Wednesday, August 26, 2020

ElmScan 5 Engine Diagnostic Software


$407.98

ElmScan 5 is the original best-selling ELM327-based scan tool, and is the perfect entry-level scan tool for the budget-minded do-it-yourself mechanic. ElmScan 5 Compact lets you turn your computer into a sophisticated diagnostic system. The scan tool is a breeze to install and configure, and provides a lot more information about your vehicle, than a handheld scan tool. It is fully OBD-II compliant and works with any Windows PC with a USB port. ElmScan 5 Compact includes all necessary hardware and software to diagnose your vehicle's problems.

Customer review

This is an alright product:

Pros:
+Read & Reset Check Engine Light codes
+Can read many OBD parameters (just not with the included program)

Cons:
-Slow. The refresh rate is at best 1-3 updates per second when reading OBD2 values. This is way to slow to be of much use.
-Fuel mileage calculations with included software is woefully optimistic
-Included software can only read a few parameters. There are some free software alternatives, but most of the good stuff is quite expensive


Overall:
Decent for CEL reading/resetting. Although, a cheap handheld device does the same thing and is more portable.
Poor for monitoring values over OBD2. The refresh rate is too low to be of much diagnostic use.



Cobra CPI 480 400-Watt 12-Volt DC


$26.36

The Cobra CPI 480 is a 12-Volt DC to 120-Volt AC power inverter that provides 400 Watts of power handling and 800 Watts of peak power. This unit comes equipped with two grounded AC receptacles and a 5-Volt USB output, allowing you to power and charge a wide variety of devices. It connects to your vehicle via a 12-Volt cigarette lighter plug or with direct-to-battery cables. In addition, this inverter keeps you and your gear safe with clean modified sine wave power, reverse polarity protection, thermal shutdown, low voltage alarm and shutdown, and an external fuse.

Customer review

I just opened the package and haven't used this thing yet - so I can't comment on functionality - but I wanted to let others know that this unit DOES come with a cigarette lighter plug (as well as a set of alligator clips) that you can attach to the screw posts.

I wasted a couple bucks on a separate cigarette lighter plug when I ordered because the product information says nothing about coming with the cigarette lighter plug.

Oh - There is also a sticker on the cigarette lighter cable warning not to draw more than 150 watts when using it plugged into a lighter socket (use the alligator clips or your own custom wires to connect straight to the battery for full power)


Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Autel MaxiScan MS300 Scan Tool


$26.00

The MaxiScan MS300 CAN OBD-II Code Reader provides auto enthusiasts and do-it-yourselfers with an easy, portable and economic way to check Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their definitions for OBD-II compliant vehicles. OBD-II is the second generation of onboard diagnostics and has been a mandatory requirement for all vehicles sold in the US since 1996, both domestic and imports. The MS300 supports all current OBD-II protocols--communications between your car's components and systems--including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. The included CD containing 7,000 DTC definitions allows you to troubleshoot a wide variety of generic, manufacturer-specific and pending trouble codes, and drawing power from your car's own electrical system the unit does not require batteries or an AC adapter. Simply plug it in via its standard 16-pin OBD-II connector at the first sign of trouble and start diagnosing, regardless of your post-1996 car's make or model.

Customer review

The MaxiScan MS300 does read the codes and is easy to hook up and use. Functionally, it works.

However, there are some serious problems:

- As reported earlier, the CD is entirely useless - the code database does install (although install menu looks like it was written for Win98), however once that database is installed on your PC, when you go to look up P-code numbers there is no information on them - all you get is 'no data'. You are left with the product's User Manual as your sole reference to the codes.

- The manufacturer's website ([...]) does have a link for downloading the DTC codes, but it's a dead link and goes nowhere - again, entirely useless.

Please note that these issues also apply to the MS500 as they share the same CD.


