Lots of detailed tips for Excel, Outlook, Word, Visual Basic & more:
Friday, July 31, 2020
Oldsmobile Quad-4 Engine
Oldsmobile Quad 4 engine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quad_4_engine
Oldsmobile Quad 4 - The Next Big Thing in four-cylinders, about a decade too late (2013):
https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/oldsmobile-quad-4
"... in 1995, balance shafts were added in an effort to smooth and quiet the Quad
... For 1996, the Quad's bore was reduced and the stroke lengthened, bringing displacement up to 2.4 liters. The Quad 4 name was dropped with the 2.4 as well, and the engine was called the 2.4-liter Twin Cam. The 2.4 was the final iteration of the Quad 4, and, from a reliability and driveability standpoint, was the best of the breed. Just a few years later, in 2000, the engine would be upstaged by the 2.2-liter Ecotec."
Why the Quad 4 was on of GM's most important engines:
https://jalopnik.com/heres-why-the-quad-4-was-one-of-gms-most-important-engi-1829719965
FAQ: GM QUAD4 ENGINE: http://quad4parts.com/html/quad4-engine.html
New life for the Oldsmobile Quad 4 engine:
https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/a1887851/new-life-oldsmobile-quad-4-engine/
"I spotted this Quad 4-engined Model T roadster at a 24 Hours of LeMons race"
Quad 4 Rods in Denver (Web site nolonger exists) used to sell custom bellhousings that allow a Quad 4 to bolt to various rear-wheel-drive transmissions, plus an intake manifold that allow fuel-injection-phobic car builders to put Weber DCOEs on their Quad 4s. (Search eBay?)
Oldsmobile Quad 4 - Quad Mods - Mixing And Matching The Best Pieces From GM's DOHC Wonder:
https://www.hotrod.com/articles/oldsmobile-quad-4-combining-parts/
"... the strongest Quad 4 setup would mate a 2.3L head to a 2.4 block, thereby combining the strongest block and the best-flowing head and cams"
Advance or Retard: Olds Quad 4 Engine Ignition Timing with ZEX Nitrous Kit - Is Retarded Timing Mandatory on a W41 Quad 4 Engine Running a 200HP ZEX Nitrous Kit?
https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/enthusiasts/advance-or-retard-olds-quad-4-engine-ignition-timing-with-zex-nitrous-kit/ar-BB17nCFv
Rebuilding The GM Quad 4 (1999): https://www.enginebuildermag.com/1999/04/rebuilding-the-gm-quad-4/
"The current 2.4L Quad 4 has evolved into an engine that is actually quite pleasant to drive, but it's almost too late, because it's due to be phased out when GM's all new DOHC engines are introduced in a couple of years."
"... there are actually a total of six different blocks, three cranks, three rods, seven heads, four cam housings, four front covers and three oil pumps used on these engines from 1987 through 1995, and that doesn't include the changes that were made for the 2.4L engine!"
GM's Quad 4 & Ecotec Engines And Ford's Zetec & Duratec Engines - Four Play - Modern Four-Bangers For Hot Rods: https://www.hotrod.com/articles/0812rc-gm-quad-4-ecotec-ford-zetec-duratec/
Oldsmobile Quad 4 - The Next Big Thing in four-cylinders, about a decade too late (2013):
https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/oldsmobile-quad-4
"... in 1995, balance shafts were added in an effort to smooth and quiet the Quad
... For 1996, the Quad's bore was reduced and the stroke lengthened, bringing displacement up to 2.4 liters. The Quad 4 name was dropped with the 2.4 as well, and the engine was called the 2.4-liter Twin Cam. The 2.4 was the final iteration of the Quad 4, and, from a reliability and driveability standpoint, was the best of the breed. Just a few years later, in 2000, the engine would be upstaged by the 2.2-liter Ecotec."
Why the Quad 4 was on of GM's most important engines:
https://jalopnik.com/heres-why-the-quad-4-was-one-of-gms-most-important-engi-1829719965
FAQ: GM QUAD4 ENGINE: http://quad4parts.com/html/quad4-engine.html
New life for the Oldsmobile Quad 4 engine:
https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/a1887851/new-life-oldsmobile-quad-4-engine/
"I spotted this Quad 4-engined Model T roadster at a 24 Hours of LeMons race"
Quad 4 Rods in Denver (Web site nolonger exists) used to sell custom bellhousings that allow a Quad 4 to bolt to various rear-wheel-drive transmissions, plus an intake manifold that allow fuel-injection-phobic car builders to put Weber DCOEs on their Quad 4s. (Search eBay?)
Oldsmobile Quad 4 - Quad Mods - Mixing And Matching The Best Pieces From GM's DOHC Wonder:
https://www.hotrod.com/articles/oldsmobile-quad-4-combining-parts/
"... the strongest Quad 4 setup would mate a 2.3L head to a 2.4 block, thereby combining the strongest block and the best-flowing head and cams"
Advance or Retard: Olds Quad 4 Engine Ignition Timing with ZEX Nitrous Kit - Is Retarded Timing Mandatory on a W41 Quad 4 Engine Running a 200HP ZEX Nitrous Kit?
https://www.msn.com/en-us/autos/enthusiasts/advance-or-retard-olds-quad-4-engine-ignition-timing-with-zex-nitrous-kit/ar-BB17nCFv
Rebuilding The GM Quad 4 (1999): https://www.enginebuildermag.com/1999/04/rebuilding-the-gm-quad-4/
"The current 2.4L Quad 4 has evolved into an engine that is actually quite pleasant to drive, but it's almost too late, because it's due to be phased out when GM's all new DOHC engines are introduced in a couple of years."
