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Panasonic Strada 7-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got this Unit WAY before any of the previous review does, so I already know how this unit works inside out.

yes it has the problem that previous reviewers say but, should we even call those *problems* ? I mean, some of the things could be easily fixed with a simple firmware update. This is Panasonic's first attempt to enter the US's In dash Navigation market. They have great Units in Japan, but I guess Panasonic Japan does not share information with their USA side. So they have to create this from scratch.

Let me list what this unit can do/cant do.
-It can Play MP3 on CD-R/RW, but it cannot read MP3 on DVD+R/RW/-R/-RW.
-It seems that it does not like bad quality CD-R, my friend's cheap CD-R having mad issue with this unit. but mine plays just fine. Well, we should all get quality stuff isnt it ?
-It takes a lot longer, sometimes failed to read DVD-R/RW disc.
-It's DVD playback is Region locked to Region 1, but is not hard to overcome that problem (I think its illegal to say it here)
-Map is based on Navteq's 2005 data, yes you got that right, unit that's out in 2007 still using 2005's map data(maybe because its cheaper, who knows), because I ran into couple of roads that has been changed, one even changed from 2 way into 1 way, almost got me killed. Soyou better MAKE SURE that you're in the right side of the road.
-Remember to select your route preference before you start your guide. because by default, it does not allow Highway, does not allow tolls, does not allow anything. that means, all local if possible. That might be cool for some people, but I didnt know about it the first time I use it, because my other Unit has the Allow toll and Allow highway option enabled by default. So I ended up spending like 3 hours on something that I suppose to be there in 1 and 1/2 hour.
-The route guidance is kind of funny, sometimes the shortest route that it shows does NOT mean its really the shortest. So if you know that you're already going the shortest route, do NOT listen to the unit.
-It plays back MP3 fine, quality is ok.
-CD Play back is fine, plays original disc no problem, if you want to use a backup, you better make sure the cd-R quality is good.
-You CANNOT record your inserted CD into the HDD. I have no idea what Panasonic is thinking on this one, because as far as I know, the map data used about 10GB of space, that means, in the other words, about 20GB of disc space is there to collecting dust. Maybe a future update will resolve this. who knows.
-HDD unit runs really fast, it takes less than 1 second to get the route out, by default, it shows you 3 routes.
-This unit runs really hot, yes it has a fan behind but ... I would suggest you to turn the screen off if its not in use. it reduce the heat by maybe 30% (rough estimate)
-Screen is big enough, a bit bigger than Pioneer's 7" unit. and the screen is really clear, tried a lot of DVDs on it very good picture quality.
-Fast startup time, about 10 seconds or so.
-Oh yes, did I say the map is not very up to date? Maybe Panasoinc wants to get more money out from us. Anyway, the map data is FAR FROM complete. I cannot find some of the address at all, when I can just do a google search and it pops up right away.
-The way to enter address is kind of funky, you have to enter the way THEY want you to enter, for example, if you want to go 123 Avenue, there're couple of "possbilities", it could be 123th AVE, it could be 123th AVENUE, 123th AVENUE, 123 AVE, or 123 AVENUE. Keep that in mind.

I still have more to say, but I'll leave those alone.

Is this a good unit ? I think so, if you're looking for fastest and cheapest price HDD unit that *works*, this is a unit for you. but you BETTER MAKE SURE, you try them out first at a store or something.

Im happy with this unit, hey I mean for couple hundred bucks, you get a HDD NAV with dvd playback ? My father's brand NEW CX-7 with all options loaded, all he got was a DVD navigation that cant even play DVD-videos!

Im also 100% sure that Panasonic will update this unit to bring more features out. So dont worry too much about it. Couple hundred bucks only, get it !

