Wednesday, December 26, 2018

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Replace a Bicycle Tire

Posted: 26 Dec 2018 04:00 PM PST

Having a flat bicycle tire can leave you stranded, but it's simple to replace the tire yourself. Usually, this just means replacing the tube inside the tire. However, you may need a new tire if it's very damaged or worn. Before you replace the tire, you'll need to take it off. Then, replace the tube and tire, if necessary. Finally, put the tire back onto the wheel.

EditSteps

EditTaking Off the Wheel

  1. Put your bicycle on its side with the chain facing up. You can't remove a tire while the bicycle is upright because it will fall over. The chain side, which is called the driving side, should always face up to avoid damaging it.

    • You can also turn the bike upside down, resting it on its handlebars. Some people don't like turning it upside down because the handlebars or seat can get damaged.[1]
    • As another option, you can invest in an upright bike stand that will hold your bicycle while you work on it. You can find these stands at some bicycle stores or online.
  2. Adjust your gears to the smallest ring if you're removing the back tire. Usually, this will be the outer gear. Setting your chain on this outer, smaller gear will make it easier to remove the rear tire.[2]

    • You don't need to adjust the gears if you're removing the front tire.
  3. Open and remove the quick release lever, if your bike has one. Look for the quick release lever at the center of your bicycle wheel. Pull up on the lever, then turn it 180 degrees to loosen it. Remove the lever from the axle and set it aside.[3]

    • If your quick release lever doesn't come off after you turn it 180 degrees, keep turning it until you can remove it.
    • If you're not sure how to remove your bicycle tire, it's best to check your bicycle manual or the manufacturer's website.
  4. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts if you don't have a quick release lever. Hook the wrench onto the nut, then turn to loosen it. Continue turning the nut until it comes off. Remove the wheel nuts on both sides of the bike.[4]

    • If you can't get the nut loose, you can spray it with WD-40 or cooking spray to make it easier to loosen it.
    • A 15mm wrench is usually the correct size for loosening the nuts on a bicycle.
  5. Detach the brake cables if necessary. In many cases, opening the quick release lever also detaches the brakes. If your model doesn't have this feature, squeeze the calipers on the brakes to release the cables.[5]

    • Check your bicycle manual or the manufacturer's website if you're having trouble detaching your brakes. Instructions vary for different bike models.
  6. Lift the wheel off the frame. Pull the tire out of the forked slot that supports it on the bicycle. You may need to slightly shift the bike tire as you remove it.[6]

    • If you're removing a back tire, you may need to lift the bicycle chain out of the way.

EditRemoving the Tire and Tube

  1. Deflate the tire completely. Loosen the cap on the air valve. If it comes completely off, set the cap aside. Release the air using the correct procedure for your air valve type. This will make it easier to remove.[7]

    • If your bicycle has a Schrader (American) valve, use a small tool, such as your wrench, to press down on the plunger inside the air valve to release the air.
    • If you have a Presta valve, unscrew and pull up on the valve cap to release the air.
    • If you have a Dunlop valve, take off the cap, then pull up on the air valve to release the air.
  2. Hook the rounded edge of a tire lever under the outer edge of your tire. This will pop up the edge of the tire, releasing it from the frame. Pull the other end of the lever down toward the spokes. Next, hook the other end of the lever onto a wheel spoke to keep the edge of the tire popped up.[8]

    • If you don't hook the other end of the lever onto a spoke, your tire will go back into place and reseal itself around the wheel.
    • The outer edge of a bicycle tire is called a "bead."
    • You can find inexpensive tire levers at a bicycle store, outdoor store, or online.
    • You may be able to remove your tire with a spoon or screwdriver, but they can damage your tire.
  3. Work a second tire lever clockwise around the circumference of the tire. Insert the second lever near the first one, then press up on the tire. Move the lever clockwise around the tire, pushing up on the tire as you go. Keep going until the entire side is loosened from the frame.[9]

  4. Pull the tube out from inside the tire. Insert your fingers under the side of the tire. Grab the tube and slide it out. When you reach the air valve, push it through the hole on the wheel frame, then continue removing the tube.[10]

    • You can discard or recycle the tube.