"... there are actually a total of six different blocks, three cranks, three rods, seven heads, four cam housings, four front covers and three oil pumps used on these engines from 1987 through 1995, and that doesn't include the changes that were made for the 2.4L engine!"
GM's Quad 4 & Ecotec Engines And Ford's Zetec & Duratec Engines - Four Play - Modern Four-Bangers For Hot Rods: https://www.hotrod.com/articles/0812rc-gm-quad-4-ecotec-ford-zetec-duratec/
Thursday, July 30, 2020
Best Cheap Guns of SHOT Show 2020 | Field & Stream
There are some interesting choices here:
https://www.fieldandstream.com/story/guns/best-cheap-guns-shot-show/
https://www.fieldandstream.com/story/guns/best-cheap-guns-shot-show/
Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Toyota Prius Hacks & Modifications
7 Best Hacks For Your Toyota Prius: https://www.torquenews.com/8113/7-best-hacks-your-toyota-prius
Tips for Greater Enjoyment of Your Prius Hybrid: https://www.liveabout.com/tips-for-greater-enjoyment-of-your-hybrid-prius-281679
How to hack your Prius: https://www.computerworld.com/article/2773982/how-to-hack-your-prius.html
I Bought a Cheap Toyota Prius … With a Dead Hybrid Battery: https://www.autotrader.com/car-video/i-bought-cheap-toyota-prius-dead-hybrid-battery-269650
Hacking your Prius: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/hacking-your-prius/
List of known hacks / "easter eggs" ? https://priuschat.com/threads/list-of-known-hacks-easter-eggs.11929/
Custom Prius Accessories! https://www.coastaletech.com/04prius.htm
See the 12V Power Outlet mod for solar trickle charging.
Also see the automatic door lock modification.
Electric Only Mode: https://www.coastaletech.com/electric_only_mode.htm
ULTIMATE LOCKPICK1 is the "ULTIMATE" in unblocking technology. https://www.coastaletech.com/DELUXE_LOCKPICK.htm
Toyota Prius – 2006-2015 Model Year Differences and Improvements: https://blog.beforward.jp/car-review/toyota-prius-2006-2015-model-year-differences-improvements.html
Tips for Greater Enjoyment of Your Prius Hybrid: https://www.liveabout.com/tips-for-greater-enjoyment-of-your-hybrid-prius-281679
How to hack your Prius: https://www.computerworld.com/article/2773982/how-to-hack-your-prius.html
I Bought a Cheap Toyota Prius … With a Dead Hybrid Battery: https://www.autotrader.com/car-video/i-bought-cheap-toyota-prius-dead-hybrid-battery-269650
Hacking your Prius: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/hacking-your-prius/
List of known hacks / "easter eggs" ? https://priuschat.com/threads/list-of-known-hacks-easter-eggs.11929/
Custom Prius Accessories! https://www.coastaletech.com/04prius.htm
See the 12V Power Outlet mod for solar trickle charging.
Also see the automatic door lock modification.
Electric Only Mode: https://www.coastaletech.com/electric_only_mode.htm
ULTIMATE LOCKPICK1 is the "ULTIMATE" in unblocking technology. https://www.coastaletech.com/DELUXE_LOCKPICK.htm
Toyota Prius – 2006-2015 Model Year Differences and Improvements: https://blog.beforward.jp/car-review/toyota-prius-2006-2015-model-year-differences-improvements.html
Friday, July 24, 2020
Convert a 3V battery powered device to USB power
Convert a 3V battery powered device to be USB powered:
https://www.instructables.com/community/How-do-I-convert-a-3V-battery-powered-device-to-be/
"I used an LM317T (purchased from radio shack) 2x100ohm 1/2watt resistor and one 40ohm 1/2 resistor. It produced 2.9v"
"The schematics can be found at quite a few places. Searching for LM317 and looking on wikipedia's website will show a few. {Search for Schematic}
https://www.alldatasheet.com/view.jsp?Searchword=LM317T
https://duckduckgo.com/?q=LM317T+3v+circuit&t=ffab&iar=images&iax=images&ia=images
https://www.circuitstoday.com/few-lm317-voltage-regulator-circuits
USB cables are supposed to have standardized conductor colors. Red+, Black-, White(data), Green(data), Shielding (ground). If you cut one end off of the cable you'll want to do the following:
1. Connect the red wire to the Vin pin on the LM317
2. Connect the r1 100ohm resistor to the Vout on the LM317
3. Connect the 100ohm resistor and the 40 ohm resistor to create r2.
4. Connect r2 to r1 and the Adj pin on the LM317
5. Connect r2 to the shielding/ground (Black?) of the USB cable
6. Add a lead from r1 for 3v output voltage."
How to Power Nearly Anything Off a USB Port:
https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-power-nearly-anything-off-a-USB-port/
"... there should be 4 wires , you only need the red and black ones as they are the power ..."