Sunday, July 26, 2020

DuroMax Portable Generator With Wheel Kit


$407.98

The XP4400 Features:? Durable DuroMax 7.0 Hp, air cooled OHV engine with low oil shutoff .? Heavy duty steel frame with four point fully isolated motor mounts for smooth and quiet operation.? Wheel kit w/ front handle for easy transporting.? Full power panel with engine shutoff switch, volt meter, circuit breaker and power outlets.? (2) Fully protected 120V outlets & (1) 120V/240V twist-lock outlet.? 8 Hour run time. ? All steel 3.2 gal. fuel tank with ez-read gauge..? Low oil shut-off protects engine.? Super quiet muffler reduces engine noise.? Idle control holds RPM at a constant level even under heavy loads for fuel savings and noise reduction.Specifications:? Max AC Output: 4400 watts? Rated AC Output: 3500 watts? Current (120V/240VAC & 12VDC)? (2) 120v 20A 3-prong outlets (Standard Household plug).? (1) 120v/240v 30A twist lock (NEMA L14-30 3 Pole 4 Wire).? Low oil shutoff.? EPA & CARB approved engines.? Super quiet exhaust w/ built-in spark arrestor.? EZ-Pull Recoil start.? 7.0 Hp air cooled OHV engine? Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.2 gal? Decibel: 69 dBA? Run-Time [ @ 50% Maximum Output ]: 8.0 hrsIncludes:? RV Switch for 30Amp 120v power to supply demanding RV needs.? Extra large pneumatic tires.? Flip-Up stow away Handles.? Spark plug wrench? All new high impact interior/exterior packaging insures your generator will get to you in 100% factory perfect condition.? Shipping Weight: 130.00 lbs.

Customer review

Overall, I'm very pleased with this generator. It is definitely a good value for the money. The FedEx guy delivered it in good condition. The packaging was excellent. I pulled it out of the box, installed the wheel kit (5-10 minutes), filled it with fuel and oil and it started right up. It is fairly quiet for a generator, but keep in mind quiet is a relative thing. I would say it is definitely quieter than a lawn mower or a typical Briggs&Stratton generator with a lawnmower type muffler (this generator has an automotive type muffler which helps keep the noise down).



Wagan 200W Power Inverter with USB Port


$31.88

The Wagan Smart 200-Watt USB Power Inverter provides one USB port and two 120-Volt AC outlets. This inverter is ideal for supplying power to laptops, mobile appliances and other AC and USB appliances. It comes equipped with built-in surge protection for car start up and shut down, and also provides overload and short circuit protection to keep you safe. This inverter can operate with the engine turned off, and will automatically shut down if the vehicle's battery gets low. This inverter provides a continuous 200-watt supply of power, with a peak surge power of 500 watts.

Customer review

This inverter is compact and does exactly what it is intended to do. The USB slot is a nice feature. I have used it on 8+ hour roadtrips powering cell phones, laptops, DVD players and other items. Never a problem.


Saturday, July 25, 2020

Duracell DPP-600HD Powerpack 600 Jump Starter


$149.95

Households around the world trust Duracell for high-quality, long-lasting batteries. As part of their industry-leading line of superior quality power products, Duracell has created highly reliable, rugged portable power solutions that you can count on in any situation. From power outages and roadside emergencies to remote jobsites and the great outdoors, the heavy-duty Duracell Powerpack 600 will be there to provide plentiful power for work, recreation and emergency backup situations. Do you frequently need extra power for your tools or accessories, but none is available? If an outlet is not in reach or plugging into the dashboard's cigarette lighter is simply not an option, the Duracell Powerpack 600 is the perfect solution. This robust stand-alone battery based power source is powerful enough to run many popular electronics, small appliances and power tools, and can even jump-start vehicle batteries. A multitude of safety and emergency features assures safe, simple "plug and play" operation, even when used by consumers who possess only basic technical knowledge.


Customer review

I got stuck last week with my car's alternator and battery being dead. This unit started my car 4 times that night and I actually used the supply to power the car so I could drive it an extra block to avoid paying a tow charge. It powers my hungry laptop for up to 4 hours between charges. I can't recommend this power supply more....all aces.
Update:
My unit failed to take a charge finally. I did have another unit that failed and a note of caution here. These devices are not perfected yet. True when they function they are unbeatable but they still can fail prematurely. When they work there is nothing better. The key here is price i think. I paid well under 100 and they have been recently priced at 149. I would not pay anywhere near that for the power supply as they do not last. If i had paid the 149 and it failed after three years that comes to a cost of 50 per years usage and that is not worth the cost. This power supply with a combined power inverter is a great idea, they just need to improve the quality of the battery within or make it so you can merely swap out the battery inside when it dies. Again, my experience has been awesome as to performance but it isnt a device which provides durability with certainty. If they made it so one could go to a battery dealer and get a replacement battery to insert then it is worth what they are asking.
Conclusion:
If you have a need for a solid unit and you luck out with a good one then you will not be disappointed until it eventually fails. It will provide you with stellar results until it dies. The question is this... Is it worth the price for the time it lasts? Only you can answer that. It is an oddity i think to find a product that performs so good yet is such a gamble. I would think that the engineers that designed this fantastic device would consider better quality batteries or a perpetually replaceable battery insert.


Friday, June 26, 2020

Quixx Paint Scratch Remover


$12.84

Quixx Paint Scratch Remover permanently removes scuffs, scrapes and scratches from all paint surfaces. TUV certified.

