Answerbag: Santaanacanyon's answers

Answer to How did the show make those cool smoke effects?

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 22:00:32 -0700

How did the show make those cool smoke effects?

Based on of the "extra" tracks from the "Thunderbirds" DVD set, the smoke was some kind of oil that, when heated with an electical heating element, made smoke. This heating element was just a nicrome wire, so you could hide these things in machinery, cook ware, even cigarettes!

Answer to Ok be honest, who will own up to watching the Thunderbirds when they were a kid? Any takers?

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 21:58:26 -0700

Ok be honest, who will own up to watching the Thunderbirds when they were a kid? Any takers?

I unapologetically admit to not only watching the show, but getting up extra early on Saturday mornings so I wouldn't miss it! For its day, it had radical special effects, but the script writing really sucked!

Answer to What is your honest opinion of the bible?

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 21:37:09 -0700

What is your honest opinion of the bible?

A collection of real experiences of people who encountered God in a way far more real than the rest of us have, and, as a result, explain in plain lanaguage that God likes me.

Answer to Why did the United States lose the Viet Nam war?

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:13:09 -0800

Why did the United States lose the Viet Nam war?

Several reasons: The NVA did not have to define victory as defeating the United States. They merely had to outlast us and wear us down. (By the way, that was also General Washington's strategy against the British) The U.S. did not have a clear definition of victory. Simply containing...

Answer to I have 2 trains. Each has a transformer. I want to buy a 3rd. train. Can I run all 3 on the same track, and use the transformers that come with the train, or do I use just one powerful one?

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:06:52 -0700

I have 2 trains. Each has a transformer. I want to buy a 3rd. train. Can I run all 3 on the same track, and use the transformers that come with the train, or do I use just one powerful one?

This is an involved question, and here's why: If all you wish to do is lash up three locomotives to pull one long train, then all you need is one powerful transformer. When multiple locomotives are on the same track, they all respond equally to the powerpack, but they also equally divide...

Answer to WHEN AND WHY WOULD YOU USE A DCC CONTROL AND ENGINE?

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:00:45 -0700

WHEN AND WHY WOULD YOU USE A DCC CONTROL AND ENGINE?

When you're ready to operate multiple trains on your layout. The big deal about DCC is independent locomotive control. With conventional control, if you place two locomotives on the same track, both locomotives operate exactly the same in response to the throttle. With DCC, each...

Answer to The Amtrak HHP-8 locomotive's back pantagraph is always up when the train is going forward, right? So if an Amtrak Acela train is permanently connected to their cars then which pantagraphs are up?

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:50:56 -0700

The Amtrak HHP-8 locomotive's back pantagraph is always up when the train is going forward, right? So if an Amtrak Acela train is permanently connected to their cars then which pantagraphs are up?

Because of the permanent connection, the Acela is considered a "unit train", which means it is not meant to be broken up. The Acela is also "double ended", meaning it has an operator's cab at both ends of the train. It also has two pantographs, one at each end. When the...

Answer to What was the highest speed ever attained by the USS Enterprise, and which episode did this occur?

Thu, 13 Apr 2006 22:29:06 -0700

What was the highest speed ever attained by the USS Enterprise, and which episode did this occur?

There was this one episode, I can't remember the title, but an alien woman came on board the Enterprise undetected, and fused something or other in the warp drive. The ship accelerated past Warp factor 14.1. Scotty had to crawl through a Jeffries Tube with a magnetic probe to...

Answer to Are all brands of DCC equipment (controllers, locomotive circuits, track connections, etc.) interchangeable or must one pick a brand and ues it for all parts?

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 12:38:25 -0800

Are all brands of DCC equipment (controllers, locomotive circuits, track connections, etc.) interchangeable or must one pick a brand and ues it for all parts?

The National Model Railroaders Association has standardized DCC just enough so that decoders are interchaneable. This is why locomotive manufacturers have been able to develop "plug and play" capabilities into more of their products. As for other equipment: not generally...

Answer to What is good CAD software that I can use to draw model train layouts that show trerrain and objects?

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 12:35:00 -0800

What is good CAD software that I can use to draw model train layouts that show trerrain and objects?

"Cad Rail" is very popular and regularly being upgraded. Visit their site at www.cadrail.com

Answer to I live in a city with very lax leash laws. Dog owners enjoy 100% impunity (from my observations) from the most basic enforcement. How can I prompt my local government to enforce the existing leash laws?

