Question:

Hi John If it is fully refundable it would be an Asset and not appear anywhere as an expense at all. Now, if the downpayment is intended to become a part of the purchase price of something for resale it becomes cost of goods sold and not necessarily expensed until the item sells, or if a payment to someone if they perform the work, it would be 1099ed to the person performing the work.  If they don’t do the work and refund the money, it becomes income to the company because it was already expensed when paid. If your looking to shelter income from taxes, buy something depreciable that falls withing the guidelines of your business.  It will become an asset though! TTUL Gary

Response:

The cash remains an asset until title changes.  Unless that happens, you’ve got an asset, whether under the cash or accrual accounting method.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If I make a fully refundable downpayment, can I take it as an expense? Or do I have to wait until it become non-recoverable? Accrual or cash-based? For accrual it’s not an expense until it’s used. Good question; probably cash based. But even cash based, would it be an expense when I can just cancel and get my money back? Otherwise I could put a big downpayment on 12/31, get my deduction, and pay no taxes. Then on 1/1 I cancel, and get my money down. Do that every year with bigger amounts and never pay taxes.  (well, defer them indefinitely). It seems to me that even cash it should not be an expense until the cash is really gone.

Response:

What if the company deducted withholding and FICA when it made the advance; yet stated that the payment was an advance to be repaid if not earned. How would the IRS feel about that?!

It would be taxable in full in the year received, included on the employees W-2 with regular payroll. If it has to be repaid, it would be deductible by the employee (and included as income by the company) in the year repaid.  Depending on the amount that has to be repaid it would either be an adjustment to income or it goes to Schedule A. It sounds like a Claim of Right issue, so see Publication 525 for more of the details. — Paul A. Thomas, CPA Athens, Georgia taxman at negia.net

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future? If you are paying the commission, then it gets booked as an asset; Employee Advances.  At least that’s how I would book it. Would that be deductable when paid? You don’t give an employee an unlimited advance.  They have to be accounted for on a periodic basis, otherwise the IRS would say it’s compensation. How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid? Is this a Sub-S or Sub-C?

Sub-c, An advance is a loan against future expenses.  Once the expenses are accounted for it becomes an expense.  There may be timing issues at year-end where you advance an employee some money for business expenses that don’t get fully accounted for until the next tax year. Now this is getting interesting. What if the company deducted withholding and FICA when it made the advance; yet stated that the payment was an advance to be repaid if not earned. Not recommended. This really seems to be inviting trouble. FLSA may have an impact here, too.

How so? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How would the IRS feel about that?! That the company was playing games.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future? If you are paying the commission, then it gets booked as an asset; Employee Advances.  At least that’s how I would book it. Would that be deductable when paid? You don’t give an employee an unlimited advance.  They have to be accounted for on a periodic basis, otherwise the IRS would say it’s compensation. How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid? Is this a Sub-S or Sub-C? Sub-c,

I’m not sure what circumstances a Sub-C can do cash basis accounting for IRS purposes. With accrual it’s simple. There is no expense until the money is earned. An advance is a loan against future expenses.  Once the expenses are accounted for it becomes an expense.  There may be timing issues at year-end where you advance an employee some money for business expenses that don’t get fully accounted for until the next tax year. Now this is getting interesting. What if the company deducted withholding and FICA when it made the advance; yet stated that the payment was an advance to be repaid if not earned. Not recommended. This really seems to be inviting trouble. FLSA may have an impact here, too. How so?

It depends on whether the withholding was just an accounting convenience or whether the money was actually declared to the IRS. Year-end is particularly tricky, since the withholding should match what is stated in the W-2.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future? If you are paying the commission, then it gets booked as an asset; Employee Advances.  At least that’s how I would book it. Would that be deductable when paid? You don’t give an employee an unlimited advance.  They have to be accounted for on a periodic basis, otherwise the IRS would say it’s compensation. How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid?

Is this a Sub-S or Sub-C? An advance is a loan against future expenses.  Once the expenses are accounted for it becomes an expense.  There may be timing issues at year-end where you advance an employee some money for business expenses that don’t get fully accounted for until the next tax year. Now this is getting interesting. What if the company deducted withholding and FICA when it made the advance; yet stated that the payment was an advance to be repaid if not earned.

Not recommended. This really seems to be inviting trouble. FLSA may have an impact here, too. How would the IRS feel about that?!

That the company was playing games.

Response:

For IRS purposes, the payment of expenses counts as the expense date for cash basis taxpayes.

Let me get more specific. How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future?  Would that be deductable when paid? How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid? Thanks much for your help.

Response:

How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future?

If you are paying the commission, then it gets booked as an asset; Employee Advances.  At least that’s how I would book it. Would that be deductable when paid?

You don’t give an employee an unlimited advance.  They have to be accounted for on a periodic basis, otherwise the IRS would say it’s compensation. How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid?

An advance is a loan against future expenses.  Once the expenses are accounted for it becomes an expense.  There may be timing issues at year-end where you advance an employee some money for business expenses that don’t get fully accounted for until the next tax year. — Paul A. Thomas, CPA taxman at negia.net

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future? If you are paying the commission, then it gets booked as an asset; Employee Advances.  At least that’s how I would book it. Would that be deductable when paid? You don’t give an employee an unlimited advance.  They have to be accounted for on a periodic basis, otherwise the IRS would say it’s compensation. How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid? An advance is a loan against future expenses.  Once the expenses are accounted for it becomes an expense.  There may be timing issues at year-end where you advance an employee some money for business expenses that don’t get fully accounted for until the next tax year.

Now this is getting interesting. What if the company deducted withholding and FICA when it made the advance; yet stated that the payment was an advance to be repaid if not earned. How would the IRS feel about that?!

