All posts by deelatWP

Spark Plugs: How Long Do They Last? What Type Do You Need?

September 4, 2015 Leave a comment

Spark plugs in your vehicle play an important role in keeping your engine running. They provide an electrical charge that ignites the combination of air and fuel in the vehicle’s combustion chamber. When spark plugs go bad, or they are worn out, engine performance and gas mileage will suffer.

So just how long do spark plugs last? Well, it depends on the vehicle, but the general rule of thumb is that you should replace them before they go bad. Not only do warn spark plugs cause engine problems; if left unattended, they can potentially seize and quickly increase the cost of repairs.

In general, the most expensive “extended-life” spark plugs have a range of about 100,000 to 120,000 miles, but yet, if used for the entire life, they will become worn down. They can be about four-fifths worn by the time they hit 90,000 miles. Yet, not all spark plugs have an extended-life. Copper spark plugs, for example, have a range of about 12,000 to 25,000 miles, while iridium spark plugs can more than double the life to about 60,000 miles.

Signs Your Spark Plugs Are Worn

The best prevention for spark plug problems is regular inspection. Extended-life spark plugs should be inspected every 30,000 miles, while copper or iridium plugs should be inspected every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. But if you suspect your spark plugs are going bad, there are a few tell-tale signs.

Trouble Starting Your Vehicle: Faulty spark plugs do not generate enough of a spark to light the fuel and air in your engine. This is especially a problem in colder months, and it can cause your vehicle’s battery to drain. If you’re experiencing trouble cold-starting your vehicle, worn spark plugs may be to blame.
Engine Misfires: Worn spark plugs are more prone to fouling, which means the nose of the plug is dirty from oil, carbon or some other substance. Fouling, in turn, is a common cause of engine misfire.
Excessive Fuel Consumption: Bad or improperly fitted spark plugs diminish the amount of fuel that is combusted – a problem called incomplete combustion. Because of this, your vehicle wastes fuel, and it can result in up to 25 percent or more drop in efficiency.
Spark Plug Igniting

These are just a few symptoms of faulty spark plugs, but yet spark plugs are not always to blame. These symptoms can be caused by a number of problems, so if you’re unsure, it’s best to check with a licensed mechanic.

Choosing Spark Plugs for Your Vehicle

It’s important to choose the proper spark plugs for your vehicle. Improperly fitting plugs can result in performance issues. So how can you buy spark plugs at fit your vehicle?

First, consult the owner’s manual. Often the vehicle’s manual will have precise information about the type of spark plug that is needed in your vehicle. If not, the manual will have other valuable information, including the size of your engine, the engine’s displacement, the number of cylinders, the spark plug gap, and the type of fuel system in your vehicle. All of this is needed when determining spark plugs to buy.

If your vehicle’s manual doesn’t have a specific size, consider searching a parts database. Many spark plug manufacturers take information about your vehicle, including make, model and year, and can tell what type is recommended for your vehicle.

Shop for affordable iridium spark plugs on Deelat.com. We offer a vast selection of private-label spark plugs, at the best prices and of excellent build qualities.

Wiper Blades: How to Determine Size for Your Vehicle

September 1, 2015 Leave a comment

When it comes to sizing windshield wiper blades, every vehicle is different. Some vehicles, for example, have two wipers of the same size. Others, though, might have a larger driver-side wiper blade and a smaller passenger-side blade. And don’t forget: Many hatchbacks, SUVs and minivans also have a smaller, rear-window wiper blade.

If it’s time to replace your wipers, chances are you’re wondering how to determine the size of blades that you will need.

It’s important that you find the accurate size. Installing new windshield wipers that are the wrong size will result in reduced functionality, and at worst, might even damage your wiper system. Fortunately, there are a few ways drivers can determine the size of the wiper blades for their vehicle.

Tips for Choosing and Sizing Wiper Blades

Before you determine size, it’s often best to take a look at the connection of your wiper blades. There are three main types – including side post, J-hook and bayonet wipers – and this refers to how the new blades are installed. For example, J-hook wiper blades are attached to the blade holder, which is attached to the windshield, by clamping a J-shaped hook. This is an important differentiation, as J-hook wiper blades won’t fit in a side post or bayonet system and vice versa. In addition, you’ll also want to consider the performance of the blades.

Wiper Blades - Universal Type — Wiper Blades – Universal Type

Plus, drivers should consider the performance of the blade. Research has shown that wiper blades typically last 6 months to 1 year, regardless of price, and there are different types for different seasons. Drivers in rainy environments would benefit from wipers designed to handle heavy rain, while those in winter climates would benefit from winter blades.