Click Here to see more reviews about: Panasonic Strada 7 Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator

Product Description:
Until now, the problem with many in-car GPS navigation systems has been confusing user interfaces, poor display screens, restricted map coverage, and slow performance. To address the growing need of drivers to have a strong and reliable navigation tool, Panasonic developed the Strada, HDD mobile navigation system, a user-friendly, high-capacity car navigation system which can easily instruct average, non-technical drivers where they are, where they've been, and how to get to their next destination. While serving as a driver's electronic navigator between points A, B and C, or any other combination, the Strada CN-NVD905U system can deliver radio broadcasts, real-time traffic information, and CD audio and DVD movie and can even play music and videos from an iPod allowing your car to be another source for on demand entertainment. Moving beyond navigation and entertainment, Panasonic's new navigation system also boasts several safety and convenience features, such as hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, an optional back-up camera to help avoid fender benders and the ability to program specific geographic areas that the driver wants to avoid. Complete with high-speed data to provide the driver with possible restaurant choices, gas stations and hotel accommodations along their trip, the Strada system, named after the Italian word for street, is truly the perfect driving companion.

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Xantrex Technologies 852-0251 XPower Mobile Mini Power Source Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Okay, right into the details...

-- The Pros: --
- 3Ah Battery(3000mah) capacity. I believe the average Blackberry has a 1000mAh battery, iPods range from 400mAh up to around 800mAh and cellphones are in the 1100mAh to 1600mAh range. These are all "rough" numbers, you could look up your item to find more specific numbers. What this all means is that the stock battery capacity of this Xantrex will last about 3 charges for Blackberries and Cellphones, and perhaps even more times for smaller iPod/MP3 Players...Before you have to recharge the charger.
- That 3000mah battery is Lithium-Ion (Li-On). Unlike your average rechargeable AA or AAA batteries that self-discharge within a few weeks (some even only days!), Li-on batteries hold their charge for a lonnnnng time...So you don't have to worry if you haven't used the charger for a while, it should still have a good amount of capacity when you do use it.
- It has a built-in, swivel mini-usb connector. Perfect for gear that uses that kind of port for power (such as the Blackberry) and since it's built-in there's no worries about losing it
- Also has a standard USB port. Especially nice as both ports are active...Meaning you can charge 2 items at once. Your iPod and Blackberry running low on juice? No problem, plug them BOTH in and they'll both charge at the same time.
- Comes with AC Power adapter, DC Power adapter (Car lighter connector) and can recharge from standard USB connector as well.
- It's right at the edge of almost being a bit big for easy carrying, but the little bit of extra heft is well worth having that 3000mAh capacity.

-- The Cons: --
- The Power on/off button is hard to press, sometimes I have to use the corner of my thumb or nails to get it. It feels like it might break from the amount of pressure required.
- Though the charge status indicator (the lightning bolt) will change from green->yellow->red depending on the leftover capacity of the battery...I'd have preferred some kind of powerbar with a 'check' button for a clearer idea of status.
- Uses a non-standard plug for the charge cable. Lose that cable and you're out of luck. The biggest attraction for this charger is it's versatility in supplying the common USB type ports for charging things...So why couldn't Xantrax have done the same thing and used a mini-usb charge port to charge the charger? I've got tons of those, all over the place.

I bought this Charger as an accessory to go in my manbag/manpurse/techbag for backup power to my iPod Mini and Blackberry. In my Condo complex Cellular reception is horrible, which means the Blackberry is constantly "hunting" for signal and therefore the batteries drain very fast. Having the battery backup gives me piece of mind that I won't be without email/cellphone if the Blackberry is drained.

Another, unexpected benefit, was that I recently added a portable 320gb hard drive to my bag as well. It's supposed to be able to power itself on just 1 USB port on your computer, but has 2 USB heads in case it can't get enough juice to power the drive...And in my case, 1 port wasn't enough. Instead of having to use a 2nd USB port (and not have it available for something else), I plugged it into the Xantrex and it works beautifully.

No buyer remorse here, this is a solid product that gives you a bit of reassurance and piece of mind.