Response:

John, Why the endless What-Ifs? Why don’t you post the real scenario and ask for responses based on that? Whether the payee is an individual or a part owner of a closely held corporation is, i would think, irelevant.  The payee is a vendor. If the payor is withholding taxes, then the payee must be an individual. And so what if the payor withheld taxes?  If the payee refunded the deposit, the taxes withheld can be reclaimed by the payee when the payee files his/her tax return. .  This situation is quite common with W2s – that is how a lot of people get a refund when they file a return.  It is less common in a 1099 type situation, but not out of the ordinary, I would think For most situations, a simple rule of thumb should be:  How would you view the transaction? (i.e. assuming there were no taxes?) Assuming you are the one paying the advance, would you let your vendor off without repayment if the goods or services were not rendered? If the answer is yes, it is an expense.  If not, it is an advance or an asset. Having one treatment for tax purposes and another for the buiness relationship is euphimistically called fudging the books. An advance is an advance and an expense is an expense.  Don’t let the tax tail wag the dog. HS

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about an advance on a commission that might never be earned; it must be repaid if not earned in the inspecific future? If you are paying the commission, then it gets booked as an asset; Employee Advances.  At least that’s how I would book it. Would that be deductable when paid? You don’t give an employee an unlimited advance.  They have to be accounted for on a periodic basis, otherwise the IRS would say it’s compensation. How about if the advance is paid to an part owner of a closely held corporation.  Would it be deductable when paid? An advance is a loan against future expenses.  Once the expenses are accounted for it becomes an expense.  There may be timing issues at year-end where you advance an employee some money for business expenses that don’t get fully accounted for until the next tax year. Now this is getting interesting. What if the company deducted withholding and FICA when it made the advance; yet stated that the payment was an advance to be repaid if not earned. How would the IRS feel about that?!

Response:

If I make a fully refundable downpayment, can I take it as an expense? Or do I have to wait until it become non-recoverable?

Accrual or cash-based? For accrual it’s not an expense until it’s used.

Response:

If I make a fully refundable downpayment, can I take it as an expense? Or do I have to wait until it become non-recoverable? Accrual or cash-based? For accrual it’s not an expense until it’s used.

Good question; probably cash based. But even cash based, would it be an expense when I can just cancel and get my money back? Otherwise I could put a big downpayment on 12/31, get my deduction, and pay no taxes. Then on 1/1 I cancel, and get my money down. Do that every year with bigger amounts and never pay taxes.  (well, defer them indefinitely). It seems to me that even cash it should not be an expense until the cash is really gone.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If I make a fully refundable downpayment, can I take it as an expense? Or do I have to wait until it become non-recoverable? Accrual or cash-based? For accrual it’s not an expense until it’s used. Good question; probably cash based. But even cash based, would it be an expense when I can just cancel and get my money back? Otherwise I could put a big downpayment on 12/31, get my deduction, and pay no taxes. Then on 1/1 I cancel, and get my money down. Do that every year with bigger amounts and never pay taxes.  (well, defer them indefinitely). It seems to me that even cash it should not be an expense until the cash is really gone.

For IRS purposes, the payment of expenses counts as the expense date for cash basis taxpayes.

Response:

If I make a fully refundable downpayment, can I take it as an expense? Or do I have to wait until it become non-recoverable?

Response:

Question:

Besides the CPA.

Response:

Typo: After the CPA, not besides

Response:

CMA, CIA, CISA, ABC, XYZ. If you have extra time, take the Canadian CA, the ACCA, the Australian CA  and so on. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Typo: After the CPA, not besides

Response:

Hi all, Actually. I have completed my CPA exams already. So, I am looking for a Post-graduate Degree

Response:

Hi all, Actually. I have completed my CPA exams already. So, I am looking for a Post-graduate Degree cheers

Response:

Hi all, Actually. I have completed my CPA exams already. So, I am looking for a Post-graduate Degree cheers

I agree with the poster who suggests you get some experience first. I got a lot more out of my MBA for having had 2 years with a Big-8 firm before continuing my formal education. As for which masters degree to get, some real world work experience will help you with that decision, too. If you don’t know what you want to do with your life, an MBA is a reasonable choice. Once you have a better idea what you want to spend the next 30 or 40 years doing, you may still find an MBA to be your best choice but you might also discover that something more specialized is the way to go. Good luck. Regards, Bill

Response:

I should have stated that I have 3 years of local audit firm experiences, but now thinking of changing job nature. It is quite difficult to change to commerical firm now.

Response:

Question:

Hi All, I started Atkins the day after thanksgiving so I’ve just finished my second month.  I’m at slightly more than induction level carbs but have introduced a wider variety of low-glycemic items like nuts and berries.   During the middle of the second week of Atkins, after having already lost 15 pounds,  I thought I had a heart attack (sharp pain and palpitations, anxiety) and went to the doctor.  EKG was normal, blood pressure was pretty high (150/90) and I was told I was dehydrated.    This after already having downed 64oz of water that day.  I started supplementing potassium which didn’t help the palps.  so added magnesium and calcium along with Atkins basic 3, Dieters Advantage and 3 grams of omega-3’s.  Palpitations and muscle burn are still there. I’ve been stalled at 18 pounds since the 3rd week and have felt like crap since the second.  Im kind of losing hope for this way of life.   I wasn’t losing weight before starting Atkins but I was feeling alot better. (except for the first few ketotic days which were really nice A typical days intake:  (around 2000 cal, 65% fat,  18-20 grams net carbs) 80-100 oz water spread out breakfast     3 eggs and 1 oz cheddar scrambled, olive oil. lunch     6 oz tuna, 2 tbs may 2 cups greens w/ blue cheese  dressing; 1/4 avocado, 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms snack      1/2-1 oz almonds, 1/2 oz cheese dinner       8 oz steak, 1/2 cup asparagus maybe another snack of 1-2  tbs peanut or almond butter. 1/2 cup Kefir (every other day or so) coffee throughout the day   1 or 2 12oz half-caf cups with 2 tbs light cream Ketostix perpetually show trace or better. I’m on an SSRI and Zyrtec(allergy med).  Any suggestions for the weak and drained feeling and or the stall? Thanks! jim 281/263/190

Response:

[warning : lots of potentially unhelpful speculations ahead] Some one I know who did a variation on induction for 8 months started feeling tired at the 3 month mark. The solution turned out to be eating a bit of fruit. However he didn’t suffer from heart palpitations and the rest of it. Have you tried looking up the side effects of the two drugs you are using? Here’s one on Zyrtec that mentions your symptoms in a fairly unhelpful way : http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/cetiriz_ad.htm [not being a pro I can't be absolutely sure that the cetirizine it examines is the Zyrtec you are using] Also : as I understand it fat faclitates chemical absorption. Maybe that has something to do with matters, but then again so could 101 other possibilities. I probably don’t need to mention that stalling isn’t unusual and quite possibly not linked to the rest of your problems or meds. The fruit-eater I mentioned, above, stalled for a while but didn’t loose his nerve, and it broke eventually. One question  this appears slightly contradictory : "coffee throughout the day   1 or 2 12oz half-caf cups with 2 tbs light cream" Which I assume is meant to read : "coffee throughout the day, of which 1 or 2 12oz half-caf cups with 2 tbs light cream" I doubt that this is a factor, but perhaps it is worth mentioning that when I was drinking 12 cups of full caffienated double espresso per a day (I’m not kidding) I experienced a skipping heart beat (as well as dry lips, constipation, bad sleep). Obviously this isn’t the same; but sensitivity to caffiene seems to be a changeable thing; pile on dietry changes along with drugs and maybe it is something to consider. yours speculatingly, Greg — http://www.lorriman.com

Response:

<snip A typical days intake:  (around 2000 cal, 65% fat,  18-20 grams net carbs) jim 281/263/190

Hi Jim, At 263 lbs and 2000 calories per day you’re really pushing the lower calorie limit. That’s less than 8 calories per pound. You may be flirting with starvation mode where your metabolism slows down to conserve energy. This may sound crazy but try increasing your calories to 2500. I would add mostly fats to get that percentage up to around 75%. Good luck! — Jeri 265/208/120 Atkins since 11/5/01 "The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese."

