How to Rent a Moving Truck or Trailer

Trailers for Rent NJ

If you're planning to move, save money by renting a moving truck or trailer instead of hiring a professional moving company to transport your household goods. You should reserve your truck or trailer well in advance if you want to save some money, especially if you're planning to move during the summer or at the end of the month.

• Determine the size of moving truck or trailer that you need, based on the number of rooms to be moved. General guidelines indicate a 24-foot truck for moving eight rooms, a 20-foot truck for five rooms, a 15-foot truck for three rooms, and a cargo van or trailer for a small load of household goods.

• Contact rental companies about driver requirements, including minimum age, driving records and special licenses.

• Check your auto insurance policy to see if coverage is provided for truck and van rentals.

• Obtain rental prices on the truck size that you need for the move by completing online information forms or calling rental companies in your local area. Check on availability of trucks during your scheduled move dates.

• If you're planning to rent a trailer, check the dealer's requirements for towing. Arrange for a trailer hitch to be installed on your car, if necessary.

• Reserve a rental truck for the dates of your move.

• Ask the rental dealer for special instructions for operating a rental truck and review them.

Trailers for rent DE | Trailers for rent NJ | Used trailers for sale NJ | Sell new trailers in DE

Resource: http://www.ehow.com/how_7550_rent-moving-truck.html

CV Axle Replacement and Halfshaft Removal - Replace the CV Or the Entire Half Shaft?

Cheap CV Axles Shaft

Changing C.V. (Constant Velocity) axles today is almost as common as doing brake jobs. But some CV axles can be pretty stubborn to remove. In this article learn some of the tricks I've used over the years as a Master Tech to make changing CVs and 1/2 shafts easier. Automotive specialty tools are sometimes needed to make the job easier, I'll discuss some of those and if it is better to replace the entire half shaft, the joint or just the CV boot.

Clicking On Turns

Since you're reading this you may already know that a common sign of a bad CV joint is popping and clicking on turns. A shudder on straight take offs could be a worn inner joint, but this is much less common. Outer joints have the most movement (like on turns), that's why outer boots usually wear more than the inner ones. CV boots are designed to pump grease throughout the joint during movement. Wear that causes outer joints to make noise can be accelerated if the CV boot breaks from dry rot or wear and the lubricating grease is lost. If the CV boot breaks, grease is thrown out of the joint by centrifugal force while driving. Without grease to keep the joint lubricated and cooler, its life is drastically reduced. Also outside elements like moisture and dirt can enter the joint,  further reducing its life expectancy. Once they wear, they make a clicking noise upon turns while accelerating. If they are noisy, the 1/2 shaft assembly may be the easiest way to go instead of replacing just the joint. CV 1/2 shaft prices have came down in the last decade and are more readily available than they used to be.

Removing the Half Shaft Assembly

The job of removing half shafts on most cars is mostly the same.

1. Remove the big nut that holds the joint to the wheel hub.
2. It may be necessary to unbolt or un-clip the brake hose to prevent stretching it when removing the axle.
3. The steering knuckle (where the brake rotor mounts), must either be loosened at the strut mount or at the lower ball joint to allow the shaft to slip out of the hub. Choose the easiest!
4. The inner CV will either be held into the transmission by bolts or with a retaining clip (the clip is not visible).
5. If there are no bolts on the inner joint, in most cases it will need to be pried out with a pry bar.
6. Alternatively a slide hammer with a C.V. joint puller can be used to remove the inner joint from the transmission. 

Inspecting and Replacing Boots

You may be able to detect and replace worn boots before damage is done to the C.V. joint. If the boot has dry rot and is about to crack or has just recently split . And the CV joint doesn't make any noises yet, it has been caught it in time. The CV half shaft assembly can be removed and just the boot can be replaced with new grease of course. The CV boot kit also comes with two clamps and special grease. It is less expensive to re-boot a joint, but it is a little more labor intensive. On cars that I was familiar with, many times I changed the CV boot without taking the shaft completely out of the car. Usually though, the shaft is removed and placed in a vise to be worked on. The old boot is cut away to help reveal what type of retaining clip is holding the joint onto the 1/2 shaft.

When a cleaner is used, like brake clean and the joint is angled it's easier to see the clip. The joint may need to be turned while kept on an angle to see the clip. Most either require lock ring pliers to spread the lock ring or the joint can be struck sharply with a hammer (care must be taken not to damage the cage). If you have doubt on what type of retainer you are working with, consult a service manual for your specific model. Be aware that the ball bearings can fall out when the joint is off the shaft and the cage is turned sideways depending on the type it is. After cleaning and drying with compressed air, the grease bag can be cut on the corner and the grease is squeezed into the center of the joint. It's common to force out some of the old grease that was trapped while doing this. Scoop up and discard the old grease that may ooze out. Put the boot and joint back on the shaft by spreading the clip or tapping lightly with a brass hammer. Special CV joint boot clamp tools will be needed to tighten the bands properly. There are two basic types of clamps. There is a type that will be crimped with boot clamp pliers. The other type requires a banding tool, this type is wound and cranked tight using the same motion as you would with a can opener.

