What we call the “Entry Exam”

The very first jump of the day, with maybe 10 more throughout the day.

u/estunum — 3 days ago
▲ 3 r/CarAV

Is Optical Output worth it?

I currently have an Alpine iLX-F509 purchased in 2022 that I’m very happy with. I wish the screen was a little faster, and had less glare but those are tiny problems. In looking at what’s new, seems car audio tech doesn’t move as fast as smartphone tech, and there doesn’t seem to be anything revolutionary new over what I currently have.

I was looking at the Kenwood DMX1058XR and one feature stood out; the optical audio out. Minor upgrades are a faster screen and a bonded screen which should help with glare. I have a Helix V Eight DSP amp for my 4 channels. My assumption is that it would be much happier with optical vs RCAs. Question is if it’s worth the investment?

For reference, this is what else I have in the system:

BLAM components up front
Hertz coaxials in the rear
Two Alpine R2 8” subs, powered by an Alpine R-A75M

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u/estunum — 1 month ago

Next best thing to a big brake kit

I run heavy, so decided to try high carbon rotors as I tend to warp OE or equivalent rotors. Previous Centric rotors did well but eventually warped some as well.

Only 500 miles in, but have been absolutely fantastic. I’ll admit, while the weight of the truck (5.8K lbs empty) factors in, my driving habits don’t help.

u/estunum — 2 months ago

https://preview.redd.it/kjohew4co5zg1.jpg?width=5712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d9e4f939d6d11b4ea2fc6363e20052df5fa4add8

In waiting for a sale, I ended up paying full price as I really needed it yesterday. The long reach was a dream on my lifted truck. Had to change the rotors and pads and I've always fumbled through with my SafeJack so got annoyed and just went over and bought it. Considering the cross beam, looks like it'll be perfect for my cross member as the center is slightly obstructed with a skid plate.

I know the 4 ton is coming up on the deal of the day, but willing to pay extra for those 4.25". I almost got one actually, there was an open box for $200

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u/estunum — 2 months ago

2020 Nissan Frontier. These were replaced at a shop about 15K miles ago. They use OE or OE equivalent, so not sure what exactly went on there. Steering wheel vibrates when braking which suggests warping but given the mileage and how much pad I have left seems too soon.

However:

I’m heavy around 5800lbs empty, GVWR is 6012 lbs so I imagine I’m essentially towing all the time.

I offroad moderately with all that weight.

I am hard on the brakes, so my driving habits definitely don’t help.

Replacing now myself, but with more towing specific parts. The kits offered don’t seem to check all the boxes so I went with Raybestos rotors and PowerStop pads, last pic. Hoping these will handle my weight, and driving habits better.

4th photo is the hub before cleaning it. I’ve never cleaned it anytime I replace rotors but recently saw a video where they say excessive junk there can cause uneven wear. Not sure if it’s a massive issue with what I had, but I took a wire brush to it anyways.

u/estunum — 2 months ago