In the automotive world, there are many common myths, which are repeated so many times that, after a while, they eventually transform themselves into ‘facts.’ Unsurprisingly, many of these ‘facts’ have to do with gasoline, whether they are regarding fuel mileage, power possibilities or some other arcane aspect of the internal combustion engine. Gasoline can be a confusing topic, and it is easy to make assumptions about it that may seem logical, but which on closer examination, turn out not to be true. A perfect example of this practice can be seen with octane ratings.

What are octane ratings? Simply put, when you pull into the gas station and are presented with the array of different fuel grades that you can pump into your car, the numbers written above each button or nozzle indicate that particular grade’s octane rating. Typically, the range will run from 87-octane on up to 93-octane.

In the world of automobiles, it is tempting to associate higher numbers with higher quality. After all, more horsepower and more miles per gallon are a better thing, which feeds into our perception that more impressive octane ratings also equal higher performance. Gasoline companies understand this mentality and do nothing to dissuade drivers from it, labeling 87-octane gas ‘Regular,’ and 91 or 93 octane ‘Super’ in an attempt to reinforce this way of thinking. After all, since ‘Super’ is priced higher than ‘Regular,’ it’s in their best interest to convince as many people as they can that paying a bit extra means getting better quality gas.

Unfortunately, this is where the myth of what gasoline’s octane rating really means creeps into the picture. Time and again, people will be told that high octane fuel burns cleaner or more completely, and that it will give them extra power and better fuel mileage than Regular octane gasoline because it contains more ‘energy.’ These blanket statements are simply not true. In fact, the octane rating for gasoline has nothing to do with the amount of power locked inside of it – it actually relates to just how much a fuel can be compressed before igniting. The higher the number, the less likely it is to ignite under pressure.

Why would anyone want to produce a fuel that was actually harder to ignite once inside an engine? To understand the role that octane ratings and ignition pressures play in a motor, it helps to be familiar with the term ‘knock.’ Essentially, when gasoline is sprayed into a cylinder by a fuel injector and mixed with oxygen, engine designers expect it to remain there in vapor form until it is time for the sparkplug to light it up, causing the explosion that drives the piston down to generate horsepower. The timing of this explosion is critical, as gasoline that ignites too early causes ‘knock,’ which reduces engine output and efficiency and which, in worst-case scenarios, can actually physically damage an engine.

In most engines, knock is rarely an issue because the compression ratio – that is, the pressure that the air/fuel mixture is put under in the cylinder – is low enough that Regular gasoline’s octane rating is sufficient. There is absolutely no benefit to running Premium fuel in a standard motor, since it will never be able to take advantage of those gasolines higher knock resistance. However, more aggressive engine management schemes, especially those found in turbocharged or supercharged vehicles, can turn up the compression to a high level, requiring much higher octane gasoline to avoid knock.

How can you know whether your car actually requires Super gasoline or whether it can get by on Regular? Almost every vehicle will list the octane rating necessary to run it safely inside the owner’s manual. Some luxury or sports cars might even place a small reminder on the gas gauge itself stating ‘Premium Unleaded fuel only’ to make sure you don’t forget.

To wrap things up: no, you won’t see a power or fuel efficiency increase by running high octane fuel in an engine that has been tuned and designed for Regular gas, nor will doing so perform any extra ‘cleaning’ inside the motor. On the flip side, running low octane fuel in an engine built for Premium can increase the risk of engine damage and will certainly impact that unit’s overall performance. The next time someone tries to pass these myths off on you, you can try explaining to them how octane ratings really work – or you can just smile and nod, pay for your gas and move on.

Source: [The Titus-Will Times]

This is the day many parents dread-the day your teen gets a driver’s license. You just want to make sure your son or daughter is as safe and protected as possible on the road! So when shopping for your teen’s first set of wheels, consider the below.

Safety
This is a parent’s first concern when handing over the keys. Put your mind at ease by purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle. These vehicles are newer, with remaining factory warranties, as well as modern safety features, such as antilock brakes and airbags.