Or just wire up a 3 volt Zener diode:
https://www.mouser.com/Semiconductors/Discrete-Semiconductors/Diodes-Rectifiers/Zener-Diodes/_/N-ax1mh?P=1yuq69l
Mouser Part # 863-1N5333BG or 78-BZX55B3V3
USB Fan Project - Need Help Bringing Voltage Down from 5volts to 3volts...
https://www.electro-tech-online.com/threads/usb-fan-project-need-help-bringing-voltage-down-from-5volts-to-3volts.23572/
Powering electronics from the USB port (a little overkill for a simple battery powered device):
https://www.ti.com/lit/an/slyt118/slyt118.pdf?ts=1595605015624&ref_url=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.google.com%252F
https://www.instructables.com/community/How-do-I-convert-a-3V-battery-powered-device-to-be/
"I used an LM317T (purchased from radio shack) 2x100ohm 1/2watt resistor and one 40ohm 1/2 resistor. It produced 2.9v"
"The schematics can be found at quite a few places. Searching for LM317 and looking on wikipedia's website will show a few. {Search for Schematic}
https://www.alldatasheet.com/view.jsp?Searchword=LM317T
https://duckduckgo.com/?q=LM317T+3v+circuit&t=ffab&iar=images&iax=images&ia=images
https://www.circuitstoday.com/few-lm317-voltage-regulator-circuits
USB cables are supposed to have standardized conductor colors. Red+, Black-, White(data), Green(data), Shielding (ground). If you cut one end off of the cable you'll want to do the following:
1. Connect the red wire to the Vin pin on the LM317
2. Connect the r1 100ohm resistor to the Vout on the LM317
3. Connect the 100ohm resistor and the 40 ohm resistor to create r2.
4. Connect r2 to r1 and the Adj pin on the LM317
5. Connect r2 to the shielding/ground (Black?) of the USB cable
6. Add a lead from r1 for 3v output voltage."
https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-power-nearly-anything-off-a-USB-port/
"... there should be 4 wires , you only need the red and black ones as they are the power ..."
Or just wire up a 3 volt Zener diode:
https://www.mouser.com/Semiconductors/Discrete-Semiconductors/Diodes-Rectifiers/Zener-Diodes/_/N-ax1mh?P=1yuq69l
Mouser Part # 863-1N5333BG or 78-BZX55B3V3
USB Fan Project - Need Help Bringing Voltage Down from 5volts to 3volts...
https://www.electro-tech-online.com/threads/usb-fan-project-need-help-bringing-voltage-down-from-5volts-to-3volts.23572/
Powering electronics from the USB port (a little overkill for a simple battery powered device):
https://www.ti.com/lit/an/slyt118/slyt118.pdf?ts=1595605015624&ref_url=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.google.com%252F
Thursday, July 23, 2020
How to Opt-Out of data collection sites
Remove your personal data and opt out of data broker sites — here's how:
https://www.komando.com/privacy/remove-your-personal-data-and-opt-out-of-data-broker-sites-heres-how/570388/
https://www.komando.com/privacy/remove-your-personal-data-and-opt-out-of-data-broker-sites-heres-how/570388/
Wednesday, July 22, 2020
HTPC Software for Win-10 & more
Best HTPC Software In 2020 for Home Streaming:
https://www.addictivetips.com/media-streaming/best-htpc-software/
https://mediaexperience.com/top-10-most-popular-media-center-software-for-your-hdtv/
"If you'll be streaming content from off the internet, consider investing in a VPN.
...
IPVanish offers great speeds for streaming and downloads at a lower price than other options, and because of that they're the optimal choice for using alongside Kodi and other HTPC applications."
Kodi - previously known as XMBC (Xbox Media Player). Kodi isn't just a streaming box, though. It offers incredible versatility for managing and playing all kinds of media types, thanks to its open-source architecture.
Kodi add-ons developed by 1st and 3rd party developers alike add a truly staggering amount of functionality to the application. A popular example is Trakt, which tracks your viewing habits and syncs them to your Trakt account so that you can keep track of what you have and haven't yet seen on your Kodi machine (while sharing this information with your friends)!
Supported OSes: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Supported Media: Video (Movies/TV Shows), Music, IPTV, Radio, Photos, Games (with add-ons)
Streaming Capable?: Yes
Plex - Plex makes it extremely easy to turn your main PC into a media server from which your phone, other PCs in the house or even other PCs across the internet can stream your media.
Plex, like Kodi, also offers add-ons and custom channels, though Plex is better suited for streaming your own media between the two. However, if you're a diehard Kodi fan (and really, who isn't?) you'll be overjoyed to learn that you can access your Plex library via the Plex for Kodi application. Seamless integration makes for an incredible all-in-one media viewing experience that is truly second to none.
For most HTPC solutions, we find a combination of Kodi and Plex to be the most powerful and flexible solution.
Supported OSes (Server): Windows, Mac, Linux (various distros)
Supported Platforms (Streaming): Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Kodi, many more
Supported Media: Video (Movies/TV Shows), Music
Streaming Capable?: Yes
Emby - focuses on two things above all: streaming media and ease of use. While it isn't the most powerful or in-depth media streaming solution out there, it might just provide the friendliest user experience for those who aren't as comfortable tinkering with a media server (or who may not even know what it is at all).
Supported OSes (Server): Windows, Mac, Linux, NAS, Docker, FreeBSD
Supported Platforms (Streaming): Android, iOS, many more
Supported Media: Video, Music
Streaming Capable?: Yes
NextPVR - NextPVR is probably the best alternative to Windows Media Center to watch and record live TV.