A common mistake is damaging the output seal in the transmission when removing or re-installing the axle. If the seal is damaged, transmission fluid will leak. Be careful to center the inner joint when putting it back in. Also a mistake that is made even by professionals is to either break the cir-clip that holds the axle in the transmission or to not install the axle completely IN. It is normal to feel a little movement in and out when pushing and pulling the inner joint when it is properly installed. If the retaining clip is broken or not fully inserted, the shaft can slip out enough that the car will not move! Also if tapping the shaft back into the transmission, be careful not to damage the outer threads. Remember if this is your first axle job, don't hesitate to have a buddy with experience on call!

Double Offset Joint | Cheap CV Axles Shaft | ATV CV Boots Joints | Arctic Cat Prowler

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1947724

Trailer Buying Guide

Buy a Trailer

Thinking about buying a cargo trailer, horse trailer or even a motorcycle trailer but aren't sure which trailer to buy? As you might have realized, choosing a trailer now-a-days can be perplexing. It's not surprising given the amount of trailer manufacturers and different types of trailers available.

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a trailer. One of the first considerations is to choose an established trailer manufacturer. As with most everything, you usually get what you paid for, so try to choose the best trailer that you can afford.

Deciding on what type of trailer you need for your application will help in narrowing down the manufacturers. There are trailers for almost every conceivable type of cargo, from motorcycles to horses to concessions. If you have to haul it, then there's a trailer made to haul it or at least one that can easily be converted to do the job.

After choosing a manufacturer, figure out what size trailer you'll need. Trailers come in several different widths and lengths. If you're considering an enclosed trailer, you'll also need to consider the height of the interior. If your trailer towing needs require that you spend very much time inside the trailer, choose one with enough interior height to keep you from bending your neck or back when standing.


Open or Enclosed Trailers

Open or Enclosed Trailer

The next step in choosing a trailer is figuring out whether you will need an open or an enclosed trailer. An open trailer is one which exposes the cargo to the outside elements. If inclement weather isn't a factor for your cargo, then an open trailer may be the most economical choice. Open utility trailers can range in price from about $900 to $2500 new.

Open utility trailers are well suited for many applications including small landscaping businesses that are just starting out and need a way to haul their landscape equipment. As their business grows and they decide to move up to an enclosed trailer, the open utility trailer will still be incredibly useful for hauling all sorts of material such as mulch, rock and plants.

Another plus for open trailers is their weight. Open utility trailers tend to be lighter and provide less aerodynamic drag than enclosed trailers.

While open trailers are economical and very useful, they do not provide the protection from the outside environment that an enclosed trailer will. Enclosed trailers also offer an added measure of security because the trailer functions as a portable, lockable storage building.

Enclosed trailers tend to be heavier and less aerodynamic than open trailers. Enclosed trailers usually cost in the $1600 to $5000 range new, but can go much higher.

Single or Tandem Axle

Single or Tandem Axle

Once you've decided on either an open utility trailer or an enclosed cargo trailer, you'll need to decide whether the trailer should have a single axle, dual axle or possibly even three to four axles.

Single axle trailers have just one load bearing axle. Trailers with single axles come with and without brakes, but as a general rule of thumb, most single axle open and enclosed trailers come without brakes. If you plan on hauling more than 3000 lbs, trailer brakes need to be considered. In fact, it's a legal requirement in most states.

Anything heavier than 3000 lbs should be hauled on a dual axle trailer, be it an open or enclosed trailer. Dual axle trailers use two load bearing axles and usually feature either leaf springs or independent torsion bar suspensions. Brakes are recommended for dual axle trailers and again may be required depending upon where you live. Also, dual axle trailers tend to track more accurately than single axle trailers over varying road surfaces.

Rear Access

Rear Access

If you decide on an enclosed trailer, next you have to decide on either a ramp rear door, double rear doors or one single barn-type door. Choosing the type of rear access will greatly depend on the cargo you intend to haul. If you're going to be hauling a motorcycle, race car or any other type vehicle, then a ramp rear door will provide the easiest loading and unloading method.

Be sure though when purchasing a trailer with a ramp door that the ramp is spring assisted as some of the ramp doors can be very heavy. Ramps are also nice for hauling furniture or other heavy items where you'll be using a dolly to load and unload them.

If you will be using the trailer quite often and will be in and out of it, then a ramp can become rather cumbersome. Enter double door trailers. It is much easier to open the doors, step in and get the tool or item you need and then step out and close the door than it is to drop a ramp every time you need access. Too, you have to consider the clearance needed for opening a ramp rear door.