Response:

I was told I was dehydrated.    This after already having downed 64oz of water that day.

If 64 ounces of water isn’t enough for you, drink more water. There is no magic number of the right amount, despite formulas you may see about mulitplying your weight and taking the square root of the temperature (tongue in cheek.) If your urine is clear, not yellow, you are probably drinking enough. If not, drink more. I’ve been stalled at 18 pounds since the 3rd week and have felt like crap since the second.

It sounds like you may be eating something you are allergic to. Have you considered avoiding dairy and sweeteners for several weeks, then testing them one item at a time, with a two-week test on, then a two-week test off again, then a two-week test on again? This way you can easily find out if one or both of these items is bothering you. The kefir might bother you and not the cheese, but lose all the dairy for awhile until you know. Also look at what is in your salad dressing. Maybe you can make your own for a bit… stick with the basics until you find the problem. I would not have felt well on that amount of food when my weight was over 150 pounds. At 263, I think you are starving yourself to death. No wonder you don’t feel well! Increase the good oils, increase the protein, increase the vegetables, lose the dairy and the processed foods, make the nuts a weekly or biweekly treat. Realize that nuts are high in carbs, and you may be able to get more nutrition out of more green vegetables like green peppers or broccoli. Be sure you are accounting for the carbs in all that dairy. In loving support, Bridget M. .. Bridget M. Atkins maintenance for life.

Response:

Thanks for all the good advice.  I thought that because I lost so quickly during the first 2 weeks I would be able to be fairly flexible with the range of additions.  Maybe that was premature. I’m going to start by eliminating dairy for 2 weeks and go with macadamias rather than almonds.  My salad dressing is Marie’s Blue Cheese which has nothing much other than mayo and blue cheese in it.  I’ll also crank up the calories to 2500. jim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi All, I started Atkins the day after thanksgiving so I’ve just finished my second month.  I’m at slightly more than induction level carbs but have introduced a wider variety of low-glycemic items like nuts and berries.   During the middle of the second week of Atkins, after having already lost 15 pounds, I thought I had a heart attack (sharp pain and palpitations, anxiety) and went to the doctor.  EKG was normal, blood pressure was pretty high (150/90) and I was told I was dehydrated.    This after already having downed 64oz of water that day.  I started supplementing potassium which didn’t help the palps.  so added magnesium and calcium along with Atkins basic 3, Dieters Advantage and 3 grams of omega-3’s.  Palpitations and muscle burn are still there. I’ve been stalled at 18 pounds since the 3rd week and have felt like crap since the second.  Im kind of losing hope for this way of life.   I wasn’t losing weight before starting Atkins but I was feeling alot better. (except for the first few ketotic days which were really nice A typical days intake:  (around 2000 cal, 65% fat,  18-20 grams net carbs) 80-100 oz water spread out breakfast     3 eggs and 1 oz cheddar scrambled, olive oil. lunch     6 oz tuna, 2 tbs may 2 cups greens w/ blue cheese  dressing; 1/4 avocado, 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms snack      1/2-1 oz almonds, 1/2 oz cheese dinner       8 oz steak, 1/2 cup asparagus maybe another snack of 1-2  tbs peanut or almond butter. 1/2 cup Kefir (every other day or so) coffee throughout the day   1 or 2 12oz half-caf cups with 2 tbs light cream Ketostix perpetually show trace or better. I’m on an SSRI and Zyrtec(allergy med).  Any suggestions for the weak and drained feeling and or the stall? Thanks! jim 281/263/190

Response:

Hey Bridget P~~~~~ That formula is 64 ounces of water as a base plus an additional 8 ounces for every 25 pounds of excess weight.  [64+8/25]  So there. ~~~~~ Lee Rodgers The Lowcarb Retreat  http://www.lowcarb.org Mesage Board BBS  http://lowcarb.org/forums ~~~~~

Response:

That formula is 64 ounces of water as a base plus an additional 8 ounces for every 25 pounds of excess weight.  [64+8/25]  So there.

Don’t put that slide rule away yet! It still has years of use left in it. .. Bridget M. Atkins maintenance for life.

Response:

Question:

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Response:

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THIS UNIVERSAL CARD WAS CREATED BY: * THE COMPANY PRESIDENT, A FORMER OFFICER OF ONE OF THE   LARGEST INTERNATIONAL BANK IN THE WORLD * A FORMER SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF VISA INTERNATIONAL * A MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR WORLDWIDE FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
UNMATCHED CREDIBILITY AND RECOGNITION The card functions on a Certified Platform that cost over $15 million dollars, took 6 years to create and can perform hundreds features. Ernst and Young, a leading International accounting firm, valued the platform at $25 million dollars.  
International Multi-Function Debit Card Available In All Countries
Carries The Logos Of: * A Multi-Billion Worldwide Financial Institution That  Holds And Insures   The Deposits  
* The Largest Merchant Aggregating Company In The World * The Three Largest ATMs Networks In The World * The Largest POS Networks In The World
UNMATCHED FEATURES * Anyone In the World Can Obtain The Card With NO Credit Check,   NO Questions and NO Interest * You Can Deposit And Use An UNLIMITED Amount Of Money * You Can Use It To Charge At Over 17 MILLION Point Of Sale Locations   Worldwide * Your Money Is Instantly Available Though The Three Largest ATMs Networks   In The World * Low Cost Member-To-Member Cash Online Transfer Feature Let You Tap And
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  Secure Card, Check Card Or Cash Card With A LOW PRICE Anyone In The World Can   Afford! UNMATCHED PROFITS! You Can Build A Worldwide Associates’ Organization From Any Country And Earn
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Used By Customers And Associates In Your Worldwide Organization,
Through The Most Lucrative Back-End Unilevel Compensation Plan A COMPANY BUILT-TO-LAST MAKING HISTORY AROUND THE WORLD The company is a stable three year old corporation that was formed   to develop and distribute worldwide  various breakthrough technologies
that represent giant advancements in global financial services, e-commerce,
telecommunications, Internet technologies and other advanced solutions.
The company has developed a powerful system of truly global connectivity and
is extremely well poised to attract and service a large International community
of customers and Associates.  
ACt fast – For more information send an email to or visit http://www.globaldebitcard.net/unbeatable
Warmest regards
Michelle Aldous
http://www.libertyprofit.com/?refer_id=333000574 – Tired of recruiting, tired of selling, no experience required, no inventory – ALL you need to do is ENROL and Liberty take care of the rest
http://mlmeducationalandresources.cjb.net – Ultimate educational and promotional resource center for MLM professionals. The one website that all Network Marketers MUST gain access to.
http://iamgoingplatinum.cjb.net – Full FREE ISP that pays YOU to use the internet.

