Going Green and saving some Green - Page 2 - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

Hotrod_ace · 11-13-2011, 06:15 PM

I removed the spare tire, Jack and tire irons = 50 lbs. I replaced it with a can of fix-a-flat 1.5 lbs. I haven't had a flat in 5 years and that was because I didn't notice that it was worn out and showing steel. Now that I'm checking the air every week, I'll surely spot any problems with the tires, and if anything does happen, I have AAA.

Hotrod_ace · 11-13-2011, 06:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by capnbass91

Or only delete the passenger windshield wiper. Or make a lip on the hood so that windshield wipers are covered up from the airflow.

I use rain X and live in Southern California, where it never rains. Well, actually it did rain yesterday and the Rain X worked like magic. I carry them with me just in case it pours and visibility is compromised.

capnbass91 · 11-13-2011, 06:50 PM

I live in SoCal also. Some people like to have wipers on for extra safety/visibility. I haven't tried Rain-X but if it works that good stick with it!

RobbMeeX · 11-13-2011, 07:59 PM

That is great to hear. I work on so many jags, mercs, bimmers, etc. that the owners can't afford to maintain them. They are losing at "jones's". Thanks for the positive thought that maybe some folks are able to LIVE IN THEIR MEANS.

user removed · 11-13-2011, 08:09 PM

Rain-X the windshield.

regards
Mech

Sven7 · 11-13-2011, 08:37 PM

Pics! Your screen name implies that you also have a hot rod?

TXwaterdog · 11-13-2011, 10:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hotrod_ace

I removed the spare tire, Jack and tire irons = 50 lbs. I replaced it with a can of fix-a-flat 1.5 lbs. I haven't had a flat in 5 years ...and if anything does happen, I have AAA.

Ace, I hope you never have to use that fix-a-flat crap (it ruins rims and tires from the inside but it will get you to the tire shop). I'm with you on the spare removal. I removed mine because I haven't had a flat, since 2001 after I ran over a board in the road (I drove it straight to the tire shop and left it over night- 2 tires were flat in the morning). I did have a blowout once back in 1999 due to a faulty tire with plenty of tread and no warning signs (bubble was on the inside).

I only put my spares in when taking trips and in both of those situations a spare didn't suffice (when I had the blowout the spare was crap and got me only 2miles). Since then when I'm just putting around town the spare is out! It really isn't a big issue for me and it rarely happens. I've had more problems with spares being too old and unmaintained when needed than with the flats themselves. That's what roadside assistance is for. Here in Texas we have free roadside assistance. I also have roadside for free through Ford.

TXwaterdog · 11-13-2011, 10:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by capnbass91

I live in SoCal also. Some people like to have wipers on for extra safety/visibility. I haven't tried Rain-X but if it works that good stick with it!

I see many people deleting windshield wipers to save gas but one strong unsuspected downpour without them could cause an accident then your deductible will cost more than any mpg savings you'll ever get by deleting them. If you keep them in the vehicle and plan to pull over to re-attach them on the spot you might be in a good position. I've always had problems removing and installing windshield wipers with any efficiency and would caution against frequent install and removal of them.

I feel the same way about the removal of side mirrors. They're there for safety reasons...

Sven7 · 11-13-2011, 10:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SimonSellsAustin

I see many people deleting windshield wipers to save gas but one strong unsuspected downpour without them could cause an accident then your deductible will cost more than any mpg savings you'll ever get by deleting them. If you keep them in the vehicle and plan to pull over to re-attach them on the spot you might be in a good position. I've always had problems removing and installing windshield wipers with any efficiency and would caution against frequent install and removal of them.

I feel the same way about the removal of side mirrors. They're there for safety reasons...

First, no one would drive without wipers in a downpour. That would be stupid.

Second, deleting exterior mirrors and putting a wide angle on your rear view eliminates any blind spots you had before. It's better than stock.

People get way too nervous around here.

Arragonis · 11-14-2011, 05:24 AM

External mirrors on both sides are the law here so I'm keeping mine but looking for some smaller "racer" style ones.

As for wipers you can get lower profile "flat" ones, build a deflector to attach to the rear of the bonnet (hood) or perhaps remove the passenger one and fit a smaller driver side one. Another alternative is to go all "ricer" and get them to park vertically.