Size
Size certainly does matter when it comes to being protected on the road. A larger car-a four door as opposed to a two door-is bigger and stronger.

Design
Most teens want a sporty convertible to drive to school. This may not be the best choice if you are focused on safety. Also, insurance rates are known to skyrocket when teens dive sportier vehicles.

It’s no secret that kids know more about gadgets than adults. Fortunately, the adults are the spenders. This allows us to make the right decisions when purchasing the latest gadgets. Below are some safe and reliable choices for our kids.

Cell Phone

Nowadays, if your son or daughter is a teenager, they have a cell phone. But the younger generation is catching up fast! When is the right age to buy our child a cell phone? Experts suggest allowing a kid that is going to school a cell phone for emergencies only. Many plans, such as Verizon’s Chaperone plan and Sprint’s Family Locator, allow you to control minutes, texts, and game time-for a very reasonable price.

Computer

If kids don’t have a computer of their own, they definitely use one at school or at friends’ houses. Kids as early as kindergarten are savvy computer users. When a child is old enough for a computer of their own, be sure to stick to safe sites and supervise their on-line time. As they grow, look into kid-safe software that limits children to pre-selected sites.

Playstation, Xbox, Wii

Contrary to what kids will tell you, not everyone has a portable gaming device. If you do decide to add this entertainment to your family, be sure to keep the system in a highly visible spot so you can monitor the games being played. Also, when purchasing games for your children check the ESRB rating to be sure the game content is appropriate for your children’s age.

Television

It is true that everyone has a television, and kids from two years old and up watch it. Start your kids on educational programs when they are younger. Add as a special treat when they are older. Just make sure you know what they are watching-many shows feature violence.

Digital camera

This is one of the most kid-friendly gadgets-as long as it’s not your camera. Today, many toy manufacturers are coming out with digital cameras for kids. They are less breakable and less expensive. Kids will have a ball taking pictures and instantly seeing their photographs!

The new school year is now in full swing, so is the sports season! Friday night football games are accompanied by the costs of uniforms, equipment, team fees, and traveling costs. Sports costs for kids can roll upwards of $1,000 a year-that is a whooping chunk out of our checking account. However, we still want our kids to stay in shape and learn team spirit, so keep in mind these money saving tips while shopping for the new athletic season.

Equipment

A logical way to buy equipment is to buy used. Many retailers carry high quality and barely used gear. You can save as much as 40% off of brand new equipment. The best part: your little athlete will never know the difference.

Travel Costs

When planning an overnight trip for an away game, plan ahead and look into hotel accommodations through sites such as Priceline.com. Check before you arrive to ensure the hotel offers a free continental breakfast and a refrigerator to store easy-to-eat items and sports drinks to keep your team energized.

Contributions

Your kid can help cover the cost of uniforms and entry fees by coordinating team fund raising events. Car washes and bake sales are popular as well as successful.

The mercury in your thermometer is rising and you are lowering the temperature on your air conditioner. The lazy days of summer have arrived. While we are enjoying the warm weather and all of the activities that come along with it, it’s important to remember some not-so-pleasant happenings that take place during summer, too! When at the beach, lounging in the yard, or barbequing with friends, keep in mind these simple tips that will help you tackle summer’s bumps without a hitch.

Fish hook: Fishing is one of the most relaxing summertime past-times. But, it’s no fun when the only thing you catch is your own finger. Luckily, these wounds are usually small and close up fast. Be sure to wash the wound with soap and water right away and apply a layer of antibiotic cream. Don’t forget to look at your recent medical records óyou may need a tetanus booster is you haven’t had one in the past five years.

Overheated: If you forget to stay hydrated in the hot summer sun, you may find yourself overheated. Heat exhaustion is common and includes symptoms such as nausea  headache and feeling faint. To relieve heat exhaustion, immediately find a cool, shady spot to rest. Then, drink lots of fluids like sports drinks and water.

