Tag Archives: When

Motorsport

Ford Supports Team Rubicon with Vehicle Donation and $2.5M Contribution

When natural disasters occur, Team Rubicon, an organization led by veterans, mobilizes to assist affected communities worldwide. In a generous gesture, Ford has donated 17 vehicles and contributed $2.5 million to this cause. These vehicles include the F-150 XL PowerBoost hybrid, F-350 Super Duty trucks equipped with Ford’s 2.0-kW Pro Power Onboard system, F-150 Lightning Pro trucks, and Broncos with the Sasquatch package to access remote areas.

Overall, Ford and its charitable Ford Fund group have invested $5.8 million in Team Rubicon, establishing the initiative named “Team Rubicon Powered By Ford”. This collaboration will enable Team Rubicon volunteers to carry out their crucial work effectively.


NewsNew

CHAIN BREAKER: MR KNOW-IT-ALL

Dear Mr. Know-It-All,

I recently experienced a broken chain when I was far away from my truck. Do you have any advice for this situation? It was a terrible experience because I didn’t have any tools to fix it, and no one in my group had a tow strap. My friend used his leg to push me, but there was a lot of sand. Now, I think my friend hates me! It took us hours to get back.

Stewart S

via [email protected]

I’m going to be completely honest with you, Stewart. The majority of chain problems are caused by the lack of maintenance and failure to replace worn-out parts. You should inspect your driveline after every ride to check for wear on the links, excessive stretching, and degradation of the masterlink. By inspecting the links, you can assess the condition of your chain. Worn plates indicate significant usage and the need for a new system. This includes replacing both the front and rear sprockets! Don’t take shortcuts, and one last piece of advice: Always carry a tow strap, a mini chain breaker (Motion Pro offers these), and a spare master link!

If you don’t mind showcasing your mistakes to the world, we won’t deny you the opportunity. Send evidence of your failures to [email protected] or Mr. Know-It-All

Dirt Bike P.O. Box 957

Valencia, CA 91380-9057

Technology

How to Fix a Non-Working Laptop Touchpad

If you’re facing issues with the touchpad on your Windows laptop, the most likely cause is the drivers. Unless there is a hardware problem, which would be easily noticeable, the problem is likely related to the mouse and pointer drivers. There are two options you can try to fix the issue.

Option 1: Update the Driver

  1. Type “Device Manager” in the Start menu search bar.
  2. Open the Device Manager.
  3. Expand either the “Human Interface Devices” or “Mice and other pointing devices” tab.
  4. Locate your trackpad on the list.
  5. Right-click on your trackpad and select “Update driver”.

The update wizard will automatically check for driver updates and install them if available.

Option 2: Reinstall the Driver

  1. Type “Device Manager” in the Start menu search bar.
  2. Open the Device Manager.
  3. Expand either the “Human Interface Devices” or “Mice and other pointing devices” tab.
  4. Locate your trackpad on the list.
  5. Right-click on your trackpad and select “Uninstall device”.
  6. Confirm the uninstallation.
  7. Restart your PC.

When your PC restarts, Windows will automatically detect the missing driver and reinstall it, hopefully resolving any touchpad issues in the process.

News

Akrapovič Introduces a New Slip-On System for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE

Suzuki made a big impact with its 2023 lineup of middleweight motorcycles, which have been praised for their innovative features and updated technology. The V-Strom 800DE and GSX-8S models, in particular, have gained a lot of attention and are expected to be bestsellers. As a result, the aftermarket for accessories for these bikes, such as the new slip-on exhaust system from Akrapovič, is rapidly growing.

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE and 800DE Adventure - Main

When it comes to aftermarket exhausts, one of the most popular brands is Akrapovič. The Slovenian company has recently released a new slip-on exhaust system specifically designed for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. As with their other exhaust systems, Akrapovič focuses on improving performance and reducing weight. The system is made from lightweight materials such as titanium and carbon fiber. Installation is easy, as it is a slip-on system that utilizes existing hardware and mounts directly to the stock manifold.

In terms of performance gains, Akrapovič claims the new slip-on system is 23.6% lighter and provides a slight increase of one horsepower and one Newton-meter of torque. The system is also fully homologated to ECE and Euro 5 standards, ensuring its legality in European countries.