If you're looking for higher capacity, portability and the ability to plug your Notebook into it for extra runtime, take a look at the Xantrex 852-0281 XPower PowerSource 100 Watt Inverter. Or if you'd rather have something really small (about the size of 2 little tic-tac containers next to each other), check out IOGEAR GearJuice Mobile Pocket Power Pack

Click Here to see more reviews about: Xantrex Technologies 852-0251 XPower Mobile Mini Power Source

Product Description:
The PowerSource Mobile Mini is desgined to ensure that your cell phone, BlackBerry , iPodor PSPhas power when you re on the go. For maximum convenience, the PowerSource Mobile Mini offers a mini USB pivot arm that directly connects to any BlackBerry , and new Motophones like Razr, Rokr and more. The PowerSource Mobile Mini provides power through a 0.5 amp USB charge port to keep the music playing for hours. Sleek, lightweight and powerful, the PowerSource Mobile Mini s internal lithium-ion battery can be recharged at home through a lightweight AC charger, on the go through your vehicle s DC socket, or at your desk from a USB port.

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SYNTEC FULL 5W30 MOTOR OIL Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently purchased Syntec and won't buy Castrol products again for the bit of deception they pull here.

Despite what the market blurb on the bottle might say, this is not a true Type IV-V synthetic which contain no petroleum. This is actually a Type III petroleum product. They should advertise it for what it is.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SYNTEC FULL 5W30 MOTOR OIL

Product Description:
CASTROL-NORTH AMERICA 067 SYNTEC FULL 5W30-QT.

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Sanyo NV-E7000 Portable GPS and Mobile DVD Entertainment System Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just read the manual which very clearly says that this system cannot play any DVD+R ,DVD-R DVR+RW or any DVD that you have burn't using your DVD Burner.
It can only play JPEG only from a CD-R. So basiclly a crippled player.

The Navigation software is 1.0 version which is way way old version. The company Zenrin sell the V2.2 version with latest maps which you have to buy for $200 from them. Sanyo Never will give you this Updated maps for free!!

After I review the Product in details I will post the updates!!

Here is the link for the Manual:-
http://sanyoservice.com/pdf/images/NV-E7000(OM).pdf

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sanyo NV-E7000 Portable GPS and Mobile DVD Entertainment System

Product Description:
Portable/Mobile Navigation System and DVD Entertainment System

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Nortech Navigator 3.5" TouchScreen Car Mobile GPS System Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Bought this at Sam's Club for $279.It works well as a basic GPS and has what I would call a Garmin touch screen interface.The 3.5 inch screen is good, battery life seemed good and, overall, the unit functioned well.In 2 days of usage I found issues in the following areas that caused me to return the unit.

1.The 3.5" screen was just too small for my old eyes.
2.Unit did not have up-to-date maps or POIs.Thats not a major thing, EXCEPT, there appears to be no way to update them.
3.There is an SD card slot but no method to make the unit read it.
4.It comes with a USB cable but no drivers.My PC would see the device and a second or two later disconnect it.
5.There is no support available on the unit.I searched for online support but could only find that it is made by Sunjoy in China and is supported in the US by Ferro Works in Steubenville, OH.I could find no online support site or number for Ferro Works.
6.On a cold start, unit was slow in finding satelites, sometimes taking up to 5 minutes.Once found, it stayed locked on pretty well.
7.The suction cup mount worked very well on the windscreen but I wanted the unit to sit on the top of my dash.The mount would not adjust to allow a proper viewing angle on the flat dash.
8.Warranty is only 90 days.Sam's will sell you an extended warranty for extra cost.
9.Unit did initial route calculation pretty fast but occasionally got hung up recalculating and had to be reset.Also displayed a fatal error twice in a single day.Had to be reset to clear the error.
10. Soft keyboard is in ABC sequence instead of QWERTY.
11.Voice guidance often chatty with needless instructins such as "keep right" repeatedly on a long straight road with small crossroads.Often said "keep right" when it should have said "turn right".

