra Hard Wire Kit for Cobra Radar Detectors Here

Quality cable, exactly what I needed. After the cig adapter broke from my original Cobra purchase, I decided to hard-wire it this made it possible!

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This wire kit was just what I needed to get my Cobra Radar Detector up out of the way on my windshield. I now have mine mounted just to the right of the rearview mirror. I didn't want to cut the original power cord so I can still use it in another vehicle. The kit wire is very thin and easy to tuck under interior trim to hide the wire. I wired mine to the accesory fuse so it turns on and off with the ignition. loved getting that wire off my dash and opening up my outlet again.

I was able to hardwire my Cobra radar detector in about an hour. Works great and the wires are small enough to fit in the ceiling of my car without taking it off. Makes for simple installation. The wire reaches from my mirror all the way down to my fuse box with plenty of slack. Highly recommend.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount

Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield MountIn California, it is illegal to have anything mounted to your windshield. GPS, Radar Detectors, etc. If an Officer feels inclined to, he can actually pull you over and ticket you for a windshield mounted device.

I have an Escort Passport 9500ix. I was using the windshield mount it came with. However, I noticed that it was rubbing up against my windshield when I drove and (I'm sure) in part to the dual 12's in the back. It was evident that continual use of the supplied windshield mount would eventually lead to a damaged windshield.

This dash mount is working great. It holds my radar detector perfectly still away from the windshield, while obeying one of CA's many ridiculous laws. Plus, it elevates the radar detector to the perfect spot in order to detect laser without jeopardizing radar detection.

Really regret that I purchased this. I needed to mount a radar detector on my dash, and used the circular mounting plate. Even in just moderate sun, in two days the plate warped severely. When I tried to move it to another spot, the whole thing broke in two! Not surprising for a cheap piece of plastic. This is cheap junk -at least the dash mounting piece. In terms of radar detectors, using this product to mount on a windshield is also useless, as the mounting piece that attaches to your windshield is so large, it will degrade your radar detector -since it will either partially or entirely block it's forward "view". This is going in my trash can. Money wasted.

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Mount won't stay perpendicular to the dash. The platform keeps falling down even after tightening. The velcro sticky looks just plain cheap. If you want a good mount check out Blendmount for the Passport.

Read Best Reviews of Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount Here

Had to return it. I didn't realize the device sits on a platform and you velcro the two together. May not be too bad if you are doing a dash mount like the picture, but for windshield mounting the suction cup blocks the back of the radar detector facing the road. I need my detector to perform at its best and not risk detection performance from the suction cup.

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I have a Passport 9500 radar detector. The windshield mount that comes with the unit is small and flimsy...keeps falling off the windshield. I purchased this radar detector mount, and use it on my dashboard. It came with everything needed to install. It is great! Not only do I need not worry about the detector falling off the windshield anymore, the use of the mounting plate lets me remove the detector easily when I need to (for example, parking in parking lots, out in the hot sun, or on short car trips). Besides the dash mount, you always have the option to use this mount on the windshield. Windshield mounting with this mount would certainly be better than the factory supplied mount, as it has a much bigger and deeper "cup" so it would probably hold better to the glass.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

DigiPower JS-Talk Home and Car Power Kit for iPhone and iPod - Charger - Retail Packaging - Black

DigiPower JS-Talk Home and Car Power Kit for iPhone and iPod - Charger - Retail Packaging - Black
  • Works with iPhone 4, iPod Touch 4G and all other iPhones and iPods
  • Gives you an extra 3.5 hours of talk time, seven hours of video, and twenty-two hours of audio playback
  • 1200 mAh rechargeable battery
  • Three step LED charge status
  • Built-in USB cable
  • Self-contained battery pack for iPhone & iPod (all models)
  • 1200mAh - almost doubles iPhone battery life
  • 3-step LED charge status
  • Single button for battery charge status and sync operation
  • Pass-through mode for iPhone charge and sync to computer

This is very handy when you will not be near an electrical outlet are using your phone a lot. I participated in an outdoor festival and needed extra battery life for my phone, especially with running credit cards all day long. I hooked this little unit up to my phone and it actually put charge back onto my phone.