Pricing for the Akrapovič slip-on system has not been officially announced, but it is expected to command a premium price. Similar exhaust systems for other models, such as the Yamaha Tenere 700 and Aprilia Tuareg 660, are priced around $1,000 USD. Availability for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE slip-on system will likely depend on market demand.

Motorsport

Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series Reaches 190 MPH on Autobahn

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, released in 2010, was praised by Jeremy Clarkson as “the greatest car in the world.” However, it was known for being a little tricky to handle around corners as the rear would often slide out. In 2013, Mercedes introduced the SLS AMG Black Series, which Clarkson described as a “serious car” with no sense of humor.

The Black Series is equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces 622 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch sports transmission. The transmission is mounted lower than in the standard SLS AMG for improved center of gravity.

Weight reduction was achieved through the use of carbon fiber in the body panels, mechanical components, and space frame. The Black Series weighs 3,415 pounds, which is 154 pounds lighter than the standard model. Other weight-saving measures include a titanium exhaust and a lithium-ion starter battery.

The specifications claim a 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph. To see if these numbers hold up, there is a video embedded at the top of the page where a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is tested on the unrestricted Autobahn by AutoTopNL.

Car enthusiasts will find the video exhilarating. Feel free to watch it and share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Motorsport

Mustang Mach-E Goes Head-to-Head with Mustang GT and Explorer SUV at Drag Strip

Typically, when we hear about a drag race between an electric car and a gas-powered car, we expect the electric car to be a Tesla. But in this case, it’s an all-Ford showdown. In the video provided above, a Ford Mustang Mach-E electric crossover takes on a Mustang and an Explorer SUV, both powered by gasoline.

The specific variant of the Mustang Mach-E used in the drag race is unclear. The video doesn’t mention any details about it, but based on its 18-inch Carbonized Gray Aluminum wheels, it appears to be a base version. However, we don’t know if it’s rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The rear-wheel drive Mach-E with the standard range battery pack produces 266 horsepower, while the all-wheel drive version increases the output to 311 hp. Torque is rated at 317 pound-feet (430 Newton-meters) for the rear-wheel drive and 427 lb-ft (580 Nm) for the all-wheel drive (these figures are for the 72-kilowatt-hour battery pack, according to Ford).

The rear-wheel drive Mustang Mach-E has a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 6.3 seconds. Now let’s see how the other two vehicles, the Mustang GT and the Explorer, compare to Ford’s all-electric crossover.

The previous-generation Mustang GT is equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces anywhere from 435 hp to 460 hp, depending on the model year. Ford claimed the Mustang GT could go from 0-60 mph in under four seconds in 2018, which is significantly faster than the electric Mustang Mach-E on paper.

The Explorer, which has a stealthy, police-car appearance, appears to be a fifth-generation 2013 Explorer Sport based on its wheels. This version came with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 EcoBoost engine rated at 365 hp and 350 lb-ft (470 Nm) of torque, capable of achieving a 0-60 mph sprint in 5.7 seconds.

However, drag racing performance can sometimes differ from what is expected based on numbers alone. To see how these three vehicles perform on the drag strip, watch the video provided above and share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Motorsport

Watch VW Polo Diesel Perform an Impressive 500-HP Dyno Pull

Modifying the engine of a vehicle can lead to impressive results, especially when it comes to an unassuming car like a regular city car. With some clever modifications and a bit of bravery, a boring hatchback can be transformed into a powerful sleeper. And that’s exactly what happened with the Volkswagen Polo featured in the video above.

Posted on the CCD Video YouTube channel, the 8-minute video showcases how the modest 1.9-liter turbo-diesel engine of the Polo can outperform stock cars that cost more than ten times its price. The base price for a Polo in Germany is around $22,800 (20,830 Euro).

Of course, the Polo in the video is far from stock. It has been upgraded with enhanced injectors, a better cam, a larger turbocharger, and improved intake and exhaust pipes. The sub-assembly remains stock, but there’s a surprising addition to the blacked-out Polo—nitrous oxide.

The first dyno run was done using only the boost from the turbocharger. The 1.9-liter TDI produced 366 horsepower and 587 Newton-meters of torque with approximately 40 pounds per square inch (2.8 bar) of pressure from the hybrid turbo.

