"FUEL SAVING TIPS"

First thing: Are you pumping your own gas?

GasBuddy.com Top Ten Fuel Saving Tips
1
Avoid High Speeds
As your speed increases, your aerodynamic drag increases in an exponential fashion. Driving 62 mph (100 km/h) vs 75 mph (120 km/h) will reduce fuel consumption by about 15%.
2
Do Not Accelerate or Brake Hard
By anticipating the traffic and applying slow steady acceleration and braking, fuel economy may increase by as much as 20%.
3
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Keep tire air pressure at the level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. A single tire under inflated by 2 PSI, increases fuel consumption by 1%.
4
Use A/C Sparingly
When the air conditioner is on it puts extra load on the engine forcing more fuel to be used (by about 20%). The defrost position on most vehicles also uses the air conditioner.
5
Keep Windows Closed
Windows open, especially at highway speeds, increase drag and result in decreased fuel economy of up to 10%.
6
Service Vehicle Regularly
Proper maintenance avoids poor fuel economy related to dirty air filters, old spark plugs or low fluid levels.
7
Use Cruise Control
Maintaining a constant speed over long distances often saves gas.
8
Avoid Heavy Loads
Remove the sand bags from your trunk in the spring and pack lightly for long trips.
9
Avoid Long Idles
If you anticipate being stopped for more than 1 minute, shut off the car. Restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle for this time.
10
Purchase a Fuel Efficient Vehicle
When buying a new vehicle examine the vehicle's rated fuel efficiency. Usually choosing a small vehicle with a manual transmission will provide you with great fuel economy.

** If you have any of your own fuel saving tips, please send them in!!

Pinstriping a car is in art and Austin Pinstriping makes it happen!

Here is Dave Austin (Austin Pinstriping) and Kevin Brown of Mantis Rodz. Dave pinstriped the "Praying Mantis" that's featured at the Seattle Roadster Show. He is working on a web site, but you are able to reach him by phone at 206-353-7877. It was great seeing you at the show Dave-thanks again for visiting Mantis Rodz!

Getting a classic car "show ready!"

Hello Mantis and the rodzreaders. Here's a question for the upcoming Seattle Roadster Show. A lot of you will be attending or even have a car in the show this year. What are the steps that you take to get your car "show ready?" It's like an athlete preparing for an event; the last two weeks he or she will hone in on the deal. If any of you could name 5 important steps to make it happen, let's hear em!

Painting a classic car: YouTube Expert Village clip

There are a lot of steps to restoring a classic car-and painting is one step you don't want to skimp on. The clip brings up potential problems to be aware of. Have any Rodzreaders experienced a butchered paint job? Mantis Rodz would like to thank Lance Lambert for his expertise from this video clip. Check out Vintage Vehicle TV for some of his upcoming events. Thanks again Lance!

De-Icer and Car Damage???

Hey Mantis,

I have a question that I thought you car experts might be able to answer.

This winter has been extremely cold in the Pacific Northwest, and for the first time, I bought de-icer for my car. But I am concerned about whether the de-icer will damage my car or paint job. I can't seem to figure it out on the internet. Do you guys know anything about de-icer?

Phil's Finishing Touch-restoration shop in Seattle.

Cruzin'-The Northwest's Own magazine is packed with information on Northwest Cars, Northwest people and Northwest events. Mantis would like the Rodzreaders to take a look at Phil's Finishing Touch if anyone is in need of restoration or collision help in the Pacific Northwest.
Phil's shop covers classic car restoration, insurance work, complete paint, fiberglass repair, metal replacement and pre-purchase inspection. The above photos are right from Phil's shop.
Company: Located at 7401 - 8th Ave. So., Seattle Phone: 206-763-3319