It is easy to set up and supports advanced features like recording series.
You can use NextPVR as a front-end application, but the user interface is not as stylish as WMC or Kodi, but it is clean and simple.
You can also use NextPVR as a back-end and integrate it with Kodi using a PVR add-on.
MythTV - MythTV is the PVR of the Linux media center. You can record your shows and play them back at any time. It used to be a great alternative to TiVo.
This one is for advanced users that want to set up their home theater computer to link to their television. Once linked, you will be able to record live television programs and store them on your PC.
Unfortunately, MythTV development has been discontinued.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Best PC Software For Windows 10, 8, 7 In 2020:
https://blogs.systweak.com/must-have-windows-10-software/
https://www.addictivetips.com/media-streaming/best-htpc-software/
https://mediaexperience.com/top-10-most-popular-media-center-software-for-your-hdtv/
"If you'll be streaming content from off the internet, consider investing in a VPN.
...
IPVanish offers great speeds for streaming and downloads at a lower price than other options, and because of that they're the optimal choice for using alongside Kodi and other HTPC applications."
Kodi - previously known as XMBC (Xbox Media Player). Kodi isn't just a streaming box, though. It offers incredible versatility for managing and playing all kinds of media types, thanks to its open-source architecture.
Kodi add-ons developed by 1st and 3rd party developers alike add a truly staggering amount of functionality to the application. A popular example is Trakt, which tracks your viewing habits and syncs them to your Trakt account so that you can keep track of what you have and haven't yet seen on your Kodi machine (while sharing this information with your friends)!
Supported OSes: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Supported Media: Video (Movies/TV Shows), Music, IPTV, Radio, Photos, Games (with add-ons)
Streaming Capable?: Yes
Plex - Plex makes it extremely easy to turn your main PC into a media server from which your phone, other PCs in the house or even other PCs across the internet can stream your media.
Plex, like Kodi, also offers add-ons and custom channels, though Plex is better suited for streaming your own media between the two. However, if you're a diehard Kodi fan (and really, who isn't?) you'll be overjoyed to learn that you can access your Plex library via the Plex for Kodi application. Seamless integration makes for an incredible all-in-one media viewing experience that is truly second to none.
For most HTPC solutions, we find a combination of Kodi and Plex to be the most powerful and flexible solution.
Supported OSes (Server): Windows, Mac, Linux (various distros)
Supported Platforms (Streaming): Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Kodi, many more
Supported Media: Video (Movies/TV Shows), Music
Streaming Capable?: Yes
Emby - focuses on two things above all: streaming media and ease of use. While it isn't the most powerful or in-depth media streaming solution out there, it might just provide the friendliest user experience for those who aren't as comfortable tinkering with a media server (or who may not even know what it is at all).
Supported OSes (Server): Windows, Mac, Linux, NAS, Docker, FreeBSD
Supported Platforms (Streaming): Android, iOS, many more
Supported Media: Video, Music
Streaming Capable?: Yes
NextPVR - NextPVR is probably the best alternative to Windows Media Center to watch and record live TV.
It is easy to set up and supports advanced features like recording series.
You can use NextPVR as a front-end application, but the user interface is not as stylish as WMC or Kodi, but it is clean and simple.
You can also use NextPVR as a back-end and integrate it with Kodi using a PVR add-on.
MythTV - MythTV is the PVR of the Linux media center. You can record your shows and play them back at any time. It used to be a great alternative to TiVo.
This one is for advanced users that want to set up their home theater computer to link to their television. Once linked, you will be able to record live television programs and store them on your PC.
Unfortunately, MythTV development has been discontinued.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Best PC Software For Windows 10, 8, 7 In 2020:
https://blogs.systweak.com/must-have-windows-10-software/
Tuesday, July 21, 2020
Friday, July 17, 2020
MS Office substitutes
NOTE: support for Office 2010 ends in October 2020
Free Microsoft Office Alternatives (Microsoft 365 costs $69.99/year):
https://www.howtogeek.com/671262/the-best-free-microsoft-office-alternatives/
Apache OpenOffice - The free and Open Source productivity suite - https://www.openoffice.org/download/index.html
LibreOffice: Open-Source Desktop Apps - https://www.libreoffice.org/
Google Drive: Web-Based Work Apps From Google - https://www.google.com/drive/
FreeOffice: Versatile Productivity on Most Devices - https://www.freeoffice.com/en/
Microsoft Office Online: Fewer Features But No Cost - OneNote, Teams, etc. - https://www.office.com/
https://www.howtogeek.com/671262/the-best-free-microsoft-office-alternatives/
Apache OpenOffice - The free and Open Source productivity suite - https://www.openoffice.org/download/index.html
LibreOffice: Open-Source Desktop Apps - https://www.libreoffice.org/
Google Drive: Web-Based Work Apps From Google - https://www.google.com/drive/
FreeOffice: Versatile Productivity on Most Devices - https://www.freeoffice.com/en/
Microsoft Office Online: Fewer Features But No Cost - OneNote, Teams, etc. - https://www.office.com/
Monday, July 13, 2020
Classic car wiring options
Hot Rods - Fuse Panel, Ignition Switches, Etc... How to Wire Stuff Up Under the Dash.
