tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44219273631771203262024-02-07T03:23:47.972-08:00Midnight ModsVoiding warranties since 2001Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-25589877739541364422011-07-23T04:22:00.001-07:002012-06-22T05:06:32.014-07:00Trip with the Terminator<p>The time came for me to upgrade the High Pressure Oil Pump on my 7.3L PowerStroke Diesel. While I would have loved to do a modification like this on my own, I knew best to leave it to a professional in this case. A phone call later I made plans to hook up with Joey Omlin of <a href="http://www.terminatorengineering.com/" target="_blank">Terminator Engineering</a> out in California. I’ll spare the boring details, but Joey builds and modifies High Pressure Oil Pumps for 7.3 PowerStrokes. His most recent creation is the T-500. I’ll get more into that later.</p> <p>Thankfully Joey offered to pick me up at the airport. Being a quick trip, this saved me some money as well. Time being of the essence we quickly got to work. Joey is pretty secretive about his stuff, so these are the pictures that he approved for me to show. </p> <p>A quick warning as well, don’t try this at home. This is NOT a how-to guide on modifying your pump. Many of the steps are <em>not</em> shown here, nor will they be shown. This is a very quick overview. This is also not an HPOP install guide. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuVMH0jL497ESTsO_y_gm-jn3i2VSbcZuER5fRrzp0fHhuSGxPWSp1KOZ-Re8Ksrh5-ZUSX618SyRCJbvoDrUTU5UMH78mQwoIe6178SVfv0mfJj9OnL8oCJu-EUKq0AHgv674jDZbVg/s1600-h/t500_0001%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0001" border="0" alt="t500_0001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k9CqRflWABU/TiqujRjx9NI/AAAAAAAABzU/62fdy-ndzzc/t500_0001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="180" /></a></p> <p>Here is my pump on the bench at Joey’s. These things get nasty just from normal use, Yuch! I probably should have cleaned it up better. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_YD_wS2ys1UGjI4iGbcX6w5dhSN0TLkByZeb3az4xKCbOCznqpI3OG5r5Olj1ynTgIBfD7XW6sEmrHP7pAH1GDJHMAJwDRDNSam4ak7TnSra-g6FFBmkvO3YMI8jtjOjupmt1D45ekg/s1600-h/t500_0002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0002" border="0" alt="t500_0002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GqfxV-nMTDI/TiqukV1WAHI/AAAAAAAABzc/xRNjbwc_RiU/t500_0002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="170" /></a></p> <p>A healthy wash in the parts washer will take care of that really quick. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--5Qa2VY5CGA/Tiquk666TCI/AAAAAAAABzg/E5jU8Ifr9Qc/s1600-h/t500_0003%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0003" border="0" alt="t500_0003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ao9h0fKEjN8/TiqulKazYHI/AAAAAAAABzk/fejwWSbj99M/t500_0003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="154" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YZ8mXBDT7Ic/TiqulnWq3KI/AAAAAAAABzo/zc5GoSXSHFE/s1600-h/t500_0004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0004" border="0" alt="t500_0004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HDDeVWXReZI/TiqumHZcX5I/AAAAAAAABzs/Au0tanKI6Sg/t500_0004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="152" /></a></p> <p>A picture with the seal removed and then out comes the snap ring.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2ZlX-hBPM8E/TiqumbMUC5I/AAAAAAAABzw/RlntULWCybU/s1600-h/t500_0005%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0005" border="0" alt="t500_0005" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Tl3vRNUrLRU/TiqumnOXg7I/AAAAAAAABz0/dJiWQ7RYeqQ/t500_0005_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="196" height="244" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AlEX4-YLzck/Tiqum1cmW7I/AAAAAAAABz4/ie-EnqGBpRQ/s1600-h/t500_0006%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0006" border="0" alt="t500_0006" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQx2EFMoH1ynPZEFzqtMxUbm-L96cbr7__BP7VHNkprKydBgNQD5_QXafKBu-pqB-LiXrmv4V-2pvxPfW2kNLIV8iWLmLxNHbL5dPqqlrJXXdYJrF4PeFdjxYY8wOFrbCMG5L9rli4bB0/?imgmax=800" width="171" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Back cover snap ring is now removed as well and then some more internals  are removed. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pur1CCDP_k8/TiqunjJohxI/AAAAAAAAB0A/midvCi-kAks/s1600-h/t500_0007%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0007" border="0" alt="t500_0007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qfxzNrl3www/Tiqun9b3MdI/AAAAAAAAB0E/CDPzKFsLDUo/t500_0007_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="209" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X7BFlPQkWx0/Tiquod49LOI/AAAAAAAAB0I/hl5NLarCjbs/s1600-h/t500_0008%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0008" border="0" alt="t500_0008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KR82O5Ejz20/TiquomkcqZI/AAAAAAAAB0M/8u7CtJuLpeE/t500_0008_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="177" /></a></p> <p>The internals are pressed out. This is another one of those times where I warn you not to do this yourself, you could easily damage your pump.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HwyJEcYO9XM/Tiquo1SroGI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/1H1soQDaDHw/s1600-h/t500_0009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0009" border="0" alt="t500_0009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-swadjuIEqz0/TiqupJxPM6I/AAAAAAAAB0U/caXbv1yzxLs/t500_0009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="165" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Stock internals now out of the pump. If you have never saw the inside of a pump before, now you know what they look like. Now, where is my 6 s.. I mean 7 shooter. Some new parts are all installed here and not pictured. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-a7rD37Mqer8/TiquqPdF2MI/AAAAAAAAB0g/IiepK-EPVOo/s1600-h/t500_0011%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0011" border="0" alt="t500_0011" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCI4S-c22oMdCB73Di6L68ZmUr7edUGwqvXOkLalintr0FGDysVWuid40DmaJ5-FSbWf44QpBk7M01nZvQhDvo-ie6urX3MR7NyO6AMBNbWOanZpBCYB2b2YhDsWWPVa3Ift_Xh-P3Q_E/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="162" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TN_4qO5QTAs/Tiquq6MO3eI/AAAAAAAAB0o/xntw6keuBAY/s1600-h/t500_0012%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0012" border="0" alt="t500_0012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8U4gW6KIKRs/TiqurGeEZ6I/AAAAAAAAB0s/pEZh-Gt5eKo/t500_0012_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="182" /></a></p> <p>Reassembled internals. Then the internals are being pressed back into the housing. This is another one of those really easy to screw things up moment and another reason to leave it to somebody who knows what they are doing. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5Sop6gbDBUI/Tiqurbwfh5I/AAAAAAAAB0w/NDUbtGC_j-w/s1600-h/t500_0013%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0013" border="0" alt="t500_0013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZGXyzMuuxms/TiqurkuHphI/AAAAAAAAB00/UwNXVMdszjM/t500_0013_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fT2wPlAIWac/TiqusGJp-MI/AAAAAAAAB04/dVtfagwjv14/s1600-h/t500_0014%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0014" border="0" alt="t500_0014" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_HW9TerMC00/TiqusfaKTuI/AAAAAAAAB08/DJVAQk5iKIE/t500_0014_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>New bearing being pressed in. Then back cover is reinstalled and snap ring to hold it in.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIIucTdqO0UEP2ir2ZUSqsCfACJAWxXpDwK2RG4daRNfBmfP6D3lwtewuK0p1TwfhTpmt72Ln6xyQnWPQU5yhfp5iHSObk202iV42zaOtF9Qy6kd4q2nRz2psYFYcrlVYLiqhqm5-wAo/s1600-h/t500_0015%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0015" border="0" alt="t500_0015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nlIsM4zwmOc/Tiqutda7chI/AAAAAAAAB1E/6SKxQ8vt9eI/t500_0015_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="177" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iiNp97xg7sw/TiqutgwcH-I/AAAAAAAAB1I/Fijl432rEzs/s1600-h/t500_0016%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0016" border="0" alt="t500_0016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Y8Ks0jbVbM4/Tiqut5PEp_I/AAAAAAAAB1M/ahnP1YWfLVM/t500_0016_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="179" /></a></p> <p>New front seal installed and off to the bead blaster for some prettiness and a good looking finished product.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HXkxKHj-x04/TiquuV6uaVI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/1d-8WX8CiJE/s1600-h/t500_0017%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0017" border="0" alt="t500_0017" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TcLpHA1xQgs/TiquuubQaII/AAAAAAAAB1U/EETbhlJcJwE/t500_0017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="174" /></a></p> <p>Every pump is branded and given a Serial Number. That way Joey can keep track of every pump he makes so he knows where its been, what group of production it is in and so on. Very smart idea. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cB_QY0ysKrY/Tiquu8FRZFI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/N4dUoMn0feQ/s1600-h/t500_0021%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0021" border="0" alt="t500_0021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-27QjGtdkpz8/TiquvQCnLtI/AAAAAAAAB1c/9RD3G5esItE/t500_0021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="244" /></a></p> <p>And now to apply… Oh of course he just HAD to be out of stickers. </p> <p>It was a great trip out to Joey’s. I got to learn a lot about High Pressure Oil Systems and got to check out his projects and help a bit. </p> <p> </p> <p>Now for some install pictures.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aRg6ujPhXOs/TiquvxqWbYI/AAAAAAAAB1g/OCwViCg5hok/s1600-h/t500_0031%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0031" border="0" alt="t500_0031" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bUKlZ0KU8Es/TiquwK5stvI/AAAAAAAAB1k/jWYzouhNDCs/t500_0031_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BLHzqQAkZKM/TiquwmwLSqI/AAAAAAAAB1o/6yDdC21ZT1c/s1600-h/t500_0032%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0032" border="0" alt="t500_0032" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eyr0rVF_hCQ/TiquwxZtArI/AAAAAAAAB1s/BrnB5qJTBqA/t500_0032_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>A tip for cleaning up the front bolt cover for the pump. I just got the sander out and used the vice. It worked really well.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0cfAXtPDSp0/TiquxFRWn7I/AAAAAAAAB1w/0zZMe0PLCtg/s1600-h/t500_0033%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0033" border="0" alt="t500_0033" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ByugJ0exkLw/TiquxcjjIhI/AAAAAAAAB10/eebW68nseuY/t500_0033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>It made an excellent beer coaster while installing. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YxEcaw-CXOY/Tiqux576zdI/AAAAAAAAB14/cV0cfKfYymA/s1600-h/t500_0037%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0037" border="0" alt="t500_0037" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhySrDlQ0q6L82voepzN6LW3-NIpVsa6Vk3AmqyasGpll6uSNgiYuP-3KcRLq4mbdT1J7rs0UDfjzQrDCQ6iTwMtTfrVW1h2vFw5nVEaihcoPawE5H1XO7Hkl39iigBDeT_KOqDEIA3Vgc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GvHD6O5EUFo/Tiquym-R1wI/AAAAAAAAB2A/43H1udy5G2I/s1600-h/t500_0039%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0039" border="0" alt="t500_0039" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Yc1HH03IqWk/Tiquy7LQaRI/AAAAAAAAB2E/fX3fUNGeO1s/t500_0039_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>Its an 18mm socket. I know people forget this one so I thought I’d throw it in there. Lots of people talk about the washer falling it. As far as I know, it cannot go anyplace. I don’t think you’ll want to fish it out of there either, so pay attention when pulling this out. Pretty strait forward. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-doCkdM9mCMc/TiquzAx2YlI/AAAAAAAAB2I/KAZqoopKsY0/s1600-h/t500_0040%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0040" border="0" alt="t500_0040" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymhssVO0EsGTQIFg7RFgiU85OYM0DpDqQxsLne6YGn3RLeb3n3YBl1TZkNh8cw7JeDRlkj6x0oKFCAdGSPCQrYbjp3D20mWzBxZKTEfck85th-Ueq0XoaUhOIb_8X1Y6xuBphyphenhyphen2ogQTs/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mZPsO1bTHO8/Tiqu0HcJbjI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/4tbcqq_F1DM/s1600-h/t500_0041%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0041" border="0" alt="t500_0041" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-94BmEa_Js-0/Tiqu0TAin-I/AAAAAAAAB2U/ZwxvreamYBk/t500_0041_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>I installed the IPR on the bench. Made it so much easier. There are torque specs for the IPR, if you want to apply them in this situation, the bench is going to be the easiest place. I used the snug method. This is a part that doesn’t need to be arm-stronged. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ll9m8vHRbRs/Tiqu0oXuJcI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/KpersUR63CU/s1600-h/t500_0042%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0042" border="0" alt="t500_0042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcUi_th7ceGC1p00GzxNs2IYhK_QCNeUovF5boeWsFwyzOr4EzkmNvKU0148noyyiWERNRXR-XTaJCv20eayjNjV9Bqyz9PUWFoAohgTiZGjiUmyxFDFOvqfwhaEtsxryRj2hvSJkyOA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8NAjtarPrbY/Tiqu1Yek32I/AAAAAAAAB2g/HVka8yTjLfc/s1600-h/t500_0043%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0043" border="0" alt="t500_0043" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ki-agaJK7LM/Tiqu1o2ZRQI/AAAAAAAAB2k/EJbr-QTIDhQ/t500_0043_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>Installed pictures. Kinda self explanatory there. </p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XCD9RXOLNYA/Tiqu16p-W1I/AAAAAAAAB2o/AMYpUuBpJQU/s1600-h/t500_0048%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0048" border="0" alt="t500_0048" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OFYraRAOn60/Tiqu2Pe_DdI/AAAAAAAAB2s/LYxH1xyb4Yg/t500_0048_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ii4XxD1P8NM/Tiqu27_omEI/AAAAAAAAB2w/2Rq6MLsK0UE/s1600-h/t500_0049%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0049" border="0" alt="t500_0049" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8InGyi6oXHY/Tiqu3G2HeEI/AAAAAAAAB20/0wI4VuQm51M/t500_0049_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <p>Getting ready to RTV the front cover and put in place, boy is it a pain to get it lined up. Everything is in the way down there. Not fun! Have some paper towels around to clean up the mess your going to make.</p> <p> </p> <p>This project was done over a month ago and to show what the sticker looks like, Joey sent me a picture of a finished pump with a sticker on it completely assembled. This is a Super Duty pump, notice the HPOP fittings. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yvUMFX8sOkA/Tiqu3ht80cI/AAAAAAAAB24/BdtIhpTTe2U/s1600-h/t500_0025%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0025" border="0" alt="t500_0025" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BGr5uAmiXAI/Tiqu3zdNlTI/AAAAAAAAB28/Pxq25KI1S5g/t500_0025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139" /></a></p> <p>And for some fun, a randomly approved picture from a project he is working on that a few people are waiting on.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ry90ziQPDp0/Tiqu4Ftb6kI/AAAAAAAAB3A/rVuOsbcCPXU/s1600-h/t500_0018%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="t500_0018" border="0" alt="t500_0018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2yqZwADLTOyUJ8Naf5so39IzzszOTiCiw0Ii3VhAgVZNklPIyWzN6JYcC4mX5sHJK2HF7KZVrLKQj6vulbXIsXbCsUcn2o62TaJ8Xv5bsY76WbGjXim4GMQUsFlFFA_AxQ57yvR92JXY/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="204" /></a></p> <p>Oh boy is that thing pretty!!!!!</p> <p>Dealing with Joey was excellent. I’d like to thank him for all the info he shared with me on the project. I was quite surprised he was okay with doing this. If your looking for an upgrade to your 94-97 7.3, or your Super Duty 99-03 7.3 for more performance, this modification will upgrade your 15° HPOP to a 17° and make it flow better. There are some other things that happen to the pump as well, but those are secrets, so you’ll just have to believe me and the other users of Terminator pumps that it works. The pump performs great and has no troubles keeping up with my injectors now. For the Super Duty guys, this gives you the flow mods and the other new mods for the pump, so don’t count yourself out. </p> <p><a href="http://terminatorengineering.com/" target="_blank">Terminator Engineering</a> also makes dual pump systems for people looking to make more power with their 7.3 PowerStroke. Dual systems are 2 modified HPOP’s, paired up, that will produce more oil volume than a single pump. </p> <p>The T-500 is also affordable as well. $449 for the upgrade to your pump. You just send it in, and he upgrades <em>your </em>pump. There are other options available as well for you and that is something you would have to discuss with him. Joey is easy to deal with and has a great product and stands behind it. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-49905685200680801432011-07-22T08:51:00.001-07:002011-07-22T09:25:31.294-07:007.3 PSD Fuel Mod<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaf7c28P6Lr1JvWGTcbSArI8_ID7ZUd2XrJ1s1vNCGWurt47mMNhLGk2_eM8fhLSjTpLr3g4GPY9ng4WTunWMBKyHWIjE4w_wJBYnKTKjjlpK9bg1dzQaCFE2SgJDA9S1rzcAXOJcS7Ls/s1600-h/fprshim_0046%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0046" border="0" alt="fprshim_0046" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ld4-ZsrrFZY/TimcTadEOaI/AAAAAAAABw4/JzgdUSYdgkU/fprshim_0046_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>The 94-97 7.3 Power Stroke Diesels are equipped with a mechanical fuel pump and somewhat archaic fuel regulation system. It works good, but when you have things involving springs, they sometimes tend to get weak with age. There is a fix for this, lets go over it.</p> <p> </p> <p>This is probably the cheapest modification you can do to your truck. It’s simple and effective. </p> <p>First we need to start the truck up and let it idle down into a normal idle to measure the fuel pressure off the fuel bowl. These trucks are equipped with a Schrader valve for doing this. Grab an old stick style tire gauge you wont mind destroying and take the cap off the Schrader valve. Throw on some eye protection for this as well, fuel might come out the end of your gauge. </p> <p>Hold it on their tight and get a reading. Double check your readings just in case. </p> <p>If your in the 55-70PSI range, this modification is not necessary. If you still want to continue if your in the 50-60PSI range, it can still be beneficial depending on how weak your spring is. <br /> <br />Shut the truck off and get the tools out. We will need a 3/4 inch socket and a wrench to turn it. As well, we will need a magnet to pull the pieces out. <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Dk44ugj42AA/TimcT9eGD1I/AAAAAAAABw8/G3EO6bI9j-k/s1600-h/fprshim_0009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0009" border="0" alt="fprshim_0009" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sv5VO-5OFnM/TimcUMc_liI/AAAAAAAABxA/i6W26gppCgw/fprshim_0009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>For quality of photo purposes from this point on, it will be demonstrated with the Fuel Bowl out of the truck. You do not have to take the fuel bowl out to do this mod, but I had mine out to clean it, so I took some pictures to demonstrate further. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The big brass nut on the right side of the fuel bowl is what we are after. Make sure you have the socket seated on it properly, because we don’t want to strip this out. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v3asALjKnVo/TimcU5mfiMI/AAAAAAAABxE/XIUjbhZgWJ4/s1600-h/fprshim_0008%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0008" border="0" alt="fprshim_0008" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A8ZgIYcLSC8/TimcVOV2qaI/AAAAAAAABxI/iQ1XmzNUw4g/fprshim_0008_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>Break the nut loose and unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. There is a spring behind here, we don’t want it jumping out on us and having problems with ordering a new spring, because that can be kinda difficult. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DEJupBLz1sE/TimcVSgsy5I/AAAAAAAABxM/_sGpttshpCk/s1600-h/fprshim_0001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0001" border="0" alt="fprshim_0001" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XFgqiwEumOM/TimcVr7juoI/AAAAAAAABxQ/uWxHC_ohRnk/fprshim_0001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>Behind the brass nut there is a spring. Use a magnet to pull the spring out and hopefully the collar the spring fits in will come out with it as well. If it does not. Use the magnet to pull that out as well. Just a note here, be sure your magnet is clean. We don’t want that stuff sticking to the fuel pressure regulator parts and making it into your injectors. </p> <p>Here you can see the parts that regulate the fuel pressure. Just a spring and this collar the spring fits in.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gKlNafb_UOs/TimcWeHwzNI/AAAAAAAABxU/q4n8lKsOeHc/s1600-h/fprshim_0002%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0002" border="0" alt="fprshim_0002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-94LbFErQf-o/TimcWsUtR8I/AAAAAAAABxY/N2nrbFKpjWE/fprshim_0002_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mcbYHdj6EVg/TimcXKjq29I/AAAAAAAABxc/Fh-iwxLEdPc/s1600-h/fprshim_0003%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0003" border="0" alt="fprshim_0003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cCXjIK3-NbQ/TimcXYq67RI/AAAAAAAABxg/i2DgMcIuccs/fprshim_0003_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5BpgpxKz518/TimcX7UpSrI/AAAAAAAABxk/9ZXqr5qsXIU/s1600-h/fprshim_0004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0004" border="0" alt="fprshim_0004" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-534Zceh-X1M/TimcYQ-kwZI/AAAAAAAABxo/nj6ks8YQO3Q/fprshim_0004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>Now, we need a metal BB. They are really easy to obtain from that neighbor kid who keeps shooting your privacy fence up. Just go over there and give him a noogie. Then take some of his BB’s and run home. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q7ILjUHda1s/TimcYwns7II/AAAAAAAABxs/HkJv3pFFjOA/s1600-h/fprshim_0005%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0005" border="0" alt="fprshim_0005" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo4NspS5DapKpznM3H5c9TSVbOYbJVVK9OxBpAkJ85DdiQ4_V4KYTjxvr-Gvqr-PxForGuB97loA5oGO6GluBkOY6nt2DYqpzY34PZbabJvPEPBbF6XEFnqILACqUufgrcx3dB8hBo-FE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>Alright, this is our shim for the spring. We insert the BB into the collar, and then we insert the spring in after it. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2DkDtdYJjAA/TimcZkeS3EI/AAAAAAAABx0/rup8rLrZ9Dg/s1600-h/fprshim_0006%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0006" border="0" alt="fprshim_0006" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ac0SXBS4vXA/TimcZyzSJuI/AAAAAAAABx4/YDCNrOLVdYo/fprshim_0006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>We then carefully insert the assembly back into the Regulator on the fuel bowl. No picture here, to hard to hold camera and insert the parts in at the same time. Here is a picture of what it looks like inside though.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gD4-LJr5oDE/TimcabjViRI/AAAAAAAABx8/d2oMlgaNLqg/s1600-h/fprshim_0007%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0007" border="0" alt="fprshim_0007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-L-UJ1hHjSIM/TimcaoSVLgI/AAAAAAAAByA/2nInpsTmoQ0/fprshim_0007_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6bEpv3A5RnA/Timca_Iw2tI/AAAAAAAAByI/gUc6mRDcONI/s1600-h/fprshim_0008%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0008" border="0" alt="fprshim_0008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iZY6Wbq790I/TimcbX-2-pI/AAAAAAAAByM/sNtD0LmrMgw/fprshim_0008_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>Carefully note the Nipple on the end of the Brass nut. (Yes, I used the same picture twice.) It is critical that you get this lined up with the spring. If the assembly is in correctly, this should be easy. <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dYEQQEChWuI/TimcbnVlmPI/AAAAAAAAByQ/F91NAtWdP-g/s1600-h/fprshim_0010%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="fprshim_0010" border="0" alt="fprshim_0010" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TBDR1hZtbsA/TimccPXG4TI/AAAAAAAAByU/9gnasVPlO-w/fprshim_0010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>Replace the brass nut squarely with the regulator, and turn backwards till the threads line up, then finger tighten the nut back into place. Throw the wrench back on and snug it up good. No need to He-Man it back tight. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Now deal with the neighbor kids dad and explain to him why you took his kids BB’s and gave him a Noogie and how he shoots up your privacy fence. Drink a beer and watch the kid get a whoopin from his dad. </p> <p>Alright, now that drama is all over and everything is back together, let’s start the truck back up and check for our new fuel pressure. Same way as before. Note, if you did not clean your Tire Gauge out, I find it pretty easy to clean it out by checking your tire pressure on your truck. Not sure if fuel in the gauge will effect readings any. But we are double checking anyways when measuring fuel pressure so, whatever. </p> <p>If you are in the 60-70PSI range, your doing really good. Slightly over 70PSI is alright, but too much fuel pressure is bad. I would not suggest leaving the mod in if its over 75PSI. 65PSI is about optimum for our trucks. If you want to find other things to fit in there to shim it differently, go right ahead, just remember what materials your using and if they will get stuck in that collar. You don’t want that. </p> <p>Close the hood and have fun with the cheapest mod you can do to your Mid 90’s PowerStroke Diesel!</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-48410640345120878312011-03-07T16:23:00.001-08:002011-03-07T16:47:45.043-08:00OBS Intake Boot Replacement<p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YJ29tnYW6-Edi70ZQi4ovn1rM5dWvlqEk_yqrKgjsECZ-3FDj8CzRwBNSX9FfrYjQtPOaoxuu9O5s_Nl-g-Wu3hwkRIXjVl_4f-lZY4eM5t9nONK_4rvHj9BQui6BjjFcfg_UrgK4Yg/s1600-h/rrintake_0002%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0002" border="0" alt="rrintake_0002" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2Z0PMgzI/AAAAAAAABdk/WDJfbSmdImA/rrintake_0002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>The 94-97 Ford Powerstroke 7.3 diesels have an issue with the Orange Intake Boot on the turbo rotting away due to it being susceptible to oil causing the rubber to break down. This can happen with many rubbers. Fear not though, this new product from RiffRaff Diesel Performance will eliminate that and look fashionably good as well! I was excited to open my box and got some goodies along with my boot!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2awTtmHI/AAAAAAAABdo/gYn0bjORl6U/s1600-h/rrintake_0003%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0003" border="0" alt="rrintake_0003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2bFhn2HI/AAAAAAAABds/iEYJbJPmFys/rrintake_0003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Here is our stash of goodies in the box. Some more business cards (I was out again), a embroidered can cozy and a new RiffRaff Diesel Decal!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2cKq_VzI/AAAAAAAABdw/IVTgsWxjuDE/s1600-h/rrintake_0005%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0005" border="0" alt="rrintake_0005" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2ckjPpLI/AAAAAAAABd0/KtG-K0th3pA/rrintake_0005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2djkvjiI/AAAAAAAABd4/ozXCAFMHADU/s1600-h/rrintake_0006%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0006" border="0" alt="rrintake_0006" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPyL8YAErIMI97ana1IbUz2S5A6fI30iVrlLvCHgo6Jmu3LJsPCbGNpYs82h6qDp2y_u2k3xJNx4B6lkEt2Aju1IS5pBr52XfWBC4Am1S1kvdNsjn897IWeISbQwsI7ad3p_NplgTPTMc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Here you can see the original in the truck. I have duct tape on mine as well as another fix I have performed 2 times.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2fIM76gI/AAAAAAAABeA/DRMbw2nlDCc/s1600-h/rrintake_0007%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0007" border="0" alt="rrintake_0007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2frE6EOI/AAAAAAAABeE/vLd4A6MbJos/rrintake_0007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2goWuHvI/AAAAAAAABeM/GlqGkvoYwkQ/s1600-h/rrintake_0008%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0008" border="0" alt="rrintake_0008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2hJjQIAI/AAAAAAAABeQ/iCbrRdLhPYY/rrintake_0008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Cold here in Michigan. That is frost on my motor.  I got the boot out the easy way, not that I was worried about damaging it. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2h0i-RmI/AAAAAAAABeU/YCPW6ENWBUA/s1600-h/rrintake_0009%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0009" border="0" alt="rrintake_0009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2iKSUENI/AAAAAAAABeY/GnKb68CBBrg/rrintake_0009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2ixKf2vI/AAAAAAAABec/1NSyWYZTmEw/s1600-h/rrintake_0010%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0010" border="0" alt="rrintake_0010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2jeCcUsI/AAAAAAAABeg/4hPU-XPI-Gs/rrintake_0010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Here are some better shots of the boot out of the truck with the tape still on it. Clicking on the pictures will load a 1280x1024 resolution picture. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2kMs2R4I/AAAAAAAABek/SX6Nn1MLaic/s1600-h/rrintake_0011%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0011" border="0" alt="rrintake_0011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2kaVEDGI/AAAAAAAABeo/2sqYOHVqWDU/rrintake_0011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2lTtSOmI/AAAAAAAABes/2bvdncRUrxw/s1600-h/rrintake_0012%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0012" border="0" alt="rrintake_0012" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2l2SvbrI/AAAAAAAABew/_nZpgKQf8sM/rrintake_0012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>You can see I used RTV 2 different times to seal it up. It rips anyways even with the tape. It’s a great quick fix, but it only lasts a while due to the heat. We don’t have to worry about that any with our replacement, it’s rated to 550 Degrees. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2mtzaSwI/AAAAAAAABe0/WuZY-08qRBc/s1600-h/rrintake_0013%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0013" border="0" alt="rrintake_0013" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2npWy1jI/AAAAAAAABe4/HubSLQa9VG4/rrintake_0013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2oe8-zjI/AAAAAAAABe8/IqM4KJ_MVYU/s1600-h/rrintake_0014%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0014" border="0" alt="rrintake_0014" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPJvutIdl-Mei65k-B-7w9o093sABumsF5jm6QBxzKzOKzlmsjYQ-vl3yRhaGh8czx0fw3EvfCpOZi4qEdKEkqkcRaaZzKvaLVCJJVt_qRSxmGayHz0DoLpNlJ-27GaI3iFTyH2ER0Uo/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Here we stack it up with the original. That new Aramid/Nomex boot looks amazing!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2pS8cmUI/AAAAAAAABfE/9_PkJdXHcdw/s1600-h/rrintake_0015%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0015" border="0" alt="rrintake_0015" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2p1sNAPI/AAAAAAAABfI/leRHkpcL8Xw/rrintake_0015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2q5KaLnI/AAAAAAAABfM/8Du9TQcw-2M/s1600-h/rrintake_0016%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0016" border="0" alt="rrintake_0016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2rWeTaiI/AAAAAAAABfQ/coI8qtv6tUo/rrintake_0016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The inside of the old boot is textured, and the new one is smooth. No idea if this would really make any difference on air flow.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2r1Uv4rI/AAAAAAAABfU/W0mmKNIbogU/s1600-h/rrintake_0017%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0017" border="0" alt="rrintake_0017" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-SOxej95yLGWR_Shc_lTYE1SRS7icrXqsGX44hWtekSe4S-WLxp7_tz3wswhq54wn0UHzJ5Vhs5oDnMCCyOYJl2OFPkjA3B3HKdyXNveWQTM5tD73-FIYp9GqnmV-ELXOVx3P7QFC5o/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2tAa3SCI/AAAAAAAABfc/krKjhQtL6Hk/s1600-h/rrintake_0018%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0018" border="0" alt="rrintake_0018" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2tlkVaJI/AAAAAAAABfg/obIy7B8G-aw/rrintake_0018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>This is a direct replacement for the factory boot which if you do find it (138$), is very expensive. Its got a sweet RiffRaff Diesel Performance tag on it as well so everyone can see where you got this awesome boot from.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2uhbnDvI/AAAAAAAABfk/VldgIf9bOps/s1600-h/rrintake_0019%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0019" border="0" alt="rrintake_0019" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2vPnkUaI/AAAAAAAABfo/JbCKmWuPaoU/rrintake_0019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2v6O7w_I/AAAAAAAABfs/qVS9CKj2uCw/s1600-h/rrintake_0020%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0020" border="0" alt="rrintake_0020" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2wX3U31I/AAAAAAAABfw/DJzSxL7VUMg/rrintake_0020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>I removed the rest of the intake pieces and used some Silicone grease to lube up the new boot. Since it is an intake boot, you don’t have to worry about blowing it off due to pressure. This will help fit the boot easier and adjustments will be easier. This boot fits very snug when you get it on. No worries about it leaking.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2xZ9U9cI/AAAAAAAABf0/t8Ov08-TuLc/s1600-h/rrintake_0021%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0021" border="0" alt="rrintake_0021" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2yKgcwVI/AAAAAAAABf4/vFbuG54Ntcw/rrintake_0021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2zNiYAvI/AAAAAAAABf8/ldLBZ7eZqxg/s1600-h/rrintake_0022%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0022" border="0" alt="rrintake_0022" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV2zXL4fEI/AAAAAAAABgA/InlS3LQVUJ8/rrintake_0022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>I installed the boot and put on the whatever you would call it part it clamps too. As you can see it doesn’t line up quite right yet.