Response:

Question:

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Response:

Another strange phenomenon is that if Husband 1.0 is infected by a virus the whole system crashes, whereas if program wife 1.0 gets infected it still functions, although associated files such as dinner.exe might run slower! Mimo Smober 3 months 1 week 2 day  8 hours 25 mins 14 secs  saved

Question:

I don’t know if I missed it, but can this recipe be reposted? Heather A. — who will forget she wants it by the weekend when she could do a search on dejanews – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve come across a pumpkin loaf recipe that sounds really good. It calls for vanilla whey protein powder. My question:  Can I substitute egg protein powder for the whey? Well, this is what I would do:  I’d go ahead and substitute it.  If it works – great!  If not – it’s no big loss. Other ingredients include "Just Whites", Okay, so by using egg protein powder, you’d be using egg whites on top of egg whites.  It might cause it to over-rise a bit (eggs can be used as leavening), but it’s certainly worth giving it a try.  You might have to take the word "dense" out of the title, though! Myra As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say.   I just watch what they do.  – Andrew Carnegie Please direct e-mail to myra [at] primenet [dot] com

Response:

I’ve come across a pumpkin loaf recipe that sounds really good. It calls for vanilla whey protein powder. My question:  Can I substitute egg protein powder for the whey?

Well, this is what I would do:  I’d go ahead and substitute it.  If it works – great!  If not – it’s no big loss. Other ingredients include "Just Whites",

Okay, so by using egg protein powder, you’d be using egg whites on top of egg whites.  It might cause it to over-rise a bit (eggs can be used as leavening), but it’s certainly worth giving it a try.  You might have to take the word "dense" out of the title, though! Myra As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say.   I just watch what they do.  – Andrew Carnegie Please direct e-mail to myra [at] primenet [dot] com

Response:

Found it at lowcarbluxury.com It’s under the breads and pastas.  Also found a hot cereal that sounds good.  I need to hit the health food store for a few ingredients first. Dense Spicy Pumpkin Bread 3/4 cup vanilla whey protein powder 1/8 cup "Just Whites" (egg white powder) 1 Tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground clove 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon mace 1/8 teaspoon ginger 2/3 cup Splenda 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 12-ounce can pumpkin 1/4 cup heavy cream 3 large eggs 1/8 cup water 3 Tablespoons water Preheat oven to 375

Question:

NYC based ERP/Finance/Accounting Software Company is looking for an offsite experienced programmer to customize, modify and develop SBT software. This is a full telecommuting position and no travel is required. You must have at least 5 years of SBT experience including VP2000, SBT Pro 3.0-5.0 and Executive series. (FoxPro, Visual FoxPro, PowerBuilder). Most of the work is in the Pro series.  You will be working from the Analysis&Design phase to the Q&A-Testing phase.  Part-time position requiring only couple of hours of availability a day, could evolve to full-time work.  Compensation will be defined per project. This position requires: -intermediate to senior level person -mid-size business accounting experience -experience with PO, AR, AP, GL, OE/SO, JC, IC, Manufacturing, Fixed Assets, Multi-currency, Payroll, HR, Bank, …etc -documentation skills -broad online availability and fast access to internet (cable, DSL or eq.) -very good knowledge of languages/databases/OS…. or call 212-244 1226

Response:

NYC based ERP/Finance/Accounting Software Company is looking for an off site experienced programmer to customize, modify and develop SBT software. This is a full telecommuting position and no travel is required. You must have at least 5 years of SBT experience including VP2000, SBT Pro 3.0-5.0 and Executive series. (FoxPro, Visual FoxPro, PowerBuilder). Most of the work is in the Pro series.  You will be working from the Analysis&Design phase to the Q&A-Testing phase.  Part-time position requiring only couple of hours of availability a day, could evolve to full-time work.  Compensation will be defined per project. This position requires: -intermediate to senior level person -mid-size business accounting experience -experience with PO, AR, AP, GL, OE/SO, JC, IC, Manufacturing, Fixed Assets, Multi-currency, Payroll, HR, Bank, …etc -documentation skills -broad online availability and fast access to internet (cable, DSL or eq.) -very good knowledge of languages/databases/OS…. or call 212-244 1226

Response:

Question:

You do not need to have actual business revenue (income) to take business deductions against your other income sources.  You need to be merely seeking to make money.  However, you won’t get away with it forever with the IRS since a true business would never choose to loose money forever.

IIRC, you have to at least turn a profit one year in five on a side business in order to keep the IRS off your back. (But that’s IIRC! Accountants are cheaper than doin’ time for tax evasion.)

Response:

is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all about???

Huh??? If you make no income, you can’t deduct. Hobby deductions, who gave you that load of b.s.??? —                                                 Brian Rost                                                 3Com Corp.                                                 978-264-1550      Playing the bass is like dancing the limbo: how low can you go?

Response:

is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all about???

My guess is that you could deduct the supplies as expenses and the equipment (assets)  you could depreciate. This would mean that $1.00 spent on strings would end up reducing your taxable income by $1.00 resulting in a $0.15-$0.36    "larger tax refund." (depending on you tax bracket)   This is because strings, etc. last "less than a year." Deducting for depreciation requires that you take the value of your equipment (lasts longer than a year) at the time of the "start up." Then you divide by a certain number of years (depending on the class of asset) and deduct the result from your income. Any new equipment purchases during the business’ life would be subject to this division also. Any equipment sales would require capitol gains taxes on the sale price less the depreciated value at the time of the sale. Technically speaking, if you play your guitar 1/2 of the time for fun and 1/2 at gigs / practices you can only deduct half of the expenses but must declare all of the gig money as income. If you have a net positive business income (profit) you will also have to pay "self employment tax"  which is 2 x Social Security Tax.  This is over 15%. All of this assumes you are seeking to make money (have a "business.") You do not need to have actual business revenue (income) to take business deductions against your other income sources.  You need to be merely seeking to make money.  However, you won’t get away with it forever with the IRS since a true business would never choose to loose money forever.   JJman She slips, she slides, she slops, she bops, she bumps she grinds.                                                    B, Springsteen

Response:

is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all about???

