Cars / trucks
Record your own GPS instructions
In the back of your mind you’ve always thought you could do a better job at announcing directions than your GPS device does, and now you can prove it thanks to Garmin who’ve released a free Windows-only application that lets you record and use your own voice with a select number of their units.
The app looks straight-forward and easy to use, and while Garmin claims it only takes about 30 minutes, expect it be a particularly boring and tedious half-hour as you record and trim the various phrases and directions required to complete the device’s vocabulary. But the potential for comedic gold here makes it seem worthwhile. So what are you waiting for? Make sure your Garmin is compatible with the software and then download it here.
Automobile service reminder
A penny postcard from 1928, detailing repairs for the Model T.
Here’s what the postcard says:
Dear Sir-
We are writing this letter to you today because we want to help you get your money out of your Model T.
It’s still as good a car as it was the day the new Model A Ford was announced and there is no need to sacrifice it.
The Model T Ford is still used by more people than any other automobile. Eight million are in active service right now and many of them can be driven one, two, three and five years and even longer.
Bring your car to us and let us look it over. You’ll be surprised to see how little it costs to put it in tip-top shape.
New fenders, for instance, cost from $3.50 to $5.00 each, with labor charge of $1.00 to $2.50. Tuning up the motor and replacing commutator case, brush and vibrator points costs only $1.00, with a small charge for material. Brake shoes can be installed and emergency brakes equalized for a labor charge of $1.25. A labor charge of $4.00 to $5.00 will cover the overhauling of the front axle, rebushing springs and spring perches, and straightening, aligning and adjusting wheels.
The labor charge for overhauling the average rear axle runs from $5.75 to $7.00. Grinding valves and cleaning carbon can be done for $3.00 to $4.00. A set of new pistons and rings costs only $7.00. For a labor charge of $20.00 to $25.00 you can have your motor and transmission completely overhauled. Parts are extra.