http://www.how-to-build-hotrods.com/fuse-panel.html
5 Best Ways to Install a Kill Switch in Your Car (anti-theft):
https://dashcameras.net/car-kill-switch/
Custom Aftermarket Fuse Boxes:
https://mgispeedware.com/product-category/aftermarket-fuse-boxes/
Laminated Wiring diagrams: 1961 Lincoln - https://www.classiccarwiring.com/lincoln/ - different sizes available
1964 Falcon: https://www.classiccarwiring.com/falcon-maverick-1960-1973/ - note 1965 alternator conversion ...
Complete wiring harnesses:
American Autowire: https://www.americanautowire.com/
Possible choice for an early Lincoln: https://www.americanautowire.com/shop?aw_vehicle_fits=1116 or
https://www.painlessperformance.com/wc/symm.php?Year=1961&Make=Lincoln&Model=Continental&sb1=+
@ Summit: https://www.summitracing.com/search/part-type/wiring-harnesses
@ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=automotive&bbn=15729931&rh=n%3A15684181%2Cn%3A15690151%2Cn%3A15719731%2Cn%3A15729591%2Cn%3A15729601%2Cn%3A15729931%2Cp_72%3A1248861011%2Cp_36%3A1253497011&dc&fst=as%3Aoff&qid=1594657319&rnid=386419011&ref=sr_nr_p_36_5
or
https://www.amazon.com/classic-car-wiring-harness/s?k=classic+car+wiring+harness
Six to Twelve Volt Conversions: http://www.oldengine.org/unfaq/six12.htm
How to Do Hot Rod Wiring the Right Way: http://www.how-to-build-hotrods.com/hot-rod-wiring.html
Several tutorials ...
-Welcome to Wiring 101!
-A 6v to 12v Conversion to Improve Your Car!
-Rewiring Checklist
-Wiring Tips
-Impoved Power Circuit! How to Fix a Weak or Overloaded Electrical System
-Fuse Panel, Ignition Switches, Etc... How to Wire Stuff Up Under the Dash.
-How to Wire up Lights in Your Hotrod!
-How to Add Turn Signals and Wire Them Up
-Got Led Problems?
-Electrical Gremlins: The Simple Approach to Fixing Them
-Electric Fuel Pump: How to Do It Right
http://www.how-to-build-hotrods.com/fuse-panel.html
5 Best Ways to Install a Kill Switch in Your Car (anti-theft):
https://dashcameras.net/car-kill-switch/
Custom Aftermarket Fuse Boxes:
https://mgispeedware.com/product-category/aftermarket-fuse-boxes/
Laminated Wiring diagrams: 1961 Lincoln - https://www.classiccarwiring.com/lincoln/ - different sizes available
1964 Falcon: https://www.classiccarwiring.com/falcon-maverick-1960-1973/ - note 1965 alternator conversion ...
Complete wiring harnesses:
American Autowire: https://www.americanautowire.com/
Possible choice for an early Lincoln: https://www.americanautowire.com/shop?aw_vehicle_fits=1116 or
https://www.painlessperformance.com/wc/symm.php?Year=1961&Make=Lincoln&Model=Continental&sb1=+
Possible choices for a 64 Falcon: https://www.americanautowire.com/shop?aw_vehicle_fits=994 <== Mustang update kit is very complete!
Possible choices for 64 Falcon: https://www.painlessperformance.com/wc/symm.php?Year=1964&Make=Ford&Model=Falcon&sb1=+ <== Better prices than I expected.
@ Summit: https://www.summitracing.com/search/part-type/wiring-harnesses
@ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=automotive&bbn=15729931&rh=n%3A15684181%2Cn%3A15690151%2Cn%3A15719731%2Cn%3A15729591%2Cn%3A15729601%2Cn%3A15729931%2Cp_72%3A1248861011%2Cp_36%3A1253497011&dc&fst=as%3Aoff&qid=1594657319&rnid=386419011&ref=sr_nr_p_36_5
or
https://www.amazon.com/classic-car-wiring-harness/s?k=classic+car+wiring+harness
Six to Twelve Volt Conversions: http://www.oldengine.org/unfaq/six12.htm
How to Do Hot Rod Wiring the Right Way: http://www.how-to-build-hotrods.com/hot-rod-wiring.html
Several tutorials ...
-Welcome to Wiring 101!
-A 6v to 12v Conversion to Improve Your Car!
-Rewiring Checklist
-Wiring Tips
-Impoved Power Circuit! How to Fix a Weak or Overloaded Electrical System
-Fuse Panel, Ignition Switches, Etc... How to Wire Stuff Up Under the Dash.
-How to Wire up Lights in Your Hotrod!
-How to Add Turn Signals and Wire Them Up
-Got Led Problems?
-Electrical Gremlins: The Simple Approach to Fixing Them
-Electric Fuel Pump: How to Do It Right
Friday, July 10, 2020
Use Google Voice for calls from a PC or cell phone over WiFi
Tech how-to: Make phone calls from your computer:
https://www.komando.com/tech-tips/make-phone-calls-from-your-computer/736698/
Google Voice is one of the options mentioned ...
(Read about it before signing up ...)
What Is Google Voice? One voice number no matter how many times you change providers or jobs
https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-google-voice-1616888
Google Voice deserves your attention (again) - A once-abandoned Google service is finding new life — and deserves a second look.