Sounds like an IRS Auditor magnet to me. You can deduct the expense of instruments if you DO make money from playing. They become a business expense. You’ll get all sorts of tax advice here, and it’ll be worth every penny you’ve spent for it. The best advice I can give you is talk to a GOOD tax accountant.

Response:

is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all about???

I’m not an accountant, I just pay one. I was told to watch out for `hobby loss,’ as too much of it is a flag for audits. That having been said, if you’re claiming income, you can write expenses off. And while we’re at it, most homeowner/renter policies won’t cover gear used professionally without a rider or separate policy.  Mine didn’t.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all about??? I’m not an accountant, I just pay one. I was told to watch out for `hobby loss,’ as too much of it is a flag for audits. That having been said, if you’re claiming income, you can write expenses off. And while we’re at it, most homeowner/renter policies won’t cover gear used professionally without a rider or separate policy.  Mine didn’t.

Good point Jeff.  Do yerselves a favor, take pictures, write down serial numbers, give them to the insurance folks for a separate rider.  You’ll thank yourself if you ever need it. — rct The opinions above are mine and mine alone.

Response:

is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all about???

Response:

is it true i can deduct my guitar stuff from my taxes as long as I spend at least 2% of my yearly income on it and i dont make money from any of it?  I heard this is possible because of some "hobby" tax law..whats this all

about??? I think that if you teach, or play, as a source of income that you can deduct a certain percentage as a buisiness expense or somehow use a certain percentage to offset earned income.  Anyway, it sounds good to me, but you better consult with a tax accountant and not rely on NG hearsay.  We are an opinionated lot…..

Response:

Question:

Exactly !!!!!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would like to offer an explanation on this issue. Feel free to object. I believe that the GCWR is basically a value that provides a measure of a vehicles ability to move weight, acceptably. The GCWR is primarily a function of engine and rear end gear ratio. I don’t have a Ford brochure at my disposal, but using a GMC/Chevy brochure reveals the following information. In all GM truck brochures that I have seen since 1994, they provide a GCWR table. The only variables in this table are engine choice and rear end gear ratio. Picking an engine and gear ratio specifies a particular GCWR value. I also believe that the GVWR is basically a value that provides a measure of a vehicles chassis capability to hold weight (basic vehicle plus cargo). The GVWR will be largely determined by such things as axles, springs, wheels, tires and I suppose chassis construction. Therefore, I don’t see any conflict between the specifications for the Ford F250 and F350 GCWR and GVWR specifications. In other words the trailer towing capability is determined not by either weight rating individually, but by both weight ratings. It seems very reasonable to me that the F350 can carry a heavier hitch weight due to it’s larger GVWR. The fact that both(F250 and F350) have the same GCWR is sort of irrelevant. Possible trailering of large fifth wheels with heavy pin weights may well be within the GCWR of either the F250 or F350, but may easily be eliminated by the lower GVWR of the F250. Bob Commonsense tells me the F350 should handle a bigger rig yet, it’s rated the same as the F250.  Can anyone explain why the GCWR is the same for both vehicles? Mark

Response:

It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW.

So you are saying that your truck’s springs are the limiting factor in its GVWR – take a look at some specs on different classes of trucks; you’ll find that the GVWR is based on a huge number of variables, such as wheels, tires, springs, chassis, axles, drive shafts, U joints, brakes, cooling system. engine, warranty records, marketing concerns, and legal restrictions.  Simply adding air bags to anF150 does not turn it into an F250. Whe you buy your new trailer, either match it to your current truck or replace your truck. — Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

Response:

You TOTALLY missed the point, Will !!!

You may be right. I sometimes do miss the point.  BTW more than two exclamation points assisted by caps is considered shrieking. <hype snipped  the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !!!!  

I am no Ford expert, and I feel sure we will hear from some folks that are.  But if you are saying what you APPEAR to be saying, why do I get the impression that the difference in price oughta be about $50? Is this REALLY true?   Will KD3XR

Response:

See my comments below. You TOTALLY missed the point, Will !!! You may be right. I sometimes do miss the point.  BTW more than two exclamation points assisted by caps is considered shrieking.

Oh !  My net edicate is not always everything it should be ! <hype snipped  the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !!!!   I am no Ford expert, and I feel sure we will hear from some folks that are.  But if you are saying what you APPEAR to be saying, why do I get the impression that the difference in price oughta be about $50? Is this REALLY true?  

I don’t recall what the price difference is, but I know that it is not much.  I think Ford has some liability issues that get charged in for a higher GVW truck.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Will KD3XR

Response:

I said it once and I will say it again … EVERYTHING is the same between an F250 and an F350 EXCEPT the springs.  I hate the F350 springs because they make the truck so stiff that it rides terrible.  Let me repeat: the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !  The two trucks even have the same Gross Combination Weight Rating. (GVWR.) An F250 with air helpers rides MUCH better empty. BTW: I wish Ford sold these trucks with air suspension and I don’t understand why they don’t.  The high/ rougher ride is one of the biggest trade offs of these trucks over a "regular" half ton. (Although the ride in an F250 is pretty good …) Kim     – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW. So you are saying that your truck’s springs are the limiting factor in its GVWR – take a look at some specs on different classes of trucks; you’ll find that the GVWR is based on a huge number of variables, such as wheels, tires, springs, chassis, axles, drive shafts, U joints, brakes, cooling system. engine, warranty records, marketing concerns, and legal restrictions.  Simply adding air bags to anF150 does not turn it into an F250. Whe you buy your new trailer, either match it to your current truck or replace your truck. — Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

Response:

According to the Kelly Blue Book web site: F250 XLT 2WD  is $17,993 (invoice) and $20,445 (list) F350 XLT 2WD  is $18,848 (invoice) and $21,450 (list) Pretty expensive just for springs.  I think there is a bigger difference between the two than just springs. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You TOTALLY missed the point, Will !!! You may be right. I sometimes do miss the point.  BTW more than two exclamation points assisted by caps is considered shrieking. <hype snipped  the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !!!! I am no Ford expert, and I feel sure we will hear from some folks that are.  But if you are saying what you APPEAR to be saying, why do I get the impression that the difference in price oughta be about $50? Is this REALLY true? Will KD3XR

Response:

Bob, Thanks for the explanation.  It makes sense to me.  I’ve been lurking in this NG for a while and the one reoccurring theme is, do not exceed the capability of the tow vehicle.  I’m interested in buying a 5th wheel so I want to ensure I buy the appropriate truck.  The problem is you start talking about a 30 footer and the weight adds up quick.  Keeping the weight under the 75% of GCWR and Max. loaded trailer weight guideline gets difficult.

