Saabaru

So, I went to the CHP to get the car seat checked out. The officer was very helpful with explaining proper car seat installs. As it turns out, in order to be certified to do this, he went through a 40 hour course in car seat safety. Who knew....

Anyhow, I didn't quite get my install right, so it was reassuring to see him install the car seat base, so I know it's in right, and so that I know how to do it in the future. He confirmed to me that the center position is indeed the safest place to put a car seat (given that the seat is installed properly).

I'll post photos tonight.

Here's a link to:
Califoria Cart Seat Inspection Sites
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Well, my wife and I are due with our first baby - a girl - due on Monday (Aug 15th). A few weeks ago I installed a car seat in our Tahoe, on the rear passenger side using the LATCH system (those little posts at the bottom of the rear seat backs). That was easy.

But, for the Saabaru, sine it's a small car, we thought the best place for the seat would be in the middle of the rear seat, in case of side impact. Well, there are no LATCH posts there, so I had to use the middle seat belt (that crazy one that comes from the rear of the cargo area.

After about 40 minutes, I think it's installed properly (pics to come). I'm headed to the CHP today to get it checked out.
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I ordered a second Belkin car adapter off eBay. I took this one apart and hardwired into the back of the cigarette lighter adapter. I then stashed it behind the dash, and ran the wire under the shifter to under the center console, on the passenger side.
I put the switch for the FM Modulator in the glove compartment.

Now, finally, the FM Modulator install is clean!
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So, after about 2500 miles, I'd say that we're averaging about 20 to 21 mpg in the Saabaru. That is horrible IMO. Granted I travel 60-80% on non highway roads. The past few tanks have been in the 20mpg range, and those both included a chunk of highway driving.

Perhaps I have a lead foot? Maybe. But, I try my best to shift at 3,000-3,500 rpm and I throw it in 5th gear when going at a constant 45mph to reduce RPMs. Of course, there are a few miles of spirited driving on every tank, but, overall, I try my best, but still cannot squeeze any better than this.

Coming from the Jeep and Tahoe (both get about 13 - 14mpg)I, it's nice to get some 'fuel economy', but it's pretty frutrating that I do not get more.
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Well, the license plates came in last week from the fabulous Calif. DMV. I SO do not want to put them on. The dealer did not leave me with any license plate screws for the front nor rear, so I went to go get some screws.

I'll put the rear plate on this week. I refuse to drill into the front bumper for the front plate unil I get a fix-it ticket!
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This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.
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We got the 9-2x trunk tray and Momo shift knob today from Saab of Pleasanton.

The trunk tray is about 2" deep with a section in the middle (which fits in the spare tire wheel) that is an additional 2" deep...
Here are a few shots of the tray:





Here are a few shots of the knob.




Both, obviously, were easy installs. Just remember that you need to pull the shift boot off of the stock knob after you unscrew it.
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