Worked great! Very satisfied!

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I ordered this product about 2 months ago, and finally decided to review it. To sum it up, it sucked. After about 3 or 4 days it broke in such a way that you had to hold the button on it for it to charge otherwise it would go off. The reason I gave it 2 stars instead of 1 is because in the brief amount of time when it worked, it worked well. I don't know if I just got a bad one or if this occurrence is part of the product, but I do not suggest getting this one. Save your money, find one that has no history of malfunction or one that has received great reviews (if possible, both).

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Pyle PMP3A2 Car Flash Audio Player - LCD Display - MP3 - FM - Secure Digital (SD) Card - USB - W/ B

Pyle PMP3A2 Car Flash Audio Player - LCD Display - MP3 - FM - Secure Digital Card - USB - W/ BUILT-IN FM TRANSMITTER
  • New - Retail
  • 1-Year Warranty
  • Pyle PMP3A2
  • Pyle PMP3A2 Car Flash Audio Player - LCD Display - MP3 - FM - Secure Digital (SD) Card - USB - W/ BUILT-IN FM TRANSMITTER

This transmitter works great.

Purchased about a month ago, and have had nothing but good luck using it!

Fantastic quality over all. The remote to receiver link well together, no problems when using mp3 or sd card. Nice lcd screen, transmitter looks really good in my car also. Quality transmitter, perfect price, can't go wrong!

Buy Pyle PMP3A2 Car Flash Audio Player - LCD Display - MP3 - FM - Secure Digital (SD) Card - USB - W/ B Now

I'm using this in a 2007 Ford Focus. A car that has a factory stereo with an auxiliary (AUX) button, but no auxiliary hook up jack; The jack is in the back and has to be brought forward by fiddling with electronics and taking the radio out.

To side step the problem of having no jack on my factory radio, no want to mess with the electronics, and no real need to buy a new stereo, I was lead to this option by Pyle which plugs into my Power Outlet.

There are three options that I've found to play music through the device:

SD Card

USB Flash Drive

MP3 Player via included Audio Jack Cable

USB Flash Drive: Up first to try the device out, I loaded up some songs on my USB flash drive via my computer and stuck it into the device. I set the Pyle device to a radio station, then set my cars radio to the same station. After inserting the USB drive, the device read the music very quickly. During playback, a static noise could be heard through out. It wasn't constant, nor very bad, but it was noticed immediately. I think that one could live with it as music plays with a sort of radio quality, but I was shooting for perfection so I went on to Option 2...

SD Card: Removing the USB and inserting the SD Card, the device read the music, again, very quickly. During playback however, you could hear a constant static noise that would go up and down in pitch. Going through a few different types of songs, the noise never went away, or got better. This option for me was worse than the USB stick so I went to the last, and assumed best, hope for great MP3 playback. Option 3...

MP3 Player/Audio Jack: The Pyle player comes with a regular audio cable for connecting MP3 players. I have a middle of the road MP3 player I bought from Walmart for $20 (a GoGear Vibe, to be specific) and so, having songs already on it, I connected it up and found no, to very little, static! The only downside is that the volume is now maxed out. I like to jam out sometimes and, either through the Pyle's fault or my MP3 player's fault, I have to crank up the volume dial in my car all the way to even get it loud enough to hear over 55mph. In comparison when listening to the radio or CDs, the radio volume bar never went past 3/4. I later found out that I could maximize the volume of playback by adjusting the MP3 player's volume, but again, it did little to get it much louder and at max volume, I was missing the quality I got from burning my own CDs.

The only other negative thing I found is that I must unplug the device whenever I leave the car because, if I don't, the screen stays lit. Being that my car is parked alone hours at a time in the middle of the night, having brightly glowing electronics inside isn't a good thing. You never know who might be walking around with an idea of breaking into cars. It's only a minor inconvenience to reach up a little and pull the device out, but some sort of on/off button would have been a nice idea.