One solution:  1999 Ford F450 – maximum loaded trailer weight as high as 18,800 pounds! — Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

Response:

"I don’t recall what the price difference is, but I know that it is not much.  I think Ford has some liability issues that get charged in for a higher GVW truck." The difference is about $800. Another difference is that here in Minnesota a F250 is licensed as a car, or for my F250 that amounted to $341.00 per year. A F350 is licensed as a "truck" which costs $10 per month ($120 annually). And yes, the according to the dealer (Boyer Ford Truck), where I purchased mine yesterday, the difference between the 250 and the 350 is springs and "certification" of components (mainly axles). Pat Caulfield New owner of a V10, crew cab, short box, 4×4.

Response:

Alan, I saw in another thread you just bought an F450.  Good luck with it.  Unfortunately whatever I buy has to double as a daily driver.  I’d prefer to buy the F250 for that reason. Mark – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Bob, Thanks for the explanation.  It makes sense to me.  I’ve been lurking in this NG for a while and the one reoccurring theme is, do not exceed the capability of the tow vehicle.  I’m interested in buying a 5th wheel so I want to ensure I buy the appropriate truck.  The problem is you start talking about a 30 footer and the weight adds up quick.  Keeping the weight under the 75% of GCWR and Max. loaded trailer weight guideline gets difficult. One solution:  1999 Ford F450 – maximum loaded trailer weight as high as 18,800 pounds! — Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

Response:

I said it once and I will say it again … EVERYTHING is the same between an F250 and an F350 EXCEPT the springs.  I hate the F350 springs because they make the truck so stiff that it rides terrible.  Let me repeat: the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !  

You may, if you wish, write this daily for a month or more. Unlike many people, I am not one to start believing something just because it is shouted repeatedly.   If you’re right, fine. But simply repeating yourself makes no points. I was sorta hoping to hear from a credible source that Ford is guilty of selling an F-350 that actually is merely an F-250 with stiff springs. Hey, maybe it’s true – but I am not yet convinced. Will KD3XR

Response:

Norm: The way certification was explained to me is that the axle manufacturer would now certify the axle to a higher rating for warrently, liability, etc.reasons. Pat Caulfield – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is consistant with the Ford truck brochure, page 41. Suspension – Front Suspension – Rear The Front GAWR on the 250 is indeed 4850 lbs – but the Rear GAWR is only 4970 lbs. Unless there is a different part number for the axles, etc, I don’t know what exactly the "certification" means (not being sarcastic – I really don’t know). It still seems like a "marketing"  exercise to me. Norm <snip And yes, the according to the dealer (Boyer Ford Truck), where I purchased mine yesterday, the difference between the 250 and the 350 is springs and "certification" of components (mainly axles). Pat Caulfield New owner of a V10, crew cab, short box, 4×4.

Response:

Thanks for the verification ! Kim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "I don’t recall what the price difference is, but I know that it is not much.  I think Ford has some liability issues that get charged in for a higher GVW truck." The difference is about $800. Another difference is that here in Minnesota a F250 is licensed as a car, or for my F250 that amounted to $341.00 per year. A F350 is licensed as a "truck" which costs $10 per month ($120 annually). And yes, the according to the dealer (Boyer Ford Truck), where I purchased mine yesterday, the difference between the 250 and the 350 is springs and "certification" of components (mainly axles). Pat Caulfield New owner of a V10, crew cab, short box, 4×4.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You TOTALLY missed the point, Will !!! EVERYTHING is the same between an F250 and an F350 EXCEPT the springs.  I hate the F350 springs because they make the truck so stiff that it rides terrible.  Let me repeat: the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !!!!  The two trucks even have the same Gross Combination Weight Rating. (GVWR.) An F250 with air helpers rides MUCH better empty. BTW: I wish Ford sold these trucks with air suspension and I don’t understand why they don’t.  The high/ rougher ride is one of the biggest trade offs of these trucks over a "regular" half ton. (Although the ride in an F250 is pretty good …)

It’s been my experience that high GVWR and soft suspension are mutually exclusive… — Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

Response:

Alan, I saw in another thread you just bought an F450.  Good luck with it.  Unfortunately whatever I buy has to double as a daily driver.  I’d prefer to buy the F250 for that reason.

Thanks, Mark … my F450 will be a daily driver, but then I’ve not owned a car in over 20 years so I’m not concerned about a truck that drives like a truck! Hey I spent 2 years driving "deuce-and-a-halfs" in the Army – ANYTHING feels soft after that! — Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

– Alan Hepburn  (Email: Alan at Hepburn dot com) "…But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

Response:

You TOTALLY missed the point, Will !!! EVERYTHING is the same between an F250 and an F350 EXCEPT the springs.  I hate the F350 springs because they make the truck so stiff that it rides terrible.  Let me repeat: the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !!!!  The two trucks even have the same Gross Combination Weight Rating. (GVWR.)

Where did you get this information? Mark       ‘30 Ford Model ‘A’                            ’98 Ford Taurus               ‘59 Edsel Corsair                       ‘99 Mercury Cougar               ‘94 Ford Club Wagon w/7.3L Hypermax Turbo Diesel               ‘98 SunnyBrook 33FKDS Travel Trailer

Response:

I think that my local highway department will do this…  I KNOW that they will do it for a heavy truck … Kim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW. Just curious,  who do you think will "re-certify" a truck with aftermarket add ons. Second question,  what will the value of that "re-certification" be? Erich inquiring minds want to know

Response:

The problem with the F350 are springs that are plain old too stiff !!! The F250/F350 trucks already have a "velvet shackle" type connector on the front of the rear leaf springs. Don’t get me wrong here, Ford has done a fairly good job of the design, but there are certain limitations when one wants to build a truck that will haul 3700 lbs in the bed: empty ride suffers.  The best way around this limitation is to equip the truck with air springs because the spring rate changes with changes in air pressure.  Thus, when the truck is empty, decrease the air pressure for a GREAT ride and when the truck is loaded, increase the pressure to handle the load. Kim   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Though I haven’t tried them I’ve read that "Velvet Shackles" can smooth out the ride. Dig around in the web site below and you can find out some info on them. There are apparently more differences between the F250 and F350 than easily meet the eye.  Check out and search the following BBS run by Jason Lester: The Ford Diesel Web site Gordon Santa Rosa, CA Hi people. I have a 1999 4×2 F250 crew cab with the Power Stroke Diesel and the 6 speed.  The truck weighs about 6200 lbs empty, without fuel.  The truck does NOT have the trailer towing package. These trucks are quite stiffly sprung.  With our 32′ 5th wheel attached and everything loaded in, the truck is near its GVW and handles quite nicely at that weight.  I do not think it is necessary to add a big allowance to your expected weight when specing one of these trucks as they, unlike some other trucks on the market, are built to be operated safely at their maximum GVW. I too was trying to decide whether or not to buy an F350.  The ONLY difference between an F250 and an F350 from what I can tell, are the springs.  As far as I can tell the frame, brakes, axles, steering, etc is identical. It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW. An F350 rides quite a bit rougher due to stiffer springs, a penalty that I did not want for using the truck as my daily driver. Just my $0.02 Kim According to the ford truck brochure (page 41) the Ford SD 250 and 350 (SRW) 2×4 specify the same ratings for axle (front and rear), springs, brakes, wheels, etc. Why then is the 250 rated at 8800GVWR and the 350 at 9900GVWR? I am beginning to think this is so specified for marketing reasons – who would pay more for a 350 if a 250 will do? I agree with Will that for a safe and comfortable towing experience, de-rating the max specs is a sensible exercise – however I am finding that with acceptable (de-rated) tongue weight loads, the corresponding trailer weight loads amounts to reduction of 40 to 50% of max. Any comments or data appreciated….. Norm ‘99 SD PSD LB CC AT TT ABS

Response:

You TOTALLY missed the point, Will !!! EVERYTHING is the same between an F250 and an F350 EXCEPT the springs.  I hate the F350 springs because they make the truck so stiff that it rides terrible.  Let me repeat: the frame, brakes, axles, front suspension, engine, transmission, tires, rims, differential, driveshaft etc ARE ALL THE SAME.  THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE SPRINGS !!!!  The two trucks even have the same Gross Combination Weight Rating. (GVWR.) An F250 with air helpers rides MUCH better empty. BTW: I wish Ford sold these trucks with air suspension and I don’t understand why they don’t.  The high/ rougher ride is one of the biggest trade offs of these trucks over a "regular" half ton. (Although the ride in an F250 is pretty good …) Kim     – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW. If air springs would qualify your truck for "recertification", you kin bet yer bippy Ford would be happy to sell you one that way.  But they don’t. If you find some guy who claims he can "recertify" on that basis, you will probably have to wait in line, because he will be too busy selling inspection stickers for owner installation. If you get my drift.  (In my state you are supposed to AT LEAST take the windshield in for inspection!)* Understand this: while ratings are somewhat political, in that they reflect some mysterious agreements between engineering, accounting and marketing interests within the maker’s organization, they are NOT simply based on what the truck will hold up.  Hey, you can get a li’l ole rice-burner truck to hold up a 40′ fiver if you put blocks of wood between the frame & axle! The ratings consider MANY factors beyond mere arbitrary political questions.  They consider brakes, engine, tires, transmissions, cooling systems, etc ad nauseum. My dad used to say you cannot make a silk purse outa a sow’s ear.  My version: you can’t increase the real capacity of a truck with helper springs. *For the humor impaired, the reference is to black market vehicle safety inspections, conducted in the dark of night by scofflaws. Will KD3XR

Response:

According to the ford truck brochure (page 41) the Ford SD 250 and 350 (SRW) 2×4 specify the same ratings for axle (front and rear), springs, brakes, wheels, etc. Why then is the 250 rated at 8800GVWR and the 350 at 9900GVWR? I am beginning to think this is so specified for marketing reasons – who would pay more for a 350 if a 250 will do? I agree with Will that for a safe and comfortable towing experience, de-rating the max specs is a sensible exercise – however I am finding that with acceptable (de-rated) tongue weight loads, the corresponding trailer weight loads amounts to reduction of 40 to 50% of max. Any comments or data appreciated….. Norm ‘99 SD PSD LB CC AT TT ABS

Response:

Hi people. I have a 1999 4×2 F250 crew cab with the Power Stroke Diesel and the 6 speed.  The truck weighs about 6200 lbs empty, without fuel.  The truck does NOT have the trailer towing package.   These trucks are quite stiffly sprung.  With our 32′ 5th wheel attached and everything loaded in, the truck is near its GVW and handles quite nicely at that weight.  I do not think it is necessary to add a big allowance to your expected weight when specing one of these trucks as they, unlike some other trucks on the market, are built to be operated safely at their maximum GVW. I too was trying to decide whether or not to buy an F350.  The ONLY difference between an F250 and an F350 from what I can tell, are the springs.  As far as I can tell the frame, brakes, axles, steering, etc is identical.   It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW. An F350 rides quite a bit rougher due to stiffer springs, a penalty that I did not want for using the truck as my daily driver. Just my $0.02 Kim       – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – According to the ford truck brochure (page 41) the Ford SD 250 and 350 (SRW) 2×4 specify the same ratings for axle (front and rear), springs, brakes, wheels, etc. Why then is the 250 rated at 8800GVWR and the 350 at 9900GVWR? I am beginning to think this is so specified for marketing reasons – who would pay more for a 350 if a 250 will do? I agree with Will that for a safe and comfortable towing experience, de-rating the max specs is a sensible exercise – however I am finding that with acceptable (de-rated) tongue weight loads, the corresponding trailer weight loads amounts to reduction of 40 to 50% of max. Any comments or data appreciated….. Norm ‘99 SD PSD LB CC AT TT ABS

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Good questions.  I am also considering buying a F250 SD or F350 SD.  The GVWR for the 250 SD PSD SRW is 8,800lbs. and the 350 SD PSD DRW is 11,200lbs. but, the GCWR is the same for both at 20,000lbs.  Commonsense tells me the F350 should handle a bigger rig yet, it’s rated the same as the F250.  Can anyone explain why the GCWR is the same for both vehicles? Mark – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – According to the ford truck brochure (page 41) the Ford SD 250 and 350 (SRW) 2×4 specify the same ratings for axle (front and rear), springs, brakes, wheels, etc. Why then is the 250 rated at 8800GVWR and the 350 at 9900GVWR? I am beginning to think this is so specified for marketing reasons – who would pay more for a 350 if a 250 will do? I agree with Will that for a safe and comfortable towing experience, de-rating the max specs is a sensible exercise – however I am finding that with acceptable (de-rated) tongue weight loads, the corresponding trailer weight loads amounts to reduction of 40 to 50% of max. Any comments or data appreciated….. Norm ‘99 SD PSD LB CC AT TT ABS

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It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW.

