A car battery is the heart of your vehicle’s electrical system, but when corrosion takes over, things can go wrong quickly. Understanding the risks of jump-starting a corroded battery can save you from damage, injury, or a much larger repair bill than you expected. Why Does Battery Corrosion Happen? Battery corrosion usually forms when gases from the battery acid escape and react with the metals on the terminals. Over time, the acid builds up a crusty white, blue, or green substance around the posts. Extreme temperatures, battery leaks, and aging can speed up the corrosion process. Once it forms, it…
Author: Eliot Stonebrook
If you’re one of those who leave the cargo box on top of your car after a trip, you might be wondering whether it really matters. A cargo box is convenient, but driving with an empty one can actually affect your car’s performance more than you think. Fuel Efficiency Takes a Hit One of the most immediate effects of driving with an empty cargo box is a reduction in fuel efficiency. Your car becomes less aerodynamic, leading to increased drag. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, aerodynamic drag can significantly affect fuel consumption. In fact, it states that at…
When installing kayak racks, knowing the correct spacing is crucial for the safety of both your kayak and your vehicle. Incorrect spacing can lead to damage, instability during transportation, or even cause accidents. Let’s dig into the essential facts and recommendations for setting up your kayak racks at the optimal distance. Why Spacing Matters for Kayak Racks The distance between kayak racks affects not only how securely the kayak is mounted but also how it performs during transit. Incorrect spacing can increase the strain on certain points of the kayak, leading to possible deformations or cracks. According to reports from…
Roof boxes are an essential tool for anyone needing extra storage on road trips, camping adventures, or simply transporting gear. But the question of whether the roof box should be centered or not plays a critical role in your vehicle’s safety, fuel efficiency, and overall handling. Here’s an in-depth look at why centering a roof box matters and how to ensure it’s done correctly. Why Positioning Matters: The Science of Balance When you mount a roof box, placing it in the center ensures your vehicle remains balanced. This balance affects handling, particularly when taking turns or driving on uneven roads.…
When setting up roof rack crossbars, spacing matters more than you might think. Get it right, and you’ll have a safe, efficient, and stable load. Get it wrong, and you risk damage to your vehicle, or worse, an unsafe trip. The question is, how far apart should roof rack crossbars be? Understanding Roof Rack Crossbar Spacing Crossbars are the backbone of your roof rack system, carrying the load and keeping it secure. But how far apart they should be spaced largely depends on what you’re carrying. Typically, spacing ranges between 24 to 36 inches, but each setup is unique. Importance…