EditInserting a New Bicycle Tube

  1. Unwrap the tube and remove the dust cap, lock ring, and valve cover. Carefully unfold the tube, making sure you don't damage it. A dust cap and lock ring may be on your air valve, and you will need to remove them. Loosen or remove the air valve cover so you can add air to the tire.[11]

  2. Inflate the bicycle tube slightly so it will hold its shape. Putting air in the tire will also help you avoid pinching, bending, or twisting the tube as you install it. This makes it easier to install the new tube.[12]

  3. Inspect the inside wall of the tire for a puncture. Look for a sharp object that may have punctured the tire, such as a nail, thorn, or piece of glass. Use your eyes, a cloth, or a gloved finger to check the surface of the tire.[13]

    • If you find something stuck into the tire, remove it if you plan to patch the tire.
    • Don't put a new tube inside your bicycle tire without checking for a puncture. If there is an item like a thorn or nail stuck in your tire, it will likely puncture the new tube.
  4. Place the tube inside the tire. Press the tube into the tire using your fingers. The tube should follow the shape of the tire. Make sure there are no bends, twists, or kinks in the tube.[14]

    • The entire tube should be inside the tire before you proceed. If you're having trouble getting the tube fully inside, take it out and start over. You may need to let out some of the air you put in to help it hold its shape.
  5. Buy a new set of tires only if you can't repair it or the treads are worn. You can usually repair a flat just by changing the tube. However, your tire may need to be replaced if it's damaged beyond repair. This might mean a large break or puncture. It may also be beyond repair if the treads are worn down, the tire is dry rotted, or the tire is very old. If this is the case, you can buy a new set of tires from a local bike store or online.[15]
    Replace a Bicycle Tire Step 15 Version 3.jpg
    • You'll need to buy a set of tires labeled for use on your bicycle model. It's best to get them from the manufacturer.
    • Tires are sold folded up in a package. Usually, the package will contain a set of tires.
    • Always change both tires if you need to change one. Otherwise, the tires won't match and you risk having a blow out on one of them, particularly the older tire.

EditPutting Your Tire Back on Your Bike

  1. Work the tire back onto the wheel on one side. Put the air valve in the air valve hole. Then, align the outer rim on one side with the wheel. Push the rim back into place along the wheel frame.[16]

    • Check your tire for an arrow that tells you which direction the treads should face. This is called the "direction of travel." If your tire has an arrow, make sure it's facing forward. Some tires can go in either direction and won't have this arrow.
    • Don't use any tools to replace the tire. This can damage or puncture the tire or tube. Just use your fingers.
    • Use this same process to put the tire on the wheel frame whether it's the old tire or a new tire.
  2. Fit the other side of the tire back onto the wheel frame. Make sure the tube is completely under the tire. Next, put your fingers on one side of the air valve and press the tire into place. Work your way around the wheel frame, pushing the tire onto the frame. Finish over the air valve, which will be the loosest part of the tire when it's on the frame.[17]

    • Make sure there are no bulges on the tire, which could mean the tube is bunched up, twisted, or pinched.
    • You may have to use tire levers at the end of the process, but be very careful not to puncture the tube or tire.
    • Putting your tire back on the wheel can be very difficult, especially if your tire is new. However, you can get it back on with just your hands.
  3. Screw the lock ring down over your air valve if there is one. Some tubes come with a lock ring that goes down over the air valve. It will hold your tube in place on the wheel. Align the lock ring with the threads on the air valve, then screw it down.[18]
    Replace a Bicycle Tire Step 18.jpg
    • If your bike tube didn't have a lock ring, skip this step.
  4. Inflate your tire to the correct pressure level. You can use a manual or electric air pump to air up the tires. Fit your pump onto the air valve, then air up the tires. Once the tires reach the correct pressure level, put on the air valve cap.[19]

    • The correct pressure level should be listed on your tire wall. You can also check your bicycle manual or look it up online.
  5. Slide the wheel back onto the bike and replace the lever or nuts. Thread the wheel back into the forked slot that holds it in place. Then, slide the lever or metal bar that holds the wheel back into place. Tighten the easy release lever or nuts, using a wrench if necessary. Close the easy release lever, if your bike has one.[20]

    • If you fixed your back tire, you'll need to lift the chain to put it back on.
    • Check that the wheel spins freely.
  6. Reconnect the brakes if they're still detached. Press the calipers again and slide the brakes into place. Squeeze the brakes to make sure they tighten up on the wheel.[21]

    • Before you ride your bike, check the brakes again to make sure they're in correct working order.

EditVideo

EditTips

  • If you're having trouble changing your bicycle tire, visit a local bicycle shop for help. They will show you how to do it on your bike, though they may charge a small fee.
  • It's best to fix your bicycle tire on a flat surface.
  • If you can, fix your tire indoors to help keep your bike clean and make it easier for you to work.