Just curious,  who do you think will "re-certify" a truck with aftermarket add ons. Second question,  what will the value of that "re-certification" be? Erich inquiring minds want to know

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I would like to offer an explanation on this issue. Feel free to object. I believe that the GCWR is basically a value that provides a measure of a vehicles ability to move weight, acceptably. The GCWR is primarily a function of engine and rear end gear ratio. I don’t have a Ford brochure at my disposal, but using a GMC/Chevy brochure reveals the following information. In all GM truck brochures that I have seen since 1994, they provide a GCWR table. The only variables in this table are engine choice and rear end gear ratio. Picking an engine and gear ratio specifies a particular GCWR value. I also believe that the GVWR is basically a value that provides a measure of a vehicles chassis capability to hold weight (basic vehicle plus cargo). The GVWR will be largely determined by such things as axles, springs, wheels, tires and I suppose chassis construction. Therefore, I don’t see any conflict between the specifications for the Ford F250 and F350 GCWR and GVWR specifications. In other words the trailer towing capability is determined not by either weight rating individually, but by both weight ratings. It seems very reasonable to me that the F350 can carry a heavier hitch weight due to it’s larger GVWR. The fact that both(F250 and F350) have the same GCWR is sort of irrelevant. Possible trailering of large fifth wheels with heavy pin weights may well be within the GCWR of either the F250 or F350, but may easily be eliminated by the lower GVWR of the F250. Bob

Commonsense – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -tells me the F350 should handle a bigger rig yet, it’s rated the same as the F250.  Can anyone explain why the GCWR is the same for both vehicles? Mark

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It is possible that I will buy a trailer in the future that will put my truck over its GVW.  If that happens, I intend to add air springs and get the truck re certified to a higher GVW.

If air springs would qualify your truck for "recertification", you kin bet yer bippy Ford would be happy to sell you one that way.  But they don’t. If you find some guy who claims he can "recertify" on that basis, you will probably have to wait in line, because he will be too busy selling inspection stickers for owner installation. If you get my drift.  (In my state you are supposed to AT LEAST take the windshield in for inspection!)* Understand this: while ratings are somewhat political, in that they reflect some mysterious agreements between engineering, accounting and marketing interests within the maker’s organization, they are NOT simply based on what the truck will hold up.  Hey, you can get a li’l ole rice-burner truck to hold up a 40′ fiver if you put blocks of wood between the frame & axle! The ratings consider MANY factors beyond mere arbitrary political questions.  They consider brakes, engine, tires, transmissions, cooling systems, etc ad nauseum. My dad used to say you cannot make a silk purse outa a sow’s ear.  My version: you can’t increase the real capacity of a truck with helper springs. *For the humor impaired, the reference is to black market vehicle safety inspections, conducted in the dark of night by scofflaws. Will KD3XR

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Bob, Thanks for the explanation.  It makes sense to me.  I’ve been lurking in this NG for a while and the one reoccurring theme is, do not exceed the capability of the tow vehicle.  I’m interested in buying a 5th wheel so I want to ensure I buy the appropriate truck.  The problem is you start talking about a 30 footer and the weight adds up quick.  Keeping the weight under the 75% of GCWR and Max. loaded trailer weight guideline gets difficult. Mark – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would like to offer an explanation on this issue. Feel free to object. I believe that the GCWR is basically a value that provides a measure of a vehicles ability to move weight, acceptably. The GCWR is primarily a function of engine and rear end gear ratio. I don’t have a Ford brochure at my disposal, but using a GMC/Chevy brochure reveals the following information. In all GM truck brochures that I have seen since 1994, they provide a GCWR table. The only variables in this table are engine choice and rear end gear ratio. Picking an engine and gear ratio specifies a particular GCWR value. I also believe that the GVWR is basically a value that provides a measure of a vehicles chassis capability to hold weight (basic vehicle plus cargo). The GVWR will be largely determined by such things as axles, springs, wheels, tires and I suppose chassis construction. Therefore, I don’t see any conflict between the specifications for the Ford F250 and F350 GCWR and GVWR specifications. In other words the trailer towing capability is determined not by either weight rating individually, but by both weight ratings. It seems very reasonable to me that the F350 can carry a heavier hitch weight due to it’s larger GVWR. The fact that both(F250 and F350) have the same GCWR is sort of irrelevant. Possible trailering of large fifth wheels with heavy pin weights may well be within the GCWR of either the F250 or F350, but may easily be eliminated by the lower GVWR of the F250. Bob Commonsense tells me the F350 should handle a bigger rig yet, it’s rated the same as the F250.  Can anyone explain why the GCWR is the same for both vehicles? Mark

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Question:

I am currently in posession of a signed (by all band members and Brian Eno) waist length leather jacket with the words "Outside Broadcast ‘96" written in blue and white paint on the back.  If anyone has any information as to the origin of the jacket, or any information about Outside Broadcast ‘96, please contact me.  I have pictures of the jacket available for anyone who wants to see it.  Thanks.

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I am in possession of a waist length leather jacket with the words "ZooTV Outside Broadcast ‘96" and the signatures of all the band members and Brian Eno in blue and white paint.  I also found a set list in the pocket of the jacket.  I am wondering several things about this item: 1.  Was it ever worn by any band members (photos would be helpful) 2.  At what venue was the jacket given away 3.  Why is there a ZooTV broadcast in ‘96 when zooropa was released in ‘93. Any other information about this item would be a great help as well.  If you are interested in seeing pictures of the jacket I can send them to you via E-mail;  just drop me a line letting me know you want to see it.  my E-mail Thanks

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I am in possession of a waist length leather jacket with the words "ZooTV Outside Broadcast ‘96" and the signatures of all the band members and Brian Eno in blue and white paint.

Maybe it was a crew jacket during the rehersals for PopMart? ZooTV could be U2’s touring company.  I checked on my ticket stub for their show at Wembley Stadium on the 22nd August 1997 and in the top left it says "Presented By" then the Zoo TV logo… Most larger bands and artists separate their operations such as touring, merchandise, etc. for accounting reasons. andy

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