Overall, providing that a way to update Maps and/or POIs becomes availble, this is a pretty good unit.It just did not serve my purposes at this time.I am going to a larger screen with a company that provides online updates.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Nortech Navigator 3.5 TouchScreen Car Mobile GPS System

Product Description:
Unlike other GPS systems, this system come loaded with accessories.Contents: Nortech 3.5" GPS Navigator, AC power adapter, car adaptor, mounting bracket, mounting cradle, USB cable, touch pen, adhesive disk, and owner's manual

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Cobra NAV One 5000 5-inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)THE GOOD:

The unit's 5" screen is incredibly clear; spoken street names are loud and clear; menu is so easy to understand the unit can even be figured out without the book and just by navigating through screens.The "Go Home" button is great.If you're lost ... click "Go Home" and the unit directs you to any location set as "Home".Lots of great features, millions of points of interest; the Real-Time Traffic Information can be accessed with separate purchase of a Traffic Data Receiver.I'm not disappointed that I did not have to pay for something I did not need/want right now.The bluetooth option for accessing your cellphone is convenient although you may need to purchase a separate mic if callers have difficulty hearing your voice.Again, this was not a feature I was looking for and it was not as important to me as the large, crisp screen and the ease of use.

The unit has been greatly improved with software updates and I comfortably rely on it now that my initial issues were resolved.Cobra was extremely responsive to all questions/issues communicated by phone and email.Every problem was resolved in a timely fashion by knowledgeable technicians.

My system information is as follows:
Application:1.4.0
Kernel: 1.49
Bootloader:7
Database:7036
Unit:737000603011

THE ANNOYING:

1.SOFTWARE ERROR:"Fatal Error" [if you have this error contact Cobra (773-889-8870) for the update if unavailable on the website (www.cobra.com)]

RESOLVED ISSUE:A "Fatal Error" froze unit during 2nd day of use.After shutting unit down and leaving off for a few moments, it restarted and continued to function normally. Assuming a software issue I referenced Cobra website but found no updates available.Upon contacting Cobra a rep indicated a technician would contact me by phone.Surprisingly, within a few hours a tech called back. After a brief discussion he forwarded a software update by email. The instructions were easy to follow and the problem was resolved.

2. FEATURE:Trip Data

ISSUE:Eastern time incorrect.Unit apparently not updated w/Day Light Savings patch.
******

3. FEATURE:GPS Location

ISSUE:GPS location was occasionally incorrect.One day while in Winthrop, MA the unit displayed Chicago, IL. The location did not correct itself for approximately 15 mins. The unit appeared to exerience a delayed response in securing the GPS signal for reconfiguration as it was not even spinning the cobra icon evident while processing.

RESOLVED:I contacted Cobra and they directed me to return the unit for inspection with a detailed description of the problem.The unit was quickly sent back to me in perfect working order.

******

4. FEATURE:Hands-Free Calls from Bluetooth Enabled Cellular Phones - Speaker Volume

ISSUE:Although the adjustable volume of unit's spoken street names is clear and easy to hear; the Bluetooth feature is almost useless because callers can't hear me over the unit.

RESOLVED:Cobra provided a separate mic that resolved the issue.Again, this was not a feature I was looking for and was not as disappointed that this was not perfect.However, Cobra resolved a matter for me without any difficulty.
******

5. FEATURE:Exclusive Cobra-verified Speed and Red Light Camera location database

These are apparently not frequently used in my area.After completely forgetting about the feature, the unit alerted me to the location of an upcoming overhead traffic signal, complete with mounted cameras.
*****

6. FEATURE:Over 7.6 Million Interest Points

ISSUE:Points of Interest (POI) occasionally display on map when not selected in menu.It appears that POIs (i.e., gas stations, Indian/French restaurants, theatres, etc.) are easy to inadvertently select while scrolling through the menus since the screen is quite sensitive.Be sure to press the down arrow at the furthest right-hand side of the down symbol to avoid selecting the last item in a screen.
*****

7.FEATURE:Map Theme

ISSUE:Unit menu indicates 3 map themes:"Easy View/Standard/Simple." However, the manual and file content of recent software update list map themes as "Easy View/Standard/Fun."
Q. Is the unit displaying the correct map theme?
Q. Since the themes appear similar, what is the difference?
*****

8.FEATURE:For NAV ONE 5000 Map Update, order Item # MNA UPD 4000.(listed in product manual).

