When Did Chris-Craft Stop Making Wooden Boats?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Nowadays, most modern marine vessels are made from fiberglass instead of wood. Boat manufacturers quickly realized fiberglass is cheaper than wood and doesn’t require nearly as much maintenance. However, even the best paint job on a fiberglass boat can’t replicate the look of real wood.

Chris-Craft was one of the first major wooden boat manufacturers in the United States. Although most boaters prefer fiberglass vessels, the company’s mahogany models are still valuable to collectors. What makes Chris-Craft so successful today?

The history of Chris-Craft

Chris-Craft’s founder, Chris Columbus Smith, built his first boat when he was only 13 years old in 1874. His skills were already so advanced that he kept getting more work from locals in the area. With the help of his brother Hank, boat-making became his full-time job, Mahogany Bay reports.

They mainly built skiffs and punt boats but progressed to building runabout boats in 1910. That was when they founded the Chris Smith & Sons Boat Company, known then as the Smith Ryan Boat Company. Chris’s son Jay became president of the company in 1927 when demand for mahogany boats was at its highest.

During the Great Depression, Chris-Craft’s primarily wealthy consumers stopped buying boats, so the company went back to producing low-priced roundabouts. It was also responsible for producing over 12,000 patrol boats for the Navy during World War II, Chris-Craft explains.

By the 1950s, after producing 139 wooden powerboats, the company built its first fiberglass and steel models. The last mahogany Chris-Craft boat, the Constellation, debuted in 1971. Soon after, the company shifted back to making sports boats. That’s what helped the business gain traction in the 1920s.

Despite this change in direction, the quality of the boats didn’t decrease, and customers were happy to continue supporting Chris-Craft. The company changed hands through a few investment companies at the turn of the century before Winnebago bought it. Today, Chris-Craft manufactures five models, ranging from affordable cruisers to high-end luxury vessels.

Prized Chris-Craft models

One of the rarest and most iconic pre-war Chris-Craft models is the Sportsman 25. It had a limited production run of only 25 models and measured 25 feet long. Most had green leather upholstery and green linoleum flooring.

Buyers could choose from five engines, the most powerful producing 223 hp. The Sportsman 25 offered up to three rows of seating and was built with the company’s signature Honduras mahogany.

Chris-Craft’s last mahogany boat, the Constellation, was much larger at 40 feet long, Boats & Places explains. Though it wasn’t speedy, the twin 400-hp engine was powerful enough to hull a ship full of cargo. This boat had three levels, with a cockpit furnished entirely in mahogany.

The Constellation’s master stateroom housed the fuel tanks and featured two wooden beds built atop to maximize space. The salon and galley featured wide windows and plenty of headroom for passengers. An additional lounge space for more guests was located in the V-berth.

How much does one of these wooden vessels cost today?

According to Boating magazine, a wooden Chris-Craft boat in decent condition can sell for $20,000. However, most Chris-Craft models on the market have been meticulously restored, inflating their prices. A 19-foot vessel might sell for $40,000, but some 25-footers can fetch over $120,000.

Chris-Craft Constellation models are relatively more affordable, ranging from $20,000 to around $75,000. For perspective, the Constellation retailed for $35,190 upon release. In addition to beautiful craftsmanship, Chris-Craft’s wooden boats still hold up and can be used on the water today.

RELATED: You Can Saw Your Boston Whaler Boat in Half Without Sinking It

The post When Did Chris-Craft Stop Making Wooden Boats? appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

The 2 Best Used Toyota Camry Models Under $20,000 According to Consumer Reports

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Toyota Camry isn’t exactly a showstopper, but it’s still an attractive, practical car. This best-selling midsize sedan has always offered a smooth ride, decent fuel economy, and plenty of legroom and headroom for five adults. However, buying a brand-new Camry might be too heavy on your wallet. Purchasing a used model can help you stay within your budget.

But with so many used vehicles to choose from, how do you decide which is best? Here are two Consumer Reports-approved Toyota Camry models you can get for $15,000 to $20,000.

Consumer Reports recommends these used Toyota Camry models

Both the 2016 and 2017 Toyota Camry get Consumer Reports‘ nod in “Best Used Cars and SUVs for $15,000 to $20,000.” The 2016 model costs around $15,775 to $19,925. And the 2017 version starts at about $18,100. However, if you opt for a higher-end trim, you might pay a bit over $20,000. 

Both model years offer the same roominess in the front and back seats, along with above-average handling and ride quality. But what sets these two models apart from older years are improvements Toyota made. 

They boast an easy-to-use touchscreen, enhanced noise control, and better crash-test ratings. Also, fuel economy is among the best in the segment. The 2016 and 2017 Toyota Camry get 19 mpg in the city, an impressive 38 on the highway, and 28 mpg overall. 

What do the 2016 and 2017 Toyota Camry models offer?