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3564825/google-voice.html
How to Use Google Voice On Your Computer Desktop: https://www.techjunkie.com/google-voice-desktop/
Download Google Voice for Windows: https://downloads.tomsguide.com/Google-Voice,0301-51918.html
Read comments about some settings that will improve it ...
Google Voice Free Download for Windows 10: https://appforwin10.com/google-voice-free-download-for-windows-10.html
(From Google) Get Voice: https://voice.google.com/about
Google Voice (iPhone): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-voice/id318698524
Google Voice gives you a phone number for calling, text messaging, and voicemail. It works on smartphones and computers, and syncs across your devices so you can use the app in the office, at home, or on the go.
NOTE: Google Voice only works for personal Google Accounts in the US
(Related) Google Fi: The complete FAQ: https://www.computerworld.com/article/3323068/google-fi-project-fi.html
https://www.komando.com/tech-tips/make-phone-calls-from-your-computer/736698/
Google Voice is one of the options mentioned ...
(Read about it before signing up ...)
What Is Google Voice? One voice number no matter how many times you change providers or jobs
https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-google-voice-1616888
Google Voice deserves your attention (again) - A once-abandoned Google service is finding new life — and deserves a second look.
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3564825/google-voice.html
How to Use Google Voice On Your Computer Desktop: https://www.techjunkie.com/google-voice-desktop/
Download Google Voice for Windows: https://downloads.tomsguide.com/Google-Voice,0301-51918.html
Read comments about some settings that will improve it ...
Google Voice Free Download for Windows 10: https://appforwin10.com/google-voice-free-download-for-windows-10.html
(From Google) Get Voice: https://voice.google.com/about
Google Voice (iPhone): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-voice/id318698524
Google Voice gives you a phone number for calling, text messaging, and voicemail. It works on smartphones and computers, and syncs across your devices so you can use the app in the office, at home, or on the go.
NOTE: Google Voice only works for personal Google Accounts in the US
(Related) Google Fi: The complete FAQ: https://www.computerworld.com/article/3323068/google-fi-project-fi.html
Surprising things people will buy used online
Check out the Legos, Disney movies, and eyeglasses ...
https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/7-surprising-things-people-will-pay-real-money-to-buy-online/
https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/7-surprising-things-people-will-pay-real-money-to-buy-online/
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
Spikes Tactical AR-15 9mm Colt Style Magazine
Needs some additional parts to complete:
https://www.cheaperthandirt.com/spikes-tactical-ar-15-9mm-colt-style-magazine-well-forged-lower-receiver-spikes-spider-logo-non-color-filled-aluminum-black-stls910/FC-815648021986.html
DIY ARs — Building Your Own AR-15 - The Shooter's Log
A checklist:
https://blog.cheaperthandirt.com/definitive-guide-building-ar-15/
Curing Car COVID: Tech Solutions to Disinfecting Shared Cars
Three technologies promise to kill COVID-19—ultraviolet light, ozone, and robotically sprayed electrostatically charged disinfectant.
https://www.motortrend.com/news/tech-solutions-disinfecting-shared-cars-covid/
"The best-developed concept hails from Michigan-based supplier GHSP. Called Grēnlite, it employs germicidal 254-264-nm-wavelength ultraviolet-C light that destroys nucleic acids (the NA in DNA) to stop the reproductive cycle of microorganisms and pathogens. This has long been used in sanitizing and sterilizing drinking water, hospital rooms, offices, airplanes, etc.
UV-C light is invisible and is far more damaging to humans and animals than the UV-A and UV-B light that sunscreen blocks (atmospheric ozone typically filters UV-C), so the space to be disinfected must be empty. Laser, xenon, fluorescent, or LED sources can generate UV-C, but GHSP expects LED will win out in terms of power, mass, cost, and ease of vehicle integration. Today's fluorescent UV-C lamps and the ballasts that run them draw about 40-60 watts of power per unit, but LED promises to lower total power consumption.
GHSP's Grēnlite places high-power broadcast lamps above each seating row with additional low-power lamps focused on high-touch areas. And although a single LED can't provide ambient and UV-C light, adjacent LEDs in the same fixture can to simplify integration."
"But UV light only kills pathogens it shines on. What about germs sneezed into the shadows? Ozone gas—that weird smell you get when a light switch or car battery jumper cable sparks—is an unstable arrangement of three oxygen atoms, where one is eager to hop off and "oxidize" something. When it encounters a virus, that free-radical O atom penetrates the capsid protein shell encasing its genetic material and damages the viral RNA. It wreaks similar havoc on fungi, molds, pesticides, odors, and other potentially harmful substances. Testing recently proved it can neutralize COVID-19.
...
Because ozone is a lung irritant, the vehicle must remain closed and vacant during decontamination and long enough afterward for the ozone to decompose into molecular oxygen before use again. "
https://www.motortrend.com/news/tech-solutions-disinfecting-shared-cars-covid/
"The best-developed concept hails from Michigan-based supplier GHSP. Called Grēnlite, it employs germicidal 254-264-nm-wavelength ultraviolet-C light that destroys nucleic acids (the NA in DNA) to stop the reproductive cycle of microorganisms and pathogens. This has long been used in sanitizing and sterilizing drinking water, hospital rooms, offices, airplanes, etc.
