[Spridgets] 2009 Chevies

[Kathryn Bales]

I have a 1976 C-30 that will probably run forever, but with a 12' flat 
bed, it's really not suitable for a daily driver. The 7mpg also 
relegates him to use as a hay hauler and not much else.  A friend is 
presently using him as an engine rebuild platform. My 1989 F-350 crew 
cab is my trailer puller, gets slightly better mileage that the Chevy, 
and has needed a heater core and starter in the years I have had him. He 
uses a little over a quart of oil between changes. My 1989 Cherokee, 
which is my daily driver, has needed one alternator, two fuel pumps, a 
4WD actuator, a brain, and a passenger window motor. He also gets almost 
30mpg on the highway (I swear officer, I have no idea where the 
emissions components went.), and uses less than a quart of oil between 
changes.  Barry, my 1989 LeBaron convertible, needed a head gasket last 
winter, and I put on a timing belt at the same time, so he should be 
good for a long time to come. He is going to Idaho this month for a new 
top and some pleasure cruising. Madge, the 1972 Midget, is on her fourth 
engine, which still does not leak or burn oil. I must have made a 
serious mistake when I put it together.

In my opinion, the new cars are being made to be a disposable item. A 
person is not expected to keep them longer than 2 - 3 years, and is 
certainly not expected to do any of his own maintenance.  Every 
manufacturer  seems to use the same computer program to design their 
body shells, and one must read the label to know what is parked next to 
you.  20 - 30 years ago, a manufacturer took pride in their product and 
bragged on how long they would last.


Kate


Kirk Hargreaves wrote:
> Kate,
>
>
> Scary story on the new Chevy's. . .I thought they were "Like a Rock?"  
> I guess more like a "millstone around your neck?"