Single barn type rear doors are usually found on smaller enclosed trailers and are comparable in convenience to double rear doors.

Trailer manufacturers are aware of the ramp issue and most now add a side door for access to their enclosed trailers giving those that require a ramp the best of both worlds.

Trailer Brakes

Trailer Brakes

In addition to the various types of trailers, there are several types of trailer braking systems.
Electric braking systems are the most common type of braking systems found on trailers today. These type braking systems connect the brake system on the tow vehicle to the brake system on the trailer. This is accomplished by installing a brake controller inside the tow vehicle. The controller senses the braking force of the tow vehicle and in turn activates the brakes on the trailer.

A hydraulic surge brake system consists of an actuating cylinder that is usually integrated with the trailer tongue assembly. As the tow vehicle applies its brakes, the "surge" of the trailer towards the decelerating tow vehicle compresses the surge actuator. As this cylinder is compressed, force is applied to the master cylinder and from there to the braking cylinders.

Surge braking systems are more expensive and usually only needed if you'll be using several different tow vehicles that would each require a brake controller.

Electric brakes are usually preferred over surge brakes because their operation is independent from the tow vehicle. If for some reason the tow vehicle loses its brakes, there would not be enough deceleration surge to activate the surge brakes. However, with electric brakes, the driver could manually activate the brake controller thus allowing the trailer to slow the entire rig.
In some states, any trailer with brakes is required to have a breakaway system. In the event that the trailer becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle, the trailer brakes would apply automatically to stop the run away trailer. Trailer equipped with electric brakes carry a separate battery to activate the breakaway systems. Surge brakes use a cable that locks the breaks in a breakaway situation.

Informed Buying

The most important aspect of buying a trailer is to be an informed buyer. Ask lots of questions. Any reputable dealer will be glad to answer your questions and in fact, should ask you a lot of questions regarding your intended cargo load. Ask about the warranty. Does the manufacturer stand behind its work? Most established manufacturers offer a very good warranty program and will go out of their way to satisfy a customer.

Used Trailers For Sale PA

Used trailers for sale NJ

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4801

Tips For Buying a Used ATV

ATV CV Boots Joints

Whether you're buying your first atv or just adding another one for the Wife or kids, buying a used atv can make a lot of sense, especially when compared to the price of a new one. Here are 13 tips to use when evaluating a used atv. Used atvs can be a great bargain, but beware. Some owners are just looking to get rid of a lemon or a atv that will be needed major repairs.
Follow these tips to make sure you're not the one who gets saddled with it!

Check out the tires. Are they worn out? Have the been patched or plugged numerous times?These could be indications of rough use or abuse.

Always take a friend with you when going to look at an used atv. Raise the ATV up if possible to check the underside. Make sure to look at all the shock points and check for any rust or damaged areas. This includes cracks in the frame. Look for signs of fresh paint.This may mean a recent repair.

If you're buying a used 4x4 atv, check out the ATV cv joint boots. If they are cracked, this can allow water to get inside. This will cause rust and lead to major damage, which leads to major repair cost!

While you down there, check the oil in both differentials. Does it look milky or chocolate colored? This is a sign of water. You can also use this rule of thumb for the engine oil.
Be sure to look at the sprocket or sprockets. If the sprockets are worn on one side or bent, it's likely time for a new chain and sprocket.

Support the front end with jack stands. Then try to move each front wheel in and out from top to bottom and side to side to check for worn wheel bearings and ball joints. Do the same for the rear.

To check for worn tie rod ends, try and move the handle bars back and forth. There should be little to no play.

Don't forget to remove the seat and check the air box for dirt and water. This is often overlooked and can be a sign of abuse or lack of maintenance should you find a dirty one.
Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the gas tank. If there is rust, it could indicate costly engine repairs. And yes, gas tanks rust. By the way, don't be stupid and use an open flame to try and see into the gas tank. I heard of one story where this happened with bad results!
Turn the lights on/off and make sure all work.

Take the atv for a spin. Does the atv start right up or is it sluggish? Try a few hard stops. Do the brakes function properly? Does it handle well? Look and listen for anything out of place.
Does the exhaust have the spark arrestor in place? Many owners remove these. However, National Forest and other public trails require spark arrestor's to be in place. Owners without them can be fined and prevented from riding in these places.

What about the body? Is there any damage? Cracked or otherwise damaged body parts will need replacing.

These simple tips will go a long ways in making sure your used ATV CV Boots Joints will give you many good rides and prevent those unexpected repair bills.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1558597

Replacing Your Own ATV's Axle

Irregardless of whether you're a serious Pro ATV racer or your average kid ATV trail rider, if you actively ride, chances are, you've broken your ATV's axle before. Even for kids and especially youths, having the ATV axle bend or break is a pretty common thing, hence, we always a have a few of these parts locked up in the garage, just in case. It's a hassle to break it and then try to find it. So, if you actively ride your ATV and is prone to trying new tricks to impress gals in your neighborhood, then you should get a couple of spare ATV axles for those unfortunate moments. It's pretty common for kids to break their axles too especially the inexperienced ones because they don't completely know how to control their ATVs properly.