Customer review

I decided to order this product base on the reviews i read also did some extra study on similar products. This is probably my best bet for it's price.

I have rather deep key mark (show primer) and a few fine scratch on my new blue car. As it said on the directions if you have deep scratch you need to get the match paint for it. so we went over to Wal mart and get one of those 5 dollar repair paint that come with a small brush and ball pen in same bottle (they come in several known brand and color such as TOYOTA , FORD, GM, etc;) I also saw the same products at Kregen too.

First i wipe clean the surface with wet cloth and then very lightly wet sand to smooth it up with the sand paper provided it in the kit then wipe clean, The sand paper is 3000 grid which is very fine and did a good job for it's purpose. I like it much better than the 2000 grid one they sell at automotive store. Only if they give you more than just a few strips i will be alot happier.

Then I use the brush side to paint on the bigger scratch area and use the ball pen for finer line. Let dry for few hours. And to make sure i really fill those scratch well I re apply the paint and let dry.

After the paint completely dry use wet sand to very gently sand the excess paint off ( this part scared me the most because they said it very clear not to expose the primer, So take your time and be very gentle). When you are done with sanding the scratch should feel very smooth to the touch. It still look very visible but after i use cream no. 1 (buff hard) it look better so i decided to do it again twice. After 3 applications of cream no.1 and finished it with cream no.2 the scratch almost disappear. I still can see it a little but i know where to look for it. It does not take away the scratch completely but did improve and lighten alot. I think it's reasonable enough for it's price. If they sell this for 100 dollar then i will expect much better result.

As for fine scratch i have to admit that it works like magic. All i need to do is clean the surface, apply cream no.1 and make sure to let it sit then buff buff buff hard! , Cream no.2 give it super glossy shine. The scratch are completely gone. I was very happy with the result.



Jump-N-Carry JNC300XL 900 Peak Amp Ultraportable


$59.95

A great balance of power and portability, the ultraportable jump starter packs the punch of 900 Peak Amps of starting power into a unit that weighs just 9 pounds. This store-anywhere, use-anywhere unit features Clore Proformer battery technology, specifically designed for vehicle jump starting. The product also features a high intensity work light, 56" cable span, full size insulated clamps and a convenient Grip-Lock clamp storage system.

Customer review

We purchased the JNC300XL about a year ago to power a camera system we were developing for a truck. We needed 12Vdc vehicle power while in the lab and in the field for testing off the vehicle. It charges quickly, holds a charge for months and is light and compact. Last summer my wife called to say she was first in a left turn lane on a busy expressway and her car stalled and would not start. I grabbed to JNC300XL where it had set for months without a charge and off I went. I connected it to her battery and it provided plenty of power to turn over her fair sized V6 engine and start the car. The nice thing is it was a quick hook up. I wasn't in the middle of a busy road trying to get my car close enough to her car to string a couple of jumper cables. It is great for powering gadgets that normally plug into a cigarette lighter for power. You unplug the "flashlight" on the front of the unit to access the cigarette lighter plug. As with all batteries it should be charged every several months to keep the batteries from becoming un-chargeable. Since it is a sealed spill proof lead-acid battery like a car battery it does not have a memory nor will it be damaged by being topped off once in a while. It will die if left discharged for a long period. The manual can be found at [...]


Tuesday, May 26, 2020

K&N 99-5050 Filter Care Service Kit - Squeeze


$8.17

A six-step maintenance system designed to recharge any K&N FilterCharger Air Filter. Restores air flow efficiency so your FilterCharger performs like new.

Customer review

I love the squeeze bottle ... the aerosol bottle just sprays everywhere and is harder to control quantity and where it hits. It also seems harder to judge when you have applied to much, or too little.

With the squeeze bottle, you simply apply an even amount along the ridges on both sides of the filter and allow time for the oil to soak down into the fibers of the filter.

This way, you can start with a smaller amount and if it isn't enough to "soak to the middle" you know you need more, and can judge how much more based on how much you applied the first time and how much white space is left. After time, you start to get a good feel for the amount of oil needed to re-oil the filter.

K&N filters are also specifically distributed with a spec sheet showing the amount of oil needed, and this information can also be viewed on the K&N website. For instance, my car's filter requires 1.24oz of oil to re-oil the filter.

With the squeeze bottle it is very easy to determine how much oil has been applied - it's just liquid in a bottle and there is a gauge so you can see how much oil is in the bottle when you start, how much is left as you work, and therefor how close you have come to the K&N recommended amount of oil for a proper re-oiling job. With the spray can, knowing how much oil you have dispersed is difficult if not impossible.

Hope that helps!