Finally, once you’ve determined the style and performance of the blades, you can figure out what size works. Here are three strategies:

Measure Existing Blades: Typically, wiper blades are available in various sizes measured in inches. Thus, you can measure your existing blades and then purchase blades of the same size. Be careful to get as accurate a measurement as possible and to measure both blades. Many vehicles use two wiper blades of differing sizes.
Consult Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual contains valuable information about your wiper blades, including the sizes used and connection type. Plus, the owner’s manual will also inform you have to replace and install new wiper blades.
Use an Online Parts Locator: Auto parts stores and online retailers typically have parts locators available. You enter the make, model and year of your vehicle, and the database returns the type and size of blades that will fit your vehicle.

Deelat.com is your source for quality automotive supplies. Find the best prices on low-cost wiper blades anywhere at Deelat.com. We offer a huge inventory of blades in a variety of sizes and styles. Start shopping today!

Knee Braces and Supports: Common Types and Medical Uses

August 20, 2015 Leave a comment

Knee supports and knee braces have many medical uses, and are widely used by athletes, people suffering from arthritis or for physical therapy. Most commonly, though, braces, supports and immobilizers are used following knee surgery for common knee injuries like an ACL rupture, runners, knee or an MCL tear. The brace, in effect, supports and stabilizes the knee, preventing it from moving or twisting out of place.

There are many different types of knee supports, and they have many uses. More heavy-duty, hinged knee braces, for example, are commonly used post-surgery to prevent further damage to the knee. On the other hand, fabric crisscross braces may be used to relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and provide reduced support for the knee.

So which type of knee brace is right for your ailment? It’s best to consult with a doctor, but understanding the various types can help you determine which might be right for you. Common knee braces, supports and immobilizers include:

Knee Supports, Sleeves and Stabilizers

Knee stabilizers and supports are a type of brace that can be worn for supporting the injured knees. They are designed to pad and support the anterior knee and patella, while adding a layer of cushioning. Knee sleeves, on the other hand, don’t offer as much support, and instead are designed to provide pressure to uninjured knees. Various types include:

Crisscross Knee Stabilizers: This type of knee stabilizer is strapped into placed behind the knee with two crisscrossed Velcro straps. This provides a degree of flexibility, while adding support and compression. They are often used for preventative measure, or in the later stages of rehabilitation.
Tri-Panel Stabilizers: The tri-panel stabilizer is a heavy-duty knee brace, used for mild to severe injuries. Most commonly, they are used to immobilize the knee following surgery, and they fit the leg from mid-thigh to mid-calf. Thus, when wearing a tri-panel stabilizer, the knee joint doesn’t bend, which is important following injuries like patellar dislocation.
Front-Opening Knee Support: These types of braces provide compression and warmth to the knee joint, during exercise or physical therapy. They are commonly used to relieve arthritis pain, and they can be worn under clothing.
Patella Straps: Knee straps, like a patella strap, are commonly used during sporting events or to relieve pain, and they apply pressure and compression to the knee joint. They can be used for preventative measure or for adding support to the joint following an injury.
Criss Cross Knee Stabilizer

Knee Braces: Functional, Hinged, Post-Op

Knee braces offer a greater degree of protection for an injured knee, and they’re often built with a hinge to accommodate the natural motion of the knee. Braces are commonly worn during athletic activities, and there are some versions that can be used to prevent knee injuries. Common types include:

Functional Knee Braces: Functional knee braces are a hinged brace that provide support for the ACL, while allowing the knee joint to bend. The purpose of these types of braces is to provide stability to the joint following injury, as well as decrease the risk for new injuries. The hinges in these types of braces can be adjusted so that the wearer can limit the knee’s range of motion. There are functional options available specifically for post-surgery, as well as for specific injuries.

Find affordable knee braces, knee supports and knee stabilizers on Deelat.com. We’re your source for quality knee support products – at the best prices – guaranteed.

Equipment Casters: Factors to Consider and Buying Tips

August 13, 2015 Leave a comment

Casters are small wheels that can be attached to furniture and equipment for faster and safer mobility. There are two main types of casters: Rigid casters and swivel casters. Swivel casters have the ability to move in all directions, and they are commonly used on furniture and heavy equipment. Rigid casters, on the other hand, can only move forward and backwards, and they are primarily used to move equipment in a straight line.

Each caster is made up of several common components. These include the frame (mounting plate), legs and wheel. The frame is attached to the bottom of the object being moved. Two legs are attached to the frame, which support the wheel. Swivel casters, though, have a bearing just above the legs, which allows the caster to swivel. Finally, the two legs hold the axle, which supports the wheel.

Casters can be attached to a piece of equipment in a number of ways, including stems and by bolting the mounting plate to the equipment. Casters can have stems that point up from the frame, and that are made of rubber, metal or a threaded material. These are attached by placing the stem into an outlet in the equipment. Casters can also be attached by bolting or welding the mounting plate to the equipment, which is the most common type of connection.