Thu, 12 May 2005 20:44:45 -0700

I live in a city with very lax leash laws. Dog owners enjoy 100% impunity (from my observations) from the most basic enforcement. How can I prompt my local government to enforce the existing leash laws?

Find out where your city government representatives live. Walk your dog past one of their homes. If you see the politician in the yard (or better yet, one of his children), let go of the leash and let the dog attack. THAT should make the uncaring jerk aware of the lack of enforcement!

Answer to I changed my mind about a car purchase and never took delivery from the dealership. When is a new car sale final?

Mon, 27 Dec 2004 21:30:00 -0800

I changed my mind about a car purchase and never took delivery from the dealership. When is a new car sale final?

In California, the sale is not final until you drive off the lot with the car. So if you change your mind AND didn't take delivery, you aren't bound to pay for the vehicle.

Answer to How does the NASCAR points system work?

Fri, 17 Dec 2004 21:48:46 -0800

How does the NASCAR points system work?

Effective 2004, first place finisher now receives 180 points.

Answer to What is the difference between the "silver star" medal and the "bronze star" medal in the military?

Wed, 17 Nov 2004 21:27:49 -0800

What is the difference between the "silver star" medal and the "bronze star" medal in the military?

After the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, and the Distinguished Service Medal, you arrive at the Silver Star. It is awarded solely for heroism in combat against an opposing armed force. The Bronze Star is a lower decoration than the Silver Star, and may be awarded for heroism, or...

Answer to Some people insist that American cars are mechanically inferior to Japanese cars. Others have told me that this used to be the case, but is no longer so. Who's right?

Wed, 06 Oct 2004 22:23:07 -0700

Some people insist that American cars are mechanically inferior to Japanese cars. Others have told me that this used to be the case, but is no longer so. Who's right?

The word "inferior" is probably a little too strong, but there is no denying that Japanese vehicles are of higher quality than American cars. Japanese cars last longer and retain higher resale value than American cars. After the first 100,000 miles, Japanese engines show very little...

Answer to What year was "Thunderbirds" to take place?

Sun, 03 Oct 2004 18:04:36 -0700

What year was "Thunderbirds" to take place?

Officially, according to Gerry Anderson, 2065. Viewers are confused because, on the show, you see newspapers dated 2010 and other gaffes of that type. Anderson, however, insists his show's setting was to be one hundred years from the writing of the show, which was 1965.

Answer to How were the cars and vehicles powered?

Fri, 01 Oct 2004 22:59:42 -0700

How were the cars and vehicles powered?

Several ways. Most common was gravity...the set was built on a slant and the car simply rolled down the "hill". The camera was set on a similar slant so on screen everything looks level. Another common way was a slit in the road. The vehicles were pulled along by a rail coming up...

Answer to What was "Brains" real name?

Fri, 01 Oct 2004 22:53:43 -0700

What was "Brains" real name?

THe show never revealed his real name. He is said to be adopted by Jeff Tracy, and was always called by his nickname: Brains. Some fans have claimed his real name was Hiram Hackenmacker, but this is misleading. In the episode "Alias Mr. Hackenmacker", he is named Hiram...

Answer to Considering the alignment of the engines, wouldn't a spaceship tumble end-over-end if it were constructed like the Enterprise?

Thu, 30 Sep 2004 22:14:06 -0700

Considering the alignment of the engines, wouldn't a spaceship tumble end-over-end if it were constructed like the Enterprise?

It is easy to think so when you look at it! However, these were not "propulsion" engines. Roddenberry did not want to have to mess with too many special effects, so he proposed engines that didn't give off any smoke or exhaust or anything like that. Warp Engines, as...

Answer to Have any of the scientific gadgets in Star Trek actually become reality?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 20:50:10 -0700

Have any of the scientific gadgets in Star Trek actually become reality?

The hypo spray. Censors prevented Dr. McCoy from sticking folks with needles on TV, so the hypo spray was created to get around it. Real hypo injection devices are not quite that small but still do the same job in the same way.

Answer to What was Rolls-Royce reaction to the model of the futuristic limo?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 20:42:27 -0700

What was Rolls-Royce reaction to the model of the futuristic limo?