In conclusion, this is a great and stress-free option if you want to listen to MP3s in your car, but you're not wanting to buy a new stereo or mess with wiring (even if it doesn't take a lot to do). But this is far from great quality. Three stars is perfect because, it works, sometimes great, but I wasn't too impressed.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

3 Piece Value Combo Accessory Bundle Kit: USB Car Charger + USB Travel Charger + USB Data Sync Cabl

3 Piece Value Combo Accessory Bundle Kit: USB Car Charger + USB Travel Charger + USB Data Sync Cable for Microsoft Zune 4GB, 8GB, 80GB and 120GB modelsThe data sync cable does not workthe pins are simply not there to sync data at all; if you are looking for a replacement for your Zune cable do not use this. the pins are there for power, so if you're just looking for a wall charger, this'd probably work. I guess you get what you pay fornow I have to go and get an actual data sync cable. woot.

Also, apparently this company sucks as far as returning products if you look at their ratingsI'm in the process of trying to get a refund, I'll edit if/when I get a response.

Edit: see my comments on this post, but I just got a refund processed, decent response time-

THIS PRODUCT DOEST WORK THE ZUNE DOSENT CHARGE AND THE CUSTOMER SERVICES AINT WORTH A DAMN SO I DONT KNOW WHAt I going to do but i going to pay 30 dollars at walmart so my damn zune will work

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This is a great product for a charge, but unfortunately the actual plug in wire backed out on me only a couple weeks in. I would recommend getting a quality fire wire for your Zune device.

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I was originally stoked about this purchase, but I find that that has come to an end. The charger for the house first stopped locking once you pulled the cord and then it stopped charging my Zune entirely. Have not even had it long enough for it to mess up, but unfortunately it has.

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The car charger is too big for my 120GB Zune. Ripoff. If you want your cable to fit, buy from Zune, as bad as I hate to say it. I was toodling along in my car, went to charge, and the cable doesn't fit.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

Husky Liners Custom Fit Second Seat Floor Liner for Select Dodge Ram 1500/2500 Models (Black)

Husky Liners Custom Fit Second Seat Floor Liner for Select Dodge Ram 1500/2500 ModelsThese are not as good as the Weathertech molded floor mats, but they do protect the floor well. Weathertech doesn't make the molded mats for my older truck I just purchased, unfortunately. They're cheaper at least.

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Sunday, July 21, 2013

3-in-1 LCD Car Hands-free FM Music Transmitter for iPhone and iPad

3-in-1 LCD Car Hands-free FM Music Transmitter for iPhone and iPadIt was a great add to my car, only down side was that remote. Broke at I Tried to put the battery in, but the converter it self works great.

Well I never could use this item because it does not fit an iphone with a case on it. The connector cannot fit all the way in to the iphone before the body of the unit hits the case. This should be indicated in the description. I contacted the merchant and they offered no solution.

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great price lures you in, and the product description sounds like it does everything u want it to, but the actual product isn't that great. the remote doesn't always work for me and the charger cord is really short. So short that if I don't find a really good spot for it, the whole thing will come out of my iphone if it gets bumped or jarred. then it's a pain to reconnect it while driving. my advice is to spend more money on an fm transmitter, this one is priced low for a reason!

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Does not work with iPhone, connection is too small and doesn't fit correctly. Don't waste your time in buying it.

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Does not work. Had to return. Was not pleased at all. I received it in the mail and I tried it out in the car and it did not work. It's not good. I purchase a transmitter in the store called "Five and Below" for $5 and it works perfectly fine. Would not recommend this product.

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Monday, July 15, 2013

Wagan EL2201 Elite 400 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter

Wagan EL2201 Elite 400 Watt Pure Sine Wave InverterAfter much research, I bought the Wagan EL2201 because I was looking for a pure-sine-wave inverter in this size range and Wagan's other products seem to have a fantastic reputation.

There are lots of poor reviews on this one, and the problem seems to be the same: The unit starts up once, then immediately dies.

Problem: The cigarette lighter adapter comes with a fast-blow fuse. My unit did the same thing, and I found that the fuse (located inside the plug itself) had blown as soon as I plugged a very low-draw radio into the inverter. Inverters have lots of capacitors that need to charge then the unit powers up, creating a momentary large load that a slow-blow fuse can absorb, while a fast-blow cannot.