Consumer Reports has only a few complaints about the 2016 and the 2017 Toyota Camry models. One is that acceleration times aren’t as good as some rivals. Both models reached 60 mph speed in 8.6 seconds. Also, the 2016 version had some issues with its smog rating, with a 5 out of 10. The 2017 model saw a slight increase to 6/10. 

CR has plenty of praise for both, though. Each earned 5/5 in predicted reliability and 4/5 in owner satisfaction. And though their 2.5-liter four-cylinder motor, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, generates only 173 hp, it gets the job done. Even the 3.5-liter V6, producing 268 hp, is surprisingly fuel-efficient, CR notes. 

When it comes to comfort and convenience, the Toyota Camry also earns above-average scores. Cargo capacity in both models is 15.4 cubic feet, spacious enough for four large suitcases. Cloth upholstery comes standard, but leather is available. 

Other vehicles on Consumer Reports’ list

Toyota has several models on the list besides the Camry. For $15,775 to $18,050, you can also get a 2017 Corolla, earning top ratings for reliability. Or you can pick a 2016 Prius, 2018 Prius C, 2017 Prius Prime, or 2016 Prius V. 

Among large cars, you can get a 2015 Toyota Avalon for about $16,300. As for midsize SUVs, you’ll find a Toyota 2011 4Runner and a 2014 Highlander for about $16,900.

If you’re interested in a luxury car, several cost less than $20,000. Choose from a 2013 to 2015 Lexus ES, 2013 GS, and 2011 to 2012 LS, which you can get for $16,100 to $18,750. Acura has a few on the list as well. For example, you can find a 2015 TLX for as little as $17,275. You might even get lucky and find one with the large tech package.

But if a Toyota Camry is on your shopping list and you’re not sure if you can afford a brand-new one, consider a used model. The 2016 and 2017 models offer the best value. 

RELATED: Consumer Reports Confirms the Toyota Camry Is Still the Midsize Sedan to Beat

The post The 2 Best Used Toyota Camry Models Under $20,000 According to Consumer Reports appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

The 2022 GMC Sierra Just Gained V8 Power

by Gabrielle DeSantis

We just learned exciting news about the upcoming 2022 GMC Sierra AT4. Along with providing the GMC Sierra with more off-roading capabilities, the new AT4 model could have an optional diesel powertrain. It would be the only full-sized off-roading truck with a diesel engine available in the market aside from the Ram Rebel. 

The 2022 GMC Sierra AT4 gains diesel power 

2021 GMC Sierra | GMC

According to Pickup Truck News, the 2022 GMC Sierra AT4 is gaining a powerful V8 diesel engine. The 5.3-liter V8 diesel engine provides 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Also, General Motors mentioned that the engine will offer an extra 37 lb-ft of torque, meaning it could have close to 500 lb-ft of torque! That’s a lot of power. 

The 2021 Sierra 1500 can tow up to 12,200 lbs when properly equipped. It can also carry a payload of up to 2,280 lbs. It’s currently unclear how much the AT4 will be able to tow when equipped with the diesel engine. 

The diesel engine is expected to be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. You can speculate that this truck will have an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined. That’s pretty good for a sizeable off-roading truck. 

What to expect with the Sierra AT4

The 2022 GMC Sierra AT4 will receive an updated look to match its increased off-roading prowess. It’s safe to expect a wider stance. Plus, it will receive an additional two inches of ground clearance. 

Its face will gain a dark chrome grille and possibly revised LED headlights. The bumper also looks a little more aggressive. The rear end could incorporate new tail light and bumper designs as well. 

New styling elements include blacked-out exterior features, red tow hooks, and AT4 badging. There are standard 18-inch wheels, but you can upgrade to 20-inch wheels. The General Motors tuned suspension includes an Eaton rear locking differential and Rancho shocks. 

What are the Sierra AT4’s features like? 

A black 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 parked in gravel in front of a lake
2021 GMC Sierra AT4 | GMC

The new 2022 GMC Sierra AT4 includes a premium interior with dark accents and luxurious leather seats. There are more high-quality materials than you’ll find in the base model. The 15-inch head-up display is one of the most anticipated features. 

Along with providing crucial driver information, the head-up display includes an inclinometer. This will allow you to see how level your truck is climbing up and over obstacles. We wonder if a forward-facing trail cam or 360 degrees camera view will also be included. 

The Sierra 1500 AT4 includes a new traction select system with off-road driving modes. Hill-start assist and hill descent control modes are included as well. Optional driver safety and assistance features may include blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. 

However, the 2022 Sierra AT4 model will not include the General Motors Super Cruise system. So, you won’t have the semi-autonomous driving feature, but that might not be a deal-breaker. This technology is still being mapped out. 

The Sierra 1500 AT4 will begin at around $56,000. This is a pretty good price for a full-sized off-roading truck. It may arrive at dealerships during the second half of 2021, and we can’t wait to learn more.