ISSUE:One week ago, I paid over $350 for the Cobra Nav One GPS 5000.It's apparently so new that Circuit City only had one unit for sale and software updates for glitches are not yet available online and are being forwarded to customers through email by Cobra technicians.

RESOLVED:Once again, Cobra appreciated my situation as a customer and kindly forwarded the Map Update at no charge since I purchased the unit with an older version installed.
*****

9.FEATURE:Battery Operation

ISSUE:Even with Battery Save Mode activated, the unit can run for approximately 1-2 hours without being plugged into the cig adapter.If you do not have an auxiliary charger in the car you can purchase a double adapter in order to have an extra outlet to charge your cellphone.
*****

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cobra NAV One 5000 5-inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator

Product Description:
The next generation of portable, plug-and-go navigation is the Cobra NAV ONE 5000. The latest in Cobra's line of mobile navigation devices, the NAV ONE 5000 combines effortless technology and features, all in a compact, portable design. The device includes an award winning, easy-to-use screen design with the exclusive My Favorite Brands feature, which provides more than 600 brands accessible at the touch of a button. In addition, Cobra's patent-pending Compare Routes feature allows the driver to choose from two on-screen routing options to navigate around the traffic. The new, slim compact design features and easy to read 5.0" display with a highly rated, state-of-the-art user interface.

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Lucas Oil 10702-PK6 High Performance Synthetic 20W50 Motorcycle Oil - 1 Quart Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been running this oil in my 2000 night-train which has had lots of engine mods.This oil is great! Been using it for two riding seasonswith no problems. Best oil I've used!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Lucas Oil 10702-PK6 High Performance Synthetic 20W50 Motorcycle Oil - 1 Quart

Product Description:
Lucas Oil High Performance Synthetic 20W50 Motorcycle Oil 1 quart is the result of technology gained through years of blending motor oils and gear oils for the racing industry. These are true racing oils that far exceed all manufacturer specifications and can outlast other oils up to four times on the track or on the street.

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Valvoline VV955 SynPower Motor Oil SAE 5W-30, Pack of Six 1 Quart Bottles Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've used this for my last few oil changes on my '04 Colorado, and I've noticed that my engine feels decidedly more smooth as it runs, and when I drain the oil it's color has not degraded nearly as much as other oils I've used.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Valvoline VV955 SynPower Motor Oil SAE 5W-30, Pack of Six 1 Quart Bottles

Product Description:
Valvoline's SynPower Motor Oil - Delivers the ultimate performance kick. SynPower motor oil and automotive chemicals are the only full synthetic line of products that help your car achieve its performance peak. The key is Advanced Synthetic Technology which cleans and protects to put a kick into your driving experience. SynPower meets the demanding performance requirements for BMW, Corvette, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen, Volvo and other high-performance vehicles. SynPower is an advanced, fully synthetic motor oil formulated for extreme protection and superior performance. It helps extend engine life by reducing wear and oil breakdown. Have techicalquestions, please feel free to call our Tech Service # 1-800-TeamVal

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Royal Purple Max Gear Oil 75w90, 5 Gallon Bucket Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)ordered this product on december 4, 2009. it's been listed in stock ever since. it has yet to be shipped: feb. 3, 2010. i would really like to tell you more about this product, maybe someday.
donna davis

Click Here to see more reviews about: Royal Purple Max Gear Oil 75w90, 5 Gallon Bucket

Product Description:
Max Gear Oil 75w90 is recommended for use in truck, motor home / RV, and automotive front or rear differentials, manual transmissions and lower gear units of marine engines that specify use of an API GL5 or GL4 fluid. MaxGear is an ultratough, high performance, GL5 automotive gear oil designed to provide maximum protection to heavily loaded gears while maximizing power output throughout the drive train. It outperforms other GL5 gear oils because it combines the highest quality synthetic oils with Royal Purple's proprietary Synslide additive technology. MaxGear makes gears run smoother, quieter, cooler and longer without overhauls. All viscosities of MaxGear are formulated with hypoid friction modifiers necessary for use in clutch or cone type differentials. No additional additives are necessary. MaxGear Synthetic Gear Oil is formulated to improve the efficiency of rear end assemblies and manual transmissions. Virtually eliminates both gear and bearing wear. API GL4 / GL5 Certified.