UV-C light is invisible and is far more damaging to humans and animals than the UV-A and UV-B light that sunscreen blocks (atmospheric ozone typically filters UV-C), so the space to be disinfected must be empty. Laser, xenon, fluorescent, or LED sources can generate UV-C, but GHSP expects LED will win out in terms of power, mass, cost, and ease of vehicle integration. Today's fluorescent UV-C lamps and the ballasts that run them draw about 40-60 watts of power per unit, but LED promises to lower total power consumption.
GHSP's Grēnlite places high-power broadcast lamps above each seating row with additional low-power lamps focused on high-touch areas. And although a single LED can't provide ambient and UV-C light, adjacent LEDs in the same fixture can to simplify integration."
"But UV light only kills pathogens it shines on. What about germs sneezed into the shadows? Ozone gas—that weird smell you get when a light switch or car battery jumper cable sparks—is an unstable arrangement of three oxygen atoms, where one is eager to hop off and "oxidize" something. When it encounters a virus, that free-radical O atom penetrates the capsid protein shell encasing its genetic material and damages the viral RNA. It wreaks similar havoc on fungi, molds, pesticides, odors, and other potentially harmful substances. Testing recently proved it can neutralize COVID-19.
...
Because ozone is a lung irritant, the vehicle must remain closed and vacant during decontamination and long enough afterward for the ozone to decompose into molecular oxygen before use again. "
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Deer Cartridges from Bad to Good
Not the most exhaustive list, but a good selection to consider.
https://www.chuckhawks.com/bad_deer_cartridges.htm
https://www.chuckhawks.com/bad_deer_cartridges.htm
Some training videos from Walther
Here is a quick video explaining the proper way to align your handgun red dot sight.
https://www.facebook.com/WaltherArms/videos/1384260301758797/
This video breaks down how to properly pull the trigger. A good trigger pull is essential when it comes to accuracy. If your sights are properly aligned and you "break" the trigger without moving your sights, your shot will hit the target where you are aiming.
https://www.facebook.com/WaltherArms/videos/2842161335895730/
Here is a quick rundown of Dry-Fire Practice. There are some major benefits to dry-fire practice that will transfer over to live-fire once you get back on to the range.
https://www.facebook.com/WaltherArms/videos/263348768098463/
https://www.facebook.com/WaltherArms/videos/1384260301758797/
This video breaks down how to properly pull the trigger. A good trigger pull is essential when it comes to accuracy. If your sights are properly aligned and you "break" the trigger without moving your sights, your shot will hit the target where you are aiming.
https://www.facebook.com/WaltherArms/videos/2842161335895730/
Here is a quick rundown of Dry-Fire Practice. There are some major benefits to dry-fire practice that will transfer over to live-fire once you get back on to the range.
https://www.facebook.com/WaltherArms/videos/263348768098463/
Monday, July 6, 2020
Signal Private Messenger
What Is Signal Private Messenger – How to Use the Signal App:
https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/apps/a25736/signal-app-guide-how-to-use/
Signal (software): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signal_%28software%29
Signal - Speak Freely: https://www.signal.org/
Signal for Windows: https://signal.org/download/windows/
Signal - Private Messenger (iPhone): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/signal-private-messenger/id874139669
https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/apps/a25736/signal-app-guide-how-to-use/
Signal (software): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signal_%28software%29
Signal - Speak Freely: https://www.signal.org/
Signal for Windows: https://signal.org/download/windows/
Signal - Private Messenger (iPhone): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/signal-private-messenger/id874139669
Original article: The Pros and Cons of a Truly Private Chat App - Signal, the encrypted messaging app
(requires subscription) https://www.wsj.com/articles/signal-the-pros-and-cons-of-a-truly-private-chat-app-11592127002?mod=e2fb
(requires subscription) https://www.wsj.com/articles/signal-the-pros-and-cons-of-a-truly-private-chat-app-11592127002?mod=e2fb
Privacy Tools, software, etc.
Recommended by Forbes - includes a list of Open Source Software built to protect privacy:
https://www.privacytools.io/index.htmlian Payne
https://www.privacytools.io/index.htmlian Payne
Of Course Your Phone Is Listening To You
The article includes advice on securing some privacy going forward:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nathanpettijohn/2019/09/03/of-course-your-phone-is-listening-to-you/#b51b6a36a3f1
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nathanpettijohn/2019/09/03/of-course-your-phone-is-listening-to-you/#b51b6a36a3f1
Thursday, July 2, 2020
Comparing the 40 S&W for self defense
Why the .40 Is Still Kicking: https://blog.cheaperthandirt.com/40-still-kicking/
"I have seen many .40 S&W handguns come through my concealed carry classes. Those firing service-size platforms in .40 have done well, while those using subcompact pistols have not.
...
The goal of the .40 wasn't to produce a weapon that is as controllable as the 9mm, because we had the 9mm.
The goal was to offer superior wound ballistics. The .45 ACP is always an answer, but the size, weight and perhaps more importantly grip width of full-size, service-grade .45 ACP pistols was deemed too much."
"At present, there are a number of quality police trade-ins in .40 S&W at a bargain. It isn't unusual to see GLOCK pistols — and sometimes the SIG P-series — on the used shelf for less than 400 dollars.
In new handguns, the Taurus G2C, an improved version of the original compact pistol, features a proper recoil spring for controlling the .40 and is priced just a bit over 200 dollars.
I recently picked up a full-size Beretta PX4 Storm for less than 250 dollars. The .40 is a fine defense cartridge, increasingly affordable, and may even be effective in animal defense."