Gerry Andersen actually approached Rolls-Royce in person before beginning construction. Rolls Royce approved of the design before plans were sent to model makers. Since the show is dated in the year 2065, Rolls-Royce agreed that it was not out of the question that their product ought to have...

Answer to Why were the heads of the marionettes so disproportionately large?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 20:34:30 -0700

Why were the heads of the marionettes so disproportionately large?

The heads had to be large to accomodate the servos for the eyes and the solednoid to operate the mouth. The obvious thing to do would have been to make the bodies larger to match the head, but the bodies were "stock" marionettes so that was out of the question. Curiously, ITC Films...

Answer to What did "NCC-1701" stand for?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 20:11:36 -0700

What did "NCC-1701" stand for?

Naval Construction Contract

Answer to Many of the puppets look very familiar. Were they patterned after real life actors?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 20:09:25 -0700

Many of the puppets look very familiar. Were they patterned after real life actors?

Yes, and ITC Films was never nebulous about it. Lady Penelope, for example, was sculpted to look exactly like Sylvia Anderson, Gerry Anderson's wife, as she would also be the voice of Penelope. Scott Tracy was patterned after Sean Connery. Jeff Tracy was Lorne Greene. Alan was a...

Answer to Why is John rarely seen in the show?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 20:02:11 -0700

Why is John rarely seen in the show?

After the puppet makers completed the five brothers, Producer Gerry Anderson somehow was very displeased with the looks of John. Then and there he decided John would be banished to a life of solitude on Thunderbird 5. Out of 33 episodes, John appeared in only one rescue, Danger at Ocean...

Answer to Who is the eldest of the Tracy Brothers, and who is the youngest?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 19:55:41 -0700

Who is the eldest of the Tracy Brothers, and who is the youngest?

From eldest to youngest, the Tracy brothers order is: Scott (TB-1) John (TB-5) Virgil (TB-2) Gordon (TB-4) Alan (TB-3) When you watch the opening of any television episode, this is the order that the boys are introduced. In the movie "Thunderbirds Are Go", they are...

Answer to What does "F. A. B." stand for?

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 19:51:51 -0700

What does "F. A. B." stand for?

"F.A.B." was what each character said at the end of any radio transmission, to acknowledge the instructions were received. Of course, this caused viewers to speculate what the letters stood for, since they never revealed it on the show. In fact, F.A.B. didn't stand for...

Answer to How many Postmaster Generals does it take to change a light bulb?

Wed, 22 Sep 2004 22:54:58 -0700

How many Postmaster Generals does it take to change a light bulb?

None. The average light bulb lasts longer than the average Postmaster General.

Answer to Where is the Simpsons' "Springfield" supposed to be?

Wed, 22 Sep 2004 22:52:55 -0700

Where is the Simpsons' "Springfield" supposed to be?

Marge Simpson was interviewed by Rolling Stone Magazine, and this very question came up. And her answer: "I'm saving that one for my 60 minutes interview." That's the best we're gonna' get to a true answer.

Answer to What was the biggest Star Trek "goof"?

Wed, 22 Sep 2004 22:43:47 -0700

What was the biggest Star Trek "goof"?

When it comes to Star Trek, you can often find holes big enough to fly a starship through. But by far, the most glaring of all gaffes happened in the movie "The Wrath of Kahn." Chekov and the Captain of the USS Reliant beam down to planet Ceti Alpha 5, and to their shock find...

Answer to Why is Vulcan blood green?

Wed, 22 Sep 2004 22:34:24 -0700

Why is Vulcan blood green?

According to Dr. McCoy, Vulcan blood is based on copper (as opposed to iron in human blood), and that is why it is green, This also accounts for Vulcan skin being yellow.

Answer to What is "The Warp Factor?"

Wed, 22 Sep 2004 22:30:33 -0700

What is "The Warp Factor?"

Basically, it is the Speed of Light multiplied to the factor stated. For example, Warp Factor One is the speed of light. Warp Factor Two is the speed of light times the speed of light. Warp Factor Three is the speed of light X the speed of light X the speed of light. And so on... The...

Answer to What's the difference between a "trekkie" and a "trekker"?

Fri, 10 Sep 2004 00:07:55 -0700

What's the difference between a "trekkie" and a "trekker"?