Factors to Consider When Buying Casters

When buying a caster wheel, there are a number of things you’ll need to keep in mind. For example, choosing a rigid caster vs. double ball bearing caster will cause mobility issues, as rigid casters aren’t able to swivel. Additionally, you’ll need to consider the number of casters that you will need and the capacity of the casters. Be sure to consider:

Capacity: Casters are designed to accommodate loads of a certain capacity. In general, there are small and medium capacity wheels, as well as heavy-duty casters. You don’t want to overload or reach the maximum capacity, as this will make it difficult to move the load manually. Instead, aim for loading at about half the capacity of the caster for easier moving. For example, if you’ll be moving a 200kg load, choose caster wheels that are rated for 400kg or better; this will increase the mobility. But if the load will be moved mechanically, you can put more weight on the wheel.

Mobility: Rigid and double bearing casters are used in a number of different applications, but you’ll run into trouble if you need to swivel but have installed a fixed caster. If you’re unsure, you can choose a swivel caster with a locking feature to prevent the bearing from moving. In applications with four wheels, sometimes two rigid caster and two swivel casters are used to allow the equipment to move in a straight line, while the swivel will help steer the object.

Attachments: Again, casters can be attached with either a mounting plate or with a stem. Mounting plates are the most common type, and they can be attached to the bottom of a trolley or wooden pushcart. Stems require an outlet in the equipment, so if you choose a stemmed caster, be sure it will fit into the available outlet. Stemmed casters are useful for stationary equipment, as they can be removed, once the equipment is in place.

Braking and Locking: Some casters have a brake or locking feature. This allows the wheel to be locked in place, which is useful when the object will remain stationary for extended periods of time. For example, musical equipment is often affixed with this type of caster. Thus, during the performance, they can be locked in place, and moved quickly following the show.

Wheel Type: Caster wheels are made from a variety of materials. For standard applications, wheels may be constructed from durable plastics. This will maximize rollability, while keeping costs low. Other applications may require an anti-skid wheel with added traction.

Deelat.com offers a range of quality medium capacity and heavy duty casters. We offer some of the best prices for caster wheels online. Start shopping for casters today!

Air Rivet Guns: Common Applications, Types and Features

August 7, 2015 5 Comments

Solid rivets are a widely used fastener in industrial applications for strongly binding together an assembly. They’re typically used in aircraft and automotive manufacturing, as they are more durable and create a more sturdy binding than a screw and nut. The process of “setting” a solid rivet requires a specialized tool called an air rivet gun.

Air rivet guns work by driving the rivet into place. The process begins by inserting the rivet into a pre-drilled hole, with the protruding end, called the shank, backed up by a “bucking bar.” Then, as the rivet head is driven with the rivet gun, the back end is deformed, creating a “shophead.” In the process, the rivet swells in the hole, creating an extremely tight bond.

There are numerous types of hydraulic and air-powered rivet guns, and they all have different capabilities. Some are slow-hitting, striking the rivet head with 2,500 hits-per-minute, or fast-moving, which is up to 5,000 hits-per-minute. Slow-hitting air rivet guns, which are sometimes called pneumonic hammers, are one of the most common types used in industry. Additionally, these guns are also determined by their size, shape and their ability to drive certain sizes of rivets. For example, a 2X rivet gun, which is on the lower end of the spectrum, can reliably drive 1/8” and 3/32” rivets, but it is not powerful enough to drive 1/4″ rivets.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Rivet Gun

Air rivet guns provide controlled hitting of the rivet head. They differ from other types of air-powered devices like an air hammer or air chisel, which strike too hard and too fast to be used in riveting. These types of tools can quickly damage or dent the sheet metal around the rivet.

Choosing the correct type of air rivet gun can be a complicated process. You should consider:

Hitting speed: Hitting speed is the rate at which the rivet gun strikes the head of the rivet. Typically slow-hitting rivet guns – in the range of about 2,000 hits-per-minute – provide a greater degree of control, compared to fast-hitting guns. In addition, the fast-hitting rivet guns create more force, but aren’t typically necessary for smaller sizes of rivets.
Size and Capacity: Capacity is one of the most important factors to consider. In general, this refers to the rivet gun’s ability to drive rivets of a certain diameter. For example, quarter-inch rivets or M6 rivets require a gun with a greater capacity to be properly set. This is generally measured in pulling power or RPM. The larger the rivet’s diameter, the greater the capacity of the gun will need to be.
Stroke Length: This is the distance that the rivet gun’s driving head takes each time it hits the rivet. Some guns are adjustable, and there are also extension pieces available to increase the stroke length. Stroke length is important for applications in confined spaces, like a rivet that is attached within a protected hole.
Rivet Set Sizes: You must match your rivet gun to the size of the rivet that you will be setting. There are two different types of measurements – Imperial and Metric. For example, an M6 air rivet gun can be used to drive M6 rivets. (This is the metric diameter of the rivet head, which is 6mm.) In general, many rivet guns are adjustable, allowing the operator to interchange heads to fit the type of rivet. To be safe, a rivet gun set with a range of sizes is a solid investment.

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