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USB Solar Battery Charger for Mobile Cell Phone MP3 MP4 Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Wish I had this product during the recent storm induced power outage. This item worked as advertised, I recommend it.

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Product Description:
100% new solar battery charger, charge your mobile devices anytime and anywhere!Saves power and protects environment,high efficiency and safeIdeal for travelers ,modern and portableMini style multi-function,Light weight to put into your pocket any timeCompatible with mobile phones, digital camera, PDA, MP3, MP4

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Red Line 75W90 Synthetic Gear Oil (1 Qt.) Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I used this product in my 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX (Sedan)(manual transmission). I actually had to return this product and get the Red Line 75W90 NS. If you are looking to put this fluid in your car, I would recommend contacting Red Line directly to make sure you are using the right product for your application...before you purchase it. Read the label on the bottle to make sure it is used in the proper manner. It is a great product!
The product does help with allowing the car to shift cleaner.
The shifting feels "lighter". Would recommend!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Red Line 75W90 Synthetic Gear Oil (1 Qt.)

Product Description:
The Red Line 75W90 Gear Oil is the preferred product in nearly all car and light truck differentials, both conventional and limited-slip. Designed to provide the highest degree of protection and greatest efficiency for your drivetrain. Contains polyol ester base-stocks to provide excellent lubrication even under extreme conditions of high-loading and high-temperatures. The Red Line 75W90 Gear Oil's natural lubricity provides excellent slipperiness which reduces the sliding friction in hypoid gears to reduce wear and temperatures. The synthetic base-stocks have a natural multigrade property, so large amounts of unstable thickeners are not required to manufacture the gear oil, which means that the Red Line 75W90 Gear Oil will provide a stable viscosity for even extended periods of use. SHIPPING: NO 2ND DAY AIR AVAILABLE!!!

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ACDelco PF46 Oil Filter Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The amazon photo shows 2 filters. I questioned this to the amazon support staff via email and they stated that it comes with 2 filters.When the package arrived, it ONLY HAD ONE FILTER!After again questioning the staff and recapping the info provided, they got back with me 1 week later and stated "we have researched this product and it only comes with one filter".Very disappointed as I could have bought the Mobil 1 filter for a few dollars less. DON'T BUY THIS UNLESS YOU WANT ONE FILTER!

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Product Description:
AC Delco Oil Filter is engineered to meet all the high standards set by the industry. It helps capture harmful contaminants that can harm the engine, thereby helping to increase the lifespan of the engine. This unit is put through a variety of tests under extreme and unusual conditions to ensure high quality and dependability.

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Clarion MiND 4.8-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator (Black) Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)6/3/2009 Update
I've been using the device for a few weeks now. It has a lot of potential and things can be done, but many applications/features lack the quality of a mature product: inconsistent and unfriendly interface, missing features etc.

Major issues:
1. Small POI database. Only 2 mln POIs, and so far, no way to buy or import additional POIs. Big problem for me, and no easy way around. Finding missing POIs using Google at home takes longer than on a regular GPS unit with built-in POIs. You cannot use Google on the road (or it is much more difficult). Some GPS devices have 6 or more millions of POIs; you can really appreciate it after using the limited 2mln Clarion's database.

2. POI search speed can be from 10 seconds to 3 minutes!!! depending on user's entry. 3 minutes - it is just an absurd number. It must be fixed.

3. No Bluetooth hands-free calling. (The GPS is supposed to work with a phone. Why not hands-free calling? I need a BT headset? How many more electronics should I carry?)