"Trekkers" are fans of Star Trek because of what the show represents. They are facincated by the ideas Roddenberry postulated. "Trekkies" are no different than fans of any other television show. They want autographs, trivia, memorabilia, and so on. They care more about...

Answer to On Ebay, why do some sellers price items for one cent? A lot of these auctions end without the price going up, so what's the point?

Wed, 01 Sep 2004 22:46:12 -0700

On Ebay, why do some sellers price items for one cent? A lot of these auctions end without the price going up, so what's the point?

It is a clever sales tactic. Ebay will, with the click of a mouse, sort auctions from Lowest price to Highest price. If you start at one cent, voila! Your auctions shows up first, which gives it more exposure to shoppers.

Answer to I have a PayPal and Ebay account. How do I receive money from a buyer on Ebay using PayPal?

Wed, 01 Sep 2004 22:42:42 -0700

I have a PayPal and Ebay account. How do I receive money from a buyer on Ebay using PayPal?

First, make sure you state in your auction that you accept PayPal. Since you mentioned you already have a PayPal account, you will discover that PayPal will automatically add a link to your auctions that the winning bidder can click to go directly to PayPal. PayPal is very good at saving you a...

Answer to Do modern locomotives have air conditioning and/or lavatory facilities for the driver?

Mon, 30 Aug 2004 22:22:03 -0700

Do modern locomotives have air conditioning and/or lavatory facilities for the driver?

The answer to both is "sometimes" and "yes". As for air conditioning, generally only roads that cross desert climates will add airconditioning. It is not standard equipment. As for lavatories, there is a toilet in the nose of the locomotive. I am taking the term...

Answer to What did SPECTER stand for?

Sun, 22 Aug 2004 22:55:38 -0700

What did SPECTER stand for?

SPecial Executive for Control, Terrorism, Extortion, and Revenge.

Answer to Why was Japan bombed with two atom bombs? Wasn't one enough?

Thu, 12 Aug 2004 17:06:47 -0700

Why was Japan bombed with two atom bombs? Wasn't one enough?

Worthy of note is the U.S. had only two atomic bombs with which to bomb Japan. Truman really was gambling that Japan would surrender after the second bomb. Part of his haste in bombing Nagasaki was to insure Japan really would give up. Bombing both cities so close together in time gave the...

Answer to What is a shoo-fly?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:27:57 -0700

What is a shoo-fly?

A temporary track laid around an obstruction.

Answer to What is a saw-by?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:27:27 -0700

What is a saw-by?

A maneuver by which two trains can meet at a siding which is too short to hold either.

Answer to What is a rip track?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:26:46 -0700

What is a rip track?

A track in a yard where minor car repairs are done.

Answer to What is an extra?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:25:43 -0700

What is an extra?

A train not authorized by a timetable schedule

Answer to What is an on the advertised?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:24:55 -0700

What is an on the advertised?

On time

Answer to What is a gandy dancer?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:24:17 -0700

What is a gandy dancer?

A track worker.

Answer to What is a deadhead?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:23:43 -0700

What is a deadhead?

1. A passenger train moving without passengers aboard. 2. A passenger or railroad employee traveling on a free pass.

Answer to What is a cornfield meet?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:22:15 -0700

What is a cornfield meet?

Head-on collision. Term is derived from the fact that such collisions happen "out in the cornfields" away from stations or sidings.

Answer to What is a hostler?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:20:19 -0700

What is a hostler?

A workman who services locomotives between runs. Though trained in the craft of operating a locomotive, a hostler is not permitted to operate the locomotive out of a yard or pull a train with it.

Answer to What is a hogger?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:19:02 -0700

What is a hogger?

An engineer

Answer to What is a high iron?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:18:44 -0700

What is a high iron?

The main line

Answer to What is a pantograph?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:18:15 -0700

What is a pantograph?

A current pickup device resemblin a folding clotheshorse for electric locomotives and cars.

Answer to What is a catenary?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:17:26 -0700

What is a catenary?

Overhead trolley wire system for locomotives and cars that use pantographs for current collection

Answer to What is a bad order?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:16:34 -0700

What is a bad order?

Defective, out of order

Answer to What is a reefer?

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 21:15:59 -0700

What is a reefer?

A refrigerator car

Answer to What are points?

Sat, 10 Jul 2004 15:34:27 -0700

What are points?

The moveable rails of a turnout.

Answer to Will installing a larger motor in a locomotive allow it to pull more cars?