EditWarnings

  • Never over-inflate an inner tube, as it can cause you to blow out a tire. Check your tire wall for the recommended pressure level.
  • Keep the inner tube away from hot objects. Heat can expand the tube and even cause it to explode.
  • When you remove your tires, be very careful with them so that nothing gets bent. If you accidentally damage a part on your bike, you'll likely need to repair or replace that part.
  • It's normal for your tires and tubes to deteriorate over time. Bikes kept indoors will likely need tire replacement every 10-15 years, while bikes kept outdoors will likely need tire replacement after 7 years.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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How to Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad

Posted: 26 Dec 2018 08:00 AM PST

This wikiHow teaches you what to do when one of your iPhone or iPad's microphones isn't working properly. Though there's no way to directly raise the microphone's volume, issues of quiet or muffled phones calls and recordings can usually be resolved with a few quick troubleshooting steps. If you're having trouble hearing audio, phone calls, or alert tones, see How to Increase the Volume on your iPhone.

EditSteps

EditTroubleshooting a Quiet or Muffled Microphone

  1. Make sure the microphone is not covered by a case (or your fingers).
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Some protective cases may cover up one or more of your microphones. If removing the case fixes your issue, get a different case.
    • When talking on the phone, try to avoid resting your iPhone on your shoulder, make sure your fingers (or other body parts) are not covering the bottom or back microphones. If either of these microphones are covered, your voice will not come across clearly on phone calls.
  2. Try using the microphone without headphones or other accessories attached. If your voice sounds clear without accessories, one of those accessories was the culprit.[1]
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Remove dust and debris from the microphone. If crud has collected inside your microphone, your recordings or phone calls will sound quiet or muffled. Here's how to clean the problematic microphone:
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Turn off your phone or tablet and remove any cases or accessories.
    • Using a soft, dry, and unused toothbrush or makeup brush, gently sweep the microphone hole back and forth.
    • Use a can of compressed air to spray short bursts (in one or two-second intervals) into the microphone. Hold the can several inches away from the microphone to avoid overdoing it.
  4. Update your iPhone or iPad to the latest software version. If you haven't already done so, make sure you're using the latest version of iOS on your phone or tablet.
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 4 Version 2.jpg
  5. Contact Apple Support if the issue persists. If these troubleshooting tips did not solve your issue, you may be experiencing a hardware problem. See Apple's support site to learn how to get in touch with Apple in your region.
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 5 Version 2.jpg

EditFinding the Problem Microphone

  1. Locate the microphone(s). If your phone or tablet has multiple microphones, each should be tested separately.
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • iPhone: Your iPhone has 3 microphones.[2]
      • The set of small circles on the bottom-left edge is the main microphone (used when you're talking on the phone).
      • The wide oval-shaped hole at the top-center part of the screen is used when you record video with the front (selfie) camera and when you use Siri.
      • The small circle next to the flash camera on the back of the iPhone is used for regular (non-selfie) video recording, as well as a secondary microphone during phone calls.
    • iPad: Your iPad has one or two microphones, depending on the model. If it has two, they are right next to each other and are used together. Look for an oval-shaped hole (or two) on the top left or ride side of the tablet.[3]
  2. Test the main microphone. If you're using an iPhone, it's the microphone at the bottom-left edge of the phone. Here's how to test it:
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 7.jpg
    • Open Voice Memos. It's the app with a black icon with a waveform image inside. You'll usually find it on the home screen.
    • Tap the red circle to start recording, and then speak clearly into the microphone for a few seconds.
    • Tap the red square to stop recording. Your recording now appears of the memos list.
    • Tap the black triangle to listen. If your voice sounds muffled, try cleaning it.
    • If your iPhone's main microphone sounds okay but people have complained you sound quiet or muffled on the phone, you're likely covering either the bottom or back microphones while speaking.[4]
  3. Test the front and rear microphones (iPhone only). These are the microphones next to the front and back cameras. To test:
    Boost Microphone Volume on iPhone or iPad Step 8.jpg
    • Open the Camera app and swipe left to access video mode.
    • Tap the camera icon with two curved arrows to switch to the front (selfie) camera.
    • Tap the red circle to start recording, and then speak clearly into the microphone for a few seconds.
    • Tap the red square to stop recording.
    • Play back the video. If your voice sounds muffled, try these troubleshooting tips.
    • Tap the back button to return to the camera, and then tap the camera icon with two curved arrows to switch to the back (primary) camera.
    • Record yourself speaking again, just as you did with the front camera, and then play back the recording. If your voice sounds muffled, try these troubleshooting tips.