The way you install an ATV axle differs from ATV to ATV...it depends on the make and model of the ATV. However, if you take the popular Honda, this might be a general idea on how to install the ATV axle on it.
If you're looking to purchase ATV axles online, try doing a simple search on Google for 'ATV parts' or 'ranger razor axles'. We're sure you'll find some pretty reliable ATV part retailers out there.

The first thing you'll need to do is to put your ATV up on a stand and then remove all the tires. Remember to gather all the tools you need in order to install your ATV axle with you before you start. You don't want to remove all the parts and then discover you can't find a particular tool...and you'll end up with a taken-apart ATV awaiting further action until the needed tool is found! Usually, the next ATV part to come off will be the brake caliper - remove it and place it in a safe place.

Then work on removing the large hub nut next. Actually, on most Honda ATVs, you'll get ATV two hub nuts...one main nut and the other is the retaining nut. From the ATV's nut side, push the axle through the swingarm. This can be a challenge even for big blokes like us so, you might need some extra help here. Use of a rubber mallet will help tremendously. Remove the retaining clip and remove the ATV's hub nut off the axle...one at a time, please.

Now, the removal part is done. Get the new ATV axle ready and place it through the side where the ATV sprocket is. And since taking it out was a little tough, did you think it was going to be easy getting it in? Nnnaaahhh.... Anyway, thank goodness for the invention of the rubber mallet. Most new ATV axles will come with new sprockets, so, if that is the case, then you can remove and store or throw away the old ATV sprockets.

From here, you can reverse what you did by installing the ATV sprocket back in, then the rotor hub, then the ATV's brake caliper. This is followed by you sliding in the ATV's hub and then the stock hub nut. Remember to tighten the hub nut and the axle nuts before running the ATV. And then one more thing and you're done with it - insert new cotter pins and Viola....you've replaced your ATV's axle!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/583619

The Polaris RZR High Quality ATV

If you are looking at or even own a Polaris RZR, then give yourself a pat on the back for owning a high quality all terrain vehicle. This ATV guarantees a great ride for anyone who decides to take it for a spin. Whether you're going off road, cruising along ditches, or taking on the desert terrain and rocks, you're in for a real treat.
So, you may be asking, what makes the Polaris RZR such a great ATV to drive and own? Well, a big part of its appeal and durability comes from the famous and superior suspension that this ATV offers. For starters there is the double a-arm setup located in the front and in the rear, complete with nine inches worth of travel in the front, and another nine and a half inches of travel in the rear. This is definitely more than what the competition has to offer.
The Polaris RZR Suspension is superior to most other offroad vehicles,this awesome suspension ensures a smooth ride, very little bouncing and jostling around, and eliminates the bone jarring spinal tap that can come about when the suspension is moving up while your body is moving down (yes, this is as painful as it sounds). There is no "bottoming out" when you ride with the suspension these mean machines have to offer!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1332656

Finding Storage Trailers For Sale Just Got Simpler

These days, many of us need more room than we are able to afford owning. Property prices might be down, but getting the kind of loans needed to buy or build is out of the question for the vast majority of us now, thanks to the way the economy has been recently. If you are hoping to be able to find good storage trailers for sale then you will definitely be delighted to learn that these are quite simple to find now. You can get what you need for a lot less than you might think, too. These trailers can be a real boon when you have to haul things and get them from one place to the next in a safe manner. They are also useful for holding things that you only tend to need on a once in a while basis. When you need a smart investment, these trailers make a very good choice because they are so versatile and do not require another company to move them for you as others so often do. You can find storage trailers for sale through a variety of places and that is definitely going to make things a lot easier on you or the company you are working for.
Mobility is huge these days and portable solutions are definitely the way to go for the vast majority of us. It is not always easy to find the very best deals out there, but if we play our cards right then it might just be easier than we think. If you are hoping to have the right selection of used trailers for sale then you may want to consider checking out a dealer. They are often able to offer a lot of advantages that a private seller of used trailers would not be able to. They can give you payment plans or other financing packages and generally have a wider selection of options from which you can choose, as well as a warranty that is going to be a very smart idea for you to consider. If you have been thinking that this would make things simpler on you, you are definitely right. You can find a great value in storage trailers for sale right on the web because so many more dealers and private sellers are embracing this way to do business. It makes things much more simple for you.

As you can see, your storage trailer needs are going to be a great deal easier to meet once you know you have the right set of advantages. If you are looking to find the best trailer, then visit your local trailer dealer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5898091