Sat, 10 Jul 2004 15:33:03 -0700

Will installing a larger motor in a locomotive allow it to pull more cars?

No, but a larger motor (assuming there is room for one within the shell) is much less likely to burn out because it can withstand more heat. Larger motors are also smoother running. A locomotive's weight is the key factor in pulling power. If your engine isn't pulling very much,...

Answer to Where is the largest model railroad I can visit?

Fri, 02 Jul 2004 21:20:23 -0700

Where is the largest model railroad I can visit?

If, in your opinion, a train is a train is a train, then the largest model train exhibit in the world is "Northlanz", with its 8 actual miles of HO track and 100+ trains running at one time. It is located in Flemington, NJ. Visit www.northlandz.com. If realistic scenery and...

Answer to What is the smallest model railroad I can build?

Fri, 02 Jul 2004 21:11:13 -0700

What is the smallest model railroad I can build?

The best way to answer the question would be to have you visit this web site; it deals with the hobby of "micro layouts": www.carendt.us

Answer to Can I build an HO scale model railroad in my backyard? What should I know beforehand?

Fri, 02 Jul 2004 21:08:57 -0700

Can I build an HO scale model railroad in my backyard? What should I know beforehand?

Yes, but keep a few things in mind: 1. HO trains are too light to stay on floating roadbed (the way LGB trains do), so you must use some type of solid roadbed, like concrete, that the track can be rigidly fastened to. 2. The track is not protected from damage from the weather, so you have...

Answer to When selling on eBay, what should I know in order to get the highest price possible?

Mon, 21 Jun 2004 21:51:45 -0700

When selling on eBay, what should I know in order to get the highest price possible?

You do whatever you can think of to get as many people to click on your auction as possible. Generaly, shoppers are looking for a specific thing, but if they "just happen" upon another great item (yours), they'll stop, look, and even bid. The more bidders you get, the higher the...

Answer to Do networks collect money from NASCAR car sponsors for the amount of time their logo is televised during a race?

Fri, 18 Jun 2004 08:25:49 -0700

Do networks collect money from NASCAR car sponsors for the amount of time their logo is televised during a race?

No. The contract is just between the race team and the sponsor. If the sponsor wants to advertise on TV as well, he has to buy air time. As a rule, television pretty much keeps to covering the 5 leading cars. That means a lousy race team who is always near the back of the pack won't get...

Answer to My pit bull just killed my neighbor's two-year-old! What do I do now?

Fri, 18 Jun 2004 08:14:43 -0700

My pit bull just killed my neighbor's two-year-old! What do I do now?

Kaliganges information can only help, not hurt, the pit bull owner in his legal defense. Be sure to use the statements in his answer in court: Pit Bulls are ONLY aggressive against other dogs. The stereotype that they are dangerous is a myth. Remember, you can beat jail time ONLY if you can...

Answer to What is a frog?

Tue, 11 May 2004 20:14:45 -0700

What is a frog?

name given to the part of the turnout that comes to a point where the tracks diverge.

Answer to Why are some locomotives noisier than others?

Tue, 11 May 2004 20:08:16 -0700

Why are some locomotives noisier than others?

"Noise" is the result of improperly meshing gears. Typical model geartrains involve a worm mounted to the motor shaft. As the worm spins, it rotates the worm gear. There is supposed to be a small amount of space between the teeth of the worm and the worm gear; a space called...

Answer to What causes motors to burn out? How can I prevent this?

Tue, 11 May 2004 19:27:21 -0700

What causes motors to burn out? How can I prevent this?

A Direct Current electric motor heats up when it is drawing more current than it can dissipate. If a model locomotive is pulling too many cars, or is climbing a grade, the motor has to draw extra current to do the work. If the motor gets too hot from this excessive load, either the motor...

Answer to My cat always throws up hairballs. Is there anything I can give her to help her stop?

Mon, 03 May 2004 20:06:48 -0700

My cat always throws up hairballs. Is there anything I can give her to help her stop?

A natural and effective way to stop hairballs is to administer malt to the cat. Malt makes the hair digestible and harmlessly moves it throught the cat's digestive system. Typically, a cat will not eat malt, but you can usually find gels at your pet supply store that contain malt and...

Answer to Which wetting agent works best for N scale ballast?

