Just got out from under him yesterday doing an oil change. I found a few more minor fixes, and was able to make complete repairs with the stuff I have at hand. But, alas, I see more and more signs of things getting REAL old under there. The cradle has a bit more spotty surface rust, some connections won't be able to be undone if need be -- they're almost certainly fused together, etc. Fortunately no minor leaks were found. I'll go ahead with the big cooling system service I plan to do myself next week, along with cleaning up the interior, but I'm gonna pass on getting him repainted. Aside from the minute 'personalities' in his body panels, no rust-related repairs are needed. I'm hoping he'll get me through just one more year before I'll let him go. All signs are he will.
I got him new off the lot back in May '96 with only a few dozen miles on the odo. The sales guy was 'busy', so he copied my license, tossed me the keys and told me I had a half hour! I had plans for a GT, but finances wouldn't allow it. I settled for my test ride, figuring I could at least add on the features to get me a similarly equipped car to a GT. Here we are, 11 years and 193,000 miles later. Manfred's been a road trip buddy, my 'pick-up truck', a teacher, and a blizzard transport, and much more. My first car was a used Ford Escort EXP. That car has the official place of 'first car' in my mind, but Manfred has been more like a member of the family. One more time around the calendar, 'ol pal, and don't spare the rubber!!!
I hope you get your one more year, I share the same kind of love for my truck.
My old cav is at 22yrs old! This car has had 2 owners b4 me the orig,then my sister then me.I bought it in 98 and would not ever sell it to this day.The car is called sunny via my sister and it holds that name with me too.I just love the crap out of this simple old first gen.
If not for the anual 'salt bath' Manfred gets every year through winter outside Philadelphia, I'm sure he'd be a lot more rust-free and well on his way to completing his second decade...and even more. Good luck with your rebuild!!
usually you call your car her, not him. lol
I want to share something with you - the three sentences that will get you through life. Number one, 'cover for me', Number two, 'oh, good idea, boss', Number three, 'it was like that when I got here.'
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usually you call your car her, not him. lol
I know, however the way this car behaved has been more of a rough-and-tumble/pal/buddy than an 'ol gal'. HE'S seen more than a fair share of hard rain and heavy snow!
Well, my 'Fire never made it another year. A burned valve at #4 sounded the death knell. Too much $$ to get him running back right, and we were going through some financial restructuring anyway. Got a new '07 G5 GT, and said farewell to a VERY good friend. The torch has been passed.
sucks to hear dude. at least you got a nice car in place of "him".
!