The post The 2022 GMC Sierra Just Gained V8 Power appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

Your Motorcycle Clutch Cable Could Use an Adjustment

by Gabrielle DeSantis

From the throttle body to the ignition system, many mechanical motorcycle components have been supplanted by electronic ones. And, to be fair, in many cases, that’s to the benefit of riders. But even on some new bikes, a few mechanical parts remain, such as the clutch cable. And just like any other motorcycle part, even if it isn’t broken, it still requires periodic maintenance.

What does a motorcycle clutch cable do?

2012 Triumph Street Triple R clutch lever | Matthew Skwarczek

Although motorcycle and car transmissions aren’t identical, they share several similarities. That includes, in the case of manual models, a clutch that allows the rider to shift gears. It’s just that, apart from some antique models, motorcycles have clutch levers rather than pedals. And rather than a single friction disc, motorcycle clutches have stacks of several smaller discs to make packaging easier, Motorcyclist explains.

Whether you’re talking about a clutch lever or a pedal, though, the basic operating principle is the same. Pulling on the lever disengages the clutch’s friction discs, some of which are driven by the engine, from each other via a pressure plate, Cycle World explains. This mechanically separates the engine’s flywheel and transmission and lets you shift gears. Once you’ve selected the gear you want, you smoothly open the throttle and release the clutch lever. The friction discs re-engage, and the bike keeps going.

A closeup view of the clutch cable and lever on a 2012 Triumph Street Triple R
2012 Triumph Street Triple R clutch cable closeup | Matthew Skwarczek

This is where the clutch cable comes in. It’s typically made of braided steel and is held under tension between the clutch lever and a bracket by the engine. And it’s the clutch cable that transmits force between the lever and the pressure plate. Pulling and releasing the lever moves the cable and thus the plate.

Why is adjustment necessary?

Not every motorcycle has a clutch cable. Some bikes use hydraulically-operated clutches, RevZilla notes, which work like the ones found on cars. Instead of a clutch cable, these bikes link the lever and pressure plate via pressurized fluid. It’s a more complex and expensive setup, but it has several benefits over a cable-operated system, Motorcyclist reports. Namely, hydraulic systems don’t require as much upkeep.

Clutch cables might be made of metal, but like any cable, they stretch over time, creating slack. Friction plate wear also creates slack; adjusting the handlebars can, too. And a slack cable makes shifting and finding bite points more difficult. Plus, if the clutch cable is slack enough, you won’t be able to work the clutch at all.

RELATED: The Honda Africa Twin DCT Is an Eye-Opening Experience

However, too little slack is also a problem. Too much cable tension prevents the friction discs from properly engaging, Motorcyclist reports. This leads to glazed discs which can’t grip each other securely. That leads to clutch slip, reducing performance and eventually preventing any power from reaching your rear wheel, BikeBandit explains.

How do you adjust a motorcycle clutch cable?

RELATED: Should You Upgrade Your Motorcycle Suspension?

However, before any of that happens, you can adjust the clutch cable to the correct level of tension. And all you need is a wrench and a ruler or a tape measure.

The first step is measuring your clutch cable’s free-play. To do this, gently pull on the clutch lever until you just feel it engaging. Then, measure the distance between the back of the lever and the perch, as shown in the video above. If the free-play falls outside of the manufacturer’s recommended setting, your clutch cable needs adjustment.

The locknut adjuster on a 2012 Triumph Street Triple R
2012 Triumph Street Triple R clutch cable locknut adjuster | Matthew Skwarczek

RELATED: What’s Different About Car and Motorcycle Maintenance?

A typical motorcycle clutch cable has two adjusters: a fine one by the lever and a locknut one by the engine. If you’re only slightly outside the recommended free-play range, the fine adjuster should suffice. Moving/turning it in increases free-play and moving/turning it out decreases it.

The locknut adjuster comes into play when the fine adjuster isn’t enough. Moving it towards the lever by loosening the front nut and tightening the rear one increases free-play. And moving the adjuster away from the lever by doing the opposite decreases free-play.

When it’s time to replace the cable

A motorcycle clutch cable might be adjustable, but only to a point. As shown in the photos above, the nuts on the locknut adjuster only have so much room to move. Ditto the fine adjuster by the lever. If they’re at their limits and you still need more tension, you need a new clutch cable. And naturally, a broken or frayed cable needs to be replaced, too.

RELATED: Can You Hook a Motorcycle up to an OBD-II Scanner?

Speaking of breaking, it doesn’t just happen to old cables. Your motorcycle clutch cable needs periodic lubrication and cleaning to protect it and make it sure works smoothly. It’s possible to do that without removing the cable from the bike, but it’s less messy if you do, Motorcyclist reports. And there are dedicated tools that make the job easier.

Follow more updates from MotorBiscuit on our Facebook page.

The post Your Motorcycle Clutch Cable Could Use an Adjustment appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by