Thu, 22 Apr 2004 21:49:21 -0700

Which wetting agent works best for N scale ballast?

For N scale, you should use alcohol and water. Water and detergent won't penetrate the finer sand used in N scale.

Answer to What is a bonding agent?

Thu, 22 Apr 2004 21:33:06 -0700

What is a bonding agent?

Mixture of glue and water used to cement down powders, foams,and gravel. Popular mixes are a 4 parts water to one part acrylic matte medium; 1 part white glue to 1 part water; 1 part carpenter's wood glue to 2 parts water.

Answer to What is a wetting agent?

Thu, 22 Apr 2004 21:30:31 -0700

What is a wetting agent?

Solution used to prepare powders and gravels for bonding on a model railroad. Without it, glue will not penetrate the material. Wetting agent is usually a quart of water with a few drops of liquid detergent added, or a 50/50 mix of alcohol and water.

Answer to What is a ballast?

Thu, 22 Apr 2004 21:27:52 -0700

What is a ballast?

A term that refers to a layer of crushed rock spread over the track and roadbed. This rock can be stone, coke, or cinder, depending on the stresses the track is expected to withstand and which material is most easily obtainable. In modeling, ballast is simulated with very fine gravel.

Answer to What is a roadbed?

Thu, 22 Apr 2004 21:24:55 -0700

What is a roadbed?

In the prototype, it is the substrate of gravel that raises the track above grouond level to permit both drainage and supports the track when at peak stress point. In modeling, this is usually a thin layer of wood or cork upon which the track is attached. The roadbed is then covered with ballast.

Answer to Why is a pit stop called a pit stop?

Wed, 21 Apr 2004 21:14:38 -0700

Why is a pit stop called a pit stop?

When racing was in its infancy, drivers and mechanics discovered that it was quicker and easier to just dig out a narrow pit for working on the underside of the race car rather that raising the car on jacks. Practically every car had a pit at its disposal, so the repair area naturally became...

Answer to What do drivers mean when they say a car is "loose"?

Sat, 10 Apr 2004 21:03:43 -0700

What do drivers mean when they say a car is "loose"?

They are referring to the car's ability to take corners at speed. If the driver turns the wheel and the car still wants to go in a straight line, he says the car is "tight", also called "pushing" or "understeer". If the driver turns the wheel and car tends to...

Answer to Does Dodge run their HEMI engine in NASCAR? Why or why not?

Sat, 10 Apr 2004 20:55:19 -0700

Does Dodge run their HEMI engine in NASCAR? Why or why not?

No. NASCAR mandates that all cars be built exactly the same, or to "a single spec." That includes the cylinder heads, and because only Dodge has the HEMI, it can't be used. But another reason the HEMI is not used is because Dodge does not make the HEMI in the correct engine...

Answer to How do I get the smell of cigarette smoke out of my vehicle?

Sat, 10 Apr 2004 20:35:53 -0700

How do I get the smell of cigarette smoke out of my vehicle?

I get good results using "Febreeze" for automobiles. You spray it on the fabric upholstery, carpet and headliner, and as it dries it removes the odor.

Answer to How many books are in the Bible?

Mon, 01 Mar 2004 19:10:13 -0800

How many books are in the Bible?

If you are Jewish, then there are 39 books in the Old Testament. If you are a Protestant Christian, then you accept all the books of the Old Testament, plus the 27 books of the New Testament, for a total of 66 books. If you are Catholic, then you accept all 66 books mentioned above, plus...

Answer to What does "Pole" mean in NASCAR racing?

Fri, 13 Feb 2004 19:49:37 -0800

What does "Pole" mean in NASCAR racing?

Strictly speaking, "Pole Position" (or "Pole" for short) is the most favorable starting point in a race. In NASCAR, that means starting at the front row, left side. That is because all turns are left turns, and thus the left side starting position would be the fastest. ...

Answer to If a NASCAR driver finished last in every race of the season, how much money would he make?

Fri, 13 Feb 2004 19:43:29 -0800

If a NASCAR driver finished last in every race of the season, how much money would he make?

$2,266,374. That may seem like a lot of money for losing every race, but don't forget that the team probably spent a lot more than that just to participate in every race. In other words, they lost more money than they earned.

Answer to How much money do sponsors pay to get their logo on a NASCAR race car?