EditSources and Citations


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How to Celebrate Kwanzaa

Posted: 26 Dec 2018 12:00 AM PST

Kwanzaa is a holiday invented in 1966 by Maulana Karenga through which African Americans can connect with their heritage and culture. It's celebrated from December 26 through January 1, with each of the seven days focusing on one of seven core values, or Nguzo Saba. A candle is lit on each day, and on the last day, gifts are exchanged. Since Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday rather than a religious one, it can be celebrated alongside Christmas or Hanukkah, or on its own, although Karenga wished for it to be celebrated instead of Christmas and Hanukkah, as he felt these holidays were simply symbols of the dominant cultures in America.

EditSteps

  1. Decorate your home or the main room with the symbols of Kwanzaa. Put a green tablecloth over a centrally located table, and on top of that, place the Mkeka which is a straw or woven mat that symbolizes the historical foundation of African ancestry. Place the following on the Mkeka:
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 1.jpg
    • Mazao — fruit or crops placed in a bowl, representing the community's productivity.
    • Kinara — a seven-pronged candle-holder.
    • Mishumaa Saba — the seven candles which represent the seven core principles of Kwanzaa. Three candles on the left are red, representing struggle; three on the right are green, representing hope; and one in the center is black, signifying the African American people or those who draw their heritage from Africa.
    • Muhindi — ears of corn. Lay out one ear of corn for each child; if there are no children, place two ears to represent the children of the community.
    • Zawadi — various gifts for the children.
    • Kikombe cha Umoja — a cup to represent family and community unity.
  2. Decorate around the room with Kwanzaa flags, called Bendera, and posters emphasizing the seven principles. You can purchase or make these, and it's especially fun to make them with the kids.
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 2.jpg
  3. Practice the Kwanzaa greetings. Starting on December 26, greet everyone by saying "Habari Gani" which is a standard Swahili greeting meaning "what is the news?" If someone greets you, respond with the principle (Nguzo Saba) for that day:
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 3.jpg
    • December 26: "Umoja" — Unity
    • December 27: "Kujichagulia" — Self-determination
    • December 28: "Ujima" — Collective work and responsibility
    • December 29: "Ujamaa" — Cooperative economics
    • December 30: "Nia" — Purpose
    • December 31: "Kuumba" — Creativity
    • January 1: "Imani" — Faith.
    • Non African-Americans are also welcome to participate in greetings. The traditional greeting for them is "Joyous Kwanzaa."
  4. Light the Kinara daily. Since each candle represents a specific principle, they are lit one day at a time, in a certain order. The black candle is always lit first. Some people light the remaining candles from left to right (red to green) while other people alternate as follows:
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 4.jpg
    • Black candle
    • Far left red candle
    • Far right green candle
    • Second red candle
    • Second green candle
    • Last red candle
    • Last green candle
  5. Celebrate Kwanzaa in a variety of different ways. Pick and choose some or all of the following activities throughout the seven days of Kwanzaa, saving the feast for the sixth day. Kwanzaa ceremony may include:
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 5.jpg
    • Drumming and musical selections.
    • Readings of the African Pledge and the Principles of Blackness.
    • Reflections on the Pan-African colors, discussions of African principles of the day, or recitations of chapters in African history.
    • The candle-lighting ritual of the Kinara.
    • Artistic performances.
  6. Have the Kwanzaa Karamu (feast) on the sixth day (New Year's Eve). The Kwanzaa feast is a very special event that brings everyone closer to their African roots. It is traditionally held on December 31st and is a communal and cooperative effort. Decorate the place where the feast will be held in a red, green, and black scheme. A large Kwanzaa setting should dominate the room where the feast will be held. A large Mkeka should be placed in the center of the floor where the food is placed creatively and made accessible to all to serve themselves. Before and during the feast, an informative and entertaining program should be presented.
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 6.jpg
    • Traditionally, the program should involve welcoming, remembering, reassessment, recommitment and rejoicing concluded by a farewell statement and a call for greater unity.
    • During the feast, drinks are to be shared from a communal cup, the Kikombe cha Umoja, passed around to all celebrants.
  7. Give out the gifts of Kuumba. Kuumba, meaning creativity, is highly encouraged and brings a sense of self-satisfaction. The gifts are usually exchanged between the parents and children and are given out traditionally on January 1st, the last day of Kwanzaa. Since the giving of gifts has very much to do with Kuumba, the gifts should be of an educational or artistic nature.
    Celebrate Kwanzaa Step 7.jpg

EditVideo

EditTips

  • Kwanzaa means "first fruits of the harvest" in the African language Kiswahili. Many of the phrases used in Kwanzaa are in Swahili, which was the language chosen to represent African heritage.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Mkeka (woven mat)
  • Flag materials
  • Corn
  • Green tablecloth
  • Black, red, and green candles
  • Gifts of different principles

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

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