A 400-Watt inverter is pretty large to run on a cigarette lighter plug in the first place, and should definitely be run directly from the battery or hard-wired if you plan on using anything with a significant draw.

In fact, the instructions say NOT to use the cigarette lighter if you plan on running anything more than 150W.

Solution: Replace the fast-blow fuse included with the inverter with a slow-blow OR a larger fuse (do NOT exceed the rating of your vehicle's outlet!). This is a $0.50 fix and my inverter now works flawlessly!

I'm guessing that the poor reviews are from those who use the lighter adapter and have this problem, while the positives are those who either hard-wire or connect directly to battery.

Now my inverter works great, doesn't play havoc with ANYTHING (unlike my modified sine-wave inverters), and the price was right. The built-in USB is a nice touch too.

Bottom Line: Great inverter for the price if you don't mind replacing a fuse or hard-wiring. As mentioned before, an inverter this size probably should be hard-wired anyway.

I see some very negative reviews of this 400 watt inverter, but my wife and I have been very pleased. We live in a 100% solar home and have found the unit great for running our computer, printer, and powered computer speakers all at the same time. I have even run my Pioneer surround sound, DVD player, and 100watt powered sub-woofer at the same time. This use has been during the day, but there was certainly no shortage of power from the unit whenever the input voltage has been sufficient. One thing I need to mention is that I replaced the cord with the cigar lighter end on it with my own 2 foot long, 10 gauge wire with a three prong plug on it that plugs into our 12vdc in house recepticles. When I first bought the unit I had issues with low voltage signal too, but I do not believe the supplied cigar plug makes good enough contact to conduct the needed voltage. If you have the low voltage issue, try another type of plug or direct wire it. It is not unusual for this unit to be on 6 to 10 hours a day in our home and operates flawlessly. Yes, the cooling fan kicks on and off, but that is what it is supposed to do. I have also used it to charge various battery operated items drills, NiCad chargers, and the like, once again no problems. The ONLY reason I did not give it a five star rating is due to the issue with the cord. When you consider that most cigar lighter sockets are designed to handle 15 amps DC before blowing the on-board fuse (that's with the vehicle running), its easy to see why only the lightest of loads can be run using the supplied plug. Anything large use battery clips, direct wire or hardwire it into your system. Bought the unit about six months ago, should have done the review sooner.

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Hi this is The 5TH inverter i have bought in the last 4 Months. This is also the smallest, and so far best performing. Having said that be honest with yourself when sizing your inverter.I have taken my living room off grid part time. This inverter powers my 40 in. SONY 3D-HDTV-DTV,BOX, MY Surround System 5.1 my Sub woofer,a pole fan.47amp @ 120 volts a/c. 5-5watt 12volt d/c floresent lights for avg 4 hours a night. MY Watt usage avg.about 225-watts,or 1100 watts total@4HR avg. I have Booked about 27 hour so far and videoed my first use of it out of the box .Ran it 7 hours. NO Trouble At All. Puts out allways at least 116.4 volts at all times. this Is Hands Down the best of the Bunch. I,m HOOKED up to 4,100 AMP HR.DEKKA DEEP CYCLE Batterys Im Running 2 # 6 Wires For this Small inverter ,more than enuff for a 3ft run. I live in So.FL. So sun is plentifull,with a 200+watt PV set up.I hope This helps some 1 From making the mistakes I made.

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If you draw more than about 5-10W the fan comes on and it's pretty noisy. Otherwise my unit works fine (I am not using the cigarette lighter plug).

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I had seen some bad reviews, but saw many more good ones and decided to risk it. I was going on Vacation, so I actually purchased it from Walmart. However, it started smoking the second day I used it. It made the whole car smell bad, and wouldn't power anything after that. I returned to Walmart for a full refund. I was hoping that the Pure Sine Wave would eliminate the hum that my cheap 750W inverter produced when I would pipe the sound from my laptop through the stereo when watching a movie. However, this item didn't last more than two days.

The build quality seems to be the problem.