Burn: We all know to apply plenty of sunscreen during the summer months, but you might just find yourself with another type of burnófrom the barbeque! If you burn yourself while barbequing or cooking, immediately apply cold water. Once it feels better, clean the burn with soap and water. Then, apply antibiotic cream and a bandage. If it still hurts, take ibuprofen for the pain.

Sting: Being outside is one of summer’s better perks. But, you’ve got to share the environment with the insects too, sometimes you might just get stung! First, try to remove the stinger by scraping the skin, elevate the area of the sting and apply ice. If your sting becomes painful, itchy and bothersome, take ibuprofen or another over-the-counter pain medication.

Spending time together as a family does not have to mean lofty summer vacations. There are plenty of activities for you and your family in your hometown and even in your own backyard. What’s important is the time you are spending together and having a little fun! Here are some ideas to get you started.

Movie and Pizza Night: This is a no-brainer! You may not get to communicate during the movie, but there will be lots to discuss over a hot pizza!

Eat Out: This doesn’t mean that you have to take the entire family to a restaurant, but instead, go outdoors. Plan a picnic or barbeque and have a family dinner under the stars.

Cook together: Pull the whole family together to create an entire meal. Help your kids break eggs or sprinkle in shredded cheese. This is guaranteed to inspire lots of laughs.

Garden: Kids love to dig holes! Use this to your advantage and have them help you plant a vegetable garden or pull out weeds. Enjoy the benefits of fresh air and fresh veggies, too!

Story Time: Visit your local library and allow your kids to pick out what books they’d like to read before bed time. Make going to bed a family event. Gather round and read stories together until the little ones doze off.

Father’s Day is June 21st this year! Year round fathers work selflessly to provide for their families. It’s time for dad to be the one being spoiled. If your looking for a gift to show dad just how much you love him—instead of the usual necktie—check out these tips on ways to celebrate the dad in your life!

Travel Bar
If dad travels frequently, a travel bar may just make his being away from home bearable. Most travel bars include cups, a flask, and a bottle opener. Sipping his favorite cocktail in a hotel room will make him feel a little closer to home.

Joke Book
Does your dad embarrass you by telling bad jokes—or worse, butchering the punch line? It’s not his fault. He’s just a happy-go-lucky guy! Help him out by giving him a book of jokes that he can share with his buddies.

Beer Goblets
There is no reason that dad should have to drink his favorite beverage out of an ordinary glass! Check out beer stein and goblets for dad to drink his beer. He’ll enjoy an ice-cold brew while feeling like a king!

Fountain Pen
With all the work your dad is doing he deserves to be writing in style. Give dad a titanium or platinum-cased pen and he’ll think of you whenever he writes (even when he’s paying the bills!).

How clean is your food? Of course you wash your fresh fruit and veggies. But, do you wash them well enough? What about the packaged foods you expect to be uncontaminated? You may be surprised how many common groceries need a good scrubbing.

The first on the list of sullied foods is eggs! About 2 million bad eggs are shipped each year to your grocery stores. That results in making up to 660,000 people sick. To buy eggs that are untainted, make sure your eggs are pasteurized and are free of cracks or leaks.

If you are a fruit lover, you may want to think twice about how healthy your peaches really are. Because peach skin is soft, it absorbs more pesticides than other fruit. An average peach may have as many as nine various pesticides. If you want to eat nothing but fruit, consider buying organic.

It may be easy to open a pre-packaged salad mix, throw in your favorite goodies, and have a ready-to-eat salad. But, even though the packaging may flaunt that the greens have been washed thoroughly, they may still contain unhealthy germs. Next time, be sure to wash your pre-packaged lettuce for safer eating.

No matter how sweet your melons may be, the germs they carry may still turn your stomach sour. 3.5% of melons carry stomach-turning bacteria. That percentage doubles in cantaloupes. Don’t shy away from the fruit, just scrub with mild dish soap before slicing.

The bacteria in scallions has been blamed on the way they grow (in the dirt). They have been known to carry parasites and even Hepatitis A. However, with a proper washing, your scallions will be squeaky clean and free of germs.