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV20eKL0mI/AAAAAAAABgE/YYIIkNfRFE8/s1600-h/rrintake_0023%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0023" border="0" alt="rrintake_0023" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV205YyBnI/AAAAAAAABgI/0LjO3DchziQ/rrintake_0023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV213tWP0I/AAAAAAAABgM/ZD2uyWE6L54/s1600-h/rrintake_0024%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0024" border="0" alt="rrintake_0024" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV22OwNH1I/AAAAAAAABgQ/39Q_3oRLg74/rrintake_0024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>I adjusted the boot till it lined up easily with the bracket. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV23ZYk1-I/AAAAAAAABgU/tIs43jFtfaY/s1600-h/rrintake_0025%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0025" border="0" alt="rrintake_0025" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV23p0RHOI/AAAAAAAABgY/Xb2j2lVEv-0/rrintake_0025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV24qUV7FI/AAAAAAAABgc/VxAVeRHhMzE/s1600-h/rrintake_0026%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0026" border="0" alt="rrintake_0026" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV25OJGT3I/AAAAAAAABgg/M2fZyOnJTxg/rrintake_0026_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>After that I bolted it into place and twisted the boot till everything lined up correctly with the flanges. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV26D57jhI/AAAAAAAABgk/r0j6907HrIQ/s1600-h/rrintake_0027%5B11%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0027" border="0" alt="rrintake_0027" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV26k7AdgI/AAAAAAAABgo/_TUgbRMfpVM/rrintake_0027_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV27aNkUvI/AAAAAAAABgs/eMHL8rhnNXM/s1600-h/rrintake_0028%5B11%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0028" border="0" alt="rrintake_0028" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHuYH6flwuSEk3brFYn9W8IJeo6NWnCKwz6ispsfxrKgjj9eYof7ihN4q7w0OSh9YFSxWdwKQrWRmQyzZX9nS7wWtB6JCpDI2AFwzzMiNesFO20SVNDsyDvpEEPUx_k9lmNRKhtJ3ohI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>I tightened the clamps up and admired the new look. You can see the RiffRaff 45 that is powder coated for the 6637 as well. They go great together!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmiHnXOZ6QlnsRMuiWuvkzgzmIObhioDgfUdqpyVaeqJlvWfFd9ToaA0T7-_VaLJ62Gxom0KhFnJ6Lq124s-W-xWKTK4OKOuc4_vZIDjfC9mAbCEyggqX0tfb5fnkieAva-EzTdpoBhA/s1600-h/rrintake_0029%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="rrintake_0029" border="0" alt="rrintake_0029" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/TXV29U-AgdI/AAAAAAAABg8/cLMHZV_CtOk/rrintake_0029_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Not many tools required to do this. 1/2 inch wrench to get the intake coupler off, and 8mm driver for the hose clamps. Silicone Grease was not necessary, but something I do. </p> <p>Pick your own intake replacement boot at <a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=RRD&Product_Code=RDP9497IN&Category_Code=FOBS-IN-TB" target="_blank">RiffRaff Diesel Performance</a>. They are $49.66 plus shipping. If you found the product here though our website, be sure to tell Clay where you found out!</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-80623654347477101502011-01-28T12:23:00.001-08:002011-01-28T12:36:39.764-08:00Repairing the Backlight on a Logitech Harmony H659 Remote<p>Today I was given a Harmony 659. The owner claimed the backlight had been giving him issues recently. It would sometimes stop working, but usually smacking it on any horizontal surface that was handy seemed to fix it. Now the backlight doesn’t work at all.</p> <p>Step one: <strong>STOP BEATING THE REMOTE</strong></p> <p>Four screws and a few plastic clips later, I could see the backlight was of the ‘<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electroluminescence" target="_blank">EL</a> glow’ variety and looking at the design, I had my first suspicion.</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 448px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:ca885315-e4f7-48b7-b073-14b1b37c9beb" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="b88b7546-576a-41b8-9c7f-2237c167ac27" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBOdtfNQFOc" target="_new"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TUMlyXChw6I/AAAAAAAATU0/sDEejC4dEUA/videoa4db2b946497%5B74%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('b88b7546-576a-41b8-9c7f-2237c167ac27'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/HBOdtfNQFOc?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/HBOdtfNQFOc?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="width:448px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">Getting to to siliconny insides of a Logitech H659 is a lot easier with video editing software.</div></div> <p> </p> <p>The glow layer was floating above the circuit board and received connectivity at the bottom from a set of three contacts that were pressed into pads by the rubber membrane layer. Instantly I thought, “Well there’s your problem! There must be something wrong with one of those pads!” An hour later after rounds of cleaning and testing, the remote still would not glow. My multimeter confirmed there was indeed connectivity. Back to square one.</p> <p>Okay brain, think. Electroluminescent material works kinda like <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cold_Cathode" target="_blank">CCFL</a> in the way it usually needs an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inverter_(electrical)" target="_blank">inverter</a> of some sort to operate. This means somewhere near the pads there is probably some power processing going on.</p> <p>Ah-ha! found it, but… everything looks normal. Hold up- what’s going on here?</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 448px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:404aa8ce-8417-466d-a8e7-5026ac262328" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="208dce62-e718-4c43-a366-9ef8fff49d88" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2py6dCsh_U" target="_new"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TUMlyzPFx_I/AAAAAAAATU8/1vvOf5Dqj4Y/video3c58f251d026%5B43%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('208dce62-e718-4c43-a366-9ef8fff49d88'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/y2py6dCsh_U?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/y2py6dCsh_U?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="width:448px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">Does it hurt when I do this?</div></div> <p> </p> <p>Well now that explains a lot. A large, heavy, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inductor" target="_blank">inductor</a> on the board, might decide to break free on a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surface-mount_technology" target="_blank">surface mount</a>. Especially if it were helped by a few G’s from repeated beatings. </p> <p>Problem is, when it broke free, it took the solder pad with it. Putting a new pad back on there is probably more trouble than it’s worth. Looks like the circuit makes a “T” and runs to an unused pad just on the other side of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inductor" target="_blank">inductor</a>. Excellent! Let’s prepare the pads and reroute the legs. </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 448px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:9ebc2b39-913d-4a00-b79d-739666b78f85" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="4a4d6cdb-d99d-47c0-bed3-a91bfa5d5471" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpn0tQRuZLo" target="_new"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TUMlze1GFgI/AAAAAAAATVE/7Nl2kOAUWh0/video7daf2b8c21d4%5B18%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('4a4d6cdb-d99d-47c0-bed3-a91bfa5d5471'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/dpn0tQRuZLo?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/dpn0tQRuZLo?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="width:448px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">Easy, right?</div></div> <p> </p> <p>As you can see, I have the back of the remote handy to make sure I’m inside the lines. The components have to fit in the compartments on the back plastic. Also, I added a bit of hot glue as insurance to make sure it didn’t stress the remaining pads.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41XjJpdU7fJaY56FkDUurmSbh725SFgXj_TAh6YRYycZRHPwm-EH7898aFgJgl9NM1K8Vb9cXG2hTE5k2d2Z4xfmZOBBZ2sVkMfVJufzxULyeJnhSuy19i5MCLpUyFEa7ypzeF8qCXFvj/s1600-h/IMG-20110127-00330%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG-20110127-00330" border="0" alt="IMG-20110127-00330" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TUMo0PDxmyI/AAAAAAAATVQ/Tp1IyewacnQ/IMG-20110127-00330_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TUMo1LIDYEI/AAAAAAAATVU/Mz653vsONus/s1600-h/IMG-20110127-00336%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG-20110127-00336" border="0" alt="IMG-20110127-00336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5NEsHhE52Rcsz-SteAtS-akmgNrIYUZFzLMOyUJDnTS3w31588MSfxFGZvMEvjOg7qZGMh5VFNNowwgvrxhrr9VaVWBjr3CHCCUkurs36ztaZLvBNLEnjcKxUuW6XloZ9n0OVLBLdzET/?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a></p> <p>Now the couch potatoing may resume!</p> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-45383001623255851462010-08-14T20:40:00.001-07:002010-08-15T10:15:23.646-07:00Fixing Viewsonic LCD Monitors VX924 VX922 VX724 (VS10162 VS10049) Update…<p>It’s been over a year since I wrote my <a href="http://www.midnightmods.com/2009/02/fixing-viewsonic-vx924-vs10162.html" target="_blank">original article</a> detailing how I fixed a VX924. The post has been one of the most popular on the site and has sparked tons of interest from fellow DIY’s. Since then, I’ve repaired dozens of this series monitor and thought it’d be wise to elaborate on my previous post. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhQLORpWI/AAAAAAAATKc/iSG0q516iJ4/s1600-h/IMG00870-20100720-1107%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG00870-20100720-1107" border="0" alt="IMG00870-20100720-1107" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhQx1rGwI/AAAAAAAATKg/rtcJBQ34wfk/IMG00870-20100720-1107_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a></p> <p>The fleet I repair consists mostly of VX924’s, with a few VX922’s and a couple VX724’s mixed in. The repair procedure has been the same for all three. Let’s get familiar with the VX924. After flipping the monitor on to the screen (helps to lay out a towel to prevent scratches) remove the screws on the four corners of the panel. A swift pull upward on the base while holding the silver trim down should separate the two halves. It’s not uncommon to break a plastic retaining clip in the process. The screws will hold it back together when it’s reassembled anyway.</p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdjAGfkqGI/AAAAAAAATMM/qaRqc1MUKHo/s1600-h/IMG00962-20100806-1543%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00962-20100806-1543" border="0" alt="IMG00962-20100806-1543" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdjA7vlSJI/AAAAAAAATMQ/tPk3NMbNW1s/IMG00962-20100806-1543_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdjCZRiOEI/AAAAAAAATMU/6FIXo5krAr4/s1600-h/IMG00969-20100806-1644%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00969-20100806-1644" border="0" alt="IMG00969-20100806-1644" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdjC72V-cI/AAAAAAAATMY/dOAShT6d804/IMG00969-20100806-1644_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The monitor above on the right is a VX924 (VS10162) while the monitor on the left is a VX924 (VS10162). No, that is not an error. They are both the same model. They even look the same from the outside. Once you pop off the back though, you can start to see the differences. I’m going to refer to them as notched (left picture with the - indentation) and unnotched (right picture with + indentation), you’ll see why in a bit. So, if you have a monitor like the one on the right (unnotched) I have good news: you’ve got the easy one to take apart and easy to fix. For you notched readers, this one is slightly more involved to take apart and repair, but I wouldn’t say it’s “hard”.</p> <p><strong>For both:</strong> We’ll start by removing the screws circled in the above pictures and carefully unplugging the cables I’ve drawn arrows pointing to. If there is aluminum tape over the connector, it’ll need to be removed gently. Then pull on the connector and not the cables to remove them. It may help to use a set of angled needle nose pliers on the backlight cables. </p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhWpSpZXI/AAAAAAAATK0/qMoXqUx5DJk/s1600-h/IMG00963-20100806-1544%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00963-20100806-1544" border="0" alt="IMG00963-20100806-1544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIf3Rab5u8ML4HaRaMwwViliieF2ts_jmD_OpinE2dkH3La26kk0S_FgCQ9AFs-DfpwQP-y74ehGhDrZ2NHzlrewy918skA75ydkfyM3u5SZgufYJSLtAxLs7RonA7PRVdA462lHBfCsIQ/?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a>  </p> <p><strong>For notched boards:</strong> The next step is to lift out the tray you just unscrewed and flip it over, like above. Remove the circled screws.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhYuMOX6I/AAAAAAAATK8/4zbOhpvb9lc/s1600-h/IMG00964-20100806-1546%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00964-20100806-1546" border="0" alt="IMG00964-20100806-1546" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhZDE5sTI/AAAAAAAATLA/RDPDXHUKjlQ/IMG00964-20100806-1546_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a></p> <p><strong>For notched boards:</strong> Next, remove the signal connector standoffs. If you have a 5mm socket and driver around, they come in handy! After the standoffs are removed, flip back the clear plastic protector, and lift out both boards a bit.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhaamjfwI/AAAAAAAATLE/0oCapyvSz94/s1600-h/IMG00966-20100806-1548%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG00966-20100806-1548" border="0" alt="IMG00966-20100806-1548" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdha7si6dI/AAAAAAAATLM/HbUnOkiPjOQ/IMG00966-20100806-1548_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a></p> <p align="left"><strong>For notched boards:</strong> Now you’ll want to separate the two boards. If it helps you can unplug the logic board first.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhAWYJfyHGZGCw6tK93SsbFso3i6TT5onYec-JSIdjRHLs4YwDfFE-ORoNN1x_OXkUlAlcfxwx414sv6ZCCFrpfRQgO7flmApv99P8pn-Xpam9XFyyT2uCVcjAUN9Ew83sMxaZy0a7QNL/s1600-h/IMG00970-20100806-1645%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00970-20100806-1645" border="0" alt="IMG00970-20100806-1645" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhdZfSF-I/AAAAAAAATLU/24iVK6geY6Y/IMG00970-20100806-1645_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a> </p> <p><strong>For unnotched boards:</strong> Push the panel you just unscrewed away from you, then flip it up as pictured above. Then, unplug the backlight cables by pulling on the connector, not the cable. It helps if you use a small pair of needle nose pliers to assist in grabbing the connector. Next, remove the four screws holding down the inverter/power supply board. Finally, push on the AC connector to loosen the board and then pull the board to the left to disconnect it from the logic board. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmYCKDQ3dCghPZjGt5dehWilvrcKJH8rZyhDQO3RAb2Yqjm_ZTnBYnkfpMh_g2aphBLUMz3AV5e0BQ9RMnDtw1XtPjBs2Nwlkymv6RFucj368TdQS4xbZbOwUX1mx-T6oAeOtavN_kf3L/s1600-h/IMG00973-20100806-1649values%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00973-20100806-1649values" border="0" alt="IMG00973-20100806-1649values" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhfVnNEyI/AAAAAAAATLc/FEURl7bd3v8/IMG00973-20100806-1649values_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a> </p> <p><strong>For both:</strong> With the inverter/power supply board out, you should be able to see the problem. Bad capacitors. Also, as you can see in my picture above, the difference between the two boards. One has a notch cut out of it (FSP043-2PI01 P/N: 3BS0101313GP) and the other is rectangular (FSP035-1PI01 P/N: 3BS006431C). I’ve also labeled the capacitors in case you forget what goes where. Replacement is pretty straight forward as I’ve outlined in <a href="http://www.midnightmods.com/2009/02/how-to-fix-hp-l1706-px849a-hstnd-2f02.html" target="_blank">other articles</a>.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg0dbvzkflidKAxTK0T9QPDb_OYJew95RWQtTwGdF1a_MvLI9_RBFqxFUTH4XGgjI5iId44vieiit54LEUuuFVp849ptDSgUlzp4s-GeVLWV3dbzjxN1puFavH2CWLPy5XDCOA-1hunXpQ/s1600-h/IMG00995-20100812-1356%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00995-20100812-1356" border="0" alt="IMG00995-20100812-1356" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhhJ6nWBI/AAAAAAAATLk/jCL94Pk-z5w/IMG00995-20100812-1356_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a> </p> <p>I typically replace all but the largest capacitor with their high temperature counterparts of a different brand. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2hhjAvimEdfsWf81goyAFbGX8rpRiX_GnonfZdy7j8KxbbK4UAOR3Bx66HJWklu7ANh0lI3zSzBmzu_LH3XxbeBpgcsw6L2n68M6lvnR1dXSQYt_2iP6gvdA7ijU2vb21CTrdOohStO0/s1600-h/IMG01005-20100812-1801%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG01005-20100812-1801" border="0" alt="IMG01005-20100812-1801" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhjPMdW1I/AAAAAAAATLs/IdPGbix6beE/IMG01005-20100812-1801_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil0gMTj2Y79UxIx8y-ziWKrmt6r_NiXkzGYkd-BvaM9qc1eCZHaDZGBEU7TiXxK7Y8sRTJ8q7N-qxsHNGAB9OTcqG-PaDts_aU7N_gZ_ktaWHVsDv_wsCtRRheCNlvJmo_PtnxeKL9tC5S/s1600-h/IMG01004-20100812-1800%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG01004-20100812-1800" border="0" alt="IMG01004-20100812-1800" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhk7Ibg9I/AAAAAAAATL0/O3LqU-1v0EY/IMG01004-20100812-1800_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>You’ll still want to inspect the large capacitor. It doesn’t happen often, but on a couple, it did blow. As you can see above, it sprayed all over the transformer. Awesome.</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:5e44dc3b-1c7c-46f8-961d-d3c01f257af5" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="e1c36c2f-e14e-47c0-90fd-4281f8cf7b47" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpcJqBzFj7E" target="_new"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLDLygiXW6Hl-UwsgkL5XZCUMXquodmhBh77dSUrMU2c-qRbiXNKw29Io1elw3v8B0WUq7Q7DXB9Uvcfbs6YxsjIwKs995ZUd4PwPOaDgJSuMfctq0ZfS9P1EkTX484HIGeNQGJ3irhkl/?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('e1c36c2f-e14e-47c0-90fd-4281f8cf7b47'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/hpcJqBzFj7E&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/hpcJqBzFj7E&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p align="center">A time-lapse video of me fixing a VX924 (notched)</p> <p>Once you’ve got all the capacitors replaced, reassemble (duh?) and test.</p> <p>Chances are real good this fix will repair your monitor but, I have 2-3 monitors that won’t come on even after performing the replacement. I’m looking in to the reason and will update this paragraph with that info when I learn what it is. </p> <p>Well, back to work. Only about a dozen left to fix today. :-)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TGdhnB6MqqI/AAAAAAAATL8/pmk7LzrkRSk/s1600-h/IMG00997-20100812-1438%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00997-20100812-1438" border="0" alt="IMG00997-20100812-1438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghv-KJLeYdxzgSUpxTpyx5oh9LcDyum-PsAN3xvwNAjdgDni8Dw4tW0hO1dtvRtyyE9k4nO0d1az9bzs22iDvQdBmyWrhprdqkaRkewFHtroM-4zoOq8GflM7qfFNl2-H03Hqpum7xPEIe/?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a></p> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com104tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-63811704630886706512010-06-06T16:58:00.001-07:002010-06-20T20:59:44.512-07:00FREE Midnight Mods Stickers!<p>That’s right! Free stickers to finish off any project the right way. We have received so many great comments from people just like you over the past few years about the projects and info on our site that we wanted to provide you with something to stick on all the jobs well done. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TAxCDFOKmuI/AAAAAAAATJE/4N-ovtPgGYo/s1600-h/CIMG3189%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Midnight Mods "Warranty Void" Chrome Sticker" border="0" alt="Midnight Mods "Warranty Void" Chrome Sticker" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TAxCDjDZF8I/AAAAAAAATJI/zNrEom6Fiec/CIMG3189_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a> </p> <p>Sticker Stock:</p> <p align="center"><font color="#008000"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TB7iXehZbEI/AAAAAAAATJ0/iATBuvxEoYw/s1600-h/FirstWV%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="FirstWV" border="0" alt="FirstWV" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhbhGQRKGtSJ1UHpZbqQtGQ3Gtld-W4fm2iqSs4z5JZPpIRkuPIFoMLoeS9AYIcrQuQZSAxgYv56uBk8FQI9rSKI9KANKOTB9PlRroEXRbFd6qCoD7nDzyoHdGXm6polifoKJfer8R2oR/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="89" /></a> </font></p> <ul> <li><font color="#008000">Available (but going fast)</font> - First edition “Warranty Voided” sticker. Black with shiny chrome letters printed with UV ink for outdoor use (3+ years). Has the tag line “by midnightmods.com” 4.25” x 1.38” </li> </ul> <p align="center"><font color="#008000"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TB7iYcSM_eI/AAAAAAAATJ8/WeVRREBhjh0/s1600-h/SecondWV%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="SecondWV" border="0" alt="SecondWV" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/TB7iY0OAkPI/AAAAAAAATKA/rZAFslpsEQc/SecondWV_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="91" /></a></font></p> <ul> <li><font color="#008000">Available</font> - Second edition “Warranty Voided” sticker. Black with white letters printed with UV ink for outdoor use (3+ years). Has the tag line “midnightmods.com” 4.25” x 1.38” </li> </ul> <p>Our stickers compliment any completed project. By placing it on your stuff it shows you’re the type of person who isn't afraid to crack open that case and get intimate with your tech gear. It proudly declares, “I MOD, THEREFORE I AM (a geek)”. We’ll send you a couple if supplies permit, because they look great on the back of LCD monitors, laptops, bicycles, motorcycles, trucks, printers, and just about anything else with an available flat surface. Upload some pictures to <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com" target="_blank">Picasaweb</a>, <a href="http://flickr.com" target="_blank">Flickr</a>, or even <a href="http://imageshack.us/" target="_blank">imageshack</a> when you stick ‘em up and share the link, we’d love to see where they end up!</p> <p>The stickers are absolutely free; we paid for them out of pocket, but we do ask you to pay 80 cents for the stamp, envelope, and Paypal fees (you can optionally make a donation during checkout too, but we won’t love you any less if you don’t :-). It’s actually cheaper and faster than an SASE program, plus- no stamp licking involved! United States addresses only please, since it will be sent first class. We heart Canada and would love to send you stickers, but you’ll have to “donate” an extra dollar to cover the international postage. Just click the “Pay Now” button below to get started.</p> <form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post"> <input type="hidden" name="cmd" value="_s-xclick"> <input type="hidden" name="hosted_button_id" value="WBEBRGW3XAY8Y"> <table> <tr><td><input type="hidden" name="on0" value="Donation Options">Donation Options</td></tr><tr><td><select name="os0"> <option value="Just Send Me Some Stickers">Just Send Me Some Stickers $0.36</option> <option value="Stickers and $1 Donation">Stickers and $1 Donation $1.36</option> <option value="Stickers and $5 Donation">Stickers and $5 Donation $5.36</option> <option value="Stickers and $10 Donation">Stickers and $10 Donation $10.36</option> <option value="Stickers and $20 Donation">Stickers and $20 Donation $20.36</option> </select> </td></tr> </table> <input type="hidden" name="currency_code" value="USD"> <input type="image" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/btn/btn_paynowCC_LG.gif" border="0" name="submit" alt="PayPal - The safer, easier way to pay online!"> <img alt="" border="0" src="https://www.paypal.com/en_US/i/scr/pixel.gif" width="1" height="1"> </form> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-21604835451465663862010-05-03T10:49:00.001-07:002010-05-03T10:51:33.457-07:00Dual Mass Flywheels For Dummies<p>Should start out with this having no affiliation with the for dummies series, but when it comes to these things, we all seem to be a bunch of dummies. I’d like to state that I do not 100% know what is going on in this design of failure, so this will mostly be speculation on my part, or for anyone who helps with information or idea’s on what is why or how. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MMo89YsI/AAAAAAAAA78/1tAmsBu3dLU/s1600-h/dmf_8002.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_800" border="0" alt="dmf_800" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MNBHsHnI/AAAAAAAAA8A/AFG8ywHnBSc/dmf_800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MNYhbhRI/AAAAAAAAA8E/F1-fDlg65iI/s1600-h/dmf_8012.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_801" border="0" alt="dmf_801" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MONjdnrI/AAAAAAAAA8I/_VuDil_ZgXM/dmf_801_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>This is the dual mass flywheel. Pardon my rust, but that’s what metal does. The dual mass flywheel is supposedly two flywheels mated together with some springs as you can see in the picture on the right. Let’s dig inside and see how this thing really works.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MORg2e8I/AAAAAAAAA8M/p2AhNjOPrG0/s1600-h/dmf_10006.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1000" border="0" alt="dmf_1000" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MO7wG_VI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/qYTbXlovXCg/dmf_1000_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> Lets get these bolts loose on the top here first, they are the most obvious piece to the puzzle. Almost everything else appears to be rivets except for the two allen screws on the bottom of the DMF. I had to use the impact to bust these things loose, and boy were they on their tight. I do not really think you would want it coming apart. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MPI1ftuI/AAAAAAAAA8U/ieIwQ7JED78/s1600-h/dmf_10023.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1002" border="0" alt="dmf_1002" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyr27SOpXFr7BCn-3MQb8EVp96dCX8up9kr4R1eD6Nk82ADNmur-f_wuS71vJVkB_IiCJqP6xUTFZDFC-pEwyne6WC7pQO-JiV2OrNG8THfd2hZ2vNr-BAvyJXcoXaiM-bpPhY25NUY0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> This is the bottom side of the surface that I just unbolted. You can see that it is balanced before assembly. This is the main piece of the clutch that mates up with the clutch surface. The odd thing that I noticed is that the center ring there is very shiny.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Ya9NwQrlX9DVeRxNnrj9bLTr6274NdlwP0yrt43MRjcSkYxKPXOQBy3I7Cq4B0bhjasqKJ6i09Fwu_a_MJw_9PcKxK1SdJJqXDh1HN0b2H1gxpb_SpHHdxgjlkn4_NlI3lqRj5aE4ug/s1600-h/dmf_10013.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1001" border="0" alt="dmf_1001" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MQcznflI/AAAAAAAAA8k/eLqAjgyVKYM/dmf_1001_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> On the center ring here where that shiny surface mated, it was a weird texture. Reminded me of a brake pad or a clutch style material. Lets take a closer look.<br></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><br><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MQmSzxjI/AAAAAAAAA8o/aDEXJ1NLWhQ/s1600-h/dmf_10062.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1006" border="0" alt="dmf_1006" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MRHnW04I/AAAAAAAAA8s/aXOpXsGxEcQ/dmf_1006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MRbCpXGI/AAAAAAAAA8w/Z9K8JGdCNtg/s1600-h/dmf_10072.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1007" border="0" alt="dmf_1007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MR7zQ-8I/AAAAAAAAA80/O7sq3eM8xNI/dmf_1007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I used a screw driver and a hammer to try and chip the surface away. Best I can tell is that this is some sort of clutch style material. This was surely an interesting find.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MST1gNMI/AAAAAAAAA84/2HgZSvPYoB0/s1600-h/dmf_10032.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1003" border="0" alt="dmf_1003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MTA1i5oI/AAAAAAAAA88/mvCeeGDvNAQ/dmf_1003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MTUHXcWI/AAAAAAAAA9A/GRSeNFJLORk/s1600-h/dmf_10042.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1004" border="0" alt="dmf_1004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MUPmXzjI/AAAAAAAAA9E/VcNvqjZIHoQ/dmf_1004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>in these two pictures we can see one of the main reasons of failure in the DMF. You can see these little pieces of what look like metal inside there. I believe they are the main cause of the flywheel becoming unbalanced. They just float around there with no place to go. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MUqmTmEI/AAAAAAAAA9I/V14Uy-BD9uk/s1600-h/dmf_10053.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1005" border="0" alt="dmf_1005" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MU7pPx4I/AAAAAAAAA9M/CifJjQF9MxY/dmf_1005_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> This is a picture of the the part that is between the springs. This whole ring is held down with some rivets in one large piece, you can see one of the hold down rivets at the top of the picture. </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MVNN_6xI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/o-vUnA71vMY/s1600-h/dmf_10082.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1008" border="0" alt="dmf_1008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MV6GfDaI/AAAAAAAAA9U/shbWdaioJWY/dmf_1008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MWPEy4QI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/t2DBrfkTBoc/s1600-h/dmf_10092.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1009" border="0" alt="dmf_1009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MWmWOOnI/AAAAAAAAA9c/9RPTtTgDPf0/dmf_1009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I decided to drill the rivets out and press on. After finding the right size and spending a good hour drilling these things out I made some progress.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MXfVtr_I/AAAAAAAAA9g/24gO3tlRn7s/s1600-h/dmf_10106.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1010" border="0" alt="dmf_1010" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MX16dDdI/AAAAAAAAA9k/uINox-aNLf4/dmf_1010_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MYVse5lI/AAAAAAAAA9o/o8SsZpc1fCg/s1600-h/dmf_10112.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1011" border="0" alt="dmf_1011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MYz6WH7I/AAAAAAAAA9s/rHeI_gMdu2k/dmf_1011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I used a screw driver and a hammer and had to work my way around the ring to get it popped free. even with the rivets drilled out, it still came off pretty tough. The picture on the right shows the reverse side of the ring.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MZC0GS0I/AAAAAAAAA9w/_eHL5sUzlzI/s1600-h/dmf_10123.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1012" border="0" alt="dmf_1012" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheydwsfqylbW3JekG1oVV-jgdr8KuKlezDDv8rknGmalpigbwrAg-R_ttmbo8TTXFWBL8AGtufzwYc-nV_5vJKfXOQ4xQjQ1ymWr9vy826J2cEsenVnjEmoMq5wU3PuqB8e4C_SO-FLF4/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> I set the ring on top of the other piece to show how it would look with the mating surface on the flywheel.</p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PI_1F6v8hCPQYV_obElTbXfeKmE3ySxLUbYsFoqN4Dg5DsxhTjmhOMT-Sg_oRUn3ax7tbZ4OzB19PhQw9JX-2y8Q0R6od_bh6zPU9-SlGi7nKD7N43DOeRE65dee5K_v55fBnCkYcfE/s1600-h/dmf_10132.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1013" border="0" alt="dmf_1013" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PJCXHup4TEvYMC-oFQS48q6NBjPc9cw69fcHYConL9-6DzK_cYDYRrs4A4dWUQDflcUWMkwlE3krGujO7GMduHSKU6R_9RWvdz_4OB-pBlKfvMphi6-u7QR1vdx0tBjO8px-JGOls60/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mai7BgiI/AAAAAAAAA-A/p9bfUVZBjzM/s1600-h/dmf_10142.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1014" border="0" alt="dmf_1014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MayG5RPI/AAAAAAAAA-E/gLkMZ6pUBdM/dmf_1014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here are some pictures of the springs and the setup without the ring on the assembly.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MbYJV0II/AAAAAAAAA-I/L9pK6xnZCUA/s1600-h/dmf_10152.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1015" border="0" alt="dmf_1015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mbry9vQI/AAAAAAAAA-M/Zk-6QNgICSg/dmf_1015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqm1gjcK_Jois3KFCkr-XcOcMzeT9_2u-mDc38i9X62KkccOVkk9Jzb7XTR3r9RU6goqaPbIYisSiyVuK5NkL_wZhCWfkSaO5a-UisOEu12IKoX6V7R8PVOEvDVvDFYlEKOiKNov-xLtw/s1600-h/dmf_10162.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1016" border="0" alt="dmf_1016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mcsb8EVI/AAAAAAAAA-U/JrqVeZZB9iE/dmf_1016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here you can see the main cause of the problems with the DMF. The whole center of the flywheel moves and allows this slop between the springs. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MdJM5EuI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/BDh1wmXBmHk/s1600-h/dmf_10173.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1017" border="0" alt="dmf_1017" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrjQqPLcsT2J0I0f5JD-jM01p_N5CEZ0moQZdG_JtCHHCHu_mI5b1zrvfHd64tELxK0EnbaEJdimPiTEkZenn_cJ5R2_Zdxfyq_IpFKO-L48VQfM2Myd-rjN0B2XEMbaGDZgaZ23jQUc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> As you can see here with the spring out, there is 2 bushings that hold the spring in place and are a buffer between the metal. I’m not sure what the material in the center is, but you can see how the end piece broke off on the one bushing, that is what we seen rolling around in the spring earlier. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Me0LNiTI/AAAAAAAAA-g/oBAA-s-tzb8/s1600-h/dmf_10183.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1018" border="0" alt="dmf_1018" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MfIuzVvI/AAAAAAAAA-k/jM2PMAbGwqg/dmf_1018_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> With all the springs out, you can get a better view of the assembly, there are more plates further in it appears, just like this plate we see on the top. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgkFnkNd2FCJY_7I14-KF3dO3LX9sS9Kd6VElovOQ_N78_yTKnHRIabzh1YhZCNjgepckTK273SsEXoH9xVceh3WSxWbkDewh-I4hF9P5odehTaQCNUMYVdNjnC9Wc5pnkDxGG3phvgU/s1600-h/dmf_10193.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1019" border="0" alt="dmf_1019" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MgOXSMSI/AAAAAAAAA-s/daLsk3qBNDo/dmf_1019_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> This is the reverse side of that top plate there. I’m not sure what is up with why this looks like this. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pXUgKHWGA4VjB9VAXW-GwwKXdtJMXoVE1ejcpFlhjPfxSYmJlB49Ki8bUTmr9-Ujo9PJtjf00xQuirnpQR-M9sCxk9Co5EOAQCGMybIdNTtozL-xjxnTd4KsbyNLr4D_T6BGehumauA/s1600-h/dmf_10202.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1020" border="0" alt="dmf_1020" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MgiiYTkI/AAAAAAAAA-0/V26sPankAIg/dmf_1020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mg3_BrGI/AAAAAAAAA-4/gT0XwtGW2q4/s1600-h/dmf_10212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1021" border="0" alt="dmf_1021" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MhAl1Q_I/AAAAAAAAA-8/SOM5XNjcLAI/dmf_1021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MhgExHOI/AAAAAAAAA_A/bKV-K2jKPD8/s1600-h/dmf_10223.jpg"><br><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dmf_1022" border="0" alt="dmf_1022" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mh2YfEkI/AAAAAAAAA_E/t0ZptPv8qCs/dmf_1022_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> You can see there are some copper rings in here that are angled to provide some sort of spring action to the pack. I don’t know if they were compressed or not when I drilled the rivets out and removed the top ring. Hard telling. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoRJrDdbZgWdXr9sCNcIvGnpnxFPKEEiaFKvwYb_6yGXmoMSX-yRFsNkBfUFxRG4iiuYWx6lw79tm7nBblw5IYwb93pnBFL2lmB7dJDVIK1jXKfoADSXw706FwrX7g1KLlLW5l7bHYBo/s1600-h/dmf_1023%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1023" border="0" alt="dmf_1023" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mj1FFwoI/AAAAAAAAA_M/hufeAUWKtLk/dmf_1023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MkTwB55I/AAAAAAAAA_Q/qjV__Y_V_CE/s1600-h/dmf_1024%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1024" border="0" alt="dmf_1024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MktXahKI/AAAAAAAAA_U/NsmNu_RUPpE/dmf_1024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here is a close up of the rubber pieces on the ring that holds the springs in. You can see they wear as well. I want to say the metal by them wears also, but I did no do any measuring to compare them.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXkd1fI0eDyDYH-eqEwfPU41tbUEKRjZqRUt3_ZdRCJq3VT8x5oM-a7wWNpJoUGLHqDRHfTKYAH-UBHiBGKXgxbAlIev8UDD3WEC0awMDsInAKWYoP6-9wDVAO8-SBdVMSdeK-HFB5NM/s1600-h/dmf_1025%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1025" border="0" alt="dmf_1025" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MlcYQ_3I/AAAAAAAAA_c/497scYRb6MA/dmf_1025_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> The bottom of the ring here you can see there is more of the clutch material like the other ring. So, we got two identical rings with some springs in the middle pressing them out too two identical plates riveted to the the second part of the flywheel with clutch material on the inner ring to prevent slippage or some sort of resistance against pressure on the springs.</p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MlpZ9AWI/AAAAAAAAA_g/HH0vjsu4RM8/s1600-h/dmf_1026%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1026" border="0" alt="dmf_1026" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Ml6FOz4I/AAAAAAAAA_k/316cRVYUQAQ/dmf_1026_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MmcsXznI/AAAAAAAAA_o/BQT7zq0yWbI/s1600-h/dmf_1027%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1027" border="0" alt="dmf_1027" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MmhYp4lI/AAAAAAAAA_s/yx5ZqSkXe5Y/dmf_1027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>That leaves us with this center hub here. I used a rubber piece to show you that this is indeed a bearing pack. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mm9p9NNI/AAAAAAAAA_w/yJlvSH8EvOk/s1600-h/dmf_1028%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1028" border="0" alt="dmf_1028" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MnG_X_VI/AAAAAAAAA_0/aWzEf4XTmKI/dmf_1028_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> On the back side of this part of the flywheel, as I mentioned before, there are two allen screws. They were remarkably easy to take out also. </p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mnh_hYqI/AAAAAAAAA_4/f-Z-uGwEdEs/s1600-h/dmf_1029%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1029" border="0" alt="dmf_1029" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MoN398kI/AAAAAAAAA_8/Uqivofy_K5s/dmf_1029_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MoYMTEmI/AAAAAAAABAA/0xg26LBIIFM/s1600-h/dmf_1030%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1030" border="0" alt="dmf_1030" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Moh9RXZI/AAAAAAAABAE/TEcv2KHuIyY/dmf_1030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Flipping the flywheel back over and pulling away the bearing hub you can see more clutch style material on the back of the ring on the bearing and a piece of plastic with notches in it. Wait, what plastic? You can see the hub is keyed to the plastic ring. I do not fully understand what this does. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MpeX4IHI/AAAAAAAABAI/kmmyTTlYwPA/s1600-h/dmf_1031%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1031" border="0" alt="dmf_1031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mphwgh8I/AAAAAAAABAM/IydpOfsg5oc/dmf_1031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfybIAdo1CXOUNOzJSQ-v-tmhWsmVSoYlW03XBDzWH1M82Zw4WZQp05LnkXUfA4CYRTwVQIWbYuoByEOuKzED8scomzzuylBw266gYn9MmcvPD9yGsvl1zbwJ_gtTsRx2DGJyY3eMoCcA/s1600-h/dmf_1032%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1032" border="0" alt="dmf_1032" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MqSZxoKI/AAAAAAAABAU/Th0N95puIsU/dmf_1032_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>The piece of clutch material comes off, with tight tolerances. I had to influence it off a bit, but no hammer was required. You can see there are more rings inside that assembly, which I’m guessing the plastic ring keeps in place. The right ring is a copper ring like the other copper rings with an angle to it for some spring action, and the other ring to the left is really flimsy like a piece of tin. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mqh2_rvI/AAAAAAAABAY/vJtYUMeio2A/s1600-h/dmf_1033%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1033" border="0" alt="dmf_1033" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MrX9IrVI/AAAAAAAABAc/hMt7-jgM1b8/dmf_1033_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a>While I was turning the bearing unit, I did not feel any resistance from the clutch materials on any of the pieces. The only resistance in the hub here was from the flywheel making its short rotations causing some grooving in the race and cups inside physically resisting my turning of the hub while I tried to rotate it. It smoothed out some after a few turns, but you could feel the bearing damage inside. You can see the pilot bearing in this picture is rusted really good as well. It looks like this is the main piece of the Flywheel. Its really a three or maybe even a four piece flywheel, not a 2 piece like everyone has though. Everything stems off this piece here which is held in by the 2 allen screws, then all the other parts are clamped down around it by rivets and springs.</p> <p>I’m going to toss in the remaining break down pictures in bulk here for you to look around on. I tried to keep like parts from the order they came off together in some sort of break out format. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mr9C7yGI/AAAAAAAABAg/wcdWrEH32zA/s1600-h/dmf_1034%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1034" border="0" alt="dmf_1034" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Msd1NRFI/AAAAAAAABAk/pMH14iBic1I/dmf_1034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MsjY7QhI/AAAAAAAABAo/l6EuSPz4gs8/s1600-h/dmf_1035%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1035" border="0" alt="dmf_1035" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MtY3yXhI/AAAAAAAABAw/S82O68eFnQ0/dmf_1035_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WEnft5aCIE2RNrOYkta-Pnn_UqjEpCQwW317bJ_CKbMz9SJqoG8_SC_3C3CXe4JIdN1XqKRIGohE0N1Wgsvyb48wrnhJT_xlhbNs1zxWoSe9cZWbY3bECvqXeEDMHssvTnAefFZvfWc/s1600-h/dmf_1036%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1036" border="0" alt="dmf_1036" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcRAq47P14kbLMO6MY9-7-9aLwkCVVJIg-Uac2N55r4wfc2ROkhyibSB2E3S0cJ4WPtnUoDMwg4TY0zRZLMGKdmJNf7RFxRu3EX-ebkQk90xQNtbM9WpZ_e7tu3AOM9Tg25w8-qWIoTzg/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MuVowR-I/AAAAAAAABA8/VCOCdjGB-9g/s1600-h/dmf_1037%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1037" border="0" alt="dmf_1037" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Muk54JaI/AAAAAAAABBA/b09ah-OhAws/dmf_1037_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mu99OhLI/AAAAAAAABBE/xa0YoJBnZ88/s1600-h/dmf_1038%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1038" border="0" alt="dmf_1038" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MvazX7qI/AAAAAAAABBI/EIywOilM2mg/dmf_1038_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MvkkD9wI/AAAAAAAABBM/r_IphGVAwKA/s1600-h/dmf_1039%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1039" border="0" alt="dmf_1039" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98Mv4-JKxI/AAAAAAAABBQ/HL5toBB5DjE/dmf_1039_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S98MwKXbaNI/AAAAAAAABBU/n4m7kvnt1Ck/s1600-h/dmf_1040%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="dmf_1040" border="0" alt="dmf_1040" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepqs07Jb2w1WsG8q1ytslF8kGoorTAwnInwWOij7zL2lzLrW10LGSdo3pw-Ngp80bm0MMSBrk1JqGqt5FD7sNemxx8ZQYdsNAGssMuEljEPO-hzr-8WvjKdXZItE8Qo3c2g4zKW3v5Fo/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> This is the part where I’m going to throw in large amounts of speculation on the post. Most were educated guesses based upon observations so far. </p> <p>I believe the main failures of these flywheels has to do with the clutches failing inside the unit. The springs at there to snap it back into place after putting torque on the motor, but eventually wear, or get dirty and stop resisting the pressure allowing more free travel in the clutch resulting in worn bushings for the springs. This eventually worsens as time goes on and more miles are put on the clutch, or more stress would be a better explanation allowing them to damage themselves. The clutches do not resist the turning of the flywheel when you have it out of the truck, the main plate feels as though it is free spinning until it touches a spring pack, there was no resistance in mine. </p> <p>I really do welcome all suggestions or thoughts regarding this and my explanations. Please be detailed in your comments and reference the picture number you are referring too if you are talking about a picture. <br><br>Please also remember, I do not really know anything about these devices or their intended performance, only that it is designed to reduce vibrations. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-58082801916444915242010-04-17T22:47:00.001-07:002010-04-17T23:28:33.215-07:00HP Laserjet P2015 Error Lights (LED’s) Stuck On<p>Last week, I had an HP Laserjet P2015 with a serious attitude problem. The top two LED’s (Paper Jam and Toner) were stuck on. It is normal for the lights to illuminate after you first turn the printer on, but after a few seconds they should be replaced by just the ready light after the printer has finished its boot process. This one never finished booting. A few times the paper light would be the only one on. I know you don’t need pictures, but hey, I have them. The situation looked like this:</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qclK-Y4OI/AAAAAAAATAw/U4a0qfdeABE/s1600-h/052%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="052" border="0" alt="052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcmMcur7I/AAAAAAAATA0/kjA29zJyDSo/052_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcm1ns-gI/AAAAAAAATA4/LKkEu09bgHw/s1600-h/056%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="056" border="0" alt="056" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcnlqZBNI/AAAAAAAATA8/gZRyKEtsiZY/056_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:3321ed98-bc39-4a50-acee-901809271507" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="03d2d1b3-d1c4-49b1-bd87-1b709c158355" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxF-aDhiusY" target="_new"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcorHemMI/AAAAAAAATGA/lovhCMjhMaI/video74891149d7d0%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('03d2d1b3-d1c4-49b1-bd87-1b709c158355'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/UxF-aDhiusY&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/UxF-aDhiusY&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p></p> <p>I kept trying to find the jam, opening covers and powering it on and off. Once I was done with the physical and verbal abuse, I noticed that the motor was running briefly after powering on, as it normally does during the startup process. The motor will NOT run if a jam is detected by the sensors (go ahead, stick a sheet of paper in a sensor and see!) This must mean the problem isn’t a jam right?</p> <p>So what’s the deal?</p> <p>Short answer: The formatter board. </p> <p>Long answer: There is an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Integrated_circuit" target="_blank">IC</a> on the board that uses a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ball_grid_array" target="_blank">BGA</a> form factor. As with many similar chips, especially early designs it seems, the failure is likely an open circuit due to a break in one of the solder balls from repeated thermal stress. </p> <p>If it’s bad enough, the computer will not even recognize that there is a printer plugged in, though I’ve seen different combinations of the above symptoms.</p> <p>So, you’re wondering how you can fix yours? Well, once you’ve determined that this is indeed your problem, the next step is pretty straight forward: you have to get to the formatter board. To do this, pull out the paper tray and toner cartridge. Then, firmly grasp the printers’ bottom left corner and pull back and outward to release it, repeating for the top left corner. It may help if you place the printer right side down on the desk and do it like this:</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:e2eb1f60-cbad-48f9-8775-7f4aba70acf3" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="2340ce49-a106-4fa5-b6f8-c72814251e33" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAcKZHqz0rc&feature=youtube_gdata" target="_new"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcpT_je8I/AAAAAAAATBE/z2zsHR_em9k/video6fb7e8431e58.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('2340ce49-a106-4fa5-b6f8-c72814251e33'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/IAcKZHqz0rc&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/IAcKZHqz0rc&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p align="left">If a picture is worth a thousand words, that video should at least be worth a $1.50. </p> <p align="left">Once the side panel is off, you can see the formatter board. If you look down at it from the top side, you can even see the little balls of solder under the IC. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcqVDV6eI/AAAAAAAATC0/9jjdnCd8p5k/s1600-h/059%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="059" border="0" alt="059" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFae1QKUC7jcx5GeveE7evQ1irQgaGwgcJ2l_waPS44KEHqWEaBd2pAbfFiLT5gWp0zkI0-hMhv_MxRIZ_SekG5Ca50M8QDvVCJxBz_23We_9PmFaAFIxVzgYT_2A-KXZpntmgYuYw77S/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcsOhRWZI/AAAAAAAATDI/9UKxgSG8wrA/s1600-h/065%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="065" border="0" alt="065" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcs0N8D8I/AAAAAAAATDM/joswuzeF_Bk/065_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>You’ll need to separate the board from the printer chassis. Start by unplugging the cables, carefully. Pull the ribbon cables with your fingers, griping them as close to the blue part as possible. Try not to bend them too much, as they are solid conductor. For the rest of the cables, just gently pull on the<em> CONNECTOR</em> to remove it from the socket, not the wires. If you pull on the wires, you risk pulling a wire out of the connector and complicating the project. You’ll want to remove the memory module too if you have one installed. Then, remove the four screws that hold the board in place.</p> <p>You’re going to think this is a late April fool’s joke, but it’s actually not. The next step is to preheat your oven to about 350º Fahrenheit and remember, your printer doesn’t work now- so what do you have to lose?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qct7pkPZI/AAAAAAAATBY/iZC0iqm4ONE/s1600-h/075%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="075" border="0" alt="075" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcuiUZXPI/AAAAAAAATBc/jrE_vOqlx6E/075_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>To prep the board for baking, remove the white barcoded sticker from the middle of the board and the black sticker from the memory module slot. Those two stickers should be the only thing not capable of ‘taking the heat’. </p> <p>Next, you’ll want to get out a flat pan, like a cookie sheet. You’ll need to elevate the board above the pan so it doesn’t end up soldering itself to it. To do this, you could either carefully make four small tin foil balls to fit over the screw holes (make sure the foil does not touch anything soldered) or use my preferred method and find some larger diameter screws and jam ‘em into the mounting holes. You’ll want to position the board with the heavy components facing up, that is, the side with the memory slot, USB connector, and IC up.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcvh3wXkI/AAAAAAAATDU/REoESYjPu4E/s1600-h/070%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="070" border="0" alt="070" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcwhSmfgI/AAAAAAAATDc/h_tTj4F7Vn4/070_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qcxSAqYQI/AAAAAAAATDk/CiStZFBzqoA/s1600-h/072%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="072" border="0" alt="072" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TSTQGiwWXVqFPf8v5tMDKSKCwbwOluo2LLGAyufCNQk5W535iWWCa-XUwNhbjAHXqBPOWJWf1GS3Ly3mZ0EeIHBH3W9C1UW1lXR7fnOYuyWXsPYdM-Y-8KGuHwCBaMUS9oiiolmzPGHk/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Once the oven reaches the target temperature, place the whole thing in and monitor it. You’ll want to leave it in for about eight minutes. </p> <p>What’s happening in the hot box? Well, if you haven’t figured it out yet, the heat is going to make all the solder on the board liquid, including (hopefully) the solder under that darn BGA chip. Once liquid, the open circuit should close and stay closed after it cools; the board will function normally again.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qczCQCXnI/AAAAAAAATDw/zOXL_nYgyHM/s1600-h/076%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="076" border="0" alt="076" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc0H0B2vI/AAAAAAAATD8/p4Og98sj7R0/076_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_z3fH-tki8gTExtIYY7QeTAvS332riiKD16SVz5Tjd7BGgSWb8A67ez2gwEASVubuhJbaQKJS1HOhOdQhMZCSl_AeJn5VA-XA3KkDYujy8CvYyWP8uexsVo-RGLrQp6n0Op2EAak7eB_/s1600-h/074%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="074" border="0" alt="074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NZF7TXjFZF0h6cal9N9Y87Y24KrL6-rTkP9n00g75AYZnAmxzY3Z0Zc6jCy0mkw7uXkrsTcvnOTctCzpHFK_jj9k4w9LN5pY0_v6zOBoQt6nfaeu6pn1x6gJxM8uGp1iPJMC4JyFqpNp/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Once your eight minutes is up, turn off the oven and open the door to let it cool in place. It’s best not to move the board right now, since all the solder is in a liquid state. It only takes a small shift of one component and the whole board will be scrap. So, just let it sit there and cool in the oven until it reaches room temperature again.</p> <p>After it has cooled, remove the temporary standoffs, replace the stickers, reinstall the board into the chassis, and carefully plug in the cables. Next, replace the toner and paper. Finally, plug in the printer, turn it on, and cross your fingers. This should happen:</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:95bcffe3-80b3-49c8-9208-4e866e3affa6" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="37ea47c4-d772-4d26-88c7-269ee9814834" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tDkDBM4NMY" target="_new"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc2yHo5FI/AAAAAAAATGI/WJPCuXoBBDw/video56b0ea580993%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('37ea47c4-d772-4d26-88c7-269ee9814834'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/1tDkDBM4NMY&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/1tDkDBM4NMY&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p align="left"></p> <p>If you get the above results, congratulations! Do a little happy dance. If yours still doesn’t work- you might have a bigger problem on your hands. </p> <p>There is a alternate way of heating the board if you have the tools. I typically use a heat gun and a infrared thermometer to reflow my boards. This takes a little practice to hold the board at the target temperature and you have to get a feel for when you think it has reflowed. The end result is the same though. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc37ylr8I/AAAAAAAATEc/sIjUzQxPnRY/s1600-h/079%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="079" border="0" alt="079" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc43SOE6I/AAAAAAAATEg/cVdghHITwtc/079_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc6N-4L9I/AAAAAAAATEs/NtrrkHJ5MQM/s1600-h/081%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="081" border="0" alt="081" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc7IcxtPI/AAAAAAAATEw/BxD3MU92uic/081_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Although this is a very common problem for this model, this printer isn’t alone. The problem exists on a few other similar HP printers and beyond that, many other devices. Just this week, I’ve reflowed two printers, an LCD, and a laptop.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2tcrxoTvp6WLy6j2zSmgIAHSR3WQCyfHjyB8zlhCNb9oWz-WQLrTPT0R19UT3iOutdSlzTb-_FuZU1J2jKcqWWL90Xbq6CI3LbpcUz_qrAC5Ido4rWLdDqY0Mfu-NuVFTAb6-2kXSDXC/s1600-h/099%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="099" border="0" alt="099" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc9DpUVFI/AAAAAAAATFA/aoXHuClDfDU/099_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc-PJ0lFI/AAAAAAAATFM/LP4bqdPAyjk/s1600-h/101%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="101" border="0" alt="101" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc_LbBX8I/AAAAAAAATFU/Hv0FVn2dWQA/101_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:099245e8-faa8-49e7-a2dd-8190aa331bbd" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="8065391a-2348-4342-a6d2-5d8e5f2f22c5" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuHI3eQ6FEk" target="_new"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S8qc_-c-drI/AAAAAAAATGM/vBi1h7niuVE/videofdc1fcef1a90%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('8065391a-2348-4342-a6d2-5d8e5f2f22c5'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iuHI3eQ6FEk&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/iuHI3eQ6FEk&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com114tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-23817291237099500522010-04-06T15:18:00.001-07:002010-04-06T15:43:01.831-07:00Truck Tool Box Repair<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utPx_HsRI/AAAAAAAAAzo/HlN-c9Dj-CQ/s1600-h/tbrepair_9505.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_950" border="0" alt="tbrepair_950" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utUp-qdrI/AAAAAAAAAzs/cU90qVPQRj4/tbrepair_950_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <p>When I picked up this beast of a truck in 2009, it came with a tool box from TSC in it. I don’t usually much care for tool boxes, they rattle and tend to not work very well if they were abused. This one was abused and among other things. I have a lot of pictures for this article, but I didn’t take pictures of all the repairs I did, but you should get the jist of what I was doing. </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"> </p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utYfJtR9I/AAAAAAAAAzw/1GmiYU5LEbk/s1600-h/tbrepair_10082.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1008" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1008" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvXoqCYH86-jqFNwc6HoudplEZmGSjsdmyhYzt69ITXO0hqGG9o_dNIjU1apDqW9nUayHZvlm_vx2RmRqlOISEyAfWFTfkIUdGsJsuxNRmRl5qspo67elWS5l4qC4Q5beZ3BZXQmCRhbo/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="106"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utemFMr4I/AAAAAAAAAz4/LQOpyrHeQGk/s1600-h/tbrepair_10072.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1007" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uthVItt6I/AAAAAAAAAz8/60FqeyR3_6c/tbrepair_1007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="107"></a> <p>You can see here that it looks okay, until I messed with it and a latch broke, so the pass side would not latch. This was unacceptable, so I attempted to fix it.</p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utmcPLRrI/AAAAAAAAA0A/vXfWJdjZ06M/s1600-h/tbrepair_9003.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 15px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_900" border="0" alt="tbrepair_900" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utr9wHR_I/AAAAAAAAA0E/j0RN_FR36EU/tbrepair_900_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <p>This is the passenger side latch that broke. I drilled out the rivets and tried to figure out how to fix it. It’s a simple design. A post with a latch that is mushroomed out on one end to keep it from coming out of the handle. I’m not really sure how to explain it better than that. You can see where the pieces connected, and it simply pulled though and no longer would stay in. With this one being broke, I checked the otherside.</p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7utwN32AnI/AAAAAAAAA0I/3N_bgCArNgc/s1600-h/tbrepair_9012.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_901" border="0" alt="tbrepair_901" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uty9NVpkI/AAAAAAAAA0M/iJMSjeTZicU/tbrepair_901_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7ut5jAgPTI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/wVxLovPryiQ/s1600-h/tbrepair_9022.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_902" border="0" alt="tbrepair_902" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7ut89566-I/AAAAAAAAA0U/uyWqKaXdau4/tbrepair_902_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>This one was broke the same way at one time. It was also having trouble shutting, so I decided to investigate that as well. They welded a bolt onto the handle and assembled it back together. Trouble was, the bolt was not strait.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_COat7OyBYu3cjthSufzsj0Fc7o30yow4rdm54KdPGx7TJ8twyS750wbjcuEeiQgRdSg_ewDMOuJUtPVB70lV4iU-hAve9DpYPDX54h1E9D15AGKq2Ge7NUQmRb30JqufVbs6czpnjOY/s1600-h/tbrepair_9032.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_903" border="0" alt="tbrepair_903" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuFX0b5sI/AAAAAAAAA0c/gfU3vMaNiaI/tbrepair_903_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuJUtxRiI/AAAAAAAAA0g/Hn-Zs_MZraY/s1600-h/tbrepair_9042.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_904" border="0" alt="tbrepair_904" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuLeKWPaI/AAAAAAAAA0k/HmY9beEZEUg/tbrepair_904_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>So, What do I do? Of course, I try to bend it, oh oops. Well, I immediately scratched that project and moved on to bigger and better things just removing the tool box all together to reveal 3 holes on each side. Somebody must have forgot how to measure. </p> <p>All was good for this project still till something happened. Where I was keeping it ended up not working out very well. The person, to whom I don’t say anything good about, smashed it with the tractor to show how awesome they are I guess. I took pictures of it right away in case some junk was tried to be pined on me, and packed stuff up and got outa there. Here is what happened.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuPJXx7JI/AAAAAAAAA0o/NsGD2iJPE-k/s1600-h/tbrepair_10002.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1000" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1000" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuRhNMk3I/AAAAAAAAA0s/5g0HnMyBN9c/tbrepair_1000_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70kqEKMyUsBVfltgfXQW3QvF4aWYzVsEAPvfAo25YfdVmor87kHWcPpI-EFtKkgmOR7O1nM6sXOO1Hm8mk2CgSmi2JOcBmY8CtkBecU_1NU3CHuMig86utziDMBRDyNoZAnF-jsYU26M/s1600-h/tbrepair_10022.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1002" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuZwCtZGI/AAAAAAAAA00/y6yfHR_iOlY/tbrepair_1002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>I know it doesn’t look to bad, but it is. Its aluminum, so it breaks easy under certain stresses. The next pictures are a bit harder to see due to the fact it was really late, and its hard to hold things and shoot with a 10 lb camera. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uud9YJsPI/AAAAAAAAA04/nzCxNL8IUEE/s1600-h/tbrepair_10032.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1003" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuf6xJtII/AAAAAAAAA08/t7mPjLxDEmU/tbrepair_1003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uukHYYTDI/AAAAAAAAA1A/wm-NQRl2EnY/s1600-h/tbrepair_10042.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1004" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uumkUZyqI/AAAAAAAAA1E/lh652zNy4FU/tbrepair_1004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>This gives you a bit more of what got smashed. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uupmi2b-I/AAAAAAAAA1I/d3fddqoGvBw/s1600-h/tbrepair_10052.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1005" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uusanoMYI/AAAAAAAAA1M/aViWwyX6t4M/tbrepair_1005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uuvzBmOXI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/-LyiTl2QKz8/s1600-h/tbrepair_10062.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1006" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1006" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_1V8YGWH9cOHkYRocPGmfW_wi8KefyYf-C4Fnwll2kehEaXaV28dKkKM9cOW9OfSunm961KFFB4pN38ViFXPLQnw1-U1ZqoM4Xy32kqVOSNeqnDigt-E6TCWvazC4-T-HhqP-S13TJI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>You can see the damage to the frame of the box in the first picture there. That’s not the only break, but the only one I noticed that night. The second picture shows the dent in the lid. </p> <p>I really should have some pictures of this all finished up and fixed, but I was drinking Barley Pop and forgot to bring out the camera. I used some hammers and a torch to heat the metal up and hammer it back into place the best I could. Then I used some braising rod to braise the 5 cracks that I found where the seams had busted or welds had broke. Now, the hard part, the handles, those things are broke still!</p> <p>A trip down to the hardware store, a long one in case your wondering, got me for 18 dollars in parts to fix 2 of these. I had come up with the idea on how to fix them from the welded bolt, but decided to do it the right way. I picked up some low profile, or button headed, cap screws. They fit right in though the hole, and I only had to slightly modify the handle to allow it to move properly. Two different bushings to make things work, and some washers and a nut. Strange sizes of the parts made them costy. Plus I purchased extras incase I got carried away. To the parts!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uu2cpcEvI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/utxPu8YdxCs/s1600-h/tbrepair_10142.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1014" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1014" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqjp4PsAPtQwcBGDrvEs-HOVo_cKXlg9W52I9pMu9tpz_y2X_UPxB14VzPIp2NiyA_9E7Ng4W9ioST99bvWbkHOaDNTtlhAVuSMBU3OjBTXbljQxJWlvyjquERd5_sofiDdacXd-PbJA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uu7zthk2I/AAAAAAAAA1g/Ym_2JxOTfkA/s1600-h/tbrepair_10152.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1015" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uu9-YB8nI/AAAAAAAAA1k/ecPUV6RH48Q/tbrepair_1015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>These are all the parts minus the latch and the handle, and then all of them in the next picture. Lets get it assembled. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvBQWg2FI/AAAAAAAAA1o/3n2tyEatjLI/s1600-h/tbrepair_10163.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1016" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1016" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvCiGpJwI/AAAAAAAAA1s/sUN8iN76hWI/tbrepair_1016_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> First I took the one bushing that is next to the screw in the picture above, and pressed it into the hole on the latch. It was a pain, but a C-Clamp did the trick, then I cut it off with a coping saw. Managed to get my finger on the second one if your wondering, and boy are they sharp. The inside of this bushing is threaded. A wild guess on it to use that, but it paid off. </p> <p></p> <p align="center"></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxyjhi4rEgQyAklUbvfzv4wA0uFQC7hCsdwap7I7sSuXrBjK3OdKoayY-AUfsPvEpDVMkioTHero7HhpksSfkmYgA5XyMgKj34Dcm_g0kBMHeweZ4Og8BsI8PFhvkVk0tanp2wK7EeWo/s1600-h/tbrepair_10172.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1017" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1017" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvG9LVl9I/AAAAAAAAA10/5QnLQTqucoE/tbrepair_1017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvKIhJU2I/AAAAAAAAA14/07qFcv4a1OQ/s1600-h/tbrepair_10182.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1018" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1018" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvLsPO36I/AAAAAAAAA18/-DbH4WCvG-M/tbrepair_1018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>First insert the bolt, then on goes the nylon bushing. The spring works off this bushing, and it keeps the latch from squashing the spring. It was a bit to thick, by a small amount really, so I used the good ole cement to file it down for a few seconds. You can see this bushing in one of the above pictures stuck on the latch. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvQTgbFeI/AAAAAAAAA2A/-ywt7iwAIwg/s1600-h/tbrepair_10192.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1019" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvTHMx7FI/AAAAAAAAA2I/NJdYFBl7nfo/tbrepair_1019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvWjqIslI/AAAAAAAAA2M/uQDRt1ZIem8/s1600-h/tbrepair_10202.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1020" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1020" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvYtQo0oI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/r4NTvoEqSZc/tbrepair_1020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Next you argue with the spring as you thread on the latch, due to the threads in the bushing, and finally get it together, you hope, to find out you missed the spring and have to start over. Once you get the spring setup, you throw on the washers and the nut and grab the driver. You might notice I used a big and a small washer. The one is a 1/4 inch washer which was wider than the other one, but too big of a hole inside, I needed that spacer to not accidently pop out. It helped in the long run though with how it ended up actuating. I sprayed some fluid film on the bushing before I tightened it anymore to help it move, the fluid film will stick in there really good and keep things working. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvcgidH8I/AAAAAAAAA2Y/wi-5S0ycNIk/s1600-h/tbrepair_10212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1021" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uveW0avAI/AAAAAAAAA2c/UTsqr59B2To/tbrepair_1021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHpAFWYetyZckukjNKQEI689GwzKZYERJkU8vMnLaVR9hTIKupO-KeD7bGnq2ZjA2XOtRm5nmOxW3WsjmQ07M1qSD8MB93nX-J2unTcC7vElcdfP17yOuR5okzEqkCTvmojcrY6Z_iBU/s1600-h/tbrepair_10222.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1022" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1022" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvkJUMzLI/AAAAAAAAA2k/EA4MgxQ-mtk/tbrepair_1022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>You might not understand this one, but I saw that the spring had been sitting in a more loaded position on the part, so I loaded the spring next. In the first picture, the spring is resting on a stop for the latch. So I used the needle nose pliers to push it to its correct location.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtAm3bvcOHwT6Xfiglpnpufhc3NUvaOa5U0SfFlQzF_2garyEVBNEFpXArsuN0xJWMhsLzDXpX6Umbo2Kk2mhOVxsdUGpdIbnl4LWK50ZM2e_-jVnTlOWyk1FyakFToqj-dQBiqWAAaC8/s1600-h/tbrepair_10253.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1025" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1025" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvqLOUbJI/AAAAAAAAA2s/hoV31ZhZj1k/tbrepair_1025_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> I tightened things down until, well, really it only tightened so far and would spin after that, any tighter and the latch wouldn’t work. With all the washers, the whole pin spun instead of just the latch, which will keep everything tight the way it is setup. I dotted on some thread locker to keep it together. It will soak in the threads and keep it tight.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvszHxeXI/AAAAAAAAA2w/WCVcDZpvlWc/s1600-h/tbrepair_10232.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1023" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1023" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvulETgmI/AAAAAAAAA20/cHXS3zrgJjs/tbrepair_1023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvx7QvVaI/AAAAAAAAA24/gMV1voSvM5o/s1600-h/tbrepair_10242.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1024" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uvz0epq_I/AAAAAAAAA28/UQ0aNYcl1Ic/tbrepair_1024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I noticed the actuator and the latches were not really lining up well and it was wearing groves in the actuator. So I beat them with a hammer till I was satisfied and celebrated with some Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips. Kettle Cooked of course!</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8jDpZy5vEIAUi9Zq0PyPiWTa6SNQVM91qurnpD_qQ4W_Ce8hreaBkftTV2DTb8ne_Ga1xX7iOmdyLdyxsm-5xSAqSowqISzjbsC5AqTjX5UlAQmwtot_dfF1ONntzI4xjiTSU_g7IovE/s1600-h/tbrepair_10102.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1010" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1010" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uv76sN3hI/AAAAAAAAA3E/2TsyshmbmOk/tbrepair_1010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwAnQHI9I/AAAAAAAAA3I/HYKGtVD4eXQ/s1600-h/tbrepair_10262.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1026" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1026" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwD70BN5I/AAAAAAAAA3M/A1JT-qXHZvs/tbrepair_1026_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Alright, almost done, time for some locks. The locks were the pricey part of the spend, but worth it. Stay outa my stuff! I don’t have a fancy camera to catch people like Brett. The levers were to long on the lock, and none that came with it were quite the right size. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwJl8bSlI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/8fbd2ssIFH0/s1600-h/tbrepair_10292.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1029" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1029" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR-AlM-gwWFjTvwFPt7NPUJBWyI7aDJNBo_bAvasuCHBIFNQ8Xpqblvg1CzfDjSkUtVQ_anAf0KzbOD6uojIodjB6zKDgdbpO8Ye6XjHTxz76B6T3lS2CavHfpCx2XFAnxFVu0uY-3AA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwON_9KoI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/jnTx9ixAyRw/s1600-h/tbrepair_10302.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1030" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1030" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwQh63lcI/AAAAAAAAA3c/PHW8xY2teQg/tbrepair_1030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I just hit it with the bench grinder, and dropped it on the ground and it popped right off.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwWEhfqTI/AAAAAAAAA3g/tDfEEW3nnL0/s1600-h/tbrepair_10332.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1033" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1033" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwX0byY_I/AAAAAAAAA3k/9GWqQcgQqpU/tbrepair_1033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwbKXpoBI/AAAAAAAAA3o/b8YsxVuAvNw/s1600-h/tbrepair_10342.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1034" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1034" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwcSz6WpI/AAAAAAAAA3s/N97SA-GcXE8/tbrepair_1034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I gathered the parts I would use and figured out what to do. Harder than you think! Really, it is!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwfwFBiLI/AAAAAAAAA3w/WOPeEfBc9rI/s1600-h/tbrepair_10352.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1035" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1035" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwh91hdSI/AAAAAAAAA30/AG8bEuBt9zc/tbrepair_1035_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwlbwabMI/AAAAAAAAA34/VNhQ7GQIY0U/s1600-h/tbrepair_10362.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1036" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1036" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwnnWHy9I/AAAAAAAAA38/8bAnoY6Yw-8/tbrepair_1036_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I decided to use this crush ring to help keep it tight, and for looks. I figured out which way I needed to index the keyway on the lock as well, which was down for me. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwqXCPJpI/AAAAAAAAA4A/kj24lSNPAhs/s1600-h/tbrepair_10372.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1037" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1037" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwsgg6nkI/AAAAAAAAA4E/ix3K4lVkjS4/tbrepair_1037_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwv_U410I/AAAAAAAAA4I/stpHj7ch854/s1600-h/tbrepair_10382.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1038" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1038" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uwyEEqihI/AAAAAAAAA4M/LoITKPiZJpk/tbrepair_1038_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>The pictures don’t show it as well as I would like, but I crushed the ring down when I tightened the lock in. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uw2SOPH1I/AAAAAAAAA4Q/0K9fh0VYLLc/s1600-h/tbrepair_10392.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1039" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1039" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2plyShe2pVq-nNa529fKluCysk1mii_AAq2BGp2UGoAi8GB-0sIRQ52U27nCuG2G3ltT1MJrEuoJDB9yWOIA-g2w7au5zH2GCH6GofrgWfP9NXgsJ48CVjQYM9X8zUGQ8UrO3NLZwHX0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQDDFNkJhk6HJinF4Y56_pvHI2gZpoTvm5q5xjSjurVU89FnaEXlTJAMHuE6gMEuff1vlo3Y4isfNt9wdpk5kcExpb8ePNz3v-UBY2lUVWi9WT0uIBRXgLPViW1czFuvC0MFWAvAxwF0/s1600-h/tbrepair_10412.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1041" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1041" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsokjuCPjEEUNKvcEB2E_8Zo3hLT9Qh1QsdzirF22Rh-et1yLliM1ez35RXFkefiPjIDAvyVwg0TWzJaeySCSnJczYBr__-EfbpLAy7E2s6Vu40yq7qECSElHknAezPhgV22GaIx8Ox3s/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I added the indexer to correspond with the keyway the way I needed the lock to turn after I lined it up on the outside the way I wanted too. Then added the tab and the whatever you call that washer. They always make me think of boats for some reason. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxCLFsYMI/AAAAAAAAA4g/XGAljjrTmAY/s1600-h/tbrepair_10402.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1040" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1040" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxDULWx3I/AAAAAAAAA4k/k0gJZRTFDwA/tbrepair_1040_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxHfPzeBI/AAAAAAAAA4o/VKGZ2XkBVw0/s1600-h/tbrepair_10282.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1028" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1028" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxJc1tpoI/AAAAAAAAA4s/Hx7rf1t5a4Q/tbrepair_1028_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Some thread lock for the nut for the keyway, and some thread lock for the nut that holds the lock in. Almost done, sorta.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxNNIMFyI/AAAAAAAAA4w/M2_MVEuSq3s/s1600-h/tbrepair_10432.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1043" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1043" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxOh6sBGI/AAAAAAAAA40/JvoOI5ZGFvI/tbrepair_1043_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxR5uVOCI/AAAAAAAAA44/YErmQtDcZY8/s1600-h/tbrepair_10442.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1044" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1044" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxTSXN4vI/AAAAAAAAA48/kt6jATa7izs/tbrepair_1044_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I lubricated the cylinders with some fluid film, which allowed them to turn and work better. This stuff is awesome in locks!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxWLn1r0I/AAAAAAAAA5A/dMiUhvc7bo8/s1600-h/tbrepair_10423.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1042" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1042" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxYIWkL6I/AAAAAAAAA5E/lqS48ehsbVY/tbrepair_1042_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a>Okay, so here are the finished latches, but we are technically long ways from done. They are not doing much sitting on the ground.<br><br>So, lets advance forward in the magical world of technology till tomorrow so we can rush around to get the other stuff we forgot and get it together.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The gaskets were not so hot on these, so I racked my brain and came up with some packing material.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxbUGSQ1I/AAAAAAAAA5I/AvS2D5lstCA/s1600-h/tbrepair_10502.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1050" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1050" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxdxmLKKI/AAAAAAAAA5M/uCmhKqKzc98/tbrepair_1050_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxjTkXm-I/AAAAAAAAA5Q/Tes7D5pb03Y/s1600-h/tbrepair_10552.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1055" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1055" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCMRzW9OURwLUzs4Ub93XMr9QKcZIVWYp0ICxQWorXLiNpAj9P0FWFacpgKWZjgDRW-UsozHQ7xusVv22CKULSU3atDZK-uU_a_S5vdQwEOt_kUAzCOKyKtgahR50wCXUZ1PE-NtY6A4/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I traced it with a marker, then I free handed the inside line to correspond with how the older gasket worked. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxoJgniJI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/x-QEMb4iaYE/s1600-h/tbrepair_10512.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1051" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1051" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxpZXLboI/AAAAAAAAA5c/PEDYQ4XbRJ4/tbrepair_1051_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxr_eRI_I/AAAAAAAAA5g/iPjGjbonQ6A/s1600-h/tbrepair_10522.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1052" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxt1Dq0yI/AAAAAAAAA5k/Zev2yRWl4Ew/tbrepair_1052_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Totally forgot to take a picture. I took all these on my phone by the way, they turned out pretty swell. Now, we have to run to the store, because during this whole project we forget that we don’t have any pop rivets and no pop rivet gun either. So, fast forward an hour.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijLkH1W2WRs-URS1QCLLClhYMd_DIawq1PuXArJ961x-XGENl9e2WyuTzZagXkjbLi9LyCUVcN9S8jPDhesA921_5LyqKJ6_GupVLAS8cObPXHHAbHikFF_PSD44ScNBIVevfSJC844zU/s1600-h/tbrepair_10562.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1056" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1056" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uxzpbW77I/AAAAAAAAA5s/qMMr9IodVhU/tbrepair_1056_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7ux3tOl0FI/AAAAAAAAA5w/d1ZAToer05I/s1600-h/tbrepair_10579.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1057" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1057" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7ux4zmMa1I/AAAAAAAAA50/3npHdCpUCBM/tbrepair_1057_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Stupid camera phone. The flash made this hard to distinguish. I pushed two rivets in first to line up the holes, then I snapped them in. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7ux9jGj2oI/AAAAAAAAA54/1R7rFl9zrP8/s1600-h/tbrepair_105712.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1057" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1057" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyAo8X3BI/AAAAAAAAA58/bERGSdJRd54/tbrepair_1057_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyEFpaCEI/AAAAAAAAA6A/LI53iTHbDnw/s1600-h/tbrepair_10542.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1054" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1054" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyHHrKeWI/AAAAAAAAA6E/HI1DyA_xiXI/tbrepair_1054_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>All right, we got it in. I failed to mention that it is pouring outside and I’m glad I have a garage to work in. Then I noticed something.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyLREEoRI/AAAAAAAAA6I/35CQ0cjSjcs/s1600-h/tbrepair_10593.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="tbrepair_1059" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1059" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyNGsIT9I/AAAAAAAAA6M/LxnaCsY5jeU/tbrepair_1059_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I have a strong tendency to de-badge things. Then I had an idea and rushed to the tool box. I brought back some sand paper, tape and some elbow grease. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyQoHL86I/AAAAAAAAA6Q/6CpQrkDCnys/s1600-h/tbrepair_10602.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1060" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1060" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uySSCQelI/AAAAAAAAA6U/xNY-QTs9Z6g/tbrepair_1060_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyVwZw0sI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/rXix7EI2EB4/s1600-h/tbrepair_10612.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1061" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1061" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyX2Hc5RI/AAAAAAAAA6c/Glx553uIaUU/tbrepair_1061_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I started to sand and then realized that it will be hard to sand next to that logo, and I want to keep it. I used some clear tape to tape it so I could see what I was cutting. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uybft3alI/AAAAAAAAA6g/mW6MotebhqY/s1600-h/tbrepair_10622.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1062" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1062" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyc3cXW8I/AAAAAAAAA6k/IdhNfXQoUoM/tbrepair_1062_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uygCVCYPI/AAAAAAAAA6o/KbjemlQVQUU/s1600-h/tbrepair_10632.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1063" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1063" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyiKnkLnI/AAAAAAAAA6s/PyKXLufVy-c/tbrepair_1063_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>It is really hard to tell in the pictures, but I cut the tape around the logo so I could sand around it. Then for the finishing touch, I brought back the brushed aluminum look with a stainless steel brush. Lets get things lined up.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwoYNJQfE_KQgNqmWQn0Avu2RjF4-tgE7ZDLt4GxW7cNMV4nmn_muYRLCmY8TaAJxCMmUWCnJEHdTp7uOnsu6SeKdf_Eg_nW4BBhB3sP6-ojucz60ee7U5zh72Ey4k_yHrBmA-pJij0M/s1600-h/tbrepair_10642.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1064" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1064" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uyolR3PoI/AAAAAAAAA60/eV4NMMNcEpo/tbrepair_1064_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEhPliUxrJ7_17Fq54-jY7VlgC1RMcD_Tvb0FuMMDoSyxz0ZJNliFFBX0Oykm4psPi4u4x8QhLIrRQVJ_wTnTnUdJqbkeMZaYM2nKZcjzYSHV0APk0awKBuzy8P_iLn7LyFD9Y1wMe82k/s1600-h/tbrepair_10652.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1065" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1065" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0GhjgHKJ2RviQpIHhZP0k7JP0lnlwt8pZFQr_hfGTR-GciDEUbh-Nw5ZVll7w8aV-Pm9-UgnpsU3TEbrxvj9o14aiefuK57Fdfo-72xPBarO1TCYusjqY6EZhGaMt7uoKcYRkpBAIt4/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>This had to be perfect to work, so I measured it out and drew some lines.</p> <p>I really wish there was a way to create more suspense with this, but its the internet, you could have just skipped all the way to hear and ignored everything else.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uywrHqJXI/AAAAAAAAA7A/wd8E8uvJ9Zk/s1600-h/tbrepair_10662.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1066" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkaOtf4bt6EFsLxh6meqCgk9-0LH2e6k7KAh38R6DEJLHwgplVRqjiT1iS_HRuRO-fzDcuTnwllqnLmLIBb17kN65wlrfetOtaxhy9O7eBlOJxJT82OqHbG0013JwWuSkXdVnXNCAbai4/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uy3312ntI/AAAAAAAAA7I/Obo1SUSqNQA/s1600-h/tbrepair_10672.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1067" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1067" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uy75omoRI/AAAAAAAAA7M/-roT1bf2pIo/tbrepair_1067_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>There is the cherry on top. I reattached it to the box and added 2 more rivets on top to help keep stuff from getting stuck up there.<br>Now for some High Quality shots to top it off for everyone. I went and got the good camera for this, and upped the quality for the post. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uy_YPTeuI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/aGhbrHHOvuw/s1600-h/tbrepair_10702.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1070" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1070" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzAsPbe1I/AAAAAAAAA7U/dnJEan_3d7U/tbrepair_1070_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzDd3rWpI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/eYeh_iCDtLM/s1600-h/tbrepair_10712.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1071" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1071" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzE0DYA5I/AAAAAAAAA7c/Qb2TPRdT_9c/tbrepair_1071_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Yea, repeats, trying to show off that brushed aluminum awesomeness.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzH01xnbI/AAAAAAAAA7g/f521gi61uFM/s1600-h/tbrepair_10722.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1072" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1072" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzJu3UrMI/AAAAAAAAA7k/BEUGdudQQlM/tbrepair_1072_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzN92fKfI/AAAAAAAAA7o/jfXmCwUiY8c/s1600-h/tbrepair_10732.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tbrepair_1073" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1073" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7uzP5-8VlI/AAAAAAAAA7s/_66Z4an8KtA/tbrepair_1073_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Once I got the thing bolted in and the latch pins readjusted the second time.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7u47NglnbI/AAAAAAAAA70/iMkEZabQ6VE/s1600-h/tbrepair_1074%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="tbrepair_1074" border="0" alt="tbrepair_1074" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S7u48IaAGVI/AAAAAAAAA74/x0zKMAvx-_I/tbrepair_1074_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I hope this helps to inspire anyone out there who has something that is a bit broken or bent up to get it back into working condition so you can enjoy it again. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-55828127071274704142010-02-25T14:49:00.000-08:002010-02-25T14:49:33.114-08:00Fluid Film<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD2ugFcUI/AAAAAAAAAuA/-OvxT53ZukA/s1600-h/ffswag13373.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="ffswag1337" border="0" alt="ffswag1337" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD2_yyTFI/AAAAAAAAAuE/LTqCMHVUYEM/ffswag1337_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <p>Perhaps you’ve heard me mention using Fluid Film sometime? Maybe not as much on here yet, but some of the forums I visit I am always plugging Fluid Film. So you might ask as to why I am promoting this product now. It’s simple really, this stuff is awesome. We do not usually promote any products here on Midnight Mods with a whole article, just tid bits here in there about the vendors or products we use. Lets start with a little product info first before I divulge further. </p> <p>Fluid Film is a natural based lubricant made from lanolin. It’s solvent free, and eco friendly. While I’m not pushing green technology here, this really means that it is safe to use anywhere. (I’m not sure if you want to use it around food.) Lanolin comes from Sheep. It’s a natural moisturizer and lubricant. For me working with sheep, if you have caught on to that by now, I really enjoy this product. My hard work, essentially, goes to making this product. I sheer off the wool, and then when the wool is processed, the lanolin is washed out of the wool at the Woolen Mill. What is done with it after that, I am not sure, but this stuff is just as slippery as the stuff on the sheep. <br><br>I’m not sure what is all in this besides lanolin, but whatever they did, it works. This product is great on metals, it sticks and doesn’t easily wash off. It is highly water resistant as well. It’s even safe on paint and synthetic rubbers. There really are lots of uses for this product besides lubrication as well. I use it to seal my shoes so my feet do not get wet. Underbody coating on your vehicle. There is a web site out there dedicated to the creative uses of this product. <a href="http://fluid-film.ning.com/">http://fluid-film.ning.com/</a></p> <p>I could probably go on for a while about this product, but let’s get down to why this article is on our sight. It was noticed that I mentioned Fluid Film quite often on a forum and tried to get other members to use it. I was contacted by a site sponsor rep for Fluid Film. A week later I got a box in the mail.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7tB8qAPv-pWXFxL10B6Ih_g-JLj7gTtMUFlWcUxxPFGhM5YdqdM2LdmuseiPa-wIA6XqV13ZLKPxQWO3iMTzaf9UFl18hhMoJOpTuQx2uaj6ftucnzl3AX3IMGEDaxvZMNBMlVOE8Ps/s1600-h/ffswag13383.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="ffswag1338" border="0" alt="ffswag1338" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD3msty3I/AAAAAAAAAuM/tvcNIQAm4DE/ffswag1338_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a>A decent sized box at that. I was so excited I blacked out the addresses and took pictures. Comedy, even in donations. Dano on <a href="http://www.ford-trucks.com/">Ford-Trucks</a> was kind enough to send me this package with some goodies for the help I had been giving him on the sight promoting Fluid Film. Lets open it up and take a look.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD4BF-uVI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/H-MZXzelQ9o/s1600-h/ffswag13393.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="ffswag1339" border="0" alt="ffswag1339" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD4e8N0xI/AAAAAAAAAuU/6O7Z_DXmCyU/ffswag1339_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Sneaky. The goodies are hidden under some paper. I didn’t let this stop me!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD4sauR2I/AAAAAAAAAuY/EfgcY-fjkqg/s1600-h/ffswag13412.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="ffswag1341" border="0" alt="ffswag1341" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD41y9JtI/AAAAAAAAAuc/Tp0hxBqHEQU/ffswag1341_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD5XatGuI/AAAAAAAAAug/lRSttf8T4DQ/s1600-h/ffswag13402.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="ffswag1340" border="0" alt="ffswag1340" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD5pRHMFI/AAAAAAAAAuk/ZvMf5odPyto/ffswag1340_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Inside I found a hat and a shirt. Let me tell you, this is probably the nicest promotional hat that I have ever got. Sorry newegg, this thing is sweet. Even the clasp in the back has fluid film logo stamped into the metal. I’m sorry to report that it is not made here in the US like Fluid Film, which is made out in California. Lets check out the rest of the shirt.</p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekQrbEKX9gszeukV4VxhaOQTWueciaM51uS4So_CyxgxR5KEJZ70MEm8t1w1AkJVgkXUurQBRQHTFaLPUotsLlYML-jKcFgU6DdfLIdUwbklODggQ_ltlbORk1jRaBTmD7NuGWZLZeRI/s1600-h/ffswag13432.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="ffswag1343" border="0" alt="ffswag1343" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD6X97DuI/AAAAAAAAAus/y5wu3t9IoLA/ffswag1343_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2BhWs334ilXYMhiu4Tdpvzrcr3-m13u8QFBxBSxzy78pO4ONaei2HoYyGZTi6yFFt0lgvA77MA2zS7ly-FyttMr4cRqg0-BZpGHvO_hCsJ7IiuVHx0ZcNXEqGa93rrVk8JcvNVnHPEo/s1600-h/ffswag13442.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="ffswag1344" border="0" alt="ffswag1344" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD7VWcINI/AAAAAAAAAu0/rrZW6_n99Xg/ffswag1344_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>The shirt comes with a sleeve tag as well as some rocking graphics on the back. Can’t wait to wear this sheering to start some conversations. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD7k_HCRI/AAAAAAAAAu4/BgccIiryizs/s1600-h/ffswag13423.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="ffswag1342" border="0" alt="ffswag1342" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S3uD7xkuaMI/AAAAAAAAAu8/segopu6oeqE/ffswag1342_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a>Here is the full lot of goodies. I got a bunch of stickers and the big decals were totally unexpected! </p> <p>Brett also received a sample can of Fluid Film, and a T-Shirt as well. </p> <p>Thanks for the Hook Up Dano! We really love donations over here at Midnight Mods. </p> <p> </p> <p>If your looking to try out some fluid film, send me an email and I’ll get you setup with Dano. I do sell small lots of the 12oz Aerosol cans as well. Fluid Film also comes in 1 gallon and 5 gallon containers as well. Any questions regarding Fluid Film, feel free to comment, any questions regarding ordering the product, please send me an email. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-3771593640298654222010-02-21T00:38:00.001-08:002010-02-23T09:23:30.070-08:00Pelican Bicycle Panniers<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbgaPc_QI/AAAAAAAASwA/Kl0NDBLNlnI/s1600-h/007%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px auto; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="007" border="0" alt="007" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXcY5L9iY9tsIRbXslsbAygKeHJB-iw-5840vmTpXmPuiWc6922ji7k0PxFjDQ_98DLdw96mQEdNwykTPouQ03NZEBaELwSqzGlM_n_O-lno1wLH3-g2bii0gU_X2YzkiIEkMx9QM6itr/?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a> I’ve been commuting to work using my bicycle more and more over the last year or so since I’ve moved to California. It’s been nice so far. I get some stress free outdoor exercise doing an activity I’ve always enjoyed. Plus, now I look forward to the ride home, as opposed to sitting in the car getting aggravated at rush hour traffic. </p> <p>My workplace is nice enough to have changing facilities, so I ride in comfortable cycling clothes and change at work. When I started out, I used a backpack to hold my change of clothes, wallet, keys, paperwork, ID Badge, music device, camera, and various other things. Most mornings I’d also stop on the way and pickup breakfast at Burger King (hey, its an 18 mile commute, I’ve earned it!), placing (read: cramming, stuffing, and squishing) my croissant sandwich in the bag as well to eat at work (I elect not to chill at BK in my spandex and have a bite, hard to believe I know.) Actually, I rotated between 3-4 different backpacks with different sizes and straps, always trying to find the one that worked best. Funny how it always ended up being the cheap small single strap one.</p> <p>Like everything else, backpacks have their advantages and drawbacks. They are cheap (you probably have one already!), easy to use, don’t produce a lot of drag when on a bike, quick to attach, and some hold quite a bit. Plus, you already have all the mounting hardware, provided you have shoulders. On the other side though, they put additional weight on you, that weight gets transferred to your back, which means extra weight on your Anatomic Saddle System (A.S.S. for short). There were some days where I would have liked to take something extra, like my laptop or a small package, but it just wasn’t happening with my backpacks. Perhaps the biggest issue I had was sweat. During the summer months especially, backpacks leave your back, shirt, and pack itself wet with perspiration. Sometimes it would even make it’s way inside the bag- not cool if you have important paperwork, laptop, or a change of clothes inside. </p> <p>I knew about panniers, but I’d never owned a set. Now, I figured hard case panniers would already exist and be readily available, but I was surprised when few turned up in my searches. The ones I did find where all wrong somehow. Wrong size. Wrong attaching system. Wrong material. Interested to see what they have to offer, but not satisfied with the selections in stores or online, I set out to make my own hard case panniers.  Guess if you want it done right, you gotta do it yourself?</p> <p>I came up with a list of requirements.</p> <ul> <li>It had to fit all of my laptops and safely carry at least one at a time (bonus points for extra laptops.) </li> <li>It had to also carry a change of clothes and related pocket items. </li> <li>It had to also have enough room for additional stuff (Breakfast? Paperwork?) </li> <li>It had to quickly attach and remove from my bike (for public transit.) </li> <li>It had to be waterproof. </li> <li>It had to protect the contents in case of a fall. </li> <li>…and most important, it had to fit on my bicycle! </li> </ul> <p>I’ve been a fan of Pelican products since a friend introduced me to them some years <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUecu0fwFj-pWB_vue-iBs_6D7-gLdyXDH4HgHaF9vqBcS-u4Ev9EvB5S_r6StcdNGOxmvmIqWnuRnzSs4UGnbQpmk4ZzKY-Q6Cz7eIEKg31kDz54wdpxh92R6hCcdYy7HcaapgoYrtdt/s1600-h/CIMG2566%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG2566" border="0" alt="CIMG2566" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3VYHTGMTgrRbHwISRoxvc9oBmhVQ7AZw9nFW05hMuukA8kBhyphenhyphenMXIlKBr-zLOQr-9p3ljq5_hm1jz32-C1Tyv35x49Z-BzON-aNQ0TysjiFZEUF1WuDDTVwSONaaTlNBztDB5lpEYmAF8/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>ago as a good laptop case and I thought they’d probably make an awesome pannier too. They are waterproof, configurable, tough, and available in many different sizes. I did a quick Google search and <a href="http://www.phred.org/~josh/bike/briefcase_pannier.html" target="_blank">found some inspiration</a> from Josh Putnam. After some measurements of my gear,  I purchased a pair of <a href="http://www.pelican.com/cases_detail.php?Case=1430" target="_blank">Black 1430’s</a> for about $60 each. They fit every one of my current laptops (at once without padding!), open from the top (so I can get gear in and out without taking them off), and this model has an optional “<a href="http://www.pelican.com/cases_detail_accessories.php?Case=1430" target="_blank">Boat Bracket Kit</a>” for about $10 a pair that, although I couldn’t find much information on, I <em>thought</em> might make a cool mounting system on the bike (more on this later.)</p> <p>So plan A was to buy a rack for the back of the bike and figure out a way to mount the  cases on the back using the boat brackets. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4H5aOU67vI/AAAAAAAAStE/lS_0IbHtx1s/s1600-h/CIMG2551%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="The Cheap Rack, Pretty Nice Actually" border="0" alt="The Cheap Rack, Pretty Nice Actually" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4H5ae--AdI/AAAAAAAAStI/olkcYJ3RJ-U/CIMG2551_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>I bought a cheap rack and began dry fitting the parts as they arrived. This didn’t go so well. Typical to Pelican Engineering, the boat brackets were designed really well <em>not</em> to be easily removed from the cases. They attach by rotating on from the sides, meaning they have to be removed from whatever they are hooked on to take them off the case. They also screw into the case on the bottom. Not exactly quick release.