Fri, 13 Feb 2004 19:40:08 -0800

How much money do sponsors pay to get their logo on a NASCAR race car?

As of 2004, a race team is generally charging $10 million to put an ad on the car's hood for an entire season. $10 million is also the price for putting an ad on the rear fenders. Too rich for your blood? You can put your corporate logo on the trunk lid for a mere $3.5 million.

Answer to How much money does a NASCAR driver get if he wins a race?

Fri, 13 Feb 2004 19:36:28 -0800

How much money does a NASCAR driver get if he wins a race?

Prize money for taking first place varies with each event. I can tell you this much, though: If a driver took first place in every race in a given season, who would have earned a total of $9,059,505. Of course, said driver would undoubtedly also be the leader in season points standing, thus...

Answer to What is the most effective method of track cleaning?

Fri, 23 Jan 2004 20:48:24 -0800

What is the most effective method of track cleaning?

There are only two ways to clean the rails and thus insure reliable electrical contact: chemically and rubbing it off. Both work, but the chemical methods do not scratch up the rails the way abrasive cleaning blocks do. Goo-Gone, available in grocery stores, has received widespread praise...

Answer to How much horsepower is produced by a NASCAR racing engine?

Fri, 23 Jan 2004 00:56:39 -0800

How much horsepower is produced by a NASCAR racing engine?

Based on various web sites by the race teams themselves, the engines put out between 750 and 775 hp.

Answer to Who decides which race team gets which pit area? The pit sequence never seems to be in the same order as the quailifying order.

Fri, 23 Jan 2004 00:53:51 -0800

Who decides which race team gets which pit area? The pit sequence never seems to be in the same order as the quailifying order.

After qualifying is completed, the driver who earned "pole position" gets first choice at which pit area he wants. Each driver in turn, based on starting position, then selects their pit area from what is left. The very last driver, obviously, doesn't have a choice. Typically,...

Answer to How can I estimate what a dealer will offer me for my trade-in?

Fri, 23 Jan 2004 00:43:45 -0800

How can I estimate what a dealer will offer me for my trade-in?

It's too difficult to "estimate" because what he offers for your trade is negotiable. At the start of the negotiating, the dealer will quote one offer for your trade. As the "dealing" moves along, the offer may go up, but so will the price of the car your buying.

Answer to Is it possible (and legal) to make beer at home without heavy equipment?

Wed, 21 Jan 2004 19:59:12 -0800

Is it possible (and legal) to make beer at home without heavy equipment?

Yes. You can purchase kits that permit you to brew about four gallons of beer at a time. The equipment takes no more space than a five gallon drum. It is legal to brew your own beer as long as it is for your own personal consumption and not sold. There is also a limit to how many gallons...

Answer to What are the symptoms of a dirty PCV?

Mon, 29 Dec 2003 23:19:25 -0800

What are the symptoms of a dirty PCV?

Excessive black smoke is the most obvious symptom, followed by loss of power. It can also cause oil to blow back into the PCV filter or through the head covers, but then again, so could bad rings. "Dirty" Positive Crankcase Ventilation is not as likely as just plain failure of the...

Answer to What are school vouchers, and why are they controversial?

Sat, 20 Dec 2003 21:44:57 -0800

What are school vouchers, and why are they controversial?

A third reason they are controversial is because they directly address the fact that public schools are funded by tax payer money, and yet the tax payer has little to no "say so" in what is taught in a public school. Vouchers permit parents to change schools if they disagree with the...

Answer to How did Matt Kenseth become Winston Cup Champion when he won only one race all season?

Mon, 08 Dec 2003 22:43:11 -0800

How did Matt Kenseth become Winston Cup Champion when he won only one race all season?

NASCAR points system is designed to reward consistency, not the most victories. Kenseth had only one first place finish in 2003, but almost always finished in the top ten, and in half the races he was in the top five. He also never suffered from car failure. This consistent effort not only...

Answer to Which driver in NASCAR has won the most prize money in his career?

Mon, 08 Dec 2003 22:35:28 -0800

Which driver in NASCAR has won the most prize money in his career?

Jeff Gordon has the highest career winnings: $54,833,889. Second after Gordon is the late Dale Earnhardt, who won $41,742,384. Third is Dale Jarrett: $40,111,037. Note that these figures represent prize money only, which is a matter of public record. NASCAR drivers, like other sports...