When nitrous was introduced, the car achieved 472 hp and 789 Nm. But it didn’t stop there. After a couple more dyno runs, the small Polo managed to reach an impressive 513 hp and 865 Nm from its highly modified diesel engine.

This power output exceeds that of a base Porsche 911, which generates 379 hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine. It’s also more powerful than a Dodge Charger Scat Pack with its 485 hp 6.4-liter V8 engine. The Porsche starts at $114,400, while the Charger has an MSRP of $50,330.

Furthermore, the interior of the Polo has been stripped down, resulting in some weight reduction. This makes it a true sleeper car that can likely outperform many vehicles that are much more expensive than the modest Polo.

What do you think about this impressive performance? Watch the video above and share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Technology

Enabling Dark Mode On Any Website: A Step-By-Step Guide For Android

When using the web on an Android device, enabling Dark Mode can have critical benefits such as reducing eye strain and improving battery life, especially on OLED screens.

The comfort of Dark Mode comes from the reduced brightness and contrast it offers, which helps alleviate eye strain. Bright screens can lead to computer vision syndrome, but with Dark Mode, the lower luminance provides a more relaxing viewing experience, especially in low-light conditions.

For Android devices with OLED screens, enabling Dark Mode also has a significant battery-saving advantage. Unlike LCD screens that use a backlight to illuminate all pixels simultaneously, OLED displays have individual pixels that emit their own light. As a result, dark pixels on OLED screens consume less power, allowing for better battery performance and longer usage away from the charger.

Whether you want to reduce eye strain or conserve battery life, enabling Dark Mode can significantly enhance your browsing experience on Android. Follow this step-by-step guide to turn it on and enjoy the benefits.

Technology

All The Most Popular Map Apps For Android Ranked Worst To Best

When it comes to navigation apps, convenience and ease of use are crucial. However, one particular app, CoPilot GPS Navigation, may not be the most user-friendly option for Android users. Despite its attractive graphics and popularity, CoPilot’s setup process can be quite challenging.

Upon opening the app, users are immediately faced with a mandatory sign-up page that cannot be skipped. This means users are required to create an account without the option for guest access, and there is no need for email verification. Following this step, users must then decide the type of vehicle they are using, whether it’s a car, semi-truck, or RV. This choice comes with restrictive warnings and potential additional purchases.

After facing complicated menus, long downloads, and anxiety-inducing warnings, users finally have their CoPilot app ready for navigation. However, before they can even enter their first destination, a pop-up appears informing them that this is just a 14-day trial, and they must purchase the app for continued use.

It’s important to note that CoPilot GPS Navigation is a paid app with a high price tag. Considering the abundance of other navigation apps available, it may be hard to justify investing in CoPilot. While it does offer offline maps, turn-by-turn directions, and voice guidance, there are alternative options that provide a smoother and more user-friendly experience at a lower cost.

ToyotaUk

Celebrating Father’s Day: Working with Dad — Toyota Employee Stories

When it comes to being close, these fathers and their adult children tell how their Toyota work bond has brought them lasting memories.

Providing, Just Like Dad

  • Father: Darrell Brock, Body Weld Seibi manager, Production Engineering and Manufacturing (PEMC); 34 years at Toyota
  • Son: Craig Brock, senior engineer, Internal Logistics Engineering, PEMC; 7 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working with your father?

Craig Brock: I’m thankful for having peace of mind in providing a future for my daughter the same way my father provided for me.

What’s your greatest work memory with your father?

When I was able to show my father my Toyota badge.

Supporting One Another

  • Father: Walter Burroughs, senior engineering manager assembly, PE VMC, Toyota Mississippi; 28 years at Toyota
  • Daughter: Kristen Burroughs, Corporate Communications analyst, Toyota Mississippi; one year at Toyota
  • Son: Brad Burroughs, strategic planning senior analyst, Toyota Logistics Services (TLS); 12 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working with your father?

Kristen Burroughs: Being able to discuss and relate to one another’s work life. For my dad, he loves knowing that his kids have valued his time and dedication to Toyota and saw what a great company it is to pursue our careers as well. All three of us also serve/served in the U.S. military.

What’s your greatest work memory with your father?

Having my dad by my side while I spoke to employees on Veterans Day about my experiences. He also showed up for me during my first planned event at Toyota Mississippi, which was a holiday toy drive/grant presentation for the Salvation Army.