</p> <p>Okay, just one problem to overcome, so I kept the project moving forward, venturing I could fix the quick release problem down the road if everything else worked out. Next issue, how can I get the brackets to mount to the rack? I bought some aluminum poles and cut it and the rack up to fit together.  The whole thing was pretty ugly, rattled a lot, and I didn’t put a whole lot of trust in it.  Hours of fiddling later and I still didn’t have a solution. The next day, I went to the local mega hardware stores and spent hours playing with parts from all around the store until  I had a headache from the constant intercom interruptions and distracting muzak.  </p> <p>I came home and stared at my parts for a little while longer. Feeling defeated, I let the project sit for a while. Then, after a week or two, I started back at the research phase. This time, really hitting the internet hard to find the best way to attach the darn cases to my bike. I knew my next plan, Plan B, would roughly involve buying a set of pannier mounts, drilling holes in my cases, and mounting them to the sides.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivntH0OtijTudmB9wxWQ_0WUXsfBAurQlYINDpRKISMyHkB9oC2Aj1uymtC-R4RAV6nqrOij2KysZycJKOG9NuFJI-xzMIDn6B2ZnAFwPnfdprvG912FU_W78hI8cyDGh11JoH60O4cfve/s1600-h/CIMG2614%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG2614" border="0" alt="CIMG2614" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbhsItNZI/AAAAAAAASwQ/cdHSR0MmGgo/CIMG2614_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbiP_TjGI/AAAAAAAASwY/Cks05yJ7kNg/s1600-h/CIMG2616%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG2616" border="0" alt="CIMG2616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSUT299NsLmLGUtV7ek5huLURisi9-JVDUM5H9n6Vqt1Ukx_v6NAcoR2poH-lNwBjq3oyETfioVVdTDPukUO0zAfabQ-4_JV0rpeQ846lMK3la7dyrSMlZ8yB14rEbw1LO3w3N_x04CYj/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>After much debate, I finally decided on the <a href="http://www.arkel-od.com/panniers/accessories/hookkit.asp" target="_blank">Arkel 10” Cam-Lock system</a>, fancy technology imported from the strange, far away, misunderstood land of Canada. They looked pretty straight forward, got good reviews, and the price was in the budget for a pair. Boy, <a href="http://www.arkel-od.com/technical/suspension.asp?fl=1&site=www.midnightmods.com" target="_blank">are they neat</a>! The cam-lock system is really adjustable and when you are building panniers yourself, adjustability is key.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWJPtAzvCoObYYGA7-TUy_swV0NTU31VufcrcP3pNdT1DpKfBwkrOTMEYPhDryz-HjuGacAFXZh-XVYnaSqYFIETryJSyqAsEc7D6CpJX-i9k04ir58ykGlxhyphenhyphenD0kpyI8zwD60moKPiQl/s1600-h/CIMG2649%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG2649" border="0" alt="CIMG2649" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbjNN0WeI/AAAAAAAASws/Oycppe4RXaM/CIMG2649_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>The next thing to do was dry fit the 10” Cam-Lock track to the case. So, I disassembled the hooks and chose a spot on the back of the Pelicans to mount the track. Then I traced over the ridges that I would have to grind down to get the track to mount flush on the side of the case. After that, it was short work with the angle grinder to flatten them out. I was careful to keep the clearance in mind that the top of the hooks would need to slide <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbjwydquI/AAAAAAAASww/AnaZ2JFQi8M/s1600-h/CIMG2650%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG2650" border="0" alt="CIMG2650" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbkPy2pBI/AAAAAAAASw0/A36gSJaPkIQ/CIMG2650_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>around on the track. If the track was mounted too high, the hinges there would keep the hooks from being able to use the whole track. The case may look funny right now, but the track will cover most of that up.  </p> <p>If the grinding on the $60 cases made you nervous, drilling holes in the case isn’t going to be easy for you, I know it wasn’t easy for me to do, but that is indeed the next step and it had to be done. The <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbkoolKXI/AAAAAAAASxA/7GGzUO0Bg_0/s1600-h/CIMG2653%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG2653" border="0" alt="CIMG2653" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IblFWR6zI/AAAAAAAASxE/ygbJNa54p64/CIMG2653_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>tracks need two holes to mount to the case, one bolt at each end of the track. </p> <p>The bolts included with the kit were not long enough to fit through the thick walls of the Pelican case. I was able to find <a href="http://www.upcdatabase.com/item/0008236712223" target="_blank">longer bolts</a>  at the local mega hardware store that fit the stock metric square nuts that fit in the track. Along with the bolts, I purchased two different rubber washers (<a href="http://www.upcdatabase.com/item/0008236707663" target="_blank">large</a> and <a href="http://www.upcdatabase.com/item/008236707618" target="_blank">small</a>) to keep the water from entering my case through the bolt holes and a larger set of <a href="http://www.upcdatabase.com/item/0008236707359" target="_blank">fender washers</a> to help distribute the weight across a larger area.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IblkOubDI/AAAAAAAASxM/d3gzyCeKiqE/s1600-h/051%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="051" border="0" alt="051" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZm0KHGV3Ljj6CaSM4Hof4LXSE_eSI2cPyKOkWIFlAwP4sY0lgdZoX-XSYCgTomtkCuC7rN5pGeShihxo4u-e5au57utHiVaTaZpNJ1RT9zbIteCduvZW-lkVWZZ4P9b2-EOMVTjunmx6c/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbmX2ow0I/AAAAAAAASxU/Wi0eP-o_9KY/s1600-h/050%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="050" border="0" alt="050" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4Ibm7Hl7KI/AAAAAAAASxc/mqUyPHP2B_w/050_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbnJsOImI/AAAAAAAASxw/A3lLKkVL8eI/s1600-h/040%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="040" border="0" alt="040" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbnQ2IXTI/AAAAAAAASx8/ssX9v8SkCJA/040_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>After the whole thing was assembled, I did a little happy dance and went out to the garage to test it. It worked! Okay, not that well- but that was mostly due to the cheap rack I still had on the bike from Plan A (that had been cut up a bit mind you.) So I did a little more searching and found <a href="http://www.oldmanmountain.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=O&Product_Code=1501A" target="_blank">the rack</a> that would work the best with my hooks. That is, fat tubes to hook on to and the longest platform I could find (because my commuter bike has the back wheel <em>really</em> forward and I have big feet, I needed to get the cases set back to prevent heel-strike, where your heel hits the pannier because of insufficient clearance.) As a bonus, it also fit better because it was wider, being made for a tandem bicycle and as I learned that's the width my rear mounts required for some reason.</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:6c3169a9-f65e-4f59-bb22-d9e815aea6f4" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="40d7a338-67fa-4a38-a5a3-156b4b863a06" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUBjXkNnq5w" target="_new"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4QO9V95cAI/AAAAAAAAS0w/rYKHIOfp968/video0b1b0b8f1f9a%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('40d7a338-67fa-4a38-a5a3-156b4b863a06'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/OUBjXkNnq5w&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/OUBjXkNnq5w&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p align="center"><em>Arkel Cam-Locks in Action</em></p> <p align="justify"><em><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IboM3W3UI/AAAAAAAASyQ/KW2iRHDYhBA/s1600-h/001%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="001" border="0" alt="001" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4Ibou-GKSI/AAAAAAAASyU/klBWqYIz0rA/001_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></em>I took my pannier with me to the store just to make sure the shoe fit. Like a glove- er, shoe! Sold. I mounted it up and clipped on the case. Then I made little stops or as I call them for some reason, indexes, out of hose claps around strips of old inner tubes on the top rail there. They keep the case from sliding forward while riding and make it easy to clamp the whole thing on in the right spot every time.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nbJNW74nxQaav7oyAXE8QnQMSRMlR5g1ODN6fraAwcHxrlL4Cmz7oJdzRqDKnGppBg5ILeanMbH2QkCVdVSMav3bNfBRyATY5b5GmRgkG29lHhc8avwZDjPTIOijUClcA5E1rU3CxF7z/s1600-h/029%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="029" border="0" alt="029" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbpaGNrrI/AAAAAAAASyg/7CEEDoYt-XE/029_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4Ibp-ZvQmI/AAAAAAAASys/S13R0uEoYCo/s1600-h/008%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="008" border="0" alt="008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbqLmzeMI/AAAAAAAASyw/qBe29g36rBg/008_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S4IbqtMF9DI/AAAAAAAASy4/GzgtK6Wk9E4/s1600-h/025%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="025" border="0" alt="025" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiXRnyDC_4_VEXIKmBjDgXoG0cxCwgFbzwIVVgba9SJATwR9fHdhrgwZtb8BOO6L7LMD5AC7ahomXa7ruFHGvpQ2Cm213Jkk7j4g6sWz_9zvomz_4_rns_ImiFKEMCahaAtcv_qwzWJsa/?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">To top the whole thing off, I purchased some black 3M reflective stickers and cut them up to not only look ultra cool, but add to my night-time visibility. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLom6pptGuEHJxRgibVAvIvZfp7SRd4lNNjwHeCiSWU6NXWCoVbGH-dqcWjZE4QO_FgtMH1HdhnBG6mtlxypKY7AK1cnvDRBEa6T0ZsTZb-iLLNtysr15XxbtgjYFY1zgBRzhglU-t3v0F/s1600-h/022%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="022" border="0" alt="022" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZ5_y-Q_3y736ZWA1xnWs9NfzuYY8K9hyphenhyphenyJu_VDHpfYBmv8f_pno2r4g1byzvkVfbBcq0nLcFUG64ZvtRgmyt35IJsNHsvnrW-gyO34k3AMYYTMONkQtw1MIOYGEUO9P3suPJ5aUWdv9V/?imgmax=800" width="484" height="364" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">My bike may not feel like a race car with these thing on, but it sure does haul ass! There weight isn’t a big deal so far (with the cases at just over 6lbs each empty, total weight is under 20lbs on most days.) Yeah, it takes a little extra effort up hills, but you get it back on the down slope. The most noticeable drag seems to come from high winds, but even that isn’t horrible. The capacity? HEEE-YOUUUUGE! Since the original planning of this project, I don’t have the need to carry my laptop normally, so I find myself putting my cheap backpack in one side (with all work stuff and related) and the other side has my change of clothes (and a small bag with ID Badge, keys, belt, wallet, related pocket goodies) with plenty room leftover for a bag-o-breakfast. This arrangement is working well. I have my backpack for everyday use, then when I’m ready to bike to work, I just toss it in and go. Then when I get there, I take the other case with me to the change room and swap clothes. </p> <p align="justify">I’m so happy with the project so far, I’m already working on design upgrades for 2.0, but that’ll be another article :-)</p> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-2839731571891947202010-02-01T02:41:00.001-08:002010-02-01T02:41:22.419-08:00Down Time<div style="padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:e1e9dd1c-da08-46ae-bc58-a81a26be5f97" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="8baee22e-eb80-4297-b528-e6467f9d632b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTDfAcEpVCA&hl=en_US&fs=1" target="_new"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FwQTXrTqhXjujSIRhcPHeIfUOF3bNfJByYq9b2mliJGjn6oxBbeVk0Hmiph-x5Hp_7ajCCzB7CPpjnlWzA_2_IBz17qqKC18Hsqp78hbNy4G9-9ozFvyesqmuDKYHQ8X15dRqR1Ao1Y/?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('8baee22e-eb80-4297-b528-e6467f9d632b'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yTDfAcEpVCA&hl=en_US&fs=1&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/yTDfAcEpVCA&hl=en_US&fs=1&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p>We don’t ever really have down time, but if we do have time where much is not going on, we got something going on.<br>Today, we are going to modify some Dull Pencils, to Sharp Pencils. All in the eye of the beholder.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-72540327618939602732010-01-30T19:41:00.001-08:002010-02-01T08:11:01.647-08:006637 Mod<p>One of the most fun parts of my new truck is all the fun things I can modify and change. While Midnight Mods is mostly a computer site, we divulge in all modding, not just electronic modding. We mod without prejudice! </p> <p>I want to thank Clay at <a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/">Riffraff Diesel Performance</a> for donating this kit.<br><br><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2SAiNCDLpI/AAAAAAAAAss/wbOZZCd2oU4/s1600-h/rr6637_2006%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="rr6637_2006" border="0" alt="rr6637_2006" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2SAsPzq8HI/AAAAAAAAAsw/iG2yzias9Vk/rr6637_2006_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> Today, we are modifying the stock air system in my 94 Power Stroke. I was in such a rush to get this thing out of this truck that I never did take a good picture of it being installed. The problem with the stock air box is that it leaks. It has poor flow. You can see here, the box on the right of the picture, has the snorkel missing for it. This is an idea that allows less air restriction to the filter. You might think, “well, they designed it all this way for a reason.” Well, it might be safe when this thing was brand new, but when you make things out of plastic, and the fasteners out of plastic, they eventually fail. It was a cheap air filtering solution. So, maybe you might be thinking “why are we worrying about leakages in the filter system, don’t we want more air intake?” Well of course we want more air intake, but this is a Turbo Diesel. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T4p_Ew0EI/AAAAAAAAAtA/TMl3mcQ2vLE/s1600-h/rr6637_2008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Nate Air Man" border="0" alt="Nate Air Man" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T47DWm2MI/AAAAAAAAAtE/A8dwNnVe01s/rr6637_2008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T5BvSBLrI/AAAAAAAAAtI/kt6Q70phBSY/s1600-h/rr6637_2007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Cuda Jim" border="0" alt="Cuda Jim" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T5F0n7w0I/AAAAAAAAAtM/0rlNAAOjzI4/rr6637_2007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="136"></a> </p> <p align="center">(Thanks to nateairman and Cuda_Jim for the pictures)</p> <p align="left">This is what we are protecting, these blades right in here. They need to be sharp to work effectively. If we allow dirt and dust though, we are essentially sand blasting the compressor wheel. In the right picture, you can see a dusted and new compressor wheel. We do not want to sand blast the compressor wheel. This mod gives us some air flow and some security in air filtration system. </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2SBE24wazI/AAAAAAAAAs0/c_fdMWSeL9c/s1600-h/rr6637_2004%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="rr6637_2004" border="0" alt="rr6637_2004" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2SBNrnGjVI/AAAAAAAAAs4/CrWNb18m4H0/rr6637_2004_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p align="left">Now as I had said, I could not wait to get this thing out. This box has a few bolts that screw the bucket, or pan, secure by the fender. There are two long screws that come up from the bottom that allow you to tighten the top down onto the filter. You can see the massive amounts of dirt on the pan and the filter. Yuck! Lets remedy this problem.</p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T5mtSFDEI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/byzTAsBoMps/s1600-h/rr6637_2005%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="rr6637_2005" border="0" alt="rr6637_2005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T5vhJWgTI/AAAAAAAAAtU/Hvqrxvp_5no/rr6637_2005_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> There we go. Another good shot of how dirty it is, and how worthless this system is. Okay, actually, I did not throw it away. I have it out in the garage. I really do not know why yet. Maybe I’ll load it in the trap thrower for some fun someday. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T7J5AwjWI/AAAAAAAAAtc/UtHHL5ww4do/s1600-h/rr6637_2000%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="rr6637_2000" border="0" alt="rr6637_2000" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T7SCIIFMI/AAAAAAAAAtg/wGfmcm0zxK8/rr6637_2000_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T7XLWiQII/AAAAAAAAAtk/6URGTbyu1r8/s1600-h/rr6637_2001%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="rr6637_2001" border="0" alt="rr6637_2001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T7g7pvo6I/AAAAAAAAAto/jUIwzg5Qojc/rr6637_2001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> </p> <p align="left">The 6637 kit includes a 45 degree, mandrel bent, powder coated 4 inch pipe. This is to make the turn to the filter area. It also includes a SS T-bolt Clamp and the 6637 Tymar Filter. This thing is HUGE! I really cannot hype this up enough. I don’t think you can get much more flow than this filter will give you except if you were to remove the filter. <br><br>Okay, so you could be saying, “K&N Filters are way better than this junk, why would I want to do this? Bah Humbug!” Okay, smarty pants, when is the last time you held a K&N filter up to the light and looked though it? You can see though the filter can’t you? Those little spots of light, that is where dust can get though, even if you have the oil on the filter. A reusable style filter actually cleans less when you first clean and recharge the filter with oil. It needs to be dirty to actually work effectively. Even if the filter was filtering well, I still would avoid them. Why? A Turbo PULLS air though the system, it doesn’t work on atmospheric pressure. I’m not trying to bash K&N, because their products are great for Gas engines, but the sensitivity of a turbo is far to important for me to trust a filter with huge holes in it. I want to be safe. Just to throw more fuel on the fire, and throw in a Dodge reference. They took a Dodge Cummins into the dyno at CMU here, and ran the truck with the stock air filter system for a bench mark, then installed a K&N cold air setup and lost 10 horse power on the next dyno run. You know, just saying. I ran a K&N in my gas truck successfully for years. I just don’t recommend it on a Turbo Diesel. <br></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_j3wWB8xuFJUP0PWhB86GI1oArG0yRqtNHB8T3pcMImJUORm2KeLoqnBIsN5q3RdXPu8_Bv5P8lroHjJ3i5OiZNAuKyjaIvqY8iph7JFc_8BEunlWKWNChGHW54s0PG92R-4HGaoi4w/s1600-h/rr6637_2003%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="rr6637_2003" border="0" alt="rr6637_2003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T7rb1XO1I/AAAAAAAAAtw/nbKrhfhBIyU/rr6637_2003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T71Wfel3I/AAAAAAAAAt0/SoD5oYwWeAg/s1600-h/rr6637_2002%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="rr6637_2002" border="0" alt="rr6637_2002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S2T75djVkhI/AAAAAAAAAt4/R7AeGk1XQXY/rr6637_2002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>Basically we just insert the 45 into the filter, put down the clamp, slide it into the stock tube and clamp it down on the 45. That’s it, your done. Simple, easy. Looks good in there also. Clay’s kit also comes with a Dust Cover for the filter as well. This was a donation to me, so that might be why I did not get a cover. The cover is just essentially a cloth cover that fits over top like a sock, and you can remove and wash. This will help your filter last a bit longer due to the sock picking up most of the big dust, and allowing the filter to get all the small stuff.<br><br>This kit is available for the 94.5-97, and the 99-2003.<br><a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=RRD&Product_Code=RDP6637&Category_Code=FOBS-IN-6637">94.5-97 6637 Kit</a><br><a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=RRD&Product_Code=RDP6637&Category_Code=F731-IN-6637">99-03 6637 Kit</a></p> <p>If your wondering why you should order this kit from Clay instead of doing the kit on your own, you should call down to Napa where you get the filter and ask them the price. they will tell you right around 66 dollars. So, for a few dollars more, your getting a dust cover and the 45 elbow, that is powder coated, to complete the install.</p> <p>You can also call up Clay and order your part as well. If you do, be sure to tell him I sent you. </p> <p>Thanks again to Clay at <a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/">Riffraff Diesel Performance</a> for this donation.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-23324201675319642722009-12-21T09:53:00.000-08:002010-01-05T08:22:21.554-08:00Blast from the Past<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ7_rXgYDI/AAAAAAAAAp8/h6EI8Q_VzwM/s1600-h/bigtrak_0001%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="bigtrak_0001" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0001" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ8DDTeiAI/AAAAAAAAAqA/wfDshVjKuCk/bigtrak_0001_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <p>This is kind of a special treat for everyone here. I figured everyone would enjoy a smart toy, and maybe it would fuel some comments from an older crowd. This is the Big Trak, a programmable toy from a long time ago. I’ll save the date for a while, but, this is when toys were made in the USA, not china. </p> <p> </p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ8IvggiAI/AAAAAAAAAqE/5xxOGtaa5Us/s1600-h/bigtrak_0010%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="bigtrak_0010" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0010" align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsWL6I7_JNyCrHpba55YNvhpmmxAcuSfWNXaPxpgXSV7kN0KNZqt74XDqGR5iNf64iMyUuG06g-pGjlQ3ofzO3V94K8sEqBjGJj2bc2oN4k_uAcDaKCsf9eWUPm5AOhCJkczs8CoLwYc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <p>See, right here, says “Made in the USA.” </p> <p>Okay, so really, what is this thing? It’s a tank, simple as that. And this tank takes 4 D batteries and 1 9volt. It’s got motors, it’s got lights, it’s got sounds. I’m not sure what happened to toys for the next 40 years, but man, what gives toy manufactures? I never had anything like this when I was a kid, and this was made before I was made.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik369mPvtivu9y8l2SZH0NgPJ0WsA__sUn2YpIpBvJ7nVNS7h0EcwLUdETMxtLTj1LEy_-0xlbLs6_58l99f2AFrK_mc-IB9m0vKbvwuwFpXogxYO_L8osQcj_iKuDlCmCtrQxC8xezJw/s1600-h/bigtrak_0002%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0002" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOq1slwxc8Qh_mIjNz8FpAbk0zAkdR-nSzX1gZCJnQZNpvo4dSWD55g5rXYvVVm6tEbSPnIzbyh1NLU78_DrggVY_Z7qXN6DgTdWfQFFSLqKIXGZNFN1IoB1u6NlWv_6B80Ej6IhNtnSA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5YPlsTo8DFPjQLGUy40AxWvs3hTZxIRANrZsZSkMXAKkx_-rLKERpvIo-pEo_sY8kcy1mNxq0_zNu6dL2anUmS1uKidTJB5wCSftjfEDMmaecr0Or8oPiLe9iCS4IEEcpEE79pYdz9A/s1600-h/bigtrak_0006%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0006" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0006" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ8zNo8fxI/AAAAAAAAAqY/YQca4csplfc/bigtrak_0006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>My big track has the transport as well, an add on toy if you will. It is a fully functional dump bed that attaches to the Big Trak. It takes a D battery or 2.</p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ9A6_GlwI/AAAAAAAAAqc/5VPZooxaAfc/s1600-h/bigtrak_0007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0007" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ9HwGwuOI/AAAAAAAAAqg/po5wIsbMLT0/bigtrak_0007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulKEaduMY3Cd4lzr4aKG2kQQyDtLjqcOVfsyko0vC_8scrG5PSnRXUA3K-j44YTvI01fEqwY1011hrwOSLooJAOasxDVqeKrN1QZKqKZu0wFf57IafjGgSA-HQKQtR-UDrvG8G6Bgpyg/s1600-h/bigtrak_0008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0008" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ9076rsxI/AAAAAAAAAqo/W5nfDHZHHTY/bigtrak_0008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <p>It just uses a 3.5mm jack to attach to the Big Trak. It receives its commands though here. The wheels just roll, and there is a motor and battery box in the bottom.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ-RJZaBhI/AAAAAAAAAqs/tsx-RXSvQ24/bigtrak_0003%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0003" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ-nYa-1yI/AAAAAAAAAqw/omWvFEPAU2I/bigtrak_0003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmXsMrkRiwrY2T4iLu028_o3lczNXzE4LSPsgsb00sJLnwLegPICkoeafsBsxyDxqt-Ha-JF79B75V5B1vKrc3frrvtNF8Id9VqPD25jygUtrbTahwu0grnIYGfkgBKdhSXTDNwnWwTc/s1600-h/bigtrak_0004%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0004" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ_KCRWS6I/AAAAAAAAAq4/1weK-ADQgdA/bigtrak_0004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>Okay. I’ll stop the suspense now. This is the Big Trak. It’s basically a tank. Reminds me of something that would be in GI-Joe. It is a fully programmable unit. It accepts up too 16 steps in the programming. Forward, backwards, turns, fire the guns, and a few sounds as well as dump the bed. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRXt0mq4SRFx4dAy4S2s9YD7tLyMSwIkcK0fqxnZ1kNJqiMCJkzqR5I0l0YuttVgvht6k6QS4MQQ3Ebqvwt-eC5oM5kEDVKETPcXSi3o-BAFvqh1FILkX1zX_QZ6q_YM8bW31ShjOFp8/s1600-h/bigtrak_0011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0011" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0011" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPUXq-mTOQoV2RFBR4SmJJjerRKWKFiIXIu2KVm-8pqGPu2SzTnVyGVZvcFLx-18t99fG3z4qVaWUZu2uo80k5QHgW3ACpSrZ_u7mdCDc7FVbA-4ZDbwrRGf2JVBIaEfXSOVhlO8OaJ4o/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ_qsNtxGI/AAAAAAAAArE/rLU92fPxlsU/s1600-h/bigtrak_0012%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0012" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0012" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyZ_1arZDBI/AAAAAAAAArI/O4fqFgGMJW4/bigtrak_0012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>The transport even comes with a book telling you how to hook it up, and install the batteries. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyaAG8yJMfI/AAAAAAAAArM/vlYAe-h3mlA/s1600-h/bigtrak_0013%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0013" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0013" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSe8f90KPEhyUP2Xw6o41SrJ7j450xicupBfvXFXKRIRi6ykiq7HRwbjKOA2HyqVX8C2VzstFN73FMeT7tre2xXZLVv2uo_GBEWu7V2gcL4zf77YBm-Ma7WyY1SNSW2ZT2F48FnwOu3A/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyaAmwBsq2I/AAAAAAAAArU/D68yzBe4UMs/s1600-h/bigtrak_0014%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0014" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0014" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SyaA0iJtsrI/AAAAAAAAArY/2WQO2Z0CZwk/bigtrak_0014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>The book for the Big Track is very well planned out and detailed in the programming of the unit. There are a few programs in the book to help teach you how to program the unit as well. I know your wondering when this thing was made still. This looks like a newer toy! Come on, we haven't’ hit the computer age till just recently. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NmCya73iI/AAAAAAAAAr8/YZanKVbvkLw/s1600-h/bigtrak_00172.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0017" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0017" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0Nm9KAOJgI/AAAAAAAAAsE/VCcsEei6gmg/bigtrak_0017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NnAOxWUTI/AAAAAAAAAsI/xcN8iCv7vcg/s1600-h/bigtrak_00182.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0018" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0018" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NnBU-x85I/AAAAAAAAAsM/mUjDgWJ3sxI/bigtrak_0018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>the speaker is on the front under the “laser” which is a flashing bulb in the front, and it makes sounds when it “shoots.” The battery door is on the back of the unit. only 2 of the wheels are drive wheels, the rest of the wheels float and can travel up and down for different terrain. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_BZNL7M9U3ygBigXtENUatsFekwjtb7Ff87oqct37jGA3LqiPqlQ-vEjPZll0eBltojFXmQyKGLb9mRSOoy66RJZ_f3oMjHMEy-SVRoG7bo1q_yHqm06SbSnW1ICkslmLd2dxPBkTMk/s1600-h/bigtrak_00162.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0016" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0016" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NnF8udYFI/AAAAAAAAAsU/afjt5HoTVGE/bigtrak_0016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NnIeyTH1I/AAAAAAAAAsY/Sq0uTZ7q3r4/s1600-h/bigtrak_00152.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bigtrak_0015" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NnJ2xKPAI/AAAAAAAAAsc/otOUmz58bN4/bigtrak_0015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>I put it together for a quick picture here with an example of goods to transport. Finally we get to the year this awesome toy was made. Wait, what, 1979? Your kidding right? Nope. This was my grandfathers toy that his 3 kids chipped in and bought for him a long time ago. I never even seen it until my grandmother remembered that I was supposed to get it 5 years ago. Ooops. “Better late then never, right?” she says to me. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Hmfvzx1dD57TasmrjHI8nBF8V5wSsZQ5MZUSwJeuQzqsy-eeGs55wBUgaA4-TS-HQ0e9jIwZHrXAnYUjx0faEwutnjw-dreLxCXD3R-GkcKJPMEQOvRPxo4IBT3zwcGsUq9YdANECyY/s1600-h/bigtrak_00053.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="bigtrak_0005" border="0" alt="bigtrak_0005" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/S0NnOdFXPDI/AAAAAAAAAsk/8p2V_0tNYiI/bigtrak_0005_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> It even included a few different programs he wrote with it, and the Smith and Wesson 7803 Halogen Spotlight packing slip on how to change the bulb and warranty information. Wonder how that got in there.<br><br>I hope you were able to enjoy this old toy. I haven’t even got to play with it yet. I don’t have any batteries for it, and for some reason that dump bed is screaming “put a battery pack in here so you can power the unit.” Maybe next time.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-44423243562370565352009-11-08T14:22:00.001-08:002010-01-26T22:38:01.384-08:00MidWest Trans Short Throw Shifter Kit Install for ZF5<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc3yJiwrrI/AAAAAAAAAkM/W9A0cxK8TWM/s1600-h/mwtstk_3000%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="mwtstk_3000" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3000" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc31WyDitI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/iyP2IoeArgM/mwtstk_3000_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a>Whoa that was a big title. This item arrived at my door stop a little unexpected. It’s a short throw shift kit. It makes the shifter throws, or distance of the shift lever movement, shorter. This kit was donated by an anonymous source on <a href="http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/forum170/">Ford Truck Enthusiasts</a>. I have yet to find out who it is. Upon asking Clay over at <a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/" target="_blank">Riffraff Diesel Performance</a>, he informed me that this person wished to remain anonymous. This would be the second donation to Midnight Mods! Thank you anonymous person. I am grateful for your donation and giving spirit. </p> <p>The biggest bummer about this whole kit is there are no instructions! So, in the spirit of Midnight Mods, I set to work on this write up so others could successfully install their kit without any problems. </p> <p>The kit is very basic CNC machined plate, a spacer, a few longer bolts and a longer gear selector. The kit is somewhat confusing at first if you have not taken the top end of a ZF5 transmission apart, as it was for me. I had to figure it out as I went, and it is much more simple than you think,</p> <p>I’m going to try and keep this as simple as possible using pictures. I could probably type till my fingers hurt, but seeing as I took over 60 pictures, we will stick with that method! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc35ql6itI/AAAAAAAAAkU/94UHQ_Dlu9w/s1600-h/mwtstk_3044%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3044" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3044" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4M0WLzUI/AAAAAAAAAkY/Zs9ewu-rsr4/mwtstk_3044_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4RLrsnMI/AAAAAAAAAkc/nvxATIY6Ztg/s1600-h/mwtstk_3045%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3045" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3045" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4fogQRUI/AAAAAAAAAkg/M1fhJIrERko/mwtstk_3045_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here are pictures of all the tools that I used during this installation. Some you will probably not need, or maybe you’ll find something better. I used a few tools that most normally would not have, the white stick for instance. Where I used it, a screwdriver would work fine. Loctite/Permatex gasket maker, 3/8’s ratchet and 1/4 inch ratchet. 1/2 inch socket and a 10mm socket. The ones on the trans are 1/2 inch though. The allen wrench is metric! 5mm. So if you don’t have the correct one, please go and buy it before you try and strip these out. I also used a swivel and a small extension, 1/2 inch wrench, magnet, and a screwdriver. In the second picture, I had to make a jig to hammer the spring out, and a rod and a pin punch. I used the dead blow hammer to break the seal loose on the trans, and the balpien to hammer out the spring.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4iga1RSI/AAAAAAAAAkk/hryVgfwqrx0/s1600-h/mwtstk_3001%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3001" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4q81V9bI/AAAAAAAAAko/d2LS47NCiCg/mwtstk_3001_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzI6p0paa4QBfcwMbjM19HPzmdmYfZqgahJBrB2VlRXojSv_XpQN2qKYiwuP72en6rcgX0yltS7r1YKi3PgtIwbcmfqddZf8STnqBStCw__gH8IRMpSWppecDQZkcCMEgN-QcRbbsZbKk/s1600-h/mwtstk_3002%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3002" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4yAuxuyI/AAAAAAAAAkw/jizjCSNJvX4/mwtstk_3002_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Alright. Lets start. Take the shifter boot off first. Then put the truck in neutral. Don’t forget to set the parking brake, or block the tires. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc47NZThtI/AAAAAAAAAk0/TIRtwLfAMAQ/s1600-h/mwtstk_3003%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3003" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc4-2DBnNI/AAAAAAAAAk4/zhW0pm6QT7s/mwtstk_3003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5EgUQpKI/AAAAAAAAAk8/UwmSIXOB5V4/s1600-h/mwtstk_3004%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3004" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5JUOuBbI/AAAAAAAAAlA/lUfGLeEOXLQ/mwtstk_3004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here is a view at what your getting into. Use the metric allen to take off the gear selector cover, and pull it strait up.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5U0xLA4I/AAAAAAAAAlE/mqKCkZuznUU/s1600-h/mwtstk_3005%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3005" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3005" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5YQzW6sI/AAAAAAAAAlI/Xwyl_YsBKK8/mwtstk_3005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5e8A_wfI/AAAAAAAAAlM/aLMCyyrh3jk/s1600-h/mwtstk_3006%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3006" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3006" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDiLGbd1yqOXlg3Q0V8rfNEBpf8t2_x_IzrYvigE2XKn-Xeoc6oeaAYzDhFylxnMvnMjaxI82ODvHqQDzEnKdpQaKL372Yhj8ar5OH1_HeM9uve2EZo3Dk6tAji-rFyyGayDl5dd24Fs/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>There are plastic tabs on the gear selector pivot. Don’t loose these. Take note also on how they come off, so you can install them on the new one the same way. At this point, fish out the socket headed cap screw that rolled back down the transmission somehow causing you bang your head on the dash trying to find it with a flashlight and a magnet. Then using the extension and the 3/8’s wrench 1/2 inch socket, take the next cover off. The ones towards the rear are a bit of a pain, but come out, you’ll have to take them out by hand in the end, the socket will hit the pan. Be sure to collect all the washers!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5s0BOCsI/AAAAAAAAAlU/QRNOkJF28cs/s1600-h/mwtstk_3007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3007" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc5wi_zwRI/AAAAAAAAAlY/QDv4Ga6VbHE/mwtstk_3007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc-HEM-UtI/AAAAAAAAAlc/tv4B1zq8kVU/s1600-h/mwtstk_3008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3008" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc-UZNx3vI/AAAAAAAAAlg/0cmJQB8E6wg/mwtstk_3008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I used a dead blow hammer to break it loose. If you were lucky like I was, the gasket will come off in one piece and can be reused during the reinstall. This thing is filthy! Better go clean it.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKOcuSIw6kHgQzMDErNi3XiTth5qDwOEeyEVQsDKwNHLsF1qNgqmG0cpsR5_qmMNH12KR8Nkn2n6WeyMxC4aeuLTAhn4764ECC7Pqe18N4VcMPQSnpSZdpLVhhmvsT_YKk5wkytFAWqXs/s1600-h/mwtstk_3009%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="mwtstk_3009" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3009" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc-jpDeSmI/AAAAAAAAAlo/e-DFoN5k8A8/mwtstk_3009_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> Here is a look down the hole. All sorts of goodies down there. You can see oil moves around pretty good. There is oil in the ball-socket for the gear selector. I played with it a bit to see how it worked then returned it to the neutral position. </p> <p>What we are doing with the kit is basically changing the pivot point giving us a shorter throw on the shifter due to that whole cool thing called leverage. Were just changing the point of leverage. It’s really simple, I swear! It will make total sense when you put it together.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc-wERJPUI/AAAAAAAAAls/Ac2p16YSz14/s1600-h/mwtstk_3010%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3010" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc-3fM07LI/AAAAAAAAAlw/xwRE4p0iWhk/mwtstk_3010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc-67H141I/AAAAAAAAAl0/K5B6a8ZK_AA/s1600-h/mwtstk_3011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3011" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_C7TE6MI/AAAAAAAAAl4/UzSYjihaedU/mwtstk_3011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here is all the parts out of the kit and out of the truck. The detent that people talk about is in the right picture. You can see the spacer is the same height as the detent. It is critical that you remove this properly. The Aluminum piece is a spacer that goes behind it. </p> <p>The following is an example of how not to remove it. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_HeoqUPI/AAAAAAAAAl8/vg0mfQ4ur0Y/s1600-h/mwtstk_3013%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3013" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3013" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_MezihUI/AAAAAAAAAmA/wjvAX5m5Cy8/mwtstk_3013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yE_-IYy44xvkojoSOG5yw8HRE0ef6wo_A22HP6q_cFvAT_TswNlrBwcYHUHjJ8dAdApUxK-htWYeuE90x8TRiDpUKSmheTWPBzaNiqFQxVIQwDSV84xA9zyiLCJ8C5fFLPhiSm_Rbv0/s1600-h/mwtstk_3015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3015" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_eGcvgdI/AAAAAAAAAmI/ItRsFGH15JE/mwtstk_3015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <h2>DO NOT REMOVE THE SPRING HOUSING LIKE THIS!!!!! This will damage the part!</h2> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvidTaJp9BI/AAAAAAAAApw/NWe2u8-FnIA/s1600-h/dont%20do%20this%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="dont do this" border="0" alt="dont do this" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvidThDkCtI/AAAAAAAAAp0/LFM9NqssLF8/dont%20do%20this_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> There is a collar around the edge, use a large bar on top of the edge. Using a jig like I did, made of wood, you cannot damage the aluminum unless you decide to set the bar on the aluminum and hit it. Don’t hit too hard, when you do hit this part correctly, it will slide down. Once I had it broke loose. I used the small pin punch to hammer it out. </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="mwtstk_3014" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3014" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpY2sb8E34nihGH4p17IZtx4t6RnrcP3tL5GCtWRYFIgXZJzHqmnqmxOsoIKidpj2Hgo5I04Nnb5JrppjKAgWrYN59TpzsRlcXbA9ZcN_U7MpyGhT9uq_QRHlSffXiFdDMVIl1lnGPkc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></p> <p>You can see the spring pack has pushed out a bit. Some have referred to this pack at the “detent” I don’t know why you would call it that, but its just a spring and a ball bearing. Just be sure to hammer the collar, not the washer. There is a groove around the top that basically a washer is popped in, that holds the spring inside. Luckily, for me, the spacer will keep it from going anywhere. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_onuQXfI/AAAAAAAAAmM/8-rc29zi258/s1600-h/mwtstk_3016%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3016" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_uFPvkbI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/WgImNnMKYyM/mwtstk_3016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_wxHSQ5I/AAAAAAAAAmU/ycEyBK6dFOQ/s1600-h/mwtstk_3017%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3017" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3017" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc_2OYzozI/AAAAAAAAAmY/8VU9my-LCkA/mwtstk_3017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> </p> <p>I got out the clamp and compressed it, used the spring to try and pop it back into place. I only got close. Better then nothing. I hope I save everyone else the grief with this info! Lets assemble the unit now!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Svc__1tifkI/AAAAAAAAAmc/Hl92TP8ZDRg/s1600-h/mwtstk_3018%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3018" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdAFTpCgJI/AAAAAAAAAmg/lIxweP6SlEg/mwtstk_3018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdAM0qZvgI/AAAAAAAAAmk/01rVUEaxRjU/s1600-h/mwtstk_3019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3019" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdARqiXm_I/AAAAAAAAAms/cmvLw2Mza4k/mwtstk_3019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>You can see all the parts here for the shift kit but the gear selector. My spacer was not cut well (rushed on the lathe) so I added grease. The rough cutting will not hurt anything.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdAaikvcgI/AAAAAAAAAmw/vu3FNEPNoBk/s1600-h/mwtstk_3020%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3020" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3020" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdAhcBHoxI/AAAAAAAAAm0/CFF3PuKZBdo/mwtstk_3020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdAwCnf4DI/AAAAAAAAAm4/WUT09rk2Qo8/s1600-h/mwtstk_3021%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3021" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdA3tOJfNI/AAAAAAAAAm8/EHsDqOSwLAw/mwtstk_3021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I added a few drops of oil to the collar, because we would be pressing in the spring unit. Having no press. I wanted it to go in easily. I set the spacer on the gear selector holder (whatever this part is called) and then slid the spring pack down and clamped it together and felt it slide right in.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdA_gUzlRI/AAAAAAAAAnA/2nHZZwF1wX0/s1600-h/mwtstk_3022%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3022" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3022" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNovSamdO86W-2mPxulbS5mm3e27WA7GWxa8y5EhPxcUWT7X4YFWn3jGMjTL-pbVHIW0NYCofr03bD4_7Zxela0XUFVATxzx9PZW9U_cgEI7n9RSGjEpKE9a8l9E599IxsFDYoNw5Egk/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTGAdU4IVh55vttCqXvekrL8nWUTxGVbVx2wUepyzyzENRajMR1IjCtOav1UzCE110_ip-F4sAdJ2JrgEFLxyskz4ZLkCjE0biVFJ9NDkgl7kL4MCk5XF44AkuL4rTxm6ZI1WP2i2B7dQ/s1600-h/mwtstk_3023%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3023" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3023" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdBZcoXqII/AAAAAAAAAnM/e_TFa-3S8MQ/mwtstk_3023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>You can see that the part has pushed its way in, and some grease came out. I cleaned this up and got the gasket maker out to mate the 2 pieces. I am using gasket maker cause, well, its better for this instead of RTV, less messy as well.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdBgNzJ2TI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/MX-lzPYN0p8/s1600-h/mwtstk_3024%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3024" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3024" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdBnfm9YMI/AAAAAAAAAnY/8ZpALxAA84Q/mwtstk_3024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdBvx2Ny2I/AAAAAAAAAnc/Zm3-J_sCjJE/s1600-h/mwtstk_3025%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3025" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3025" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdB4CqdooI/AAAAAAAAAng/D51vWfQhnpU/mwtstk_3025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCBM8PImI/AAAAAAAAAnk/OoDTLEAx62g/s1600-h/mwtstk_3029%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="mwtstk_3029" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3029" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCJsYcFKI/AAAAAAAAAno/faTmw0Cx-aU/mwtstk_3029_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> I had saved the gasket, so I decided to install this on the bottom. The gasket maker will mate the two pieces together basically making one when you pull it out. And the gasket maker on the bottom will hold the seal in place making any future removals very simple. (Changing transmissions.) As one unit, I installed this down in the hole and sat it on top of the transmission.</p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCO2U_eNI/AAAAAAAAAns/gl34ebf5vb0/s1600-h/mwtstk_3027%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3027" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCVdZ9DEI/AAAAAAAAAnw/A17aoEYLMDk/mwtstk_3027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCZmHYAfI/AAAAAAAAAn0/YA9CzYwRicA/s1600-h/mwtstk_3028%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3028" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3028" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdChIyhv0I/AAAAAAAAAn4/VZRfB3Fn3o0/mwtstk_3028_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I hope you got all the washers from earlier. Put them on the bolts that come with the kit and grab the Thread Locker.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCkIy23tI/AAAAAAAAAn8/vDTty2Dwuvo/s1600-h/mwtstk_3030%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3030" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3030" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCpNbkIDI/AAAAAAAAAoA/GIrEcajyNQ0/mwtstk_3030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCs33pjpI/AAAAAAAAAoE/6TUtQxhvWdg/s1600-h/mwtstk_3031%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3031" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3031" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdCzNbnJsI/AAAAAAAAAoI/-MQcsuQ4f2w/mwtstk_3031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> </p> <p>For some reason I have 2 of the same picture. (No idea really) The bolts towards the rear will have to be put in kind of sneaky like. Be sure to install all the bolts in the holes before threading any of them in to make sure you get the back two in. Another FTE member used the dremmel tool and ground the transmission floor pan back where you would put these in, making access to them easier with the ratchet. This is a good idea if you have the tool available to you. Do not forget to cover your transmission while you do this!!! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdC8lTo5AI/AAAAAAAAAoM/734I4RWtGqw/s1600-h/mwtstk_3033%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3033" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3033" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDEf_CsFI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/L-ACNC4yC6E/mwtstk_3033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDLDWlh7I/AAAAAAAAAoU/j0rtbEaIHa0/s1600-h/mwtstk_3034%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3034" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWrJXYkUP-5L1sSMBipvgliz2Z08S0QikQ4zF8tUne-uy26oDdDDMsH2kRbPbwGHc6be1tMlMwFXGLekAjqtd9azoPuexcMFPQh2u7hDNhJyy_Tql6WPj7tyC1tUBlkrPq-BeO3AxaF1o/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> </p> <p>This is where you use the 1/2 inch wrench. I have shallow sockets, and even I could not get mine on there. So I used the wrench and some creativity to tighten them down. You could torque them down, but I just made sure they were all snugg and the same amount using some techniques I was taught growing up. Common sense really. Alright, lets get the gear selector ready!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDWi2_vVI/AAAAAAAAApc/qd5FVuAGxjM/s1600-h/mwtstk_3035%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="mwtstk_3035" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3035" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDbvR8eLI/AAAAAAAAApk/qbiXz_sWRQY/mwtstk_3035_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p align="left">Here is all the parts. I used the abrasive pad to clean up the ball cup and the pivot points for the plastic bushings. This part was fresh sand blasted before it was sent out. You should probably clean it off with brake cleaner to be honest with you. I wiped mine down being without brake cleaner. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDemce3VI/AAAAAAAAAok/RFO-S_ZeAsw/s1600-h/mwtstk_3036%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3036" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3036" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDi225r9I/AAAAAAAAAoo/U9wpBVqvKJM/mwtstk_3036_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDnXI7QlI/AAAAAAAAAos/S_ZaQdRJIG0/s1600-h/mwtstk_3037%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3037" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3037" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDsuQwRBI/AAAAAAAAAow/MVTOLvn2Pwc/mwtstk_3037_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Snug the boot over and grease it all up with some silicone grease! I used the white stick here to get the boot on all the way. You could use a screw driver, but the white stick wont damage the rubber unless I get brutal with it. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdDyqTV7_I/AAAAAAAAAo0/p3s9p2Cb76c/s1600-h/mwtstk_3038%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3038" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3038" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXoGun1iZ2WgPIjPazRPyV2tuxi9RN3pLtDD67uMNJWmm9eNP-LDzF1a67hhii3FM0VWi1jukTT1IVcDr94a5YURj_vOAYjHDSFt4v5ieI898mw6ky8PLcgwlWlx0HcQwiQUmgTI1oXs/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdD9Km_krI/AAAAAAAAAo8/5iTfxDCTMw4/s1600-h/mwtstk_3039%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3039" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3039" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdEBBzHn4I/AAAAAAAAApA/LlIhKCJAQh8/mwtstk_3039_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>Line it up and drop it down in the hole. Make sure the ball and cup come together, otherwise you’ll be in for some fun taking it all back apart. Put some thread lock on the socket headed cap screws and install them.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMjt6CSWBi9pRwAgDA5h5xNPuyvez0znGWiwPiBoUIoF6pIESST8uxFGMm-sYfUdWwdT7uJRMqYG7z1ZHIsWn5apnIyyNqGtC4QGovTCbqVFBzeCdFUIwqjkQ8FZIz2kBBsfg9O37L7k/s1600-h/mwtstk_3040%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="mwtstk_3040" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3040" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdEN4I_7hI/AAAAAAAAApI/YB3haB2etHk/mwtstk_3040_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> Be sure to drop that same screw on the ground that you dropped on the transmission earlier. If you have not cuss yet this project, now would be the time to let it know who is boss. <br>Had to dust it off and put more thread lock on it. Remember, no matter how tasty thread lock is, do not eat it. I know it’s tasty, from experience, but it turns sour really quick! Uck!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdEXSOJY-I/AAAAAAAAApM/ClDxZRyiCPY/s1600-h/mwtstk_3042%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3042" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3042" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdEaUeku8I/AAAAAAAAApQ/B21tKidpCug/mwtstk_3042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdEfLpC3NI/AAAAAAAAApU/jE1LjsDdJ0U/s1600-h/mwtstk_3043%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="mwtstk_3043" border="0" alt="mwtstk_3043" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SvdEq8LfzNI/AAAAAAAAApY/d-vT0pBNNpY/mwtstk_3043_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Install the shifter on the selector, and then spend the next hour putting the boot back in. If yours is anything like mine, the screws never line up, and you end up breaking something a few times. getting new screws, washers, whatever. It seriously took me a good hour to get this boot back on and secure to the floor. I hate this design, but oh well. </p> <p>That’s It! Don’t forget to run the shifter though the gears before you spend an hour putting the boot back on the floor. You’ll regret it if you screwed up and didn’t do it. I made sure to do this. I didn’t think the case of beer in the fridge needed to suffer for my mistakes if I made any. This was a 0 beer project actually! The only frustrations with this project you will have is getting that spring pack out. That is the part that keeps it in gear and all that fancy jazz. It’s a really strong spring too. </p> <p>Final results after the install produced a 20-28% decrease in shift length. Stock shift side to side is 5” and 5.5” up and down. The kit reduced both to 4 inches. Thanks to Neal for the stock measurements, because I forgot to measure before installing. I believe the kit claims 38% decrease, but my math is saying otherwise. This difference is very noticeable nonetheless. No throwing your shoulder out to put it into 5th gear anymore.</p> <p>The Midwest Trans kit is a good product. I would recommend it to anyone looking for some shorter shifter throws with their ZF-5 Transmission, or any other transmission they make these kits for. The CNC work on the spacer was really good. The parts were all high quality. The parts that upset me was that it was poorly packaged. The parts could have been in baggies, and wrapped in bubble wrap instead of tossed in a box with some paper. I’m glad the Gear selector didn't’ destroy the spacer, or the bolts included didn’t destroy the spacer either. They were just all floating around in the box. My box had the snot beat out of it by the USPS as well. You’ll be happy with the product if you order it. If you would like to get one, head over to <a href="http://www.riffraffdiesel.com/" target="_blank">Riffraff Diesel Performance</a> and call up Clay and tell him you want one. Be sure to tell him I sent ya!</p> <p>Please comment with any questions or thoughts. </p> <p>I would like to thank the donator for this part yet again. This article and my happiness with this product would not be possible with out you!</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-5648464093316890542009-10-29T08:54:00.001-07:002009-10-29T09:23:29.102-07:00Using Spade Terminals Safely<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Sum6blkcIgI/AAAAAAAAAkE/L8pOYmViXPY/s1600-h/spade_801%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="spade_801" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="spade_801" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/Sum6qC842tI/AAAAAAAAAkI/FIrLlms033w/spade_801_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a> There are a few different ways to create a break in a wire to make easy access to things. Spade terminals are one of them, and there is also a barrel style, which are a bit stronger. I did not have any of the barrel ones, but here is a the “safe” way to install spade terminals into a connection as a line break, instead of a terminal lead. I do this on the terminals also, but mostly cause it looks professional, and keeps accidents from happening. These are just crimp on style connectors. I cut the length of shrink tubing and fit over the end. I leave a hair over the end of the terminal, sometimes it shrinks in towards the wire, and you are trying to cover any exposed metal areas. You can always trim later if it does not line up with the end, but I generally leave it unless it effects the ability for me to plug it in. Using a heat gun, or a sufficient heat source you shrink the tubing onto the wire creating this ‘sealed’ end. Less chance of corrosion on the terminal as well. If you have never worked with shrink tubing before, you should practice shrinking a few pieces on wires and such. If you are using a heat gun, it is very easy, if you are using a lighter or a torch, do not put the flame on the tubing. The tubing will deform and not shrink properly. You want to hold the flame away and turn the part over the heat from the flame. If you are using a torch like I did, it functions like a heat gun, but there is a huge flame. I just turn on the torch and rotate the part in the heat of the torch. Also, be sure to be careful of your hands around a flame, and the fact the wire could catch on fire if you are working with older wire. Some older wire’s coatings will ignite under flame.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-74358690145345394342009-09-24T17:30:00.001-07:002009-09-28T15:43:07.967-07:00ICP Resistor Mod – Version 1<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHiMlCvVOMN6CQhE8uiY7LuFTBXNS3ZaW1Se-90esFqUYhKpbhRqd14BHqA7tY-gFQ3nME0_jsSXCi1kGHmLS7DfFAgkHL9v4_3aIUCUuJO62-VO0uWLwbppFcY3_jnWBwMnoxzLigx2Y/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1200%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1200" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1200" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwOyVkiDvI/AAAAAAAAAj8/DfbHwTkhV6Y/icprstrv1_1200_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a>This is a modification I cannot take credit for originally, but my version of the mod. What we are doing here is tricking the computer into sending more oil pressure to the HEUI injectors of the truck. This will give us more horse power. If you don’t believe this will work, it has been tested on a Dyno. <a href="http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/744058-icp-resistance-mod-results.html" target="_blank">Test Results</a>. Different combinations produce different results. The general is 14.7K, which is what I decided to go for. </p> <p> </p> <p>We start out with some resistors. We are going to hook them up in series for 14.7 ohms. There are a few different methods to put them on the truck using crimpers and bayonet clips and such. We are going a different route for version 1. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaabh1nfnPyoVBIToFVPjNS4S1FFX192T8JIsFLfWro4MGnIWgqkODv2ymSbrhxxKb1lCoW7ohLMvsChhfIVREpsnTXaS4lHWQF9hI2EbpSrJgNKHY6Wp42G4SJLdngMeiioJjjNHNw8w/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1202%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1202" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1202" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO0bvv01I/AAAAAAAAAio/Cm6_ULVdWEk/icprstrv1_1202_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO1W0TeBI/AAAAAAAAAis/AX8El0BPh0Q/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1201%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1201" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1201" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO2b4EwlI/AAAAAAAAAiw/vA0F_oYOrgY/icprstrv1_1201_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I am using a terminal block to do this mod. This will get rid of any bad connections, electrical tape and look good and be easy to change things out, or disable the mod. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO3f2sAOI/AAAAAAAAAi0/e3b4nU4DWao/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1204%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1204" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1204" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO4C78aYI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_lmJGKwJlxQ/icprstrv1_1204_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO42xmRFI/AAAAAAAAAi8/MM-njX3fgZY/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1205%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1205" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1205" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO5p3twBI/AAAAAAAAAjA/rew9oHnnzFw/icprstrv1_1205_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I bent the resistor leads to make sure there was more contact for the terminals. The block is only strait though with 2 holes in between the 3 blocks to screw it down if you wanted too. Now that we are all setup, lets go get the truck ready.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO6lMLHqI/AAAAAAAAAjE/BaOFmPa9o9s/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1206%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1206" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1206" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO7sSZ6lI/AAAAAAAAAjI/0J1C1Uowdl4/icprstrv1_1206_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO8QD-YXI/AAAAAAAAAjM/PkOHYXP7KVM/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1207%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1207" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1207" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO9YcUCCI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/8wtOA_wyi-U/icprstrv1_1207_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Located the wire, and unplugged it to make it easier to work on. I also pulled off the protective covering to give me more room to work on the wires and get the strippers in there. With the connector unplugged, it also makes it harder to damage the wires by pulling them out of the terminal.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja72n_uT1XQQWe-6xLm4XAuVAD2CnS8VeMkCe7ZdrEtJSFE6OxZzzWyrq6wA1KJ_18An2JxnO7wsIpC0yK9jA75FHczrrN8sDJTUYgsuxHZkH7a6Duo2icNElhZ6fpYZzm8d_WRO03K0w/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1209%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1209" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfBOJzyo41k1Q121ZbEx2uQao0DHKm2ldYbdyMWHoqAYC_SxOa9OVplNotexmW8zY1npN2VHH9zoYtyYLo2KMb2cfK4_3QW9yCU3gZ7OpVrdIlfx4C3Q_TC9ZFQpsjPivR5MYep_BUaw/?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwO_yjSkLI/AAAAAAAAAjc/rspoJb_lrmk/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1208%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1208" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="icprstrv1_1208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyIMS3R2LTD6_dOCMBkFXTAp81R2VsUW9jXtkFuVyThoX1lio6cVna5eaWOQO__vN3ueP_cQZres_O9CJ9DaVJ3heQC8insPpFwsApuWWuSnqdJj5ZnxMTr21UjdIgXqZspYZq1ca1D64/?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I soldered the leads to make them hold better and reduce fatigue from the screw down. Then I checked the resistance on the unit. Not quite 14.7, but close enough. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwPBte1BVI/AAAAAAAAAjk/rd48F7aydSM/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1210%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1210" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlmd0MKSzh8ao86FU2tj65GzVG1qG3IB1wVA8UeygDzgHx06d3NX9x1VhCqJc5PeKU_rlxotIg2bMZ-FMPKlyEpK16HqkVSWI0fvZNCWjxpfFza2lxV9v6h1KKT6nyfpBdCURh-5nAHw/?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwPDU-lWFI/AAAAAAAAAjs/vJZ3T_RpgD4/s1600-h/icprstrv1_1211%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="icprstrv1_1211" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="icprstrv1_1211" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SrwPEN30JII/AAAAAAAAAjw/M6Mj5ECzhC8/icprstrv1_1211_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I screwed the wires into the terminal, then fired it up. It ran better, so I put some covers on the wires and shut the hood. Better throttle response, better idle, and no fall out at higher RPM’s. This is a simple easy to do mod. Remember, this is version 1. Stay tuned for version 2. Hand etched board with choices. <br /> <br />I, nor anyone, without prejudice, but you is responsible if this damages your vehicle.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-41732559003961074862009-08-30T16:20:00.000-07:002010-01-29T10:59:55.236-08:00Show us your Desk!<p>You think your desk is bad? Show us what you got! At home, at work, doesn’t matter- we want pictures. Here is what you have to do:</p> <ol> <li>Dig out your camera (hint: it’s probably buried in your desk somewhere.) </li> <li>Put <a href="http://www.midnightmods.com">www.midnightmods.com</a> on your screen so we know it’s actually your desk and not just something you found on Google images. (cheater!) </li> <li>Snap some good photos (you might need to use flash if you have the jitters.) </li> <li>Upload them somewhere online. <a href="http://twitpic.com/" target="_blank">twitpic</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>, <a href="www.2pad.com" target="_blank">2PAD</a>, <a href="http://imageshack.us/" target="_blank">ImageShack</a>, and <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com" target="_blank">Google’s Picasa Web Albums</a> are some of our favorites. (optionally you can just email them to comments[at@]midnightmods.com if you’d like) </li> <li>Post links to your pictures along with a brief description of what we are looking at (home, work / dungeon) in the comments section. We will go through and add them to the page if they are worthy. </li> </ol> <p>That’s it!</p> <p>If the pictures end up being good enough, we might even award prizes. I’m sure there is some MM giveaway stuff on my desk somewhere… I just have to find it :-)</p> <hr /> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SsAAq_gKS5I/AAAAAAAASkA/BRCk4mUdpDY/s1600-h/CIMG213110.jpg"><font color="#333333" face="Segoe Print"></font></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_eDZpjzZhktzQbVRJTCKuyamNq970ToSnzruBqvbx4edZfSiM9wAZE-P65oYBUIEjNC7bVVwD9a9DJBxZ_15X99m-jcACf8KqpGYLvQL62JJsYohfRkp1ssTre3RRFAMW4plzRBaVZTZ/s1600-h/CIMG213120.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="CIMG2131" border="0" alt="CIMG2131" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsJXd9KxkI/AAAAAAAASgM/Rty9FIQwx58/CIMG2131_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="331" /></a></a></a></p> <p align="center"> <table style="position: relative; top: -105px" border="0" cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="0" width="240" align="center"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="238"><font face="Segoe Print">This one is my home desk. It’s been neglected for about 6 months straight. </font></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsJYvc2kfI/AAAAAAAASkM/icDaS-XuzEs/s1600-h/worklg49.jpg"><font color="#333333" face="Segoe Print"></font></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsJYvc2kfI/AAAAAAAASkQ/UQfNiTIOCco/s1600-h/worklg51.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="worklg" border="0" alt="worklg" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsJYy9g_OI/AAAAAAAASgc/6iC-4LjVMRQ/worklg_thumb%5B49%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="331" /></a></a></a></p> <p style="position: relative; top: -85px" align="center"> <table style="position: relative; top: -105px" border="0" cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="0" width="240" align="center"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="238"><font face="Segoe Print">Here is one of my desks at work. Seems to be growing at a steady rate. </font></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsLzq1KocI/AAAAAAAASgA/6GvnwqEMXfA/s1600-h/drmst_004%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="drmst_004" border="0" alt="drmst_004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsLz_UMtWI/AAAAAAAASgE/WZd8_R97a2Q/drmst_004_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="331" /></a></p> <p align="center"> <table style="position: relative; top: -105px" border="0" cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="0" width="240" align="center"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="238"><font face="Segoe Print">I’m sure Bill won’t mind if I take this… I played with your Rubik's Cube, hope you know how to put it back how it was :-)</font></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_eDZpjzZhktzQbVRJTCKuyamNq970ToSnzruBqvbx4edZfSiM9wAZE-P65oYBUIEjNC7bVVwD9a9DJBxZ_15X99m-jcACf8KqpGYLvQL62JJsYohfRkp1ssTre3RRFAMW4plzRBaVZTZ/s1600-h/CIMG213120.jpg"><font color="#333333" face="Segoe Print"></font></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SpsNery6gRI/AAAAAAAAShI/sDEYVkwHong/s1600-h/CIMG6569%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG6569" border="0" alt="CIMG6569" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXVPzc0vwxobhNpItIGrePkiImo3qkS-kctTRpxFIBBQ1H6CnghSGpEsUykj5YVTnFF1Da1Knbk41X1V6HjdnkeMNN37Ya8YgXelA560qM8VGc-zVWblBpa0SS0CAuKkVGMw2aQ651j7Z/?imgmax=800" width="277" height="331" /></a></a></a></a></p> <p align="center"> <table style="position: relative; top: -105px" border="0" cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="0" width="240" align="center"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="238"><font face="Segoe Print">“Does this count? It' isn’t that messy yet. I just moved.”  <br />- Carl, Michigan</font></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_eDZpjzZhktzQbVRJTCKuyamNq970ToSnzruBqvbx4edZfSiM9wAZE-P65oYBUIEjNC7bVVwD9a9DJBxZ_15X99m-jcACf8KqpGYLvQL62JJsYohfRkp1ssTre3RRFAMW4plzRBaVZTZ/s1600-h/CIMG213120.jpg"><font color="#333333" face="Segoe Print"></font><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_eDZpjzZhktzQbVRJTCKuyamNq970ToSnzruBqvbx4edZfSiM9wAZE-P65oYBUIEjNC7bVVwD9a9DJBxZ_15X99m-jcACf8KqpGYLvQL62JJsYohfRkp1ssTre3RRFAMW4plzRBaVZTZ/s1600-h/CIMG213120.jpg"><font color="#333333" face="Segoe Print"></font></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/SsAAtti9gGI/AAAAAAAASkc/yBSgRMGj33U/s1600-h/100_2142%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="100_2142" border="0" alt="100_2142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQWfByLC32x31hlX2Is7Bl8lQ4-hwE0Yo8PGZtjQqGGFcRXBFFhQ6iyz52j3QtxZQqcfVYWdtNLSKxWTfXFJ11HE5sAOGnc49yqc0_VNPZrIc1pCpyhdhH_00KZVOw3z1LgPAmgTF04XM7/?imgmax=800" width="277" height="331" /></a></a></a></a></a></a></p> <p align="center"> <table style="position: relative; top: -105px" border="0" cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="0" width="240" align="center"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="238"><font face="Segoe Print">I count about 14-1/2 XBOX’s in this anonymously submitted desk / workbench picture. Good to see SpinRite at work!</font></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </p> <p align="center"><a href="file:///C:/Users/OEM/AppData/Local/Temp/WindowsLiveWriter1286139640/supfilesA51C4CA/CIMG213110.jpg"><font color="#333333" face="Segoe Print"></font></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/S2MwKBkU7dI/AAAAAAAASr0/mbIPcNoZpLM/s1600-h/4016624679_512036aede_b%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="4016624679_512036aede_b" border="0" alt="4016624679_512036aede_b" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEXDr9kW1ED5byMmEdegULpGMrWvxxSJyWfmeCPbUjs687OEif0fRNKzkCAYKp5O75TVQNMP8VmYT6cDiYzTT0yfvCOS1sxWLnvwS0gaF_YPEGFw3VZH2-wE8MY7Mg7BKm84dGgmtY2oZ/?imgmax=800" width="277" height="331" /></a>  </a></a></p> <p align="center"> <table style="position: relative; top: -105px" border="0" cellspacing="0" bordercolor="#000000" cellpadding="0" width="240" align="center"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="238"><font size="1" face="Segoe Print">“….Arizona Sweet Tea cans! I'm saving them to use as siding for the space shuttle I'm building in my back yard.” - Ricardo</font></td> </tr> </tbody></table></p> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-91855265793850011172009-08-21T16:19:00.001-07:002010-01-31T08:04:25.247-08:00Steering Wheel Swap/Mod<p>I like the steering wheel from my 95 F150 better then the one from my new 94. The 250’s and 350’s didn’t come with SRS steering wheels, only the F150’s did. I grew quite attached to the better buttons and sleeker design of the SRS steering wheel, and decided to pull it from the old clunker and put it into the new F250 Power Stroke Diesel. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4eD9XF4Q4ob2MdBGlBaZp6L0SYq8p_wy55tbEtFoe2cWEZBW6o1sjzmBLMV3e2G25C5c26cYlF6PP9r1D7hngAhtsRA8jWiZGuLWwvhNmh3HTC-0wsvJPOkprZuzedqW76R7rBB2wdA/s1600-h/stwhel_000%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_000" border="0" alt="stwhel_000" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8IRrbgauI/AAAAAAAAAes/PZRQenrqJxw/stwhel_000_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8IkXDjQkI/AAAAAAAAAew/jIqixRUchSg/s1600-h/stwhel_001%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_001" border="0" alt="stwhel_001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8IpQRr4OI/AAAAAAAAAe0/pYBbvTAgskc/stwhel_001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>First we have to take the air bag unit off, which is just 4 10mm nuts on the back of the wheel. You can see it’s pretty bright in the cab, I made it convertible 15 mins before these photo’s. Gotta love a convertible truck. (So, just a reminder to those out there who want to pull an SRS steering wheel out of a good truck with a battery. Take out the battery!) Anyways. Pull the 4 nuts off, and the unit comes out. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8IySFL4aI/AAAAAAAAAe4/JfvZwRFiOig/s1600-h/stwhel_002%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_002" border="0" alt="stwhel_002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8I8camHzI/AAAAAAAAAe8/FJh9ctEeP4g/stwhel_002_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8JG3pjpXI/AAAAAAAAAfA/UoJliQQuFs4/s1600-h/stwhel_004%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_004" border="0" alt="stwhel_004" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzf5KY8C2aXK15HEB4H92XxSrPPpqR6uBtPPfXQaBGwhjT9gp6GoXHJmAgVlpv1cQDbOWU2yEtvkem9btQnBmkz2haza7EhfOnhyphenhyphenG4JmqvXPKtRDUuv8HdbUoeL4ILNcybqa4Eg21oPA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Unhook the air bag, and unscrew the center bolt that holds it all together. Then throw on the steering wheel puller and pull that suka off!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8JUXBAGwI/AAAAAAAAAfI/JPmuRxm7KHk/s1600-h/stwhel_005%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_005" border="0" alt="stwhel_005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8JY2b7WHI/AAAAAAAAAfM/0T6KuQJe8f8/stwhel_005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid06n7M_VtxPsObMexTBJvEUPGORcVY9-F6N_EZGsJoC9nHIBAwKsx_zeJv-MVBahu401IizqeoFAGGelZFITFmThqZCXLRanDSUbxwDyiR-qumEw46zU1uKvcIFS6HlPgOtT0K6V4Ab4/s1600-h/stwhel_006%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_006" border="0" alt="stwhel_006" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4ZjwgpmgrdARys5HnQhUgvNhl_uBVzSsX4VgKR7t7iuqdPgEt2zCPsNUaC0TLXgTu4b8u9Khz49y8xLYtRP8vybMyFAlrdJsZYp2wUg4ZV6jN-2qvFt3eM-nKJ2eMJcp-sdFs6ce9Pk/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>It didn’t know what was coming. The 95 has a newer style setup for the controls, which is what proved to soon be the problem. There is a ribbon cable inside which powers the controls, 3 wires, and the airbag, 2 wires. The older steering wheel on my new truck is a different setup. I did not know this till today however. Lets get to work on that old crappy looking thing. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8K4-88nJI/AAAAAAAAAfY/57lqpOUC2zs/s1600-h/stwhel_007%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_007" border="0" alt="stwhel_007" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8LJJ6EtPI/AAAAAAAAAfc/gdEwyU1_bfI/stwhel_007_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8MN3kiPDI/AAAAAAAAAfg/zMcc9CFc48w/s1600-h/stwhel_008%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_008" border="0" alt="stwhel_008" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWW70z_GZBW-m2plzgOeyGEi2kgBZvMwrsqH6yqc0NF-owFijQEimA_8lvMdzbTEtBw7PNyZ6QMaUIYfferVRyfGvmBAZM5bh_LzSWKV2n4oEktgttkGsL7lXecQBI1On50EDAq9btUlQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Here is the ugly thing. It’s boring and the buttons don’t work very well. I do like the steering wheel cover. Which is going on the old one. I used a white stick, a special tool from my aunt for doing trim and other things. The uses are endless, oh back on track. So there is a clip on the bottom center, pop it open there and pull strait out.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8M7fi3_xI/AAAAAAAAAfo/eLsTznCGx6A/s1600-h/stwhel_009%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_009" border="0" alt="stwhel_009" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8NEq6_crI/AAAAAAAAAfs/m1b5hz7kIUU/stwhel_009_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8NbPL9LaI/AAAAAAAAAfw/pZEK9tHnHMY/s1600-h/stwhel_010%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_010" border="0" alt="stwhel_010" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8NkJOoAYI/AAAAAAAAAf0/mnRAkYO9a3o/stwhel_010_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>There is just a 3 prong connector in the old style, with a rotor/prong sorta deal. I’m not sure on the technical name for this, but it’s 3 spring driven pins that touch on the wheel on the left, and make the connection. Yes, I know I didn’t show you how to pull this one off, they are almost identical in removal. Anyways, we have more important fish to fry, cause nothing matches except the spline for the wheel!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8OEjSJ6GI/AAAAAAAAAf4/rtXxYfZz6Xw/s1600-h/stwhel_011%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_011" border="0" alt="stwhel_011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8ORyOwgeI/AAAAAAAAAgA/VpAkLUM1054/stwhel_011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8OzttT4EI/AAAAAAAAAgE/olYvh11MIQ0/s1600-h/stwhel_012%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_012" border="0" alt="stwhel_012" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8O_NBJDLI/AAAAAAAAAgI/PSZ5VjQ0Fc4/stwhel_012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I pulled the ring from the back of the old wheel. It was held in by 3 T25 screws. You can see it fits in the back of the new wheel just fine, but there is a problem. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8PZ-A65xI/AAAAAAAAAgM/wkVXekVpe_c/s1600-h/stwhel_014%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_014" border="0" alt="stwhel_014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8QQk6zmZI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/n-Mq7hrLa6g/stwhel_014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RmFQY_lfT822Dyg4-Eeee2RbSWa9aKCPo5n4U_JBVy6nMeD8t17ZWQedqyGmnf-FTCfjug9k4qTJ8ZltYOUa8S7tEyDaODOcQzbbOECP1HBXoocOegb4cWDUuN1UB_WJqPKRooSv2ck/s1600-h/stwhel_013%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_013" border="0" alt="stwhel_013" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAE8TeWoFSkWG_IJVGoROK2-q2OewTpHSC6cIHpTGcYcgnpjUGwziIbSp1gNxngjoxYSpVulqyZlrvIB6H2v2Oh7Kt0oQMdLfkHuVQ361VHB3hZlZVVeTvu6Bkm69MFxEi1yL3gZgKSY/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>The screws don’t line up. I know some Engineer at Ford was sitting there when he did this and said, “this Bill guy in the future is going to have a web sight and show everyone how to fix this issue.” Well, he is right. Cause, I is a Zip Tie Master! They should have certifications for this stuff.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8geoebZ7I/AAAAAAAAAgc/EKm3kkry0Gg/s1600-h/stwhel_015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_015" border="0" alt="stwhel_015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDSypBrZ7vekCYAUpP50OZ7U6zjmHdVY8aQNzn1itaU4lvnDvlMIiGcYRvbCyt2fSZO9vCrgNvR8FZ6u9Z5nyxKetrLL0cIr5q9RqlmqdVQbeU6RhHcKv9BoZGAYzD8iutI_haWos10sU/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8hOOkViOI/AAAAAAAAAgk/8qP_oIjHyCk/s1600-h/stwhel_016%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_016" border="0" alt="stwhel_016" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8hZM-947I/AAAAAAAAAgo/L4kcD7s9Fu0/stwhel_016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Open your drawer of Zip Ties, and throw on some Billy Idol. I have a whole drawer on the box devoted to these wonders. No, the Billy Idol isn’t mandatory, but it helps. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8hzJzs6CI/AAAAAAAAAgs/kw1TOX3f2P0/s1600-h/stwhel_017%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_017" border="0" alt="stwhel_017" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8h8YS-wYI/AAAAAAAAAgw/P7mcaF1A23M/stwhel_017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw7XjNYX4FUfe7VVVACE2Siso0RK8MCBSNYZdID5XFy1Vv4M0qysErTkVyxIBN7RhLbNRdbmj9zYiCEoUCJv0k0K1s5_f9rBVObuk33_uEnB7eah_NE0kTYfNXMs01d0iTaymz76HZZww/s1600-h/stwhel_018%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_018" border="0" alt="stwhel_018" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8ik1JKvpI/AAAAAAAAAg4/ypzzaHjP_p8/stwhel_018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>It looked like I needed some leeway and a direction change, so I threw on some starters on the rotor, and then inserted it into the back of the wheel and proceeded to connect it to the most solid structures I could. Unfortunately one was plastic, but It will do. The extensions allowed me to put less stress in certain area’s on the ring. I’d love to explain it, but it seems to only work in my head. Which is true for a lot of things. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8jKLVt_1I/AAAAAAAAAg8/FULsz54h8e0/s1600-h/stwhel_019%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_019" border="0" alt="stwhel_019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8jTgqBmzI/AAAAAAAAAhA/UqMNAsC4nFY/stwhel_019_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8jyGZTnJI/AAAAAAAAAhE/3454vg2g_FM/s1600-h/stwhel_020%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_020" border="0" alt="stwhel_020" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8j8IycEeI/AAAAAAAAAhI/2DVPwcFjOKU/stwhel_020_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Alright, It’s on there. Cut the flaps and put it in! 26-33 ft lbs says the label. I had to use an extension, so I set it to 33, then torque it in. I disengaged the wheel lock and it spun beautifully! Now for our next issue. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8kSo95gtI/AAAAAAAAAhM/JhrhvV0GseM/s1600-h/stwhel_021%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_021" border="0" alt="stwhel_021" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8kcnP2xgI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/YVqTEkScNOQ/stwhel_021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8odZtLRxI/AAAAAAAAAhU/n7PzeEcZhmA/s1600-h/stwhel_022%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_022" border="0" alt="stwhel_022" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFs4bOGXtqtxkBdSxrwxH8bPo6PbATUTle0w6mt5dvlAwuvoiE0whzccuMqIG4AhvYcmvirHigzmEeOXR4FxJrHpjOeHDGTM4uG0Or7QbgSjy-6OegEOIzuKSeGuoIWnGDuO3DTuvkGOg/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>We have 2 connectors, they are both 3 prongs, and they are both female. In the electronics connector world same sex marriage doesn’t work. We need to make this 2some a 4some with some male connectors. No, I didn’t make a bad joke. Plugging connectors together is Marrying them. I only had one from the old wheel, and I dug around on the old column and found the same connector as well. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8qyaju8aI/AAAAAAAAAhc/OnEujyW-1Wg/s1600-h/stwhel_025%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_025" border="0" alt="stwhel_025" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8qz1nrsRI/AAAAAAAAAhg/yg-WiMy36H8/stwhel_025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8q4Dr_lMI/AAAAAAAAAhk/e_9FkM5Xs_Q/s1600-h/stwhel_023%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_023" border="0" alt="stwhel_023" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8q5UDwFUI/AAAAAAAAAho/MgFYSZWqkog/stwhel_023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> </p> <p>I checked how the wires worked out and just had to match the colors, thankfully! Twist em up and solder away. I talked about good soldering before, and this is an opportunity to show some more on it.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8q8xr2V6I/AAAAAAAAAhs/wg8opCQb8tg/s1600-h/stwhel_026%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_026" border="0" alt="stwhel_026" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8q-65ypOI/AAAAAAAAAhw/YK87sBXdDZA/stwhel_026_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWUSZLrEi8iqxuLt_kUQ_eMPHR3eTEPNyKM-FVqQvA4Xh_2scJr7bqSBM4Ehvd1feKRMT9v9E5T5I2W0Ob4PywcLODBr753B8DDmi2Z7CzNH-1v9TMRTDDqIOTmjtIPdLQx5fQ1LGUew/s1600-h/stwhel_027%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_027" border="0" alt="stwhel_027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8rKBSCFPI/AAAAAAAAAh4/jpwGHd1S1jI/stwhel_027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>See how the solder holds on to the tip of my 5 dollar iron? You don’t need an expensive one, just need to take care of the one you have. The solder must be able to hold onto the tip to transfer heat, cause the solder is the medium. Wires are always a pain to solder, but these turned out good! There is not to much solder on the connection and they are firm and strong. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8rOOVibCI/AAAAAAAAAh8/JLd9evqOOTM/s1600-h/stwhel_029%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_029" border="0" alt="stwhel_029" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8rQua8j0I/AAAAAAAAAiA/49jQWCcmqkM/stwhel_029_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8rTc3SSuI/AAAAAAAAAiE/XJgUvC5LNyI/s1600-h/stwhel_030%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_030" border="0" alt="stwhel_030" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8rUz-gmtI/AAAAAAAAAiI/aKdV41VIUrQ/stwhel_030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>I’m a bit to poor for Heat Shrink Tubing, so here is how to properly tape wires with tape. You cut the length you need, and you roll it on. It’s opposite of what you would normally think. To just start the tape and wrap it around. That works if your doing a long distance, or a really large wire. But for small wires, pull some out just longer then your bare area, like above, cut, and then use it sideways. There is no excess or bad taping this way. They look much better when done. Then I threw on a zip tie for a quick finish. To keep zip ties from being sharp, use a knife to cut the tail off, not a pair of side cutters. The knife will cut it flush with the connector if you do it right and it will be safe and not scratch you or other things. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclvP82P7prnEpfS32fvwCaxyoaxJZtTtR1lmXuTfwgnKY6Chh56NaRTr6T6aNQXB-fHzD_Dlj0NRjr6oNdScpabP7ewSPAdCHwtreRvyAY52sWb_BAqO1CA1pdDq9zstfUfOZMEMdBU8/s1600-h/stwhel_031%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_031" border="0" alt="stwhel_031" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8rbA0X7-I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/hGrvgPt8PwE/stwhel_031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/So8relYmPQI/AAAAAAAAAiU/1Uzp3uPfCZc/s1600-h/stwhel_032%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="stwhel_032" border="0" alt="stwhel_032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWT_r0z3RhrQoN1HVU-OjKv6Yzz0Hk8FpoEOgNIVbkLTUY1Kxj4E-wM2Ry-d8rNyQPbehLQS4IGjJBFPSGk9SQ2ki2YPdnMlVJ_irwi3SMAfcsCneluYBNkxcRSaqRhqAUTC4nmfMZCp0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> </p> <p>Plug the connector in, and wait for the rain. Yea, it started pouring right when I got in the truck to plug it in. I did not take it for a test drive, but the horn works. The way it is setup inside, if the horn works. I’m quite sure the rest of it will work. There is only 3 wires. and the horn connects to 2 of the 3 components in the wheel. Then reinstall the air bag system, which we didn’t plug in, cause there is no where too, and because we don’t need it anyways, and your done! Don’t let a simple problem get in your way if the systems are similar. Try and make them work with what you have instead of giving up.</p> <p>I should re-warn anyone trying to use this article as a How-To is probably not a good idea. This is a listing of what I did to my things, not an article on how to swap your steering wheel. Notice it is listed as a Modification in the title. I took the SRS steering wheel from a junked truck. We will not be responsible for you deploying your air bag due to your own incompetence. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-84501117313832109282009-08-09T19:13:00.001-07:002009-08-09T23:09:22.796-07:00Lenovo G530 (4446-35U) Review<p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CHWwZ9YI/AAAAAAAASeY/CJ0bnmrW2-0/s1600-h/CIMG2041%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="CIMG2041" border="0" alt="CIMG2041" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CHu5khVI/AAAAAAAASec/dtXzl_PWVYI/CIMG2041_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CIL0Xc1I/AAAAAAAASeg/fEZKrZ8xSIQ/s1600-h/CIMG1977%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="CIMG1977" border="0" alt="CIMG1977" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CIgwPRLI/AAAAAAAASek/n6XLybeH3oA/CIMG1977_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Another Lenovo has made it inside the Midnight Mods HQ, but it’s not a Netbook. No, today we have a G530-444635U laptop with a Dual Core Pentium T4200 (2.00 GHz) CPU, 2 Gigabytes of RAM, Glossy 15.4” Wide XGA display, 160 Gigabyte 5400rpm hard drive, Dual Layer DVD-RW Optical Drive, Webcam (think it’s a Bison 1.3MP), and Windows Vista Home Basic 32bit.</p> <p align="justify">First thing we need to do is get it out of the box and crack it open (to see how pretty it is of course.)</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PHMT3QBG4pizt5pbKoKttxyhd5doTmswkgeTdtF6MWVyZ-8rNYXabTkUdzetcC6UoOgHYm8d81yGILHC6b05pYJwNsZj2wutcHAbwnLqd4Ks01GQT3srgGQtrydP3mleTXZuuHMhLAqC/s1600-h/CIMG1978%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="CIMG1978" border="0" alt="CIMG1978" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CJUkDlhI/AAAAAAAASes/V133ycPgla8/CIMG1978_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZTj3DwEoVYU2qJbpEcqmJeyGfelvD6cOnU4KVFhole9wOs0VR-Rme8kGViW8RYILRbWxqY68nKE3_64BuzYq9ctemWs6GpB0cZflQI_NSgsQubgGtuMLsckSQGSOWITgX8Fr8b8RE091/s1600-h/CIMG1985%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="CIMG1985" border="0" alt="CIMG1985" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CKMvlj5I/AAAAAAAASe0/9bG3-g4M2EQ/CIMG1985_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">The packaging is very Lenovo- adequate and efficient. Under the hood, we have the CPU, heat sink, fan, and memory modules under one panel. Nice and easy to get to. The hard drive and MPCI slot each have their own panel. I have no arguments with this layout; it has served very well in the past.</p> <p align="justify">This is the value model in the series, having slightly lower specs on just about everything, but for the price it’s an excellent personal or very small business on a budget computer. The system can handle up to 4 gigabytes of memory, has a sturdy feeling side mounted power jack, front loading Media Card reader (SD, MMC, MS, MS PRO), 4 ports of USB 2.0, long lasting 6 cell battery, and has a SATA interface hard drive. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CKj6SIGI/AAAAAAAASe4/RrLyRLaqE74/s1600-h/CIMG2038%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="CIMG2038" border="0" alt="CIMG2038" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sn-CLO_CeXI/AAAAAAAASe8/P0TZmpSAQKk/CIMG2038_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Really, the only thing I was disappointed about was the responsiveness of the volume buttons after reinstalling the OS (think 20 seconds to go from high to low) and the viewing angle on the webcam, but it’s not really that bad. It’s perfect for a headshot and I’m guessing that’s at least partially because of the facial recognition software (did not test, clean installed Windows as soon as I got it :-) that was preloaded on it. A tip to increase picture quality somewhat: Remove the protective plastic that was put on it for shipping or else people like me are going to laugh at you as if your lens cap was still on.</p> <p align="justify">Overall, I couldn’t find things to complain about. That’s a good thing right? Makes for a short post! Then again, that is why I look to Lenovo for laptops. They seem to be good a delivering solid design without going over budget. So, if your brain screams new laptop, but your wallet disagrees, I’d recommend giving the G530 a spin. It can usually be had for less than $350 when on sale at the big name stores or online.</p> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-595514898161560742009-08-02T08:43:00.001-07:002009-08-02T08:46:22.201-07:00No Slip Adventures 1<p> Time for a new upgrade in the truck. People put things on my dash all the time and they slide off in a turn. You would think they would learn, but they just keep doing it. So, lets fix them. I’m going to try and come up with a few more uses for this material I bought, so stay tuned for more No Slip Adventures.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0GJMraSI/AAAAAAAAAdw/1gcTmVsSrbM/s1600-h/DshQkStc_001%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_001" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="DshQkStc_001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0Go-XehI/AAAAAAAAAd0/q1txHwbSMao/DshQkStc_001_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a>Grip it, or whatever. I chose this at Harbor Freight, cause it was cheep, and it was really thick!!!!!! I’m not much for this type, cause of the holes, but I figured it would work better in the truck. It was 6.50, which is a bit high, but this product really impresses me. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0HenoNyI/AAAAAAAAAd4/bDvKTAForQw/s1600-h/DshQkStc_000%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_000" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="DshQkStc_000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tneyXoEBOFAU_EsQ31ESzvAbk5Bc-DWy4g5aTH5ctXD7yKc2ZgN4VqalUQTXB6NJ0IXIgAZ3C2RSqppUq-82SErK1BbFyXSgZyayr-zDqdYY7_LL9Ydc-_AzfE07IsGDosVDeT7IFbQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Here is our culprit, the dash. Just a smoothish plastic surface. The turtle is the old system for turning the black truck. If it slides out of the center, then I’m turning to fast, or hard. Well, with the new truck, that system doesn’t work. Even as much as I like putting everyone’s junk that is on my dash on the floor I decided to be nice and fix the situation. </p> <p>Wow, I must have got into this project, lets fast forward past the whole cutting process (which I forgot to take pictures of.)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0Imo5mBI/AAAAAAAAAeA/uRXz_RF5NoE/s1600-h/DshQkStc_007%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_007" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="DshQkStc_007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0JEzsToI/AAAAAAAAAeE/X5FDl4R9r-s/DshQkStc_007_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>You can see the tools I used for this project in the picture. Scissors, a knife, and some scotch tape, because I did not have any two sided tape. </p> <p>Luckily the roll was as wide as the part on the right, so I just had to cut out a small section. I found out the pattern on the mesh was not square with the length, but I made it work. I set the piece in place, and used the knife to try and get a general shape, cutting it, but not to hard so I didn’t damage the dash. The scissors cleaned it up after that.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0J0eHT7I/AAAAAAAAAeI/Xy4iOG8Yg90/s1600-h/DshQkStc_002%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_002" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="DshQkStc_002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0KrZMxqI/AAAAAAAAAeM/Kg-WcG05fzA/DshQkStc_002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0LsInnYI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/POpXsbmj6Ds/s1600-h/DshQkStc_003%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_003" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="DshQkStc_003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0MF2vFJI/AAAAAAAAAeU/MTgMPdr3fko/DshQkStc_003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p>I took a strip of tape the width of the .. well, I guess you could say length, but whatever. and then rolled it to make some double sided sticky tape. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0MmYYQEI/AAAAAAAAAeY/rGwe2NfYc94/s1600-h/DshQkStc_004%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_004" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="DshQkStc_004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0NRzXiLI/AAAAAAAAAec/I-TrwzbXGj8/DshQkStc_004_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0OB0GFoI/AAAAAAAAAeg/3WDPEexUY8U/s1600-h/DshQkStc_006%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="DshQkStc_006" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="DshQkStc_006" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SnW0Ou4VpLI/AAAAAAAAAek/Nplu0pVGAAo/DshQkStc_006_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I stuck it in place, and it is currently holding. I did this 3 times on the long piece, and only 2 times in the center. Double sided tape would work much better in this situation, and the dash is textured enough that the tape is easily removable and replaceable or what not. The material used is washable by hand, so if something was to spill on it, this is cleanable! Well, I hope this gives you some idea’s for your own vehicles. this material is holding up great for the last 4 days. The turtle is sort of stuck to it. So it is definitely some good material.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-1591890941359608972009-07-03T19:26:00.001-07:002010-02-20T12:05:54.959-08:00Dell Inspiron 6000 Password Reset<p align="justify">I was given a laptop this weekend by a coworker who had forgotten their password. Usually resetting a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMOS" target="_blank">CMOS</a> / <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BIOS" target="_blank">BIOS</a> password would be an easy task to complete. With most computers you just move a jumper, flip a dip switch, or in some cases, it’s as easy as pushing a button. Laptops are a bit more complicated. Sure, some still have jumpers, but most do not. If your lucky, you’ll have a removable <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMOS" target="_blank">CMOS</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real-time_clock" target="_blank">RTC</a> battery so you can just pull that and your computer will ‘forget’ the password (along with all of your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BIOS" target="_blank">BIOS</a> settings store in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMOS" target="_blank">CMOS</a>!) Dell (and to be fair a number of other manufacturers) takes this a step further on some models of laptops. Since laptops are a big target for theft and passwords are in place to prevent unwanted people, say a thief, from getting to the data, Dell (and others) have come up with a number of different methods over the years to make this task difficult as a deterrent (and as another ‘feature’ to sell the laptop). The problem is, when a legitimate user gets locked out of their own computer, it can be frustrating (not to mention in some cases, expensive!) </p> <p align="justify">The laptop in question was one of those special situations. When turned on, it would bring you to a white / grey screen prompting for a password. The password is actually stored on a special <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NVRAM" target="_blank">NVRAM</a> chip along with some other information about the laptop (Service Tag, Owner Info, Asset Name, etc.) While there are tools supposedly to find out the ‘master’ password via the service tag, I was not able to get those to work. There are plenty of people online that claim for $50 they can give you the answer, but I don’t like going that route for a number of reasons. I gathered bits of information from all over the internet and formulated a plan.</p> <p align="justify">First, I had to get to the chip. This involved stripping the laptop down to the system board, but leaving key components connected since I would need to have the laptop running for parts of the procedure. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVz406x6dMwKx6Spqphds4bLjOM7dE3XOx6IwmWI55e-BYFVY3NfW0lA7HBHXBhN5doaqbf-l6kDqgcU9COcvTh7GCM0ZAiqv72z7KsNAktsx4ggCHbDgApMHfQBe_t9DOFI56ropr5rT/s1600-h/CIMG1708b%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1708b" border="0" alt="CIMG1708b" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69l4Ea4yI/AAAAAAAASac/m4Ed65kyTv4/CIMG1708b_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEKIBEIUVDGXHgPUDQB3Gr9dvBZfltqEPXP6a07ISc8ZF6eDa3uxbwnGbq_JWG3lRcB0gWRa4wLuWfQIirF0H4RDT5VeQs7WQBgyFXxcAcldcUxYkI600lrZfde4Vyo2j-93pNXr5M03m/s1600-h/CIMG1714%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1714" border="0" alt="CIMG1714" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69m0-VXcI/AAAAAAAASas/67CXnlKK7wA/CIMG1714_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Next, I had to selectively disable the eighth leg on this chip to fool the computer into thinking it was brand new and reprogram it. The choice method for this was to carefully wick the solder from the leg and then thread VERY thin wire behind the leg. Next, with gentle pressure on the wire, I tapped the iron to the leg to break the remaining bond and like a dog to a fire hydrant, the leg lifted off the board.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69nf8zDFI/AAAAAAAASa0/7k_xr6T0mnM/s1600-h/CIMG1688%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1688" border="0" alt="CIMG1688" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69n5QMnZI/AAAAAAAASbA/i6ZJcyiwQvw/CIMG1688_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69oQqxuZI/AAAAAAAASbE/jGTRJ2ZGeZg/s1600-h/CIMG1697%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1697" border="0" alt="CIMG1697" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69o9LWMqI/AAAAAAAASbM/FIb1vzyTo-M/CIMG1697_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69pbhKLqI/AAAAAAAASbU/QY_wYghzX6w/s1600-h/CIMG1699%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1699" border="0" alt="CIMG1699" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69p1Ikv3I/AAAAAAAASbc/QNiHi6FmeYM/CIMG1699_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Next, I tried to turn the laptop on to see if there was a change. This sent me into a bit of a panic, since the laptop refused to even turn on now. The way I saw it, I had either broke something or this was a normal reaction to having that leg off. I decided to test my hypothesis by reattaching the leg. After doing so, the laptop turned on and I was once again greeted by the password screen.</p> <p align="justify">Okay, so- normal operation. This means that without the chip, you can’t turn the laptop on, but with the chip, you can turn it on but have to enter a password. Thankfully, us humans are still smarter than computers, even if just. Here is where we lie to the computer a bit. It won’t turn on unless that chip is in place, so what I did is use a dental pick (another tool that should be in your collection) to bridge the connection and allow the computer to turn on. Shortly after the screen initialized, I removed the pick so when the computer went to read it, nothing. This caused it to enter a special ‘Manufacturing Mode’ where the computer redetects and sets up the hardware, including our chip. The first time around it started in Level [FF], which I am assuming is the flash mode where it reset the chip. Every reboot after that and it’s just Level [01].