Answer to Where did Howard Stern go to college, and what did he get his degree in?

Mon, 08 Dec 2003 22:03:31 -0800

Where did Howard Stern go to college, and what did he get his degree in?

His degree was in Communication.

Answer to With PriorityMail, where do I drop it off? Do I deposit it in the blue mail drop off boxes along the road or do I have to go to my post office?

Sat, 15 Nov 2003 21:07:43 -0800

With PriorityMail, where do I drop it off? Do I deposit it in the blue mail drop off boxes along the road or do I have to go to my post office?

Any package, regardless of "priority", dropped in a drop off box is returned to the sender. This is the new policy of the Postal Service regarding parcels. We have 911 and the unabomber to thank for that. To answer your question, you must either go to a post office or, if from your...

Answer to Which make of car has the most first place finishes in Grand National Racing?

Sat, 25 Oct 2003 21:47:23 -0700

Which make of car has the most first place finishes in Grand National Racing?

As of the end of the 2002 NASCAR season, the answer is Ford (sorry, Chevy fans. You came close!) Listed below are the "lifetime" achievement awards in order of most first place finishes, and how many, from NASCAR's creation in 1947 until 2002: FORD: 536 CHEVROLET: 505 ...

Answer to Has an imported automobile ever raced in NASCAR?

Fri, 24 Oct 2003 21:02:36 -0700

Has an imported automobile ever raced in NASCAR?

Remember that NASCAR envelops many types of stock car racing. One type is the "Goody Dash Series", where Toyotas and Datsuns race against Vegas and Monzas. This series will be discontinued in 2003. However, if you're asking about Winston Cup Grand National racing, then the...

Answer to I want to change my battery. Is there any special way I have to do it, or do I just take the bolts off the negative and positive posts and replace the battery?

Fri, 24 Oct 2003 20:51:59 -0700

I want to change my battery. Is there any special way I have to do it, or do I just take the bolts off the negative and positive posts and replace the battery?

Sigma6 is correct, but just to be on the SAFE side, you should remove the negative cable FIRST, THEN positive cable. When you install the new battery, attach the POSITIVE cable first, then attach the NEGATIVE cable. As an added note, avoid the temptation to overtighten lead connections....

Answer to How big are the engines in a racing Stock Car?

Sun, 19 Oct 2003 20:59:06 -0700

How big are the engines in a racing Stock Car?

358 cubic inches.

Answer to How fast can a NASCAR car really go?

Thu, 16 Oct 2003 21:34:18 -0700

How fast can a NASCAR car really go?

Bill Elliot, in 1987, set the all time speed record in qualifying at Daytona: 210.364 mph. He later set the all time speed record at Talladega that same year: 212.809 mph. "Awesome Bill from Dawsonville" set these speed records in a Ford Thunderbird.

Answer to What is a decoder?

Mon, 21 Jul 2003 21:50:09 -0700

What is a decoder?

Used in DCC, this device is placed inside a locomotive. It receives the signal being sent through the rails from throttle, and then translates the signal to the motor. It looks like a tiny PC board, and works much like the receiver in a R/C car. The difference is that instead of radio waves,...

Answer to What is a code?

Mon, 21 Jul 2003 21:43:35 -0700

What is a code?

The height of model rail in thousandths of an inch. Thus, "code 100" rail is .100 inches tall; "code 83" rail is .083 inches tall, and "code 55" rail is .055 inches tall. Modelers use different codes on their layouts to represent different types of track. Code 100...

Answer to What is a Digital Command Control?

Thu, 17 Jul 2003 20:57:40 -0700

What is a Digital Command Control?

Or "DCC" for short, is the latest technology in model trains whereby independent control of each locomotive is accomplished through separate control frequencies through the rails. Each locomotive must be equipped with what is called a "decoder", and preprogrammed to receive...

Answer to What is a scale?

Wed, 16 Jul 2003 21:19:51 -0700

What is a scale?

The relationship between the model and the item being modeled. For example, when we say "HO scale", we mean 1/87 of the prototype. To put it another way, if you coupled 87 HO scale boxcars together, they would equal the length of one real boxcar.

Answer to What is a gauge?

Wed, 16 Jul 2003 21:16:06 -0700

What is a gauge?

The distance between the rails. In the prototype, that would be 4 feet, 8 and 1/2 inches, inside to inside.