4. Bluetooth dial-up network (DUN) doesn't work with my phone. I was surprised because it was one of the major selling points. Clarion provides only a list of compatible networks and my network is on that list. No list of compatible/supported phones.(My phone's DUN works with my other devices)

My hope is that Clarion will keep releasing updates and improving its functionality.
Written before 6/3/2009
The great:
1. Integration with the Internet:
a) You can send POIs from the Internet to ClarionMiND. Even with good GPS units finding POIs may be difficult: you either don't find it or you find too many. ClarionMiND lets you plan your trip on your computer at home using Google Maps, and send POIs to the device. Great feature!!!
b) Great desktop-class Internet browser. You will be able to do everything you can do on your desktop at home, including Flash videos.
c) Google search, and it is integrated with navigation.
2. Navigation (I will update this review on route quality after I use the unit more):
a) So far routes look good.
b) Lane assist. It shows which lane on a multi-lane road you should take.
c) Nice job with voice directions. For example, it tells you something like, "go to the right side of the road" in order to prepare you for right turn.
d) All info needed for navigation is on the screen: compass heading (N, NE, E...), arrival time, distance, next and current street.
e) auto-zoom.
3. POI
a) Very fast search
b) You can preview POIs on the map. This is something nice and unique. You can select a single or a group of POIs and see them on a temporary map.
4. Address entry
a) Very fast.
b) QWERTY keyboard
c) Predictable entry. Only valid keys are active. As you keep entering data, it shows what was found at the top of the screen.
d) It remembers previous entry, and lets you re-start search from any level: state, city, street.
5. Hardware:
a) Gorgeous, high-resolution, large screen
b) Touchscreen works well. It is responsive.
c) Dedicated hardware buttons for Home, Top Menu, Music/Sound.
d) Great to hold in hands
6. Free Internet traffic. So far, I didn't find if it is integrated with navigation. There will be an option for radio traffic which, most likely, will be integrated.
7. Internet weather, news, email etc
8. Fast GPS lock. Less than 30 seconds.

The bad:
1.POI database is small. I couldn't find retail stores like, Walmart, Target, Costco etc
2.The car mount is awful. It is a few 100s dollars device with a "$1" mount. Very difficult to mount/dismount.
3.After you mount the device, it automatically limits its Internet functionality. Result: you cannot use the Internet in your garage when the device is mounted. You have to dismount it 1st, check the Internet, mount it again. AWFUL!!! If they wanted to make it safe, they should detect vehicle speed from the GPS.
4.Addresses are not displayed in the American format (number street, city zip), but as zip city street number.
5.Keyboard
a) Inconsistent keys. Sometimes, it is character-only; sometimes, characters and digits.
b) Inconsistent behavior: to accept, sometimes you have to click "Back", sometimes "Enter"; sometimes something else.
6.Too many keystrokes needed to see the route overview.
7.Current time is not displayed during navigation.
8.The device gets very hot.
9. Video player doesn't accept many video formats.

The bottom line:
It is a great navigation device: very fast, detailed spoken commands, plenty of details on the screen, great map, good routes. The device could be a perfect GPS but they have to add more POIs, BT hands-free calling, and polish the interface. ClarionMiND works very well with the Internet: it will have more or less of a practical meaning for different people.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Clarion MiND 4.8 Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator (Black)