"I have seen many .40 S&W handguns come through my concealed carry classes. Those firing service-size platforms in .40 have done well, while those using subcompact pistols have not.
...
The goal of the .40 wasn't to produce a weapon that is as controllable as the 9mm, because we had the 9mm.
The goal was to offer superior wound ballistics. The .45 ACP is always an answer, but the size, weight and perhaps more importantly grip width of full-size, service-grade .45 ACP pistols was deemed too much."
"At present, there are a number of quality police trade-ins in .40 S&W at a bargain. It isn't unusual to see GLOCK pistols — and sometimes the SIG P-series — on the used shelf for less than 400 dollars.
In new handguns, the Taurus G2C, an improved version of the original compact pistol, features a proper recoil spring for controlling the .40 and is priced just a bit over 200 dollars.
I recently picked up a full-size Beretta PX4 Storm for less than 250 dollars. The .40 is a fine defense cartridge, increasingly affordable, and may even be effective in animal defense."
Jeep V8 Engines
Don't Ditch That AMC V-8! - The mighty AMC V-8s are unique, powerful, and worth keeping—here's how to build them right!
https://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/engine/1905-dont-ditch-amc-v-8/
Howell EFI (works well on Jeep V8s): https://howellefi.com/
https://howellefi.com/product-category/general-motors/gm-tbi-products/complete-tbi-kits/universal-tbi-kits/
https://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/engine/1912-bolt-jeep-cj-howell-fuel-injection-dui-ignition-upgrades/
https://www.4x4xplor.com/TBI-2.html
AMC 360 w/401 Crank build up: http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=141096
http://www.bulltear.com/forums/showthread.php?10019-360-Block-401-Crank
"A 401 crank in a 360 block is a good combo. It resembles the Chevy 383 set-up. But a little bigger, 385, without boring, and 390 at .030 over. But needs special made pistons or bushed pin holes in the rods.
The various overbore capabilities allow the use of many different pistons.
ie. Chevy 305 pistons fit in a 304 block to give you 311 ci. Chevy 400 pistons fit in a 360 block, and while this only gives you 367.7 ci., this combination with a 401 crank gives you a 393.4 ci. Many more combinations are available. Please note that these combos are with machine work, and are not just drop in."
"A 360 with a 401 crank and .040 overbore works out to be a 392 Stroker.
Connecting Rod Length:
360 - 5.875
401 - 5.858
Difference - 0.017 (401 being less)
I know in the 4.7L I6 Stroker you use the shorter 4.2 rods with the larger stroke of the 4.2 crank so you don't have clearance problems with the head as well as compression that is way out of sight and you use stock 4.0 pistons (you can dish them to lower compression even more). I am thinking it would be the same with the 360, use 401 Crank/Rods and standard 360 compression overbore pistons. I was told with a 4.7L Stroker that you had to use custom pistons also but never had to using the 4.2 crank/rods
Deck height:
360 - 9.208
401 - 9.208
Cylinder head volume:
360 - 5.792 cc
401 - 5.792 cc
Deck clearance:
360 - 0.012
401 - 0.002
Difference - 0.010 (401 being less)
If you take the connecting rod length difference Deck clearance becomes a .007 difference, making the Deck Clearance 0.009 closer to stock 360."
https://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/engine/1905-dont-ditch-amc-v-8/
Howell EFI (works well on Jeep V8s): https://howellefi.com/
https://howellefi.com/product-category/general-motors/gm-tbi-products/complete-tbi-kits/universal-tbi-kits/
https://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/engine/1912-bolt-jeep-cj-howell-fuel-injection-dui-ignition-upgrades/
https://www.4x4xplor.com/TBI-2.html
AMC 360 w/401 Crank build up: http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=141096
http://www.bulltear.com/forums/showthread.php?10019-360-Block-401-Crank
"A 401 crank in a 360 block is a good combo. It resembles the Chevy 383 set-up. But a little bigger, 385, without boring, and 390 at .030 over. But needs special made pistons or bushed pin holes in the rods.
The various overbore capabilities allow the use of many different pistons.
ie. Chevy 305 pistons fit in a 304 block to give you 311 ci. Chevy 400 pistons fit in a 360 block, and while this only gives you 367.7 ci., this combination with a 401 crank gives you a 393.4 ci. Many more combinations are available. Please note that these combos are with machine work, and are not just drop in."
"A 360 with a 401 crank and .040 overbore works out to be a 392 Stroker.
Connecting Rod Length:
360 - 5.875
401 - 5.858
Difference - 0.017 (401 being less)
I know in the 4.7L I6 Stroker you use the shorter 4.2 rods with the larger stroke of the 4.2 crank so you don't have clearance problems with the head as well as compression that is way out of sight and you use stock 4.0 pistons (you can dish them to lower compression even more). I am thinking it would be the same with the 360, use 401 Crank/Rods and standard 360 compression overbore pistons. I was told with a 4.7L Stroker that you had to use custom pistons also but never had to using the 4.2 crank/rods
Deck height:
360 - 9.208
401 - 9.208
Cylinder head volume:
360 - 5.792 cc
401 - 5.792 cc
Deck clearance:
360 - 0.012
401 - 0.002
Difference - 0.010 (401 being less)
If you take the connecting rod length difference Deck clearance becomes a .007 difference, making the Deck Clearance 0.009 closer to stock 360."
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