</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69qchOAwI/AAAAAAAASbk/IvCIOmo5cXo/s1600-h/CIMG1705%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1705" border="0" alt="CIMG1705" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69qpCxIMI/AAAAAAAASbo/p3mY5zV-jXg/CIMG1705_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69rHTxdFI/AAAAAAAASb4/Q-NezFR2HXw/s1600-h/CIMG1701%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1701" border="0" alt="CIMG1701" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTOC7vunHRNlDJGb8ssTbzysD3D1ENdg356chldJd8w_A-jKcJn3NlBVo0Uqg1Jz80r7yDVbwoSK9uB9nfI5nFlIhyphenhyphenH8aLKK9OghUHyOYnGXo8EKhRG1n2UM6ATrfhhhe4FAPFpiMlpsA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">The results so far are pretty promising, so I soldered the leg back down. After that, I was able to exit manufacturing mode.</p> <p></p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; width: 425px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:a86696c3-7256-486e-b5e5-7031ca706378" class="wlWriterSmartContent"> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; padding-top: 0px" id="08be6d8d-8bc4-48e1-b4c0-fe12136def72"> <div><embed height="355" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/w4o2neScFMc&hl=en" /></div> </div> </div> <p></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFDBGTWjX7X8rJd5L6W8WTBJOROnNxOWwMBui0UVX1ZTkv8qEUkqxOYU7S0YCcmydnB4-4nDAle4Vesphq-tIw-qmozG07DgUiVz4LCr4XzZ-0Otfjx73WEWR-nEUnUmsBm1mUYZQghnn/s1600-h/CIMG1719%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1719" border="0" alt="CIMG1719" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69ssj6aJI/AAAAAAAASdc/wiP3VApKFt0/CIMG1719_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="484" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Success! A normal boot from the hard drive. Only one issue remained. Remember I told you about the extra info stored on the chip? Well, the service tag was on there. It’d be nice to put that back for a number of reasons, mainly because without it, I don’t think you can set another password. Dell provides a utility to change the values stored on the chip called <a href="ftp://ftp.us.dell.com/utility/ASSET_A209.COM" target="_blank">ASSET_A209.COM</a>. To use it, I needed to make a bootable USB drive (<a href="http://thelostbrain.com/post/2008/01/Make-your-flash-drive-bootable!-(Boot-into-DOS-with-access-to-full-flash-drive-space).aspx" target="_blank">Good instructions for that here</a>). After the flash drive was ready I copied over the asset software and proceeded to boot from the drive. Then it was just a matter of running the program with the /s switch followed by your service tag number (ASSET_A209 /s ABCD123) </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69tLzUX0I/AAAAAAAAScg/uIYO8d6Z-CQ/s1600-h/CIMG1721%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1721" border="0" alt="CIMG1721" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MgnQLEkXktFVL_NuVvdrlUMxeZyDBI2K88wvY2Yjzh93X70KuRLaAY2tuhEft_6aauQFHZls_Ban8fyK8M_Omw0JZDo-OlXFNjzJShPePDdvpYYhzlDEYoPn3VndXoF9hqvYCLpmzVas/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69t-dAEOI/AAAAAAAASco/ZMM_PwsEzMM/s1600-h/CIMG1726%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="CIMG1726" border="0" alt="CIMG1726" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OehrGKkPYJU/Sk69uYr7BrI/AAAAAAAASc0/9sJ41ORDVr4/CIMG1726_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">It’s worth mentioning that the service tag can only be programmed once, so get it right the first time or else the whole process will have to be repeated. I know a certain coworker that is going to be happy on Monday (also, you owe me a lunch or two :-)</p> <p>2010-01-20 Update:</p> <p>Midnight Mods reader Tommy Chooi has reported that you should be able to reset the password by calling dell and verifying ownership of the laptop. After verification, they will generate a password for you based on your service tag. Thanks Tommy!</p> <p>2010-02-20 Update:</p> <p>Reader Dave says “Found shorting out pins 3 and 6 while turning it on did the trick (a bit easier than disconnecting pin 8).” – Thanks Dave!</p> <p>Let us know what worked for you!</p> Bretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05089596376852471599noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-52786532320293299232009-06-27T13:16:00.001-07:002009-06-27T13:16:12.384-07:00Soldering - Part 1<p>I have not had a chance to solder in a while, so I am taking this opportunity to start the soldiering series to help out those who are just getting into soldering. Today, at the makeshift Midnight Mods base, we are going to discuss soldering wires together. This is one of the easiest way to practice soldering. How much solder you use is very important to the bond of the components. To much solder can make it weak and not enough can not give you the desired effects. I will discuss more of what a proper solder looks like in the next article. <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9zlKw5vI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/gn8Mv7ugeuE/s1600-h/sldrng01_000%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_000" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_000" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9zyGXChI/AAAAAAAAAbU/_YQhGbFTa7Y/sldrng01_000_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a>We need some soldering tools and some wire today. My wire happens to be the stereo harness for my truck. We need to solder these two wires together to complete the speaker harness for the stereo head. The harness is different from my 95’s, so we need to make this one work. </p> <p>I’ve stripped the wires and put a little twist on them to keep them neat. The twist helps them pull solder in easier. A good twist is important. Over twisting can be bad, the twist also helps with structure. If you just solder the wires together strait, they will bend easily and that will break the solder. Remember, solder is a fusible metal alloy. We are heating up the wire and draw the metal into the object we have heated up.</p> <p>To do this properly, we are going to use heat shrink tubing (in the picture above). These looks like little rubber sleeves, which is what they are. They shrink when heat is applied to them, and they protect the joint. You do not need to use this for practice, this is for a finished product. <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ906U1g1I/AAAAAAAAAbY/NOG0oDtU3hs/s1600-h/sldrng01_001%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_001" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_001" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAvIxv14DueP3VZ2P7nxJo2pUKJnFVj8fwhzt7L6N2fkjaF0ZevO_4MlZsnWJNsVwwWduaIE3-9IZZ18Qdp3u-HBRatsQQ_QyaIn1d_UyDi3RVYUDOXYTL0IYmrZjWORffFioqizIMrs/?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> I slipped the tubing on before soldering, cause, well you cannot put it on after you have completed the joint.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiomdL-W5RWEJG2UOymzSXHpLwLNfTvRkDEVBXG8SUDO_HwIMBsshPB2IdOAmVaF9XeyMGeB6y51a2fLl7aO9vw0HnhvprqWcBvVCjKVBcNooQG43TAVwuqkAajqKZm7jea7qK4Vz0UaE/s1600-h/sldrng01_003%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_003" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="sldrng01_003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ92Bl_PAI/AAAAAAAAAbk/zloP4DyMw8Q/sldrng01_003_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" border="0" /></a>Here is the soldering iron we are using today. Lets plug it in and warm it up. This is a 40 Watt iron. I use an 18 watt at home. Heat is the killer for your components, you want to use the least amount of heat possible when you solder, this will reduce the risk of damaging components while soldering. Also, a higher watt iron is more likely to carbon up.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ92SB1WZI/AAAAAAAAAbo/D94AoZS1x8M/s1600-h/sldrng01_006%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_006" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_006" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ92oT4rTI/AAAAAAAAAbs/0fKxGABrUPE/sldrng01_006_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ93PJlFhI/AAAAAAAAAbw/mS29OWKttho/s1600-h/sldrng01_005%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_005" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_005" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TarypaZefcYG2NdRPu0Py3j3umQvKGAEussUTBu2gpKunltAJvBBsVG6mUiptu3lO5rTd4iXCHDYQFyKT-8T6VnsX9QbCgOjb5Weo05zO49dFLTs5ZuPram-zlEekHVclTSQZPEijkI/?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>The tip looks really carboned up. Most people don’t know how to care for the tips, which is okay, I can fix this!  You can see the solder is not melting on the tip and sticking like it should. An iron, when taken care of, will hold solder on the tip when you apply solder to it, this is called “tinning the tip.” Just a hot iron will not transfer heat into the object, you use the solder on the tip as the medium to get a good transfer. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisiPxXBPl9-EAkGT2EKPzLWx15fXsf0gXLT4s0XVacDt51fMQm5sFNIB1xpgtljsoRaZ9WGUIp1yV9-SRTpcuvLBdyVVQoHZ7XtfjvyRYk0DVFJUsQkBKyow1UKQWPIpeSjcFKmiY2f3o/s1600-h/sldrng01_007%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_007" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ94g61RAI/AAAAAAAAAb8/AH0r9_3IvWQ/sldrng01_007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ95B8cNAI/AAAAAAAAAcA/7AWxdPg5MGg/s1600-h/sldrng01_008%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_008" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ95dtoRCI/AAAAAAAAAcE/wKhqmHin68k/sldrng01_008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p>I could only find some steel wool. I usually use a scotch brite pad. They work good. Unfortunately, the steel wool was not abrasive enough, lets go to drastic measures.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9562vYAI/AAAAAAAAAcI/-tLUjgHPWMs/s1600-h/sldrng01_009%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_009" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_009" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ96Fo6jSI/AAAAAAAAAcM/HCXYxMRglGI/sldrng01_009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ96gtHySI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/WWra7mmzxO8/s1600-h/sldrng01_010%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_010" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ965vbVjI/AAAAAAAAAcU/IpcetFMmY3s/sldrng01_010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p>You should file these while they are cold. it works much better so you can start the iron up with solder on it to tinn the tip properly. I already had it running. You can see in the second picture that it finally held some solder. I didn’t want to spend much time working on it, the tip was really flimsy compared to what I am used too. They generally are copper, because copper is a very good medium for transferring heat!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ97d9sZgI/AAAAAAAAAcY/7yhZBl1nT80/s1600-h/sldrng01_004%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_004" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_004" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ970XaVnI/AAAAAAAAAcc/HS-w9iqOTGk/sldrng01_004_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>To get warmed up, we are going to practice some soldering to make sure the iron is hot enough, and the solder is flowing well. I have stuck this piece of wire into the vice and have twisted the end, now to give it a test. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ98L_q64I/AAAAAAAAAcg/OoGwAqdGjDs/s1600-h/sldrng01_011%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_011" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ98YwY1_I/AAAAAAAAAck/LZ4wpBskTVI/sldrng01_011_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Aww rats, that is way to much solder. Lets try this again. <br /></p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ98inm4iI/AAAAAAAAAco/aSbLc_P2lVU/s1600-h/sldrng01_012%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_012" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_012" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ986g01XI/AAAAAAAAAcs/a8MKbp_5HYA/sldrng01_012_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <p align="center"> <br />There we go! <br /></p> <p align="left"> <br />It is important to try and practice some while you do this, no matter how good you are, we always need practice, otherwise we end up with fried components, or over soldered connections. <br /></p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ99VfD_NI/AAAAAAAAAcw/7ytPJXnQy-8/s1600-h/sldrng01_002%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_002" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ99qYowEI/AAAAAAAAAc0/LisY71SwUVk/sldrng01_002_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <br />Lets get these wires soldered together. You can see I have twisted them together in the middle trying to make one wire. The quick way would be to do it like a twist tie, but that makes the wire large, and the heat shrink would not fit over top of them. </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ99wn2vbI/AAAAAAAAAc4/mgUtqz0HAm0/s1600-h/sldrng01_013%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_013" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9-Te8yNI/AAAAAAAAAc8/Q6ZKRayWuwA/sldrng01_013_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="left">I am actually not moving the iron. The iron is sitting in a stand on the bench, I am holding the wire over the tip with one hand and applying the solder with the other. This is a good work around when you do not have a pair of helping hands. It just takes more time because I cannot isolate the joint as easily. Also, with this method, the wires do not like to stay twisted together, so it takes more effort to keep them together before soldering, cause you are using one hand for solder, and the other to hold the wires.</p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9cF8XiMsA4Tut6S8ltbvZvfbpCot5UCMaZOMbdwkAXHULdlCcRJi6Thy2HmRWAd6pmG8dONOsHyk28Vvom42unO6j9yxtZU6F7sEAGM6dfxGqsT0GMtaU-qCOHkoQJsEYdSaaKOXrui4/s1600-h/sldrng01_014%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_014" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9-0OqAFI/AAAAAAAAAdE/_N1dwAUOeUY/sldrng01_014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9_hPzN3I/AAAAAAAAAdI/mIzdGacW87M/s1600-h/sldrng01_015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_015" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ9_38KDbI/AAAAAAAAAdM/5zqns6t2Zt0/sldrng01_015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="left">We got them all together now, and we can start soldering. Make sure to keep the tubing away from the joint, this is another reason to use the least amount of heat. Wire transfers heat, and it will shrink the tubing. If you are really worried, throw on an alligator clip as as heat sync, The heat will travel to there, because heat’s goal is to even out across the surfaces, so it will go to the cold clamp. Do not use to tight of a clamp though, it could damage the wire. <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-AMRUz8I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/FhMK1sD8ryE/s1600-h/sldrng01_016%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_016" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="sldrng01_016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-AQGqzQI/AAAAAAAAAdU/jrGaO6N6zp8/sldrng01_016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-A6p5JUI/AAAAAAAAAdY/bszy1hYpDnI/s1600-h/sldrng01_017%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_017" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_017" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-BGwtZYI/AAAAAAAAAdc/q1xMdr5BmU4/sldrng01_017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p align="left">To shrink the tubing I used a torch. This is not really the proper way to do it, but it works in a pinch. Do not ever hold the flame on the tubing, it will melt. You want to move the heat towards the tubing until it starts to shrink, and make sure you move it around and don’t hold it directly on one spot, this will also damage the tubing and cause it to curl up. The proper way to shrink it is to use a heat gun. You can still melt the tubing, but it is much harder. The gun is also more safe than an open flame. In a really big pinch, you can use a lighter as well.</p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgQsHjvWr484Qpp7RXBhtIuiiGtng00UMMufdPXNsEEQJkwsDdx8vLgy5_LBMzk0xw6Y0V6U6lLgexecKYC-Cmx6VCawVIS6X-MWfX35pG2clgLiUYF5e6WKVtbpHfIAZW0vRI3GdwaQ/s1600-h/sldrng01_018%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_018" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-CLU83uI/AAAAAAAAAdk/TIhaatIeWMs/sldrng01_018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-CqAvVmI/AAAAAAAAAdo/Ywn04vC4JrU/s1600-h/sldrng01_019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="sldrng01_019" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="184" alt="sldrng01_019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkZ-C0_1mtI/AAAAAAAAAds/lZMQ0AwHdAg/sldrng01_019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p align="left">And for the final touches, I’ll zip tie the wires together, and we are done! I know this article might sound a bit incomplete, but this is a practice type introduction for people wanting to solder. Take your time and practice on junk wire. If you are unsure if it is a good solder, send in a photo! I’ll be more then willing to help. If you are melting the casing on the wire while soldering, you are holding the iron on too long while soldering. Get the solder on and watch it flow, when it stops flowing, pull the iron away. Stereo is working great by the way, if anyone is wondering. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-28582224801621788932009-06-25T20:56:00.001-07:002009-06-25T20:56:37.995-07:00Carpet Install<p>I recently got a new vehicle. Gutting the cab, I found tons of dirt and junk from the liner not covering the floor properly. So, to fix this shrank mat, I purchased some carpet from <a href="http://broncograveyard.com/" target="_blank">Bronco Graveyard.</a> The carpet was custom made in Alabama, then drop shipped to my door. Which is currently in Tennessee, where I have set up a remote MidnightMods camp. The Carpet is vinyl and very nice quality. I was quite bummed to find out that it was not pre cut, but I made due.  Lets start the work!</p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRGyiydnNI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/YGcuPUh1PWs/s1600-h/carpet_0009%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0009" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0009" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRGy0sTLGI/AAAAAAAAAZU/ZE4oTiEZITU/carpet_0009_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" border="0" /></a> <p>Here you can see the carpet folded out. It is actually a molded carpet, even though you cannot tell from this picture. It looks as if it was press fitted and heated. Just my assumption. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqf-2T-IJ9TgOKaeEyFrKHcBwqMcHWPYs-ZV-Hn9s9Hw3RxaD4lE-4zaF2EbItdSI0jVfysw5Nd2fp7heklERcxYelR_jkYPX_M_lpgQ7NovBXs_4pGMNUqXVMZzZZB7Uy17zqH6FbSM/s1600-h/carpet_0011%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0011" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0011" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwck5ZqSpq9TkyHe4Ve8vbuMSl9GhY9trhgehY-CoZ8NOneAJGy3KIJSlCV0sbhzhNydV5go2-KMq8fMho15Cm2woE95iDlDwUJ7kWNZsD_F7jAG-HQ7jhnyeQA02LKg7wUoahW_gH48/?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a> <p>This is what I had in the truck, and I did not need to leave it in there, but I did. First I modified it some before reinstalling it and modifying it some more. I left this matt in there still due to the sound deadening effects it would help with. Pulling it out, I found out it was still holding water as well, from the PO, even though I let it dry in the Tennessee sun for a few days.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXg5sOdhQEUnYRLBFZOjtfCdP0IFxRGTYnTk5xJbfYnJL-ATFfatwcwK_jm32jykuOlTd41dil0TKijlUA09-wb0NbxtLz2A4WR2Zn-BLt1cNmA6HNHFeGjH_DPBgF4JaMalKI0n3-jVs/s1600-h/carpet_0012%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0012" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0012" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG0OszgNI/AAAAAAAAAZk/2fy6G4aHCuM/carpet_0012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG0lFP1oI/AAAAAAAAAZo/AZLCawQq_RY/s1600-h/carpet_0015%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0015" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG0249jrI/AAAAAAAAAZs/wkxdAMG9lGs/carpet_0015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I pulled off the backing, due to it being wet, and because it would just be far to tall under the carpet at that point, cause the carpet had padding as well. You can see it looks wet again. Yuch!!! I had some issues around the Throttle, so I cut it and made it sit better before installing the carpet.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG1hK5U-I/AAAAAAAAAZw/aZe9OKF83Mg/s1600-h/carpet_0016%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0016" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88xI2FZwXfSy968DNOj8C85MFeoTGRHd6EXepJQU7_YvCNqqWUop_CVwfTSCRJHqtgfsS9E4hs3aUV5uBED8EUY_6t3xubK8h6H-y1Rppp5g5fzEE2M5aPfTCLdFZOlXek8MnurStC7k/?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Sorry, it focused on the white part up front, I was in a hurry. My bad on that one. The carpet is actually a bit large, but my goal was to cut as little as possible. The shifters were not cut out, this posed some challenge to me. Cannot mess up, cause.. well, it’s not easily fixable!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG2m3cDpI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/pOslu4LHX_E/s1600-h/carpet_0017%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0017" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0017" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG2-fOFkI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/jDQaRC8AgMM/carpet_0017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG3K7gq3I/AAAAAAAAAaA/OfG2eCRWDYs/s1600-h/carpet_0018%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0018" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0018" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG3f_6idI/AAAAAAAAAaE/hFSzaAMTpxk/carpet_0018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Make sure you use some GOOD scissors when you do this. I got my blade shears out to use. Boy are they dull now. =(</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG3762FzI/AAAAAAAAAaI/fg9nMf0g5RU/s1600-h/carpet_0019%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0019" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0019" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG4DPla9I/AAAAAAAAAaM/mCvLR9w7DBc/carpet_0019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG4rp4A8I/AAAAAAAAAaQ/aC7qI4-hkD4/s1600-h/carpet_0020%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0020" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0020" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG473BX6I/AAAAAAAAAaU/rfn9xj9Bjms/carpet_0020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I got the shifter cut out and installed the shifter and boot, and went to work on the four wheel drive shifter. This was to help keep the carpet in place. Make sure you constantly check the location of the carpet. It should fit evenly around, and try and tuck it up under the dash as far as you can, there is plenty to go around. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG5aHg0qI/AAAAAAAAAaY/CRkraZwVelk/s1600-h/carpet_0021%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0021" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG5tdIuJI/AAAAAAAAAac/lSook1bnuds/carpet_0021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG50dVraI/AAAAAAAAAag/uoczGHMhyIw/s1600-h/carpet_0027%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0027" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0027" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG6LkER2I/AAAAAAAAAak/VaF5CUbyVeM/carpet_0027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>With the four wheel drive shifter on, I went to work under the drivers side dash. You can get it stuffed behind this panel with minimal cutting. I had to make a cut in the back for a piece back there, and cut off about an inch part way down, cause it was just to long to fit back there. It looks great, no? next, I installed the seat belts, and then I installed the bench seat. The reason I did this was to help keep the carpet from moving around when I did the rear corners. </p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG6kCOjhI/AAAAAAAAAao/7DzO9JoodNw/s1600-h/carpet_0028%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0028" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="carpet_0028" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG62GRGhI/AAAAAAAAAas/o3X_3aWnxa0/carpet_0028_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG7eKFIfI/AAAAAAAAAaw/vi9VRbylIu0/s1600-h/carpet_0030%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0030" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="244" alt="carpet_0030" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG7nxC85I/AAAAAAAAAa0/5aKj85W5Sj4/carpet_0030_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="left">You can see there is lots of excess behind the seat. I elected to stuff this under the back drop and behind the rear quarters. I removed them and stuffed. The only place I cut the carpet here was for the seat belt, and then did my best to stuff it in the corner to not interfere with anything.</p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG7yg4l7I/AAAAAAAAAa4/VciSlb0ziEw/s1600-h/carpet_0031%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0031" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0031" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG8CYzH1I/AAAAAAAAAa8/WoNN24yft90/carpet_0031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> The edges overhung a bit, so I tucked them into the wire channel and applied the rocker panel covers. This will allow me to adjust later if I have too. I left some slack in towards the floor as well, I did not pull them tight, just to allow the center hump some material to settle with. </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG8TBK9MI/AAAAAAAAAbA/YB6cG-cjeZU/s1600-h/carpet_0032%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0032" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0032" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG8oZoyfI/AAAAAAAAAbE/MXaZ6dl7iNc/carpet_0032_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlROos_rH-dNDi47zeRB1fzCXAeCjDn0sSfQvl4fOJCKvn00RdmiTOg_NL0O-8jn_aP5C6ZGwITs9RWzxNcDskX1bt0XZJzzpzTqIp3SJXO98QXe3Daqt-wdTs3NJG1vDRF-hzu36I94/s1600-h/carpet_0033%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="carpet_0033" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="carpet_0033" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SkRG9QcSVII/AAAAAAAAAbM/VBmNA8xUAC4/carpet_0033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>That looks good, lets add in the floor mat, and take it for a spin!</p> <p>The main problem I had was cutting the holes out. That was the biggest pain. Getting the rear corners stuffed good was a pain also, the trim does not actually fit back in there as easy, due to more material being underneath it now. I’m sure it will eventually settle in. I had a lot of fun with this and now my truck looks great inside, and I’m not afraid of dirt getting under the carpet like it would have with the tough mat that was installed, which had gaps and holes in it.</p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4421927363177120326.post-53206102828554297502009-06-20T05:04:00.001-07:002009-06-25T20:56:59.913-07:00Ford Window Trim Mod<p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQUKdnVtI/AAAAAAAAAX8/23MW2AfKeV8/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0001%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0001" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="wtmsnt_0001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQUQbvFJI/AAAAAAAAAYA/XjmUz0y5nSQ/wtmsnt_0001_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Plastic, it is just a weak thing after so many years. It was probably a good idea initially when they designed these door panels for the ford trucks between 87 and 96 (and 97 f350). They are all generally the same, except the XL doesn’t have the bottom pocket on the door, or if it has Manual windows. Anyways, that isn’t what we are here to talk about. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5SF3AhUEK-iJOt4nBB-7dJU9L5t8UAVP-D6SwPbjq0h1dnf_3RdddMuBwgS64VPSgyf_kjHO_uOyACX1N1y-bfOayVbpiiDEUELLLwf-EuRgaxy71_CKz_bWH75xkJfLuzQ-xY8p1VE/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0000%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0000" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="wtmsnt_0000" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQVMEk6mI/AAAAAAAAAYI/OkU6HJzJJjw/wtmsnt_0000_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a></p> <p>I got some new Rattle, or wipers, or window trim, or whatever you want to call it. They are the rubber pieces for your side windows that keep water out and usually screw up your window if you roll it down after a car wash. These things are just rubber and eventually will crack. Your probably saying though, “Well, you just clip in the new ones, why do we have to suffer though this article!” Well, your correct, They DO just clip on. We all know plastic gets weak after a while, and we get problems like the following.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHNtRcaUjEJnVtLMSRl9XsaDUxl4ugmftDmacOuC5q-ahBhWDrw0Kz2KsqRSctU_Y1g6BLDVjNVPtvoLt1JBbyiB14BqfT5L50Nw4on_xgDtqgyfY7SZ917GHTY7o0Zip9y-Y5GUnhIt8/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0004%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0004" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQVlS0X5I/AAAAAAAAAYU/VktTTNxoZAI/wtmsnt_0004_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQVxYcTpI/AAAAAAAAAYY/l4UOdNwE5ew/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0003%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0003" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0003" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQWG00-LI/AAAAAAAAAYc/TDtq56e-veg/wtmsnt_0003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQWgmKYaI/AAAAAAAAAYg/Wn2_zJAL0yg/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0002%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0002" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQW1EQngI/AAAAAAAAAYk/IHr0J6tr5uU/wtmsnt_0002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p>The bottom 2 are the same trim piece. I’ve already popped the felted rubber onto the door panels as you can see, but there is some plastic missing. The bottom left picture has a clip in it that is working properly. This is wonderful, but when I popped the next clip in to the left, it broke! What a pain! You can also see that the whole clip area is missing in the top picture. Oh my, what do we do? If you do not have these pieces secured to the door properly, they will move around, or be a pain to install on the door when you put the panel back in. I have a fix! I’ll give you a chance to guess what we are going to use before we get to involved. Okay, so Think about it…</p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOeKTjWKGkoPWRPoOZ240I-2ih3KnA7iq2fbDpHyt9Zl-o9EBvuRB0R811HHInrO61HE-yOF-c31Q8AmXRK_cT8pmxkFOsNdbH0KlRWAB9rfQsH04XzP1twvNgFeKwrZQRE_Ug3WJG0g/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0005%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0005" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="wtmsnt_0005" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiymXIdLoGnRI0dr4lXNHK7smpYbPTt_PUm_InTe8i5ApoxzS5m4uKjNuonsAs7OKTM8EW6vGg0n4If_qaXtH2ONcHbIgyz6WkR1VD-uNxZgWKl9X5Q49CfigHcVl_T9Z1j2UaBDURP9kA/?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" border="0" /></a> <p>I hope that wasn’t hard. I don’t know if I am the first person to come up with this idea or not, but if I am. I’ma do a little dance. *dance* Okay, we need a drill, some drills and some zip ties. (Snap ties for you crazy people). </p> <p>This is pretty simple fix, I hope you see where I’m going with this. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQX5EP7mI/AAAAAAAAAYw/NpOPiS9tvbU/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0006%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0006" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0006" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQYKhmtxI/AAAAAAAAAY0/G3Tq8paltrM/wtmsnt_0006_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>First we are going to drill some holes in the area that we are missing a clip. Hold the trim in place with your left (or right) hand while you drill with the other. Drill though the trim into the plastic on the door. The trim has metal in it, so it will take a second. Make sure you hold it in place! Otherwise it will not be correct. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQYZSvcHI/AAAAAAAAAY4/JsWxuxI8ogQ/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0007%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0007" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQYhque1I/AAAAAAAAAY8/6xa4YvehE0Y/wtmsnt_0007_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> Now, just throw in a snap tie. This one is actually incorrect though. I had not done it for a while, and forgot which spot to put the zip toggle in. You want it to be flush, and to pull though, like the following example. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQY3aUanI/AAAAAAAAAZA/iLBBjaXtl38/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0009%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0009" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0009" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQZA_Rh1I/AAAAAAAAAZE/_DrNQ8EPAHM/wtmsnt_0009_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I hope you can see what is going on here. I threaded the zip tie though, and left some slack, then back though it came, and I pushed the toggle down on the other hole and pulled strait out. This is to try and keep the lowest profile I could with the tie. You might be thinking though, “Why don’t I just put it in the other way?” Well, because the lip you see pops over the metal on the door, and the big part of the tie will keep it from going into the door properly. So they have to be towards the window, not towards the door. I am making this sound confusing. Lets just go with an example and call it good. </p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQZR-K2SI/AAAAAAAAAZI/m5Jy7iQPnm4/s1600-h/wtmsnt_0008%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wtmsnt_0008" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="wtmsnt_0008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Bd8GE-3Vy0o/SjzQZm09UnI/AAAAAAAAAZM/JWHC14k3dVo/wtmsnt_0008_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></a> <p>There you have it.  I do 3 on each door. The trim will not “accidently” pop out while rolling the window up. Or powering it up, if you have auto windows. The one in the middle keeps it from moving around to much. If you clip them in, you will notice there is some slack there. This is a really easy fix, especially if you have new trim to put on like I did. My windows are so happy. Now I just have to change the scratched glass from the old dry rotted trim. </p> Williamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16227942394428930898noreply@blogger.com0