Following in His Footsteps

  • Father: Monty Hagstrom, group manager, chief production engineer, PEMC; 28 years at Toyota
  • Daughter: Morgan Kennard, project manager, Safety, PEMC; 7 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working with your daughter?

Monty Hagstrom: Besides getting to see each other while in the office, we have a common goal to contribute to the success of the company while sharing common core values in how we approach our daily tasks.

What’s your greatest work memory with your daughter?

The day she was hired full time. I knew she would be working for a great company that would support her development and value her contribution. Following in my footsteps was a great feeling as well!

Like Father, Like Son

  • Father: Phil Nunn, safety analyst, Toyota Logistics Services (TLS) Princeton; 28 years at Toyota
  • Son: Phillip Andrew Nunn, production association track team member, TLS Princeton; Less than one year at Toyota 

What’s the best thing about working with your son?

Phil Nunn: Andrew gets to experience the type of work I did for 11 years as a production employee at TLS.

What’s your greatest work memory with your son?

When Andrew first applied his “Critical Eye for Safety” at work.

Growing a Bond

  • Father: Donnie Johnson, production group leader, Plant Chassis 2, Toyota Kentucky; 28 years at Toyota
  • Son: Triston Taylor Johnson, skilled team leader, Stamping, Toyota Kentucky; 3 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working with your son?

Donnie Johnson: We’ve always bonded with sports, now we have things that are happening at work to talk about, too. I also get to see him more now than I did when he was a teenager.

What’s your greatest work memory with your son?

When Taylor was promoted to team leader.

Family, Friends and Colleagues

  • Father: Lance Brittle, manager, Dealer Facilities Operations, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA); 35 years at Toyota
  • Daughter: Maggie Brittle, manager, Marketing Communications and Operations, Toyota Credit Corporation; 12 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working with your father?

Maggie Brittle: The best thing? Guilting him into buying me lunch! In all seriousness, working at the same company as my dad has been a blessing. Growing up, I admired him for his dedication to Toyota and passion for his work. He started at Toyota because he had a dream of doing more for his family. He took a huge risk by leaving a steady job as a mechanic and leaving his hometown to relocate to California, and I will forever be grateful for his courage to face the unknown. Working at Toyota with my dad has provided me with the incredible experience of knowing my dad, not just for being an awesome father, but for being a dependable, loyal and dedicated part of a larger team.

What’s your greatest work memory with your father?

When we attended the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show for the first time together. When I found out he was going to be attending as well, it dawned on me that this was the first time that our corporate paths had actually crossed. We were both working Toyota booths, and at one point I realized that no one else in my family would ever have the opportunity to see my dad like this. It was also the first time he got to see me in a professional setting. We left that event with a better understanding that our relationship was now both professional and personal, and it helped me build a friendship with my dad as an adult.

Proud Father and Son

  • Father: Dwayne Beisel, VMO Operations manager, TMNA; 29 years at Toyota
  • Son: Collin Beisel, Commerce content platform manager, TMNA; 6 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working together?

Collin Beisel: It was great to be able to get lunch or coffee with each other when we both worked on site. Now it’s just nice to have a family member to bounce things off of and someone that understands the way things work in OneTech.

Dwayne Beisel: When we were both at headquarters, I enjoyed having lunch with Collin regularly and periodically passing him in the hallways.

What’s your greatest work memory?

Collin: It’s always nice when someone recognizes my name and already has a positive association with it due to a relationship with my dad.

Dwayne: Hearing from my peers about what a fine young man my son is and the great work he does. It makes me even more proud of him and to be his father.

A Bright Future

  • Father: Kevin Newell, Body Weld Production manager, Toyota Kentucky; 24 years at Toyota
  • Son: Tyler Newell, skilled group leader, Plastics-Maintenance, Toyota Kentucky; 7 years at Toyota
  • Son: Tevis Newell, team leader, TL Powertrain, Toyota Kentucky; 3 years at Toyota

What’s the best thing about working with your sons?

Kevin Newell: The pride that our family feels working for such a great company and being able to not only have contributed to past successes but also working toward future ones as well.

What’s your greatest work memory with your sons?

Seeing my sons achieving their career goals and be recognized for their successes.