Product Description:
ClarionMiND is a completely new type of mobile Internet device created by the car audio and navigation expert Clarion. As a Next Generation Navigation plus Internet-Based Entertainment device, it provides GPS navigation, and with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled cellphone, the Internet can be accessed via a full browser anytime and anywhere. ClarionMiND has a new interface that allows you to navigate the real-world and the unlimited possibilities of the Internet at the touch of a finger. Standard Features: Available in Black, White and Red; 4.8-inch TFT WVGA Touch Screen; Built-In Navigation; Built-In WiFi; Stylus and Quick Reference Guide; Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery; Cigarette lighter and AC Adapter; Windshield Mount Kit. Hardware: Intel Atom Processor Architecture; 4.8 inch WVGA(800x480) Widescreen LCD Display with touch screen; Simple Three Buttons (Home, Control,Audio); Built in stylus holder; Headphone Jack; Built-In Speaker / Amplifier; Inter-changeable Li-Ion Battery and extended battery is available as an option. Storage: 512MB DRAM; 800MHz Clock Speed; 4GB Solid-State memory for Storage. I/O: MicroSD Card Slot; 2 USB Port (Standard 2.0/Mini); Built-In WiFi b/g; Built-In Bluetooth 2.0 EDR for Dial-up Networking (phone tethering) uses phone as a modem; Built-In SiRF GPS III 20-Channel GPS Antenna/Reciever; USB media control to external MP3 thru RealPlayer; Docking Station Connector for optional NK1. Dimensions: 6.61in(W) x 3.78in (H) x 1.06in (D) with Standard Battery; 6.61in(W) x 3.78in (H) x 1.42in (D) with Large battery (Option); Total Weight : With Standard Battery: 11.64oz With Large Battery: 13.76oz (Option.

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Phoenix Gold RSD6CS 6-Inch Component Set Speakers Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Looking around the web, these speakers were reviewed in a few places as "a good value".They are not.

The product:
The cones are VERY shallow for the mounting depth (they mount as deep as other 6", but not as much surface area inside) and the bass is questionable at best.The crossover cuts off both highs and lows (the 2db boost does do just that, but with the truncated frequencies) and even with good speakers you can tell that something is being 'filtered' rather than just split.

The concept:
We've all had it drilled into our heads that component is better than 2-ways or even 3-ways.Additionally, most people now know to check frequency range, power rating, peak power and sensitivity.What is not spoken of is actually build quality, which is something you just can't measure.

The comparisons:
Alpine SPS-170a
Alpine SPS-17c2
Alpine SPS-600
Pioneer . . . something old I had lying around

At 50watts RMS, even the SPS-600 speakers sounded clearer (if you check the specs, these have the lowest sensitivity and a higher power rating -- typically don't sound very good at lower power).

Conclusion:
Don't get components just to "fill an area" -- at (or below) this price point, find a set of Pioneer/Alpine/Kenwood 2-ways.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Phoenix Gold RSD6CS 6 Inch Component Set Speakers

Product Description:
Phoenix Gold 6" RSD Mobile Component Speakers

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Royal Purple Max-Cycle Synthetic Motorcycle Oil Oil 20W50, Quart, Pack of 12 Review

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Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using the Royal Purple 20w50 in my liquid-cooled Suzuki VZ800 Marauder, and the difference was noticeable. I immediately went from having the fan kick in at every single stoplight to having it come on about once every few days.Shifting immediately felt smoother (gearbox shares the engine oil) as well.

This stuff is amazing.If you're not sure and you don't want to spring for the case, get what you need in single bottles just to try it out.THEN you'll want to buy the case. :-)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Royal Purple Max-Cycle Synthetic Motorcycle Oil Oil 20W50, Quart, Pack of 12

Product Description:
Max-Cycle is specifically formulated to significantly improve motorcycle, ATV and snowmobile engine (and transmission) performance. It's recommended for use in both air-cooled and liquid-cooled 4-cycle engines and it's compatible with wet-clutch transmissions. Max-Cycle provides unparalleled film strength that is up to 400 percent stronger than the leading synthetic and mineral oils. Its shear stability and oxidation resistance promote greater performance and protection.Formulated with select synthetic base oils and Royal Purple's proprietary Synerlec additive technology, Max-Cycle greatly reduces engine wear — including ring, cylinder and bearing wear. It continuously adheres to metal surfaces, even after shutdown, to provide instant protection at startup until a full fluid film can be established.Max-Cycle exceeds API / JASO new warranty requirements and is compatible with other mineral and synthetic motor oils. No flushing is necessary prior to use.

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